cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development and teaching a computer-assisted course in production planning

Abstract Abstract. Course development and student activities are described for a successful computer-assisted senior level course in production planning. Development was guided by the view that students must (1) understand the elements being integrated, (2) understand the problems that are being resolved through integration, and (3) participate in the integration activity. Production planning is treated as a hierarchy of individual decision situations which are to be integrated. Each decision is assisted by a software-based technique. A menu program and a common database were developed to allow a student to become the 'integrator' by directing the information flow among the individual decision situations. The paper describes the development tasks, the course elements, and student activities which provide guidelines for others developing similar courses.
Learning capabilities for improving automatic transmission control

We analyzed the gear-box position selection (GPS) problem on automatic transmission (AT) and proposed an algorithm, based on learning control, to improve vehicle behavior and driver satisfaction. Our approach guarantees optimization of vehicle performance and adaptation to the driver's style with road condition sensitivity. This improvement has been achieved by combining three knowledge acquisition sources: embedded dynamic models of powertrain, inductive inspection of driver actions and AT designer expertise; and by adding learning capabilities in order to significantly increase the system autonomy. Technically, GPS raises the following four problems which this paper addresses: (1) To achieve vehicle performance optimization of multiple antagonistic criteria, locally and globally over time, we considered a parametric disciminant function depending on an evaluation of the driver satisfaction and so called driver-style-state functions, as a reward for the system, and applied a reinforcement learning algorithm, derived from Q-learning method and combined with a mechanism to escape local optima. (2) Learning directly from the driver is performed when he selects AT ratio in manual mode. (3) Each driver's personal style is represented by a Glass creation/selection mechanism. (4) GPS raises a few singularities which are addressed by a set of restriction rules derived from AT control expertise.
An efficient spatial semi-supervised learning algorithm

We began by developing a semi-supervised learning method based on the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm, and maximum likelihood and maximum a posteriori classifiers (MLC and MAP). This scheme utilizes a small set of labeled and a large number of unlabeled training samples. We conducted several experiments on multi-spectral images to understand the impact of unlabeled samples on the classification performance. Our study shows that although, in general, classification accuracy improves with the addition of unlabeled training samples, it is not guaranteed to achieve consistently higher accuracies unless sufficient care is exercised when designing a semi-supervised classifier. We also extended this semi-supervised framework to model spatial context through Markov random fields (MRF). Initial experiments showed an improved accuracy of the spatial semi-supervised algorithm (SSSL) over MLC, semi-supervised, and MRF classifiers. An efficient implementation is provided so that the SSSL can be applied in production environments. We also discuss some open research problems.
Degradation of Transcription Repressor ZBRK1 through the Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway Relieves Repression of Gadd45a upon DNA Damage

Induction of gene expression in response to DNA damage is important for repairing damaged DNA for cell survival. Previously, we identified a novel zinc finger protein, ZBRK1, which contains a KRAB domain at the N terminus, eight zinc fingers at the center, and a BRCA1-binding region at the C terminus. In a BRCA1-dependent manner, ZBRK1 represses Gadd45a transcription through binding to a specific sequence in intron 3. In addition, ZBRK1-binding sequences are located at the regulatory region of many DNA damage-inducible genes, suggesting that ZBRK1 may have a role in DNA damage response. However, it is unclear how transcription repression by ZBRK1 is relieved subsequent to DNA damage. Here we report that ZBRK1 is rapidly degraded upon treatment with the DNA-damaging agents UV and methyl methanesulfonate. Specific proteasome inhibitors block DNA damage-induced degradation of ZBRK1, and the polyubiquitinated form of ZBRK1 is detectable, suggesting that the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway mediates the degradation of ZBRK1. In both BRCA1-proficient and -deficient cells, ZBRK1 is degraded with similar efficiencies independent of BRCA1 E3 ligase activity. By analysis of a series of ZBRK1 mutants, a 44-amino-acid element located between the N-terminal KRAB domain and the eight zinc fingers was found to be sufficient for the DNA damage-induced degradation of ZBRK1. Cells expressing a ZBRK1 mutant lacking the 44-amino-acid element are hypersensitive to DNA damage and are compromised for Gadd45a derepression. These results indicate that ZBRK1 is a novel target for DNA damage-induced degradation and provide a mechanistic explanation of how ZBRK1 is regulated in response to DNA damage.
The Effect of Dietary Energy Level and Broiler Body Weight on Abdominal Fat

Abstract Utilizing a moderate rearing temperature regimen, two trials were conducted to determine the effect of dietary energy level on the amount of abdominal fat deposited when broilers are grown to equal body weight by varying growth time. The most abdominal fat (2.29% average of live weight for male and females) was produced by broilers offered a diet calculated to contain 3325 ME kcal/kg. The least amount of abdominal fat (1.92% average of live weight for male and females) was produced by broilers offered diets calculated to contain 3100 and 3175 metabolizable energy (ME) kcal/kg. In one additional day (48 vs. 47 days) the growth of the broilers offered diets calculated to contain 3100 and 3175 ME kcal/kg equalled that of broilers offered diets calculated to contain 3250 and 3325 ME kcal/kg. Feed conversion (g feed/g live weight) significantly decreased as dietary energy level increased. Three additional trials were conducted to determine when abdominal fat is deposited in relation to age and weight. It was found that male broilers offered diets calculated to contain 3325 ME kcal/kg had as much abdominal fat when expressed as a percent of body weight at 40 days of age as they did at 53 days of age.
Predicting protein backbone chemical shifts from Cα coordinates: extracting high resolution experimental observables from low resolution models.

Given the demonstrated utility of coarse-grained modeling and simulations approaches in studying protein structure and dynamics, developing methods that allow experimental observables to be directly recovered from coarse-grained models is of great importance. In this work, we develop one such method that enables protein backbone chemical shifts (1HN, 1Hα, 13Cα, 13C, 13Cβ, and 15N) to be predicted from Cα coordinates. We show that our Cα-based method, LARMORCα, predicts backbone chemical shifts with comparable accuracy to some all-atom approaches. More importantly, we demonstrate that LARMORCα predicted chemical shifts are able to resolve native structure from decoy pools that contain both native and non-native models, and so it is sensitive to protein structure. As an application, we use LARMORCα to characterize the transient state of the fast-folding protein gpW using recently published NMR relaxation dispersion derived backbone chemical shifts. The model we obtain is consistent with the previously propo...
Synthesis and thermoelectric properties of antifluorite materials

The compounds Mg2X (where X=Si, Ge, Sn) crystallize in the antifluorite structure. They possess properties that are similar to that of the group IV elemental semiconductors thus they have long been recognized as good candidates for thermoelectric applications. In addition, their properties can be readily tuned by doping or alloying. However, optimal performance of these materials requires continued investigation. We present low-temperature transport properties measurements of Sb doped Mg2X. Structure-property relationships are reported while their thermoelectric properties are investigated systematically in order to elucidate their potential as thermoelectric materials.
Widely Assumed but Thinly Tested: Do Employee Volunteers' Self-Reported Skill Improvements Reflect the Nature of Their Volunteering Experiences?

An increasing number of companies use corporate volunteering programs (CVPs) to support and coordinate their employees’ efforts to serve their communities. Among the most frequently touted benefits of such programs to sponsoring companies and employee volunteers alike is the opportunities they provide for employees to develop tangible work-related skills through their volunteering activities. Evidence for skill development through volunteering, however, is mostly limited to the expressed beliefs of corporate leaders and employee volunteers. This study was designed to contribute to this largely anecdotal literature by testing hypotheses about the extent to which employee volunteers’ self-reported skill development reflects the characteristics of the volunteers and their volunteering experience. Study participants were 74 employees who volunteered a few hours of their time once a week for ten weeks in a service apprenticeship managed by a U.S.-based nonprofit called Citizen Schools that partners with middle schools to extend the learning day with a combination of academic support, enrichment, and youth development activities. Data were obtained via the nonprofit’s records, and surveys completed by employee volunteers before and after their service experience, including measures used to assess self-reported improvements in each of ten work-related skills: communicating performance expectations, leadership, mentorship, motivating others, project management, providing performance feedback, public speaking and presenting, speaking clearly, teamwork, and time management. Support was found for several hypothesized effects suggesting that employees who practiced specific skills more often during their volunteering experience reported greater improvements in those skills. Improvements in some skills were higher among employee volunteers who completed a greater number of pre-volunteering preparation courses, and the effects of preparation courses were moderated by the employee volunteers’ self-efficacy about improving their work-related skills on all ten skills as hypothesized. I discuss the implications of these findings for theory and research, and provide suggestions for designing volunteer experiences that encourage service commitments from companies and their employees, and ultimately create tangible value for them, and meaningful social value for their communities.
The Role of School Environments in Explaining Racial-Ethnic Disparities in Body Mass Index Among U.S. Adolescents

Abstract Purpose Policymakers have focused substantial efforts on how school environments can be used to combat obesity. Given this intense focus, this article examined whether disparities in body mass index (BMI) noted among black and Hispanic adolescents relative to whites were explained by the well-documented differences in the school socioeconomic characteristics, and food and physical activity environment. Methods Data from the fifth- and eighth-grade waves of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study—Kindergarten Class were analyzed. Unadjusted linear regression models of BMI percentile that included only indicators for child's race/ethnicity were estimated first followed by adjusted models that iteratively added sets of child, family, and ultimately school covariates. Separate models were estimated by grade and gender. School covariates included detailed indicators for the school socioeconomic characteristics, and the food and physical activity environments. Results For Hispanic boys and girls and for black boys, substantial shares of the disparities in BMI were explained by differences in birth weight, BMI at school entry, and current child and family characteristics. Substantial disparities in BMI remained among black girls relative to white girls. Characteristics of the child's school during fifth and eighth grade—specifically, the schools' socioeconomic characteristics as well as measures of the food and physical activity environment—did not explain the disparities for any of the demographic groups. Conclusions Differences in the school environment had little additional explanatory power suggesting that interventions seeking to reduce BMI disparities should focus on early school years and even before school entry.
Estimating the Annual Incremental Cost of Several Complications Following Pulmonary Lobectomy

Determine the incremental increase in cost as well as length of hospital stay associated with several major complications following pulmonary lobectomy using a large national dataset. A retrospective cohort analysis of the 2012 National Inpatient Sample, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database was performed. Demographic and clinical data on patients ≥18 years having undergone an open or VATS lobectomy were included in the analysis. The median increase in cost and length of stay associated with relevant major complications were determined using a multivariable quantile regression model. Nearly one-quarter (24.9%) of hospitalizations for pulmonary lobectomy resulted in at least one complication such as air leak and acute respiratory failure, among others. The most costly complication was empyema with fistula, which was associated with a median net increase in hospital cost of $21,427 and an increased length of hospital stay of 11.6 days. Overall, however, acute respiratory failure accounted for the largest increase in aggregate national costs—$13.4 million. The most common complication was postoperative air leak, which was associated with a median net increase in cost and length of hospitalization of $3219 and 1.9 days, respectively. In aggregate, these complications accounted for nearly $40 million of annual health care expenditures. Complications following pulmonary lobectomy significantly increase in the cost and length of hospitalization. This data has the potential to help identify future areas of improvement, especially in today's era of shifting reimbursement policies aimed at cutting costs and improving health care quality.
Potato Latent Mosaic

The disease of potatoes caused by potato virus X (PVX) is called latent mosaic because many potato cultivars, especially the old standards, exhibit no symptoms when infected. Other cultivars exhibit a chronic mosaic and still others react with an acute systemic reaction known as top necrosis.
Implementation of a bundled protocol significantly reduces risk of spinal cord ischemia after branched or fenestrated endovascular aortic repair

Abstract Objective Spinal cord ischemia (SCI) is a devastating complication after branched or fenestrated endovascular aortic repair (B/FEVAR) for thoracoabdominal aortic disease. The purpose of this analysis was to describe the impact of a bundled clinical care protocol designed to reduce the risk of SCI in this population of patients. Methods A bundled SCI prevention protocol including cerebrospinal fluid drainage, blood pressure parameters, transfusion goals, and pharmacologic adjuncts (steroids, naloxone) was initiated in May 2015. Before that date, portions of the protocol (cerebrospinal fluid drainage in particular) were used in an informal fashion in patients perceived to be at high risk. B/FEVAR cases completed from January 2012 to May 2016 were reviewed, and outcomes before (n = 223) and after (n = 70) SCI bundle application were compared. The primary end point was the incidence of SCI events. Secondary end points included length of stay, complications, and survival. High-risk patients for SCI were defined as those undergoing B/FEVAR resulting in aortic coverage equivalent to open Crawford extent I to III thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair. Survival was estimated using Kaplan-Meier life-table analysis. Results Postprotocol patients were more likely to be older (75 ± 7 vs 72 ± 8 years; P = .03), to have an American Society of Anesthesiologists class 4 designation (94% vs 81%; P = .04), and to be treated for TAAA (67% vs 56%; P = .004). Postprotocol pre-emptive spinal drain use was greater in high-risk patients (100% vs 87%; P = .04) but significantly decreased in lower risk patients (suprarenal aneurysm or extent IV TAAA: 5% after protocol implementation vs 21% before protocol implementation; P = .04). Rates of any SCI before and after implementation of the bundled protocol were 13% (n = 29 of 223) and 3% (n = 2 of 70; P = .007), respectively. In comparing high-risk patients, protocol use resulted in an even more significant reduction in SCI rate (19% [28 of 144] vs 4% [2 of 50]; P = .004). Postoperative morbidity (41% vs 33%; P = .2) and 30-day mortality (5% vs 1%; P = .3) were not different between groups. However, patients treated on protocol had significantly improved 1-year survival (99% ± 1% after protocol implementation vs 90% ± 2% before protocol implementation; log-rank, P = .05). Conclusions Implementation of a bundled multimodal protocol may significantly reduce risk of SCI after B/FEVAR, with the greatest risk reduction occurring in the most vulnerable patients. Interestingly, reduction in SCI risk was associated with improvement in 1-year survival.
Resilienz und emotionale Stabilität von Managern: Ergebnisse der empirischen Untersuchung

Die Prazisierung der erhobenen Daten sowie die Darstellung der identifizierten Zusammenhange stand im Vordergrund des weiteren Vorgehens. Die bereits erfolgte Darstellung der Stichprobe habe ich nun weiter untersucht. Anschliesend werden die Hypothesen uberpruft und im letzten Abschnitt werden explorative Analysen vorgestellt.
Two themes in thyroid cancer: artful diagnosis and shortened lives.

Patients presenting with a thyroid nodule are common in the clinical practice of endocrinologists, even for those who are not thyroidologists. When seeing a patient with a thyroid nodule, the question that typically occurs first is whether the nodule could be malignant and how can the diagnosis be most efficiently and accurately determined. Then, once a diagnosis of cancer might be confirmed, and discussion turns to details about management, the next prominent question in the patient’s mind relates to their [...]
Design of Multifunctional Lattice‐Frame Materials for Compact Heat Exchangers

Abstract Structured porous materials show great potential as extended surfaces in heat-exchange applications that also require design for load-bearing capability. In particular, lattice-frame materials (LFM) are known for their superior strength-to-weight ratio; this work presents a comprehensive experimental and numerical study of fluid flow and heat transfer in porous LFMs. Flow through a periodic unit cell of the material is simulated to characterize the forced-convection performance under hydraulically and thermally fully developed conditions. The performance of LFMs with a tetrahedral ligament configuration is characterized as a function of Reynolds number in the laminar regime (150 Re
Pathogenic lineage of Perkinsea associated with mass mortality of frogs across the United States

Emerging infectious diseases such as chytridiomycosis and ranavirus infections are important contributors to the worldwide decline of amphibian populations. We reviewed data on 247 anuran mortality events in 43 States of the United States from 1999–2015. Our findings suggest that a severe infectious disease of tadpoles caused by a protist belonging to the phylum Perkinsea might represent the third most common infectious disease of anurans after ranavirus infections and chytridiomycosis. Severe Perkinsea infections (SPI) were systemic and led to multiorganic failure and death. The SPI mortality events affected numerous anuran species and occurred over a broad geographic area, from boreal to subtropical habitats. Livers from all PCR-tested SPI-tadpoles (n = 19) were positive for the Novel Alveolate Group 01 (NAG01) of Perkinsea, while only 2.5% histologically normal tadpole livers tested positive (2/81), suggesting that subclinical infections are uncommon. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that SPI is associated with a phylogenetically distinct clade of NAG01 Perkinsea. These data suggest that this virulent Perkinsea clade is an important pathogen of frogs in the United States. Given its association with mortality events and tendency to be overlooked, the potential role of this emerging pathogen in amphibian declines on a broad geographic scale warrants further investigation.
CryoEM structure of Saccharomyces cerevisiae U1 snRNP offers insight into alternative splicing.

U1 snRNP plays a critical role in 5ʹ-splice site recognition and is a frequent target of alternative splicing factors. These factors transiently associate with human U1 snRNP and are not amenable for structural studies, while their Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) homologs are stable components of U1 snRNP. Here, we report the cryoEM structure of yeast U1 snRNP at 3.6 A resolution with atomic models for ten core proteins, nearly all essential domains of its RNA, and five stably associated auxiliary proteins. The foot-shaped yeast U1 snRNP contains a core in the “ball-and-toes” region architecturally similar to the human U1 snRNP. All auxiliary proteins are in the “arch-and-heel” region and connected to the core through the Prp42/Prp39 paralogs. Our demonstration that homodimeric human PrpF39 directly interacts with U1C-CTD, mirroring yeast Prp42/Prp39, supports yeast U1 snRNP as a model for understanding how transiently associated auxiliary proteins recruit human U1 snRNP in alternative splicing. U1 snRNP is critical for 5′ splicing site recognition in pre-mRNA splicing. Here the authors describe the cryo-EM structure of the yeast U1 snRNP and suggest that PrpF39 is an alternative splicing factor essential for the successful recruitment of U1 snRNP by other alternative splicing factors.
Chapter 21 – Introduction to Monte Carlo Methods

Abstract We can create synthetic particles in a computer that serve as analogs to neutrons, photons, or other subatomic particles and use these analog particles to compute quantities such as the number of particles that penetrate a radiation shield. In this chapter we introduce the theory and practice of Monte Carlo simulations where these analog particles are used to produce a random process whose mean is expected value for the real system. In the process we discuss the rudiments of probability theory, sampling using the inverse cumulative distribution function, rejection sampling, the exponential distribution, and tracking particles in a sphere. We begin with the most basic problem, estimating the fraction of neutrons in a beam that cross a purely absorbing slab. We build on this capability by adding angular and energy distributions to the incident neutrons and dependence of the interaction cross-sections to the neutron energy. The chapter culminates in a demonstration code that predicts the efficacy of a lead shield to stopping fission neutrons using real cross-sections for the shield and the Watt fission spectrum for the incident neutron energy.
Designing Meaningful Lessons in Economics for Middle School Students Through the Use of Personnel Economic Experiences

The financial collapse of the United States economy in 2008 and the subsequent government bail out has made economic or financial literacy a major priority of all educational entities at all levels. Therefore, a case can be made for the inclusion of economic paradigms in middle school curricula. Students, due to the nature of capitalism, become part of the economic process through their role as consumers and producers. If citizenship education is a goal of social studies instruction, then it is every teacher’s responsibility to help his or her students become economically literate. The author suggests ways to teach economics by using students’ personal experiences with the economy.
Many membrane abnormalities in hypertension result from one primary defect.

Ever since experimental tools have been available to study cellular mechanisms responsible for hypertension, special attention has been given to the possible role of an abnormality of the cell membrane in this process. This focus evolved not only because all regulatory processes of the cell must be mediated through a cell membrane function, but also because specific clues suggested that the cell membrane might be at fault. Both experimental and clinical hypertension were shown to be influenced by salt intake, implying that some subjects had a defect in regulating salt metabolism, perhaps a problem of cell membrane permeability to sodium or chloride. This idea was supported by the observation that mineralocorticoid excess, which was known to alter membrane permeability to sodium, caused hypertension.
Energy metabolism of growing pigs

Four llttermate groups of four pigs each, averaging 8.1 kg body weight and 7 weeks of age, were used In a comparative slaughter experiment lasting for 28 days to determine the utilization of energy from wheat bran. A corn-soybean meal basal diet was formulated to provide a11 nutrients, except energy, at twice the NRC (1979) recommendations for 8-10 kg pigs and was fed to all pigs at 3% of body weight dally. In addition to the basal diet, wheat bran was fed at 0, 1 or 2% of body weight dally. At these feeding levels, wheat bran was Included In the diet at 0, 25 or 40%. Addition of wheat bran to the basal diet Improved ADG (P .05). The apparent digestibility of DM, N, and GE decreased linearly (P<.01) with addition of wheat bran to the basal diet. Digestible energy (DE) and ME of the diets decreased linearly (P<.01) with addition of wheat bran. Addition of wheat bran to the diet Improved ME:DE (P<.05). Metabolizable energy as a percent of DE averaged 94.7 for all the diets and 95.2 for wheat bran. Addition of wheat bran to the basal diet increased heat production linearly (P<.05). Digestibility of NDF, ADF, cellulose and hemicellulose in the diets decreased linearly (P<.01) as wheat bran was added to the basal diet. Addition of wheat bran to the diet increased ME intake (P<.01) and this resulted in a linear increase (P<.01) in daily gain components including indispensable amino acids (AA). Increases in ME intake linearly increased (P<.05) efficiency of indispensable AA utilization. Total VFA production in the cecum increased linearly (P<.01) with addition of wheat bran. The average energy values (kcal/g DM) for wheat bran were, GE, 4.57; DE, 3.36; ME, 3.20; MEn, 3.19; and NE, 1.10. These results confirm previous studies
Mouse mutations disrupting somitogenesis and vertebral patterning.

The mouse was one of the first model organisms used in genetic analysis, beginning in 1902 with the studies of inheritance carried out by William E. Castle, Director of the Bussey Institute at Harvard1. The first mutations identified derived from mouse fanciers, who primarily selected coat color variants or neurobehavioral triats. However, disruptions affecting the axial skeleton were also reported early in the century. For example, the classic brachyury (T) short tail mutant was identified in a laboratory stock by Dobrovolskaia-Zavadskaia in 1927 and was subsequently cloned and found to be a member of the T-box family of transcription factors, required for the formation and differentiation of paraxial mesoderm2. Spontaneous mutations causing vertebral defects, including undulated (Pax1 un ) and pudgy (Dll3 pu ), have also been cloned and found to encode genes involved in somite patterning3,4. More recently, advances in genetic technologies have greatly expanded the number of mouse mutations with somite defects. These approaches include use of homologous recombination in embryonic stem (ES) cell lines to generate “knock-out” and “knock-in” mice, transgenic insertion of dominant-negative alleles and chemical mutagenesis by agents such as N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU). Mouse mutant phenotypes and signaling pathways have been studied and characterized through analysis of double mutants. These genetic studies in the mouse have yielded a tremendous amount of information about the process of mammalian somitogenesis.
Reliability analysis of a ceramic turbine wheel

Failure probability of a ceramic rotor was calculated with Shetty's fracture criterion. Shetty's parameter was obtained by a multi-axial stress test. Fracture strength of material was evaluated taking surface conditions into account. Stress distribution used for the fracture evaluation is also carefully estimated by a finite element method. Good agreement was obtained in a comparison of the results of cold spin test with the calculation.
Anesthetic considerations in mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes syndrome: a case series

Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes syndrome (MELAS) is a rare inherited mitochondrial disorder associated with severe multiorgan pathology and stress-induced episodes of metabolic decompensation and lactic acidosis. The purpose of this case series is to review the medical records of patients with MELAS who underwent anesthetic care at the Mayo Clinic to observe their perioperative responses to anesthesia and to assess outcomes. From September 1997 to October 2010, nine patients with MELAS were identified who underwent 20 general anesthetics, 12 prior to MELAS diagnosis. Debilitating neurologic symptoms involved eight patients, and three patients had substantial cardiac comorbidities. The patients tolerated commonly used anesthetics and muscle relaxants, including succinylcholine. Lactated Ringer’s solution was used frequently. One patient was noted to have elevated postoperative serum lactate, but his serum lactate was chronically elevated. Metabolic acidosis was not observed in any patient. Hyponatremia and hyperkalemia, sometimes profound, were observed in seven patients, but these abnormalities also occurred at times remote from surgery. Two patients developed renal dysfunction following cardiac surgery and abdominal surgery for severe sepsis. The MELAS patients developed episodes of hyponatremia and hyperkalemia of variable severity unrelated to the timing of surgery, suggesting these patients are prone to major electrolyte disturbances. Given the propensity to develop acid-base disturbances and lactacidemia, it is prudent to review and normalize electrolyte abnormalities and to adjust the anesthetic plan accordingly. Fortunately, the limited data suggest that patients with MELAS tolerate commonly used anesthetic drugs well.
30-day adverse outcomes, re-admissions and mortality following vertebroplasty/kyphoplasty

Abstract Objectives Despite vertebral fractures being a common occurrence in elderly osteoporotic individuals, literature remains scant with regards to 30-day outcomes following vertebral augmentation for these injuries. We studied a national database of elderly osteoporotic patients who underwent vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. Patients and methods The 2012–2014 ACS-NSQIP database was queried using CPT codes for vertebroplasty (22520, 22521 and 22522) and kyphoplasty (22523, 22524 and 22525). Patients undergoing concurrent spinal fusion and/or laminectomies/laminotomies/laminoplasties were removed from the study. Patients with missing data were also excluded from the study. Results Following inclusion/exclusion criteria, a total of 2433 patients were included in the study out of which 242(9.9%) underwent vertebroplasty and 2191(90.1%) underwent kyphoplasty. Following adjusted analysis, having a dependent functional health status pre-operatively (OR 1.78; p = 0.010), pre-operative sepsis/SIRS (OR 2.52; p = 0.009), history of COPD (OR 1.62; p = 0.025), disseminated cancer (OR 1.94; p = 0.028), pre-operative wound infection (OR 3.47; p = 0.003) and inpatient admission status (OR 3.22; p Conclusion Vertebroplasty/Kyphoplasty is associated with significant adverse outcomes. Providers can utilize these data to better pre-operatively filter high-risk patients and tailor an appropriate peri-operative medical optimization program to enhance care to lower the risk of complications, readmissions and mortality from this procedure.
Prognostication of older Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients (pts): Findings from a multicenter phase II study.

7540Background: Outcomes have been historically poor for older HL pts (ages ≥ 60 years (yr)). Furthermore, there are sparse data regarding prognostication. Methods: Untreated older HL pts received ...
Real‐Time Interrogation of Aspirin Reactivity, Biochemistry, and Biodistribution by Hyperpolarized Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

Hyperpolarized magnetic resonance spectroscopy enables quantitative, non-radioactive, real-time measurement of imaging probe biodistribution and metabolism in vivo. Here, we investigate and report on the development and characterization of hyperpolarized acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and its use as a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) probe. Aspirin derivatives were synthesized with single- and double-13 C labels and hyperpolarized by dynamic nuclear polarization with 4.7 % and 3 % polarization, respectively. The longitudinal relaxation constants (T1 ) for the labeled acetyl and carboxyl carbonyls were approximately 30 seconds, supporting in vivo imaging and spectroscopy applications. In vitro hydrolysis, transacetylation, and albumin binding of hyperpolarized aspirin were readily monitored in real time by 13 C-NMR spectroscopy. Hyperpolarized, double-labeled aspirin was well tolerated in mice and could be observed by both 13 C-MR imaging and 13 C-NMR spectroscopy in vivo.
Multicenter Study of Age, Frailty, and Waitlist Mortality Among Liver Transplant Candidates.

OBJECTIVE To determine if the association of frailty and waitlist mortality varies by candidate age. BACKGROUND Frailty, a construct developed in geriatrics, is a state of decreased physiologic reserve, and is associated with mortality while awaiting liver transplantation (LT). However, older candidates have high comorbidity burden and less physiologic reserve, so the relationship between frailty and waitlist mortality may vary by candidate age. METHODS We studied adults listed for LT at 2 transplant centers. The liver frailty index (grip strength, chair stands, balance) was measured at evaluation, with frailty defined as liver frailty index ≥ 4.5. We compared the prevalence of frailty in older (≥65 yr) and younger (18-64 yr) candidates. We studied the association between frailty, age, interaction between the 2, and waitlist mortality using competing risks regression adjusted for sex, BMI, and MELDNa. RESULTS Among 882 LT candidates, 16.6% were ≥ 65 years. Older candidates were more likely to be frail (33.3% vs 21.7%, P = 0.002). Older age [adjusted subhazard ratio (aSHR): 2.16, 95% CI: 1.51-3.09, P < 0.001] and frailty (aSHR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.38-2.67, P < 0.001) were independently associated with higher risk of waitlist mortality. However, the association between waitlist mortality and frailty did not vary by candidate age (aSHR of frailty for younger patients: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.28-2.80, P = 0.001; aSHR of frailty for older patients: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.07-3.67, P = 0.03; P interaction = 0.9). CONCLUSIONS Older candidates experienced higher rates of frailty than younger candidates. However, regardless of age, frailty was associated with nearly 2-fold increased risk of waitlist mortality. Our data support the applicability of the frailty concept to the whole LT population and can guide the development of prehabilitation programs targeting frailty in LT patients of all ages.
Impact-reduction effect of tatami floor mat made of nonwoven fabric for head injuries in fall accidents

Abstract Recently, with the rapid increase in aging population, there is a growing interest in the development of a high-quality living environment, especially in terms of safety. In particular, injuries due to fall accidents have serious after-effects and can sometimes even be fatal. In order to reduce the impact of fall accidents, floor coverings with a buffering effect are used. However, floor coverings have some limitations in terms of thickness from the perspective of ease of construction. Therefore, the buffering effect is limited. This study proposes a high-buffering technique for reducing fall-related head impacts using a high-performance nonwoven fabric combined with a rigid plate. Additionally, it verifies the shock absorption performance of this structure. The analysis confirmed that it is possible to achieve high shock absorption in fall accidents by using a tatami mat of thickness 55 mm, even with flooring as thin as 16 mm. Tatami mats using nonwoven fabrics as buffering materials exhibit high buffering performance against head impacts by combining nonwoven fabrics of appropriate density and thickness with core boards of adequate rigidity. As a result, a range of Tatami mat modulus, thickness and density was identified that provided about 70% reduction in peak head acceleration.
Anatomic eligibility for transcarotid artery revascularization and transfemoral carotid artery stenting.

Abstract Objective Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) has emerged as an alternative to transfemoral carotid artery stenting (tfCAS). We investigated the proportion of carotid arteries undergoing revascularization procedures that would be eligible for TCAR based on anatomic criteria and how many arteries at high anatomic risk for tfCAS would be amenable to TCAR. Methods We performed a retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy or carotid stenting between 2012 and 2015. Patients were excluded if computed tomography angiography of the neck was not performed within 6 months of the procedure. We assessed TCAR eligibility on the basis of the instructions for use of the ENROUTE Transcarotid Neuroprotection System (Silk Road Medical, Sunnyvale, Calif) and high anatomic risk for tfCAS on the basis of anatomic factors known to make carotid cannulation more difficult or hazardous. Results Of the 118 patients and 236 carotid arteries identified, 12 carotid arteries were excluded for presence of an occluded internal carotid artery (ICA). Of the remaining 224 carotid arteries, 72% were eligible for TCAR on the basis of the instructions for use criteria; 100% had 4- to 9-mm ICA diameters, 100% had ≥6-mm common carotid artery (CCA) diameter, 75% had ≥5-cm clavicle to carotid bifurcation distance, and 96% lacked significant CCA puncture site plaque. In addition, 7% of carotid arteries had bifurcation anatomy unfavorable for stenting; thus, of the entire cohort of arteries examined, 68% were eligible for TCAR. Hyperlipidemia (odds ratio [OR], 6.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7-26; P Conclusions The majority of carotid arteries in individuals selected for revascularization meet TCAR eligibility, making TCAR a viable treatment option for many patients.
Jonathan Mulrooney’s Romanticism and Theatrical Experience

I was happy and honored when Ann Wierda Rowland invited me to speak about Jonathan Mulrooney’s wonderful Romanticism and Theatrical Experience at the NASSR New Book Panel. I have elsewhere describe...
Musculoskeletal Issues and Care Specific to the Female Athlete

This chapter aims to provide recent updates in the literature regarding musculoskeletal issues in the female athlete that affects their care. The content will aim to supply specific history, physical exam, diagnostic and treatment pearls for medical providers caring for female athletes. Female athletes are more likely to be injured and spend more time away from sport due to their injuries when compared with their male counterparts. The causes of these issues have been found to be multifactorial due to anatomic differences, hormonal influences, and biomechanical patterns that predispose females to injury. Female and male athletes differ in the types of injuries they sustain and the contributing factors that lead to these injuries. This allows the unique opportunity to study these variables and how they can individualize prevention and treatment strategies for each sex.
Chapter 60 Game-theoretic analysis of legal rules and institutions

Abstract We offer a selective survey of the uses of cooperative and non-cooperative game theory in the analysis of legal rules and institutions. In so doing, we illustrate some of the ways in which law influences behavior, analyze the mechanism design aspect of legal rules and institutions, and examine some of the difficulties in the use of game-theoretic concepts to clarify legal doctrine.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: Catalyst or Complication for Bioterrorism?

The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates how an infectious disease can cause massive casualties, destabilize governments, and garner intense media attention as countries struggle to respond effectively. ...
Comparison of TWINS and THEMIS observations of proton pitch angle distributions in the ring current during the 29 May 2010 geomagnetic storm

[1] The first comparison between energy-dependent ion pitch angle distributions in the ring current deconvolved from Two Wide-angle Imagining Neutral-atom Spectrometers (TWINS) energetic neutral atom (ENA) images and measured by Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) D and E during a magnetic storm on 29 May 2010 is shown. The ion intensities and energy spectra along the THEMIS path are also compared with those deconvolved from the TWINS ENA images. The global plots of the ion intensities show an asymmetric ring current in the early recovery phase consistent with the ASY/H index. The comparison between the in situ pitch angle distributions observed by THEMIS and those obtained here from TWINS ENA images lends credence to the global plots of pitch angle anisotropy provided by the TWINS data. The spatial dependence of the pitch angle anisotropy provides information relevant to ion precipitation and lifetimes of trapped ring current ions not available from in situ measurements.
Specific and quantitative assessment of naphthalene and salicylate bioavailability by using a bioluminescent catabolic reporter bacterium

A bioassay was developed and standardized for the rapid, specific, and quantitative assessment of naphthalene and salicylate bioavailability by use of bioluminescence monitoring of catabolic gene expression. The bioluminescent reporter strain Pseudomonas fluorescens HK44, which carries a transcriptional nahG-luxCDABE fusion for naphthalene and salicylate catabolism, was used. The physiological state of the reporter cultures as well as the intrinsic regulatory properties of the naphthalene degradation operon must be taken into account to obtain a high specificity at low target substrate concentrations. Experiments have shown that the use of exponentially growing reporter cultures has advantages over the use of carbon-starved, resting cultures. In aqueous solutions for both substrates, naphthalene and salicylate, linear relationships between initial substrate concentration and bioluminescence response were found over concentration ranges of 1 to 2 orders of magnitude. Naphthalene could be detected at a concentration of 45 ppb. Studies conducted under defined conditions with extracts and slurries of experimentally contaminated sterile soils and identical uncontaminated soil controls demonstrated that this method can be used for specific and quantitative estimations of target pollutant presence and bioavailability in soil extracts and for specific and qualitative estimations of napthalene in soil slurries.
Data Flow Analysis of Concurrency in a Turbojet Engine Control Program

The amount of concurrency which is inherent in an engine control algorithm, and a methodology for computing this measure based on existing programs, are presented. The control is partitioned into functional blocks, followed by analyses of data dependencies and of execution time. Concurrency is increased by modification and decomposition of bottleneck functions. For the control program analyzed, exploitation of concurrency at the function level allows a reduction of execution time to 15% of the sequential execution time. This paper reports work originated by GE and continued there in accordance with the USAF Future Advanced Control Technology Study (FACTS) [1].
Layer-finding in radar echograms using probabilistic graphical models

Ground-penetrating radar systems are useful for a variety scientific studies, including monitoring changes to the polar ice sheets that may give clues to climate change. A key step in analyzing radar echograms is to identify boundaries between layers of material (such as air, ice, rock, etc.). In this paper, we propose an automated technique for identifying these boundaries, posing this as an inference problem on a probabilistic graphical model. We show how to learn model parameters from labeled training data and how to perform inference efficiently, as well as how additional sources of evidence, such as feedback from a human operator, can be naturally incorporated. We evaluate the approach on over 800 echograms of the Antarctic ice sheets, measuring error with respect to hand-labeled ground truth.
How is Mathematics Education Philosophy Reflected in the Math Wars

Throughout the duration of what has been termed the "math wars", many overly- generalized statements by both sides have detracted from the quest for a solution to the conflict between conceptual and procedural approaches to mathematics study. In terms of philosophies of mathematics education, the absolutist view posits that mathematical knowledge is certain and unchallengeable while the fallibilist view is that mathematical knowledge is never beyond revision and correction. We suggest that the major mathematics education reforms have been absolutist in focus and have not reflected the changing nature of the discipline. Thus we believe that true reform will reflect changing perceptions in mathematics education along with changes in American culture and its expectations of mathematics education.
Multi-granularity classification rule discovery using ERID

This paper introduces the use of ERID [1] algorithm for classification rule discovery at various levels of granularity. We use an incomplete information system and attribute value hierarchy to extract rules. The incomplete information system is capable of storing weighted attribute values and the domains of those attributes are organized using a hierarchical tree structure. The granularity of attribute values can be adjusted using the attribute value hierarchy. The result is then processed through ERID, which is designed to discover rules from partially incomplete information systems. The capability of handling incomplete data enables to build more specific and general classification rules.
Antidromic responses of single units from the spiral ganglion.

1. Antidromic responses of single units in the guinea pig spiral ganglion were recorded in response to shocks to the auditory nerve root. The orthodromic responses of these units were also recorded...