cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reverse engineering molecular hypergraphs

Analysis of molecular interaction networks is pervasive in systems biology. This research relies almost entirely on graphs for modeling interactions. However, edges in graphs cannot represent multi-way interactions among molecules, which occur very often within cells. Hypergraphs may be better representations for such interactions, since hyperedges can naturally represent relationships among multiple molecules. Here we propose using hypergraphs to capture the uncertainty that is inherent in reverse engineering gene-gene networks from systems biology datasets. Some subsets of nodes may induce highly varying subgraphs across an ensemble of high-scoring networks inferred by a reverse engineering algorithm. We provide a novel formulation of hyperedges to capture this uncertainty in network topology. We propose a clustering-based approach to discover hyperedges. We show that our approach can recover hyperedges planted in synthetic datasets with high precision and recall. We apply our techniques to a published dataset of pathway structures inferred from quantitative genetic interaction data in S. cerevisiae related to the unfolded protein response in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Our approach discovers several hyperedges that capture the uncertain connectivity of genes in specific pathways and complexes related to the ER. Our work demonstrates that molecular interaction hypergraphs are powerful representations for capturing uncertainty in network structure. The hyperedges we discover directly suggest groups of genes for which further experiments may be required in order to precisely discover interaction patterns.
Adaptive optimization of run-to-run controllers: the EWMA example

This paper presents a recursive scheme for optimizing the gain of an exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) controller under stability constraints. The objective is to minimize the asymptotic mean square error in the output with minimal a priori information. The algorithm hinges on a simple representation of the optimal EWMA gain. Both step and drift disturbances are considered. It is shown that the gain sequence generated by the algorithm always yields a stable system. Furthermore, this sequence is shown to converge to a suboptimal value. Extensions to the algorithm to the case where there is model uncertainty are also presented. The algorithm is verified via simulation. Data from a manufacturing implementation are presented.
Cytoprotective Properties of Novel Nonpeptide Calpain Inhibitors in Renal Cells

Calpains are cytosolic, Ca 2+ -activated, neutral cysteine proteases. Rabbit renal proximal tubule (RPT) cells express both μ- and m -calpain. Although multiple calpain inhibitors protect against RPT cell death, most calpain inhibitors lack specificity, membrane permeability, and/or potency. A group of novel catalytic site-directed calpain inhibitors, including chloroacetic acid N ′-[6,7-dichloro-4-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-3-oxo-3,4-dihydroquinoxalin-2-yl]hydrazide (SJA7019) and chloroacetic acid N ′-(6,7-dichloro-4-phenyl-3-oxo-3,4-dihydroquinoxalin-2-yl) hydrazide (SJA7029), were identified to be potent calpain inhibitors in vitro. The goals of this study were to determine the action of these two compounds on 1) RPT calpain activity using fluorescein isothiocyanate-casein zymography, 2) antimycin A-induced RPT extracellular 45 Ca 2+ influx and cell death, and 3) hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced RPT cellular dysfunction and death. The results showed that the SJA compounds inhibited RPT μ- and m -calpain with equal potency (approximate IC 50 , 30 μM) and efficacy, and blocked antimycin A-induced extracellular Ca 2+ influx and cell death. In addition, SJA7029 blocked cell death and allowed the recovery of mitochondrial function and active Na + transport in RPTs subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation. In summary, the SJA compounds 1) were more potent inhibitors of calpains than catalytic site-directed peptide inhibitors in this model, 2) prevented extracellular Ca 2+ influx during the late phase of cell death, and 3) are true cytoprotectants and allow recovery of RPT cellular functions after injury.
Assessment of research-based body composition techniques in healthy elderly men and women using the 4-compartment model as a criterion method

OBJECTIVE: To examine the accuracy, precision and bias of body fat estimates using traditional research based techniques, relative to those derived from a 4-compartment model in healthy, older men and women. DESIGN AND SUBJECTS: Cross-sectional comparison of various body composition techniques in 41 healthy women (68.2 6.6 y) and 41 healthy men (70.2 7.0 y) with an age range of 57‐90 y. METHODS: Fat mass (FM) by the 4-compartment (4C) model was compared to that derived by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), underwater weight (UWW) and total body water (TBW). RESULTS: On a group mean basis, FM by the 4C model (24.4 7.4 kg in women, 18.2 7.6 kg in men) was similar to other techniques. The regression between FM by 4C and DXA significantly deviated from the line of identity (FM by 4Ca 0.76*FM by DXAa 5.9 kg for women; 0.81*FM by DXAa 3.4 kg for men). FM by UWW was similar to FM by 4C model in men but not women (FM by 4Ca 0.87*FM by UWWa 4.3 kg). FM by TBW was similar to FM by 4C model in women, but not men (FM by 4Ca 0.80*FM by TBWa 4.7 kg). For DXA, there was no significant bias in estimates of FM in men or women. For UWW, there was significant bias in men with an over-estimate of FM among leaner subjects and under-estimates in fatter subjects. For TBW data, there was a significant bias in men with an under-estimate of FM among leaner subjects and over-estimate in fatter subjects. CONCLUSIONS: Individual estimates of FM by DXA can be improved by correction factors that calibrate experimental data to standards such as the 4-C model. The assumptions of the Siri 2 compartment model are appropriate in healthy elderly men but not women, where a new equation is suggested. Inaccuracies in FM from TBW data are likely to be explained by age-related changes in the hydration of fat free mass (FFM).
Hormonal and Metabolic Abnormalities Associated with Central Nervous System Germinoma in Children and Adolescents and the Effect of Therapy: Report of 10 Patients*

We describe the results of clinical and endocrinological investigations performed on 10 children and adolescents (5 males and 5 females) with a primary central nervous system germinoma. Eight of 10 patients were between 10-20 yr of age at the time of initial presentation. Polyuria (7 of 10) and a decrease in or cessation of linear growth (5 of 10) were the most common presenting symptoms, while only 2 of 10 patients complained of visual problems. Two patients presented with the syndrome of polyuria, adipsia, hypernatremia, profound muscle weakness, and hyperlipidemia. Initial physical exam revealed abnormal eye findings in 60%, short stature (greater than or equal to 2.5 SD) in 50%, and abnormal pubertal development in 30% of the patients. The neoplasm was located in the suprasellar-hypothalamic region in 8, caudate nucleus in 1, and pineal region in 1. Biopsy performed in 7 patients revealed the classic two-cell germinoma in all cases. Assessment of endocrine function before radiotherapy documented pituitary deficits in all patients studied. Antidiuretic hormone was deficient in 8 of 10 patients and was associated with hypoadipsia in 4. GH was deficient in al patients tested (7 of 7). TSH (5 of 8), ACTH (3 of 7), and gonadotropin (1 of 1) deficiencies were also common before treatment. Plasma PRL concentrations were elevated in 5 of 8 patients, all with suprasellar tumors. The hCG values were elevated only in the patient with sexual precocity (1 of 10). Endocrine evaluation during the postirradiation period revealed additional instances of GH (1), ACTH (1), and gonadotropin (5) deficiencies. All 10 patients are alive without evidence of active disease 6 months to 10 yr after radiation therapy (4500-5100 R). Evidence of hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction is an early and almost universal feature of central nervous system germ cell tumors. The importance of careful evaluation and follow-up of children with acquired anterior or combined anterior and posterior pituitary dysfunction for a suprasellar tumor is stressed.
The use of pressure sensitive paints on rotating machinery

The current work involves measuring the surface pressure on a rotating blade with a laser scanning pressure paint system. The pressure paint consists of a fluorescent molecule which is mixed with a binder than painted on the surface of interest. The laser is scanned across the model surface which excites the fluorescent molecule. The intensity with which the molecule emits light is dependent on the amount of oxygen quenching and therefore the local air pressure. The system can be calibrated in two ways. The first would be to take an intensity reading with the known pressure and then take a reading at the condition of interest. The Stern-Volmer relationship of intensities is used to calculate the pressure. A second way is to measure the decay time of the emitted intensity and calibrate that versus pressure. The purpose of the experiment is to get a complete surface map of the pressure on the rotating blade.
Clarithromycin Significantly Improves Interleukin-12-Mediated Anti-Mycobacterium avium Activity and Abolishes Toxicity in Mice

Treatment of experimental murine Mycobacterium avium (MAC) infection with interleukin-12 (IL-12) significantly decreased MAC organisms in tissue but resulted in toxicity. Because IL-12-related toxicity was seen only in infected mice, IL-12 was combined with clarithromycin in an attempt to decrease bacterial burden. Clarithromycin (200 mg/kg/day) was administered alone to M. avium-infected mice for 1 week, and from week 2, IL-12 (20 microg/kg twice per week) was added to the regimen for 4 weeks. Treatment with IL-12 resulted in 60% mortality, compared with 40% mortality in untreated control mice and 20% when IL-12 was given with clarithromycin (P < .05). Clarithromycin plus IL-12 resulted in increased activity compared with either clarithromycin or IL-12 alone in reducing the number of bacteria in spleen and blood. Although potentially toxic, IL-12 is an effective immunotherapy for MAC infection, and combination with clarithromycin reduces IL-12 toxicity.
THE ACQUISITION OF SPANISH MORPHOSYNTAX: THE L1/L2 CONNECTION

THE ACQUISITION OF SPANISH MORPHOSYNTAX: THE L1/L2 CONNECTION. Ana Teresa Perez-Leroux and Juana Munoz Liceras (Eds.). Dordrecht: Kluwer, 2002. Pp. xxiii + 247. $110.00 cloth, $50.00 paper.Since the middle 1980s, the study of the acquisition of Spanish has blossomed, becoming a diverse field in which new avenues for original research are still quite abundant. More specifically, this volume addresses examples of morphosyntactic optionality observed in the interlanguage grammars of Spanish language learners, both first language (L1) and second language (L2). Furthermore, it describes how morphology can trigger the acquisition of new syntactic knowledge. A major strength of the collection lies in the numerous and varied original contributions it makes to our knowledge of the acquisition of Spanish morphosyntax.
Secure, redundant, and fully distributed key management scheme for mobile ad hoc networks: an analysis

Security poses a major challenge in ad hoc networks today due to the lack of fixed or organizational infrastructure. This paper proposes a modification to the existing "fully distributed certificate authority" scheme for ad hoc networks. In the proposed modification, redundancy is introduced by allocating more than one share to each node in order to increase the probability of creating the certificate for a node in a highly mobile network. A probabilistic analysis is carried out to analyze the trade-offs between the ease of certificate creation and the security provided by the proposed scheme. The analysis carried out from the intruder's perspective suggests that in the worst-case scenario, the intruder is just "one node" away from a legitimate node in compromising the certificate. The analysis also outlines the parameter selection criteria for a legitimate node to maintain a margin of advantage over an intruder in creating the certificate.
Enhancing Learning in the Introductory Course

In an examination of the effects of timing of feedback on student learning, participants were randomly assigned to complete five introductory course tests using either control (Scantron form) or one of three feedback (end-of-test, 24-hr delay, immediate) procedures. A cumulative final examination with 50 new items and 10 items repeated from each course test was used to assess retention during the academic semester. Fifty final examination items, administered at postcourse intervals of 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, were used to measure longer-term retention. The provision of feedback at either the end of a test or after a 24-hr delay, relative to control procedures, increased retention for 3 to 5 weeks during the semester. Robust enhancement of retention at all intervals was observed only when immediate feedback was provided. The magnitude of the immediate feedback effect indicates that students benefit from affirmation of correct responding and notification of incorrect responding during classroom tests and suggests noteworthy potential for creating learnable moments during which students validate and self-correct their knowledge stores.
Extension of Stoney's formula to non-uniform temperature distributions in thin film/substrate systems. the case of radial symmetry

Abstract Current methodologies used for the inference of thin film stress through curvature measurements are strictly restricted to stress and curvature states which are assumed to remain uniform over the entire film/substrate system. By considering a circular thin film/substrate system subject to non-uniform, but axisymmetric temperature distributions, we derive relations between the film stresses and temperature, and between the plate system's curvatures and the temperature. These relations featured a “local” part which involves a direct dependence of the stress or curvature components on the temperature at the same point, and a “non-local” part which reflects the effect of temperature of other points on the location of scrutiny. Most notably, we also derive relations between the polar components of the film stress and those of system curvatures which allow for the experimental inference of such stresses from full-field curvature measurements in the presence of arbitrary radial non-uniformities. These relations also feature a “non-local” dependence on curvatures making full-field measurements of curvature a necessity for the correct inference of stress. Finally, it is shown that the interfacial shear tractions between the film and the substrate are proportional to the radial gradients of the first curvature invariant and can also be inferred experimentally.
Physical range of majorana neutrino mixing parameters

If neutrinos are Majorana fermions, the lepton mixing parameter space consists of six mixing parameters: three mixing angles and three CP-odd phases. A related issue concerns the physical range of the mixing parameters. What values should these take so that all physically distinguishable mixing scenarios are realized? We present a detailed discussion of the lepton mixing parameter space in the case of two and three active neutrinos and in the case of three active and N sterile neutrinos. We emphasize that this question, which has been a source of confusion even among neutrino physicists, is connected to an unambiguous definition of the neutrino mass eigenstates. We find that all Majorana phases can always be constrained to lie between 0 and {pi}, and that all mixing angles can be chosen positive and at most less than or equal to {pi}/2 provided the Dirac phases are allowed to vary between -{pi} and {pi}. We illustrate our results with several examples. Finally, we point out that, in the case of new flavor-changing neutrino interactions, the lepton mixing parameter space may need to be enlarged. We properly qualify this statement, and offer concrete examples.
Tough-mindedness and fair play: Personality traits as predictors of attitudes toward the death penalty – an exploratory gendered study

One of the most potentially important factors in determining public and potential jury members’ attitudes toward the death penalty may be personality traits. There have been few recent studies cond...
Routing Multiterminal Nets Around a Rectangle

The problem of connecting a set of terminals that lie on the sides of a rectangle to minimize the total area is discussed. We present an O(nm) approximation algorithm to solve this problem where n is the number of terminals and m is the number of signal nets. Our algorithm generates a solution with an area ?1.69* OPT where OPT is the area of an optimal solution. Our algorithm routes some of the nets by a simple greedy strategy. The remaining nets are routed using several strategies and four layouts are obtained. The best of these layouts is the solution generated by our algorithm.
Strategies to Help Low-Wage Workers Advance Implementation and Early Impacts of the Work Advancement and Support Center (WASC) Demonstration

The Work Advancement and Support Center (WASC) demonstration was an innovative program designed to increase the incomes of low-wage workers. The program offered participating workers intensive employment retention and advancement services, including career coaching and access to skills training. It also offered them easier access to work supports, in an effort to increase their incomes in the short run and help stabilize their employment. Finally, both services were offered in one location — in existing One-Stop Career Centers created by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 — and by colocated teams of workforce and welfare staff. Services were provided to workers for two years between 2005 and 2010, and the program operated in three sites across the country: Bridgeport, Connecticut; Dayton, Ohio; and San Diego, California. WASC was evaluated using a randomized control trial, in which individuals who were interested in and eligible for the program were assigned at random to either the WASC group, eligible to receive WASC benefits and services, or a control group, not eligible for WASC services but eligible to seek out existing services in the community. This is the final report in a series of reports prepared for the demonstration, and it covers the effects of WASC on workers’ benefit receipt and earnings for three to four years after study entry.
The mechanics of explosive seed dispersal in orange jewelweed (Impatiens capensis)

Explosive dehiscence ballistically disperses seeds in a number of plant species. During dehiscence, mechanical energy stored in specialized tissues is transferred to the seeds to increase their kinetic and potential energies. The resulting seed dispersal patterns have been investigated in some ballistic dispersers, but the mechanical performance of a launch mechanism of this type has not been measured. The properties of the energy storage tissue and the energy transfer efficiency of the launch mechanism were quantified in Impatiens capensis. In this species the valves forming the seed pod wall store mechanical energy. Their mass specific energy storage capacity (124 J kg 21 ) was comparable with that of elastin and spring steel. The energy storage capacity of the pod tissues was determined by their level of hydration, suggesting a role for turgor pressure in the energy storage mechanism. During dehiscence the valves coiled inwards, collapsing the pod and ejecting the seeds. Dehiscence took 4.260.4 ms (mean 6SEM, n¼13). The estimated efficiency with which energy was transferred to the seeds was low (0.5160.26%, mean 6SEM, n¼13). The mean seed launch angle (17.465.2, mean 6SEM, n¼45) fell within the range predicted by a ballistic model to maximize dispersal distance. Low ballistic dispersal efficiency or effectiveness may be characteristic of species that also utilize secondary seed dispersal mechanisms.
Pro-Government Militias and the Repertoires of Illicit State Violence

ABSTRACTMost studies of pro-government militias (PGMs) take a narrowly functionalist approach. This article sees PGMs as the product of broader processes of state formation and regime dynamics that generate distinctive repertoires of violence. The article uses a cross-national dataset to shows that low state capacity is singularly correlated with the appearance and activity of all forms of PGMs. Once militias are active, they tend to endure even after initial conditions change, suggesting a strong measure of path dependence in how states PGMs evolve. Democracy curbs the activity of semi-official PGMs but not informal ones. Different authoritarian regime sub-types have varying propensities for militia activity. These findings have major implications for efforts to address state frailty.
Public Interest in Imaging-Based Cancer Screening Examinations in the United States: Analysis Using a Web-Based Search Tool.

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to identify geographic and temporal patterns related to the frequencies of online searches within the United States for information on imaging-based cancer screening tests. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Google Trends, a web-based tool for identifying the frequency of online searches, was used to determine, on both a monthly and a geographic basis, the relative frequency of searches for imaging-based cancer screening tests in the United States from 2004 through 2014. Findings were evaluated qualitatively. RESULTS. Searches for “mammography” decreased slightly overall, although they peaked in October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month) in most years and spiked in November 2009 (when the updated U.S. Preventive Services Task Force screening mammography guidelines were released). The frequency of searches for “tomosynthesis” increased rapidly from 2009 through 2014. On the other hand, the frequency of searches for “lung cancer screening” decreased slightly from 2006 through 201...
Innovation diffusion on time-varying activity driven networks

Since its introduction in the 1960s, the theory of innovation diffusion has contributed to the advancement of several research fields, such as marketing management and consumer behavior. The 1969 seminal paper by Bass [F.M. Bass, Manag. Sci. 15, 215 (1969)] introduced a model of product growth for consumer durables, which has been extensively used to predict innovation diffusion across a range of applications. Here, we propose a novel approach to study innovation diffusion, where interactions among individuals are mediated by the dynamics of a time-varying network. Our approach is based on the Bass’ model, and overcomes key limitations of previous studies, which assumed timescale separation between the individual dynamics and the evolution of the connectivity patterns. Thus, we do not hypothesize homogeneous mixing among individuals or the existence of a fixed interaction network. We formulate our approach in the framework of activity driven networks to enable the analysis of the concurrent evolution of the interaction and individual dynamics. Numerical simulations offer a systematic analysis of the model behavior and highlight the role of individual activity on market penetration when targeted advertisement campaigns are designed, or a competition between two different products takes place.
Are the mentally ill dangerous

The author reviews studies that address the question, "Are the mentally ill dangerous?" She points out that as psychiatrists, we have the responsibility of evaluating the mentally ill and making judgments about their dangerousness that may restrict their civil liberties. Therefore, the more practical question for us is: "Which mentally ill, under what circumstances, are dangerous?" She discusses data from her research group and others that show that short-term predictions of violence can be relatively accurate, that we are better at predicting violence for some patients than for others, that specific symptom patterns in the acute phase of illness are related to violent acts, that the most likely victims of violence by decompensating psychiatric patients are caretakers rather than strangers, and that a history of violence, co-morbid substance abuse, and treatment noncompliance are related to a higher risk of violence in psychiatric patients.
The Labors of Liberality: Christian Benevolence and National Prejudice in the American Founding

Of all the keynote speakers asked to address their respective states on July 4, 1788, the Reverend Enos Hitchcock of Providence, Rhode Island, may have had the most difficult task. Two weeks earlier, New Hampshire, the requisite ninth state, had approved the fed eral Constitution; a few days after that, leading Federalists from Providence had tapped him to make a "suitable" oration on the approaching holiday. Like most Providence resi dents?and almost every Congregationalist pastor?Hitchcock supported the new Con stitution as a vital reply to social unrest and fiscal chaos. The rural majorities of Rhode Island, however, overwhelmingly opposed the plan, and on the night of July 3, hundreds or possibly thousands of them (some armed) marched to the seaport and told the authori ties to banish any mention of ratification from the next day's festivities. The event should herald independence only, they insisted. Meanwhile, black residents planned another celebration, one that would suitably applaud the state's recent decision to criminalize the slave trade. "May Unity prevail throughout all Nations," they toasted. Hitchcock shared those enlightened aspirations and tightly associated them with the Federalist cause. But he also knew that his listeners would include slave owners as well as Antifederalists and
Antibiosis Effect of Sorghum on the Convergent Lady Beetle (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), a Third-Trophic Level Predator of the Greenbug (Homoptera: Aphididae)

The effects of a tri-trophic level (grain sorghum-greenbug-coccinellid) interaction were examined in the laboratory using greenhouse-grown plants. Two resistant sorghum, Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, hybrids, Dekalb DK-41 Y and DK-59E, which exhibit antibiosis to green bugs, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani), were tested along with a greenbug-susceptible hybrid, Horizon 101G. Single egg clusters from Hippodamia convergens Guerin females were randomly separated at hatching into two groups. Each group was fed greenbugs from either a resistant or susceptible grain sorghum hybrid. Plant antibiosis reduced larvalpupal survival and increased the amount of time from egg eclosion to pupation in coccinellids that fed on greenbugs from both of the resistant hybrids compared with the susceptible hybrid. Survival to adulthood was 82.9% in the 101G-susceptible treatment and 62.1% for larvae fed greenbugs from resistant DK-41 Y. Survival was 91.6% in the susceptible 101G treatment and 86.5% in the resistant DK-59E treatment. Resistant sorghum hybrid DK-59E had a significant treatment-by-sex interaction effect on coccinellid adult weights, with females that consumed greenbugs from the resistant hybrid weighing less, whereas males weighed more when compared with the respective sexes feeding on greenbugs from the susceptible sorghum hybrid.
Commentary on: Pericardial Fat is Independently Associated with Human Atrial Fibrillation by Al Chekakie et al.

Obesity is an established risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF).1 In fact, it has been reported that the increasing prevalence of obesity in the United States could account for up to 60 % of the increasing incidence of age and sex adjusted AF.2 Adipose tissue has been shown to be highly metabolically active and secretes several proinflammatory mediators; however, different fat depots differ in metabolic and inflammatory activity.3 Pericardial fat produces several inflammatory cytokines and is believed to play an important role in cardiovascular pathology, and particularly in coronary artery disease.4-7 There exists increasing evidence that links AF and inflammation. The concentration of serum C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, is increased in patients with AF, and has been associated with the development of new AF as well as AF persistence.8-9 Given the association of AF with central obesity and systemic inflammation, investigating the role of pericardial fat, a local fat depot with high inflammatory potential, is of interest. Al Chekakie et al.10 investigated the association of atrial fibrillation and pericardial fat.
Prostaglandin I2 Receptor Agonism for Proteinuria and Diabetes: Good for the Goose and Good for the Gander?

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the developed world (1). In the U.S., the prevalence of both diabetes and DKD have increased linearly and proportionately, as determined by the serial assessments from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data, such that the proportion of DKD in patients with diabetes (assessed by albuminuria or glomerular filtration rate) has remained nearly constant (2,3). Further, although diabetic control, adjudged by glycated hemoglobin levels, has sequentially improved in the last decade (4), the prevalence of patients with DKD listed as a primary cause of ESRD in the U.S. has not declined (1,3). These epidemiologic trends have occurred despite the significantly increased use of antihyperglycemic agents and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone blockers among patients with diabetes (3). These data therefore suggest that, in addition to treating hyperglycemia itself, there is a persistent need for drug discovery to treat DKD and delay ESRD progression using agents that could target the multiple effector pathways involved in DKD, either alone or in combination. Studies have implicated intracellular hyperglycemia with metabolic byproduct accumulation and consequent oxidative stress–related, proinflammatory, and profibrotic pathway activation as important factors contributing to organ damage in diabetes, including DKD (reviewed in refs. 5,6). However, strategies targeting these cellular processes to benefit DKD have met with limited success in clinical studies (7–9). Alternatively, serendipitous and unrelated renoprotective effects of the different classes of antihyperglycemic agents, distinct from their hypoglycemic effects, are also well described, although the clinical consequences need …
Electrical therapy of arrhythmias.

Pacing, cardioversion, and defibrillation may be used separately or in sequence for the termination of certain cardiac arrhythmias. Each is presently available in the form of an implantable device for longterm tachycardia therapy. The purpose of this article is to review the current applications and future directions of these new modalities.
The effects of Vero (Green monkey kidney) cell coculture on the motility patterns of cyropreserved human spermatozoa

Objective To determine the effects of Vero (a primate, urogenital epithelium-derived cell line) cell monolayer coculture on cryopreserved human sperm function in vitro. Design Prospective, controlled investigation in which cryopreserved semen specimens were thawed, processed, and then simultaneously exposed to control media (Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium with either 10% heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum [FBS] or 10% heat-inactivated pooled human sera [PHS]) or the same media with the addition of confluent Vero cell monolayers. A second series of investigations was also performed to study the effect of Vero cell conditioned media (CM). Setting In vitro fertilization/andrology service of tertiary center. Patients Donors with normal semen parameters. Interventions Coculture of human spermatozoa with Vero cell monolayers or Vero cell CM. Main Outcome Measures General and hyperactivated (HA) motility patterns, multifactor, repeated measures ANOVA. Results General sperm motility parameters, including percentage motility, mean velocity, and mean amplitude of lateral head displacement were significantly greater than controls in the Vero cell monolayer-FBS group at 6hours and in both the Vero cell monolayer-FBS and Vero cell monolayer-PHS groups by 24hours. Hyperactivated motility was increased after 3hours in the Vero cell monolayer-FBS coculture group. A significant decrease in the total sperm concentration over the time course of the study in the Vero cell monolayer, but not the control or Vero CM groups, was also noted. Vero CM did not exert significant effects on any sperm motility parameter, in spite of a sample size sufficient to detect relevant increases with a power of 0.80. Conclusions Vero cell monolayers have a positive influence on cryopreserved sperm function as assessed by general and HA motility patterns. Epithelial cell to spermatozoon contact seems to be important in this process.
Asymmetric acoustic transmission through near-zero-index and gradient-index metasurfaces

We present a design of acoustic metasurfaces yielding asymmetric transmission within a certain frequency band. The design consists of a layer of gradient-index metasurface and a layer of low refractive index metasurface. Incident waves are controlled in a wave vector dependent manner to create strong asymmetric transmission. Numerical simulations show that the approach provides high transmission contrast between the two incident directions within the designed frequency band. This is further verified by experiments. Compared to previous designs, the proposed approach yields a compact and planar device. Our design may find applications in various scenarios such as noise control and therapeutic ultrasound.
Patterns of Care in Proton Radiation Therapy for Pediatric Central Nervous System Malignancies.

Purpose Proton beam therapy (PBT) potentially allows for improved sparing of normal tissues, hopefully leading to decreased late side effects in children. Using a national registry, we sought to perform a patterns-of-care analysis for children receiving PBT for primary malignancies of the central nervous system (CNS). Methods and Materials Using the National Cancer Data Base, we identified pediatric patients with primary CNS malignancies that were diagnosed between 2004 and 2012. We used a standard t test for comparison of means and χ 2 testing to identify differences in demographic and clinical characteristics. Univariate and multivariate logistical regression was applied to identify predictors of PBT use. Results We identified 4637 pediatric patients receiving radiation therapy from 2004 to 2012, including a subset of 267 patients treated with PBT. We found that PBT use increased with time from 200 miles from a radiation treatment facility ( P Conclusions We noted the proportion of children receiving PBT to be significantly increasing over time from
Interprofessional Education in Neurology: Student Experience (P2.367)

OBJECTIVE:To develop clinic-based interprofessional learning activities, evaluating collaboration between students of Medicine and Allied Health Programs. BACKGROUND: There is growing recognition that effective interprofessional communication and collaboration leads to optimal delivery of health care, improving patient satisfaction, safety, and outcomes. Students of different healthcare professions are routinely involved in learning about neurological disorders, but each specialty has different learning objectives and patient assessment methodologies. We introduced an interprofessional learning activity, providing opportunity for these students to learn about each other’s roles in patient care delivery, and training in coordinated therapy planning. DESIGN/METHODS: A Neurology Clinic was the site for a pilot interprofessional collaborative clinical experience, combining 15 Medical, 5 Nurse Practitioner, 24 Occupational Therapy, and 18 Physical Therapy students. Initial individual student clinical evaluations were followed by an interdisciplinary collaborative meeting, therapy session, and post-therapy discussion. RESULTS: Pre-activity surveys revealed that while 53[percnt] students knew about interprofessional teams, only 35[percnt] were familiar with interprofessional team training. Students commented that they had limited knowledge about responsibilities and educational requirements of other healthcare professionals. In post-activity surveys, all students agreed that Neurology patients benefitted from coordinated interprofessional therapy, and that shared learning increased students9 understanding of Neurology patient clinical problems. 98[percnt] of students strongly agreed/agreed that IPE sessions provided valuable opportunities to work with students of other professions, and 87[percnt] strongly agreed/agreed that the training session provided team approach training in overcoming clinical challenges. Self-assessment of interprofessional communication competency was significantly lower than peer assessment (two tailed Wilcoxon p=0.0002), demonstrating lack of confidence or low comfort level in interprofessional communication. CONCLUSIONS: Effective interprofessional collaboration is expected from all healthcare professionals in clinical practice. Formal training is necessary to develop this competency. Because neurological cases routinely require multidisciplinary therapeutic approaches, Neurology clinics can be effective learning environments. Disclosure: Dr. Shanina has nothing to disclose. Dr. Smith has nothing to disclose. Dr. Aranha has nothing to disclose. Dr. Seale has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rowen has nothing to disclose.
P098 Cortical layer-specific distribution of TES electric fields

Introduction Cellular targets of transcranial electric stimulation (TES) are not well understood. Due to a number of factors including size, packing, myelination and orientation of predominant cell types and related variations in conductivity across layers, some cortical layers may be more susceptible to stimulation than others. Current biophysical models of TES do not account for laminar specific differences in the electric field distribution. Objectives In this study we systematically mapped the electric field distribution during TES across cortical layers as a function of electrode montage, stimulation frequency and cortical depth. Methods Using laminar multielectrode recordings (100 μm spacing, 24 contacts, implanted in V1) in an anesthetized cebus monkey we recorded TES induced potentials for two montages: 1. Anterior-Posterior current direction, electrodes placed over V1 and forehead. 2. Left–Right current direction, electrodes placed over bilateral temples. Stimulation intensity was 100 μA applied through round (3.14 cm2) Ag/AgCl electrodes. Measurements were performed using alternating currents with frequencies from 1–150 Hz for different depths (from dura through GM and WM). Electric fields were computed as the first spatial derivative of recorded potentials. Results We found a marked influence of the laminar structure on the electric field distribution ( Download : Download high-res image (624KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 1A) with locally increased field strengths (Layer IV/V). This effect was dependent on current direction (Fig. 1B). The amplitude and phase of recorded potentials varied in a frequency and spatially dependent manner ( Download : Download high-res image (444KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 2). Conclusion Our results highlight differential effects of electric field propagation across cortical layers. Locally enhanced electric fields are likely due to currents passing across conductivity mismatches between layers. This effect is dependent on current orientation. Magnitude and phase of recorded potentials varied across the depth of cortex demonstrating changes in local electric properties of brain tissue. Larger phase shifts in deeper WM regions could be related to stronger capacitive influences from myelinated axons. In summary our results show previously unreported laminar specific effects of TES electric fields making a first step in the identification of cell specific targets for TES.
Observational limits on patchy reionization: Implications for B modes

The recent detection of secondary CMB anisotropy by the South Pole Telescope limits temperature fluctuations from the optical depth-modulated Doppler effect to ${T}_{3000}l\sqrt{13}\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{K}$ at multipoles $\ensuremath{\ell}\ensuremath{\sim}3000$. This bound is the first empirical constraint on optical depth fluctuations at arcminute scales, ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{3000}=0.001{T}_{3000}/\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{K}$, implying that these fluctuations are no more than a few percent of the mean. Modulation of the quadrupole source to polarization generates $B$ modes that are bounded as ${B}_{3000}=0.003{T}_{3000}$. The maximal extrapolation to the $\ensuremath{\ell}\ensuremath{\sim}100$ gravitational wave regime yields ${B}_{100}=0.1{T}_{3000}$ and remains in excess of gravitational lensing if the comoving size of ionized regions is $R\ensuremath{\gtrsim}80\text{ }\mathrm{Mpc}$. If patchy reionization produces much of the observed arcminute scale temperature fluctuations, current bounds on ${B}_{100}$ already require $R\ensuremath{\lesssim}200\text{ }\mathrm{Mpc}$, and limits on both ${T}_{3000}$ and ${B}_{100}$ can be expected to improve rapidly.
Measurement of DNA adducts by immunoassays.

The ability to monitor for chemical carcinogen-DNA adducts in human tissues provides an indication that human exposure has occurred. Such data may eventually demonstrate the dose received and/or allow the prediction of cancer risk. At the present time evidence that the occurrence of certain adducts is associated with specific chemical exposures is accumulating, and multiple methods are being validated to confirm these observations.
The Momentum Distribution of 4He at Non-zero Temperature

Path Integral Monte Carlo calculations provide a rigorous way of calculating equilibrium properties of boson systems at finite temperature. The only significant limitation is that the simulations are of a finite system of bosons, typically on the order of 100 atoms. Most results 1 ,2 have concerned liquid and solid 4He.
Reconstructing Ancestral Pueblo food webs in the southwestern United States

Abstract Analyzing how humans interacted with (and within) their greater ecosystems facilitates a more nuanced understanding of past lifeways. In this aim, we use food web modeling to reconstruct the biotic environment of Ancestral Pueblo people living in the central Mesa Verde region between A.D. 750 and A.D. 1300. This framework enables an investigation into the effects of species introductions and removals by linking humans to the species they consumed. We combine a diachronic examination of multiple archaeological assemblages with a database of every modern non-invasive species and their feeding links in a 4,600 square kilometer area of southwestern Colorado. Although human omnivory provided some flexibility, high population density likely curtailed the ability to prey switch. Ultimately, these factors combined to decrease the resilience of Ancestral Pueblo people to environmental changes.
Radial head replacement with a bipolar system: an average 10-year follow-up.

Background We report the long-term results of a cohort of patients after radial head replacement with a bipolar design and a smooth cementless stem at a mean follow-up of 10.4 years. Methods Of 17 possible patients from a previous minimum 2-year follow-up study, 16 were available for review. Patients were assessed using clinical and radiographic examination and with standardized outcome measures. Range of motion, stability, and radiographic evaluation of implant loosening and joint degeneration were assessed. Comparisons were performed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test for unequal groups. Results The average follow-up was 10.5 years (range, 8.5-12 years). The median visual analog scale was 1 (range, 0-5), Minnesota Elbow Performance Index was 93 (range, 70-100), and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand was 7.5 (range, 0-53). Range of motion was decreased on the operative side compared with the nonoperative side for flexion/extension (P = .005) and pronation/supination (P = .015). Grip strength was decreased on the affected side (P = .045). No patients had elbow instability. Significant arthritic changes developed in 2 patients at the ulnohumeral joint. The median cantilever quotient was 0.4 (range, 0.30-0.50). Osteolysis in zones 1 to 7 was found in all but 2 patients. The median stem radiolucency was 0.5 mm (range, 0.2-0.9 mm). No reoperations occurred since our previous report. Implant survival in this cohort was 97%. Conclusion Bipolar radial head prosthesis with a smooth cementless stem effectively restores elbow stability and function after comminuted radial head fractures with or without concomitant elbow instability. Our study demonstrates excellent long-term implant survival.
Magnaporthiopsis meyeri-festucae, sp. nov., associated with a summer patch-like disease of fine fescue turfgrasses.

Summer patch is a common and destructive root disease of turfgrasses. In this study, a new Magnaporthiopsis species, M. meyeri-festucae, was identified from the roots of fine fescue (Festuca spp.) turfgrasses with summer patch-like symptoms. It is described and illustrated on the basis of phenotypic characteristics and partial sequences of rDNA 18S, internal transcribed spacer (ITS), and 28S regions, and of MCM7, RPB1, and TEF1 genes. A key for all seven described species in the genus Magnaporthiopsis is provided. Distinctions between the new species and related species are discussed. Fulfillment of Koch’s postulates confirmed Magnaporthiopsis meyeri-festucae as a pathogen causing summer patch-like symptoms of fine fescue turfgrasses. This work is the basis for future studies on biogeography, host range, and impact of summer patch pathogens on a broader scale.
Fast Match Techniques

Real-time speech recognition systems often make use of a fast approximate match to quickly prune the search space to a manageable size. In this chapter we discuss several issues in connection with such fast match techniques.
Activation of Early Cellular Responses by Asbestos: Induction of c-FOS and c-JUN Protooncogene Expression in Rat Pleural Mesothelial Cells

Asbestos fibers belong to a family of ubiquitous mineral silicates. Two types of malignancies have been documented in respiratory tract and pleura following inhalation of asbestos. Bronchogenic carcinoma, arising in the tracheobronchialepithelium, is a tumor found in individuals exposed occupationally to asbestos. Since this tumor is rarely found in non-smoking asbestos workers, asbestos is thought to act mainly as a co-carcinogen or tumor promoter in the development of this disease (Mossman et al. 1990). However, the development of malignant mesothelioma in the pleura is not associated with cigarette smoking. The generally accepted view is that amphibole asbestos acts as a complete carcinogen in the development of mesothelioma (Mossman et al.1990).