cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Revisiting Stochastic Computing in the Era of Nanoscale Nonvolatile Technologies

In this era of nanoscale technologies, the inherent characteristics of some nonvolatile devices, such as resistive random access memory (ReRAM), phase-change material (PCM), and spintronics, can emulate stochastic functionalities. Traditionally, these devices have been engineered to suppress the stochastic switching behavior as it poses reliability concerns for memory storage and logic applications. However, leveraging stochasticity in such devices led to a renewed interest in hardware–software codesign of stochastic algorithms since the CMOS-based implementations of stochastic algorithms involve cumbersome circuitry to generate “stochastic bits.” In this article, we consider two classes of problems: deep neural networks (DNNs) and combinatorial optimization. The rapidly growing demands of artificial intelligence (AI) have sparked an interest in energy-efficient implementations of large DNNs, with binary representations of synaptic weights and neuronal activities. Stochasticity plays an important role in leveraging the benefits of these binary representations, leading to model compression and optimization during training. In combinatorial optimization, such as graph coloring or traveling salesman problems, stochastic algorithms, such as the Ising computing model, have been shown to be effective. These problems require exhaustive computational procedures, and the Ising model uses a natural annealing agent to achieve near-optimal solutions in a reasonable timescale, without getting stuck in “local minima.” In this article, we present a broad review of stochastic computing utilizing the stochastic switching characteristics of devices based on nanoscale nonvolatile technologies. We show how to codesign of the devices and algorithms that can enable optimal solutions for both combinatorial problems and binary neural networks for local learning and inference. Directly mapping the nonvolatile device characteristics to the stochastic algorithms without the need for storing the bits in a separate memory leads to efficient use of hardware.
Biomechanics of Implant Fixation in Osteoporotic Bone

The purpose of this review is to critically evaluate the current literature regarding implant fixation in osteoporotic bone. Clinical studies have not only demonstrated the growing prevalence of osteoporosis in patients undergoing total joint replacement (TJR) but may also indicate a significant gap in screening and treatment of this comorbidity. Osteoporosis negatively impacts bone in multiple ways beyond the mere loss of bone mass, including compromising skeletal regenerative capacity, architectural deterioration, and bone matrix quality, all of which could diminish implant fixation. Recent findings both in preclinical animal models and in clinical studies indicate encouraging results for the use of osteoporosis drugs to promote implant fixation. Implant fixation in osteoporotic bone presents an increasing clinical challenge that may be benefitted by increased screening and usage of osteoporosis drugs.
A systemic whole-plant change in redox levels accompanies the rapid systemic response of Arabidopsis to wounding

Abstract Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a key role in regulating plant responses to different abiotic stresses, wounding and pathogen attack. In addition to triggering responses at the tissues directly subjected to stress, ROS were recently shown to mediate a rapid whole-plant systemic signal, termed the “ROS wave”, required for inducing a state of systemic acquired acclimation, or systemic wound response. However, whether the ROS wave that spreads from the local tissues subjected to wounding to the rest of the plant triggers alterations in redox levels, is mostly unknown at present. Here, using a genetically-encoded reporter for cellular glutathione redox changes, roGFP1, we show that the wounding-induced systemic ROS wave in Arabidopsis thaliana is accompanied by a rapid systemic wave of cytosolic redox oxidation, termed a “redox wave”. The ROS wave may therefore trigger changes in redox levels in systemic leaves that in turn can trigger transcriptional, metabolic and proteomic changes resulting in acclimation and/or systemic wound responses. One sentence summary The wounding-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) wave is accompanied by a systemic whole-plant redox response.
Study of electromigration in Sn-Ag-Cu micro solder joint with Ni interfacial layer

Abstract This paper reports the extreme sensitivity of the microstructure evolution in Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) micro-solder joint, consisting of 15–20 µm thick solder alloy and electrolytic Ni plated Cu electrodes, to electromigration (EM) conditions resulting from a kinetic competition between the growth of Ni3Sn4 intermetallic compound (IMC) and EM of Sn in solder matrix. Microstructural analysis of samples tested at various conditions reveals that the voiding in the solder joint develops to the full extent only when the EM rate of Sn in the solder alloy is sufficiently greater than the growth rate of Ni3Sn4 IMC because the IMC phase is EM-inactive. The decisive evidence for such behavior is found from the samples tested at 160 and 170 °C under 35 kA/cm2. The samples tested at 170 °C show the classic solder joint microstructure that typically develops under the influence of EM, that is the exaggerated growth of Ni3Sn4 at the anode as a result of Ni-EM and voids at the cathode interface of the joint as a result of Sn-EM. Contrarily, such characteristic features are not found in samples tested at 160 °C, instead, the joint is fully converted to Ni3Sn4 without sign of its biased growth and voiding activities. The near absence of biased EM microstructure at 160 °C is believed to result from the stress-gradient developed by Sn EM counteracting the EM force on Ni. No such effect is at work at higher temperatures due to the significantly higher initial Sn EM rate which leads to voids and reduces the stress gradient.
#Fitspiration and Mental Health for LGBTQ+ College Students

Introduction – Fitspiration (fitness inspiration) on social media is associated with increased risk for decreased self-esteem and body satisfaction, along with restricted and disordered eating. Historically, low self-esteem, body dissatisfaction and disordered eating also are associated with certain groups in the LGBTQ+ community. This study sought to identify if fitspiration viewing differed between LGBTQ+ college students and their peers, and if prevalence of body satisfaction, disordered eating, and body dysmorphia differed between groups. Methods – This study used a cross-sectional survey design. Students at a small Midwestern university completed this survey, which was approved by a university IRB. The survey was distributed in person, and included sections on exercise behavior, social media use, body image, and disordered. Results – A total of 429 students completed this survey, including 54 (13.5%) who identified as LGBTQ+. There were no differences in fitspiration viewing tendencies or self-esteem between LGBTQ+ students and their peers. With regard for body satisfaction, fitspiration viewers responded slightly less favorably, while more LGBTQ+ students reported being “not at all” satisfied with their body. Being LGBTQ+ was demonstrated to be associated with having body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and nearly 30% of LGBTQ+ students had scored indicating BDD. This was unaffected by viewing fitspiration, however. Fitspiration viewers did, however, have significantly higher scores for restrained eating and eating concerns than those students who don’t view fitspiration. LGBTQ+ students who view fitspiration had the highest eating concern scores reported. Discussion – Overall, there were few statistically significant differences between LGBTQ+ students and non-LGBTQ+ students and fitspiration viewers and non-viewers. Fitspiration played a role in eating concerns, as has been previously demonstrated, but being LGBTQ+ and viewing fitspiration seems to have the greatest concern. Future studies should explore qualitatively the experiences of LGBTQ+ students on social media, and assess if increased visibility online is leading to a decrease in many negative health outcomes experienced by LGBTQ+ people.
Bilateral Simultaneous Total Knee Arthroplasty May Not Be Safe Even in the Healthiest Patients.

BACKGROUND Bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been shown to increase both mortality and complications, but has potential benefits including decreased length of stay, rehabilitation time, and costs. The purpose of this study was to use data from a nationally representative database to identify if there is a population of patients undergoing TKA in whom bilateral TKA can be safely performed, by comparing 30-day mortality and complication rates with those of patients undergoing unilateral TKA. METHODS The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) was queried to compare 30-day rates of mortality and any complication between bilateral TKA and unilateral TKA. A total of 8,291 patients who underwent bilateral TKA were matched 1:1 with a unilateral TKA control cohort (n = 315,219) by morbidity probability, which is a cumulative variable encompassing demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and laboratory values. Patients were divided into quartiles based on morbidity probability. Binary logistic regression comparing bilateral TKA and unilateral TKA for the same quartiles was performed to establish if any population could safely have bilateral TKA performed. RESULTS Bilateral TKA had an increased risk for all complications (p < 0.001) and major complications (p < 0.001) when compared with unilateral TKA regardless of health status. For all complications, there was a greater than threefold increase for the first quartile (healthiest patients) (p < 0.001), a greater than fourfold increase for the second and third quartiles (p < 0.001), and a greater than threefold increase for the fourth quartile (least healthy patients) (p < 0.001). For major complications, there was a greater than twofold increase for the first quartile (p = 0.001) and the second quartile (p < 0.001), an almost threefold increase for the third quartile (p < 0.001), and a 57% increase for the fourth quartile (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS This study will assist shared decision-making between orthopaedic surgeons and patients by suggesting that bilateral TKA may not be as safe an option for even healthy individuals compared with unilateral TKA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Large- N c analysis of two-nucleon neutrinoless double- β decay and charge-independence-breaking contact terms

The interpretation of experiments that search for neutrinoless double-$\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay relies on input from nuclear theory. Cirigliano et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 120, 202001 (2018)] recently showed that, for the light Majorana exchange formalism, effective field theory calculations require a $nn\ensuremath{\rightarrow}pp{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ contact term at leading order. They estimated the size of this contribution by relating it to measured charge-independence-breaking (CIB) nucleon-nucleon interactions and making an assumption about the relative sizes of CIB operators. We show that the assumptions underlying this approximation are justified in the limit of the number of colors, ${N}_{c}$, being large. We also obtain a large-${N}_{c}$ hierarchy among CIB nucleon-nucleon interactions that is in agreement with phenomenological results.
On the feasibility of hearing electrons in a 1D device through emitted phonons.

This work investigates the vibrational power that may potentially be delivered by electron-emitted phonons at the terminals of a device with a 1D material as the active channel. Electrons in a 1D material traversing a device excite phase-limited acoustic and optical phonon modes as they undergo streaming motion. At ultra-low temperature (4 K in this study, for example), in the near absence of background phonon activity, the emitted traveling phonons may potentially be collected at the terminals before they decay. Detecting those phonons is akin to hearing electrons within the device. Results here show that traveling acoustic phonons can deliver up to a fraction of a nW of vibrational power at the terminals, which is within the sensitivity range of modern instruments. The total vibrational power from traveling optical and acoustic phonons is found to be in order of nW. In this work, Ensemble Monte Carlo (EMC) simulations are used to model the behavior of a gate-all-around (GAA) field-effect transistor (FET), with a single-wall semiconducting carbon nanotube (SWCNT) as the active channel, and a free-hanging SWCNT between two contacts. Electronic band structure of the SWCNT is calculated within the framework of a tight-binding (TB) model. The principal scattering mechanisms are due to electron–phonon interactions using 1st order perturbation theory. A continuum model is used to determine the longitudinal acoustic (LA) and optical (LO) phonons, and a single lowest radial breathing mode (RBM) phonon is considered.
A Short History of (Mostly) Western Animal Law Part II

This Article, presented in two parts, travels through animal law from ancient Babylonia to the present, analyzing examples of laws from the ancient, medieval, Renaissance and Enlightenment, recent modern, and modern historical periods. In performing this analysis, particular attention is focused on the primary motives and purposes behind these laws. What is discovered is that there has been a historical progression in the primary motives underlying animal laws in these different periods. In Part I of this Article, it was discovered that while economic and religious motives dominate the ancient and medieval periods, in the Renaissance and Enlightenment, we see social engineering — efforts to change human behavior — come to the fore. In this Part II of the Article, it is found that in the recent modern historical period we finally see protecting animals for their own sakes — animal protection — motivating animal law. In our present historical period, this Part II of the Article uncovers a movement towards what is defined as “scientific animal welfare” — the use of modern animal-welfare science as the inspiration for animal laws and regulations. Does this historical trend toward the use of modern science in making animal law portend a change that may transform our relationship with animals? Modern science tells us that many animals have substantial cognitive abilities and rich emotional lives, and this science would seem to lead us to question the use of animals in agriculture, experimentation, and entertainment altogether. It is ultimately concluded in this Part II of the Article, however, that only a very narrow science of animal welfare is actually being applied in modern animal-protection laws and regulations, one that proceeds from the premise that present uses of animals are legally, ethically, and morally appropriate. It is only in the future that the true implications of modern science may ever be translated into legal reality.
CROP: Certifying Robust Policies for Reinforcement Learning through Functional Smoothing.

We present the first framework of Certifying Robust Policies for reinforcement learning (CROP) against adversarial state perturbations. We propose two particular types of robustness certification criteria: robustness of per-state actions and lower bound of cumulative rewards. Specifically, we develop a local smoothing algorithm which uses a policy derived from Q-functions smoothed with Gaussian noise over each encountered state to guarantee the robustness of actions taken along this trajectory. Next, we develop a global smoothing algorithm for certifying the robustness of a finite-horizon cumulative reward under adversarial state perturbations. Finally, we propose a local smoothing approach which makes use of adaptive search in order to obtain tight certification bounds for reward. We use the proposed RL robustness certification framework to evaluate six methods that have previously been shown to yield empirically robust RL, including adversarial training and several forms of regularization, on two representative Atari games. We show that RegPGD, RegCVX, and RadialRL achieve high certified robustness among these. Furthermore, we demonstrate that our certifications are often tight by evaluating these algorithms against adversarial attacks.
Events at the Vienna Academy of Sciences

The Vienna Academy of Sciences was an important institution for Austrian scientists. While Haas was primarily in charge of the organization and coordination of academic activities in the natural sciences, he found enough time to follow his own interests, publishing several books on topics of modern science. He also maintained an intense letter exchange with members of the scientific community. In this way he became a well-known and highly regarded member of the German and also Anglo-Saxon science community.
The Wernicke conundrum revisited: evidence from connectome-based lesion-symptom mapping in post-stroke aphasia

The classical assumption that word and sentence comprehension deficits in stroke aphasia follow from damage to Wernicke9s area has been questioned following discrepant results in primary progressive aphasia. We tested the hypothesis of Mesulam et al. (2015; 2019) that word and sentence comprehension deficits in stroke aphasia result from 9double disconnection9 due to white matter damage: word comprehension deficits resulting from disconnection of the anterior temporal lobe and sentence comprehension deficits resulting from disconnection of the frontal lobe. We performed lesion-deficit correlations, including connectome-based lesion-symptom mapping, in four large, partially overlapping groups of English-speaking chronic left hemisphere stroke survivors. After removing variance due to object recognition and associative semantic processing, the same middle and posterior temporal lobe regions were implicated both in word comprehension deficits (N = 180) and complex noncanonical sentence comprehension deficits (N = 131). Repetition deficits (N = 218) were associated with damage to the posterior temporal lobe and superior longitudinal fasciculus, and agrammatic production (N = 92) was associated with damage to the posterior middle frontal gyrus. Connectome lesion-symptom mapping revealed similar temporal-occipital white matter disconnections for impaired word and noncanonical sentence comprehension, including the temporal pole. We found additional significant temporal-parietal disconnections for noncanonical sentence comprehension deficits, which may indicate a role for phonological working memory in processing complex syntax, but no significant frontal-temporal or frontal-parietal disconnections. By contrast, repetition deficits were associated with a very large set of significant disconnections, including frontal-temporal disconnections, and agrammatic production was associated primarily with significant disconnections within the frontal lobe. Our results largely agree with the classical notion that damage to Wernicke9s area causes both word and sentence comprehension deficits in stroke-based aphasia, suggest a supporting role for temporal pole in both word and sentence comprehension, and speak against the hypothesis that sentence comprehension deficits in Wernicke9s aphasia result from frontal-temporal or frontal-parietal disconnections.
Improved Long-Term Imaging of Embryos with Genetically Encoded α-Bungarotoxin

Rapid advances in microscopy and genetic labeling strategies have created new opportunities for time-lapse imaging of embryonic development. However, methods for immobilizing embryos for long periods while maintaining normal development have changed little. In zebrafish, current immobilization techniques rely on the anesthetic tricaine. Unfortunately, prolonged tricaine treatment at concentrations high enough to immobilize the embryo produces undesirable side effects on development. We evaluate three alternative immobilization strategies: combinatorial soaking in tricaine and isoeugenol, injection of α-bungarotoxin protein, and injection of α-bungarotoxin mRNA. We find evidence for co-operation between tricaine and isoeugenol to give immobility with improved health. However, even in combination these anesthetics negatively affect long-term development. α-bungarotoxin is a small protein from snake venom that irreversibly binds and inactivates acetylcholine receptors. We find that α-bungarotoxin either as purified protein from snakes or endogenously expressed in zebrafish from a codon-optimized synthetic gene can immobilize embryos for extended periods of time with few health effects or developmental delays. Using α-bungarotoxin mRNA injection we obtain complete movies of zebrafish embryogenesis from the 1-cell stage to 3 days post fertilization, with normal health and no twitching. These results demonstrate that endogenously expressed α-bungarotoxin provides unprecedented immobility and health for time-lapse microscopy.
Domestic work, family characteristics, and earnings: Reexamining gender and class differences

Using the 1996 Indiana Quality of Employment Survey, we reexamine gender and class differences in the effects of domestic work and family characteristics on earnings. We expand upon Coverman's (1983) original model by including several new measures. We find that the gender gap in domestic work has narrowed considerably, not because men are doing more but because women are doing less than they were twenty years ago. Women's earnings suffer more than men's from time spent on domestic work and generally benefit more from partners' domestic help. Women's earnings are more advantaged than men's by having preschool children, and men's earnings are more advantaged when their partner works. We find significant class differences in the effects of domestic work between working-class and non-working class women and in the effects of family characteristics between working-class and non-working class men. Non-working class women's earnings suffer more from time they put into domestic work, but their earnings generally benefit more from partners' or outside domestic help. Working-class men's earnings are more advantaged by having school-age children and more disadvantaged by having progressive gender ideologies. Non-working class men's earnings benefit more when their partners hold a job but suffer more as their partners work more hours.
Overexpression of the Homeobox Gene Xnot-2 Leads to Notochord Formation in Xenopus

Xnot-2 is a homeobox gene expressed in Spemann's organizer. Here we present evidence that microinjection of synthetic Xnot-2 mRNA leads to the formation of notochord. Microinjection into the dorsal side of the Xenopus embryo results in greatly expanded notochords. Nearby somitic and prechordal mesoderm becomes recruited into these enlarged notochords, which also affect CNS patterning. Two early genes expressed in the developing notochord, chd and XFKH-1, are activated by Xnot-2. We conclude that gain-of-function of Xnot-2 promotes notochord formation.
Is Unipolarity Just a Moment? What Can China's Past Tell Us About America's Future?

How durable is US hegemony, especially considering its material power supremacy is in decline? Taking an analytical eclectic approach, I argue that previous research on hard balancing and soft balancing neglected to investigate the impact of the relationship between the unipole and allied secondary states. I propose that we study unipolarity from the perspective of hierarchy/anarchy and interstate authority, and posit that regardless of what potential rivals do, the future of U.S. primacy rests on whether it can maintain its authority over its allies in spite of its relative decline. Centuries of Asian history with China at the center shows that the bond between secondary states and the hegemon can be enduring and that it plays a significant role in international realignment. Hence, the U.S. may well be able to retain its “unipolar” benefits by securing the allegiance of, and extracting resources from, allies and friends.
Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or simply cardiac MR, is considered the “gold” standard for noninvasively characterizing cardiac function and viability, having 3D capabilities and a high spatial and temporal resolution. This imaging modality has proven to be an invaluable tool in diagnosing complex cardiomyopathies. Several clinical uses of cardiac MR include: (1) measuring myocardial blood flow; (2) the ability to differentiate between viable and nonviable myocardial tissue; (3) depicting the structure of peripheral and coronary vessels (magnetic resonance angiography); (4) measuring blood flow velocities (MR velocity mapping); (5) examining metabolic energetics (MR spectroscopy); (6) assessing myocardial contractile properties (multislice, multiphase cine imaging, MR tagging); and/or (7) guiding interventional procedures with real-time imaging (interventional MRI). Considering the expansive capabilities of cardiac MR, a condensed review of the concepts and applications of cardiac MR are provided in this chapter.
Breaking Bargains: An Analysis of Bargaining between and within the Executive and Legislative Branches

This project focuses on the tensions inherent in the American separation of powers system; in particular, it examines how inter-branch bargaining between the executive and legislature can affect bargaining within the legislature itself. The paper addresses the bargaining tensions created in a political environment in which the president can not only sign and veto legislation but can also issue signing statements with policy implications. The paper attempts to answer the question of why legislators strike and commit to bargains within the legislature, if the president has the ability and means to undermine these bargains and compromises with a signing statement. I propose a cohesive theory of presidential bargaining powers, which allows for the systematic analysis of how legislators react to presidential manipulation of policy. I argue that signing statements create room for legislators to bargain along policy and position-taking dimensions separately. Bargaining over these two dimensions creates incentives, under some conditions, for legislators to enter into bargains, even if they expect the president to undermine those deals with a signing statement. As such, the model sheds light as to how the president's actions and the combination of his powers can have consequences for policy outcomes and gridlock, not only between the branches, but, perhaps more consequentially, within Congress itself.
The social dynamics of selling sex in Mombasa, Kenya: a qualitative study contextualizing high risk sexual behaviour.

Female sex workers (FSWs) in sub-Saharan Africa have one of the highest HIV seroprevelance rates of any population. Effective safe sex interventions are urgently needed to stop the transmission of HIV during commercial sex. Despite widespread education, counselling, and condom distribution interventions among FSWs, unprotected sexual intercourse remains a large behavioural challenge. Research on this topic has been limited primarily to establishing the frequency of high risk sexual behaviour without a comprehensive analysis of the social environment creating these factors, especially gender inequality. Through qualitative indepth interviews and focus group discussions with FSWs, this article contextualizes the selling of sex in one large urban city of Kenya. The results of this study indicate that FSWs will never be able to enforce safe sex among male clients in such settings without structural interventions that address gendered socioeconomic power imbalances. Policy implications based on these findings include re-evaluating laws against the selling of sex and prioritizing female education and economic opportunities. (Afr J Reprod Health 2013; 17[2]: 141-149). Resume Les femmes prostituees(FP) en Afrique sub-saharienne ont l'un des taux les plus eleves de la seroprevalence du VIH de toute population. Il faut des interventions sexuelles efficaces sures de toute urgence pour arreter la transmission du VIH lors des rapports sexuels commerciaux. En depit de vastes interventions d'education, de conseils et de preservatifs parmi les femmes prostituees, les rapports sexuels a haut risque reste un grand defi comportemental. La recherche sur ce sujet a ete limitee principalement a etablissement de la frequence des comportements sexuels a risque, sans une analyse complete de l'environnement social qui cree ces facteurs, en particulier les inegalites entre les sexes. A travers des entretiens approfondis et des discussions de groupe avec les femmes prostituees, cet article met en contexte le commerce du sexe dans une grande ville urbaine au Kenya. Les resultats de cette etude indiquent que les femmes prostituees ne seront jamais en mesure d'appliquer le sexe sans risque chez les clients masculins dans de tels contextes, sans des interventions structurelles qui s’occupent des desequilibres du pouvoir socio-economiques bases sur l’inegalite des sexes. Les implications politiques fondees sur ces resultats comprennent la reevaluation des lois contre la commercialisation du sexe et la hierarchisation de l’education des femmes et des opportunites economiques. ( Afr J Reprod Health 2013); 17[2]: 141-149). Keywords: female sex work, sub-Saharan Africa, gender inequality, Kenya, sexual behaviour, HIV/AIDS
Genetic evidence that different functional domains of the PET54 gene product facilitate expression of the mitochondrial genes COX1 and COX3 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Abstract Expression of the yeast mitochondrial genes COX1 and COX3, which encode subunits I and III of cytochrome oxidase, respectively, is controlled by a common nuclear-encoded trans-acting factor. This protein, encoded by the PET54 gene, controls expression of COX1 at the level of RNA splicing and COX3 at the level of mRNA translation. While the steps of COX1 and COX3 gene expression affected by the PET54 gene product are different, it is possible that the PET54 protein is monofunctional and affects expression of each gene by a single mechanism, such as modulation of RNA secondary structure. The goal of this study was to address whether the PET54 protein is monofunctional or multifunctional with respect to its role in COX1 and COX3 gene expression. Ten insertion mutations, which each resulted in the in-frame addition of four amino acids within the PET54 polypeptide, were generated, and the resulting mutants were characterized for respiration phenotype and mitochondrial gene expression. Five of the ten mutants were respiration deficient. Two of these five mutants were defective in expression of COX3 but not in expression of COX1, while two other mutants had the opposite phenotype (primarily defective in expression of COX1). The fifth mutant was equally defective in expression of both genes. These results demonstrate that the two functions of PET54 are genetically separable and support the idea that the PET54 protein is multifunctional.
Precision grip force control of older and younger adults, revisited.

This study revisited the hypothesis that older adults lose some ability to efficiently control precision grip force. A previous study demonstrated such a decrement in older adults' performance in a vertical lift and support maneuver. This study employed a similar paradigm in which dynamic forces were applied with a simulated hand tool while measuring grip force and force applied with the tool. Measures of grip force control reflected subjects' modulation of grip force in parallel with force transmitted with the tool and their scaling of the ratio of grip to applied force. Nine older (>65 years) and 9 younger (<65 years) subjects' grip force control measures were compared with emphasis on recruiting active older individuals for whom upper extremity usage was high in their daily life. No statistically significant age effects were found in either force control measure, suggesting a smaller age-related decrement than reported in a previous study.
Removal of esophageal expandable metal stents

BACKGROUND Expandable metallic stents (EMS) have seen wide application in patients with malignant stricture and fistulas. They have not seen wide application for benign disease because of concern over acute complications and long-term sequelae. METHODS Between June 1999 and October 2000, six patients with EMS in place for malignant stricture (n = 3), benign stricture (n = 1), anastomotic leak (n = 1) and benign esophagorespiratory fistula (n = 1) had their stents endoscopically removed. Removal was performed secondarily to the following complications: secondary stricture (n = 1), epidural abscess (n = 1), diskitis (n = 1), resolution of fistula (n = 2), and resolution of anastomotic leak (n = 1). RESULTS Four patients had one EMS: Ultraflex (n = 3) and Z-stent (n = 1). In two patients, two stents (Ultraflex and Z-stent) were retrieved simultaneously. No procedurally related complications occurred. Two patients with esophageal cancer required additional stents. All three patients with benign fistula and stricture recovered uneventfully. CONCLUSIONS The safe removal of current brands of EMS may facilitate the wider application of these devices to include selective patients with benign disease.
Progress in epidermolysis bullosa: the phenotypic spectrum of plectin mutations

Plectin, a large multidomain adhesive protein with versatile binding functions, is expressed in a number of tissues and cell types. In the skin, plectin is a critical component of hemidesmosomes, interacting with keratin intermediate filaments and beta4 integrin. Mutations in the plectin gene (PLEC1) result in fragility of skin, demonstrating blister formation at the level of hemidesmosomes. These blistering disorders belong to the spectrum of epidermolysis bullosa (EB) phenotypes, and three distinct variants because of plectin mutations have been identified. First, EB with muscular dystrophy, an autosomal recessive syndrome, is frequently caused by premature termination codon-causing mutations leading to the absence of plectin both in the skin and in the muscle. Second, a heterozygous missense mutation (R2110W) in PLEC1 has been documented in patients with EB simplex of the Ogna type, a rare autosomal dominant disorder. Finally, recent studies have disclosed plectin mutations in patients with EB with pyloric atresia, an autosomal recessive syndrome, frequently with lethal consequences. Collectively, these observations attest to the phenotypic spectrum of plectin mutations, and provide the basis for accurate genetic counselling with prognostic implications, as well as for prenatal diagnosis in families at the risk of recurrence of the disease.
A Technique for Preparing Fin Rays and Spines for Age and Growth Analysis

Abstract Fin rays and spines are becoming more popular for age and growth analysis. A protocol for processing structures is first to mount the structure in epoxy, then to use a low-speed saw or handsaw to section the structure, and finally to estimate age from the resulting section. Unfortunately, scientists are often unaware of efficient techniques for mounting structures for such analyses. We describe a simple technique for mounting fin rays and spines in epoxy in preparation for sectioning. The advantages of this method include minimal preparation time, low cost, and little or no damage to hard structures. We have used this technique extensively to estimate age from the fin rays and spines of shovelnose sturgeon Scaphirhynchus platorynchus, catostomids, cyprinids, and ictalurids; however, this technique is useful for any species for which fin rays or spines are used in age and growth analyses. In addition, the technique is not limited to fin rays and spines; it can also be used to prepare a variety of ...
Multiple myeloma after kidney transplantation

Background Data regarding multiple myeloma (MM) that develops after kidney transplantation (KTx) are scarce. The outcomes of these patients were evaluated in a retrospective study. Methods Patients with newly diagnosed MM after KTx were selected. Patients with a diagnosis of MM or those who received treatment for monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS) prior to KTx were excluded. Results Between 2001 and 2012, seven patients developed MM after KTx. Reasons for ESRD included ADPKD (1), C1q nephropathy (1), MPGN (2), hypertensive nephrosclerosis (2), and chronic interstitial nephritis (1). Before KTx, only four patients had monoclonal protein studies, four had monoclonal gammopathy of undermined significance (MGUS), and two of them had clonal plasma cells in bone marrow. Median follow-up after MM was 70 months (range 19–100). Median survival was 80 months. Median time from KTx to MM was 72 months (range 3–204 months). The Kidney allograft failed in four patients due to monoclonal protein-related renal disease. Five patients received chemotherapy: bortezomib (n = 3), lenalidomide (n = 2), melphalan (n = 1), thalidomide (n = 1), pomalidomide (n = 1), and high-dose dexamethasone (n = 1). Three patients received ASCT. Conclusion Multiple myeloma after KTx is rare. Most patients who develop MM had MGUS prior to KTx. There is significant renal involvement in these patients. Survival is not worse when compared to MM without KTx. Further work is needed to identify the best treatment options for these patients.
Climate variability masks the impacts of land use change on nutrient export in a suburbanizing watershed

Suburbanization negatively impacts aquatic systems by altering hydrology and nutrient loading. These changes interact with climate and aquatic ecosystem processes to alter nutrient flux dynamics. We used a long term data set (1993–2009) to investigate the influence of suburbanization, climate, and in-stream processes on nitrogen and phosphorus export in rivers draining the Ipswich and Parker River watersheds in northeastern MA, USA. During this timeframe population density increased in these watersheds by 14 % while precipitation varied by 46 %. We compared nutrient export patterns from the two larger watersheds with those from two nested headwater catchments collected over a nine year period (2001–2009). The headwater catchments were of contrasting, but stable, land uses that dominate the larger watersheds (suburban and forested). Despite ongoing land use change and an increase in population density in the mainstem watersheds, we did not detect an increase in dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) or PO4 concentration or export over the 16-year time period. Inter-annual climate and associated runoff variability was the major control. Annual DIN and PO4 export increased with greater annual precipitation in the Ipswich and the Parker River watersheds, as well as the forested headwater catchment. In contrast, annual DIN export fluxes from the suburban headwater catchment were less affected by precipitation variability, with inter-annual export fluxes negatively correlated with mean annual temperature. The larger watershed exports diverged from headwater exports, particularly during summer, low-flow periods, suggesting retention of DIN and PO4. Our study shows suburban headwater exports respond to inter-annual variation in runoff and climate differently than forested headwater exports, but the impacts from headwater streams could be buffered by the river network. The net effect is that inter-annual variation and network buffering can mitigate higher nutrient exports from larger suburbanizing watersheds over decadal time periods.
A Technique for Integrated Quality Control, Profile Control, and Constraint Handling for Batch Processes

We propose a novel control technique for batch and semibatch processes. The main novelty of the technique lies in that it can accommodate several different aspects of industrial batch process control, such as the following of prespecified reference trajectories, the satisfaction of process constraints, and the meeting of product quality targets, altogether in a single framework. This simplifies the design and enables the user to make a systematic trade-off among the different objectives. Another novelty is the feature of iterative learning that allows the controller to use the information collected in the previous batches. This is done by establishing a batch-to-batch correlation model giving the integral control action with respect to the batch index. This feature allows the performance to be improved gradually as the batch run is repeated and makes it possible to attain precise control despite significant model errors and disturbances. The performance of the proposed technique is illustrated using a simple nonlinear semibatch reactor model.
A semi-analytical model for the simulation of solute transport in a network of fractures having random orientations

A semi-analytical model is developed which accounts for solute transport through a multi-dimensional network of fractures having random orientations and sparse distribution. Transport processes including hydrodynamic dispersion, matrix diffusion, retardation, decay and solute transfer at fracture intersections, are considered. The model is derived by application of the Laplace transform to the governing transport equation for each fracture element. The resulting ordinary differential equations are linked using robust descriptions of mass conservation at the fracture intersections. Solute concentrations are determined by numerically inverting the transformed equations in a sequential fashion. The model is verified using a formal mass balance and through comparison to existing solutions for solute transport in fractured media. To illustrate the use of the model, solute transport in a hypothetical network domain was simulated based on fracture conditions measured at a real field setting in a granitic rock.
The tweets that killed a university: A case study investigating the use of traditional and social media in the closure of a state university

The 12-month discussion surrounding a regional university campus quickly evolved from a suggestion of independence, to a plan, to the ultimate closure of the university. This unique series of events at the University of South Florida Polytechnic (USFP) allows for an investigation of how various forms of media were used during this significant event that impacted college student's education and immediate future. A campus wide survey was combined with social and online media monitoring to assess the topics, authors, and methods used during prominent discussions during and preceding the closure of USFP. Although social media played a crucial role, the most common format was Twitter and it was used almost exclusively by members of the media itself. Students instead relied on traditional sources to gather information. Additionally, students expressed their opinion utilizing classic methods, such as petitions, foregoing more modern Twitter or Facebook campaigns. It is incorrect to automatically assume younger demographic authorship or utilization of social media technology. Whereas social media use could expand even more over the next decade, identifying authorship remains critical as it is unclear how frequent social media is viewed as an official method of public discussion, especially when politics and higher education collide.
IRAS observations of a large sample of normal irregular galaxies

IRAS 12, 25, 60, and 100 micron data are presented for a sample of Irr galaxies which span a large range in star-formation activity. It is found that the dwarf, giant, and amorphous Irr's generally have similar IR properties. The typical L(IR)/L(H-alpha) ratios of most classes of Irr's, except for many of the luminous blue galaxies, are low compared with those of spiral galaxies and are consistent with the Irr's being relatively transparent systems without large amounts of optically hidden star formation. Compared with spiral galaxies, the Irr's have similar L(IR)/L(B) ratios, warmer S(100)/S(60) ratios, cooler S(25)/S(12) ratios, and lower dust-to-H I gas mass ratios. The temperature, dust-to-H I gas mass ratios, and L(IR)/L(B) ratios do not correlate with the metallicity of the ionized gas of the Irr's. A correlation between the IR fluxes and both the H-alpha and the blue stellar fluxes is found for the Irr's.
Housework conflict and divorce: a multi-level analysis

Macro-level measures of divorce have important consequences on individual-level housework dynamics. Previous research has focused on the relationship between access to divorce at the country level and divisions of housework at the individual level. The article extends this literature by investigating the relationship between individual-level housework conflict and country-level measures of divorce and women’s bargaining power. Using European Social Survey data (n = 18,560), it tests the multi-level relationship between individual-level housework conflict and country-level rates of the following four measures: marriage, divorce, full-time female labour force participation and the female-male wage gap. The multi-level results demonstrate that both men and women report more housework conflict in countries with higher rates of women’s full-time labour force participation and divorce, and women report less conflict in countries with higher rates of marriage.
Glucuronidation of DRF-6574, hydroxy metabolite of DRF-4367 (a novel COX-2 inhibitor) by pooled human liver, intestinal microsomes and recombinant human UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT): role of UGT1A1, 1A3 and 1A8.

DRF-4367 is a novel COX-2 inhibitor, which showed good efficacy in several animal models of inflammation. In a comparative in vitro metabolism in various liver microsomes, DRF-4367 forms a hydroxy metabolite (DRF-6574) mediated by CYP2D6 and 2C19 isoenzymes. DRF-6574 readily undergoes Phase-II metabolism and forms glucuronide and sulfate conjugates both in vitro and in vivo. The objective of the present study was two folds: to study the glucuronidation of DRF-6574 in human liver and intestinal microsomes and to identify the recombinant human liver and intestinal UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes responsible for glucuronidation of DRF-6574. Of twelve recombinant UGTs tested, two hepatic UGTs viz., UGT1A1 and 1A3 and an extra hepatic UGT i.e., UGT1A8 showed the catalytic activity. The enzyme kinetics in pooled human liver, intestinal and recombinant UGT microsomes showed a typical Michaelis-Menten plot. The apparent Km and Vmax value for DRF-6574 was found to be 116±24 μM and 2.07±0.12 μg/min/mg protein and 142±17 μM and 3.83±0.15 μg/min/mg protein in pooled human liver and intestinal microsomes, respectively. The intrinsic clearance (Vmax/Km) value for DRF-6574 was estimated to be 0.043 and 0.065 ml/min/mg protein, respectively in pooled human liver and intestinal microsomes. Moreover we have determined the Km and Vmax and intrinsic clearance values for specific UGTs viz., UGT 1A1, 1A3 and 1A8. The apparent Km and Vmax values are 23±7.2 μM, 3.44±0.17 μg/min/mg protein for UGT1A1, 60±7.9 μM, 3.67±0.11 ug/min/mg protein for UGT 1 A3, 96±8.0 μM, 2.95±0.06 μg/min/mg protein for UGT1A8. The intrinsic clearance values (Vmax/Km) estimated were 0.367, 0.148, 0.074 ml/min/mg protein for UGT1A1, 1A3 and 1A8, respectively. The intrinsic clearance value in UGT1A8 was very close to that in human intestinal and liver microsomes. The formation of DRF-6574 glucuronide by human liver, intestinal and UGT1A1, 1A3 and 1A8 microsomes was effectively inhibited by phenylbutazone.