cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Judicial Decision Making and International Tribunals: Assessing the Impact of Individual, National, and International Factors*

Objective. The objective of this article is to explain judicial decision making at the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia by analyzing the impact of individual, national, and international factors. Methods. We use regression and probit analysis of data on the verdicts and sentences handed down by the judges. Results. We find that international factors best explain judicial decision making, especially regarding sentencing. Conclusions. International tribunals and courts are becoming increasingly important and prevalent and it is critical that scholars better understand how their judges make decisions.
Comparative fine-structural studies on five marine species of Pyramimonas (Chlorophyta, Prasinophyceae)

A comparative ultrastuctural study on fivespecies of Pyramimonas occurring in waters surrounding San Juan Island, Washington, is provided. The species studied include P. amylifera, P. parkeae, P. a...
Effects of methoprene, a juvenile hormone analog, on survival of various developmental stages, adult emergence, reproduction and behavior of Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama

BACKGROUND: The Asian citrus citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, transmits a bacterium that causes huanglongbing in citrus. Frequent and repeated use of neurotoxic insecticides against D. citri has resulted in the development of insecticide resistance. We evaluated the effects of the juvenile hormone analog methoprene on egg hatch, nymphal development, adult emergence, reproduction and behavior of D. citri. RESULTS: Methoprene significantly reduced the viability of eggs that were between 0 and 4 days old. Egg hatch of 0–48-h-old and 49–96-h-old eggs was 8 and 9%, respectively, when treated with 320 �� gm L −1 of methoprene. Methoprene caused significant mortality of first-, third- and fifth-instar D. citri nymphs and reduced adult emergence as compared with controls. Methoprene caused less than 5% adult emergence when first- and third-instar stages were treated, respectively, and less than 40% adult emergence when fifth instars were treated. Reduced fertility of females was observed when they emerged from methoprene-treated fifth instars. CONCLUSION: Methoprene was effective in reducing egg hatch, suppressing nymphal development and decreasing adult emergence of D. citri under laboratory conditions. Treatment of fifth instars reduced the fertility of females. Methoprene might be a possible tool for integrated management of D. citri. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
A single-dose pharmacokinetic study of the antisickling agent cetiedil.

Cetiedil citrate is an antisickling agent shown to be effective in reducing the severity and duration of acute sickle cell crisis. With the use of a sensitive GC/MS assay, the pharmacokinetic profile of cetiedil was studied in normal men and in men with sickle cell anemia who were not in crisis at the time of study. A peak cetiedil concentration of 70 to 200 ng/ml was found immediately after a 30-minute drug infusion. The plasma level then gradually declined to approximately 10 ng/ml during a 3-hour distributive phase. Computer analysis of the data was most consistent with a three-compartment model. No pharmacokinetic differences were found between the normal men and the subjects with sickle cell. Because the cetiedil plasma levels achieved during this in vivo study are well below concentrations that exhibit antisickling activity in vitro, additional clinical studies will be necessary before an optimal dosing regimen can be established. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1986) 39, 276–281; doi:10.1038/clpt.1986.39
The results of two-stage re-implantation for infected shoulder replacement

While frequently discussed as a standard treatment for the management of an infected shoulder replacement, there is little information on the outcome of two-stage re-implantation. We examined the outcome of 17 consecutive patients (19 shoulders) who were treated between 1995 and 2004 with a two-stage re-implantation for the treatment of a deep-infection after shoulder replacement. All 19 shoulders were followed for a minimum of two years or until the time of further revision surgery. The mean clinical follow-up was for 35 months (24 to 80). The mean radiological follow-up was 27 months (7 to 80). There were two excellent results, four satisfactory and 13 unsatisfactory. In 12 of the 19 shoulders (63%) infection was considered to be eradicated. The mean pain score improved from 4.2 (3 to 5 (out of 5)) to 1.8 (1 to 4). The mean elevation improved from 42 degrees (0 degrees to 140 degrees ) to 89 degrees (0 degrees to 165 degrees ), mean external rotation from 30 degrees (0 degrees to 90 degrees ) to 43 degrees (0 degrees to 90 degrees ), and mean internal rotation from the sacrum to L5. There were 14 complications. Our study suggests that two-stage re-implantation for an infected shoulder replacement is associated with a high rate of unsatisfactory results, marginal success at eradicating infection and a high complication rate.
H-atom abstraction from selected C ? H bonds in 2,3-dimethylpentanal, 1,4-cyclohexadiene, and 1,3,5-cycloheptatriene

The gas-phase reactions of OH radicals with 1,4-cyclohexadiene, 1,3,5-cycloheptatriene, and 2,3-dimethylpentanal have been investigated to determine the importance of H-atom abstraction at specific positions in these molecules. Benzene was observed as a product of the reaction of OH radicals with 1,4-cyclohexadiene in 12.5 ± 1.2% yield, in good agreement with a previous study and indicating that this is the fraction of the reaction proceeding by H-atom abstraction from the allylic CH bonds. In contrast, no formation of tropone from 1,3,5-cycloheptatriene was observed, suggesting that in this case H-atom abstraction is not important. For the reaction of OH radicals with 2,3-dimethylpentanal, formation of 3-methyl-2-pentanone was observed in 5.4 ± 1.0% yield (after correction for reaction of 3-methyl-2-pentanone with OH radicals), and this product is predicted to be formed after initial H-atom abstraction from the 2-position CH group. Acetaldehyde and 2-butanone were also observed as products, with initial yields of ∼90% and ∼26%, respectively, and their formation appeared to involve, at least in part, an intermediary acyl peroxy radical. Using a relative rate method, the measured rate constants for the reactions of OH radicals with 2,3-dimethylpentanal, 3-methyl-2-pentanone, and tropone are (in units of 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1) 2,3-dimethylpentanal, 42 ± 7; 3-methyl-2-pentanone, 6.87 ± 0.08; and tropone, 42 ± 6. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 35: 415–426, 2003
Host Suitability of Nonmaize Agroecosystem Grasses for the Western Corn Rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

The biology of western corn rootworm larvae, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, on alternate hosts has become an important topic with the recent commercialization of transgenic-rootworm maize. Larval development and survivorship were monitored on 22 plant species, including maize, Zea mays L.; maize-field weeds; and selected native prairie grasses, fence-row/forage grasses, and small grain crops planted in greenhouse trials. Small pots containing each plant species were infested with 25 western corn rootworm larvae from a nondiapausing strain. Larval recovery was monitored 7, 14, 21, and 26 d after infestation. The dry weight of larvae and adults was recorded in addition to pronotum width of adults and head capsule width of larvae. Larvae survived at least 14 d on 21 species and 26 d on 18 species. Third instars were recovered from 16 species. The head capsule width of larvae recovered from quackgrass, Elytrigia repens L.; Rhodes grass, Chloris gayana Kunth; and fall panicum, Panicum dichotomiflorum Michx, were not significantly different from maize on all four sample days. Adults were recovered from 10 species. These data along with other studies show that almost all grasses tested provide enough nutrition for larvae of the western corn rootworm to survive 14 d, and larval development to the third instar can occur on most grasses. The potential for rootworm larvae to move between weeds within or adjacent to a maize field could be an important factor in resistance management of transgenic-rootworm maize. However, the long-term implication of such movement for a low-dose transgenic event has yet to be worked out
Effects of the Affordable Care Act's young adult insurance expansion on prescription drug insurance coverage, utilization, and expenditures.

Abstract Background The US Affordable Care Act (ACA) extended the age of eligibility for young adults to remain on their parents' health insurance plans in order to address the disproportionate number of uninsured young adults in the United States. Effective September 23, 2010, the ACA has required all private health insurance plans to cover dependents until the age of 26. However, it is unknown whether the ACA dependent coverage expansion had an impact on prescription drug insurance or the use of prescription drugs. Objectives To evaluate short-term changes in prescription health insurance coverage, prescription drug insurance coverage, prescription drug use, and prescription drug expenditures following implementation of the ACA young adult insurance expansion using national data from 2009 and 2011. Results Full-year health insurance coverage increased 4.9 percentage points during the study period, which was mainly due to increases in private health insurance among middle- and high-income young adults. In contrast, full-year prescription drug insurance coverage increased 5.5 percentage points and was primarily concentrated among high-income young adults. Although no significant short-term changes in overall prescription drug use were observed, a 30% decrease in out-of-pocket expenditures was seen among young adults. Conclusions While the main goal of the ACA's young adult insurance expansion was to increase health insurance coverage among young adults, it also had the unintended positive effect of increasing coverage for prescription drug insurance. Additionally, young adults experienced substantial decreases in out-of-pocket spending for prescription drugs. It is important for evaluations of health care policies to assess both intended and unintended outcomes to better understand the implications for the broader health system.
Amorphous Fast Ion Conductors

It is now several decades since the subject of fast ion conduction in crystalline materials was first seriously examined. Scientists were and still remain fascinated with the source of the anamalously high ion conductivities and technologists with the possibilities for these materials in high energy density batteries, sensors, displays, etc. Although these materials, as exemplified by a-AgI and Na s-alumina, were crystalline, many found it convenient to discuss transport in these materials as being liquid-like but bound by an immobile periodic lattice which provided easy transport paths.
Cross-linked aluminum dioxybenzene coating for stabilization of silicon electrodes

Abstract Progress toward a commercially viable silicon anode for lithium-ion batteries has been impeded by silicon’s rapid capacity fade caused by large volumetric expansion and unstable solid-electrolyte interphases. This study focuses on developing unique coating chemistries to stabilize the surface of silicon (Si) electrodes via molecular layer deposition (MLD), as well as to accommodate volume changes during electrochemical reactions. A new reaction precursor – an aromatic organic diol, hydroquinone – combined with trimethylaluminum, has led to a robust, elastic, conductive surface coating composed of aluminum dioxybenzene. We studied the chemical and physical properties of this surface coating using X-ray absorption spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance, and nanoindentation. The flexibility of the coating enables the accommodation of volumetric changes and maintenance of the mechanical integrity of the Si electrodes. By applying this robust and conductive trimethylaluminum-hydroquinone coating, we demonstrate a Si anode that is reversible and capable of high performance and high rate, achieving over 200 cycles with capacities of nearly 1500 mAh g−1. This research elucidates the significance of surface modification for high-energy battery materials with large volume changes, and also provides a platform for a new design of electrode surface coatings, with the aim of achieving durable, high energy density lithium-ion batteries.
Investigations into the Nutritive Value of Macrotermes Falciger (Isoptera: Termitidae)

AbstractA study was undertaken to determine the composition of the body material of alates of Macrotermes falciger and to investigate the nutritional value of termite material when fed to white rats. Termites were found to contain 44,3 % fat and 41,8 % protein, on a dry mass basis, and to have a calorific value of 3,2 ± 0,042 Megajoules/100 g. Incorporating termite material into commercial rat pellets at various levels produced no adverse effects on the rats. A full amino-acid analysis of termite protein is given and three unidentified amino-acids were recorded. A protein efficiency ratio of 1,7± 0,1 was obtained for termite protein, and digestibility of termite material was found to be poor, compared to that of casein, when fed to white rats.
Victoria Blight, defense turned upside down

Abstract Genes that confer disease resistance to biotrophic pathogens typically encode nucleotide-binding, leucine-rich-repeat proteins (NB-LRRs). These proteins confer resistance by detecting the presence of virulence effectors secreted by biotrophic pathogens. Recognition triggers NB-LRR activation and subsequently, the defense response which often includes localized host cell death. The fungus, Cochliobolus victoriae, is a necrotrophic pathogen that causes a disease called Victoria Blight. Virulence of this fungus is dependent on its production of a peptide called “victorin” that has been traditionally described as a toxin. Only plants that respond to victorin are susceptible to Cochliobolus victoriae whereas those that do not are resistant to the fungus. Genetic and molecular analyses have revealed that victorin functions like a biotrophic effector recognized by a NB-LRR resistance protein in Arabidopsis. Further, numerous plant species express victorin sensitivity suggesting there are numerous NB-LRRs that recognize victorin. Thus, through expression of victorin, C. victoriae is able to exploit plant defense to cause disease and is capable of evoking this response in an array of different plants.
The Effects of Eclipse-Exit Weather and Magnetic Latitude on ISS Rapid-Charging Events

In a previous paper, we discussed a theory for the Rapid -Charging Events (RCEs) seen by the Floating Potential Measurement Unit (FPMU) on the International Space Station (ISS). The theory involves electro n collection by the ISS high voltage solar arrays before coverglass charging limits their collection. While describing the maximum amounts of charging seen on ISS with two active solar arrays, the theory fails to describe the average events, which are of lower magnitude. Several reasons for this deficiency were given in the previous paper. Two of the reasons that can be tested are examined in this paper. The first is the effect of magnetic latitude. When ISS exits eclipse at high magnetic latitudes, the magnetic induction effect across the ISS truss is greatest, and so the potential at the site of the FPMU is influenced by this effect. In this paper, we investigate the effects of magnetic latitude on RCE peak potential and amplitude. The second effect is that of weather at eclipse-exit. If ISS enters sunlight at a clear horizon, the charging voltage on the solar arrays is turned on by the near -infrared sunlight before the ultraviolet sunshine can activate the discharging photoelectric effect on ISS surfaces, and the RCEs should be of large r amplitude. On cloudy eclipse exits, the infrared and ultraviolet first impinge on ISS essentially simultaneously, and some of the electron collection is negated by electrons lost due to photoemission. At these t imes, the RCEs should be of lower amplitude. It has also been found in this study that when partly cloudy conditions prevail at eclipse exit, complex RCEs usually result, perhaps because of intermittent illumination of ISS solar arrays by light passing through the clouds along the line of sight to the sun. In this paper, we thus investigate the influence of weather at eclipse exit on the amplitude of charging and RCE structure. Finally, a more complete picture of RCE amplitude emerges, including effects due to weather and magnetic latitude as well as plasma density and temperature.
Corporate Product Policy and Innovative Behavior of European and Japanese Multinationals: An Empirical Investigation:

The author empirically examines the product policies of European and Japanese multinational firms in relation to product and process innovations. He also investigates linkages between corporate pro...
Towards a better understanding of the influence of basement heterogeneities and lithospheric coupling on foreland deformation: A structural and paleomagnetic study of Laramide deformation in the southern Bighorn Arch, Wyoming

Integrated structural, anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS), and paleomagnetic analyses of sedimentary cover rocks along variably oriented major faults and en echelon fold systems in the southern Bighorn Arch, Wyoming, were undertaken to test kinematic and mechanical models of Laramide thick-skin deformation. The Laramide foreland is characterized by an anastomosing network of basement-cored arches and associated cover folds that trend overall NW-SE, but in detail are curved, range from N-S to E-W trending, and form both right- and left-stepping en echelon systems. Development of variably trending Laramide arches has been variously attributed to temporal changes in stress directions, wrench faulting, and localization of deformation related to basement heterogeneities during regional SW-NE shortening. Within the southern Bighorn Arch, widespread but limited layer-parallel shortening (LPS) was accommodated mostly by minor faults with conjugate wedge and strike-slip geometries early in the deformation history. LPS directions vary from perpendicular to acute with local fold structural trends, consistent with a single shortening episode. Although internal strain is limited, weak AMS lineations defined by kinked and rotated phyllosilicates are widely developed and consistently perpendicular to LPS directions. Structurally restored paleomagnetic declinations record only limited, non-systematic vertical-axis rotations, indicating that wrenching was not an important component of the deformation field during development of the southern Bighorn Arch and that curvature of the arch was a primary feature. Palinspastically restored LPS directions are on average WSW-ENE, but display local deflections related to heterogeneities of underlying basement blocks and proximity to major faults, some of which were localized along Precambrian shear zones and igneous dikes. Crustal shortening patterns across the Laramide foreland are interpreted to reflect deformation partitioning in response to a single far-field shortening direction partly related to flat-slab subduction along with effects of pre-existing basement weaknesses and strain softening during progressive faulting.
Integrating the study of transgender spectrum and cisgender experiences of self-categorization from a personality perspective.

We advocate for the integration of transgender spectrum experiences alongside cisgender experiences (i.e., having the same current gender identity label as one's birth-assigned gender category) to ...
RELATING MINELAND RECLAMATION TO ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION 1

Evaluation of reclamation success on surface mined lands is based primarily on surface topography reconstruction, characteristics of the reestablished plant community, and soil erosion protection. Restoration of ecosystem functions such as nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, soil development, and community dynamics are not directly examined but are assumed to be recovering to the degree that the system will be self sustaining and resilient to environmental stress. Obviously, there are important differences and similarities in the goals of ecosystem restoration and mineland reclamation. We have been collecting data on recovery of ecosystem processeses in reclaimed minelands and adjacent undisturbed sites (reference areas) for almost ten years. This paper reports results of our findings on recovery of ecosystem functions on reclaimed surface mined lands and relates characteristics of successfully reclaimed surface mined land to attributes of restored ecosystems.
CLONAL DIVERSITY AND POPULATION STRUCTURE IN A REEF-BUILDING CORAL, ACROPORA CERVICORNIS: SELF-RECOGNITION ANALYSIS AND DEMOGRAPHIC INTERPRETATION.

Description of genetic variation in a population, recognized by Hubby and Lewontin (1966) as providing "the fundamental datum of evolutionary studies," is now routinely accomplished by electrophoretic characterization of allozyme variation and by other molecular techniques. These studies have revealed considerable variation at the molecular level, as well as the structure of this variation within and among populations. Although the value of the molecular approach in population genetics is beyond dispute, there remain interesting aspects of population variation not directly assayable by these methods. Biological self-recognition phenomena, exemplified by self-sterility in flowering plants and immune systems in animals, have been utilized in a population genetic context for only a few species. An analysis of genetic population structure based upon a self-recognition phenomenon requires a relatively straightforward assay incorporating the phenomenon, and an established relationship between the detectable polymorphisms and a more general aspect of population structure. Harberd used a combination of morphological characters and self-sterility relationships to deduce clonal structure in populations of the grasses, Festuca rubra and F. ovina (Harberd, 1961, 1962a) and the clover, Trifolium repens (Harberd, 1962b). In most vertebrate populations nearly every individual possesses a unique histocompatibility type, but some vertebrate population structures have been characterized by a departure from this condition of complete diversification. Kallman (1964) interpreted the occurrence of duplicated histocompatibility types within isolated populations of platyfish as an indication of inbreeding. For populations in which asexual reproduction occurs, some authors (Maslin, 1967; Cuellar, 1976, 1977; Angus and Schultz, 1979; Angus, 1980) have assumed that each clone is distinguished by a unique histocompatibility type, thus equating the diversity of incompatible strains with clonal diversity. In one such study (Angus and Schultz, 1979), a tissue graft analysis applied to populations of the unisexual fish, Poeciliopsis monacha-lucida, resolved more clones than had been detected in an earlier electrophoretic survey (Vrijenhoek et al.,
Quartic Force Field Rovibrational Analysis of Protonated Acetylene, C2H3+, and Its Isotopologues

Protonated acetylene, C2H3(+), is among the simplest carbocations. Comprehensive experimental or highly accurate computational spectroscopic data is lacking for this system due to its inherent complexities. Utilizing state-of-the-art quartic force fields (QFFs), the spectroscopic constants and fundamental vibrational frequencies are provided in this work for the nonclassical, bridged, cyclic global minimum. The rotational constants match experiment to better than 0.1%, and the computed ν2 antisymmetric HCCH stretch is less than 3.0 cm(–1) different from experiment. Hence, the rovibrational spectroscopic data provided herein for c-C2H3(+) and its deuterated isotopologues enrich the chemical understanding of this system. Unfortunately, the same rovibrational spectroscopic data is not as trustworthy for the classical, linear form of protonated acetylene due to the shallow well in which it resides on the potential energy surface. However, spectroscopic data are provided for this isomer in the Supporting Information to enhance future studies.
Lithium or Valproate Adjunctive Therapy to Second-generation Antipsychotics and Metabolic Variables in Patients With Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder.

Objective People with schizophrenia are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease and their overall mortality rate is elevated compared to the general population. The metabolic side effects of antipsychotic medications have been widely studied; however, the effect of adding conventional mood stabilizers, such as lithium and valproate, to antipsychotic medication has not been assessed in terms of metabolic risk. The primary purpose of this secondary analysis was to examine whether treatment with lithium or valproate in addition to a second-generation antipsychotic is associated with poorer metabolic outcomes than treatment with a second-generation antipsychotic without lithium or depakote. Methods Baseline data from 3 studies, which included measurement of body mass index, waist circumference, fasting glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity index, glucose utilization, and acute insulin response to glucose, were included in the analysis. Results No differences were found between those taking lithium or valproate and those who were not in terms of fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance. Insulin sensitivity was lower among participants taking lithium or valproate. Participants taking lithium or valproate had a higher body mass index than those not taking conventional mood stabilizers, although the difference did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions These cross-sectional findings suggest it may be beneficial to monitor insulin sensitivity and body mass index in patients taking lithium or valproate in combination with a second-generation antipsychotic.
A Study For Dynamic Decision Support System Development And Its Application in Oilfield Production

The oilfield production had a characteristics of high investment,high output,high risk and irreversible,scientific decision was particularly important.But the existing information-systems are short of integral application of information and the function of judgment and auto-decision making.To solve the above problem,this paper has combined the existing decision support systems with the actual production of oilfield.It put forward the framework which is built on the integrated management platform based on database and introduced the expert system to the decision support system.The integrated management platform integrated the existing data and application systems,carried on dynamic data exchange through xml,build database on this basis;the expert system provides with expert opinion based on knowledge for the decision support system through reasoning mechanism.The system has played a very good supporting role in decision-making in oilfield production.
Based on Anti-jamming Algorithm System Anti-jamming Performance Research FH/DS Spread-spectrum

Discussed the anti—jamming principle of the FH / DS hybrid spread—spectrum system,designed the hybrid spread—spectrum systems,joined the notch and the median filter algorithm to the receiving side.In the channel with the Gaussian white noise,introduced the Tone interference,multi-tone interference on the hybrid spread—spectrum anti—jamming system to verify the performance of the anti—jamming.On this basis,for the FH / DS hybrid spread—spectrum anti—jamming system in a different environment,the anti—interference ability is studied.The simulation is realized under Gauss channel,the results show that:Compared with the other FH and DS spread spectrum system without the anti—jamming algorithm,Hybrid Spread—Spectrum system get 2dB gain of the error rate in the same SNR and SIR,the DS / FH anti—jamming system improve the anti—jamming performance and greatly enhanced the reliability of the spread spectrum communication system.
Measurement of limb venous compliance in humans: technical considerations and physiological findings.

We conducted a series of studies to develop and test a rapid, noninvasive method to measure limb venous compliance in humans. First, we measured forearm volume (mercury-in-Silastic strain gauges) a...
Invasive testing in congestive heart failure. When is it useful

Not only are findings from invasive studies in patients with congestive heart failure important for diagnosis, they may also be crucial in deciding on appropriate treatment and predicting prognosis. Hemodynamic evaluation may be useful for tailoring medical therapy, determining the need for mechanical support, predicting survival, deciding when valve surgery is needed, locating intracardiac shunts precisely, assessing the severity of pulmonary hypertension before cardiac transplantation, or diagnosing unexplained dyspnea. Contrast angiography can be used to evaluate systolic function if information from non-invasive studies is inadequate. Coronary arteriography can help determine the severity and extent of coronary artery disease and is needed if revascularization is being contemplated. Endomyocardial biopsy can be used to identify the cause of cardiomyopathy.
Depression in dementia

People with dementia of any type have a high incidence of major depression. The occurrence of a first major depressive episode in an older adult is a risk factor for developing dementia. Management of depression in a person with dementia should be enthusiastic with an aim to optimise quality of life. Non-pharmacological and pharmacological strategies are both important in treating depression in dementia and management of these patients requires a collaborative approach. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the first-line pharmacotherapy for depression in dementia, although they are less likely to be effective in older people.
Seasonal variation of daily physical activity in individuals with heart failure.

BackgroundPrevious studies indicate that seasonal variation affects daily physical activity (PA), but none have investigated this relationship in individuals with heart failure (HF) who also have i...
Toward Transoral Peripheral Lung Access: Combining Continuum Robots and Steerable Needles

Lung cancer is the most deadly form of cancer in part because of the challenges associated with accessing nodules for diagnosis and therapy. Transoral access is preferred to percutaneous access since it has a lower risk of lung collapse, yet many sites are currently unreachable transorally due to limitations with current bronchoscopic instruments. Toward this end, we present a new robotic system for image-guided trans-bronchoscopic lung access. The system uses a bronchoscope to navigate in the airway and bronchial tubes to a site near the desired target, a concentric tube robot to move through the bronchial wall and aim at the target, and a bevel-tip steerable needle with magnetic tracking to maneuver through lung tissue to the target under closed-loop control. In this work, we illustrate the workflow of our system and show accurate targeting in phantom experiments. Ex vivo porcine lung experiments show that our steerable needle can be tuned to achieve appreciable curvature in lung tissue. Lastly, we present targeting results with our system using two scenarios based on patient cases. In these experiments, phantoms were created from patient-specific computed tomography information and our system was used to target the locations of suspicious nodules, illustrating the ability of our system to reach sites that are traditionally inaccessible transorally.
Redex: a language for lightweight semantics engineering (keynote)

Redex is a programming language designed to support semantics engineers as they experiment with programming language models. To explore a model, an engineer writes down grammars, type systems, and operational semantics in a notation inspired by the programming languages literature. Redex breathes life into the model, building typing derivations, running example expressions, and using random generation to falsify claims about the model. The talk first gives an overview of Redex, motivating its design choices and giving a sense of how programming in Redex feels. Then the talk dives into some of the techniques that Redex uses to generate random expressions.
Analysis of Racial Disparity in Plasma of Healthy Volunteers Using Rotational Thromboelastometry Reveals Higher Prothrombotic Profile in African Americans

Racial differences in the incidence of arterial and venous thrombotic events are well established in literature, with a higher incidence noted in African Americans compared to Caucasians. Several studies have tried to explain this difference, by looking separately at chemical biomarkers, socioeconomic and clinical risk factors. Yet the exact reason behind this disparity remains unclear. At least one study of thrombin generation suggested that African ethnicity was associated with increased peak thrombin generation when compared to Caucasians. Rotational thromboelastometry is a visco-elastic methodology that offers a global assessment of hemostasis using either whole blood or plasma. We explored the racial differences in rotational thromboelastometry findings using plasma samples from healthy volunteers. We studied a cohort of 9 otherwise healthy adult volunteers with no history of cardiovascular nor thromboembolic events, 5 African Americans and 4 Caucasians. After informed consent, we collected citrated whole blood samples and processed them within 3 hours of phlebotomy. Platelet free plasma, obtained after centrifugation of whole blood for 20 minutes, was kept frozen at -70°C, and then thawed at 37°C for 5 minutes prior to testing. Samples were re-calcified with star-tem® reagent, and then the in-tem® reagent was added. The latter contains an optimized concentration of ellagic acid and partial thromboplastin phospholipid from rabbit brain. Thromboelastometry parameters including Clot Formation Time , Alpha Angle , and Maximum Clot Firmness were determined. We then compared the data between the two study populations using parametric unpaired Student’s t -test. Our results showed that the Clot Formation Time was higher in the plasma of Caucasians when compared to African Americans with a difference between means of 40.1 ± 4.4 seconds ( p <.0001); the Alpha Angle was lower in Caucasians with a difference between means of 3.45 ± 0.3 degrees ( p <.0001); and the Maximum Clot Firmness was lower in Caucasians with a difference between means of 9.75 ± 2 mm ( p <.01). These findings demonstrated that the plasma of Caucasians took longer to reach the maximum firmness, and this maximum firmness was less than that reached in the plasma of African Americans. This reveals a significantly increased prothrombotic profile in the plasma of African Americans compared to Caucasians. Despite the limited number of participants, the striking observed differences in the thromboelastometry parameters suggest that global assays may offer benefit in assessing thrombotic risks in disparate patient populations, as they incorporate multiple components of the hemostatic system . Higher numbers of subjects and assessment of both whole blood and plasma are indicated. We are currently in the process of expanding our cohort to confirm these preliminary results. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
CRISPR/Cas9-Directed Reassignment of the GATA1 Initiation Codon in K562 Cells to Recapitulate AML in Down Syndrome

Using a CRISPR/Cas9 system, we have reengineered a translational start site in the GATA1 gene in K562 cells. This mutation accounts largely for the onset of myeloid leukemia in Down syndrome (ML-DS). For this reengineering, we utilized CRISPR/Cas9 to generate mammalian cell lines that express truncated versions of the Gata1s protein similar to that seen in ML-DS, as determined by analyzing specific genetic alterations resulting from CRISPR/Cas9 cleavage. During this work, 73 cell lines were clonally expanded, with allelic variance analyzed. Using Tracking of Indels by DEcomposition (TIDE) and Sanger sequencing, we defined the DNA sequence and variations within each allele. We found significant heterogeneity between alleles in the same clonally expanded cell, as well as among alleles from other clonal expansions. Our data demonstrate and highlight the importance of the randomness of resection promoted by non-homologous end joining after CRISPR/Cas9 cleavage in cells undergoing genetic reengineering. Such heterogeneity must be fully characterized to predict altered functionality inside target tissues and to accurately interpret the associated phenotype. Our data suggest that in cases where the objective is to rearrange specific nucleotides to redirect gene expression in human cells, it is imperative to analyze genetic composition at the individual allelic level.
Genome-wide association study to identify variants associated with acute severe vaso-occlusive pain in sickle cell anemia

To the editor: Acute vaso-occlusive pain episodes are a hallmark of sickle cell anemia (SCA), one of the most common Mendelian disorders worldwide with an estimated >300 000 births annually.[1][1][⇓][2]-[3][3] Although SCA is a monogenic disorder, manifestations and disease severity are highly
Adults’ Perceptions of Their Mothers: A Life-Span Analysis

The test-retest reliability and factorial validity of a newly constructed Parent Perception Inventory were assessed in Study 1. In Study 2, possible age-related trends in adults’ perceptions of their living mothers were evaluated. In this study 79 women and 57 men between the ages of 20–29, 30–39, and 40–64 described their mothers on the Parent Perception Inventory which measured individuation, idealization, and competency of mother; the semantic differential which measured evaluation, potency, and activity dimension of mother; and in response to an open-ended question, which dealt with perceived cognitive complexity of mother. One finding was that the process of individuation is not completed during adolescence but rather continues throughout life. Other findings were that mother is rated less positively and viewed as less competent and less active, when she becomes elderly. No significant age-related trends were found for the variables of idealization, conceptual complexity, and potency. The findings provide some objective support for the hypothesis of systematic, age-related trends in adult/parent relationships.
Does Treatment of Psoriasis Reduce Cardiovascular Comorbidities

Psoriasis has been associated with an increase in myocardial infarctions. Several registries have shown reductions in major adverse cardiovascular events in psoriasis patients and rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with tumor necrosis factor-α antagonists. Many assume that the reduction in cardiovascular events can be attributed to the anti-inflammatory effect of tumor necrosis factor blockers, but a 52-week study conducted by Bissonnette and coworkers failed to show a reduction in cardiovascular inflammation in psoriasis patients treated with adalimumab. Longer and larger studies are needed to explain why tumor necrosis factor-α blockade appears to reduce cardiovascular events in patients with severe psoriasis.
Molecular Mimicry and Microorganisms: A Role in the Pathogenesis of Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a human disease characterized by excessive fatigability and weakness. The disease was originally described by Thomas Willis in 1672 (Herrmann 1967). However, the pathogenesis remained largely a mystery until Patrick and Lindstrom (1973) made a spectacular discovery. They were attempting to raise antibodies against the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AchR) by immunizing rabbits with AchR isolated from fish electric organs. Interestingly, the rabbits became sick with a disease that both clinically and electrophysiologically was similar to MG and could be reversed with acetylcholine esterase inhibitors (Grob et al. 1981; Lindstrom 1979). They had developed an animal model for MG. Subsequent work demonstrated that the animal disease could be passively transferred to other animals by antibodies from the actively immunized animals (Lindstrom et al. 1976a), and animals could be made myasthenic by antibodies from the sera of patients with MG. More recently, it has been shown that the experimental disease can be induced with monoclonal antibodies against the α-chain of AchR (Gomes et al. 1981). It was concluded that MG is caused by a humoral immune response against the AchR.
Endogenous Opioids in the Etiology and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

ABSTRACT Endogenous opioids are enkephalins and endorphins that are primarily produced in the brain and have multiple actions throughout the body. Enkephalins and endorphins act at opioid receptors and their activity can be blocked by opioid antagonists. A small pentapeptide termed opioid growth factor (OGF), and chemically termed [Met5]-enkephalin, has been shown to have causative and therapeutic roles in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). Enkephalin levels are reduced in animals and humans during MS relapses, and may play a role in etiology. Exogenous therapy with OGF or endogenous stimulation of OGF by low dosages of naltrexone (LDN) reverse the course of progressive EAE and limit the number of relapses in relapsing- remitting EAE. Individuals prescribed LDN report less fatigue and a better quality of life while using LDN. This chapter summarizes the information from studies using two different animal models of EAE, as well as two different treatment regimens of two different compounds—OGF or LDN. In all investigations, the presence of enkephalins resulted in beneficial effects.
Clocks and meals keep mice from being cool

ABSTRACT Daily torpor is used by small mammals to reduce daily energy expenditure in response to energetic challenges. Optimizing the timing of daily torpor allows mammals to maximize its energetic benefits and, accordingly, torpor typically occurs in the late night and early morning in most species. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying such temporal regulation have not been elucidated. Direct control by the circadian clock and indirect control through the timing of food intake have both been suggested as possible mechanisms. Here, feeding cycles outside of the circadian range and brain-specific mutations of circadian clock genes ( Vgat-Cre + CK1δ fl/fl e fl/+ ; Vgat-Cre + Bmal1 fl/fl ) were used to separate the roles of the circadian clock and food timing in controlling the timing of daily torpor in mice. These experiments revealed that the timing of daily torpor is transiently inhibited by feeding, while the circadian clock is the major determinant of the timing of torpor. Torpor never occurred during the early part of the circadian active phase, but was preferentially initiated late in the subjective night. Food intake disrupted torpor in the first 4–6 h after feeding by preventing or interrupting torpor bouts. Following interruption, re-initiation of torpor was unlikely until after the next circadian active phase. Overall, these results demonstrate that feeding transiently inhibits torpor while the central circadian clock gates the timing of daily torpor in response to energetic challenges by restricting the initiation of torpor to a specific circadian phase.
Inflammation in the bovine female reproductive tract

Inflammation of the reproductive tract of a cow occurs when the physical and functional barriers to contamination are breached or specific infection occurs. Commonly, contamination occurs at parturition and to a lesser extent at estrus. Uterine contamination following calving is common, but most healthy cows are able to clear the uterus of bacteria in the first 2 to 3 wk after calving. Persistent infections are more likely to be caused by Actinomyces pyogenes. Specific venereal infections tend to be more host-adapted and produce a lower grade inflammation. Nonspecific bacterial contamination of the endometrium generally induces a neutrophilic influx into the stratum compactum and uterine lumen. Neutrophils phagocytize bacteria with the aid of opsonins in the uterine fluid. Mast cells and eosinophils may also contribute to the inflammatory reaction, which may damage the surface epithelium and release vasoactive substances that allow leakage of serum antibodies into the uterine secretions. Specific antibodies of immunoglobulin (Ig) isotype A, M, G1, and G2 in uterine secretions have been described. In model species, the immune capability of the uterus is influenced by steroid hormones, especially estradiol, which increases secretory component and both IgA and IgG content in uterine secretions and increases the activity of antigen-presenting cells in the uterus. Similar cyclic fluctuations in immune components have been described for cows, including changes in the population of subsurface cytotoxic and helper T cells and changes in the expression of major histocompatibility II antigen on surface cells.
Inhibition of Cysteine and Serine Proteinases by the Cowpox Virus Serpin CRMA

Interleukin ls converting enzyme (ICE) is the founding member of a family of cysteine proteinases active in the metabolism of intracellular proteins [1]. Other members of this family include Ich-1, CPP32, Ced-3, all of which have been implicated in apoptosis (programmed cell death) [2–4]. Though ICE itself may also be involved in apoptosis, its main role is probably to activate pro-interleukin-ls (proIL-ls) via specific cleavage following Asp residues [1,5].
Mad Genius Controversy

This article examines current thinking regarding the relation between creativity and psychopathology in the historical context of the changes in the intellectual assumptions regarding the nature of creative individuals during four periods of Western history: Greek antiquity, the Italian Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and the Romantic Age. Particular attention is devoted to the romantics’ reformulation of historically antecedent ideas, including the conception of genius, and the subsequent reception of these changes in the field of philosophical–psychological speculation and the rising medical specialty of psychiatry. The article concludes with a discussion of some of the implications of these developments for current debates concerning creativity and attendant mental conditions.
Activity-dependent development of the vertebrate nervous system.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the experiments on the role of activity during development from many different systems, principally the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), the retinal/tectal system, the visual cortex, long-term potentiation (L'TP) in the hippocampus, and a number of other vertebrate systems where this question is studied. Results are compared across systems in an effort to derive common properties of activity-dependent regulation of synaptic connections between neurons during development, and to reveal important differences among the phenomena in different systems. Several biochemical processes that may participate in activity-dependent changes in synaptic strength, synaptogenesis, and synapse elimination are considered. Central to many of these biochemical pathways is intracellular free calcium. Sources of calcium influx into the neuron (voltage-sensitive calcium channels and Nmethyl- D-aspartic acid (NMDA) channels) and several intracellular actions of this cation are considered. NMDA channels and voltage-sensitive calcium channels differentiate between signals (one responding based on voltage, and the other requiring the association between transmitter and depolarization), but they both affect the same second messenger (calcium) in similar ways.