cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Erythromycin breath test predicts oral clearance of cyclosporine in kidney transplant recipients

It has been shown recently that cyclosporine is largely metabolized by P450IIIA (CYP3A), an enzyme whose catalytic activity varies significantly among patients. To determine whether heterogeneity in P450IIIA activity contributes to interpatient differences in cyclosporine dosing requirements, the oral pharmacokinetics of the drug were determined in 20 stable kidney transplant recipients. P450IIIA activity was then measured in each patient by use of the erythromycin breath test. In the 16 patients who were at steady state, the logarithm of the apparent oral clearance of cyclosporine correlated significantly with the rate of 14CO2 exhaled in breath after intravenous administration of [14C N-methyl]erythromycin (r = 0.55, p = 0.03). No significant correlations existed between apparent oral clearance and age, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or hematocrit in these patients. We conclude that heterogeneity in P450IIIA activity significantly contributes to interpatient differences in dosing requirements of cyclosporine in kidney transplant patients.
FIXED-B ASYMPTOTICS FOR THE STUDENTIZED MEAN FROM TIME SERIES WITH SHORT, LONG, OR NEGATIVE MEMORY

Author(s): Politis, D N; McElroy, Tucker S | Abstract: This paper considers the problem of distribution estimation for the studentized sample mean in the context of Long Memory and Negative Memory time series dynamics, adopting the fixed-bandwidth approach now popular in the econometrics literature. The distribution theory complements the Short Memory results of Kiefer and Vogelsang (2005). In particular, our results highlight the dependence on the employed kernel, whether or not the taper is nonzero at the boundary, and most importantly whether or not the process has short memory. We also demonstrate that small-bandwidth approaches fail when long memory or negative memory is present since the limiting distribution is either a point mass at zero or degenerate. Extensive numerical work provides approximations to the quantiles of the asymptotic distribution for a range of tapers and memory parameters; these quantiles can be used in practice for the construction of confidence intervals and hypothesis tests for the mean of the time series.
Gender of Physician as the Usual Source of Care and Patient Health Care Utilization and Mortality

Background: Practice styles differ by provider gender, but whether provider gender influences health care utilization and mortality is unknown. The objective of this study was to examine associations of the gender of a patient9s usual source of health care (USOC) with health care utilization and mortality. Methods: This was a prospective observational study employing data from respondents aged ≥18 years entering the 2002 to 2008 United States Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys, reporting a USOC at entry, and participating for 2 years (N = 21,365). Analyses examined the association of gender of the USOC in survey participation year 1 with the following health care utilization outcomes in participation year 2: total health care expenditures, prescription drug expenditures, and number of office visits (Poisson regressions) and having more than one emergency visit and more than one hospitalization (logistic regressions). A Cox regression examined survival (ascertained via linkage with the National Death Index) through 2006 for the subset of respondents enrolled from 2002 to 2006 (n = 11,328). All analyses were adjusted for respondent sociodemographic and health characteristics and USOC specialty and race/ethnicity. Results: Reporting a female USOC was associated with being younger, female, and urban. There were no significant adjusted associations of female USOC status with total expenditures (parameter estimate of increase [PE], 4.56%; 95% confidence interval [CI], −3.04 to 12.76), prescription expenditures (PE, 3.33% ; 95% CI, −4.32 to 11.59), number of office visits (PE, 1.28%; 95% CI, −3.30 to 6.08), having more than one emergency visit (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.87–1.11), having more than one hospitalization (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.87–1.11), or mortality (hazard ratio, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.64–1.38). Conclusions: Gender of the USOC was not associated with health care utilization or mortality. These findings suggest reported gender of the USOC may not have nationally important effects on health care utilization and mortality.
The deltaA gene of zebrafish mediates lateral inhibition of hair cells in the inner ear and is regulated by pax2.1

Recent studies of inner ear development suggest that hair cells and support cells arise within a common equivalence group by cell-cell interactions mediated by Delta and Notch proteins. We have extended these studies by analyzing the effects of a mutant allele of the zebrafish deltaA gene, deltaA(dx2), which encodes a dominant-negative protein. deltaA(dx2/dx2 )homozygous mutants develop with a 5- to 6-fold excess of hair cells and a severe deficiency of support cells. In addition, deltaA(dx2/dx2) mutants show an increased number of cells expressing pax2.1 in regions where hair cells are normally produced. Immunohistological analysis of wild-type and deltaA(dx2/dx2) mutant embryos confirmed that pax2.1 is expressed during the initial stages of hair cell differentiation and is later maintained at high levels in mature hair cells. In contrast, pax2.1 is not expressed in support cells. To address the function of pax2.1, we analyzed hair cell differentiation in no isthmus mutant embryos, which are deficient for pax2.1 function. no isthmus mutant embryos develop with approximately twice the normal number of hair cells. This neurogenic defect correlates with reduced levels of expression of deltaA and deltaD in the hair cells in no isthmus mutants. Analysis of deltaA(dx2/dx2); no isthmus double mutants showed that no isthmus suppresses the deltaA(dx2) phenotype, probably by reducing levels of the dominant-negative mutant protein. This interpretation was supported by analysis of T(msxB)(b220), a deletion that removes the deltaA locus. Reducing the dose of deltaA(dx2) by generating deltaA(dx2)/T(msxB)(b220 )trans-heterozygotes weakens the neurogenic effects of deltaA(dx2), whereas T(msxB)(b220) enhances the neurogenic defects of no isthmus. mind bomb, another strong neurogenic mutation that may disrupt reception of Delta signals, causes a 10-fold increase in hair cell production and is epistatic to both no isthmus and deltaA(dx2). These data indicate that deltaA expressed by hair cells normally prevents adjacent cells from adopting the same cell fate, and that pax2.1 is required for normal levels of Delta-mediated lateral inhibition.
Protein kinase A catalytic subunit isoform PRKACA; History, function and physiology

Our appreciation of the scope and influence of second messenger signaling has its origins in pioneering work on the cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Also called protein kinase A (PKA), this holoenzyme exists as a tetramer comprised of a regulatory (R) subunit dimer and two catalytic (C) subunits. Upon binding of two molecules of the second messenger cAMP to each R subunit, a conformational change in the PKA holoenzyme occurs to release the C subunits. These active kinases phosphorylate downstream targets to propagate cAMP responsive cell signaling events. This article focuses on the discovery, structure, cellular location and physiological effects of the catalytic subunit alpha of protein kinase A (encoded by the gene PRKACA). We also explore the potential role of this essential gene as a molecular mediator of certain disease states.
The Epidemiology of Pelvic Floor Disorders and Childbirth: An Update

Using a lifespan model, this article presents new scientific findings regarding risk factors for pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), focusing on the role of childbirth in the development of single or multiple coexisting PFDs. Phase I of the model includes predisposing factors, such as genetic predisposition and race. Phase II includes inciting factors, such as obstetric events. Prolapse, urinary incontinence (UI), and fecal incontinence (FI) are more common among vaginally parous women, although the impact of vaginal delivery on risk of FI is less dramatic than prolapse and UI. Phase III includes intervening factors, such as age and obesity.
Scalable Row/Column Addressing of Silicon Photonic MEMS Switches

In this letter, we demonstrate a scalable addressing scheme for silicon photonic MEMS switches. For a crossbar architecture switch fabric of dimension $N \times N$ , the row/column addressing scales with $2\cdot N$ electrodes, much reduced from the $N^{2}$ electrodes in individual addressing. It also compares favorably with other optical switch architectures, including path-independent insertion loss, Benes, or switch-and-select networks, in terms of electrical interface. We have designed, fabricated, and experimentally characterized the performance of a $4 \times 4$ silicon photonic MEMS switch.
Nineteen-year follow-up of a patient with severe glutathione synthetase deficiency

Glutathione synthetase deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder resulting in low levels of glutathione and an increased susceptibility to oxidative stress. Patients with glutathione synthetase deficiency typically present in the neonatal period with hemolytic anemia, metabolic acidosis and neurological impairment. Lifelong treatment with antioxidants has been recommended in an attempt to prevent morbidity and mortality associated with the disorder. Here, we present a 19-year-old female who was diagnosed with glutathione synthetase deficiency shortly after birth and who has been closely followed in our metabolic clinic. Despite an initial severe presentation, she has had normal intellectual development and few complications of her disorder with a treatment regimen that includes polycitra (citric acid, potassium citrate and sodium citrate), vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium.
Resistance to Mycoplasma pulmonis Mediated by Activated Natural Killer Cells

Infection of C57BL/6J mice with Mycoplasma pulmonis (MP) enhanced NK cell function 3-7 days later, as detected by in vitro and in vivo assays. Moreover, spleen and lung cells of acutely infected C57BL/6J mice inhibited MP growth in vitro. The effectors were eliminated by treatment with anti-NK antibody in vivo and anti-asialo GM1 serum or anti-3A4 antibody plus complement in vitro. Clearance of viable and radiolabeled MP from the lungs was also enhanced in acutely infected mice. Acutely infected mice with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) eliminated viable MP faster than did uninfected mice. Antibodies to interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) impaired clearance of MP from the lungs of SCID mice and decreased their survival times. Activated NK cells can function in resistance to early stages of infection with MP. NK cells directly inhibit MP with secrete IFN-gamma, which may activate macrophages or inhibit the growth of MP or both.
Encephalitozoon (Septata) intestinalis: Cytologic, Histologic, and Electron Microscopic Features of a Systemic Intestinal Pathogen

Encephalitozoon (Septata) intestinalis affects AIDS patients with CD4 counts <100/microL, causing intestinal and disseminated disease. It must be distinguished from the more common intestinal microsporidian, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and from other microsporidia of extraintestinal tissues, such as Encephalitozoon hellem and E cuniculi, because clinical manifestations and treatment differ. In this report, the authors describe the diagnostic features of E intestinalis and illustrate all stages of its life cycle as exemplified by a case studied in detail. Spores can be detected by light microscopy in feces, urine, or nasal secretions, but not identified to species. A presumptive tissue diagnosis of E intestinalis can be made if 20 to 50 organisms 1.2-2.5 microm in diameter are seen within vacuoles in enterocytes. The diagnosis is substantiated if organisms also are present in stromal cells. On electron microscopy, the septate parasitophorous vacuole is pathognomonic. E bieneusi occurs only in intestinal and biliary epithelial cells, and never within a vacuole. E hellem and E cuniculi, which are not intestinal pathogens, may cause systemic infection but develop in a nonseptate vacuole.
Analysis of Atomic Force Microscopy Phase Data To Dynamically Detect Adsorbed Hydrogen under Ambient Conditions

Characterization of the interactions of hydrogen with catalytic metal surfaces and the mass transfer processes involved in heterogeneous catalysis are important for catalyst development. Although a range of technologies for studying catalytic surfaces exist, much of it relies on high-vacuum conditions that preclude in situ research. In contrast, atomic force microscopy (AFM) provides an opportunity for direct observation of surfaces under or near actual reaction conditions. Tapping-mode AFM was explored here because it expands AFM beyond the usual topographic information toward speciation and other more subtle surface information. This work describes using phase-angle information from tapping-mode AFM to follow the interactions of hydrogen with palladium, polycarbonate, and iron. Real-time AFM phase-angle information allowed for the observation of multiphase mass transfer to and from the surface of palladium at atmospheric pressure and room temperature without the need for complex sample preparation. The AFM observations are quantitatively benchmarked against and confirm mass transfer predictions based on bulk hydrogen diffusion data. Additionally, they support recent studies that demonstrate the existence of multiple hydrogen states during interactions with palladium surfaces.
Caloric Reserves in Aedes Cantator (Diptera: Culicidae)

An acid solution of sodium bichromate was used to quantify caloric reserves in Aedes cantator adults arising from different broods at Guilford and Milford, Connecticut, USA. Spectrophotometric assays of males and females ≤24 h old revealed mean energy reserves of 1.1–2.6 and 0.5–2.9 cal/insect, respectively. Average caloric content in 198 resting mosquitoes was ≤0.5 cal/insect, whereas available energy reserves in 148 blood-seeking females ranged from 0.4 to 2.6 cal/insect. Bichromate values for starved adults (i.e., irreducible minimums) indicate little difference between sexes but show variation among separate generations. The occurrence of relatively low amounts of energy reserves in newly emerged adults reinforces the importance of sugars for mosquito survival during early adulthood.
Modeling and Simulation of Heat of Mixing in Lithium Ion Batteries

Heat generation is a major safety concern in the design and development of lithium ion batteries (LIBs) for large scale applications, such as electric vehicles. The total heat generation in LIBs includes entropic heat, enthalpy, reaction heat, and heat of mixing (1-3). The heat of mixing will be released during relaxation of Li ion concentration gradient. For instance, after the drivers turn off their vehicles, the generation of entropy, enthalpy and reaction heat in LIBs will stop, but the heat of mixing is still being generated. Thomas and Newman derived methods to compute heat of mixing in LIB cells and investigated the heat of mixing on a Li|LiPF6 in ethylene carbonate:dimethyl carbonate|LiAl0.2Mn1.8O4-δF0.2 cell (4). The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of heat of mixing on the LIBs with different materials, porosities, particle sizes, and charge/discharge rate and to understand whether it is necessary to consider heat of mixing during the design and development of LIBs. In this study, a mathematical model was built to simulate heat generation of LIBs using COMSOL Multiphysics. The LIB model was based on Newman’s model. LiCoO2 was applied as the cathode materials, and LiC6 was applied as the anode material. The results of heat of mixing were compared with the other heat sources to investigate the weight of heat of mixing in the total heat generation. Table 1 shows the heat of mixing, irreversible heat, and reversible heat in anode and cathode electrodes at 5 min during a 2 C discharge process. As shown in Table 1, the heat of mixing in cathode is smaller than the heat of mixing in anode, mainly due to the lower Li ion diffusivity and larger particle size of LiC6. The heat of mixing is not as much as the irreversible heat and reversible heat, but it cannot be neglected for this operating condition. The heat of mixing in different LIB cells and under different operating conditions will be reported.
Prostate cancer post-treatment follow-up and recurrence evaluation

Recurrent prostate cancer following primary treatment is common, and the population of men with biochemical recurrence is complex. Conventional management of recurrent prostate cancer involves nontargeted and/or systemic therapies, without defining an individual patient's specific disease. However, recent advances in imaging enable a shift in the management of recurrent prostate cancer to targeted, patient-specific approaches. Specifically, MRI can detect and define local prostate cancer recurrence early in the course of disease, and prostate-specific PET imaging greatly improves nodal staging and can detect previously unknown distant metastases. The significant advances in the imaging of both local and distant tumor recurrences allows for specific selection of treatment options tailored to patients and their disease with less associated morbidity.
Chemistry Contribute to the Quality of Modern Life

Chemistry would be one of the most necessary subjects to human life in the 21st century, and even, make greater contribution to our lives than it could do in the past. The overlapping of chemistry with IT and biological technology could introduce huge revolution to our life. Chemistry is helpful to the most advanced branches of science, and to the different parts of national economy as well. It could be seen that we enjoy and rely on the high quality life introduced by chemistry.
Protective effects of Kudiezi Oral Solution on experimental hyperlipoproteinemia in rats

Objective To observe the effect of Kudiezi Oral Solution(KDZOS) on total cholesterol(TC),lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism and antioxidative activity in experimental hyperlipoproteinemia rats.Methods 60 Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups and each group had 10 rats.Control group was given normal food.The models of experimental hyperlipoproteinemia were established by giving lipid-riched feeds to Wistar rats for 15 d.The contents of TC,triglyceride(TG),high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C) were measured and the atherogenic index(AI) was calculated.At the same time,the prostacycline(PGI2) and thromboxane(TXA2) levels in plasma,the malondialdehyde(MDA) contents and the superoxide dismutase(SOD) activities in serum and liver,and the viscosity of whole blood were also measured respectively in hyperlipidemia rats.In addition,the fat accumulation in liver was observed.Results In rats treated with KDZOS(with doses of 20 and 40 g·kg-1 i.g for 30 d),the levels of TC,TG,LDL-C,TC/HDL-C,LDL-C/HDL-C,AI,TXA2,MDA and the viscosity of whole blood were decreased significantly(P0.05 or P0.01),HDL-C,PGI2,PGI2/TXA2 and SOD were increased significantly(P0.05 or P0.01),meanwhile the fatty degeneration of hepatic cells was relieved.Conclusion KDZOS can adjust the blood lipid metabolism in hyperlipoproteinemia rats and restrain fatty deposition in liver.
Experiences and Concerns of Lesbian, Gay, or Bisexual Survivors of Colorectal Cancer.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To identify the experiences and needs of lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) survivors of colorectal cancer (CRC) and to expand the current understanding of LGB survivorship by obtaining in-depth knowledge of survivorship among individuals with a cancer other than breast or prostate. . RESEARCH APPROACH Qualitative, semistructured individual interviews via telephone. . SETTING Participants were recruited using social media, flyers, word of mouth, and contact with LGB and cancer organizations during a four-month period. . PARTICIPANTS Eight LGB individuals with a diagnosis of stage III CRC from 2009-2014. . METHODOLOGIC APPROACH All interviews were audio recorded and then transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis performed by more than one analyst was used for the interview transcripts. . FINDINGS Participants described experiences with social support and isolation, cancer care from an LGB perspective, and substantial economic impacts of their cancer diagnosis. In addition, they reported struggles with health insurance coverage, employment, and housing during and after their treatment for CRC. . CONCLUSIONS In addition to issues regarding sexual identity disclosure and social support, economic impacts of CRC exist; these are likely critical to healthy survivorship in LGB men and women. . INTERPRETATION Attention should be paid to the economic impact of CRC on LGB individuals, along with issues of social support and sexual identity disclosure. Oncology nurses could play an important role in determining the economic and social needs of patients with CRC, accepting the often nontraditional support networks of LGB individuals, and facilitating disclosure of an LGB identity.
The effect of inhomogeneous ambient conditions on air clearances in high voltage laboratories

High voltage laboratories are designed to have sufficient clearances to avoid undesired flashovers from generator surfaces. However, numerous factors influence the characteristics of breakdown in air, including ambient conditions such as temperature, pressure, and humidity. If the laboratory environment is not adequately controlled, ambient conditions could deviate as a function of elevation and result in insufficient clearances at the highest points of large generators where voltage stress is also the greatest. Ambient conditions were mapped at the Aalto University high voltage laboratory in Finland and compared with data obtained at the Mississippi State University (USA) laboratory. Both laboratories are of comparable size, however, differences exist in building design and air regulation. Despite these differences, both laboratories showed minimal fluctuations in temperature at different locations and elevations.
Creating a dialogic space for prospective teacher critical reflection and transformative learning

This research highlights the pedagogical significance of dialogic spaces in supporting critical reflection and transformative learning among prospective teachers in the United States. It finds that...
Adaptive Sliding Mode Fault-Tolerant Control for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Sliding mode control (SMC) is known as a robust control method to maintain system performance and keep it insensitive to system uncertainties. To achieve this objective, the knowledge of the uncert...
Capturing the legislative priorities of transnational Europarties and the European Commission: A pledge approach:

This article presents a new dataset of pledges made by Europarties during the 2004 and 2009 European Parliament elections, as well as pre-legislative priorities of the European Commission following these elections. The data cover two legislative cycles in the period 2004–2013. The article discusses the rationale behind the development of this dataset, the coding, and the measurement of the variables, and it highlights the applicability of these data.
Convex kernelized sorting

Kernelized sorting is a method for aligning objects across two domains by considering within-domain similarity, without a need to specify a cross-domain similarity measure. In this paper we present the Convex Kernelized Sorting method where, unlike in the previous approaches, the cross-domain object matching is formulated as a convex optimization problem, leading to simpler optimization and global optimum solution. Our method outputs soft alignments between objects, which can be used to rank the best matches for each object, or to visualize the object matching and verify the correct choice of the kernel. It also allows for computing hard one-to-one alignments by solving the resulting Linear Assignment Problem. Experiments on a number of cross-domain matching tasks show the strength of the proposed method, which consistently achieves higher accuracy than the existing methods.
Uncovering the Interaction of Chemistry and Behavior in Depression: The Dimensional Versus Diagnostic Approaches in Structuring Research

Despite decades of research on neural mechanisms underlying efficacy of the ADs, there is only partial understanding of how they work. The prime reason appears to be that research on mechanisms is constrained by viewing depression as a unitary diagnostic disorder, rather than as a multifaceted one, comprised of neurobehavioral components that interact to create the basic conflicts. Thus, the search has been for “biological markers,” i.e., specific biological indices, of the depressive disorder. The “diagnosis” has in turn, substituted for delineation of its behavioral elements. The basic elements in the neurochemical and behavioral spheres of functioning and their relationships must be uncovered and measured before advancing to the use of such complex concepts as unitary mental disorders. The chapter summarizes the progress in linking central neurotransmitter systems, the serotonergic and noradrenergic, with the regulation of different behaviors and emotions. Such knowledge is essential for understanding depression and for the development of new, more effective drugs. Although neurochemical technology has advanced greatly, the development of behavioral methodology has lagged. Recent research has, however, identified the critical dimensions of behavior that comprise the disorder. The state of depression can now be re-examined and the nature of the interaction between the biological and behavioral spheres be more clearly articulated.
Influence of word size and tonal sequence probabilities on Mandarin segmentation errors

The largely effortless process of segmenting a continuous speech stream into words has been shown cross-linguistically to be influenced by implicit knowledge about the distributional probabilities of phonotactics, stress assignment, and word size. Work in tonal languages provides compelling evidence that tones are also likely to be a source of probabilistic information for speakers of these languages. It has been shown that probability of syllable + tone combinations play a role in speech processing in Mandarin (Wiener & Ito, 2016; 2015; Wiener & Turnbull, 2013). Work in Cantonese has also demonstrated that transitional probabilities of lexical tones paired with vowels aid listeners in segmentation (Gomez, et al., 2018). Here we conducted two perception experiments with fifty native-Mandarin speakers and manipulated two potential segmentation cues: word size and tonal sequence probability. Contrary to our hypothesis that participants would make segmentation errors which reflect the most probable word size in Mandarin (two-syllable words) with highly probable tonal sequences, participants’ errors were overwhelmingly three-syllable words with low probability tonal sequences. This suggests that biases towards segmentation errors are not predictable based on straightforward probabilities.The largely effortless process of segmenting a continuous speech stream into words has been shown cross-linguistically to be influenced by implicit knowledge about the distributional probabilities of phonotactics, stress assignment, and word size. Work in tonal languages provides compelling evidence that tones are also likely to be a source of probabilistic information for speakers of these languages. It has been shown that probability of syllable + tone combinations play a role in speech processing in Mandarin (Wiener & Ito, 2016; 2015; Wiener & Turnbull, 2013). Work in Cantonese has also demonstrated that transitional probabilities of lexical tones paired with vowels aid listeners in segmentation (Gomez, et al., 2018). Here we conducted two perception experiments with fifty native-Mandarin speakers and manipulated two potential segmentation cues: word size and tonal sequence probability. Contrary to our hypothesis that participants would make segmentation errors which reflect the most probable word size...
Peels on Ignorance as a Moral Excuse

In Responsible Belief, Rik Peels examines the relation between moral responsibility for one’s behavior and moral responsibility for one’s beliefs. It is a very impressive piece of work. Peels condu...
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by periodic collapse of the upper airway during sleep, which results in apnea or hypopnea. This may cause intermittent hypoxemia, hypercapnia, disordered sleep, and sympathetic stimulation. OSA is associated with hypertension, cardiac, cerebrovascular, neurocognitive, and metabolic disease. Maternal and fetal adverse outcomes have been described. Continuous positive airway pressure is advised.
Bone Marrow Structure and Marrow Aspiration, Biopsy, and Collection for Therapeutic Intent Procedures

Analysis of the bone marrow remains a basic tool in the evaluation of patients affected by hematopoietic disorders. This chapter reviews the normal morphologic features of the marrow as well as outlining practical aspects in the evaluation of the marrow aspirate smear and core biopsy. We further review the bone marrow aspirate, biopsy, and collection for therapeutic intent procedures. We present guidelines for submitting marrow samples for research. Ancillary diagnostic tests such as flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and cytogenetic and molecular studies important for defining the nature of marrow disorders briefly are mentioned. The chapter will give the reader a fundamental understanding of the bone marrow as an organ involved in hematopoiesis and disease processes.
45% Periodicity Reduction in Nanocomposite Thin Films via Rapid Solvent Removal

In comparison to top-down approaches, nanocomposite thin films are more compatible with nanoparticle (NP) chemistry, device integration, and scalable manufacturing. Nanocomposites have long been pr...
Steady-state reduction of generalized Lotka-Volterra systems in the microbiome

The generalized Lotka-Volterra (gLV) equations, a classic model from theoretical ecology, describe the population dynamics of a set of interacting species. As the number of species in these systems grow in number, their dynamics become increasingly complex and intractable. We introduce steady-state reduction (SSR), a method that reduces a gLV system of many ecological species into two-dimensional subsystems that each obey gLV dynamics and whose basis vectors are steady states of the high-dimensional model. We apply this method to an experimentally-derived model of the gut microbiome in order to observe the transition between "healthy" and "diseased" microbial states. Specifically, we use SSR to investigate how fecal microbiota transplantation, a promising clinical treatment for dysbiosis, can revert a diseased microbial state to health.
Effects of Dopamine on Motor Recovery and Training in Adults and Children With Nonprogressive Neurological Injuries: A Systematic Review:

Background. The strong link between dopamine and motor learning has been well-established in the animal literature with similar findings reported in healthy adults and the elderly. Objective. We ai...
Anisotropic conjugate stress/strain base pair approach for laminates undergoing large deformations

Abstract The anisotropic, conjugate, stress/strain pair approach has been implemented for laminates undergoing large deformations. Together with a previous study [1] , our results provide compelling evidence that our model can describe both small and large deformation histories. A conjugate material parameter n describing anisotropy has been formulated and correlated with Young’s moduli in the fiber and transverse-fiber directions. Data were obtained from 0° and 90° samples of a compliant silicone/silicone composite material by pulling them uniaxially. Longitudinal and transverse strain measurements were made using digital image correlation (DIC). Conjugate-pair material parameters have been tabulated and compared for both stiff and compliant composites.
Inferior Vena Cava and Lower Extremity Veins

Abstract This chapter reviews the anatomy, physiology, and deformations of the inferior vena cava and lower extremity veins. Since the venous system is under much less blood pressure and pulse pressure as compared to the arterial system, vein walls are thinner, weaker, and less elastic as compared to arteries. Due to the lower venous pressure, pressure changes due to respiration and Valsalva can produce dramatic cross-sectional shape changes in the veins. Compression can also occur from adjacent pressurized arteries (Nutcracker and May–Thurner syndromes) and from contracting muscles. Joint motions cause axial deformations to the lower extremity veins similar to the corresponding arteries and can additionally cause crush deformations of the lower extremity veins due to impingement from adjacent structures.
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis After Transsphenoidal Resection: A Rare Complication of Cushing Disease–Associated Hypercoagulability

Background Venous thromboembolism is a well-known complication of Cushing syndrome. Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolic events have been widely reported in patients with Cushing syndrome, but cerebral venous sinus thrombosis remains a much less common finding in these patients. Case Description We report one of the first cases of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in a patient with Cushing disease. An 18-year-old man presented to our clinic with accelerated weight gain despite an active lifestyle and unchanged diet. Workup revealed adrenocorticotrophic hormone–dependent hypercortisolism, and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a 6-mm pituitary microadenoma, consistent with Cushing disease. He underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal resection and achieved the desired postoperative adrenal insufficiency. The patient was discharged home, but presented again in a delayed fashion with profound cerebral venous sinus thrombosis requiring a prolonged hospitalization. Conclusions Previous studies have suggested that the coagulation profile of patients with Cushing syndrome normalizes when measured 12 months after correction of hypercortisolism, but these patients may remain hypercoagulable for an undefined period postoperatively, despite becoming adrenally insufficient. Although there have been scarce reports of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in non—adrenocorticotrophic hormone–dependent Cushing syndrome, we report the first case of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis postoperatively in a patient with Cushing disease in remission.
Giardia spp., ten years of parasitological data in the biggest zoo of Latin America

Giardia spp. (Diplomonadida: Hexamitidae) is an important and widely studied protozoan parasite with worldwide distribution. Nowadays have six described species, and the most important probably is Giardia duodenalis due to the zoonotical potential that some assemblages have. Many studies analysing samples from wild animals have detected Giardia in captive environment, including the zoonotic type. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Giardia sp. in wild captive animals at Sao Paulo Zoo, using conventional parasitological techniques (direct smear, passive flotation with saturated sodium chloride solution and simple gravity sedimentation), from 2006 to 2016. In total, 7066 coprological exams were performed during this period with samples from mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. The prevalence of Giardia infections was of 1.5% (103/7066). Mammals had the higher prevalence of infections with 2% (77/3872), followed by birds with 1.1% (25/2186) and reptiles with only one positive sample (1/894). All samples from amphibians were negative. Representatives of thirteen families presented positive results for this parasite: Dromaidae, Phasianidae, Ramphastidae, Cervidae, Giraffidae, Canidae, Felidae, Herpestidae, Myrmecophagidae, Callithrichidae, Cebidae, Hylobatidae and Dipsadidae. This study presents the first report of Giardia sp. in Pavo muticus and Brachyteles arachnoides. Infections were prevalent in Cebidae and Ramphastidae species. The findings of this study highlight the importance of identifying which Giardia assemblage are involved in the infections and if they may have a zoonotic potential.
A Long View of Southern California Water Supply: Perfect Droughts Revisited

California Department of Water Resources [4600011071]; U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science Innovative and Novel Computational Impact on Theory and Experiment (DOE INCITE) ProgramUnited States Department of Energy (DOE); U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Biological and Environmental Research (BER)United States Department of Energy (DOE); National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Climate Program OfficeNational Oceanic Atmospheric Admin (NOAA) - USA
A sturdy values analysis of motor vehicle fatalities

Understanding the major determinants of crash fatalities continues to be an important topic of investigation for safety researchers. Regression models using a vast number of explanatory variables are often used which result in a huge array of specifications. Results often vary among studies based on size of estimated coefficients and significance levels. To address this, we explore both significance and model sturdiness in regression models using Leamer’s s-values. This Bayesian technique allows us to address estimation uncertainty and model ambiguity over all possible subset regressions so as to evaluate the effect of key variables which we focus on as contributors to crash fatalities. These include cell phone use, fleet modernization, suicidal behavior, alcohol use, and speed limits.
Saberes docentes sobre o estudante com altas habilidades: estamos preparados para acolhê-lo?

O objetivo da pesquisa consiste em discutir sobre a perspectiva docente em relacao a inclusao de alunos com altas habilidades no ambiente escolar. A metodologia e de abordagem qualitativa e buscou informacoes em uma revisao de literatura e em dados empiricos levantados por meio de um questionario enviado a docentes. Os resultados apontam para: a) a necessidade de uma cultura inclusiva na escola e na universidade; b) os professores nao se sentem preparados para trabalhar com alunos com altas habilidades; c) a necessidade de uma solida formacao docente inicial e continuada que aborde as altas habilidades. Precisamos que a escola com a cultura de inclusao, na qual todos possam sentir-se acolhidos como parte importante do ambiente de aprendizagem. Os estudantes com altas habilidades sao seres privilegiados com uma inteligencia fora dos padroes para determinadas areas e a escola pode ajuda-los a desenvolver este potencial para que tenham uma vida repleta de sentido e feliz.
Memory-bounded Neural Incremental Parsing for Psycholinguistic Prediction

Syntactic surprisal has been shown to have an effect on human sentence processing, and can be predicted from prefix probabilities of generative incremental parsers. Recent state-of-the-art incremental generative neural parsers are able to produce accurate parses and surprisal values but have unbounded stack memory, which may be used by the neural parser to maintain explicit in-order representations of all previously parsed words, inconsistent with results of human memory experiments. In contrast, humans seem to have a bounded working memory, demonstrated by inhibited performance on word recall in multi-clause sentences (Bransford and Franks, 1971), and on center-embedded sentences (Miller and Isard,1964). Bounded statistical parsers exist, but are less accurate than neural parsers in predict-ing reading times. This paper describes a neural incremental generative parser that is able to provide accurate surprisal estimates and can be constrained to use a bounded stack. Results show that the accuracy gains of neural parsers can be reliably extended to psycholinguistic modeling without risk of distortion due to un-bounded working memory.
Correction of a case of homonymy in the genus Zonurobia (Acari: Pterygosomatidae)

A case of homonymy in the genus Zonurobia is corrected by proposing Zonurobia circularis limpopoensis as a replacement name for Zonurobia circularis transvaalensis Lawrence, not Zonurobia transvaalensis Lawrence.
Sickle Cell Trait and Risk of Ischemic Stroke in Young Adults

Background and Purpose: Approximately 8% of Blacks have sickle cell trait (SCT), and there are conflicting reports from recent cohort studies on the association of SCT with ischemic stroke (IS). Mo...
Ophthalmology Program Directors' Perspectives on the Impact of the United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1 Change to Pass-Fail Scoring

Purpose This article investigates the perspectives of ophthalmology residency program directors (PDs) regarding the impact of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 change from graded to pass-fail scoring on ophthalmology resident selection and medical education. Methods The PDs of all United States ophthalmology residency programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education were identified using a public, online database. An anonymous web-based survey constructed using REDCap was emailed to each PD in February 2020. Results Surveys were completed by 64 (54.2%) PDs, with the majority (81.2%) disagreeing with the change to pass-fail scoring. The majority of PDs believe this change will negatively impact the ability to evaluate residency applicants (92.1%) and achieve a fair and meritocratic match process (76.6%), and will decrease medical students' basic science knowledge (75.0%). The factors identified most frequently by PDs as becoming more important in evaluating residency applicants as a result of the Step 1 scoring change include clerkship grades (90.6%), USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge score (84.4%), and a rotation in the PD's department (79.7%). The majority of PDs believe the Step 1 grading change to pass-fail will benefit applicants from elite medical schools (60.9%), and disadvantage applicants from nonelite allopathic schools (82.8%), international medical graduate applicants (76.6%), and osteopathic applicants (54.7%). Conclusion The majority of ophthalmology PDs disagree with the change in USMLE Step 1 scoring from graded to pass-fail and believe this change will negatively impact the ability to evaluate residency applicants and achieve a fair and meritocratic match process, and will decrease medical students' basic science knowledge.
5D.004 An unhelmeted motorcyclist not holding handlebars – a photograph idea for education

Context A manuscript in the Aust. NZ J of Public Health [2004] by Ozanne-Smith reported that in 2000, 1.2 million deaths resulted from road traffic injury [RTI] with 10 times this number injured. The author states that high income countries have the knowledge, expertise and responsibility for assisting low income countries to counter the growing burden of RTI. Campaigns in Australia typically have simple, hit home messages with captions overlaid on photos. [Stop, Revive, Survive] is well-known, with accompanying photos displaying red fatigued eyes with the words; tired eyes, yawning, driver fatigue: wake up to the signs. Process The author noted that in Thailand few motorcyclists wear helmets. Photographs were selected from an array taken by Stephen Hilton, whom won the 2019 Asia Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health early career network photo competition. A photograph of a young motorcyclist with no helmet, holding one handlebar, while smoking a cigarette was utilised with words overlaid on the image including; Helmet, Handlebars, Headlights. Analysis A systematic statistical analysis is not possible. Instead the design will be shown to potential travellers being mostly young folk planning travel to Thailand, Bali, Vietnam or Indonesia. Their comments will be gathered and collated with themes identified. Outcomes Changes in RTI rates are impossible to measure from viewed photographs with overlaid text. Impact on behaviour change being helmet usage maybe ascertained by questioning upon return to Australia. Learning Outcomes Education may alter behaviour for travellers, while local residents may continue to face barriers such as cost.
A techno-economic analysis of solar catalytic chemical looping biomass refinery for sustainable production of high purity hydrogen

Abstract Compared to traditional biomass and coal-fired power plants, a process that includes integrated pyrolysis and subsequent gasification is a promising technology to deliver a larger electrical output through the production of high-purity hydrogen with a low carbon footprint. Chemical looping can further enhance the biomass contribution to the global renewable energy demand while fulfilling the stringent CO2 emission cuts needed in the energy sector. This study aims at investigating the feasibility of developing a solar catalytic chemical looping biomass refinery (SCCLBR) power plant for sustainable production of energy using a comprehensive plant modeling and techno-economic assessment. The plant is composed of 7 sequential units: i) biomass preparation (drying, transferring, and grinding), ii) reacting unit (SCCLBR), iii) water gas shift unit and heat recovery, iv) CO2 and H2S separation (Rectisol Process), v) sulfur removal (Claus Process), vi) air separation and vii) catalyst regeneration. The simulation was performed for 1–6 tonne/hour of biomass as input. The effect of key variables (feedstock load, water injection, and temperature) on the economic performance of the plant were analyzed. The simulated results of the chemical looping reactor were validated against the experimental results, while the results of Rectisol and air separation units were validated against the thermodynamic simulation. The results demonstrated that the CCLBR (without solar integration) and integrated SCCLBR can reach the efficiency of 34% and 41% respectively, yet the results have not been optimized. The sensitivity analysis indicated that water injection rate is the most influential parameter, which can even suppress the impact of biomass loading rate. A separate thermodynamic simulation was also performed to investigate the reaction equilibrium of oxygen carrier regeneration (Ca2Fe2O5) using CO2. The results demonstrated that a temperature above 730 °C is required to avoid carbonation (Fe2O3 and CaCO3 production). The maximum greenhouse gas emission in SCCLBR is 10.70, which is significantly lower than traditional coal-to-hydrogen and biomass-to-hydrogen power plants. It has also been found that across varying feedstock input rates, greenhouse gas emissions average 12.8% lower when solar PV supplements refinery power needs; optimization of the steam/biomass ratio may reduce emissions even further.
Hearing aid and Extreme Edge IoT Acceleration

As commented on previously [1], IoT processing directly in edge devices is becoming increasingly necessary and advantageous, providing a number of distinct advantages over cloud based computation. Provided the edge device has sufficient resources, computation is not dependent on external (cloud) resources. Depending on the application or deployment, these external resources might be non-existent, scarce, unreliable, or overly power intensive for ongoing communication with the edge device for farming out part of the processing. Independent, isolated computation can also be beneficial to mitigate security concerns. Edge computing is local and scaled to the recognition effort required, yielding a much more efficient and responsive system. Local processing eliminates transmission power, facilitates accurate and quick environment sensing and assessment enabling advanced algorithms to take corrective action quickly. The remaining challenge is, of course, fitting the recognition system within the constraints of the given edge device. Further progress in this field has yielded preliminary results of a tiny accelerator for extreme edge devices. The procedure and experiment using a new standardized benchmark – EEMBC will be described in this paper and compared to the general computation approach.