cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Calibrated and decalibrated approximations of nonlinear dynamic systems

The motion of a physical system can generally be described by multiple coordinate representations, which obey nonlinear equations of motion and are related by nonlinear transformations. Here, the equivalence of the linearized equations of motion, related through the linearized transformations, is demonstrated. This equivalence is used to develop a calibrated linearized solution for highly nonlinear coordinates that can provide greater accuracy than the traditional linearized solution. The calibration process computes an alternate initial condition which is propagated with the linearized equations, instead of the true initial condition. Additionally, the inverse of the calibration process is used to develop a decalibrated solution, which is a nonlinear analytic approximation.
Massive Localized Lymphedema: A Case-Control Study

Background Massive localized lymphedema (MLL) is an area of skin and subcutaneous overgrowth associated with obesity. The purpose of this study was to determine whether MLL results from obesity-induced lymphedema (OIL) and to characterize the prevalence and risk factors for the condition. Study Design Patients evaluated in our Lymphedema Program between 2009 and 2016 were reviewed for obese individuals (BMI ≥30 kg/m 2 ) who had lower-extremity lymphatic function evaluated by lymphoscintigraphy. Candidate variables included age, sex, BMI, duration of lymphedema, infection history, and lymphoscintigraphy findings. A possible association between candidate variables and presence of MLL was determined using multivariable logistic regression. Optimal cutoff for BMI in predicting MLL was identified by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results Eighty-two patients were included in the study population. In patients with MLL (n = 17), all had OIL and none had primary or secondary lymphedema (median BMI 66 kg/m 2 ; interquartile range 62 to 78). Massive localized lymphedema involved the thigh (n = 16; bilateral = 10, unilateral = 6), genitalia (n = 3), and suprapubic area (n = 2). Control patients without MLL (n = 65) had primary (46%), secondary (37%), or obesity-induced (17%) lymphatic dysfunction (median BMI 36 kg/m 2 ; interquartile range 32 to 45). Logistic regression indicated a significant relationship between BMI and MLL condition; patients with a BMI >56 kg/m 2 had a 213-times greater odds of MLL developing vs patients with BMI ≤56 kg/m 2 (p 0.2). Conclusions Massive localized lymphedema is a consequence of OIL and affects approximately 60% of obese patients with lower-extremity dysfunction; a BMI >56 kg/m 2 significantly increases the risk. Obese individuals should be referred to a bariatric weight-loss center before their BMI reaches a threshold for OIL and MLL to develop.
A 73dB SNDR 20MS/s 1.28mW SAR-TDC using hybrid two-step quantization

This work describes a Nyquist rate ADC based on a two-step voltage and time quantization technique which can reduce power consumption and improve scaling immunity for high resolution applications. The hybrid two-step approach uses a successive approximation register (SAR) ADC for coarse quantization in the voltage domain, and a time-to-digital converter (TDC) for fine quantization in the time domain. The residue amplifier is suited for deep submicron CMOS due to its low gain and small output swing requirements, allowing the use of a single stage architecture. A 20MS/s prototype was designed and implemented in 180nm CMOS. Measurement results demonstrate an SNDR of 73dB. Operating with a reference voltage of 1.6V and a TDC supply of 1.0V, the total power is 1.28mW. This results in a Walden figure-of-merit (FOM w ) of 17.4 fJ/conversion-step.
Structure of Breast Care Center

Recent reports indicate a plateau in the incidence and a decrease in the mortality rate of breast cancer in the United States, but evaluation and management of benign and malignant breast disease continue to be a major health problem. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimated that there would be 178,480 patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the United States in 2007. Approximately 62,030 additional women would be diagnosed with in situ carcinoma of the breast, 85% of whom would have ductal carcinoma in situ [1].
Varenicline for tobacco-dependence treatment in alcohol-dependent smokers: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Tobacco use is prevalent among persons with alcohol abuse and dependence. Varenicline has been shown to be the most effective pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation and may decrease alcohol consumption. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of 12 weeks of varenicline for increasing smoking abstinence rates in smokers with alcohol abuse or dependence. Methods Participants were eligible for enrollment if they were 18 years or older, smoked 10 or more cigarettes per day for at least 6 months, had current alcohol abuse or dependence, and were interested in quitting smoking. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 12 weeks of varenicline 1 mg twice daily or matching placebo. The primary end point was 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence at week 12. Results The 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence rate at 12 weeks was significantly higher with varenicline (n = 16) than placebo (n = 17) (43.8% vs 5.9%; P = .01). At 24 weeks, the 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence rate was still significantly higher with varenicline than placebo (31.3% vs 0%; P = .02). At 12 weeks, mean (SD) drinks per drinking day was significantly lower with varenicline than placebo (5.7 [3.9] vs 9.0 [5.3] drinks; treatment effect estimate, −2.8 [90% CI, −6.6 to −1.0]). Adverse events were minor and comparable to varenicline clinical trials. Conclusions Varenicline is safe and efficacious for increasing smoking abstinence rates in smokers with alcohol abuse or dependence. Varenicline may decrease alcohol consumption in this population of smokers.
A computational framework for effective isolation of single-unit activity from in-vivo electrophysiological recording

Modern spike sorting techniques are heavily reliant on unsupervised machine learning algorithms for isolation of single-unit activity from noisy channel recordings. One of the most common methods, k-means clustering, is highly sensitive to the number of clusters selected (k) prior to analysis. A robust automated method for determining k is required, in particular for the large datasets currently being analyzed by the Neuroscience community. Information criteria, often applied for this analysis, can yield over-fitted clustering recommendations and employ strong assumptions about cluster gaussianity which do not necessarily hold for real in-vivo neuro-electrophysiological recordings. An algorithmic approach to spike sorting is applied utilizing tandem multi-level wavelet decomposition and principal component analysis to construct a discriminant feature space. K-means clustering is applied to this feature space using a variety of distance metrics to determine which approach yields optimal cluster separation. Clustering outcomes are evaluated using the Entropic Product, an information entropy-based measure that makes no assumptions about the underlying distribution of spikes within a cluster. This measure is demonstrated to be more informative about clustering outcomes than other information criteria when sorting spike data collected using bundled microwire arrays implanted in the Primary Visual Cortex of marmosets conducting a visual-stimulation task.
Osmotic Control of Transcription of the proU Operon of Salmonella typhimurium

Organisms generally respond to increases or decreases in the external osmolarity by parallel increases or decreases in the intracellular concentrations of solutes. As a result of this adaptive process, cells can maintain their volumes within relatively narrow limits despite large variations in the external osmolarity (Cram 1976; Yancey et al. 1982). Because the solutes used to regulate the intracellular osmolarity can be present at high concentrations, they need to be relatively inert with respect to their effects on macromolecular functions, and for this reason they have been termed compatible solutes (Brown and Simpson 1972).
Integrating Spreadsheets into the Mathematics Classroom

part of computer literacy and business courses, allowing students to see the power of such utility software and use it to solve problems. But, the spreadsheet can also be an extremely effective tool in the math ematics classroom. There the spreadsheet can be used to help solve many real-world problems and, at the same time, promote students' understanding of important math ematical concepts and principles. Like the calculator, the spreadsheet not only allows students to experiment with numbers and develop numerical concepts while playing "what if" but also allows teachers to choose more realistic problems without being concerned about extremely difficult calculations. Unlike the calcu lator, however, the spreadsheet allows stu dents to see a progression of calculations on the screen all at once, thus enabling them to see patterns develop. Students can then make hypotheses based on the data shown and watch on the screen the immedi ate effect of the changes they make. Thus, in a short period of class time, spreadsheets can offer students a large number of induc tive experiences that allow for individ ualized pacing, more active student in volvement, and the potential of the joy of discovering complex mathematical relation ships on their own. As in writing or using BASIC programs, students can store on disk and print out any finished or un finished results for later reference and ad ditional class work, but spreadsheets are often easier to create than programs.
Parents' Awareness and Perceptions of Sport Specialization and Injury Prevention Recommendations.

Objective To conduct a survey of parents to determine their knowledge of sport volume recommendations and examine their perceptions toward sport specialization. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting Youth sport athletic tournaments, competitions, and practices. Patients or other participants Parents (n = 1000, 614 women, age: 44.5 ± 6.7 years) of youth athletes completed the survey. Parents had to have a child between 10 and 18 years of age who participated in organized sport in the previous 12 months. Interventions The survey was anonymous and consisted of yes/no and Likert-scale questions and consisted of background of parent and child and perceptions and knowledge of safe sport recommendations. An expert panel validated the survey. Main outcome measures Data were summarized by frequencies, proportions (%), and mean values and SDs, when appropriate. Chi-square analyses were used to determine if parent sex influenced distributions. Results Over 80% of parents had no knowledge of sport volume recommendations regarding h/wk (84.5%), mo/yr (82.2%), or simultaneous participation in multiple leagues (89.9%). Twenty-four percent of parents considered it appropriate to participate in multiple leagues in the same sport, whereas 60.5% considered it appropriate to participate in multiple leagues of a different sport. Thirty-four percent of parents indicated that they were concerned about the risk of injury in youth sports. Although 55% of parents considered sport specialization a problem in youth sports, only 43.3% thought that year-round sport participation increased the chances of sustaining an overuse injury. Female parents were more likely to be concerned about injury and believe that year-round sport participation results in overuse injury compared with men. Conclusions Recommendations associated with youth sport participation are not well known. However, parents are concerned about the risk of injury and consider sport specialization a problem.
Catheter removal and outcomes of multidrug-resistant central-line-associated bloodstream infection.

Central-line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are responsible for ∼1/3 of all deaths from healthcare-associated infections in the United States. Of these, multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) are responsible for 20% to 67%. However, whether catheter removal affects clinical outcomes for MDRO CLABSIs has not been studied. Our objective was to determine the relationship between failure to remove a central venous catheter (CVC) and 30-day all-cause mortality in patients with MDRO CLABSIs. We used a retrospective cohort from Barnes-Jewish Hospital (1/1/2009-10/1/2015) to study patients with a multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus species, Enterobacteriaceae, Acinetobacter species, or Pseudomonas aeruginosa CLABSI. Risk factors for 30-day mortality, including catheter removal, were assessed for association with 30-day mortality using Cox proportional hazards models. The CLABSIs were assessed prospectively at the time of occurrence by infection prevention specialists. A total of 430 patients met inclusion criteria, 173 (40.2%) with Enterococcus, 116 (27.0%) Enterobacteriaceae, 81 (18.8%) S aureus, 44 (10.2%) polymicrobial, 11 (2.6%) P aeruginosa, and 5 (1.2%) Acinetobacter CLABSIs. Removal of a CVC occurred in 50.2% of patients, of which 4.2% died by 30 days (n = 9). For patients whose CVC remained in place, 45.3% died (n = 97). Failure to remove a CVC was strongly associated with 30-day all-cause mortality with a hazard ratio of 13.5 (6.8-26.7), P < .001. Other risk factors for 30-day mortality included patient comorbidities (cardiovascular disease, congestive heart failure, cirrhosis), and being in an intensive care unit at the time of MDRO isolation. Failure to remove a CVC was strongly associated with 30-day all-cause mortality for patients with MDRO CLABSIs in this single center retrospective cohort. This suggests that patients presenting with MDRO CLABSIs should all undergo CVC removal.
Black and blue printing ink analysis by XRF, DRIFTS and Raman spectroscopy of recently discovered Gutenbergian Ars minor fragments

ABSTRACTIn 2017 Princeton University Library’s Department of Rare Books and Special Collections acquired a 1483 Venetian edition of the Opera of Horace, preserved in a late fifteenth century German binding. The binding contained previously undetected vellum binding waste fragments derived from an early Gutenbergian edition of the Ars minor of Aelius Donatus. Extensive portions of the printed fragments were attached to each of the wooden boards and remained hidden beneath the book’s paper pastedowns. In the paper conservation laboratory of the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections, the pastedowns were subsequently safely lifted from the boards via Gore-Tex damp packs to confirm the presence of unique remnants from an otherwise lost mid-fifteenth century Mainz edition of the Ars minor, a Latin grammar manual. The Ars minor was printed with the same typeface used around 1455 to print the Gutenberg Bible. The fragments featured black oil-based printing ink and a large Gothic two-line initial letter...
Computer Programming is More than to Program Computers

In this article, we describe how a holistic approach can introduce soft skills to Computer Programming students and promote community interaction between college and community.
A Rapid Inflation and Deflation Technique in Digital Subtraction Angiography for Improved Visualization of Expansion of a Balloon Catheter.

An 85-year-old woman with resting pain in her right foot was referred to our hospital. The index of skin perfusion pressure in the dorsal and plantar regions was 29 and 28 mm Hg, respectively, and duplex echocardiography revealed a chronic total occlusion of both anterior and posterior tibial
Auditory Integration Training: One Clinician's View

Auditory integration training (AIT) is a developing treatment for auditory disorders that include sensitivity to sound, auditory attention problems, and auditory processing disorders. Although ther...
OOV Detection and Recovery using Hybrid Models with Different Fragments

In this paper, we address the out-of-vocabulary (OOV) detection and recovery problem by developing three different fragmentword hybrid systems. A fragment language model (LM) and a word LM were trained separately and then combined into a single hybrid LM. Using this hybrid model, the recognizer can recognize any OOVs as fragment sequences. Different types of fragments, such as phones, subwords, and graphones were tested and compared on the WSJ 5k and 20k evaluation sets. The experiment results show that the subword and graphone hybrid systems perform better than the phone hybrid system in both 5k and 20k tasks. Furthermore, given less training data, the subword hybrid system is more preferable than the graphone hybrid system.
Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma is an aggressive and rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that is considered incurable. It is a heterogeneous disease with diverse clinical presentations and complex treatment courses. In this chapter, the presentation, diagnosis, and conventional treatment will be discussed and outlined for the frontline setting in both young fit adults and the elderly. This will be followed by an in-depth analysis regarding exciting novel therapies and combinations being investigated, from early stage development to ongoing clinical trials. We will finish with a recommended treatment algorithm for frontline and relapsed disease.
The impact of breast cancer on physical activity from midlife to early older adulthood and predictors of change post-diagnosis.

To examine physical activity (PA) patterns from pre- to post-diagnosis, and compare these changes to women without breast cancer. To determine pre-diagnosis predictors of PA change, post-diagnosis, in breast cancer survivors (BCS). Data were from 2314 Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) participants, average age of 46.4 ± 2.7 years at baseline (1996–1997). In Pink SWAN, 151 women who reported an incident breast cancer diagnosis over 20 years were classified as BCS; the remaining 2163 women were controls. LOESS plots and linear mixed models were used to illustrate and compare PA changes (sports/exercise [primary measure] and total PA) from pre- to post-diagnosis (or corresponding period) in BCS versus controls. Adjusted linear regression models were used to determine pre-diagnosis predictors of at-risk post-diagnosis PA change patterns (consistently low and decreased PA). No differences in pre- to post-diagnosis PA (or corresponding period) were observed in BCS versus controls. Among BCS, the odds of at-risk post-diagnosis PA change patterns was 2.50 (95% CI 0.96–6.48) times higher for those who reported sleep problems at ≥ 50% (compared to 0%) of pre-diagnosis visits and 3.49 (95% CI 1.26–9.65) times higher for those who were overweight or obese at all (compared to no) pre-diagnosis visits. No other statistically significant predictors were noted. Age-related declines in PA were not amplified by a breast cancer diagnosis. Given the beneficial role of PA across the cancer control continuum, efforts to increase or maintain adequate PA, post-diagnosis, should be continued. While age-related physical activity declines were not amplified breast cancer diagnosis, efforts to identify breast cancer survivors at increased risk for post-diagnosis physical activity declines (or maintenance of low activity) may be a high-yield strategy to improve prognosis and quality of life.
Diabetes and climate change

Diabetes mellitus, a looming crisis, is approaching worldwide epidemic proportions. In 2018, 34.2 million Americans, or 10.5% of the population had diabetes. Climate change, and in particular risin...
Total Thyroidectomy as an Ambulatory Procedure in Community Practice.

ObjectiveIncreasingly, total thyroidectomy is offered as an ambulatory procedure. Most of the relevant outcomes research derives from academic centers, but most thyroid surgeries are performed in t...
Scale, gauge couplings, soft terms and toy compactification in M-theory on

Abstract In M-theory on S 1 / Z 2 , we point out that to be consistent, we should keep the scale, gauge couplings and soft terms at next order, and obtain the soft term relations M1/2=−A, |M 0 /M 1/2 |⩽1/ 3 in the standard embedding, and M1/2=−A in the non-standard embedding with five branes and K5,n=0. We construct a toy compactification model which includes higher order terms in the four-dimensional Lagrangian in standard embedding, and discuss its scale, gauge couplings, soft terms, and show that the higher order terms do affect the scale, gauge couplings and especially the soft terms if the next order correction was not small. We also construct a toy compactification model in non-standard embedding with five branes and discuss its phenomenology. We argue that one might not push the physical Calabi–Yau manifold's volume to zero at any point along the eleventh dimension.
A cross-sectional field study of fall song in Northern Mockingbirds Mimus polyglottos

Studies of the acoustic structure of song in young birds have proven valuable at helping us understand song development, but nearly all existing studies have been performed on non-mimicking songbirds. We conducted a cross-sectional field study of song development in a prominent vocal mimic, the northern mockingbird, by comparing the fall songs of hatch-year vs. after-hatch-year birds. Although sample sizes of hatch-year birds were small, the data suggest a developmental trajectory in which both song stereotypy and the frequency of vocal mimicry increase with age. Thus, the acoustic structure of fall song may provide a reliable indicator of a bird’s age and performance.
Ribosome profiling analysis of human skeletal muscle identifies reduced translation of mitochondrial proteins with age.

With advancing age, human muscle loses strength and function, but the molecular causes of these losses are unknown. Skeletal muscle shows an age-dependent decline in the levels of different protein...
Multimodal perioperative pain protocol for gynecologic laparotomy is associated with reduced hospital length of stay.

OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of a multimodal perioperative pain regimen on length of hospital stay for patients undergoing laparotomy with a gynecologic oncologist. METHODS We compared 52 patients who underwent laparotomy with a gynecologic oncologist at a single institution between 2017 and 2018, after implementation of a multimodal perioperative pain regimen, to a historic cohort of 94 patients (2016-2017). The multimodal pain regimen included pre- and post-operative administration of oral acetaminophen, gabapentin, and celecoxib, in addition to standard narcotics and optional epidural analgesia. Demographic, surgical, and post-operative data were collected. RESULTS On multivariable analysis, bowel resection, stage, surgery length, age, and cohort group were retained as significant independent predictors of length of stay. Patients undergoing laparotomy prior to the pain protocol had a length of stay 1.26 times longer than patients during the post-implementation period (p < 0.01). For complex surgical patients, this translated into a reduction in length of hospital stay of 1.73 days. There was a significant reduction in pain scale score on post-operative day zero from 5 to 3 (p = 0.02) and a non-significant overall reduction of post-operative morphine equivalents, with similar adverse outcomes. CONCLUSION Implementation of a multimodal perioperative pain regimen in patients undergoing gynecologic oncology laparotomy was associated with a significant reduction of length of hospital stay and improved patient-perceived pain, even in the absence of a complete Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol.
Analysis of The Theory of Embryo Formation from Male Sperm and Lack of Attention to Female Sperm in Quranic Verses

The creation of man, especially the stages of his development in the fetus, is one of the complex issues and wonders of creation in the world. Before Islam and even years later, various views were expressed about how the fetus was originated. Based on the science of embryology, it has been proven that both man and woman are involved in the formation of the fetus. It is claimed that the phrase "a leaping drop" in the verse "He is created from a leaping drop" means a jumping water and refers to the sperm of man. Therefor the female sperm has not mentioned in fetus formation. In response, it can be said: Contrary to popular belief, one of the meanings of the phrase is "fast and moving fluid" and the word "dāfiq" (i.e. leaping) as a subject refers to the intrinsic motion of human creation material and it is considered as one of the secrets of the Qur'an. In other verses of the Holy Qur'an, the creation of man from the "a mingled sperm" is also specified, which refers to the mixing of the sperm of man and woman.
An Abhidharmic theory of welfare

Do Buddhist philosophical commitments support a particular theory of well-being? Most authors who have examined this question argue that Buddhist ideas are compatible with multiple theories of well...
Comprehensive Oromandibular Reconstruction Utilizing an Anterolateral Thigh Free Tissue Transfer Flap and Tissue Engineering: Technical and Timing Considerations

The present report describes the technical nuances involved in oromandibular reconstruction utilizing a soft tissue free flap and tissue engineering in a step wise fashion for complete oral rehabilitation.
Modeling protein concentrations in cycling cells using stochastic hybrid systems

Abstract We analyze a class of time-triggered stochastic hybrid systems where the state-space evolves as per a linear time-invariant dynamical system. This continuous-time evolution is interspersed with two kinds of stochastic resets. The first reset occurs based on an internal timer that measures the time elapsed since it last occurred. Whenever the first reset occurs, the states-space undergoes a random jump, and the timer is reset to zero. The second reset occurs based on an arbitrary timer-depended rate, and whenever this reset fires, the state-space is changed based on a given random map. We provide exact conditions for this class of systems that lead to finite statistical moments and the corresponding exact analytical expressions for the first two moments. This framework is applied to study random fluctuations in the concentration of a protein in a growing cell. In the context of this example, the timer denotes the time elapsed since the cell was born, and the cell division event (first reset) is triggered based on a timer-dependent rate. The second reset corresponds to the protein synthesis in stochastic bursts, and finally, during cell growth, protein concentration continuously decreases due to dilution. Our analysis provides closed-form formulas for the noise in the protein concentration and leads to a striking result - for a constant (timer-independent) protein synthesis rate, the noise in the protein concentration is invariant of the noise in the cell-cycle time. Finally, we provide a rigorous framework for investigating protein noise levels for different forms of timer-dependent synthesis rates, as is the case for cell-cycle regulated genes inside the cell.
Media Screen time, Physical Activity and Nutritional Indicators as Risk Factors for Childhood and Adolescent Overweight and Obesity in Aguas Zarcas, Costa Rica.

Childhood obesity is an increasingly serious issue worldwide. There is substantial research that explores health problems, psychosocial issues and rising medical costs related to obesity, however, limited research has discovered the etiology and specific risk factors associated with the epidemic. This study sought to understand the prevalence and related risk factors of obesity in rural Aguas Zarcas, Costa Rica in Spring 2011. The sample included 1 025 school-aged children ages four to 18. Each child participating in the study completed a survey that addressed hypothesized risk factors (i.e. media screen time and physical activity). I also measured each subject’s height, weight, and abdominal circumference to determine whether significant relationships existed between the proposed risk factors and the overall rate of obesity among school children. Results showed a positive relationship between screen time (time spent in front of a television, computer, or video game) and BMI/abdominal circumference and a negative relationship between physical activity and BMI/abdominal circumference. Time spent watching television on the weekend was positively correlated to BMI (p < 0,001) and physical activity throughout the week and weekend was negatively correlated with both BMI and abdominal circumference (p < 0,0001). Most children involved in the study fell within healthy height and weight classifications, while 12% were considered obese according to the Center for Disease Control’s BMI standards. Obesity rates were especially high among males and females ages ten through 12. This research serves as a foundation for further exploration of obesity risk factors and prevalence, and can be used to inform policy and programming to prevent the impending rise of childhood obesity in Costa Rica.
Dad2K: An Adaptation of SafeCare to Enhance Positive Parenting Skills With At-Risk Fathers

Positive father involvement in the lives of their children is critically important. This article describes pilot data from the Dad2K program, an adaptation of the evidence-based SafeCare Parent-Child Interaction module, which targets positive parenting skills and the prevention of child neglect and physical abuse. Dad2K includes a unique approach to intervention delivery utilizing computer software, and instruction and practice with a home visitor provider. The development process of the Dad2K program is described, and data are presented from four fathers of young children who completed the program. The article concludes with describing the next steps in the examination of the Dad2K program, which includes a large randomized control trial funded by the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities.
Rejuvenating immunity: “anti-aging drug today” eight years later

// Mikhail V. Blagosklonny 1 1 Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY, USA Correspondence to: Mikhail V. Blagosklonny, email: // Keywords : mTOR, TOR, gerosuppression, rapalogs, lifespan, longevity, diseases Received : February 16, 2015 Accepted : March 28, 2015 Published : March 31, 2015 Abstract The 2014 year ended with celebration: Everolimus, a rapamycin analog, was shown to improve immunity in old humans, heralding ‘a turning point’ in research and new era in human quest for immortality. Yet, this turning point was predicted a decade ago. But what will cause human death, when aging will be abolished?
Analysis and update of the human aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) gene family

The aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) gene superfamily encodes enzymes that are critical for certain life processes and detoxification via the NAD(P)+-dependent oxidation of numerous endogenous and exogenous aldehyde substrates, including pharmaceuticals and environmental pollutants. Analysis of the ALDH gene superfamily in the latest databases showed that the human genome contains 19 putatively functional genes and three pseudogenes. A number of ALDH genes are upregulated as a part of the oxidative stress response and inexplicably overexpressed in various tumours, leading to problems during cancer chemotherapy. Mutations in ALDH genes cause inborn errors of metabolism -- such as the Sjogren - Larsson syndrome, type II hyperprolinaemia and γ-hydroxybutyric aciduria -- and are likely to contribute to several complex diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The ALDH gene products appear to be multifunctional proteins, possessing both catalytic and non-catalytic properties.
Development of high performance photo-curable nanocomposites for electronics packaging

A novel photo-curable nanocomposite material which can act both as a photoresist and a stress redistribution layer applied on the wafer level was synthesized and studied. In the experiments, the 20nm silica fillers are modified by silane coupling agent through the hydrolysis and condensation reaction and then incorporated into the epoxy matrix. A photo-sensitive initiator is added into the formulation which can release the cations after UV exposure and initiate the epoxy crosslinking reaction. The photo-crosslinking reaction of the epoxy makes it a negative tone photoresist. The curing reaction of the nanocomposites is monitored by the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) with photo-calorimetric accessory (PCA). TEM picture shows the filler is well dispersed in the epoxy matrix; therefore the problems associated with filler agglomerations can be eliminated. The thermal mechanical properties of photo-cured nanocomposites thin film are measured. The addition of nano-size silica fillers not only reduces the thermal expansion and improves the mechanical property of the epoxy, but also has less influence on the optical property of the epoxy, which insures the occurrence of the photo reaction in epoxy
The campaign for Spanish language education in the “Colossus of the North,” 1914–1945

This paper explores a period of advocacy on behalf of Spanish language education in the United States from 1914 to 1945. It interrogates claims made by policy actors about the centrality of Spanish language education to US geopolitical and economic interests in Latin America. I make two arguments: first, that realization of US economic and geopolitical interests across the hemisphere did not require significant capacity in the Spanish language among the US population; second, that linking Spanish language education to such interests contributed, paradoxically, to the closing of ideological and implementational space (Hornberger in Imagining multilingual schools: Languages in education and glocalization. Multilingual Matters, Clevedon, UK, pp. 223–237, 2006) for second language education overall, Spanish included. To support these claims, I begin by situating this specific case of Spanish language education advocacy within the context of contemporary language education policy research. Second, as background, I describe this advocacy as it occurred between 1914 and 1945, including key policy actors and venues for their advocacy. At the heart of this paper is an analysis of three specific rationales that policy actors employed in their advocacy. Here, I assess those rationales against the historical development of US economic and geopolitical interests in Latin America. Finally, I rely on both empirical and interpretative analysis to assess these three rationales on their own terms, that is, the extent to which they led to expanded Spanish language education between the two world wars.
Local planning using switching time optimization

Switching-time optimization has applications in local motion planning using the geometry of the nonlinear vector fields that govern the control system. In this paper, we present an algorithm for computing the second derivative of a switching-time cost function that enables second-order numerical optimization techniques that often converge quickly compared to first-order only algorithms. The resulting algorithms (for both first and second derivatives) each require only a single integration along the time horizon, yielding excellent computational performance. We present an example that uses this method to do local motion planning for a parallel parking maneuver for a kinematic car using the infinitesimal Lie bracket expansion that is used to demonstrate controllability. This same expansion allows one to construct a sequence of motions and approximate switching times that can then be used in the switching time optimization for a finite (non-infinitesimal) motion.
Nuclear magnetic resonance monitoring of chain‐end functionality in the atom transfer radical polymerization of styrene

The evolution of the bromine end functionality during the bulk atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of styrene [in the presence of the catalyst CuBr/4,4'-di-(5-nonyl)-2,2'-bipyridine] was monitored with 600-MHz 1 H NMR. A decrease in the functionality versus the conversion was observed. The loss of functionality was especially significant at very high conversions (>90%). The experimental data were compared with a kinetic model of styrene ATRP. The latter indicated that the loss of chain-end functionality was partly due to bimolecular terminations but was mainly due to β-H elimination reactions induced by the copper(II) deactivator. These elimination reactions, which occurred later in the reaction, did not significantly affect the polymer molecular weights and the polydispersity. Therefore, a linear evolution of the molecular weights and low-polydispersity polymers were still observed, despite a loss of functionality. Understanding these side reactions helped in the selection of the proper conditions for reducing the contribution of the elimination process and for preparing well-defined polystyrene (number-average molecular weight ∼10,000 g mol -1 ; weight-average molecular weight/number-average molecular weight ∼1.1) with a high functionality (92%).
Magnetic-field and polarization dependence of the direct electromagnetic generation of ultrasound in potassium

The magnetic-field and polarization dependence of the direct electromagnetic generation of ultrasound in single-crystal potassium was studied for various angles between the incident radio-frequency electric field and the [110] direction. The studies were done at 4.2 K for the slow shear mode for propagation in the [110] direction. A cusp in the magnetic-field dependence has been observed and the position of the cusp is strongly dependent on the direction of the applied electric field. The position of the cusp was used to determine the Hall coefficient. The results are compared with recent theoretical studies of the electromagnetic generation of ultrasound.
Surface diffusion of single W atoms on hydrogen saturated W?123? plane

Abstract Random walk diffusion of single W atoms on clean and hydrogen saturated W{123} planes is investigated. The activation energy on a hydrogen saturated surface is found to be only ∽0.05 eV higher than that on a clean surface.
The Food Access Environment and Food Purchase Behavior of SNAP Households

This study describes the food access environment and food purchase behavior of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households using data from the SNAP Food Security Survey, the largest and most recent national survey of SNAP participants to date. To characterize households’ geographic access to food, street addresses of households and retailers were used to calculate the distances to stores and numbers of retailers in the area. Food purchase behavior was described by the type of store from which respondents purchased most of their groceries, the reasons why they preferred to shop there, typical mode of transportation, and typical travel time and distance to the store. The study found that at least half of SNAP participants have access to one or more supermarkets within close range of their household and do the majority of their food shopping at a supermarket (less than 1% purchase most of their groceries at a convenience store). SNAP households typically bypass nearby stores to use stores far...
Aldehyde components for use in four-component condensation (“4CC”) Ugi reaction peptide synthesis

Abstract The use of 9-formylfluorene as the aldehyde component in four-component condensation (4CC) fragment strategy peptide synthesis has been investigated in the synthesis of model dipeptides.
Interaction of a Cumulus Cloud Ensemble with the Large-Scale Environment. Part III: Semi-Prognostic Test of the Arakawa-Schubert Cumulus Parameterization

The verification of the Arakawa and Schubert (1974) cumulus parameterization is continued using a semiprognostic approach. Observed data from Phase III of GATE are used to provide estimates of the large-scale forcing of a cumulus ensemble at each observation time. Instantaneous values of the precipitation and the warming and drying due to cumulus convection are calculated using the parameterization. The results show that the calculated precipitation agrees very well with estimates from the observed large-scale moisture budget and from radar observations. The calculated vertical profiles of cumulus warming and drying also are quite similar to the observed. It is shown that the closure assumption adopted in the parameterization (the cloud-work function quasi-equilibrium) results in errors of generally less than 10% in the calculated precipitation. The sensitivity of the parameterization to some assumptions of the cloud ensemble model and the solution method for the cloud-base mass flux is investigated.
Glass on the surfaces of Io and Amalthea

The results of laboratory tests of the spectral reflectances of sulfur and sulfur-silicate glasses are compared with Voyager UV and IR spectral data of Io and Amalthea. Sulfur glasses, without the S8 allotrope, are formed when molten sulfur is quickly quenched to temperatures below 150 K. The trials involved heating sulfur to temperatures from 430-700 K, then quenching and recording the color that resulted. It was observed that the insulating properties of sulfur are so high that the glasses would probably only form in volcanic plumes, yielding particles in the 10-100 micron diameter range. Fumarole droplets could impact cold ground and leave 1 mm glass particles. Basalt-sulfur specimens heated to 1400 K to melt the basalt, then cooled, produced glasses of a color which matches the color of darker areas detected on Io. The surface colors of Amalthea, although definitely contaminated with particles from Io mass loss, exhibited only a few color matches with the basalt-sulfur glasses. More refined spectra of Amalthea are required if the surface constituents are to be identified.
Contemporary Bone Loss Management Options for Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty

Bony defects are common during revision total knee arthroplasty, therefore, having effective treatment strategies is important. Defects can range from small-contained deficiencies to massive structural loss of epiphyseal bone. Distal and posterior femoral and central tibial defects are common. Stems should be used to off-load deficient epiphyseal bone. Both press-fit and cemented stems have good long-term performance, but trade-offs exist. Various metal augments as well as metaphyseal-engaging sleeves and cones are available to effectively manage larger defects. Familiarity with the various defect management strategies is important to obtain durable implant fixation and well-balanced flexion and extension gaps.
The effects of time and incubation on design concept generation

The optimal length and format for concept generation is largely unknown. One experiment compares a 50-min session to a 2-h session, observing that senior undergraduates generate more ideas and a greater variety of solutions with additional time, although high novelty solutions are developed within the first 50 min. A second study finds that more novel solutions are generated after an incubation period, although it is at the expense of feasibility. Comparing the two studies shows that incubation generates a greater quantity of ideas, while extended time aids in high quality and novelty. Since the 50-min and 2-h groups generate similar numbers of high quality and high novelty solutions, a 50-min ideation period is effective for developing high quality, novel solutions.
An Aristocracy of Everyone: The Politics of Education and the Future of America

Should community service be a voluntary endeavor or a required activity for college students? Benjamin R. Barber writes that civic education should be a part of the university’s mandatory curriculum.
Effects of monocular deprivation on the distribution of cell types in the LGNd: A sampling study with fine-tipped micropipettes

Six cats were reared with monocular eyelid suture from 1 week of age. Two control animals were reared in the same colony. The sutured eye of the monocularly deprived (MD) cats was opened at 8–9 months of age. The effect of monocular deprivation on the distribution of functional classes of neurons in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd) was evaluated by extracellularly recording the activity of single neurons in the Alaminae of the LGNd ipsilateral to the deprived eye. A similar sampling procedure was used in the LGNd of the two control animals. Recordings were made with extremely fine-tipped micropipettes (impedances= 50–80 MΩ at 200 Hz when filled with 3M NaCl; tip diameters < 0.3 μm when measured with scanning electron-microscopical methods). Micropipettes with these tip sizes were shown previously (Friedlander et al. 1981) to display no sampling bias on the basis of soma size in the LGNd of normal cats. Only data from complete penetrations through the non-deprived and deprived laminae were used in our analysis. Each animal's non-deprived lamina A also provided control data. In addition, we recorded from geniculocortical axons in the optic radiations above the LGNd (ipsilateral to the deprived eye in five cats and both ipsilateral and contralateral to the deprived eye in one cat). The percentages of X- and Y-cells encountered in the LGNd of our control animals is in agreement with previous estimates based on cell size (2:1 X- to Y-cells — Friedlander et al. 1981). In the present study, fewer normal X- and Y-cells were encountered in laminae innervated by the deprived eye than in laminae innervated by the non-deprived eye in every MD animal. When these values were normalized for the shrinkage of the deprived lamina, only the Y-cell population was significantly reduced. These differences are highly significant both when the data from all of the animals are pooled (χ2= 21.77; P < 0.0001), and when the comparisons are made for individual animals (P < 0.02, Mann-Whitney U-test). While some of the reduction in Y-cells may be due to an increase in the number of cells with abnormal receptive field properties, too few abnormal cells were encountered to totally account for the reduction in the number of Y-cells. When recording in the optic radiations of MD cats, we encountered significantly fewer (χ2 = 35.74, p < 0.0001; p < 0.02, Mann-Whitney U-test) geniculocortical axons driven from the deprived eye. This reduction was seen for both X- and Y-cell axons. The decrease in the number of Y-cells in the deprived LGNd laminae supports recent findings (Friedlander et al. 1982) that monocular deprivation has a severe effect on both the physiology and anatomy of LGNd Y-cells. We conclude that the effect is not a sampling artifact due to the reduced size of cells in the deprived laminae of the LGNd.
Pore Water Transport of Enterococci out of Beach Sediments

Enterococci are used to evaluate the safety of beach waters and studies have identified beach sands as a source of these bacteria. In order to study and quantify the release of microbes from beach sediments, flow column systems were built to evaluate flow of pore water out of beach sediments. Results show a peak in enterococci (average of 10% of the total microbes in core) released from the sand core within one pore water volume followed by a marked decline to below detection. These results indicate that few enterococci are easily removed and that factors other than simple pore water flow control the release of the majority of enterococci within beach sediments. A significantly larger quantity and release of enterococci were observed in cores collected after a significant rain event suggesting the influx of fresh water can alter the release pattern as compared to cores with no antecedent rainfall.