cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accelerated molecular dynamics simulations of ligand binding to a muscarinic G-protein-coupled receptor

Elucidating the detailed process of ligand binding to a receptor is pharmaceutically important for identifying druggable binding sites. With the ability to provide atomistic detail, computational methods are well poised to study these processes. Here, accelerated molecular dynamics (aMD) is proposed to simulate processes of ligand binding to a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), in this case the M3 muscarinic receptor, which is a target for treating many human diseases, including cancer, diabetes and obesity. Long-timescale aMD simulations were performed to observe the binding of three chemically diverse ligand molecules: antagonist tiotropium (TTP), partial agonist arecoline (ARc) and full agonist acetylcholine (ACh). In comparison with earlier microsecond-timescale conventional MD simulations, aMD greatly accelerated the binding of ACh to the receptor orthosteric ligand-binding site and the binding of TTP to an extracellular vestibule. Further aMD simulations also captured binding of ARc to the receptor orthosteric site. Additionally, all three ligands were observed to bind in the extracellular vestibule during their binding pathways, suggesting that it is a metastable binding site. This study demonstrates the applicability of aMD to protein-ligand binding, especially the drug recognition of GPCRs.
Reusable models for timing and liveness analysis of middleware for distributed real-time and embedded systems

Distributed real-time and embedded (DRE) systems have stringent constraints on timeliness and other properties whose assurance is crucial to correct system behavior. Formal tools and techniques play a key role in verifying and validating system properties. However, many DRE systems are built using middleware frameworks that have grown increasingly complex to address the diverse requirements of a wide range of applications. How to apply formal tools and techniques effectively to these systems, given the range of middleware configuration options available, is therefore an important research problem.This paper makes three contributions to research on formal verification and validation of middleware-based DRE systems. First, it presents a reusable library of formal models we have developed to capture essential timing and concurrency semantics of foundational middleware building blocks provided by the ACE framework. Second, it describes domain-specific techniques to reduce the cost of checking those models while ensuring they remain valid with respect to the semantics of the middleware itself. Third, it presents a verification and validation case study involving a gateway service, using our models.
Distributed Agent Software for Automation

Agent-based software and hardware technologies have emerged as a major approach to organize and integrate distributed elements of complex automation. As an example, this chapter focuses on a particular situation. Composite curing, a rapidly developing industry process, generates high costs when not properly controlled. Curing autoclaves require tight control over temperature that must be uniform throughout the curing vessel. This chapter discusses how agent-based software is being implemented into the curing process by pushing control logic down to the lowest level of the control hierarchy into the process controller, i.e., the programmable logic controller (PLC). The chapter also discusses how the benefits of process survivability, diagnostics, and dynamic reconfiguration are achieved through the use of autoclave and thermocouple intelligent agents.
CMOS mixers and polyphase filters for large image rejection

This paper presents an in-depth treatment of mixers and polyphase filters, and how they are used in rejecting the image in transmitters and receivers. A powerful phasor-based analysis is used to explain all common image-reject topologies and their limitations, and it is shown how this can replace complex trigonometric equations commonly found in the literature. Practical problems in design and layout that limit the performance of image-reject upconversion and downconversion mixers are identified, and solutions are presented or limits explained. This understanding is put to work in a low-IF CMOS wideband, low-IF downconversion circuit, which repeatedly rejects the image by 60 dB over the wide band of 3.5 to 20 MHz without trimming or calibration.
A time-comparison circuit in the electric fish midbrain. I. Behavior and physiology.

Behavioral experiments show that the weakly electric fish, Eigenmannia, detects differences in timing as small as 400 nsec between electric signals from different parts of its body surface. The neural basis of this remarkable temporal resolution was investigated by recording from elements of the phase-coding system, a chain of electrotonically connected neurons devoted to the processing of temporal information. Each element of this system fires a single action potential for every cycle of the electric signal (either the fish9s own electric organ discharge or a sinusoidal signal of similar frequency). For phase- coding primary afferents and midbrain neurons, the temporal resolution was determined by measuring each unit9s capacity to lock its spike to a particular phase of the stimulus cycle. The jitter of a neuron9s response (measured as the standard deviation of the timing of the spikes with respect to the stimulus) decreases from the level of the primary afferent (mean = 30 microsec) to the midbrain torus (mean = 11 microsec); these results can be correlated with morphological measures of convergence. The temporal resolution of single neurons is still inferior to that displayed at the behavioral level.
Spatial quadrature: a novel technique for multi-dimensional velocity estimation

Conventional ultrasonic motion or flow velocity estimation is limited to the axial velocity component. I present a novel technique, called "spatial quadrature", for the simultaneous estimation of axial and lateral velocity components. This technique utilizes even and odd spatial weightings of the point spread function which have a quadrature relationship. These weightings produce modulation in the received echo which can be decoded to quantify lateral motion. This technique is conceptually related to both the multiple beam and spectral broadening paradigms for the estimation of the lateral velocity component. However, it also has unique characteristics which overcome some of the limitations of these previously described techniques. This estimator can be implemented for two-dimensional velocity estimation with a conventional transducer array and any medical ultrasound scanner, preferably one with parallel receive processing. The technique can also be extended to three-dimensional velocity estimation given an appropriate 2-D transducer and scanner. I present space and frequency domain descriptions of this estimator in the context of a brief overview of 2-D flow estimation methods, including analyses characterizing the performance envelope of this estimator. I also present the results of phantom studies using a clinical scanner which demonstrate this technique in two dimensions. I also discuss the application of this technique in CW and PW regimes.
Interpretation of the X-Ray Spectra of Solar Active Regions

This paper presents a review of recent analytical studies of the coronal X-ray spectrum below 25 A. The techniques used to compute the theoretical coronal spectrum, and the currently available atomic rate constant data are reviewed first. Spectroscopic techniques which have been proposed for the determination of coronal temperature and density structure, and the results derived from their application to coronal spectra are also reviewed.
Kidney Stones Associate with Increased Risk for Myocardial Infarction

Kidney stones are a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD), which, in turn, is a risk factor for myocardial infarction (MI). The objective of this study was to determine whether kidney stones associate with an increased risk for MI. We matched 4564 stone formers (1984 through 2003) on age and gender with 10,860 control subjects among residents in Olmsted County, Minnesota. We identified incident MI by diagnostic codes and validated events by chart review through 2006. We used diagnostic codes to determine incidence of kidney stones and presence of comorbidities (CKD, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, gout, alcohol dependence, and tobacco use). During a mean of 9 years of follow-up, stone formers had a 38% (95% confidence interval 7 to 77%) increased risk for MI, which remained at 31% (95% confidence interval 2% to 69%) after adjustment for CKD and other comorbidities. In conclusion, kidney stone formers are at increased risk for MI, and this risk is independent of CKD and other risk factors.
Detection and management of an outbreak of equine herpesvirus type 1 infection and associated neurological disease in a veterinary teaching hospital.

Background: Because of the serious disease sequelae associated with equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) infections, awareness and control measures used to control outbreaks are important issues for all horse populations. Objectives: Describe the occurrence and management of an outbreak of EHV-1 infection at a veterinary hospital. Animals: Horses hospitalized at a referral veterinary hospital. Methods: A horse with myeloencephalopathy associated with EHV-1 infection (EHM) was admitted for diagnostic evaluation and treatment under strict infection control procedures. We describe the occurrence and management of a nosocomial outbreak of EHV-1 infections associated with admission of this patient. Results: Despite institution of rigorous biosecurity precautions at the time of admission of the index case, EHV-1 infections spread to 6 other horses that were hospitalized at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hopsital, including 2 that served as sources of infection for horses on their home premises after discharge. Infection with EHV-1 was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and by seroconversion documented by glycoprotein G ELISA. A voluntary quarantine was imposed and admissions were restricted to prevent additional horses from being exposed. Quarantine duration was abbreviated by serial testing of all horses with PCR. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: These findings illustrate the contagious disease risk that can accompany management of horses with EHM. Horses with active nasal EHV-1 shedding should be isolated in an airspace that is separate from other horses by strictly enforced biosecurity and isolation procedures. Serial testing with PCR may be a useful adjunct to determine when the risk of transmission has been minimized.
Circuits Learned by Example Online (CLEO): A video-based resource to support engineering circuit analysis courses

The “Circuits Learned by Example Online” (CLEO) web-based repository of over 250 worked problems in engineering circuit analysis provides students with a video-based learning tool suitable for self-guided study, homework support, and exam preparation. Each problem offers the complete solution process embodied as a narrated video “screencast” of handwriting and drawings captured from a tablet device; the audio commentary explains each step of the multistep solution process. The searchable repository matches the organization of leading circuit textbooks, and can also be tailored to a specific course syllabus. Many examples of correct problem-solving strategies are presented, including explanations of why specific strategies are selected among competing approaches. Students report that they consider the CLEO system a useful resource to support their homework activities, as a tutorial to learn more about concepts presented in class, and as preparation materials for exams. Students also reported that the system helped them to better understand course concepts, make efficient use of study time, and improve their problem solving skills.
Binding of equine infectious anemia virus to the equine lentivirus receptor-1 is mediated by complex discontinuous sequences in the viral envelope gp90 protein

The identification and characterization of a functional cellular receptor for equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV), designated equine lentivirus receptor-1 (ELR1), a member of the tumour necrosis factor receptor protein family, has been reported previously [ Zhang, B. et al. (2005). Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 102 , 9918–9923 ]. The finding of a single receptor for EIAV is distinct from feline, simian and human immunodeficiency viruses, which typically utilize two co-receptors for infection, but is similar to avian and murine oncoviruses, which use single receptors. This study sought to determine ELR1-binding domains of EIAV gp90. Towards this goal, a GFP-tagged gp90 fusion protein (gp90GFP) expression vector was constructed and a specific cell–cell binding assay was developed to measure EIAV gp90 binding to ELR1. Using these assays, the receptor-binding properties of 41 gp90GFP mutants were evaluated, each with a sequential replacement 11 aa linear epitope peptide from the vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSV-G tag), as well as eight mutants containing individual gp90 variable-domain deletions. The results of these studies demonstrated that, in general, gp90 constructs containing substitutions or deletions in the N-terminal third of gp90 retained their receptor-binding activity. In contrast, segment substitutions or deletions in the C-terminal two-thirds of gp90 eliminated receptor-binding activity. Thus, these results reveal for the first time that the ELR1-binding domains of EIAV gp90 are located in the C-terminal two-thirds of EIAV gp90, apparently as a complex of discontinuous determinants.
Leveraging programming difficulty to improve understanding and perceptions of non-majors

In this paper, we discuss the benefits of assignment difficulty on student performance and perceptions in an introductory-level non-major programming course. We assessed both performance (how well the students can program) and perceptions (how the students feel about programming) weekly as the students progressed through the semester, though in most detail at the start and end of the course. Our results show that completing challenging course assignments not only improved the students' ability to program, but also improved their perceptions of programming in general. Students repeatedly asserted that their favorite assignments were the most challenging ones because they provided the most satisfaction when completed.
P.L. 99-457

In 1986, Congress amended the Education of the Handicapped Act (Public Law [P.L.] 94-142) and authorized an early intervention program under that act for disabled infants and toddlers and their families. This legislation, P.L. 99-457, Part H, changed the kinds of services that infants and toddlers with disabilities—or those at risk—and their families would receive. The authors report the findings from a survey that examined the extent to which master of social work programs prepare students to work with this population. Based on the survey findings, they suggest that, for social workers to respond effectively to the mandates of P.L. 99-457, Part H, graduate social work programs must address personnel preparation issues, such as the gaps in content on this population in both the core and elective curricula; specialization with this population, lack of student interest; curriculum flexibility, and training monies; and need for additional training materials.
Optimal Electromechanical Reshaping of the Auricular Ear and Long-term Outcomes in an In Vivo Rabbit Model.

ImportanceThe prominent ear is a common external ear anomaly that is usually corrected through surgery. Electromechanical reshaping (EMR) may provide the means to reshape cartilage through the use ...
Biomechanical cell analysis using quantitative phase imaging(Conference Presentation)

Quantitative phase imaging provides nanometer scale sensitivity and has been previously used to study spectral and temporal characteristics of individual cells in vitro, especially red blood cells. Here we extend this work to study the mechanical responses of individual cells due to the influence of external stimuli. Cell stiffness may be characterized by analyzing the inherent thermal fluctuations of cells but by applying external stimuli, additional information can be obtained. The time dependent response of cells due to external shear stress is examined with high speed quantitative phase imaging and found to exhibit characteristics that relate to their stiffness. However, analysis beyond the cellular scale also reveals internal organization of the cell and its modulation due to pathologic processes such as carcinogenesis. Further studies with microfluidic platforms point the way for using this approach in high throughput assays.
Unequal Recovery? Federal Resource Distribution after a Midwest Flood Disaster

Following severe flooding in 2008, three Iowa communities acquired over 1000 damaged properties to support disaster recovery and mitigation. This research applies a distributive justice framework to analyze the distribution of disaster recovery funds for property acquisition. Two research questions drive the analysis: (1) how does recovery vary by acquisition funding source; and (2) what is the relationship between recovery and vulnerable populations? Through spatial econometric modeling, relative recovery is compared between two federal programs that funded the acquisitions, and across socially vulnerable populations. The results indicate both distributive and temporal inequalities in the allocation of federal recovery funds. In particular, Latino and elderly populations were associated with lower recovery rates. Recommendations for future research in flood recovery and acquisitions are provided.
Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy Techniques: Challenges and Successes

Correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) combines the strengths of light microscopy (LM) and electron microscopy (EM) to form a more complete picture of a cellular process. LM allows for a multitude of fluorescent tags and a wide field of view to select rare events, and EM allows for increased resolution and visualization of cellular ultrastructure [1]. We used three methods to examine external and internal morphologies of cells: cell cultures grown on coverslips, resin sections on coverslips, and resin sections on coated slot grids. Coverslip methods used indium-tin-oxide (ITO) coverslips with fiducial markers. The coverslips were coated with a 0.1% (w/v) Poly-L-lysine solution for 30 min, rinsed in water, and dried on filter paper overnight. Cells were grown and labeled on the coverslips depending on the requirements of the projects and imaged in a laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM). All samples were imaged on a ZEISS Sigma HD VP Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Areas of interest on coverslip samples noted in LM were found in the SEM using ZEISS Shuttle and Find software. Slot grids were placed in a STEM holder and imaged using a backscatter detector. Correlation and overlay of images was performed using multiple software packages.
State Regulation Of Freestanding Emergency Departments Varies Widely, Affecting Location, Growth, And Services Provided

Freestanding emergency departments (EDs), which offer emergency medical care at sites separate from hospitals, are a rapidly growing alternative to traditional hospital-based EDs. We evaluated state regulations of freestanding EDs and describe their effect on the EDs’ location, staffing, and services. As of December 2015, thirty-two states collectively had 400 freestanding EDs. Twenty-one states had regulations that allowed freestanding EDs, and twenty-nine states did not have regulations that applied specifically to such EDs (one state had hospital regulations that precluded them). State policies regarding freestanding EDs varied widely, with no standard requirements for location, staffing patterns, or clinical capabilities. States requiring freestanding EDs to have a certificate of need had fewer of such EDs per capita than states without such a requirement. For patients to better understand the capabilities and costs of freestanding EDs and to be able to choose the most appropriate site of emergency ca...
Managing consumer behavior toward on-time return of the waste electrical and electronic equipment: A game theoretic approach

Abstract Increasing the collection rate of used products depends on how end users perceive the value of a used product and benefits of returning it. It is empirically proven that consumers tend to store their unwanted electronic devices after the last time of usage. In this paper, an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)—taking the responsibility of remanufacturing—launches a take-back program to acquire consumers’ used products for remanufacturing activities. The consumers’ decision about when to return the End-of-Use/Life (EoU/L) products and manufacturer's decision for the amount of incentive offered to consumers are incorporated into a theoretic game framework. The equilibrium solutions are provided in the presence of heterogeneous and homogeneous consumers. Some managerial insights are derived from the one-way and two-way sensitivity analyses. It has been shown that convenience of services, consumers’ tendency to overvalue the unwanted products, the usage time of electronics, consumers’ perceptions of products’ obsolescence, and the remarketability of refurbished products all affect the strategic decisions made by both stakeholder groups.
Abstract 403: Tracking the Migration of Porcine Mesenchymal Stem Cells with the MRI Contrast Agent Ferex in an AAA Model

Introduction: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are being investigated in porcine abdominal aortic aneurysm (PAAA) models for their repair potential. This study uses MSCs labeled with the MRI contrast agent Ferex to non-invasively evaluate MSC migration in-vivo. Methods: MSCs from 6 pigs were isolated from bone marrow via Ficoll Paque separation and expanded in culture. Using a Lentiviral vector, MSC from all 6 pigs were transfected with green florescent protein (GFP). MSCs from 4 of these pigs were also labeled with 200μg/ml Ferex using Poly-L-Lysine and then analyzed for Ferex uptake and viability. Preservation of the MSC phenotype was confirmed using flow cytometry by detecting positive CD90 and negative CD45 and CD117. Transmission electron microscopy established that Ferex localized to lysosomes. MSCs were then injected into the adventitia of the PAAA. In-vivo MRI was performed using multiple echo gradient echo sequences. Effective transverse relaxation times (T2* values) were calculated on a pixel-by-pixel basis as a function of time post cell transplantation. Results: Ferex labeled MSCs were visible post transplantation at 4, 11, 15 and 21 days using MRI. The MRI signal void (decreased T2* values) correlated with the presence of Ferex within the PAAA. This signal loss progressively expanded circumferentially at each study interval representing cellular movement. MSC migration and localization were confirmed with GFP visualization on fluorescence microscopy and immunohistochemistry. In-vivo MRI signals also correlate with iron deposition on Perl’s stain. Conclusion: Ferex can be used as an in-vivo tracking agent of MSCs in PAAA models.
LRRK2 levels in immune cells are increased in Parkinson’s disease

Mutations associated with leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 are the most common known cause of Parkinson’s disease. The known expression of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 in immune cells and its negative regulatory function of nuclear factor of activated T cells implicates leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 in the development of the inflammatory environment characteristic of Parkinson’s disease. The aim of this study was to determine the expression pattern of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 in immune cell subsets and correlate it with the immunophenotype of cells from Parkinson’s disease and healthy subjects. For immunophenotyping, blood cells from 40 Parkinson’s disease patients and 32 age and environment matched-healthy control subjects were analyzed by flow cytometry. Multiplexed immunoassays were used to measure cytokine output of stimulated cells. Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 expression was increased in B cells (p = 0.0095), T cells (p = 0.029), and CD16+ monocytes (p = 0.01) of Parkinson’s disease patients compared to healthy controls. Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 induction was also increased in monocytes and dividing T cells in Parkinson’s disease patients compared to healthy controls. In addition, Parkinson’s disease patient monocytes secreted more inflammatory cytokines compared to healthy control, and cytokine expression positively correlated with leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 expression in T cells from Parkinson’s disease but not healthy controls. Finally, the regulatory surface protein that limits T-cell activation signals, CTLA-4 (cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4), was decreased in Parkinson’s disease compared to HC in T cells (p = 0.029). In sum, these findings suggest that leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 has a regulatory role in immune cells and Parkinson’s disease. Functionally, the positive correlations between leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 expression levels in T-cell subsets, cytokine expression and secretion, and T-cell activation states suggest that targeting leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 with therapeutic interventions could have direct effects on immune cell function.
Abstract 1226: Targeting BTK family in ER+ breast cancer with Ibrutinib for personalized precision medicine: a double-edged sword

Background: Metastasis is the principal cause of morbidity and mortality from breast cancer. Although current therapies are effective in early-stage of breast cancer, resistance to therapy is common leading to the development of metastasis. The commonest site of metastases is the regional lymph nodes. The presence and the number of involved lymph nodes remains the single best predictor of metastases and an important guide for the use of systemic adjuvant therapy. Identification of the underlying molecular targets of lymph node metastasis and a better understanding how to therapeutically target these will be a significant step in the goal of prevention of metastases. Experimental Design: To determine the key players associated with the development of metastasis in breast cancer, we performed RNA sequencing (Illumina Paired-end RNA-seq) analysis in a cohort of matched pairs of primary and (nodal) metastatic tumors (n=18). Gene expression profiles were analyzed using DESeq2. For targeted therapeutics, we performed orthotopic tumor implantation into mammary fad pads of athymic nude mice of breast cancer models. Results: Our results identified significant differential expression of the Bruton9s tyrosine kinase (BTK) family members in nodal metastasis. Among the family members, BTK, BLK, RLK/TXK and JAK3 are expressed at very high levels in the metastatic lesions as compared to matched primary tumors. Among the 51 breast cancer cell lines analyzed, the BTK genes were significantly upregulated in luminal, but not basal cell lines. Categorized by the molecular subtypes of breast cancer, hormone receptor- positive (HR) and /or HER2 overexpressing breast cancer cell lines present higher BTK expression. Among the 51 breast cancer cell lines analyzed, the BTK genes were significantly regulated in both ER+ HER2- (T47D and ZR75.1) and ER+HER2+ (BT-474 and ZR75.30) breast cancer cell lines. Ibrutinib, a selective and irreversible inhibitor of BTK targeting the cysteine-481 residue in the active site, exhibited potent activity in preclinical models of BTK-expressing targets. Ibrutinib decreased primary tumor growth significantly in ER+HER2+ (BT-474) mouse xenograft model in a dose dependent manner (10 mg/kg vs 25 mg/kg; P Conclusion: Our data suggests that differential expression of target genes can be used to select agents as treating breast cancer. However, caution is necessary, as, in some situations, this might lead to enhancement of the growth in in vivo in subsets of breast cancer. Citation Format: Yesim Gokmen-Polar, Xiaoping Gu, Edyta Vieth, Sunil Badve. Targeting BTK family in ER+ breast cancer with Ibrutinib for personalized precision medicine: a double-edged sword [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1226. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-1226
Defining the Entrepreneurial Mindset

The purpose of this chapter is to provide an introduction and definition of the entrepreneurial mindset, taking into consideration literature and research from the discipline of entrepreneurship. What is the entrepreneurial mindset? To arrive at a definition, we must first dig into the meaning of the words “entrepreneurial” and “mindset” separately. We start by examining the definition of mindset, which serves as our foundation, and then move on to what it means to be entrepreneurial.
Risk of complication during surgical abortion in obese women.

Background Surgical abortion is a generally safe procedure. Obesity is a known risk factor for complications in other surgical procedures, but insufficient information exists to determine the effects of increasing body mass index on the risk of surgical abortions. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether obesity is a risk factor for major complications in surgical abortions. Methods A quality control database from a single outpatient center was analyzed to determine rates of major complications during surgical abortions in relation to obesity class. Complications included hemorrhage, need for repeat evacuation, uterine perforation, cervical laceration, medication reaction, unexpected surgery, or unplanned admission to the hospital. Chi-squared and analysis of variance were used for analysis. Results We included 2468 procedures: 1475 procedures (59.8%) in the first trimester and 993 procedures (40.2%) in the second trimester. The overall complications rate was 2.2%. Second-trimester procedures were more likely than those in the first trimester to have complications (3.1% vs 1.6%; P=.009). Overall, 39.6% of the women were obese, and 9.6% of them met criteria for class 3 obesity (body mass index, >40 kg/m2). Women who underwent second-trimester abortions with class 3 obesity had a rate of complication of 8.7%, which was significantly more than normal weight women (odds ratio, 5.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.93–8.07; P Comment Surgical abortions are overall safe procedures, but class 3 obesity increases the rate of complication in second-trimester procedures.
A review on microbial lipids as a potential biofuel

Energy security, environmental concerns, and unstable oil prices have been the driving trifecta of demand for alternative fuels in the United States. The United States' dependence on energy resources, often from unstable oil-producing countries has created political insecurities and concerns. As we try to gain energy security, unconventional oil becomes more common, flooding the market, and causing the major downshift of the usual unstable oil prices. Meanwhile, consumption of fossil fuels and the consequent CO2 emissions have driven disruptions in the Earth's atmosphere and are recognized to be responsible for global climate change. While the significance of each of these three factors may fluctuate with global politics or new technologies, transportation energy will remain the prominent focus of multi-disciplined research. Bioenergy future depends on the price of oil. Current energy policy of the United States heavily favors petroleum industry. In this review, the current trend in microbial lipids as a potential biofuel is discussed.
Antfarm: tracking processes in a virtual machine environment

In a virtualized environment, the VMM is the system's primary resource manager. Some services usually implemented at the OS layer, like I/O scheduling or certain kinds of security monitoring, are therefore more naturally implemented inside the VMM. Implementing such services at the VMM layer can be complicated by the lack of OS and application-level knowledge within a VMM. This paper describes techniques that can be used by a VMM to independently overcome part of the "semantic gap" separating it from the guest operating systems it supports. These techniques enable the VMM to track the existence and activities of operating system processes. Antfarm is an implementation of these techniques that works without detailed knowledge of a guest's internal architecture or implementation. An evaluation of Antfarm for two virtualization environments and two operating systems shows that it can accurately infer process events while incurring only a small 2.5% runtime overhead in the worst case. To demonstrate the practical benefits of process information in a VMM we implement an anticipatory disk scheduler at the VMM level. This case study shows that significant disk throughput improvements are possible in a virtualized environment by exploiting process information within a VMM.
The Dependent Elderly: Legal Rights and Responsibilities in Agent Custody

Individuals who have reached the age of majority are permitted a wide range of choice in American society. They may choose where or whether to work, with whom to associate, and how to pattern and place their lives. These decisions may be wise or foolish; they may enhance the quality of life or put existence itself at risk. These individual decisions and actions may encroach upon the lives of others, in violation of civil or criminal law, and thus be subject to fine or punishment. They may fall within the standard for civil commitment — exhibiting a danger to self or others — and invite involuntary restraint. Absent such circumstances, however, individual choice is largely unregulated and unsupervised.
Chronic Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity: Clinical Aspects

It is a special privilege to contribute a discussion of one aspect of drug hepatotoxicity that is well recognized as having been a major interest of Dr. Zimmerman for much of his professional life. Dr. Zimmerman suspected, and argued without much early success, in favor of the primacy of biochemical events in mediating certain forms of drug hepatotoxicity at a time when the prevailing wisdom focused on the importance of (largely unsubstantiated) immune mechanisms. While observations over the past decade have generally supported Dr. Zimmerman’s views, the area of chronic drug-induced hepatotoxicity is one in which supporting data for the role of biochemical events in mediating such injury remain elusive.
Agrobacterium and Plant Cell Transformation

Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a Gram-negative soil bacterium with the ability to infect plants by delivering a specific segment of its genome to the nuclei of susceptible plant cells. The transferred DNA (T-DNA) is delimited by 23 base-pair repeats on the tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid. The T-DNA is important for infection because it codes for genes that, when expressed in the plant cell, disrupt plant cell growth and division events. However, this oncogenic DNA can be excised from the transferred DNA and replaced by any gene of interest for A. tumefaciens-mediated engineering of a widearray of plant species. The discovery that A. tumefaciens is a natural and efficient DNA delivery vector is largely responsible for the burgeoning industry of plant genetic engineering, which today has many diverse goals ranging from crop improvement to the use of plants as ‘pharmaceutical factories’ for high-level production of biomedically important proteins. Because of the dual importance of Agrobacterium as a plant pathogen and as a DNA delivery system, an extensive literature has emerged describing the infection process and ways this organism has been exploited for plant genetic engineering. This chapter discusses recent advances in our understanding of the Agrobacterium transformation process.
Thyroid Neoplastic Transformation In Vitro and In Vivo

Oncogenic RNA viruses (retroviruses) can be classified, according to their biological and molecular features, into two broad groups: acute transforming retroviruses and chronically transforming retroviruses (1,2). Viruses from the latter group are able to induce tumors (above all lymphoid leukemias) with a long latency period and with low efficiency; they are not capable of transforming cells in culture and do not possess the specific genetic information coding for a transforming protein. The acute transforming retroviruses, on the other hand, induce tumors (above all sarcomas and non lymphoid leukemias) with a high efficiency and a short latency period; they are able to transform cells in culture and possess genomic sequences encoding for the transforming proteins (oncogenes) (1).
CH activations in aldehydes in reactions with Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)15

Abstract The reaction of Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)15, 1 with benzaldehyde yielded two new pentaruthenium carbido cluster compounds: Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)14[η2-O=C(H)C6H4](μ-H), 2 and Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)14(μ-η2-O=CPh)(μ-H), 3 containing open Ru5C cluster complexes formed by the activation of two different C-H bonds of the benzaldehyde molecule. Compound 2 contains a chelating, ortho-metallated benzaldehyde ligand coordinated to an open Ru5C cluster that is coordinated by the aldehyde oxygen atom and one of the ortho-positioned carbon atoms of the phenyl ring that was formed by loss of a CO ligand and an oxidative addition of the ortho-C-H bond of the phenyl ring to the metal atom. Compound 3 is an isomer of 2 that contains an O=C-coordinated, η2-bridging benzoyl ligand across the open edge of the Ru5C cluster formed by C-H activation at the aldehyde formyl group. The reaction of 1 with trans-cinnamaldehyde yielded two complexes: Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)14[η2-O=C(H)CH=CPh](μ-H), 4 and Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)14[μ-η2-O=CC(H) = C(H)Ph](μ-H), 5. Compound 4 contains an open Ru5 cluster with a chelating cinnamoyl ligand formed by coordination of the aldehyde oxygen atom and the β–carbon atom of the alkene double bond formed by a C-H activation at the alkene atom. Compound 5 contains a η2-bridging, O=C coordinated cinnamoyl group formed by C-H activation at the aldehyde formyl group. The reactions of 1 with furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural yielded similar complexes: Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)14(μ-η2-O=CC4OH3)(μ-H), 6 and Ru5(μ5-C)(CO)14[μ-η2-O=CC4OH2(CH2OH)](μ-H), 7, respectively with each one containing bridging, O=C coordinated acyl ligand formed by C-H activation at the aldehyde formyl group. All of the new compounds were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses.
Iron supplements in nursing home patients associated with reduced carbamazepine absorption.

Abstract Persons in nursing homes receive a number of medications that may interfere with the pharmacokinetics of carbamazepine (CBZ). The aim of our study was to determine factors that may affect the pharmacokinetics of CBZ in elderly nursing home patients. Methods CBZ concentration data collected from 60 nursing homes across the US were evaluated. Inclusion criteria included residency in a nursing home for at least 2 months, age 65 years or older, a stable dosing regimen of CBZ for at least 4 weeks (considered steady state), available CBZ concentration, and complete information regarding all co-medications. Using a nonlinear mixed-effects model, the data were adequately described by a one-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination. Goodness-of-fit plots, plausibility of parameter estimates, visual predictive check and nonparametric bootstrap were used to evaluate the models. Main findings The final data set consisted of 345 CBZ concentrations from 99 subjects (38 males, 61 females). The population estimate of apparent clearance (CL/F) for a 70-kg person was 3.69 L/hr (RSE 6.9%). Residents were receiving either immediate (93.9%) or extended release (6.1%) formulation of CBZ and the Ka of each formulation was fixed to literature values. Age, sex, and co-medications had no effect on CL/F and apparent volume of distribution. Iron supplementation, which was taken by 16% of the residents, resulted in a 33% decrease in bioavailability (p Conclusions Results from this pharmacokinetic study indicate that use of iron supplementation is associated with a reduction in absorption of CBZ and may need to be considered when dosing CBZ in patients taking iron supplementation.
Never Say Never: Reconciling Generational Sovereignty with Environmental Preservation

Generational sovereignty and environmental preservation are two dominant strands of intergenerational justice theory, often promoted by the same individuals. However, the two principles stand in an apparent tension with one another. If environmental policy is determined by shifting voter preference, environmental protection regimes will be unevenly enforced over time. Sporadic enforcement results in net deterioration. Since some environmental destruction (e.g., species extinction, climate change) is irreversible on any humanly meaningful timescale, pure generational sovereignty would seem to insure the destruction of some critical natural resources. This apparent conflict is illusory: generational sovereignty not only allows for environmental preservation, it requires it. To demonstrate this point, I focus on two key principles: 1) the concept of sovereign resources, which recognizes the disposition of certain critical resources as inherently governmental; and 2) the understanding that de facto entrenchment of policy offends generational sovereignty as much as, de jure entrenchment. In my explanations, I rely heavily on United States public trust jurisprudence and related planetary trust concepts from international law.
Baseline ECHO a Suitable Screening Tool for LV Recovery during CF LVAD Support

Purpose A lack of standardized protocols looking for cardiac recovery during CF LVAD support is partially responsible for low rates of device explant. LVAD wean assessments are time consuming and therefore often not performed. We sought to determine whether a baseline (full-support) echo could serve as a screening assessment to identify those individuals with explant potential who should undergo wean assessment. Methods A retrospective review of all LVAD weaning studies performed at Montefiore between 2007 and 2018 was conducted. LVAD weaning studies were performed with HMII at 6000 rpms and HVAD at 1800rpms which are the generally accepted “net-zero” flows for each device. For individuals who had multiple weaning assessments, only the most recent was analyzed. Only those studies with adequate windows as defined by clear endocardial definition in both apical 4 and 2 chamber views were included. LV diameters, volumes by Simpson's biplane method, LVEF and RV fractional area changes (FAC) were measured at the baseline LVAD speed and at weaned speed after 15minutes. Results Of the 57 patients who had weaning studies, 41 met the inclusion criteria with a mean age of 46 yrs, 41.5% ischemic etiology, 24% female, and a median duration of 222 days of LVAD support. During wean assessments, there was an increase in all measures of LV size: LVIDd - 5.83cms to 6.15cm, LVEDV - 191mL to 207mL (p=0.0001) and LVESV - 141mL to 148mL. There was a corresponding modest increase in LVEF from 31 to 34% (p=0.07). Fourteen (34%) had a LVEF >40% on baseline echo; 5 of these went on to normal LVEF (>50%) on wean study. Conversely, no patient with a LVEF Conclusion During LVAD wean there was evidence of LV re-loading as shown by an increase in LV volumes and a modest increase in LVEF. An LVEF >40% on baseline echo identified all patients with a normal LVEF during wean assessment and therefore may serve as an appropriate screening tool.
Al2O3 additions for isothermal melt processing of Bi2Sr2CaCu2Oy

It is shown that additions of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} (1.0 wt.{percent}) can significantly aid in the isothermal melt processing of Bi{sub 2}Sr{sub 2}CaCu{sub 2}O{sub {ital y}} (Bi{endash}2212). Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} additions provide a means for grain refinement of phases present in the partial melt. By limiting grain growth in the partial melt, solidification to form Bi{endash}2212 proceeds more efficiently, resulting in fewer secondary phases and improved transport properties. Aluminum does not substitute into the superconducting phase to any appreciable extent and is present in fully processed material as small, secondary grains of approximate composition Sr{sub 2{minus}{ital x}}Ca{sub {ital x}}AlO{sub {ital y}} or Bi{sub 2}Sr{sub 4{minus}{ital x}}Ca{sub {ital x}}Al{sub 3}O{sub {ital y}}Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} additions were applied to the isothermal melt processing of Bi{endash}2212 thick films and current leads. {copyright} {ital 1996 Materials Research Society.}
Comparative Effectiveness of Two Interventions to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening for Those at Increased Risk Based on Family History: Results of a Randomized Trial.

Background: First-degree relatives (FDR) of patients with colorectal cancer are at risk for colorectal cancer, but may not be up to date with colorectal cancer screening. We sought to determine whether a one-time recommendation about needing colorectal cancer screening using patient navigation (PN) was better than just receiving the recommendation only. Methods: Participants were FDRs of patients with Lynch syndrome–negative colorectal cancer from participating Ohio hospitals. FDRs from 259 families were randomized to a website intervention (528 individuals), which included a survey and personal colorectal cancer screening recommendation, while those from 254 families were randomized to the website plus telephonic PN intervention (515 individuals). Primary outcome was adherence to the personal screening recommendation (to get screened or not to get screened) received from the website. Secondary outcomes examined who benefited from adding PN. Results: At the end of the 14-month follow-up, 78.6% of participants were adherent to their recommendation for colorectal cancer screening with adherence similar between arms (P = 0.14). Among those who received a recommendation to have a colonoscopy immediately, the website plus PN intervention significantly increased the odds of receiving screening, compared with the website intervention (OR: 2.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.68–5.28). Conclusions: Addition of PN to a website intervention did not improve adherence to a colorectal cancer screening recommendation overall; however, the addition of PN was more effective in increasing adherence among FDRs who needed screening immediately. Impact: These findings provide important information as to when the additional costs of PN are needed to assure colorectal cancer screening among those at high risk for colorectal cancer.