cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Irremediable vagueness in Peirce's pragmaticist writings: a plain-sense reading

In his 1877–8 “Illustrations of the Logic of Science,” Peirce first offered his pragmatism to the world. In a series of articles published in the Monist in 1905, he threatened to take his pragmatism back. He claimed that, in the intervening years, the scholarly world had misrepresented what pragmatism really means, forcing him to re-explain and, in fact, rename it. Speaking of himself, he wrote His word “pragmatism” has gained general recognition in a generalized sense that seems to argue power of growth and vitality. The famed psychologist, James, first took it up … Next, the admirably clear and brilliant thinker, Mr. Ferdinand C. S. Schiller … So far all went happily. But at present, the word begins to be met with occasionally in the literary journals, where it gets abused in the merciless way that words have to expect when they fall into literary clutches … So then, the writer, finding his bantling “pragmatism” so promoted, feels that it is time to kiss his child good-by and relinquish it to its higher destiny; while to serve the precise purpose of expressing the original definition, he begs to announce the birth of the word “pragmaticism,” which is ugly enough to be safe from kidnappers. We might take Peirce's protestations with a little grain of salt. As Peirce averred in a footnote, he had never previously made popular use of the term “pragmatism” in writing.
Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli Production of a Cytotonic Toxin Immunologically Similar to Cholera Toxin.

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on binding to cholera toxin (CT) antibody was used to screen cell-free supernatant fluids from 11 strains of Campylobacter jejuni and one strain of Campylobacter coli . Positive results for seven of the eight clinical isolates as well as for one animal and one food isolate suggested that these strains produced an extracellular factor immunologically similar to CT. An affinity column (packed with Sepharose 4B conjugated to purified anti-CT IgG via cyanogen bromide) was used to separate the extracellular factor from cell-free supernatant fluids. Both unconcentrated supernatant fluids and affinity-purified material caused rounding in a Y-1 mouse adrenal cell assay, suggesting that the factor was a cytotonic toxin. Rounding of Y-1 cells caused by cell-free supernatant fluids, affinity-purified toxin or CT was neutralized by preincubation with CT or Campylobacter cytotonic toxin (CCT) antiserum. CCT and CT showed a reaction of partial identity by gel immunodiffusion, using IgG from CT antiserum. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS PAGE) of purified CCT produced one band at 70,000 daltons. Cell-free concentrates were positive in the rabbit skin permeability test and caused fluid accumulation in rabbit ileal loops. However, cell-free supernatant fluids and concentrates heated at 90°C for 15 min and tested by the suckling mouse assay produced no fluid accumulation in the intestines of mice.
Reprise: A Design Tool for Specifying, Generating, and Customizing 3D Printable Adaptations on Everyday Objects

Everyday tools and objects often need to be customized for an unplanned use or adapted for specific user, such as adding a bigger pull to a zipper or a larger grip for a pen. The advent of low-cost 3D printing offers the possibility to rapidly construct a wide range of such adaptations. However, while 3D printers are now affordable enough for even home use, the tools needed to design custom adaptations normally require skills that are beyond users with limited 3D modeling experience.In this paper, we describe Reprise--a design tool for specifying, generating, customizing and fitting adaptations onto existing household objects. Reprise allows users to express at a high level what type of action is applied to an object. Based on this high level specification, Reprise automatically generates adaptations. Users can use simple sliders to customize the adaptations to better suit their particular needs and preferences, such as increasing the tightness for gripping, enhancing torque for rotation, or making a larger base for stability. Finally, Reprise provides a toolkit of fastening methods and support structures for fitting the adaptations onto existing objects.To validate our approach, we used Reprise to replicate 15 existing adaptation examples, each of which represents a specific category in a design space distilled from an analysis of over 3000 cases found in the literature and online communities. We believe this work would benefit makers and designers for prototyping lifehacking solutions and assistive technologies.
The Modern Usurer Consecrates the City: Circulation and Displacements in the Torquemada Series

Sara Munoz-Muriana examines the relationship between the sacred and the city in the Spanish late nineteenth century through the urban presence of Francisco Torquemada, in the Galdosian series in which he is nominally the protagonist. Midway between the old metaphysics of usury and the world of modern finance, Torquemada is a hybrid subject in a state of permanent dislocation. Looking at the character’s relationship with streets, both as sources of income by which Torquemada turns the urban space and his circulation in it into economic wealth, and as sacred spaces in which to reconnect with God through acts of charity, this chapter also analyzes the fundamental importance of itinerancy to defy old forms of authority and make the whole city a sacred site.
Performing Data Routing and Real-Time Analysis

As a consequence of the proliferation of connected products and people, we must change our data acquisition and processing strategies to accommodate new data-driven business models and connected product development. A connected product enables us to gather and analyze various data including product usages, updates, operating status, maintenance history and interactions with users while it is in-service. As an OEM, you must able to use collected information to improve and enhance product performances and features. Also, you can develop new offerings based on new insights from data analytics.
E-063 The pc400 system safely coils large cerebral aneurysms with high packing densities and low retreatment rates

Purpose The Penumbra Coil 400 System (PC400) was designed with increased coil diameter to enhance filling efficiency in large intracranial aneurysms. This study9s goal is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the PC400 coils to treat large intracranial aneurysms. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of all consecutive patients with intracranial aneurysms treated with PC400 coils at a single center. Baseline patient and aneurysm characteristics, procedural variables and treatment-related complications were recorded. Aneurysm occlusion at the time of last angiographic follow-up was determined using the Roy-Raymond scale. Aneurysm retreatment was recorded. Results 57 consecutive patients with 60 intracranial aneurysms were included, 44 women (77%). Mean age was 60.7 years (median 60 years, 28–89 years). 12 aneurysms were ruptured (20%). Mean maximum aneurysm size was 12mm (median 10.5mm, 5.2-22mm), mean neck size was 5mm (median 4.1mm, 1.9-15mm), mean dome to neck ratio was 2 (median 1.9, 0.8-4.2). Aneurysm locations were: 27 internal carotid artery, 10 middle cerebral artery, 8 posterior communicating artery, 6 basilar tip, 5 anterior communicating artery, and 1 each posterior inferior cerebellar, superior cerebellar, posterior cerebral and anterior cerebral arteries. Aneurysm embolization techniques were: 30 balloon-assisted coiling (50%), 18 simple coiling (30%), 8 Pipeline/coiling (13%), 3 stent-assisted coiling (5%), and 1 parent artery sacrifice (2%). 49 aneurysms were treated with PC400 coils only (82%). Mean number of PC400 coils deployed was 5.1 (median 4, 1-23), mean packing density was 34% (median 33.5%, 7-68%). Mean procedure time was 64 minutes (median 53 minutes, 23–186 minutes). There were 6 peri-procedural complications: 2 intra-operative aneurysm ruptures (3.3%), 1 coil herniation requiring stenting (1.7%), and 3 post-operative infarctions with permanent deficits (5%). Angiographic follow-up was available in 54 aneurysms (90%), mean time to last follow-up 12.2 months (median 6.5 months, 3.3-33.4 months). At last follow-up, 25 aneurysms were completely occluded (46%, Raymond 1), 20 showed residual neck (37%, Raymond 2), and 9 demonstrated residual aneurysm (17%, Raymond 3). Nine aneurysms were retreated (17%), 6 with flow-diversion and 3 with stent assisted-coiling. Compared to a prior study examining 84 large aneurysms treated with conventional coils, treatment with PC400 coils resulted in higher packing densities, faster procedure times, lower procedural complications and lower retreatment rates (Tables 1 and 2). Conclusion The PC400 system is safe and effective for the treatment of large wide-neck intracranial aneurysms, achieving high packing densities, fast procedural times, favorable safety profile and low re-treatment rates compared to conventional coiling. Disclosures: J. Delgado Almandoz: 2; C; Penumbra, Inc. Y. Kayan: 2; C; Penumbra, Inc. J. Fease: None. J. Scholz: None. A. Milner: None. A. Wallace: None. M. Mulder: None.
Kisspeptin, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone and oestrogen receptor α colocalise with neuronal nitric oxide synthase neurones in prepubertal female sheep

Puberty is a process that integrates multiple inputs ultimately resulting in an increase in gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Although kisspeptin neurones play an integral role in GnRH secretion and puberty onset, other systems are also likely important. One potential component is nitric oxide (NO), a gaseous neurotransmitter synthesised by nitric oxide synthase (NOS). The present study aimed to neuroanatomically characterise neuronal NOS (nNOS) in prepubertal female sheep and determine whether oestradiol exerts effects on this system. Luteinising hormone secretion was reduced by oestradiol treatment in prepubertal ovariectomised ewes. Neurones immunoreactive for nNOS were identified in several areas, with the greatest number present in the ventrolateral portion of the ventromedial hypothalamus, followed by the ventromedial hypothalamus, preoptic area (POA) and arcuate nucleus (ARC). Next, we determined whether nNOS neurones contained oestrogen receptor (ER)α and could potentially communicate oestradiol (E2 ) feedback to GnRH neurones. Neuronal NOS neurones contained ERα with the percentage of coexpression (12%-40%) depending upon the area analysed. We next investigated whether a neuroanatomical relationship existed between nNOS and kisspeptin or nNOS and GnRH neurones. A high percentage of kisspeptin neurones in the POA (79%) and ARC (98%) colocalised with nNOS. Kisspeptin close contacts were also associated with nNOS neurones. A greater number of close contacts were observed in the ARC than the POA. A high percentage of POA GnRH neurones (79%) also expressed nNOS, although no GnRH close contacts were observed onto nNOS neurones. Neither the numbers of nNOS neurones in the POA or hypothalamus, nor the percentage of nNOS coexpression with GnRH, kisspeptin or ERα were influenced by oestradiol. These experiments reveal that a neuroanatomical relationship exists between both nNOS and kisspeptin and nNOS and GnRH in prepubertal ewes. Therefore, nNOS may act both directly and indirectly to influence GnRH secretion in prepubertal sheep.
A novel approach to optimization of iterative machine learning algorithms: Over heap structure

Iterative machine learning algorithms, i.e., k-means (KM), expectation maximization (EM), become overwhelmed with big data since all data points are being continually and indiscriminately visited while a cost is being minimized. In this work, we demonstrate (1) an optimization approach to reduce training run-time complexity of iterative machine learning algorithms and (2) implementation of this framework over KM algorithm. We call this extended KM algorithm, KM∗. The experimental results show that KM∗ outperforms KM over big real world and synthetic data sets. Lastly, we demonstrate the theoretical elements of our work.
A 183 GHz Desensitized Unbalanced Cascode Amplifier With 9.5-dB Power Gain and 10-GHz Band Width and −2 dBm Saturation Power

A novel approach to design a mm-wave high power gain cascode amplifier is proposed. The gain is enhanced by adjusting the size of the cascode transistor together with a desensitized inductive impedance at its base. The impedance at this node has a critical role in determining both gain and stability. The employed desensitization technique decreases the effect of process variations and modeling errors on this impedance which results in a reliable design. Providing enough degrees of freedom, this method results in a conjugate matched input and output impedances. Therefore, two or more of this stage can be simply cascaded to get higher gain with no need for an interstage matching network and hence no additional loss and gain degradation. Based on this approach, a single stage amplifier at 183 GHz is implemented in a 130 nm SiGe process which has a measured power gain of 9.5 dB, 3 dB bandwidth of 8.5 GHz and saturation power of −2.8 dBm.
A Practical Cryopreservation and Staining Protocol for Immunophenotyping in Population Studies

Large population-based cohort studies, through their prospective collection of a broad range of health information, represent an invaluable resource for novel insights into the pathogenesis of human diseases. Collection and cryopreservation of viable cells from blood samples is becoming increasingly common in large cohorts as these cells are a valuable resource for immunophenotyping and functional studies. The cryopreservation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), thawing, and immunophenotyping protocols used to immunophenotype 9938 participants in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) are described. The extensive quality control involved in a large-scale immunophenotyping epidemiological study is also outlined. The existing literature on the effect of cryopreservation on various immune cell subsets including T, B, NK cells, monocytes, and dendritic cells is provided. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A three-state model for gel electrophoresis

Electrophoresis is a method for size-separation of charged polymers using electric field. A gel is a network of cross-linked polymers; see Figure 9.1. The principle of electrophoresis in a gel is very simple. When charged polymers are free to move in a gel, subject to an electric field, their mobilities within the gel are size-dependent. Consequently, as they have moved from one side of a container to another, they become separated according to their size. Electrophoresis is an important technique for DNA mapping: after cutting DNA molecules with enzymes, one can separate the various segments by electrophoresis.
Personal Jurisdiction and Product Liability

This article is the first sustained economic analysis of personal jurisdiction. It argues that plaintiffs should be able to sue where they purchased a product which caused injury. Such a rule allows manufacturers to set prices which take into account the quality of the forum state’s courts. If the courts are biased against out-of-state corporations, have overly generous judges or juries, or apply substantive law which is excessively pro-consumer, manufacturers can, through contracts with distributors and retailers, charge a higher price to consumers in that state. This prevents judges and juries from engaging in inter-state redistribution and gives states an incentive to provide efficient substantive rules and adjudicative institutions. In contrast, a rule which required suit in a place more fully under the control of the defendant – such as the place of manufacture or the location of the distributor – would encourage manufacturers to select inefficiently pro-defendant jurisdictions for their activities. Because consumers are unlikely to know where products are manufactured or distributed and are unlikely to be able to evaluate the quality of the law in those states, it is implausible to think that the market will give manufacturers incentives to locate their jurisdiction-triggering activities in states with efficient laws and institutions. This analysis is particularly important, because the Supreme Court has recently deadlocked on personal jurisdiction in product liability cases.
More Distribution Functions

This Lecture presents a more complex application of distribution functions, namely an expression for the chemical potential of a substance in terms of n-particle distribution functions. The expression for μ, is obtained by means of a charging process. Our discussion is based on Kirkwood [1] with modern notational simplifications [2], Note in particular that the Kirkwood superposition approximation looks very different in Kirkwood’s original notation. Charging processes also arise naturally in the statistical mechanical models of electrolyte solutions, such as Kirkwood’s validation of the Debye-Huckel model [3]. Electrolyte solutions are the topic of the next Lecture. An integral equation for the n-particle distribution function is required and obtained.
The lesson of john snow and the broad street pump.

Each physician must also be an epidemiologist in his or her community. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
What Interventions Improve Outcomes for the Patient Who Is Depressed and in Pain

Abstract Specific Clinical Issue The purpose of this clinical consultation is to offer nurses evidence-based strategies to provide holistic care to their patients with comorbid depression and pain. The combination of depression and pain is common and, if not managed effectively, has negative outcomes. Treatment-resistance is one negative outcome. The worst-case scenario for unrelieved depression and/or pain is suicide. Major Practice Recommendations Based on Best Evidence Antidepressants, particularly duloxetine, have had efficacy for pain and depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment for depression, has been found to decrease pain. Examples of additional interventions include exercise, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and music. Providing holistic nursing care and working with other disciplines optimizes more effective management of these co-occurring conditions.
Nipple Discharge After Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy With and Without Associated Pregnancy

Abstract Background Nipple-sparing mastectomies (NSMs) preserve the intact nipple, including nipple duct orifices. Retained orifices might remain patent and communicate with the underlying reconstruction. We report the incidence and outcomes of nipple discharge after NSM in pregnant and nonpregnant women. Patients and Methods Retrospective review of all NSMs at our institution from June 2007 to June 2018 was performed. Subsequent pregnancies and nipple discharge were documented. Patient demographic, operative, histopathology, and cancer treatment data were collected. Descriptive analysis was performed for patients who developed nipple discharge. Results From June 2007 to June 2018, 2778 NSM procedures were performed in 1620 patients, with a mean age of 48 (range, 20-80) years. Fifteen hundred sixty-eight NSMs were therapeutic and 1210 were for risk reduction. Thirty-three subsequent pregnancies were observed in 27 patients, with a mean age of 33 (range, 26-42) years at NSM. Bilateral or unilateral discharge occurred in 6 of 27 (22%) postpartum patients and resolved spontaneously. At 54 months mean follow-up after NSM (range, 16-98 months) and 23 (range, 1-61) months after delivery, no local-regional recurrences were observed. In 1593 patients without subsequent pregnancy, there were 4 patients (0.25%) treated with bilateral NSM with subsequent unilateral watery nipple discharge. There was no evidence of associated malignancy on physical exam, imaging, or cytology, and with 55 to 110 months follow-up, no new or recurrent cancers have been observed. Conclusion Despite extensive removal of nipple and subareolar duct tissue during NSM, milky nipple discharge is possible postpartum. Watery, acellular discharge occurs rarely in nonpregnant patients. To date, no patient with discharge has developed a local recurrence or new breast cancer.
Xavier Albó: Memoria, crónica y perfil

This article is a tribute that historicizes the initial impact and reception of Xavier Albo’s foundational ideas in the establishment of social sciences in Bolivia. The author recalls Albo’s academic interest in linguistics and ethnographic research and situates his influence in the context of the 1960s and 1970s socio-political upheavals. He also sums up the setting to understand an early need to establish CIPCA, today a respected research center that has become a point of reference in the social sciences.
The Other Arbitrary Cutoff

While I welcome the call to abandon statistical significance (Wasserstein, Schirm, and Lazar 2019), there is another arbitrary cutoff, power ≥ 80%, that is also quite harmful (Bacchetti 2010). Alth...
Hidradenitis suppurativa: Current understanding, diagnostic and surgical challenges, and developments in ultrasound application.

Background Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is debilitating, costly, chronic disease for which no cure exists and which often precipitates greater health concerns. While we are making advances in understanding, HS remains an area of attention which is evidenced by a 400% increase in research studies involving HS in the past 5 years. This includes research regarding the advantages and limitations of ultrasound (US) imaging and its ability to enhance the surgical treatment and medical management of HS. Herein, we describe the diagnostic and surgical obstacles that HS presents, the foremost of which is detection of subclinical information, and perform an in-depth synthesis of current knowledge regarding the use of US imaging to mitigate these obstacles. Materials and methods A comprehensive literature review of US imaging in HS patients and a supplementary review of the current state of HS were conducted. Conclusion Ultrasound imaging is a powerful tool in the diagnosis, monitoring, clinical management, and preoperative assessment of HS. However, it also has relevant limitations that necessitate additional consideration. Significance Hidradenitis suppurativa is a disabling skin disease that presents a diagnostic and surgical challenge. The invaluable advantages and relevant limitations that US imaging offers are beginning to be understood, leading to standardization and increased implementation. US imaging has the potential to drastically improve patient care and merits further attention.
Feature-Guided Deep Radiomics for Glioblastoma Patient Survival Prediction

Glioblastoma is recognized as World Health Organization (WHO) grade IV glioma with an aggressive growth pattern. The current clinical practice in diagnosis and prognosis of Glioblastoma using MRI involves multiple steps including manual tumor sizing. Accurate identification and segmentation of multiple abnormal tissues within tumor volume in MRI is essential for precise survival prediction. Manual tumor and abnormal tissue detection and sizing are tedious, and subject to inter-observer variability. Consequently, this work proposes a fully automated MRI-based glioblastoma and abnormal tissue segmentation, and survival prediction framework. The framework includes radiomics feature-guided deep neural network methods for tumor tissue segmentation; followed by survival regression and classification using these abnormal tumor tissue segments and other relevant clinical features. The proposed multiple abnormal tumor tissue segmentation step effectively fuses feature-based and feature-guided deep radiomics information in structural MRI. The survival prediction step includes two representative survival prediction pipelines that combine different feature selection and regression approaches. The framework is evaluated using two recent widely used benchmark datasets from Brain Tumor Segmentation (BraTS) global challenges in 2017 and 2018. The best overall survival pipeline in the proposed framework achieves leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV) accuracy of 0.73 for training datasets and 0.68 for validation datasets, respectively. These training and validation accuracies for tumor patient survival prediction are among the highest reported in literature. Finally, a critical analysis of radiomics features and efficacy of these features in segmentation and survival prediction performance is presented as lessons learned.
Polymer blend compatibilization by the addition of block copolymers

Abstract Since most polymer pairs are inherently thermodynamically incompatible, a wide variety of physical methods has been developed to reduce the interfacial tension in, and thus compatibilize, multicomponent polymer blends. In this chapter, we provide an overview of polymer/polymer phase behavior and elucidate the molecular factors responsible for phase separation. Several strategies introduced to compatibilize phase-separated polymer blends are briefly described, with an emphasis on block copolymers as macromolecular surfactants. The unique attributes of neat block copolymers are examined prior to discussing their ubiquitous use as compatibilizing agents in polymer blends. The criteria and conditions capable of promoting compatibilization are consequently identified, and a molecular-level description of the factors responsible for interfacial modification (and adhesion) is provided. In addition to conventional blends prepared by either high-shear melt/solid mixing or solution casting, we further consider compatibilization of blends with precisely controlled and modified interfaces. One example consists of bilayered polymer films that either contain or are separated by block copolymers differing in concentration and/or molecular composition/weight. Similarly, the effectiveness of adding a premade block copolymer to induce compatibilization in phase-modulated bicomponent fibers is also examined.
Age and glycemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes in the United States: An assessment from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-2014.

Abstract Aim To assess the age and its association with glycemic control (GC) among adults with type 2-diabetes in the United States. Materials and materials Data were collected from the National Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013–2014 (n = 697), cross-sectional national survey adults with Type2 diabetes. Characteristics included retinopathy diagnosis, blood pressure, albumin-creatinine ratio, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), BMI, cholesterol, smoking status, pills/insulin, exercise, age, age at diagnosis, education, sex, race, and marital status. Diabetes preventive behaviors were included. Predictors of GC were assessed using logistic regression. Results The mean age was 61 (SD ±13); the average age at diagnosis 50 (SD ±12.9) and women (51%). Age ≥60, diabetes length >10yrs, taking pills/on insulin, albumin-creatinine ratio ≤30mg/g, optimal BP, no retinopathy diagnosis, optimal cholesterol, seeing a doctor for diabetes, doctors checkup ≥2 times and checking HbA1c annually were significant predictors of GC. The association between GC and age (OR=.97, p 10yrs (OR=1.55, p Conclusions GC was prevalent among older individuals; suggestive of intervention programs for young adults with diabetes and continuous HbA1c assessment at least annually.
Management and outcomes of sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (Rosai Dorfman Disease).

Sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (Rosai Dorfman Disease [RDD]), is a rare, benign but clinically heterogeneous histiocytic disorder. Our aims were to analyze the clinical characteri...
SYNTHESIS OF LAC AND λ OPERATOR DNA SEQUENCES

ABSTRACT Lac operator DNA and a potential λ operator DNA have been synthesized by a combination of chemical and enzymatic procedures. Operator fragments have also been chemically prepared with 5-bromodeoxyuridine substituted for thymidine at specific sites.
Multiple origins of anomalous eutectic microstructure in rapidly solidified Mg-Al alloy

Abstract Mg-33.3 wt.%Al eutectic alloys were fabricated by melt spinning at wheel speeds from 5 to 50 ms−1. SEM and S/TEM analyses showed the formation of anomalous eutectic structures at all wheel speeds. Four distinctive eutectic microstructures were observed, depending on the wheel speed, each with a unique formation mechanism. At low wheel speeds, solute trapping and high interfacial energy resulted in the remelting of primarily grown regular eutectic microstructures and was responsible for the formation of the anomalous eutectic Type A. A coupled-to-decoupled-growth transition occurred at intermediate wheel speeds giving rise to the anomalous eutectic Type B. The decoupled nucleation and growth of the eutectic phases followed by a coupled dendritic growth lead to the formation of flower-like microstructures at anomalous eutectic Type C. At sufficiently high wheel speed, no sign of regular eutectic was found and a unique cellular microstructure of ϒ phase along with inter- or intragranular α phase grains was formed, anomalous eutectic Type D, as a result of the decoupled nucleation and growth of the eutectic phases. The observed microstructures were examined thoroughly, and the correlated formation mechanisms were discussed on the basis of the SEM images and S/TEM and EDS analysis.
Postvaccination Serum Antirotavirus Immunoglobulin A as a Correlate of Protection Against Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Across Settings.

Background A correlate of protection for rotavirus gastroenteritis would facilitate rapid assessment of vaccination strategies and the next generation of rotavirus vaccines. We aimed to quantify a threshold of postvaccine serum antirotavirus immunoglobulin A (IgA) as an individual-level immune correlate of protection against rotavirus gastroenteritis. Methods Individual-level data on 5074 infants in 9 GlaxoSmithKline Rotarix Phase 2/3 clinical trials from 16 countries were pooled. Cox proportional hazard models were fit to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) describing the relationship between IgA thresholds and occurrence of rotavirus gastroenteritis. Results Seroconversion (IgA ≥ 20 U/mL) conferred substantial protection against any and severe rotavirus gastroenteritis to age 1 year. In low child mortality settings, seroconversion provided near perfect protection against severe rotavirus gastroenteritis (HR, 0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], .01-.31). In high child mortality settings, seroconversion dramatically reduced the risk of severe rotavirus gastroenteritis (HR, 0.46; 95% CI, .25-.86). As IgA threshold increased, risk of rotavirus gastroenteritis generally decreased. A given IgA threshold provided better protection in low compared to high child mortality settings. Discussion Postvaccination antirotavirus IgA is a valuable correlate of protection against rotavirus gastroenteritis to age 1 year. Seroconversion provides an informative threshold for assessing rotavirus vaccine performance.
Emerging structural and functional diversity in proteins with dioxygen-reactive dinuclear transition metal cofactors

Abstract Enzymes that harbor dinuclear transition-metal cofactors with histidine and carboxylate ligands enable important biochemical processes in all three domains of life. In many cases, the cofactors promote redox reactions involving a form of dioxygen. A functional paradigm for these enzymes emerged from early studies on the β subunit of class I-a ribonucleotide reductase, soluble methane monooxygenase, and stearoyl-acyl carrier protein Δ9-desaturase. It comprises 10 key features. (1) A diiron cluster held within (2) a conserved, ferritin-like four-helix bundle reacts with (3) O2 (4) from the diferrous (Fe2II/II) oxidation state. (5) A peroxo-Fe2III/III intermediate is produced, and it (6) converts to a high-valent (Fe2IV/IV or Fe2III/IV) complex, which (7) effects a one- or two-electron oxidation reaction that (8) cleaves at least one strong C H or O H bond by hydrogen atom (H ) transfer (HAT). In the process, (9) the cofactor is converted to a stable, oxo- or hydroxo-bridged Fe2III/III form, which (10) must be recycled by a reducing protein back to the O2-reactive Fe2II/II state for subsequent events. More recent studies have expanded this original paradigm in each of its 10 features. (1) Ferritin-like proteins have been shown to use manganese-iron and dimanganese cofactors, and (2) O2-activating diiron clusters have been found in different protein architectures. In some cases, (3) a partially reduced dioxygen species, rather than O2 itself, reacts with the dimetal cofactor. (4) A new structural and functional subclass has been described, in which O2 is activated by a mixed-valent (Fe2II/III) cofactor via (5) a superoxo-Fe2III/III intermediate that (6) directly abstracts a H to initiate (7) a four-electron oxidation (10) requiring no additional reducing system. In other enzymes functioning in the canonical Fe2II/II manifold, (6) peroxide-level complexes themselves, rather than high-valent successors, initiate transformations, and (7) novel zero- and four-electron-oxidations that cleave (8) strong C C and N H bonds, respectively, have been described. (9) In some cases, the Fe2II/II cluster is regenerated directly, and, in others, (10) the Fe2III/III cluster may disassemble rather than being recycled in situ. Here, we summarize these recent studies, highlighting the specific structural and mechanistic variations that enable the newly recognized outcomes to expand the known repertoire of the functional class.
Endovascular Arteriovenous Dialysis Fistula Intervention: Outcomes and Factors Contributing to Fistula Failure.

Rationale & Objective Primary patency is variable with arteriovenous fistulas, and many patients require angiographic procedures to obtain patency. Accordingly, we determined postintervention patency rates and contributing factors for fistula failure following intervention to establish secondary patency in non–dialysis-dependent patients with advanced chronic kidney disease following creation of an arteriovenous fistula. Study Design Observational study from a single referral center. Setting & Participants 210 non–dialysis-dependent patients with advanced chronic kidney disease who underwent upper-extremity fistula creation for anticipated dialysis between October 1995 and January 2015 and who required subsequent endovascular therapy to establish or maintain patency were reviewed. Exposure Endovascular therapy for dialysis arteriovenous fistula primary patency failure. Outcomes Postintervention patency duration following endovascular therapy. Analytical Approach Descriptive study with outcomes determined using Cox proportional hazards models. Results Multiple fistula configurations were reviewed: 138 (65.7%) brachiocephalic, 39 (18.6%) radiocephalic, 30 (14.3%) brachiobasilic, 2 (1.0%) ulnocephalic, and 1 (0.5%) radiobasilic. There were 261 initial stenoses treated. Postintervention primary patency is defined as the time from the index intervention to repeat intervention for stenosis. Postintervention primary-assisted patency is the time from the index intervention to thrombectomy for fistula thrombosis or change in modality. Postintervention secondary patency is the time from the index intervention to fistula abandonment. Median postintervention primary patency, postintervention primary-assisted patency, and secondary patency were 2.7, 3.2, and 3.6 years, respectively. The overall 1-year primary, primary-assisted, and secondary patency rates in this cohort were 53.0%, 87.7%, and 83.5%, respectively. Compared with radiocephalic fistulas, brachiocephalic fistulas had higher risk for postintervention primary patency loss (HR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.13-3.20; P = 0.02). Limitations Dialysis fistula revascularization techniques varied. Conclusions The radiocephalic fistula configuration had the best postintervention primary patency in this cohort. Postintervention primary-assisted patency and secondary patency were not significantly different among different fistula configurations.
Clergy Well-being: The Role of Lived Values and Values Fit:

This study examined the role of both valued living and person–organization values-fit in clergy well-being utilizing an archival sample of 845 Wesleyan clergy in a cross-sectional survey design. Li...
Research status on pathogenesis of myocardial depression in sepsis

The cardiovascular system plays a key role in sepsis, and septic myocardial depression is a common finding associated with increased morbidity and mortality.Myocardial depression during sepsis is not clearly defined, but it can perhaps be best described as a global (systolic and diastolic) dysfunction of both the left and right sides of the heart.The pathogenesis of septic myocardial depression involves a complex mix factor of genetic, molecular, metabolic, and structural.Now, the research status on pathogenesis of myocardial depress in sepsis was reviewed. Key words: Myocardial depression; Dysfunction of heart; Sepsis; Septic shock
Gross Pathology of Lesions in the Thymic Region

Gross examination of excised anterior mediastinal masses can often provide important diagnostic information. This chapter presents an approach to that process which is based on generic macroscopic patterns. They include enlargement of the thymus with retention of its overall architecture; prominent cystic change (either unilocular or multilocular); encapsulated solid growth; unencapsulated solid masses with internal necrosis and/or hemorrhage; homogeneously-solid lesions whose cut surfaces resemble “fish-flesh;” unencapsulated masses with a “gritty” cut surface; and proliferations with gross appearances that do not fit into any of the afore-mentioned categories. Macroscopic analysis can initiate a proper consideration of differential diagnostic possibilities in this context.
Not out of the box: phylogeny of the broadly sampled Buxaceae

Abstract The Buxaceae constitute a morphologically diverse phylogenetic lineage of six genera, which includes about 140 species. The most well-known genera are Buxus, Sarcococca, and Pachysandra. Few species of woody Styloceras grow on mid-elevations in the Andes mountains region. Didymeles, with three species endemic to Madagascar, and the monotypic Haptanthus from Honduras, are the most unusual members of the group. The infra-familial classification of Buxaceae is controversial, and molecular data about many species, especially Old World, is still lacking. We used broad taxonomic sampling and molecular data from four chloroplast markers, and the nuclear ribosomal ITS to estimate their phylogeny. These data provide phylogenetic placements of 50 species and enabled better estimates of boundaries in Buxaceae. We described two subfamilies, two monotypic genera, two Buxus subgenera, and one new species of Didymeles from Madagascar.
Gene Editing, Synthetic Biology and the Next Generation of Agrifood Biotechnology: Some Ethical Issues

The chapter provides synoptic overviews on key developments in gene technology since publication of the 2nd edition in 2007. Synthetic biology is discussed briefly, and more attention is given to CRISPrCas9, and gene editing. Both techniques can increase the speed at which a new product would move through the R&D process, and both have the potential to increase systemic linkages between gene technologies for food and agriculture, and gene technology for biomedical purposes. Beyond this, lessons learned from the experience with GMOs continue to be relevant. The framework of novel and normal risk will be a useful amendment to the technological ethics framework developed in earlier editions of this book. Three case studies are discussed: alternative proteins, horizontal environmental genetic alteration agents and gene drives for agricultural pest control. Only the last of these involves truly novel risks.
Editorial Commentary: Remember the Risk Factors During Individualized, Anatomic, Value-Based Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Understanding the etiology behind anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction failure is a complex topic still being investigated heavily. The 3 classes of failure are technical, traumatic, and biologic. Technical errors are most common and most frequently reflect tunnel malposition. In addition, tibial slope has long been understood to be a risk factor for failed ACL reconstruction. Although not routinely performed at time of primary ACL reconstruction, osteotomy may be considered in the setting of failed ACL reconstruction. Relative quadriceps weakness is a risk factor, and we recommend sport-specific return-to-play testing as well as benchmarks for relative quadriceps strength before full return to activity. Revision ACL reconstruction is associated with both increased costs and worse patient outcomes, so every effort should be made to give patients the best chance of success after the index surgery. Whereas this begins with understanding the patient's history and risk factors for failure, it crescendos with careful attention to the individually variable factors that make each case unique, tailoring one's management to ensure that each patient receives an anatomic, individualized, and value-based ACL reconstruction.
Comparing Anal Cancer Screening Algorithms Using Cytology and Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing in 3 High-Risk Populations.

Background Screening strategies for high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV)-associated anal cancer are evolving. This study compares the screening performance of anal cytology to hrHPV DNA testing and two novel cytology/hrHPV cotesting algorithms among three high-risk populations. Methods Anal cytology, hrHPV DNA testing, and high-resolution anoscopy (HRA)-guided biopsy results were analyzed from 1,837 participants comprising 1,504 HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM), 155 HIV-uninfected MSM, and 178 HIV-infected women. Screening performance to detect histological high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL)/cancer was compared between four strategies with distinct HRA referral thresholds: cytology (ASCUS); hrHPV testing (any hrHPV+); algorithm A (benign cytology/HPV16/18+ or ASCUS/hrHPV+); and algorithm B (benign or ASCUS cytology/hrHPV+). Results Histological HSIL/cancer was detected in 756 (41%) participants. Cytology alone had the lowest sensitivity (0.76-0.89) but the highest specificity (0.33-0.36) overall and for each subgroup. Algorithm B was the most sensitive strategy overall (0.97) and for MSM (HIV-infected 0.97; HIV-uninfected 1.00). For HIV-infected women, hrHPV testing and both algorithms yielded higher sensitivity than cytology (0.96, 0.98, and 0.96). Specificity was low for all strategies and subgroups (range 0.16-0.36). Conclusions Screening algorithms that incoporate cytology and hrHPV testing significantly increased sensitivity and further decreased specificity to detect anal precancer/cancer among high-risk populations.
Hirayama-like disease in the thoracic spine

Hirayama disease is a cervical flexion myelopathy that typically causes upper extremity weakness in young male patients. We present two male patients (age 15 and 29) with MRI findings of thoracic ligamentous laxity similar in appearance to Hirayama disease. However, patients presented with atypical symptoms, specifically back pain and paresthesia of the upper and/or lower extremities, likely correlating to the abnormal thoracic spinal levels involved. Flexion/extension MRI sequences demonstrated the forward displacement of the dorsal dura and compression the thoracic cord with prominence of the posterior epidural space and venous plexus. Follow-up MRAs were negative for a spinal vascular malformation. Patients were managed conservatively with no surgical intervention. Clinical history, thoracic MRI, and follow-up flexion and angiographic imaging sequences may help confirm a diagnosis of Hirayama-like thoracic ligamentous laxity.
Bidirectional Solid-State Circuit Breaker using Super Cascode for MV SST and Energy Storage Systems

Solid State Transformers (SSTs) are developing as highly efficient interfaces in renewable energy, transport, and energy storage systems. However, performance limitations, such as overvoltage sensitivity and fault handling capabilities, have slowed widespread adoption. Though SSTs are developing added capabilities for fault management, the required response speed and overdesign introduces added costs, particularly in protection of in ultra-low inductance systems, such as those sourced by energy storage systems (ESSs). With increased use of power electronics, the power distribution systems are speeding up having shorter fault propagation delays and higher fault currents. This creates a need for alternative approaches to MV system protection. This paper describes a Bidirectional Solid-State Circuit Breaker (BSSCB) based on a new SiC SuperCascode power switch, and a multi-layered transient absorption network. The paper studies transient heat transfer in the switch and provides a redefinition of the fuse curve as applied to the BSSCB suitable for digital control. The paper identifies critical fault issues, discusses the impact on critical design points of the SuperCascode for a BSSCB, and provides design calculations for a complete 10kV/300A/3X breaker, including the SuperCascode module. A scaled 6kV/10A/7X SuperCascode is fabricated and tested to demonstrate switch response of <60 ns with fault isolation in 200ns.
A Note on Spurious Break and Regime Shift in a Cointegrating Relationship

The simulation result of Nunes, Juan, and Newbold suggest that it is possible to estimate a spurious break for a regression model with I(1) disturbances. In this note, we provide a rigorous proof for this phenomenon. We also show that their finding applies to integrated regressors, so that a spurious regression may lead to a spurious break. However, if two integrated processes are cointegrated with a structural change in the cointegrating relationship, the break point can be consistently estimated. The consistency is in terms of the integer index rather than in terms of the sample fraction. This rapid rate of convergence is not attainable for stationary or, more generally, for I(0) regressors. Furthermore, the consistency holds even when magnitudes of breaks are small but do not converge to zero too fast. These consistency results are also obtained for a broken trend model.
Towards supersaturation for oddtown and eventown

Given a collection $\mathcal{A}$ of subsets of an $n$ element set, let $\text{op}(\mathcal{A})$ denote the number of distinct pairs $A,B \in \mathcal{A}$ for which $|A \cap B|$ is odd. Using linear algebra arguments, we prove that for any collection $\mathcal{A}$ of $2^{\lfloor n/2 \rfloor}+1$ even-sized subsets of an $n$ element set that $\text{op}(\mathcal{A}) \geq 2^{\lfloor n/2 \rfloor-1}$. We also prove that for any collection $\mathcal{A}$ of $n+1$ odd-sized subsets of an $n$ element set that $\text{op}(\mathcal{A}) \geq 3$, and that both of these results are best possible. We also consider the problem for larger collections of odd-sized and even-sized sets respectively.
Low-Power Techniques for Wireline Systems

As wireline transceivers continue to push for higher speeds, their power consumption becomes increasingly more critical. This paper describes methods that can reduce the power drawn by drivers and multiplexers on the transmit side and equalizers and clock and data recovery circuits on the receive side. These concepts have been incorporated in designs ranging from 40 Gb/s to 80 Gb/s in 45-nm and 28-nm process nodes.