cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Studies of primate arterial smooth muscle cells in relation to atherosclerosis.

Arterial smooth muscle cells play a major role in the genesis of the lesions of atherosclerosis (French, 1966; Haust and More, 1963; Jones et al., 1967; McGill and Geer, 1963; Wissler, 1967). Other cells, such as hematogenously derived macrophages, have been found within the lesions, but there is little evidence that they play a principal part in lesion development. Numerous observations of human lesions and of lesions produced in experimental animals have provided clear evidence that the lesions of atherosclerosis are fundamentally proliferative, and have suggested that they result from the migration of arterial smooth muscle cells from the media into the intima followed by their subsequent proliferation. Concomitant with or subsequent to this cell migration and proliferation, intracellular and extracellular lipids are deposited in association with formation of new extracellular connective tissue matrix constituents, including collagen, elastic fibers, and glycosaminoglycans.
Low cost quartz resonant accelerometer for aircraft inertial navigation

A low-cost quartz resonator accelerometer was constructed using photolithography to fabricate precision components. The device was tested to establish key resolution, stability, and isolation factors. The cost of the instrument in production volume is expected to be about $200/unit for a performance level of 50 mu g. This accelerometer with appropriate packaging and other minor adaptations can be made suitable for aircraft inertial navigation. >
Event Identification and Contingency Assessment for Voltage Stability via PMU

The operating state of power system changes dynamically due to severe change in system conditions such generation, load or line trip. Such severe disturbances effect voltage phasor, current phasor and system frequency. So, to better monitor the dynamics of large power system, wide area synchronized monitoring of voltage phasor, current phasor and system frequency is vital. For efficient real time monitoring and operation of power system, high resolution based phasor measurement units (PMUs) should be used. PMU can accurately measure node and branch phasors at high sampling rate. In this paper, application of PMUs to monitor power quality and voltage instability due to contingency is shown. The paper proposes a novel approach for contingency filtering and assessment in sense of power quality and voltage instability. The approach consists of two-block technique: first block filters out dangerous contingency; then second block assesses it for severity based upon performance index. Another application is to understand system dynamics during different kinds of disturbance such as generator trip or load rejection. To realize this logic-based approach is used for analysis. This will help the operator in real time analysis of system as a whole and in deciding the nature and location of disturbance. Overall, it will help to detect emergency condition and take necessary control action in real time. The ideas of this paper will be illustrated using IEEE 39 bus power system.
Flexible mechanisms for performance enhancements of cluster networks

Networks connecting nodes in clusters, in their current forms, stand to benefit from performance enhancements in measures such as latency, throughput, and reliability. Providing flexible mechanisms to enhance one or more of these performance properties will result in drastic improvements in applications performance on clusters. In this paper, we identify the different flexibility requirements for enhancing end-to-end cluster network properties. Flexible cluster-networking mechanisms utilizing multiple networks are introduced to enhance the network properties such as communication throughput and short message transfer time. In addition, it provides an easy and flexible way to extend the network capacities for specific nodes. The experimental evaluations reported here illustrate the advantages of the proposed model.
Lecture 1: A Framework for Aptitude Theories

The improvement of assessments of human cognition and motivation requires a consideration of the theoretical and practical purposes which those assessments are intended to serve. In particular, assessment of individual differences for any. practical purpose — whether it be for selection, classification, diagnosis and remediation, or evaluation of some treatment situation, requires what I call an “aptitude theory.” A new framework for aptitude theory is introduced in these lectures; it specifies what any theory of aptitude for performance in some particular situation has to include, whether it is a theory of aptitude for learning from some training or instruction, for successful performance in some job, or for profiting from some form of therapy, or remediation or rehabilitation treatment, or whatever. It should be clear that the term “aptitude” here refers not to one particular category of individual difference constructs, such as “cognitive abilities.” Any individual difference can be a part of aptitude for performance in some situation. Thus, cognitive, conative, affective, motivational, volitional, personality, social and also biological differences can be sources of aptitude in particular instances. I believe this approach to the study of individual differences offers the possibility of reaching important new kinds of aptitude constructs, that combine aspects of these traditionally different categories of human differences, as well as new understanding of those existing aptitude constructs that have been persistently useful over the years. There are important implications for basic as well as applied psychology.
Recurrent Lower-Extremity Compartment Syndrome after Four-Compartment Fasciotomy Secondary to Acute Limb Ischemia

Lower-extremity compartment syndrome is a limb-threatening event necessitating emergent treatment using fasciotomy. Recurrent compartment syndrome is rare and has only been reported after trauma and in conjunction with underlying connective tissue disorders. In this report, we present a case of recurrent lower-extremity compartment syndrome caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury, in a patient previously treated with adequate 4-compartment fasciotomies. As such, this is the first reported case of recurrent compartment syndrome in the setting of ischemia-reperfusion injury that required treatment with 4-compartment fasciotomies on both occasions. This case demonstrates that fasciotomy is not protective against the development of recurrent compartment syndrome due to ischemia-reperfusion injury and that patients at high risk require monitoring.
The Architecture of Cyanobacteria, Archetypes of Microbial Innovation

With an impressive and unparalleled evolutionary history spanning over two billion years, cyanobacteria have evolved to thrive in a diverse range of habitats and numerically dominate vast regions, such as the open oceans. Impacts of this microbial lineage on our planet have been far-reaching: ancestors of extant cyanobacteria had a pivotal role not only in the establishment of oxygen as a major component of the atmosphere, but in the rise of embryophytic algae and land plants. The evolution of innovative cellular structure and function in response to abiotic and biotic selection pressures has resulted in a striking diversity in cyanobacteria. Given the fact that the relationship between form and function is complex, and that cellular structures are often multifunctional and dynamic, this review uses a comparative approach in understanding how biological functions or strategies impact cellular architecture. Notably, differences existing in cellular architecture among genera, and even between strains of the same genus, often reflect evolutionary innovations that have permitted a group to flourish in a particular environment. This review also addresses how a conserved cellular feature, namely the compartmentalization of key functions, has promoted metabolic flexibility and survival. This compartmentalization involves structures such as the internal membranes, heterocysts and carboxysomes, and has permitted the functioning and integration of diverse, and at times, incompatible, processes in a single cell. With heightened interest in utilizing photosynthetic organisms to address global challenges in food and energy resources, research on this remarkable lineage will undoubtedly continue to inform, as well as inspire.
Pessimism without Alarm: Chinese Perceptions of Iran’s Nuclear Program Since Mid-2010

China is increasingly viewed as an obstacle to multilateral efforts to address the Iran nuclear problem through sanctions. Based on an analysis of China's strategic discourse over the past year, this paper argues that Chinese experts are actually relatively pessimistic about Iran's intentions, the chances of nuclear competition in the Middle East, and the likelihood of a U.S. or Israeli airstrike. The implication is that, despite a number of difficulties, Western-led persuasion may be met with receptive ears in Beijing.
GABAB and NMDA Receptors Contribute to Spindle-Like Oscillations in Rat Thalamus In Vitro

Thalamic slice preparations, in which intrathalamic connectivity between the reticular nucleus and relay nuclei is maintained, are capable of sustaining rhythmic burst firing activity in rodents an...
Chromosomes of the Chinese Hamster, Cricetulus griseus

1. The normal complement of the Chinese hamster consists of 11 pairs of readily distinguishable chromosome types.2. The sex bivalent of the Chinese hamster is the third largest in the complement. It resembles the J-shaped “isomorphic” Chromosome pair VIII. Earlier selections by Matthey and Pontecorvo, involving heteromorphism and or the largest metacentrics as sex elements, are considered incorrect on the basis of present experimental data.3. Variation in the length of Chromosome I is due to mechanical stretching, leaving the impression of heteromorphism of homologues.4. Reciprocal translocations are readily identified in offspring sired by x-irradiated males. The presence of a normal appearing sex bivalent with a ring or chain of four configuration, involving Matthey's “X” chromosome, support the writer's views that the largest metacentric pair is purely autosomal.5. Experimental proof of the actual sex chromosomes remains to be demonstrated.
"No clinical puzzles more interesting": Harvey Cushing and spinal trauma, the Johns Hopkins Hospital 1896-1912.

Although Harvey Cushing played a central role in the establishment of neurosurgery in the United States, his work on the spine remains largely unknown. This article is not only the first time that Cushing's spinal cases while he was at Johns Hopkins have been reported, but also the first time his management of spinal trauma has been described. We report on 12 patients that Cushing treated from 1898 to 1911 who have never been reported before, including blunt and penetrating injuries, complete and incomplete spinal cord lesions, and both immediate and delayed presentations. Cushing performed laminectomies within 24 hours on patients with immediate presentations—both complete and incomplete spinal cord lesions. Among those with delayed presentations, Cushing did laminectomies on patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries. By the end of his tenure at Hopkins, Cushing advocated nonoperative treatment for all patients with complete spinal cord lesions. Four patients died while an inpatient, with meningitis and cystitis leading to the death of 1 and 3 patients, respectively. Cystitis was treated with intravesicular irrigation; an indwelling catheter was placed by a suprapubic cystostomy in four. Cushing was one of the first to report the use of x-ray in a spine patient, in a case that may have been one factor leading to his interest in the nervous system; Cushing also routinely obtained radiographs in those with spinal trauma. These cases illustrate Cushing's dedication to and rapport with his patients, even in the face of a dismal prognosis.
The crystal structure of the C-terminal truncated apolipoprotein A-I sheds new light on amyloid formation by the N-terminal fragment.

Apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) is the main protein of plasma high-density lipoproteins (HDL, or good cholesterol) that remove excess cell cholesterol and protect against atherosclerosis. In hereditary amyloidosis, mutations in apoA-I promote its proteolysis and the deposition of the 9–11 kDa N-terminal fragments as fibrils in vital organs such as kidney, liver, and heart, causing organ damage. All known amyloidogenic mutations in human apoA-I are clustered in two residue segments, 26–107 and 154–178. The X-ray crystal structure of the C-terminal truncated human protein, Δ(185–243)apoA-I, determined to 2.2 A resolution by Mei and Atkinson, provides the structural basis for understanding apoA-I destabilization in amyloidosis. The sites of amyloidogenic mutations correspond to key positions within the largely helical four-segment bundle comprised of residues 1–120 and 144–184. Mutations in these positions disrupt the bundle structure and destabilize lipid-free apoA-I, thereby promoting its proteolysis. Moreover...
The Search for Compatibility: What Have We Learned?

Forest management that seeks compatible production opportunities across several forest resources is the essence of compatible forest management. Most landowners and many land managers are keenly aware that their management actions produce a range of goods or services that contributes to both their personal prosperity and to societal well-being. It is this diversity of ownerships— each with different management objectives—that has a positive influence on compatibility when considered at the landscape scale.
Application of Graph Theory Methods to Protein Structure Prediction

Graph theory methods have great importance in the field of prediction of protein structure.The paper briefly introduces some graph theory methods such as maximal connected subgraph,maximal cliques,perfect match and graph spectral research which applied in prediction of protein structure.Recently it applied on the problem of protein folding and 3D structure prediction using these methods are then reviewed.The effect and feature of these methods are also analyzed and compared.
Development and Implementation of Line Loss Systematic Management System for Provincial, Municipal and County Distribution Networks

An advanced line loss systematic management system for provincial, municipal and county distribution networks is developed and implemented in order to resolve the decentralization and complexity of the current line loss index management of distribution networks. The system can realize the systematic integration of high, middle and low voltage network, theoretical and statistical calculation, report and analysis, etc. with the high integration and performance. The system can provide one kind of technology support in real production decision based on the scientific line loss calculation, comparison and analyse under a new kind of line loss management mode. The system is a scientific line loss management software platform, which can improve the data correctness and working efficiency.
Clinical Experience with a Self-Contained Inflatable Penile Implant: The Flexi-Flate

We implanted 23 Flexi-Flate penile prostheses during a 15-month period beginning July 1985. Of the implants 22 were followed for a mean of 16.1 months and 19 (86 per cent) function well. Satisfaction of individuals with a functioning prosthesis, as determined by interview and questionnaire (79 per cent response rate), has been good. Deflation sometimes occurs with penile shaft bending during sexual activity but this is managed satisfactorily by most couples via technique adjustments with minimal disruption of enjoyment. Reliable preoperative prosthesis size selection based on pubis to mid glans measurements was not possible in our hands secondary to broad variation in intracorporeal lengths found in the population studied.
Ischemia and infarction III. Pathogenesis of coronary occlusion.

Rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque, with or without superimposed thrombus formation and vasoconstriction, may be the common anatomic and pathogenetic denominator for unstable angina, myocardial infarction, and ischemic sudden death. Outcome seems to be determined by the suddenness of coronary occlusion, the degree of perfusion insufficiency, and—most important—the duration of ischemia.
Progress in Two-Stage Superfluid Stirling Refrigeration

The superfluid Stirling refrigerator (SSR) uses a 3He-4He mixture to cool below 1 K. Using a two-stage SSR we have achieved a temperature of 248 mK while rejecting waste heat above 1 K; under similar operating conditions, single-stage SSR’s have been limited to ultimate temperatures near 300 mK. This new record in the ultimate temperature was achieved despite a heat leak due to exchange gas in the vacuum insulation around the SSR.
Resistance in Tyrrell’s Bibliotheca Politica:the People and the Convention

The debate of 28 January in the Convention House of Commons concluded with the famous abdication and vacancy resolution. It is clear from this debate and the subsequent literature, however, that other significant currents of thought were present in the Convention debates held that winter. Crucial issues and questions were raised to which abdication and vacancy were not the only answers. This resolution left intact the problematic, and potentially revolutionary, assertions of either parliamentary or popular sovereignty. Although the contention that James II ‘broke’ an ‘original contract’ was eventually denied, the implications of contract theory had to be addressed and rendered acceptable to members of the political nation.
Overview of the SAMPL5 host–guest challenge: Are we doing better?

The ability to computationally predict protein-small molecule binding affinities with high accuracy would accelerate drug discovery and reduce its cost by eliminating rounds of trial-and-error synthesis and experimental evaluation of candidate ligands. As academic and industrial groups work toward this capability, there is an ongoing need for datasets that can be used to rigorously test new computational methods. Although protein-ligand data are clearly important for this purpose, their size and complexity make it difficult to obtain well-converged results and to troubleshoot computational methods. Host-guest systems offer a valuable alternative class of test cases, as they exemplify noncovalent molecular recognition but are far smaller and simpler. As a consequence, host-guest systems have been part of the prior two rounds of SAMPL prediction exercises, and they also figure in the present SAMPL5 round. In addition to being blinded, and thus avoiding biases that may arise in retrospective studies, the SAMPL challenges have the merit of focusing multiple researchers on a common set of molecular systems, so that methods may be compared and ideas exchanged. The present paper provides an overview of the host-guest component of SAMPL5, which centers on three different hosts, two octa-acids and a glycoluril-based molecular clip, and two different sets of guest molecules, in aqueous solution. A range of methods were applied, including electronic structure calculations with implicit solvent models; methods that combine empirical force fields with implicit solvent models; and explicit solvent free energy simulations. The most reliable methods tend to fall in the latter class, consistent with results in prior SAMPL rounds, but the level of accuracy is still below that sought for reliable computer-aided drug design. Advances in force field accuracy, modeling of protonation equilibria, electronic structure methods, and solvent models, hold promise for future improvements.
Monitoring Archaeofaunal Changes During the Transition to Agriculture in the American Southwest

ABSTRACTA model for evaluating prehistoric subsistence stress and species diversity using data from faunal assemblages is developed in order to examine the transition from hunter-gatherer adaptations to agriculture in the Southwest. Most archaeofaunas from this transitional period are found to be inadequately analyzed with the exception of Ventana Cave, which follows some predictions of the model. Comparisons are made between these data and later archaeofaunas produced by Great Basin hunter-gatherers and Hohokam agriculturalists.
Preference for multitasking, technological dependency, student metacognition, & pervasive technology use

Technology-enabled multitasking has garnered increased critical attention in recent years. Research on multitasking in educational environments commonly assert a multitude of undesired outcomes such as heightened distraction, hindered learning, and hampered productivity. This study considers critical research gaps related to media multitasking, including student metacognitive awareness. In addition, this study tested a commonly suggested, yet previously untested, educational response wherein students are made aware of the problematic phenomenon, with the aim of mitigating the pervasive behavior. Findings suggest that student technology use is highly attributed to their anxiety without technology and dependency on technology, rather than any actual preference for multitasking. Metacognitive awareness was inconclusively correlated with rampant technology use; however, those who exhibited higher behavioral management tendencies demonstrated greater control of their technology use. And while the quasi-experimental awareness intervention failed to shift student media multitasking behavior, promising areas for future research were illuminated through the qualitative analysis. Self-report technology usage and multitasking measure that considers student metacognitive awareness.Quasi-experimental intervention testing commonly asserted awareness-based pedagogical response.Preference for multitasking not an informative motivator for exhibited multitasking behavior.Insightful qualitative analysis of student perceptions related to distraction, technology, and attention.
Association of primary tumor lymph node ratio with burden of liver metastases and survival in stage IV colorectal cancer

Background: The primary objective of our study was to assess the association of primary tumor lymph node ratio (LNR) in stage IV colorectal adenocarcinomas (CRC) with overall survival (OS) and the extent of metastatic disease in the liver. Methods: We analyzed data on 53 stage IV CRC patients who underwent surgical resection of the primary tumor. The median LNR of 0.25 was used to stratify patients into high LNR (H-LNR) and low LNR (L-LNR) groups. Statistical comparison was performed using chi square test and multiple regression models. OS was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier (KM) method while cox regression was used for multivariate analysis. Results: H-LNR status was associated with the presence of >3 liver metastases (LM) [odds ratio (OR): 2.43, P=0.047] and bilobar LM (OR: 3.94, P=0.039). The OS in H-LNR patients was significantly worse in the entire cohort compared to L-LNR (9% vs. 34% at 3 years, P=0.027). The 5-year OS in patients undergoing liver resection for LM was also significantly worse in the H-LNR group (0% vs. 37%, P=0.013). LNR was independently associated with survival on multivariate analysis [HR: 2.63; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.13–6.14; P=0.025]. Conclusions: In stage IV CRC, LNR is associated with the extent of hepatic tumor burden and was an independent predictor of survival in patients undergoing liver resection.
Effect of dietary β-sitosterol glucoside on the growth of estrogen-dependent human breast cancer (MCF-7) tumors implanted in ovariectomized athymic mice.

B168 Phytosterols (PSs) have been used as dietary supplements due to their ability on lowering cholesterol levels and enhancing immune function.The biological effects of β-sitosterol (BSS) and its glucoside form β-sitosterol glucoside (BSSG) have been described and so far most used to lower blood cholesterol levels. Many studies have also reported the protective effects of the consumption of diet high in PSs against breast and other type of cancers. Previously, we observed the preventive effect of dietary BSSG on estrogen-stimulated human breast tumor growth in vivo. The present study evaluated the effect of dietary BSSG at wider concentration range [125 - 750 parts per million (ppm)] on the growth of 17-β-estradiol E2-stimulated human breast cancer in vivo. We hypothesize that dietary BSSG intake could inhibit E2-stimulated growth of MCF-7 tumor implanted into ovariectomized athymic mice. To test our hypothesis, we implanted E2 silastic tubes that produces 100 - 150 pM of circulating E2, injected MCF-7 cells, and randomly grouped the mice into five treatment groups (E2, E2 + 125 ppm BSSG, E2 + 250 ppm BSSG, E2 + 500 ppm BSSG, and E2 + 750 ppm BSSG). After the cell injection, the animals were on treatment diets for 10 weeks. Tumor size and body weight were monitored weekly during the study. At week 10, the average tumor size of the E2 reached 126 mm2 and the study was terminated. At completion of the study, we analyzed tumors for cell proliferation marker (Ki67) using immunohistochemical staining and gene expression in tumors using a real time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and serum E2 and total cholesterol levels were measured. Dietary BSSG inhibit the E2-stimulated MCF-7 tumor growth in mice. Dose dependent reduction of tumor suface area, serum estrogen and cholesterol are evident with BSSG treatment. Cell proliferation and relative gene expression data of estrogen responsive markers (pS2, bcl2, TNF-α, MMP2 and MMP9) have also been clearly demonstrated the inhibitory effect of BSSG on the growth of MCF-7 tumor implanted into ovariectomized athymic mice. BSSG at 125 ppm dosage shows a maximum reduction (13.9 ± 0.78 %) in Ki67 expression compared to all other dosages with respect to estrogen treated control (E2, 48.22 ± 3.6 %) group. Relative mRNA expression of estrogen receptor (ER) - downstream regulated markers, pS2 and bcl2 shown to be down regulated with all the dosages of BSSG treatment compared to the E2 control . Also, the overexpression of TNF-α and its concomitant influence on the expression of metastasis inducible matrixmetallopriteinases, MMP2 and MMP9 found to be abrogated by BSSG treatment. In conclusion, the consumption of food products high in BSSG may have protective effect on MCF-7 tumor growth in vivo, by altering serum E2 level, cell proliferation, apoptosis and inhibition of tumor invasion promoting markers.
Impaired In Vitro Osteogenesis in Multiple Myeloma Bone Marrow Osteoprogenitor Cells.

Abstract In individuals with the plasma cell malignancy multiple myeloma, there is evidence that bone formation rates are reduced and that increased ostoeclastic bone resorption is associated with impaired osteoblast function. We investigated the osteogenic differentiation capacity of myeloma bone marrow mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPCs). We also examined the expression levels and activity of Runx2, the transcription factor required for osteogenesis. Bone marrow MPCs were cultured in osteogenic induction medium and assessed for bone alkaline phosphatase (bALP) expression (Sigma kit), induction of osteoblast specific genes like osteocalcin (RT-PCR) and mineralization by von Kossa staining. Immunoblot analysis and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) were used to determine Runx2 expression and DNA-binding activity respectively. RT-PCR was used to sequence Runx2 and detect any mutations or deletions present within its domains. Transactivation ability of Runx2 was measured by its ability to activate osteocalcin promoter in transient transfection assays. Myeloma -derived MPCs showed reduced levels of bALP and osteocalcin transcript and a lower degree of mineralization, in osteogenic induction medium, as compared to that of the healthy donors. Immunoblot analysis and EMSA indicated equivalent Runx2 expression and DNA-binding capacity, respectively, in both healthy donor and myeloma-derived MPCs. Sequence analysis of Runx2 indentified a splice variant of Runx2 lacking exon 8 (Runx2D8) in myeloma patients with reduced transactivation ability. Co-transfection of the splice variant led to reduced transcriptional activity of the full-length Runx2. The reduced transactivation ability of spliced Runx2, as well as its suppressive action on the transactivation function of full-length Runx2, likely contributes to the defective osteogenesis clinically observed in myeloma pateints.
Substance Abuse and Addiction: Implications for Pain Management in Patients With Cancer .

Background Substance use disorders (SUDs) are chronic diseases that may complicate the nursing care of patients with cancer, affecting their ability to adhere to treatment protocols, responses to cancer pain, and use of opioids for analgesia. Objectives This article explores how the presence of an SUD may affect oncology nursing care and pain management. Methods The PubMed and CINAHL® databases were searched for articles from 1980-2016 using the keywords cancer, cancer pain, addiction, substance abuse, and alcoholism. . Findings SUD is a common comorbidity in patients with cancer that may play a role in disease etiology. Practice guidelines are suggested for the assessment and management of addiction to improve overall outcomes for patients. Effective treatments for SUDs and cancer pain exist, and recovery can lead to improvements in multiple aspects of patients' lives.
Comparing Latin American and North American Subnational Government: Fiscal Autonomy and Accountability

This paper explores fiscal decentralization in the Americas. It employs a comparative analysis to evaluate fiscal autonomy in North American and Latin American subnational government. Fiscal decentralization has been in vogue over recent decades, as nations have been adjusting to improve service delivery via decentralization. Decentralization (and autonomy) promises to attain various goals such as greater efficiency, equity, and accountability of governments. Fiscal decentralization has become a central topic of policy debate in Latin American countries, in particular, as part of a larger agenda of social-economic development in these countries. The paper is organized as follows. The second section will review related literature. The third section will present a basic framework of fiscal autonomy of subnational government and apply that framework for the analysis of subnational autonomy in Latin America and North America. The fourth section will explore factors that influence the extent of functional decentralization in the Americas. The fifth section will discuss implications for subnational accountability in an intergovernmental context. Conclusions will follow in the fifth section.
Near-Optimality in Management and Physical Models

Abstract The selection and parameterization of parsimonious basin models is an exercise in near-optimality in which it is more important to have good results than it is to be right. The shape and physical size of that set which satisfies all the relevant system constraints as well as the constraints of near-optimality, is a measure of the importance of negotiation and of the impact of physical intuition. For example, if the problem is an allocation or planning problem and if the admissible near-optimal set is very tight, there is little room for political and institutional negotiation; on the other hand, if the plane of the objective is approximately parallel to the nearby surfaces of the convex polytope in the vicinity of the optimum, the slice might be quite long so that approximately equivalent solutions have vastly different characteristics, thereby promoting the importance of negotiation within that space. The implications of all of this, with respect to making predictions in the physical domain with which we engineers are concerned, is also discussed.
A Review on Public Participatory Urbanism

This review examines the predominant theoretical approaches of public participatory urbanism adopted for the transformative & cohesive development of the neighborhoods. The conceptual differences between three major theories i.e. Tactical Urbanism, Do It Yourself Urbanism and Insurgent Public Spaces under Guerilla Urbanism will be examined. It will also seek the archetypal planning scenario observed in planning process. The review will compare and contrast the ideological differences between the three approaches and it will conclude by finding important gaps & by recommending the probable solutions for the same.
Enhancing workability in sheet production of high silicon content electrical steel through large shear deformation

Abstract Enhanced workability, as characterized by the magnitude and heterogeneity of accommodated plastic strains during sheet processing, is demonstrated in high Si content Fe-Si alloys containing 4 and 6.5 wt% Si using two single-step, simple-shear deformation techniques – peeling and large strain extrusion machining (LSEM). The model Fe-Si material system was selected for its intrinsically poor material workability, and well-known applications potential in next-generation electric machines. In a comparative study of the deformation characteristics of the shear processes with conventional rolling, two distinct manifestations of workability are observed. For rolling, the relatively diffuse and unconfined deformation zone geometry leads to cracking at low strains, with sheet structures characterized by extensive deformation twinning and banding. Workpiece pre-heating is required to improve the workability in rolling. In contrast, peeling and LSEM produce continuous sheet at large plastic strains without cracking, the result of more confined deformation geometries that enhances the workability. Peeling, however, results in heterogeneous, shear-banded microstructures, pointing to a second type of workability issue – flow localization – that limits sheet processing. This shear banding is to a large extent facilitated by unrestricted flow at the sheet surface, unavoidable in peeling. With additional confinement of this free surface deformation and appropriately designed deformation zone geometry, LSEM is shown to suppress shear banding, resulting in continuous sheet with homogeneous microstructure. Thus LSEM is shown to produce the greatest enhancement in process workability for producing sheet. These workability findings are explained and discussed based on differences in process mechanics and deformation zone geometry.
Diffuse Loss of Vertebral Body Height and Marrow Changes in a 4-Year-Old with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Acute leukemia can present with a wide range of symptoms and with no classic osseous findings on radiographs. Recognizing subtle imaging abnormalities and raising the possibility of a lymphoproliferative or hematologic pathology may facilitate early diagnosis. Described here is a case of a 4-year-old with back pain that was found to have acute lymphoblastic leukemia with diffuse loss of vertebral body height on plain film radiographs, and with prominent discs, and diffusely abnormal marrow signal on magnetic resonance imaging.
Platforms for Advanced Wireless Research: Helping Define a New Edge Computing Paradigm

The Platforms for Advanced Wireless Research (PAWR) program [1] aims to enable experimental wireless communications research across devices, communication techniques, networks, systems, and services conceived by the US academic and industrial wireless research community and deployed in partnership with local communities. PAWR seeks to accelerate the wireless innovation ecosystem, thereby enhancing broadband connectivity; enabling the emerging Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing and heterogeneous wireless connectivity technologies. Each research platform conceived under the PAWR program will enable at-scale experimentation by supporting the geographic size, technical diversity, and user density representative of a small city/community. From chipmakers to networking companies to software companies to application developers to vertical technology providers and users, the industry is devoting significant efforts to "moving past science experiments" into developing use cases for edge computing technologies. This calls for fundamental rethinking of computing and networking architectures that can disrupt existing business models and reshape industry landscapes. This talk details the edge computing ecosystem developed by the first two platforms; COSMOS [2] and POWDER [3]. We present the system architecture and components from radio clients, transport X-Haul, near edge cloud, and core cloud to rapidly develop and test Use-cases such as IoT Security via Edge AI, Smart City and Machine Vision, AR/VR and Automotive Edge (safety, navigation, automation + infotainment) on PAWR Platforms.
Diaporthe gulyae: The New Pathogen on Common Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum)

A fungus associated with stem disease on common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) was shown to be pathogenic on this crop, with differences in reaction of buckwheat varieties to causal agent....
Utility of Context-Based Learning to Influence Teacher Understanding of Evolution and Genetics Concepts Related to Food Security Issues in East Africa

Utilizing methods from a current five-year, NSF-funded study, four instructional units involving the teaching and learning of genetics and evolution through context-based methods surrounding food security issues in Africa were developed and disseminated through teacher professional development. In these workshops, teacher participants learned to mimic the genetic mapping of the cassava plant by utilizing classroom exercises that demonstrate how scientists isolate DNA and determine sequencing of codons and the eventual mapping of genes and their expression of traits. The other three units focused on identifying mutation types and subsequent evolutionary changes that lead to diseases, utilizing gel electrophoresis to identify infected plants and genetic variation and utilizing scientific argumentation to propose long-term solutions involving gene therapy, GMOs and large-scale vector control. The teacher participants were assessed on their understanding of genetics and evolutionary concepts along with their beliefs and acceptance surrounding principles of biological evolution. Upon completion of professional development, the teachers participated in a focus group to determine if training had any impact on their understanding or acceptance of evolution and identify factors that influence teaching and learning of concepts related to evolution. Findings demonstrate that teachers in this study have deficiencies in content knowledge related to evolution and have mixed feelings as to their overall acceptance of key concepts in evolution. In contrast, the same participants exhibited strong content knowledge related to genetics and had little conflict with accepting the science related to the topic. Key outcomes of this work have the potential to inform and better prepare educators to teach and disseminate concepts concerning evolution and determine factors and variables that can affect teacher acceptance and teaching of evolution that can negatively impact learning outcomes of future students.
Survival benefit of accepting kidneys from older donation after cardiac death donors

Kidneys from older (age ≥50 years) donation after cardiac death (DCD50) donors are less likely to be transplanted due to inferior posttransplant outcomes. However, candidates who decline a DCD50 offer must wait for an uncertain future offer. To characterize the survival benefit of accepting DCD50 kidneys, we used 2010-2018 Scientific Registry for Transplant Recipients (SRTR) data to identify 92 081 adult kidney transplantation candidates who were offered a DCD50 kidney that was eventually accepted for transplantation. DCD50 kidneys offered to candidates increased from 590 in 2010 to 1441 in 2018. However, 34.6% of DCD50 kidneys were discarded. Candidates who accepted DCD50 offers had 49% decreased mortality risk (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.46 0.510.55 , cumulative mortality at 6-year 23.3% vs 34.0%, P < .001) compared with those who declined the same offer (decliners). Six years after their initial DCD50 offer decline, 43.0% of decliners received a deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT), 6.3% received living donor kidney transplant (LDKT), 22.6% died, 22.0% were removed for other reasons, and 6.0% were still on the waitlist. Comparable survival benefit was observed even with DCD donors age ≥60 (aHR: 0.42 0.520.65 , P < .001). Accepting DCD50 kidneys was associated with a substantial survival benefit; providers and patients should consider these benefits when evaluating offers.
Understanding sex-related differences in immune responses

Sex hormone–related changes in neutrophil responsiveness to interferons may underlie differences in immune responses.
Temporal trends in the incidence of post-dural puncture headache following labor neuraxial analgesia in the United States, 2006 to 2015.

Abstract Background Labor neuraxial analgesia utilization has increased in the United States (U.S.) but its impact on maternal safety is unknown. This study analyzed the temporal trends in the incidence of post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) in obstetrics. Methods Data for vaginal or intrapartum cesarean deliveries came from the National Inpatient Sample 2006–2015, a U.S. 20% representative sample of hospital discharge records. The outcome was PDPH (ICD-9-CM codes 349.0 and 03.95) categorized into (1) PDPH coded without epidural blood patch (EBP), and (2) PDPH coded with EBP. Temporal trends in incidence were described using the percent change between 2006 and 2015 and its 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Of the 29 011 472 deliveries studied, 86 558 (29.8 per 10 000; 95% CI: 29.3 to 30.2) recorded a diagnosis of PDPH, including 34 019 without EBP (11.7 per 10 000; 95% CI 11.4 to 12.0) and 52 539 with EBP (18.1 per 10 000; 95% CI 17.8 to 18.4). A significant decrease in the incidence of PDPH was observed from 31.5 per 10 000 in 2006 to 29.2 per 10 000 in 2015 (–7.5%; 95% CI −2.2 to −0.5; P=0.001). The decrease in the incidence of PDPH was significant irrespective of the presence of EBP. The decrease was observed in the three categories of hospitals examined (rural, urban non-teaching, and urban teaching). Conclusions During the study period, the reported incidence of PDPH in the U.S. has decreased modestly. Intervention programs are needed to address this persistent and preventable cause of maternal morbidity.
Postsynthetically Modified Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIMs) for Capturing Toxic Gases

Polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) are promising materials for gas adsorption because of their high surface area, processability, and tailorable backbone. Specifically, nitrile groups on the backbone of PIM-1, an archetypal PIM, can be converted to other functional groups to selectively capture targeted gas molecules. Despite these appealing features of PIMs, their potential has mainly only been realized for the separation of nontoxic gases. Here, we prepared PIM-1 materials modified with carboxylic acid and amidoxime functional groups and investigated their performance as adsorbents for the capture of ammonia (NH3) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) gases. After determining the Bronsted acidity or basicity of the PIMs from potentiometric acid-base titrations, which can be correlated with affinity for acidic or basic toxic gases, we explored the uptake capacity toward NH3 and SO2, respectively. Gas sorption studies revealed that the carboxylated PIM showed higher affinity toward NH3 through the incorporation of Bronsted acid sites, while the amidoxime functionalized PIM exhibited affinity toward SO2 through the installed of slightly basic functional groups. Overall, this study highlights new insight into PIMs as solid sorbent materials for capturing toxic gases, which can be transferred to their potential use in practical applications, such as personal protective equipment or air filtration.
Thoughts on Legal Writing from the Greatest of Them All: Toni Morrison

This article discusses how legal writers can benefit from Toni Morrison's writing suggestions.
Locality and professional life

The locality principle extends beyond computer memories. It teaches us something about being human.
Crowd-in Effect of Highway Capital on Private Investment in the United States:

This paper examines the impacts of public transportation infrastructure investment on private investment and whether public infrastructure investment tends to “crowd in” or “crowd out” private inve...
Load Regulation of Cardiac Muscle

The intent of this review is to discuss briefly the recent work, both in my laboratory and in the laboratories of my colleagues, which tends to suggest a primary role of hemodynamic load in the regulation of the structure, composition and function of adult mammalian myocardium. Taken as a whole, this body of work supports the concept that the initiation of normal cardiac growth and development, the maintenance of normal cardiac properties in the adult, and the transition from normal to abnormal heart muscle during sustained hemodynamic alterations are each directly related to the environment of systolic and diastolic stress and strain to which the cardiocytes comprising ventricular myocardium are exposed.
No wait health care for children

Many health care organizations have delivery systems that produce waiting and delays for children and their families. Families experience stress from having an ill child. That stress is compounded by delays in care. This article discusses the concept of removing waits for children and families seeking health care. No waits can be achieved by the following: 1. Understanding the person centered perspective around access to care. 2. Measuring and closing gaps in appointment supply-demand imbalances. 3. Adopting tools for continuous improvement. 4. Meeting family expectations and 5. Using modern technologies for communication with families.
An adaptive EM algorithm for NHPP software reliability models

Non-homogeneous Poisson process (NHPP) software reliability growth models (SRGM) enable several quantitative metrics that can be used to guide important decisions during the software engineering life cycle such as testing resource allocation and release planning. However, many of these SRGM possess complex mathematical forms that make them difficult to apply in practice because traditional statistical procedures such as maximum likelihood estimation must solve a system of non-linear equations to identify the numerical parameters that best characterize a set of failure data. Recently, researchers have made significant progress in overcoming this difficulty by developing an expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm that exhibits better convergence properties and can therefore find the maximum likelihood estimates of complex SRGM with greater ease. This EM algorithm, however, assumes that some model parameters are constant and thus the approach is not capable of identifying the set of numerical parameters that maximize the likelihood function. This paper presents an adaptive EM algorithm to identify the maximum likelihood estimates of all parameters of multiple NHPP SRGM with complex mathematical forms. We illustrate our enhanced algorithm through a series of examples. The results show that the algorithm can efficiently identify the set of numerical parameters that globally maximizes the likelihood function. Thus, the adaptive algorithm can significantly simplify the application of complex SRGM.