cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isotretinoin alters morphology, polarity, and motility of neural crest cells in culture.

Abstract Migrating neural crest cells (NCCs) contribute to a diverse array of vertebrate head and neck structures. Retinoids are proven human and animal teratogens. To elucidate isotretinoin’s effects, cranial and trunk neural folds were microdissected from chick embryos and cultured. Image analysis and immunostaining were used to quantitate cell behavior. We found that a higher proportion of Stage 8, 9, and 10 treated NCCs were rounded and clustered. Medians and means for cell area, perimeter, and elongation index were lower for treated cells from Stage 9 and 10 embryos, but not from Stage 8. Cumulative medians and means for changes in area and perimeter, and cell migration were similarly lower. Thus interference with the transitory basal activity of the cytoskeleton that adjusts and determines cell–substratum adhesion, spreading, elongation, and migration may be the mechanism by which isotretinoin acts on NCCs in slightly older embryos.
Evidence of mineral dust altering cloud microphysics and precipitation

Multi-platform and multi-sensor observations are employed to investigate the impact of mineral dust on cloud microphysical and precipitation processes in mesoscale con- vective systems. For a given convective strength, small hy- drometeors were more prevalent in the stratiform rain regions with dust than in those regions that were dust free. Evidence of abundant cloud ice particles in the dust sector, particu- larly at altitudes where heterogeneous nucleation of mineral dust prevails, further supports the observed changes of pre- cipitation. The consequences of the microphysical effects of the dust aerosols were to shift the precipitation size spectrum from heavy precipitation to light precipitation and ultimately suppressing precipitation.
Crystal Structure of a Thermophilic Alcohol Dehydrogenase Substrate Complex Suggests Determinants of Substrate Specificity and Thermostability

The crystal structure of a thermo- philic alcohol dehydrogenase (TBAD) from Thermo- anaerobacter brockii has been determined in a bi- nary complex with sec-butanol as substrate to a resolution of 3.0 A ˚ . Van der Waals interactions of the carbon C1 atom of sec-butanol with atoms in His59, Ala85, Trp110, Asp150, and Leu294 account for the substrate preference of this enzyme for secondary over primary alcohols. A crevice from the surface to the active site provides access for substrates and products. This opening is lined with the hydropho- bic residues Ile49, Leu107, Trp110, Tyr267, Leu294 as well as Cys283 and Met285 from another molecule within the tetrameric assembly. This might explain the tolerance of this enzyme toward organic sol- vents. The zinc ion occupies a position in the active site, which is too remote for direct interaction with the alcohol group. A mechanism is suggested whereby the introduction of NADP would trigger a displacement of the zinc ion to its catalytic site. Features important for the unusually high melting temperature of 98°C are suggested by comparison to the crystal structure of a highly homologous meso- philic alcohol dehydrogenase from Clostridium bei- jerinckii (CBAD). The thermophilic enzyme has a more hydrophilic exterior, a more hydrophobic inte- rior, a smaller surface area, more prolines, alanines, and fewer serines than CBAD. Furthermore, in the thermophilic enzyme the number of all types of intersubunit interactions in these tetrameric en- zymes is increased: more salt bridges, hydrogen bonds, and hydrophobic interactions. All these ef- fects combined can account for the higher melting temperature of the thermophilic enzyme. Proteins 1999;37:619-627. r 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Focal Plane Array Receiver for Deep-Space Communication

Typical ground antennas intended for use in space communication require large apertures operating at high frequencies. The challenges involved with these applications include achieving the required antenna performance in terms of antenna aperture efficiency and pointing accuracy. The utilization of a focal plane array in place of a standard single mode feed minimizes these problems. This paper discusses the key elements required to implement a focal plane array on a large high frequency antenna. It is shown that adaptive "least mean-square" (LMS) algorithms applied to the output of the array elements obtain the optimum combining weights in realtime, even in the presence of dynamic interference such as nearby spacecraft in array's field-of-view, or planetary radiation. This adaptive optimization capability maximizes the combined output SNR in real time, ensuring maximum data throughput in the communications link when operating in the presence of receiver noise and external interference generally present during planetary encounters.
Fuzzy Logic Based Resource Manager for a Team of UAVs

A fuzzy logic resource allocation algorithm that enables a collection of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to automatically cooperate to make meteorological measurements will be discussed. Once in flight no human intervention is required. Planning and real-time control algorithms determine the optimal trajectory and points each UAV will sample, while taking into account the UAVs' risk, risk tolerance, reliability, mission priority, fuel limitations, mission cost, and related uncertainties. The approach is illustrated by a discussion of the fuzzy decision tree for UAV path assignment and related simulation. Simulations also show the ability of the control algorithm to allow UAVs to effectively cooperate to increase the UAV team's likelihood of success.
Specificity of Heavy Work Fatigue: Absence of Transfer from Heavy Leg Work to Coordination Tasks Using the Arms

Abstract Seventy university male undergraduates were given a series of motor coordination tests, and retested after an interval of 10 minutes. Half of the group rested during the 10 min. (control); the other half engaged in heavy muscular work to induce fatigue (600 step-ups on an 18-in. bench). It was expected that the fatigue would transfer to and impair motor coordination. Scores of the experimental and control groups were almost identical on the test before interpolated rest or exercise. They were also very nearly the same on the retest; in fact, the experimental (fatigued) groups did slightly but not significantly better than the controls. The interpolated heavy work did produce considerable fatigue, since the rate of work dropped off progressively during the 10 min. of exercise (F = 7.9 compared with 1.9 required for the .05 level of significance). However, this fatigue did not transfer to or impair reaction time or performance in the free-turning rho task, the friction rho task, or the pursuit roto...
Explaining the Growth in US Health Care Spending Using State-Level Variation in Income, Insurance, and Provider Market Dynamics.

The slowed growth in national health care spending over the past decade has led analysts to question the extent to which this recent slowdown can be explained by predictable factors such as the Gre...
The role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on the induction of ovulation in the immature rat.

To determine whether ovulation can be induced in the immature rat with exogenous FSH in the absence of LH 103 intact or hypophysectomized 26-day-old female rats were administered ovine FSH in doses ranging from 50-400 mcg daily by sc injection. An ovulatory dose of FSH at the same range was injected iv 56 hours after the first injection. 10 hypophysectomized rats were administered 400 mcg of LH-free FSH in a similar manner. Oviducts were examined when the rats were 30 days old for the number of ova present. A total dose of 1.6 mg FSH induced ovulation in both intact and hypophysectomized rats but LH-free FSH induced ovulation in only 3 of the 10 rats. Ovarian weights were not significantly affected by FSH administration in any rats. When LH-free FSH was administered progesterone appeared to be nearly totally lacking in the uterine environment. It is concluded that LH-free FSH is capable of inducing maturation of follicles and corresponding ovulation in immature rats though not to the same extent as when a combination of both hormones is used.
Is the Bright Line Between Agency and Corporate Debt Dim

Investors and regulators often treat agency and Treasury debt as substitutes. To evaluate the extent to which this is appropriate, we study the portion of offering yield spreads over Treasury yields not explained by standard issue and issuer characteristics for Government Sponsored Enterprise (GSE) and financial corporation debt floated during 1994-2004. GSE and corporate residual yield spreads strongly correlate, appear to reflect macroeconomic risk, and respond similarly during the Long Term Capital Management Crisis. Agency debt is surprisingly comparable to corporate debt in its response to macroeconomic risk and, on this dimension, is not a good substitute for Treasury debt.
Assessment of Beetle and Bug Diversity in Extensively Managed Cattle Farms of Varying Cattle Density, Sward Height, and Surrounding Land Use

Livestock that is extensively managed can have higher diversity and abundance of insects in comparison to intensively managed livestock, although data are more equivocal within a gradient of extensively managed pastures. Additionally, biodiversity on farms is vulnerable to degradation of the surrounding landscape and changing patterns of land use. We monitored Coleoptera and Hemiptera on grass-fed cattle farms in North Carolina to determine effects of cattle and land use patterns on biodiversity. We found differences among farms in sward height, densities of several insect families and insect diversity that were related to management but not to cattle density. Sward height was more strongly related to the insect community than surrounding land cover patterns. However, both sward height and land cover patterns were related to insect diversity patterns, suggesting that maintenance of biodiversity is not solely affected by agricultural practices on farms.
Role of Salt in the Spontaneous Assembly of Charged Gold Nanoparticles in Ethanol

This paper investigates the role of salt in the spontaneous linear assembly of charged gold nanoparticles in ethanol and attempts to clear up a misunderstanding on the role of ethanol in this process. Many prior reports have noted that the addition of ethanol to an aqueous solution of gold nanoparticles causes their aggregation into linear assemblies. It was therefore believed that ethanol plays the determining role during the assembly process. In this work, we carried out systematic studies which indicate that residual salt in conjunction with ethanol, instead of ethanol itself, induces the assembly of gold nanoparticles in ethanol. In the absence of salt, gold nanoparticles can be well dispersed in an ethanol solution. Furthermore, we find that the chainlike assemblies can disassemble upon dilution of the salt or the evaporation of ethanol if the gold nanoparticles are protected with a sufficiently strong ligand.
Leptotrombidium (L.) Langati (Audy & Womersley), A Synonym of Leptotrombidium (L.) Bodense (Gunther), (Acarina, Trombiculidae)

Leptotrombiduim (Leptotrombidium) langati (Audy & Womersley 1957) is synonymized with L. (L.) bodense (Gunther 1940). A study of the type specimens and other Malaysian material collected subsequently from a variety of animals and from the ground show that they are the same species. L. (L.) bodense is fully redescribed and illustrated. A prominently elongated sclerite of coxa I is a spot character for separating L. bodense from L. deliense , a closely related species.
Origin of overstretching transitions in single-stranded nucleic acids

We combined single-molecule force spectroscopy with nuclear magnetic resonance measurements and molecular mechanics simulations to examine overstretching transitions in single-stranded nucleic acids. In single-stranded DNA and single-stranded RNA there is a low-force transition that involves unwinding of the helical structure, along with base unstacking. We determined that the high-force transition that occurs in polydeoxyadenylic acid single-stranded DNA is caused by the cooperative forced flipping of the dihedral angle formed between four atoms, O5'-C5'-C4'-C3' (γ torsion), in the nucleic acid backbone within the canonical B-type helix. The γ torsion also flips under force in A-type helices, where the helix is shorter and wider as compared to the B-type helix, but this transition is less cooperative than in the B type and does not generate a high-force plateau in the force spectrums of A-type helices. We find that a similar high-force transition can be induced in polyadenylic acid single-stranded RNA by urea, presumably due to disrupting the intramolecular hydrogen bonding in the backbone. We hypothesize that a pronounced high-force transition observed for B-type helices of double stranded DNA also involves a cooperative flip of the γ torsion. These observations suggest new fundamental relationships between the canonical structures of single-and double-stranded DNA and the mechanism of their molecular elasticity.
Variability of Ratings in the Otolaryngology Standardized Letter of Recommendation.

ObjectiveTo determine the variability of ratings given to students on the otolaryngology standardized letter of recommendation (SLOR).Study DesignRetrospective review.SettingAcademic otolaryngology...
Quality monitoring and effect evaluation of BCG vaccination in neonatus

[Objective]To understand the vaccination quality,relationship between scar size and PPD seroconversion,and adverse reaction of BCG vaccination in neonatus.[Methods]The tuberculin(PPD) detection was conducted in 1711 neonatus who have received the BCG vaccination in Shenhe District during 2009-2011,to determine the conversion rate.The scar size was tested,and the adverse reaction of BCG vaccination was monitored.[Results]The PPD seroconversion rate reached 99.35%,which the strong positive rate accounted for 15.60%.By the paired χ2 test,the difference in positive scar(4 mm) and positive results of PPD test in 936 cases was significant(χ2=758.05,P0.01).2 cases had the adverse reaction of BCG vaccination.[Conclusion]The success rate of BCG vaccination in neonatus in Shenhe District has achieved the standard(over 90%).It is recommended to carry out the tracing observation among children with strong positive results.The scar size cannot replace the PPD test in evaluating the effect of BCG vaccination.In order to reduce the adverse reaction of BCG vaccination,it is necessary to improve the inoculation technique of medical personnel,and strengthen the health education.
Voices of Women Facing HIV-Related Stigma in the Deep South

One in 139 women will be diagnosed with HIV in their lifetime. Thirty-four years into the epidemic, stigma remains part of the trajectory of the disease process for all individuals with HIV. Stigma associated with HIV makes it difficult for women to access HIV testing and counseling, disclose HIV status to sexual partners and health care providers, seek and remain actively engaged in medical care, effectively self-manage the disease after diagnosis, and adhere to antiretroviral therapy. The current article reports the qualitative results from a study designed to test the feasibility and acceptability of a technologically delivered stigma intervention for women with HIV in the Southeastern United States. Qualitative analysis revealed women with HIV uniformly experience, anticipate, and/or internalize stigma associated with HIV. Consequently, women with HIV experience isolation and a threat to self-concept as they make decisions about disclosure, work to maintain the secrecy of their HIV status, and contemplate a future.
Probing Structure of Cross-Linked (1 × 2) Rutile TiO2(110): Adsorption of Trimethyl Acetic Acid

Cross-linked (1 × 2) rutile TiO2(110) has been extensively studied, yet the exact atomistic model remains a point of contention. Employing a carboxylic acid as a probing molecule, we studied the structure of cross-linked (1 × 2) TiO2(110) through the interaction of trimethyl acetic acid (TMAA) with various sites on the surfaces using in situ scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). The comparison of the same area before and after various exposures to TMAA reveals three distinctive adsorption sites: in trough between two adjacent strands, on cross-link, and strand. Trough and cross-link are more preferable adsorption sites than strand. Unlike the surface of (1 × 1) TiO2(110) where TMAA dissociates and deprotonated trimethyl acetate (TMA) is strongly chemisorbed, TMAA diffuses along troughs on (1 × 2) reconstructed TiO2(110) at low coverages suggesting that TMAA adsorbs molecularly in troughs. At higher coverages, additional TMAA molecules adsorb on strands in both centered and off-centered configurations. We c...
Effect of projectile nose geometry on the critical velocity and failure of yarn subjected to transverse impact

Three different types of yarn have been subjected to transverse impact experiments in efforts to gain an understanding of local yarn failure and to provide input parameters for future transverse ya...
WoyUbu: Experiments with video-gaming in live theatre

We discuss the development of WoyUbu, an intermedia theatrical performance. The mixing of media and theatre can take many forms. In this paper, we specifically explore the use of video-games within a play, to expand audience involvement with the drama, while still aiming to present a traditional, scripted storyline.
Variability of segment coordination using a vector coding technique: Reliability analysis for treadmill walking and running

Coordination variability (CV) quantifies the variety of movement patterns an individual uses during a task and may provide a measure of the flexibility of that individual's motor system. While there is growing popularity of segment CV as a marker of motor system health or adaptability, it is not known how many strides of data are needed to reliably calculate CV. This study aimed to determine the number of strides needed to reliably calculate CV in treadmill walking and running, and to compare CV between walking and running in a healthy population. Ten healthy young adults walked and ran at preferred speeds on a treadmill and a modified vector coding technique was used to calculate CV for the following segment couples: pelvis frontal plane vs. thigh frontal plane, thigh sagittal plane vs. shank sagittal plane, thigh sagittal plane vs. shank transverse plane, and shank transverse plane vs. rearfoot frontal plane. CV for each coupling of interest was calculated for 2-15 strides for each participant and gait type. Mean CV was calculated across the entire gait cycle and, separately, for 4 phases of the gait cycle. For running and walking 8 and 10 strides, respectively, were sufficient to obtain a reliable CV estimate. CV was significantly different between walking and running for the thigh vs. shank couple comparisons. These results suggest that 10 strides of treadmill data are needed to reliably calculate CV for walking and running. Additionally, the differences in CV between walking and running suggest that the role of knee (i.e., inter-thigh- shank) control may differ between these forms of locomotion.
Spiritual and Relational Formation: How Contemplative Prayer and Psychodynamic Therapy Enhance Loving God and Others

Spiritual formation practices are not formulaic, self-help strategies for spiritual growth. They can, however, enhance our ability to fulfill the two most important commandments: to love God and to love others. Contemplative prayer is silent prayer in which one simply enjoys the presence of God. One outcome of this discipline is learning to love God for his own sake and not just for his gifts. Psychodynamic therapy can likewise enrich love for God and others. Among all of the therapeutic models, psychodynamic therapy most distinctly emphasizes relationships and even uses here-and-now interactions between therapist and client to effect change. For the Christian, contemplative prayer and psychodynamic therapy share the chief goal of loving God and others with a whole and undefended heart.
Adriamycin Alone and in Combination in the Treatment of Childhood Neoplastic Diseases

Clinical studies of adriamyein were begun at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, in May 1969. On the basis of preclinical data, and our previous experience with daunomycin, which guided doses for early trials, gradually the therapeutic dose of adriamyein was established.2,3
Compliant contact versus rigid contact: A comparison in the context of granular dynamics.

We summarize and numerically compare two approaches for modeling and simulating the dynamics of dry granular matter. The first one, the discrete-element method via penalty (DEM-P), is commonly used in the soft matter physics and geomechanics communities; it can be traced back to the work of Cundall and Strack [P. Cundall, Proc. Symp. ISRM, Nancy, France 1, 129 (1971); P. Cundall and O. Strack, Geotechnique 29, 47 (1979)]. The second approach, the discrete-element method via complementarity (DEM-C), considers the grains perfectly rigid and enforces nonpenetration via complementarity conditions; it is commonly used in robotics and computer graphics applications and had two strong promoters in Moreau and Jean [J. J. Moreau, in Nonsmooth Mechanics and Applications, edited by J. J. Moreau and P. D. Panagiotopoulos (Springer, Berlin, 1988), pp. 1--82; J. J. Moreau and M. Jean, Proceedings of the Third Biennial Joint Conference on Engineering Systems and Analysis, Montpellier, France, 1996, pp. 201--208]. The DEM-P and DEM-C are manifestly unlike each other: They use different (i) approaches to model the frictional contact problem, (ii) sets of model parameters to capture the physics of interest, and (iii) classes of numerical methods to solve the differential equations that govern the dynamics of the granular material. Herein, we report numerical results for five experiments: shock wave propagation, cone penetration, direct shear, triaxial loading, and hopper flow, which we use to compare the DEM-P and DEM-C solutions. This exercise helps us reach two conclusions. First, both the DEM-P and DEM-C are predictive, i.e., they predict well the macroscale emergent behavior by capturing the dynamics at the microscale. Second, there are classes of problems for which one of the methods has an advantage. Unlike the DEM-P, the DEM-C cannot capture shock-wave propagation through granular media. However, the DEM-C is proficient at handling arbitrary grain geometries and solves, at large integration step sizes, smaller problems, i.e., containing thousands of elements, very effectively. The DEM-P vs DEM-C comparison is carried out using a public-domain, open-source software package; the models used are available online.
Effect of Time to Operation on Value of Care in Acute Care Surgery

As reimbursement models evolve, there is increasing emphasis on maximizing value-based care for inpatient conditions. We hypothesized that longer intervals between admission and surgery would be associated with worse outcomes and increased costs for acute care surgery patients, and that these associations would be strongest among patients with high-risk conditions. We performed a 5-year retrospective analysis of three risk cohorts: appendectomy (low-risk for morbidity and mortality, n = 618), urgent hernia repair (intermediate-risk, n = 80), and laparotomy for intra-abdominal sepsis with temporary abdominal closure (sTAC; high-risk, n = 102). Associations between the interval from admission to surgery and outcomes including infectious complications, mortality, length of stay, and hospital charges were assessed by regression modeling. Median intervals between admission and surgery for appendectomy, hernia repair, and sTAC were 9.3, 13.5, and 8.1 h, respectively, and did not significantly impact infectious complications or mortality. For appendectomy, each 1 h increase from admission to surgery was associated with increased hospital LOS by 1.1 h (p = 0.002) and increased intensive care unit (ICU) LOS by 0.3 h (p = 0.011). For hernia repair, each 1 h increase from admission to surgery was associated with increased antibiotic duration by 1.6 h (p = 0.007), increased hospital LOS by 3.3 h (p = 0.002), increased ICU LOS by 1.5 h (p = 0.001), and increased hospital charges by $1918 (p < 0.001). For sTAC, each 1 h increase from admission to surgery was associated with increased antibiotic duration by 5.0 h (p = 0.006), increased hospital LOS by 3.9 h (p = 0.046), increased ICU LOS by 3.5 h (p = 0.040), and increased hospital charges by $3919 (p = 0.002). Longer intervals from admission to surgery were associated with prolonged antibiotic administration, longer hospital and ICU length of stay, and increased hospital charges, with strongest effects among high-risk patients. To improve value of care for acute care surgery patients, operations should proceed as soon as resuscitation is complete.
Sex-Specific Outcomes After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: FDA Patient-Level Meta-Analysis of Premarket Clinical Trials

Abstract Background: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a less invasive alternative approach to surgery. Individual randomized clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of TAVR were mostly underpowered for conducting separate analyses for women and men. We pooled data from premarket TAVR clinical trials comparing short (30 days)- and long-term (∼2 years) outcomes by sex. Methods: Patient-level data from the TAVR arms of six clinical trials were pooled (2515 patients). Random-effects models for time-to-event outcomes (odds ratios [ORs] for 30-day outcomes and hazard ratios [HRs] for complete follow-up for mortality, ischemic stroke, kidney injury, major bleeding, myocardial infarction, and device migration) and dichotomous outcomes (ORs for reintervention, rehospitalization, and pacemaker implantation) were then fit to directly compare outcomes between women and men. Results: Overall, the pattern of individual comorbidities was more severe in men. There was no difference in mortality...
A case of recurrent hypotony and choroidal effusion in a patient with previous filtration surgery.

Abstract Purpose To report a case of recurrent hypotony and choroidal effusion following trabeculectomy. Observations: A 70 year old male with advanced pseudoexfoliation glaucoma in both eyes underwent trabeculectomy in the left eye. Initially intraocular pressure (IOP) was controlled without topical therapy, but dorzolamide-timolol and brimonidine were added when IOP elevated above target. Aqueous suppressant glaucoma medications were thought to cause three episodes of hypotony resolving with discontinuation of these medications. Conclusions and Importance: Although hypotony and choroidal detachment associated with the use of aqueous suppressants is rare, it should be considered in patients with hypotony of unclear etiology following a glaucoma filtering procedure. Aqueous suppressants should be discontinued and it is recommended that the glaucoma drop regimen be switched to non-aqueous suppressants in patients with these findings.
Nitrification in Chloraminated Drinking Water Distribution Systems: Factors Affecting Occurrence

Drinking water distribution systems with ammonia present from either naturally occurring ammonia or ammonia addition during chloramination are at risk for nitrification. Nitrification in drinking water distribution systems is undesirable and may result in water quality degradation and subsequent noncompliance with existing regulations. Therefore, nitrification control is necessary to maintain water quality in drinking water systems when free ammonia is present. The fundamental processes affecting nitrification occurrence in distribution systems are discussed: (1) chloramine chemistry, (2) nitrifier growth kinetics, and (3) monochloramine inactivation kinetics along with a summary of nitrification monitoring and responses typically implemented at drinking water utilities.
Thermomechanical behavior of aerospace-grade RTV (silicone adhesive)

Abstract Measurements of mechanical properties of the commercial polysiloxane RTV 566 were conducted over a range of temperatures, with particular focus on characterizing isothermal behavior at reduced temperatures to reveal possible evidence of crystallization in this material. Conventional testing was performed using typical temperature sweeps to measure elastic flexural and tensile moduli, and thermal expansion coefficients with and without volumetric constraint. The glass transition temperature was determined to be about −115 °C. Measurements of the tensile moduli of RTV 566 specimens were also conducted under isothermal conditions at reduced temperatures. After exposure to temperatures below −75 °C for several hours, tensile moduli rose by as much as a factor of 40. Volumetric shrinkage of 0.35% was demonstrated after 50 h under isothermal condition at −80 °C. These measurements demonstrate previously unpublished manifestations of crystallization occurring in this material, which is based upon a polydimethylsiloxane with phenyl substituents for some of the methyl groups.
Simultaneous NODDI and GFA parameter map generation from subsampled q-space imaging using deep learning.

Purpose To develop a robust multidimensional deep-learning based method to simultaneously generate accurate neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) and generalized fractional anisotropy (GFA) parameter maps from undersampled q-space datasets for use in stroke imaging. Methods Traditional diffusion spectrum imaging (DSI) capable of producing accurate NODDI and GFA parameter maps requires hundreds of q-space samples which renders the scan time clinically untenable. A convolutional neural network (CNN) was trained to generated NODDI and GFA parameter maps simultaneously from 10× undersampled q-space data. A total of 48 DSI scans from 15 stroke patients and 14 normal subjects were acquired for training, validating, and testing this method. The proposed network was compared to previously proposed voxel-wise machine learning based approaches for q-space imaging. Network-generated images were used to predict stroke functional outcome measures. Results The proposed network achieves significant performance advantages compared to previously proposed machine learning approaches, showing significant improvements across image quality metrics. Generating these parameter maps using CNNs also comes with the computational benefits of only needing to generate and train a single network instead of multiple networks for each parameter type. Post-stroke outcome prediction metrics do not appreciably change when using images generated from this proposed technique. Over three test participants, the predicted stroke functional outcome scores were within 1-6% of the clinical evaluations. Conclusions Estimates of NODDI and GFA parameters estimated simultaneously with a deep learning network from highly undersampled q-space data were improved compared to other state-of-the-art methods providing a 10-fold reduction scan time compared to conventional methods.
Ouroboros: Heterocycles closed by dative σ bonds and stabilized by π delocalization

Abstract Heteroarenes such as (aza and oxa)borines are increasingly important as synthetic targets and reagents. We map the intramolecular cyclization of saturated heterocyclic chains through dative bonding. A related set of planar unsaturated aza-, oxa-, and fluora-rings that feature dative σ bonding enhanced by π delocalization are identified. The systems have, in general, the formulae A′(CH2)mD′ and A′(CH)mD′, where m = 3 and 4, and A′ and D′ are acceptor and donor sites, respectively. In each case, the ring isomers, achievable via A′←D' internal coordination (in the manner of Kekule’s ouroboros), are more stable than chains. Unsaturated aromatic rings examined herein include a oxadiborine with a hypervalent oxygen center and a dioxadiborine. They are isoelectronic with an azaborine, which was synthesized more recently, and benzene.
A Predictive Model for Force-Sensing Resistor Nonlinearity for Pressure Measurement in a Wearable Wireless Sensor Patch

Implementation of a Pressure Ulcer Prevention System would prevent pressure ulcers, ease workload on caregivers, enabling patient treatment and monitoring outside a hospital setting, and reduce health care costs. Accurate measurement of pressure is an important criteria in order to achieve the above said goals. A challenge associated with using Force-Sensing Resistors (FSRs) as a pressure sensor is the part-to-part variability of up to ±25%. This paper presents a novel modeling technique for correcting force sensor nonidealities, without requirement of prior knowledge of material parameters, and enabling measurement accuracies of ±2% over a pressure range of 1N to 5N.
A Group Visit for High-Risk Pediatric Asthma Patients: A Quality Improvement Initiative to Improve Asthma Care:

Introduction. Asthma disproportionately affects poor and minority children. Limited parental knowledge and confidence in asthma management, as well as stress from chronic illness, may contribute to...
‘BETWEEN EDUCATION AND CATASTROPHE’: CÔTE D'IVOIRE'S PROGRAMME D'ÉDUCATION TÉLÉVISUELLE AND THE URGENCY OF DEVELOPMENT (1968–1983)

Cote d'Ivoire's Programme d'Education Televisuelle (PETV) was one of postcolonial Africa's most innovative educational reforms. And yet, PETV was implemented by a country exemplary for its educational conservatism. This apparent paradox is explained by the Ivorian state's developmentalist vision had crowned education its ‘priority of priorities‘. By charting the adoption and termination of PETV, this article argues for the centrality of formal schooling to the history of development.
Projected Changes to Extreme Runoff and Precipitation Events From a Downscaled Simulation Over the Western United States

Extreme precipitation and runoff events, which often impact natural and social systems more than mean changes, generally occur over regional scales. Future climate projections can be used to estimate how the hydrologic cycle may change, but the coarse resolution of global climate models (>1°) makes it difficult to evaluate regional changes, such as over a single watershed. To estimate changes in hydroclimatic variables at finer spatial resolutions, we dynamically downscale the Community Earth System Model (CESM) with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) regional climate model over the western United States at 9 km spatial resolution. By running WRF at a higher spatial resolution, we estimate future climate conditions, including 99% and 99.9% event magnitude, over seventeen watersheds: the Columbia, Lower Colorado, Upper Colorado, the Upper Missouri/Yellowstone, and twelve basins draining the western slope of the Sierra Nevada in California. Over each basin, we compare a historical period (1996-2005) with mid-century (2041-2050) and end-century (2091-2100). From the WRF/CESM simulations, most basins are projected to have earlier peaks in springtime streamflow. The Columbia and the Lower Colorado watersheds are both expected to experience more extreme wet days, with the 99th percentile of daily precipitation estimated to increase by over 10%. For the Upper Colorado, however, the 99th percentile of daily runoff is projected to decrease by over 30%. Basins in the northern and central Sierra Nevada are projected to have substantial increases in extreme runoff, with doubling of high flow event magnitude possible for some basins. By end-century, the contribution of high-magnitude runoff (>90th percentile) to total runoff is projected to increase from 46% to 56%, when averaged across all twelve Sierra Nevada basins. Though only one realization from a single global climate model, the downscaled simulation presented here shows interesting results regarding how extreme events may change; these results can be tested by downscaling other global models with WRF to create an ensemble of dynamically downscaled future projections.
The effects of electoral anticipation on portfolio allocation

Whereas much of the existing literature on coalition formation has focused on the disparity between Gamsonian payoffs and the outcomes of bargaining models, dangers of ministerial drift, party idea...
Exercise Echocardiography as a Screening Tool in Systemic Sclerosis.

In this issue of The Journal , Quinn, et al describe the utility of exercise echocardiography (EE) in the identification of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) deemed high risk for the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)1. In a single-center observational study, the authors demonstrated that a significantly higher percentage of SSc patients with a persistently positive EE, as defined by an increase in right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) ≥ 20 mmHg with exercise, subsequently developed pulmonary hypertension (PH) compared with those who had persistently negative EE. The majority of patients with a baseline positive EE were found to have a persistently positive EE over time. However, interestingly, a proportion of those patients did not develop resting PAH. Similarly, 3 patients with baseline negative EE developed PAH shortly after initial testing, possibly representing a false-negative result. Because invasive hemodynamics with right heart catheterization (RHC) was not performed unless clinically indicated and was also performed up to 6 months following EE, it is difficult to ascertain the meaning of the present findings. Certainly, other SSc-specific features or biomarkers of increased risk in combination with positive EE need to be identified; however, lack of standardization in annual testing limits identification in this present study. In contrast, a negative EE may be helpful in identifying a group protected from developing PH in the future. This finding, if confirmed in larger studies, could lead to improved early detection strategies for patients with SSc at highest risk for development of PAH, and potentially other at-risk populations with connective tissue disease. The current study is an extension of an original 2008 manuscript, also by Steen, et al , in which SSc patients at risk for PAH underwent EE to determine whether … Address correspondence to Dr. M. Mukherjee, Johns Hopkins University Division of Cardiology, 301 Mason Lord Drive, Suite 2400, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA. E-mail: mmukher2{at}jhmi.edu
Developing Quality Programs for Cell-Free DNA (cfDNA) Extraction from Peripheral Blood.

Background Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) analysis using peripheral blood represents an exciting, minimally invasive technology for cancer diagnosis and monitoring. The reliability of testing is dependent on the accuracy and sensitivity of specific molecular analyses to detect tumor-associated genomic variants and on the quantity and quality of cfDNA available for testing. Specific guidelines for standardization and design of appropriate quality programs focused specifically on cfDNA isolation are lacking, as are standardized quality control reagents. Content This report describes and illustrates quality control and quality assurance processes, supported by generation of in-house quality control material, to ensure the reliability of the preanalytical phase of cfDNA analysis. Summary We have developed a robust quality program to support high-volume automated cfDNA extraction from peripheral blood by implementing processes and procedures designed to monitor the adequacy of specimen collection, specimen stability, efficiency of cfDNA extraction, and cfDNA quality.
Local Effects of Two Intravenous Formulations of Pulmonary Vasodilators on Airway Epithelium

BACKGROUND: Intravenous formulations of epoprostenol are frequently delivered via nebulizer to treat pulmonary hypertension in acutely ill patients. Although their efficacy as pulmonary vasodilators has been shown to be comparable to inhaled nitric oxide, the local effects of these formulations within the airways have not been determined. We hypothesized that the alkaline diluents of these compounds would lead to increased airway epithelial cell death and ciliary cessation. METHODS: Human bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to epoprostenol in glycine and arginine diluents or control fluid. Ciliary beat frequency, lactate dehydrogenase, and total RNA levels were measured before and after exposure. Results were compared between exposure and control groups. RESULTS: Ciliary beat frequency ceased immediately after exposure to epoprostenol with both diluents. Lactate dehydrogenase levels increased by 200% after exposure to epoprostenol and glycine diluent (P = .002). Total RNA levels were undetectable after exposure to epoprostenol and arginine, indicating complete cell death and lysis (P = .015). Ciliary beat frequency ceased after 30 s of exposure to epoprostenol and glycine (P = .008). There was no difference between cells exposed to epoprostenol and those exposed only to diluent. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to intravenous formulations of epoprostenol in glycine and arginine caused increased cell death and ciliary cessation in bronchial epithelial cells. These findings suggest that undesired local effects may occur when these compounds are delivered as inhaled aerosols to patients.
Sex Differences in CMV Replication and HIV Persistence During Suppressive ART.

Author(s): Gianella, Sara; Tran, Sarah McDonald; Morris, Sheldon; Vargas, Millie; Porrachia, Magali; Oliveira, Michelli F; Lada, Steve; Zhao, Mitchell; Ellsworth, Grant B; Mathad, Jyoti S; Wilkin, Timothy | Abstract: BackgroundThe association between subclinical cytomegalovirus (CMV) replication and HIV persistence has not been investigated in cis-gender women with HIV.MethodsFifty virologically suppressed female participants with HIV were prospectively enrolled and provided oral, vaginal, and urine samples and peripheral blood mononuclear cells at 1 cross-sectional time point. CMV DNA was quantified in each specimen by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Cellular HIV DNA and HIV RNA transcripts (unspliced and multiply spliced [ms] encoding tat-rev) were quantified by droplet digital (dd) PCR in peripheral blood cells. Forty-nine male individuals with HIV and CMV (historical data) were used as controls.ResultsLevels of cellular HIV DNA and unspliced HIV RNA were not different between sexes, but female participants had less detectable msHIV RNA and CMV DNA compared with males (both P l .01). Unlike previously described for males, the presence of CMV DNA was not associated with increased HIV DNA in females. Among female participants, premenopausal status was independently associated with lower HIV DNA compared with postmenopause, after adjusting for nadir CD4 count (P l .01).ConclusionsFemale participants with HIV had reduced cellular HIV RNA and less subclinical CMV DNA compared with males but overall similar HIV DNA levels in our study. Postmenopausal status was independently associated with higher HIV DNA levels among female participants.
Evolution of solid electrolyte interphase and active material in the silicon wafer model system

Abstract Alloying anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, such as silicon (Si), are an important focus of materials research due to the demand for increased energy density for electric vehicles and stationary grid storage. However, progress towards next generation anode materials has been hindered by poor capacity retention due to the instability of the Si active material and the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). In this work, the evolution of the active Si material and the SEI are simultaneously investigated from the perspective of chemical, structural, morphological, and electronic evolution in the Si wafer model system through its cycling life, using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning spreading resistance microscopy (SSRM). The results illustrate a dynamic evolution of the SEI and active Si material through cycling. Through an improved understanding of evolution of SEI and Si active material within the Si wafer model system, mitigation strategies may be designed to extend the lifetime of Si anodes.
The Supermoduli Space of Genus Zero SUSY curves with Ramond Punctures

University of Minnesota Ph.D. dissertation. August 2020. Major: Mathematics. Advisor: Alexander Voronov. 1 computer file (PDF); 82 pages.
Addressing Well-being, Burnout, and Professional Fulfillment in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Trainees During the COVID-19 Pandemic Through Implementation of a Virtual Balint-Like Group: a Pilot Study.

Physicians, including psychiatrists and psychiatry trainees, are at higher risk of burnout compared to the average working population. The COVID-19 pandemic heightens this risk. This pilot aims to enhance professional fulfillment and support while decreasing risk and prevalence of burnout in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (CAP) trainees through virtual delivery of a Balint-like group incorporating brief emotional awareness modules. Six CAP trainees participated. Eight 60-min sessions held every 2 weeks were co-facilitated by a psychologist and psychiatrist who developed the curricular content. Five of the eight semi-structured sessions combined a brief emotional awareness enhancing module with a Balint-based approach to case review. The authors assessed trainee well-being, professional fulfillment, and sense of professional support pre- and post-intervention with the Well-being Index (WBI), Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index (PFI), and the authors’ own supplemental survey. Descriptive statistics were reported. Trainees found the curriculum feasible and useful. Surveys showed a reduction in burnout from three to zero participants (p = 0.03) and specific improvements in enthusiasm (p = 0.013), empathy with colleagues (p = 0.093), and connectedness with colleagues (p = 0.007) and patients (p = 0.042) at work. There were also improvements in happiness (p = 0.042) and valued contributions at work (p = 0.004). A novel well-being curriculum focused on combining brief emotional awareness enhancing modules with a Balint-like approach enhances professional fulfillment and a sense of professional support and decreases the risk and prevalence of burnout, even when delivered virtually to a group of CAP fellows. Results support the planned expansion of this low-cost, high-value intervention for trainee well-being.
The Impact of 280 Characters: An Analysis of Trump’s Tweets and Television News Through the Lens of Agenda Building:

Twitter impacts what is covered by journalists, which affects what viewers think is important. This article explores the association between Trump’s tweets and cable and network television news cov...
Cerium ruthenium low-energy antineutrino measurements for safeguarding military naval reactors.

The recent agreement to transfer nuclear submarine reactors and technology from two nuclear-weapon states to a non-nuclear-weapon state (AUKUS deal) highlights an unsolved problem in international safeguards: how to safeguard naval reactor fuel while it is on-board an operational nuclear submarine. Proposals to extend existing safeguards technologies and practices are complicated by the need for civilian international inspectors to gain access to the interior of the submarine and the reactor compartment, which raises national security concerns. In this paper we show that implementing safeguards on submarine propulsion reactors using a low-energy antineutrino reactor-off method, between submarine patrols, can by-pass the need for on-board access all together. We find that, using inverse beta decay (IBD), detectors can achieve a timely and high level of assurance that a submarine's nuclear core has not been diverted (mass of around 100 kg) nor its enrichment level changed (mass of around 10 tons).