cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A filter device for the prevention of both heparin- and protamine-induced complications associated with extracorporeal therapy

When extracorporeal blood circulation (ECBC) is used, systemic heparinization is necessary to prevent clotting of the blood in the extracorporeal circuit. However, the high circulating heparin concentration needed often leads to bleeding complications. To avoid these, protamine, a heparin antagonist, is administered at the conclusion of the ECBC procedure to reverse the anticoagulant activity of heparin. Intravenous administration of protamine can cause hypotension and shock. To date, there has been no real alternative to control the bleeding risks associated with systemic use of heparin and the adverse effects resulting from heparin reversal with protamine. A novel approach that might control both the heparin- and the protamine-induced complications is suggested. It consists of placing a blood-compatible filter device containing immobilized protamine (a protamine filter) at the distal end of the ECBC apparatus. The filter removes heparin after heparin serves its anticoagulant purpose in the extracorporeal circuit and before blood is returned to the patient. The filter also allows for an external protamine treatment. Since protamine toxicity results from the direct contact of protamine with cells of the liver, lungs, and other organ tissues, the use of an external protamine treatment would minimize it. Protamine was covalently immobilized onto a cellulosic hollow fiber bundle obtained from a clinically used hemodialyzer. The bundle was accessed to the vascular system of a dog by femoral artery and vein cannulation. In in-vivo experiments the protamine-bound fiber bundle not only removed heparin from the extracorporeal circuit, but also caused no clinically significant hemodynamic change in the animal.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Primary heroin users + drug-free treatment: an equation for success?

This study of persons referred to publicly funded drug-free substance abuse treatment in Washington State compares 122 primary heroin users (those specifying heroin as a drug of choice) with 532 persons who preferred other substances. Information on treatment entry and completion was obtained through review of client charts at the referral agency. Follow-up interviews with 587 participants provided self-reports of substance use during a 90-day period 3–6 months following removal from the treatment waitlist. Primary heroin users were significantly less likely than others to enter the treatment programs to which they were referred. Among treatment entrants, primary heroin users were somewhat less likely than other users to complete inpatient programs but no less likely to complete outpatient programs. The heroin preference group reported less abstinence and greater frequency of use during the follow-up period than did other users, patterns that almost entirely coincided with the lower treatment compliance in the heroin group. The authors note the importance of investigating methods for increasing treatment entry rates for opiate users who desire drug-free treatment.
Sympathetic neural reactivity to mental stress in offspring of hypertensive parents: 20 years revisited

A number of recent studies have highlighted large interindividual variability of muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) responsiveness to mental stress in humans. The purpose of this study was to examine blood pressure (BP) and MSNA responsiveness to mental stress in a large and generalizable cohort of young adults with and without family history of hypertension (FHH). We hypothesized that subjects with FHH would demonstrate greater sympathoexcitation to mental stress than subjects without FHH. A total of 87 subjects (55 men and 32 women, 18-40 yr of age) from recently published (n = 45) and ongoing (n = 42) studies were examined; 57 subjects (19 with FHH and 38 without FHH) had complete MSNA recordings at baseline. Heart rate (HR), BP, and MSNA were recorded during 5 min of supine rest and 5 min of mental stress (mental arithmetic). Resting MSNA and HR were not statistically different between subjects with and without FHH (P > 0.05), whereas resting mean arterial pressure was higher in subjects with FHH (86 ± 2 vs. 80 ± 1 mmHg, P < 0.05). Mental stress increased MSNA in subjects with FHH (Δ5 ± 1 bursts/min), but not in subjects without FHH [Δ1 ± 1 burst/min, P < 0.01 (time × group)]. Mental stress increased mean arterial pressure (Δ12 ± 1 and Δ10 ± 1 mmHg, P < 0.001) and HR (Δ19 ± 2 and Δ16 ± 2 beats/min, P < 0.001) in subjects with and without FHH, but these increases were not different between groups [P ≥ 0.05 (time × group)]. MSNA and BP reactivity to mental stress were not correlated in either group. In conclusion, FHH was associated with heightened MSNA reactivity to mental stress, despite a dissociation between MSNA and BP responsiveness.
Posttranslational processing of a human myeloid lysosomal protein, myeloperoxidase

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is a lysosomal enzyme present in the azurophilic granules of human neutrophils and monocytes and is important for optimal oxygen-dependent killing of microorganisms. The native molecule is a heterodimer composed of a pair of heavy-light protomers, each containing a 59-kDa and 13.5-kDa subunit. The intracellular processing during biosynthesis of MPO was examined in the human promyelocytic cell line HL-60. Endoglycosidase H and F digestion of immunoprecipitated pro-MPO demonstrated the presence of five N-linked--high-mannose oligosaccharide side chains and no complex mannose units. Incorporation of the threonine analogue beta-hydroxynorvaline produced species approximately 2.5 kDa and approximately 5 kDa smaller than the fully glycosylated pro-MPO, suggesting that two of the glycans were in the asparagine-X-threonine tripeptide sequence. Processing of pro-MPO occurred very rapidly, within approximately five minutes, and was best identified using glucosidase inhibitors. The presence of such inhibitors resulted in synthesis of a 92-kDa glycoprotein rather than the usually identified 89-kDa peptide. Swainsonine, a Golgi mannosidase inhibitor, did not alter the size of the earliest synthesized protein, suggesting that pro-MPO exited the endoplasmic reticulum or cis-Golgi proximal to the site of mannosidases. Intracellular transport and proteolytic maturation of MPO was retarded by weak bases (NH4Cl, chloroquine) or monensin at concentrations shown to raise intralysosomal pH. However, these agents did not qualitatively alter transport nor increase secretion. Thus, although MPO biosynthesis resembled that of other lysosomal enzymes, significant differences exist, including only limited oligosaccharide processing and intracellular transport and proteolytic maturation of pro-MPO that was only retarded by alkalinizing lysosomes without affecting the products or the fraction of pro-MPO secreted. Characterization of the determinants for targeting and of the regulatory factors in processing lysosomal enzymes in myeloid cells will provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying common disorders such as myeloperoxidase deficiency.
Predictions put into practice: a quasi-experimental evaluation of Chicago’s predictive policing pilot

In 2013, the Chicago Police Department conducted a pilot of a predictive policing program designed to reduce gun violence. The program included development of a Strategic Subjects List (SSL) of people estimated to be at highest risk of gun violence who were then referred to local police commanders for a preventive intervention. The purpose of this study is to identify the impact of the pilot on individual- and city-level gun violence, and to test possible drivers of results. The SSL consisted of 426 people estimated to be at highest risk of gun violence. We used ARIMA models to estimate impacts on city-level homicide trends, and propensity score matching to estimate the effects of being placed on the list on five measures related to gun violence. A mediation analysis and interviews with police leadership and COMPSTAT meeting observations help understand what is driving results. Individuals on the SSL are not more or less likely to become a victim of a homicide or shooting than the comparison group, and this is further supported by city-level analysis. The treated group is more likely to be arrested for a shooting. It is not clear how the predictions should be used in the field. One potential reason why being placed on the list resulted in an increased chance of being arrested for a shooting is that some officers may have used the list as leads to closing shooting cases. The results provide for a discussion about the future of individual-based predictive policing programs.
Human Nonadversary Problem Solving

The purpose of this chapter is to examine briefly the nature of human nonadversary problem solving. A related purpose is to determine how an information-processing model of problem solving—inspired by and implemented on computers—can serve as the basis for a theory of human problem solving. The chapter consists of three parts: an introduction, which defines key terms and concepts in human nonadversary problem solving; a body, which explores six major characteristics of human nonadversary problem solving; and a conclusion, which summarizes the implications for a theory of human problem solving.
Proportionality in Customary International Law: An Argument Against Aspirational Laws of War

Table of ContentsI. Introduction 246II. Background 247A. Current State of CIL Proportionality 2501. The historical origins of proportionality 2502. The current scope of CIL proportionality 2513. Defining proportionality under CIL 252a) The AP I definition without qualification 252b) The AP I definition with qualification 252c) The Rome Statute 253d) None of the above 253III. The Differences Between The Rome Statute And Geneva Convention Regarding Proportionality 254A. The Differences Between the Definitions 254B. Implications of the Definitional Difference 259IV. Rome Statute Proportionality As CIL 261A. Doctrinal framework 2611. First principles of customary international law 2612. Treaties 2623. State practice 263B. Realist framework 264C. Policy considerations 268a) Efficacy 268b) Humanity 270V. Conclusion 272I. IntroductionEntertain the following hypothetical: The year is 2020 and Bashar Al-Assad has been removed from power. Syria is governed by a nascent democratic regime. In an effort to prevent destabilizing recriminations by the now ascendant Sunni population against Assad's Shiite sympathizers, the United Nations Security Council passes a resolution calling for the creation of an international tribunal for the prosecution of persons responsible for serious violations of international humanitarian law committed in Syrian territory since 2011.1 As the tribunal canvasses the claims that require adjudication, one of the most frequently recurring alleged violations of international humanitarian law is the use of disproportionate force.2 In the process of adjudicating these alleged violations, the jurists on this International Criminal Tribunal are tasked with giving legal content to the war crime of disproportionate force. Searching for the applicable definition of proportionality, the tribunal will find itself facing little in the way of settled law. No positive international law with respect to proportionality applies to crimes committed during the conflict.3 Syria is not a signatory to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Rome Statute). …
Automated Control of Down Converter Testing

The physical layout of down converter circuit boards must be carefully planned when automated testing procedures are to be used. A 6 GHz microwave communications system down converter that was designed for automated testing will be described. The design objectives for automated testing and the board layouts to meet these requirements are discussed for the RF microstrip board and the surface mount technology (SMT) IF amplifier and control circuit board. The down converter discussion is followed by a review of the considerations that must be given to the automated testing of GaAs MMIC mixers at the wafer level.
Human Coronavirus in the 2014 Winter Season as a Cause of Lower Respiratory Tract Infection

Purpose During the late autumn to winter season (October to December) in the Republic of Korea, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common pathogen causing lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). Interestingly, in 2014, human coronavirus (HCoV) caused not only upper respiratory infections but also LRTIs more commonly than in other years. Therefore, we sought to determine the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, outcomes, and severity of illnesses associated with HCoV infections at a single center in Korea. Materials and methods We retrospectively identified patients with positive HCoV respiratory specimens between October 2014 and December 2014 who were admitted to Severance Children's Hospital at Yonsei University Medical Center for LRTI. Charts of the patients with HCoV infection were reviewed and compared with RSV infection. Results During the study period, HCoV was the third most common respiratory virus and accounted for 13.7% of infections. Coinfection was detected in 43.8% of children with HCoV. Interestingly, one patient had both HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-NL63. Mild pneumonia was most common (60.4%) with HCoV, and when combined with RSV, resulted in bronchiolitis. Two patients required care in the intensive care unit. However, compared with that of RSV infection, the disease course HCoV was short. Conclusion Infections caused by HCoVs are common, and can cause LRTIs. During an epidemic season, clinicians should be given special consideration thereto. When combined with other medical conditions, such as neurologic or cardiologic diseases, intensive care unit (ICU) care may be necessary.
Text Search: Towards Fast Text Localization in Scene Images

We present an efficient approach to text localization. We restrict our attention to the text localization and refer to our method as 'text search'. In particular, we pre-trained a text detection ConvNet which skip the region proposal process, and integrates bounding boxes and text confidence score into the output layer. Our approach achieved similar high precision with [1], and acceptable level of recall.
Shoes, Shopping, and the Search for Mr. Right: Investigating the Trivial in Recent Turkish-German Chick Lit

In this article, I explore how popular Turkish-German fiction written for a primarily female audience—a genre also known as “chick lit”—negotiates differences between German and Turkish culture. Examining Sibel Susann Teoman’s Turkischer Mokka mit Schuss (2007) and Hatice Akyun’s Einmal Hans mit scharfer Sose (2005) and Ali zum Dessert (2008), I depict how these texts play with typical devices of the chick-lit genre, such as the use of humorous narrative strategies and the topos of the fairy-tale, in an attempt to erase cultural differences and long-standing stereotypes held against Turkish-German women and, in turn, to advocate for a more inclusive view of German society. I investigate how the humorous remarks of their respective protagonists serve as important literary devices employed to negotiate complex hybrid identities and how humor bridges perceived differences and exposes false beliefs that inhibit the development of a just society. (GEM)
Decline in RNA integrity of dry-stored soybean seeds correlates with loss of germination potential.

This study investigates the relationship between germination ability and damage to RNA in soybean seeds (cv ‘Williams 82’) stored dry at 5 °C for 1–27 years. Total germination of 14 age cohorts harvested between 2015 and 1989 ranged from 100% to 3%. Germination decline followed classic seed viability kinetics, with symptomatic seed aging beginning after 17 years of storage. RNA integrity was assessed in dry seeds by electrophoresis of total RNA, followed by calculation of the RNA integrity number (RIN, Agilent Bioanalyzer software), which evaluates RNA fragment size distributions. Analysis of RNA extracted from cotyledons, embryonic axes, plumules, and seed coats across the range of age cohorts showed consistent RNA degradation: older seeds had over-representation of small RNAs compared with younger seeds, which had nearly a 2:1 ratio of 25S and 18S rRNAs. RIN values for cotyledons and embryonic axes from the same seed were correlated. Decline in RIN tracked reduced germination, with a pronounced decrease in RIN after 17 years of storage. This led to a high correlation between the mean RIN of cotyledon RNA and the total germination percentage (R2=0.91, P<0.0001). Despite this relationship, germinable and non-germinable seeds within cohorts could not be distinguished unless the RIN was <3.5, indicating substantial deterioration. Our work demonstrates that seed RNA incurs damage over time, observable in fragment size distributions. Under the experimental conditions used here, RIN appears to be a promising surrogate for germination tests used to monitor viability of stored seeds.
Performance comparison of single and dual-excitation-wavelength resonance-Raman explosives detectors

Deep-ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy is a very useful approach for standoff detection of explosive traces. Using two simultaneous excitation wavelengths improves the specificity and sensitivity to standoff explosive detection. The High Technology Foundation developed a highly compact prototype of resonance Raman explosives detector. In this work, we discuss the relative performance of a dual-excitation sensor compared to a single-excitation sensor. We present trade space analysis comparing three representative Raman systems with similar size, weight, and power. The analysis takes into account, cost, spectral resolution, detection/identification time and the overall system benefit.
Striking Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Liver Cancer Incidence Rates and Temporal Trends in California, 1988-2012.

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by disparate risk patterns by race/ethnicity. We examined HCC incidence patterns and temporal trends among detailed racial/ethnic populations, including disaggregated Asian-American subgroups. Methods Using data from the population-based California Cancer Registry, we identified 41 929 invasive HCC cases diagnosed during 1988-2012. Patients were grouped into mutually exclusive racial/ethnic groups of non-Hispanic (NH) white, NH black, Hispanic, and NH Asian/Pacific Islander (API), as well as Asian subgroups of Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Laotian, and South Asian. Age-adjusted and age-specific incidence rates by sex, race/ethnicity, and time period were calculated. The average annual percent change (AAPC) in incidence rates was estimated using joinpoint regression. All estimates were provided with the 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Aggregated NH API had higher HCC risk than NH whites, NH blacks, and Hispanics. When disaggregated, Southeast Asians (Vietnamese, Cambodians, and Laotians) had overall HCC incidence rates eight to nine times higher than NH whites and more than twice that of other ethnic Asians. Statistically significant rising temporal trends of HCC were found in NH whites, NH blacks, and Hispanics, especially those older than age 50 years. Overall HCC risk declined in Chinese males (AAPC = -1.3%, 95% CI = -2.0 to -0.6), but rose in Filipino (AAPC = +1.2%, 95% CI = 0.3 to 2.1) and Japanese males (AAPC = +3.0%, 95% CI = 0.4 to 5.6) and Vietnamese (AAPC = +4.5%, 95% CI = 0.7 to 8.5) and Laotian (+3.4%, 95% CI = 0.1 to 6.8) females. Conclusions Our findings provide valuable information for the identification of at-risk ethnic subgroups of Asian Americans while underscoring the importance of disaggregating ethnic populations in cancer research.
Safety of Same-Day Vitamin B12 Supplementation in Patients Receiving Pemetrexed for the Treatment of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer or Pleural Mesothelioma: A Retrospective Analysis.

Abstract Background Pemetrexed is a folate analog inhibitor for the treatment of non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and malignant pleural mesothelioma. Folic acid and vitamin B12 supplementation before initiating pemetrexed is necessary because of high rates of cytopenias without supplementation. However, the timing of supplementation has not been thoroughly investigated. Patients and Methods This was a single-center, retrospective study investigating patients receiving pemetrexed from January 1, 2012, to June 30, 2015, who received same-day vitamin B12 supplementation versus ≥ 1 day before pemetrexed. The objective was to evaluate safety outcomes in patients who received vitamin B12 on the same day as pemetrexed (group A) versus vitamin B12 ≥ 1 day (group B) before pemetrexed. Results Two hundred eighty-one patients met the inclusion criteria: 137 patients in group A (same-day administration of vitamin B12) and 144 patients in group B (median time of vitamin B12 administration before pemetrexed, 7 days; range, 1-42 days). Mean changes in hematologic indices from cycle (C) 1 to C2 or C2 to C3 did not differ significantly between groups. There were no significant differences in clinical events between C1 and C2 or C2 and C3 requiring supportive care. There was a significant difference noted in treatment delay in C3 [28/114 (24.6%) group A vs. 14/118 (11.9%) group B, P = .0164]. In group A, significant predictors of delay in C3 were baseline hemoglobin (mean 13.3 g/dL vs. 12.4 g/dL, P = .0137) and ANC (mean 6 × 109/L vs. 5 × 109/L, P = .0003). Conclusion Same-day vitamin B12 and pemetrexed administration is a safe practice in NSCLC and malignant pleural mesothelioma patients.
Comparing Three Approaches to Large-Scale Coordination

Coordination of large groups of agents or robots is starting to reach a level of maturity where prototype systems can be built and tested in realistic environments. These more realistic systems require that both algorithmic and practical issues are addressed in an integrated solution. In this chapter, we look at three implementations of large-scale coordination examining common issues, approaches, and open problems. The key result of the comparison is that there is a surprising degree of commonality between the independently developed approaches, in particular the use of partial, dynamic centralization. Conversely, open issues and problems encountered varied greatly with the notable exception that debugging was a major issue for each approach.
IGNITION IN LIQUID PROPELLANT ROCKET ENGINES

Publisher Summary Rocket engines are vulnerable than other types of engines to the effects of variables during the ignition period. They operate at higher propellant flow rates. The combustion chambers are relatively small. The chamber contains high concentrations of reactants at fuel-oxidant ratios, which are frequently quite close to the stoichiometric ratios. There are no inert diluents present. Faulty or poorly timed ignition under such conditions can result in objectionable transient phenomena and even complete destruction of the engine. The object of studies of rocket ignition is to achieve an ignition in such a way that over-pressurization and the introduction of combustion instabilities do not result. Because of the high propellant flow rates used in rocket engines, this means that ignition must be accomplished quickly after the propellants have started to flow into the combustor. The seriousness of an unduly long ignition delay could be illustrated by a highly oversimplified idealized example.
World-Class Universities: The Sector Requirements

Much work has been done on the nature of and internal requirements for world-class universities. However, less work has been done on the sector requirements in which world-class universities might prosper. This chapter analyzes these sector requirements and proposes 10 as essential: (1) public income based on institutional performance, (2) income from nonstate sources, (3) differentiation of institutional missions, (4) institutional autonomy, (5) university ownership of property, (6) university nonprofit status and exemption from taxation, (7) open competition for state science, (8) independence of accreditation and professional licensing, (9) incentives for student and faculty diversity, and (10) incentives to improve quality. This chapter then analyzes the higher education sectors in eight OECD, grades each on the degree to which each of these elements is present, and finally proposes a summary grade for each country. This grade is a measure of the potential for world-class universities to prosper.
Management of Medical Information Technology

This chapter introduces the reader to the growing area of medical information technology (MedIT) and some aspects of its management in the health care industry. Like a beehive at the height of its activity, MedIT has been growing at a phenomenal pace, alongside and influenced by the evolution in information technology which has come upon us in the closing years of the twentieth century.
Laparoscopic versus open splenectomy for splenomegaly: the verdict is unclear.

The benefits of laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) over open splenectomy (OS) for normal-sized spleens have been well documented. However, the role of laparoscopy for moderate and massive splenomegaly is debated. A retrospective review of patients undergoing elective splenectomy at one institution from 1997 to 2017 was conducted. Moderate and massive splenomegaly was defined as splenic weight of 500–1000 g and greater than 1000 g, respectively. We performed a 1:2 matching of laparoscopic to open splenectomy to control for differences in splenic weight. Differences in perioperative morbidity (infection, thromboembolism, reoperation, readmission), intraoperative factors (blood loss, operative time), length of stay, and mortality were examined. A total of 491 elective splenectomies were identified. 268 cases were for splenic weights greater than 500 g. After a 1:2 matching of LS:OS, we identified 22 LS and 44 matched OS for moderate splenomegaly. The LS group had longer mean operative times (178 vs. 107 min, p < 0.01), with similar length of stay and blood loss. For massive splenomegaly, 26 LS were identified and matched to 52 OS. LS had longer mean operative times (171 vs. 112 min, p < 0.01) and higher readmission rates (27% vs. 6%, p < 0.05). Other factors and outcomes did not differ between LS and OS for moderate or massive splenomegaly. The conversion rate for LS was higher for massive versus moderate splenomegaly, but was not statistically significant (35% vs. 14%, p = 0.09). LS for moderate and massive splenomegaly is associated with longer operative times. Other perioperative outcomes were comparable to OS, with no demonstrated benefits for LS. Although LS may be a feasible approach to moderate and massive splenomegaly, its benefits require further clarification in this patient population.
The Influence of Supervisors’ Use of Motivating Language in Organizations Located in India:

The purpose of the current study was to extend organizational communication scholarship by examining the influence of culture on the use of motivating language by supervisors in organizations locat...
Diversity and Descriptive Representation in Election Administration

Descriptive representation contributes to minority citizen perception that they belong, are welcome, and their interests supported by the street-level bureaucrats that they encounter in public agencies. The importance of descriptive representation in public administration has been established in a variety of administrative spaces. Primarily focusing on public agencies and elected officials, research has suggested that when minority citizens encounter a public servant or are represented by an elected official of the same race, their perception of the organization and the actions of the individual are improved. Where the role of descriptive representation has received little to no consideration is election administration. Given the role that election administrators have historically played as both facilitators and inhibitors of access to the political process, the role of descriptive representation deserves the same consideration it has been given in other public administrative spaces. The chapter presents a discussion of the evolution of representative bureaucracy and descriptive representation in public administration more broadly and concludes with a discussion of descriptive representation in election administration; specifically focusing on poll worker and voter interactions.
Problem-oriented Recording:

A new method provides a systematized approach to diagnosis and treatment and facilitates teaching, research, and monitoring for quality control
Capitalizing Baccalaureate Degree Attainment: Identifying Student and Institution Level Characteristics that Ensure Success for Latinxs

Baccalaureate degree completion is essential for future development as a nation. Latinxs are the largest minority group in the country and by 2050 nearly one out of every three individuals will be ...
Mangroves protect coastal economic activity from hurricanes

This paper evaluates whether mangroves can mitigate the impact of hurricanes on economic activity. The paper assembles a regionwide panel dataset that measures local economic activity using nightlights, potential hurricane damages using a detailed wind field model, and mangrove protection by mapping the width of mangrove forests on the path to the coast. The results show that hurricanes have negative short-run effects on economic activity, with losses likely concentrated in coastal lowlands that are exposed to both wind and storm surge hazards. In these coastal lowlands, the estimates show that nightlights decrease by up to 24% in areas that are unprotected by mangroves. By comparison, the impact of the hurricanes observed in the sample is fully mitigated in areas protected by mangrove belts of 1 km or more.
Chapter 10 – Antiparkinsonian Drugs

Parkinson disease is a neurodegenerative disorder of the brain that affects movement. The disease is characterized by an imbalance between acetylcholine and dopamine, which probably results from the degeneration of a dopaminergic nigrostriatal pathway. Breakdown of acetylcholine–dopamine balance hampers proper functioning of the corticobasal ganglia–thalamocortical loop circuits. In this disease, dopamine depletion blocks autoinhibition of acetylcholine release through muscarinic autoreceptors, leading to excessive acetylcholine release that eventually prunes spines of the indirect pathway’s projection of neurons of the striatum, thereby interrupting information transfer from motor command centers in the cerebral cortex. Many medications are available to treat the symptoms of Parkinson disease; however, the disease can’t be cured and medications just help control its symptoms. The first effective drugs for Parkinson disease were anticholinergics. Since the introduction of levodopa many new drugs have emerged for the treatment of Parkinson disease such as dopamine agonists, monoamine oxidase (MAO) B inhibitors, amantadine, and catechol O-methyltransferase inhibitors. In all stages of the disease, levodopa remains the most effective drug for improving motor symptoms. None of the drugs used for treatment of Parkinson disease is included in the list of Top 200 Drugs by sales for the 2010s.
Impact of Forest Disturbance on InSAR Surface Displacement Time Series

As interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data improve in their global coverage and temporal sampling, studies of ground deformation using InSAR are becoming feasible even in heavily vegetated regions such as the American Pacific Northwest (PNW) and Sumatra. However, ongoing forest disturbance due to logging, wildfires, or disease can introduce time-variable signals which could be misinterpreted as ground displacements. This study constrains the error introduced into InSAR time series in the presence of time-variable forest disturbance using synthetic data. For satellite platforms with randomly distributed orbital positions in time (e.g., Sentinel-1), mid-time series forest disturbance results in random error on the order of 0.2 and 10 cm/year for 1-year secular and time-variable velocities, respectively. If the orbital positions are not randomly distributed in time (e.g., ALOS-1), a biased error on the order of 10 cm/year is introduced to the inferred secular velocity. A time series using real ALOS-1 data near Eugene, OR, USA, shows agreement with the bias estimated by synthetic models. Mitigation of time-variable land cover change effects can be achieved if their timing is known, either through independent observations of surface properties (e.g., Landsat/Sentinel-2) or through the use of more computationally expensive, nonlinear inversions with additional terms for the timing of height changes. Inclusion of these additional terms reduces the potential for misinterpretation of InSAR signals associated with land surface change as ground deformation.
A novel in vivo measure of cyberaggression.

Cyberaggression (CA), or the use of information communication technologies to inflict harm on others, is an emerging public health crisis. Unfortunately, our current ability to assess CA in a research context remains limited, curtailing efforts to address this important issue. We sought to fill this gap in the literature by developing an adapted "chat" version of the Taylor aggression paradigm (TAP) that would more closely resemble a social gaming format (hereafter referred to as the TAP-Chat). In the TAP-Chat, participants have a chat function available to communicate with their (fictitious) co-player. Following loss trials in a competitive reaction time task, they receive a "mean chat" from their co-player. Participant messages to their (fictitious) co-player are then coded for aggressive content by a team of trained research assistants, and via automated linguistic analysis software (Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count). The current study evaluated the predictive utility of the TAP-Chat task in independent discovery and replication samples (N = 843 and N = 350, respectively). Participants' publicly available tweets served as an important external criterion variable, along with a handful of self-report questionnaires assessing CA and related constructs. Analyses suggest that, although it can be completed in ∼13 min, the TAP-Chat predicts CA on Twitter and, to a lesser extent, as reported on questionnaires. Although there are still several issues to address, it is our hope that the research community will benefit from this straightforward behavioral assessment of CA.
Chlorhexidine gluconate does not result in epidermal microbiota dysbiosis in healthy adults.

Background Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) and other skin antiseptics are ubiquitous in healthcare settings and are routinely used to bathe patients’ skin. The commensal epidermal microbiota is believed to provide colonization resistance and other benefits to the host; yet little is known regarding the long-term stability of the epidermal microbiota, and the impact of CHG bathing. We aimed to assess the influence of CHG exposure to the epidermal microbiota and evaluate the long-term stability of the epidermal microbiota. Methods The epidermal microbiota of 5 individuals was sampled using thorough swabbing of the calf, and characterized via 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, prior to CHG bathing, and then at 30 minutes, 3 hours, 1 day, 3 days, and 7 days postbathing. Roughly 4 months later, samples were collected from the same 5 individuals, using an identical timeline but with no CHG exposure. Results The epidermal microbiota showed no greater change 30 minutes postexposure to CHG, than was observed in the same individuals during the recovery period, likely representing the normal sample-to-sample variability. Despite that variability, the epidermal microbiota evinced a remarkable degree of intrasubject stability, even over extended periods of time. Conclusion We conclude that single applications of CHG cause minimal, if any, disruption of the epidermal microbiota, and that long-term effects of single applications of CHG on the epidermal microbiota are unlikely.
Cellulose Nanocrystal-Stabilized Dispersions of CO2, Heptane, and Perfluorooctane at Elevated Temperatures and Pressures for Underground CO2 Sequestration

Stable liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) emulsions and supercritical CO2 foams, stabilized by cellulose nanocrystal (CNC), were prepared at ambient temperature and underground reservoir conditions (T = 3...
Assimilation of Cholesterol by Monascus purpureus

Monascus purpureus, a filamentous fungus known for its fermentation of red yeast rice, produces the metabolite monacolin K used in statin drugs to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis. In this study, we show that active cultures of M. purpureus CBS 109.07, independent of secondary metabolites, use the mechanism of cholesterol assimilation to lower cholesterol in vitro. We describe collection, extraction, and gas chromatography-flame ionized detection (GC-FID) methods to quantify the levels of cholesterol remaining after incubation of M. purpureus CBS 109.07 with exogenous cholesterol. Our findings demonstrate that active growing M. purpureus CBS 109.07 can assimilate cholesterol, removing 36.38% of cholesterol after 48 h of incubation at 37 °C. The removal of cholesterol by resting or dead M. purpureus CBS 109.07 was not significant, with cholesterol reduction ranging from 2.75-9.27% throughout a 72 h incubation. Cholesterol was also not shown to be catabolized as a carbon source. Resting cultures transferred from buffer to growth media were able to reactivate, and increases in cholesterol assimilation and growth were observed. In growing and resting phases at 24 and 72 h, the production of the mycotoxin citrinin was quantified via high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet (HPLC-UV) and found to be below the limit of detection. The results indicate that M. purpureus CBS 109.07 can reduce cholesterol content in vitro and may have a potential application in probiotics.
Evaluating gantry crane-way pavement performance: An inverse approach

Abstract Gantry-crane pavements and foundations are significant assets within intermodal facilities. The performance of these pavements, which are subjected to highly-variable loads, is critical to safe operations. Traffic interruptions and costs associated with maintaining and rehabilitating distressed or failed pavements in associated areas are of particular importance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate structural behavior and improve design procedures for gantry crane way pavement used at intermodal facilities by assessing interactions among pavements, subgrades, and operational loading conditions. The performance of the gantry crane pavements and foundations was assessed using a finite-element (FE) model, while pavement structural response to a crane load was measured using strain gages installed in the field. Measuring material properties using in-situ/laboratory tests was not possible in this work due to the limited resources, restricted access to intermodal facilities, and tight schedule of rail freight transport(i.e. tight schedule of cranes). To verify the materials properties and ensure a consistent behavior of the developed FE model with respect to the field measurements, an inverse design approach was implemented. Because of the significant cost of FE simulation, the gradient-based solver used in this study is based on a trust region algorithm. The verified model was used to predict the critical responses of Portland cement concrete (PCC) layer, base course, and subgrade soil. These parameters were then used to conduct a pavement fatigue damage analysis, parametric analyses of material strength and slab geometry were carried out based on Model Code, and resulting fatigue-life recommendations for improved designs were made. The developed FE model along with the inverse approach create a framework that can be used in further health monitoring problems when a specific parameter cannot be directly observed.
Global and Regional Changes in Perivascular Space in Idiopathic and Familial Parkinson's Disease.

Background The glymphatic system, including the perivascular space (PVS), plays a critical role in brain homeostasis. Although mounting evidence from Alzheimer's disease has supported the potential role of PVS in neurodegenerative disorders, its contribution in Parkinson's disease (PD) has not been fully elucidated. Although idiopathic (IPD) and familial PD (FPD) share similar pathophysiology in terms of protein aggregation, the differential impact of PVS on PD subtypes remains unknown. Our objective was to examine the differences in PVS volume fraction in IPD and FPD compared to healthy controls (HCs) and nonmanifest carriers (NMCs). Methods A total of 470 individuals were analyzed from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative database, including (1) IPD (n = 179), (2) FPD (LRRK2 [leucine-rich repeat kinase 2], glucocerebrosidase, or α-synuclein) (n = 67), (3) NMC (n = 101), and (4) HCs (n = 84). Total PVS volume fraction (%) was compared using parcellation and quantitation within greater white matter volume at global and regional levels in all cortical and subcortical white matter. Results There was a significant increase in global and regional PVS volume fraction in PD versus non-PD, particularly in FPD versus NMC and LRRK2 FPD versus NMC. Regionally, FPD and NMC differed in the medial orbitofrontal region, as did LRRK2 FPD versus NMC. Non-PD and PD differed in the medial orbitofrontal region and the banks of the superior temporal regions. IPD and FPD differed in the cuneus and lateral occipital regions. Conclusions Our findings support the role of PVS in PD and highlight a potentially significant contribution of PVS to the pathophysiology of FPD, particularly LRRK2. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: Mechanism of Injury

The leading theory regarding the mechanism of brachial plexus birth injury suggests mechanical traction to the brachial plexus due to stretching of the space between an infant’s neck and shoulder. Given that there is no single factor associated with all cases, this is likely a wide spectrum of etiologies. Extrinsic or intrinsic prenatal mechanical compression from intrauterine abnormalities or fetal tumors, maternal clinical and demographic characteristics, large birth weight, hypoxia, hypotonia, infection, and perinatal iatrogenic and natural uterine forces have all been implicated as risk factors associated with infants born with brachial plexus birth palsy. Given the rare nature of this condition, most literature stems from retrospective case cohorts and database studies. The need for future prospective high-quality studies remain to further delineate mechanisms and in order to develop preventative programs.
Designing a New Leaning Tower Demonstration

The Leaning Tower is a long-time staple of the demonstration room. I can trace it as far back as apparatus catalogues from the 1850s. Some years ago, while teaching myself how to use a new wood lathe, I made a replica of the original design, shown on the left-hand side of Fig. 1. With the top removed, the tower is stable, but once the top is added, the line of action passing through the center of mass falls outside the area of the base and over it goes.
Does adoption of new technology increase surgical volume? The robotic inguinal hernia repair model.

Robotic Inguinal Hernia repair has been associated with higher costs but shorter length of stay. Robotic surgery is an appealing option for patients undergoing elective hernia surgery however given the high startup, maintenance and operating costs, the adoption of robotic technology may not guarantee increased profitability. Our hypothesis is that the introduction of robotic technology increases the overall surgical volume of inguinal hernia repairs within a hospital as compared to non-robotic hospitals. The 2010-2018 Florida Agency for Health Care Administration Ambulatory Patient data were queried for Open, Laparoscopic and Robotic inguinal hernia repairs using ICD9, ICD10 and CPT codes. Using a difference in difference (DID) technique, we determined the difference of the total hernia volume of robotic hospitals pre- and post-adoption of robotic technology. In addition, selected hospitals which were early adopters of robotic technology were compared to with their surrounding non-robotic competitor hospitals. Incident Rate Ratios-IRR, from the difference in difference analysis determined the significance of robotic technology. Hospital and patient demographic data were evaluated, and chi square test were used to determine statistical significance. p < 0.05 was considered significant. There were a total of 258,785 inguinal hernia repairs (5774 Robotic, 88,265 Laparoscopic and 164,746 Open) performed at 398 hospitals, 94 of which had robotic capabilities. Of all the procedure types, around 90% were primary inguinal hernia repairs. The majority of patients in this cohort were white non-Hispanic or Latino males (85%, 84%, 92%), age group 51-70 (46%), holding commercial health insurance (43%) and belonged to the lowest Charlson comorbidity index level (82%). Facility types designation for almost all robotic hospitals was hospital (99%), whereas 65% of non-robotic hospitals were ambulatory surgery centers and all other hospitals. Robotic hospitals experienced a 9.5% increase in total volume of inguinal hernia repairs after introduction of robotic technology (Incident Rate Ratios-IRR 1.095, p value < 0.0001). A significant increase in total hernia volume was observed for the early adopter hospitals with the IRR(s) ranging 1.20-2.51 (all p values < 0.0001), implying that adoption of robotic technology can in fact lead to very significant increase in total hernia volume for a hospital. The introduction of robotic technology leads to an increase in the overall volume of inguinal hernia repairs performed at a given hospital. To further evaluate the impact of robotic technology and significance of this methodology, additional work is underway using additional procedures and data from other states.
High-Temperature Decomposition of Diisopropyl Methylphosphonate (DIMP) on Alumina: Mechanistic Predictions from Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics

The enhanced degradation of organophosphorous-based chemical warfare agents (CWAs) on metal-oxide surfaces holds immense promise for neutralization efforts; however, the underlying mechanisms in this process remain poorly understood. We utilize large-scale quantum calculations for the first time to probe the high-temperature degradation of diisopropyl methylphosphonate (DIMP), a nerve agent simulant. Our Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (BOMD) calculations show that the gamma-Al2O3 surface shows immense promise for quickly adsorbing and destroying CWAs. We find that the alumina surface quickly adsorbs DIMP at all temperatures, and subsequent decomposition of DIMP proceeds via a propene elimination. Our BOMD calculations are complemented with metadynamics simulations to produce free energy paths, which show that the activation barrier decreases with temperature and DIMP readily decomposes on gamma-Al2O3. Our first-principle BOMD and metadynamics simulations provide crucial diagnostics for sarin decomposition models and mechanistic information for examining CWA decomposition reactions on other candidate metal oxide surfaces.