cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification of germline DICER1 mutations and loss of heterozygosity in familial Wilms tumour

Wilms tumour (WT), a paediatric renal cancer, is the most common childhood kidney cancer. The aetiology of WT is heterogeneous with multiple genes known to result in WT tumorigenesis. However, these genes are rarely associated with familial Wilms tumour (FWT). To identify mutations predisposing to FWT, we performed whole-genome sequencing using genomic DNA from three affected/obligate carriers in a large WT family, followed by Sanger sequencing of candidate gene mutations in 47 additional WT families to determine their frequency in FWT. As a result, we identified two novel germline DICER1 mutations (G803R and R800Xfs5) co-segregating in two families, thus expanding the number of reported WT families with unique germline DICER1 mutations. The one large family was found to include individuals with multiple DICER1 syndrome phenotypes, including four WT cases. Interestingly, carriers of the DICER1 mutation displayed a greatly increased frequency of WT development compared with the penetrance observed in previously published pedigrees. Also uniquely, in one tumour this DICER1 mutant allele (G803R) was reduced to homozygosity in contrast to the somatic hotspot mutations typically observed in tumours in DICER1 families.
Near-global freshwater-specific environmental variables for biodiversity analyses in 1 km resolution

The lack of freshwater-specific environmental information at sufficiently fine spatial grain hampers broad-scale analyses in aquatic biology, biogeography, conservation, and ecology. Here we present a near-global, spatially continuous, and freshwater-specific set of environmental variables in a standardized 1 km grid. We delineate the sub-catchment for each grid cell along the HydroSHEDS river network and summarize the upstream climate, topography, land cover, surface geology and soil to each grid cell using various metrics (average, minimum, maximum, range, sum, inverse distance-weighted average and sum). All variables were subsequently averaged across single lakes and reservoirs of the Global lakes and Wetlands Database that are connected to the river network. Monthly climate variables were summarized into 19 long-term climatic variables following the ‘bioclim’ framework. This new set of variables provides a basis for spatial ecological and biodiversity analyses in freshwater ecosystems at near global extent, yet fine spatial grain. To facilitate the generation of freshwater variables for custom study areas and spatial grains, we provide the ‘r.stream.watersheds’ and ‘r.stream.variables’ add-ons for the GRASS GIS software. Machine-accessible metadata file describing the reported data (ISA-Tab format)
Two Chain-Packing Transformations and Their Effects on the Molecular Dynamics and Thermal Properties of α-Form Isotactic Poly(propylene) under Hot Drawing: A Solid-State NMR Study

The chain packing, crystal thickness, molecular dynamics, and melting temperature of α-form isotactic polypropylene (iPP) drawn uniaxially at high temperatures of 100–150 °C were investigated using solid-state (SS) NMR and DSC. Two types of iPP samples with disordered (α1) and relatively ordered (α2-rich) packing structures were prepared via different thermal treatments and drawn up to an engineering strain (e) of approximately 20. High-resolution 13C NMR detected continuous α2 → α1 transformations in the original α2-rich samples over the entire deformation range at all drawing temperatures (Tds). A sudden α1 → α2 transformation was found to occur in the original α1 sample in the small e range of approximately 3–7 at Td = 140 °C. Then, in the late stage, the newly grown α2 structure reversely transformed into α1 structure with further increase in e, as observed in the original α2-rich sample. These results indicate that at least two different processes are involved in large deformations. On the basis of c...
The Rubus Leafhopper and its Egg Parasitoid: An Endemic Biotic System Useful in Grape-Pest Management

The leafhopper Dikrella cruentata (Gillette) breeds throughout the year in the leaves of wild Rubus spp. in California, where its eggs are continually under attack by the parasitoid Anagrus epos Girault. In summer the Anagrus population has a seasonal numerical response to eggs of its alternative host, the grape leafhopper, Erythroneura elegantula Osborn, in Vitis spp. This response occurs regularly in the endemic eco-system where these 3 arthropods, together with native Vitis and Rubus , are commonly associated elements of the natural riparian biota. There is a valuable seasonal bridge of Anagrus to nearby commercial vineyards, but these parasitoids face formidable ecological barriers, including time and space, in reaching their grape leafhopper hosts in distant. unfavorably situated vineyards. The relationship of this host/parasitoid system to the pest management program on grapes is described.
Environmental Security and Trans-Boundary Water Resources

Environmental security refers to a range of security issues triggered by environmental factors such as climate change, resource shortages, demographic factors, environmental change, and non-sustainable practices. Water resources are a particularly problematic area because water is an essential resource for which there is no substitute, and the amount of fresh water is finite and not equitably distributed in a spatial sense. From a geopolitical perspective, the world’s largest river systems are shared by multiple states and the potential for conflict is high. However, historically water resource conflict has been resolved by cooperative means and states have relied on technology, trade, and diplomatic solutions. This research argues that the security landscape has changed profoundly, and the history of cooperative water-conflict resolution is no longer a reliable guide to the future. This paper suggests that continued peaceful resolution of interstate water conflicts is inconsistent with the realities of the emerging national security landscape: climate change is already affecting the distribution of water in many critical water basins, and the proliferation of failing states has reduced the potential for diplomatic resolutions. This paper examines linkages between environmental stress, regional instability, water availability, and conflict and uses the Middle East as a case study to highlight these points. The analysis suggests that the region is now more vulnerable to environmental stress and water-related conflict. Given these circumstances, it is plausible that we will witness a surge in three modes of conflict, driven by water demand: ethnic/racial warfare enabled by environmental stress and demographic trends; civil warfare prompted by environmental stress and economic collapse; and limited-scale interstate wars.
Lipid extraction and fatty acid measurement of urine from health person

AIM:Compared with two kinds of total lipid extraction from Urine by chemical agents,we established an efficient and simple way to detect.We measured fatty acid composition of urine from 50 healthy persons.METHODS:through Folch agent and hexane to extract total lipid,C17∶0 as an internal standard,corresponding methyl fatty acids was synthesize by 14% BF3/MeOH,and then,methyl ester of fatty acids were separated by capillary column and measured by Gas Chromatogram(GC-2010).RESULTS:① Reproducibility results of this method and machine showed CV are 4.31%-8.97% and 3.25%-9.53%,respectively.Recovery of Folch agent and hexane are 79.60%-97.40% and 54.80%-74.40%,respectively.②The results showed that Urine contains 12 kinds of fatty acids,mainly saturated fatty acids,however,monounsaturated fatty acids and the polyunsaturated fatty acid content is very low.The content of ω-6 and ω-3 PUFA is closer;the ratio of ω-6/ω-3 PUFA is 3.57.③Compared with characters of the two methods,fatty acids extraction by Folch agent is more balanced and comprehensive.CONCLUSION:On the whole,Folch agent is a more effective for urine lipid extraction method,combined with esterification and detection methods;we could detect the content and composition of fatty acids from urine sample.It was suitable for testing of large amount samples and supply conditions for further nutrition and clinical research.
Imaging of Intracranial Aneurysms and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Advances in CT, MR imaging, and catheter angiography provide the radiologist and neurosurgeon with a variety of imaging options for screening, diagnosis, presurgical evaluation, and postoperative monitoring of patients with intracranial aneurysms. Noninvasive imaging techniques have not replaced conventional angiography for the comprehensive evaluation o aneurysms but are effective in screening patients suspected to have an unruptured aneurysm or for preoperative planning in emergency situations that preclude catheter angiography. CT, CT angiography, MR imaging, and MR angiography can all complement the information obtained with catheter angiography in presurgical planning, and the choice of supplemental studies should be individualized. Rotational and intraoperative angiography are problem-solving options used for selected cases at our institution. Continuous improvements in techniques for CT and MR angiography may someday reach the point where surgery can be undertaken on the basis on noninvasive imaging alone, with catheter angiography reserved for endovascular therapy planning and guidance.
TH-AB-209-07: High Resolution X-Ray-Induced Acoustic Computed Tomography

Purpose: X-ray radiographic absorption imaging is an invaluable tool in medical diagnostics, biology and materials science. However, the use of conventional CT is limited by two factors: the detection sensitivity to weak absorption material and the radiation dose from CT scanning. The purpose of this study is to explore X-ray induced acoustic computed tomography (XACT), a new imaging modality, which combines X-ray absorption contrast and high ultrasonic resolution to address these challenges. Methods: First, theoretical models was built to analyze the XACT sensitivity to X-ray absorption and calculate the minimal radiation dose in XACT imaging. Then, an XACT system comprised of an ultrashort X-ray pulse, a low noise ultrasound detector and a signal acquisition system was built to evaluate the X-ray induced acoustic signal generation. A piece of chicken bone and a phantom with two golden fiducial markers were exposed to 270 kVp X-ray source with 60 ns exposure time, and the X-ray induced acoustic signal was received by a 2.25MHz ultrasound transducer in 200 positions. XACT images were reconstructed by a filtered back-projection algorithm. Results: The theoretical analysis shows that X-ray induced acoustic signals have 100% relative sensitivity to X-ray absorption, but not to X-ray scattering. Applying this innovative technology to breast imaging, we can reduce radiation dose by a factor of 50 compared with newly FDA approved breast CT. The reconstructed images of chicken bone and golden fiducial marker phantom reveal that the spatial resolution of the built XACT system is 350µm. Conclusion: In XACT, the imaging sensitivity to X-ray absorption is improved and the imaging dose is dramatically reduced by using ultrashort pulsed X-ray. Taking advantage of the high ultrasonic resolution, we can also perform 3D imaging with a single X-ray pulse. This new modality has the potential to revolutionize x-ray imaging applications in medicine and biology.
Introduction: Reading Blake’s Texts

One thing is clear immediately: reading William Blake’s works is profoundly different from reading the works of any other English writer. The exceptionally interactive process of reading which the encounter with Blake’s works entails is more dynamic — and frequently more disturbing — than anything for which most readers’ training and previous experience have prepared them. The transaction between author and reader that is mediated through the printed text of any conventional literary work naturally involves an intellectual, emotional and aesthetic interchange. But the nature of that interplay is infinitely more complex in an art form like Blake’s, in which verbal and visual texts make simultaneous and often quite different demands upon the reader. Reading Blake requires of the reader both equilibrium and a good deal of self-assurance, for Blake demands that his readers serve as co-creators of the work under consideration, participating fully in this shared activity of making. The reader is expected to respond to implied queries and challenges, to embedded puzzles and enigmas, and to an often daunting array of apparent inconsistencies.
Drew, Charles R.

Born: June 23, 1904, Washington, DC Education: Amherst College, B.A., 1926; McGill University, M.D., C.M., 1933; Columbia University, D. Sc., 1940 Died: April 1, 1950, Burlington, NC During an internship in New York City's Presbyterian Hospital and doctoral studies at Columbia University, Drew made original discoveries on blood plasma, including that it could be preserved and used for transfusions. He coined his “blood bank” concept in 1940. During World War II he created the first bank in the Blood for Britain Program and the second for the American Red Cross. Maintaining segregation, however, the War Department declared that “it is not advisable to collect and mix Caucasian and Negro blood” (www.aaregistry.org/historic_events/view/dr-charles-drew-was-lifesaver-through-his-blood-plasma-discoveries). Drew objected and resigned or was fired. “The blood of individual human beings may differ by blood groupings, but there is absolutely no scientific basis to indicate any differences according to race” (Love, 1997, p. 321), he protested. The Jim Crow policy lasted until 1949. Segregation surrounded Drew's death. His car crashed on the highway from Durham to Greensboro, North Carolina. An ambulance took him to white-only Alamance County Hospital. Two emergency room doctors were treating Drew when he died on the operating table. But a rumor spread that the hospital refused to treat him because of his race and it persisted, especially among southern blacks. Exclusion and death involving segregated hospitals, after all, reflected their lived experiences.
Universal Biotin–PEG-Linked Gold Nanoparticle Probes for the Simultaneous Detection of Nucleic Acids and Proteins

Novel biotin–polyethylene glycol (biotin–PEG) gold nanoparticle probes have been synthesized and used as universal constructs for the detection of protein (prostate-specific antigen, PSA) and nucleic acid targets (microRNAs) from a single sample. Microarray assays based upon these probes enabled sensitive detection of biomarker targets (50 fM for nucleic acid targets and 1 pg/μL for the PSA target). Ways of detecting biomarkers, including nucleic acids and proteins, are necessary for the clinical diagnosis of many diseases, but currently available diagnostic platforms rely primarily on the independent detection of proteins or nucleic acids. In addition to the economic benefits associated with the use of a single platform to detect both classes of analytes, studies have shown that the simultaneous identification of multiple classes of biomarkers in the same sample could be useful for the detection and management of early stage diseases, especially when sample amounts are limited. Therefore, these new probe...
Why individuals choose to post incriminating information on social networking sites: Social control and social disorganization theories in context

Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, and many more social networking sites are becoming mainstream in the lives of numerous individuals in the United States and around the globe. How these sites could potentially impact one’s perception of community, as well as the ability to enhance (or impede) strong social bonding, is an area of concern for many sociologists and criminologists. Current literature is discussed and framed through the lenses of social disorganization and social control theories as they relate to an individual’s propensity to commit crime/indiscretions and then post comments relating to those activities on social networking sites. The result is gained insight into the communal attributes of social networking and a contribution to the discussion of the relationship among the social components of the internet, criminal activity, and one’s sense of community. Implications and areas of future research are also addressed.
Observations and analysis of small-scale magnetic flux ropes in the solar wind

The small-scale magnetic flux ropes (of duration ranging from a few minutes to a few hours) in the solar wind have the typical topology of winding field lines around a central axis, which is similar to the large-scale flux ropes, i.e., magnetic clouds. However, accumulating evidence suggests that their plasma characteristics, origin, formation mechanism and evolution are different from those of large-scale flux ropes. The small-scale flux ropes are intensively studied in recent years, since they affect particle transport and energization, and are considered as the potential source of local acceleration. The Grad-Shafranov reconstruction technique is a tool to reconstruct the two and a half dimensional field structure based on in-situ measurements captured by an observing platform moving past it. In this study, we reconstruct the flux rope structures in two events using the Grad-Shafranov reconstruction approach. In one event, a twin flux rope structure at 1 AU occurring on 2002 February 1 and two following single flux rope structures are identified behind an interplanetary shock. In the other event, we reconstruct the flux rope structures occurring on 1998 March 25 and 26 at 1 AU in the ambient solar wind. The associated energetic particle signatures and the possible origin of these flux rope structures are discussed.
Effect of subsets on bias and variance in low-count iterative PET reconstruction

Statistical reconstruction produces bias in images reconstructed with low counts, such as short-duration frames in dynamic PET studies. While the bias is usually considered to be the consequence of the positivity constraint in MLEM reconstruction, there is no evidence of comparable bias observed with list-mode OSEM reconstruction (MOLAR). Simulation studies were performed of a human brain scan for the HRRT. Without scatter effects, there was only 0.5–4% negative bias in brain image reconstructed from as little as 0.2M events. With scatter included in the simulation and corrected in the reconstruction, additional bias was introduced, i.e., bias values were between −7% and −15% reconstructed from 0.2M prompt events (0.07M NEC). On the other hand, in both simulation and real phantom experiments, larger bias was found in low-count reconstructions if the events are divided into larger numbers of subsets. Compared to the case with only one subset, the bias and variability increased by 1–2% and 1–3% respectively when 30 subsets are employed in HRRT reconstruction from 0.2M simulated events. A similar tendency of increased bias was also observed when comparing 3 to 21 subsets in low-count reconstructions of a phantom scanned on the mCT. The negative bias in low-count OSEM reconstructions is presumably produced by too few counts being backprojected into the image at each subset, producing “holes”. This phenomenon is worsened by higher numbers of subset, i.e., fewer events in each subset. The results of this study indicated that image bias and noise in ultra low-count reconstructions with MOLAR can be potentially reduced by employing less subsets and more iterations.
Millivolt-scale dynamic reflectance modulation in gate-tunable Fano resonant metasurfaces

We report and experimentally demonstrate an actively controlled gate-tunable Fano resonant plasmonic metasurface operating in the visible region, where operating voltages for reflectance and complex index modulation are <<1 V with up to 25% modulation.
The lower alkyl methacrylates: Genotoxic profile of non-carcinogenic compounds

All of the lower alkyl methacrylates are high production chemicals with potential for human exposure. The genotoxicity of seven mono-functional alkyl esters of methacrylic acid, i.e. methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, n-, i- and t-butyl methacrylate and 2 ethyl hexyl methacrylate, as well as methacrylic acid itself, the acyl component common to all, is reviewed and compared with the lack of carcinogenicity of methyl methacrylate, the representative member of the series so evaluated. Also reviewed are the similarity of structure, chemical and biological reactivity, metabolism and common metabolic products of this group of compounds which allows a category approach for assessing genotoxicity. As a class, the lower alkyl methacrylates are universally negative for gene mutations in prokaryotes but do exhibit high dose clastogenicity in mammalian cells in vitro. There is no convincing evidence that these compounds induce genotoxic effects in vivo in either sub-mammalian or mammalian species. This dichotomy of effects can be explained by the potential genotoxic intermediates generated in vitro. This genotoxic profile of the lower alkyl methacrylates is consistent with the lack of carcinogenicity of methyl methacrylate.
Orthomyxoviruses: Molecular Biology

Influenza viruses are enveloped viruses with a segmented, single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome. They attach to host cells via their major surface glycoprotein, hemagglutinin, and are internalized in endocytic compartments. Fusion of the viral membrane with that of the endosome results in the release of the encapsidated viral genome. Viral replication and transcription take place in the nucleus of the infected cell and newly synthesized proteins and viral RNA then assemble at the plasma membrane for packaging into budding virus particles. The ability to manipulate the genome of influenza virus through the advent of reverse genetics has greatly enhanced our understanding of this medically important virus.
Variability Reduction Through Subvessel CUSUM Control

When a production process involves the nesting of production units within larger production units, continuous reduction in product variability can be realize through the use of subvessel CUSUM control schemes. Control of the average levels in subvessels..
Improve UV Protection Property of Single Jersey for Summer Protective Clothes

This paper aims to improve UV protection property for single jersey fabrics. Three different machine gauge with two different materials and two different yarn counts were studied. In our research the gauge 28 showed the highest UV protection making it suitable for sun protective clothes. The gauge 20 gave the lowest UV protection .Fabrics with yarn count 24 gave better results than fabrics with yarn count 30.
A Comment: “Conservation: An Upper-middle Class Social Movement”

(1971). A Comment: “Conservation: An Upper-middle Class Social Movement”. Journal of Leisure Research: Vol. 3, No. 2, pp. 127-128.
Neither Naïve nor Critical Reconstruction: Dispute Mediators, Impasse, and the Design of Argumentation

This study investigates how dispute-mediators handle impasse in the re-negotiation of divorce decrees by divorced couples. Three sources of impasse and three strategies for handling impasse are identified based on analysis of mediation transcripts. The concern here lies not so much in the disputant's arguments but in the discussion procedures dispute-mediators use to craft the disputant's argumentation into a tool to solve conflict. Their moves are understood here as a practice of reconstructing argumentative discourse that is neither naive nor critical but reconstruction as design. Mediator's reconstruction reveals a type of communication work in contemporary societies involved in the crafting of forums and formats that mediate argumentative communication. This work is often invisible and strategic which makes its interpretation, judgment, and development a challenge for pragma-dialectical theory. How reconstruction as design can be understood is discussed by building on prior pragma-dialectical theory and research.
Moral Choice, the Good of the Patient, and the Patient’s Good

Acting for the good of the patient is the most ancient and universally acknowledged principle of medical ethics. It grounds ethical theories and shapes the way their principles are applied in particular cases. It is the ultimate court of appeal for the morality of medical acts. While it may, on rare occasions be set aside for the common good, this is done with trepidation and in only the most urgent circumstances.
Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics of Oral and Transdermal Clonidine in Chronic Renal Insufficiency

Use of the skin as a means for drug delivery, especially transdermal application of nitroglycerine, has been receiving increasing attention in the area of cardiovascular medicine (Adkinson 1977; Karsh et al. 1978; Hansen et al. 1979; Muller et al. 1982; Colfer et al. 1982; Olivari and Cohn 1983). Although some controversy exists now about bioavailability and effectiveness, it still remains a viable alternative to sublingual and oral administration. Two antihypertensive drugs have been studied by means of application to the skin. Preliminary data on the transdermal application of timolol has shown that it is effective in blunting the exercise response in normals (Lowenthal et al. unpublished). Further studies on its effectiveness as an antihypertensive when applied transdermally are being initiated.
Estrogens, Progestins, SERMs, and Osteoporosis

Loss of ovarian function among mature women increases bone remodeling by increasing the frequency with which remodeling sites are activated and also by enhancing the avidity of the osteoclast population. The consequence is loss of bone mass and deterioration in the architecture of the skeleton with a resulting reduction in skeletal strength. The ubiquitous occurrence of menopause and the bone loss that follows renders osteoporosis and its attendant fracture risk a major health problem for the female population. Estimates suggest that the average woman has about a 50 % chance of a fracture in her remaining years. Replacement estrogen reduces that risk by essentially reducing remodeling toward premenopausal levels. However, the use of estrogen intervention is complicated since estrogens have potent effects in many organ systems, not all of which are beneficial. Thus, estrogen therapy is currently not considered to be a first line treatment when used solely for prevention of osteoporosis. Estrogens and hormone therapy (estrogen plus a progestin to protect the uterus) remain important agents for treatment of menopausal symptoms, with the recommendation that the lowest effective dose be given and that treatment be given for the shortest time possible (until symptoms remain abated when treatment is discontinued). The recommendation is a consequence of the Women Health Initiative, a major study from the USA that evaluated multiple outcomes of hormone therapy in postmenopausal women. As long as estrogen is given skeletal protection is to be expected, but when estrogens are stopped rapid bone loss ensues. For those considered at high risk for osteoporosis other strategies must be sought. When estrogens are used for osteoporosis prevention, care must be taken to ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D, since the estrogen efficacy relies on nutrition and is impaired when calcium intake is low and vitamin D levels are suboptimal.
Left atrial size and function: Role in prognosis

The author examines the ability of left atrial size and function to predict cardiovascular outcomes. Data are sufficient to recommend evaluation of left atrial volume in certain populations, and although analysis of atrial reservoir, conduit, and booster pump function trails in that regard, the gap is rapidly closing. In this state-of-the-art paper, the author reviews the methods used to assess left atrial size and function and discusses their role in predicting cardiovascular events in general and referral populations and in patients with atrial fibrillation, cardiomyopathy, ischemic heart disease, and valvular heart disease.
Reflectance from solids and solid particles: the need for the optical constants n and k and far-IR measurement challenges

The morphology, size, and media surrounding a solid material can all influence its optical properties, such as scattering, absorption, and reflection of light. While it is possible to measure the optical properties of hundreds of individual surface or particle configurations, it is impractical. Conversely, knowledge of the bulk optical constants n and k of a pure solid facilitates computation of arbitrarily sized particles, shapes, surrounding media, etc. As we describe here, single-angle reflectance spectroscopy is one such method used to obtain the bulk optical constants of solids. In particular, solid crystalline materials typically have responses in the mid- and far-infrared arising from phenomena such as lattice (phonon) vibrations as well as stretching or bending vibrations, among others. These vibrational modes in the mid- and far-infrared often present unique experimental challenges as the wavelength of light across such a wide spectral range varies greatly and can dimensionally approach the magnitude of specimens and even optical apertures used to limit the illumination area. Here we describe challenges and solutions, with an emphasis on optical instrumentation and far-infrared spectra, related to measuring realistic-sized mineralogical samples (down to ca. 2 mm) where sample purity, exposed surface area, cost, and rarity can all play important roles in obtaining the optical constants n and k.
The challenges of representing vertical motion in numerical models

Even though vertical motion is resolved within convection-permitting models, recent studies have demonstrated significant departures in predicted storm updrafts and downdrafts when compared with Doppler observations of the same events. Several previous studies have attributed these departures to shortfalls in the representation of microphysical processes, in particular those pertaining to ice processes. Others have suggested that our inabilities to properly represent processes such as entrainment are responsible. Wrapped up in these issues are aspects such as the model grid resolution, as well as accuracy of models to correctly simulate the environmental conditions. Four primary terms comprise the vertical momentum equation: advection, pressure gradient forcing, thermodynamics and turbulence. Microphysical processes including their impacts on latent heating and their contributions to condensate loading strongly impact the thermodynamic term. The focus of this study is on the thermodynamic contributions to vertical motion, the shortfalls that arise when modeling this term, and the observations that might be made to improve the representation of those thermodynamical processes driving convective updrafts and downdrafts.
A role for analogue memory in AI hardware

Memristor-based chips could lead the way to fast, energy-efficient AI hardware accelerators.
Chewing the Fat: The Conserved Ability of DNA Viruses to Hijack Cellular Lipid Metabolism

Viruses manipulate numerous host factors and cellular pathways to facilitate the replication of viral genomes and the production of infectious progeny. One way in which viruses interact with cells is through the utilization and exploitation of the host lipid metabolism. While it is likely that most-if not all-viruses require lipids or intermediates of lipid synthesis to replicate, many viruses also actively induce lipid metabolic pathways to sustain a favorable replication environment. From the formation of membranous replication compartments, to the generation of ATP or protein modifications, viruses exhibit differing requirements for host lipids. Thus, while the exploitation of lipid metabolism is a common replication strategy, diverse viruses employ a plethora of mechanisms to co-opt these critical cellular pathways. Here, we review recent literature regarding the exploitation of host lipids and lipid metabolism specifically by DNA viruses. Importantly, furthering the understanding of the viral requirements for host lipids may offer new targets for antiviral therapeutics and provide opportunities to repurpose the numerous FDA-approved compounds targeting lipid metabolic pathways as antiviral agents.
A Content Analysis of the Journal of Legal Aspects of Sport: 1992-2016

As the flagship journal of the Sport and Recreation Law Association, the Journal of Legal Aspects of Sport (JLAS) serves “…as an interdisciplinary outlet for legal issues in the sport, recreation, and related fields to meet the needs of researchers, academicians, practitioners, and policymakers” (About JLAS, para. 2). A study by Batista and Pittman (2006) identified JLAS as the most highly ranked sport law journal among journals focusing on sport management. Articles appearing in the Journal of Legal Aspects of Sport have informed court decisions and case outcomes, policy decisions and debate on limited liability legislation, health and safety issues, and universal access to sport opportunities (Spengler & Miller, 2014). Additionally, JLAS articles have been cited in journals published in a variety of countries including India, China, Australia, France, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Spain (Spengler & Miller, 2014). These inclusions indicate that the Journal of Legal Aspects of Sport has had some degree of success in attaining international recognition and appeal. Although JLAS has been published since 1992, a complete formal analysis of the content has never been conducted. A content analysis of JLAS may provide critical information regarding the diversity of topics covered, the specific research types utilized, demographic information regarding the authors published, and perhaps identify any gaps that may exist in the current literature base. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to conduct a content analysis of articles published in the Journal of Legal Aspects of Sport (JLAS) from 1992-2016.
Poly(acrylonitrile-methyl methacrylate) as a non-fluorinated binder for the graphite anode of Li-ion batteries

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) has been a choice of the binder for both cathode and graphite anode in stateof-the-art Li-ion batteries [1, 2]. However, there is currently a demand to replace PVDF with non-fluorinated binder since at elevated temperatures the fluorinated polymers react with lithiated graphite (LixC6) and metal lithium to form more stable LiF and >C@CF– double bonds. In particular, the reaction of PVDF and metal lithium produces an enthalpy as high as 7180 J (g PVDF) [1]. It has been reported that in the presence of electrolytes, PVDF and lithiated graphite undergo a series of exothermic reactions, including (i) temperature-induced degradation of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) at 120–140 C, (ii) reactions of lithiated graphite and electrolyte at 210–230 C, and (iii) dehydrofluorination of PVDF initiated by LixC6 at >260 C [1, 2]. Among these reactions, the last one is known to be very exothermic and is believed to be a potential source for the thermal runaway of Li-ion batteries under abuse conditions. Therefore, safety concerns with Li-ion batteries may arise from the use of PVDF in the graphite anode. To replace the rather reactive PVDF, we attempt to evaluate poly(acrylonitrile-methyl methacrylate) (AMMA) as a non-fluorinated binder for the graphite anode of Li-ion batteries. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) study has shown that the heat of reaction of the lithiated graphite and electrolyte can be reduced significantly by using AMMA instead of PVDF [3]. That is, total enthalpies for the reactions (as indicated by two exothermic peaks in DSC curves) of the fully lithiated graphite (MAG-10, Hitachi Chemical) and electrolyte (1.2 M LiPF6 3:7 EC/EMC) in the temperature range 280–340 C can be reduced to 1211 J (g AMMA) from 2699 J (g PVDF). In this paper, we will electrochemically evaluate AMMA as a binder of the graphite anode of Li-ion batteries. 2. Experimental details
LTE QoS Parameters Prediction Using Multivariate Linear Regression Algorithm

Quality of service indicators monitoring and prediction are fundamental prerequisites of an LTE broadband wireless network for satisfactory service delivery of evolving Internet applications to customers. The mean user throughput and the delay are key performance indicators(KPIs) that have to be monitored against the evolution of the network in terms of radio quality and total traffic. This method allows optimization engineers to have accurate idea about the current quality of service provided to the customers and take appropriate actions to manage the network resources. Today’s popular mobile Internet applications, such as gaming, voice service, streaming and social networking applications, have diverse traffic models and, consequently, different QoS requirements. The engineers should have an idea about the current user throughput and the application delays that characterizes the network and should be able to predict the evolution of such indicators in the coming months to enrich the marketing team knowledge about the services and the offers that can be suggested to the subscribers. In this paper, we use a learning data set that contains the daily evolution of the four KPIs (mean user throughput, average delay, total traffic carried over the network and the average reported channel quality indicator (CQI)) for a wireless operator during six months and we implement the machine learning multivariate linear regression technique to prove that the mean user throughput and the average delay can be estimated by a linear function of the total traffic carried over the network and the average reported CQI using gradient descent algorithm. Then we evaluate the model that we got by calculating the residuals. Finally, we discuss several case studies to show the potential of the optimum linear function in describing the network QoS evolution pattern and the tuning of existing features.
Argument: A Social Constructivist Perspective

In the ongoing controversy over the relative merits of two divergent theories which may be called “argument-as-structure” and “argument-as-process,” this essay defends the structural view of argume...
Seeking Western Men: Divergent Trajectories of China’s “Email-Order Brides”

Based on 17 months of ethnography at three different online dating agencies in southern China, this article examines the life histories and decision-making processes of women who seek marriages with Western men. Most women in my study are middle-aged (over 40), divorced, and come from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds. I explore how emerging inequalities brought on by China’s transition from state socialism toward a global market economy shaped their shared desires to seek out-migration via marriage. My work is set against the backdrop of China’s economic ascendance on the world stage alongside a relative decline of the West. I compare how Chinese women from diverse class backgrounds envision a relatively homogenous group of men: Western men in agriculture, manufacturing, and small business sectors who feel they have been left behind by globalization. My results show that China’s uneven development has fractured the local marriage migration market into different niche sectors, where each sector is occupied by women who envision Western men and the relative decline of the West differently due to differences in their own social positions and access to resources in China. Their social positions are, in turn, shaped by the intersectionality of many factors including age, generation, parental status, income, etc., which I explore in depth in this article. This study illuminates the importance of adopting a more intersectional approach to analyses of migration as our world becomes increasingly decentered, diversified, and yet polarized.
Neuroanatomical Abnormalities in Older Depressed Adults With Apathy: A Systematic Review:

Objective:Apathy is a common phenomenon in late-life depression and is associated with poor outcomes. Apathy is often unrecognized in older depressed adults, and efficacious treatment options are l...
Facebook Privacy Attitudes

Because of Facebookâ€™s ubiquitous nature, users who fail to properly configure their Facebook account privacy settings could be unintentionally revealing personal information to millions of people. This study analyzes data collected from African American and Hispanic college students regarding Facebook privacy setting attitudes and use. The findings indicate African American students have been members of Facebook longer and have more â€œFriendsâ€ than Hispanic students. Both ethnic groups spend about the same amount of time on Facebook during each session, although Hispanics log on more frequently. Virtually all the students claim awareness and use Facebook privacy settings. Hispanics have more restrictive Facebook privacy settings than African Americans. Neither ethnic group trusts Facebook to protect privacy, but African Africans show less concern while Hispanics indicate greater worry about Facebook privacy and data security. Both ethnic groups are more concerned about Internet privacy than Facebook privacy, Hispanics significantly more so.
Blended Assemblies of Amphiphilic Random and Block Copolymers for Tunable Encapsulation and Release of Hydrophobic Guest Molecules

Self-assembly of amphiphilic polymers in aqueous solution builds up versatile carrier platforms for therapeutic delivery. Amphiphilic polymers specifically provide “hydrophobic pockets” for the enc...
Tools for Monitoring CPU Usage and Affinity in Multicore Supercomputers

Performance boosts in HPC nodes have come from making SIMD units wider and aggressively packing more and more cores in each processor. With multiple processors and so many cores it has become necessary to understand and manage process and thread affinity and pinning. However, affinity tools have not been designed specifically for HPC users to quickly evaluate process affinity and execution location. To fill in the gap, three HPC user-friendly tools, core_usage, show_affinity, and amask, have been designed to eliminate barriers that frustrate users and impede users from evaluating and analyzing affinity for applications. These tools focus on providing convenient methods, easy-to-understand affinity representations for large process counts, process locality, and run-time core load with socket aggregation. These tools will significantly help HPC users, developers and site administrators easily monitor processor utilization from an affinity perspective.
Label-free photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging for murine atherosclerosis characterization.

Dual-modality photoacoustic tomography (PAT) and 4D ultrasound (4DUS) imaging have shown promise for cardiovascular applications, but their use in murine atherosclerosis imaging is limited. This study used PAT and 4DUS to correlate altered arterial strain and hemodynamics to morphological changes and lipid localization in a murine partial carotid ligation (PCL) model of atherosclerosis. Validation experiments showed a positive correlation between the PAT signal-to-noise ratio and plaque lipid composition obtained from oil-red O histology. Cross-sectional in situ PAT and longitudinal in vivo ultrasound imaging was performed using a 40 MHz transducer. Ultrasound timepoints included days 0, 1, 4, 7, 10, and 14 for hemodynamic and strain assessment, and 1100 nm and 1210 nm PAT was implemented at the study end point for hemoglobin and lipid characterization. These study groups were then separated into day 4 post-PCL with (n = 5) and without (n = 6) Western diet feeding, as well as days 7 (n = 8), 10 (n = 8), and 14 (n = 8) post-PCL, in addition to a sham control group on a Western diet (n = 5). Overall, our data revealed a substantial decrease in left carotid artery pulsatility by day 7. The hemodynamic results suggested greater disturbed flow in the caudal regions resulting in earlier vessel stenosis and greater lipid deposition than cranial regions. Morphological and compositional data revealed heterogeneous vascular remodeling between days 0 and 7, with a rapid decrease in the vessel volume/length and the presence of both intraplaque hematoma and lipid deposition at day 10 post-PCL. These results highlight the utility of utilizing dual-modality PAT and 4DUS to study atherosclerosis progression.
Sustainable Learning in Cultural Algorithms Using Common Value Auctions

In Cultural Systems there are many ways to collect and distribute problem solving knowledge within social networks. Such mechanisms include games, auctions, and various voting mechanisms. Here, a new distribution mechanism, Common Value Auctions, is presented. In this paper Common Value Auctions are used to distribute problem solving knowledge within a social network. The experimental results suggest that the Commonthe Common Value Auction distribution mechanism is sufficient to produce sustainable learning in a dynamically changing problem landscape using only information about an individuals' past influence by a kno wledge agent. Here, the sustainability is expressed in terms of both the Cultural Systems' robustness and resilience to linear changes in the problem solving environment. Future work will investigate whether additional variables are required to produce sustainability in non-linear and chaotic environments,
Purity, Nationalism, and Whiteness: The Fracturing of Fundamentalist Evangelicalism

Fundamentalist evangelicalism is an intricate grand narrative based upon the interrelated concepts of end times’ eschatology and purity. These two concepts created the conditions by which white eva...
Fluorescein angiographic features post-intravitreal bevacizumab for retinopathy of prematurity: can they support rescue laser photocoagulation to the avascular retina.

Abstract Objective To study the fluorescein angiography (FA) features post-intravitreal bevacizumab (post-IVB) monotherapy for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) that may pose risk for late sight-threatening ROP and support rescue laser to the avascular retina. Methods A retrospective review of 26 infants (47 eyes) with type 1 ROP treated with IVB monotherapy. Results All infants had RetCam and FA performed at an average of 68 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA), 19 at an average 98 weeks PMA, and 10 at an average of 120 weeks PMA. Average gestational age at birth and birth weight were 24.8 weeks (standard deviation [SD] 1.91 weeks) and 683 g (SD 158.85 g), respectively. Average PMA at first IVB was 37 weeks. Eight eyes of 6 infants received repeat IVB for recurrent stage 3 at an average of 46.6 weeks PMA. All infants had inhibited retinal vasculature in zone 2, and 25 of 26 had conventional FA features, which included peripheral leakage, shunts, abnormal branching, and tangles with no late reactivation of ROP until age 3 years. Only 1 infant showed diffuse hyperfluorescence along the regressed proliferation site with a late proliferation necessitating laser to preserve vision. Conclusions Conventional FA features seen in 98% post-IVB monotherapy showed no late complications without rescue laser photocoagulation to the avascular retina.
Change point analyses in prodromal Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract Change point analysis can reveal when a biomarker starts to diverge from the pattern of normal aging. This paper analyzes several biomarkers from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) to estimate the sequence and timing of their change points relative to a subsequent clinical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in subjects initially considered cognitively normal (CN). Data on 379 stable CN (sCN) and 98 progressive CN (pCN) subjects who progressed to an MCI diagnosis were used. Linear mixed-effects change point models were used to estimate when various biomarkers in pCN started to diverge from rates expected in normal aging. Our results indicate that in pCN, hippocampal atrophy rate diverges from normal aging 12.4 (±2.8) years before MCI diagnosis, followed by ventricular volume expansion and decrease in Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test of immediate recall scores about 5 years later. Glucose metabolism decrease begins about 5 (±1.3) years before diagnosis, followed by deterioration in other cognitive test scores. Planned AD interventions should note that irreversible changes such as atrophy may occur a decade before possible diagnosis of MCI.