cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transplantation of Liver Grafts From Older Donors: Impact on Recipients With Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Introduction. Older donor allografts are being accepted for liver transplantation (LTx) due to shortage of organs. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection–related disease is presently the most common indication of LT in the United States. We studied the impact of donor age on patient and graft survivals in patients with HCV infection. Patients and methods. One hundred fifty four consecutive HCV() LTx recipients (117 men, 37 women) were studied. The mean follow-up period was 41.0 30.2 months. The population was divided into four groups according to donor age: group I (20 years); group II (21 to 40 years); group III (41 to 60 years); group IV (60 years). Results. Thirty-two (20.8%) patients died during follow-up and 16 patients (10.4%) required retransplantation. The actuarial 7-year patient survivals for groups I, II, III, and IV were 87.1%, 73.7%, 69.3%, and 68.5%, respectively (P .4). Patient survivals for donor age groups III IV (n 95) and groups I II (n 59) were 68.9% and 77.2%, respectively (P .19). The 7-year graft survivals for groups I, II, III, and IV were 82.7%, 71.8%, 65.8%, and 62.5%, respectively (P .17). Graft survivals for groups III IV and groups I II were 58.4% and 76.2%, respectively (P .03). Conclusion. Patient and graft survivals for HCV-positive liver transplant recipients in this study decreased progressively as the donor age increased. Patient and graft survivals were best for group I recipients. There were significant differences in graft survivals when recipients were grouped with a cutoff donor age of 40 years.
Bending of a Bimetallic Beam Due to the Kirkendall Effect

The time-dependent bending of single-phase and two-phase bimetal strips due to interdiffusion is computed. The model couples simple beam theory and diffusion with bending due to the creation and/or annihilation of vacancies necessitated by unequal lattice diffusion rates of the two metals. The single-phase analysis employs a Fourier method for the diffusion analysis and predicts a beam curvature that is initially proportional to time and later reaches a constant value. The two-phase analysis, which involves a moving interphase boundary, employs an error function solution for the diffusion problem to model early times and a numerical solution for later time. Unlike the single-phase results, linear behavior is obtained at early time only if the original interface is centered in the beam. In general, the curvature initially is proportional to the square root of time. The numerical solution gives the gradual transition of the curvature to a constant value at late time. In some cases, nonmonotonic time dependence is obtained for the curvature for the two-phase beam.
Drawings by individuals with Williams syndrome: are people different from shapes?

Abstract Because it is unclear whether people with Williams syndrome produce drawings that are delayed or deviant, we examined these two possibilities in Draw a Person and figure copying tasks (VMI) in 28 persons with Williams syndrome, 28 with mixed etiologies, and 28 with Down syndrome. All human figures could be classified into discrete stages of drawing development, and in all groups, drawing tasks were significantly correlated with MA. Human figures from participants with Williams syndrome were no more deviant than their counterparts, nor did they show “local-global” differences. Draw a Person scores exceeded VMI scores in the Williams syndrome group, whereas the Down syndrome group showed relative strengths on both drawing tasks, and the mixed group had no profile. Developmental and phenotypic implications of findings are discussed.
The case for primary placement of tunneled hemodialysis catheters in acute kidney injury.

Purpose Nontunneled hemodialysis catheters (NTDCs) are widely used for initial hemodialysis access in new-onset renal failure. The National Kidney Foundation recommends NTDC use for hemodialysis duration of less than 1 week in acute kidney injury because of the increased infection risk compared with tunneled hemodialysis catheters (TDCs) with longer use. The present study was performed to determine whether primary placement of TDCs in this setting is more appropriate, and whether there are predictors of recovery of renal function in less than 1 week. Materials and Methods In the authors' practice, patients referred to the interventional radiology unit in whom no contraindications exist receive a TDC; 76 patients who received a primary TDC for acute kidney injury and who eventually recovered renal function were retrospectively reviewed herein. Causes of renal failure, various renal function parameters, and demographics were collected, as were TDC dwell times, in an effort to determine predictors of recovery and/or extended duration of use. Results Mean TDC dwell time in patients who eventually recovered from acute kidney injury was 34 days; only 15 of 76 (20%) recovered within 1 week. At TDC placement, there were no significant differences between patients who recovered in less than (vs greater than) 1 week. Conclusions The present results support primary placement of TDCs in patients with acute kidney injury who require hemodialysis and in whom no contraindications exist, as no predictors of recovery of renal function in less than 1 week were identified.
Uptake and release of gaseous species accompanying the reactions of isoprene photo-oxidation products with sulfate particles

Gaseous species produced via the HO2 reaction pathways of isoprene photo-oxidation were reacted with liquid, partially neutralized sulfate aerosol particles at 293 ± 1 K and <5% relative humidity. Isoprene-derived epoxydiols (IEPOX) were taken up for all neutralizations so long as the liquid phase was maintained. By comparison, isoprene-derived hydroperoxides (ISOPOOH) were taken up only for low neutralization (i.e., high acidity). The release of product molecules to the gas phase increased for low neutralization, corresponding to the release of at least 60 product molecules for the uptake of 100 reactant molecules at the lowest neutralization. A major reaction pathway was hydroperoxide cleavage in the particle phase to produce volatile products. Product species larger than the C5 chain of isoprene were also released to the gas phase, implying that some accretion products in the particle phase were sufficiently volatile to partition to the gas phase. The study results show that the dependence of reactive uptake on neutralization varies by species. Furthermore, in addition to functionalization and accretion, decomposition and re-volatilization should be considered in mass balance formulations of reactive uptake by atmospheric particles.
Navigational transbronchial needle aspiration, percutaneous needle aspiration and its future.

Peripheral lung nodule evaluation represents a clinical challenge. Given that many nodules will be incidentally found with lung cancer screening following the publication of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), the goal is to find an accurate, safe and minimally-invasive diagnostic modality to biopsy the concerning lesions. Unfortunately, conventional bronchoscopic techniques provide a poor diagnostic yield of 18–62%. In recent years advances in technology have led to the introduction of electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) as a tool to guide sampling of peripheral lung nodules. The same principle has also recently been expanded and applied to the transthoracic needle biopsy, referred to as electromagnetic transthoracic needle aspiration (E-TTNA). An improved diagnostic yield has afforded this technology a recommendation by the 2013 3 rd Edition ACCP Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Lung Cancer which state that “in patients with peripheral lung lesions difficult to reach with conventional bronchoscopy, ENB is recommended if the equipment and the expertise are available (Grade 1C)”. In this review we will discuss the technology, devices that are available, techniques and protocols, diagnostic yield, safety, cost effectiveness and more.
Study on Assessment Index of Livable Eco-City

The concept of livable eco-city is developed based on the demand of sustainable development,and its connotation is analyzed.It is generalized as a city with humanity,ecology,sustainability,safety and economy.Based on relevant research at home and abroad,the concept of "a city for people" appears.A new index system consisting of three different layers – objective,criteria and index – is constructed.In criteria layers,five sub-systems – economic society,life quality,resource protection,environmental governance,and basic equipment – are considered for index selection.By method of TOPSIS,the city of Yixing is appraised.The results show Yixing is improving in building a livable eco-city,however,it still has some gaps with a perfect condition.The index analysis also shows that the adjustment of industrial structure is needed to get further improvement.
Hemodynamic assessment of venous problems.

Objective assessment of venous function based on venous refilling time recorded by photoplethysmography (PPG) was done in 89 patients with postphlebitic syndrome (47), primary varicose veins (29), and after an episode of acute deep vein thrombosis (13). Limbs with symptomatic postphlebitic changes had a shortened venous refilling time of 15.6 +/- 11 seconds (normal greater than 20 seconds). When venographic findings (ascending and descending) in 47 patients with postphlebitic syndrome were analyzed, it was noted that femoral valve incompetence demonstrated by descending venography was a common finding (81%), even in asymptomatic limbs (85%). Venous refilling time bore no relationship to the degree of femoral venous valve reflux. However, if there were associated diseased deep veins with incompetent perforating veins, the venous refilling time was much shorter (14 +/- 4 seconds) than in limbs without calf perforating veins (27 +/- 11.9 seconds, P less than 0.05). A tourniquet was used to impede saphenous flow, and changes in refilling time were recorded in 34 limbs with varicosities of the long saphenous vein. Refilling time normalized after tourniquet application in 31 limbs (14.43 +/- 4.34 to 30.64 +/- 11.9 seconds), and all patients underwent vein stripping. Postoperative recording confirmed the improvement in venous refilling time (29.52 +/- 27.8 seconds, P less than 0.05). Thirteen patients with acute deep vein thrombosis had serial PPG tests during a follow-up period of 27 months (mean 15.8 months). Seven had initial abnormal PPG results and persistently abnormal readings, and all developed postphlebitic changes. Venous refilling time is an useful test to determine the hemodynamic significance of femoral venous valve incompetence and to assess the effect of vein stripping on varicose veins. In acute deep vein thrombosis, follow-up study may help to identify patients at risk for development of postphlebitic changes.
Dynamic Landscapes: The Emergence of Formal Spaces in Colonial Virginia

Archaeologists studying the domestic landscapes that took shape in the Chesapeake region from the 1670s to 1730 typically conclude that these early settlements were the product of frontier environments, where functional utility dominated and aesthetic design had little value for all but the very wealthiest members of society. Reevaluation of two early Virginia plantations, Newman’s Neck and the Clifts, suggests that the relationships between colonists and their domestic places bears further examination, and that, among lesser gentry, intentional design in early colonial landscapes is, in fact, evident. Analysis of this design can shed light on the changing dynamics of power relations within the family, the social relations of labor, and the ways that colonists reinterpreted changing aesthetics within the Atlantic World.
Anatomy of the Lung

The structure of the lung determines its function. The various compartments of the lung are specially adapted to serve the activities of the lung. Pulmonary pathology is defined by the changes that occur in the underlying anatomy of the lung.
Indoor Air Quality Assessments of Diverse Buildings in an Energy Conservation District from a Life Cycle Assessment Lens: Short Paper

The historic reliance on fossil fuels as a primary energy source has made combating climate change one of the leading environmental challenges facing society today. Buildings account for 72%, 39%, 38%, and 14% of electricity consumption, energy use, carbon dioxide emissions, and water consumption, respectively [1-2]. Twelve cities have joined the Architecture 2030 District Challenge to aim to achieve 50% reductions in water use, energy consumption, and carbon emissions by the year 2030 [3]. Unique to the Pittsburgh's 2030 District is the inclusion of evaluating and improving indoor air quality (IAQ). Using life cycle assessment (LCA) based models and real-time pollutant monitoring, we aim to quantify the longitudinal impact energy conservation districts (ECD) have on ambient air quality and IAQ. Indoor parameters included within our research study include ozone, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, temperature, relative humidity, volatile organic compounds, black carbon, and particulate matter. IAQ assessments have been completed in six representative commercial buildings ranging from LEED Platinum certified to older, building stock, vintage 1900s. Preliminary results suggest significant difference in pollutant concentrations across ventilation functionality, showing a dominant effect on pollutant dilution related to newer buildings having continuous forced air, filtered and then supplied to the workspace through fans and ducts. Older buildings rely on operable windows and window air conditioners for ventilation, which provide minimum filtration and limited manual control of outdoor air intake influenced by plumes of ambient air pollution which vary temporally and spatially, attributable to industrial and traffic sources [4].
Assortment and spatiotemporal analysis of surface water quality using cluster and discriminant analyses

Abstract In this study, cluster analysis (CA) and discriminant analysis (DA) were used to assess the water quality and evaluate its spatial and temporal variations in South Florida. For this purpose, 15 years (2000–2014) data set of 12 water quality variables covering 16 monitoring stations, and about 35,000 observations were used. Agglomerative hierarchical CA grouped 16 monitoring sites into three groups (low pollution, moderate pollution, and high pollution) based on their similarity of water quality characteristics. DA, as an important data reduction method, and CA were used to assess the water pollution status and analysis of its spatiotemporal variation. It was found by the stepwise DA that five variables (chl-a, DO, TKN, TP and water temperature) were the most important discriminating water quality parameters responsible for temporal variations. In spatial DA, the stepwise mode identified seven variables (chl-a, DO, TKN, TP, magnesium, chloride, and sodium) and six variables (DO, TKN, TP, turbidity, magnesium, and chloride) as the most important discriminating variables responsible for spatial variations in wet and dry seasons, respectively. Different patterns associated with spatial variations were identified depending on the variables and considered season, however the overall trend of environment pollution problems was found from the low pollution (LP) region to high pollution (HP) region. It is believed that the results of this study could be very useful to the local authorities for the control and management of pollution and better protection of important riverine water quality.
A Comparison of Portfolio, Performance, and Traditional Assessment in the Middle School.

Traditional measures of achievement, including standardized tests, potentially misjudge student abilities and may lead to inappropriate educational decisions. Key ideas developed in class are disregarded during testing while valuable time is devoted to “teaching the test.” Authentic assessments, criterion-referenced tasks performed in context, present a viable alternative. Authentic assessments are interrelated with curricula and can improve teaching and learning.This study is concerned with portfolio and performance assessment. Sixth-grade students enrolled in an Organizational Study Skills course to guide them in making the transition from elementary to middle school compiled portfolios of their work or completed projects to display skills learned in class. The results suggest that authentic assessments may provide a method with which we can “save” those students who traditionally have been regarded as failures and passed through the system until they drop out or graduate without adequate skills...
Routine Predeployment Balloon Aortic Valvuloplasty During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Time to Move On?

Routine predeployment balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) has historically been considered an essential part of the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure, ensuring unimpeded delivery of the prosthetic valve across the stenotic aortic valve, optimal valve expansion, and hemodynamic
The brain of Leptictis dakotensis, an Oligocene leptictid (Eutheria; Mammalia) from North America

Observations of previously undescribed endocasts referable to the Oligocene leptictid Leptictis dakotensis yield new and revised information on the brain features of this species. The neocortex is larger relative to other regions of the brain than in several Recent lipotyphlous insectivores. There is also evidence for two small neocortical sulci in Leptictis. The estimated range of encephalization quotients (EQ's) for this species, assuming a wide range of body weights, is 0.450.70. Relative brain size in this animal is therefore possibly greater than in most Recent insectivores for which data are available. Only elephant shrews (macroscelidids) and a few specialized lipotyphlous insectivores show a significantly greater degree of encephalization. The Leptictis EQ estimates are also comparable to those in some early prosimians but are notably lower than such estimates for later Tertiary and Recent primates. Leptictis is a relatively derived leptictid, and the only member of the family represented by well-preserved endocranial features. The genus does not represent an appropriate "model" for the primitive brain condition in primates and insectivores.
Pancreatic Surgery in Patients with Cirrhosis

Pancreatic disease is a relatively common problem in the setting of cirrhosis or liver transplantation. The role of pancreatic surgery in this high-risk population must be carefully considered due to unique complications related to physiological changes associated with these operations. The management strategies for pancreatic malignancies have advanced significantly in recent decades, although the role of these treatment options in the setting of cirrhosis or liver transplantation remains limited based upon the limited experience gained over this time frame. Furthermore, although advances in chemotherapy options for these malignancies have increased survival for the general population, the safety of these treatments in cirrhotic or liver transplant patients has yet to be evaluated. Cystic lesions of the pancreas pose additional challenges in this population due to the uncertain fate of many of these lesions. Newer management strategies aimed at limiting surgical intervention for cystic lesions can be applied to better identify those patients with the highest risk for progression to invasive malignancies. Finally, chronic pancreatitis principles in the cirrhotic or liver transplant population are oftentimes nonoperative, given significant surgical risks unique to the cirrhotic population. In contrast, those patients with prior liver transplantation may be approached with a more standard treatment algorithm using a multidisciplinary operative and nonoperative approach. Advances in endoscopic therapies for palliation of these patients hold significant promise toward care of these chronic pancreatitis patients. This chapter focuses on synthesizing existing evidence and experience gained in the management and surgical decision-making for cirrhotic and liver transplantation patients.
Measures of Pollution

Pollution in the United States rises with economic activity, but at a noticeably lower pace.
Temporal trends in US counterterrorism sting operations, 1989–2014

ABSTRACTHow has the US government’s use of counterterrorism sting operations changed over the past quarter-century? Have major terrorist attacks led to more frequent sting operations and/or more frequent entrapment – and if so, have such changes been temporary or long-lasting? Have different types of terrorism provoked different reactions? This study answers these questions using a database of US terrorism prosecutions occurring between 1989 and 2014, each coded for 20 indicators of entrapment. We analyse temporal trends, and in particular, compare the government’s responses to the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing and the 9/11 terror attacks. Results indicate that after the Oklahoma City bombing, the number of sting operations against right-wing extremists doubled, while the average number of entrapment indicators dropped. This suggests that authorities in the 1990s responded to the growing threat of right-wing terrorism appropriately: conducting more investigations while avoiding entrapment. After 9/11, sting ...
Cherchez L'argent: A Contribution to the Debate about Class Size, Student-Faculty Ratios, and Use of Adjunct Faculty

This article examines assumptions about the possible cause–effect relationship between class size and student achievement, and why social work programs increasingly substitute non-tenure-track and part-time personnel for tenure-track faculty. Data are presented that cast doubt on previous conclusions that lowering mandated student–faculty ratio guidelines for MSW and BSW programs would improve student learning. The author suggests that programs have a monetary motive for the increasing use of non-tenure-track and part-time personnel. The author also discusses areas to focus on for improving student achievement beyond class size and the student–faculty ratio.
Gamma-Ray Assay of Low-Enriched Uranium Waste

A method based on the detection of 0.767- and 1.001-MeV gamma rays from 234mPa has been developed for the assay of 238U in large containers of uranium waste. Detailed calibration and assay procedur...
Plastic sandwiches à la carte

A way of reversibly sticking together polymer sheets that are only a molecule thick allows the creation of flexible 'sandwiches' with different adhesive 'fillings'. These crystalline sandwiches may lead to the bulk production of functional materials in areas such as molecular recognition, separation and catalysis.
The Selective Effect of Plasma Activated Media on Cells

Biomedical applications of low temperature plasma (LTP), particularly cancer treatment, have recently advanced significantly 1. Plasma-activated media (PAM) which are produced by exposing liquid culture media to LTP have shown adverse physiological effects on mammalian cells 1. In recent years more research has been done on the anti-tumor effects of PAM treatment on different tumors 2, 3. However, much less is known about the effects of PAM on non-cancerous cells. We report on the effects of PAM on the viability and morphological characteristics of non-cancerous epithelial cells. In a comparative study, we present the effects of PAM on the viability of cancerous cells. In this research, non-cancerous MDCK (Madin-Darby Canine Kidney) cells and SCaBER (from a bladder squamous cell carcinoma) cells were used. It was found that there is an optimum dose of PAM (LTP exposure time) to suppress viability of cancer cells significantly while inducing minimum damage to normal cells. Finally, molecular beacons were also employed to investigate the effects of direct LTP treatment on DNA. Molecular beacons are single strand DNA oligonucleotides which adopt a stem-and-loop shape. Our results indicate that plasma exposure causes dose-dependent DNA strand breaks in the molecular beacons.
Interconnection Study of Distributed PV Systems by Interfacing Matlab with OpenDSS and GIS

High penetration of PV on electrical grid generates voltage fluctuations and frequency variations. Innovative simulation approaches are needed to model the likely real impacts of PV to the operations and to the equipment in distribution systems. This paper proposes to use OpenDSS along with Matlab to implement advanced inverter functionalities. GridPV toolbox is used for specific circuit which was mapped using GIS features to an imaginary feeder circuit with a 170kW of solar in the campus of the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The GIS interface allows the user to draw and visualize the location of PV plant directly on the map. Moreover, it was considered in this paper that a circuit with several distributed PV can now be represented using GridPV with GIS and Quasi-Static Time Series (QSTS) simulation performed on it and further use active power control to minimize impact. IEEE 13 bus feeder is used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed procedure interfacing OpenDSS, Matlab and GIS.
The UCSB Gender Equity Project: Taking Stock of Mentorship, Equity, and Harassment in California Archaeology Through Qualitative Survey Data

The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), Gender Equity Project aims to assess the state of mentorship, equity, and sexual harassment within the California archaeological community. Using...
Salivary Diagnostics for Managing Cellular Oxidative Stress

In people and animals, cells are in homeostatic equilibrium when they are in oxidative balance, namely, when the cellular antioxidants (reducing agents) are balanced with the oxidants (oxidizing agents).
Adverse Reactions in Humans thought to be Related to Ingestion of Elevated Levels of Free Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Monosodium glutamate is widely used as a flavor enhancer. A number of adverse effects in humans have been attributed to ingestion of this substance. The most well known of these is the so-called Chinese Restaurant Syndrome. Various studies have been done to attempt to substantiate that glutamate is indeed the etiologic factor responsible for the reported symptoms. No measurable signs appear to be associated with the syndrome. Symptoms can be quite frightening but appear to be transient and rely on subjective reports of reactors. Other adverse reactions, presumably associated with ingestion of glutamate, are also discussed.
Cannabidiol Elevates Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Inhibitor Levels in Patients With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.

Abstract Background The mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitors everolimus and sirolimus have activity against multiple manifestations of tuberous sclerosis complex and are approved to treat astrocytomas, angiomyolipomas, lymphangioleiomyomatosis, and epilepsy. Cannabidiol is a novel antiepileptic medication. There is lack of information regarding drug-drug interactions between mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitors and cannabidiol in clinical practice. Methods We reviewed patients with tuberous sclerosis complex who were treated with a mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor (everolimus, sirolimus) and cannabidiol. Clinical information, mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor and cannabidiol dosing, concomitant antiepileptic drugs, as well as laboratory and adverse events were reviewed before and after initiation of cannabidiol. Results A total of 25 patients were treated with cannabidiol and a mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor (18 everolimus, seven sirolimus). All mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor levels were drawn as troughs. Levels were significantly higher in 76% patients after cannabidiol treatment (P = 0.0003). Median change from baseline was +9.8 ng/mL for everolimus and +5.1 ng/mL for sirolimus. Adverse events occurred in 40%, with diarrhea being the most frequent adverse event occurring in three patients. No severe adverse events occurred during the treatment period. Conclusions Cannabidiol resulted in increased serum levels of everolimus and/or sirolimus. Some patients experienced doubling or tripling of their mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor trough following the addition of cannabidiol. In some cases, this resulted in clinical toxicity, as well as laboratory abnormalities. Awareness of this interaction can lead clinicians to evaluate serum levels and other safety laboratory studies more closely, and thereby avoid potentially significant adverse effects. In patients known to be prone to mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor toxicity, preemptive reduction in dose may be warranted upon initiation of cannabidiol.
A Hierarchical Low-Rank Approximation Based Network Solver for EMT Simulation

In electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation, 80–97% of the computational time is devoted to solving the network equations. A key observation is that the sub-matrix representing the interaction between two far-away groups of buses is usually sparse and can be approximated by a low-rank matrix. Based on this observation, we propose a novel low-rank approximation method which permits ${O(N \log N)}$ -time matrix-vector multiplication for each network solution time step. Comprehensive numerical studies are conducted on a 39-bus system and a 179-bus system from the literature, and large cases created from the two systems. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach is up to $2.8\times$ faster than the state-of-the-art sparse LU factorization based network solution, without compromising simulation accuracy. Since our low-rank approximation is highly parallelizable, further speedup may be possible.
A Kingdom of Priests and Its Earthen Altars in Exodus 19–24

This study analyzes the altar law in Exodus 20, the statement that frames it in Exodus 19, and its application in Exodus 24 as a single narrative that denies the professional configuration of sacrifice as essential to religion and divine blessing. It puts the gift-blessing exchange into the hands of every family, and reverses the basic trope of hosting-visiting and the social poetics that govern hierarchical religion: rather than host at his palace through mediating attendants, Yahweh visits wherever he is invited. The study argues that the narrative attacks an Israelian and Judean ideology in which royal success defines territorial extent, shapes the polity, enshrines divine power in temples, and controls divine blessing. It reconfigures the elements such that territory and nationhood are defined by the divine king, who roams freely throughout the land to bless each of his subjects, so long as they invite him to receive a gift.
Laparoscopically Assisted DIEP Flap Harvest Minimizes Fascial Incision in Autologous Breast Reconstruction.

Background Total extraperitoneal laparoscopically assisted harvest of the deep inferior epigastric vessels permits a decrease in myofascial dissection in deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstruction. The authors present a reliable technique that further decreases donor-site morbidity in autologous breast reconstruction. Methods The authors conducted a retrospective cohort study of female subjects presenting to the senior surgeon (S.K.K.) from March of 2018 to March of 2019 for autologous breast reconstruction after a newly diagnosed breast cancer. The operative technique is summarized as follows: a supraumbilical camera port is placed at the medial edge of the rectus muscle to enter the retrorectus space; the extraperitoneal plane is developed using a balloon dissector and insufflation; two ports are placed through the linea alba below the umbilicus to introduce dissection instruments; the deep inferior epigastric vessels are dissected from the underside of the rectus muscle; muscle branches and the superior epigastric are ligated using a Ligasure; and the deep inferior epigastric pedicle is ligated and the vessels are delivered through a minimal fascial incision. The flap(s) is transferred to the chest for completion of the reconstruction. Results Thirty-three subjects totaling 57 flaps were included. All flaps were single-perforator deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps. Mean fascial incision length was 2.0 cm. Sixty percent of subjects recovered without narcotics. Mean length of stay was 2.5 days. Flap salvage occurred in one subject after venous congestion. Two pedicle transections occurred during harvest that required perforator-to-pedicle anastomosis. Conclusion Total extraperitoneal laparoscopically assisted harvest of the deep inferior epigastric pedicle is a reliable method that decreases the donor-site morbidity of autologous breast reconstruction. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, IV.
Automation of Monte Carlo-based treatment plan verification for proton therapy

Purpose Independent calculations of proton therapy plans are an important quality control procedure in treatment planning. When using custom Monte Carlo (MC) models of the beamline, deploying the calculations can be laborious, time consuming, and require in-depth knowledge of the computational environment. We developed an automated framework to remove these barriers and integrate our MC model into the clinical workflow. Materials and methods The Eclipse Scripting Application Programming Interface was used to initiate the automation process. A series of MATLAB scripts were then used for preprocessing of input data and postprocessing of results. Additional scripts were used to monitor the calculation process and appropriately deploy calculations to an institutional high-performance computing facility. The automated framework and beamline models were validated against 160 patient specific QA measurements from an ionization chamber array and using a ±3%/3 mm gamma criteria. Results The automation reduced the human-hours required to initiate and run a calculation to 1-2 min without leaving the treatment planning system environment. Validation comparisons had an average passing rate of 99.4% and were performed at depths ranging from 1 to 15 cm. Conclusion An automated framework for running MC calculations was developed which enables the calculation of dose and linear energy transfer within a clinically relevant workflow and timeline. The models and framework were validated against patient specific QA measurements and exhibited excellent agreement. Before this implementation, execution was prohibitively complex for an untrained individual and its use restricted to a research environment.
A Shot-Noise-Limited Ultrabroadband Sampling Oscilloscope

We demonstrate a shot-noise-limited electric-field sampling oscilloscope with >75 THz bandwidth in the mid-infrared. We evaluate fundamental noise sources in the electric-field measurements, including timing jitter induced phase-to-amplitude noise at the 100 attosecond level.
Bioinspired Navigation Based on Distributed Sensing in the Leech

Animals use sensors that are distributed along their body to process information from the environment, leading to behavioral actions that will prolong their survival. Although extensive research has been done in animal behavior and neurobiology, it is still unknown how these distributed sensors interact with each other to process sensory information. Several behavioral studies have used the leech as a navigation model system to understand how different stimulus modalities impact behavior. Neurophysiological studies examined the output of specific neurons in the leech when they were stimulated with electric pulses, and correlated the response of these neurons to observed behaviors. Our work uses existing data from animal experiments to construct a mathematical model that accurately replicates the behavior of a leech when it is given various forms of simulated stimuli. The distributed sensors in the leech were modeled by ellipses, allowing the neurons to detect stimuli in a two-dimensional environment and navigate towards a target location. The development and validation of this model offers a fast and low cost way to study leech behavior, complement animal experiments, and provide insights into the underlying mechanics of distributed sensing in animals. Additionally, the findings may provide insights into novel data-processing methods and architectures for man-made sensory systems that rely on multiple sensors.
Professional Training of Public Servants as a Condition of Realization of Professional Project

The purpose of the study is to substantiate the need to support the system of professional training of public servants as a necessary condition for the modernization of public service. The methodological basis of the work is a socio-cultural approach in combination with the methods of sociological diagnostics – questionnaires and observation. Substantiated conditions for the implementation of the professional project of civil servants in Ukraine. It is emphasized that maintaining an integrated system of vocational training has significant advantages, such as: ensuring the appropriate level and quality of educational programs, the formation of vocational education and research environment, taking into account the educational needs of public servants. Application of research results: Emphasis is placed on the need to amend the Concept of reforming the system of professional training of civil servants, heads of local state administrations, their first deputies and deputies, local government officials and deputies of local councils to preserve the priority of the National Academy of Public Administration and its regional institutes. Іn the integrated system of professional training of public servants. It is proved that the integral implementation of the professional project of public servants is possible only if the system of elite education is preserved.
Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries are often encountered in the setting of other knee pathology and sometimes in isolation. A thorough understanding of the native PCL anatomy is crucial in the successful treatment of these injuries. The PCL consists of two independent bundles that function in a codominant relationship to perform the primary role of resisting posterior tibial translation relative to the femur. A secondary role of the PCL is to provide rotatory stability. The anterolateral (AL) bundle has a more vertical orientation when compared with the posteromedial (PM) bundle. The AL bundle has a more anterior origin than the PM bundle on the lateral wall of the medial femoral condyle. The tibial insertion of AL bundle on the PCL facet is medial and anterior to the PM bundle. The AL and PM bundles are 12-mm apart at the center of the femoral origins, while the tibial insertions are more tightly grouped. The different spatial orientation of the two bundles and large distance between the femoral centers is responsible for the codominance of the PCL bundles. The AL bundle is the dominant restraint to posterior tibial translation throughout midrange flexion, while the PM bundle is the primary restraint in extension and deep flexion. Biomechanical testing has shown independent reconstruction of the two bundles that better reproduces native knee biomechanics, while significant differences in clinical outcomes remain to be seen. Stress X-rays may play an important role in clinical decision-making process for operative versus nonoperative management of isolated PCL injuries. Strong understanding of PCL anatomy and biomechanics can aid surgical management.
Identification of Translation Start Sites in Bacterial Genomes

The knowledge of translation start sites is crucial for annotation of genes in bacterial genomes. However, systematic mapping of start codons in bacterial genes has mainly relied on predictions based on protein conservation and mRNA sequence features which, although useful, are not always accurate. We recently found that the pleuromutilin antibiotic retapamulin (RET) is a specific inhibitor of translation initiation that traps ribosomes specifically at start codons, and we used it in combination with ribosome profiling to map start codons in the Escherichia coli genome. This genome-wide strategy, that was named Ribo-RET, not only verifies the position of start codons in already annotated genes but also enables identification of previously unannotated open reading frames and reveals the presence of internal start sites within genes. Here, we provide a detailed Ribo-RET protocol for E. coli. Ribo-RET can be adapted for mapping the start codons of the protein-coding sequences in a variety of bacterial species.
Can Mozart Improve Weight Gain and Development of Feeding Skills in Premature Infants? A Randomized Trial.

Objective The study aimed to assess in a prospective randomized study the effect of Mozart's music on time to regain birth weight (BW) and development of oral feeding skills in babies born between 280/7 and 316/7 weeks of gestation. Study Design Healthy premature infants born between 280/7 and 316/7 completed weeks of gestation were randomized within 3 days of birth to either music or no music exposure. Infants in the music group were exposed to Mozart's double piano sonata twice per day for 14 days. The primary outcome was time to regain birth weight. The secondary outcome was development of oral feeding skills as evaluated by a speech/language pathologist blinded to the intervention. We hypothesized that exposure to Mozart's double piano sonata would decrease time to regain BW and improve feeding skills. A total of 32 newborns were needed to detect a 3-day difference in time to regain BW. Results Forty infants were enrolled and randomized. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the time to regain BW (p = 0.181) and the time to achievement of full oral feeds (p = 0.809). Conclusion Exposure to Mozart's double piano sonata for 14 days after birth did not significantly improve time to regain BW or time to achieve full oral feedings in very premature infants. It is possible that Mozart's music has no effect or that the duration of music exposure was not sufficient to have a physiologic effect on growth and oral feeding skills. Key Points
Adaptive Responses to Weight Loss

The recidivism rate following otherwise successful weight loss is over 75 %. Evolutionary pressures have likely favored the enrichment of human genomes for alleles favoring energy ingestion, storage, and conservation.
Evolution of protein function by domain swapping.

Publisher Summary This chapter explores the use of large exchanges of structure (subdomains, domains, and whole proteins) to evolve new function in proteins. These include the formation of multifunctional proteins, tandem duplication, domain recruitment, and circular permutation. The chapter describes the examples of domain swapping performed to engineer proteins with desired function and properties. Studies are categorized under the intended goals of the protein engineering: engineering of allosteric regulation, creation of activators and inhibitors, improvement in stability or expression, modification of substrate specificity, improvement of catalytic efficiency, alteration of multimodular synthetases, improvement of therapeutic properties, creation of molecular biosensors, and creation of novel enzymes. The chapter discusses two methodologies for the evolution of protein function by domain swapping includes non-combinatorial and combinatorial. Non-combinatorial methods for the engineering of domain-swapped enzymes have primarily been employed in the rational design of proteins. Progress in utilizing domain swapping for protein engineering has been partially hindered by the lack of combinatorial methods for performing domain swapping on any two proteins independent of DNA homology.
A Typology of Ethnographic Scales for Virtual Worlds

This chapter outlines a typology of genres of ethnographic research with regard to virtual worlds, informed by extensive research the author has completed both in Second Life and in Indonesia. It begins by identifying four confusions about virtual worlds: they are not games, they need not be graphical or even visual, they are not mass media, and they need not be defined in terms of escapist role-playing. A three-part typology of methods for ethnographic research in virtual worlds focuses on the relationship between research design and ethnographic scale. One class of methods for researching virtual worlds with regard to ethnographic scale explores interfaces between virtual worlds and the actual world, whereas a second examines interfaces between two or more virtual worlds. The third class involves studying a single virtual world in its own terms. Recognizing that all three approaches have merit for particular research purposes, ethnography of virtual worlds can be a vibrant field of research, contributing to central debates about human selfhood and sociality.
Making Willing Bodies: Manufacturing Consent among Prisoners and Soldiers, Creating Human Subjects, Patriots, and Everyday Citizens—The University of Chicago Malaria Experiments on Prisoners at Stateville Penitentiary

In March 1944, doctors at the University of Chicago began infecting volunteer convicts at Stateville Prison with a virulent strand of malaria to test the effectiveness and side-effects of potent anti-malarial drugs. According to Dr. Alf Alving, the principal investigator, malaria "was the number-one medical problem of the war in the Pacific" and "we were losing far more men to malaria than to enemy bullets." This refrain would rehearse one of the most productive ways of speaking about prisoner experimentation. The Stateville prisoners became human once again and regained their citizenship and political voice by sacrificing their bodies to the war effort. This paper explores how the consent of the prisoners was fabricated and compares this to the way in which the willingness of soldiers to sacrifice their lives is manufactured - and, far less dramatically, to the way in which we produce our own willingness in our everyday acceptance of the daily and ordinary routines of work, family life, and citizenship. Like the prisoners at Stateville, we are made to feel the need to sacrifice ourselves - to work, to vote, to serve, to abide, to agree - through very similar associations of bodily sacrifice with citizenship, loyalty, and patriotism.
Photonic crystal enhanced microscopy

By modifying a microscope to perform hyperspectral imaging of reflectance from a photonic crystal, we describe a new microscopy approach that enables quantitative, spatially resolved imaging of the interaction of cells and nanoparticles with surfaces.
Using videoconferences to diversify classrooms electronically.

In this article the authors make a case for videoconferencing as a way to diversify middle and secondary classrooms. Through a description of the setup of a videoconference between American pre-service teachers and Moroccan undergraduates, the authors attempt to demystify the use of videoconferencing in middle and secondary education. The authors conclude with suggestions for middle and secondary educators who wish to use videoconferencing as a way to incorporate greater diversity and multicultural education in their classrooms.