cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Eigenstructure assignment and controller optimization for mechanical systems

A technique to assign a desired eigensystem to an actively controlled structure and to optimize the controller and structural parameters is presented. The technique explicitly parametrizes the feedback gain matrices in terms of the eigensystem and structural matrices and then optimizes the closed-loop system by minimizing some norm related to the feedback gain matrices. The technique can optimize design criteria such as gain suppression, actuator and sensor placement, minimum number of sensors, structural stiffness, and system sensitivity to parameter variations. The technique is computationally efficient by being developed in second order form using real arithmetic and with an analytic gradient supplied for the design variables. Two analytical example problems are presented in which active control systems are designed using eigensystem assignment with parametric feedback. The first example assigns eigenvalues and optimizes the controller design for a three-story scale model building. The second example assigns decoupled vibration modes to eliminate rotation of a gyro box. >
Why “Conceptual Ecology” is a Good Idea

This paper motivates the idea of “conceptual ecology” by critiquing the current mainstream of conceptual change research. Most research on conceptual change suffers from too little theoretical accountability concerning the nature of the mental entities involved and too little use of the details of process data to support its theoretical view. Part of the consequences of these limitations is a vast underestimate of the complexity and diversity of conceptual change phenomena. In contrast, a conceptual ecology approach involves hypothesizing that conceptual change involves a large number of diverse kinds of knowledge, organized and re-organized into complex systems. To illustrate a conceptual ecology approach, we explain two very different kinds of mental entities, p-prims and coordination classes. P-prims are small and numerous intuitive elements that are often quite context specific in their activation. Coordination classes, by contrast, are large systems whose very existence entails a high degree of coordination across diverse contexts. We claim that both p-prims and coordination classes are much more explicit and precise in their assumptions than is typically the case, and they both survive substantial empirical test in the form of analysis of process data.
Homotypic fusion between aggregated lysosomes triggered by elevated [Ca2+]i in fibroblasts

Previous studies demonstrated that microinjection of antibodies to the cytoplasmic domain of the lysosomal glycoprotein lgp120 induces aggregation of lysosomes in NRK cells. Here we show that the antibody-clustered vesicles do not co-localize with MPR and ss-COP-containing organelles, confirming their lysosomal nature. Observations by transmission and high voltage electron microscopy indicated that, although tightly apposed to each other, aggregated lysosomes remained as separate vesicles, with an average diameter of 0.3-0.4 micron. However, when cells microinjected with antibody were exposed to the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin, large vesicles were formed within the lysosome clusters, suggesting the occurrence of lysosome-lysosome fusion. Stereological measurements of lysosome diameters on confocal and transmission electron microscopy indicated that the large lgp120-positive vesicles could have originated from the fusion of 3 up to 15 individual lysosomes. To verify if agents that mobilize Ca2+ from intracellular stores had the same effect, anti-lgp120-microinjected cells were treated with thapsigargin, and with the receptor-mediated agonists bombesin and thrombin. Thapsigargin also induced the formation of large lgp120-containing vesicles, detected by both confocal and transmission electron microscopy. Analysis of antibody-clustered lysosomes in streptolysin O-permeabilized cells indicated that an intracellular free Ca2+ concentration of 1 microM was sufficient to trigger formation of large lysosomes.
Decoding the Cardiac Message The 2011 Thomas W. Smith Memorial Lecture

This review reflects and expands on the contents of my presentation at the Thomas W. Smith Memorial Lecture at American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, 2011. “Decoding the cardiac message” refers to accumulating results from ongoing microRNA research that is altering longstanding concepts of the mechanisms for, and consequences of, messenger RNA (mRNA) regulation in the heart. First, I provide a brief historical perspective of the field of molecular genetics, touching on seminal research that paved the way for modern molecular cardiovascular research and helped establish the foundation for current concepts of mRNA regulation in the heart. I follow with some interesting details about the specific research that led to the discovery and appreciation of microRNAs as highly conserved pivotal regulators of RNA expression and translation. Finally, I provide a personal viewpoint as to how agnostic genome-wide techniques for measuring microRNAs, their mRNA targets, and their protein products can be applied in an integrated multisystems approach to uncover direct and indirect effects of microRNAs. Experimental designs integrating next-generation sequencing and global proteomics have the potential to address unanswered questions regarding microRNA–mRNA interactions in cardiac disease, how disease alters mRNA targeting by specific microRNAs, and how mutational and polymorphic nucleotide variation in microRNAs can affect end-organ function and stress response.
Transungual Iontophoretic Transport of Polar Neutral and Positively Charged Model Permeants: Effects of Electrophoresis and Electroosmosis

Transungual iontophoretic transport of model neutral permeants mannitol (MA), urea (UR), and positively charged permeant tetraethylammonium ion (TEA) across fully hydrated human nail plates at pH 7.4 were investigated in vitro. Four protocols were involved in the transport experiments with each protocol divided into stages including passive and iontophoresis transport of 0.1 and 0.3 mA. Water and permeant uptake experiments of nail clippings were also conducted to characterize the hydration and binding effects of the permeants to the nails. Iontophoresis enhanced the transport of MA and UR from anode to cathode, but this effect (electroosmosis) was marginal. The transport of TEA was significantly enhanced by anodal iontophoresis and the experimental enhancement factors were consistent with the Nernst–Planck theory predictions. Hindered transport was also observed and believed to be critical in transungual delivery. The barrier of the nail plates was stable over the time course of the study, and no significant electric field-induced alteration of the barrier was observed. The present results with hydrated nail plates are consistent with electrophoresis-dominant (the direct field effect) transungual iontophoretic transport of small ionic permeants with small contribution from electroosmosis. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 97:893–905, 2008
TWO KINDS OF CHANGES IN LAOTZU'S THOUGHT

An important aspect of Lao Tzu’s thought is his explanation or interpretation of the changes in the universe. The way in which the changes are explained or interpreted constitutes his world-view. The Taoist sage is the one who can understand all changes in the light of Lao Tzu’s world-view and follow the right course of action. In spite of the importance, there are many problems for an adequate understanding of his conception of changes.
Effect of Normal and Reversed Sleep-Wake Cycles upon Nyctohemeral Rhythmicity of Plasma Thyrotropin: Evidence Suggestive of an Inhibitory Influence in Sleep

Abstract The relation of nyctohemeral variation in plasma TSH to sleep-wake cycles was examined in 10 normal young men who had their sleep polygraphically monitored and their blood sampled every 20 min for 24, 36, or 48 h periods. Studies of normal sleepwake cycles in which sleep was allowed from the usual bedtime to 0630 h totalled 21 nights (night = 1840–0620 h) and their corresponding 16 days. TSH was measured by a sensitive RIA. On 17 nights, the mean nightly TSH significantly exceeded that of the day's and, on 18 nights, clear nyctohemerally maximal peaks in TSH were seen in the 2100-0100 h interval. Greater amplitude, duration and rhythmic repetition over several nights distinguished 2100-0100 h maxima from a background of persistent briefly episodic release. These nyctohemeral peaks were pre-sleep maxima, as rises uniformly began, and, on 15 nights, the peaks occurred prior to the onset of sleep. The peaks clustered within the 30 min just before (12 nights) or after (3 nights) entry into sleep. TSH...
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Young Men: Videourodynamic Findings and Correlation With Noninvasive Measures

Purpose: In a prospective manner we sought to determine the cause of lower urinary tract symptoms in young men and whether noninvasive testing and symptoms scores are useful in deciding which patients to evaluate with videourodynamics.Materials and Methods: We evaluated 85 men 18 to 45 years old with lower urinary tract symptoms. Patients with a history of known neurological disease or urethral stricture were excluded from the study. Patients were evaluated with the American Urological Association (AUA) symptom index, noninvasive uroflowmetry post-void residual and videourodynamics, and classified by specific urodynamic diagnoses. Noninvasive uroflowmetry (normal versus abnormal), post-void residual and AUA symptom index (total, voiding and storage scores) were evaluated as predictors of urodynamic abnormalities.Results: Mean patient age was 35.1 (range 18 to 45) and mean symptom duration was 53.8 months. Mean AUA scores were total 19.3, voiding 10.8 and storage 8.5. Videourodynamic diagnoses were primary...
Seasonal and Spatial Variability in Lake Michigan Sediment Small-Subunit rRNA Concentrations

We have used molecular biological methods to study the distribution of microbial small-subunit rRNAs (SSU rRNAs), in relation to chemical profiles, in offshore Lake Michigan sediments. The sampling site is at a depth of 100 m, with temperatures of 2 to 4°C year-round. RNA extracted from sediment was probed with radiolabeled oligonucleotides targeting bacterial, archaeal, and eukaryotic SSU rRNAs, as well as with a universal probe. The coverage of these probes in relation to the present sequence database is discussed. Because ribosome production is growth rate regulated, rRNA concentrations are an indicator of the microbial populations active in situ. Over a 1-year period, changes in sedimentary SSU rRNA concentrations followed seasonal changes in surface water temperature and SSU rRNA concentration. Sedimentary depth profiles of oxygen, reduced manganese and iron, and sulfate changed relatively little from season to season, but the nitrate concentration was approximately fivefold higher in April and June 1997 than at the other times sampling was done. We propose that sediment microbial SSU rRNA concentrations at our sampling site are influenced by seasonal inputs from the water column, particularly the settling of the spring diatom bloom, and that the timing of this input may be modulated by grazers, such that ammonia becomes available to sediment microbes sooner than fresh organic carbon. Nitrate production from ammonia by autotrophic nitrifying bacteria, combined with low activity of heterotrophic denitrifying bacteria in the absence of readily degradable organic carbon, could account for the cooccurrence of high nitrate and low SSU rRNA concentrations.
A security standard for LANs

The work of IEEE 802.10, the LAN Security Working Group, in developing the Standard for Interoperable LAN Security (SILS) is described. The areas for security standardization are: a protocol for the secure exchange of data at the data link layer, the management of cryptographic keys at the application layer, and the specification of the network management objects associated with the secure data exchange protocol and the key management protocol. As of July 1989, IEEE 802.10 has produced the fifth draft of SILS. The standard contains the SILS model and the secure data exchange protocol specification. It also includes the security definitions, the objectives of SILS, and the threats against which the services defined can provide protection. >
A method for particle simulation

We extend a recent approach to the direct numerical simulation of particle flows to the case in which the particles are not fixed. The basic idea is to use a local analytic representation valid near the particle to transfer'' the no-slip condition from the particle surface to the adjacent grid nodes. In this way the geometric complexity arising from the irregular relation between the particle boundary and the underlying mesh is avoided and fast salvers can be used
I-V characteristics of the Tethered Satellite System

The TSS-1R science mission was conducted on the space shuttle STS-75 at the end of February 1996. During the flight, the Tethered Satellite was deployed to a distance of 19.7km and current was collected by the Satellite. Over the course of science operations, a rich dataset of current-voltage measurements was collected from instruments onboard both the satellite and the shuttle. We have constructed I-V curves including the uncertainties from Mission data. Comparing the TSS IV characteristics with known theoretical models, we find that the level of electron current collected exceeds those predicted by the steady state models. At high voltages (> 300 V), the I-V characteristics scale with potential according to the Parker-Mutphy model, implying a magnetically insulated collection process. The absolute value of the current collected greatly exceeds predictions of present models. The fact that TSS collected large currents at relatively low potentials bring many of the tether applications, such as power and thrust generation, closer to realization.
Route of Prostagland in F2α Injection and Luteolysis in Mares

SummaryNine groups of pony mares (3/group) were used in a 3 × 3 factorial experiment. The factors were dose of PGF2α (0, 0.25 or 1.25 mg) and route of administration (im, iu or il). Mares were lapa-rotomized and treated on day 7 postovulation. Jugular blood was collected for progesterone RIA at 0 (pretreatment) and 1, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hr posttreatment.In mares given either 0.25 mg or 1.25 mg PGF2α, progesterone concentrations were not significantly different among the three routes at any of the posttreatment times studied except at 6 hr posttreatment. In mares given 0.25 mg, progesterone concentration at 6 hr was less (P < 0.05) for mares injected il than for mares injected im or iu. In mares given 1.25 mg, the concentration at 6 hr was less (P < 0.05) for mares injected im than for mares injected iu. Compared to pretreatment progesterone values, PGF2α (0.25 mg and 1.25 mg groups combined) administration significantly decreased progesterone concentration by 12 hr posttreatment in mares injected im and...
Clinical Research of Intractable Ascites in Cirrhosis Treated with Modified Root of Ford Metalleaf and Rhubarb Decoction

Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of the self-prepared root of ford metalleaf and rhubarb decoction on intractable ascites in cirrhosis.Methods 60 cases of intractable ascites in cirrhosis were randomized into two groups.In a treatment group,the self-prepared root of ford metalleaf and rhubarb decoction was modified according to the pattern/syndrome differentiation,in combination of the conventional western therapy for liver protection,diuresis,protein supplement and electrolytic rectification in the symptomatic support treatment.In a control group,the simple western medication was adopted.4 weeks of treatment made 1 session.After 1 session treatment,the efficacy was compared between two groups,as well as the changes of symptom scores and the efficacy on liver functions before and after treatment between two groups.Results The total effective rate was 93.33% in the treatment group and was 63.33% in control group.The efficacy in treatment group was apparently superior to that in control group(P0.05).In treatment group,the symptom scores and ALT level were reduced obviously,which presented the statistically significant difference as compared with control group(P0.05).Conclusion The self-prepared root of ford metalleaf and rhubarb decoction improves effectively the life quality and the clinical efficacy for the patients with intractable ascites in cirrhosis.
Stress analysis of Viscoelastic Fluids in the micro pores

In connection with residual oil film of different forms after water flooding on the oleophilic rock and the viscoelasticity character of the polymer solution,the Upper-Convected Maxwell constructive equation of viscoelastic fluids was choosed,the model was analysized numerically by using computation fluid software-Polyflow.The changes of stress T11 acting on residual oil film in different relaxation times,different micro pores width were also studied contrastively,the flooding effect between water and polymer was compared.Results show the more the viscoelastic character is,the stronger the stress acting on residual oil film is;the closer micro pores width and oil film height is,the stronger the stress acting residual oil film is;the stress of polymer solutions acting on the residual oil film is stronger than that of water solutions.
Recovery of eggs of two parasitic nematodes, Ascaris sp. and Trichuris sp.: Interlaboratory study.

An interlaboratory study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the Nacconol ether centrifugation method for recovering parasitic nematode eggs from 3 contaminated products: a crop (cabbage), a sludge fertilizer (Milorganite), and a sewage effluent (Minneapolis). Six replicate samples for each of the 3 products were seeded with eggs at 3 different levels: 200 Ascaris suis and 8 Trichuris muris; 15 A.suis and 15 T.muris; 8 A.suis and 180 T.muris. Recovery was low for all samples except sewage effluent, in which recoveries greater than 100% in 2 samples resulted from the misidentification of arthropod eggs as Ascaris sp. The average mean percent recovery for the other samples was 22.53. Repeatability for replicate samples and reproducibility of results by individual laboratories were poor, and the method is not recommended for quantitative estimates of nematode egg contamination of foods and food-contact materials. However, the Nacconol ether centrifugation method can be used as an all-or-none test. (Only 13% of 1146 counts were falsely negative.) Of 69 samples, only 4 were falsely negative for A.suis eggs and only 1 was falsely negative for T.muris eggs in counts of 6 replicates.
From the Hadean to the Himalaya: 4.4 Ga of felsic terrestrial magmatism

Detrital zircons as old as nearly 4.4 Ga offer insights into the earliest moments of Earth history. Results of geochemical investigations of these grains have been interpreted to indicate their formation in near-H2O saturated meta- and peraluminous magmas under a relatively low (15–30 °C/km) geotherm. A key feature in pursuing a petrotectonic model that explains the full spectrum of these observations is their seeming contrast to most Phanerozoic magmatic zircons, specifically their low Ti-in-zircon crystallization temperatures and inclusion assemblages. The ~22 Ma Arunachal leucogranites of the eastern Himalaya appear, however, to be a rare exception to this generality. They show large-ion lithophile covariance trends indicative of wet basement melting together with a normal distribution of magmatic crystallization temperatures about an average of 660 °C. In the same fashion as Hadean zircons, Arunachal leucogranite and host gneiss zircons are dominated by muscovite + quartz inclusions that yield formation pressures of 5–15 kbars. We suggest that the Arunachal leucogranites originated in the hanging wall of a megathrust that carried H2O-rich foreland sediments to depths of >20 km whereupon de-watering reactions released fluids that fluxed hanging wall anatexis. Modeling suggests the thermal structure of this continental collision environment may have been broadly similar to a Hadean ocean-continent subduction zone. The similarity of these two environments, separated by over 4 Ga may explain seemingly common features of the Hadean and Arunachal leucogranite zircons. Their key difference is the absence of metaluminous magmas in the continental collision environment, which is shielded from juvenile additions.
Chapter 150 – Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease of the skin that affects around 2% of the Caucasian population but is found worldwide in all populations. It has a strong negative impact on quality of life and can be associated with arthritis, which can be severe and deforming. The disease has a strong genetic component and tends to have a fluctuating course that can often be linked to environmental factors. In recent years, considerable progress has been made in unraveling the genetic complexity of psoriasis, mostly through the use of genome-wide association studies. At this time, over 20 genetic susceptibility loci have been identified. Most of these are immunologic in nature and broadly map into a few distinctive biological pathways: antigen processing and presentation, the T helper 1 cell and T helper 17 cell (Th1/Th17) inflammatory axes, epidermal function, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling, and dendritic cell and macrophage activation. Although it is foreseeable that this blueprint is going to become even more comprehensive with the elucidation of additional causative variants, we are now finally able to begin to understand how such a distinctive pattern of cutaneous inflammation develops in this fascinating yet enigmatic disease.
Phylogenetic Character Reconstruction

Abstract Comparisons among the features of living organisms have played a prominent role in the biological sciences at least since the time of Aristotle. The comparative approach takes advantage of the enormous diversity of organismal form and function to study basic biological processes of physiology, embryology, neurology, and behavior. From an evolutionary perspective, interspecific (between species) comparisons allow for the systematic study of organismal design. Recent years have seen great advances in the formulation of comparative methods to estimate or infer ancestral phenotypes from extant (living) species. This article summarizes the major recent developments in phylogenetically based methods of studying character evolution, with the goals of explaining both the strengths and weaknesses of alternative methods. Most of the empirical examples cited are among animals with the most complex central nervous systems (e.g., vertebrates) in which neurological and behavioral evolution has been (arguably) most extensively studied. A major goal of this article is to highlight some of the most exciting new developments in the study of character evolution now being explored in this fascinating area of comparative neurobiology.
The Dependence on the Equation of State of NaCl Upon the Choice of the Intermolecular Potential Function

Because of its availability, high compressibility and regular behavior, sodium chloride is often used in high pressure systems as a pressure reference. Obviously, this implies that its equation of state, i.e. the relationship with respect to volume, temperature and pressure is perfectly known; despite the broad acceptance of this assumption we feel that a few remarks must be made.
Preservation of High-Moisture Corn by Microbial Fermentation.

High-moisture corn samples (27% moisture) were inoculated with Lactobacillus plantarum and/or Propionibacterium shermanii and stored in sealed containers or under carbon dioxide atmosphere for 60 d at 26°C. Growth of the inoculated organisms was observed in the corn, and the final pH of inoculated samples was significantly lower than the final pH of uninoculated samples. Mold growth was prevented in all samples, and the initial yeast population was drastically reduced in those samples inoculated with P. shermanii . Inoculation with L. plantarum accelerated acid production in the early stages of the fermentation. Flushing with carbon dioxide did not alter the fermentation but resulted in a slightly lower final moisture content.
Recurrent Pneumonia in an Infant

A full-term 2719-g female infant was transferred to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on day 1 of life after developing respiratory distress requiring endotracheal intubation. Gestation was complicated by polyhydramnios and gestational diabetes. In the NICU, choking and desaturation were noted with oral feeding. Videofluoroscopic swallow study demonstrated aspiration with all consistencies. Microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy were conducted, and the patient was diagnosed as having a type II laryngeal cleft. At 2 weeks of age, she decompensated secondary to Klebsiella pneumoniae sepsis and was intubated for persistent left lung collapse. At that time, computed tomographic (CT) imaging was performed, revealing the etiology of her respiratory decompensation (Figure 1). Figure 1. Coronal computed tomographic image of the chest with contrast.
Neighborhood and socioeconomic change in emerging megapolitan nodes: tracking shifting social geographies in three rapidly growing United States metropolitan areas, 1980–2010

ABSTRACTThis paper investigates the complex demographic and social changes that have occurred in the neighborhoods of fast-growing United States metropolitan areas emerging as nodes in megapolitan regions between 1980 and 2010. A neighborhood typology is created using k-means cluster analysis to examine the demographic and housing characteristics, and geographic distribution, of neighborhoods that have existed in rapidly growing metropolitan areas. A socioeconomic index is created using principal component analysis (PCA) to analyze socioeconomic conditions within neighborhoods. Using data from the metropolitan areas of Las Vegas, Nevada; Austin, Texas; and Raleigh, North Carolina, this study identifies five neighborhood types, each of which has distinctive geographic and socioeconomic trends. The geographic orientation of each metropolitan area within their larger megapolitan region appears to have a role in the geography of neighborhood change. The results are also discussed in relation to human ecology,...
Neonatal brachial plexus palsy: obstetric factors associated with litigation

AbstractObjective: Our objective was to compare characteristics between neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP) cases that were litigated versus those that were not.Study design: From May to December 2012, the University of Michigan Interdisciplinary Brachial Plexus Program surveyed 51 consecutive families whose children were treated for NBPP. Obstetric data was self-reported. Unless NBPP resolved, children were followed for at least two years. Student’s t-test and Chi-square test with odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.Results: Among 51 families surveyed, obstetric data were available for 98% (n = 50). Litigation was pursued by 48% (n = 24). Comparing families that litigated versus those that did not, there were no differences in demographics, peripartum characteristics, operative versus spontaneous vaginal birth, shoulder dystocia in current pregnancy (65% versus 54%; p = 0.56) or birth weight above 9 lbs. The number of children having brachial nerve surgery was significantly higher a...
Purine Nucleoside Analogs as Antiviral Agents

In a book and conference dealing with “targets” for antiviral agents, a discussion on the “magic bullets”* used to treat virus diseases might seem out of place. The study of existing drugs and active compounds is, however, most appropriate in the context of designing new and better antivirals. As Prusoff2 has pointed out, the knowledge of a specific chemotherapeutic target has not yet led to the synthesis of a specific drug. Until highly detailed physical-chemical data on sites of inhibition and modes of drug-receptor interaction are obtained and interpreted, this approach will remain a longer term goal. A more achievable goal is the application of mode of action data on existing agents to the design of new and better drugs. In addition, both new and existing drugs can be used to probe known targets and to search for new ones.
University-Community Partnerships and Equity in Making

In this collection of posters, we add to the community conversation on equity and access in making by considering the work of four UC Links sites. UC Links is a network of university-community partnerships with a long-standing focus on equity.
Clinical features and treatment of vulvar Merkel cell carcinoma: a systematic review

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive neoplasm originating from mechanoreceptor Merkel cells of the stratum basale of the epidermis. Cases affecting the vulva are exceedingly rare, with the currently available literature primarily in case report form. Systematic review of the PubMed database returned 17 cases of Merkel cell carcinoma affecting the vulva. Patients presented at a mean age of 59.6 years with a firm, mobile vulvar mass. Symptoms of pain, erythema, pruritus, edema, and ulceration have been reported. Tumor histology is consistent with that of neuroendocrine tumors and typical Merkel cell carcinomas. Neuroendocrine and cytokeratin immunostains are frequently utilized in histopathological workup. Surgical management was the unanimous first-line therapy with adjuvant radiation in most cases. Recurrence occurred in 70.6% of patients at a mean follow-up of 6.3 months. Mortality was at 47.0% at a mean of 7.8 months after initial operation. Merkel cell carcinoma affecting the vulva is an extremely rare and highly aggressive neoplasm. The present review of published cases serves to comprehensively describe the clinical course and treatment approaches for vulvar Merkel cell carcinoma.
Unconditioned unrelated donor bone marrow transplantation for IL7Rα- and Artemis-deficient SCID.

Unconditioned unrelated donor bone marrow transplantation for IL7Rα- and Artemis-deficient SCID
Mapping and comparing bacterial microbiota in the sinonasal cavity of healthy, allergic rhinitis, and chronic rhinosinusitis subjects.

Background The role of microbiota in sinonasal inflammation can be further understood by targeted sampling of healthy and diseased subjects. We compared the microbiota of the middle meatus (MM) and inferior meatus (IM) in healthy, allergic rhinitis (AR), and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) subjects to characterize intrasubject, intersubject, and intergroup differences. Methods Subjects were recruited in the office, and characterized into healthy, AR, and CRS groups. Endoscopically-guided swab samples were obtained from the MM and IM bilaterally. Bacterial microbiota were characterized by sequencing the V3-V4 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. Results Intersubject microbiome analyses were conducted in 65 subjects: 8 healthy, 11 AR, and 46 CRS (25 CRS with nasal polyps [CRSwNP]; 21 CRS without nasal polyps [CRSsNP]). Intrasubject analyses were conducted for 48 individuals (4 controls, 11 AR, 8 CRSwNP, and 15 CRSwNP). There was considerable intersubject microbiota variability, but intrasubject profiles were similar (p = 0.001, nonparametric t test). Intrasubject bacterial diversity was significantly reduced in MM of CRSsNP subjects compared to IM samples (p = 0.022, nonparametric t test). CRSsNP MM samples were enriched in Streptococcus, Haemophilus, and Fusobacterium spp. but exhibited loss of diversity compared to healthy, CRSwNP, and AR subject-samples (p < 0.05; nonparametric t test). CRSwNP patients were enriched in Staphylococcus, Alloiococcus, and Corynebacterium spp. Conclusion This study presents the sinonasal microbiome profile in one of the larger populations of non-CRS and CRS subjects, and is the first office-based cohort in the literature. In contrast to healthy, AR, and CRSwNP subjects, CRSsNP MM samples exhibited decreased microbiome diversity and anaerobic enrichment. CRSsNP MM samples had reduced diversity compared to same-subject IM samples, a novel finding.
Strategic thinking in pharmacy.

Healthcare within the United States is undergoing a major transformation. Health-system leaders are under immense pressure to ensure the quality of care while maximizing value for patients.[1][1] Likewise, the profession of pharmacy is changing due to a number of factors: exponentially rising drug
SMAP radar receiver measures land surface freeze/thaw state through capture of forward-scattered L-band signals

Abstract Quantifying freeze/thaw status of the landscape (soils and vegetation) is important for identifying the availability of liquid water in the high latitudes to support ecosystem processes controlling carbon sequestration and release. A better understanding of the seasonal transition of high latitude landscapes between frozen and thawed states is therefore critical for predicting carbon cycle feedbacks in a warming climate. However, observations of freeze/thaw state are not at sufficient temporal and spatial resolution to observe fast (~ days–weeks) transitions in highly heterogeneous regions. Here, we present new evidence that reflected Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals captured by the SMAP radar receiver have the potential to quantify changes in high-latitude soil freeze/thaw state at kilometer-scale resolution. Boreal wetland observations indicate a ~ 10 dB seasonal difference in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), in agreement with simulations from a simple reflectivity model. Our analysis indicates that ground-reflected GNSS signals as a form of L-band bistatic radar could be a robust observable to quantify soil freeze/thaw state at process-relevant scales. We describe the caveats and potential limitations of this approach, and highlight areas for continuing research.
The differential impact of state tobacco control policies on cessation treatment utilization across established tobacco disparities groups.

Abstract Tobacco control policies are effective in promoting quit attempts and increase the likelihood that smokers use evidence-based cessation treatments (e.g., nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), non-NRT medications, behavioral treatment, and/or quitlines). However, what is less clear is how these policies might differentially impact different groups of smokers, perhaps in some cases even widening disparities in the use of evidence-based tobacco dependence treatments. This paper examined how different state-level tobacco control policies impact the use of evidence-based cessation treatments by race/ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status (SES), age, and smoking history. Participants included 9110 adult smokers reporting a past-year quit attempt within the 2010–2011 Tobacco Use Supplement to the Current Population Survey. Lasso regression modeling was used to identify a subset of interactions between tobacco policies and individual smoker characteristics that predicted use of evidence-based cessation treatment. Significant interactions were fitted via participant-weighted generalized linear models to determine effect sizes and relations to each cessation treatment outcome. Results highlighted that various state level tobacco control policies differentially impacted the reported use of both prescription and non-prescription stop smoking medications by race/ethnicity, age, and SES. The relationship between state level tobacco control policies and the use of behavioral treatments and quitlines did not differ by smoker characteristics. In sum, tobacco control policies differentially impact the use of FDA approved stop smoking medications across different race/ethnicity, age, and SES groups. Understanding such effects can help to target interventions to ensure equal access to evidence-based tobacco dependence treatments.
Variable-temperature variable-field magnetic circular photoluminescence (VTVH-MCPL) spectroscopy for electronic-structure determination in nanoscale chemical systems

In this Letter, we describe variable-temperature variable-field magnetic circular photoluminescence (VTVH-MCPL) spectroscopy as a complementary technique to absorption-based magnetic circular dichroism. A paramagnetic model system, Au25(SC8H9)18, is chosen to demonstrate the information content that is obtained from VTVH-MCPL. Specifically, the methods and analyses for the determination of electronic Lande g-factors, zero-field energy splittings, and relative A-, B-, and C-term contributions to the MCPL response are detailed. The determination of these system properties from photoluminescence data suggests the feasibility of point-source-based super-resolution magneto-optical microscopy.
Vector dyadics radar imaging: Theory and validation

This paper discusses a technique based on a vector dyadic radar imaging of an unknown object (target) under test. With this inverse technique, an object is illuminated with a known incident wave, and parameter estimates for the target are derived via “reconstruction” analysis derived from geometric diversity data. The scattered field due to the contrast between the target and the surrounding media contains information such as target size, geometry and position. Inverse scattering techniques have been studied and used in applications such as radio frequency tomography, computed X-ray tomography, low frequency non-destructive test and evaluation, and geophysical remote sensing to render an image. One of the difficulties with imaging a target of interest through constrained illumination is complete reconstruction of the original object. In order to better exploit specular scattering from targets of interest, the model is based on the collection of finite dipoles and matrix vector dyadic green's function analysis of full body scattering.
Photoelectron Angular Distributions in Single-Photon Ionization of Aligned N\(_2\) and CO\(_2\) Molecules Using XUV Light

The photoionization (PI) is a basic physical process that allows one to directly investigate the molecular structure [1-4]. However, the rich dynamical structure of photoelectron angular distributions (PADs) for fixed-in-space molecules predicted about 30 years ago remains largely unexplored [5] because most of experimental measurements have been performed from an ensemble of randomly distributed molecules in the past.
Target Signature-Constrained Mixed Pixel Classification (TSCMPC): LCMV Classifiers

The target abundance-constrained mixed pixel classification that was considered in Chapter 10 imposed ASC and ANC on target abundance fractions. In this case, a linear mixture model is required and the target signature matrix M must be also known a priori. In this chapter, we consider the target signature-constrained mixed pixel classification which does not need a linear mixture model. Instead, it classifies a mixed pixel by constraining the spectral shapes or vector directions of target signatures rather than target abundance fractions. Such concept was explored in Chapter 4 and referred to as linearly constrained minimum variance (LCMV) approach. It was used to design target signature-constrained subpixel detectors, CEM and TCIMF. A subpixel detector can detect targets, but does not necessarily imply that it can also classify the targets it detected. It may occur that a detector can detect all targets of interest but cannot discriminate one from another. In this case, the detection rate can be as high as 100%, but the classification rate could as low as 0%. In order for LCMV-based detectors to also achieve target classification, they must be implemented one target at a time so that the detected targets can be classified in a separate image. This chapter extends LCMV-based detectors to LCMV classifiers. It develops an approach that expands the capability of the LCMV-based detectors in such a fashion that it can simultaneously detect and classify multiple targets in a single image where different colors are used to highlight distinct types of detected targets. In particular, such color assignment approach also allows us to extend a CEM-based detector in Chapter 4 to a CEM-based classifier. Despite that an LCMV classifier requires the prior knowledge of desired targets, it can take advantage of the unsupervised algorithms presented in Chapter 5 to generate the necessary target knowledge and make its classification unsupervised.
Approximate Multipliers and Dividers Using Dynamic Bit Selection

Within the approximate computing paradigm, approximate arithmetic logic design has received the most attention. The reason, simply the flexibility of such logic where basic building blocks, e.g., adders, multipliers, and dividers, can be utilized within a wide range of approximate data paths offering the benefits of approximate computing. Ideally, effective implementations of approximate arithmetic can readily be utilized within different applications without requiring application-level knowledge. In this chapter, a generic methodology for design of approximate arithmetic logic, namely approximate multipliers and approximate dividers, is proposed. The methodology has the desirable features that maintain an upper bound on maximum attainable error, and result in a zero-balanced error distribution averting error accumulation in consecutive processing. Furthermore, the proposed methodology is highly scalable to higher input sizes, and offers a wide range of accuracy hardware cost trade-offs. We evaluate our methodology with an approximate multiplier and approximate divider and highlight the significant benefits achieved, using both stand-alone and in application experiments.
Intramedullary Screw Fixation of Metacarpal Fractures Results in Excellent Functional Outcomes: A Literature Review.

Background Intramedullary fixation of a comminuted subcapital metacarpal fracture using a headless compression screw was first described in 2010. The purpose of this study was to identify and evaluate all studies reporting clinical outcomes of intramedullary screw fixation of metacarpal fractures. Methods A comprehensive search of the literature was performed under Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify all relevant studies. Outcome measures included mean follow-up, evidence of radiographic union, functional outcomes, and quality-of-life measures. Results Nine articles for a total of 169 metacarpal fractures were identified. Average patient age was 32 years; 86.5 percent of the patients were men; and the majority of fractures occurred in the small finger (74 percent). Most fractures occurred in the neck (n = 66), followed by shaft (n = 31) and head (n = 10). The average follow-up was 11 months, with an average metacarpophalangeal joint flexion of 86 degrees (n = 83) and digit total active motion of 251 degrees (n = 72). Radiographic union was achieved in 100% of reported cases (n = 132) at or before the latest follow-up. Grip strength in four studies showed an average of 96 percent compared to the contralateral hand. No serious complications were reported. Nine minor complications were reported, including four cases of hardware removal in asymptomatic patients. Conclusion The review of the literature suggests intramedullary fixation of metacarpal neck and shaft fractures using headless compression screws has thus far proven to be a safe and successful surgical treatment option resulting in excellent clinical outcomes.
Do gentrifying neighbourhoods have less community? Evidence from Philadelphia:

One of the more detrimental effects of gentrification is the potential for a decreased sense of neighbourhood community. Systematic analysis of the effect of gentrification on communities has been ...
Contextualizing place and health in rural America: Cancer information seeking across four categories of an urban/rural continuum.

e18124Background: Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Despite decreases in cancer mortality overall, rural populations continue to have higher prevalence and slower re...
Peptide-mediated binding of gold nanoparticles to E. coli for enhanced microbial fuel cell power generation

The authors demonstrate that gold-binding peptides displayed on the outer membrane of Escherichia coli enhance bioelectrochemical charge transfer by binding gold nanoparticles. Microbial fuel cells were run with different gold-binding peptides displayed and with different nanoparticle sizes, and the results were correlated with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging of nanoparticle binding. When a goldbinding peptide is displayed and 5 nm gold nanoparticles are present, up to 4× power generation over E. coli not displaying a gold-binding peptide is observed. While an enhanced current is observed using the previously published M6G9, the largest enhancement is observed when a new longer peptide named M9G18 is used.
Data-Driven Capacity Bidding for Frequency Regulation

Frequency regulation is crucial for balancing the supply and demand of modern electricity grids. To provide regulation services, it is important to understand the capability of flexible resources to track regulation signals. This paper studies the problem of submitting capacity bids to a forward regulation market based on historical regulation signals. We consider an aggregator who manages a group of flexible resources with linear dynamic constraints. He seeks to find the optimal capacity bid, so that real-time regulation signals can be followed with an arbitrary guaranteed probability. We formulate this problem as a chance-constrained program with unknown regulation signal distributions. A sampling and discarding algorithm is proposed. It provably provides near-optimal solutions at a guaranteed probability of success without knowing the distribution of the regulation signals. This result holds for resources with arbitrary linear dynamics and allows arbitrary intra-hour data correlations. We validate the proposed algorithm with real data via numerical simulations. Two cases are studied: (1) CAISO market, where providers separately submit capacity estimates for regulation up and regulation down signals, (2) PJM market, where regulation up and down capacities are the same. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm provides near-optimal capacity estimates for both cases.
Authoritarianism and Deliberative Democracy: Responding to Our Current Political Times and Contexts

This article introduces the special issue on Deliberative Democracy in an Era of Authoritarianism. The essay highlights the relationship between authoritarianism and democracy, and discusses concerns about the current rise in authoritarianism in political systems. It poses questions about how deliberative scholars and practitioners should respond to authoritarian political contexts and how deliberation should relate to more activist forms of civic engagement. Finally, it previews the articles in the special issue and urges future work in the field to take up ideas, questions, and challenges posed by these essays.