cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An analytical AlGaAs MODFET charge control model for computer aided design applications

An analytical charge control model for AlGaAs MODFETs is developed. The model has two regions: linear, represented by a linear correspondence, and saturation, represented by an exponential function. A DC model for the device I-V characteristics is developed. The parasitic current from the doped layer of the channel is considered. The velocity saturation of the charges is accounted for, and the saturation drain-source voltage is accurately determined. This model can provide accuracy without sacrificing simplicity. The model has been successfully implemented in SPICE program. >
Glial Cell-Specific Regulation of the JC Virus Early Promoter by Large T Antigen

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a fatal demyelinating disease that results from an oligodendrocyte infection caused by JC virus. The JC virus early promoter directs cell-specific expression of the viral replication factor large T antigen, and thus transcriptional regulation constitutes a major mechanism of glial tropism in PML. We have previously demonstrated that T antigen controls the JC virus basal promoter in a glial cell-specific manner, since T antigen repressed the JC virus and simian virus 40 (SV40) early promoters in glioma cells but induced strong activation of the JC virus early promoter in nonglial cells. To further analyze these findings, T antigen and nuclear extracts from glial and nonglial cells were used to examine DNase I footprints on the proximal promoter. T-antigen binding to site II was more extensive than expected based on sequence homology with SV40, and nuclear proteins protected several regions of the proximal promoter in a cell-specific manner. Multiple Sp1 binding domains were identified. Site-directed mutagenesis revealed that T-antigen-mediated activation required a TATA box sequence, a pentanucleotide repeat immediately upstream of the TATA box, and an Sp1 binding site downstream of the TATA box. When footprints were obtained with mutant promoters which blocked T-antigen-induced transactivation, no change in T-antigen binding was observed. These results suggest that T antigen activates the JC virus basal promoter in nonglial cells by interaction with the transcription initiation complex.
Subchronic/chronic toxicity of 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (HpCDD) in rats. Part II. Biochemical effects

Groups of 20 male and 20 female rats were given five different oral doses of 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (HpCDD) or one dose of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) divided into four daily loading doses and six biweekly maintenance doses. The dosing period was 13 weeks, after which half of the rats were necropsied and the rest assigned to an off-dose period of another 13 weeks. At the end of the dosing period, liver ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activity was dose-dependently increased starting at the lowest dose (7- to 10-fold) with maximum induction (50- to 100-fold) at the middle or second highest dose. There was a slight reversibility of this effect in HpCDD-treated rats, particularly at lower doses, and a pronounced reversibility in TCDD-dosed rats, both in accordance with respective toxicokinetics. The activity of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase in liver was dose-dependently decreased (up to 60%) at the two or three highest doses of HpCDD and also in the TCDD dosage group. Liver tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase activity was decreased at the two highest doses of HpCDD (up to 41%), particularly in females. Serum tryptophan concentrations were elevated in rats found moribund due to wasting. There was a dose-dependent decrease in serum glucose concentrations (up to 30%) at the end of the dosing period. Serum thyroxin (T4) concentrations showed a dose-dependent decrease (78% at the highest dose) beginning in the middle dose for HpCDD and in the TCDD dosage group. Serum triiodothyronine (T3) concentrations were only slightly affected, except that they were somewhat decreased in moribund animals. The results demonstrate that similar biochemical changes occur in rats after single as after multiple dosing with HpCDD and TCDD. Based on these endpoints, the relative potency of HpCDD after subchronic exposure is in agreement with the international toxic equivalency factor (I-TEF) of 0.01 and, more specifically, with a TEF of 0.007 based on LD50 values in the same strain of rats.
The Read-Recite-Review Study Strategy: Effective and Portable

Two experiments with college students investigated the effectiveness of the 3R (read-recite-review) strategy for learning from educational texts. The 3R strategy was compared with rereading and note-taking study strategies using free-recall, multiple-choice, and short-answer inference tests immediately after study and after a 1-week delay. In Experiments 1 and 2, 3R improved immediate and delayed free recall of fact-based passages, relative to the rereading and note-taking strategies. In Experiment 2, which used longer, more complex passages on engineering topics, performance on multiple-choice and problem-solving items was better in the 3R than in the rereading condition, and was equivalent in the 3R and note-taking conditions, though 3R took less study time than note taking. An inherent advantage of 3R relative to other testing methods for improving learning is that 3R is under the learner's control. These results indicate that it is also an efficacious study technique that capitalizes on the mnemonic potency of retrieval and feedback.
The Effect of Noise on Memory for Spoken Syllables

Two experiments explore the effects of noise on memory for spoken syllables. Participants identified and then recalled nonsense syllables under different levels of noise. There were significant decrements in memory, even in conditions where there was no effect of the noise on identification of the syllable. The experiments showed effects over all list positions as well as decreases in the final, or recency, portion of the curve. Results suggest that both capacity and dual-coding play a role in immediate memory. Deux experiences explorent les effets du bruit sur la memoire de syllabes presentees de facon auditive. Les participants devaient identifier, puis rappeler, des syllabes sans signification en presence de differents niveaux de bruit. Une diminution significative du rappel de syllabes a ete observee, meme pour les syllabes correctement identifiees en presence de bruit. Les resultats montrent des effets a toutes les positions serielles ainsi qu'une diminution de l'effet de recence. Ces resultats sugge...
A Low-Temperature Batch Mode Packaging Process for Submillimeter Microsystems in Harsh Environment Applications

This paper presents a low-temperature batch mode packaging process for microsystems that are intended for harsh environments, in particular those with high pressure and high salinity, such as encountered in downhole data logging for oil exploration and production. The package consists of a shell made from a high-strength material, such as stainless steel (SS), and an insert made from a deformable material, such as aluminum (Al). The process includes a batch mode method for chip integration and a batch mode microcrimping method for package assembly. In a process demonstration, a $5 \times 5$ array of packages was made from SS 316 and Al alloy 3003, with dummy silicon chips encapsulated inside. Each package had an outer dimension of 0.5 mm along each axis. Two layers of coatings were deposited on the packages, including 50-nm-thick Al2O3 deposited by atomic layer deposition and 5- $\mu \text{m}$ -thick Parylene C made by vapor phase deposition to protect against corrosion. The packages survive at least 72 h in the standard American Petroleum Institute hot brine at 80 °C. The packages also survive pressure >200 MPa.
Morphology Development in Thin Films of a Lamellar Block Copolymer Deposited by Electrospray

Electrospray has been recently advanced as a novel approach for the continuous deposition of self-assembled block copolymer thin films. It represents an analogue of physical vapor deposition in which the development of well-ordered microstructures is predicated on relatively rapid relaxation of the polymer compared to its rate of deposition. Here we describe the morphology development of a lamellae-forming poly(styrene-b-4-vinylpyridine) deposited by electrospray. Morphology was considered in the context of relative changes of the deposition and relaxation rates, with the latter significantly affected in some cases by the presence of residual solvent. We observe that the presence of residual solvent in deposited material accelerates the equilibration kinetics such that well-ordered alternating lamellar morphologies could be produced at deposition rates as high as 55 nm/min under “wet” spray conditions, whereas hexagonally packed micelles were produced when the polymer was deposited free of solvent, denote...
Myokardiale Noradrenalinspeicher bei experimentellem Herzinfarkt

Im Gefolge eines Herzinfarkts kommt es zu einem Anstieg des Noradrenalinspiegels im Plasma; gleichzeitig wird eine vermehrte Ausscheidung im Harn beobachtet. Diese Befunde werden einer verstarkten Aktivitat des sympathischen Nervensystems zugeschrieben, der man eine unterstu tzende Rolle zur Erhaltung der Funktion des Restmyokards beimist In der vorliegenden Untersuchung wurde der Noradrenalinspiegel nicht nur im infarzierten, sondern auch im nicht infarzierten Gewebe aller vier Herzkammern nach einem experimentellen Infarkt untersucht. Diese Beobachtungen wurden mit funktionellen und metabolischen Parametern in Beziehung gesetzt.
Toward Cold War thinking: editorial reactions to Churchill’s iron curtain speech in North Carolina newspapers

This article argues that the Cold War arrived in America – in Washington and in U.S. public opinion – between October 1945 and March 1947, and more specifically in February and March 1946. It also contends that Winston Churchill’s ‘iron curtain’ speech on 5 March 1946 played an important role in alerting the American public to the reality that Soviet foreign policy was both expansionist and anti-democratic. Churchill’s anti-Soviet speech, together with earlier ‘firm’ but more guarded speeches by Senator Arthur Vandenberg and Secretary of State James Byrnes, clearly contributed to the anti-Soviet milieu that was reflected in a Gallup poll in mid-March in which only 7% of respondents approved of ‘the policy Russia is following in world affairs’. Ironically given the lasting fame of Churchill’s speech, editorials in the five North Carolina newspapers analyzed in the article opposed what they saw as his main proposal: an Anglo-American alliance against Russia. Yet four of the five papers agreed with Vandenber...
Psychopathy, unconscious shame and attachment: Considering the psychodynamics of psychopathy

Recent psychopathy research has involved a critical re-examination of the construct. Absent from this research has been an analysis of the role unconscious shame might play in etiology, traits and behaviour. Outside of the domain of psychopathy research, the significant role shame plays in intra- and interpersonal dynamics has been comprehensively investigated for the past few decades. More recently, exploration into the role that attachment plays in the development of shame has been suggested. The extant shame literature has explored the connection between unconscious shame and a range of behaviours, many of which are characteristic of psychopathy. While there have been some investigations on the association between psychopathy and conscious shame, this paper suggests that the exploration of unconscious shame, and its development resulting from certain attachment dynamics, can potentially further enhance our conceptualisation of psychopathy with regard to etiology, traits, behaviour, assessment and treat...
An ultrasensitive magnetoelectric sensor system for the quantitative detection of liver iron

Ultrasensitive magnetoelectric (ME) sensors have been developed using magnetostrictive/piezoelectric laminate heterostructures. This paper discusses a highly interdisciplinary design of a room temperature biomagnetic liver susceptometry system (BLS) based on the ME sensors. The ME-sensor based BLS maintains the ultrahigh sensitivity to detect the weak AC biomagnetic signals and introduces a low equivalent magnetic noise. The results reveal a “turning point” and successfully indicate the output signals to be linearly responsive to iron concentrations from normal iron level (0.05 mg Fe /g liver phantom ) to 5 mg Fe /g liver phantom iron overload level (100X overdose). Further, the introduction of the water-bag technique shows the promise on the automatic deduction of the background (tissue) signal, enabling an even higher sensitivity and better signal-to-noise (SNR). With these improvements, it becomes feasible to get improved characterization flexibility and the field distribution mapping potential via signal processing from the correlations of multiple sensors in the system. Considering the wide presence of biomagnetic signals in human organs, the potential impact of such biomagnetic devices on medicine and health care could be enormous and far-reaching.
Finding “Health” and “Meaning” in Texas-Sized Turnover: Application of Seminal Management Principles for Administration and Research in U.S. Public Child Welfare Agencies

Public child welfare agencies in the United States have struggled with high turnover rates, especially among caseworkers. Research has explored turnover in terms of negative organizational outcomes, and efforts have been developed to reduce overall turnover rates. However, there has been little change in turnover rates in the last 30 years. The public child welfare system is inclined to higher turnover due to the unique nature of the work. Efforts to reduce the overall turnover rate fail to recognize the heterogeneity and healthy aspects of turnover unique to public child welfare organizations, which present challenges for both practice and research. By critically questioning how turnover is socially constructed, measured, and addressed, and integrating seminal management principles, a more meaningful metric can be developed. These challenges are explored, and recommendations are proposed for administration and research that include reconstructing and applying a new perspective on turnover to inform and evaluate initiatives that can reduce the impact of dysfunctional turnover within public child welfare organizations.
Onset and duration of intravenous and intraosseous rocuronium in hypovolemic swine.

Objective: Compare the onset and duration of rocuronium administered via the intravenous (IV), and intraosseous (IO) routes in a hypovolemic swine model. Design: Prospective, between subjects, experimental study. Setting: Vivarium. Subjects: Yorkshire-cross swine (N = 8). Intervention: Electromyography (EMG) amplitudes were recorded at baseline and for every 15 seconds after administering 1.2 mg / kg of rocuronium via IV or IO routes to hypovolemic swine. EMG amplitudes were measured until termination of EMG activity and then measured every 5 minutes until there was a return to baseline values. Individual data were transformed to percent baseline. Main Outcome Measurements: The time from the end of injection to 90 percent reduction of baseline EMG activity (Onset90), the time to maximum reduction (Onsetpeak), and the maximum reduction of the neuromuscular response (peak effect), as well as, time from the end of injection to the return of 25, 50, 75, and 95 percent of baseline EMG activity was used to characterize onset and recovery of neuromuscular function. Results: Maximum reduction, Onset 90 and Onset peak times were not statistically different between groups. The IV group's mean time to recovery of all benchmarks was faster than the IO group. The IO group took statistically longer than the IV group to return to 25, 50, 75, and 95 percent of baseline activity. Conclusion: The IO route is an effective method of administering rocuronium and is comparable to the IV route even under conditions of significant hemorrhage.
Strategies to improve the evidence base of animal-assisted interventions

ABSTRACTAnimal-assisted interventions (AAIs) reflect an extraordinary opportunity to improve mental health given the special role that animals (pets) occupy in everyday life and general public receptivity to animals. To enhance the evidence-base for AAIs, four recommendations are discussed: (a) conduct more well-designed studies, including the use of a broader array of methodologies; (b) make explicit “small theories” about precisely why and how human-animal interaction changes health and well-being; (c) increase laboratory-based studies of processes likely to underlie therapeutic applications; and (d) develop a strategic plan to guide AAI research, a means of implementing that plan, and ways of monitoring progress to ensure implementation has had impact on AAI research. There is enormous potential for AAI to overcome many obstacles of more traditional physical and mental health services, but developing that potential depends on establishing a stronger evidence base.
Plant community response to prescribed fire varies by pre-fire condition and season of burn in mountain big sagebrush ecosystems

Abstract Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana ecosystems evolved with periodic fire, but invasive grasses, conifer encroachment, fire suppression, and climate change have resulted in altered fire regimes and plant communities. Post-fire increases in invasive annual grasses such as Bromus tectorum and reductions in native vegetation are common across the sagebrush steppe. Where fire has been excluded though, there are increases in the native tree Juniperus occidentalis, which outcompetes the native understory. We applied prescribed fire in spring and fall at three sites (native-dominated, B. tectorum-dominated, and J. occidentalis-dominated). We documented 65% survival of A. tridentata following fall burns and 33% survival following spring burns in native-dominated plots, with evidence of post-fire sprouting in Purshia tridentata and Tetradymia canescens. At the B. tectorum-dominated site, shrub cover was reduced to
Missing Voices in the Study of the Practicum.

The articles in this issue of Studying Teacher Education give voice to teacher educators who are seeking to better understand and to improve their work with teacher candidates during the practicum ...
Inferred inheritance of MorbidMap genes without OMIM clinical synopsis

The Genomic Oligoarray and SNP Array Evaluation Tool 3.0 matches candidate genes within regions of homozygosity with a patient’s phenotype, by mining OMIM for gene entries that contain a Clinical Synopsis. However, the tool cannot identify genes/disorders whose OMIM entries lack a descriptor of the mode of (Mendelian) inheritance. This study aimed to improve the tool’s diagnostic power by building a database of autosomal recessive diseases not diagnosable through OMIM. We extracted a list of all genes in OMIM that produce disease phenotypes but lack Clinical Synopses or other statements of mode of inheritance. We then searched PubMed for literature regarding each gene in order to infer its inheritance pattern. We analyzed 1,392 genes. Disorders associated with 372 genes were annotated as recessive and 430 as dominant. Autosomal genes were ranked from 1 to 3, with 3 indicating the strongest evidence behind the inferred mode of inheritance. Of 834 autosomal genes, 158 were ranked as 1, 228 as 2, and 448 as 3. The 372 genes associated with recessive disorders will be contributed to the SNP array tool, and the entire database to OMIM. We anticipate that these findings will be useful in rare disease diagnostics.
Multidimensional optical access networks with spectral-spatial interworking

Multidimensional approach based on employment of both spatial and spectral modes in optical access networks can enable not only increase in the network throughput, but also enhance its dynamic and elastic behavior through spectral-spatial interworking and employment of an advanced software defined (SDN) networking model. In this paper we introduce the concept of virtual bandwidth exchange among end-users in multidimensional optical access networks and methodology for the throughput maximization in networks with plurality of heterogeneous end-points.
Size-resolved particle measurements of polybrominated diphenyl ethers indoors: Implications for sources and human exposure.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardant polymer additives that are widely detected in outdoor and indoor environments. Release of PBDEs from consumer products leads to high concentrations indoors, but mechanisms of release are poorly understood. Although ingestion of dust is a well-studied indoor PBDE exposure route, the importance of inhalation exposure is uncertain. To address these unknowns, dust was collected from household vacuum cleaners, and suspended particulate matter was collected from the same homes in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, using a cascade impactor. Size-fractionated particulate matter samples (0.01-18 μm diameter) were analyzed for PBDEs. The sum of PBDEs in all particulate matter ranged from 8.7 ± 0.5 to 15.7 ± 0.5 pg/m3 , with >50% of PBDE mass in respirable particulate matter (<1 μm). Mass loadings as a function of particle size suggested that both abrasion and off-gassing led to the presence of PBDEs in particulate matter. Variability in the particulate matter mass loadings indicated that emission mechanisms were both product- and location-dependent. Congener profiles in colocated vacuum dust and particulate matter samples were different, indicating that vacuum dust cannot accurately predict PBDE congeners in respirable particulate matter. A calculated lower limit inhalation exposure to PBDEs (0.19 ng/d) is lower than exposure via diet or ingestion of dust, although the different biochemical pathways for inhalation compared with ingestion may have different biological effects. The present study highlights the importance of contaminant analysis in size-fractionated particulate matter to assess human exposure via inhalation compared with traditional vacuum dust methods. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:481-490. © 2017 SETAC.
Write Modeling and Read Signal Processing for Heat-Assisted Bit-Patterned Media Recording

Heat-assisted bit-patterned media recording (HABPMR) can significantly improve channel areal density due to the increased effective write field gradient provided by heat assistance and decreased media jitter offered by bit-patterned media. In this paper, an analytical write channel model, which can accurately capture the effects of Curie temperature, magnetic island position and size, anisotropy field, and write clock frequency fluctuations, is introduced and investigated for HABPMR. For read signal processing study, a read channel characterizing the media noise and reader geometry is combined with a data-dependent write channel to obtain the readback signal. In addition, the allowable write window offsets, write error rate during the write process and the bit error rate after readback as function of various noise sources are studied. Furthermore, 2-D equalization followed by the Bahl-Cocke-Jelenik-Raviv detector combined with picket-shift code is used to mitigate the 2-D interference and correct the burst errors caused by the write clock mis-synchronization. It is shown, via numerical experiments, that the proposed approach can provide significant symbol error rate performance improvement compared to a channel with conventional Reed Solomon code.
A closed-loop deep learning architecture for robust activity recognition using wearable sensors

Human activity recognition (HAR) plays a central role in health-care, fitness and sport applications because of its potential to enable context-aware human monitoring. With the increase in popularity of wearable devices, we are witnessing a large influx in availability of human activity data. For effective analysis and interpretation of these heterogeneous and high-volume streaming data, we need powerful algorithms. In particular, there is a strong need for developing algorithms for robust classification of human activity data that specifically address challenges associated with dynamic environments (e.g. different users, signal heterogeneity). We use the term robust here in two, orthogonal senses: 1) leveraging related data in such a way that knowledge is transferred to a new context; and 2) actively reconfiguring machine learning algorithms such that they can be applied in a new context. In this paper, we propose an architecture that combines an active learning approach with a novel deep network. Our deep neural network exploits both Convolutional and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) layers in order to learn hierarchical representation of features and capture time dependencies from raw-data. The active learning process allows us to choose the best instances for fine-tuning the deep network to the new setting in which the system operates (i.e. a new subject). We demonstrate the efficacy of the architecture using real data of human activity. We show that the accuracy of activity recognition reaches over 90% by annotating less than 20% of unlabeled data.
Mentored Research Projects Conducted by College of New Jersey Students

This chapter presents excerpts from the research conducted by undergraduate students at The College of New Jersey between 2009 and 2017 that focused on the topic of anti-harassment, intimidation, bullying and teasing (HIBT). Complimentary work by graduate students and undergraduate student teachers, conducted during clinical practicum experiences, and by students whose work focused on creating the peaceful classroom are cited in context. Several of the studies developed from required assignments in undergraduate and graduate social studies courses in the Department of Elementary and Early Childhood Education and/or State of New Jersey certification requirements. The theoretical and philosophical bases of the studies are reviewed. Studies with a focus on classrooms and curricula and those with a focus on families comprise the data set. Variations in socio-economic, religious, and cultural aspects are discussed. The chapter includes links to larger research projects in which the author was a co-principal investigator (PI).
WHICH TASK IN WHICH REPRESENTATION ON WHAT KIND OF INTERFACE

For human-computer interface design it seems important to know more about the characteristics of tasks. The characteristics of a task have implications for how information should be represented on a user-interface. This would especially help in the discussion about designing graphical interfaces with direct manipulation or with natural language command structure and query. The lack of clear concepts of task parameters at this time makes the discussion difficult. An approach for determining task characteristics will be presented and first empirical proofs will be discussed with respect to consequences for user-interface design.
Maximal Sets of Factors

One-factors are called compatible if they have no common edge; a set of one-factors of G is called maximal if the factors are compatible but G contains no other one-factor compatible with them. A one-factorization is trivially a maximal set; a maximal set of fewer than d one-factors in a regular graph of degree d will be called proper. Theorem 8.3 essentially tells us that K n,n has no proper maximal set (see Theorem 18.13, below). It is natural to ask about the existence of proper maximal sets in K 2 n .
Navy Acquisition of Ships to Commercial Standards Using a Circular of Requirements

This paper explores the advantages and the pitfalls of the Navy's commercial acquisition approach, from the perspective of both the project manager and the technical codes. The mechanics of the approach are described and compared with the conventional Navy acquisition process. Finally, «lessons learned» and possible future acquisition strategies are presented
Late Preterm Infants at Risk for Short-Term and Long-Term Morbidity and Mortality

Late preterm births were the first group of premature infants who neonatologists treated successfully. Over time with the very low birth weight infants surviving and demanding many resources, near-term infants were relatively ignored and unfortunately were no longer considered to be of high risk by many health care providers. The resurgence of interest in this group, and their renaming to late preterm resulted from the recognition that they were indeed the largest subpopulation of preterm infants, and had an increased mortality when compared to term infants and increased morbidity including transient tachypnea of newborn (TTN), respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN), respiratory failure, apnea, temperature instability, jaundice, hypoglycemia, feeding difficulties and a prolonged neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Furthermore, they have an increased prevalence of cognitive and neuro-developmental problems and a greater rate of readmission to hospital in the first weeks after discharge than term births. Escobar noted that many late preterm infants are never admitted to the NICU [6]. A possible explanation is that clinicians may be making clinical judgments based on infants’ birth weight only rather than gestation and birth weight.
The Effect of Moderator Bots on Abusive Language Use

Moderator bots are widely used on forums and social media. On Internet forums, moderator bots play an important role in automatically monitoring the content of images and the text present on the forum as well as providing repetitive information without the need for interaction with an administrator. The increasing use of moderator bots inspired me to study the performance of moderator bots. To date, research investigating the effect of moderator bots has not been conducted. Herein, we analyzed Reddit, a popular U.S. social news aggregation platform, which uses a moderator bot (AutoModerator) to mitigate the invalid comments occurring in discussion groups. This has thus become an ideal research opportunity for this study. We implemented a regression discontinuity design and interrupted time-series analysis to estimate the effect of AutoModerator on word-quality improvement. We observed an abrupt and significant decrease in the rate of abusive posts to which AutoModerator was attached. These results suggest that AutoModerator has been effective in controlling the word quality.
No vascular calcification on cardiac computed tomography spanning asfotase alfa treatment for an elderly woman with hypophosphatasia

Abstract Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is the inborn-error-of-metabolism characterized enzymatically by insufficient activity of the tissue-nonspecific isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP) and caused by either mono- or bi-allelic loss-of-function mutation(s) of the gene ALPL that encodes this cell surface phosphomonoester phosphohydrolase. In HPP, the natural substrates of TNSALP accumulate extracellularly and include inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi), a potent inhibitor of biomineralization. This PPi excess leads to rickets or osteomalacia in all but the most mild “odonto” form of the disease. Adults with HPP understandably often also manifest calcium PPi dihydrate deposition, whereas enthesopathy and calcific periarthritis from hydroxyapatite (HA) crystal deposition can seem paradoxical in face of the defective skeletal mineralization. In 2015, asfotase alfa (AA), a HA-targeted TNSALP, was approved multinationally as an enzyme replacement therapy for HPP. AA hydrolyzes extracellular PPi (ePPi) and in HPP enables HA crystals to grow and mineralize skeletal matrix. In direct contrast to HPP, deficiency of ePPi characterizes the inborn-errors-of-metabolism generalized arterial calcification of infancy (GACI) and pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE). In GACI and PXE, deficiency of ePPi leads to ectopic mineralization including vascular calcification (VC). Therefore, in HPP, ectopic mineralization including VC could hypothetically result from, or be exacerbated by, the persistently high circulating TNSALP activity that occurs during AA treatment. Herein, using a routine computed tomography (CT) method to quantitate coronary artery calcium, we found no ectopic mineralization in the heart of an elderly woman with HPP before or after 8 months of AA treatment. Subsequently, investigational high-resolution peripheral quantitative CT and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry showed absence of peripheral artery and aortic calcium after further AA treatment. Investigation of additional adults with HPP could reveal if the superabundance of ePPi protects against VC, and whether long-term AA therapy causes or exacerbates any ectopic mineralization.
Chemically Functionalizing Controlled Dielectric Breakdown Silicon Nitride Nanopores by Direct Photohydrosilylation.

Nanopores are a prominent enabling tool for single-molecule applications such as DNA sequencing, protein profiling, and glycomics, and the construction of ionic circuit elements. Silicon nitride (SiNx) is a leading scaffold for these <100 nm-diameter nanofluidic ion-conducting channels, but frequently challenging surface chemistry remains an obstacle to their use. We functionalized more than 100 SiNx nanopores with different surface terminations-acidic (Si-R-OH, Si-R-CO2H), basic (Si-R-NH2), and nonionizable (Si-R-C6H3(CF3)2)-to chemically tune the nanopore size, surface charge polarity, and subsequent chemical reactivity and to change their conductance by changes of solution pH. The initial one-reaction-step covalent chemical film formation was by hydrosilylation and could be followed by straightforward condensation and click reactions. The hydrosilylation reaction step used neat reagents with no special precautions such as guarding against water content. A key feature of the approach was to combine controlled dielectric breakdown (CDB) with hydrosilylation to create and functionalize SiNx nanopores. CDB thus replaced the detrimental but conventionally necessary surface pretreatment with hydrofluoric acid. Proof-of-principle detection of the canonical test molecule, λ-DNA, yielded signals that showed that the functionalized pores were not obstructed by chemical treatments but could translocate the biopolymer. The characteristics were tuned by the surface coating character. This robust and flexible surface coating method, freed by CDB from HF etching, portends the development of nanopores with surface chemistry tuned to match the application, extending even to the creation of biomimetic nanopores.
Structural insights into melatonin receptors

The long-anticipated high-resolution structures of the human melatonin G protein-coupled receptors MT1 and MT2 , involved in establishing and maintaining circadian rhythm, were obtained in complex with two melatonin analogs and two approved anti-insomnia and antidepression drugs using X-ray free-electron laser serial femtosecond crystallography. The structures shed light on the overall conformation and unusual structural features of melatonin receptors, as well as their ligand binding sites and the melatonergic pharmacophore, thereby providing insights into receptor subtype selectivity. The structures revealed an occluded orthosteric ligand binding site with a membrane-buried channel for ligand entry in both receptors, and an additional putative ligand entry path in MT2 from the extracellular side. This unexpected ligand entry mode contributes to facilitating the high specificity with which melatonin receptors bind their cognate ligand and exclude structurally similar molecules such as serotonin, the biosynthetic precursor of melatonin. Finally, the MT2 structure allowed accurate mapping of type 2 diabetes-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms, where a clustering of residues in helices I and II on the protein-membrane interface was observed which could potentially influence receptor oligomerization. The role of receptor oligomerization is further discussed in light of the differential interaction of MT1 and MT2 with GPR50, a regulatory melatonin coreceptor. The melatonin receptor structures will facilitate design of selective tool compounds to further dissect the specific physiological function of each receptor subtype as well as provide a structural basis for next-generation sleeping aids and other drugs targeting these receptors with higher specificity and fewer side effects.
Silver Nanodiscs for Enhanced Fluorescence Emission

Here, we used a novel method to deform silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) into nanodiscs through the application of a transverse mechanical force using a home-built Teflon puncher. The application of di...
Spin dynamics in antiferromagnetic oxypnictides and fluoropnictides: LaMnAsO, LaMnSbO, and BaMnAsF

Inelastic neutron scattering (INS) from polycrystalline antiferromagnetic LaMnAsO, LaMnSbO, and BaMnAsF are analyzed using a $J_1-J_2-J_c$ Heisenberg model in the framework of the linear spin-wave theory. All three systems show clear evidence that the nearest- and next-nearest-neighbor interactions within the Mn square lattice layer ($J_1$ and $J_2$) are both antiferromagnetic (AFM). However, for all compounds studied the competing interactions have a ratio of $2J_2/J_1 < 1$, which favors the square lattice checkerboard AFM structure over the stripe AFM structure. The inter-plane coupling $J_c$ in all three systems is on the order of $\sim 3\times10^{-4}J_1$, rendering the magnetic properties of these systems with quasi-two-dimensional character. The substitution of Sb for As significantly lowers the in-plane exchange coupling, which is also reflected in the decrease of the N{e}el temperature, $T_{\rm N}$. Although BaMnAsF shares the MnAs sheets as LaMnAsO, their $J_1$ and $J_2$ values are substantially different. Using density functional theory, we calculate exchange parameters $J_{ij}$ to rationalize the differences among these systems.
The rise in appendix cancer incidence: 2000-2009.

e12506 Background: Cancer of the appendix is a rare and potentially aggressive malignancy. The objectives of this study were to characterize secular demographic patterns of disease and to determine survival by using a population-based data source. Methods: Using the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results database we identified all appendiceal neoplasms reported to the registry between 2000 and 2009.Tumors were classified as carcinoid, adenocarcinoma, mucinous and signet ring cell carcinoma. We compared overall incidence, age distribution by tumor type and overall survival rates by extent of disease at diagnosis. To assess whether the incidence rate, tumor size, and cancer stage changed over time, the Cochrane-Armitage trend test was used. Logistic regression models were used to determine the odds of distant disease at diagnosis and Cox proportional-hazards modeling was used to identify the factors associated with overall survival rates. Results: We identified 4,765 patients with appendix cancer. The in...
Assessment of the epigenetic nature of chromosomal proteins during DNA replication and mitosis

Abstract Epigenetic maintenance through the cell cycle is critical for inheritance of transcriptional programs during cell division. This is particularly pertinent during DNA replication and mitosis, when chromatin structure is altered and must be faithfully reconstituted. While widely accepted assumptions of epigenetic bookmarking rely primarily on modified histones, other proteins may function in this process, and the true nature of epigenetics remains poorly understood. Similarly, the events leading to chromatin restoration and resumption of transcriptional programs on nascent DNA and post-mitotic chromatin are not well established. Given the fundamental biological importance of these epigenetic events there recently has been an explosion in the development of new methods to follow the fate of histones and other chromatin-associated proteins on DNA during S phase and M phase. In this review we describe experimental approaches to analyze association of chromosomal proteins on nascent and mature chromatin during and after replication and through different mitotic stages. We focus on basic approaches, without describing adaptations of these techniques, and assess the technical and conceptual advantages and limitations of these methods.
Proton Beam Therapy in the Treatment of Periorbital Malignancies.

Purpose Periorbital tumor location presents a significant challenge with 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy or intensity modulated radiation therapy due to high tumor dose needed in the setting of close proximity to orbital structures with lower tolerance. Proton beam therapy (PBT) is felt to be an effective modality in such cases due to its sharp dose gradient. Materials and methods We reviewed our institutional PBT registry and identified 17 patients with tumor epicenters within 2 cm of the eye and optic apparatus treated with passive scatter PBT with comparison volumetric arc therapy plans available. Maximum and mean doses to organs at risk of interest, including optic nerves, optic chiasm, lens, eye ball, pituitary, cochlea, lacrimal gland, and surrounding brain, were compared using the paired Wilcoxon signed rank test. Overall survival was determined using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results Median age was 67. Median follow-up was 19.7 months. Fourteen patients underwent upfront resection and received postoperative radiation and 3 received definitive radiation. One patient received elective neck radiation, 2 underwent reirradiation, and 3 had concurrent chemotherapy. There was a statistically significant reduction in mean dose to the optic nerves and chiasm, brain, pituitary gland, lacrimal glands, and cochlea as well as in the maximum dose to the optic nerves and chiasm, pituitary gland, lacrimal glands, and cochlea with PBT. The 18-month cumulative incidence of local failure was 19.1% and 1-year overall survival was 80.9%. Conclusion Proton beam therapy resulted in significant dose reductions to several periorbital and optic structures compared with volumetric arc therapy. Proton beam therapy appears to be the optimal radiation modality in such cases to minimize risk of toxicity to periorbital organs at risk.
Determinants of childhood vaccination in Nagaland, India: a cross-sectional study with multilevel modelling.

Objectives Childhood vaccination coverage in Nagaland has lagged almost all states in India for more than two decades. This study aims to find drivers and barriers of childhood vaccination in Nagaland from the perspective of demand, supply and local health governance. Design A cross-sectional study was designed using a survey conducted by the Directorate of Health and Family in 2015. Setting Households, community-based health centres and health committees were surveyed. Participants 285 children aged under 2 years with vaccination cards and data on households, health centres and health committees were included. Outcomes Variables indicating whether a child received each of bacillus calmette-guerin (BCG), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP3), oral polio (OPV3) and measles vaccination and all of them were outcome variables. Associated factors were identified using multilevel logistic regressions. Results Antenatal care at least three times was significantly associated with BCG, DTP3, OPV3 and full vaccination with adjusted ORs ranging from 2.4 (95% CI 1.1 to 5.1) to 3.3 (1.1 to 9.9). The availability of bus to health centre was slightly significant for BCG and OPV3 with the adjusted ORs of 2.0 (0.9 to 4.5) and 2.1 (0.9 to 4.8), respectively. Health committees' budget provision to health centres was significant for OPV3 and full vaccination with the respective adjusted ORs of 15.7 (1.0 to 234.1) and 15.9 (1.2 to 214.7), the wide 95% CIs of which were driven by a small sample size. Health committees' review of expenditure of health centres was significant for measles and full vaccination with the adjusted ORs of 4.0 (1.4 to 11.4) and 5.2 (1.4 to 19.4), respectively. Conclusion This study suggests that enhancing the utilisation of antenatal care and providing reliable transportation between villages and health centres are required to improve childhood vaccination coverage. Also, the significant association of budget administration of health committees suggests that supporting local health committees for effective financial management is important.
Patient values in healthcare decision making among diverse older adults.

Abstract Objective To provide high-quality healthcare, it is essential to understand values that guide the healthcare decisions of older adults. We investigated the types of values that culturally diverse older adults incorporate in medical decision making. Methods Focus groups were held with older adults who varied in cognitive status (mildly impaired versus those with normal cognition) and ethnicity (Hispanic and non-Hispanic). Investigators used a qualitative descriptive approach to analyze transcripts and identify themes. Results Forty-nine individuals (49% with cognitive impairment; 51% Hispanic) participated. Participants expressed a wide range of values relating to individual factors, familial/cultural beliefs and expectations, balancing risks and benefits, receiving decisional support, and considering values other than their own. Participants emphasized that values are individual-specific, influenced by aging, and change throughout life course. Participants described barriers and facilitators that interfere with or promote value solicitation and incorporation during medical encounters. Conclusion Study findings highlight that in older adults with various health experiences, cognitive and physical health status, and sociocultural backgrounds, medical decisions are influenced by a variety of values. Practical implications Clinicians should take time to elicit, understand, and reassess the different types of values of older adults.
IMPACT OF LIGHT INTENSITY OR CHOICE OF INTENSITY ON BROILER PERFORMANCE AND BEHAVIOR

SUMMARY The optimal light intensities for broiler production and well-being have been investigated for some time. The use of a minimum 20 lux (lx) is mandated within the European Union (European Commission, 2000; European Union 2007). Light intensities below 20 lx are commonly used in the United States. There have been inconsistent effects of light intensities below 20 lx on broiler performance. The present study evaluated the performance of broiler chickens reared under 5, 10 and 20 lx or a choice between these intensities. The feed: gain ratio was lowest for birds reared using 5 lx and the choice of 5, 10 and 20 lx (1.71 and 1.70) compared to 20 lx (1.81), with 10 lx being intermediate (1.74). Furthermore, there were no differences observed in carcass yield, breast yield or abdominal fat. Preference for different light intensities (5, 10 and 20 lx) was examined using a remote video system. On d 20, more birds were observed to be feeding under light intensities of 10 and 20 lx compared to 5 lx. All other (not feeding) birds preferred 20 lx on d 20. On d 31 birds feeding no longer displayed a preference while all others preferred 10 and 20 lx over 5 lx. On the final observation d 41 only those birds not feeding or drinking showed a preference for 10 lx. The results agreed with past studies in demonstrating the change of preference for light intensity. The use of choice lighting environments was able to provide the desired light intensity of broilers at a young age while maintaining production parameters of those reared using low intensity (5 lx).
Mutagenic, Carcinogenic, and Toxic Effects of Residual Organics in Drinking Water

Epidemiologic studies have indicated a possible correlation between pollution of drinking water and incidence of cancer. Much of the data for these analyses was collected during the period 1950–1969. Considering the latency period for clinical cancers, the findings contribute to the general concern about long term exposure to the myriad pollutants in our environment.