cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The CAM software for nonnegative blind source separation in R-Java

We describe a R-Java CAM (convex analysis of mixtures) package that provides comprehensive analytic functions and a graphic user interface (GUI) for blindly separating mixed nonnegative sources. This open-source multiplatform software implements recent and classic algorithms in the literature including Chan et al. (2008), Wang et al. (2010), Chen et al. (2011a) and Chen et al. (2011b). The CAM package offers several attractive features: (1) instead of using proprietary MATLAB, its analytic functions are written in R, which makes the codes more portable and easier to modify; (2) besides producing and plotting results in R, it also provides a Java GUI for automatic progress update and convenient visual monitoring; (3) multi-thread interactions between the R and Java modules are driven and integrated by a Java GUI, assuring that the whole CAM software runs responsively; (4) the package offers a simple mechanism to allow others to plug-in additional R-functions.
Trade-off between collection efficiency and open-circuit voltage

There is trade-off between collection efficiency and open-circuit voltage as the absorber carrier density of a solar cell is varied. Calculated results are presented for polycrystalline thin-film CuInSe/sub 2/ and crystalline Si cells. Variation in carrier density will not significantly affect collection efficiency for Si cells because of low absorption coefficient and high minority-carrier diffusion length. Collection efficiency of CuInSe/sub 2/ cells, however, has a significant decrease with increasing density. It also has a nonnegligible voltage dependence. When carrier density is less than 10/sup 17/ cm/sup -3/, open-circuit voltage will increase with increasing carrier density for both types of cell. Si efficiency will increase gradually with increasing carrier density below 10/sup 17/ cm/sup -3/, but Auger recombination at higher densities will reduce the efficiency. For CuInSe/sub 2/ cells at carrier densities below 10/sup 17/ cm/sup -3/, the efficiency increases with density as compensation is reduced but at higher densities, a relatively flat open-circuit voltage should lead to a shallow maximum in efficiency. For both crystalline Si and polycrystalline thin-film CuInSe/sub 2/ cells, optimum carrier density of approximately 10/sup 17/ cm/sup -3/ is predicted. >
High Rates of Diabetes Mellitus, Pre-diabetes and Obesity Among Somali Immigrants and Refugees in Minnesota: A Retrospective Chart Review

We examined the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among Somali refugees at a midwestern hospital in the U.S. This was a retrospective cohort study of 1007 adult Somali patients and an age and frequency-matched cohort of non-Somali patients actively empanelled to a large, academic primary care practice network in the Midwest United States between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2012. Cardiovascular risk factors were obtained by chart review and compared between the two cohorts using a Chi squared test. Median age was 35 years (Q1, Q3; 27, 50). The prevalence of diabetes was significantly higher among Somali versus non-Somali patients (12.1 vs 5.3 %; p = 0.0001), as was prediabetes (21.3 vs 17.2 %; p < 0.02) and obesity (34.6 vs 32.1 %; p = 0.047). After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, education and employment, among the Somali patients, the odds ratio (95 % confidence interval) for diabetes was 2.78 (1.76-4.40) and 1.57 (1.16-2.13) for pre-diabetes. There was a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes, pre-diabetes and obesity among Somali patients compared with non-Somali patients. Further research into the specific causes of these disparities and development of targeted effective and sustainable interventions to address them is needed.
The Crumbs3-Pals1 complex participates in the establishment of polarity in mammalian epithelial cells

In Drosophila, the Crumbs-Stardust-Discs-lost complex is required during the establishment of polarized epithelia. Embryos that lack a component of this complex or overexpress Crumbs exhibit defects in epithelial morphogenesis. We recently cloned a novel mammalian epithelial Crumbs isoform, Crumbs3 (CRB3). CRB3 exists in a complex at tight junctions (TJs) with Pals1 and PATJ, the mammalian homologues of Stardust and Discs lost, respectively. Here, we observe that overexpression of CRB3 leads to delayed TJ formation in MDCK epithelial cell monolayers and disruption of polarity in MDCK cysts cultured in collagen. Both phenomena require the last four residues of CRB3. Next, we expressed, in MDCK cells, a dominant-negative Myc-Lin-2-Pals1 chimeric protein, where the PDZ domain of Lin-2 was replaced with that of Pals1. TJ and apical polarity defects were also observed in these cells. Collectively, this suggests that the CRB-Pals1 interaction is important for formation of TJs and polarized epithelia. These results provide insight into the function of the mammalian Crumbs complex during TJ formation and epithelial polarization.
Apoptosis in skeletal muscle with aging

Sarcopenia may be partly due to a loss in total fiber number by apoptosis. We have investigated age-related alterations in the mitochondria-mediated pathway leading to apoptosis in the gastrocnemius muscle from 6-mo-old and 24-mo-old male Fisher 344 rats. Apoptosis (mono- and oligonucleosome fragmentation) in the gastrocnemius muscle was increased by 50% in the old rats compared with the adult animals. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between cytosolic cytochrome c and caspase-3 activity, although neither cytochrome c nor caspase-3 activity increased significantly with age. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between caspase-3 activity and mono- and oligonucleosome fragmentation in the old rats only. Mitochondrial Bcl-2 and Bax were not altered with age. In vitro experiments demonstrated that activation of the caspase cascade in skeletal muscle might be limited by procaspase-9 activation. This is the first study to explore the role of apoptosis in sarcopenia and suggests that subtle changes in apoptosis are involved.
Tazarotene gel: Efficacy and safety in plaque psoriasis

Tazarotene is the first of a new generation of acetylenic retinoids developed for the topical treatment of mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis. Controlled clinical trials have demonstrated that once-daily tazarotene 0.05% and 0.1% gels are effective in improving and reducing clinical signs and symptoms of psoriasis on trunk and limb lesions and difficult-to-treat elbow and knee plaques. Tazarotene has a rapid onset of action indicated by significant improvements as early as the first week of treatment. Sustained beneficial effects have been observed in some patients for up to 12 weeks after the cessation of therapy. Compared with twice-daily fluocinonide 0.05% cream, once-daily tazarotene 0.05%, and 0.1% gels were similarly effective in reducing plaque elevation. Once-daily tazarotene 0.05% and 0.1% gels demonstrated a more prolonged therapeutic effect after discontinuation than twice-daily fluocinonide cream. Tazarotene is generally well tolerated, with adverse events limited to local irritation. Tazarotene appears to be an effective addition to the currently available treatments for plaque psoriasis.
Tobacco control funding for low-income and middle-income countries in a time of economic hardship

Objective To assess how levels of tobacco control funding for low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC) changed following the 2008–2009 global economic downturn. Methods In order to estimate the amount of tobacco control funding in LMICs, we created an integrated database of Development Assistance to Control Tobacco (DACT). This database includes data on funding from bilateral and multilateral donors, non-governmental organisations, private foundations and the corporate sector. The database contains information on 1389 disbursements awarded by 30 entities between 2000 and 2012. Results DACT declined only marginally from US$68.8 million (US$0.016 per adult) in 2009 to US$68.2 million (US$0.016 per adult) in 2011, but deviated significantly from its 2000 to 2009 trend. The sources of funding remain highly concentrated, with nearly a half of the money coming from the Bloomberg Initiative and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2011. The relative importance of institutional and research grants has declined. Conclusions Our findings are consistent with the patterns in general levels of development assistance for health: after a decade of rapid growth, funding for tobacco control activities in LMICs has levelled off. Just as the tobacco control community is beginning to envision the endgame for tobacco, the funding remains erratic, inadequate, and highly vulnerable due to its level of concentration. Innovative financing mechanisms might help to increase the funding pool.
Extending the 2% rule: the effects of heavy internal tags on stress physiology, swimming performance, and growth in brook trout

The use of internal telemetry has greatly advanced fisheries research in the past two decades, permitting researchers to observe movements and distributions of organisms in their natural environment. For many years, the prevailing opinion has been that internal tags should not weigh more than 2% of the dry body weight of a fish. Some studies indicate that tags weighing up to 12% dry body weight do not have a negative effect on swimming performance, but few authors have examined impacts to fish physiology and health. This study investigated how tags greater than 2% body mass affected the mortality, tag retention, swimming performance, and physiological indicators of stress in brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis Mitchill). No mortality was observed between treatment groups, but tag retention was lowest in the heavy tag treatment group in which 80% (12 fish) lost tags. Swimming performance and physiological indices of stress were not significantly impacted by tag mass. Fish tagged with heavy tags showed slower growth in the 3 weeks after tagging, but growth rates appeared to recover by the end of the study, although this result may be confounded by tag loss. The results of this study suggest that for brook trout, the 2% rule is a highly conservative guideline that can be substantially extended but should not exceed 7% body weight due to concerns about tag retention.
Thermally robust clocking schemes for 3D integrated circuits

3D integration of multiple active layers into a single chip is a viable technique that greatly reduces the length of global wires by providing vertical connections between layers. However, dissipating the heat generated in the 3D chips possesses a major challenge to the success of the technology and is the subject of active current research. Since the generated heat degrades the performance of the chip, thermally insensitive/adaptive circuit design techniques are required for better overall system performance. In this paper, we propose a thermally adaptive 3D clocking scheme that dynamically adjusts the driving strengths of the clock buffers to reduce the clock skew between terminals. We investigate the relative merits and demerits of two alternative clock tree topologies in this work. Simulation results demonstrate that our adaptive technique is capable of reducing the skew by 61.65% on the average, leading to much improved clock synchronization and design performance in the 3D realm.
Native Species Establishment in Tallgrass Prairie Plantings

Abstract Prairie restorations are increasingly common throughout the central United States. However, we continue to have little information about which planted species become successfully established, or about the factors potentially limiting establishment. We used a combination of site surveys, field tests and germination testing to examine these issues. We surveyed thirty 4 to 6 y old Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) plantings to quantify the likelihood that planted native species can be found 4–6 y after planting. We then selected a subset of species that had been planted in the CRP sites for use in germination tests and field tests quantifying emergence and seedling survival. We found that nearly one third of the species planted in CRP sites failed to become established and that grasses were more likely to be successful than legumes or nonleguminous forbs. We also found that species with low establishment in the CRP sites often had low emergence rates in the field experiment and low germination rate...
Women of color in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)

Treating women as a homogeneous group obscures important racial and ethnic differences among women in STEM. This chapter focuses on the experiences of women of color in science and engineering and highlights the importance of addressing intersecting identities among women.
Re-coloring images for gamuts of lower dimension

Two new techniques for the conversion of color images to gray scale images are discussed. The necessary components for producing visually pleasing gray scale images are identified, and the inadequacies of previous methods are discussed. Several examples of the new techniques are included. The techniques are extended to the problem of recoloring images to preserve visual information for color deficient viewers. Results of a perceptual experiment are discussed, showing the advantages of the new techniques over existing techniques.
Posttraumatic stress disorder and new-onset diabetes among adult survivors of the World Trade Center disaster.

Abstract Objective To explore the temporal relationship between 9/11-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and new-onset diabetes in World Trade Center (WTC) survivors up to 11 years after the attack in 2001. Methods Three waves of surveys (conducted from 2003 to 2012) from the WTC Health Registry cohort collected data on physical and mental health status, sociodemographic characteristics, and 9/11-related exposures. Diabetes was defined as self-reported, physician-diagnosed diabetes reported after enrollment. After excluding prevalent cases, there were 36,899 eligible adult enrollees. Logistic regression and generalized multilevel growth models were used to assess the association between PTSD measured at enrollment and subsequent diabetes. Results We identified 2143 cases of diabetes. After adjustment, we observed a significant association between PTSD and diabetes in the logistic model [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14–1.44]. Results from the growth model were similar (AOR 1.37, 95% CI 1.23–1.52). Conclusion This exploratory study found that PTSD, a common 9/11-related health outcome, was a risk factor for self-reported diabetes. Clinicians treating survivors of both the WTC attacks and other disasters should be aware that diabetes may be a long-term consequence.
Quantitative Analysis of Voice in Parkinson Disease Compared to Motor Performance: A Pilot Study.

Background Characteristic features of hypokinetic dysarthria develop in Parkinson disease (PD). We hypothesized that quantified acoustic changes of voice might provide a correlate of disease severity. Objective To determine if there are significant differences in acoustic measures of voice between mild and moderate PD; 2) To evaluate correlations between acoustic parameters of voice and subtests of the UPDRS in mild and moderate PD. Methods Twenty six participants with PD underwent vocal acoustic testing while off PD medication, for comparison to 22 healthy controls. Participants with PD were divided into two groups based upon UPDRS activities of daily living (ADL) ratings: summed scores were used to define mild and moderate PD. Participants voiced /i/ ("ee") at comfort, high, and low pitch (3 trials/pitch). The CSpeech Waveform Analysis Program was used to analyze cycle-to-cycle frequency ("jitter") and amplitude ("shimmer") irregularities of the vocal signal, signal-to-noise ratio, and maximum phonation frequency range converted to semitones. Sections of UPDRS scores were correlated to acoustic variables of voice. Results Key findings included a significant difference between the semitone range of the control subjects and the moderate PD group (p = 0.036). Further analyses revealed significant differences in semitone range for males between the controls vs. mild PD (p = 0.014), and controls vs. moderate PD (p = 0.005). Significant correlations were also found between acoustic findings and both the ADL and motor portions of the UPDRS. Conclusions Acoustic analysis of voice, particularly frequency range, may provide a quantifiable correlate of disease progression in PD.
Development and validation of the effectiveness of the auditory rehabilitation scale

Objective To develop a new scale of hearing-related function and quality of life in patients with hearing aids that addresses overlooked concerns, such as hearing-aid comfort, convenience, and cosmetic appearance, that may influence hearing-aid adherence while maintaining brevity and sensitivity to clinical change. Design Prospective, multicenter instrument validation. Setting Four diverse sites in Washington State, including 2 private practices, 1 university setting, and 1 Veterans Affairs hospital. Patients Seventy-eight patients with hearing aids. Interventions We created 2 modules in the Effectiveness of Auditory Rehabilitation (EAR) scale. The first module (Inner EAR) covers intrinsic hearing issues such as hearing in quiet and hearing in noise and is administered both before and after treatment. The second module (Outer EAR) covers extrinsic (hearing-aid related) issues such as comfort, appearance, and convenience and is administered after hearing-aid fitting. Main Outcome Measures Both scales were developed and validated in 3 stages. Stage 1 used a qualitative approach from multiple data sources to develop preliminary instruments. Stage 2 used approaches from classic test theory to reduce the number of items and psychometrically validate the instruments. Stage 3 examined the responsiveness or sensitivity to clinical change. Results A 10-item Inner EAR module and a 10-item Outer EAR module were created and validated. Internal consistency of individual domains (Cronbach α = 0.85 and 0.72, respectively) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.76 and 0.81, respectively) were excellent. Evidence of construct validity included concurrent validity with other hearing scales and global visual analog scales, discriminant validity with dizziness handicap, correlation with hearing-aid adherence, and confirmatory factor analyses. Both scales had strong evidence of responsiveness (sensitivity to change), with higher effect sizes and Guyatt responsiveness statistics than the 2 widely used hearing scales in this study. The scales took an average of 5 minutes to complete. Conclusions The EAR scale is a valid and reliable measure of the effectiveness of amplification in the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss. It addresses the range of issues that are of importance to hearing-aid patients. The scales have excellent psychometric properties, are more responsive than several widely used hearing scales, and are minimally burdensome for patients to complete. The EAR may be a valuable outcome measure in future studies of both existing hearing aids and newer hearing-aid technologies, such as bone-anchored aids or middle ear implants.
Pharmacogenomics: Biomarker-Directed Therapy for Bladder Cancer

The clinical management of bladder cancer has seen little change over the last three decades and there is pressing need to identify more effective treatments for advanced disease. Low clinical use of neoadjuvant therapies stems from historical limitations in the ability to predict patients most likely to respond to combination chemotherapies. This article focuses on recent molecular and genetic studies, highlighting promising clinical trials and retrospective studies, and discusses emerging trials that use predictive biomarkers to match patients with therapies to which they are most likely to respond. The implementation of predictive genomic and molecular biomarkers will revolutionize urologic oncology and the clinical management of bladder cancer.
Effect of Bone Mineral Density on Rotator Cuff Tear: An Osteoporotic Rabbit Model

Introduction An increased bone mineral density (BMD) in the proximity to tendon insertion can improve rotator cuff repair and healing. However, how a decrease of BMD in the humeral head affects the biomechanical properties of the rotator cuff tendon is still unclear. Previous studies have demonstrated ovariectomy in animals to lead to osteoporosis and decreased BMD, and Teriparatide (PTH) administration to improve BMD and strength of bone. This study aimed to explore the correlation between humeral head BMD and infraspinatus (ISP) tendon insertion strength, and if an increase in bone quantity of the humeral head can improve the strength of the rotator cuff.
Commentary: substance abuse and criminality in the mentally disordered defendant.

This commentary discusses the main findings of the research study by Friedman et al. entitled, “Gender Differences in Criminality: Bipolar Disorder with Co-occurring Substance Abuse.” Moreover, it shows that the role of substance use should be determined in studies that assess outcomes among co-occurring disorders, such as bipolar disorder and criminal behavior. High rates of substance-related problems were recorded in the study by Friedman et al. Fifty-six percent of the patients with dual-diagnosis, rapid-cycling bipolar disorder had been charged with drug- or alcohol-related offenses. Significantly more men (69%) had incurred substance-related charges than had women (38%). Women who abused cocaine were more likely to be charged with a crime than were those who had not. Sixty-five percent of the women in the study who abused cocaine had been previously charged with a crime, compared with 38 percent of the women who did not; but this finding did not hold true for the men. The number of crimes committed by the men who abused cocaine and by those who did not was about the same. This article also provides an overview of the role of substance use in criminal behavior and how substances of abuse can affect bipolar disorder and criminal outcomes.
Using Structural Equations to Model Akers’ Social Learning Theory With Data on Intimate Partner Violence:

Akers’ social learning theory (SLT) is one of the predominate theories of criminal behavior; moreover, its empirical validity has been consistently supported by the extant research literature. However, a number of limitations plague this literature: Rarely is the full social learning model tested such that all four social learning constructs are operationalized and, where complete tests are found, they have either focused near exclusively on substance use/abuse or have examined only the direct, independent effects of its key theoretical constructs. The present study employs structural equations to test a more complete SLT model against self-reported data on intimate partner violence. Doing so permits an examination of both the direct and indirect effects of differential association, imitation, definitions, and differential reinforcement as well as the reciprocal/feedback effects of intimate partner violence back onto these social learning constructs as explicated by Akers.
A Predictive Model for the Effect of Temperature and Predrying Treatments in Reducing Listeria monocytogenes Populations during Drying of Beef Jerky

The objective of this study was to model the effect of drying temperatures (52, 57, and 63°C) and predrying treatments on the inactivation of Listeria monocytogenes on beef jerky. Before drying, beef slices were inoculated with a 10-strain composite of L. monocytogenes and then treated with the following: (i) nothing (C), (ii) traditional marinade (M), or (iii) dipping in 5% acetic acid solution for 10 min, followed by M (AM). In addition, sequential stresses (exposure to 10% NaCl, followed by an adjustment of the pH to 5.0 and, subsequently, a water bath at 45°C) were applied to the inocula before beef contamination and drying at 63°C. Surviving L. monocytogenes were determined on tryptic soy agar plus 0.6% yeast extract (TSAYE) and on PALCAM agar at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 h during drying. Data were modeled by a linear regression (treatment AM) and a logistic-based equation capable of fitting biphasic inactivation curves without initial shoulder (treatments C and M). The total log reductions expressed as ...
Heterogeneity analysis of breast cancer families by using age at onset as a covariate.

Abstract An extension of the usual mixture model of heterogeneity (two family types, one with and one without linkage) is proposed by introducing age at onset as a covariate. The extended model defines age-dependent penetrances where the exact parametrization of age-at-onset distributions depends on the given genotype and family type (linked or unlinked). This extension was applied to breast cancer families. We postulated that the mean age at onset in individuals affected by the linked gene was lower than the mean age at onset in all other affected individuals. Linkage heterogeneity for breast cancer families was detected at a significance level of .003.
A wearable optical device for continuous monitoring during neoadjuvant chemotherapy infusions

We present a new continuous-wave (CW) wearable diffuse optical device aimed at investigating the hemodynamic response of locally advanced breast cancer patients during a patient’s first neoadjuvant chemotherapy infusion. The system consists of a flexible substrate that supports an array of surface-mount LED and photodiode pairs (i.e. optodes). Probe performance was evaluated using solid tissue-simulating phantoms. Measurements revealed high SNR (65dB), low source-detector crosstalk (-59 dB), high measurement precision (0.17%), and good thermal stability (0.2% V rms /°C). A cuff occlusion experiment was performed on the forearm of a healthy volunteer to demonstrate the ability to track rapid hemodynamic changes.
Chlorpyrifos Resistance in Greenbugs (Homoptera: Aphididae): Cross-Resistance and Synergism

Greenbugs, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani), with the pattem-2 resistance factor (enhanced metabolic degradation) were resistant to the three insecticides (carbofuran, chlorpyrifos, and malathion) evaluated in our research. Chlorpyrifos was mixed with selected insecticides and synergists in the laboratory to evaluate the potential of these mixtures for overcoming resistance. The most effective mixture when the chemicals were applied simultaneously in vials was chlorpyrifos + carbofuran, which provided a 14-fold increase in toxicity compared with the chemicals applied individually. Malathion and the synergists piperonyl butoxide and DEF did not increase greenbug mortality when applied Simultaneously with chlorpyrifos in vials. However, when aphids were exposed to the three chemicals 1 h before they were placed in vials treated with chlorpyrifos, mortality increased 20.8-, 10.8-, and 4.5-fold for malathion, piperonyl butoxide, and DEF, respectively. These results suggest that resistance to chlorpyrifos might be overcome if the chemical were combined with carbofuran or if the greenbugs were preexposed to insecticide synergists before application of chlorpyrifos.
Electric analysis of a conducting hemisphere

Using Legendre polynomials, the boundary value problem of a charged, conducting hemisphere in an infinite space was reduced to the solution of an infinite system of linear, algebraic equations. Analytical solutions of electric charge and electric stress on the surface of the hemisphere were obtained. The numerical analysis revealed non-uniform distributions of the electric charge and electric stress over the surface of the hemisphere with local singularities at the edge of the hemisphere. Both the electric charge and electric stress distributions were expressed in terms of the power function with respect to the distance to the nearest hemisphere edge. The power index for the flat surface is larger than that corresponding to the spherical surface. Numerical result of the capacitance of the conducting hemisphere is the same as the result reported in the literature. There is no net force acting on the hemisphere.
The Uses of Sediment Transport and Morphodynamic Modeling in Stream Restoration

number) Many streams have become morphologically and ecologically compromised because their sediment budget is out of balance. Examples include a) stream reaches upstream and downstream of dams, b) streams subject to gravel/sand mining, c) streams subject to urban encroachment, d) streams the drainage basins of which have been made largely impermeable and e) streams subject to sediment disposal, toxic or otherwise. Restoration of such streams can be greatly aided by considerations of sediment balance. Depending on the type of project under consideration, the calculations involved can be as simple as those implemented with a spreadsheet or sufficiently complex to require a custom-made numerical model. An example is given in the presentation.
Perpetuating the Myth of the Culture War Court? Issue Attention in Newspaper Coverage of U.S. Supreme Court Nominations

Using digital text analysis methods, we analyze over 3800 newspaper articles covering U.S. Supreme Court judicial appointments between 1981 and 2009 to measure the level of (in)congruence between t...
Current Fiscal Year (2012 – 2013) Status of the Hybrid and Electric Systems R&D at the U.S. – DOE

This paper provides the latest information and progress overview (for the Fiscal Years 2012–2013) of the hybrid and electric systems (HES) R&D projects funded by the Vehicles Technologies Office (VTO) of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). HES include battery R&D, electric drive components, and vehicle & systems simulation & testing. Currently there is significant U.S. commitment to HES R&D ($156M in Fiscal Year 2013). Several technologies developed partially under VTO-sponsored projects have moved into commercial applications. DOE has supported the development of advanced HES technologies over the long term, leveraging resources and expertise from automobile manufacturers, battery, motor, and electronics developers, small businesses, national laboratories, and universities to address the market technical barriers for those technologies. The HES R&D Team has had many significant accomplishments and continues to advance the state of the art for many technologies. The paper summarizes the most recent highlights for the three HES R&D areas and U.S. industry highlights for the battery industry, in particular.
“MAKING REASON THINK MORE”: laughter in kant’s aesthetic philosophy

This article explores the surprisingly decisive role that Kant’s “incongruity theory” of laughter plays in his aesthetic and broader critical philosophy. First, laughter constitutes a highly specif...
KEAP1 Editing Using CRISPR/Cas9 for Therapeutic NRF2 Activation in Primary Human T Lymphocytes

Oxidant stress modifies T lymphocyte activation and function. Previous work demonstrated that murine T cell-specific kelch like-ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) deletion enhances antioxidant capacity and protects from experimental acute kidney injury. In this study, we used CRISPR technology to develop clinically translatable human T cell-specific KEAP1 deletion. Delivery of KEAP1 exon 2 specific Cas9:guide RNA in Jurkat T cells led to significant (∼70%) editing and upregulation of NRF2-regulated antioxidant genes NADPH dehydrogenase quinone 1 (NQO1) (up to 11-fold), heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) (up to 11-fold), and GCLM (up to 2-fold). In primary human T cells, delivery of KEAP1 exon 2 target site 2-specific ATTO 550-labeled Cas9:guide RNA edited KEAP1 in ∼40% cells and significantly (p ≤ 0.04) increased NQO1 (16-fold), HO1 (9-fold), and GCLM (2-fold) expression. To further enrich KEAP1-edited cells, ATTO 550-positive cells were sorted 24 h after electroporation. Assessment of ATTO 550-positive cells showed KEAP1 editing in ∼55% cells. There was no detectable off-target cleavage in the top three predicted genes in the ATTO 550-positive cells. Gene expression analysis found significantly (p ≤ 0.01) higher expression of NQO1 mRNA in ATTO 550-positive cells compared with control cells. Flow cytometric assessment showed increased (p ≤ 0.01) frequency of CD4-, CD25-, and CD69-expressing KEAP1 edited cells whereas frequency of CD8- (p ≤ 0.01) and IL-17- (p ≤ 0.05) expressing cells was reduced compared with control cells. Similar experimental conditions resulted in significant KEAP1 editing, increased antioxidant gene expression, and frequency of CD69 and IL-10 positive cells in highly enriched KEAP1-edited regulatory T cells. KEAP1-edited T cells could potentially be used for treating multiple human diseases.
Porous textile antenna designs for improved wearability

Textile antennas are an integral part of the next generation personalized wearable electronics system. However, the durability of textile antennas are rarely discussed in the literature. Typical textile antennas are prone to damage during normal wearable user scenarios, washing, and heat cycling over time. Fabricating a durable, washable, flexible, and breathable (like textile materials) antenna is challenging due to the incompatibility of the mechanical properties of conductive materials and soft textile materials. This paper describes a scalable screen printing process on an engineered nonwoven substrate to fabricate microstrip patch antennas with enhanced durability. This work used an Evolon® nonwoven substrate with low surface roughness (~Ra = 18 μm) and high surface area (~2.05 mm2 mm−2 of fabric area) compared to traditional textile materials, which allows the ink to penetrate evenly in the fiber bulk with its strong capillary wicking force and enhances print resolution. The composite layer of ink and fiber is conductive and enables the antennas to maintain high mechanical flexibility without varying its RF (Radio Frequency) properties. Additionally, the antennas are packaged by laminating porous polyurethane web to make the device durable and washable. The fully packaged antennas maintain the structural flexibility and RF functionality after 15 cycles of washing and drying. To improve the air permeability and enhance flexibility the antenna is also modified by incorporating holes in the both patch and ground layer of the antenna. The antennas were analyzed before and after submerging in water to observe the effect of wetting and drying with respect to frequency response. The porous antenna with holes recovered 3x times faster than the one without holes (solid) from fully wet state (saturated with water) to the dry state, demonstrating its potential use as a moisture sensor system.
Studies on the Mechanism of Action of Choline Acetyltransferase

Choline acetyltransferase (CAT) is the enzyme responsible for the formation of the essential neurotransmitter ACh by catalyzing the alcoholysis of acetyl CoA (AcCoA). This reaction is favored only slightly thermodynamically under physiological conditions (19), probably because ACh itself is a high-energy compound (12). It is likely that this is the case because the coulombic interaction between the trimethylammonium group and the acyloxy oxygen of this ester (16) favors nucleophilic attack on the carbonyl carbon.
The Impact of Hospital Neoadjuvant Therapy Utilization on Survival Outcomes for Pancreatic Cancer

Many surgeons advocate the use of neoadjuvant treatment for resectable pancreatic cancer, however little is known about variation in the utilization of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) at the hospital level. The National Cancer Data Base was used to identify patients undergoing resection for pancreatic cancer between 2006 and 2014 at high-volume centers. Hospitals were grouped by NAT utilization using standard deviations (SD) from the mean as follows: high neoadjuvant utilizers (> 2 SDs above the mean, > 40% of patients receiving NAT); medium–high (1–2 SDs, 27–40%), medium (0–1 SD, 14–26%); or low (− 1.1 to 0 SDs, 40% of patients. These five hospitals had the longest median OS at 28.9 months, compared with 21.1 months for low neoadjuvant utilizers (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, high and medium–high NAT utilization predicted improved OS, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.68 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56–0.83, p < 0.001) and 0.80 (95% CI 0.68–0.95, p = 0.010), respectively, compared with low utilizers. After excluding patients who underwent NAT, there remained an association of improved OS with high NAT utilization (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.60–0.93, p = 0.009). High-volume hospitals that more commonly utilize NAT demonstrated longer survival for all patients treated at those centers. In addition to altering patient selection for surgery, high neoadjuvant utilization may be a marker of institutional factors that contribute to improved outcomes.
Molecular Mechanisms of Protein Secretion: The Role of the Signal Sequence

Publisher Summary All cells make proteins that are destined for non-cytoplasmic locations, such as the extracellular fluid, the lumina of organelles, or the cell membranes. These proteins are almost invariably synthesized in the cytoplasm. Thus, such a protein must cross or enter one or more membranes in order to reach its destination. Furthermore, this process is specific in a manner that a particular protein travels only to its proper location, and only proteins destined for a particular location are transported there. The molecular mechanism of these processes has been the subject of intense investigation in the last decade. Most knowledge concerning the secretory process has come from genetic and biochemical studies. More recently, however, biophysical techniques have been used to investigate properties of the secretory apparatus and the signal sequence. The aim of this chapter is to describe the requirement for protein secretion and also to evaluate hypotheses of the ways in which secretion occurs. Particular emphasis is given to the role of the signal sequence.
Anoxia Tolerance to Oxygen Necessity: Paradigm Shift in the Physiology of Survival of Apneic Deep Hypothermia in Neonatal Rodents

Neonatal small rodents stop breathing at body temperatures of 0–6oC, yet they often tolerate such hypothermia for several hours and recover spontaneously when rewarmed. The prevailing paradigm of deep-hypothermia tolerance for half a century has been that the heart stops beating; oxygen uptake and delivery from the environment stop; tissues are tolerant of anoxia; and this anoxia tolerance is a key to survival. I here report that the heart does not stop beating in neonates that survive hours of hypothermia, even in species earlier reported to undergo cardiac arrest. Furthermore, as was reported in 1955 but ignored, neonates consume oxygen steadily at low rates while apneic, and this oxygen consumption is essential for survival. Thus, the old paradigm must be succeeded by a new one: Although tissues may become hypoxic and benefit from hypoxia tolerance during apneic deep hypothermia, oxygen is taken up steadily across the lungs; the circulatory system likely transports oxygen; and certain vital tissues require oxygen influx if a neonate is to survive.
Vitamin E: Regulatory Role on Signal Transduction

Vitamin E modulates signal transduction pathways by several molecular mechanisms. As a hydrophobic molecule located mainly in membranes it contributes together with other lipids to the physical and structural characteristics such as membrane stability, curvature, fluidity, and the organization into microdomains (lipid rafts). By acting as the main lipid-soluble antioxidant, it protects other lipids such as mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA and PUFA, respectively) against chemical reactions with reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS, respectively) and prevents membrane destabilization and cellular dysfunction. In cells, vitamin E affects signaling in redox-dependent and redox-independent molecular mechanisms by influencing the activity of enzymes and receptors involved in modulating specific signal transduction and gene expression pathways. By protecting and preventing depletion of MUFA and PUFA it indirectly enables regulatory effects that are mediated by the numerous lipid mediators derived from these lipids. In recent years, some vitamin E metabolites have been observed to affect signal transduction and gene expression and their relevance for the regulatory function of vitamin E is beginning to be elucidated. In particular, the modulation of the CD36/FAT scavenger receptor/fatty acids transporter by vitamin E may influence many cellular signaling pathways relevant for lipid homeostasis, inflammation, survival/apoptosis, angiogenesis, tumorigenesis, neurodegeneration, and senescence. Thus, vitamin E has an important role in modulating signal transduction and gene expression pathways relevant for its uptake, distribution, metabolism, and molecular action that when impaired affect physiological and patho-physiological cellular functions relevant for the prevention of a number of diseases. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 71(4):456-478, 2019.
The evolution of parasite host range in genetically diverse host populations

Parasites vary enormously in their host range. Why are some parasites specialists and others generalists? We tested the hypothesis that genetically diverse host populations select for parasites with broader host ranges than genetically homogeneous host populations. To do so, we selected for increased killing ability of the bacterial parasite Serratia marcescens in populations of the host Caenorhabditis elegans that were either diverse (50% mix of genotypes N2 and LTM1) or homogenous (100% N2 or LTM1). We found mixed support for the hypothesis. After 20 generations of selection, parasites selected in diverse host populations maintained a broad host range, as shown by the retention of high killing ability of a novel host genotype. Parasites selected in diverse populations killed N2 hosts equally well as parasites selected in homogenous populations of N2. However, N2-selected parasites lost killing ability against the novel host, consistent with the evolution of narrow host ranges in homogenous environments. In contrast, parasites selected in homogenous LTM1 populations did not specialize: they did not increase in their killing ability on LTM1 and did not lose killing ability against the novel host. Our results argue that the evolution of host range depends upon both the identity and diversity of hosts that a parasite encounters.
Early life disadvantage, phenotypic programming, and health disparities.

Much research finds that early life socioeconomic disadvantage predicts poorer health later in life, even among those whose conditions improve in adulthood. Although there are numerous factors that contribute to this association, recent research suggests that growing up in adverse socioecological environments may promote developmental patterns that facilitate pre-reproductive survival in harsh environments, but can also come at the cost of reduced longevity. Here, we review recent research demonstrating that early life exposure to low socioeconomic status can become embedded in the mechanisms that regulate (a) bodily inflammatory activity and (b) energy regulation in ways that contribute to poor health. This research offers new insights into ways that early life environments can get under one’s skin to impact health and longevity.
Development of a Ductal Aneurysm in a Patient with Williams Syndrome, and Subsequent Interventional Closure

Whilst stenosis of systemic and pulmonary arteries in Williams syndrome is frequently described, aneurysm formation is uncommon. We provide the first description of a Williams patient with development of an aneurysm of the arterial duct. This aneurysm developed concomitantly with supravalvar aortic, and peripheral pulmonary stenosis. The duct was closed interventionally to reduce the risk of rupture.
Exercise Echocardiography Predicts Future Development of Pulmonary Hypertension in a High-risk Cohort of Patients with Systemic Sclerosis

Objective To evaluate whether a positive exercise echocardiogram (EE) predicts future development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in a high-risk cohort of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods Patients with SSc with features associated with an increased risk for PAH were recruited into a prospective, observational cohort. All patients underwent clinical assessment and EE. A positive EE was defined as an increase of ≥ 20 mmHg in the right ventricular systolic pressure with exercise. All patients with positive EE underwent right heart catheterization (RHC). Results The study included 85 patients. In the positive EE cohort, 10 of 43 patients (23%) developed resting pulmonary hypertension (PH) on RHC over a mean 4-year followup period [4 with PAH, 5 with pulmonary venous hypertension (PVH), and 1 with PH associated with interstitial lung disease]. In the persistently negative EE cohort, only 3 of 42 patients (7%) developed resting PH (1 PAH, 2 PVH; p = 0.04). Of the remaining 33 patients in the positive EE group who did not develop resting PH, 22 (67%) had a persistently positive EE over an average 5-year followup period. Conclusion In this high-risk cohort of patients with SSc, a positive EE may predict the future development of resting PH. In addition, a majority of patients may have a persistently positive EE for years without progression to resting PH. Finally, a consistently negative EE may identify patients at low risk for future PH.
The Calculation of the Glucose Management Indicator Is Influenced by the Continuous Glucose Monitoring System and Patient Race

Objective: To determine whether the glucose management indicator (GMI), an estimate of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) derived from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) mean glycemia, differs by CGM system a...
Computed Tomography as a Predictor of Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma Origin, Skull Base Involvement, and Stage.

Objective To investigate the diagnostic performance of computed tomography (CT) to determine the origin, skull base involvement, and stage of sinonasal inverted papilloma (IP). Design This is a retrospective cohort study. Setting This is set at a tertiary care medical center. Participants Patients with preoperative CT imaging who underwent extirpative surgery for histologically confirmed sinonasal IP between January 2005 and October 2019. Main Outcome Measures The likely sites of tumor origin, skull base involvement, and radiographic tumor stage were determined by two board-certified neuroradiologists after re-reviewing preoperative CT imaging. These radiologic findings were then compared with intraoperative and pathologic findings. Results Of 86 patients, 74% (64/86) had IP lesions with correctly classified sites of origin on CT. CT was not sensitive for diagnosing ethmoid sinus origin (48%, 52%), frontal sinus origin (80%, 40%), and skull base origin (17%, 17%). CT was not sensitive (62%, 57%) but specific (86%, 98%) for identifying any skull base involvement. There was substantial-to-near perfect agreement between radiographic and pathologic Cannady stages (weighted κ = 0.61 for rater 1; weighted κ = 0.81 for rater 2). Interrater agreement was substantial for identifying tumor origin (κ = 0.75) and stage (weighted κ = 0.62) and moderate for identifying skull base involvement (κ = 0.43). Conclusion Interrater agreement on CT findings was substantial except on skull base involvement. CT correctly predicted site of tumor origin in up to 74% of subjects. CT was not sensitive for diagnosing skull base involvement but had substantial-to-near perfect agreement with pathologic tumor staging. CT is a useful but albeit limited adjunct for tumor localization and surgical planning for sinonasal IP.
Increasing NIH funding for academic departments of obstetrics and gynecology: a call to action

The National Institutes of Health funding for reproductive sciences research, specifically in academic departments of obstetrics and gynecology, is disproportionately low. Research is one of the most important pillars in advancing healthcare. Despite US Congress' vision in providing increased funding to the National Institutes of Health as a whole, underfunding for research in the departments of obstetrics and gynecology remains one of the several critical drivers in the decline in reproductive health and healthcare for women in the United States.