cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of induction motor faults-combining signal-based and model-based techniques

Effective detection and diagnosis of incipient faults is desirable for on-line condition assessment, product quality assurance and improved operational efficiency of induction motors running off the power supply mains. In this paper, an empirical model-based fault diagnosis system is developed for induction motors using recurrent dynamic neural networks and multiresolution signal processing methods. In addition to nameplate information required for the initial set-up, the proposed diagnosis system uses measured motor terminal currents and voltages, and motor speed. The effectiveness of the diagnosis system is demonstrated through motor faults of electrical and mechanical origin staged in small and large motors.
Using Low-Power Modes for Energy Conservation in Ethernet LANs

Most Ethernet interfaces available for deployment in switches and hosts today can operate in a variety of different low power modes. However, currently these modes have very limited usage models. They do not take advantage of periods of inactivity, when the links remain idle or under-utilized. In this study, we propose methods that allow for detection of such periods to obtain energy savings with little impact on loss or delay. We evaluate our methods on a wide range of real-time traffic traces collected at a high-speed backbone switch within our campus LAN. Our results show that Ethernet interfaces at both ends can be put in extremely low power modes anywhere from 40%-98% of the time observed. In addition, we found that approximately 37% of interfaces studied (on the same switch) can be put in low power modes simultaneously which opens the potential for further energy savings in the switching fabric within the switch.
Decadal atmosphere-ocean variations in the Pacific

Considerable evidence has emerged of a sub- stantial decade-long change in the north Pacific atmo- sphere and ocean lasting from about 1976 to 1988. Ob- served significant changes in the atmospheric circula- tion throughout the troposphere revealed a deeper and eastward shifted Aleutian low pressure system in the winter half year which advected warmer and moister air along the west coast of North America and into Alaska and colder air over the north Pacific. Conse- quently, there were increases in temperatures and sea surface temperatures (SSTs) along the west coast of North America and Alaska but decreases in SSTs over the central north Pacific, as well as changes in coastal rainfall and streamflow, and decreases in sea ice in the Bering Sea. Associated changes occurred in the surface wind stress, and, by inference, in the Sverdrup trans- port in the north Pacific Ocean. Changes in the month- ly mean flow were accompanied by a southward shift in the storm tracks and associated synoptic eddy activi- ty and in the surface ocean sensible and latent heat fluxes. In addition to the changes in the physical envi- ronment, the deeper Aleutian low increased the nu- trient supply as seen through increases in total chloro- phyll in the water column, phytoplankton and zoo- plankton. These changes, along with the altered ocean currents and temperatures, changed the migration pat- terns and increased the stock of many fish species. A north Pacific (NP) index is defined to measure the de- cadal variations, and the temporal variability of the in- dex is explored on daily, annual, interannual and de- cadal time scales. The dominant atmosphere-ocean re- lation in the north Pacific is one where atmospheric changes lead SSTs by one to two months. However, strong ties are revealed with events in the tropical Pa- cific, with changes in tropical Pacific SSTs leading SSTs in the north Pacific by three months. Changes in the storm tracks in the north Pacific help to reinforce and maintain the anomalous circulation in the upper tro-
Clinically useful cardioprotection: ischemic preconditioning then and now.

Ischemic preconditioning (IP) is the most effective, reproducible form of protection against myocardial cell death yet described. The mechanism of classic IP has not been identified, but recent investigations have focused on the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Similarly, the mechanism of the “second window of protection” (SWOP) is not known but thought to involve increased expression of important gene products. Currently, IP in the clinical arena is limited to cardiac surgery, planned angioplasty, and organ preservation protocols. To move preconditioning into a broader clinical arena will require resolution of important fundamental yet stubborn problems involving both basic and clinical science. Important unresolved issues include the mechanisms involved in the transition from reversible to irreversible injury, the amount of potential salvageable myocardium present at the onset of reperfusion, the identity and signaling of the mPTP, the optimization of protocols, the identity of end eff...
Tunable and flexible Barium Strontium Titanate (BST) varactors on Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) substrates

Tunable inter-digital capacitors (IDCs) are presented on flexible Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) substrates for the first time. Barium Strontium Titanate (BST) ferroelectric material is used as the tuning mechanism. A unique transfer process has been implemented to realize the BST thin film on the LCP substrate. In addition, due to the monolithic integration process, there is no wire bonding or packaging. This has allowed for successful demonstration of tunable and flexible IDCs up to 50 GHz. Tunability of 22–28% and Q factors of 80–7 have been measured in the frequency range of 0.01–50 GHz. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a tunable ferroelectric device on 100% flexible materials without the use of any rigid components. This technology will have a wide range of applications in new generation of agile, high-frequency, and flexible electronics.
A Critical Role of Mitochondrial Phosphatase Ptpmt1 in Embryogenesis Reveals a Mitochondrial Metabolic Stress-Induced Differentiation Checkpoint in Embryonic Stem Cells

Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles that play multiple roles in cells. How mitochondria cooperatively modulate embryonic stem (ES) cell function during development is not fully understood. Global disruption of Ptpmt1, a mitochondrial Pten-like phosphatidylinositol phosphate (PIP) phosphatase, resulted in developmental arrest and postimplantation lethality. Ptpmt1(-/-) blastocysts failed to outgrow, and inner-cell-mass cells failed to thrive. Depletion of Ptpmt1 in conditional knockout ES cells decreased proliferation without affecting energy homeostasis or cell survival. Differentiation of Ptpmt1-depleted ES cells was essentially blocked. This was accompanied by upregulation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors and a significant cell cycle delay. Reintroduction of wild-type but not of catalytically deficient Ptpmt1 C132S or truncated Ptpmt1 lacking the mitochondrial localization signal restored the differentiation capabilities of Ptpmt1 knockout ES cells. Intriguingly, Ptpmt1 is specifically important for stem cells, as ablation of Ptpmt1 in differentiated embryonic fibroblasts did not disturb cellular function. Further analyses demonstrated that oxygen consumption of Ptpmt1-depleted cells was decreased, while glycolysis was concomitantly enhanced. In addition, mitochondrial fusion/dynamics were compromised in Ptpmt1 knockout cells due to accumulation of PIPs. These studies, while establishing a crucial role for Ptpmt1 phosphatase in embryogenesis, reveal a mitochondrial metabolic stress-activated checkpoint in the control of ES cell differentiation.
Isolated clonal cytogenetic abnormalities after high-dose therapy.

Abstract Therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (t-MN) are well-recognized complications of high-dose cytotoxic therapy (HDT), such as autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Clonal marrow cytogenetic abnormalities (CMCA) in the setting of normal bone marrow pathology have also been reported after HDT, but their significance remains unclear. We retrospectively evaluated occurrences of CMCA and t-MN in 785 patients treated with HDT at Johns Hopkins University between 1997 and 2007. Most patients received ASCT, but 106 patients who received high-dose cyclophosphamide without ASCT were also included in this study, as this is our institutional standard for malignant and nonmalignant lymphoproliferative disorders in need of HDT. Twenty-two patients developed t-MN, with an estimated cumulative incidence of 3.5% at 4 years. Eleven patients developed isolated CMCA, either transient or persistent without pathologic evidence of t-MN. Altogether, only 20 of the patients with reported CMCA subsequently developed t-MN during the follow-up period. Therefore, in the absence of pathologic evidence of t-MN, CMCA should not be considered diagnostic of t-MN.
Very fast metal-semiconductor-metal ultraviolet photodetectors on GaN with submicron finger width

We measured in the time domain fast metal-semiconductor-metal ultraviolet photodetectors fabricated on GaN with finger width and pitch ranging from 0.3 to 5 /spl mu/m. A broad-band circuit was designed to couple out the short electrical pulse. The minimum temporal resolution between consecutive optical pulses was 26 ps. At low illumination levels, the bandwidth of the response was limited by the measurement system, not the device. At high illuminations, recovery of diode became slower, consistent with the space-charge screening effect caused by the photogenerated carriers.
Engineering of site-directed antisera against vertebrate calmodulin by using synthetic peptide immunogens containing an immunoreactive site

Site-directed antisera against vertebrate calmodulin were elicited in rabbits by injection of a synthetic immunogen containing the pentadecapeptide Gly-Gln-Val-Asn-Tyr-Glu-Glu-Phe-Val-Gln-Met-Met-Thr-Ala-Lys-OH, which corresponds to residues 134-148 of vertebrate calmodulin. A major immunoreactive region (residues 127-144) of calmodulin is found in the COOH-terminal structural domain and an immunoreactive site for one antiserum is contained in the heptapeptide Asn-Tyr-Glu-Glu-Phe-Val-Gln-NH2, which corresponds to residues 137-143 of vertebrate calmodulin. This immunoreactive heptapeptide was conjugated to a carrier protein by adding a cysteine residue to the NH2 terminus of the peptide and coupling the Cys-heptapeptide to the carrier through the thiol group of the cysteine residue. Injection of this Cys-heptapeptide-protein conjugate into rabbits yielded antisera that react with the heptapeptide but not with native calmodulin. Thus, the immunoreactive heptapeptide that is exposed on the surface of calmodulin is immunogenic, but it is not sufficient to elicit antibodies that react with native calmodulin. However, when the Cys-pentadecapeptide corresponding to residues 134-148 and containing the immunoreactive heptapeptide sequence was conjugated to a carrier protein and injected into rabbits, antisera were elicited that react with the intact calmodulin molecule. The affinities and specificities of these antisera for calmodulin are similar to those of antisera elicited by injection of the intact protein and are sufficient for their use in radioimmunoassays. These results indicate that the successful engineering of site-directed antisera against proteins by using synthetic peptide immunogens may require an appropriate intramolecular environment that allows the peptide region to closely approximate the spatial orientation it adopts in the intact protein.
Reconstruction of the digital pulley in the monkey using biologic and nonbiologic materials

A-2 pulleys were replaced in the hand of the nonhuman primate; on the long/little fingers the pulleys were reconstructed with a woven nylon fabric (Nitex), and on the ring/index fingers the pulleys were reconstructed with fascia lata. The opposite unoperated hand served as a control. At 2, 3, and 6 months postoperative, the animals were killed to compare the function of the reconstructed pulleys with the control pulleys of the opposite digit. Using a tensile testing machine, two parameters, work of flexion and tendon excursion, showed that both pulley reconstructions permitted minimal tendon bow-stringing and had excellent gliding function. Both materials increased in strength over time to become stronger than the control pulley. Histologic examination showed no foreign body reaction to the Nitex; excellent fibrous ingrowth into the woven nylon was seen, which matured in time. The surface of the Nitex pulley facing the tendon developed and maintained a synovial-like gliding surface. The Nitex pulley compared favorably with the fascial pulley biomechanically and histologically; both reconstructed pulleys functioned well compared with normal pulleys.
The Road We've Traveled: 12 Years of Undergraduate Software Engineering at the Rochester Institute of Technology

In 1996, the Rochester Institute of Technology launched the first undergraduate software engineering program in North America. This paper briefly reviews the development of the program, and then turns to a discussion of the program's evolution up to the present. In so doing, we illuminate both the constant aspects of the program – what we believe we got right – as well as the changes made in light of pedagogical, technological and disciplinary advances. We conclude by considering the current and future challenges for undergraduate software engineering education both at RIT and elsewhere.
Antimicrobial Use and the Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance with Streptococcus pneumoniae in the United States

The rapid emergence of resistance to antimicrobial agents by Streptococcus pneumoniae in the United States has been influenced by various factors, including the clonal nature of most resistant strains and the fact that organisms with a multiresistant phenotype have become stably endemic. The ease with which transmission occurs and the fact that humans, especially children, are often colonized asymptomatically in the upper respiratory tract have contributed to the problem. Clearly, the most important factor in the emergence of antimicrobial resistance with S. pneumoniae, however, is the selective pressure of antimicrobial agents. Potency, defined as a product of both antibacterial effect and drug delivery, is a key factor. Generally speaking, the more potent an antimicrobial agent, the less likely it is to select for resistance. This is germane to comparisons of oral agents within specific antimicrobial classes (e.g., β-lactams, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones). Within each class, potencies differ. In view of the existence of stably endemic multidrug-resistant S. pneumoniae, given comparable cost, side-effect profile, palatability, convenience of dosing, and accessibility, use of the most potent agent(s) within a particular class is advocated.
Informality and exclusion: evidence from matched employer-employee data for Lebanon and Syria

Informality, measured as the share of the employed who do not have access to social security, is high in Lebanon and the Syrian Arab Republic. This paper uses new data from the 2010 Lebanon and Syria matched employer-employee surveys, which include modules that directly test for ability (Raven’s progressive matrices) and self-reported personality characteristics in addition to a detailed section on job quality. The analysis of differentials in earning, self-reported attitudes toward jobs, working conditions, and self-rated satisfaction across formal and informal jobs shows that, even after controlling for measured ability and personality traits, there is a significant formality premium. Moreover, in Lebanon, informal workers are significantly more likely than formal workers to want to change jobs. These findings suggest that much of the observed informality in these two countries might not be due to individual choice but more likely to exclusion from formal markets. H53, H55, J23, J24, J31, J32, J42, J71, J81, K31, M51, O53
A Kinetic Study on the Inhibition of Hen Brain Neurotoxic Esterase by Mipafox

A direct method of assaying neurotoxic esterase (NTE) activity, using 4-nitrophenyl valerate, has been described. The technique was used to determine the bimolecular rate (ki), phosphorylation (k2), and affinity (Kd) constants for the reaction of hen brain microsomal NTE with mipafox. Results indicate that the new technique for assaying NTE makes detailed kinetic studies of NTE inhibition possible. The affinity and phosphorylation constants, Kd and k2, for the reaction of hen brain microsomal NTE with mipafox, were found to be 6.72 x 10(-5) M and 3.23 min-1, respectively. The bimolecular rate constant (ki) for this reaction was obtained by interpreting the results according to two different linear equations. The obtained values for ki by these interpretations were 4.8 x 10(4) and 4.0 x 10(4) M-1 min-1, respectively.
Impacting Social Change Through Service Learning in an Introductory Leadership Course

Astin and Astin (2000), W.K. Kellogg Foundation, note “leadership occurs when people become concerned about something and work to engage others in bringing about positive change” (p. 23). At the University of Arizona we have taken that philosophy and integrated it into every component of our course to help students learn about and engage in the social change process. In addition to course curriculum, readings, and classroom activities that expose students to the social change process, students are asked to complete a semester-long team Social Change Project using the social change process dealing with a social issue facing an underrepresented or oppressed group. This project challenges students to recognize the role of leadership in creating social change, giving students a context within which they can apply leadership concepts learned. It has made a lasting impact that some students note as being their most meaningful experience in college.
The Technological Personality.

If technology is the single most important factor in explaining the organization of modern societies, it is likewise the key to understanding the modern personality. The technological personality i...
Shielding effectiveness and statistical analysis of cylindrical scale fuselage model

In this paper, the shielding effectiveness of a cylindrical scaled fuselage model is examined. Measurements of the penetrated field, are performed as a function of frequency. The penetrated field is further statistically analyzed and its distribution is investigated. For the purposes of this investigation, different probability models are introduced while their ability is tested to match the measured data distribution.
Measurements of microvascular perfusion in healthy anesthetized dogs using orthogonal polarization spectral imaging.

Objective – To determine normal microvascular assessment parameters for healthy, anesthetized dogs. Design – Prospective investigational descriptive study. Setting – University Teaching Hospital. Animals – Fifteen client-owned, systemically healthy dogs that were undergoing general anesthesia for an elective procedure. Interventions – A sidestream dark-field videomicroscope probe was placed in the mouth at the mucogingival junction above the canine tooth and 3 video recordings of the microcirculation were made for later analysis by 2 independent, blinded reviewers. Measurements and Main Results – The videos were analyzed to determine the total vessel density, proportion of perfused vessels, microcirculatory flow index, and perfused vessel density. A range of values for these indices were obtained and reported. Conclusions – The microcirculation of normal dogs is readily observable using the videomicroscope and recorded video segments can be used to determine microcirculatory measurements. These values may prove useful for comparison in future studies that examine canine microcirculatory parameters.
Intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide for macular EDEMA due to retinitis pigmentosa and other retinal diseases

Macular edema is a swelling of the macula that can result in decreased visual acuity. Because the macula is extensively surrounded by blood vessels, any resulting leakage can lead to macular edema and subsequent visual loss. Such leakage can be secondary to retinitis pigmentosa, and other retinal diseases including diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, inflammatory processes such as uveitis, or can be a result of ocular surgery, referred to as Irvine-Gass Syndrome.
Packed red blood cell transfusion after surgery: are we “overtranfusing” our patients?

Abstract Background Data on the hemoglobin (Hb) after transfusion, or the “target,” which reflects the “dose” of blood given are not well studied. We sought to examine the incidence and causes of “over transfusion” of red blood cells after surgery. Methods Data on blood utilization including Hb triggers and targets were obtained for patients undergoing colorectal, pancreas, or liver surgery between 2010 and 2013. Results A total of 2,905 patients were identified, of which 895 (31%) were transfused (median age 64, interquartile range: 53 to 72; 51% men; median American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3, interquartile range: 3–3; 51% pancreatic, 14% hepatobiliary, 21% colorectal, and 14% other). Among these, 512 (57%) were overtransfused (final Hb target after transfusion ≥9.0 g/dL). Among patients who were overtransfused, 171 (33%) were transfused at too high an initial trigger (>8.0 g/dL), whereas 304 (59%) had an appropriate trigger but received ≥2 packed red blood cell (PRBC) units, suggesting an opportunity to have transfused fewer units. There was significant variation in overtransfusion among surgeons (range 0% to 80%, P = .003). Conclusions Excess use of blood transfusion is common and was due to PRBC utilization for too high a transfusion trigger, as well as too many units transfused.
TIBIAL TORSION ACCOMPANYING CONGENITAL CLUB-FOOT

1. Internal tibial torsion accompanies club-foot in a fair percentage of cases (17 per cent. in this series). 2. It is a major factor in recurrence of the club-foot deformity. 3. Tibial torsion of 15 degrees or more should be treated surgically after the equinovarus deformity has been corrected.
530 FACTORS AFFECTING LONG-TERM MORTALITY AFTER ENDOVASCULAR REPAIR OF ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSMS.

Background Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) has made considerable advancements with respect to perioperative mortality. However, fewer data are available regarding whether perioperative factors affect long-term mortality. Methods We reviewed a prospective database of 468 patients from 1996-2004 who underwent endovascular infrarenal AAA repair. We analyzed preoperative, intraoperative, and immediate postoperative factors, using multivariate Cox proportional hazards models, to identify independent predictors of long-term survival (survival for at least 30 days after hospital discharge). Results The mean age for our study population was 74 years and 90% were male. Median follow-up was 938 days (IQR 335-1479). Median overall survival was 2,203 days (IQR 1093-2792). The leading cause of death was cardiac. On multivariate analysis, the number of preoperative clinical cardiac risk factors (p = .0001), spending 2 or more days in the intensive care unit (p Conclusions The leading cause of long-term mortality following endovascular AAA repair is cardiac. Preoperative variables such as clinical cardiac risk factors are significant predictors of long-term mortality following endovascular AAA repair, as is prolonged ICU stay and having a perioperative STEMI, whereas a perioperative non-STEMI is not. These findings provide guidelines for which patients are at greatest risk for long-term cardiac death following endovascular AAA repair and suggest that monitoring perioperative cardiac enzymes is unnecessary.
Spaceborne Radiation Collector Systems

This chapter presents the spaceborne radiation collector systems. Satellite spin scans from synchronous orbit for imaging and sounding applications have been done for many years. By rotating the spacecraft, the sensor field of view can be extended to a large area. A geosynchronous satellite could be placed in an inclined orbit. A pushbroom space sensor can be used for this special orbit. Pushbroom scanning is the technique of using the forward motion of a satellite platform to sweep a linear array of detectors oriented perpendicular to the ground track across a scene being imaged. However, whiskbroom scanning is a technique employing a combination of the satellite's orbital motion and mechanical scanning transverse to the orbital motion. There are three advantages of pushbroom scanning techniques using long linear arrays of charge-coupled device (CCD) detectors. First, the complex mechanical scan mechanisms are eliminated. Second, the longer dwell time offers a better signal-to-noise ratio. Third, the time delay and integration (TDI) technique can be applied.
High Treatment Success Rates Among HIV-Infected Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis Patients After Expansion of Antiretroviral Therapy in Botswana, 2006-2013.

Author(s): Shin, Sanghyuk S; Modongo, Chawangwa; Boyd, Rosanna; Caiphus, Cynthia; Kuate, Lesego; Kgwaadira, Botshelo; Zetola, Nicola M | Abstract: BackgroundFew studies have examined multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes among HIV-infected persons after widespread expansion of antiretroviral therapy (ART). We describe MDR-TB treatment outcomes among HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients in Botswana after ART expansion.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed data from patients who started MDR-TB therapy in Botswana during 2006-2013. Multivariable regression models were used to compare treatment outcomes between HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients.ResultsWe included 588 MDR-TB patients in the analysis, of whom, 47 (8.0%) and 9 (1.5%) were diagnosed with pre-extensively drug-resistant (XDR)-TB and XDR-TB, respectively. Of the 408 (69.4%) HIV-infected patients, 352 (86.0%) were on ART or started ART during treatment, and median baseline CD4 T-cell count was 234 cells/mm. Treatment success rates were 79.4% and 73.0% among HIV-uninfected and HIV-infected patients, respectively (P = 0.121). HIV-infected patients with CD4 T-cell count l100 cells/mm were more likely to die during treatment compared with HIV-uninfected patients (adjusted risk ratio = 1.890; 95% CI: 1.098 to 3.254).ConclusionsHigh rates of treatment success were achieved with programmatic management of MDR-TB and HIV in Botswana after widespread expansion of ART. However, a 2-fold increase in mortality was observed among HIV-infected persons with baseline CD4 l100 cells/mm compared with HIV-uninfected persons.
Pediatric Thyroidectomy: Hospital Course and Perioperative Complications

Objectives/HypothesisTo evaluate hospital course and associated complications among pediatric patients undergoing thyroidectomy.Study Design and SettingRetrospective database review of the Kids’ In...
Developing and evaluating a finite element model for predicting the two-posts rollover protective structure nonlinear behaviour using SAE J2194 static test

This research focuses on applying Non-linear Finite Element (FE) techniques to predict ROPS force-deflection curves under the simulated standardised static tests. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J2194 ROPS static standard test was selected for this study. According to the SAE J2194 standard, ROPS must be capable of absorbing predefined levels of energy under longitudinal (rear) and transverse (side) load tests before collapsing as well as avoiding large deformations that infringe upon the driver's clearance zone or leave the clearance zone unprotected. A nonlinear finite element approach was used to predict the response of two rear-mount two-post ROPS under simulated side and rear test conditions for Allis Chalmers 5040 and Long 460 tractors. The ROPS were designed with the Computer-based ROPS Design Program using a bolted corner bracket assembly to simplify the ROPS design process. The recommended FE model (ASTM, C3D10M, 0.01) was found to predict the ROPS performance deflection (RPD) with average error less than 10% compared to experimental test measurements. The FE model predicted the ROPS behaviour under rear loads more accurately than under side loads. The developed FE model based on measured stress-strain curves from test specimens was found to predict the ROPS behaviour more accurately than the FE models developed based on the Ramberg-Osgood material model.
Bioconjugated graphene oxide‐based Raman probe for selective identification of SKBR3 breast cancer cells

In this article, we demonstrate the use of bio-conjugated 2D graphene oxide (bio-GO) nanostructure to probe breast cancer cell (SKBR3) with excellent discrimination over other types of circulating tumor cells. We distinctly observed that bio-GO nanostructure targets and bind SKBR3 cell selectively in the cell mixture. Longer incubation of SKBR3 cell with bio-GO causes Raman signal "turn off" when excited with 532 nm laser. This is attributed to penetration of the bio-GO through the plasma membrane of the cell by generating transient hole. Extraction of GO after cell digestion also support the internalization rubric of 2D graphene through cell membrane. Our experimental data with the HaCaT healthy cell line, as well as with LNCaP prostate cancer cell line clearly demonstrated that this Raman scattering assay is highly selective to SKBR3. The mechanism of selectivity and the assay's response change have been verified and discussed utilizing fluorescence properties of GO and various other techniques. The experimental results open up a possibility of new label free Raman scattering assay, for reliable diagnosis of cancer cell lines by monitoring "turn-off" of the Raman signal from Bio-GO nanostructure.
Philosopher’s Concrete: Dam Construction, Farmland Values, and Agricultural Production in the Western US, 1890–1920

Did construction of the Bureau of Reclamation dams in the early 20th century raise farm values and increase agricultural output? I construct a new county-level panel dataset from 1890 to 1920 with information on geography, climate, politics, agriculture, and major dams, and then evaluate the effect of the Bureau of Reclamation dams on the value of farms and on crop productivity. Using fixed effect panel estimation, I find that new federal dam construction increased the average value of farmland by approximately 6.4 percent. When I apply an instrument to control for potential endogeneity, the effect of Bureau dams on farmland value increases in size, although the estimate also becomes noisier and is no longer statistically significant. My results indicate that Bureau dams constructed in prior decades and the new dams constructed by other agencies did not have a statistically significant effect on the value of farms. In terms of crop output, the only crop affected by the dams was alfalfa.
A Tale of Centrally Symmetric Polytopes and Spheres

This paper is a survey of recent advances as well as open problems in the study of face numbers of centrally symmetric simplicial polytopes and spheres. The topics discussed range from neighborliness of centrally symmetric polytopes and the Upper Bound Theorem for centrally symmetric simplicial spheres to the Generalized Lower Bound Theorem for centrally symmetric simplicial polytopes and the lower bound conjecture for centrally symmetric simplicial spheres and manifolds.
Leveraging Collaborative Filtering to Accelerate Rare Disease Diagnosis

In the USA, rare diseases are defined as those affecting fewer than 200,000 patients at any given time. Patients with rare diseases are frequently misdiagnosed or undiagnosed which may due to the lack of knowledge and experience of care providers. We hypothesize that patients' phenotypic information available in electronic medical records (EMR) can be leveraged to accelerate disease diagnosis based on the intuition that providers need to document associated phenotypic information to support the diagnosis decision, especially for rare diseases. In this study, we proposed a collaborative filtering system enriched with natural language processing and semantic techniques to assist rare disease diagnosis based on phenotypic characterization. Specifically, we leveraged four similarity measurements with two neighborhood algorithms on 2010-2015 Mayo Clinic unstructured large patient cohort and evaluated different approaches. Preliminary results demonstrated that the use of collaborative filtering with phenotypic information is able to stratify patients with relatively similar rare diseases.
Abstract 11861: Ethnic Differences in the 10-Year Risk of Coronary Heart Disease Among High Risk Individuals in a Large Contemporary Population

Purpose: To evaluate ethnic differences in CHD risk in high risk patient populations in 4 study cohorts: 1) No diabetes (DM) and no prior CHD 2) DM but no prior CHD, 2) non-DM with prior CHD and 3) DM with prior CHD. Methods: 1,586,061 members of an integrated health care system, with self reported race/ethnicity of Asians (14.1%), blacks (8.6%), Latinos (12.6%), and whites (64.5%), ages 30- 90 years, were evaluated from 01/01/2002 through 12/31/2011. We specified Cox proportional hazard models and compared the Hazard Ratios (HRs), relative to that of whites, for incident CHD in the 4 study cohorts. Results: The median follow up time for this cohort was ten years (10,980,800 person years). Figure shows the age and sex adjusted (squares) hazard ratios (relative to that of whites) for CHD for Blacks, Latinos and Asians, respectively for the 4 study groups. These age and sex-adjusted effect estimates were not altered substantively by further adjustment for smoking, HTN, lipid levels and statin use (figure, circles). However a slightly higher risk (HR of 1.15 95%, CI, 1.05-1.27) was noted among Blacks with prior CHD and no DM. No increase risk was noted in blacks with both DM and CHD. Conclusions: In this integrated delivery system with uniform medical care coverage, we observed slightly reduced risk or no difference in risk for Blacks, Asians, and Latinos compared to whites in all 4 risk groups, and observed a greater risk of CHD for Blacks without prior DM but with previously diagnosed CHD. These findings may inform policy development and interventions designed to identify and eliminate disparities.
URINARY 2,3-DINOR-11SS-PROSTAGLANDIN F2A – CLINICAL UTILITY IN PEDIATRIC MAST CELL ACTIVATION SYNDROME

Introduction Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is not well-described in children. Case Description 11-year old female presenting with recurrent episodes of facial flushing, nausea, abdominal cramping, and loose stools. Exacerbating factors include citrus fruits and dips, stressful situations, and surgeries. She has had no history of anaphylaxis. Her baseline tryptase was 2.1ng/mL. Her urine mast cell mediators during a mild episode were urinary 2,3-dinor-11β prostaglandin F2α (2,3-BPG) 8183pg/mg Cr, leukotriene E4 (LTE4) 51pg/mg Cr, and N-methylhistamine(NMH) 151 µg/g Cr. With use of cromolyn or Zyrtec, there was both symptomatic improvement and decrease in urinary 2,3-BPG. Discussion Children with MCAS have symptoms consistent with mast cell mediator release, elevation of mast cell mediators, and symptomatic resolution with medications which block mast cell mediator effects. The pattern of mast cell mediator elevation in children resembles adult MCAS. This case illustrates the clinical utility of urinary 2,3-BPG in the diagnosis and management of pediatric MCAS.
Syndromes of Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability (ID) may be caused by countless disorders and syndromes, many of which are still unknown. Understanding specific syndromes of ID can be helpful in better recognizing distinct presentations as well as being aware of co-occurring psychiatric and medical comorbidities. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, William syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome are leading syndromal causes of ID and are described here.
Dynamics of the isoflavone metabolome of traditional preparations of Trifolium pratense L.

Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance The flowering tops of Trifolium pratense L., popularly known as red clover, are used in ethnic Western and Traditional Chinese medicine, in a variety of preparations, including infusions, decoctions and tinctures. Red clover has been reported to be helpful for treatment of menopausal symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, mastalgia, high cholesterol, and other conditions. Aims of the study The aims were to compare the chemical dynamics between traditional preparations of infusions, decoctions, and tinctures, as well as to identify the chemical variability over time in a traditional red clover tincture. For this purpose, eight isoflavone aglycones as well as two glucosides, ononin and sissotrin, were used as marker compounds. Materials and methods Quantitative NMR (qHNMR), LC-MS-MS, and UHPLC-UV methods were used to identify and quantitate the major phenolic compounds found within each extract. Results Infusions, decoctions and tinctures were shown to produce different chemical profiles. Biochanin A and formononetin were identified and quantified in infusion, decoction, and tinctures of red clover. Both infusion and decoction showed higher concentrations of isoflavonoid glucosides, such as ononin and sissotrin, than 45% ethanolic tinctures. Dynamic chemical variability (“dynamic residual complexity”) of the red clover tincture was observed over time (one-month), with biochanin A and formononetin reaching peak concentrations at around six days. Conclusions Insight was gained into why different formulation methods (infusions, decoctions, and tinctures) are traditionally used to treat different health conditions. Moreover, the outcomes show that tinctures, taken over a period of time, are dynamic medicinal formulations that allow for time-controlled release of bioactive compounds.
Cerebrospinal fluid drainage complications during first stage and completion fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair.

Abstract Objective To determine the rates and risk factors of complications related to cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSFD) during first stage and completion fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F-BEVAR) of pararenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. Methods We reviewed the outcomes of 293 consecutive patients enrolled in a prospective, nonrandomized study to investigate outcomes of F-BEVAR between 2013 and 2018. Patients who received CSFD during first-stage thoracic endovascular aortic repair, index F-BEVAR, or completion of temporary aneurysm sac perfusion procedures were included in the analysis. CSFD complications were graded as severe or moderate if they were life threatening, escalated the level of care, or prolonged the hospital stay. Presence of substantial degenerative lumbar disease (DLD) was identified based on review of preoperative computed tomography. End points included technical difficulties during CSFD placement and CSFD-related complications. Results A total of 187 patients (mean age, 73 ± 8 years; 70% male) treated for 20 pararenal and 167 thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms received CSFD in 240 procedures, including 51 first-stage thoracic endovascular aortic repairs, 184 index F-BEVARs, and 5 completion temporary aneurysm sac perfusion procedures. Nineteen patients (10%) had 22 CSFD-related complications after 21 aortic procedures (9%). Complications were graded as severe to moderate in 17 patients (9%). There were 12 patients (6%) with intracranial hypotension, including three (2%) who had intracranial hemorrhage and nine (5%) with post dural puncture headache requiring blood patches in six. Another six patients (3%) developed spinal hematomas resulting in paraplegia in two (1%) and transient paraparesis in two (1%). One patient had CSF leakage from the puncture site (no intervention required). Four patients had bleeding during attempted drain placement, which required postponement of F-BEVAR. Technical difficulties were experienced in 57 drain insertions (24%), more often in patients with DLD than in those without DLD (35/113 [31%] vs 22/121 [18%]; P = .03). Fluoroscopic guidance was used in 44 drain placements (18%) with a lower rate of technical difficulties compared with the blind approach (9% vs 28%; P = .01). There was a statistically nonsignificant trend toward more complications in patients with technical challenges (14% vs 7%; P = .10). Of 13 study patients who developed spinal cord injuries during aortic procedures, 4 (31%) were attributed to CSFD. Conclusions Although CSFD is widely used to prevent ischemic spinal cord injury during complex aortic repair, the risk of major CSFD-related complications is not negligible and should be carefully weighed against its potential benefits. One-third of spinal cord injuries were caused by CSF drain placement. The use of fluoroscopic guidance may decrease the risk of CSFD-related complications.
Prolonged Response to Pembrolizumab in Spindle Cell Squamous Cell Carcinoma Metastatic to the Central Nervous System.

Background. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer, with aggressive metastatic or locally advanced disease representing an uncommon minority of presentations. Emerging da...
Should Government Subsidize Electronic Health Records

Health information technology (HIT) innovation focuses on electronic health records (EHRs) that can collect, store, and transmit health information within electronic health information exchanges. HIT innovation holds great promise not only for improving public health, but also for controlling what many believe is out-of-control healthcare spending in the United States. These benefits, along with the perception that providers were too slow in adopting HIT, motivated passage of the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act in 2009. That act authorized government subsidies to encourage the adoption and use of EHRs. This paper examines whether recent government investments in EHR adoption were wise. Theories that market failure in EHR innovation and adoption is caused by network externalities, lack of information, and free-rider problems are found to be not entirely convincing, especially given that the government case for subsidies mistakenly assumed that interoperable mature technologies were mostly in place and that healthcare providers would voluntarily share data among themselves. Government subsidies have thus likely locked in immature technology rather than spurred HIT innovations that would otherwise have evolved over time. Lost opportunities for better patient care at lower expense are one major cost of the government subsidy program. The paper concludes with recommendations for government policies that are more likely to promote HIT innovation that will improve public health.
Effect of renal function on patient survival after endovascular thoracoabdominal and pararenal aortic aneurysm repair.

Abstract Background Renal dysfunction can be a prohibitive risk for open repair of complex thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) and pararenal aortic aneurysms (PRAAs). However, the effect of renal dysfunction from fenestrated and branched endovascular aneurysm repair (FB-EVAR) on outcomes is poorly defined. Our objective was to review the association of renal function on patient survival after FB-EVAR. Methods The present study reviewed the clinical data of consecutive patients enrolled in a prospective nonrandomized study to investigate FB-EVAR for PRAAs and TAAAs at a single institution with 1 year of follow-up (2013-2017). The patients were categorized by preoperative chronic kidney disease (CKD) classification, and the early- and long-term mortality was assessed. Results During the study period, 231 patients had undergone FB-EVAR for 80 PRAAs, 89 type I-III TAAAs, and 62 type IV TAAAs. The mean age was 74.6 ± 6.7 years, and 71% were men. Of the 231 patients, 126 had had CKD stage 1-2, 96 CKD stage 3, and 9 CKD stage 4-5 (all with baseline creatinine >2.0 mg/dL). Patients with CKD stage 4-5 had demographic data similar to those with normal renal function but had had slightly larger aneurysms (6.5 vs 7 cm; P = .15). The 30-day mortality was 0.5% (n = 1) for those with CKD 1-3 vs 0% for those with CKD 4-5 (P = .73). The 1- and 3-year survival analysis showed no major hazards (95% vs 88% and 84% vs 75%, respectively; log-rank P = .98) between the CKD 1-3 and CKD 4-5 groups. The median follow-up period was 2.6 years (interquartile range, 1.5-3.7 years). Two patients with CKD 4-5 had died during the follow-up period. Conclusions Although a small sample size for evaluation, selected patients with CKD 4-5 might have similar short- and long-term mortality compared with those with normal to moderate renal dysfunction after FB-EVAR. Although a major contraindication for open repair, renal dysfunction might not be as prohibitive for endovascular repair in well-selected patients.
Time-varying effects of family smoking and family management on adolescent daily smoking: The moderating roles of behavioral disinhibition and anxiety

Abstract Background Family smoking environment and family management are associated with risk of teen smoking behaviors. However, less is known about whether these associations increase or decrease in strength across adolescence, and whether there are person-environment interactions. The current study examined 1) the age-varying main effects of family smoking and family management on adolescent daily smoking from ages 12–18 and tested 2) whether behavioral disinhibition and anxiety moderated these relationships. Methods Data were drawn from the Seattle Social Development Project (SSDP; N = 808), a longitudinal study examining prosocial and antisocial behavior. Analyses used time-varying effect modeling (TVEM), which tested the stability of the relationship between family smoking and family management and youth daily smoking across adolescence. Results Greater family smoking increased the likelihood of adolescent daily smoking, whereas greater family management reduced the likelihood of daily smoking. Significant interactions between family management and youth behavioral disinhibition and anxiety during early and mid-adolescence indicated that family management was more protective for adolescents with low (compared to high) behavioral disinhibition and anxiety. The effect of family smoking was not moderated by behavioral disinhibition or anxiety. Conclusions Family smoking and family management are key risk and protective factors that may be targeted for adolescent smoking prevention. Our interaction results for individual differences in behavioral disinhibition and anxiety suggest that certain types of youth may respond differently to family management practices. Findings also show periods during adolescence where family-centered preventive interventions could be optimally timed to prevent or reduce persistent adolescent smoking.
Feeling Badly Is Not Good Enough: a Reply to Fritz and Miller

Kyle Fritz and Daniel Miller’s (2019) reply to my (2018) article helpfully clarifies their position and our main points of disagreement. Their view is that those who blame hypocritically lack the right to blame for a violation of some moral norm N in virtue of having an unfair disposition to blame others, but not themselves, for violations of N. This view raises two key questions. First, are there instances of hypocritical blame that do not involve an unfair differential blaming disposition? Second, if the answer to the first question is Yes, do hypocritical blamers of this kind lack the right to blame? In this paper, I argue that the answer to the first question is Yes. Given this, Fritz and Miller’s account faces serious problems regardless of whether the answer to the second question is Yes or No.