cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Meiotic Chromosome Segregation in Triploid Strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Meiosis in triploids results in four highly aneuploid gametes because six copies of each homolog must be segregated into four meiotic products. Using DNA microarrays and other physical approaches, we examined meiotic chromosome segregation in triploid strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In most tetrads with four viable spores, two of the spores had two copies of a given homolog and two spores had only one copy. Chromosomes segregated randomly into viable spores without preferences for generating near haploid or near diploid spores. Using single-nucleotide polymorphisms, we showed that, in most tetrads, all three pairs of homologs recombined. Strains derived from some of the aneuploid spore colonies had very high frequencies of mitotic chromosome loss, resulting in genetically diverse populations of cells.
Point correspondence in unstructured nonrigid motion

This paper describes a method for the estimation of point correspondence in unstructured nonrigid motion. Feature points are derived from images of the same scene undergoing nonrigid motion and correspondences are established. The only assumption we make about the motion is that, apart from, global translation and rotation, the local motion of each point is restricted to a circle of radius /spl delta/. This is in contrast to existing techniques which assume either rigid motion, non-rigid motion of a known kind (conformal, etc.) or motion with very small local deformations. The point matching problem is viewed in terms of weighted bipartite graph matching. In order to account for the possibility that the feature selector can be imprecise, we incorporate a greedy matching strategy with the weighted graph matching algorithm. The technique is robust and is applicable to many types of problems.
The total linear discrepancy of an ordered set

In this paper we introduce the notion of the total linear discrepancy of a poset as a way of measuring the fairness of linear extensions. If L is a linear extension of a poset P, and x,y is an incomparable pair in P, the height difference between x and y in L is |L(x)-L(y)|. The total linear discrepancy of P in L is the sum over all incomparable pairs of these height differences. The total linear discrepancy of P is the minimum of this sum taken over all linear extensions L of P. While the problem of computing the (ordinary) linear discrepancy of a poset is NP-complete, the total linear discrepancy can be computed in polynomial time. Indeed, in this paper, we characterize those linear extensions that are optimal for total linear discrepancy. The characterization provides an easy way to count the number of optimal linear extensions.
Behavior of Lead Sulfide Photocells in the Ultraviolet

Spectral response measurements have been made on Eastman Kodak lead sulfide cells in the wavelength range 0.2–2.0 μ. The quantum sensitivity (defined as the number of electronic charges passed in the external circuit per incident photon) is roughly constant for wavelengths greater than 0.6 μ, but rises linearly with photon energy at shorter wavelengths. The increase in quantum yield is attributed to electron multiplication by secondary internal emission.
Association Between a Functional Variant of the KLOTHO Gene and High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, Stroke, and Longevity

We previously identified a functional variant of KLOTHO, termed KL-VS, that is associated with human aging and early-onset occult coronary artery disease. Here, we determine whether the KL-VS allele influences cardiovascular disease risk factors, cardiovascular events, and ultimately, mortality. A total of 525 Ashkenazi Jews composed of 216 probands (age ≥95 years) and 309 unrelated individuals (ages 51 to 94) were genotyped for the KL-VS allele. In concordance with our previous data in Czech individuals (age ≥79; P<0.01), a heterozygous advantage for longevity was observed for individuals ≥79 years of age (P<0.004). Combined analysis indicates a 1.57-fold (95% CI, 1.23 to 1.98) increased odds ratio (OR) for 5-year survival in two independent populations (P<0.0002). Cardiovascular disease risk factors were assessed through multivariate regression analysis, demonstrating that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C; P<0.05) and systolic blood pressure (SBP; P<0.008) are associated with KL-VS genotype. ...
Upgrades at the NASA Langley Research Center National Transonic Facility

Several projects have been completed or are nearing completion at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) National Transonic Facility (NTF). The addition of a Model Flow-Control/Propulsion Simulation test capability to the NTF provides a unique, transonic, high-Reynolds number test capability that is well suited for research in propulsion airframe integration studies, circulation control high-lift concepts, powered lift, and cruise separation flow control. A 1992 vintage Facility Automation System (FAS) that performs the control functions for tunnel pressure, temperature, Mach number, model position, safety interlock and supervisory controls was replaced using current, commercially available components. This FAS upgrade also involved a design study for the replacement of the facility Mach measurement system and the development of a software-based simulation model of NTF processes and control systems. The FAS upgrades were validated by a post upgrade verification wind tunnel test. The data acquisition system (DAS) upgrade project involves the design, purchase, build, integration, installation and verification of a new DAS by replacing several early 1990's vintage computer systems with state of the art hardware/software. This paper provides an update on the progress made in these efforts. See reference 1.
Public-key cryptography using paraunitary matrices

In this paper, we propose an algebraic approach for designing multivariate cryptosystems. Our method is based on formulating a general system of multivariate polynomial equations by paraunitary matrices. These matrices are a special family of invertible polynomial matrices that can be completely parameterized and efficiently generated by primitive building blocks. Using the general formulation that involves paraunitary matrices, we design a one-way function that operates over the fields of characteristic two. In order to include a trapdoor, we make some approximations to the paraunitary matrix. The result is a trapdoor one-way function that is efficient to evaluate but hard to invert unless secret information about the trapdoor is known. Using this function, we propose a paraunitary asymmetric cryptosystem (PAC). We present an instance of the PAC and show how it can be efficiently implemented. This instance operates on the finite field GF(256). The message block consists of 16 to 32 symbols from GF(256), i.e., the block size n is an integer between 16 and 32. The ciphertext block takes its elements from the same field and has at least ten extra symbols. We show that the encryption and decryption can be efficiently performed with complexities O(n3) and O(n2), respectively, where n is the size of the message block. Comparing complexities of the PAC to those in the hidden-field equation (HFE) family, we show that the PAC is faster in public-key generation and decryption. We study the computational security of the PAC. In addition, we show that the attacks developed for the HFE are not applicable on the PAC
Synthesis of [(18)F]FMISO in a flow-through microfluidic reactor: Development and clinical application.

Abstract Introduction The PET radiotracer [18F]FMISO has been used in the clinic to image hypoxia in tumors. The aim of the present study was to optimize the radiochemical parameters for the preparation of [18F]FMISO using a microfluidic reaction system. The main parameters evaluated were (1) precursor concentration, (2) reaction temperature, and (3) flow rate through the microfluidic reactor. Optimized conditions were then applied to the batch production of [18F]FMISO for clinical research use. Methods For the determination of optimal reaction conditions within a flow-through microreactor synthesizer, 5–400 μL the precursor and dried [18F]fluoride solutions in acetonitrile were simultaneously pushed through the temperature-controlled reactor (60–180 °C) with defined flow rates (20–120 μL/min). Radiochemical incorporation yields to form the intermediate species were determined using radio-TLC. Hydrolysis to remove the protecting group was performed following standard vial chemistry to afford [18F]FMISO. Results Optimum reaction parameters for the microfluidic set-up were determined as follows: 4 mg/mL of precursor, 170 °C, and 100 μL/min pump rate per reactant (200 μL/min reaction overall flow rate) to prepare the radiolabeled intermediate. The optimum hydrolysis condition was determined to be 2 N HCl for 5 min at 100 °C. Large-scale batch production using the optimized conditions gave the final, ready for human injection [18F]FMISO product in 28.4 ± 3.0% radiochemical yield, specific activity of 119 ± 26 GBq/μmol, and > 99% radiochemical and chemical purity at the end of synthesis (n = 4). Conclusion By using the NanoTek microfluidic synthesis system, [18F]FMISO was successfully prepared with good specific activity and high radiochemical purity for human use. The product generated from large-scale batch production using flow chemistry is currently being used in clinical research.
Genomewide annotation and comparative genomics of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) in the polypore species Bjerkandera adusta, Ganoderma sp. and Phlebia brevispora

Genomewide annotation of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) in three white-rot species of the fungal order Polyporales, namely Bjerkandera adusta, Ganoderma sp. and Phlebia brevispora, revealed...
Developing nutrient targets to control benthic chlorophyll levels in streams: A case study of the Clark Fork River

Abstract Approaches for assessing the effects of lowering nutrients on periphyton biomass in streams and rivers are poorly developed in contrast to those for lakes. Here we present two complementary approaches to assess target nutrient concentrations in streams, given desired mean and maximum standing crops of benthic algal chlorophyll. In the first approach, a reference portion or reach of the river that typically exhibits acceptable levels of benthic chlorophyll is identified (i.e. seasonal mean and maximum values do not exceed desirable levels), and the target levels for instream nutrient concentrations are defined by mean nutrient levels in the reference region. In the second approach, regression and graphical analysis of a large stream database are used to identify acceptable levels of instream total N and total P. The first approach supplies site-specific nutrient targets, whereas the second places nutrient control into a broader, more comparative perspective. In order to link these target concentrations to specific nutrient control measures, we describe a spreadsheet model that can be used to translate changes in external loading by point sources into predicted new instream nutrient concentrations. These quantitative methods are applied here to the control of nuisance algal growth in the Clark Fork River, Montana. We suggest that, in general, maintenance of mean instream total N concentrations below 350 μg l−1 and total P below 30 μg l−1 will result in mean benthic algal chlorophyll a density below nuisance levels of 100 mg m−2 in most streams.
The Trial of Louis Riel

By modern standards, the North-West Rebellion seems no big deal. Canadian forces easily quelled the uprising of a couple of hundred Metis settlers along the South Saskatchewan River. A majority of Metis in the region sat out the fighting, and only about one hundred persons died in the conflict. (Although that figure of one hundred deaths was significant in this sparsely populated region.) The importance of the North-West Rebellion, apart from establishing the ability of Canadian government to successfully carry out a military action far from its center of power, is symbolic. As has been often noted by historians, the debate over the North-West Rebellion and the subsequent trial of Louis Riel reveals the tensions that continue to distinguish Canada: east versus west, native versus non-native, French-speaking versus English-speaking, American versus Canadian. Over time, Louis Riel has been seen as a demagogic madman, as an innocent victim of Prime Minister John Macdonald's fanaticism, or as a martyred national-liberation leader. None of these characterizations is entirely accurate; each contains some measure of truth. The North-West Rebellion and the trial of Louis Riel is best understood as the product of a particular place and time: the Canadian frontier, in a time when civilization and its institutions confronted the traditions of a more primitive people.
Unearthing Summary Judgment's Concealed Standard of Review

The common wisdom has it that the appellate standard of review for summary judgment is uniformly de novo. However, the general unreviewability of summary judgment denials renders as dicta most statements about the standard of review for summary judgment denials. This Paper argues that courts of appeals should accord district courts discretion to deny summary judgment in (i) close cases that (ii) turn at least in part on an issue of fact (at least where a jury trial right is available and has been exercised). This standard will have the greatest impact in the limited universe of summary judgment denials that are immediately appealable — those cases where summary judgment is sought by government officials on the basis of immunity from suit. An empirical study of such cases decided by the courts of appeals confirms that the proposed standard would have a substantial effect on the treatment by courts of appeals of summary judgment denials in qualified immunity cases. Beyond the courts of appeals, implementation of the standard would have an effect on the treatment of qualified-immunity-based summary judgment motions by district courts and the Supreme Court.
The Effects of Atmosphere, Temperature, and Bandgap on the Annealing of GaInNAs for Solar Cell Applications

The effects of thermal annealing on the minority-carrier diffusion lengths and depletion widths of GaInNAs are studied. We find that diffusion lengths in as-grown, Be- and Si-doped GaInNAs are limited to less than about 0.2 µm for samples with low concentrations of nitrogen. For higher concentrations of nitrogen, the diffusion lengths are not measurable. Annealing under a variety of temperatures and atmospheres typically makes the diffusion lengths even shorter. These short diffusion lengths are not yet long enough for GaInNAs to be useful in a next-generation, four-junction structure. Using undoped GaInNAs in a p–i–n structure is a promising approach to increase device performance. Currently, however, the depletion widths are too small at the bandgaps necessary for solar cells, and annealing does not appear to improve them.
Preliminary development of an advanced modular pressure relief cushion: Testing and user evaluation.

Abstract Study aim Effective pressure relief cushions are identified as a core assistive technology need by the World Health Organization Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology. High quality affordable wheelchair cushions could provide effective pressure relief for many individuals with limited access to advanced assistive technology. Materials Value driven engineering (VdE) principles were employed to develop a prototype modular cushion. Low cost dynamically responsive gel balls were arranged in a close packed array and seated in bilayer foam for containment and support. Two modular cushions, one with high compliance balls and one with moderate compliance balls were compared with High Profile and Low Profile Roho ® and Jay ® Medical 2 cushions. Methods ISO 16480-2 biomechanical standardized tests were applied to assess cushion performance. A preliminary materials cost analysis was carried out. A prototype modular cushion was evaluated by 12 participants who reported satisfaction using a questionnaire based on the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0) instrument. Results Overall the modular cushions performed better than, or on par with, the most widely prescribed commercially available cushions under ISO 16480-2 testing. Users rated the modular cushion highly for overall appearance, size and dimensions, comfort, safety, stability, ease of adjustment and general ease of use. Cost-analysis indicated that every modular cushion component a could be replaced several times and still maintain cost-efficacy over the complete cushion lifecycle. Conclusion A VdE modular cushion has the potential provide effective pressure relief for many users at a low lifetime cost.
Genome-wide association mapping of spot blotch resistance to three different pathotypes of Cochliobolus sativus in the USDA barley core collection

Spot blotch, caused by Cochliobolus sativus, is an economically important disease of barley. To identify genetic loci conferring resistance to three different pathotypes of C. sativus, a worldwide barley core collection (BCC) consisting of 1480 accessions from the USDA National Small Grains Collection were genotyped with the barley 9k Illumina Infinium iSELECT assay and phenotyped at the seedling stage with three C. sativus isolates ND85F (pathotype 1), ND90Pr (pathotype 2), and ND4008 (pathotype 7). Association mapping analysis was performed with the Whole_Panel containing 1480 barley accessions, as well as Two-rowed_Panel and Six-rowed_Panel consisting of 621 two-rowed and 857 six-rowed barley accessions, respectively. For resistance to isolate ND4008, one quantitative trait locus (QTL, QRcs-6H-P7) was detected in all three panels. Three other QTL (QRcs-1H-P7, QRcs-2H-P7, and QRcs-3H-P7) were detected in Whole_Panel, Six-rowed_Panel, and Two-rowed_Panel, respectively. For resistance to isolate ND90Pr, one QTL (QRcs-1H-P2) was identified in the Whole_Panel and the Two-rowed_Panel, and the other QTL (QRcs-6H-P2) was only identified in the Six-rowed_Panel. For resistance to isolate ND85F, three QTL (QRcs-1H-P1, QRcs-3H-P1, QRcs-7H-2-P1) were detected in all three panels, and one QTL (QRcs-7H-1-P1) was only detected in the Two-rowed_Panel. Among the ten QTL detected, four (QRcs-1H-P1, QRcs-3H-P1, QRcs-7H-2-P1, and QRcs-1H-P2) were mapped to chromosome regions containing previously identified QTL for spot blotch resistance, while six (QRcs-1H-P7, QRcs-2H-P7, QRcs-3H-P7, QRcs-6H-P7, QRcs-6H-P2, and QRcs-7H-1-P1) were novel. The SNP markers associated with the QTL identified in this study will be useful for breeding barley cultivars with resistance to multiple pathotypes of C. sativus.
Who Are We, Where Are We, and What Can We Do? The “Place” of Localized Activism in the Global Extraordinary Rendition and Torture Program

In this essay, I examine a case of localized activism in the context of the globalized extraordinary rendition and torture program. I argue that the activists’ carefully crafted rhetoric highlighti...
Changes in the climatology, structure, and seasonality of northeast Pacific atmospheric rivers in CMIP5 climate simulations

AbstractThis paper describes changes in the climatology, structure, and seasonality of cool-season atmospheric rivers influencing the U.S. West Coast by examining the climate simulations from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) that are forced by the representative concentration pathway (RCP) 8.5 scenario. There are only slight changes in atmospheric river (AR) frequency and seasonality between historical (1970–99) and future (2070–99) periods considering the most extreme days (99th percentile) in integrated water vapor transport (IVT) along the U.S. West Coast. Changes in the 99th percentile of precipitation are only significant over the southern portion of the coast. In contrast, using the number of future days exceeding the historical 99th percentile IVT threshold produces statistically significant increases in the frequency of extreme IVT events for all winter months. The peak in future AR days appears to occur approximately one month earlier. The 10-model mean historical and ...
Cyclic azole-homologated peptides from Marine sponges

This review discusses the chemistry of cyclic azole-homologated peptides (AHPs) from the marine sponges, Theonella swinhoei, other Theonella species, Calyx spp. and Plakina jamaicensis. The origin, distribution of AHPs and molecular structure elucidations of AHPs are described followed by their biosynthesis, bioactivity, and synthetic efforts towards their total synthesis. Reports of partial and total synthesis of AHPs extend beyond peptide coupling reactions and include creative construction of the non-proteinogenic amino acid components, mainly the homologated heteroaromatic and α-keto-β-amino acids. A useful conclusion is drawn regarding AHPs: despite their rarity, exotic structures and the potent protease inhibitory properties of some members, their synthesis is under-developed and beckons solutions for outstanding problems towards their efficient assembly.
Transgressions of Moral Law: Enlarged Scope of Legal Authority

This chapter discusses the moral transgressions involved in drone strikes, particularly in reference to specific laws and policies. These include the Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF), the selection and authorization of victims, and the concept of “just war.”
Talk Back with Yik Yak? Exploring User Engagement via Anonymous Social Media in an Academic Library

ABSTRACTThis article presents results of a study of library-related posts on Yik Yak, a former social media app, and questions received via more traditional library-maintained virtual reference service platforms—namely, chat/instant messaging, SMS/text messaging, email, and LibAnswers' Query Spy—at College of Charleston's Addlestone Library. Based on an analysis of the results, suggestions are made for using social media tools similar to Yik Yak as a tool for interacting with patrons in academic library settings, specifically as a means to gather feedback about the library and to provide basic reference services.
Reinforcing Mass Spectrometry Concepts through an Undergraduate Laboratory Exercise Utilizing a Direct Analysis in Real Time Enabled Mass Spectrometer

Identification and quantification of an unknown illicit drug (cocaine) from both simulated drug paraphernalia and simulated urine can be achieved via direct analysis in real time (DART) triple quadrupole linear ion trap (QTRAP) mass spectrometry (MS). We describe a novel, hands-on laboratory activity which utilizes the recent DART technology interfaced with a tandem mass spectrometer for the purpose of integrating recent technology into a quantitative analysis course, reinforcing chemical concepts, improving critical thinking and written communication skills, and providing a context for real-life analyses. The hands-on laboratory activity requires students to use good laboratory practice, perform common laboratory calculations, and think critically to perform both qualitative and quantitative analyses and answer real-life forensic questions. Assessments include prelaboratory activity questions, observations during the activity, postlaboratory activity written report, and anonymous summative activity.
Top Management Team Crisis Communication After Claims of Sexual Harassment

Both sexual harassment and managerial crisis communication are important topics in undergraduate, graduate, and executive programs. This article describes a group role-play exercise that engages st...
An Autonomous Dynamic Camera Method for Effective Remote Teleoperation

In this paper, we present a method that improves the ability of remote users to teleoperate a manipulation robot arm by continuously providing them with an effective viewpoint using a second camera-in-hand robot arm. The user controls the manipulation robot using any teleoperation interface, and the camera-in-hand robot automatically servos to provide a view of the remote environment that is estimated to best support effective manipulations. Our method avoids occlusions with the manipulation arm to improve visibility, provides context and detailed views of the environment by varying the camera-target distance, utilizes motion prediction to cover the space of the user’s next manipulation actions, and actively corrects views to avoid disorienting the user as the camera moves. Through two user studies, we show that our method improves teleoperation performance over alternative methods of providing visual support for teleoperation. We discuss the implications of our findings for real-world teleoperation and for future research.
History of Treatment In Children With Developmental Disabilities And Psychopathology

The history of modern child psychopathology and developmental disabilities is of fairly recent origins. However, of the two topics, intellectual disability (ID) is the area which has received the most attention as a modern science and profession for the longest period of time. In December of 1896 in an address to the American Psychological Association, Lightner Witmer outlined what he descried as a scheme for practical work in psychology. The plan had four components: 1) the investigation of mental and moral development; 2) a psychological clinic supplemented by a training school/hospital to treat retardation or physical defects interfering with school progress; 3) practical work in the observation and training of normal and retarded children; and 4) training of students for a new profession, the psychological expert, who would examine and treat mentally and morally retarded children, or in connection with the practice of medicine (Witmer, 1907). Witmer discusses pedagogical treatment for stammering and other speech defects, bad spelling, slow mental development, and motor defects. As such, these early efforts were primarily geared toward remediation of what we would now call developmental or learning disabilities.
Serum biomarkers for traumatic brain injury.

There is a lack of reliable serum biomarkers for routine use in the diagnostic workup of people with traumatic brain injury. Multiple biomediators and biomarkers have been described in the pertinent lit- erature in recent years; however, only a few candidate molecules have been associated with high sensitivity and high specificity for risk stratification and outcome prediction after traumatic brain injury. This review was designed to provide an overview of the state of the art re- garding established serum biomarkers in the field and to outline future directions of investigation.
An Exercise Prescription for Healthy Active Aging

Our collective “population” is aging with both the number of people over the age of 65 years steadily rising and the fact that individuals are living longer lives. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2050, the number of adults aged 80 or older will approach 400 million worldwide. In an effort to improve efficiency and ensure that the healthcare system is able to care for such growth, health promotion and prevention are key. One method to promote healthy aging and prevent morbidity and mortality associated with chronic disease is through exercise. There are multiple benefits of exercise, particularly for those in their sixth decades and beyond. Benefits of exercise include chronic illness prevention and risk reduction, preservation of quality of life, improved psychological well-being, and social benefits affecting an individual’s community. The WHO provides clear guidelines on physical activity focusing on building and maintaining core strength, balance, and flexibility and bolstering cardiovascular stamina through regular aerobic activity. Unfortunately, recommendations without adherence and execution are mute. This highlights the importance of understanding a patient’s personal perspective on exercise and individual health goals. The aging population may be faced with various challenges such as decreased access to exercise facilities (e.g., affordability, transportation) and age-appropriate programs. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the benefits of exercise, WHO recommendations on physical activity, and barriers to regular exercise in those over the age of 65 and to provide an example of an exercise program or “a prescription for healthy aging.”
LGBT Discrimination and the Subtractive Moves

The Supreme Court will shortly consider whether Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sex discrimination in employment, covers discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The lower courts are split on whether such protection is granted by the plain language of the statute. The judges who reject the discrimination claim argue that the statute does not prohibit activity that is explicitly within its scope, and which is part of the mischief that the statute aims to remedy. Their subtractive strategy, an innovation in statutory interpretation, comprises a number of different argumentative moves, with a common aim: to draw upon the cultural context at the time of enactment to avoid an unwelcome implication of a statute’s plain language. This strategy however maximizes judicial discretion and betrays the promise of textualism.
A semantic measure of online review helpfulness and the importance of message entropy

Abstract The helpfulness of online reviews and their impact on purchase decisions is well established. Much previous research measured that helpfulness by analyzing vote assessments. This study examines an alternative semantic measure based on a text analysis of the term “helpful” in those reviews. Analyzing over 20,000 reviews shows that the semantic measure has a considerably higher R2 than vote assessments. Moreover, the new measure, as opposed to those based on votes, is not affected by posting order, avoiding a known source of bias in vote measures, and is conceptually unrelated to the number of previous helpfulness evaluations. The study also examines the role of the incremental entropy of each review's content as a new determinant of both the existing measures and the new semantic measure of online review helpfulness. The potential of the semantic measure, including that it can be automatically calculated even before human review users read the review, is discussed.
Shark detection probability from aerial drone surveys within a temperate estuary

Drones are easy to operate over metres-to-kilometre scales, making them potentially useful to monitor species distributions and habitat use in shallow estuaries with widely varying environmental co...
Trends and Outcomes of Intravascular Imaging-guided Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in the United States.

INTRODUCTION Intravascular imaging-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has shown to improve outcomes in randomized controlled trials. However, there are little real-world data about intravascular imaging utilization during PCI and its outcomes in the United States. METHODS We conducted an observational analysis on the use of intravascular imaging (Intravascular Ultrasound or Optical Coherence Tomography)-guided PCI in 2,425,036 patients undergoing PCI between January 2010 and December 2014 from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. Utilizing propensity score matching, 83,988 matched pairs were identified. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes included cardiogenic shock and acute kidney injury. RESULTS Among the 2,425,036 patients, 161,808 (6.7%) underwent imaging-guided PCI. Use of imaging-guidance increased from 6% in 2010 to 6.6% in 2014 (Ptrend < 0.001). The in-hospital mortality was significantly different between imaging-guided PCI and angiography-guided PCI [1.0% vs. 1.5%; adjusted OR: 0.67; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.54-0.83, P < 0.001]. The rates of cardiogenic shock (2.5% vs. 3.1%; adjusted OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.66-0.93; P = 0.005) were significantly lower in imaging-guided PCI group and acute kidney injury rates (7.0% vs. 7.1%; adjusted OR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.89-1.12; P = 0.919) were not significantly different. CONCLUSIONS Imaging-guided PCI is associated with lower in-hospital mortality. Yet, a small proportion of patients undergoing PCI have imaging-guidance.
Postoperative atrial fibrillation after cesarean delivery

Background and aims Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia seen clinically. Due to the lack of literature and guidelines on maternal AF as a postoperative complication following cesarean delivery (CD), we undertook a study to characterize parturients who developed AF following CD and to evaluate arrhythmia management and outcomes in this patient population. Methods After receiving ethics committee approval, a retrospective chart review was performed to determine the incidence, possible risk factors, treatment, and outcome of women who developed AF following CD performed between 2003 and 2012 at New York Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, New York. Results A total of 17,039 CDs were performed at New York Methodist Hospital from 2003 to 2012. Of these, seven parturients developed AF after CD. The incidence of AF following CD in this patient population was 1:2,434 (0.04%). The age range was 26-41 years, with a median of 33 years. All 7 parturients were at term or postterm. Two deliveries were elective and five were emergent. Two of the seven parturients had prior history of paroxysmal AF. One patient was identified as having mitral regurgitation. All seven had low levels of serum magnesium postoperatively. Out of the seven, two parturients had spontaneous conversion to normal sinus rhythm, one required electrical cardioversion and four required pharmacologic cardioversion. Conclusions Postoperative AF (POAF) exists as a rare complication in women who undergo CD with an incidence of 0.04% in our patient population. All parturients in our study were noted to have hypomagnesemia in the postoperative period. Occurrence of AF increased length of hospital stay and utilization of hospital resources.
Effect of intervertebral disc degeneration on mechanical and electric signals at the interface between disc and vertebra.

Abstract Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is significantly correlated with the changes in structure and material properties of adjacent vertebral bone, possibly through mechanical and electrical interactions. However, the mechanisms underlying the alteration of the mechanical and electrical environment at the disc-vertebra interface related with disc degeneration have not been well studied. The objective of this study was to numerically investigate the long-term distributions of mechanical and electrical signals on the disc-vertebra interface with disc degeneration. A three-dimensional finite element model of a human lumbar IVD was used to study the mechanical and electric signals at the interface between disc and vertebral body. The disc degeneration was simulated by reducing the nutrition levels on the nucleus pulposus (NP)-vertebra interface and on the annulus fibrosus (AF) periphery to 30% and 60% of its normal values, respectively. In the simulation, the total external mechanical load applied to the disc-vertebra segment was assumed unchanged during disc degeneration. The simulation results showed that the compressive stress of solid matrix changed by up to ~37 kPa on the NP-vertebra interface, while it increased by up to ~32 kPa on the AF-vertebra interface. The shear stress increased by up to ~37 kPa with disc degeneration. The absolute value of the electric potential on the disc-vertebra interface of the disc slightly decreased with the disc degeneration (~0.5 mV). The knowledge of these spatial and temporal variations of the mechanical stresses and electric potential on the disc-vertebra interface is important for understanding the vertebrae adaptation and remodeling during disc degeneration.
Bone marrow monopoiesis and wound healing in diabetes

Abstract This chapter focuses on interactions between bone marrow monopoiesis and skin wound healing in normal and diabetic settings. First, the importance and functions of monocytes/macrophages (Mo/Mɸ) in skin wound healing are reviewed as well as the role of Mo/Mɸ dysregulation in impaired wound healing in diabetes. Next, the sources of wound Mɸ are reviewed along with the impact of skin wounding on monopoiesis and the contribution of such wounding-induced monopoiesis to populations of wound Mɸ. Further, the evidence that diabetes increases monopoiesis is reviewed along with the contribution of diabetes-enhanced monopoiesis to increased Mɸ numbers in diabetic wounds and consequent impaired wound healing.
Amplifying Voices: Investigating a Cross-Institutional, Mutual Mentoring Program for URM Women in STEM

Underrepresented minority women in STEM comprise the faculty group most likely to leave academia. To address this issue we instituted a program called “Amplifying Voices,” a virtual, mutual mentoring program linking four groups of six women across 20 institutions. We facilitated bi-weekly Zoom meetings for two years and evaluated the effectiveness of the program. Participants reported reduced isolation, increased confidence, and enhanced self-efficacy. The groups were considered most successful when comprised of women who had similar career goals, but different perspectives, experiences, academic ranks and institutional affiliations. To inform future mentoring efforts, we identified issues and strategies frequently discussed in meetings.
Efficient Coupling of an Optical Antenna-LED to a Single-Mode Waveguide

Efficient high speed nanoscale optical sources are required for low power next generation data communication. In this report, we experimentally demonstrated a waveguide coupling ratio of 85.9% for the cavity-backed slot antenna LED to a single mode InP waveguide.
Substance use, sexual behavior, and general well-being of U.S. college students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A brief report.

This study gathered preliminary data on the impact of the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic on the substance use, sexual behavior, and general well-being of U.S. college students. Participants from colleges across the U.S. (N = 212; 50.5% female; M age = 22.09) completed an online survey between May 20th and July 5th, 2020 about COVID-19-related behavior change. Most students reported a decrease in quality of life (71.7%), an increase in levels of anxiety (63.7%), and problems with basic resource needs (53.8%). Reports of alcohol consumption increased for 26.9% of students and 15.1% reported an increase in cannabis use. Most students (57.5%) reported a decrease in sexual activity, yet access to, and use of, condoms generally remained unchanged. As universities resume residential instruction, existing prevention and intervention services will need to be adapted to address the mental and behavioral health needs of college students during the era of COVID-19.
Microbiota-Derived Metabolites, Indole-3-aldehyde and Indole-3-acetic Acid, Differentially Modulate Innate Cytokines and Stromal Remodeling Processes Associated with Autoimmune Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the synovial joints. Inflammation, new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) and bone resorption (osteoclastogenesis) are three key processes involved in the joint damage and deformities of arthritis. Various gut microbiota-derived metabolites are implicated in RA pathogenesis. However, there is barely any information about the impact of two such metabolites, indole-3-aldehyde (IAld) and indole-3-acetic acid (I3AA), on arthritis-related processes. We conducted a comparative analysis of IAld and I3AA using established cell-based models to understand how they might influence RA pathogenesis. Although structurally similar, the bioactivities of these two metabolites were profoundly different. IAld but not I3AA, inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) in RAW 264.7 (RAW) cells stimulated with heat-killed M. tuberculosis sonicate (Mtb) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). IAld also exhibited pro-angiogenic activity and pro-osteoclastogenic activity. In contrast, I3AA exhibited anti-angiogenic activity on endothelial cell tube formation but had no effect on osteoclastogenesis. Both IAld and I3AA have been proposed as aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists. Use of CH-223191, an inhibitor of the AhR, suppressed the anti-angiogenic activity of I3AA but failed to mitigate the effects of IAld. Further investigation of the anti-inflammatory activities of IAld and I3AA in LPS-treated RAW cells indicated that inhibition of MyD88-dependent activation of NF-κB and MAPK pathways was not likely involved. Our results suggest that the relative bioavailability of these indole derivatives may differentially impact RA progression and possibly other diseases that share similar cellular processes.
Clinical research during the COVID-19 pandemic: The role of virtual visits and digital approaches

Clinical trials are a fundamental tool in evaluating the safety and efficacy of new drugs, medical devices, and health system interventions. Clinical trial visits generally involve eligibility assessment, enrollment, intervention administration, data collection, and follow-up, with many of these steps performed during face-to-face visits between participants and the investigative team. Social distancing, which emerged as one of the mainstay strategies for reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2, has presented a challenge to the traditional model of clinical trial conduct, causing many research teams to halt all in-person contacts except for life-saving research. Nonetheless, clinical research has continued during the pandemic because study teams adapted quickly, turning to virtual visits and other similar methods to complete critical research activities. The purpose of this special communication is to document this rapid transition to virtual methodologies at Clinical and Translational Science Awards hubs and highlight important considerations for future development. Looking beyond the pandemic, we envision that a hybrid approach, which implements remote activities when feasible but also maintains in-person activities as necessary, will be adopted more widely for clinical trials. There will always be a need for in-person aspects of clinical research, but future study designs will need to incorporate remote capabilities.
Frequency Deviation Controller for Inter-Area Oscillations Damping in Smart Grids

The remarkable growth of power electronics- interfaced renewable generations in the electric power grid has the potential to pronounce the effect of frequency disturbances such as inter-area oscillations. These low-frequency disturbances reduce transmission lines capacity, and at worst even damage the power grid infrastructures. In this paper, we propose a novel control algorithm to eliminate inter-area oscillations modes based on local measurements of frequency and the system's global average frequency. The performance of the proposed solution is investigated on different multi-machine test systems with classic and detailed electromechanical dynamic models through modal analysis and time-domain simulations. The modal analysis results indicate that all the inter-area modes are damped for all test cases. Time-domain simulations also demonstrate that the proposed control not only takes the system to near-zero inter-area oscillations but also improves other power system stability measures such as transient stability and frequency nadir.
Pharmacological Inhibition of HSP90 Radiosensitizes Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Xenograft by Inhibition of DNA Damage Repair, Nucleotide Metabolism, and Radiation-Induced Tumor Vasculogenesis.

Purpose Recent preclinical studies suggest combining the HSP90 inhibitor AT13387 (Onalespib) with radiation (IR) against colon cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). These studies emphasized that AT13387 downregulates HSP90 client proteins involved in oncogenic signaling and DNA repair mechanisms as major drivers of enhanced radiosensitivity. Given the large array of client proteins HSP90 directs, we hypothesized that other key proteins or signaling pathways may be inhibited by AT13387 and contribute to enhanced radiosensitivity. Metabolomic analysis of HSP90 inhibition by AT13387 was conducted to identify metabolic biomarkers of radiosensitization and whether modulations of key proteins were involved in IR-induced tumor vasculogenesis, a process involved in tumor recurrence. Methods and Materials HNSCC and non-small cell lung cancer cell lines were used to evaluate the AT13387 radiosensitization effect in vitro and in vivo. Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and immunoblot analysis were used to evaluate cell cycle changes and HSP90 client protein's role in DNA damage repair. Metabolic analysis was performed using liquid chromatography–Mass spectrometry. Immunohistochemical examination of resected tumors post-AT13387 and IR treatment were conducted to identify biomarkers of IR-induced tumor vasculogenesis. Results In agreement with recent studies, AT13387 treatment combined with IR resulted in a G2/M cell cycle arrest and inhibited DNA repair. Metabolomic profiling indicated a decrease in key metabolites in glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid cycle by AT13387, a reduction in Adenosine 5'-triphosphate levels, and rate-limiting metabolites in nucleotide metabolism, namely phosphoribosyl diphosphate and aspartate. HNSCC xenografts treated with the combination exhibited increased tumor regrowth delay, decreased tumor infiltration of CD45 and CD11b+ bone marrow–derived cells, and inhibition of HIF-1 and SDF-1 expression, thereby inhibiting IR-induced vasculogenesis. Conclusions AT13387 treatment resulted in pharmacologic inhibition of cancer cell metabolism that was linked to DNA damage repair. AT13387 combined with IR inhibited IR-induced vasculogenesis, a process involved in tumor recurrence postradiotherapy. Combining AT13387 with IR warrants consideration of clinical trial assessment.
Pancreatic INI1-deficient undifferentiated rhabdoid carcinoma achieves complete clinical response on gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel following immediate progression on FOLFIRINOX: a case report

Introduction INI1-deficient undifferentiated rhabdoid carcinoma is a rare pancreatic carcinoma for which the optimal treatment is unknown. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most common histology of pancreas cancer, is treated with combination chemotherapy in the advanced setting, a strategy supported by strong evidence in well powered studies. In patients with excellent performance status, first-line treatment usually consists of the three-drug regimen FOLFIRINOX, with the combination of gemcitabine with nab-paclitaxel, typically less toxic than the three-drug regimen, reserved for second-line therapy. Given the lack of published reports describing treatment outcomes for patients with rare forms of pancreatic cancer, the same treatment approach used for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is typically employed. Observation This case describes a patient with metastatic pancreatic INI1-deficient undifferentiated rhabdoid carcinoma who was primarily resistant to FOLFIRINOX therapy but who then achieved an immediate, marked and sustained response to gemcitabine with nab-paclitaxel. Conclusion Given the lack of data informing on optimal management of INI1-deficient pancreatic undifferentiated rhabdoid carcinoma, and the exceptional response achieved by gemcitabine with nab-paclitaxel, this case report highlights a surprising and potentially informative anecdote. Additional studies are needed to confirm responses observed in this report which when taken together may strongly influence first-line therapy choice for this rare malignancy. Given the difficult in acquiring sufficient numbers of these rare histologies in any one institution, multi-institution collaboration in studying outcomes of rare pancreatic malignancies is likely essential.