cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cell cycle arrest in Metformin treated breast cancer cells involves activation of AMPK, downregulation of cyclin D1, and requires p27 Kip1 or p21 Cip1

The antihyperglycemic drug metformin may have beneficial effects on the prevention and treatment of cancer. Metformin is known to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). It has also been shown to inhibit cyclin D1 expression and proliferation of some cultured cancer cells. However, the mechanisms of action by which metformin mediates cell cycle arrest are not completely understood. In this study, metformin was found to inhibit proliferation of most cultured breast cancer cell lines. This was independent of estrogen receptor, HER2, or p53 status. Inhibition of cell proliferation was associated with arrest within G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. As in previous studies, metformin treatment led to activation of (AMPK) and downregulation of cyclin D1. However, these events were not sufficient for cell cycle arrest because they were also observed in the MDA-MB-231 cell line, which is not sensitive to growth arrest by metformin. In sensitive breast cancer lines, the reduction in cyclin D1 led to release of sequestered CDK inhibitors, p27Kip1 and p21Cip1, and association of these inhibitors with cyclin E/CDK2 complexes. The metformin-resistant cell line MDA-MB-231 expresses significantly lower levels of p27Kip1 and p21Cip1 than the metformin-sensitive cell line, MCF7. When p27Kip1 or p21Cip1 were overexpressed in MDA-MB-231, the cells became sensitive to cell cycle arrest in response to metformin. Cell cycle arrest in response to metformin requires CDK inhibitors in addition to AMPK activation and cyclin D1 downregulation. This is of interest because many cancers are associated with loss or downregulation of CDK inhibitors and the results may be relevant to the development of anti-tumor reagents that target the AMPK pathway.
Negative Campaigning: An Analysis of U.S. Senate Elections

Negative Campaigning: An Analysis of U.S. Senate Elections. By Richard R. Lau and Gerald M. Pomper. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2004. 177p. $26.95.If you think that negative campaigning has come to dominate the American electoral landscape, depresses voter turnout, is particularly effective in winning votes, and/or is detrimental to democracy, this book is a must read. Richard Lau and Gerald Pomper investigate a series of questions intended to illuminate these concerns. They utilize an extensive data set based on U.S. Senate elections from 1992 through 2002. Their findings are often quite startling. Negative campaigning does not appear to have the deleterious effects conventional wisdom would suggest.
Treatment of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy and idiopathic CD4+ lymphocytopenia

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is a neurological disease caused by the human polyoma virus JC virus and can present in patients with known immunodeficiencies. However, when associated with idiopathic CD4+ lymphocytopenia, management of patients can be quite challenging as these are two rare diseases with limited effective treatment options. In conjunction with the case report of a patient diagnosed with both conditions presented within this issue, a discussion of available treatment strategies is detailed.
Air‐sea interaction at an oceanic front: Implications for frontogenesis and primary production

Received 15 April 2003; accepted 17 June 2003; published 23 July 2003. [1] Based on recent satellite observations, we hypothesize that there exists a significant air-sea interaction at the shelfbreak front in the East China Sea. An idealized oceanatmosphere coupled model was designed to test this hypothesis and to study the physical processes involved in such an interaction, with emphasis on the oceanic part. A positive feedback between ocean and atmosphere was identified in the model and its consequences were evaluated. We found that air-sea interaction, when combined with sloping topography, could provide a mechanism for the genesis of the shelf-break front. The resulting frontal circulation and vertical mixing could bring nutrient-rich subsurface water into the surface euphotic zone, thus making the frontal region a conspicuous place for primary production. INDEX TERMS: 4504 Oceanography: Physical: Air/sea interactions (0312); 4528 Oceanography: Physical: Fronts and jets; 4815 Oceanography: Biological and Chemical: Ecosystems, structure and dynamics; 4219 Oceanography: General: Continental shelf processes; 4255 Oceanography: General: Numerical modeling. Citation: Chen, D., W. T. Liu, W. Tang, and Z. Wang, Air-sea interaction at an oceanic front: Implications for frontogenesis and primary production, Geophys. Res. Lett., 30(14), 1745, doi:10.1029/ 2003GL017536, 2003.
Leukotriene B4 Receptor Antagonism Reduces Monocytic Foam Cells in Mice

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a potent chemotactic agent that activates monocytes through the LTB4 receptor (BLTR). We tested the hypothesis that LTB4 receptor blockade would slow atherosclerotic progression by inhibiting monocyte recruitment. Homozygous low-density receptor knockout (LDLr(-/-)) mice and apolipoprotein E deficient (apoE(-/-)) mice were treated with a specific LTB4 receptor antagonist, CP-105,696, for 35 days. In apoE(-/-)mice, treatment with the LTB4 antagonist did not affect plasma lipid concentrations but significantly reduced CD11b levels both in vascular lesions and whole blood. Compared with age-matched controls, lipid accumulation and monocyte infiltration were significantly reduced in treated apoE(-/-) mice at all time points tested. Lesion area reduction was also demonstrated in LDLr(-/-) mice maintained on a high-fat diet. LTB4 antagonism had no significant effect on lesion size in mice possessing the null alleles for another chemotactic agent, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1(-/-)xapoE(-/-)), suggesting MCP-1 and LTB4 may either interact or exert their effects by a common mechanism. These results demonstrate that in a preclinical model of atherosclerosis LTB4 receptor blockade reduces lesion progression and further suggest a previously unrecognized role for LTB4 or other oxidized lipids recognized by the BLTR receptor in the pathogenesis of this disease.
Effect of Protein Intake on Tumor Growth and Cell Cycle Kinetics

Previous research has documented significant acceleration of tumor growth in animals receiving shorttern parenteral nutrition. This study was performed to determine the effect of long-term enteral protein intake on tumor cell cycle kinetics in the tumor-bearing host. Fifty Lewis/Wistar rats with subcutaneous mammary tumor implants (AC-33) were randomized to receive a standard protein diet (22.0% protein; 4.20 kcal/g) or protein-depleted diet (0.03% protein; 4.27 kcal/g). Animals were sacrificed after 7 or 14 days on each diet and tumor cytokinetics determined by flow cytometry. Tumor volume was significantly reduced in animals receiving the protein-depleted versus standard protein diet after 14 days (P < 0.01). No difference was found in tumor cell cycle kinetics (% G0/G1, S, or G2/M populations) or tumor growth fraction (S + G2/M) in animals receiving standard or protein-depeleted diet after 7 or 14 days. These results suggest that reduced tumor growth with prolonged protein depletion in this model occurs by either (a) movement of tumor cells from the active cell cycle to the dormant G0 state or (b) uniform increase of cell cycle duration without changing the relative proportion of cells throughout the cell cycle. The potential therapeutic implications of nutrient-induced alterations in tumor growth are discussed.
Gain Compression and Thermal Analysis of a Sapphire-Bonded Photonic Crystal Microcavity Laser

Gain compression factor and thermal properties of a photonic crystal microcavity laser bonded on a sapphire substrate are extracted by analyzing wavelength shifts under different duty cycles. A high thermal resistance of 43 K/mW and a gain compression factor of 1.2 times 10-16 cm3 are obtained.
Sources and yields of dissolved carbon in northern Wisconsin stream catchments with differing amounts of peatland

Abstract In five tributary streams (four inflowing and one outflowing) of 1600-ha Trout Lake in northern Wisconsin, USA, we examined factors that can affect the magnitude of stream flow and transport of dissolved organic and inorganic carbon (DOC and DIC) through the streams to the lake. One catchment, the Allequash Creek basin, was investigated in more detail to describe the dynamics of carbon flow and to identify potential carbon sources. Stream flows and carbon loads showed little or no relation to surface-water catchment area. They were more closely related to ground-water watershed area because ground-water discharge, from both local and regional sources, is a major contributor to the hydrologic budgets of these catchments. An important factor in determining carbon influx to the stream is the area of peatland in the catchment. Peatland porewaters contain DOC concentrations up to 40 mg l−1 and are a significant potential carbon source. Ground-water discharge and lateral flow through peat are the suspe...
Effects of wild type tau and disease-linked tau mutations on microtubule organization and intracellular trafficking

We investigate the effects of transient expression of wild type (WT) and disease-linked mutations of tau (R406W, P301L, ΔN296) on cytoskeletal organization and cargo transport in COS-7 cells, which are natively tau-free. The introduction of tau proteins (either WT or mutant forms) leads to a dramatic restructuring of the microtubule cytoskeleton, as observed using immunofluorescence microscopy. Yet, this microtubule bundling and aggregation has a modest effect on the speed and travel distance of motor-driven cargo transport, as measured by the motions of fluorescently-labeled lysosomes. This suggests that localized transport events are insensitive to the global structure of the microtubule cytoskeleton. Importantly, we also found no evidence that the disease-linked tau mutants were particularly toxic; in fact we found that expression of mutant and WT tau had similar effects on overall microtubule structure and transport phenotypes.
Endoscopy of the normal stomach

Diagnostic upper endoscopy is the best tool to obtain the most information regarding potential gastric abnormalities that may lead to clinical symptoms. Its usefulness is related to its application for appropriate indications by an experienced endoscopist. The endoscopist should not only be familiar with the appropriate techniques to allow for complete visualization of the stomach, but with the normal appearance of the different regions of the stomach. In addition, optimal performance of upper endoscopy requires a knowledge of the subtle variations from normal that do not require further investigation as a potential source of clinical symptoms. This knowledge is often as important to the patient as the ability to recognize obvious abnormalities.
A New Method for Determining Configuration Interaction Wave Functions for the Electronic States of Atoms and Molecules: The Vector Method

At least one procedure has been developed for accurately describing the ground and excited electronic states of atoms and molecules. The method, termed configuration interaction (CI), uses expansion techniques for correcting the SCF wave function ϕ 0 , $$ \psi = C_0 \varphi _0 + \sum\limits_{i = 1}^N {C_i \varphi _i \equiv C^ + \varphi } $$ (1) The correction functions, or configurations, ϕ i are usually linear combinations of Slater determinants.
Photon-Efficient 3D Imaging

Theory and proof-of-principle demonstrations are reviewed for two recent computational imaging approaches that are capable of forming high-quality range and reflectivity images from ~1 detected photon per pixel.
Third- and Fifth-Order Optical Properties of Transition Metal Complexes of Benzenedithiol at 1.064 μm

Time-resolved degenerate four-wave-mixing studies have been conducted on solutions of transition-metal complexes of benzenedithiol using a 35 ps Nd:YAG laser operating at 1.064 fum. The nonlinear optical properties of the first-row Co(d7), Ni(d8), and Cu(d9) and the d8 group Ni and P t transition metal complexes are discussed.
Statistical Examination of the a and a + 1 Fragment Ions from 193 nm Ultraviolet Photodissociation Reveals Local Hydrogen Bonding Interactions

Dissociation of proteins and peptides by 193 nm ultraviolet photodissociation (UVPD) has gained momentum in proteomic studies because of the diversity of backbone fragments that are produced and subsequent unrivaled sequence coverage obtained by the approach. The pathways that form the basis for the production of particular ion types are not completely understood. In this study, a statistical approach is used to probe hydrogen atom elimination from a + 1 radical ions, and different extents of elimination are found to vary as a function of the identity of the C-terminal residue of the a product ions and the presence or absence of hydrogen bonds to the cleaved residue. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
Creatinine VIII: Saliva levels of endogenous “true” creatinine in normal subjects

Concentrations of endogenous "true" creatinine in saliva and serum were measured in 6 normal subjects using a specific and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic method. There were marked intra- and intersubject variations in saliva levels during an 11-wk study. There were also large variations in the ratios of the saliva/serum creatinine level during the one-day study for all the subjects, the average highest intrasubject variation being 481% and the range being 128% to 816%. The average ratio of saliva/serum level was 0.0999 +/- 0.097 (CV = 97%); the highest saliva level was 1.5 mg%. Lower salivary levels were probably due to the extremely low lipid solubility of creatinine resulting in a relatively slower diffusion rate than of the transport of water into the saliva. Salivary monitoring of creatinine is concluded to be of little use in indicating its concentration in plasma or serum because, unlike many other substances it does not follow the pH-partition principle for saliva/plasma distribution.
Improvement in severe lower respiratory symptoms and small airway function in World Trade Center dust exposed community members

Objective Longitudinal assessment of lower respiratory symptoms (LRS) in community members with World Trade Center (WTC) exposures. Methods Adult members of a treatment program with complete standardized visits were evaluated (n = 798). Association of demographic characteristics, mental health symptoms and lung function with trajectory of LRS between initial and monitoring visit was evaluated. Results Severe LRS were present in 70% at initial and 63% at monitoring visit. Initial severe LRS were associated with WTC dust cloud exposure and mental health symptoms. Spirometry measures were not associated with LRS severity or trajectory; improvement in LRS was associated with improved lung function measured with forced oscillometry techniques. Conclusion Many community patients in a WTC treatment program had severe LRS associated with exposures and mental health symptoms. Improvement in LRS was associated with improvement in measures of small airway function. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:777–787, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cognitive computing: Principles, architectures, and applications

This paper is a summary of the plenary presentation. The objectives of the presentation are threefold: a) to discuss conceptual foundations of cognitive computing, b) to demonstrate their impact on intelligent systems design, and c) to present a brief summary of relevant project experiences. An introduction to knowledgebased and cognitive systems, and the explanation of their origins and principles are given. Then, an agent metaphor is introduced as the basis for design of high autonomy, cognitive architectures. Examples of projects from both industry and research laboratories that leverage from the above concepts are discussed. Some recent work that focuses on decision making in complex, information rich environments, multi-agent gaming models, and implementation of symbolic representation techniques in highly flexible, reusable, object-oriented visualization systems is presented. INTRODUCTION AND MOTIVATION Cognitive computing is an emerging approach that builds upon a wealth of research and development work in Artificial Intelligence (AI). It strives to provide methods to construct and operate systems that “know what they are doing” (Brachman 2002). From a perspective of practicing modelers and systems engineers, the primary motivation behind adopting cognitive methods is to better support the design and deployment of complex, intelligent systems. It is also the systems’ complexity that motivates us strongly to develop new integration techniques that help achieve high levels of autonomy and intelligence. As modelers and designers, we are excellent at constructing system modules and subcomponents. However, we often falter at the integration of those components not just in a structural, but also in a functional sense. For several years now, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has been driving an effort to build systems that are able to acquire and accumulate knowledge, reason, learn, explain themselves, and be aware of their own behavior (and be robust). Clearly, these are very highly sophisticated objectives and, realistically, there is currently no artificial system that can exhibit that kind of a complex, integrative behavior. From an engineering perspective, computer-aided support at the higher design level is urgently needed. Whereas excellent support exists at lower design levels — for instance, in circuit, or VLSI design — support for integrating hardware and software components at higher system levels is poor. Thus, our desire is to develop adequate modeling tools that support the development of complex heterogeneous systems, allow for reuse of models and modules, and help us in rapid prototyping. In the following sections, we examine how the cognitive techniques could help us accomplish those goals. We begin with a discussion of cognitive systems and their underlying AI paradigms.
A mechanistic modeling framework for gas-phase adsorption kinetics and fixed-bed transport

Adsorption is a complex physicochemical process involving interparticle transport, interphase mass-transfer, intraparticle diffusion, and surface reactions. Although the exact description of the adsorption process will inevitably vary from system to system, it will always be governed by those primary mechanisms. Therefore, by devising a model framework that can inherently include those mechanisms, it would be possible to create a modeling platform on which many different adsorption problems could be solved numerically. To accomplish this task, a generalized 1-D conservation law model was created to include the necessary mechanisms of adsorption on several different geometrical domains. Specific model applications for adsorption were developed under that framework and validated using experimental data available in literature or obtained in this work. This modeling platform makes it easier to model various adsorption problems and develop new adsorption models because of the common treatment of the mathematics governing the physical processes. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2017
Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy and Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy for a 6095-g Myomatous Uterus in a Patient of the Jehovah's Witness Faith.

Abstract Study Objective To demonstrate techniques for addressing the unique challenges for a minimally invasive approach to hysterectomy presented by a massive myomatous uterus. Design Technical video of an operation demonstrating the methods used to perform hysterectomy in this setting, highlighting such aspects as port placement ( Fig. 1 ), uterine manipulation ( Fig. 2 ), exposure, and vascular control ( Fig. 3 , Fig. 4 ) (Canadian Task Force classification III). Setting Academic tertiary care hospital. Intervention A 49-year-old woman elected to proceed with laparoscopic hysterectomy after years of suffering from bleeding and bulk symptoms from a massively enlarged myomatous uterus. A computed tomography scan estimated uterine dimensions of 32 × 27 × 24 cm, for a volume of >7000 mL ( Fig. 5 ). Her surgical history included a ventral herniorrhaphy with mesh, and her body mass index was 43 kg/m 2 . She was a Jehovah's Witness, and thus blood transfusion was not an acceptable option for her due to a religious prohibition. Intraoperatively, the uterus extended deep into the pararectal and paravesical spaces on the right, from the caudad below the cervix ( Fig. 6 ) to superiorly near the liver edge ( Fig. 7 ). Measurements and Main Results Laparoscopic hysterectomy was successfully completed ( Table ), and the patient was discharged on the day after surgery. Final pathology revealed a 6095-g uterus with benign leiomyomata. She presented 9 days after surgery with nausea and vomiting, suspicious for an incarcerated hernia at the tissue extraction site. Her symptoms were ultimately determined to be due to either ileus or small bowel obstruction, which likely could have been managed nonoperatively with bowel rest and fluids. She stayed an additional 2 days after readmission and was then discharged, with no further complications. Conclusions The size of the uterus was once considered a barrier to the use of laparoscopy for hysterectomy, but experience has shown that the benefits of minimally invasive surgery are particularly relevant for large myomas 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , given that a vaginal approach is not feasible and that other risks, such as wound complications and venous thromboembolism, would be greater with the large incision required to perform the procedure by laparotomy. This video uses a particularly challenging case to demonstrate a roadmap for addressing myomas in laparoscopic hysterectomy through exposure and vascular control. Although the presentation focused on the initial steps of the procedure and not on uterine extraction, this patient's readmission highlights potential complications associated with various methods of tissue removal for very large specimens.
Right Brain: Withholding treatment from a child with an epileptic encephalomyopathy

The case of Charlie Gard, an infant who was hospitalized in England due to a mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome that led to an epileptic encephalomyopathy, was highly publicized. Though Charlie9s parents lobbied for him to receive experimental nucleoside replacement therapy as a desperate effort to save him, this request was denied, and after a lengthy legal battle, he died in late July 2017. We discuss the ethical considerations and consequences of this case.
Mode of Action of Somatostatin in Islet B-Cells: Influence on Glucose-, L-Isoleucine- and Glyburide-Induced Electrical Activity

The widespread role of somatostatin (SRIF, somatotropin release inhibiting factor) as a modulator of neural activity as well as endocrine and exocrine secretion has stimulated interest in its mechanism of action.
The Approach of Pacifism

The subject of this chapter is the fourth religious approach to war: the way of pacifism. Pacifism is a central concern of this book, and in the chapters that follow the implications of pacifism – what it requires and what is allows – are discussed, as well as animadversions of pacifism and its moral and religious support. In this chapter the history of pacifism and nonviolence in early Christianity are documented, and the roots of nonviolence in both Eastern and Western religious traditions are noted. Pacifism has been given different interpretations and several of these interpretations are examined in this chapter. The most coherent form of pacifism, this chapter’s discussion will conclude, is the moral or religious acceptance of nonviolence and the repudiation of war and violence in personal relations and in all its expressions.
Sit-Stand Desk Software Can Now Monitor and Prompt Office Workers to Change Health Behaviors.

Objective:To determine the effectiveness of a computer-based intervention designed to increase sit-stand desk usage and help reverse workplace physical inactivity.Background:Sit-stand desks have be...
Social Change Model of Leadership Development: A 4-Year Program.

The social change model (SCM) of leadership development defines all students as potential leaders. Service acts as a powerful means for developing leadership skills within our students. After the 2...
Pick a Number, Any Number…Choosing Your Troponin Cutoff Wisely

Cardiac troponins (cTn)3 I and T are pervasively used to rule in or rule out acute myocardial infarction and/or assess for myocardial injury, with an abnormal result defined as a troponin concentration greater than the assay-specific 99th percentile (1, 2). High-sensitivity cTn assays (hs-cTnI, hs-cTnT) are being implemented globally and offer refined precision at low concentrations, which allow for enhanced clinical and analytical sensitivity and use of rapid rule-out strategies and algorithms. However, although hs-cTn assays continue to improve from an analytical perspective, the clinical performance gap continues to widen between automated/central laboratory hs-cTn assays vs point-of-care (POC) cTn assays. POC cTn testing has demonstrated lower clinical sensitivity with a positive predictive value around 50% (3), thereby resulting in a greater number of patients being undiagnosed, inadequately treated, or discharged in the acute care setting (4, 5). Nonetheless, POC cTn testing may be …
NATIONWIDE TRENDS IN COMPLICATIONS OF INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS IN UNITED STATES FROM 1999 TO 2014

The incidence of infective endocarditis has been on a steady rise in United States. However, data on trends and hazards of complications of infective endocarditis with recent changes in guidelines is lacking. The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 1999-2014 was queried to identify Infective
Integration of optical functionality for image sensing through sub-wavelength geometry design

Integration and pixel scaling are enabling trends for low-cost, small form-factor, light-weight, and low-power camera systems across all optical frequency bands. Integration allows on-chip implementations of optical functionalities, e.g., polarization, color and spectral selectivity, which were previously achieved using bulky external components (e.g., prisms, filter wheels). Wavelength-size pixels require focusing and guiding of light at the pixel-level (e.g., micro-lenses, light guides), which was not necessary for larger pixels. On-chip integration of optical functionalities and pixel-level light control is often based on miniaturized versions of conventional optical components. These components derive their functionality from material properties or shapes, but do not lend themselves well to integration or scale to wavelengthsize pixels. Here, I present an overview of innovative integrated optical devices that overcome the problems associated with the integration and scaling of conventional components. They are enabled by scaling of imager and focal plane array technology, and by advanced nanofabrication. Wafer-scale processing and nanofabrication have made nano-scale patterning possible, while recent discoveries regarding the optical properties of nano-patterned structures have opened up important opportunities to develop ultra-compact photonic devices. I discuss design implementations for the visible (VIS) and infrared (IR) wavelength bands, including VIS integrated color pixels (ICPs) in a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology with geometry-based color filters, micro-lens functionality based on planar nanoaperture designs, and metal-based spectral filters for mid-wave IR (MWIR) multispectral imaging that can be implemented using standard nanofabrication methods. The devices are planar and/or ultra-thin, rely on processcompatible materials only, and derive their functionality from sub-wavelength geometry design.
Interface for Querying and Data Mining for NYC Yellow and Green Taxi Trip Data

Big data analysis is often seen as a complex process for processing large sets of data to uncover hidden information and patterns. This information can then be used by different groups of people to make decisions, to run their businesses and processes more efficiently. Just as important as the analysis technique used, so is the way we present that information. The purpose of our research is to investigate how large data generated by day to day activities in an urban environment can be processed to support analysis and visualization is support of public awareness and decision making. Specifically, New York City’s large and regularly updated open data sets focused on taxi rides provide an excellent opportunity for the development of user-friendly web based interface for visualization and querying. Faced with an ever increasing (in both size and diversity) access to open data sets interfaces such as the one we designed nd developed will become valuable tools for public and specialized access (such as journalistic investigation). The application was built using state of the art technologies and provides a visualization of trends in ridership data from the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission.
Real-time realization of Dynamic Programming using machine learning methods for IC engine waste heat recovery system power optimization

Abstract This study aims to present a method for real-time realization of Dynamic Programming algorithm for power optimization in an organic Rankine Cycle waste heat recovery system. Different from existing studies, for the first time machine learning algorithms are utilized to extract the rules from offline Dynamic Programming results for optimal power generation. In addition, for the first time a single state Proper Orthogonal Decomposition and Galerkin Projection based reduced order model is combined with Dynamic Programming for its high accuracy and low computation cost. For a transient driving cycle, Dynamic Programming algorithm is utilized to generate the optimal working fluid pump speed. A total of eleven state-of-art machine learning algorithms are screened to predict this pump speed. Random Forest algorithm is then selected for its best pump speed prediction accuracy. A rule-based method is added to the Random Forest model to improve energy recovery. As one of the main discoveries in this study, in the rule extraction process, the Random Forest model reveals that the time delayed exhaust gas mass flow rate and exhaust temperature improve the rule extraction accuracy. This observation points out the difference between steady state and transient optimization and that the steady state optimization results do not necessarily hold true in transient conditions. Another key observation is that Random Forest – rule-based method retrieves 97.2% of the energy recovered by offline Dynamic Programming in a validation driving cycle. In addition, the inclusion of rule-based method significantly increases the Random Forest model’s energy recovery from 66.5% to 97.2%. This high accuracy means that the machine learning models can be used to extract Dynamic Programming rules for real-time application.
Observer-based Synchronization of Multi-agent Systems Using Intermittent Output Measurements

The problem of synchronizing multiple continuous-time linear time-invariant systems connected over a complex network, with intermittently available measurements of their outputs, is considered. To solve this problem, we propose a distributed observer-based feedback controller that utilizes a local hybrid observer to estimate neighboring states only from output measurements at such potentially nonperiodic isolated event times. Due to the inherent continuous and discrete dynamics emerging from coupling the impulsive measurement updates and the interconnected networked systems, we use hybrid systems to model and analyze the resulting closed-loop system. The problem of synchronization and state estimation is then recast as a set stabilization problem, and, utilizing a Lyapunov-based analysis for hybrid systems, we provide sufficient conditions for global exponential stability of the synchronization and zero estimation error set. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the results.
An innovative teaching model in an academic-practice partnership for a Doctor of Nursing Practice program

Teaching innovations in Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are essential for preparing practitioners for role responsibilities. The purpose of this paper is to describe a teaching model implemented in a public-private academic-practice partnership in which DNP-prepared healthcare organization nursing leaders joined with college of nursing faculty to teach didactic courses in the DNP program. The conceptual framework for this model is organized around Boyer's (1990) principles of the scholarship of teaching, integration, and application, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing definition of scholarship (2018). A logic model evaluation plan of the teaching model includes a description of inputs, activities, outputs, and outcomes. Outcomes include the attainment of short term goals related to student satisfaction and DNP program completion; faculty and peer satisfaction; and administrator perspectives. Future evaluation will include assessment of long-term impact of the teaching model. The teaching model can be replicated in preparing cohorts of students for advanced practice nursing and cultivating the scholarship of teaching, integration and application.
The biophysical basis of protein domain compatibility in ion channels

Abstract Understanding the biophysical mechanisms that govern the combination of protein domains into viable proteins is essential for advancing synthetic biology and biomedical engineering. Here, we use massively-parallel genotype/phenotype assays to determine cell surface expression of over 300,000 variants of the inward rectifier K+ channel Kir2.1 recombined with hundreds of protein motifs. We use machine learning to derive a quantitative biophysical model and practical rules for domain recombination. Insertional fitness depends on nonlinear interactions between the biophysical properties of inserted motifs and the recipient protein, which adds a new dimension to the rational design of fusion proteins. Insertion maps reveal a generalizable hierarchical organization of Kir2.1 and several other ion channels that balances stability needed for folding and dynamics required for function. Summary Massively parallel assays reveal interactions between donor domains and recipient proteins govern domain compatibility
What does the new long-run monetary policy framework imply for the path ahead?

Following a lengthy review, the FOMC recently revised its long-run monetary policy strategy statement, largely in recognition of the persistent threat the effective lower bound (ELB) on policy rates poses to its dual mandate goals. Under traditional monetary policy strategies, the ELB imparts a persistent downward bias to inflation and inflation expectations; to offset this, new strategies are needed which will at times deliver inflation above 2%. The new framework addresses this issue and seeks to achieve inflation that averages 2% over time. It also emphasizes that maximum employment is a broad-based and inclusive goal, and that the FOMC should seek to eliminate shortfalls—rather than symmetric deviations—from maximum employment. The FOMC’s September policy statement provided forward guidance that is fully consistent with the new strategy. Historical retrospection of the 2015–2018 liftoff period suggests that, if it were in place over that time, the new framework and forward guidance likely would have forestalled rate increases and potentially delivered better macroeconomic outcomes. More, generally, to reduce employment shortfalls and average 2% inflation over time, the FOMC needs to have an “in it to win it” attitude toward our inflation objective. The September FOMC statement’s forward guidance that inflation should be at 2% and confidently on track for overshooting before we liftoff from the ELB is an important step in that direction.
Imports, Exports, Dollar Exposures, and Stock Returns

Economic theory suggests that the magnitude and direction of a firm’s currency risk exposure depends crucially on its fundamental involvement in international trade. For U.S. industries, we find that the stock performance of import-oriented companies moves positively with the performance of the dollar, but the stock performance of export-oriented companies tends to move against the dollar. Based on this finding, we use the imports and exports information to enhance the identification of the dollar risk exposure for different industries, and analyze how each industry’s expected stock return varies with its dollar risk exposure. We identify a strongly negative risk premium for bearing positive exposures to the dollar. On average, import-oriented companies generate lower expected stock returns.
Cryopreservation of Axillary Buds of Cannabis sativa L. by V-Cryoplate Droplet-Vitrification: The Critical Role of Sucrose Preculture.

BACKGROUND Cryopreservation is the only method allowing the safe and cost-effective long-term conservation of important germplasm. Recent use of the cryo-plate system has proven beneficial in further simplifying the cryopreservation protocols. OBJECTIVE Developing an efficient protocol for the cryopreservation of axillary buds of Cannabis sativa elite cultivars (MX and V1-20) by the V-cryoplate droplet-vitrification technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS Stem segments (~5 cm in length) with mature axillary buds collected from indoor-grown plants were surface sterilized and then either precultured on MS basal medium with 0.1 M sucrose (1st step preculture) for 72 h or non-precultured. All mature axillary buds (~1 mm) were aseptically excised from stem segments and precultured for an additional 48 h on MS basal medium with sucrose (0.3 M) and 5% DMSO prior to cryopreservation (2nd step preculture). Biomass samples of fully mature mother plants and regrown cryopreserved plants were analyzed for Δ9-THC and CBD content using gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC/FID). RESULTS The survival and regrowth rates of cryopreserved axillary buds of cultivar MX following this two-step preculture were 45% and 42% respectively, while those of cultivar V1-20 were 47% and 44% respectively. A direct preculture of axillary buds (2nd step preculture) on high sucrose (0.3M sucrose) significantly decreased both the survival and regrowth levels of axillary buds of cultivar MX (5% and 3% respectively) as well as those of cultivar V1-20 (20% and 17% respectively). Δ9-THC and CBD content of mother plants and regrown cryopreserved plants were found to be highly comparable to each other. CONCLUSION The resulting plants after cryopreservation appeared normal without any callus formation or morphogenetic variation. On maturity, mother plants and re-grown cryopreserved plants were comparable in terms of Δ9-THC and CBD content. This report provides an efficient protocol for cryopreservation of axillary buds of Cannabis sativa cultivars which may be applicable to other important cultivars, plant parts and other related medicinal plants.
Inter-provincial migration and inequality during Vietnam's transition

Abstract Vietnam's economic boom during the transition to a market economy has centered on very rapid growth in some sectors and provinces, yet poverty has diminished across the entire country. With capital investments highly concentrated by province and sector, geographic labor mobility may be critical in spreading the gains from growth. Conversely, rising income inequality may be attributable in part to impediments to migration. We first use census data to investigate migration patterns and determinants. We then examine the role of migration as an influence on income ratios between pairs of provinces. The former analysis robustly confirms economic motives for migration but also suggests the existence of poverty-related labor immobility at the provincial level. Examination of income ratios between pairs of provinces reveals that the impact of migration on inequality can be either negative or positive. A robust inequality-reducing impact of migration is found for migration flows into provinces where most of Vietnam's trade-oriented industrial investments are located.
The effects of intrinsic foot muscle strengthening on functional mobility in older adults: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND Weakness and disuse of intrinsic foot muscles contributes to dysfunction in foot and toe alignment and sensory input, which may lead to instability and falls in older adults. The aim of this systematic review was to report the effects of intrinsic foot muscle strengthening (IFMS) interventions on functional mobility in adults aged ≥65 years. METHODS A systematic review was performed with searches from December 2019-February 2021 using MEDLINE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Rehab and Sports Medicine Source, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Additional sources were sought using reference scanning. Eligible sources analyzed adults aged ≥65 years (n = 1674) who were ambulatory, used a functional mobility outcome measure, and contained foot and ankle interventions that included IFMS. Literature studies regarding neurological, vestibular, cognitive, amputation, or post-surgical conditions were excluded. Studies that did not specify intrinsic foot muscle involvement were excluded. Two authors extracted relevant studies and appraised them using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. RESULTS A total of 1420 articles were screened for relevance, and 16 were extracted. Five additional sources were obtained through reference scanning. Nine articles were eligible for review. PEDro scores ranged from 3 to 7 (out of 10), indicating "fair" quality of evidence. Heterogeneity of methods and data did not allow for statistical comparison. Themes extracted from sources were types of intrinsic foot strengthening interventions and parameters; outcomes on falls, balance, functional mobility; and subjective reports regarding functional mobility. CONCLUSION Evidence reviewed was of fair quality. IFMS interventions contributed to improvements in strength, balance, mobility, and possibly reduced fall risk. There was little effect on gait. Subjective reports indicate a possible mechanism for improved mobility may be from increased proprioception and sensation.
High Temperature Coarsening of Cr2Nb Precipitates in Cu-8 Cr-4 Nb alloy

A new high-temperature-strength, high-conductivity Cu-Cr-Nb alloy with a CrNb ratio of 2:1 was developed to achieve improved performance and durability. The Cu-8 Cr4 Nb alloy studied has demonstrated remarkable thermal and microstructural stability after long exposures at temperatures up to 0.98 T(sub m). This stability was mainly attributed to the slow coarsening kinetics of the Cr2Nb precipitates present in the alloy. At all temperatures, the microstructure consists of a bimodal and sometimes trimodal distribution of strengthening Cr2Nb precipitates, depending on precipitation condition, i.e. from liquid or solid solution, and cooling rates. These precipitates remain in the same size range, i.e. large precipitates of approximately I pm, and small precipitates less dm 300 nm, and effectively pin the grain boundaries thus retaining a fine grain size of 2.7 micro-m after 100 h at 1323 K. (A relatively small number of Cr-rich and Nb-rich particles were also present.) This grain boundary pinning and sluggish coarsening of Cr2Nb particles explain the retention of good mechanical properties after prolonged holding at very high temperatures, e.g., 75% of the original hardness after aging for 100 h at 1273 K. Application of LSW-based coarsening models indicated that the coarsening kinetics of the large precipitates are most likely governed by grain boundary diffsion and, to a lesser extent, volume diffusion mechanisms.
Modulation of class 3 aldehyde dehydrogenase gene expression. An eye opening experience.

Class ldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH3) is an enzyme that efficiently converts a varietf endogenous as well as exogenous aldehydes to their corresponding carboxylic acids.r some time now the tissue distribution, protein and gene sequence of ALDH3 have b known. A low Km for medium length aliphatic as well as aromatic aldehydes is the maof ALDH3. The ALDH3 monomer is 453 amino acids long, and unlike other mammal ALDHs, the native protein is a homodimer. Recently, the ALDH3 crystal struct has been determined and, arguably, nearly understood. ALDHS is expressed differentially in mamian tissues, being constitutively expressed in cornea, stomach, lung and urry tract, and only inducible by xenobiotics in liver; it is also found in certain cancer cells.
A web-based system for intrusion detection

An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) assists in managing threats and vulnerabilities in a computer network. A data mining based IDS helps in differentiating intrusions from normal activity by automatically detecting anomalous patterns in large volumes of audit data on packet traces. In this work, a Web-based data mining system to analyze intrusions is presented. The system is implemented using all freeware available in public domain. The system finds anomalous activity that uncovers a real attack process and identifies long and ongoing patterns. It can be used to analyze host-based traffic features, time-based traffic features, protocol-based traffic features, and the associated intrusions. With the help of this system, rules can be generated to capture the behavior of the intrusions as well as of normal activity. The proposed system can be used on a small network for educational and training purposes as well as students in networking or security-related courses can be inspired to develop similar tools for their graduate or undergraduate projects.
Psychosocial and cardiac outcomes of yoga for ICD patients: a randomized clinical control trial.

Background Because as many as 46% of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) patients experience clinical symptoms of shock anxiety, this randomized controlled study evaluated the efficacy of adapted yoga (vs usual care) in reducing clinical psychosocial risks shown to impact morbidity and mortality in ICD recipients. Methods Forty-six participants were randomized to a control group or an 8-week adapted yoga group that followed a standardized protocol with weekly classes and home practice. Medical and psychosocial data were collected at baseline and follow-up, then compared and analyzed. Results Total shock anxiety decreased for the yoga group and increased for the control group, t(4.43, 36), P < 0.0001, with significant differences between these changes. Similarly, consequential anxiety decreased for the yoga group but increased for the control group t(2.86,36) P = 0.007. Compared to the control, the yoga group had greater overall self-compassion, t(–2.84,37), P = 0.007, and greater mindfulness, t(–2.10,37) P = 0.04, at the end of the study. Exploratory analyses utilizing a linear model (R2 = 0.98) of observed device-treated ventricular (DTV) events revealed that the expected number of DTV events in the yoga group was significantly lower than in the control group (P < 0.0001). Compared to the control, the yoga group had a 32% lower risk of experiencing device-related firings at end of follow-up. Conclusions Our study demonstrated psychosocial benefits from a program of adapted yoga (vs usual care) for ICD recipients. These data support continued research to better understand the role of complementary medicine to address ICD-specific stress in cardiac outcomes.
Prevention Research Recommendations: Scientific Integration for the 90s

SUMMARY This paper overviews Society for Prevention Research scientific discussions and presents recommendations for advancing prevention science and prevention research.