cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Auf welche Ursache tippen Sie

Der 62-jahrige Patient wurde wegen zunehmender Dyspnoe bei einer ausgepragten Schwellung des Gesichts und des Halses stationar aufgenommen. Der Patient beklagte zudem ein Gefuhl der Blutfulle und Druck im Kopf. Die Beschwerden seien im Liegen besonders ausgepragt. Erstmals habe er die Beschwerden vor zehn Tagen in geringer Auspragung wahrgenommen, seitdem hatten sich diese kontinuierlich verschlechtert.
Therapeutic targeting of splicing in cancer

Recent studies have highlighted that splicing patterns are frequently altered in cancer and that mutations in genes encoding spliceosomal proteins, as well as mutations affecting the splicing of key cancer-associated genes, are enriched in cancer. In parallel, there is also accumulating evidence that several molecular subtypes of cancer are highly dependent on splicing function for cell survival. These findings have resulted in a growing interest in targeting splicing catalysis, splicing regulatory proteins, and/or specific key altered splicing events in the treatment of cancer. Here we present strategies that exist and that are in development to target altered dependency on the spliceosome, as well as aberrant splicing, in cancer. These include drugs to target global splicing in cancer subtypes that are preferentially dependent on wild-type splicing for survival, methods to alter post-translational modifications of splicing-regulating proteins, and strategies to modulate pathologic splicing events and protein-RNA interactions in cancer.
Associated particle neutron elemental imaging in vivo: A feasibility study

Purpose The purpose of this study is to develop a Monte Carlo simulation model for in vivo associated particle neutron elemental imaging (APNEI) and to study the feasibility of using APNEI to determine the iron distribution in a human liver with the defined model. Methods The model presented in this study was defined in mcnp by the basic geometry of the human body, the use of D + D source neutrons, iron as the element of interest, an iron-containing voxel in the liver as the target region, and 2 large germanium detectors anterior and posterior to the trunk of the body. The f8 pulse height tally was employed in mcnp to determine the signal acquired from iron inelastic scatter gamma rays at various iron concentrations in the target liver voxel. Correspondingly, the f4 average flux tally in mcnp was modified by a dose function such that the equivalent dose to the whole liver and the effective dose to the whole body could be estimated and used as the basis for a limiting number of neutron histories which could feasibly allow for the collection of a sufficient volume of data to construct a 2D image of iron distribution in the liver voxel. Results Assuming an allowable equivalent dose to the liver of 5 mSv, 143 inelastic scatter iron gamma ray counts (at ∼847 keV) would ideally be registered at the germanium detectors for a 1 cm3 cube-shaped liver voxel with an iron concentration of 1000 ppm. According to the simulation model, an image of iron distribution in the liver can be constructed with a 1 cm resolution at the level of 1000 ppm iron. Collecting such an image would yield an estimated whole body dose of 0.82 mSv. The mathematical introduction of image uncertainty resulting from source spot diameter and detector timing resolution more closely approximates the result of real world application. Conclusions APNEI of certain elements in vivo appears feasible given several timing, sensitivity, and resolution caveats. However, further study is required to determine what the detection limit of iron would be and what image resolution would be in an experimental setup as the present model contains idealized assumptions which overestimate the signal attributable to iron inelastic scatter gamma rays.
PML-IRIS associated with fingolimod in a multiple sclerosis patient with prior immunosuppression (P2.094)

OBJECTIVE: To describe the course of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) associated with fingolimod in a multiple sclerosis (MS) patient with prior exposure to immunosuppressants. BACKGROUND: PML has occurred in association with certain disease modifying drugs, notably natalizumab, and, more recently, fingolimod and dimethyl fumarate. METHODS: Case report. RESULTS: A 51-year-old woman with relapsing MS since 1997, previously managed with interferon and glatiramer acetate, was switched to fingolimod in 2012 due to breakthrough disease activity. At the time she tested seropositive for JCV. In the past, she had been treated with azathioprine for inflammatory bowel disease and capecitabine and oxaliplatin for colon cancer. In August 2015, she presented with progressive cognitive dysfunction and dysarthria for one month. Fingolimod was discontinued due to concern for PML. Brain MRI showed lesions suspicious for PML. CSF revealed JCV DNA PCR with 336 copies/ml and she was JCV seropositive (index of 2.41). HIV testing was negative and the absolute lymphocyte count was 500 cells/mm3. The patient was started on mirtazapine while her clinical and radiologic status and lymphocyte count were closely monitored. Three weeks after discontinuing fingolimod, her clinical status deteriorated, with brain MRI showing increased areas of contrast enhancement presumably due to immune reconstitution syndrome (IRIS). These events coincided with a gradual rise in lymphocyte count. She received two courses of intravenous methylprednisolone. She has had some clinical improvement to date, but with residual cognitive dysfunction, ataxia, and dysarthria. CONCLUSIONS: This case demonstrates that prior immunosuppression may be a risk factor for PML during fingolimod therapy. Emergence of PML-IRIS following fingolimod discontinuation and reversal of lymphopenia highlights the need for vigilant clinical and radiologic monitoring. We suggest that fingolimod should be used cautiously in JCV-seropositive patients with prior exposure to immunosuppression. Disclosure: Dr. Gyang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hamel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Goodman has received personal compensation for activities with Acorda Therapeutics, Biogen Idec, EMD-Serono, Genzyme-Sanofi, GW Pharma, Novartis, Purdue, and Teva Neuroscience. Dr. Samkoff has nothing to disclose.
Prevalence of Chronic Conditions and Multimorbidities in a Geographically Defined Geriatric Population With Diverse Races and Ethnicities.

Objective: The objective of this study is to examine racial/ethnic differences in prevalence of chronic conditions and multimorbidities in the geriatric population of a state with diverse races/eth...
Movement integration in elementary classrooms: Teacher perceptions and implications for program planning

Movement integration (MI), which involves infusing physical activity (PA) into regular classroom time in schools, is widely recommended to help children meet the national guideline of 60min of PA each day. Understanding the perspective of elementary classroom teachers (ECTs) toward MI is critical to program planning for interventions/professional development. This study examined the MI perceptions of ECTs in order to inform the design and implementation of a school-based pilot program that focused in part on increasing children's PA through MI. Twelve ECTs (Grades 1-3) from four schools were selected to participate based on their responses to a survey about their use of MI. Based on the idea that MI programming should be designed with particular attention to teachers who integrate relatively few movement opportunities in their classrooms, the intent was to select the teacher who reported integrating movement the least at her/his respective grade level at each school. However, not all of these teachers agreed to participate in the study. The final sample included two groups of ECTs, including eight lowest integrating teachers and four additional teachers. Each ECT participated in an interview during the semester before the pilot program was implemented. Through qualitative analysis of the interview transcripts, four themes emerged: (a) challenges and barriers (e.g., lack of time), (b) current and ideal resources (e.g., school support), (c) current implementation processes (e.g., scheduling MI into daily routines), and (e) teachers' ideas and tips for MI (e.g., stick with it and learn as you go). The themes were supported by data from both groups of teachers. This study's findings can inform future efforts to increase movement opportunities for children during regular classroom time.
Dylan’s units coordinating across contexts

Abstract Units coordination has emerged as an important construct for understanding students’ mathematical thinking, particularly their concepts of multiplication and fractions. To explore students’ units coordination development, we conducted an eleven-session constructivist teaching experiment with a pair of sixth-grade students, investigating how they coordinated whole number and fractional units in discrete and continuous settings. In this paper we focus on one student, Dylan, who reasoned with whole number units but not fractional units at the beginning of the teaching experiment. We describe Dylan’s development of units coordination as he continued to reason with whole number units in fractional situations, and we discuss implications for instruction.
Encanto desde Hollywood: glamour y feminidad en la revista Ecran (Chile 1930-1931)

El objetivo del articulo es dar cuenta de las representaciones de genero de las estrellas hollywoodense en la revista chilena Ecran en los anos 1930-1931. Durante toda la decada del treinta, el atractivo de Hollywood ayudo a consolidar una cultura de masas en Chile, popularizando una modernidad al estilo norteamericano. En este contexto, se indaga como la imagen de la estrella en Ecran opero a modo de una representacion de genero que se instalo como un referente de la mujer moderna y elegante. Planteamos que las estrellas publicitadas por la revista representaron una feminidad glamorosa con un importante valor estetico asociado a parametros corporales y de apariencia como la delgadez y la moda.
Macronutrient concentrations of soybean infected with soybean cyst nematode

Soybean cultivars (Glycine max(L.) Merr.) infected with soybean cyst nematode (SCN; Heterodera glycinesIchinohe) often show symptoms similar to K deficiency. The objectives of this experiment were to determine if SCN infection affected macronutrient concentrations in soybean seedling vegetative tissues, determine whether increased K fertility can overcome these possible effects, and to determine if these possible effects are localized at the site of infection or expressed systemically throughout the root system. Soybean plants were grown with root systems split into two halves. This allowed differential K (0.2, 2.4 and 6.0 mM K nutrient solutions) and SCN (0 and 15 000 eggs/plant) treatments to be applied to opposite root-halves of the same plant. Thirty days after plants were inoculated with SCN, macronutrient concentrations of shoot and root tissues were determined. Potassium concentration in leaf blades was not affected; but K concentrations in leaf-petiole and stem tissues were increased with SCN infection. Roots infected with SCN contained lower K concentrations than uninfected roots, but only for the 2.4 mM K treatment. Thus, at the medium level of K fertility, SCN reduced K concentration in soybean roots, and increasing K fertility to the high level overcame the effect. Because K concentrations in the shoot tissues were not reduced by SCN infection, above ground portions of the plant may be able to overcome limitations that occur in roots during the first 30 days of infection. Increasing K fertility level in soybean fields may not benefit vegetative growth of soybean infected with SCN.
Climate change effects on livestock in the Northeast US and strategies for adaptation

The livestock industries are a major contributor to the economy of the northeastern United States. Climate models predict increased average maximum temperatures, days with temperatures exceeding 25 °C, and higher annual precipitation in the Northeast. These environmental changes combined with increased atmospheric CO2 concentration are expected to either increase or decrease forage productivity depending on the crop, and may decrease protein content and forage digestibility. Winter damage to sensitive forage species may also increase. Predicted temperature increases are expected to reduce fertility in dairy cattle and heat stress-induced inflammation may limit energy available for productive functions. Additional loss in milk production due to decreased feed intake is estimated to be up to 1% of the projected annual milk production through 2100. The effects of climate change on the beef industry in the Northeast are expected to be minimal. Broiler production in the region may benefit from warmer winter and summer temperatures, but future housing will require greater insulation and ventilation fan capacity. Providing adequate housing and ventilation to offset climate changes will also be important for the layer industry and will likely increase the price of eggs. Climate change is expected to have an economic impact on the horse industry in the region through additional management of land and forage resources, building of shelters, and heat abatement at equine events. Increased temperatures and more intense storms will increase nutrient losses and gaseous emissions from animal manure. Uncertainties about how host animals, pathogens, and disease vectors will respond to climate change highlight the need for continued animal health monitoring.
Tile prediction schemes for wide area motion imagery maps in GIS

Abstract Wide-area surveillance, traffic monitoring, and emergency management are just several of many applications benefiting from the incorporation of Wide-Area Motion Imagery (WAMI) maps into geographic information systems. Though the use of motion imagery as a GIS base map via the Web Map Service (WMS) standard is not a new concept, effectively streaming imagery is particularly challenging due to its large scale and the multidimensionally interactive nature of clients that use WMS. Ineffective streaming from a server to one or more clients can unnecessarily overwhelm network bandwidth and cause frustratingly large amounts of latency in visualization to the user. Seamlessly streaming WAMI through GIS requires good prediction to accurately guess the tiles of the video that will be traversed in the near future. In this study, we present an experimental framework for such prediction schemes by presenting a stochastic interaction model that represents a human user’s interaction with a GIS video map. We then propose several algorithms by which the tiles of the stream may be predicted. Results collected both within the experimental framework and using human analyst trajectories show that, though each algorithm thrives under certain constraints, the novel Markovian algorithm yields the best results overall. Furthermore, we make the argument that the proposed experimental framework is sufficient for the study of these prediction schemes.
A Control Engineering Model for Resolving the TGF-β Paradox in Cancer

Although TGF-β is widely known to appear to function paradoxically as a tumor suppressor in normal cells, and as a tumor promoter in cancer cells, the underlying mechanisms by which a single cytokine plays such a dual—and diametrically opposed—role are unknown. In particular, it remains a mystery why the level of TGF-β is unusually high in the primary cancer tissue and blood samples of cancer patients with the poorest prognosis, given that this cytokine is primarily a tumor suppressor. To provide a quantitative explanation of these paradoxical observations, we have developed, from a control theory perspective, a mechanistic model of TGF-β-driven regulation of cell homeostasis. Analysis of the overall system model yields quantitative insight into how the cell population is regulated, enabling us to propose a plausible explanation for the paradox: with the tumor suppressor role of TGF-β unchanged from normal to cancer cells, we demonstrate that the observed increased level of TGF-β is an effect of cancer cell characteristics (specifically, acquired TGF-β resistance), not the cause. We are thus able to explain precisely why the clinically observed correlation between elevated TGF-β levels and poor prognosis is in fact consistent with TGF-β’s original (and unchanged) role as a tumor suppressor.
Adelic analysis and functional analysis on the finite Adele ring

In this paper, we study operator theory on the \(*\)-algebra \(\mathcal{M}_{\mathcal{P}}\), consisting of all measurable functions on the finite Adele ring \(A_{\mathbb{Q}}\), in extended free-probabilistic sense. Even though our \(*\)-algebra \(\mathcal{M}_{\mathcal{P}}\) is commutative, our Adelic-analytic data and properties on \(\mathcal{M}_{\mathcal{P}}\) are understood as certain free-probabilistic results under enlarged sense of (noncommutative) free probability theory (well-covering commutative cases). From our free-probabilistic model on \(A_{\mathbb{Q}}\), we construct the suitable Hilbert-space representation, and study a \(C^{*}\)-algebra \(M_{\mathcal{P}}\) generated by \(\mathcal{M}_{\mathcal{P}}\) under representation. In particular, we focus on operator-theoretic properties of certain generating operators on \(M_{\mathcal{P}}\).
The Potential Effects of New Stent Platforms for Coronary Revascularization in Patients With Diabetes.

Abstract Coronary artery disease in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by extensive atherosclerosis, longer lesions, and diffuse distal disease. Consequently, these patients have worse outcomes after coronary revascularization, regardless of the modality used. Traditionally, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has been regarded as more effective than percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with DM, likely because of more complete revascularization and protection against disease progression in the bypass segment. Revascularization with balloon angioplasty, bare-metal stents, and first-generation drug-eluting stents have all been shown to be inferior to CABG in patients with DM. Current professional society guidelines reflect these findings, strongly recommending CABG over PCI in this setting. Newer stent platforms, however, have challenged this notion. The use of thinner struts, biocompatible polymer coating, and newer antiproliferative agents have improved the rates of cardiovascular events in patients with DM revascularized percutaneously. Since the publication of current guidelines, new studies suggested acceptable outcomes in patients with DM revascularized with second-generation drug-eluting stents, even though these conclusions are drawn from small subgroup analyses or nonrandomized studies. Robust registry data suggest similar mortality with lower rates of stroke after PCI compared with surgery, at the expense of increased rates of repeat revascularization. If complete revascularization can be achieved, similar rates of myocardial infarction are also observed. Therefore, contemporary revascularization in patients with DM with multivessel coronary artery disease should involve a multidisciplinary approach, in which interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons involve their patients to individualize treatment choices, and balance the risks and effectiveness of each modality.
Bacterial penetration into eggs washed with various chemicals and stored at different temperatures and times

Eggs were washed with one of three commercial egg-washing chemicals, including a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC, pH 7.5), sodium carbonate (Na2CO3, pH 12), and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl, 100 ppm, pH 7.5). One hundred fifty intact-shell eggs were washed at 43.3 degrees C with each of three chemicals. A control group was washed with tap water (H2O, pH 7.0). The washed eggs then were inoculated by immersion for 3 min into an aqueous suspension of Salmonella enteritidis at 10(4) colony-forming units/ml and dried for 30 min. The washed and inoculated eggs were stored at 4 degrees C or 23 degrees C, and bacterial penetration was checked at 0-, 7-, 14-, and 21-day intervals. The effects of egg-washing chemicals on microstructural changes of eggshell and postwash inoculation were examined using electron microscopy and conventional culture methods. Fifteen eggs were used in each sample. The results of microbial tests showed that both QAC and sodium hypochlorite treatments reduced bacterial penetration (less than 3.4% and 6.7%, respectively, on day 1 and 16.7% on day 21). The sodium carbonate treatment facilitated bacterial penetration during egg storage (less than 30% on day 1 and 76.7% on day 21). The eggs washed with tap water had a bacterial penetration rate of less than 6.7% on day 1 and 20% on day 21. As the storage intervals increased to 21 days, the bacterial penetration rate increased. Different storage temperatures (4 degrees C and 23 degrees C) did not cause a significant difference in bacterial penetration rates within 21-day interval. The results of electron microscopy showed that QAC and sodium hypochlorite at 100 ppm resulted in microbiologically clean eggs and did not destroy eggshell surfaces, which protected the eggs against future bacterial recontamination. The alkaline sodium carbonate produced visually clean eggs but altered the eggshell surface, which allowed bacterial recontamination.
New Developments in the Brittle to Ductile Transitions of Fracture in Intrinsically Brittle Crystals and Polycrystals

We will briefly review some recent developments in the study of the brittle to ductile transitions in fracture in some intrinsically brittle crystalline solids both on the experimental and theoretical level or with computer modeling.
Planning Best Management Practices to Reduce Sediment Delivery from Forest Roads Using WEPP:Road Erosion Modeling and Simulated Annealing Optimization

Planning and implementation of road BMPs on a watershed scale can be a difficult task because of the need to prioritize locations while accounting for multiple constraints, such as the avail- able budget, continuous maintenance, and equipment scheduling. Using simulated annealing (SA) as its heuristic optimizer, BMP-SA accounts for sediment being delivered to the stream network through incorporation of modeled road erosion predictions and alternative BMP op- tions and scheduling for problematic road segments. BMP-SA was applied to the Glenbrook Creek watershed in the Lake Tahoe Basin in Nevada, US. WEPP:Road predictions were used to identify road segments posing an erosion risk and appropriate BMPs were identified for problematic segments. Using BMP-SA, modeled road-related sediment leaving the forest buf- fer, thus entering streams, was minimized over the course of the planning horizon while considering budget constraints and equipment scheduling concerns. BMP-SA can be applied to any watershed but relies heavily on the perceived accuracy of road erosion predictions.
Clinical factors and the role of Wnt regulators in racial disparity of metastatic colorectal cancer survival.

6551Background: African American (AA) colorectal cancer (CRC) patients experience lower survival compared to Caucasian Americans (CA). Aberrant Wnt/beta catenin (bcat) signaling is the hallmark of ...
Introduction: A Prefatory “Postscript”

Mulligan intervenes in regard to (post)imperial cultural geographies like the Green Atlantic by charting mixed-linguistic, theologically syncretive, and cross-cultural traditions that reassess impact-, contact-, and borderzones of literature, music, and art in the context of environmental landscape studies. Such a reframing of “geofeminism” allows her to reconsider the role of representational mapping for both men and women artists in Ireland and throughout the diaspora and to redress the significant absence of transhistorical, comparative studies not only of texts but material culture in both Irish and English. Arranged thematically and epistemologically to allow her to move across and within periods of Irish history to better mark the uneven development and unexpected recrudescence of indigenous and diasporic modernity, the works she will address concern discourses around regional identities in Ireland and throughout the diaspora as well as question the positionality of gendered bodies in art, religion, and social practice.
Perceptions of chemotherapy influencing treatment decisions in women with hormone-positive tumors.

e19621 Background: Women with hormone receptor positive (HR+) breast cancer can benefit from chemotherapy (CTX). Unnecessary therapy can adversely affect patient morbidity.. While tumor biology aff...
Rapamycin blocks the neuroprotective effects of sex steroids in the adult birdsong system.

In adult songbirds, the telencephalic song nucleus HVC and its efferent target RA undergo pronounced seasonal changes in morphology. In breeding birds, there are increases in HVC volume and total neuron number, and RA neuronal soma area compared to nonbreeding birds. At the end of breeding, HVC neurons die through caspase-dependent apoptosis and thus, RA neuron size decreases. Changes in HVC and RA are driven by seasonal changes in circulating testosterone (T) levels. Infusing T, or its metabolites 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 17 β-estradiol (E2), intracerebrally into HVC (but not RA) protects HVC neurons from death, and RA neuron size, in nonbreeding birds. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt (a serine/threonine kinase)-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is a point of convergence for neuroprotective effects of sex steroids and other trophic factors. We asked if mTOR activation is necessary for the protective effect of hormones in HVC and RA of adult male Gambel's white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii). We transferred sparrows from breeding to nonbreeding hormonal and photoperiod conditions to induce regression of HVC neurons by cell death and decrease of RA neuron size. We infused either DHT + E2, DHT + E2 plus the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin, or vehicle alone in HVC. Infusion of DHT + E2 protected both HVC and RA neurons. Coinfusion of rapamycin with DHT + E2, however, blocked the protective effect of hormones on HVC volume and neuron number, and RA neuron size. These results suggest that activation of mTOR is an essential downstream step in the neuroprotective cascade initiated by sex steroid hormones in the forebrain.
Generation of Fine Dust Via Compaction of Granular Materials

Abstract Crushing of granular materials by compaction has been studied with haydite in a piston-cylinder tester. Percent pulverized in seen to correlate well with 4/3 power of pressure suggested by applying Herz-Rayleigh relation to tetrahedral piling. The size distribution appears to be independent of pressure.
Current Considerations of Breast Implant–Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in Breast Surgery: a Systematic Review

A systematic review of three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar) was conducted to appraise the current evidence behind the diagnosis and management of breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The goal is to help patients make informed decisions regarding reconstruction after breast cancer treatment by educating physicians on the nuances of diagnosis and treatment of BIA-ALCL. Following recent statements by the FDA, BIA-ALCL has recently garnered the attention of both patients and plastic surgeons. To date, BIA-ALCL has been almost exclusively associated with textured implants. BIA-ALCL is a very rare T cell lymphoma that was first described more than 20 years ago. BIA-ALCL usually follows an indolent course and carries an excellent prognosis if treated promptly. However, the pathogenesis of the disease is unclear, and further studies need to be conducted to better understand the disease.
Twining Plant Inspired Pneumatic Soft Robotic Spiral Gripper with High-Birefringence Fiber Optic Sensor

Twining plant-inspired pneumatic soft-robotic spiral gripper embedded with a high-birefringence fiber-optic sensor is designed and demonstrated. The fiber-optic sensor enables the spiral-gripper to sense the twining angle and target cylinder radius as small as 1mm.
Comparison of legume and dairy proteins for the impact of Maillard conjugation on nanoemulsion formation, stability, and lutein color retention

Abstract While dairy proteins have traditionally been used to stabilize nanoemulsions, there is a trend towards plant-based formulations. Additionally, both types of protein are poorly soluble near their isoelectric point. The main goals of this research were to develop and characterize Maillard conjugates from pea protein (PPI) or caseinate and dextran, and to evaluate the physical stability of nanoemulsions made with such emulsifiers at various ionic strengths, pH = 4.6, and temperatures during storage, as well as lutein color retention over storage. Protein conjugates formed nanoemulsions with diameters of 125 ± 12 nm (PDI = 0.13 ± 0.00) and 269 ± 36 nm (PDI = 0.76 ± 0.42) (pH = 7) for caseinate and PPI, respectively. Conjugation improved the physical stability (droplet size) of emulsions at the isoelectric point, during storage at 4–55 °C, and in ionic solutions. Lutein color degradation was better associated with particle size than conjugation and was lowest for PPI-stabilized emulsions. This study suggests that Maillard conjugation could improve PPI emulsification properties.
Uric Acid and CKD Progression Matures with Lessons for CKD Risk Factor Discovery

Higher circulating levels of uric acid are associated with new and progressive CKD ([1][1][⇓][2]–[3][3]). As a modifiable metabolite, uric acid is a potential target for interventions to slow CKD. Medications, diet, and other lifestyle approaches are regularly used in practice to lower uric acid
An evaluation of olaparib for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Advanced pancreatic cancer remains a lethal, incurable malignancy. Chemotherapy is the mainstay of systemic therapy consideration in metastatic pancreas cancer. Homologous recombinant DNA repair mu...
Cortical feedback and gating in olfactory pattern completion and separation

A central question in neuroscience is how context changes perception of sensory stimuli. In the olfactory system, for example, experiments show that task demands can drive merging and separation of cortical odor responses, which underpin olfactory generalization and discrimination. Here, we propose a simple statistical mechanism for this effect, based on unstructured feedback from the central brain to the olfactory bulb, representing the context associated with an odor, and sufficiently selective cortical gating of sensory inputs. Strikingly, the model predicts that both pattern separation and completion should increase when odors are initially more similar, an effect reported in recent experiments. The theory predicts reversals of these trends following experimental manipulations and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer9s disease that increase cortical excitability.
Aggregate-level Lead Exposure and Child Maltreatment.

The purpose of this study was to examine the possible ecological association between aggregate blood lead levels (BLL) and rates of child maltreatment. To this end, we employed an ecologic study de...
The COVID-19 Pandemic, Its Consequences, and the Recovery: Implementation of Disaster Education and Management Is Key to the Schooling of Children with Disabilities

COVID-19 pandemic has eroded gains towards Kenya Vision 2030’s poverty eradication goal by denying Kenyan children and youth with disabilities access to (quality) education. Situational analysis on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on education of primary and secondary school-age individuals from March 2020 to December 2020 reveal that the education opportunities for learners with disabilities remained unpredictable as the disease ravaged communities to the end of the year. Learners with disabilities fell behind academically after school closure and COVID-19 related biases predisposed them to academic failure and failed adulthood. Then, the implementation of disaster education and recovery plans are overdue and must intentionally target education of children and youth with disabilities.
Multi-objective optimization trade-offs for color rendition, energy efficiency, and circadian metrics

The spectral power distribution of light sources can be optimized to achieve optimal target goals, such as energy efficiency, color quality, and circadian synchronization. Although several researchers investigated the optimization of light sources for circadian and color rendition metrics, the complex relationship and trade-offs between three distinct parameters (circadian, color rendition, and energy efficiency metrics) have not been widely investigated. Here, multilevel analyses of four clusters of metrics (radiometric, photometric, colorimetric, and circadian) have been conducted. Metric correlation analysis was conducted for 308 theoretical and commercially available light sources, and results suggest that melanopic irradiance correlates highly with irradiance but does not correlate well with correlated color temperature. There was a negative but weak correlation between circadian metrics and energy efficiency measures. Energy efficiency and color quality were inversely correlated. In the following analysis, the spectra of an 18-channel LED system were optimized using a multi-objective genetic algorithm in several combinations, and the effect of the number and the order of the optimization parameters on metric relationships were analyzed. The number of optimization parameters significantly affected the optimal results. The order of optimization parameters only changed the relationship between color fidelity index and luminous efficacy of radiation but did not have an impact on the color fidelity index and melanopic radiance relationship. There was an inverse relationship between melanopic irradiance and the luminous efficacy of radiation. Trade-off analysis highlights the importance of the order and number of target parameters in the optimization process.
UHP-FRC for Architectural Structural Columns with Non-Euclidean Geometries

Columns having a non-Euclidean geometry offer a new type of architecture with formal and structural possibilities. Specifically, branching concrete columnar structures offer a unique opportunity to merge biomimetic structural geometry with new computationally controlled performance criteria. Typical plain concrete cannot be applied for these types of geometries due to its brittle nature and sensitivity to stress concentration. Non-Euclidean geometries also make the conventional reinforcing methodology difficult to be practically implemented. For this research, the introduction of ultra-high-performance fiber reinforced concrete (UHP-FRC) opens a new way of advancing beyond some of the limitations of conventional construction methods for conventional reinforced concrete. UHP-FRC provides very high compressive and tensile strengths and ductility against compressive forces. Moreover, with these mechanical properties, conventional reinforcement can be nearly eliminated. In addition, UHP-FRC’s high flow-ability allows producing even challenging geometries. The formwork used for these columns presents a unique solution for assembling 2D materials in complex 3D forms. In this research, the two-legged and three-legged branching and twisting scaled columns all rely upon developable geometry that has been cut via a CNC machine out of 1/16th inch polypropylene. The parts are seamed together by hand via a ‘zipper’ connection that is the result of running an algorithmic script on the edge geometry of each edge of adjoining parts. The control of this script is performed through the computational software that produced the hexagonal cross-section. The alternating tabs lock the adjacent edges into place and ensure that no moisture or concrete can escape through the form work seams. This paper discusses the progress of this novel UHP-FRC application and the experimental testing results of columns designed with non-Euclidean geometries.
Endogenous and Borrowed Proteolytic Activity in the Borrelia.

SUMMARY The Borrelia spp. are tick-borne pathogenic spirochetes that include the agents of Lyme disease and relapsing fever. As part of their life cycle, the spirochetes traffic between the tick vector and the vertebrate host, which requires significant physiological changes and remodeling of their outer membranes and proteome. This crucial proteome resculpting is carried out by a diverse set of proteases, adaptor proteins, and related chaperones. Despite its small genome, Borrelia burgdorferi has dedicated a large percentage of its genome to proteolysis, including a full complement of ATP-dependent proteases. Energy-driven proteolysis appears to be an important physiological feature of this dual-life-cycle bacterium. The proteolytic arsenal of Borrelia is strategically deployed for disposal of proteins no longer required as they move from one stage to another or are transferred from one host to another. Likewise, the Borrelia spp. are systemic organisms that need to break down and move through host tissues and barriers, and so their unique proteolytic resources, both endogenous and borrowed, make movement more feasible. Both the Lyme disease and relapsing fever Borrelia spp. bind plasminogen as well as numerous components of the mammalian plasminogen-activating system. This recruitment capacity endows the spirochetes with a borrowed proteolytic competency that can lead to increased invasiveness.
Chinese Commercial Aircraft Manufacturing Policy: The View from the Commanding Heights

The chapter considers the Chinese commercial aircraft manufacturing sector as one of the commanding heights of a global leading manufacturing economy. It reviews the technological and policy pathways in manufacturing world-class commercial aircraft. Authors conclude that China seems poised to repeat in aviation what it has done in train travel—to become the world’s largest market. The original projections were for that to occur by 2024. COVID-19 has altered this pace. Unlike China’s achievements in its extensive high-speed rail network, China is facing the realization that its civilian skies are filled with commercial planes made in places like Toulouse, France or Everett, Washington. The national government wants Chinese-made planes serving Chinese passengers on its air routes in China.
RARE: evolutionary feature engineering for rare-variant bin discovery

Features with rare states, such as rare genetic variants, pose a significant challenge for both statistical and machine learning analyses due to limited detection power and uncertainty surrounding the nature of their role (e.g., additive, heterogeneous, or epistatic) in predicting outcomes such as disease phenotype. Rare variant 'bins' (RVBs) hold the potential to increase association detection power. However, previously proposed binning approaches relied on prior-knowledge assumptions, instead of data-driven techniques, and ignored the potential for multivariate interactions. We present the Relevant Association Rare-variant-bin Evolver (RARE), the first evolutionary algorithm for automatically constructing and evaluating RVBs with either univariate or epistatic associations. We evaluate RARE's ability to correctly bin simulated rare-variant associations over a variety of algorithmic and dataset scenarios. Specifically, we examine (1) ability to detect RVBs of univariate effect (with or without noise), (2) using fixed vs. adaptable bins sizes, (3) employing expert knowledge to initialize bins, and (4) ability to detect RVBs interacting with a separate common variant. We present preliminary results demonstrating the feasibility, efficacy, and limitations of this proposed rare-variant feature engineering algorithm.
LinkedImm: a linked data graph database for integrating immunological data.

Background Many systems biology studies leverage the integration of multiple data types (across different data sources) to offer a more comprehensive view of the biological system being studied. While SQL (Structured Query Language) databases are popular in the biomedical domain, NoSQL database technologies have been used as a more relationship-based, flexible and scalable method of data integration. Results We have created a graph database integrating data from multiple sources. In addition to using a graph-based query language (Cypher) for data retrieval, we have developed a web-based dashboard that allows users to easily browse and plot data without the need to learn Cypher. We have also implemented a visual graph query interface for users to browse graph data. Finally, we have built a prototype to allow the user to query the graph database in natural language. Conclusion We have demonstrated the feasibility and flexibility of using a graph database for storing and querying immunological data with complex biological relationships. Querying a graph database through such relationships has the potential to discover novel relationships among heterogeneous biological data and metadata.
Primary patellar dislocations without surgical stabilization or recurrence: how well are these patients really doing?

While a significant research has gone into identifying patients at highest risk of recurrence following primary patellar dislocation, there has been little work exploring the outcomes of patients who do not have a recurrent patellar dislocation. We hypothesize that patients without recurrent dislocation episodes will exhibit significantly higher KOOSs than those who suffer recurrent dislocations, but lower scores than published age-matched normative data. A retrospective review of patients with nonoperatively treated primary lateral patellar dislocations was carried out, and patients were contacted at a mean of 3.4 years (range 1.3–5.5 years) post-injury. Information regarding subsequent treatment and recurrent dislocations along with patient-reported outcome scores and activity level was collected. One hundred and eleven patients (29.8 %) of 373 eligible patients agreed to study participation, seven of whom were excluded because they underwent subsequent patellar stabilization surgery on the index knee. Seventy-six patients (73.1 %) reported no further dislocation events, and the mean KOOS subscales at follow-up were: symptoms—80.2 ± 18.8, pain—81.8 ± 16.2, ADL—88.7 ± 15.9, sport/recreation—72.1 ± 24.4, and QOL—63.9 ± 23.8 at a mean follow-up of 3.3 years (range 1.3–5.5 years). No significant differences in any of the KOOS subscales were noted between these patients and the group that reported recurrent patellar dislocations. Only 26.4 % of the patients without further dislocations reported they were able to return to desired sport activities without limitations following their dislocation. Patients who do not report recurrent patellar dislocations following nonoperative treatment of primary patellar dislocations are in many cases limited by this injury 3 years following the initial dislocation event. Retrospective cohort study, Level III.
The signal dimensions in multiple-antenna channels

This paper develops a physical channel model for multiple-antenna systems. The model appropriately abstracts the scattering intensity of physical environments, geometry of antenna arrays and degrees of polarization. Then, we use the model to demonstrate that the "space" in wireless systems is composed of three signal dimensions: wavevector, array and polarization. The impact of physical environment, array geometry and polarization are captured separately in the wavevector, array and polarization dimensions respectively. Thus, we solidify the "space" dimensions in complement to the time and frequency dimensions, and unify the available signal space in wireless channels.
Tensile strain measurements of ceramic fibers using scanning laser acoustic microscopy

A noncontacting technique using scanning laser acoustic microscopy for making in situ tensile strain measurements of small diameter fibers was implemented for the tensile strain analysis of individual Nicalon SiC fibers (nominal diameter 15 microns). Stress versus strain curves for the fibers were plotted from the experimental data. The mean elastic modulus of the fibers was determined to be 185.3 GPa. Similar measurements were made for Carborundum SiC fibers (nominal diameter 28 microns) and Saphikon sapphire fibers (nominal diameter 140 microns), yielding and elastic modulus of 401 and 466.8 GPa, respectively.
Granite Symposia and Working Groups

In addition to the Hutton Symposium on Granites and Related Rocks to be held in Canberra, Australia, Sept. 23–28, 1991, two other international symposia on granitoids will take place during 1991: the inaugural meeting and field excursion of the proposed IGCP project Rapakivi Granites and Related Rocks, to be held in Helsinki, Finland, July 29–August 4, and Granites and Geodynamics, to be held in Moscow, August 6–9. Contacts for these meetings are: Hutton Symposium, Bruce Chappell, Dept. of Geology, Australian National University, GPO Box 4, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; Rapakivi Granites, Ilmari Haapala or Tapani Ramo, Dept. of Geology, Division of Geology and Mineralogy, University of Helsinki, Snelmaninkatu 5, 60170 Helsinki 17, Finland. Melt segregation and migration in partly molten rocks will be the topic of a special session at the Geological Association/Mineralogical Association of Canada meeting in Toronto, May 27–29, 1991.
The Bases of Power and the Power/Interaction Model of Interpersonal Influence

This article provides a summary of work done by Raven and his colleagues on bases of power. It ranges from the initial work in 1959 of French and Raven through decades of follow-up work, and ties the work to that of others doing work on power bases. After the summary, the author responds to a series of questions that probe the work in greater depth, allowing explication of much of the thinking underlying and leading to publications of Raven and colleagues that are well known to social psychologists.
Murder and the Military Commissions: Prohibiting the Executive's Unauthorized Expansion of Jurisdiction

When Congress passed the Military Commissions Act of 2006 (MCA) to create a military commission system to try detainees held at Guantanamo Bay, it granted the Secretary of Defense the authority to detail the procedural and evidentiary rules. In response, the Secretary promulgated the Manual for Military Commissions (MMC), which, among other things, listed individual elements of each MCA substantive offense. The MMC, however, redefined the MCA offense of “Murder in Violation of the Law of War.” U.S. military, federal, and international law unanimously state that to murder in violation of the law of war, the victim must be a protected person, who is someone taking no active part in the hostilities. Yet the MMC fails to mention the status of the victim, instead declaring that any act taken by an “unlawful combatant” violates the law of war. Beyond being completely at odds with the established law of war, the MMC’s definition conflates individual elements of the crime and drastically expands the limited jurisdiction of the military commissions. This Note argues that the Secretary of Defense acted without statutory or constitutional authority to redefine the law of war. Although the Obama Administration will not try detainees at Guantanamo, this Note contends that in any future law-of-war prosecutions, judges must require juries to find that the accused actually violated the established law of war. More fundamentally, the Obama Administration should not sustain the Secretary’s unauthorized actions. President Obama should issue an executive order reaffirming the government’s commitment to the international law of war and the administration must scrutinize MCA crimes and MMC definitions before transposing them to future prosecutions. The executive branch has no constitutional authority to redefine the law of war and continuing to apply the MMC’s interpretation would impermissibly expand the limited jurisdiction of any law-of-war tribunal.