cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protein kinase C-associated kinase is not required for the development of peripheral B lymphocyte populations.

Abstract Protein kinase C-associated kinase (PKK; DIK/RIP4) is an ankyrin-repeat containing serine/threonine receptor-interacting protein (RIP)-family kinase that can activate NFκB, and is required for keratinocyte development. In earlier studies, the expression of a catalytically inactive mutant of PKK in the B cell lineage resulted in a marked decrease in peripheral B cells in the spleen and a severe reduction of B-1 B cells. Here we explore the consequences of a null mutation in PKK with respect to the generation of peripheral B cell lineages and the activation of NFκB. We show that PKK is not required for the production of B cells in the bone marrow or for the development and maintenance of all mature B lymphocyte populations. We also show that PKK is not required for the activation of NFκB downstream of the BCR, CD40, or TLR-4 in B cells. Taken together, these data demonstrate that the loss of this RIP-family kinase does not compromise B lymphocyte development and maintenance, but leaves open the possibility that PKK may have a redundant role in these processes.
Poetry through art and health: A study of end of life care

The fabric and thread art exhibit of Deidre Scherer served as the inspiration for the creation of an innovative honors course that connected the disciplines of art and health to teach end of life care. The reflections of the educators on the curricular design and student learning outcomes experienced are expressed as poetic prose.
Streptococcus anginosus group and osteomyelitis: a single centre clinical experience

Purpose The Streptococcus anginosus group comprises three species of bacteria classified within the viridans streptococci. This group is known for abscess formation and endocarditis. While a variety of sites in the body claim anginosus streptococci as an agent of infection, osteomyelitis is unusual. The objective of this study was to describe a series of patients with osteomyelitis due to S anginosus group pathogens in terms of demographics, comorbidities, presentation and outcomes. Study design We reviewed our database for cases of osteomyelitis caused by S anginosus organisms. Data described included demographics, comorbidities, site of infection, route of infection (haematogenous versus contiguous), laboratory data and course. Results 11 patients with S anginosus group osteomyelitis were identified. All cases arose from a contiguous anatomical site, with the exception of one haematogenous case. Five instances were related to foot osteomyelitis while three, two and one case, respectively, were related to mandibular, cranial and vertebral osteomyelitis. Seventy-five per cent of patients had associated abscesses. The mean length of antibiotic treatment was 10.9 weeks. One patient failed therapy while four others relapsed. Conclusions Osteomyelitis due to the S anginosus group is uncommonly reported. Our case series illustrates the virulence of these organisms in the context of osteomyelitis and the importance of aggressive management.
Comparison of Methods, Storage Conditions, and Time to Analysis of Serum and Urine Creatinine Measured from Microsamples by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometery (LC/MS) vs. Jaffe

Background Measurement of serum creatinine (SCr) and urine creatinine (UCr) is regularly used in clinical and research settings. For small animal experiments and for studies in which sample collection is spare (i.e. neonatal cohorts), measuring SCr and UCr using tiny amounts of sample (as low as 10 mcl) would maximize exploration and minimize iatrogenic blood loss. Methods We performed an evaluation in six healthy adults to determine differences between SCr and UCr values in different methodologies and storage environments and time. Study was conducted using 20 mcl of sample. Analyses were done using two-way repeated measures of ANOVA. Results Scr values showed no significant differences between LC/MS vs. Jaffe. However, the SCr using LC/MS method was lowest when measured immediately compared to other time points (F = 7.2; P< 0.001). Similarly, Jaffe measurements showed changes in the mean differences over time; however, these were not significant. UCr values were consistently higher using LC/MS than Jaffe (F = 19; P< 0.01), and UCr changed over time (F = 8.7; P < 0.02). In addition, the interaction term for method and time was also significant (F = 5.8; P < 0.04) which reflects the stability of the Jaffe measurements over time whereas the LC/MS measurements declined; especially after being frozen for 1 year (P < 0.001). Conclusion UCr measured by Jaffe is lower than samples measured by LC/MS. UCr measurements by LC/MS vary more over time, mostly due to the sample measured after 1 year; therefore, storage of urine for more than 90 days measured by LC/MS may provide altered results.
The Eventfulness of Social Reproduction

The work of William Sewell and Marshall Sahlins has led to a growing interest in recent years in events as a category of analysis and their role in the transformation of social structures. I argue that tying events solely to instances of significant structural transformation entails problematic theoretical assumptions about stability and change and produces a circumscribed field of events, undercutting the goal of developing an “eventful” account of social life. Social continuity is a state that is achieved just as much as are structural transformations, and events may be constitutive of processes of reproduction as well as change.
Vulvar melanoma: Diffuse melanosis and metastasis to the placenta

Mucocutaneous melanoma, including vulvar melanoma, is rare and has a worse prognosis and higher recurrence rate than traditional cutaneous melanoma. Diffuse cutaneous melanosis is another rare clinical presentation of metastatic melanoma. It is essential for dermatologists to be alerted to rare presentations of melanoma, to facilitate early detection. We present the first case to our knowledge of metastatic vulvar melanoma with diffuse cutaneous melanosis in a pregnant young woman. Despite the occurrence of placental metastasis, a healthy, unaffected baby was born. This case exemplifies the aggressiveness of vulvar melanoma. The genitalia should be included in routine total body skin examinations. Pregnant women with generalized melanosis may be at increased risk for placental metastasis of melanoma. Pregnancy does not alter the incidence or prognosis of melanoma; however, patients with a poor prognosis or high recurrence risk should be informed of potential pregnancy complications associated with melanoma recurrence or metastasis.
Slow Vis: Extending Opportunities for Insight and Understanding Over Time

Andrea Polli has been working at the intersection of art, science, and technology since 1999. With degrees in both art and computing, she comes to collaborations with a solid art training and extensive practical experience. Her projects focus on creating opportunities for collaborators and student researchers to participate in public projects that express environmental data and information in new ways. In this interview with department editors Bruce Campbell and Francesca Samsel, Polli discusses how she has implemented a "slow vis" approach to real-time visualization in large-scale public art installations.
Tectonic geomorphology of the San Andreas Fault zone from high resolution topography: an example from the Cholame segment

Abstract High resolution topographic data along fault zones are important aids in the delineation of recently active breaks. A 15 km-long portion of the south-central San Andreas Fault (SAF) along the southern Cholame segment contains well preserved tectonic landforms such as benches, troughs, scarps, and aligned ridges that indicate recurring earthquake slip. Recently acquired LiDAR topographic data along the entire southern SAF (“B4” project) have shot densities of 3–4 m− 2. Computed from the LiDAR returns, Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) of 0.25 to 0.5 m resolution using local binning with inverse distance weighting and 0.8 m or larger search radii depict the tectonic landforms at paleoseismic sites well enough to assess them confidently. Mapping of recently active breaks using a LiDAR-only based approach compares well with aerial photographic and field based methods. The fault zone varies in width from meters to nearly 1 km and is comprised of numerous en echelon meter to kilometer-length overlapping sub parallel fault surfaces bounding differentially moving blocks that elongate parallel to the SAF. The semantic variations of what constitutes “active” and the importance of secondary traces influence the breadth and complexity of the resulting fault trace maps.
The superoxide anion and singlet molecular oxygen: their role in the microbicidal activity of the polymorphonuclear leukocyte.

Abstract Superoxide dismutase was found to partially inhibit both chemiluminescence and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction from intact human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. This capacity to reduce NBT was lost when the polymorphonuclear leukocytes were sonicated, but could be regained if exogenous NADPH (or NADH) was added to the system. Superoxide dismutase was found to inhibit this NADPH- and NADH-dependent NBT reduction. A mechanism is proposed that relates superoxide anion generation to the univalent reduction of O 2 by the activated NADPH (and NADH) oxidase. The relationship of superoxide anion production to NBT reduction, singlet molecular oxygen generation, and chemiluminescence is discussed.
Electric field analysis in insulating films for complex electrode systems

The present work contributes for an extensive research of physical electrode systems namely axi-symmetric and non-uniform field systems. In an attempt to optimize the dimensions of the electrode system for subsequent use in electrical measurements, such as electroluminescence, capacitance and conduction current, field values at key points (sharp edges and triple junctions) in an axi-symmetric electrode system are simulated as a function of clearances between low voltage and guard electrodes. The configurations simulated, results, analyses and configurations for an optimal design are presented. The hemispherically capped rod-plane gap has been thoroughly used for studies on breakdown characteristics of gaseous dielectrics. In this study, influence of a dielectric barrier on the electric field and potential distributions in a vertically arranged rod-plane gap was numerically analyzed by using 3D BEM field software. Maximum field intensities and their occurrence in the electrode system were examined for different gap distances, applied potentials, and positions of the barrier between electrodes for estimating the discharge phenomena. The results of the field computation show how the maximum electric field varies in small air gaps with thin insulating barriers. There is a good agreement between the values computed with BEM and other methods reported in literature.
Femtosecond IR Study of Ru(II)(SCN)2(dcbpy)2 Sensitized Nanocrystalline TiO2 Thin Films: Ultrafast Electron Injection and Relaxation Dynamics

Ultrafast electron injection(ca. 50 fs) and subsequent relaxation of electrons in Ru(II)(SCN)2L2[L=2,2′bupyridyl-4,4′-dicarboxylate] (also called N3) dye sensitized nanocrystalline TiO2 thin films were studied by directly probing electrons using femtosecond IR spectroscopy.
Calcium-modulated contractile proteins associated with the eucaryotic centrosome.

Affinity-purified antibodies that recognize the 20,000-dalton molecular weight (20 kd) striated flagellar root protein of Tetraselmis striata have been used to identify antigenic homologs in other eucaryotic organisms of diverse evolutionary origins. Among the green algae, Tetraselmis and Chlamydomonas, and their colorless relative, Polytomella, the 20-kd homologs appear associated with basal bodies. This occurs most prominnently in the form of flagellar roots of both striated and microtubule subtended types. Among cultured mammalian cells (PtK2 and primary mouse macrophage cell lines), flagellar root protein homologs appear as basal feet, pericentriolar fibrils, and pericentriolar satellites. Mammalian sperm cells also show flagellar root protein homologs associated with their basal bodies. We envisage a functional role for these fibrous calcium-sensitive contractile proteins in altering the orientation of centrioles or basal bodies with their associated MTOCs by responding to topological calcium fluxes.
The Biological Stain Commission's Quality Control Laboratory operations and improved traceability of certified stains.

AbstractThe Biological Stain Commission (BSC) is a quality control laboratory that certifies biological dyes for staining cells and tissues. Originally, a single lot of a certified dye was sold to histologists. Today, companies frequently change their lot numbers as part of regulatory efforts. When a certified dye undergoes a lot number change, the BSC must re-certify this dye to verify that it is identical to the one certified earlier. The BSC has improved how these lot changes are monitored using a redesigned BSC certification label. Certification labels always have been issued by the BSC and are attached to every bottle of “BSC certified dye” that is sold. The new BSC certification label has added security features and currently bears both the BSC certification number and the manufacturer batch lot number. The result is improved security and traceability of certified dyes.
The dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system in diabesity—a tricky problem

Endocannabinoids (ECs) are small lipid mediators that play a critical role in energy metabolism. Human studies have shown that the EC tone in peripheral tissues positively correlates with increased adiposity. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of EC signaling results in weight loss in humans. However, the mechanisms that cause the dysregulation of the EC system in obesity are not well-understood. Since the clinical utility of currently available EC blockers is severely limited due to their side effects like depression and suicidal ideation that are caused by central effects, it is important to delineate the role of central and peripheral effects of EC signaling in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism.
Learning Control Systems

In designing an optimal control system, if all the a priori information about the controlled process (plant-environment) is known and can be described deterministically, the optimal controller is usually designed by deterministic optimization techniques. If all or a part of the a priori information can only be described statistically—for example, in terms of probability distribution or density functions—then stochastic or statistical design techniques will be used. However, if the a priori information required is unknown or incompletely known, in general an optimal design cannot be achieved. Two different approaches have been taken to solve this class of problems. One approach is to design a controller based only upon the amount of information available. In that case the unknown information is either ignored or is assumed to take on some known values chosen according to the designer’s best guess. The second approach is to design a controller which is capable of estimating the unknown information during its operation and of determining an optimal control action on the basis of the estimated information. In the first case a rather conservative design criterion (for example, the minimax criterion) is often used; the systems designed are in general inefficient and suboptimal. In the second case, if the estimated information gradually approaches the true information as time proceeds, then the controller thus designed will approach to the optimal controller.
Mono-allelic retrotransposon insertion addresses epigenetic transcriptional repression in human genome

Background: Retrotransposons have been extensively studied in plants and animals and have been shown to have an impact on human genome dynamics and evolution. Their ability to move within genomes gives retrotransposons to affect genome instability. Methods: we examined the polymorphic inserted AluYa5, evolutionary young Alu, in the progesterone receptor gene to determine the effects of Alu insertion on molecular environment. We used mono-allelic inserted cell lines which carry both Alu-present and Alu-absent alleles. To determine the epigenetic change and gene expression, we performed restriction enzyme digestion, Pyrosequencing, and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation. Results: We observed that the polymorphic insertion of evolutionally young Alu causes increasing levels of DNA methylation in the surrounding genomic area and generates inactive histone tail modifications. Consequently the Alu insertion deleteriously inactivates the neighboring gene expression. Conclusion: The mono-allelic Alu insertion cell line clearly showed that polymorphic inserted repetitive elements cause the inactivation of neighboring gene expression, bringing aberrant epigenetic changes.
Apoptotic signaling induced by immunomodulatory thalidomide analogs in human multiple myeloma cells: therapeutic implications

Thalidomide (Thal) achieves responses even in the setting of refractory multiple myeloma (MM). Although increased angiogenesis in MM bone marrow and the antiangiogenic effect of Thal formed the empiric basis for its use in MM, we have shown that Thal and its immunomodulatory analogs (IMiDs) directly induce apoptosis or growth arrest of MM cells, alter adhesion of MM cells to bone marrow stromal cells, inhibit the production of cytokines (interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor) in bone marrow, and stimulate natural killer cell anti-MM immunity. In the present study, we demonstrate that the IMiDs trigger activation of caspase-8, enhance MM cell sensitivity to Fas-induced apoptosis, and down-regulate nuclear factor (NF)-κB activity as well as expression of cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein–2 and FLICE inhibitory protein. IMiDs also block the stimulatory effect of insulinlike growth factor–1 on NF-κB activity and potentiate the activity of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL/Apo2L), dexamethasone, and proteasome inhibitor (PS-341) therapy. These studies both delineate the mechanism of action of IMiDs against MM cells in vitro and form the basis for clinical trials of these agents, alone and coupled with conventional and other novel therapies, to improve outcome in MM.
Toward More Realistic Driving Behavior Models for Autonomous Vehicles in Driving Simulators

Autonomous vehicles are perhaps the most encountered element in a driving simulator. Their effect on the realism of the simulator is critical. For autonomous vehicles to contribute positively to the realism of the hosting driving simulator, they need to have a realistic appearance and, possibly more importantly, realistic behavior. Addressed is the problem of modeling realistic and humanlike behaviors on simulated highway systems by developing an abstract framework that captures the details of human driving at the microscopic level. This framework consists of four units that together define and specify the elements needed for a concrete humanlike driving model to be implemented within a driving simulator. These units are the perception unit, the emotions unit, the decision-making unit, and the decision-implementation unit. Realistic models of humanlike driving behavior can be built by implementing the specifications set by the driving framework. Four humanlike driving models have been implemented on the basis of the driving framework: (a) a generic normal driving model, (b) an aggressive driving model, (c) an alcoholic driving model, and (d) an elderly driving model. These driving models provide experiment designers with a powerful tool for generating complex traffic scenarios in their experiments. These behavioral models were incorporated along with three-dimensional visual models and vehicle dynamics models into one entity, which is the autonomous vehicle. Subjects perceived the autonomous vehicles with the described behavioral models as having a positive effect on the realism of the driving simulator. The erratic driving models were identified correctly by the subjects in most cases.
TREATMENT OF LOCALLY ADVANCED ADENOID CYSTIC CARCINOMA OF THE TRACHEA WITH NEUTRON RADIOTHERAPY

Purpose To examine the efficacy of fast neutron radiotherapy in the treatment of locally advanced adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the trachea and to compare outcomes with and without high-dose-rate (HDR) endobronchial brachytherapy boost. Methods and Materials Between 1989 and 2005, a total of 20 patients with ACC of the trachea were treated with fast neutron radiotherapy at the University of Washington. Of these 20 patients, 19 were treated with curative intent. Neutron doses ranged from 10.7 to 19.95 Gy (median, 19.2 Gy). Six of these patients received an endobronchial brachytherapy boost using an HDR 192 Ir source (3.5 Gy × 2 fractions). Median duration of follow-up was 46 months (range, 10–121 months). Results The 5-year actuarial overall survival rate and median overall survival for the entire cohort were 89.4%, and 97 months, respectively. Overall survival was not statistically different among those patients receiving an endobronchial boost compared with those receiving neutron radiotherapy alone (100% vs. 68%, p = 0.36). The 5-year actuarial locoregional control rate for the entire cohort was 54.1%. The locoregional control rate was not statistically different among patients who received an endobronchial boost compared with those who received neutron radiotherapy alone (40% vs. 58%, p = 0.94). There were no cases of Grade ≥3 acute toxicity. There were 2 cases of Grade 3/4 chronic toxicity. Conclusions Fast neutron radiotherapy is an effective treatment for locally advanced adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea, with acceptable treatment-related toxicity.
Siderophore production by pathogenic Neisseria spp.

Previous studies have established the importance of iron acquisition to the growth and virulence of Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Although preliminary evidence that the Neisseria spp. produce siderophores has been presented, the exact mechanism of iron acquisition has remained obscure. Siderophore production by N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis was induced in two different low-iron media. The iron-reactive siderophores, “gonobactin” and “meningobactin,” were partially purified by ion exchange chromatography followed by extraction with phenol-chloroform-ether or by gel filtration. The compounds were of low molecular weight, their synthesis was repressed by iron in the medium, and they appeared to be hydroxamic acids since they were stimulatory for Arthrobacter flavescens JG-9 (a hydroxamate auxotroph) and gave a positive Csaky reaction for bound hydroxylamine. In the iron form, the compounds had an absorption maximum of approximately 420 nm. Although meningobactin stimulated growth of the gonococcus in low-iron media and vice versa, the homologous activity was more marked, indicating that the compounds, though similar, were probably not identical. As determined by A. flavescens assay the meningococcus produced three to five times more siderophore than did the gonococcus; however, the amount of siderophore present in the culture fluids of even the meningococcus was 100- to 1,000-fold lower than the concentration of hydroxamate siderophores reported to be produced by Bacillus megaterium or Aerobacter aerogenes. Virulent, colony type 1 N. gonorrhoeae produced significantly more gonobactin than did the avirulent colony type 3 gonococci.
History of Diabetes, the Journal (1952–1991): Editor's Swan Song

Diabetes has provided scientific information in diabetes-related areas of basic and clinical research since 1952. This brief historical overview of the journal's activities and published articles is offered as an illustration of the remarkable strides in diabetes-related research that have taken place over the past 40 years.
Alendronate prevents cyclosporin A-induced osteopenia in the rat

Abstract Post-transplantation bone disease is an increasingly recognized clinical entity whose etiology is multifactorial. The immunosuppressant agent cyclosporine-A (CsA) has repeatedly been shown experimentally to induce a high-turnover osteopenic state. Alendronate (Alen.) is a new generation bisphosphonate having far greater antiresorptive potency than previous bisphosphonates. It inhibits osteoclast resorption in vitro and in vivo without adversely affecting bone mineralization. This study was designed to investigate whether alendronate could prevent CsA-induced osteopenia in the rat. Forty-eight 8-month-old male Sprague Dawley rats were randomized into four groups to receive the following for 28 days: (1) CsA vehicle (veh.) p.o. daily and alendronate vehicle subcutaneously (s.c.) twice/week, (2) CsA 15 mg/kg p.o. daily and Alen. veh. s.c. twice/week, (3) Alen. 70 μg/kg s.c. twice/week and CsA veh. p.o. daily, and (4) CsA 15 mg/kg p.o. daily and Alen. 70 μg/kg s.c. twice/week. Rats were weighed and bled and serum was assayed serially for calcium, PTH, 1,25(OH)2vit.D, and osteocalcin. Tibiae were removed following sacrifice on day 28, after double demeclocycline and calcein labeling, for histomorphometric analysis. Treated groups were compared to the vehicle-treated control. We confirmed previous findings that CsA produces elevated 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D and serum osteocalcin levels. Alendronate treatment by itself decreased osteocalcin by day 28 and resulted in a marginal decrease in serum total calcium on day 14. The histomorphometry findings reconfirmed that the administration of CsA induces a state of high-turnover osteopenia. Alendronate prevented CsA's adverse effects, particularly in maintaining trabecular bone volume, presumably by decreasing bone remodeling. Alendronate would seem to hold therapeutic promise in post-transplantation bone disease.
Critical Assumptions in Evaluating Foreign Investment Projects

This paper addresses certain critical aspects in the technology of the financial analysis of foreign investment projects by the investing concern. Recent pedagogy in the field [2] indicates the desirability of a two-stage or double-hurdle approach to the analysis of such projects. The first hurdle that a project must surmount is an indication of its viability in the local investment environment. The overall project cash flows in local currency are developed from market data and engineering and production studies, and a determination is made using payback, present-value, internal rate-of-return considerations, or whatever, as to whether or not the project is viable in a local economic sense. Failure to meet the local viability test results (or ought to result) in project rejection, regardless of the apparent profitability of the project at the parent.
Within-female plasticity in sex allocation is associated with a behavioural polyphenism in house wrens.

Sex-allocation theory assumes individual plasticity in maternal strategies, but few studies have investigated within-individual changes across environments. In house wrens, differences between nests in the degree of hatching synchrony of eggs represent a behavioral polyphenism in females, and its expression varies with seasonal changes in the environment. Between-nest differences in hatching asynchrony also create different environments for offspring, and sons are more strongly affected than daughters by sibling competition when hatching occurs asynchronously over several days. Here, we examined variation in hatching asynchrony and sex allocation, and its consequences for offspring fitness. The number and condition of fledglings declined seasonally, and the frequency of asynchronous hatching increased. In broods hatched asynchronously, sons, which are over-represented in earlier-laid eggs, were in better condition than daughters, which are over-represented in later-laid eggs. Nonetheless, asynchronous broods were more productive later within seasons. The proportion of sons in asynchronous broods increased seasonally, whereas there was a seasonal increase in the production of daughters by mothers hatching their eggs synchronously, which was characterized by within-female changes in offspring sex and not by sex-biased mortality. As adults, sons from asynchronous broods were in better condition and produced more broods of their own than males from synchronous broods, and both males and females from asynchronous broods had higher lifetime reproductive success than those from synchronous broods. In conclusion, hatching patterns are under maternal control, representing distinct strategies for allocating offspring within broods, and are associated with offspring sex ratios and differences in offspring reproductive success.
Role of α-MSH in the regulation of consummatory behavior: immunohistochemical evidence

Central injection of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) decreases food intake, suggesting a role for this peptide in the mediation of satiety. Inasmuch as α-MSH also supports the development ...
Role of diet in fecal incontinence: a systematic review of the literature

The objective was to perform a systematic review of the literature to examine original research on the role of diet in fecal incontinence (FI) with a dual focus on dietary differences in FI and dietary treatments for FI. We searched the PubMed and Embase databases for any peer-reviewed original research in English on the role of diet in FI. We identified 172 unique citations. After title review and exclusion of articles not reporting original research, 9 publications were included in the final review: 4 focused on dietary differences and 5 focused on dietary treatments for FI. Limited evidence indicates that macro- and micronutrient intake does not differ significantly in those with and without FI. However, certain foods were perceived to improve or exacerbate FI symptoms and these varied and were adjusted as part of self-care practices. A high-fiber diet may reduce incontinence frequency. Data on the pathogenesis of FI from a dietary perspective are scant. Based on the limited data, dietary differences between those with and without FI provide little insight with the exception of fiber. Further studies are needed to elucidate treatments for FI using fiber and dietary modifications.
Numerical linear algebra techniques for effective data analysis

Data analysis is a process of inspecting and obtaining useful information from the data, with the goal of knowledge and scientific discovery. It brings together several disciplines in mathematics and computer science, including statistics, machine learning, database, data mining, and pattern recognition, to name just a few. A typical challenge with the current era of information technology is the availability of large volumes of data, together with “the curse of dimensionality”. From the computational point of view, such a challenge urges efficient algorithms that can scale with the size and the dimension of the data. Numerical linear algebra lays a solid foundation for this task via its rich theory and elegant techniques. There are a large amount of examples which show that numerical linear algebra consists of a crucial ingredient in the process of data analysis. In this thesis, we elaborate on the above viewpoint via four problems, all of which have significant real-world applications. We propose efficient algorithms based on matrix techniques for solving each problem, with guaranteed low computational costs and high quality results. In the first scenario, a set of so called Lanczos vectors are used as an alternative to the principal eigenvectors/singular vectors in some processes of reducing the dimension of the data. The Lanczos vectors can be computed inexpensively, and they can be used to preserve the latent information of the data, resulting in a quality as good as by using eigenvectors/singular vectors. In the second scenario, we consider the construction of a nearest-neighbors graph. Under the framework of divide and conquer and via the use of the Lanczos procedure, two algorithms are designed with sub-quadratic (and close to linear) costs, way more efficient than existing practical algorithms when the data at hand are of very high dimension. In the third scenario, a matrix blocking algorithm for reordering and finding dense diagonal blocks of a sparse matrix is adapted, to identify dense subgraphs of a sparse graph, with broad applications in community detection for social, biological and information networks. Finally, in the fourth scenario, we visit the classical problem of sampling a very high dimensional Gaussian distribution in statistical data analysis. A technique of computing a function of a matrix times a vector is developed, to remedy traditional techniques (such as via the Cholesky factorization of the covariance matrix) that are limited to mega-dimensions in practice. The new technique has a potential for sampling Guassian distributions in tera/peta-dimensions, which is typically required for large-scale simulations and uncertainty quantifications.
Do Work-Life Benefits Enhance the Work Attitudes of Employees? Findings from a Panel Study

Several years of data were obtained from a survey administered in U.S. federal agencies. The results revealed that work-life programs did not negatively affect turnover intentions. In fact, two work-life programs (i.e., teleworking and employee assistance programs) were actually found to increase turnover intentions. However, one of the work-life programs (health and wellness) was found to positively affect satisfaction. The practical and theoretical implications of the article are discussed in the paper.
Learning constituent parts of touch stimuli from whole hand vibrations

Manual activities elicit touch stimuli that are widely distributed in the hand. To what extent can these stimuli be considered to the sum of their parts, and how might these parts relate to the structure and function of the hand? In this work, we measured spatially distributed patterns of vibration in the skin that were elicited during common manual interactions. We analyzed information content in this data by extracting informative low-dimensional representations, using an unsupervised machine learning algorithm known as non-negative matrix factorization. The latter is a technique for decomposing data into implicit components, inspired by neural processing. This analysis automatically yielded "parts of touch" — cohesive representations of touch-elicited vibration patterns that were localized in the fingers and other cohesive areas of the hand, reflecting to a remarkable extent, the most salient anatomical and functional specializations in the hand. In a subsequent classification task, we found these representations efficiently encoded the manual activities that elicited the (high-dimensional) vibration stimuli. The activities could be accurately classified using low dimensional representations with as few as three parts. The results provide quantitative evidence that vibrotactile information content in the upper limb is organized in ways that reflect the anatomy, structure, and function of the hand.
9 BLEEDING ESOPHAGEAL VARICES SECONDARY TO DIALYSIS CATHETER-INDUCED SUPERIOR VENA CAVA STENOSIS.

Introduction We present an instructive case of bleeding esophageal varices, which occurred as a complication of central venous dialysis catheter (CVC)-induced superior vena cava (SVC) stenosis. Case Report Our patient is a 34-year-old female with an 11-year history of ESRD, managed recently with hemodialysis via central venous catheters. She presented with shortness of breath and hypotension following 3 days of melenic stools. After stabilization, she underwent endoscopy that uncovered three columns of midesophageal varices with evidence of recent hemorrhage. Six bands were placed. Subsequent evaluation showed no evidence of portal hypertension or liver disease. Physical examination revealed severe swelling of her face, neck, right breast, and right arm, which developed acutely following placement of a right brachioaxillary arteriovenous graft (AVG) 2 weeks previously. CT scan of the chest showed a dialysis catheter inside a thickened SVC with extensive collateral formation. Venography confirmed the diagnosis of SVC stenosis secondary to stricture, with blood being diverted through dilated azygous, intercostal, chest wall, and paraesophageal venous collaterals. Prior to endovascular correction of the SVC stenosis, the patient had another episode of variceal bleeding, necessitating volume resuscitation and banding. After stabilization of her second variceal bleed, the patient underwent percutaneous angioplasty and stenting of a long, fusiform stricture involving the SVC. A post-stent venogram showed collapse of the collateral vessels. Within several weeks, her edema was resolved. She has had no further episodes of overt esophageal bleeding since correction of the SVC stenosis 3 months ago. Discussion Hemodialysis catheter-induced SVC stenosis is a growing problem in the ESRD community. As in our patient, SVC stenosis is often subclinical (secondary to collateral formation) until a change in hemodynamics occurs, such as increased blood flow across the stenosis via an AVG. We believe our patient developed bleeding esophageal varices secondary to acute dilation of preexisting esophageal collateral veins following placement of the right upper extremity AVG. Percutaneous angioplasty and stent placement led to clinical resolution of the SVC syndrome and prevention of recurrent variceal bleeding.
A Qualitative Study of the Role of Peer Support Specialists in Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Examining the Types of Support Provided

ABSTRACTPeer support specialists (PSS) are individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder who contribute to substance use treatment by offering support to clients based on shared experience. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration recognizes four types of social support that may be provided by PSS: emotional, informational, instrumental, and affiliational. This qualitative study consisted of interviews with PSS, clients, and agency staff and examines the social support that PSS provide during three different treatment phases: treatment, transitions in treatment, and recovery management. Study findings provide insight into the types and timing of support provided by PSS.
Determinants of radical cystectomy operative time

Abstract Objective To examine factors associated with radical cystectomy operative time among Medicare beneficiaries. Material and methods Using linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare data, we identified 4,975 patients who underwent a radical cystectomy during 1991 to 2007. Using a validated method of using anesthesia administrative data to quantify operative time, we used generalized estimating equations to examine the association of patient, provider, and hospital factors on radical cystectomy operative time. Results We found that mean operative time decreased by 5 minutes per year ( Δ = −5.3 min/y, P Δ =+39.0 min vs. nonacademic), continent diversion ( Δ =+34.9 min vs. ileal conduit), surgical excision of≥11 lymph nodes ( Δ =+24.9 min vs. 1–5), female ( Δ =+32.3 min vs. male sex), and perioperative anesthesia procedures such as placement of central venous catheters or arterial lines ( Δ =+47.2 min vs. no procedures), respectively (all P Δ =−22.0 min vs. lowest volume) was associated with shorter operative times ( P = 0.002). Conclusions Operative times for cystectomy have been steadily decreasing annually. There is notable variation based on academic affiliation, diversion type and extent of lymphadenectomy, surgeon and hospital volumes, as well as use of anesthetic procedures. Efforts to improve operative time by selective referral to high-volume surgeons or hospitals or both, or judicious use of perioperative procedures may have a positive effect on health care costs and overall quality of care for patients undergoing radical cystectomy for bladder cancer.
Seizures, Dystonia, and Spasms in a 14-Year-Old Child.

A 14-year-old male patient attends a metabolism clinic for routine assessment. He has a complex medical history that includes recovery from a basal ganglia stroke in infancy and several hospital admissions with hypoxic brain injury, dystonias, and spasms. He is currently taking levetiracetam for seizure control. As part of his monitoring, a urine sample is collected for organic acid analysis using GC-MS. The chromatogram is shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 1. Organic acid analysis of patient urine using GC-MS. Urine organic acids were extracted into ethyl acetate/ether and converted to TMS (trimethylsilyl) derivatives prior to analysis using an Agilent GC 6890N/ MS 5975 system equipped with a DB-1 column. This patient has glutaric aciduria type I (GA I)2 caused by a deficiency of glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH) (EC number 1.3.8.6), a key enzyme in the catabolism of lysine, hydroxylysine, and tryptophan …
The HFpEF Obesity Phenotype: The Elephant in the Room.

In this issue of the Journal , Dalos et al. [(1)][1] report the results of an important study that focused on New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class and its determinants in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The investigators recruited a large number
Urinary kidney injury biomarkers and tobramycin clearance among children and young adults with cystic fibrosis: a population pharmacokinetic analysis.

BACKGROUND Tobramycin is frequently used for treatment of bronchopneumonia in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Variability in tobramycin clearance (CL) is high in this population with few reliable approaches to guide dosing. OBJECTIVES We sought to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of once-daily intravenous tobramycin in patients with CF and test the influence of covariates on tobramycin CL, including serum creatinine (SCr) and urinary biomarkers: neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), retinol-binding protein (RBP) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). METHODS This was a prospective, observational cohort study of children/young adults with CF receiving once-daily intravenous tobramycin from October 2012 to May 2014 at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Therapeutic drug monitoring data were prospectively obtained. Population pharmacokinetic analyses were performed using non-linear mixed-effects modelling. RESULTS Thirty-seven patients (median age 15.3 years, IQR 12.7-19.5) received 62 tobramycin courses. A one-compartment model with allometrically scaled weight for tobramycin CL and volume of distribution (V) best described the data. Urinary NGAL was associated with tobramycin CL (P < 0.001), as was urinary RBP (P < 0.001). SCr, estimated glomerular filtration rate and urinary KIM-1 were not significant covariates. The population pharmacokinetic parameter estimates were CL = 8.60 L/h/70 kg (relative standard error 4.3%) and V = 31.3 L/70 kg (relative standard error 4.7%). CONCLUSIONS We describe urinary biomarkers as predictors of tobramycin CL using a population pharmacokinetic modelling approach. Our findings suggest that patient weight and urinary NGAL or RBP could be used to individualize tobramycin therapy in patients with CF.
Autonomous Vehicles: Assessment of the Implications of Truck Positioning on Flexible Pavement Performance and Design

With ongoing technological improvements and research in the field of autonomous vehicles, it is becoming evident that the technology has the potential to substantially affect the transportation sec...
Intercostal Pain Syndromes

Intercostal pain syndromes involve pain emanating from the chest wall, ribs, muscles, joints, and commonly intercostal and subcostal nerves. A thorough history is vital as physical exam may not be very revealing. The history should include any history of trauma to the region, surgery (cardiac, pulmonary, thoracic), and medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus, herpes zoster, and arthritis. In patients where there is no significant medical history and who have complaints of burning-type pain, one should consider the diagnosis of intercostal neuralgia. Intercostal neuralgia is usually a diagnosis of exclusion. A majority of patients who have intercostal neuralgia first seek medical attention because they think they are having cardiac issues such as a heart attack. Any of the intercostal nerves may be involved presenting with pain that is constant and burning in nature.
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

This chapter will discuss the workup and management of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, with emphasis on radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and published data.
Whole Genome Sequencing of Antimicrobial-Resistant Shigella sonnei Associated with Infection Acquired from International and Domestic Settings Reveals Gene Allelic Variants that Predict Global Lineages

Shigella spp. are a major cause of gastroenteritis worldwide, and S. sonnei is the most common species isolated within the United States. Recently, advancements in technology have made whole genome sequencing (WGS) readily available, and as such, laboratories are moving to implement WGS in outbreak analysis, surveillance, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) monitoring of major foodborne pathogens. Accordingly, our study examined a collection of 22 antimicrobial resistant S. sonnei isolates from patients who either acquired the infections within the United States or when travelling to international locations between 2009 to 2014. We applied WGS to investigate both the relatedness of these isolates and the genetic determinants of AMR to address the phenotypic differences seen in previous observations. We analyzed the phylogeny of these strains and observed segmentation based on the previously described Global Lineages of S. sonnei. Following these results, 17 gene sequences with lineage specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified and developed into a lineage prediction test to determine the Global Lineage of uncharacterized S. sonnei, which accurately predicted phylogenetic segmentation and additionally showed specificity for S. sonnei genomes (97% accuracy, 38/39 genomes). Lastly, to determine differences between either the international or domestic isolates or between the Global Lineages, the AMR determinants were identified. We found a variety of AMR determinants within the genomes, and while the international and domestic S. sonnei carried similar resistance determinants, differences between Global Lineages were observed.
Psychoanalysis and the Classroom

Education Remains A Frontier For Psychoanalysis. Cohler and Galatzer-Levy explore and extend the boundaries of this frontier. They articulate that any curriculum has both objective and subjective elements: a course on the origins of the universe may, for some, entail questions about one’s own origins; a course on the American Civil War may, for some, evoke feelings about one’s family’s uncivil wars, such as divorce. Psychoanalysis, to the extent that it is the study of subjectivity—our wishes and intents, both in or out of awareness—enlightens us about education.
ROBUST METHODS FOR TIME SERIES

Outliers in time series can wreak havoc with conventional least-squares procedures, just as in the case of ordinary regression. This paper presents two time-series outlier models, points out their ordinary regression analogues and the corresponding outlier patterns, and presents robust alternatives to the least-squares method of fitting autoregressive-moving-average models. The main emphasis is on robust estimation in the presence of additive outliers. This results in the problem having an errors-in-variables aspect. While several methods of robust estimation for this problem are presented, the most attractive approach is an approximate non-Gaussian maximum-likelihood type method which involves the use of a robust non-linear filter/one-sided interpolator with data-dependent scaling. Robust smoothing/two-sided outlier interpolation, forecasting, model selection, and spectral analysis are briefly mentioned, as are the problems of estimating location and dealing with trends, seasonality, and missing data. Some examples of applying the methodology are given.