cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wind Speeds in ASCE 7 Standard Peak-Gust Map: Assessment

The ASCE 7 peak-gust map divides the United States into two main adjacent wind speed zones that do not reflect correctly the country's differentiated extreme wind climate. Following a request by the National Institute of Standards and Technology ~NIST!, CPP Inc. through Texas Tech Univ. provided information used for the development of the map and for its a posteriori justification. Using this information we show that the methodology used in the map's development averages out real climatological differences and causes severe bias errors for the following reasons: ~1! the estimation of the speeds was based on superstations, of which 80% included stations that were also contained in one or more other superstations; ~2! stations with significantly different physical geography and meteorology were in many cases included in the same superstation; ~3! legitimate wind speed data were omitted from data records in cases in which analyses resulted in speeds different from those postulated in the map; ~4! and off-the-shelf smoothing software was used that does not account for physical geography and meteorological differences. Case studies show that the map entails severe bias errors, causing unnecessary waste due to overestimated wind loads or potential losses due to underestimated wind loads.
Genomic screening in family-based association testing

Due to the recent gains in the availability of single-nucleotide polymorphism data, genome-wide association testing has become feasible. It is hoped that this additional data may confirm the presence of disease susceptibility loci, and identify new genetic determinants of disease. However, the problem of multiple comparisons threatens to diminish any potential gains from this newly available data. To circumvent the multiple comparisons issue, we utilize a recently developed screening technique using family-based association testing. This screening methodology allows for the identification of the most promising single-nucleotide polymorphisms for testing without biasing the nominal significance level of our test statistic. We compare the results of our screening technique across univariate and multivariate family-based association tests. From our analyses, we observe that the screening technique, applied to different settings, is fairly consistent in identifying optimal markers for testing. One of the identified markers, TSC0047225, was significantly associated with both the ttth1 (p = 0.004) and ttth1-ttth4 (p = 0.004) phenotype(s). We find that both univariate- and multivariate-based screening techniques are powerful tools for detecting an association.
Chamber simulation of photooxidation of dimethyl sulfide and isoprene in the presence of NO x

Abstract. To improve the model prediction for the formation of H2SO4 and methanesulfonic acid (MSA), aerosol-phase reactions of gaseous dimethyl sulfide (DMS) oxidation products [e.g., dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)] in aerosol have been included in the DMS kinetic model with the recently reported gas-phase reactions and their rate constants. To determine the rate constants of aerosol-phase reactions of both DMSO and its major gaseous products [e.g., dimethyl sulfone (DMSO2) and methanesulfinic acid (MSIA)], DMSO was photooxidized in the presence of NOx using a 2 m3 Teflon film chamber. The rate constants tested in the DMSO kinetic mechanisms were then incorporated into the DMS photooxidation mechanism. The model simulation using the newly constructed DMS oxidation mechanims was compared to chamber data obtained from the phototoxiation of DMS in the presence of NOx. Within 120-min simulation, the predicted concentrations of MSA increase by 200–400% and those of H2SO4, by 50–200% due to aerosol-phase chemistry. This was well substantiated with experimental data. To study the effect of coexisting volatile organic compounds, the photooxidation of DMS in the presence of isoprene and NOx has been simulated using the newly constructed DMS kinetic model integrated with the Master Chemical Mechanism (MCM) for isoprene oxidation, and compared to chamber data. With the high concentrations of DMS (250 ppb) and isoprene (560–2248 ppb), both the model simulation and experimental data showed an increase in the yields of MSA and H2SO4 as the isoprene concentration increased.
THE “PROBLEM” OF MICHAEL WHITE AND MICHEL FOUCAULT

The following essay proposes to look at the “problem” of the family therapist, Michael White, and the philosopher, Michel Foucault. The problem generally defined is the following: what are the key features of the relationship between Foucault and White? To answer this question, four areas need to be examined. First, it is important to look at the relationship between personal stories and cultural and institutional discourses. Second, there is a need to address the local use of power. Third, attention needs to be paid to the positions of Foucault and White vis-a-vis their respective disciplines. Lastly, the issue of the proper use of Foucault's methodology as applied to family therapy needs to be explored.
Deposits in a sealed-off CO 2 laser-type discharge

In a sealed-off CO 2 laser, deposits are formed from the gas mixture. The removal of the gas in this way limits the lifetime of the laser. Fragments of these deposits are analyzed mass spectrometrically and their possible composition is given. After the discharge tube was pumped down, the gases released from the walls were analyzed. CO 2 was observed and it was apparently trapped at the walls.
PD-L1 Expression in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: An Analysis of Nephrectomy and Sites of Metastases.

Background: Expression of programmed death ligand (PD-L1/B7-H1/CD274) represents a mechanism of immune escape for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells. Drugs blocking PD-L1 or its receptor are in clinical development and early data suggests that tumor PD-L1 expression may predict response. Patients and Methods: A tissue microarray (TMA) consisting of four biopsy cores from 34 matched pairs of nephrectomy and metastatic sites of clear cell RCC was used to assess PD-L1 expression by quantitative immunofluorescence. Assessment of intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity and primary and metastatic tumor expression was performed using a method of Automated Quantitative Analysis (AQUA). Results: The median AQUA scores were higher in metastatic than primary specimens (P < 0.0001). The correlation between PD-L1 expression in matched primary and metastatic specimens was weak (R= 0.24). Within a given tumor, variable PD-L1 staining heterogeneity was seen, however the degree of heterogeneity was similar in primary and metastatic sites (P = 0.482). Conclusions: The weak correlation between PD-L1 expression in primary and metastatic sites for a given patient suggests that expression in nephrectomy specimens cannot be used to select metastatic RCC patients for PD-L1 and PD-1 inhibitors. The intra-tumor heterogeneity seen in both primary and metastatic specimens indicates that a single core biopsy might not be sufficient to determine PD-L1 expression.
eScience in the cloud: A MODIS satellite data reprojection and reduction pipeline in the Windows Azure platform

The combination of low-cost sensors, low-cost commodity computing, and the Internet is enabling a new era of data-intensive science. The dramatic increase in this data availability has created a new challenge for scientists: how to process the data. Scientists today are envisioning scientific computations on large scale data but are having difficulty designing software architectures to accommodate the large volume of the often heterogeneous and inconsistent data. In this paper, we introduce a particular instance of this challenge, and present our design and implementation of a MODIS satellite data reprojection and reduction pipeline in the Windows Azure cloud computing platform. This cloud-based pipeline is designed with a goal of hiding data complexities and subsequent data processing and transformation from end users. This pipeline is highly flexible and extensible to accommodate different science data processing tasks, and can be dynamically scaled to fulfill scientists' various computational requirements in a cost-efficient way. Experiments show that by running a practical large-scale science data processing job in the pipeline using 150 moderately-sized Azure virtual machine instances, we were able to produce analytical results in nearly 90× less time than was possible with a high-end desktop machine. To our knowledge, this is one of the first eScience applications to use the Windows Azure platform.
GPS-Squitter experimental results

GPS-Squitter is a system concept that merges the capabilities of Automatic Dependent Surveillance (ADS) and the Mode S beacon radar. The result is an integrated concept for seamless surveillance and data link that permits equipped aircraft to participate in ADS or beacon ground environments. This offers many possibilities for transition from beacon to ADS-based surveillance. This paper briefly defines the GPS-Squitter concept and its principal applications. The thrust of the paper is the presentation of surface and airborne surveillance measurements made at Hanscom Field in Bedford, Massachusetts and at the Logan International Airport in Boston. In each case the measurements show the excellent surveillance performance provided by this concept. >
Aerothermal Challenges in Syngas, Hydrogen-Fired, and Oxyfuel Turbines—Part II: Effects of Internal Heat Transfer

Future advanced turbine systems for electric power generation, based on coal-gasified fuels with CO 2 capture and sequestration, are aimed for achieving higher cycle efficiency and near-zero emission. The most promising operating cycles being developed are hydrogen-fired cycle and oxyfuel cycle. Both cycles will likely have turbine working fluids significantly different from that of conventional air-based gas turbines. In addition, the oxyfuel cycle will have a turbine inlet temperature target at approximately 2030 K (1760°C), significantly higher than the current level. This suggests that aerothermal control and cooling will play a critical role in realizing our nation's future fossil power generation systems. This paper provides a computational analysis in comparing the internal cooling performance of a double-wall or skin-cooled airfoil to that of an equivalent serpentine-cooled airfoil. The present results reveal that the double-wall or skin-cooled approach produces superior performance than the conventional serpentine designs. This is particularly effective for the oxyfuel turbine with elevated turbine inlet temperatures. The effects of coolant-side internal heat transfer coefficient on the airfoil metal temperature in both hydrogen-fired and oxyfuel turbines are evaluated. The contribution of thermal barrier coatings toward overall thermal protection for turbine airfoil cooled under these two different cooling configurations is also assessed.
Hypercalciuria and Nephrocalcinosis in the Oculocerebrorenal syndrome

The oculocerebrorenal (Lowe) syndrome is an X-linked recessive disorder characterized by congenital cataracts, hypotonia, developmental delay, poor growth and renal tubular dysfunction. Although the disorder has been mapped to chromosome Xq24-26, the underlying metabolic defect remains unknown. The renal component of the Lowe syndrome comprises tubular dysfunction, that is tubular proteinuria and generalized aminoaciduria progressing to the renal Fanconi syndrome, with later glomerular disease. Clinical problems typically include polyuria, acidosis, hypophosphatemia with rickets and eventually end stage renal disease. Hypercalciuria and its sequelae (nephrocalcinosis and nephrolithiasis) have not been described as cardinal features of the untreated disorder although they reportedly complicate vitamin D and calcium therapy of rickets. We discuss 5 boys with congenital cataracts, hypotonia, developmental delay, failure to thrive and the renal Fanconi syndrome who were diagnosed with the Lowe syndrome and in whom hypercalciuria was documented at diagnosis. We conclude that hypercalciuria and its sequelae may occur commonly in patients with the Lowe syndrome as a component of tubular dysfunction or a complication of therapy.
Identifying external network branch status errors using synchronized phasor measurements

Errors in external network topology may have significant impact on accuracy of internal state estimation and subsequent real-time contingency analysis. Identification of any type of change in the external network topology will be impossible by using only internal system real-time measurements. However, recent availability of external system synchronized phasor measurements will facilitate identification of certain external topology errors, especially if they are strategically located with respect to the available phasor measurement units. This paper presents a practical method to identify the external line outages, using the realtime data from internal system and those external buses with PMUs. The proposed method's performance is tested on the IEEE 30 bus system and simulation results are presented.
Advanced logic design through hands-on digital music synthesis

This paper presents a hands-on advanced logic design course using digital music synthesis as the basis of all homework and labs. A Verilog-based design flow is coupled with a FPGA development board, a digital to analog converter, and a small amplifier which enables a complete progression of specification, implementation and verification over the 10 week quarter. The gratification of hands-on audio work increases student interest, accelerates learning, and improved the average student success rate without altering the fundamental material covered in the course.
Saving money on anesthesia drugs: Does this decrease efficiency?

T HE NEW chief executive officer (CEO) of your hospital has learned that the operating room (OR) is no longer a profit center. Cost of surgical supplies, anesthesia supplies, and support personnel have all increased while at the same time managed care has seriously decreased the reimbursement for and volume of hospital services.1 No longer does the cost-plus concept of traditional indemnity insurance reimbursement apply. 2 Managed care has placed strict controls on the use of services. Profit margins for your hospital as well as most others are now only approximately 5% and have been stagnant for the last several years) Most cases in the OR now have a fixed-price reimbursement for anesthesia and surgery. To make matters worse, an outpatient surgical facility has recently opened nearby and is siphoning the most desirable cases from your institution. The CEO knows that he must once more achieve profitability in areas such as the OR because profits generated here help support unprofitable services that are essential in fulfillment of the hospital's mission. The CEO has assembled all of the section chairs to ask for their help in returning this venerable institution to profitability. He specifically asks you, the new chairman of the anesthesia section, to help him control anesthesia costs while still maintaining excellent and efficient preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative patient care. You reply that you will certainly do all you can to help but that your primary concern is, and must be, the patient. You state emphatically that there must be no decrease in value to the patient, the surgeons, the anesthesiologists, or the institution if your efforts are to be worthwhile. You are concerned that just decreasing costs may also decrease value if the quality of care decreases more than the costs (value = quality/cost). 4 You also worry that if you are not careful and judicious in your decisions, you may decrease overall efficiency of the OR and thus actually increase the total costs of the OR and anesthesia. In this article I will review and analyze techniques of anesthesia and their costs. I will define and examine efficiency as it relates to anesthesia and surgery and try to reach some conclusions on the cost-efficient delivery of value-based anesthesia. Hopefully you, the reader, will be able to make some firm decisions on how you can help return your OR to profitability while still delivering excellent anesthesia care.
Chromosomal islands of Streptococcus pyogenes and related streptococci: molecular switches for survival and virulence.

Streptococcus pyogenes is a significant pathogen of humans, annually causing over 700,000,000 infections and 500,000 deaths. Virulence in S. pyogenes is closely linked to mobile genetic elements like phages and chromosomal islands (CI). S. pyogenes phage-like chromosomal islands (SpyCI) confer a complex mutator phenotype on their host. SpyCI integrate into the 5’ end of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) gene mutL, which also disrupts downstream operon genes lmrP, ruvA, and tag. During early logarithmic growth, SpyCI excise from the bacterial chromosome and replicate as episomes, relieving the mutator phenotype. As growth slows and the cells enter stationary phase, SpyCI reintegrate into the chromosome, again silencing the MMR operon. This system creates a unique growth-dependent and reversible mutator phenotype. Additional CI using the identical attachment site in mutL have been identified in related species, including Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis, Streptococcus anginosus, Streptococcus intermedius, Streptococcus parauberis, and Streptococcus canis. These CI have small genomes, which range from 13-20 kB, conserved integrase and DNA replication genes, and no identifiable genes encoding capsid proteins. SpyCI may employ a helper phage for packaging and dissemination in a fashion similar to the Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity islands (SaPI). Outside of the core replication and integration genes, SpyCI and related CI show considerable diversity with the presence of many indels that may contribute to the host cell phenotype or fitness. SpyCI are a subset of a larger family of streptococcal CI who potentially regulate the expression of other host genes. The biological and phylogenetic analysis of streptococcal chromosomal islands provides important clues as to how these chromosomal islands help S. pyogenes and other streptococcal species persist in human populations in spite of antibiotic therapy and immune challenges.
Functional Analysis and Sobolev Spaces

Much of the recent work on inverse scattering theory is based on the use of special topics in functional analysis and the theory of Sobolev spaces. The results that we plan to present in this book are no exception. Hence we begin our book by providing a short introduction to the basic ideas of functional analysis and Sobolev spaces that will be needed to understand the material that follows. Since these two topics are the subject matter of numerous books at various levels of difficulty, we can only hope to present the bare rudiments of each of these fields. Nevertheless, armed with the material presented in this chapter, the reader will be well prepared to follow the arguments presented in subsequent chapters of this book.
Carcinogenesis by Hepatic Peroxisome Proliferators: Evaluation of the Risk of Hypolipidemic Drugs and Industrial Plasticizers to Humans

Abstract In this critical review, I would like to provide a brief outline of the morphology, biochemical composition, distribution, and functions of peroxisomes. The induction of peroxisome proliferation and peroxisome-associated enzymes in the rodent liver by two classes of chemicals (hypolipidemic drugs and the industrial plasticizers) will be considered. The role of peroxisomes in lipid metabolism will be discussed. Carcinogenicity studies in rats and mice with these peroxisome proliferators will be evaluated critically. Careful consideration will be given to the hypothesis that "potent hepatic peroxisome proliferators as a class are carcinogenic." The possible mechanism(s) by which peroxisome proliferators induce liver tumors will be outlined. Particular attention will be paid to the possible role of peroxisome proliferation-mediated radical toxicity and generation of endogenous initiators of carcinogenesis.
Combining protein and mRNA quantification to decipher transcriptional regulation

We combine immunofluorescence and single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH), followed by automated image analysis, to quantify the concentration of nuclear transcription factors, number of transcription factors bound, and number of nascent mRNAs synthesized at individual gene loci. A theoretical model is used to decipher how transcription factor binding modulates the stochastic kinetics of mRNA production. We demonstrate this approach by examining the regulation of hunchback in the early Drosophila embryo.
Life course complexities situated in contemporary age demographics

Despite the shifts in age demographics, few studies have explored contemporary perceptions of age-related expectations for work and family life. We examine whether the relationships between the respondents’ personal biographies (such as perceived career stage and gender) and social history (such as country context) affect perceptions of age-related norms. We analyze data from the multi-national 2009–2010 Generations of Talent Study survey to explore perceptions of age-related norms, comparing the responses of employees working in selected developed economies with those working in selected rapidly developing countries. These comparisons are compelling because of the demographic differences between these two groups. We find that three factors explain variance in perceptions of age-related norms: the respondent's age (using three indicators of age), the country where the respondent works, and gender.
Decidable problems for unary PFAs

Given a PFA A and a cut-point λ, the isolation problem asks if there is a bound e > 0 such that the acceptance probability of every word is bounded away from λ by e. In this paper we show that the isolation problem for PFAs with a unary input alphabet is (a) coNPcomplete, if the cut-point is 0 or 1, and (b) is in coNP RP and coNP-hard, if the cut-point is in (0, 1). We also show that the language containment problem, language equivalence problem, the emptiness problem and the universality problem for unary PFAs with limit isolated cut-points is in the fourth level of counting hierarchy C 4 P (and hence in PSPACE).
Serum Prothrombin Time, a Composite Effect: An Analysis of the Factors Involved

• The prothrombin consumption test,' in the one-stage procedure recommended by Quick, has been widely employed in the study of some phases of the process of blood coagulation. Furthermore, it has become a valuable procedure for the diagnosis of hemophilia and thrombocytopenic purpura and a useful tool in directing and evaluating the therapy of these diseases. The factors which influence the results of this test, however, are still not completely understood. The prothrombin time of serum is determined by the combined activity of at least four coagulation factors: (1) the concentration of unconverted prothrombin in the serum; (2) the thrombin formed during and after coagulation which has not been adsorbed by fibrin or neutralized by the natural antithrombin; (3) the "accelerator effect" of the serum; and (4) the concentration of labile factor (factor V, plasma Ac globulin) not activated during coagulation. 13 In addition, but probably only when the prothrombin time of serum is determined more than two hours after the completion of coagulation, the results may be influenced by the activation of the precursor of prothrombin postulated by Quick and Stefanini. A correct evaluation of the serum prothrombin time requires a clear understanding of the activity and the interrelationships of these factors. A study is presented in this paper of the influence of these different variables on the serum prothrombin time as determined by the one-stage method.
Development of gastric carcinoids inmastomys during histamine2-receptor blockade

We have investigated the effect of histamine2-receptor blockade on gastric carcinoid formation inMastomys, a rodent prone to develop gastric carcinoids. During long-term treatment (8–24 weeks) with loxtidine, a 3–5 fold increase in plasma gastrin levels was observed. Oxyntic mucosal histamine and histidine decarboxylase activity were increased 2 times and 4–10 times respectively in loxitidine-treated animals, as compared to controls. An increase in oxyntic mucosal thickness was also noted in all treated animals, while gross tumors were only observed in animals treated for 24 weeks. Immunocytochemical analysis of treated animals revealed a marked proliferation of chromogranin-positive cells in the oxyntic mucosa. These cells were identified as ECL cells because they were labeled by histamine antibodies, but not by gastrin-, somatostatin-or serotonin-antibodies. Hyperplasia of endocrine cells was noted after 8 weeks of treatment, while dysplastic lesions were seen after 16 weeks and the first micro- or macrocarcinoids after 24 weeks of treatment. No tumors, or hyperplastic changes, were observed in control animals. The results demonstrate that histamine2-receptor blockade significantly enhances the development of gastric carcinoids inMastomys and suggest that hypergastrinemia may be important for the development of these tumors.
Personalized risk assessments in the criminal justice system

Abstract In an effort to bring greater efficiency, equity, and transparency to the criminal justice system, statistical risk assessment tools are increasingly used to inform bail, sentencing, and p...
Sex Effects of Marijuana on Brain Structure and Function.

Background Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the primary ingredient in marijuana, exerts its effects across several neurological and biological systems that interact with the endocrine system. Thus, differential effects of Δ9-THC are likely to exist based on sex and hormone levels.
The response of the vestibulosympathetic reflex to linear acceleration in the rat.

The vestibulosympathetic reflex (VSR) in the anesthetized rat causes increases in blood pressure (BP) that were maximal during upward and forward translation and decreases in BP that were largest d...
Properties of the offshore low level jet and rotor layer wind shear as measured by scanning Doppler Lidar

The atmospheric flow phenomenon known as the Low Level Jet (LLJ) is an important source of wind power production in the Great Plains. However, due to the lack of measurements with the precision and vertical resolution needed, particularly at rotor heights, it is not well-characterized or understood in offshore regions being considered for wind-farm development. The present paper describes the properties of LLJs and wind shear through the rotor layer of a hypothetical wind turbine, as measured from a ship-borne Doppler lidar in the Gulf of Maine in July–August 2004. LLJs, frequently observed below 600 m, were mostly during nighttime and transitional periods, but they were also were seen during some daytime hours. The presence of a LLJ significantly modified wind profiles producing vertical wind speed shear. When the wind shear was strong, the estimates of wind power based upon wind speeds measured at hub-height could have significant errors. Additionally, the inference of hub-height winds from near-surface measurements may introduce further error in the wind power estimate. The lidar dataset was used to investigate the uncertainty of the simplified power-law relation that is often employed in engineering approaches for the extrapolation of surface winds to higher elevations. The results show diurnal and spatial variations of the shear exponent empirically found from surface and hub-height measurements. Finally, the discrepancies between wind power estimates using lidar-measured hub-height winds and rotor equivalent winds are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
OnRamp: A web-portal for teaching parallel and distributed computing

Abstract Computer Science students must understand parallel and distributed computing (PDC) concepts to be effective computer scientists in the workforce, as reflected in the 2013 ACM Curriculum guidelines. Significant work has been done by CS educators to develop curriculum materials and increase access to parallel compute environments (PCEs) by leveraging and clustering a plethora of small multicore systems. Even with these resources there is a barrier to entry for students to use PCEs, namely the unfamiliar and complex system software ecosystem of modern PCEs. The OnRamp project lowers that barrier to entry for exploring PDC concepts on a variety of PCEs by abstracting away the details of interacting with the system and focuses the students’ attention on the PDC concepts. This top-down approach is in contrast to existing approaches involving all aspects of PDC necessarily being taught before the key concepts can be explored. In this paper we discuss the motivation, design and implementation of OnRamp, a general purpose web portal for supporting the exploration of PDC concepts that harnesses the existing educational resources created by the CS education community. It coaches students through interactive modules that teach them about PDC concepts and PCEs while allowing them to launch parallel applications from day one.
Communicating complex scientific research ideas for curing lung cancer using North East Indian folklore and visual art.

Scientist-by-day and artist-by-night, I am primarily interested in therapeutic oncology. During the day, I work in a lung cancer research lab at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. During the nights, I work in visual art studios. In the lab, I focus on the details of cancer causing genes and the related signaling pathways. In the studio, I try to look at the same problem from unusual and different perspectives. For me, these two different ways of thinking generates novel project ideas. In addition, presentation of complex scientific hypothesis in aesthetic manner broadens the scope and the audience of my work ( Figures 1,2,3 ).
Reversing resistance to tembotrione in an Amaranthus tuberculatus (var. rudis) population from Nebraska, USA with cytochrome P450 inhibitors.

BACKGROUND A population of Amaranthus tuberculatus (var. rudis) was confirmed resistant to 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD)-inhibitor herbicides (mesotrione, tembotrione, and topramezone) in a seed corn/soybean rotation in Nebraska. Further investigation confirmed a non-target-site resistance mechanism in this population. The main objective of this study was to explore the role of cytochrome P450 inhibitors for restoring the efficacy of HPPD-inhibitor herbicides on the HPPD-inhibitor resistant A. tuberculatus population from Nebraska, USA (HPPD-R). RESULTS Enhanced metabolism via cytochrome P450 enzymes is the mechanism of resistance in HPPD-R. Amitrole partially restored the activity of mesotrione, whereas malathion, amitrole, and piperonyl butoxide restored the activity of tembotrione and topramezone in HPPD-R. While corn was injured through malathion followed by mesotrione application a week after treatment, the injury was transient, and the crop recovered. CONCLUSION The use of cytochrome P450 inhibitors with tembotrione may provide a new way for controlling HPPD-inhibitor resistant A. tuberculatus, but further research is needed to identify the cytochrome P450 candidate gene(s) conferring metabolism-based resistance. The results presented here aid to gain an insight into non-target-site resistance weed management strategies.
Computational and experimental studies of microvascular void features for passive-adaptation of structural panel dynamic properties

Abstract The performance, integrity, and safety of built-up structural systems are critical to their effective employment in diverse engineering applications. In conflict with these goals, harmonic or random excitations of structural panels may promote large amplitude oscillations that are particularly harmful when excitation energies are concentrated around natural frequencies. This contributes to fatigue concerns, performance degradation, and failure. While studies have considered active or passive damping treatments that adapt material characteristics and configurations for structural control, it remains to be understood how vibration properties of structural panels may be tailored via internal material transitions. Motivated to fill this knowledge gap, this research explores an idea of adapting the static and dynamic material distribution of panels through embedded microvascular channels and strategically placed voids that permit the internal movement of fluids within the panels for structural dynamic control. Finite element model and experimental investigations probe how redistributing material in the form of microscale voids influences the global vibration modes and natural frequencies of structural panels. Through parameter studies, the relationships among void shape, number, size, and location are quantified towards their contribution to the changing structural dynamics. For the panel composition and boundary conditions considered in this report, the findings reveal that transferring material between strategically placed voids may result in eigenfrequency changes as great as 10.0, 5.0, and 7.4% for the first, second, and third modes, respectively.
Candidate Genes for Type 2 Diabetes

The pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes is complex, but is characterized by hyperglycemia secondary to a combination of insulin resistance and pancreatic 0-cell dysfunction that is manifest as inadequate insulin secretion in the face of insulin resistance and hyperglycemia (see Chapters 7 and 8) (1,2). Previous studies have established a clear genetic predisposition for type 2 diabetes (3, 4, 5). The concordance rate among monozygotic twins is 50 to 90% compared to 25 to 35% for dizygotic twins (6). Similarly —30% of offspring of affected individuals develop either type 2 diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance (3, 4, 5). Together, these data are consistent with a significant genetic contribution to the development of type 2 diabetes, but the lack of 100% concordance among monozygotic twins suggests that environmental influences are also important. Moreover, mathematical modeling has suggested that type 2 diabetes is polygenic, i.e., it is inherited in a non-Mendelian fashion and onset of the disease requires the simultaneous presence of a subset of susceptibility genes whose gene products affect insulin production, secretion or sensitivity (3, 4, 5). This has complicated efforts to identify diabetes susceptibility genes for several reasons: (1) the relative contributions of insulin resistance and altered insulin secretion to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes probably vary between individuals; (2) because of the above heterogeneity, susceptibility genes likely differ between and within populations; and (3) the effect of any single susceptibility gene on disease risk may be small, making identification of susceptibility genes difficult. Furthermore, environmental factors that still have not been fully defined, but include diet and physical activity, contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes (7, 8, 9). Thus, susceptibility genes for type 2 diabetes may be present in unaffected individuals because they lack a required complement of susceptibility genes or needed environmental factors to induce diabetes.
Toward an Integration of Item-Response Theory and Cognitive Error Diagnosis.

Finding the sources of misconceptions possessed by students is a difficult task because it is impossible to see what is happening in their heads. The only directly observable outcomes are the students' responses to the test items. Studying their think-aloud protocols is one method for discovering how students solve or think through problems. Several computer programs that are capable of diagnosing students' misconceptions have been developed in the past decade (Brown & Burton, 1978; Marshall, 1980; Ohlsson & Langley, 1985; Sleeman, 1984; Tatsuoka, Baillie, & Yamamoto, 1982; VanLehn, 1983). The common ground for these cognitive diagnostic systems is that they infer the unobservable cognitive processes from logical interrelationships among cognitive tasks, subtasks, and goals involved in problems representing the domain of interest. It is important that we be able to retrieve invisible things from the "black box" and put them into a useful form so that valuable information can be obtained for improving educational quality.
The Case Against Jails

Jails in the United States hold both pre-trial detainees and persons convicted of less serious crimes. Jails are uniquely inhospitable institutions whose denizens are disproportionately socially marginalized, mentally ill, and struggling with problems of substance abuse. The case against jails consists of two parts: First, we should curtail the use of pre-trial detention. Accused persons who are justifiably detained should not be kept in punishment facilities, since they have not yet been convicted. Second, convicted offenders who are currently housed in jails should be dealt with in other ways. Most are not dangerous and will be returning to civil society in relatively short order. The focus should be on doing less harm to them and addressing their criminogenic needs.
Collecting Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Information at Death

Currently, no US jurisdiction or agency routinely or systematically collects information about individuals' sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) at the time of death. As a result, little is known about causes of death in people having a minority sexual orientation or gender identity. These knowledge gaps have long impeded identification of mortality disparities in sexual and gender minority populations and hampered the development of targeted public health interventions and prevention strategies. We offer observations about the possibilities and challenges of collecting and reporting accurate postmortem SOGI information on the basis of our past four years of working with death investigators, coroners, and medical examiners. This work was located primarily in New York, New York, and has extended from January 2015 to the present. Drawing on our experiences, we make recommendations for future efforts to include SOGI among the standard demographic variables used to characterize individuals at death.
Resolution of refractory iron deficiency anemia following sleeve gastrectomy in an adolescent with severe obesity

Abstract Current surgical options for the management of adolescent obesity include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), with recent trends favoring VSG. While both operations result in similar weight reduction, baseline micronutrient status may influence the choice of the procedure in youth. We describe an adolescent with severe obesity, iron deficiency, poor iron absorption, and their impact on decision-making for surgical treatment of her severe obesity. We present a case of a 15-year-old female with a BMI of 50 kg/m2 who was referred for bariatric surgery requesting a RYGB. During her preoperative evaluation, mild iron deficiency anemia was identified after noting a low hemoglobin concentration and mean corpuscular volume. Endoscopic biopsy revealed mild chronic gastritis. Iron supplementation over a 9-month period did not improve her anemia preoperatively and an oral iron challenge demonstrated inadequate absorption. A VSG was recommended to reduce further nutritional risk. Four months following surgery, her anemia resolved, and iron indices normalized while on supplemental micronutrients. Weight loss and hematologic status remained stable over the ensuing eight years of follow-up. Given the risks of micronutrient deficiency following bariatric surgery, particularly RYGB, preoperative evaluation of iron status among patients with microcytic anemia and anticipated nutritional risks of available surgical procedures should influence decision-making during surgical management.
Disparities in osteoporosis by race/ethnicity, education, work status, immigrant status, and economic status in the United States

Abstract Aims Osteoporosis is one of the most common bone health diseases affecting older adults in US. Addressing disparities in osteoporosis will help to enhance the quality of bone care in the nation's bone health programs. Materials & methods We used the data of adult participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey with reported bone mineral density measured during the periods of 2005–2010 and 2013–2014 to examine disparities in osteoporosis based on race/ethnicity, educational attainment, work status, immigrant status, and economic status in US. Results Based on educational attainment, the age- and sex-standardized osteoporosis prevalence (SOP) was highest among those with less than a high school education (HSE) (5.1%, 95% CI (CI): 4.3%–5.9%), whereas it was lowest among those with more than HSE (3.2%, CI: 2.7%–3.6%). Based on work status, SOP was highest among unemployed participants (5.4%, CI: 1.9%–8.9%), whereas it was lowest among working participants (2%, CI: 1.6%–2.4%). Based on immigrant status, SOP was highest among non-citizens (6.4%, CI: 5%–7.8%), whereas it was lowest among those born in US (3.4%, CI: 3.1%–3.7%). Based on economic status, SOP was highest among those with poverty-to-income ratio (PIR) Conclusions Osteoporosis was more prevalent among US adults who were non-citizens, less educated, unemployed, and had lower income. The observed disparities suggest a need for interventions to promote better quality bone care among the socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.
Bariatric surgery reveals a gut-restricted TGR5 agonist that exhibits anti-diabetic effects

Abstract Bariatric surgery, the most effective treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes, is consistently associated with increased levels of the incretin hormone GLP-1 and changes in overall levels of circulating bile acids. The levels of individual bile acids in the GI tract following surgery, however, have remained largely unstudied. Using UPLC-MS-based quantification, we observed an increase in an endogenous bile acid, cholic acid-7-sulfate (CA7S), in the GI tract of both mice and humans after sleeve gastrectomy. We show that CA7S is a TGR5 agonist that induces GLP-1 secretion in vitro and in vivo and that CA7S administration increases glucose tolerance in insulin-resistant mice in a GLP-1 receptor-dependent manner. CA7S remains gut-restricted, minimizing off-target effects previously observed for TGR5 agonists absorbed into circulation. By studying changes in individual metabolites following surgery, this study has revealed a naturally occurring TGR5 agonist that exerts systemic glucoregulatory effects while remaining confined to the gut.
Hypoglycemia in Patients with Diabetes

Hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes is very common in the hospital and is associated with poor outcomes. While insulin is the generally accepted treatment for diabetes, it is also the primary cause of hypoglycemia. Regular point of care testing for glucose is key for preventing hypoglycemia especially since inpatients may not manifest typical symptoms. Knowledge of insulin action profiles will help mitigate risk for hypoglycemia by matching the insulin to patient needs. Guidelines and protocols should be established in the hospital to assist providers with initiating and adjusting insulin to prevent hypoglycemia. Common clinical situations can be identified which may lead to hypoglycemia and require insulin dosing changes. When hypoglycemia occurs, appropriate acute treatment and steps to prevent recurrence are necessary.
Vaccine-Associated Shingles: What Do We Owe Varicella Vaccine Recipients in Adulthood?

Malm and Navin (2020) present a compelling ethical case for the adoption of primary varicella (i.e., chickenpox) vaccination programs. However, they do not address “vaccine-associated shingles,” or...
A Survey of Secondary Instrumental Teachers’ Immediacy, Ensemble Setup, and Use of Classroom Space in Colorado and Indiana:

The purpose of this study was to survey secondary band and orchestra teachers (N = 436) in Colorado and Indiana regarding their self-reported immediacy behaviors, ensemble setups, and use of classr...
Age-Dependent Maturation of iPSC-CMs Leads to the Enhanced Compartmentation of β2AR-cAMP Signalling

The ability to differentiate induced-pluripotent stem cells into cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) has opened up novel avenues for potential cardiac therapies. However, iPSC-CMs exhibit a range of somewhat immature functional properties. This study explored the development of the beta-adrenergic receptor (βAR) pathway, which is crucial in regulating contraction and signifying the health and maturity of myocytes. We explored the compartmentation of β2AR-signalling and phosphodiesterases (PDEs) in caveolae, as functional nanodomains supporting the mature phenotype. Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) microscopy was used to study the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in iPSC-CMs at day 30, 60, and 90 following βAR subtype-specific stimulation. Subsequently, the PDE2, PDE3, and PDE4 activity was investigated using specific inhibitors. Cells were treated with methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) to remove cholesterol as a method of decompartmentalising β2AR. As iPSC-CMs mature with a prolonged culture time, the caveolae density is increased, leading to a reduction in the overall cytoplasmic cAMP signal stimulated through β2AR (but not β1AR). Pan-phosphodiesterase inhibition or caveolae depletion leads to an increase in the β2AR-stimulated cytoplasmic cAMP. Moreover, with time in culture, the increase in the βAR-dependent cytoplasmic cAMP becomes more sensitive to cholesterol removal. The regulation of the β2AR response by PDE2 and 4 is similarly increased with the time in culture. We conclude that both the β2AR and PDEs are restricted to the caveolae nanodomains, and thereby exhibit a tighter spatial restriction over the cAMP signal in late-stage compared to early iPSC-CMs.
The stringent factor Rel from Mycobacterium abscessus regulates metabolism, but does not promote survival in stress or antibiotics

Abstract The stringent response is a broadly conserved stress response system that exhibits functional variability across bacterial clades. Here, we characterize the role of the stringent factor Rel in the non-tuberculous mycobacterial pathogen, Mycobacterium abscessus (Mab). We find that Rel in Mab is involved in restricting transcription of anabolism and growth genes in stress, as has been observed in many other species. However, the stringent response in Mab does not provide a survival advantage in several stress conditions or in antibiotic treatment. According to our transcriptional profiling, Rel in Mab does not activate transcription of stress response or antibiotic resistance genes. Instead, Rel actually represses transcription of many antibiotic resistance genes in stress. This study implies that combinatorial therapies with stringent factor inhibitors would not potentiate antibiotic treatment against Mab infections.
Reconfigurable infrared hyperbolic metasurfaces using phase change materials.

Metasurfaces control light propagation at the nanoscale for applications in both free-space and surface-confined geometries. However, dynamically changing the properties of metasurfaces can be a major challenge. Here we demonstrate a reconfigurable hyperbolic metasurface comprised of a heterostructure of isotopically enriched hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) in direct contact with the phase-change material (PCM) single-crystal vanadium dioxide (VO2). Metallic and dielectric domains in VO2 provide spatially localized changes in the local dielectric environment, enabling launching, reflection, and transmission of hyperbolic phonon polaritons (HPhPs) at the PCM domain boundaries, and tuning the wavelength of HPhPs propagating in hBN over these domains by a factor of 1.6. We show that this system supports in-plane HPhP refraction, thus providing a prototype for a class of planar refractive optics. This approach offers reconfigurable control of in-plane HPhP propagation and exemplifies a generalizable framework based on combining hyperbolic media and PCMs to design optical functionality.