cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Global surgical package reimbursement and the acute care surgeon: a threat to optimal care.

Background: Emergency surgery patients risk greater mortality and morbidity than elective patients undergoing the same procedure. However, the differential effort required for the care of emergency surgical patients is poorly defined. This study sought to characterize costs and outcomes of elective versus emergent right hemicolectomy. Methods: 2006 Nationwide Inpatient Sample data were used to compare mortality, total charges, and length of stay (LOS) in patients undergoing emergency versus elective right hemicolectomy (International Classification of Diseases—9th procedure code 45.73). Mann-Whitney tests examined total costs and LOS; multivariable regression modeled inhospital mortality controlling for age, gender, insurance status, and comorbidities. Results: Among 8,074,825 inpatient admissions, 7,767 emergent and 10,399 elective right hemicolectomies were identified. Emergent patients were similar in age (66.9 years vs. 67.6 years; p = 0.129), more likely women (43.7% vs. 42.3%; p = 0.048) and had greater comorbidity (Charlson score 3.37 vs. 3.01; p < 0.001) compared with elective patients. Emergent patient LOS was approximately double that of elective patients (13 days vs. 7 days; p < 0.001). Mean total charges were $78,118 for emergent versus $39,265 elective patients (p < 0.001). Emergent patients had greater odds of inhospital mortality (odds ratio, 5.86; 95% confidence intervals, 4.80―7.14). Conclusions: Emergent right hemicolectomy patients have greater comorbidity, experience longer stays, accrue twice the charges, and have higher mortality risk. This reflects a heightened effort required to care for emergent patients unrecognized by Global Surgical Package reimbursement. The concentration of emergency surgical patients in acute care surgery services necessitates accounting for the additional effort associated with these predictable risks to ensure optimal care.
Survey on effect of tobacco advertising and promotion on tobacco use among junior high school students,Fujian province,2013

Objective To understand the effect of tobacco advertising and promotion on tobacco use among junior high school students in Fujian province,so as to provide reference for the formulation of relevant policies and regulations in Fujian province in future. Methods Junior high schools were selected by multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling method during October-November,2013.A core questionnaire of modified GYTS adjusted by the situation of China was used in the survey.SAS 9.3statistical software was used for data cleaning,sample weight,the weighted data represented the whole situation of tobacco use among junior high school students in Fujian province,and SPSS 19.0was used through complex sampling procedure for analysis. Results A total of 4 144 junior high school students were surveyed,the rate of tobacco use attempt was 15.08%,that in boys(22.29%)was higher than that in girls(6.72%)(P 0.01);the rate of current tobacco use was 4.69%,that of boys(7.43%)was higher than that of girls(1.49%)(P 0.01);48.00% of the students had seen tobacco advertising or promotion through at least one channel,69.62% had seen smoking scenes in the film,television or video in the past 30 days.3.81% owned tobacco brand logo printed items. Conclusion The rate of tobacco use attempt and current tobacco use among junior high school students in Fujian province are both below the national average.Students have more opportunities to contact media and tobacco advertising and are greatly influenced by it.
Assessing productivity of foodservice systems in nutrition programs for the elderly.

A pilot study was conducted to develop a monitoring instrument for the measurement of productivity in nutrition programs for the elderly. Observations of foodservice activities were collected for 3 days in each of three senior centers utilizing cook/serve production models. Direct work activity categories included processing, service, transportation, clerical, cleaning, and receiving. Delay activities included personal delay and idle time. Information was gathered on the number of meals served. A method to recognize the equivalent work of senior citizen volunteers was developed. Productivity ratios were calculated as average labor minutes in each activity per meal served. Labor time was consistent within centers, and productivity varied with number of meals served. Average productivity ranged from 12.95 to 19.30 labor minutes per meal. J Am Diet Assoc 89:826-829, 1989.
Early Experience of 250 Multiple Sclerosis Patients Treated with Alemtuzumab in a United States MS Center (P3.086)

Objective: To describe the current clinical outcomes of 250 Alemtuzumab treated patients with relapsing Multiple Sclerosis (MS) from a single certified MS center in the United States (US). Background: During the 2015 ECTRIMS conference, post clinical development safety and efficacy evaluations of 152 patients treated with Alemtuzumab at the Joanne P LaGanke MS center were presented. Alemtuzumab is the most recently approved therapy with strong efficacy for relapsing MS. Here presented is an update and expansion of that cohort to describe evaluations of 250 such treated patients. Methods: Approximately 250 patients at least four months post first course of Alemtuzumab will be described. Prior DMT use, tolerability, John Cunningham Virus (JCV) antibody status, and clinical features such as relapse, expanded disability scale score (EDSS), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will be presented as available. Results: The first 250 Alemtuzumab treated patients with at least a four month clinical follow up at the Joanne P LaGanke MS center will be described. Tolerability and clinical outcomes, tabulated as acute and subacute adverse events, number of relapses, EDSS change, and MRI change that occurred will be provided. Conclusion: The tolerability and clinical outcomes of the early experience of Alemtuzumab in an MS cohort, located in a certified MS specialty clinic in the U.S. will be presented. This study represents the largest cohort of MS patients who have been treated with Alemtuzumab in the US. The ongoing description of this growing cohort evaluated in a consistent fashion, will provide valuable safety and efficacy information about Alemtuzumab to providers managing relapsing MS patients. Disclosure: Dr. Adcock has nothing to disclose. Dr. LaGanke has received research support from Biogen Idec, Genzyme/Sanofi, Novartis, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and Vaccinex.
Simulation of push-pull inverter using wide bandgap devices

This paper discusses the use of wide bandgap devices (SiC-MOSFET) in the design of a push-pull inverter which provides inexpensive low power dc-ac inverters. The parameters used were 1200V SiC MOSFET(C2M0040120D) made by power company ROHM. This modeling was created using parameters that were provided from a device datasheet. The spice model is provided by this company to study the effect of adding this component on push-pull inverter ordinary circuit and compared results between SiC MOSFET and silicon MOSFET (IRFP260M). The results focused on Vout and Vmos stability as well as on output power and MOSFET power loss because it is a very crucial aspect on DC-AC inverter design. These results are done using the National Instrument simulation program (Multisim 14). It was found that power loss is better in the 12 and 15 vdc inverter. The Vout in the SIC MOSFET circuit shows more stability in the high current low resistance load in comparison to the Silicon MOSFET circuit and this will improve the overall performance of the circuit.
Quasi-Maximum Likelihood Estimation For Latent Variable Models With Mixed Continuous And Polytomous Data

Latent variable modeling is a multivariate technique commonly used in the social and behavioral sciences. The models used in such analysis relate all observed variables to latent common factors. In many situations, however, some outcome variables are in polytomous form while other outcomes are measured on a continuous scale. Maximum likelihood estimation for latent variable models with mixed polytomous and continuous outcomes is computationally intensive and may become difficult to implement in many applications. In this article, a computationally practical, yet efficient, QuasiMaximum Likelihood approach for latent variable models with mixed continuous and polytomous variables is proposed. Asymptotic properties of the estimator are discussed. Simulation studies are conducted to examine the empirical behavior and to compare it with existing methods.
Endorsement of existence values predicts mate retention behaviors

Abstract People deploy mate retention behaviors to thwart a long-term romantic partner's infidelity. Cost-Inflicting mate retention behaviors (e.g., inducing a partner's jealousy) are riskier than Benefit-Provisioning mate retention behaviors (e.g., showing love and care for a partner), because the former increase the odds of a partner's defection or retaliation. Individual differences in endorsement of Existence values—i.e., valuing Personal Stability, Health, and Survival—may be associated with the type of mate retention behaviors people perform. We hypothesized that individuals who endorse Existence values more (versus less), would perform less frequent Cost-Inflicting mate retention behaviors (controlling for performance of Benefit-Provisioning mate retention behaviors; Hypothesis 1), and more frequent Benefit-Provisioning mate retention behaviors (controlling for performance of Cost-Inflicting mate retention behaviors; Hypothesis 2). Participants (n = 164), each in a heterosexual, romantic relationship of at least three months duration, completed a survey that included the Mate Retention Inventory-Short Form and the Basic Values Survey. Endorsement of Existence values was negatively associated with performance of Cost-Inflicting mate retention behaviors (supporting Hypothesis 1), and positively associated with performance of Benefit-Provisioning mate retention behaviors (supporting Hypothesis 2). We situate these results within an evolutionary framework on mate retention, and discuss their theoretical and applied utility.
Conformational dynamics of 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase on ligand binding revealed by H/D exchange MS

The enzyme 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase (DXPS) is a key enzyme in the methylerythritol 4-phosphate pathway and is a target for the development of antibiotics, herbicides, and antimalarial drugs. DXPS catalyzes the formation of 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate (DXP), a branch point metabolite in isoprenoid biosynthesis, and is also used in the biosynthesis of thiamin (vitamin B1) and pyridoxal (vitamin B6). Previously, we found that DXPS is unique among the superfamily of thiamin diphosphate (ThDP)-dependent enzymes in stabilizing the predecarboxylation intermediate, C2-alpha-lactyl-thiamin diphosphate (LThDP), which has subsequent decarboxylation that is triggered by d-glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate (GAP). Herein, we applied hydrogen-deuterium (H/D) exchange MS (HDX-MS) of full-length Escherichia coli DXPS to provide a snapshot of the conformational dynamics of this enzyme, leading to the following conclusions. (i) The high sequence coverage of DXPS allowed us to monitor structural changes throughout the entire enzyme, including two segments (spanning residues 183-238 and 292-317) not observed by X-ray crystallography. (ii) Three regions of DXPS (spanning residues 42-58, 183-199, and 278-298) near the active center displayed both EX1 (monomolecular) and EX2 (bimolecuar) H/D exchange (HDX) kinetic behavior in both ligand-free and ligand-bound states. All other peptides behaved according to the common EX2 kinetic mechanism. (iii) The observation of conformational changes on DXPS provides support for the role of conformational dynamics in the DXPS mechanism: The closed conformation of DXPS is critical for stabilization of LThDP, whereas addition of GAP converts DXPS to the open conformation that coincides with decarboxylation of LThDP and DXP release.
The association of depression at any time to the risk of death following coronary artery disease diagnosis.

Aims Depression is a risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) diseases, incident CV events, and mortality. Among individuals who experience a CV diagnosis or event, whether a subsequent diagnosis of depression is associated with a greater risk of mortality is unknown. Among patients with existing coronary artery disease (CAD), this study evaluated the association of a subsequent depression diagnosis with all-cause mortality. Methods and results Patients (N = 24 137) who had angiographically determined CAD (stenosis ≥70%) were studied. Depression after CAD diagnosis was determined by International Classification of Diseases codes and evaluated as a time-varying covariate predicting mortality in multivariable Cox hazard regression models to control for patients' differing lengths of time between CAD diagnosis and depression diagnosis. A total of 3646 (15%) had a depression diagnosis during follow-up. Compared with those without depression, these patients were significantly younger (64 ± 12 vs. 65 ± 12 years), more often female (37% vs. 24%), diabetic (40% vs. 30%), previously diagnosed with depression (26% vs. 5%), and less likely to present with an myocardial infarction (MI) (28% vs. 36%). Death (mean follow-up: 9.7 ± 6.1 years) occurred in 40% of patients (depression: 50% vs. no depression: 38%, P < 0.0001). After adjustment, post-CAD depression was the strongest predictor of death (HR = 2.00, P < 0.0001). This association persisted among subgroups with no prior depression diagnosis (HR = 2.00, P < 0.0001) and by angiography indication: stable angina (HR = 1.84, P < 0.0001), unstable angina (HR = 2.25, P < 0.0001), and MI (HR = 2.09, P < 0.0001). Conclusion A depression diagnosis at any time following CAD diagnosis was associated with a two-fold higher risk of death.
Dynamic SQL Knowledge As A Mechanism For Increasing Individual Absorptive Capacity

Technology continues to evolve rapidly, and organizations need to constantly evolve to keep up with the latest innovations in hardware, software, and processes to strategically select and manage technology. Underlying these firm capabilities are the employees that monitor, plan, and implement technology improvements, thereby it is critical that organizations have employees that can contribute to firm absorptive capacity and who can strategically take advantage of technology innovations. In this theoretical paper, we examine what type of curriculum MIS undergraduate programs might implement to prepare students for careers in the dynamically evolving realm of technology-infused organizations. We posit that students need to go beyond the adage of “learning how to learn”, but instead need to have the skills and the mindset to compete in a technology-enabled environment. Specifically, we examine a learning module on Dynamic SQL delivered in an advanced database course, and analyze why introducing a rigorous and complex learning module can develop and expand students’ absorptive capacity resulting in a competitive advantage when entering the workforce.
The Role of Ion Acoustic Instability in the Development of the Azimuthal Current Density Profile in Liner Experiments at 1 MA

Recent work reported on the current density in pulsed-power-driven liners where a vacuum gap was introduced in the power feed connecting the liner to the generator. The resultant gap flashover generates azimuthally localized current-carrying plasma channels, which can create an azimuthal nonuniformity in the current density. The current density evolves during the current pulse, but nonuniformity is observed through the experiment timescale. Magnetohydrodynamic simulation work in 3-D demonstrates the difficulty in reproducing the experimental data within a limited computational domain, and those boundary conditions may dominate this paper. The development of current-driven instabilities in the plasma channels can explain the liner current density evolution, and specifically the ion acoustic instability can account for the main features observed in the experiments.
ISIS Crimes Against the Shia: The Islamic State's Genocide Against Shia Muslims

This paper reconciles a substantial gap in legal scholarship: the Islamic State's (ISIS's) unrecognized genocide against Shia Muslims. Unlike ISIS's crimes against Yazidis, no substantial legal ana...
Utilization of protein-peptide conjugates for NK cell activation as a strategy for cancer immunotherapy.

Cancer-based immunotherapy aims to develop biologics that can stimulate immune responses towards tumor eradication, as is the case of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) and their related analogs. Although the latter have been the most prevalently used biologics in cancer immunotherapy strategies, novel therapeutics may overcome their production, administration, and pharmacological limitations. The synthesis of intermediate size molecules, particularly chemically synthesized protein-peptide bioconjugates (PPB), possessing the targeting and effector functions of antibodies, represent a novel class of immunotherapeutics that may circumvent these limitations. In this study we proposed and executed the rational design of a novel class of cancer-targeting immunostimulatory protein-peptide conjugates (CTIPPC) that may potentially work as a synthetic antibody mimic. In this proof-of-concept, the CTIPPC aimed to target the tumor expressed GRP78, while recruiting and activating NK cells for tumor targeted immunotherapy. The sustained capabilities of the CTIPP conjugates to elicit NK-dependent immunostimmulatory activities were assessed via measuring cytokine secretion, NK cell migration, and the overall anti-tumor cytotoxic activity of NK cells. These studies shed important insights into the effective design, preparation and biological evaluation of a new class of semi-synthetic protein-peptide conjugates.
Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 mediates antifibrotic effects in scleroderma fibroblasts

Objective Emerging evidence supports a role for epigenetic regulation in the pathogenesis of scleroderma (SSc). We aimed to assess the role of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), a key epigenetic regulator, in fibroblast activation and fibrosis in SSc. Methods Dermal fibroblasts were isolated from patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) and from healthy controls. MeCP2 expression was measured by qPCR and western blot. Myofibroblast differentiation was evaluated by gel contraction assay in vitro. Fibroblast proliferation was analysed by ki67 immunofluorescence staining. A wound healing assay in vitro was used to determine fibroblast migration rates. RNA-seq was performed with and without MeCP2 knockdown in dcSSc to identify MeCP2-regulated genes. The expression of MeCP2 and its targets were modulated by siRNA or plasmid. Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) using anti-MeCP2 antibody was performed to assess MeCP2 binding sites within MeCP2-regulated genes. Results Elevated expression of MeCP2 was detected in dcSSc fibroblasts compared with normal fibroblasts. Overexpressing MeCP2 in normal fibroblasts suppressed myofibroblast differentiation, fibroblast proliferation and fibroblast migration. RNA-seq in MeCP2-deficient dcSSc fibroblasts identified MeCP2-regulated genes involved in fibrosis, including PLAU , NID2 and ADA . Plasminogen activator urokinase (PLAU) overexpression in dcSSc fibroblasts reduced myofibroblast differentiation and fibroblast migration, while nidogen-2 (NID2) knockdown promoted myofibroblast differentiation and fibroblast migration. Adenosine deaminase (ADA) depletion in dcSSc fibroblasts inhibited cell migration rates. Taken together, antifibrotic effects of MeCP2 were mediated, at least partly, through modulating PLAU, NID2 and ADA. ChIP-seq further showed that MeCP2 directly binds regulatory sequences in NID2 and PLAU gene loci. Conclusions This study demonstrates a novel role for MeCP2 in skin fibrosis and identifies MeCP2-regulated genes associated with fibroblast migration, myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix degradation, which can be potentially targeted for therapy in SSc.
The Present Situation in China

Japan’s aggressive war in China which began in September, 1931, has been going on for more than 8 years. Its latest phase of continued large-scale hostilities has been going on for exactly 29 months. By the New Year Week, the war will be 2.5 years old.
Immunoregulation of rabbit immunoglobulin allotypes through an allotype-idiotype network.

Since the first reports of rabbit immunoglobulin (Ig) allotypes by Oudin [1], Dray and Young [2], Dubiski et al. [3], and Dray et al. [4], the study and investigation of these inherited antigenic specificities have enhanced our basic understanding of the genetic control, structure and function of the Ig molecule. The discovery of rabbit Ig idiotypes by Oudin and Michel [5], and allotype suppression by Dray [6], led to the concepts of immunoregulation by antibodies (Ab). Here we present our current understanding of selected aspects of this subject.
Chronic (Repeated) Stress: Consequences, Adaptations

Chronic and repeated stressors have effects on brain and recruit limbic sites that alter subsequent behavioral, autonomic, and endocrine responses of the organism. However, with repetition or chronicity, two distinct sets of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical (HPA) responses occur: (1) habituation and decreased responses to the chronic stressor and (2) facilitation and augmented responses to novel stressors. Provided that the stressors can be coped with through behavioral or physiological changes, the HPA response diminishes; however, novel perceived threats tend to augment HPA responses as a consequence of the underlying, recruited, central chronic stress network.
Subseasonal Variability of Rossby Wave Breaking and Impacts on Tropical Cyclones during the North Atlantic Warm Season

AbstractThis study investigates the subseasonal variability of anticyclonic Rossby wave breaking (AWB) and its impacts on atmospheric circulations and tropical cyclones (TCs) over the North Atlanti...
A comparison between hydrogen and halogen bonding: the hypohalous acid–water dimers, HOX⋯H2O (X = F, Cl, Br)

Hypohalous acids (HOX) are a class of molecules that play a key role in the atmospheric seasonal depletion of ozone and have the ability to form both hydrogen and halogen bonds. The interactions between the HOX monomers (X = F, Cl, Br) and water have been studied at the CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVTZ level of theory with the spin free X2C-1e method to account for scalar relativistic effects. Focal point analysis was used to determine CCSDT(Q)/CBS dissociation energies. The anti hydrogen bonded dimers were found with interaction energies of −5.62 kcal mol−1, −5.56 kcal mol−1, and −4.97 kcal mol−1 for X = F, Cl, and Br, respectively. The weaker halogen bonded dimers were found to have interaction energies of −1.71 kcal mol−1 and −3.03 kcal mol−1 for X = Cl and Br, respectively. Natural bond orbital analysis and symmetry adapted perturbation theory were used to discern the nature of the halogen and hydrogen bonds and trends due to halogen substitution. The halogen bonds were determined to be weaker than the analogous hydrogen bonds in all cases but close enough in energy to be relevant, significantly more so with increasing halogen size.
Bio-Inspired Stretchable Selective Emitters Based on Corrugated Nickel for Personal Thermal Management

ABSTRACTWhile dynamic photonic materials have attracted much attention and there are well-known examples of color-changing species in nature, dynamic thermal control via modulation of optical prope...
Plant-Derived Supplements for Sexual Health and Problems: Part 1—Trends over the Past Decade

In this update on plant-derived supplements, we provide a general introduction regarding the status and interest in phytochemicals for sexual health, indicating both progress and problems with past and current research. We summarize the development and current status of two well-known plant-derived supplements, using them as case studies for understanding some of the problems associated with the study of such supplements on sexual health. We interpret the current situation regarding plant-derived supplements, identify common sources/journals for information about medicinal herbs for sexual health, identify supplements that are garnering increasing attention within the research community, and discuss the larger potential and pitfalls associated with this domain of research.
Economic burden of paediatric-onset disabilities among young and middle-aged adults in the USA: a cohort study of privately insured beneficiaries

OBJECTIVE Individuals with paediatric-onset disabilities (PoDs) have complex healthcare needs and are susceptible to adverse health outcomes, which may impose a higher strain on healthcare resources. The burden of healthcare resource utilisation and costs attributed to the population of adults with PoDs is not clearly established. The objective here was to compare healthcare resource utilisation and costs between adults with versus without PoDs. DESIGN Cohort. SETTING Data were from the 2016 Optum Clinformatics Data Mart, a de-identified nationwide claims database of beneficiaries from a single private payer in the USA. PARTICIPANTS International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis codes were used to identify beneficiaries with PoDs that were between 18 and 64 years of age. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Annual all-cause healthcare resource utilisation and total healthcare costs were compared between adults with and without PoDs before and after adjusting for sociodemographics and several costly non-communicable diseases. RESULTS Adults with PoDs (n=121 446) had greater annual mean counts of service utilisation for all service types (eg, inpatient, outpatient, emergency visits) compared with adults without PoDs (n=5 415 475) before and after adjustments (all p<0.001). Adults with PoDs had greater unadjusted total standardised reimbursement costs (US$26 702 vs US$8464; mean difference=US$18 238; cost ratio (CR)=3.16; 95% CI=3.13 to 3.18) and total patient out-of-pocket costs (US$2226 vs US$1157; mean difference=US$1069; CR=1.88; 95%CI=1.86 to 1.89). After adjustments, total standardised reimbursement costs were 2.32 times higher (95% CI=2.30 to 2.34) and total patient out-of-pocket costs were 1.65 times higher (95% CI=1.64 to 1.66) compared with adults without PoDs. CONCLUSION Adults with PoDs had greater healthcare utilisation and costs, even after accounting for costly diseases. Future research is needed to identify the cost drivers for adults with PoDs.
The Trump Administration and the Congressional Review Act

The Congressional Review Act (CRA) gives a new Administration and a new Congress with a majority of members from the President’s party the opportunity to invalidate “midnight rules” promulgated by an outgoing Administration and to reject rules that an agency never submitted to Congress. Taking advantage of that opportunity requires some internal analysis by the new Administration of the rules subject to the CRA and coordination with Congress. The President must identify the particular rules that he wishes to see held invalid; the Speaker of the House and Senate Majority Leader must ensure that there are sufficient votes to invalidate the rules to which the President objects; and both branches must ensure that the CRA process is conducted in an orderly and expeditious manner. In the first half of 2017, the Trump Administration and Congress vigorously used the CRA to eliminate unlawful or unwise agency rules. Until recently, however, the CRA review process has gone quiet. The interesting question is why. There are additional opportunities for use of the CRA. Whether President Trump and Congress will make use of those opportunities is likely more a matter of politics than law.
APC-β-catenin-TCF signaling silences the intestinal guanylin-GUCY2C tumor suppressor axis.

Sporadic colorectal cancer initiates with mutations in APC or its degradation target β-catenin, producing TCF-dependent nuclear transcription driving tumorigenesis. The intestinal epithelial recept...
The SUN test of vision: Investigation in healthy volunteers and comparison to the mobile universal lexicon evaluation system (MULES)

Abstract Objective Tests of rapid automatized naming (RAN) have been used for decades to evaluate neurological conditions. RAN tests require extensive brain pathways involving visual perception, memory, eye movements and language. To the extent that different naming tasks capture varied visual pathways and related networks, we developed the Staggered Uneven Number (SUN) test of rapid number naming to complement existing RAN tests, such as the Mobile Universal Lexicon Evaluation System (MULES). The purpose of this investigation was to determine values for time scores for SUN, and to compare test characteristics between SUN and MULES. Methods We administered the SUN and MULES tests to healthy adult volunteers in a research office setting. MULES consists of 54 color photographs; the SUN includes 145 single- and multi-digit numbers. Participants are asked to name each number or picture aloud. Results Among 54 healthy participants, aged 33 ± 13 years (range 20–66), the average SUN time score was 45.2 ± 8.3 s (range 30–66). MULES test times were 37.4 ± 9.9 s (range 20–68). SUN and MULES time scores did not differ by gender, but were greater (worse) among older participants for MULES (rs = 0.43, P = .001). Learning effects between first and second trials were greater for the MULES; participants improved (reduced) their time scores between trials by 5% on SUN and 16% for MULES (P Conclusion The SUN is a new vision-based test that complements presently available picture- and number-based RAN tests. These assessments may require different brain pathways and networks for visual processing, visual memory, language and eye movements.
A timeline of female stress urinary incontinence: how technology defined theory and advanced treatment.

Background Prevailing theories and treatments of female stress urinary incontinence are built on 120 years of evolution in understanding the structure and function of the female bladder neck and urethra and of considering why treatments failed. In our management of patients, it is important to understand and appreciate how our management of female stress urinary incontinence has evolved and which treatments have prevailed as we advance our knowledge for future treatments. Aims The purpose of this review is to describe how advances in technology impacted and shaped prevailing theories or understanding of the pathophysiology of stress urinary incontinence and influences our treatment approach. Materials and methods An extensive literature search was performed from 1900 to present identifying articles that discussed technological advancements in female urology, theories of female stress incontinence, and treatments. Results The literature from the 20th century to the present shows a nonlinear evolution of the pathophysiological mechanism of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) from a notion of SUI and secondary to a simple anatomic finding to consideration of the effects of neurophysiologic pathways on SUI. Slings, however, have been a staple in the management of SUI. Conclusions The pubovaginal sling (PVS) is a procedure that, with minor modifications (graft size, suture preference) has withstood the test of time and maintained its place in the armamentarium of SUI treatment for 100 years. It is therefore imperative that we continue to educate our residents and fellows on the surgical techniques and indications for use of the PVS.
Retrospective Analysis and Bayesian Model Averaging of CMIP6 Precipitation in the Nile River Basin

The Nile river basin is one of the global hotspots vulnerable to climate change impacts due to fast growing population and geopolitical tensions. Previous studies demonstrated that general circulat...
State Observers and Unknown Input Estimators for Discrete-Time Nonlinear Systems Characterized by Incremental Multiplier Matrices

Novel discrete-time (DT) state observers and unknown input estimators are proposed for a class of DT nonlinear systems whose nonlinearity can be characterized by incremental multiplier matrices. The inputs to the nonlinear systems are allowed to have an unknown component. These nonlinear models are represented as linear models by treating the nonlinearity as a nonlinear input with a known structure. A novel DT state observer is proposed and a condition for its existence is given in terms of a linear matrix inequality (LMI). The unknown input estimator estimates the system unknown input with one sampling period time-delay. Unknown input estimators for continuous-time (CT) systems using their DT plant models are proposed. The proposed state observer and unknown input estimator are tested on numerical examples. An application of the proposed unknown input estimator to reconstruct malicious packet drops during the control signal transmission is given.
Microalgae, soil and plants: A critical review of microalgae as renewable resources for agriculture

Abstract The tension between a growing global demand for food, rising environmental impacts of agricultural intensification, and the uncertainty of future changes in our global climate highlight a crucial need for sustainable alternatives to maintain and increase agricultural productivity. Microalgae, including cyanobacteria, are renewable resources with a broad range of options for applications in agricultural settings. This review incorporates fundamental and applied aspects of microalgae impacting critical agricultural needs such as biological nitrogen fixation, soil phosphorus cycling, effects on soil microorganisms, plant growth promotion either by soil nutrient cycling and/or phytohormones or root associations, biocontrol, and soil stabilization. In this context, the review summarizes progress on microalgal biofilms and consortia as platforms for technological improvement. To complete the review, research needs for future advances are outlined, including evaluations on different types of soil and agroecological regions, scaled production of inoculum and methods of deployment, and further developments on applications such as biostimulants and soil reclamation and restoration.
A 2 + ε approximation algorithm for the k-MST problem

For any ɛ > 0 we give a (2 + ɛ)-approximation algorithm for the problem of finding a minimum tree spanning any k vertices in a graph (k-MST), improving a 3-approximation algorithm by Garg [10]. As in [10] the algorithm extends to a (2 + ɛ)-approximation algorithm for the minimum tour that visits any k vertices, provided the edge costs satisfy the triangle inequality.
Recapture Lysosomal Enzyme Deficiency via Targeted Gene Disruption in the Human Near-Haploid Cell Line HAP1.

Background: Advancement in genome engineering enables rapid and targeted disruption of any coding sequences to study gene functions or establish human disease models. We explored whether this approach can be used to study Gaucher disease, one of the most common types of lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) in a near-haploid human cell line (HAP1). Results: CRISPR-Cas9 targeting to coding sequences of β-glucocerebrosidase (GBA), the causative gene of Gaucher disease, resulted in an insertional mutation and premature termination of GBA. We confirmed the GBA knockout at both the gene and enzyme levels by genotyping and GBA enzymatic assay. Characterization of the knockout line showed no significant changes in cell morphology and growth. Lysosomal staining revealed more granular lysosomes in the cytosol of the GBA-knockout line compared to its parental control. Flow cytometry analysis further confirmed that more lysosomes accumulated in the cytosol of the knockout line, recapturing the disease phenotype. Finally, we showed that this knockout cell line could be used to evaluate a replacement therapy by recombinant human GBA. Conclusions: Targeted gene disruption in human HAP1 cells enables rapid establishment of the Gaucher model to capture the key pathology and to test replacement therapy. We expect that this streamlined method can be used to generate human disease models of other LSDs, most of which are still lacking both appropriate human disease models and specific treatments to date.
A Concrete Introduction to Real Analysis

A Concrete Introduction to Analysis, Second Edition offers a major reorganization of the previous edition with the goal of making it a much more comprehensive and accessible for students. The standard, austere approach to teaching modern mathematics with its emphasis on formal proofs can be challenging and discouraging for many students. To remedy this situation, the new edition is more rewarding and inviting. Students benefit from the text by gaining a solid foundational knowledge of analysis, which they can use in their fields of study and chosen professions. The new edition capitalizes on the trend to combine topics from a traditional transition to proofs course with a first course on analysis. Like the first edition, the text is appropriate for a one- or two-semester introductory analysis or real analysis course. The choice of topics and level of coverage is suitable for mathematics majors, future teachers, and students studying engineering or other fields requiring a solid, working knowledge of undergraduate mathematics. Key highlights: Offers integration of transition topics to assist with the necessary background for analysis Can be used for either a one- or a two-semester course Explores how ideas of analysis appear in a broader context Provides as major reorganization of the first edition Includes solutions at the end of the book
Acquired and Infused Moral Virtue: A Distinction of Ends

There is a danger in separating out just a small portion of Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologiae for a detailed study while neglecting the larger framework from which this section comes. Yet students of Aquinas have failed to recognize the import of Thomas’ discussion of ends, both final and proximate, and how these are related to his later discussion of acquired and infused moral virtue and their relation to charity and prudence in the Prima Secundae of his Summa. In asserting that charity is necessary for all true virtue, the roles of the Church, the state, their members and even the place and role of grace and nature are confused. A proper understanding of the distinction between acquired natural moral virtue and infused moral virtue and their distinct ends assists in a more complete understanding of the position and responsibilities of each of these in building up a more just earthly society and the ultimate attainment of eternal beatitude.
The American Journalist in the 21st Century: U.S. News People at the Dawn of a New Millennium, by David H. Weaver, Randal A. Beam, Bonnie J. Brownlee, Paul S. Voakes, and G. Cleveland Wilhoit

In a period when scholars are more apt to ask “Who is a journalist?” David Weaver and colleagues are content to have that definition be a fixed pole around which all else revolves: “those who have ...
Do Animals Engage in Conceptual Thought

This article surveys and evaluates the answers that philosophers and animal researchers have given to two questions. Do animals have thoughts? If so, are their thoughts conceptual? Along the way, special attention is paid to distinguish debates of substance from mere battles over terminology, and to isolate fruitful areas for future research.
Towards an operational semantics of biological diversity: integrating structure and function in a web-accessible knowledge base

Understanding the dynamics of biological diversity requires new approaches and integration between different disciplines. The development of a unitary body of knowledge about biodiversity is made difficult by the fragmentation and lack of interoperability between the diverse - and often informal and simplistic - semantics adopted for data and models. Different representational paradigms require conceptual, as well as technical, integration to enable reorganizing the body of knowledge and enable new ideas, theories, and higher-level paradigms to surface and be tested.
Metal fatigue damage - Mechanism, detection, avoidance, and repair.

Collection of theoretical and experimental studies covering basic mechanisms of fatigue in the subcreep and creep ranges, fatigue damage detection, field practices for fatigue damage repair in jet engine components, and fatigue damage avoidance and control. Individual items are abstracted in this issue.
Evolution-Based Scheduling of Fault-Tolerant Programs on Multiple Processors

The paper introduces a family of scheduling problems called fault-tolerant programs scheduling (FTPS). Since FTPS problems are, in general, computationally difficult, a challenge is to find effective scheduling procedures. Three evolution-based algorithms solving three basic kinds of FTPS problems have been proposed. The problems involve scheduling multiple variant tasks on multiple identical processors under time constraints. To validate the algorithms computational experiment has been carried. Experiment results show that evolution based algorithms produce satisfactory to good solutions in reasonable time.
The Importance of Hands-on Experience with Telescopes for Students

Proper interpretation and understanding of astronomical data requires good knowledge of the data acquisition process. The increase in remote observing, queue observing, and the availability of large archived data products risk insulating astronomers from the telescope, potentially reducing their familiarity with the observational techniques crucial in understanding the data. Learning fundamental observing techniques can be done in at least three ways: 1) College and university operated observing facilities, 2) Student involvement in national facilities through competitive proposals, 3) Programs at national facilities to increase upper-level undergraduate and graduate student exposure to telescopes. We encourage both national organizations and universities to include programs and funding aimed at supporting hands-on experience with telescopes through the three methods mentioned.
Irregularities in electronegative plasmas due to ion-ion coupling

Summary form only given. In partially ionized electronegative plasmas at low neutral pressure and high plasma density, coupling between positive and negative ions through space charge effects and through Coulomb scattering can lead to turbulence and irregularities in the ion density and flux. In this regime, the force on ions due to ion-ion Coulomb scattering may dominate that from ion scattering with neutrals. This can lead to the formation of a, possibly turbulent, negative ion boundary layer containing the bulk of the negative ions. Commercial Inductively Coupled Plasma reactors used in the semiconductor industry typically operate at low pressure and high plasma density. Simulations are presented for a Chlorine discharge in the GEC reactor modified for Inductively Coupled operation. Results show that ion-ion coupling can induce large variations in the plasma density, and that accurate modeling of spatial plasma structure should include these effects.
Complement regulators in human disease: lessons from modern genetics.

First identified in human serum in the late 19th century as a ‘complement’ to antibodies in mediating bacterial lysis, the complement system emerged more than a billion years ago probably as the first humoral immune system. The contemporary complement system consists of nearly 60 proteins in three activation pathways (classical, alternative and lectin) and a terminal cytolytic pathway common to all. Modern molecular biology and genetics have not only led to further elucidation of the structure of complement system components, but have also revealed function-altering rare variants and common polymorphisms, particularly in regulators of the alternative pathway, that predispose to human disease by creating ‘hyperinflammatory complement phenotypes’. To treat these ‘complementopathies’, a monoclonal antibody against the initiator of the membrane attack complex, C5, has received approval for use. Additional therapeutic reagents are on the horizon.
Physical and Functional Association between GADD153 and CCAAT/Enhancer-binding Protein β during Cellular Stress

Abstract GADD153, a ubiquitously expressed member of the CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) family is induced by a wide variety of growth-arresting and DNA-damaging agents. Functionally, GADD153 has been postulated to act as a dominant-negative regulator of C/EBPs. Therefore we sought to gain evidence for interactions between GADD153 and other C/EBPs during cellular responses to stress. In this report we have demonstrated that treatment of rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells with sodium arsenite leads to enhanced expression of C/EBP-β and GADD153 (rowth rrest and NA amage inducible gene 153) but not other C/EBPs. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments provided evidence for the formation of endogenous GADD153-C/EBP-β complexes in arsenite-treated cells. Additional experiments were performed to determine the role of such complexes in regulating GADD153 expression. Previous studies in our laboratory demonstrated that the GADD153 promoter contains a C/EBP binding site through which other C/EBPs interact to transactivate GADD153 expression in liver hepatoma cells. Here, we demonstrate that extracts prepared from arsenite-treated PC12 cells likewise show increased amounts of factors capable of binding to the GADD153-C/EBP site and that these complexes are comprised at least in part of C/EBP-β. Forced expression of C/EBP-β was found to be capable of transactivating the GADD153 promoter in PC12 cells cotransfected with plasmids expressing a GADD153 reporter gene and C/EBP-β protein. However, overexpression of GADD153 inhibited the transactivation of the GADD153 promoter by C/EBP-β. These findings provide evidence for an autoregulatory loop in which stress-induced GADD153 feeds back to attenuate GADD153 expression during the cellular response to stress.
Reverse transcription and direct amplification of cellular RNA transcripts by Taq polymerase

We report the ability of Taq polymerase to directly transcribe RNA templates in vitro. We have made use of this finding to develop a single-step protocol for amplification of RNA transcripts. The method was shown to require only subnanogram amounts of total cellular RNA as starting material. A microassay was developed in which RNA can be extracted from one drop of blood or 1000 cultured cells, and analyzed for the expression of a specific gene.
UI-timer: an ultra-fast clock network pessimism removal algorithm

The recent TAU computer-aided design (CAD) contest has aimed to seek novel ideas for accurate and fast clock network pessimism removal (CNPR). Unnecessary pessimism forces the static-timing analysis (STA) tool to report worse violation than the true timing properties owned by physical circuits, thereby misleading signoff timing into a lower clock frequency at which circuits can operate than actual silicon implementations. Therefore, we introduce in this paper UI-Timer, a powerful CNPR algorithm which achieves exact accuracy and ultra-fast runtime. Unlike existing approaches which are dominated by explicit path search, UI-Timer proves that by implicit path representation the amount of search effort can be significantly reduced. Our timer is superior in both space and time saving, from which memory storage and important timing quantities are available in constant space and constant time per path during the search. Experimental results on industrial benchmarks released from TAU 2014 CAD contest have justified that UI-Timer achieved the best result in terms of accuracy and runtime over all participating timers.