cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhancing tensile strength of injection molded fiber reinforced composites using the Taguchi-based six sigma approach

The paper presents a case study where the targeted tensile strength of injection moldings is required to reduce or eliminate defects and to improve the process capability index C p and C pk for an injection molding process. The six sigma methodology, DMAIC (namely, design, measure, analyze, improve, and control), was applied in the study to eliminate defects, improve process, and reduce costs. The Taguchi-based six sigma approach was applied to identify the optimized processing and material parameters that led to the targeted tensile strength of injection moldings. An orthogonal array (OA) L9 was applied in the Taguchi experimental design, with four controllable factors and one non-controllable/noise factor. The four controllable factors identified include the carbon fiber (CF) content of 5 wt%, injection speed of 10 cm3/s, holding pressure of 250 bar, and barrel temperature of 260 °C, to meet the targeted tensile strength of injection moldings. A confirmation run verified the optimal parameter settings and the improved process capability index C p and C pk. An additional experiment with the CF content of 6 wt% was conducted after analyzing the effects of CF to further reduce defect, and the final results successfully demonstrated the improvement of the injection molding process. The implication of the study is that the six sigma methodology can be effectively used to eliminate defects and improve the process capability of injection molding.
Copper-2 Hypothesis for Causation of the Current Alzheimer’s Disease Epidemic Together with Dietary Changes That Enhance the Epidemic

Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia, is at epidemic proportions (15 to 44% depending on age, of those age 65 to 84) in the U.S. and other developed countries but remains relatively rare in undeveloped countries. Surprisingly, solid historical data reveal the epidemic is a creature of the last century. That is, the disease was also rare in developed countries, until the 20th century. It is disappointing that these historical and demographic facts have been ignored by the Alzheimer's disease scientific community. Disappointing because these facts clearly point at an environmental change in the 20th century in developed countries as a major factor in causing the epidemic. Some scientists have discarded the claimed rarity of the disease in the 19th century as incorrect, saying that Alzheimer's disease is a disease of aging and that the increasing lifespan of people accounts for the current high prevalence of the disease, but this cavalier attitude ignores historical data indicating there were many elderly people in the 19th century who were not getting Alzheimer's disease with any significant frequency. In this review, after documenting that the observed assertions about historical and demographic facts are correct, evidence is amassed that the main environmental culprit causing the Alzheimer's epidemic is ingestion of divalent copper or copper-2. The two sources of copper-2 ingestion are drinking water and multimineral supplement pills containing copper. The increase in copper plumbing use in developed countries parallels the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease. It has been shown that enough copper is leached from copper plumbing in most households to cause Alzheimer's disease, using the Alzheimer's disease animal model studies as a guide to toxic levels. It is relatively easy to avoid or greatly diminish copper-2 ingestion by not using copper containing supplement pills and testing drinking water for copper levels. If the copper in water is too high, a simple device can be put on the tap to remove copper. In addition to the copper-2 hypothesis, this review covers dietary changes that enhance the epidemic.
Evaluation of energy savings potential of variable reflective roofing systems for US buildings

Abstract This paper explores the potential energy savings of using dynamic cool roofs (DCRs) with seasonally variable reflective surface for various building prototypes when compared to static cool roofs. The analysis conducted demonstrates that the additional energy savings from DCRs depend largely on the climate, insulation level, and reflectance of the roof, as well as but to a lesser extent on the building thermal mass. This study shows that older buildings, with low insulation levels, in colder climates are the best target for retrofit using DCRs. Specifically, the results show that when a variable reflective costing is applied to low insulation buildings, source energy savings can be achieved and range from 4.33 to 19.44 MJ/m2 (i.e., 1.6–4.9%) for residential units and from 1.17 to 18.00 MJ/m2 (i.e., 0.3–3.9%) for offices. Based on an economic analysis, it is found that the break-even cost for a variable reflectance coating system with a 22-year life span ranges from 0.80 to 4.84 $/m2 for residential buildings, and from 0.86 to 4.92 $/m2 for commercial buildings.
Papulonodular Secondary Syphilis Presenting as Multiple Distinct Cutaneous Lesions in an HIV-Positive Transgender Woman

We present the first reported case of papulonodular secondary syphilis in an HIV-positive transgender female. Syphilis is classified into primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages, with secondary syphilis having notably diverse cutaneous manifestations. Our patient presented with diverse lesions throughout her body, all pathologically consistent with papulonodular secondary syphilis. Proper identification of the multiple presentations of syphilis is crucial to early diagnosis and treatment. This report seeks to broaden the scope of dermatological manifestations that arise secondary to papulonodular syphilis in HIV-positive patients.
Spatial Mapping and Profiling of Metabolite Distributions during Germination

Germination is a highly complex process by which seeds begin to develop and establish themselves as viable organisms. In this study, we utilize a combination of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography-fluorescence, and mass spectrometry imaging approaches to profile and visualize the metabolic distributions of germinating seeds from two different inbreds of maize (Zea mays) seeds, B73 and Mo17. Gas chromatography and liquid chromatography analyses demonstrate that the two inbreds are highly differentiated in their metabolite profiles throughout the course of germination, especially with regard to amino acids, sugar alcohols, and small organic acids. Crude dissection of the seed followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of polar metabolites also revealed that many compounds were highly sequestered among the various seed tissue types. To further localize compounds, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging was utilized to visualize compounds in fine detail in their native environments over the course of germination. Most notably, the fatty acyl chain-dependent differential localization of phospholipids and triacylglycerols was observed within the embryo and radicle, showing correlation with the heterogeneous distribution of fatty acids. Other interesting observations include unusual localization of ceramides on the endosperm/scutellum boundary and subcellular localization of ferulate in the aleurone.
Translocation of nucleolar phosphoprotein B23 (37kDapI 5.1) induced by selective inhibitors of ribosome synthesis

Abstract To elucidate the possible role of nucleolar phosphoprotein B23 in ribosome synthesis, drugs which inhibit the processing of ribosomal RNA were employed. After treatment with actinomycin D, toyocamycin or high doses of α-amanitin, a uniform nucleoplasmic fluorescence was observed. Low doses of α-amanitin and the protein synthesis inhibitor puromycin and cycloheximide had no effect on protein B23 translocation. By ELISA immunoassay, there was a 60% decrease in the amount of protein B23 in the nucleoli of the actinomycin D-treated cells as compared with the control nucleoli. Conversely, the amount of protein B23 in the nucleoplasm (excluding nucleoli) was 3-fold higher in the actinomycin D-treated cells. Preribosomal ribunucleoprotein particles (pre-rRNPs) were extracted from isolated nucleoli of Novikoff hepatoma ascites cells and fractionated on sucrose density gradients. Protein B23 was found co-localized with the pre-rRNPs as determined by ELISA assays which agrees with previous studies. The proteins in these 80 S and 55 S pre-ribosomal ribonucleoprotein particles were fractionated by 10% gel electrophoresis. Immunoblots showed protein B23 was present in both pre-rRNPs.
“Somos ya legión”: Mapping Modernista Poetics and Literary Production

This study investigates how digital mapping of lyrical spaces and publication statistics illuminate modernista participation of the global literary field. Using gathered spatial data points from poetic editions from Ruben Dario and Amado Nervo reveal a rich intertextual and geospatial web. The cosmopolitanism and globalized erudition of modernista writers granted them wide access to seize world cultures and created a hybridized conglomeration of spatial elements in their poetic expression. The article then shifts to the mapping of literary production of Dario and Enrique Gomez Carrillo. Through data collection and geographic mapping of the writers’ book and journalistic publishing, levels of transnationality come into focus revealing previously unseen patterns of print and communication technologies at the turn of the 20 th century. Tools of data collection and mapping prompt a greater understanding of the narrative of the modernista movement. Instead of leading to unambiguous and objective results, mapping spatial elements of the period lead to further questions that have the potential to open up the literary history of the fin de siglo to lines of inquiry that are not yet fully explored.
Involvement of CD137L in peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain behaviors (CAM1P.161)

CD137L, also known as 4-1BBL, is a co-stimulatory molecule involved in many immune functions. CD137L-mediated signaling can promote monocyte/macrophage proliferation, migration, and production of proinflammatory factors; however, CD137L-mediated microglial responses have not been studied extensively. Here, we sought to investigate the role of microglial CD137L in the development of peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain using a murine model, spinal nerve L5 transection (L5Tx). First, compared to wild type (WT) controls, B6_CD137L knockout (KO) mice displayed significantly decreased L5Tx-induced mechanical and heat hypersensitivity starting at day 3 post-L5Tx until day 35 post-L5Tx when the experiment was terminated. To further determine the role of microglial CD137L, an anti-CD137L neutralizing antibody (Ab, clone TKS-1) was intrathecally injected into WT BALB/c mice daily from day 0 (before surgery) to day 7 post-L5Tx. The neutralizing Ab significantly reduced L5Tx-induced mechanical hypersensitivity but not the heat hypersensitivity. Our data indicate that spinal cord CD137L contributes to the maintenance of peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain-like behaviors. Future study will examine the involvement of microglial CD137L in L5Tx-induced lumbar spinal cord microglial and astrocyte activation.
Ultrafast z-scanning for high-efficiency laser micro-machining.

High-throughput laser micro-machining demands precise control of the laser beam position to achieve optimal efficiency, but existing methods can be both time-consuming and cost-prohibitive. In this paper, we demonstrate a new high-throughput micro-machining technique based on rapidly scanning the laser focal point along the optical axis using an acoustically driven variable focal length lens. Our results show that this scanning method enables higher machining rates over a range of defocus distances and that the effect becomes more significant as the laser energy is increased. In a specific example of silicon, we achieve a nearly threefold increase in the machining rate, while maintaining sharp side walls and a small spot size. This method has great potential for improving the micro-machining efficiency of conventional systems and also opens the door to applying laser machining to workpieces with uneven topography that have been traditionally difficult to process. The throughput and tolerance of laser micro-machining can be improved by rapidly scanning the focused laser spot along the optical axis. This is the finding of Ting-Hsuan Chen and coworkers from Princeton University in the USA. The team built a micro-machining system that combines a high repetition rate Nd:YVO4 laser emitting ultraviolet (355 nm-wavelength), 15 ns duration pulses with an ultrafast z-scanner made from an acoustically driven variable focal length lens. The approach means that laser pulses are focused to different positions on the sample, relaxing the demands on the surface flatness and positioning of the sample. It also leads to faster machining rates, with experiments with a silicon sample indicating about a threefold increase in machining speed of a 200 × 200 μm square hole with no degradation in quality.
Interactions between leaf-cutter ants and fungus garden: Effects of division of labor, age polyethism, and egg cannibalism

Division of labor (DOL), age polyethism, and egg cannibalism all play roles in shaping colony-level population dynamics in social insect colonies. The ways in which these mechanisms interact with one another to shape population dynamics is not currently understood. In this study, we examine how these mechanisms influence population dynamics in colonies of fungus-gardening leaf-cutter ants by developing and studying two sets of models: (1) We study age polyethism contribution to the dynamics of this multi-species interaction model which incorporates mechanisms of DOL; (2) We explore effects of egg cannibalism in colony dynamics and understand how to model such social conflict behavior realistically using different functional responses. Our results suggest that: (a) Age polyethism is important to keep stable population dynamics. (b) Large maturation rate and mortality rate of inside workers induce colony death. (c) Small enough egg cannibalism rate benefits adult worker ant’s growth and (or) development, large proportion of ants performing a given task can promote colony survival, and too large egg cannibalism rate can lead to colony’s death. (d) Increasing energy invested on brood care and (or) the conversion rate between fungus and ants could induce oscillatory dynamics in models with cannibalism.
Multi-scale, Plane Waves

In this chapter some dynamical problems in doublet mechanics are considered which incorporate multi-scale effects. In particular, the plane propagation of elastic waves in granular media is analyzed, with reference to a spatial arrangement of the particles that results in macroscopic-level isotropy in the plane of propagation and particle displacement. The topic is motivated by experiments that establish the dependence of wave frequencies and velocities on the parameters of granular microstructure, including porosity (Urick 1948, Hampton 1967), coordination numbers and contact bonds (Trent 1989), particle sizes and interparticle distances (Iida 1938, Matsukawa and Hunter 1956). Theoretical approaches to the modeling of dispersion of plane seismological elastic waves have been proposed that incorporate some characteristic of the Earth’s crust. Among these are multilayered structures (Haskell 1953), anisotropy (Crampin and Taylor 1971), gravity (Ewing et al 1957), the curvature and stratification (Sezawa 1927), radial in-homogeneity (Saito 1967), vertical discontinuities (Malischewsky 1987), etc. Other than anisotropy, these properties induce surface wave dispersion. However, the quantitative results—when provided—are in strong disagreement with observations.
Animal models of medication- related osteonecrosis of the jaw

Bisphosphonates have been extensively studied with hundreds of studies describing how they affect various skeletal parameters using animal models. Despite this extensive body of literature, when the clinical description of osteonecrosis of the jaw emerged in 2003/2004, the relative paucity of data describing how bisphosphonates affect the maxillofacial skeletal became clear. Over the past 10 years, there have been several dozen publications showing various aspects of ONJ in mice, rats, dogs, and swine treated with bisphosphonates. Recent work has extended these findings to treatment with RANK-L inhibitors. The establishment of these models will be essential in propelling the field forward to understand the underlying pathophysiology of ONJ and ultimately finding a way to prevent or cure this debilitating condition.
Existence and Attraction Properties of Global Stochastic Invariant Manifolds

In this chapter, we revisit the existence and attraction properties of families of global stochastic invariant manifolds for a broad class of nonlinear SPDEs. The goal is here to set up the precise framework which we will rely on to present the main results of this first volume dealing with approximation formulas of stochastic critical manifolds (Chap. 6), and to describe their related pullback characterizations addressed in Volume II [37, Sect. 4.1].
SU‐E‐I‐93: External Beam Radiation Cherenkov Emission in Tissue Used for Tissue Oxygen Sensing

Purpose: To show that Cherenkov emission is generated by external radiotherapy beam in tissue, and could serve as optical source to excite an oxygen sensitive phosphor, Oxyphor G4, within tissue. The intensity and lifetime of the phosphorescence was measured with a time‐gated system and reveals the oxygenation levels in the tissue phantom. Methods: A tissue phantom made with PBS, 1% v/v Intralipid‐20% (Sigma Aldrich), 1% v/v whole blood and Oxyphor G4 in 1 μM concentration is irradiated by 18MeV external radiotherapy electron beam at a dose rate of 4 Gy/min generated by a medicallinear accelerator (Varian LINAC 2100C, Varian Medical Systems). On one side of the phantom, a fiber bundle is used to conduct optical signal to a spectrometer connected to a fast gating ICCD (PI‐MAX3, Princeton Instruments). For each oxygenation level, a series of spectrum of phosphorescence at different time points is measured by the time domain gating technique. Lifetime of phosphorescence is analyzed by exponential fitting and is validated by comparison to an independent analysis by frequency domain phosphorimetry. Monte Carlo simulations using GEANT4, of the fiber optic collection of Cerenkov light were performed to decide the sensitivity of the optical system for a range of specified geometries and beam types. Simulation results identify the effective depth within the phantom that is sampled by the optical collection of the Cerenkov signal. Results: Simulations show that we can detect the Cherenkov signals comes from an approximately 5 mm depth from within the tissue phantom. Lifetime of the phosphorescence and pO2 of the phantom could be measured and calculated correctly by the time domain gating system. Conclusions: This work indicates time domain gating techniques combined with an oxygen sensitive phosphor are capable of accurately monitoring tissue oxygenation from a reasonable sampling depth in tissue in vivo during external beam radiotherapy. NIH grant R01CA109558
Robot Assisted Radical Cystectomy vs Open Radical Cystectomy: Over 10 years of the Mayo Clinic Experience

Abstract Objectives There is scant information about intermediate / long-term comparative outcomes between robot assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) and open radical cystectomy (ORC). The purpose of this study is to present survival and oncological outcomes between bladder cancer patients who undergo RARC vs. ORC with an overall median follow-up of over 5 years. Materials and Methods A query of all patients who underwent radical cystectomy between January, 2007 and January, 2018 at Mayo Clinic Arizona yielded 595 patients. After excluding cystectomy performed for nonmalignant indication, cancer secondary to nonbladder primary, and cancers with grossly metastatic disease at the time of surgery, 481 patients remained. Data was collected on patient demographics, preoperative information, operative details, complications, and follow-up. Statistical analyses were generated using SPSS 22.0. Results In 481 total patients, 203 (42.2%) underwent RARC and 278 (57.8%) underwent ORC. The median follow-up for the entire cohort was 66 months. The 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 70.8% vs. 64.7% and the 10-year RFS was 69.6% vs. 62.7% for the RARC vs. ORC, respectively (P = 0.135). The 5-year overall survival (OS) was 58.9% vs. 57.7% and the 10-year OS was 39.9% vs. 45.6% for RARC vs. ORC patients, respectively (P = 0.466). There were no differences in any recurrence patterns, including the incidence of atypical recurrences (1.5% vs. 1.8% [P = 0.786], respectively). A Cox-proportional hazards model was fitted that included independent predictors of RFS and OS. The results revealed no difference in RFS (HR 1.235, 95% CI: 0.832–1.833, P = 0.295) or OS (HR 0.790, 95% CI: 0.550–1.135, P = 0.202) between the respectively. Conclusions Recurrence free survival, OS, and recurrence patterns are similar in bladder cancer patients who undergo either RARC or ORC.
I used to have a reputation. Now I have a score.

Abstract Originally, credit decisions were made based on the three Cs: capacity, collateral, and character. Character was a subjective and reputational determination of the discipline and motivation of the borrower. It was replaced with a credit score by a company called FICO, which data-mines credit histories held by three national Credit Reporting Agencies Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. This mathematization is supported by the Federal Government, particularly the Federal Credit Reporting Act, a law originally written almost 50 years ago. The CRAs collect our data for free from companies that loan money and then charge those same companies to have it returned, mixed with the data from other creditors, along with scores. Only creditors that want to reward or punish consumers contribute data, but anyone that risks money on a consumer, such as a landlord or employer, can obtain it.
Gender Differences in Protein And Calorie Requirements in Preterm Infants Of ≤1kg Birth Weight

Background: It is well known that there are gender specific differences in growth of preterm infants, and hence, specific growth charts are developed for male and female preterm infants. However, published evidence on gender specific nutrition requirements is lacking in ≤1kg birth weight (BW) infants. Purpose: To study, if the protein (P), and calorie (C) requirements for preterm infants of ≤1kg (ELBW) BW to maintain appropriate for gestational age (AGA) status for weight (WT) & head circumference (HC) at discharge (d/c) are different between sexes while on full enteral nutrition. Methods: A retrospective chart review was …
Glutaminase-1 (GLS1) inhibition limits metastatic progression in osteosarcoma.

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant bone tumor that often develops during the period of rapid growth associated with adolescence. Despite successful primary tumor control accompanied by adjuvant chemotherapy, death from pulmonary metastases occurs in approximately 30% of patients within 5 years. As overall survival in patients remains unchanged over the last 30 years, urgent needs for novel therapeutic strategies exist. Cancer metastasis is characterized by complex molecular events which result from alterations in gene and protein expression/function. Recent studies suggest that metabolic adaptations, or “metabolic reprogramming,” may similarly contribute to cancer metastasis. The goal of this study was to specifically interrogate the metabolic vulnerabilities of highly metastatic OS cell lines in a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments, in order to identify a tractable metabolically targeted therapeutic strategy for patients. Nutrient deprivation and drug treatment experiments were performed in MG63.3, 143B, and K7M2 OS cell lines to identify the impact of glutaminase-1 (GLS1) inhibition and metformin treatment on cell proliferation. We functionally validated the impact of drug treatment with extracellular flux analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. 13C-glucose and 13C-glutamine tracing was employed to identify specific contributions of these nutrients to the global metabolic profiles generated with GLS1 inhibition and metformin treatment in vivo. Highly metastatic OS cell lines require glutamine for proliferation, and exposure to CB-839, in combination with metformin, induces both primary tumor growth inhibition and a distinct reduction in metastatic outgrowth in vivo. Further, combination-treated OS cells showed a reduction in cellular mitochondrial respiration, while NMR confirmed the pharmacodynamic effects of glutaminase inhibition in tumor tissues. We observed global decreases in glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle functionality, alongside an increase in fatty acid oxidation and pyrimidine catabolism. This data suggests combination-treated cells cannot compensate for metformin-induced electron transport chain inhibition by upregulating glutaminolysis to generate TCA cycle intermediates required for cell proliferation, translating into significant reductions in tumor growth and metastatic progression. This therapeutic approach could be considered for future clinical development for OS patients presenting with or at high risk of developing metastasis.
10 – Disorders of platelets

Publisher Summary Platelets are an important component in the first phase of hemostasis. This chapter gives a synoptic view of qualitative disorders of platelet function. When platelets are reduced in number, or become defective in function, bleeding may occur. Bleeding due to platelet disorders typically involves skin and mucous membranes, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage. The basic causes of thrombocytopenia based on platelet size are macrothrombocytes, normal size, and microthrombocytes. The pathophysiological classification of thrombocytopenia is increased platelet destruction, disorders of platelet distribution or pooling, decreased platelet production, and pseudothrombocytopenia. The major cause of thrombocytopenia is immune-mediated platelet destruction due to autoantibodies, drug-dependent antibodies, or alloantibodies. Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a syndrome characterized by: thrombocytopenia, shortened platelet survival, presence of antiplatelet antibody in the plasma, and increased megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. This condition may be acute, chronic, or recurrent. The true incidence of ITP is unknown because the disease is often transient. ITP is caused by autoantibodies against platelet membrane glycoproteins detected by the antigen capture method either on the platelets or in the plasma of patients with ITP. Therefore, ITP is still a clinical diagnosis and platelet antibody tests remain unreliable to confirm or exclude the diagnosis.
Defining Analog Standard Cell Libraries for Mixed-Signal Computing Enabled through Educational Directions

This work presents a mixed-signal cell library built through multiple generations of educational experiences. Digital standard cell libraries are ubiquitous for commercial and academic IC design. Analog standard cell libraries are rare within system-level analog design. Educational efforts in analog system design provide a path for developing these standard cell libraries. The effort included determining the essential blocks for this standard cell library based on previous explorations, as well as constraints to make the layout efficient. Analog and mixed-signal standard cells enable compilation of a high-level description of analog and mixed signal designs to full IC layout. A standard cell library definition allows components designed in any process to have broad utilization. A high-level to layout compilation empowers rapid movement between different IC processes.
Rectovaginal Fistula Repair 1 Year Later: Lessons Learned.

Introduction Rectovaginal (RV) fistulas are notoriously difficult to treat. Various methods for repair exist, and refinements in techniques can lead to "successful" outcomes. Review of the literature demonstrates that outcomes studies are scarce and mostly limited to comments on closure rate. We have experienced "success" in our own series with 100% closure rate, regardless of fistula etiology and comorbidities (radiation, inflammation, etc). However, long-term outcomes, including various complications and quality of life changes, have previously been underreported. Methods Critical analysis of various outcomes after fistula repair in 14 patients was performed. Patients were surveyed and interviewed with regard to problems before and after fistula repair to obtain objective data focusing on their experience and outcomes. Conclusions are based on physician assessment and patient surveys 1 year after fistula repair and at least 6 months after ostomy reversal and are discussed within the context of data from the literature. Results Overall satisfaction rate after repairs was high. All patients would undergo attempt at repair again regardless of complications or functional changes (not present before repair). After repair, sexual dyspareunia affected 5 patients (36%); however, most abstained from sexual activity when their RV fistula became apparent. No patient admitted to dyspareunia before the development of their RV fistula. Anal sphincter and defecation function, as well as stool continence, were judged by surgeons and patients uniformly as adequate. However, 3 patients (21%) complained of intermittent problems with urination. A new/different type of pain affected 2 of 4 patients with Crohn disease. One of these patients subsequently developed a new postsphincteric RV fistula. Another patient noted new intermittent vaginal discharge after ostomy reversal, and magnetic resonance imaging suggested a residual fistula, which was not seen on follow-up sigmoidoscopy and "Blue Dye Test." Conclusions We previously reported on algorithms for repair and refinements in techniques for "successful" repair of RV fistulas with zero recurrence rate. Long-term follow-up indicates, however, that although the overall satisfaction rate after surgery is high, true "success," defined as permanent fistula closure, is not necessarily problem free. Long-term morbidity and the management of other unique sequelae and problems are underreported.
Agencia femenina indígena en Ixcanul (2015) de Jayro Bustamante

La pelicula debut de Jayro Bustamante, Ixcanul (2015), recibio mas de veinte premios, de los cuales el mas prestigioso es el ‘Alfred Bauer’, otorgado en el transcurso del Berlinale, el Festival Int...
Differences in the number of services provided by nurse practitioners and physicians during primary care visits.

Abstract Background Due to differential training, nurse practitioners (NPs) and physicians may provide different quantities of services to patients. Purpose To assess differences in the number of laboratory, imagining, and procedural services provided by primary care NPs and physicians. Methods Secondary analysis of 2012–2016 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS), containing 308 NP-only and 73,099 physician-only patient visits, using multivariable regression and propensity score techniques. Findings On average, primary care visits with NPs versus physicians were associated with 0.521 fewer laboratory (95% CI −0.849, −0.192), and 0.078 fewer imaging services (95% CI −0.103,−0.052). Visits for routine and preventive care with NPs versus physicians were associated with 1.345 fewer laboratory (95% CI −2.037,−0.654), and 0.086 fewer imaging services (95% CI −0.118,−0.054) on average. Primary care visits for new problems with NPs versus physicians were associated with 0.051 fewer imaging services (95% CI −0.094,−0.007) on average. Discussion NPs provide fewer laboratory and imaging services than physicians during primary care visits.
"There's a huge benefit just to know that someone cares:" a qualitative examination of rural veterans' experiences with TelePain.

BACKGROUND Veterans in the United States are at an increased risk of chronic pain and have higher reported pain prevalence and severity than nonveterans. This qualitative study aims to examine veterans' perspectives on the acceptability of receiving pain care through TelePain, a telehealth program implemented by the Veterans Health Administration (VA) that offers specialty pain care to rural veterans in their homes or in a video conferencing room at a nearby outpatient clinic. METHODS The VA electronic health record was used to identify patients who were referred to TelePain from rural clinics located in Washington, Oregon, and Alaska between 12/01/2019 and 03/31/2020. The study team completed 16 semi-structured interviews with rural veterans about their experiences with TelePain. After interview transcripts were recorded digitally and transcribed, Atlas.ti was used to organize data and facilitate qualitative coding. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Veterans reported general satisfaction with receiving pain care through telehealth and valued having supportive, knowledgeable providers who provided useful information and resources. In addition, veterans appreciated the convenience of telehealth. Barriers to care included problems with program follow-up, negative perceptions of mental health care for pain, and preference for in-person care. Although some patients suggested that telehealth audio and video could be improved, most patients did not have any significant problems with telehealth technology. CONCLUSIONS In this sample of rural veterans who used TelePain, many reported satisfaction with the program and positive experiences with providers. Targets for quality improvement include streamlining the program's referral and scheduling process and improving patient motivation to engage in psychological pain treatments. Results indicate that delivering pain services over telehealth is an acceptable modality for this patient population.
Emotion, Neural Basis of

Emotion is information about the extent to which goals are being met in interaction with the environment. Keywords: emotion; brain; amygdala; consciousness; neuroimaging
An Approach to Learning in Hopfield Neural Networks

In this paper we present some preliminary ideas for the design of a continuous nonlinear neural networks with "learning." Specifically, we introduce the idea of learning in Hopfield recursive neural networks. The network is trained so that application of a set of inputs produces the desired set of outputs. A method is developed to determine the interconnecting weights for the network, so as to achieve the desired stable equilibrium points. Also, this method illustrates a way to 'learn' the interconnecting weights that are not computed a priori. Conditions are obtained for the asymptotic stability of the equilibrium points. An illustrative simulation is presented.
Abstract 4384: TargetingmiR-124inhibits growth of prostate cancer xenografts and sensitized prostate cancer cells to anti-androgen

Increasing evidence has shown that miR-124 is a tumor suppressor and plays an important role in pathogenesis of many types of human cancer. We previously found that miR-124 directly targets the androgen receptor (AR) and is significantly downregulated in clinical prostate cancer (CaP) samples. Moreover, overexpression of miR-124 induced apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation and xenograft growth of CaP. In this study, we determined whether restoration of miR-124 may represent an adjunctively therapeutic option for CaP treatment. For this purpose, WST-1 and clonogenic assays were performed to evaluate the effects of miR-124 or miR-124 plus enzalutamide (one new androgen antagonist) on CaP cell proliferation. In animal experiment, male nude mice were inoculated s.c with CWR22 CaP cell suspensions. When tumor sizes reached ∼50 mm 3 , mice were treated with polyethylenimines (PEI)-complexed miR-124 (i.v., 10µg/day, thrice a week for 4 weeks) or PEI-miR-124 (i.v.) plus enzalutamide (p.o., 10mg/kg/day for 5 weeks). PEI can increase internalization and facilitate miRNA release into cytoplasm. After treatment, tumors were harvested for analyzing apoptosis and measuring miR-124 target levels. In in vitro experiment, 22Rv1 cells were separately treated with miR-124, enzalutamide or both. It was found that the combined treatment significantly increased growth inhibition of 22Rv1 cells. In addition, we established enzalutamide-resistant 22Rv1 subline (22Rv1-MDVR) by clone-selection in gradually increased doses (from 5μM to 40μM within four months). Treatment with miR-124 obviously inhibited clone formation of 22Rv1-MDVR cells. In mice receiving miR-124 or enzalutamide treatment, we observed tumor-inhibitory effects. However, the combination of miR-124 and enzalutamide exhibited more significant inhibition of tumor growth when compared to the single treatment. We examined the expression of AR and its variant 7 (AR-V7) that are targets of miR-124. Reduced levels of AR and AR-V7 were found in miR-124-treated tumors, indicating that PEI facilitates entry of miR-124 into the tumor cells. We also observed increased apoptosis in miR-124-treated tumors. Data from in vitro and in vivo studies show that miR-124 inhibited growth of CaP cells and sensitized CaP cells to anti-androgens, suggesting that miR-124 can be used as an adjunctively therapeutic agent for improved CaP treatment. Citation Format: Xu-Bao Shi, Aihong Ma, Lingru Xue, Ralph W. deVere White. Targeting miR-124 inhibits growth of prostate cancer xenografts and sensitized prostate cancer cells to anti-androgen. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 4384. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-4384
Theory of ab initio pseudopotential calculations

The ab initio norm-conserving pseudopotential is generated from a reference atomic configuration in which the pseudoatomic eigenvalues and wave functions outside the core region agree with the corresponding ab initio all-electron results within the density-functional formalism. This paper explains why such pseudopotentials accurately reproduce the all-electron results in both atoms and in multiatomic systems. In particular, a theorem is derived to demonstrate the energy- and perturbation-independent properties of ab initio pseudopotentials.
Cranial window implantation on mouse cortex to study microvascular change induced by cocaine

Cocaine-induced stroke is among the most serious medical complications associated with cocaine’s abuse. However, the extent to which chronic cocaine may induce silent microischemia predisposing the cerebral tissue to neurotoxicity has not been investigated; in part, because of limitations of current neuroimaging tools, that is, lack of high spatiotemporal resolution and sensitivity to simultaneously measure cerebral blood flow (CBF) in vessels of different calibers quantitatively and over a large field of view (FOV). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) technique allows us to image three dimensional (3D) cerebrovascular network (including artery, vein, and capillary), and provides high resolution angiography of the cerebral vasculature and quantitative CBF velocity (CBFv) within the individual vessels in the network. In order to monitor the neurovascular changes from an in vivo brain along with the chronic cocaine exposure, we have developed an approach of implanting a cranial window on mouse brain to achieve long-term cortical imaging. The cranial window was implanted on sensorimotor cortex area in two animal groups, i.e., control group [saline treatment, ~0.1 cc/10 g/day, intraperitoneal injection (i.p.)] and chronic cocaine group (cocaine treatment, 30 mg/kg/day i.p.). After implantation, the cortex of individual animal was periodically imaged by OCT and stereoscope to provide angiography and quantitative CBFv of the cerebral vascular network, as well as the surface imaging of the brain. We have observed vascular hemodynamic changes (i.e., CBFv changes) induced by the cranial preparation in both animal groups, including the inflammatory response of brain shortly after the surgery (i.e., 5 days) in the brain. Importantly, by comparing with the control animals, the surgical-related vascular physiology changes in the cortex can be calibrated, so that the cocaine-induced hemodynamic changes in the neurovasculature can be determined in the cocaine animals. Our results demonstrate that this methodology can be used to explore the neurovascular functional changes induced by the brain diseases such as drug addiction.
Factors in Saliva Correlated with Dental Caries

Previous studies by the author (1) of stimulated saliva of persons with active dental caries, on one hand, and free from caries, on the other, point to the conclusion that differences, valid in group averages, occur between the two groups in several respects. The caries-free group gave higher mean values for carbon dioxide capacity,2 total calcium, inorganic phosphate, and the percentage of calcium removed after shaking saliva with a preparation of commercial tricalcium phosphate,3 while the group with active caries yielded a higher aver-
A comparison of phase encoding ordering schemes in T2‐weighted GRASE imaging

Gradient and spin echo (GRASE) imaging is an echo train imaging sequence that combines gradient and RF refocusing. This combination introduces phase modulations into the echo train. If the phase encoding order is linear with echo time, these modulations cause severe ghosting artifacts. Changing the order of phase encoding can greatly reduce these artifacts. Several phase encoding orders for T2-weighted sequences are compared in this paper, linear, partially randomized, standard GRASE ordering, and k-banded (kb) GRASE ordering. Different possible implementations of GRASE and kbGRASE are also considered. Computer simulation is used to compare resolution and artifact levels. Phantom and volunteer images are presented. The linear order is most sensitive to ghosting artifacts associated with chemical shift, susceptibility differences and static field inhomogeneities. The standard GRASE order is least sensitive to these but most vulnerable to artifacts associated with short T2 signals, kb-GRASE is a good intermediate between linear and standard GRASE and generally shows the lowest artifact levels. The partially randomized order gives the most diffuse artifacts. Computer simulations show that spatial resolution and contrast with all phase encoding orders are similar.
Hydrocarbon gas standards at the pmol/mol level to support ambient atmospheric measurements.

Studies of climate change increasingly recognize the diverse influences exerted by hydrocarbons in the atmosphere, including roles in particulates and ozone formation. Measurements of key non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) suggest atmospheric concentrations ranging from low pmol/mol to nmol/mol, depending on location and compound. To accurately establish concentration trends and to relate measurement records from many laboratories and researchers, it is essential to have good calibration standards. Several of the world’s National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) are developing primary and secondary reference gas standards at the nmol/mol level. While the U.S. NMI, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), has developed pmol/mol standards for halocarbons and some volatile organics, the feasibility of preparing well-characterized, stable standards for NMHCs at the pmol/mol level is not yet established. NIST recently developed a suite of primary standards by gravimetric dilution that contains 18 NM...
Review of "The Intentional Relationship: Occupational Therapy and Use of Self," by Renée Taylor

In The Intentional Relationship: Occupational Therapy and Use of Self, Renee Taylor extensively and coherently frames the concept of therapeutic use of self as related to the occupational therapy p...
Scrapie-associated particles in postsynaptic processes. Further ultrastructural studies.

Both tubular and spherical densities have been described in postsynaptic processes of mice with clinical scrapie. To determine whether the tubular appearances resulted from tubular structures or from overlap of spherical particles, electron microscopic examination was performed by tilting the specimen through large angles. In every instance where such specimens could be analyzed, the tubular appearances resulted from overlapping of tightly aggregated spherical particles
Domain growth in the Ising model in a random magnetic field

Simulations of the two-dimensional ferromagnetic Ising model in a random magnetic field with spin-flip dynamics are reported. After the system is deeply quenched into the unstable region of the phase diagram, novel dynamical behavior for the average size of the growing domains is observed.
Fluctuating dental asymmetry as an indicator of the stressful prenatal effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in the laboratory rat

Abstract Different groups of pregnant laboratory rats were given oral doses of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (5 or 20 mg/kg) or its vehicle (propyleneglycol). Additional nondosed groups were pair-fed with the high-dose group or were allowed continuous access to food. A previously tested technique was used to assess the stressful effects on the offspring. Increased fluctuating dental asymmetry was found in the mandibular dentition of the offspring of THC treated animals. As the experimental design was controlled for route of administration, drug vehicle, and drug-induced dietary variation, we concluded that THC was stressful. An alternative to placental transfer, behavioral stress is a possible explanation for this effect.
Genetic control of active neural circuits.

The use of molecular tools to study the neurobiology of complex behaviors has been hampered by an inability to target the desired changes to relevant groups of neurons. Specific memories and specific sensory representations are sparsely encoded by a small fraction of neurons embedded in a sea of morphologically and functionally similar cells. In this review we discuss genetics techniques that are being developed to address this difficulty. In several studies the use of promoter elements that are responsive to neural activity have been used to drive long lasting genetic alterations into neural ensembles that are activated by natural environmental stimuli. This approach has been used to examine neural activity patterns during learning and retrieval of a memory, to examine the regulation of receptor trafficking following learning and to functionally manipulate a specific memory trace. We suggest that these techniques will provide a general approach to experimentally investigate the link between patterns of environmentally activated neural firing and cognitive processes such as perception and memory.
'Erasmus': an organization- and user-centered dublin core metadata tool

Digital library interoperability is supported by good quality metadata. The design of metadata creation and management tools is therefore an important component of overall digital library design. A number of factors affect metadata tool usability, including task complexity, interface usability, and organizational context of use. These issues are being addressed in the user-centered design of a metadata tool for the Internet Public Library.