cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multifocal and Multisystemic Bone Lesions: Imaging Pitfalls

There are many pitfalls in imaging studies that depict multifocal bone lesions, be they in children or adults. This chapter will address some of the common multifocal and multisystemic neoplastic and nonneoplastic conditions that one may encounter. Pitfalls on conventional radiographs, standard computed tomography, positron emission tomography/CT, and magnetic resonance imaging will be emphasized. Methods to avoid common pitfalls will be discussed.
Forensic Web Services

Choreography, orchestration and dynamic invocation allow new web services to be composed from existing ones. However, these compositions create service interdependencies that can be misused for financial fraud and other illegal purposes. When a misuse is reported, investigators have to navigate through collections of logs to recreate the invocation scenario in order to evaluate the misuse claims. We propose the creation of forensic web services that can securely maintain transaction records between web services. An independent entity could use the stored records to reproduce the complete transaction history when investigating a misuse claim.
Event-Triggered Distributed Control of Nonlinear Interconnected Systems Using Online Reinforcement Learning With Exploration

In this paper, a distributed control scheme for an interconnected system composed of uncertain input affine nonlinear subsystems with event triggered state feedback is presented by using a novel hybrid learning scheme-based approximate dynamic programming with online exploration. First, an approximate solution to the Hamilton-Jacobi–Bellman equation is generated with event sampled neural network (NN) approximation and subsequently, a near optimal control policy for each subsystem is derived. Artificial NNs are utilized as function approximators to develop a suite of identifiers and learn the dynamics of each subsystem. The NN weight tuning rules for the identifier and event-triggering condition are derived using Lyapunov stability theory. Taking into account, the effects of NN approximation of system dynamics and boot-strapping, a novel NN weight update is presented to approximate the optimal value function. Finally, a novel strategy to incorporate exploration in online control framework, using identifiers, is introduced to reduce the overall cost at the expense of additional computations during the initial online learning phase. System states and the NN weight estimation errors are regulated and local uniformly ultimately bounded results are achieved. The analytical results are substantiated using simulation studies.
Seed germination of Rhododendron catawbiense and Rhododendron maximum: influence of light and temperature

Abstract Seeds of Rhododendron catawbiense Michx. and Rhododendron maximum L. were germinated at 25°C (77°F) and 25°/15°C (77°/59°F) with daily photoperiods of 0, 1/2, 1/2 twice daily, 1, 2, 4, 8, ...
Managing Bias in Palliative Care: Professional Hazards in Goals of Care Discussions at the End of Life:

Background:In the setting of end-of-life care, biases can interfere with patient articulation of goals and hinder provision of patient-centered care. No studies have addressed clinician bias or bias management specific to goals of care discussions at the end of life.Objectives:To identify and determine the prevalence of palliative care clinician biases and bias management strategies in end-of-life goals of care discussions.Design:A semistructured interview guide with relevant domains was developed to facilitate data collection. Participants were asked directly to identify biases and bias management strategies applicable to this setting. Two researchers developed a codebook to identify themes using a 25% transcript sample through an iterative process based on grounded theory. Inter-rater reliability was evaluated using Cohen κ. It was 0.83, indicating near perfect agreement between coders. The data approach saturation.Setting/Participants:A purposive sampling of 20 palliative care clinicians in Middle Tenn...
Transiently stimulated second-harmonic generation from silicon nanogratings

We observe that second-harmonic (SH) light generated by a femtosecond probe pulse from Si nanograting surfaces can be enhanced by a correlating pump pulse. Time-resolved anisotropy analysis shows that the enhancement arises from transient stimulation by the pump because it polarizes the periodically distributed charge from the probe photoinjection. In addition, dipole and quadrupole SH components are stimulated differently depending on the pump polarization. This effect reveals ultrafast SH dynamics in centrosymmetric materials and provides guidance for measuring nanoscale features.
Reoperations for failed bypass grafts below the inguinal ligament

Arterial reconstructions for limb ischaemia include axillofemoral and femorofemoral procedures and infrainguinal bypass grafts. All these bypass grafts may fail because of thrombus or progressive atherosclerosis. As a result of graft failure, many patients will develop disabling or limb-threatening ischaemia. Appropriate management of this condition has become an important aspect of vascular surgery, and a committed vascular surgeon needs to be familiar with the various techniques available to reverse the ischaemia. This chapter discusses strategies of management with a specific emphasis on repeated vascular surgery.
Long-term capsule clarity with a disk-shaped intraocular lens.

Purpose To evaluate long-term capsular clarity with a modified disk-shaped 1-piece hydrophilic acrylic monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) (Zephyr) suspended between 2 complete haptic rings connected by a pillar of the haptic material. Setting John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Design Experimental study. Methods Study and control (1-piece hydrophobic acrylic) IOLs were implanted into the right and left eyes, respectively, of 8 New Zealand rabbits. Eyes were examined at the slitlamp at set intervals for 6 months. At the end of the clinical follow-up, the globes were enucleated and capsular clarity was scored from the posterior view (Miyake-Apple technique). Then, all the eyes were processed for a complete histopathological evaluation. Results At 6 months, the slitlamp evaluation showed a posterior capsule opacification score of 0.28 ± 0.26 (SD) in the study group and 4 ± 0 in the control (P Conclusions The degree of capsular bag clarity observed at 6 months postoperatively in the study eyes in this rabbit model was exceptional. It was likely because of the IOL design, keeping the capsular bag open and expanded, and minimizing contact between the IOL and the anterior capsule.
Promoting High-Value Care During Hospitalist and Intensivist Comanagement in the Care of the Deteriorating Child With Bronchiolitis.

A previously healthy 10-month-old girl is admitted to the medical ward with bronchiolitis. Her emergency department examination revealed moderate to severe retractions with temperature 100.5°F (38.06°C), heart rate 156 beats per minute, respiratory rate 58 breaths per minute, and SpO2 83%. Her vital signs normalized and distress improved after deep suctioning and high-flow oxygen (humidified high-flow nasal cannula [HHFNC]) initiation. No additional interventions are ordered after admission. Twelve hours later, the team notes progressing distress despite continuation of HHFNC. They administer a fluid bolus, but the patient remains in distress. The senior resident requests a “rapid response team (RRT) panel” consisting of a chest radiograph and albuterol. They then activate the RRT. The responding intensivist recommends they suction aggressively and initiate continuous positive airway pressure while awaiting transfer to the ICU. Many children’s hospitals use rapid response systems for early intervention on deteriorating patients.1 Use of RRTs, a common component of these systems that calls an intensivist to the bedside of a deteriorating patient, is associated with improved hospital mortality,2 decreased cardiopulmonary arrests,2 and slowed incidence of critical deterioration events.3 Yet providers report barriers to escalating care including anticipation of disagreement with the RRT’s recommendations.4 These disagreements involve both management recommendations and appropriate disposition, suggesting differing definitions of value among the care team. Defining high-value care (using the right resources for the right patient at the right time5,6) can be difficult during care escalation because the balance of health outcomes and cost7 is dependent on difficult assessments of severity of …
Pyrolysis and catalytic pyrolysis of protein- and lipid-rich feedstock

In this study, pyrolysis of microalgal remnants was investigated for recovery of energy and nutrients. Chlorella vulgaris (C.vulgaris) biomass was first solvent-extracted for lipid recovery then the remnants were used as the feedstock for fast pyrolysis experiments using a fluidized bed reactor at 500 o C. Yields of bio-oil, biochar and gas were 53, 31, and 10wt.%, respectively. Bio-oil from C.vulgaris remnants was a complex mixture of aromatics and straight-chain hydrocarbons, amides, amines, carboxylic acids, phenols and other compounds with molecular weights ranging from 70Da to 1200Da. Structure and surface topography of the biochar were analyzed.The high inorganic content (potassium, phosphorous, and nitrogen) of the biochar suggests it may be suitable to provide nutrients for crop production. The bio-oil and biochar represented 57 and 36% of the energy content of the microalgae remnant feedstock, respectively.
Public key cryptography in sensor networks—revisited

The common perception of public key cryptography is that it is complex, slow and power hungry, and as such not at all suitable for use in ultra-low power environments like wireless sensor networks. It is therefore common practice to emulate the asymmetry of traditional public key based cryptographic services through a set of protocols [1] using symmetric key based message authentication codes (MACs). Although the low computational complexity of MACs is advantageous, the protocol layer requires time synchronization between devices on the network and a significant amount of overhead for communication and temporary storage. The requirement for a general purpose CPU to implement these protocols as well as their complexity makes them prone to vulnerabilities and practically eliminates all the advantages of using symmetric key techniques in the first place. In this paper we challenge the basic assumptions about public key cryptography in sensor networks which are based on a traditional software based approach. We propose a custom hardware assisted approach for which we claim that it makes public key cryptography feasible in such environments, provided we use the right selection of algorithms and associated parameters, careful optimization, and low-power design techniques. In order to validate our claim we present proof of concept implementations of two different algorithms—Rabin’s Scheme and NtruEncrypt—and analyze their architecture and performance according to various established metrics like power consumption, area, delay, throughput, level of security and energy per bit. Our implementation of NtruEncrypt in ASIC standard cell logic uses no more than 3,000 gates with an average power consumption of less than 20 μW. We envision that our public key core would be embedded into a light-weight sensor node architecture.
Radical Changes for Reproductive Health Care — Proposed Regulations for Title X

Radical Changes for Reproductive Health Care Proposed new regulations for the U.S. Title X Family Planning Program would radically alter the mix of health care providers and the range, quality, and effectiveness of services offered to support the reproductive health and childbearing decisions of low-income people.
Violence risk-assessment screening tools for acute care mental health settings: Literature review

Abstract Background Violence is a large concern for mental health professionals: 90% of physicians and nurses working in mental health areas have been subject to violence from patients. Approximately 80% of violent acts from patients are directed toward nurses. Objective The purpose of this integrative literature review was to identify violence risk–assessment screening tools that could be used in acute care mental health settings. Design The Stetler model of evidence-based practice guided the literature search, in which 8 violence risk–assessment tools were identified, 4 of which were used for further examination. Results The Broset Violence Checklist and Violence Risk Screening-10 provided the best assessment for violence in the acute care mental health setting. Conclusions Using a violence risk assessment screening tool helps identify patients at risk for violence allowing for quick intervention to prevent violent episodes.
E2β stimulates ovine uterine artery endothelial cell H2S production in vitro by estrogen receptor-dependent upregulation of cystathionine β-synthase and cystathionine γ-lyase expression

Endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a potent vasodilator and proangiogenic second messenger synthesized from L-cysteine by cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH). Estrogens are potent vasodilators that stimulate H2S biosynthesis in uterine arteries (UA) in vivo; however, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. We hypothesized that estrogens stimulate H2S biosynthesis in UA endothelial cells (UAEC) via specific estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent mechanisms. In cultured primary UAEC, treatment with estradiol-17β (E2β) stimulated CBS and CTH mRNAs and proteins in a time- and concentration-dependent fashion. As little as 0.1 nM E2β was effective in increasing CBS and CTH expressions and these stimulatory effects maximized with 10-100 nM E2β at 48-72 h. E2β also activated CBS and CTH promoters in UAEC, leading to CBS and CTH expression. Treatment with E2β stimulated H2S production, which was blocked by specific inhibitors of either CBS or CTH and their combination and the ER antagonist ICI 182780. Treatment with either specific agonist of ERα or ERβ stimulated both CBS and CTH mRNA and protein expressions and H2S production to levels similar to that of E2β. Specific antagonist of either ERα or ERβ blocked E2β-stimulated CBS and CTH mRNA and protein expressions and H2S production. Combinations of either ERα or ERβ agonists or their antagonists had no additive effects. Thus, E2β stimulates H2S production by upregulating CBS and CTH mRNA and protein expressions through specific ERα or ERβ-dependent CBS and CTH transcription in UAEC in vitro.
Wednesday, September 26, 2018 10:35 AM – 12:00 PM Understanding Lumbar Stenosis/Spondylolisthesis: 13. Unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression versus decompression with instrumented fusion for lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis at five-year follow-up

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Controversy exists regarding whether fusion should be used to augment decompression surgery in patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis with grade I/II (low-grade), stable degenerative spondylolisthesis. For years, the standard has been fusion with laminectomy in order to prevent postoperative instability. However, instability and reoperations may be reduced or prevented using less invasive, structure sparing decompression techniques without the need for fusion. PURPOSE To compare reoperation rates within a 5-year follow-up period of unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (ULBD) versus posterior lumbar decompression with instrumented fusion (fusion) for patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis with spinal stenosis in a multicenter database. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE A final cohort of 601 Kaiser Permanente Northern California members with diagnoses of lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and lumbar spinal stenosis of whom 164 patients underwent ULBD and 437 underwent fusion between January 2007 and December 2011. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measure was reoperation rate at 5-year postoperative follow-up. Secondary outcome measures included blood loss during surgery, length of stay, reoperation type, reoperation level, and 90-day postoperative complication rates. METHODS We identified 164 patients with lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and lumbar stenosis who underwent ULBD between January 2007 and December 2011. These patients were propensity score matched on age at surgery, gender, race and smoking status with patients who underwent fusion (n=437). The primary outcome was 5-year reoperation rate and secondary outcome measures included postoperative complication rates, reoperation type, reoperation level, blood loss during surgery, and length of stay. RESULTS The reoperation rate within 5-year follow-up was significantly lower at 10.4% in the ULBD group compared to 17.2% in the fusion group (p=.0393). Type of reoperation was similar between the two groups. Reoperation at the index or adjacent level was not significant different between the two groups. Patients that underwent ULBD had significantly less mean estimated blood loss compared to fusion (82 vs. 445 ml, p CONCLUSIONS For patients with stable degenerative spondylolisthesis and lumbar stenosis, ULBD is a viable, durable option compared to fusion with a lower reoperation rate within a 5-year follow-up period, as well as decreased blood loss and length of stay. Further prospective studies are required to determine the optimal clinical scenario for ULBD in the setting of degenerative spondylolisthesis. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs
Predictors of 5-Year Citation Rate in the Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Literature.

Background:The citation rate of a research published article is an indicator of its quality and impact and contributes to the journal’s impact factor. Within the orthopaedic sports medicine literat...
Case Study: The Iran Nuclear Deal

Abstract The case of the Iranian nuclear program—including its clandestine development and the international negotiations and resulting agreement aimed at dismantling it—present a valuable study of the regional, international, and domestic dynamics that complicate discussions of nuclear proliferation and disarmament. Having been conceived under the shah as an alternative to Iran's oil economy, as well as a potential source of defense—if the need ever arose—the Iranian nuclear program became a serious source of regional and international concern following the disclosure of the Natanz enrichment facility and the Arak heavy water reactor by an Iranian dissident group in 2002. For a decade, international stakeholders attempted to curb Iran's nuclear program without success. Finally, in 2015, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action was signed between the five Security Council states and Germany. However, with the announcement in May 2018 of the United States' withdrawal from the agreement, the future of the Iranian nuclear program is once again unclear. This chapter will outline the history of the Iranian nuclear program before offering a starting point for understanding how decisions made in Tehran, Berlin, Moscow, Washington, and elsewhere over the last half century have shaped the program's trajectory.
Bounds on übercrossing and petal numbers for knots

An n-crossing is a point in the projection of a knot where n strands cross so that each strand bisects the crossing. An ubercrossing projection has a single n-crossing and a petal projection has a single n-crossing such that there are no loops nested within others. The ubercrossing number, u(K), is the smallest n for which we can represent a knot K with a single n-crossing. The petal number is the number of loops in the minimal petal projection. In this paper, we relate the ubercrossing number and petal number to well known invariants such as crossing number, bridge number, and unknotting number. We find that the bounds we have constructed are sharp for (r, r + 1)-torus knots. We also explore the behavior of ubercrossing number under composition.
Interobserver correlation of morphometric data obtained from routine preoperative abdominal CT scans in pancreatic surgery.

e20714 Background: Quantification of frailty is necessary for estimation of therapy tolerance. Sarcopenia is a recognized measure of frailty and predicts long-term survival in both non-surgical and...
Generalized Adaptive Framework for Computerizing the Building Design Review Process

AbstractEngineering design review is the process of assessing a design against codes and standards requirements to validate the accuracy and quality of the design and detecting problems before manu...
Adsorption Isotherm Predictions for Multiple Molecules in MOFs Using the Same Deep Learning Model

Tailoring the structure and chemistry of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) enables the manipulation of their adsorption properties to suit specific energy and environmental applications. As there are millions of possible MOFs (with tens of thousands already synthesized), molecular simulation has frequently been used to rapidly evaluate the adsorption performance of a large set of MOFs. This allows subsequent experiments to focus only on a small subset of the most promising MOFs. In many instances, however, even molecular simulation becomes prohibitively time-consuming, underscoring the need for alternative screening methods, such as machine learning, to precede molecular simulation efforts. In this study, as a proof of concept, we trained a neural network-specifically, a multilayer perceptron (MLP)-as the first example of a machine learning model capable of predicting full adsorption isotherms of different molecules not included in the training of the model. To achieve this, we trained our MLP on "alchemical" species, represented only by variables derived from their force-field parameters, to predict the loadings of real adsorbates. Alchemical species used for training were small, near-spherical, and nonpolar, enabling the prediction of analogous real molecules relevant for chemical separations such as argon, krypton, xenon, methane, ethane, and nitrogen. MOFs were also represented by simple descriptors (e.g., geometric properties and chemical moieties). The trained model was shown to make accurate adsorption predictions for these six adsorbates in both hypothetical and existing MOFs. The MLP presented here is not expected to be applied "as is" to more complex adsorbates with properties not considered during its training. However, our results illustrate a new philosophy of training that can be built upon with the goal of predicting adsorption isotherms in not only a database of MOFs but also a database of adsorbates and over a range of relevant operating conditions.
LARGER ORGANIZED AREAS IN PERSISTENT ATRIAL FIBRILLATION PREDICTS TERMINATION DURING ABLATION

Termination of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) by ablation is difficult to predict. We hypothesized that organized areas in AF may indicate less advanced fibrillatory disorder and may identify patients in whom ablation is more likely to terminate AF We studied 40 patients with persistent AF
Assessment, Prevention, and Treatment of Pain in Children with Serious Illness

1. Multi-modal analgesia acts synergistically for more effective paediatric pain and symptom control with fewer side effects than a single analgesic or modality in children with serious illness. 2. For complex pain situations at the end-of-life period “medications only” approaches are often insufficient, and just adjusting the choice, route, and dose of analgesics alone is not effective to provide excellent analgesia without over-sedation. 3. Integrative (“non-pharmacological”), psychological, and rehabilitative pain management strategies complement and enhance the analgesic outcome of patients suffering from pain. 4. It is considered unethical and inappropriate to perform elective painful procedures (such as wound dressing changes, blood draws, intravenous cannulations, injections, lumbar punctures, etc.) in children without providing evidence-based treatments to avoid or minimise pain 5. Offering a bundle of evidence-based modalities to all children every time prevents or reduces pain and anxiety caused by needles and procedures.
Surgical treatment of non‐seminomatous germinal testes tumors

Surgical management of germinal testes tumors other than seminoma is presented. Phase I consists of removal of the primary tumor; Phase II, the surgical removal of retroperitoneal metastatic diseases; and Phase III, surgical management of chest metastasis. Seventy-two patients were explored with the intent of performing a simultaneous bilateral retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. Each had a radical orchiectomy prior to exploration. Seven patients were found unresectable because of extensive disease above the renal pedicle and lymphadenectomy was not performed. The1 remaining 65 were found resectable and a transabdominal bilateral retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy was done. Of this number, 20 or 30% had metastatic nodes. No other treatment was used. All had a 3-year followup and 53 were followed for 5 years or more. The 3-year survival for Stage I is 93%, and for Stage II, 75%. Five-or-more-year survival in Stage I is 86% and Stage II, 70%. Other published series of equivalent number, pathology and staging are mentioned and discussed concerning the advantages and disadvantages of unilateral versus bilateral dissection. Our limited experience in the surgical management of Stage III lesions is mentioned. Thus, this experience with pathologic Stage II cases, both in our series and those of others, clearly demonstrates the capability of surgery as a primary treatment to control 70% of patients with retroperitoneal lymph node metastases. This surgical technique is therefore recommended as primary therapy in Stage I and II non-seminomatous germinal testes tumors.
Proteomic and mechanistic dissection of the poxvirus-customized ribosome.

Ribosomes are often viewed as protein synthesis machines that lack intrinsic regulatory capacity. However, studies have established that ribosomes can functionally diversify through changes in the composition of, or post-translational modifications to ribosomal subunit proteins (RPs). We recently found that poxviruses phosphorylate unique sites in the RP, Receptor for Activated C Kinase 1 (RACK1) to enhance viral protein synthesis. Here, we developed approaches for large-scale proteomic analysis of ribosomes isolated from cells infected with different viruses. Beyond RACK1, we identified additional phosphorylation events within RPS2 and RPS28 that arise during poxvirus infection, but not other viruses tested. The modified sites lie within unstructured loop domains that position around the mRNA entry and exit channel, respectively, and site-substitution mutants revealed that each modified residue contributed differently to poxvirus replication. Our findings reveal the broader extent to which poxviruses customize host ribosomes and provide new insights into how ribosomes can functionally diversify.
Vocal production in anurans

Abstract The anurans—frogs and toads—are highly speciose and widely distributed throughout the world. Most species are known to use acoustic signals to communicate a range of information across many social contexts. Vocal behaviors coordinate courtship and reproduction, and are thus subject to both intrasexual and intersexual selection. The sexes differ dramatically in their vocalizations, and these behaviors are therefore strongly influenced by gonadal steroid hormones. Because of their energetic costs and roles in coordinating social interactions, other hormones such as corticosterone and arginine vasotocin are also known to regulate vocalizations. In this chapter, we begin by describing well-understood relationships between hormones and anuran vocalizations. We then discuss the known peripheral and central mechanisms of vocal production, and describe how many of these processes are established or maintained by hormones. We summarize the relatively small number of experiments that address how endocrine disrupting chemical pollutants can adversely affect anuran vocal pathways. While anuran vocal behaviors are described for a great number of species, the mechanisms and hormonal regulation are only described for a relatively small subset of species. In this chapter, we focus our attention on these best understood groups, with one goal of promoting similar efforts across the anuran phylogeny. Future studies into the roles of hormones, and the detrimental impacts of endocrine disrupting pollutants, across distantly related anurans will help to identify conserved endocrine regulatory processes and discern traits that make anurans more, or less, susceptible to endocrine disruption.
Reconsidering pathway choice: a sequential model of mammalian DNA double-strand break pathway decisions

DNA double-strand breaks can be repaired through ligation-based pathways (non-homologous end-joining) or replication-based pathways (homologous recombination) in eukaryotic cells. The decisions that govern these outcomes are widely viewed as a competition between factors that recognize DNA ends and physically promote association of factors specific to each pathway, commonly known as ‘pathway choice’. Here I review recent results in the literature and propose that this decision is better described as a sequential set of binding and end processing events, with non-homologous end joining as the first decision point. Physical association and co-localization of end resection factors with non-homologous end-joining factors suggests that ends are transferred between these complexes, thus the ultimate outcome is not the result of a competition but is more akin to a relay race that is determined by the efficiency of the initial end-joining event and the availability of activated DNA end-processing enzymes.
Using supervised learning to develop BaRAD, a 40-year monthly bias-adjusted global gridded radiation dataset

Diffuse solar radiation is an important, but understudied, component of the Earth’s surface radiation budget, with most global climate models not archiving this variable and a dearth of ground-based observations. Here, we describe the development of a global 40-year (1980–2019) monthly database of total shortwave radiation, including its diffuse and direct beam components, called BaRAD (Bias-adjusted RADiation dataset). The dataset is based on a random forest algorithm trained using Global Energy Balance Archive (GEBA) observations and applied to the Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 (MERRA-2) dataset at the native MERRA-2 resolution (0.5° by 0.625°). The dataset preserves seasonal, latitudinal, and long-term trends in the MERRA-2 data, but with reduced biases than MERRA-2. The mean bias error is close to 0 (root mean square error = 10.1 W m−2) for diffuse radiation and −0.2 W m−2 (root mean square error = 19.2 W m−2) for the total incoming shortwave radiation at the surface. Studies on atmosphere-biosphere interactions, especially those on the diffuse radiation fertilization effect, can benefit from this dataset. Machine-accessible metadata file describing the reported data: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.15090462
Derivation of the no expected sensitization induction level for dermal quantitative risk assessment of fragrance ingredients using a weight of evidence approach.

Abstract Some fragrance ingredients may have the potential to induce skin sensitization in humans but can still be safely formulated into consumer products. Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) for dermal sensitization is required to determine safe levels at which potential skin sensitizers can be incorporated into consumer products. The no expected sensitization induction level or NESIL is the point of departure for the dermal QRA. Sensitization assessment factors are applied to the NESIL to determine acceptable exposure levels at which no skin sensitization induction would be expected in the general population. This paper details the key steps involved in deriving a weight of evidence (WoE) NESIL for a given fragrance ingredient using all existing data, including in vivo, in vitro, and in silico. Read-across can be used to derive a NESIL for a group of structurally similar materials when data are insufficient. When sufficient target and read-across data are lacking, exposure waiving threshold (the DST) may be used. We outline the process as it currently stands at the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials Inc. (RIFM) and provide examples, but it is dynamic and is bound to change with evolving science as new approach methodologies (NAMs) are actively incorporated.
Crystal growth and characterization of europium doped KCaI3, a high light yield scintillator

Abstract The presented study reports on the spectroscopic characteristics of a new high performance scintillation material KCaI3:Eu. The growth of ∅ 17 mm boules using the Bridgman–Stockbarger method in fused silica ampoules is demonstrated to produce yellow tinted, yet transparent single crystals suitable for use in spectroscopic applications due to very promising performance. Scintillation light yield of 72,000 ± 3000 ph/MeV and energy resolution of 3% (FWHM) at 662 keV and 6.1% at 122 keV was obtained from small single crystals of approximately 15 mm3. For a much larger 3.8 cm3 detector, 4.4% and 7.3% for the same energy. Proportionality of the scintillation response to the energy of ionizing radiation is within 96% of the ideal response over an energy range of 14–662 keV. The high light yield and energy resolution of KCaI3:Eu make it suitable for potential use in domestic security applications requiring radionuclide identification.
Abstract O-2: The Role of Post-translational Modifications in SERCA2a-related Cardiac Dysfunction

The cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA2a) has become a validated target for the treatment of heart failure (HF). The relationship between reduced SERCA2a activity and decreases in protein expression in the setting of HF has been found to be non-linear and the toxic intracellular milieu in HF contributes to SERCA2a’s dysfunction. Post-translational modification (PTM) of SERCA2a has been recently described to as an important mechanism that can explain a reduction in SERCA2a activity in HF. Based on a comprehensive proteomic analysis, we found that the levels and activity of SERCA2a in cardiomyocytes are modulated in parallel with the levels of small ubiquitin-like modifier type 1 (SUMO-1). Moreover, our work has shown that SUMO-1 plays a critical role in protecting SERCA2a from pathological conditions (Kho et al, Nature, 2011). More recently, we demonstrated that SUMO-1 gene transfer and its combination with SERCA2a led to a reversal of HF in a porcine model of ischemic induced HF (Tilemann et al, Sci Transl Med, 2013). In our analysis of SERCA2a PTM in animal models of HF, we observed that SERCA2a is acetylated, and that this acetylation is more prominent in failing hearts. The acetylation of SERCA2a was validated by acetylation assays with acetyltransferase and HDAC inhibitors. We identified several lysine residues on SERCA2a for susceptible to acetylation. In addition, we found that Sirt1 enzyme deacetylates SERCA2a. Sirt1 down-regulation in HL-1 cells using small interfering RNA increased SERCA2a acetylation and thereby decreased its activity. Moreover, SERCA2a acetylation was increased when Sirt1 was depleted by recombinant adeno-associated virus carrying short hairpin RNA for Sirt1 in mice model, which reflected a decrease in intensity of interaction between Sirt1 and SERCA2a. Reduced acetylation was accompanied by an increase in SERCA2a SUMOylation in the heart. Decreased acetylation, combined with increased SUMOylation, of SERCA2a may contribute to the cardioprotective effects of Sirt1. Our results show that SERCA2a acetylation increases during HF and negatively impacts SERCA2a’s function, suggesting that the down-regulation of SERCA2a acetylation may afford a novel intervention in the setting of heart failure.
Phytoscreening with SPME: Variability Analysis.

Phytoscreening has been demonstrated at a variety of sites over the past 15 years as a low-impact, sustainable tool in delineation of shallow groundwater contaminated with chlorinated solvents. Collection of tree cores is rapid and straightforward, but low concentrations in tree tissues requires sensitive analytics. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) is amenable to the complex matrix while allowing for solvent-less extraction. Accurate quantification requires the absence of competitive sorption, examined here both in laboratory experiments and through comprehensive examination of field data. Analysis of approximately 2,000 trees at numerous field sites also allowed testing of the tree genus and diameter effects on measured tree contaminant concentrations. Collectively, while these variables were found to significantly affect site-adjusted perchloroethylene (PCE) concentrations, the explanatory power of these effects was small (adjusted R2 = 0.031). 90th quantile chemical concentrations in trees were signi...
Chapter 11 Molecular genetics and evolution of voltage-gated ion channels

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the evolution of voltage-gated ion channels. Molecular and genetic evidence suggests that most voltage-gated ion channels have a similar protein structure and probably a common evolutionary origin. The hypothesis of a common evolutionary origin for the voltage-dependent channels is supported by similarities in their biophysical properties for example, all these channels are sharply responsive to voltage once a sufficient level of depolarization is reached, but show virtually no activation in response to voltage changes that remain near the resting potentials of most cells. Potassium channels are virtually ubiquitous among the cells of eukaryotes and are the most heterogeneous of the voltage-gated cation channels. They are involved in controlling the height, duration, and rate of repolarization of the action potential. In cells that beat like clocks, potassium channels control the rate of beating. In cells that fire bursts of action potentials at regular intervals, potassium channels are involved in regulating both the interburst interval and the duration of the burst. Cloning and sequencing experiments have shown that both the sodium and calcium channels are composed of a long polypeptide having four internal repeated domains that are homologous but not identical. Each homology domain contains six hydrophobic segments that are proposed to be alpha-helical transmembrane segments.
A coherent, solid state, 225 GHz receiver

A low noise, broadband, balanced mixer has been developed for use as a 225-GHz receiver. It utilizes a local oscillator (LO), whose frequency is nearly 1/4 the signal frequency, to mix the signal power to a low IF, which is then amplified. This same LO drives a similar mixer that is used to phase lock a 225-GHz transmitter. The use of a subharmonic mixer lowers LO cost, noise, and complexity, increases LO availability and reliability, and is compact and portable. Typical applications for this type of mixer include coherent receivers, passive imaging, multiple receiver systems, and broadband detection systems
Dopamine release is impaired in a mouse model of DYT1 dystonia.

Early onset torsion dystonia, the most common form of hereditary primary dystonia, is caused by a mutation in the TOR1A gene, which codes for the protein torsinA. This form of dystonia is referred to as DYT1. We have used a transgenic mouse model of DYT1 dystonia [human mutant-type (hMT)1 mice] to examine the effect of the mutant human torsinA protein on striatal dopaminergic function. Analysis of striatal tissue dopamine (DA) and metabolites using HPLC revealed no difference between hMT1 mice and their non-transgenic littermates. Pre-synaptic DA transporters were studied using in vitro autoradiography with [3H]mazindol, a ligand for the membrane DA transporter, and [3H]dihydrotetrabenazine, a ligand for the vesicular monoamine transporter. No difference in the density of striatal DA transporter or vesicular monoamine transporter binding sites was observed. Post-synaptic receptors were studied using [3H]SCH-23390, a ligand for D1 class receptors, [3H]YM-09151-2 and a ligand for D2 class receptors. There were again no differences in the density of striatal binding sites for these ligands. Using in vivo microdialysis in awake animals, we studied basal as well as amphetamine-stimulated striatal extracellular DA levels. Basal extracellular DA levels were similar, but the response to amphetamine was markedly attenuated in the hMT1 mice compared with their non-transgenic littermates (253 ± 71% vs. 561 ± 132%, p < 0.05, two-way anova). These observations suggest that the mutation in the torsinA protein responsible for DYT1 dystonia may interfere with transport or release of DA, but does not alter pre-synaptic transporters or post-synaptic DA receptors. The defect in DA release as observed may contribute to the abnormalities in motor learning as previously documented in this transgenic mouse model, and may contribute to the clinical symptoms of the human disorder.
New observations of Saturn's coorbital satellites

The strong planetary methane and hydrogen absorption at 2.0-2.4 microns are exploited in the present observations of the Saturnian coorbital satellites Janus and Epimetheus as they passed over the north pole of Saturn at superior conjunction. These observations confirm the orbital model results of Yoder at al. (1989), especially in the question as to the low density of both satellites; in addition, a much stronger solution is furnished which is essentially independent of 1966 data for Epimethius. The low density results are interpreted as indicative that the objects are composed of relatively pure water ice, but with porosities of the order of 30 percent.
STAT6 Is Required for the Anti-inflammatory Activity of Interleukin-4 in Mouse Peritoneal Macrophages

Abstract Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine which inhibits many inducible macrophage functions. The present study demonstrates that the ability of IL-4 to inhibit interferon γ (IFNγ)-dependent gene transcription is dependent upon STAT6. IL-4 suppressed IFNγ-induced expression of the MIG (monokine induced by IFNγ) gene, a C-X-C chemokine, in mouse macrophages. IFNγ-induced expression of MIG mRNA was abolished in peritoneal macrophages fromStat1−/− mice, and the suppression of MIG mRNA by IL-4 was abolished in macrophages from Stat6−/− mice. Transient transfection assays using a reporter gene containing the MIG gene promoter or the IFNγ-responsive element (γRE) from the MIG gene revealed that the IFNγ-dependent transcription was suppressed by IL-4, although IL-4 alone had no transactivating function. IFNγ and IL-4 activated STAT1 and STAT6, respectively, and both proteins were able to bind the γRE motif. Furthermore, STAT6 was associated with the co-activator CREB-binding protein in RAW264.7 cells. These observations indicate that STAT6 is necessary for the IL-4-mediated suppression of IFNγ-induced, STAT1-dependent transcription and suggest that STAT6 may directly suppress the STAT1-dependent transcription by competing with STAT1 for occupancy of the γRE motif and/or by competing with limiting quantities of the transcriptional coactivator.
Nucleation of a (1¯012) twin in hexagonal close-packed crystals

We have studied the atomic structures of the nucleus of a [ 1 0 1 ¯ 1 ] ( 1 ¯ 0 1 2 ) twin in Mg by atomistic simulations using density function theory and an empirical potential. The twinning mechanism for ( 1 ¯ 0 1 2 ) twins is described. The results show that the nucleus consists of one partial dislocation with a Burgers vector of - 50 / 107 [ 1 0 1 ¯ 1 ] together with multiple twinning dislocations (TDs) with a Burgers vector of 1 / 15 [ 1 0 1 ¯ 1 ] . The minimum, stable nucleus involves eight TDs and one partial dislocation, corresponding to a thickness of 17 crystallographic planes.
Vascular endothelial growth factor is an in vivo survival factor for tumor endothelium in a murine model of colorectal carcinoma liver metastases

BACKGROUND Recent studies have suggested that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), in addition to its proangiogenic properties, also functions as a survival factor for endothelial cells. The authors hypothesized that inhibition of VEGF activity by blockade of VEGF receptor-2 (R-2) function prevents angiogenesis and decreases tumor growth in colon carcinoma liver metastases. METHODS Spleens of mice were injected with human colon carcinoma cells producing liver metastases. After 7 days of tumor growth, groups of mice received either antibody to VEGFR-2 (DC101) or phosphate-buffered saline (control). In a follow-up experiment, a similar treatment regimen was followed except that mice were sacrificed at 1-week intervals to assess the time course of endothelial cell and tumor cell apoptosis. RESULTS After 21 days of therapy, the authors observed a significant decrease in vessel counts in liver metastases from human colon carcinoma in nude mice after therapy with VEGFR-2 antibody. Tumor cell apoptosis was increased significantly in the tumors of mice receiving DC101. Temporal studies with immunofluorescent double staining for the microvasculature and apoptotic cells revealed an increase in endothelial cell apoptosis that preceded an increase in tumor cell apoptosis. In vitro, treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells with antibody to VEGFR-2 produced a > 2.5-fold increase in endothelial cell apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Therapy targeting the VEGFR-2 inhibited tumor growth in a murine model of colon carcinoma liver metastasis. Surprisingly, this therapy did not only inhibit angiogenesis but also led to endothelial cell death. These findings suggest that VEGF, via VEGFR-2 signaling, functions as a survival factor for tumor endothelial cells in liver metastases from colon carcinoma. Cancer 2000;89:488–99. © 2000 American Cancer Society.
Cannabis policy reforms in the Americas: A comparative analysis of Colorado, Washington, and Uruguay

Legal reforms in the Americas are influencing the public debate on cannabis policy. Uruguay and the two US states of Colorado and Washington have taken steps to regulate and legitimize the production, distribution, and use of cannabis and its derivatives. Earlier experiences with medical cannabis in the United States and limited access and production models in Europe have been insightful. However, these reforms are going further still, venturing into a new area of cannabis policy. A lack of empirical evidence regarding the effects of such reforms poses a challenge for policymakers. These examples will inform the design and implementation of any future cannabis policies. Therefore, a clear understanding of the details of each jurisdiction is necessary in developing future legal changes. Literature comparing the models of Uruguay, Colorado, and Washington is thin. This paper is based on an exhaustive examination of the laws, regulations, and discussions with regulators and functionaries of each jurisdiction. The research and analysis herein will provide policymakers with a greater understanding of the laws and regulations relevant to legal cannabis in these three jurisdictions, as well as draw to their attention some potential impacts and challenges of cannabis reform that require additional consideration to ensure public safety and health.
A test of the maxentropic density matrix for hydrated electrons using the results of path-integral simulation

Abstract Results of a Feynman path integral simulation of the hydrated electron are used to test the theory recently developed for estimating its density matrix directly from its optical absorption spectrum. The results indicate that the theory is reliably applicable to excess electron systems with sufficiently small values of their Heisenberg product.