cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Aggregate Query Processing in Cloud Data Warehouses

In this paper, we study and optimize the aggregate query processing in a highly distributed Cloud Data Warehouse, where each database stores a subset of relational data in a star-schema. Existing aggregate query processing algorithms focus on optimizing various query operations but give less importance to communication cost overhead (Two-phase algorithm). However, in cloud architectures, the communication cost overhead is an important factor in query processing. Thus, we consider communication overhead to improve the distributed query processing in such cloud data warehouses. We then design query-processing algorithms by analyzing aggregate operation and eliminating most of the sort and group-by operations with the help of integrity constraints and our proposed storage structures, PK-map and Tuple-index-map. Extensive experiments on PlanetLab cloud machines validate the effectiveness of our proposed framework in improving the response time, reducing node-to-node interdependency, minimizing communication overhead, and reducing database table access required for aggregate query.
Indications for Use of Corticosteroid Agents in Treatment of Shock

The use of steroids in the treatment of shock is indicated in early septic shock, in late refractory hypovolemic shock, and in post-traumatic pulmonary insufficiency.
Transurethral Prostatic Resection Syndrome—A New Perspective: Encephalopathy with Associated Hyperammonemia

Abstract: Encephalopathy developed in 3 patients after transurethral prostatic resection. Each patient had blood ammonia levels more than 10 times the upper limit of normal. Data supportive of a metabolic cause for encephalopathy subsequently were obtained in a prospective study of patients undergoing transurethral prostatic resection with glycine irrigation. It is suggested that a distinct subpopulation of patients experiencing transurethral prostatic resection syndrome can be identified. These patients exhibit encephalopathic symptoms and have concurrent marked elevation of blood ammonia levels.
A Cross-Platform System Architecture for Form Design and Data Analytics for Public Health

The CDC's Epi-Info is widely-used by epidemiologists and public health researchers to collect and analyze public health data, especially in the event of outbreaks. As it exists today, Epi-Info runs only on the Windows platform and is made of separate code-bases for several different devices and use-cases. Software portability has become increasingly important over the past few years. In this poster, we present a cross-platform architecture for Epi-Info. To simplify and expedite future development, the cross-platform system architecture uses Electron, AngularJS, and Python with the capability of running on virtually any desktop or laptop computer. Additionally, the code can be easily deployed to the Web, and has the potential to be a viable solution for several mobile use-cases.
Effects of Climate Change on Lake Thermal Structure and Biotic Response in Northern Wilderness Lakes

Climate disrupts aquatic ecosystems directly through changes in temperature, wind, and precipitation, and indirectly through watershed effects. Climate-induced changes in northern lakes include longer ice-free season, stronger stratification, browning, shifts in algae, and more cyanobacterial blooms. We compared retrospective temperature-depth relationships modeled using MINLAKE2012 with biogeochemical changes recorded in sediment cores. Four lakes in Voyageurs National Park (VOYA) and four lakes in Isle Royale National Park (ISRO) were studied. Meteorological data from International Falls and Duluth, Minnesota, were used for VOYA and ISRO, respectively. Model output was processed to analyze epilimnetic and hypolimnetic water temperatures and thermal gradients between two periods (1962–1986, 1987–2011). Common trends were increased summer epilimnion temperatures and, for deep lakes, increased frequency and duration of thermoclines. Changes in diatom communities differed between shallow and deep lakes and the parks. Based on changes in benthic and tychoplanktonic communities, shallow lake diatoms respond to temperature, mixing events, pH, and habitat. Changes in deep lakes are evident in the deep chlorophyll layer community of Cyclotella and Discostella species, mirroring modeled changes in thermocline depth and stability, and in Asterionella and Fragilaria species, reflecting the indirect effects of in-lake and watershed nutrient cycling and spring mixing.
Calibration of dentists for Caries Management by Risk Assessment Research in a Practice Based Research Network - CAMBRA PBRN.

To prove that Caries Management by Risk Assessment (CAMBRA) can be successfully implemented in dental practices outside of the university setting, dentists in the San Francisco Bay Area (CA) were approached to participate in a Practice Based Research Network (PBRN) study. The overall goal of the CAMBRA-PBRN study was to recruit 30 dentists to perform a two-year study involving approximately 900 patients. Goal of the calibration study was to standardize and calibrate dentists potentially participating in the CAMBRA-PBRN study. To minimize inter-examiner variability in data collection, including classification of carious lesions and recording of existing restorations, participating dentists were trained and calibrated in accurate DMFS (decayed, missing, filled surfaces) charting. Dentists were also trained and calibrated to diagnose and differentiate between sound surfaces and non-cavitated caries lesions (International Caries Detection and Assessment - ICDAS scores 1 and 2) for posterior occlusal surfaces. Thirty dentists were calibrated to a single gold standard examiner (BJ) during 6 calibration sessions, between 2011 and 2014. Kappa statistics were used to determine inter-examiner reliability on 13 or more patients, aged 12–63 (average age 38 ± 15 years), per examiner during each session, resulting in 94 patient encounters over the course of all 6 sessions. To participate in the main study, examiners needed to achieve a minimum required kappa of 0.75. During the calibration process, examiners scored between 1036 and 2220 tooth surfaces. The kappa values (unweighted kappa) of the participating dentists compared to the gold standard examiner ranged from 0.75 to 0.90, with an average kappa of 0.84 ± 0.03. 90% of the examiners achieved overall kappa values above 0.8. However, separate reliability for assessment of non-cavitated lesions, as in other studies, was lower (0.55 ± 0.15). Multiple subcategories were evaluated. All dentists reached sufficient reliability values to proceed into the study; nevertheless, one dentist discontinued with the study due to scheduling conflicts. The high inter-examiner reliability results have shown that dentists who work in primarily non-research based practices can be effectively standardized and calibrated in data collection, based on specific guidelines created to anticipate potential research study scenarios.
Heat transfer enhancement using corona wind generator

Abstract Heat transfer enhancement using corona wind generators in a square channel has been numerically examined in this study. Three configurations of the corona wind generator (separately with 4, 12, and 28 pins of emitting electrodes) are investigated for their effectiveness in the enhancement of heat transfer as well as the pumping power requirement. To achieve the maximum enhancement in heat transfer, the emitting electrodes of the corona wind generator are flush mounted on the channel walls so that the corona wind produced directly perturbs the momentum and thermal boundary layers. The Reynolds number considered varies in a range between 200 and 2000. The influence of electric field on the flow and temperature fields is examined for a wild range of operating conditions. It has been found that the thermal hydraulic parameter, a measure of the effectiveness in heat transfer enhancement, is not only greater than unity but also higher than those of other techniques, which indicates that EHD technique has a great potential for many engineering applications.
Fourier-Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry (FT-ICR MS)

FT-ICR MS achieves the highest resolution and best mass measurement accuracy of any mass spectrometry method. These remarkable achievements are due to several factors, including multichannel detection, measurement of frequency, magnetic field stability, and dependence of cyclotron frequency on only the magnetic field and ion mass-to-charge ratio, not on ion kinetic energy and other factors. Significant advances in magnet technology, instrument design, and construction continue to enhance the capabilities of FT-ICR MS. FT-ICR has been applied to a variety of analytical challenges and is particularly suited to the analysis of complex mixtures and in applications where high resolution and mass measurement accuracy are critical analytical parameters.
Measurements for Mechanical Reliability of Thin Films

This paper reviews techniques for measurement of basic mechanical properties of thin films. Emphasis is placed on the adaptations needed to prepare, handle, and characterize thin films, and on adaptations of fracture mechanics for adhesion strength. The paper also describes a recent development, the use of electrical current as a controlled means of applying thermo-mechanical stresses to electrical conductors to characterize their fatigue behavior.
A New Spectral Estimator for Identifying Dominant Modes and Detecting Events in Power Systems

In power systems, electromechanical modes are of interest due to their relationship to system stability. Under ambient conditions, spectral analysis methods can be applied to synchrophasor measurements to examine the modes. However, the presence of forced or ringdown oscillations in the data can make it difficult to appropriately interpret results from conventional methods. The new spectral estimator proposed in this paper addresses this challenge by automatically detecting and removing ringdowns from consideration, while also suppressing the spectral content of forced oscillations (FOs). This new estimator is termed the Robust Modified Daniell-Welch (RMDW) periodogram. Applications of the RMDW estimator include monitoring changes in the system's dominant modes and detecting large system events. The methods are validated with simulated and measured power system data.
Fetal undernutrition, placental insufficiency, and pancreatic β-cell development programming in utero

The prevalence of obesity and type 2 (T2D) diabetes is a major health concern in the United States and around the world. T2D is a complex disease characterized by pancreatic β-cell failure in assoc...
High-Risk Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia with Unusual T/Myeloid Immunophenotype Successfully Treated with ATRA and Arsenic Trioxide-Based Regimen.

We describe two patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) with an unusual immunophenotype with co-expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO) with cytoplasmic CD3 (cCD3) representing myeloid and T-lineage differentiation. Both harbored FLT3-ITD mutations. One additionally had a deletion in the PML gene affecting the primer binding site, thus limiting measurable residual disease (MRD) analysis during follow-up. Both patients achieved durable remission with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO)-based therapy, thus mitigating the need for repetitive conventional chemotherapy cycles and allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Our report highlights the complexity and challenge of diagnosis and management of APL due to the variant immunophenotype and genetics and underscores the importance of synthesizing information from all testing modalities. The association of the unusual immunophenotype and FLT3-ITD mutation illustrates the plasticity of the hematopoietic stem cell and the pathobiology of leukemia with mixed lineage or lineage infidelity.
Time-domain PML formulation for modeling viscoelastic waves with Rayleigh-type damping in an unbounded domain: Theory and application in ABAQUS

Abstract The Perfectly Matched Layer (PML) method is a powerful approach to absorb outgoing waves from a finite computational domain in various media, such as elastic, poroelastic, anisotropic, and viscoelastic, by means of layers of artificial material placed at the finite domain boundaries. However, its use in most finite-element method (FEM) codes, which take into account viscous damping by employing only the Rayleigh and Lindsday damping formulation, is inadequate. This paper introduces a viscoelastic Perfectly Matched Layer (PML) formulation with Rayleigh-type damping for finite-element time-domain analyses. The PML formulations in the frequency- and time-domain are derived using a two-parameter complex coordinate stretching function. The displacement field is the only unknown variable in the formulation, so that the approach can be readily implemented in general finite-element codes. The weak form formulation in the time-domain is implemented in ABAQUS/Standard by merging it with a user-defined element (UEL) subroutine in Fortran90. The UEL is developed for 2D plane-strain (PE4ML) and plane-stress (PS4ML) four-node, linear, isoparametric, quadrilateral elements. The Hilber-Hughes-Taylor implicit time integration scheme is used to evaluate the unknown displacements, velocities, and accelerations. The validity and efficiency of the viscoelastic PML formulation and the UEL subroutine are examined with two numerical examples, namely a single-layer and a multi-layered soil profile with different damping ratios and properties. The results also highlight the poor performance of elastic PML layers, when they are placed at the boundaries of a viscoelastic interior domain, because, as the damping ratio increases, the reflection at the interface of the interior domain and the elastic PML domain increases. Long-time stability of the model is also examined, and no instabilities are observed.
Heavy quarkonia production at energies available at the CERN Large Hadron Collider and future electron-ion colliding facilities using basis light-front quantization wave functions

We study exclusive charmonium and bottomonium production in ultra-peripheral heavy-ion collisions and electron-ion collisions within the dipole picture. We employ heavy quarkonium light-front wavefunctions obtained within the basis light-front quantization framework, which has some features of the light-front holographic QCD. We focus on comparison with measurements of exclusive charmonium and bottomonium production in ultraperipheral $pp$, $p$Pb and PbPb collisions at LHC and find reasonable agreement with the cross sections. We also discuss the coherent production cross-section ratios of excited states to the ground state for charmonium and bottomonium, which exhibit insensitivity to the dipole model parameters. We show that electron-ion collisions provide an opportunity for a quantitative study of heavy quarkonium structure.
Online power quality disturbance detection by support vector machine in smart meter

Power quality assessment is an important performance measurement in smart grids. Utility companies are interested in power quality monitoring even in the low level distribution side such as smart meters. Addressing this issue, in this study, we propose segregation of the power disturbance from regular values using one-class support vector machine (OCSVM). To precisely detect the power disturbances of a voltage wave, some practical wavelet filters are applied. Considering the unlimited types of waveform abnormalities, OCSVM is picked as a semi-supervised machine learning algorithm which needs to be trained solely on a relatively large sample of normal data. This model is able to automatically detect the existence of any types of disturbances in real time, even unknown types which are not available in the training time. In the case of existence, the disturbances are further classified into different types such as sag, swell, transients and unbalanced. Being light weighted and fast, the proposed technique can be integrated into smart grid devices such as smart meter in order to perform a real-time disturbance monitoring. The continuous monitoring of power quality in smart meters will give helpful insight for quality power transmission and management.
Radical Polymers Alter the Carrier Properties of Semiconducting Carbon Nanotubes

Radical polymers are composed of nonconjugated macromolecular backbones and pendant groups that bear stable open-shell sites; these functional macromolecules have been utilized in myriad electrochemical, optoelectronic, and thermoelectric devices to date. Here, we combine radical polymers with semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) to form composite materials using a scalable fabrication process. Importantly, we are able to tune the charge carrier characteristics of the SWCNTs by controlling the macromolecular architecture of the radical polymer used to form the composite. This is a critical handle as creating stable, electron-transporting (i.e., n-type) SWCNT thin films using scalable processes is a long-sought goal in the field. Specifically, hole-transporting (i.e., p-type) SWCNT thin films were deposited using a simple drop-casting methodology. Then, a radical polymer thin film was coated on top of the SWCNT thin film in order to create a composite system. Three different radical polym...
Genome-wide association analysis in West Highland White Terriers with atopic dermatitis

Abstract Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common disease of dogs and humans. In both species, the interplay of genetic and environmental factors affect disease expression. In dogs with AD, differences in the breed studied and in their geographical origin have led to heterogeneity in genetic association and while different loci have been identified, a causative genetic mutation has not. We hypothesized that AD could be mapped in a large cohort of rigorously phenotyped, geographically restricted West Highland White Terriers (WHWT), a breed with a high prevalence of the disease. Objectives A) Collect phenotypes and DNA from a large cohort of WHWT born in the USA. B) Perform a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for AD in these dogs to identify associated regions and genes of interest. C) Sequence genes of interest to identify pathologic variants. Methods We collected DNA from 96 WHWT with AD and 87 controls from the same breed. DNA was isolated and dogs were genotyped using the Illumina CanineHD BeadChip. A GWAS was performed using EMMAX and associated regions were examined for genes of interest. Genes with possible relevance to AD were examined more closely in two affected and two normal WHWT using next-generation sequencing. Variants in these genes that were unique to the two affected WHWT were compared to a database of variants derived from whole genome sequencing of 200 non-WHWT dogs across 33 additional breeds. Results The GWAS identified a 2.7 Mb genomic region on CFA3 that included 37 genes. There was a missense variant in the F2R gene in both affected dogs but this variant was also found in 35 dogs in 9 breeds in the database of whole genome sequences for whom the phenotype regarding atopic dermatitis was unknown. Conclusions Atopic dermatitis in WHWT is associated with a region on CFA3 that contains several candidate genes. Of these, a homozygous variant in the F2R gene present in multiple breeds that also suffer from AD warrants further evaluation.
Superoxide Anion Production Induced by Chrysotile Asbestos in the Guinea Pig Alveolar Macrophage

It is well known that environmental exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to the development of various pathological conditions in the lung which include fibrosis (asbestosis), bronchogenic carcinoma and mesothelioma. Although the etiology of these conditions has not been established, there is good evidence that the interaction of asbestos fibers with the alveolar macrophage and the subsequent release of macrophage derived factors are central to the disease process (Mossman et al., 1987). One of the factors that could account for some of the tissue damage and carcinogenic potential of the fibers is superoxide anion. The destructive capability of superoxide anion and other oxygen radicals have been documented (Mossman et al., 1987; Weitzman and Stossel, 1981) as has the ability of the alveolar macrophage to release superoxide anion by a number of soluble stimulants (Holian and Daniele, 1979; Holian, 1986). Consistent with this hypothesis is evidence that asbestos can directly stimulate and/or enhance the release of superoxide anion from rodent alveolar macrophages (Hansen and Mossman, 1987). Furthermore, macrophages from patients with asbestosis have been reported to spontaneously produce elevated levels of superoxide anion (Rom et al., 1987).
Probabilistic Analysis of Algorithms

This paper is a brief introduction to the field of probabilistic analysis of algorithms; it is not a comprehensive survey. The first part of the paper examines three important probabilistic algorithms that together illustrate many of the important points of the field, and the second part then generalizes from those examples to provide a more systematic view.
Patterns and trends of dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes among U.S. adults, 2015–2018

Abstract Introduction If dual use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes is a transition state to tobacco and nicotine use cessation, it may be a tolerable temporary condition. But, if a long-term behavior, dual use may increase tobacco harm to the population as a whole, and efforts should aim to reduce it as much as possible. To develop effective tobacco control policy, the changes in dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes need to be better understood. Methods National probability samples of U.S. adults in 2015 (n = 6051), 2016 (n = 6014), 2017 (n = 5992), and 2018 (n = 5989) reported their smoking and e-cigarette use status, including frequency of use. Weighted multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine temporal trends and patterns of cigarette and e-cigarette use. Results Between 2015 and 2018, the prevalence of current e-cigarette use (29.8% in 2015, 22.3% in 2016, 29.1% in 2017, and 27.7% in 2018) did not change significantly among current smokers. This result was consistent among light, moderate, and heavy smokers, and did not change when stratified by sex, age and race. However, the prevalence of cigarette smoking in current e-cigarette users declined from 56.9% in 2015 to 40.8% in 2018 (p Conclusion The continued high prevalence of dual use and increased prevalence of current e-cigarette use among never smokers highlight the need for better communication about the risks of prolonged dual use for e-cigarette users, and the risks of nicotine initiation and addiction for nonusers.
Reading Disabilities: The Puzzle and the History

Why is it some individuals of average or even superior intelligence fail to learn to read well for no apparent reason? And why is it some children with extraordinary decoding skill fail to comprehend what they have read? Children of the first type have been recognized and studied from the beginning of the present century and have been described by terms such as congenital word blindness, dyslexia, and specific reading disability. In this book, the terms developmental dyslexia and specific reading disability (SRD) are used interchangeably to refer to this form of reading disability
Molecular Approaches to the Production and Action of Eclosion Hormone

Ecdysis involves more than just the shedding of an old cuticle. The ecdysis of the adult, for example, is the time when the new imago first confronts the external world, and at this time many behavioral and physiological systems first become activated. Studies on the hormonal regulation of this event began 20 years ago with the report that a transplanted brain could control the timing of ecdysis of a debrained host (Truman and Riddiford, 1970). A factor that induces precocious ecdysis was subsequently extracted from the brain and termed the eclosion hormone (EH; Truman, 1971). The sole known function of this hormone is to coordinate the events that occur at ecdysis. It acts directly on the central nervous system to release the appropriate ecdysial behaviors (e.g., Truman, 1978) but also has ecdysis-related effects on non-neural targets such as epidermis (Reynolds, 1977) and muscle (Schwartz and Truman, 1982).
Marginalization of Social Studies Teacher Preparation for Global Competence and Global Perspectives Pedagogy: A Call for Change

Few scholars have raised the question; why are teacher education programs not preparing teachers for global competence and global perspectives pedagogy? The purpose of this article is to explore this question. The study utilizes qualitative and practitioner research methodologies. Four factors marginalizing the preparation of teachers for global competence and global perspectives pedagogy in social studies teacher education are examined: a) competing pedagogical paradigms; b) lack of clarity on global perspectives pedagogy; c) neoliberal ideologies and policies, and d) complicity in new high-stakes teacher licensure assessment. The paper discusses critical implications and recommendations for preparing social studies teachers for global competence and global perspectives pedagogy in teacher education.
Pilot randomized active-placebo-controlled trial of low-dose ketamine for the treatment of multiple sclerosis-related fatigue.

Background:Fatigue is the most common symptom of MS and has no effective pharmacotherapy.Objective:To determine the tolerability, safety, and efficacy of low-dose ketamine infusion for MS-related f...
Reconstruction of Complex Scalp Defect After Cirsoid Aneurysm Resection: A Multidisciplinary Approach

Background Scalp arteriovenous malformations, also known as cirsoid aneurysms, are complex collections of directly communicating arteries and veins. As a cirsoid aneurysm grows, it can recruit a blood supply from multiple intracranial and extracranial vessels and involve both scalp and facial tissue. Depending on their size and complexity, a variety of strategies can be used to treat them. Case Description We have presented the case of a giant cirsoid aneurysm treated with endovascular embolization, resection, and reconstruction using multiple expanded scalp and facial flaps. A 15-year-old boy had presented with a pulsatile left temporal scalp mass that had slowly grown to involve most of his left scalp and extend into the ipsilateral face. At his next presentation, at 19 years old, he had recently developed episodic lateral visual field loss, photophobia, headaches, and vertigo. Catheter angiography demonstrated an extensive arteriovenous malformation supplied primarily by the left superficial temporal, posterior auricular, and occipital arteries, as well as by the ophthalmic artery, The angiogram also showed a dural arteriovenous fistula. Initially, tissue expanders were placed in the vertex, occipital, and left lower facial regions. The patient then underwent endovascular embolization, followed by resection and reconstruction of the tissue defect using multiple expanded scalp and facial flaps. The patient recovered well without neurological deficits and had complete resolution of his symptoms. Our surgical collaboration resulted in overall preservation of his hairline and facial symmetry. Conclusion Large cirsoid aneurysms can require multidisciplinary treatment combining embolization, resection, and plastic surgical techniques to close the tissue defects.
Applications and Reliability Study of InFO_UHD (Ultra-High-Density) Technology

Inter-chip interconnect pitch miniaturization has become an essential part to enhance die-die communication bandwidth (BW) performance in advanced packaging technology. Among different inter-chip interconnect approaches reported [1]-[9], a fan-out technology with RDL could be the simplest integration approach. RDL scaling capability has been severe challenge. InFO_UHD technology [1] has been proposed to provide submicron pitch inter-chip RDL. InFO_UHD applications to high performance computing is discussed in the first part of this paper. A case study using InFO_UHD for two-chip integration in networking was examined, as ~4X total bandwidth can be reached under InFO_UHD L/S (RDL Line-width/Line spacing) 0.8/0.8μm versus L/S 2/2μm case. Additionally, benefits of fine line applications on chiplet integration would also be addressed. The second part of this paper shows the electrical and reliability evaluation results for networking application, where InFO_UHD test vehicle was designed with inter-chip RDL line-width 0.8μm in interconnect levels. This test vehicle mimics real products of two-die structure with organic substrate. Package level electrical properties demonstrate nearly 100% yields, and package level reliability testing results, such as Multiple-Reflow (MR), Thermal Cyclic Test (TC), Highly Accelerated Stress Test (HAST; both biased and un-biased), High Temperature Storage Test (HTS), will be disclosed. Interconnect reliability for Electro-migration (EM) and Stress-migration (SM) will be presented as well.
Impact of Continuation of Parenteral Nutrition on Outcomes of Patients with Blood Stream Infections.

Background: The impact of continuing parenteral nutrition (PN) in patients who develop blood stream infections (BSI) while receiving PN is largely unknown. Patients and Methods: Adult patients admi...
Scar tissue I wish you saw: Patient expectations regarding scar treatment.

Although many invasive and noninvasive approaches exist, management of keloids and hypertrophic scars remains challenging. By better understanding patient expectations regarding scar treatments, dermatologists can provide higher quality and more satisfying care. Survey patients age 18 to 80 years with a history of hypertrophic, keloid, or disfiguring scars. Overall, 187 participants completed the 25-question survey. Expectations and willingness were measured on a 1-5 Likert scale. Results were analyzed overall and by patient demographics. Older respondents more often expected scar reduction, while younger patients expected scar removal. Compared with Caucasians, Asian respondents were more symptomatic, more likely to have seen a physician, and more willing to undergo invasive therapies. Respondent willingness for treatment and their perceived efficacy significantly differed across gender, age, and race. This study explores a gap in the literature of what role patient expectations play in electing specific treatments. Although patient expectations are complex and context dependent, gaining more understanding of what therapies patients are willing to attempt, and their expectations from those therapies could help guide counseling with the goal setting realistic expectations to improve patient compliance and satisfaction.
Proximity labeling identifies LOTUS domain proteins that promote the formation of perinuclear germ granules in C. elegans

Abstract The germline produces gametes that transmit genetic and epigenetic information to the next generation. Maintenance of germ cells and development of gametes require germ granules—well-conserved membraneless and RNA-rich organelles. The composition of germ granules is elusive owing to their dynamic nature and their exclusive expression in the germline. Using C. elegans germ granule, called P granule, as a model system, we employed a proximity-based labeling method in combination with mass spectrometry to comprehensively define its protein components. This set of experiments identified over 200 proteins, many of which contain intrinsically disordered regions. An RNAi-based screen identified factors that are essential for P granule assembly, notably EGGD-1 and EGGD-2, two previously uncharacterized LOTUS-domain proteins. Loss of eggd-1 and eggd-2 results in separation of P granules from nuclear envelope, germline atrophy and reduced fertility. We show that intrinsically disordered regions of EGGD-1 are required to anchor EGGD-1 to the nuclear periphery while its LOTUS domains are required to promote perinuclear localization of P granules. Together, our work expands the repertoire of P granule constituents and provides new insights into the role of LOTUS-domain proteins in germ granule organization.
Inflammation After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury causes a deleterious cascade of events including increased inflammation and cartilage breakdown. Increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines following injury begin almost immediately following ACL rupture and include upregulations in inflammatory pathways. New evidence is emerging that elucidates the proteomic response to ACL injury and demonstrates that the beginning stages of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) are more similar to rheumatoid arthritis than idiopathic osteoarthritis. Furthermore, in-depth studies of ACL patient populations reveals a subset of patients that presents a dysregulated inflammatory response following injury. These patients have an increased inflammatory burden and a more robust pro-inflammatory reaction to acute injury. While this subset of patients does not represent all of those who will go on to develop PTOA, the differences in individualized inflammatory responses are important to consider in treatment. Moreover, ACL reconstruction surgery presents a second and potentially larger insult to the joint resulting in the re-initiation of inflammation and an increase in cartilage breakdown. This “second hit” triggers a sustained inflammatory response following surgery that does not return back to pre-operative levels and persists for at least 5 years after reconstruction. There are many factors to consider when determining treatment including the timing of treatment, dosing, and return to activity guidelines. Due to the large secondary hit from surgery, treatment post-operatively, rather than pre-operatively, will likely be more effective. Furthermore, extended-release treatment options and how loading may affect the inflammatory process during the resumption of physical activities should all be taken into consideration.
The Rudin-Keisler Order on Types of Ultrafilters

In this and the next few sections we will introduce and study concepts that help clarify the structure of ultrafilters. The Rudin-Keisler partial order on (isomorphism types of) ultrafilters on a set is one such fundamental concept; through it we can compare different ultrafilters, and we can learn something about the intrinsic structure of an ultrafilter by examining its relative position in the Rudin-Keisler partial order.
Mouse Models Used to Study the Effects of Diabetes, Insulin, and IGFs on Cancer

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity are epidemic problems worldwide. These disorders are linked to decreased life expectancy and increased incidence and mortality from cancer. Understanding the mechanisms of cancer progression in obesity and T2D will aid in discovering cancer prevention and treatment strategies for these patients. Hyperinsulinemia, insulin receptor, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) receptor signaling appear to be important factors linking diabetes, obesity, and cancer. A number of mouse models have been developed in order to accurately understand the roles of insulin, IGF-1, and their receptor signaling in obesity and diabetes-related cancer. This chapter summarizes many of the mouse models used to study T2D and cancer.
Aging in mitotic and post-mitotic cells

Abstract In summary, the progressive loss of post-mitotic tissue during aging may be due to the death of damaged post-mitotic cells which cannot be replaced, or possibly their malfunction. The damage may derive from either intrinsic or extrinsic sources, and may consist of damage to proteins as well as DNA. The loss of neuronal cells is particularly problematic, since they are least readily replaced (if at all). Mitotic cells may also respond to intrinsic or extrinsic damage by cell death, but this generally is not problematic in mitotic tissues. In contrast, however, damage or repeated cell division can cause mitotic cells to express a senescent phenotype, which may compromise the function and integrity of the surrounding tissue. Finally, imperfect repair of DNA damage may cause the accumulation of potentially oncogenic mutations, which can cause mitotic, but not post-mitotic, cells to express a hyperplastic or neoplastic phenotype.
Fast forward to new genes in mammalian reproduction

The study of reproductive genetics in mammals has lagged behind that of simpler and more tractable model organisms, such as D. melanogaster, C. elegans and various yeast models. Although much valuable information has been generated using these organisms, they do not model the genetic and biological complexity of mammalian reproduction. Thus, the majority of genes required for gametogenesis in mammals remain unidentified. To expand on the existing knowledge of mammalian reproductive genetics, we have carried out forward genetic screens in mice to identify infertility mutants and the underlying mutant genes. Two different approaches were used: mutagenesis of the germline in whole mice, and mutagenesis of embryonic stem cells. This was followed by two- or three-generation breeding schemes to identify pedigrees segregating infertility mutations, which were then phenotypically characterized, genetically mapped, and in some cases, positionally cloned. This whole-genome approach has generated a wide collection of mutants with defects ranging from problems with germ cell development to abnormal sperm morphology. These models have allowed us to study the genetics, as well as the physiology, of reproduction in mammals. This review focuses on describing some of the genes identified in these screens and the ongoing effort to characterize additional mutants.
Influence of lateral interactions on preparative protein chromatography: I. Isotherm behavior

Abstract A thermodynamically consistent adsorption equilibrium model based on the stoichiometric displacement principle has been developed for non-linear protein ion exchange. The adsorbed phase is modeled as a surface solution in equilibrium with an ideal bulk liquid, and non-idealities on the surface are calculated from surface activity coefficients. The model has been used to systematically investigate the influence of lateral interactions on equilibrium isotherms. Using experimental data for the ion exchange of bovine serum albumin, it has been shown that lateral interactions are a function of the adsorbed protein concentration, and this dependence strongly influences adsorption behavior. Lateral interactions on the surface have been found to be influenced by both energy of interactions between molecules and molecular shape, with the former being dominant. The relationships between lateral interactions, effective protein charge, and modulator concentration have also been investigated. Increases in adsorbate charge may result in an increase or decrease in adsorption capacity, depending on the relative concentration of the modulator, while increases in modulator concentration decrease capacity. For a complete characterization of salt effects, it is necessary to determine the dependence of isosteric heat of adsorption on salt concentration.
TLR2 Modulates Antibodies Required for Intestinal Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Damage and Inflammation

In multiple clinical conditions, including trauma and hemorrhage, reperfusion magnifies ischemic tissue damage. Ischemia induces expression of multiple neoantigens, including lipid alterations that are recognized by the serum protein, β2-glycoprotein I (β2-GPI). During reperfusion, binding of β2-GPI by naturally occurring Abs results in an excessive inflammatory response that may lead to death. As β2-GPI is critical for intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (IR)-induced tissue damage and TLR2 is one of the proposed receptors for β2-GPI, we hypothesized that IR-induced intestinal damage and inflammation require TLR2. Using TLR2(-/-) mice, we demonstrate that TLR2 is required for IR-induced mucosal damage, as well as complement activation and proinflammatory cytokine production. In response to IR, TLR2(-/-) mice have increased serum β2-GPI compared with wild-type mice, but β2-GPI is not deposited on ischemic intestinal tissue. In addition, TLR2(-/-) mice also did not express other novel Ags, suggesting a sequential response. Unlike other TLRs, TLR2(-/-) mice lacked the appropriate Ab repertoire to induce intestinal IR tissue damage or inflammation. Together, these data suggest that, in addition to the inflammatory response, IR-induced injury requires TLR2 for naturally occurring Ab production.
The tryptic glycopeptides of bovine thyrotropin. Their composition and similarities to those of luteinizing hormone.

The glycopeptides of purified bovine thyrotropic and luteinizing (interstitial cell-stimulating) hormones have been obtained by tryptic digestion of their reduced and S-carboxymethylated derivatives. A combination of gel filtration and countercurrent distribution yielded, in each case, fractions which were almost exclusively glycopeptides. Three different types of glycopeptides were in this fraction from thyroid-stimulating hormone, two of which were easily isolated. Their amino acid compositions and partial sequences are: Val-Glx-Asx-(Ser, Thr2, Glx, Cys3, His2)-(Tyr2, His)-Lys and Asx-Ile-(Ser, Thr2, Glx, Cys2, Ala2, Val)-Lys. These glycopeptides have amino acid compositions identical or nearly identical with those of the two tryptic glycopeptides from 1 of the 2 subunits of bovine-luteinizing hormone and are also very similar in compositions and partial sequences to the same peptides from ovine luteinizing hormone previously reported by Ward and his colleagues (Proceedings of the Third International Congress of Endocrinology, 1968). Considerable homology thus may exist between thyroid-stimulating hormone and one chain of luteinizing hormone in regions adjacent to two oligosaccharides, and peptide maps suggest that the similarity extends to other regions. A third glycopeptide from thyroid-stimulating hormone was more difficult to purify completely. Its probable amino acid composition is: Asx, Thr4, Gly, Ala, Cys3, Val, Met, Ile, Leu, Tyr, Arg. This peptide does not seem related to the third tryptic glycopeptide of luteinizing hormone, which originates from its other subunit. Each type of thyrotropin glycopeptide contains glucosamine, galactosamine, and mannose. A fraction of a residue of fucose is found in preparations of each type and, in one type, a fraction of a residue of galactose. The yields of these glycopeptides are consistent with attachment of 3 oligosaccharide units to each molecule.
A ‘participatory revolution’ among the German ‘unification generation’?

. This paper presents new data on the differential impact of the East German ‘participatory revolution’ on attitudes of youth in both Eastern and Western regions of unified Germany. A 1991 Youth Survey indicates that the overall 1991 level of approval for most noninstitutional tactics was roughly similar to the 1980 levels reported in the Political Action Studies. The notable exception was support for political demonstrations which was considerably higher, presumably in response to the participatory mobilization in the East. There was a strong regional effect with demonstrations receiving higher ratings in the East (the former German Democratic Republic) than in the West for all age groups. This apparent ‘tactic-specific’ effect suggests the ‘participatory revolution’ is characterized by a ‘lead’ in the more dramatic tactics and a ‘lag’ in the more subtle techniques of democratic participation. Western males showed hints of a different age-related pattern than did males in the East, or females in both regions - a finding that may indicate a combination of gender and regional effects. In both regions approval for demonstrations was associated with left-of-center political party preference and with identification with ‘new social movements’.
Acting as a Sovereign versus Acting as a Belligerent

In many legal disputes, the selection of one body of law rather than another is outcome-determinative. The situation with targeted killings is no different. Although there are contrary impulses at the margins, in the main a human rights paradigm is more likely to restrict such operations while a law of war paradigm is more likely to sanction it. But the question is when each body of law applies, a question that is not explicitly addressed by either body. By looking at the underlying object and purpose of each body of law, however, an account of their respective spheres becomes apparent. This essay defends the claim that the dividing line is represented by a state acting as a sovereign as opposed to acting as a belligerent. In the former situation, the state acts as a ruler over its subjects and its activities are constrained by human rights law. In contrast, when the state acts as a belligerent during armed conflict, International Humanitarian Law regulates its actions. This essay provides a framework to determine when the state is acting in one mode rather than another: acting as a sovereign involves an unequal relationship (ruler-to-ruled), while belligerency is characterized by two, formally co-equal collectives facing each other in battle. At the closing stage of an armed conflict, the relationship of belligerency may give way to sovereignty, a transition point that is often characterized by the law of occupation. The argument is both normative and descriptive in the sense that the two bodies of law already embody these normative distinctions; therefore their respective application is currently delimited by these existing principles.
4 - Advanced Sources of Highly Charged Ions

This chapter discusses that most of the matter in the universe exists in high-temperature plasma environments that contain highly ionized ions. Collisional and radiative processes, involving highly ionized ions, play important roles in astrophysical environments and in laboratory plasmas for fusion-energy and X-ray laser research. It presents a “map of the universe,” indicating the relationship between electron density and temperature for different kinds of plasmas, both naturally occurring and manmade. To produce highly ionized ions in the laboratory, a significant investment of energy to remove the bound atomic electrons is required. It is evident that special measures must be taken to produce highly ionized ions for research. One method that has been employed for decades is to accelerate ions of modest charge to energies in the mega-electron volt range or higher, and then to pass them through a thin foil or gas target to collisionally strip them of their electrons. Another method involves directing such an energetic ion beam through a gas target in which slow, highly charged recoil ions are produced by multiple ionization in energetic collisions with these fast “hammer” ions. The slow recoil ions of the gas target species are accelerated and formed into a low-energy beam for use in experiments that do not require high ion intensities. The production of intense, highly charged ion beams at low kinetic energies requires a special ion source. The chapter discusses the operating principles and performances of several types of advanced highly charged ion sources that are currently employed in experimental physics research.
A note on the estimation of the Pareto efficient set for multiobjective matrix permutation problems.

There are a number of important problems in quantitative psychology that require the identification of a permutation of the n rows and columns of an n × n proximity matrix. These problems encompass applications such as unidimensional scaling, paired-comparison ranking, and anti-Robinson forms. The importance of simultaneously incorporating multiple objective criteria in matrix permutation applications is well recognized in the literature; however, to date, there has been a reliance on weighted-sum approaches that transform the multiobjective problem into a single-objective optimization problem. Although exact solutions to these single-objective problems produce supported Pareto efficient solutions to the multiobjective problem, many interesting unsupported Pareto efficient solutions may be missed. We illustrate the limitation of the weighted-sum approach with an example from the psychological literature and devise an effective heuristic algorithm for estimating both the supported and unsupported solutions of the Pareto efficient set.