cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sensing of Abiotic Stress and Ionic Stress Responses in Plants

Plants need to cope with complex environments throughout their life cycle. Abiotic stresses, including drought, cold, salt and heat, can cause a reduction in plant growth and loss of crop yield. Plants sensing stress signals and adapting to adverse environments are fundamental biological problems. We review the stress sensors in stress sensing and the responses, and then discuss ionic stress signaling and the responses. During ionic stress, the calcineurin B-like proteins (CBL) and CBL-interacting protein kinases (CBL−CIPK) complex is identified as a primary element of the calcium sensor for perceiving environmental signals. The CBL−CIPK system shows specificity and variety in its response to different stresses. Obtaining a deeper understanding of stress signaling and the responses will mitigate or solve crop yield crises in extreme environments with fast-growing populations.
Loss of striatal tyrosine‐hydroxylase interneurons impairs instrumental goal‐directed behavior

The striatum mediates a broad range of cognitive and motor functions. Within the striatum, recently discovered tyrosine hydroxylase expressing interneurons (THINs) provide a source of intrastriatal synaptic connectivity that is critical for regulating striatal activity, yet the role of THIN's in behavior remains unknown. Given the important role of the striatum in reward-based behaviors, we investigated whether loss of striatal THINs would impact instrumental behavior in mice. We selectively ablated striatal THINs in TH-Cre mice using chemogenetic techniques, and then tested THIN-lesioned or control mice on three reward-based striatal-dependent instrumental tests: (a) progressive ratio test; (b) choice test following selective-satiety induced outcome devaluation; (c) outcome reinstatement test. Both striatal-THIN-lesioned and control mice acquired an instrumental response for flavored food pellets, and their behavior did not differ in the progressive ratio test, suggesting intact effort to obtain rewards. However, striatal THIN lesions markedly impaired choice performance following selective-satiety induced outcome devaluation. Unlike control mice, THIN-lesioned mice did not adjust their choice of actions following a change in outcome value. In the outcome reinstatement test THIN-lesioned and control mice showed response invigoration by outcome presentation, suggesting the incentive properties of outcomes were not disrupted by THIN lesions. Overall, we found that striatal THIN lesions selectively impaired goal-directed behavior, while preserving motoric and appetitive behaviors. These findings are the first to describe a function of striatal THINs in reward-based behavior, and further illustrate the important role for intrastriatal interneuronal connectivity in behavioral functions ascribed to the striatum more generally.
Exploring the Conformational Space of Growth-Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogues Using Dopant Assisted Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry–Mass Spectrometry

Recently, we proposed a high-throughput screening workflow for the elucidation of agonistic or antagonistic growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) potencies based on structural motif descriptors a...
Chronic kidney disease in propionic acidemia.

Propionic acidemia (PA) is a severe metabolic disorder characterized by multiorgan pathology, including renal disease. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in PA patients and factors associated with CKD in PA are not known. Thirty-one subjects diagnosed with PA underwent laboratory and clinical evaluations through a dedicated natural history study at the National Institutes of Health (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02890342). Cross-sectional analysis of the creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in subjects with native kidneys revealed an age-dependent decline in renal function (P < 0.002). Among adults with PA, 4/8 (50%) had eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. There was a significant discrepancy between eGFRs calculated using estimating equations based on serum creatinine compared with serum cystatin C (P < 0.0001). The tubular injury marker, plasma lipocalin-2, and plasma uric acid were strongly associated with CKD (P < 0.0001). The measured 24-hour creatinine excretion was below normal, even after adjusting for age, height, and sex. CKD is common in adults with PA and is associated with age. The poor predictive performance of standard eGFR estimating equations, likely due to reduced creatine synthesis in kidney and liver, could delay the recognition of CKD and management of ensuing complications in this population.
Targeting PDZ-binding kinase is anti-tumorigenic in novel preclinical models of ACC

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is an aggressive orphan malignancy with less than 35% 5-year survival and 75% recurrence. Surgery remains the primary therapy and mitotane, an adrenolytic, is the only FDA-approved drug with wide-range toxicities and poor tolerability. There are no targeted agents available to date. For the last three decades, H295R cell line and its xenograft were the only available preclinical models. We recently developed two new ACC patient-derived xenograft mouse models and corresponding cell lines (CU-ACC1 and CU-ACC2) to advance research in the field. Here, we have utilized these novel models along with H295R cells to establish the mitotic PDZ-binding kinase (PBK) as a promising therapeutic target. PBK is overexpressed in ACC samples and correlates with poor survival. We show that PBK is regulated by FOXM1 and targeting PBK via shRNA decreased cell proliferation, clonogenicity and anchorage-independent growth in ACC cell lines. PBK silencing inhibited pAkt, pp38MAPK and pHistone H3 altering the cell cycle. Therapeutically, targeting PBK with the small-molecule inhibitor HITOPK032 phenocopied PBK-specific modulation of pAkt and pHistone H3, but also induced apoptosis via activation of JNK. Consistent with in vitro findings, treatment of CU-ACC1 PDXs with HITOPK032 significantly reduced tumor growth by 5-fold (P < 0.01). Treated tumor tissues demonstrated increased rates of apoptosis and JNK activation, with decreased pAkt and Histone H3 phosphorylation, consistent with effects observed in ACC cell lines. Together these studies elucidate the mechanism of PBK in ACC tumorigenesis and establish the potential therapeutic potential of HITOPK032 in ACC patients.
87. TRANSFORMING ADVOCACY CURRICULA INTO ONE THAT PROMOTES TRAINEE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ENGAGEMENT

Background Residency programs have addressed advocacy curriculum needs with various degrees of success. Program leadership at Cohen Children's Medical Center recognized the need to enhance curricula to meet the demands of residents and communities. Design Didactics are structured as a series of conferences, interactive workshops and web-based modules. There is education on the importance of Community Based Organizations (CBOs), health equity, vulnerable populations, legislative advocacy etc. Experiential learning is provided at CBOs, federal program sites, and schools. During this 4-week intern rotation, residents care for vulnerable populations, provide outreach, conduct health assessments, and participate in home visits in a community setting. Each intern develops an advocacy topic/campaign (gun safety, toxic stress, border separation, voter rights) to present at a resident noon conference. To further highlight the importance of this topic, a 3-week advocacy lecture series was incorporated into the core resident education curricula. Results Enhanced understanding of advocacy topics and increased interest in engaging in advocacy initiatives was demonstrated. The mean value-added score for the series was 1.52 (CI 1.35 to 1.7). There was improvement in understanding (decrease in score) within multiple topics. Pre-intervention understanding of public health insurance, school-based clinics, healthcare economics, and CBOs was 2.83, 2.67, 2.89, and 2.25 respectively. Post-intervention understanding of public health insurance, school-based clinics, healthcare economics, and CBOs was 1.61, 1.80, 2.00, and 1.55 respectively (p Conclusion Residents yearn to learn advocacy measures. An advocacy toolkit equips residents with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and transform future work environments. The curriculum is easily replicable for residency programs desiring to integrate advocacy training curricula without increasing the burden of utilizable resources.
A ten-year retrospective study of post-dural puncture headache in 32,655 obstetric patients

Accidental dural puncture and post-dural puncture headache are well-known complications of neuraxial anesthesia in parturients. The primary goal of this study was to identify the rate of post-dural puncture headache and epidural blood patch in all parturients who received a neuraxial anesthetic during a ten-year period at an academic tertiary-care medical centre. A secondary goal was to identify any delay in hospital discharge due to a post-dural puncture headache. We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients who received a neuraxial anesthetic on the labour and delivery unit at Stony Brook Medical Center from 1 January, 2006 to 31 December, 2015. Standardized neuraxial anesthesia equipment was used throughout this period. Chart reviews were conducted on all patients who received a neuraxial anesthetic and had an accidental dural puncture and/or developed a post-dural puncture headache. Of the 32,655 neuraxial anesthetics performed, 298 (0.9%) patients experienced a post- dural puncture headache. Analysis of all patients who developed a post-dural puncture headache showed that 150 (50.3%) patients received one or more epidural blood patches. Overall, 19 (0.06%) patients had a delay in hospital discharge due to a post-dural puncture headache. We showed a relatively low incidence (< 1%) of post-dural puncture headache following neuraxial anesthesia in parturients at an academic tertiary-care medical centre. Patients that rated their post-dural puncture headache as very severe were more likely to undergo at least one epidural blood patch procedure. Post-dural puncture headache is a well-known complication of neuraxial anesthesia, and may lead to a delay in hospital discharge.
Robotic right colonic resection. Is the robotic third arm a game-changer?

Background Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches have produces relevant advancements in the pre/intra/postoperative outcomes. The conventional laparoscopic approach presents similar oncological results in comparison to laparotomic approaches. Despite these evidences, a considerable part of the colorectal operations are still being performed in an open way. This is in part because traditional laparoscopy may have some hurdles and a long learning curve to reach mastery. The robotic technology may help in increasing the MIS penetrance in colorectal surgery. The use of the R3 can potentially increase the number of surgical options available. Methods In this retrospective case series, after a long robotic colorectal experience connected to a robotic program started by Giulianotti et al. in October 2000, we present our results regarding a subset of colorectal patients who underwent robotic right colonic resections performed, all by a single surgeon (P.C.G.), using the R3 according to our standardized technique. Results Out of all the robotic colorectal operations performed, this sub-sample sample included 33 patients: 21 males and 12 females. The age range was between 51 and 95 years old. The Body Mass Index (BMI) was between 21.6 to 43.1. The conversion rate to laparoscopy or to open surgery has been 0%. No intraoperative complications have been registered. The postoperative complications rates are reported in this manuscript. The perfusion check of the anastomosis by Near-infrared ICG (Indocyanine Green) enhanced fluorescence has been used. In 11.2% of the sample, the site of the anastomosis has been changed after ICG-Test. Moreover, when the ICG perfusion test has been performed no leakage occurred. Conclusions This subset of patients suggests the potential role of R3 and the benefits correlated to robotic surgery. In fact, the laparoscopic approach uses mostly a medial to lateral mobilization. Indeed, during laparoscopic surgery an early right colon mobilization may create problems in the surgical field visualization. In robotic surgery, R3 can lift upwards the cecum/ascending colon/hepatic flexure exposing, in doing so, the anatomical structures. Hence, we can use also the same approach of the open surgery (where the first step is usually the mobilization of the ascending colon mesentery). In other words, the R3 offers more operative options in terms of surgical pathways maintaining at the same time good perioperative outcomes. However, more studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Echocardiographic Changes in the Context of Metal-on-Metal Versus Nonmetal-on-Metal Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract Background The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a difference in echocardiographic results between patients with metal-on-metal (MoM) vs non-MoM total hip arthroplasty (THA) and to determine if a correlation exists between serum metal levels and echocardiographic outcomes. Methods Seventy-five patients with the same modular THA enrolled in this prospective cohort study, and 49 had MoM bearings. All patients had serum cobalt, chromium, and titanium levels drawn at 2 study visits with a transthoracic echocardiogram at the second visit. Serum metal concentrations and echocardiographic parameters were compared with 2-way t-tests. Multiple linear regression analyses identified any significant predictors of echocardiographic outcomes. Results Mean serum cobalt and chromium levels were significantly greater in the MoM group at both time-points (P .05). MoM patients had significantly lower global longitudinal strain compared with the non-MoM group (18.4% vs 20.2%; P = .026). Serum cobalt concentration was found to be an independent predictor of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (P = .02). Conclusion MoM THA bearings are associated with increased serum cobalt and chromium levels. Patients with MoM THAs had decreased global longitudinal strain, a measure of left ventricular function, but both groups remained within normal range. The clinical impact of the positive association between serum cobalt concentration and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, a marker of right ventricular function, deserves further study. These findings can reassure physicians and patients that metal-induced cardiomyopathy is not typical in the setting of MoM THA. Level of Evidence Level II, Prospective Cohort Study.
Life in a carbon-neutral world

Increasing numbers of cities and countries around the globe are pledging to become net carbon neutral within the next few decades. But what will day-to-day life look like in a "net-zero" world? Kate Ravilious looks at the changes that society will need to make
Cannabis Use in Hospitalized Patients with Chronic Pain

To date, no study has reported the prevalence of cannabis use in chronic pain patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the trends in cannabis use among chronic pain in-patients from 2011 to 2015 in the USA. Patients were identified from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth and Tenth Revision, diagnosis codes for chronic pain and cannabis use. Annual estimates and trends were determined for cannabis use, patient characteristics, cannabis use among subgroups of chronic pain conditions, cost, length of stay, and associated discharge diagnosis. Between 2011 to 2015, a total of 247,949 chronic pain patients were cannabis users, increasing from 33,189 to 72,115 (P < 0.001). There were upward trends of cannabis use in females (38.7–40.7%; P = 0.03), Medicare insured patients (32.7–40.4%; P < 0.01), patients with lowest annual household income (36.1–40.9%; P = 0.02), patients aged 45–64 years (45.9–49.2%; P < 0.001), and patients with tobacco use disorder (63.8–72.4%; P < 0.0001). Concurrently, cannabis use decreased among patients with opioid use disorder (23.8–19.9%; P < 0.001). Cannabis use increased from 2011 to 2015 in patients with chronic regional pain syndrome, trauma, spondylosis, and failed back surgery syndrome. Adjusted total hospitalization cost increased from $31,271 ($1333) in 2011 to $38,684 ($946) in 2015 (P < 0.001). Cannabis use increased substantially from 2011 to 2015, while the rates of cannabis use in opioid users down-trended simultaneously. Disparities in cannabis use among subgroups should be explored further.
Acceptability and effects of tele-delivered behavioral activation for depression in low-income homebound older adults: in their own words

To examine experiences and perspectives of low-income homebound older adults (N = 90) who participated in tele-delivered behavioral activation (Tele-BA) treatment for depression by bachelor’s-level...
Using 7Be measurements to explore the performance of the SEDD model to predict sediment yield at event scale

Abstract The SEdiment Delivery Distributed Model (SEDD) is used worldwide to predict sediment yield in small- and medium-sized catchments. Its ability to provide estimates at different timescales was also demonstrated in several cases. However, in order to provide reliable predictions of sediment yield, this model requires calibration of the sediment delivery component that depends on the estimation of the calibration parameter β for which no direct approaches are available so far. In this contribution, 7Be measurements were carried out in a small catchment (1.38 ha in size) representative of marginal areas in Southern Italy that have been subjected to afforestation. The 7Be measurements were used to provide estimates of the catchment sediment delivery ratio (SDR) at event-scale. These estimates resulted very well correlated with the values of the calibration parameter β calculated using the analytical approach based on the recursive solution of the sediment budget equation. Based on this correlation and following a distributed approach, the final predictions of sediment yield were compared with the independent measurements of sediment output available at the catchment outlet. The analysis showed satisfactory agreement between measured and predicted values of sediment yield and suggested that the SEDD model, if properly calibrated, can be considered a useful tool to predict erosion risk in marginal areas. In this respect, the use of the 7Be technique, in view of its ability to provide independent estimates of soil redistribution rates, proved to be very useful in such calibration exercises. Further work is however required to test the performance of the model in different geomorphic contexts.
Disentangling primer interactions improves SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing by the ARTIC Network’s multiplex PCR

Abstract Since December 2019, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has rapidly spread to almost every nation in the world. Soon after the pandemic was recognized by epidemiologists, a group of biologists comprising the ARTIC Network, has devised a multiplexed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol and primer set for targeted whole-genome amplification of SARS-CoV-2. The ARTIC primer set amplifies 98 amplicons, which are separated only in two PCRs, across a nearly entire viral genome. The original primer set and protocol showed a fairly small amplification bias when clinical samples with relatively high viral loads were used. However, when sample’s viral load was low, several amplicons, especially amplicons 18 and 76, exhibited low coverage or complete dropout. We have determined that these dropouts were due to a dimer formation between the forward primer for amplicon 18, 18_LEFT, and the reverse primer for amplicon 76, 76_RIGHT. Replacement of 76_RIGHT with an alternatively designed primer was sufficient to produce a drastic improvement in coverage of both amplicons. Based on this result, we replaced 12 primers in total in the ARTIC primer set that were predicted to be involved in 14 primer interactions. The resulting primer set, version N1 (NIID-1), exhibits improved overall coverage compared to the ARTIC Network’s original (V1) and modified (V3) primer set.
AirFlute: a virtual flute and tutoring system

The AirFlute is an interactive and less-expensive alternative to traditional music lessons. AirFlute uses the Leap Motion Controller within a web browser to track how a student moves their fingers in 3-dimensional physical space. Each movement of the student (e.g., moving or bending a finger) is visualized on the virtual flute display within a web browser and the corresponding note is played through the computer's speaker. By expressing a correct fingering, a student can simulate playing a note on the flute without a physical instrument. AirFlute has three main features: 1) a place for users to free play music, 2) a tutorial for users to learn note fingerings, and 3) a capability for users to practice exercises and receive feedback. This brief abstract summarizes the motivation and implementation of AirFlute as a research application in human-computer interaction. AirFlute has the potential to broaden participation in music performance for students who may not be able to afford a physical instrument.
Anti-MOG and Anti-AQP4 Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder in a Patient with Myasthenia Gravis (273)

Objective: Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) with anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies (anti-AQP4) can occur in the setting of existing myasthenia gravis (MG) especially following thymectomy. However, no cases of NMOSD with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies (anti-MOG) with comorbid MG have been described. We present a case report of a patient with anti-AQP4 and anti-MOG positive NMOSD in the setting of MG. Background: NA Design/Methods: A 54-year-old female with history of MG experienced right sided weakness that progressively worsened over 24 hours preceded by a sharp right-sided headache radiating to her neck. Physical exam was notable for 4/5 strength in her right arm and leg and hyperreflexia of the right upper extremity. The patient was diagnosed with MG more than 15 years prior to this presentation, and she underwent thymectomy 5 years prior. Her MG had been well-controlled on pyridostigmine. MRI of the cervical and thoracic spine revealed diffuse, longitudinally extensive edema beginning at the level of T1–T2 and extending up into the obex and area postrema with associated contrast enhancement of levels C1–C4. These findings raised suspicion of NMOSD, and she was treated with IV methylprednisolone 1g daily for 5 days with improvement of strength nearly to baseline. Serum AQP4 and anti-MOG antibodies were positive with no oligoclonal bands in the CSF. This confirmed the diagnosis of NMOSD. Given the extent of her initial lesion and the high risk of relapse with AQP4-positive NMOSD, treatment with eculizumab was initiated. Results: NA Conclusions: We present a case of the co-occurrence of two autoimmune channelopathies, MG and NMOSD. The occurrence of anti-MOG positive NMOSD with other coexisting autoimmune disease is thought to be rare. To our knowledge this is the first case report with positive anti-AQP4 and anti-MOG antibodies in a known case of MG. Disclosure: Dr. Bates has nothing to disclose. Dr. Chisholm has nothing to disclose. Dr. Miller has nothing to disclose. Dr. Guduru has nothing to disclose.
Phase Conjugation in a Time-Switched Slab

Time-varying media have been a platform for many extraordinary wave phenomena. Here we show the possibility of efficient phase conjugation using a time-switched slab cavity. The temporal boundary conditions and the phase conjugation efficiency are derived in the context of quasi-normal modes. As a proof-of-concept, we numerically demonstrate unitary phase conjugation by properly switching the permittivity of the slab. Explorations on switching the cavity boundary instead of the entire medium will be discussed in the presentation, which may benefit more practical applications such as holography and frequency generation.
Expanding the Criteria for Targeted Muscle Reinnervation: A National Assessment of Eligibility

Abstract PURPOSE This study represents an effort to examine the national eligibility of patients who would benefit from lower extremity (LE) targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) in the United States. The objective of this study is to quantify and characterize the patient population eligible for LE TMR. METHODS Using the National Inpatient Sample database from 2008 to 2015, patients undergoing lower extremity amputations were identified by ICD-9 diagnosis code. Differences in patient-level demographic parameters and hospital-level factors were compared using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Over the study period, a weighted total of 369,717 patients met inclusion criteria, representing an annual mean of 46,214 patients per year. 214,756 patients underwent below-knee amputation, and 150,634 underwent above-knee amputation. Patients were predominantly male (63%), from the south (47.4%), and of the lowest income quartile (38.8%). Younger patients were more likely to be privately insured (44.1%) or on Medicaid (44.1%), while older patients were predominantly on Medicare (89.4%). Peripheral vascular disease affected 45.5%, 51.3%, and 52.0% of patients in the sixth, seventh, and eighth decades of life respectively. Black patients also made up 26% of amputations despite only composing 13% of the overall population. CONCLUSIONS At least 46,214 patients per year present a population that would possibly benefit from TMR, with about half of those with peripheral vascular disease. In addition to the high prevalence of vascular disease, low-income, minority individuals are disproportionately affected by LE amputation.
Enhancing Tropos with Commitments

This paper motivates a novel metamodel and methodology for specifying cross-organizational business interactions that is based on Tropos. Current approaches for business modeling are either high-level and semiformal or formal but low-level. Thus they fail to support flexible but rigorous modeling and enactment of business processes. This paper begins from the well-known Tropos approach and enhances it with commitments. It proposes a natural metamodel based on commitments and a methodology for specifying a business model. This paper includes an insurance industry case study that several researchers have previously used.
Hybrid power switch concept

Although there are a number of excellent high pulsed power switches ranging from FETs to thyratrons to SCRs, each different type of switch suffers from constraints related to the physics of that type of switching technology. A hybrid high-power electronic switching module consists of a combination of well-chosen switching elements working together to optimize the switching over the entire cycle. Each aspect of switching-turn on, conduction and turn off-can be handled by a power device that is best suited to that function. Thus, for certain applications, it is possible to develop a hybrid power switch with superior performance in efficiency as compared to existing monolithic power switches. While hybrid power switches offer gains in conduction efficiency, they have the drawback of a lower operating frequency and higher degree of complexity and cost. As a result, hybrid switches are well suited for applications requiring long conduction times with thermal cooling problems coming from high conduction losses. The general issues relating to hybrid switch and switch configurations are presented and discussed.
High Performance Mg6Zn Nanocomposites Fabricated through Friction Stir Processing

Mg-based metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs) are expected to provide significant enhancement of properties by introducing thermally stable ceramic nanoparticles into the metal matrix. However, it is extremely difficult to achieve a uniform distribution of nanoparticles in the magnesium matrix for the predicted significant property enhancement. In this study an unprecedented uniform distribution and dispersion of 6 vol.% SiC nanoparticles in Mg6Zn matrix was obtained through a novel scalable processing method that combines semi-solid mechanical mixing and solid-state friction stir processing. The resulting Mg6Zn nanocomposites exhibit tremendous hardness and strength enhancement. The results provide a viable pathway for the development and production of high performance Mg-based nanocomposites for numerous applications.
Investment-Oriented Life Insurance

Insurance and investments are distinct concepts. This distinction leads to the development of various insurance and investment products. In practice, however, there is an overlap between some types of insurance products and investment products. This overlap occurs due partially to specific tax advantages provided to investment-oriented life insurance products. The two major types of investment-oriented life insurance are cash value life insurance and annuities. Keywords: Pure insurance; investment-oriented insurance; cash value life insurance; whole life; variable life; universal life; variable universal life; annuities; variable annuities; fixed annuities; guaranteed investment contract (GIC); participating policies; general account products; separate account products; immediate annuity; deferred annuity; credited rate; flexible-premium deferred annuity (FPDA); single-premium deferred annuity (SPDA)
Low-voltage power-efficient adder design

This paper presents results of a comprehensive comparative study of recently presented full-adder cells, examines their suitability in low-voltage low-power and high-performance applications and proposes a design methodology for a low-voltage power-efficient full adder. The study and the methodology are based on a power supply range of 1.0 V-1.8 V in 0.18 /spl mu/m CMOS technology.
Stellar Jets: Clues to the Process of Star and Planet Formation

An overview of the evidence for an accretion/outflow connection in young stars is presented. Although it is likely that accretion-powered winds play an important role in the angular momentum evolution of forming stars and protoplanetary disks, how this happens is not evident.
Physical Analysis of Tn10- and IS10-Promoted Transpositions and Rearrangements

We have investigated by Southern blot hybridization the rate of IS10 transposition and other Tn10/IS10-promoted rearrangements in Escherichia coli and Salmonella strains bearing single chromosomal insertions of Tn10 or a related Tn10 derivative. We present evidence for three primary conclusions. First, the rate of IS10 transposition is approximately 10(-4) per cell per bacterial generation when overnight cultures are grown and plated on minimal media and is at least ten times more frequent than any other Tn10/IS10-promoted DNA alteration. Second, all of the chromosomal rearrangements observed can be accounted for by two previously characterized Tn10-promoted rearrangements: deletion/inversions and deletions. Together these rearrangements occur at about 10% the rate of IS10 transposition. Third, the data suggest that intramolecular Tn10-promoted rearrangements preferentially use nearby target sites, while the target sites for IS10 transposition events are scattered randomly around the chromosome.
Contributions of hepadnavirus research to our understanding of hepatocarcinogenesis

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on an experimental model that has provided specific insights into hepatocarcinogenesis in hepadnavirus carriers, which may be of general significance. The new transgenic models that utilize the HBsAg and the hepatitis B virus X (HBx) genes should now be exploited to further understand the molecular genetics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These models are directly relevant to HCC in humans because both the HBsAg and HBx genes are expressed in precancerous liver and HCCs from humans. These models have at their disposal the vast resources of the human and murine genome projects. The woodchuck hepatis virus (WHV) model provides many opportunities to further analyze molecular genetic changes that occur in a natural host–virus system that is also very relevant to the human disease. So far, work on these models has pointed to the myc family of protooncogenes and the IGF2 gene as important genes in the initiation of transformation and tumor growth and malignant progression, respectively. The effects of HBx on the PKC and Raf 1 signal transduction pathways may also lead to the identification of new genes of importance in hepatocarcinogenesis. When the individual genetic components (e.g., Ras, Raf) of the interactive signal transduction pathways are more fully understood, common mechanisms between HCC and other cancers would undoubtedly become more evident.
Network under joint node and link attacks: vulnerability assessment methods and analysis

Critical infrastructures such as communication networks, electrical grids, and transportation systems are highly vulnerable to natural disasters and malicious attacks. Even failures of few nodes or links may have a profound impact on large parts of the system. Traditionally, network vulnerability assessment methods separate the studies of node vulnerability and link vulnerability, and thus ignore joint node and link attack schemes that may cause grave damage to the network. To this end, we introduce a new assessment method, called $\beta$ -disruptor, that unifies both link and node vulnerability assessment. The new assessment method is formulated as an optimization problem in which we aim to identify a minimum-cost set of mixed links and nodes whose removal would severely disrupt the network connectivity. We prove the NP-completeness of the problem and propose an $O(\sqrt{\log n})$ bicriteria approximation algorithm for the $\beta$ -disruptor problem. This new theoretical guarantee improves the best approximation results for both link and node vulnerability assessment in literature. We further enhance the proposed algorithm by embedding it into a special combination of simulated annealing and variable neighborhood search method. The results of our extensive simulation-based experiments on synthetic and real networks show the feasibility and efficiency of our proposed vulnerability assessment methods.
Interactive hybrid (symbolic-numeric) system approach to near optimal design of mechanical components

A hybrid symbolic-numeric system, referred to as OPTDEX, (Optimal Design Expert) for the optimal design of mechanical components and systems has been developed. The system is written in Golden Common LISP and IBM Professional (Ryan-McFarland) FORTRAN for execution on the IBM PC/AT microcomputer. Graphical output has been implemented using the Graphical Kernal System (GKS) standard. This microcomputer-based implementation makes the system particularly attractive as an easily accessible, low-cost engineering analysis and design tool.
Isotope geochemistry of minerals and fluids from Newberry volcano, Oregon

Isotopic compositions were determined for hydrothermal quartz, calcite, and siderite from core samples of the Newberry 2 drill hole, Oregon. The δ15O values for these minerals decrease with increasing temperatures. The values indicate that these hydrothermal minerals precipitated in isotopic equilibrium with water currently present in the reservoirs. The δ18O values of quartz and calcite from the andesite and basalt flows (700–932 m) have isotopic values which require that the equilibrated water δ18O values increase slightly (− 11.3 to −9.2‰) with increasing measured temperatures (150–265°C). The lithic tuffs and brecciated lava flows (300–700 m) contain widespread siderite. Calculated oxygen isotopic compositions of waters in equilibrium with siderite generally increase with increasing temperatures (76–100°C). The δ18O values of siderite probably result from precipitation in water produced by mixing various amounts of the deep hydrothermal water (− 10.5 ‰) with meteoric water (− 15.5 ‰) recharged within the caldera. The δ13C values of calcite and siderite decrease with increasing temperatures and show that these minerals precipitated in isotopic equilibrium with CO2 of about −8 ‰. The δ18O values of weakly altered (<5% alteration of plagioclase) whole-rock samples decrease with increasing temperatures above 100°C, indicating that exchange between water and rock is kinetically controlled. The water/rock mass ratios decrease with decreasing temperatures. The δ18O values of rocks from the bottom of Newberry 2 show about 40% isotopic exchange with the reservoir water. The calculated δ18O and δD values of bottom hole water determined from the fluid produced during the 20 hour flow test are −10.2 and −109‰, respectively. The δD value of the hydrothermal water indicates recharge from outside the caldera.
A low cost parallel robot and trajectory optimization method for wrist and forearm rehabilitation using the Wii

A robot called the Closed-chain Robot for Assisting in Manual Exercise and Rehabilitation (CRAMER) was developed to assist impaired persons in making three degree-of-freedom movements of the forearm and wrist (forearm supination/pronation, wrist flexion/extension, and wrist ulnar/radial deviation). With a parts and machining cost of less than $1500, this robot was designed to be inexpensive by using a simple parallel mechanism design and off-the-shelf hobby servomotors. CRAMER is intended to engage patients in their rehabilitation therapy by having them play computer-based exercise games. Toward this goal, the remote for Nintendopsilas Wii was integrated into the handle of the robot in an attempt to allow patients to play the high-quality yet affordable motion-based games that have been developed for the Wii. A framework for planning robot joint trajectories capable of generating desired accelerometer measurements used by Wii games was developed using function optimization techniques. Results of a preliminary experiment with the bowling and golf games of Wii Sports show the feasibility of playing Wii using robot-assisted wrist movements. However, to make this approach clinically practical, an improved software communication with the Wii would be necessary.
Mode of Delivery and Risk of Childhood Leukemia

Background: Childhood infection and immune response have long been suspected in the etiology of childhood leukemia, specifically acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Normal primary inoculation of the core human microbiome is circumvented by caesarian section(CS) delivery, which is a proposed modulator of both immune response and early life infection. Methods: In this study we examined CS delivery and the risk of childhood leukemia using data from the California Childhood Leukemia Study (CCLS) case-control study and additive logistic regression models. Results: We observed no association between CS and acute myeloid leukemia (AML; OR=0.96, CI=0.52-1.55,). We observed a suggestive association for ALL and CS (OR= 1.22,CI=0.97-1.54). When examining common ALL (cALL), defined as ALL with expression of CD10 and CD19 surface antigens and diagnosis occurring between 2 and 5.9 years of age,we found a significant association with CS (OR 1.44 CI=1.0-2.06 ). ALL subjects that are not cALL showed a similar risk as ALL overall (OR= 1.15, CI=0.91-1.44). Because of previous findings suggesting effect modification, we stratified cALL subjects by Hispanic status. While we observed no relationship for CS in non-Hispanics (OR= 1.14, CI=0.72-1.79), we did observe a strong association between cALL and CS in Hispanics (OR=2.34, CI=1.23-4.46). Conclusion: Within the CCLS, CS delivery appears to be associated with cALL and Hispanic subjects may be driving the association. Impact: Further research combined with investigations into response to early infection and the microbiome are warranted.
Horner’s syndrome, Pseudo-Horner’s syndrome, and simple anisocoria

This discussion reviews the common causes of Horner’s syndrome, with emphasis on case reports from the past several years. Much of the recent literature concerns the use of apraclonidine as a diagnostic test for Horner’s syndrome, possibly as an alternative for the current gold standard of cocaine eye drops. This new literature is discussed in the context of the current standards for clinical diagnosis.
Dissent from the dihydride model of the vibrational spectra of amorphous silicon-hydrogen alloys

Abstract Various arguments are presented to show that the conventional interpretation of the stretching vibrational optical absorption in amorphous silicon-hydrogen alloys is flawed. It is suggested that the higher frequency component of a (2000, 2090) cm −1 doublet may be due not only to =Si-H 2 complexes but to a so-far unidentified entity with no scissors modes. Possible replacement models are advanced.
Autonomous Depth Adjustment for Underwater Sensor Networks: Design and Applications

To fully understand the ocean environment requires sensing the full water column. Utilizing a depth adjustment system on an underwater sensor network provides this while also improving global sensing and communications. This paper presents a depth adjustment system for waters up to 50 m deep that connects to the aquanode sensor network nodes. We performed experiments characterizing and demonstrating the functionality of the depth adjustment system. We discuss the application of this device in improving acoustic communication and also verify the functionality of a decentralized depth adjustment algorithm that optimizes the placement of the nodes for collecting sensing data.
The fate of cryopreserved sperm acquired during vasectomy reversals.

AbstractPurpose: Intraoperative sperm banking has been recommended during vasectomy reversal. These specimens are maintained as insurance for possible future intracytoplasmic sperm injection. We evaluated the fate of specimens collected intraoperatively from 48 vasectomy reversal patients.Materials and Methods: Of 75 men 48 (64.0%) agreed to intraoperative sperm banking during vasectomy reversal. A total of 135 vials of epididymal sperm, 81 vials of testicular tissue and 13 vials of vasal sperm were cryopreserved.Results: Among couples who stored sperm 10 (20.8%) voluntarily discarded the specimens within 4 months of vasectomy reversal. Specimens from 31 couples (64.5%) remain in storage. Seven couples (14.6%) have used frozen sperm for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. In 3 of these couples the men were azoospermic after surgery, 2 men had 10,000 to 15,000 sperm per ml. in the ejaculate with limited motility and 2 had 1 to 2 million sperm per ml. with limited motility. The 7 women who underwent intracyto...
Nurses' Willingness to Care for AIDS Patients and Spirituality, Social Support, and Death Anxiety

Objective: Use Rogers'(1992) framework of the science of unitary human beings to examine relationships among spirituality, perceived social support, death anxiety, and nurses'willingness to care for AIDS patients. Design: Descriptive, correlational. Population, Sample, Setting: Population, female RNs in the New York City Metropolitan area who care for patients with AIDS. Convenience sample of 220 RNs who worked in eight hospitals either on AIDS-dedicated units (n = 88), or medical-surgical scatterbed units (n = 132) with a daily AIDS patient census of between 5% to 50%. Data were collected in 1992. Measures: Spiritual Orientation Inventory, the Personal Resource Questionnaire-85, the Templer Death Anxiety Scale, and the Willingness to Care for AIDS Patients Instrument. Methods: Pearson product-moment correlations and hierarchical multiple regression analyses to test hypotheses. Findings: Willingness to care for AIDS patients was positively correlated with spirituality and perceived social support, and negatively correlated with death anxiety. Death anxiety moderated the relationship between spirituality and willingness to care. In total, 17% of the variance in nurses' willingness to care for AIDS patients was explained. Additional regression analyses indicated that group membership as either an AIDS-dedicated nurse or medical-surgical nurse did not moderate or change hypothesized relationships. Conclusion: Because group membership explained 22% of the variance in willingness to care, the data indicate that group culture or professional identity should be further examined as predictors of nurses' willingness to care for AIDS patients. Clinical Implications: Social support at work from administrators and colleagues, as well as the support from patients themselves is important to nurses and should be fostered.
Review of Math for Life by Jeffrey Bennett

Bennett, Jeffrey. 2012. Math for Life: Crucial Ideas You Didn’t Learn in School. Greenwood Village, CO: Roberts and Company Publishers. 216 pp. Cloth $25. ISBN: 978-1-936221-1. Math for Life: Crucial Ideas You Didn’t Learn in School by Jeffrey Bennett is a general interest mathematics book focused on the topic of innumeracy, the mathematics required to be numerate and why quantitative literacy is important for an educated citizenry. This book raises the very important question of why the mathematics we need to navigate our daily world is given such short shrift in our K-12 math education system. Math for Life is directed at multiple constituencies. For those wishing to develop their quantitative literacy, it provides a primer of the crucial topics, explained with compelling examples in an accessible easy-to-read style. For educators, it provides a valuable synopsis of what the math education curriculum should have at its core. I conclude the review with an analysis of the book’s contributions to these varied domains. In particular, I call into question the algebra-centric high school curriculum and explore possible alternatives to the current myopic focus on calculus in our broken mathematics education system.
The effect of 28-day pesticide feeding on serum and tissue enzyme activities of rats fed diets of varying casein content.

Female and male rats were fed diets containing 19, 8, or 3% casein with either no pesticide or with pesticides at various concentrations for 28 days. In rats of both sexes fed diets with no pesticide, the liver triacetinesterase (AliE) activity was related to the amount of casein consumed. The serum cholinesterase (ChE) activity of females was also decreased with decreasing dietary casein but in males was reduced only in those fed the 8% casein diet. Serum AliE activity was optimal at 8% and 3% dietary casein. ChE activity in brain, β -glucuronidase ( β -Glu) activity in serum, and aniline hydroxylase activity in liver were the same at all casein levels. The activity of p -nitroreductase was reduced at lower dietary casein levels. In the pesticide-treated group, chlordane-induced increases in liver AliE, aniline hydroxylase, and p -nitroreductase activities were dependent upon pesticide dose. Increases in serum AliE activity were dependent upon both pesticide dose and casein intake. Chlordane reduced serum β -Glu more at 8% than at the 19% casein level. Parathion-induced inhibition of serum ChE, serum and liver AliE, and brain ChE increased with increasing dose and with decreasing casein content. Parathion increased serum β -Glu activity to the same degree at all casein levels. Banol-induced inhibition of ChE in the serum was pronounced at low casein levels. The increase in serum AliE by Banol followed the decrease in casein levels; inhibition of liver AliE was independent of casein intake and was dose-dependent. Banol did not affect β -Glu.