cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Determination of brain gangliosides by determination of ganglioside stearic acid

A new method is described for the determination of brain gangliosides by measuring stearic acid, the chief acid of gangliosides, in an appropriately purified brain ex- tract. The method includes extraction of tissue with chloro- form-methanol, extraction of gangliosides from the extract with 0.1 M KCl, evaporation of the aqueous phase, meth- anolysis, and gas-liquid chromatography of the resultant methyl esters with a double internal standard. The method depends on the simple composition of ganglioside fatty acids (80y0 stearic acid) and allows determination of less than 0.05 micromole of gangliosides. Interfering lipids are removed from the ganglioside extract by washing with chloroform- methanol-water. The effects of contamination with nonlipid N-acetylneuraminic acid are avoided.
Trends in Western Anasazi Archaeology: From Fewkes to the Future

ABSTRACTThe history of western Anasazi archaeology is a reflection of North American archaeology. Especially complementary is the use of various forms of conceptual models, changes in the quality and quantity of data, and changes in the relative scales of observation and analysis. Building from a series of foundation studies that sketched the spatial and chronological framework for the western Anasazi, explanations for prehistoric phenomena take three forms: event-related, systemic-processual, and historical-processual. These three types of explanation are explored using studies that emphasize horizontal interaction (alliances, exchange, and population movement) and vertical interaction (social egalitarianism and hierarchy). Future directions of western Anasazi archaeology are predicted that have implications for Americanist prehistoric studies in general.
SR13654, A novel agent inhibits Src signaling pathway, downregulates EGFR and survivin expression, and potently suppresses human tumor xenograft growth

B294 SR13654, developed from a dietary anticancer agent, exhibits potent anticancer activity in a variety of human tumor xenograft models, including prostate, breast and lung cancers. Preliminary mechanistic studies show that SR13654 is able to downregulate survivin and EGFR expression in PC-3 prostate cancer cells. Survivin, a member of the Inhibitor of Apoptosis gene family, preferentially expresses in malignant cells over normal cells and has been correlated with aggressive tumor behavior, drug resistance, and shortened survival times. Induction of survivin expression by paclitaxel has been reported to be an early event that initiates and confers paclitaxel resistance in cancer cells. We showed that SR13654 inhibits nuclear survivin expression and increase the efficacy of paclitaxel in human prostate tumor xenografts. Further in-depth mechanistic studies show that SR13654 inhibits Src signaling pathway. Src tyrosine kinase is overexpressed in a broad range of tumors and is believed to play a critical role in tumor growth, invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis. Src is known to be both an upstream activator and downstream mediator of epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR), and inhibition of Src activation has been reported to enhance EGFR degradation. Western blot analysis shows that SR13654 selectively inhibits pSrc(Y416) but not pSrc(Y527), and downregulates EGFR expression in a dose dependent manner. Since Src-family kinases are activated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and known to promote the survival of EGFR-dependent NSCLC cells. Moreover, EGFR-mutant NSCLC cell lines were also shown to have different sensitivity to Src suppression. We then assessed SR13654’s effect in NSCLS cells harboring distinct EGFR mutations, including A549 (WT EGFR), and H1650 (DelE746A750) and H1975 (L858R + T790M). SR13654 was able to inhibit cell growth in all three NSCLC cell lines, but was more potent in A549 and H1975 cell lines. SR13654 also showed potent oral antitumor activity in A549 lung tumor xenograft. Since mutations in EGFR kinase domain are frequently observed in NSCLC and associate with clinical responses to EGFR inhibitors. Thus, SR13654 could be effective in treatment of NSCLC harboring specific types of mutated EGFR. In summary, SR13654 is an orally active anticancer agent and has been shown to have potent anticancer activity in various human tumor xenograft models. SR13654 could be used alone or in combination with cytotoxic therapy to delay or prevent survivin-induced drug resistance in tumors, and ensure continued benefit from current therapies. Analysis of samples from a rat and mouse pharmacokinetics (PK) study is in progress.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Kidney Injury in Pediatrics

The term acute kidney injury (AKI) has replaced the outdated term acute renal failure throughout the literature and clinical practice. The term “injury” highlights the spectrum of organ injury that may occur and reflects the fact that even small changes in serum creatinine (rise of 0.3 mg/dL) can be associated with adverse outcomes. A major advance in the field of AKI research has been the development of standardized staged definitions of AKI that allow for comparison of incidence, prevalence, and outcomes across studies. The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) AKI definition represents the most recent consensus definition which is currently recommended for use in pediatric populations. Utilization of standard AKI definitions has made it clear that AKI occurs often in hospitalized patients and is associated with adverse short-term and long-term outcomes (hospital length of stay, mortality, subsequent chronic kidney disease). Awareness of the impact of AKI has resulted in increased efforts to understand, diagnose, prevent, and manage AKI earlier in the course of illness. While attempts at finding a treatment for AKI have been unsuccessful, largely due to the lack of sensitivity of the primary biomarker, serum creatinine, there have been many major advances in this field over the last 15 years. The development of novel biomarkers to predict the development of AKI in a timely manner and improve diagnostic accuracy is being pioneered by pediatric AKI researchers. The development of risk stratification scores (renal angina) and functional bedside tests (furosemide stress test) is enhancing our use of these biomarkers and our ability to predict those patients most likely to develop severe AKI. The recognition of the impact of fluid overload on mortality and hospital length of stay in patients with severe AKI has prompted more timely and frequent use of renal replacement therapy in critically ill children. Finally, we are recognizing that children who suffer AKI are at long-term risk for the development of chronic kidney disease and warrant follow-up.
BEHAVIORAL OBSERVATIONS OF SEXUAL ISOLATION AMONG ALLOPATRIC POPULATIONS OF THE MOUNTAIN DUSKY SALAMANDER, DESMOGNATHUS OCHROPHAEUS.

The behavioral basis of sexual isolation was investigated in 11 crosses staged between individuals from nine allopatric populations of the Appalachian mountain dusky salamander, Desmognathus ochrophaeus. Scan-sampled observations of within-population (homotypic) and between-population (heterotypic) heterosexual encounters yielded the following results. 1) Fewer heterotypic encounters than homotypic encounters resulted in insemination of females. Indices of the strength of sexual isolation based on insemination data ranged from 0.26 (lowest) to 0.82 (highest), indicating that mechanisms that confer sexual isolation may evolve during allopatric differentiation. 2) Heterotypic encounters that progressed as far as the stage of courtship during which the male stimulates the female to mate did so at the same time as homotypic encounters, although the number of the former reaching this stage was lower. 3) The time interval from courtship initiation to insemination was longer in heterotypic encounters than homotypic encounters. In some crosses, males did not attempt to initiate heterotypic encounters, indicating that this sex is responsible for sexual isolation in these instances. We use our results to formulate specific hypotheses concerning the behavioral basis of sexual isolation in these salamanders, and some possible experimental approaches are suggested.
The Libidinal Constitution of a High-Risk Social Movement: Affectual Ties and Solidarity in the Huk Rebellion, 1946 to 1954

The dominant theoretical paradigms in social-movement research usually neglect the influence of affectual and sexual relationships on collective action. Drawing on the psychoanalytic social theory of Philip Slater, the author employs a libidinal-economy perspective to explore the effects of such relationships on the Communist-led Huk rebellion in the Philippines (1946-1954). He argues that affectual relationships eroded the solidarity of this exclusive and high-risk social movement. The libidinal constitution (i.e., the structure and economy of the affectual ties) of the Huk movement's predominantly male activists-including cadres of the Communist Party of the Philippines-undermined their collective identity and discipline. The libidinal opportunity structure created by these activists' affectual and sexual ties allowed emotional or libidinal withdrawal from, and weakened identification with, this insurgency, thereby contributing to its eventual disintegration. He calls for a return of the repressed within social-movement theory, that is, for the incorporation of sexual and affectual ties into our theoretical perspectives and empirical research
Larval Parasites and Other Natural Enemies of Lymantria Dispar (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) in Burgenland, Austria, and Würzburg, Germany

Laboratory rearings of larvae of Lymantria Dispar (L.) collected periodically at hardwood forests in Burgenland, Austria, during 1974-1975, and near Wurzburg, West Germany, in 1974, yielded 16 and 9 species of larval parasites, respectively. The following parasites were recovered: Braconidae—Apanteles liparidis (Bouche), Apanteles melanoscelus (Ratzeburg), Apanteles porthetriae Muesebeck, Meteorus pulchricornis (Wesmael); Ichneumonidae—Casinaria tenuiventris (Gravenhorst), Hyposoter tricoloripes (Viereck), Phobocampe unicincta (Gravenhorst), Phobocampe sp.; Tachinidae— Blepharipa pratensis (Meigen), Blondelia nigripes (Fallen). Carcelia separata (Rondani), Compsilura concinnata (Meigen), Parasetigena silvestris (Robineau-desvoidy), Peribaea tibialis (Robineau-desvoidy), Siphona samarensis (Villeneuve); and Mermithidae-Hexamermis sp. nr. albicans Siebold. No single species in this parasite complex was dominant at all localities. The relative importance of the component species varied, sometimes substantially, depending upon the habitat or the phase of the host gradation.
Association of Depression With 90-Day Hospital Readmission After Total Joint Arthroplasty

Abstract Background Hospital readmission after total joint arthroplasty accounts for substantial resource consumption. Depression has been shown to impact postsurgical outcomes. We therefore aimed to study the association of depression with risk of readmission after total joint arthroplasty. Methods Retrospective cohort data from the population-based California Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database from 2007 to 2010 were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression to predict odds of 90-day readmission after hospital discharge for primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA, n = 132,422) or total hip arthroplasty (THA, n = 65,071) arthroplasty in adults ages 50+ years. We included the primary exposure of depression and controlled for age, sex, race/ethnicity, Medicaid insurance, comorbidities, and admission year. Results Overall 90-day readmission rates were approximately 8% for TKA and THA. Even after controlling for other chronic conditions and nonmodifiable covariates, we found depression predicted higher likelihood of readmission. The odds of readmission for subjects with depression were 21%-24% higher overall (odds ratio for TKA: 1.21, 95% confidence interval: 1.13-1.29; odds ratio for THR: 1.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.13-1.35; P P Conclusion Depression is associated with a significantly higher risk of readmission after THA and TKA. Hospital readmissions must be minimized to improve care quality, while making these procedures fiscally feasible. Promoting care coordination across disciplines for management of nonorthopedic comorbidities before surgery, particularly in higher risk patients with depression, could optimize orthopedic surgery outcomes, patient well-being, and costs of care. Therefore, every effort to address depression before surgery is warranted.
Making the Diagnosis: Gastroenterology

Choledocholithiasis describes the presence of a stone impacted in the common bile duct (CBD). It has a varied presentation, ranging from incidentally noted stones to potentially life-threatening cholangitis. When an obstructive stone is found, it usually requires removal, and there are multiple modalities to choose from including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and laparoscopic bile duct exploration. The best initial imaging test is with transabdominal ultrasound, but this frequently shows only a dilated CBD and not an actual stone. This creates diagnostic challenges, as missing and not removing a CBD stone can lead to recurrent or new disease in the future. Fortunately, by combining laboratory data with imaging, individuals with disease can be risk-stratified for the presence of a CBD stone, which facilitates cost-effective evaluation and treatment. The timing of intervention is also significant, as data shows an association with worse outcomes in certain groups if intervention is delayed.
Comments on Electric Power System Transient Stability

Electric power system transient stability analysis and control have been conducted for many years and achievements have got.Considering requirements for transient stability in new environment,it is necessary to analyze transient stability analysis methods for task in the current situation and key points in the future research.
Peritoneal fluid: its relevance to the development of endometriosis *

Objective To review and evaluate published studies that have examined the role of peritoneal fluid (PF) in the development of endometriosis. Design Important studies related to this topic have been identified through a computerized bibliographical search (MEDLINE), as well as by manually scanning the published literature of major reproductive journals over the last several years. Main Outcome Measures Studies that examined the effect of PF or its components on the pathophysiology of endometriosis are discussed. These include reported effects on the histogenesis, maintenance and proliferation of endometriosis, as well as related actions on infertility. Results The majority of investigations into the role PF plays in the pathogenesis of endometriosis have evaluated how it may adversely affect fertility. Suggestive but inconclusive data in the literature indicate that degenerating endometrial tissue may release a biochemical factor(s) into the peritoneal environment that is capable of inducing ectopic endometrium formation. Peritoneal fluid itself contains growth factor that may play a role in the implantation and maintenance of the ectopic endometrium. Conclusions The PF of women with endometriosis has been shown to contain angiogenic as well as other growth factors. These compounds may contribute to the proliferation of the ectopic endometrium.
Creating complex congestion patterns via multi-objective optimal freeway traffic control with application to cyber-security

Abstract This article presents a study on freeway networks instrumented with coordinated ramp metering and the ability of such control systems to produce arbitrarily complex congestion patterns within the dynamical limits of the traffic system. The developed method is used to evaluate the potential for an adversary with access to control infrastructure to enact high-level attacks on the underlying freeway system. The attacks are executed using a predictive, coordinated ramp metering controller based on finite-horizon optimal control and multi-objective optimization techniques. The efficacy of the control schemes in carrying out the prescribed attacks is determined via simulations of traffic network models based on the cell transmission model with onramps modeled as queue buffers. Freeway attacks with high-level objectives are presented on two illustrative examples: congestion-on-demand, which aims to create precise, user-specified pockets of congestion, and catch-me-if-you-can, which attempts to aid a fleeing vehicle from pursuant vehicles.
A Dual-Band, Inductively Coupled Miniaturized-Element Frequency Selective Surface With Higher Order Bandpass Response

We present a new approach for designing dual-band miniaturized-element frequency selective surfaces (MEFSSs) with independent control of the frequencies of operation of each band. The proposed device is composed of 2-D periodic arrays of subwavelength inductive wire grids and capacitive patches separated by dielectric substrates. The structure is built on an inductively coupled MEFSS that uses capacitively loaded dielectric spacers as its main resonators. The two operating bands of this MEFSS correspond to the first and second resonant frequencies of its constituting resonators. By judiciously choosing the locations where the resonators are loaded and the load values, the frequencies of the first and second resonances can be controlled individually. In this way, a dual-band MEFSS with independent frequency bands of operation can be obtained. Using the equivalent circuit model of this MEFSS, a synthesis procedure is developed that can be used to synthesize the dual-band MEFSS from its system-level performance indicators. A prototype of the proposed dual-band MEFSS with second-order bandpass response at each band is designed, fabricated, and experimentally characterized. The measurement results of this device show a stable frequency response with respect to the angle of incidence up to ±45° for both the TE and TM polarizations of incidence.
Atmospheric Ecology III: Remedial Atmospheres

Global fall-out, air pollution, and the prevalence of respiratory-diseases are our bequest to the next generation. Persons thousands of miles from the source of detonation of a nuclear weapon have absorbed the short-lived iodine-131 and subsequently long-term, slow-decay fall-out products, such as strontium-90 and cesium-137. Problems of air pollution arise from heavy industrialization and the flagrant combustion of petroleum products. With respect to communicable disease, it has been shown in tests involving purposeful dispersion of noninfectious saprophytes, that thousands of miles of coastal area could be contaminated if the biologic agents were infectious.
Progress in Maleic Anhydride Production

Maleic anhydride (furan-2,5-dione) is a key component to an incredibly diverse group of chemistries and commercial applications. The ability of maleic anhydride to achieve such great diversity is a direct result of the maleic anhydride’s industrial complex capacity to develop economical production routes in the face of ever-increasing governmental scrutiny, fierce pricing pressures, and tremendous technical requirements (at significant volumes) coupled to high demand for quality fundamental product properties.
Evaluation of amorphous magnesium phosphate (AMP) based non-exothermic orthopedic cements

This paper reports for the first time the development of a biodegradable, non-exothermic, self-setting orthopedic cement composition based on amorphous magnesium phosphate (AMP). The occurrence of undesirable exothermic reactions was avoided through using AMP as the solid precursor. The phenomenon of self-setting with optimum rheology is achieved by incorporating a water soluble biocompatible/biodegradable polymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Additionally, PVA enables a controlled growth of the final phase via a biomimetic process. The AMP powder was synthesized using a precipitation method. The powder, when in contact with the aqueous PVA solution, forms a putty resulting in a nanocrystalline magnesium phosphate phase of cattiite. The as-prepared cement compositions were evaluated for setting times, exothermicity, compressive strength, biodegradation, and microstructural features before and after soaking in SBF, and in vitro cytocompatibility. Since cattiite is relatively unexplored in the literature, a first time evaluation reveals that it is cytocompatible, just like the other phases in the MgO-P2O5 (Mg-P) system. The cement composition prepared with 15% PVA in an aqueous medium achieved clinically relevant setting times, mechanical properties, and biodegradation. Simulated body fluid (SBF) soaking resulted in coating of bobierrite onto the cement particle surfaces.
What do people think when they think about solar geoengineering? A review of empirical social science literature, and prospects for future research

Public views and values about solar geoengineering should be incorporated in science-policy decisions, if decision makers want to act in the public interest. In reflecting on the past decade of research, we review around thirty studies investigating public familiarity with, and views about, solar geoengineering. A number of recurring patterns emerge: (1) general unfamiliarity with geoengineering among publics; (2) the importance of artifice versus naturalness; (3) some conditional support for certain kinds of research; and (4) nuanced findings on the ‘moral hazard’ and ‘reverse moral hazard’ hypotheses, with empirical support for each appearing under different circumstances and populations. We argue that in the coming decade, empirical social science research on solar geoengineering will be crucial, and should be integrated with physical scientific research.
Restriction of Cancer Metastatic Potential Using Embryonic Stem Cells Encapsulated in Alginate Hydrogel Microstrands

Current treatments focused on eradicating metastatic tumors have proven unsuccessful due to cancer’s ability to quickly undergo epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasize to secondary sites. Using human triple negative breast cancer cells (BCCs) as a model system, this work establishes a platform for the study of aggressive cancer phenotypes by demonstrating the inhibition of human metastatic cancer cells with 3D cultured embryonic stem cells (ESCs) encapsulated in alginate microstrands (ESC-microstrands), which mimic the embryonic microenvironment and recapitulate pluripotent signaling. Coculture with ESC-microstrands significantly decreases triple negative BCC proliferation and survival and reverses abnormal cancer metabolism. In particular, coculture with ESC-microstrands markedly restricts the metastatic potential of highly aggressive cancer cells, demonstrated as decreased migration and invasion, and reversed EMT marker expression. This indicates that pluripotent signaling from 3D ESC...
Treatment of Vaginal Wall Prolapse

A rectocele occurs secondary to a defect in the supporting fascia of the rectum, which results in herniation of the anterior rectal and posterior vaginal wall into the lumen of the vagina. The true incidence of rectocele is clearly not well identified, as exemplified by prior literature, which places the prevalence at a range from 18 to 80% of the general population (1,2). Wells et al. reported a 12% incidence of rectoceles on physical examination when evaluating patients complaining of urinary incontinence (3). However, Raz et al. noted the need for rectocele repair in 65% of patients who underwent repair of a grade IV cystocele (4).
HINDCAST WAVE STATISTICS FOR THE GREAT LAKES

The General Investigations program of the Beach Erosion Board comprises investigations, regional rather than local in scope, designed to improve, simplify, and expedite the solution of local problems, by giving a compilation of all existing data pertinent to shore processes in the particular region. As a first step in the compilation of these data, a study of wave and lake level conditions on the Great Lakes is being made. The results of such studies for Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario have recently been completed and published as Technical Memorandums of the Beach Erosion Board (Saville, 1953).
Structure–Function of the Coronary Hierarchy

The coronary vasculature is characterized by unique properties that underlie both the performance and adaptability of the coronary circulation. One of its unique features is that transmural perfusion is limited almost entirely to diastole due to the compressive forces that exist during systole. This feature accounts for the fact that epicardial arteries function as capacitance vessels, as documented by Vatner and colleagues [1] and Chilian and Marcus [2]. High metabolic demands and the myocardium’s dependence on oxidative metabolism require (1) a relatively high blood flow and (2) short O2 diffusion distances from capillaries. To accommodate the need for rapid changes in cardiac work, and thus oxygen consumption, the heart must be capable of second-to-second modulation of perfusion. Since vasoreactivity of conduit arteries and the major resistance vessels (small arteries and arterioles) respond differently to vasoactive substances [3], data from each of these vascular beds should not be generalized.
Violence and criminal order: the case of Ciudad Juarez

Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, suffered an explosion of criminal violence between 2008 and 2012 that cost the lives of more than ten thousand people, earning it notoriety as the world’s “murder capital.” J...
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for genomic profiling of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Experience in a large community-based cancer center.

e24026Background: Comprehensive genomic profiling to identify driver mutations for which effective therapies or clinical trials are available is part of the standard diagnostic evaluation for NSCLC...
The design of an additive manufactured dual arm manipulator system

Abstract Additive manufacturing (AM), commonly referred to as 3D printing, was originally used for rapid prototyping. However, research into new technologies has allowed AM to become applicable far beyond prototype fabrication. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), sponsored by the Office of Naval Research, has designed and developed an anthropomorphic seven degree-of-freedom (DOF) dual arm hydraulic manipulator using metal AM technologies. The titanium manipulators are designed for subsea use. All electrical and fluidic passageways are printed into each arm. The novel, cam-based design uses low-flow, energy-efficient valves. The hydraulic power unit is built into the base of the hydraulic arms’ mount. This article will detail the novel AM design of the hydraulic manipulator system. It will cover the manipulators’ pitch and rotary link designs, custom valves, hydraulic power unit, and the motivation for a dual arm design. This article will also describe lessons learned throughout the project and draw conclusions for future applications.
Hans Geissendörfer’s Psychological Noir: West-German Adaptations of Patricia Highsmith Novels

This chapter argues that Hans Geissendorfer’s films Die glaserne Zelle (1978) and Ediths Tagebuch (1983), adaptations of the Patricia Highsmith novels The Glass Cell (1964) and Edith’s Diary (1977), constitute postmodernist neo-noir typical of New German Cinema. Geissendorfer’s approach to noir consists of psychological and social motifs echoed by aesthetic and editorial decisions such as lighting and shadows, and especially voice-overs to approximate the private thoughts of characters. Geissendorfer transfers much of Highsmith’s institutional criticism to a subtler criticism of the everyday politics of social structures including the family. He maintains Highsmith’s Kafkaesque thematics of exile and imprisonment within the family homestead, and at the same time, transfers Highsmith’s plots to specifically German settings, contexts, and unfoldings, including Freudian undertones.
What Would a Breach Cost Us

The impact, or consequences, of a cyber event can be substantial and complex. Costs can accrue as a result of disruptive effects on personnel, technical architecture, technology operations, business processes, customer impact, and regulatory exposure as well as a myriad of factors associated with the return to business as usual. Responses described in reporting on recent high-profile breaches have provided glimpses of varying organizational approaches to measuring actual impact. This has revealed high costs that stretch into areas well beyond the affected enterprise’s preliminary consideration. Economic impact is difficult to measure, changes with respect to event characteristics and industry context, and can stretch over a significant period of time. Costs are very real and can be substantial.
Rapid Development of Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis after Treatment of Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer with Second-Generation Androgen Receptor Antagonists.

Background Previous studies have described the association of spinal epidural lipomatosis with several conditions including chronic steroid therapy, Cushing's syndrome, obesity, Paget disease, and hypothyroidism. We present a report of rapid development of spinal epidural lipomatosis after treatment with second-generation anti-androgen therapy, a new strategy for treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer that has been increasingly employed in the past few years. A comprehensive discussion of the underlying molecular networks involving androgen receptor blockage and adipocyte differentiation, as well as the clinical implications of such a phenomenon, are provided. Case Description We describe the clinical and radiological evolution of a 58-year-old male patient with metastatic prostate cancer, who developed new onset of rapidly progressing lumbosacral epidural lipomatosis with significant compression of the nerve roots of the cauda equina a few months after initiation of treatment with second-generation androgen receptor antagonists. Conclusions The underlying pathophysiology of adipose tissue growth following the administration of anti-androgen therapy is discussed, with emphasis on both the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway as well as in the Wnt-independent pathway involving direct activation of downstream transcription factors from the T-cell factor family by the androgen receptor. As second-generation androgen receptor antagonists have been increasingly used for treatment of castration-resistant stage metastatic prostate cancer, new onset of symptomatic epidural lipomatosis should be considered as a possible differential diagnosis, especially because the urinary symptoms of cauda equina compression may be improperly attributed to the primary prostate neoplasm.
Latinx STEM Teacher Formation through a Cultural Wealth Lens.

This study draws on the framework of cultural wealth to interpret ways in which Latinx science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) preservice teachers who participated in a National Sc...
Thermal Inactivation of Borrelia burgdorferi, the Cause of Lyme Disease

Borrelia burgdorferi strain EBNI was cultivated in BSK-II medium at 34°C, then cultures at different physiological states were heat-treated at temperatures in the range of 50 to 70°C. Numbers of survivors were estimated by the Most Probable Number technique. Log MPN was plotted against treatment time, and resulting survivor curves were linear. Estimated D-values for cultures incubated at 34°C for 7 d before heat-treatment were 5.5, 4.3, 2.7, .47, and .14 min at 50, 55, 60, 65, and 70°C, respectively. Spirochetes in the lag phase had greater resistance to heat than those in the stationary phase, with the latter being more resistant to heat than spirochetes in the same phase of growth but refrigerated at 4°C for 3 d. D-values for B. burgdorferi are generally less at 50°C, and greater at 70°C than those reported for other nonsporeforming pathogens. When log10 MPN was plotted against treatment temperature, two linear segments for each thermal death curve were obtained. Our data show the spirochete had higher z-values than most nonsporeforming pathogens. The pH of the medium, in the range of 5.0 to 7.6, did not affect resistance of B. burgdorferi to heat.
Validation and application of cost and time effective methods for the detection of 3-500 μm sized microplastics in the urban marine and estuarine environments surrounding Long Beach, California.

Abstract Microplastics (MP) are detected in aquatic environments worldwide, yet detection is often limited to larger sized MP. To address this data gap, the abundance of MP 3–500 μm was assessed in the Los Angeles River, the San Gabriel River, and the Long Beach Harbor (CA, USA), three areas with highly urbanized surroundings. Whole surface water samples were taken, subjected to a hydrogen peroxide digestion and MP counts were compared between unstained visual examination and Nile Red staining identification techniques. The largest concentration of MP was found in the Los Angeles River, where 13,622 MP m−3 were found using unstained visual examination and 641,292 MP m−3 were found utilizing Nile Red staining. The protocol used to detect smaller sized MP is low cost, time efficient, and reproducible. This work highlights the need for more extensive sampling of smaller sized MP globally and universal testing and reporting standards for MP detection.
Impact of image resolution on quantification of mineral abundances and accessible surface areas

Abstract Imaging has emerged as a valuable means of geological sample characterization and parameterizing reactive transport simulations where image analysis can provide porosity, mineral composition and mineral accessible surface area data, for example. Images can be collected using a variety of techniques and at a range of resolutions, yet the impact of image resolution on measured properties is largely unknown. In this work, the impact of 2D image resolution on the calculated mineral abundances, accessibilities and effective surface areas are examined for a sample from the Paluxy formation, Kemper County, Mississippi. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) backscatter electron (BSE) images of thin sections were captured at resolutions ranging from 0.3 μm to 6 μm. Images were segmented into pores and discrete mineral phases using ImageJ and algorithms developed in MATLAB. Porosity, mineral abundances and mineral accessibilities were calculated by counting pore and mineral pixels in the segmented image where accessible minerals were deemed as those adjacent to the pore space. A 3D X-ray computed tomography (CT) image of a core sample was collected, segmented, and analyzed to evaluate the 3D connected porosity. Cuboids with the same total area as the 2D image were randomly sampled and used to calculate the 3D connected surface area. This was then multiplied by mineral accessibility to calculate accessible mineral surface areas for non-clay minerals. Minimum variations were observed for mineral abundances calculated from images with varying resolutions. For high resolution images, 0.3 μm to 1 μm, mineral accessibilities agreed relatively well. For images with resolutions from 1 μm to 6 μm, the calculated accessibility of smectite/illite decreased with decreasing resolution while quartz accessibility increased. This in turn resulted in higher effective surface areas for quartz with decreasing resolution. No significant variations were observed for calcite, siderite and K-feldspar.
Directed evolution of nanobody chaperones that stabilize GPCR:G-protein complexes

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) sense external signals through a stereotyped mechanism that couples ligand-induced conformational changes to nucleotide exchange in associated heterotrimeric G p...
Intrusive and Non-Intrusive Perceptual Speech Quality Assessment Using a Convolutional Neural Network

Speech quality, as perceived by humans, is an important performance metric for telephony and voice services. It is typically measured through subjective listening tests, which can be tedious and expensive. Algorithms such as PESQ and POLQA serve as a computational proxy for subjective listening tests. Here we propose using a convolutional neural network to predict the perceived quality of speech with noise, reverberation, and distortions, both intrusively and non-intrusively, i.e., with and without a clean reference signal. The network model is trained and evaluated on a corpus of about ten thousand utterances labeled by human listeners to derive a Mean Opinion Score (MOS) for each utterance. It is shown to provide more accurate MOS estimates than existing speech quality metrics, including PESQ and POLQA. The proposed method reduces the root mean squared error from 0.48 to 0.35 MOS points and increases the Pearson correlation from 0.78 to 0.89 compared to the state-of-the-art POLQA algorithm.
Priorities in coronary artery bypass grafting: Is midterm survival more dependent on completeness of revascularization or multiple arterial grafts?

Abstract Objective Both completeness of revascularization and multiple arterial grafts (multiple arterial coronary artery bypass grafting) have been associated with increased midterm survival after coronary artery bypass grafting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relative impact of completeness of revascularization and multiple arterial coronary artery bypass grafting on midterm survival after coronary artery bypass grafting. Methods A retrospective review of 17,411 isolated, primary coronary artery bypass grafting operations from January 2002 to June 2016 at a US academic institution was performed. Patients were divided into groups based on complete or incomplete revascularization and number of arterial grafts. Inverse probability of treatment weighting based on the generalized propensity score was performed to minimize imbalance in preoperative characteristics. Between-group differences in outcomes were assessed using multivariable logistic and Cox regression analyses, incorporating the propensity score weights. Results Patients undergoing multiple arterial coronary artery bypass grafting in this study were younger, had fewer comorbid conditions, and had lower incidence of left main stenosis compared with patients undergoing single-arterial coronary artery bypass grafting. Short-term perioperative outcomes were similar between groups once propensity score weighting was used to minimize between-group differences in preoperative variables. Median follow-up in the entire population was 630 days, but was 1366 days in the cohort with data available from the Social Security Death Index. Multiple arterial coronary artery bypass grafting was protective for midterm survival compared with single arterial coronary artery bypass grafting, regardless of complete or incomplete revascularization or strategy (multiple arterial complete revascularization vs single-arterial complete revascularization: hazard ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.69-0.97; P = .02; multiple arterial incomplete revascularization vs single-arterial incomplete revascularization: hazard ratio, 0.70; 95% confidence interval, 0.53-0.90; P = .007). Conclusions After controlling for preoperative comorbidities, multiple arterial coronary artery bypass grafting provides a modest midterm survival benefit over single-arterial coronary artery bypass grafting irrespective of completeness of revascularization, suggesting that when forced to choose, surgeons may elect to pursue multiple arterial conduits.
Ibrutinib-associated necrotic nasal lesion and pulmonary infiltrates.

Herein, we report a case of a 68-year-old woman receiving ibrutinib for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, who presented with septic shock and a progressive necrotic lesion on her nose. Surgical pathology of the nasal lesion revealed evidence of tissue necrosis, and both tissue and blood culture grew Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A diagnosis of ecthyma gangrenosum was made. Additional investigations also led to the discovery of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. To our knowledge, this is the first case of ecthyma gangrenosum secondary to Pseudomonas sepsis and concurrent invasive pulmonary aspergillosis associated with ibrutinib use.
Discovering Diamonds in Your Survey Data

This article discusses the importance of the drafting and designing process in survey creation to ensure the collection of useful data for outcome-driven decision-making at their library. The article highlights how these surveys should collect data to enable library administration to plan for, manage, and achieve outcomes that will drive future services, initiatives, and programs that can improve the entire institution. The article will also present the differences between qualitative and quantitative data and how to tackle the innate challenges of survey design.
Integrated CO2 Capture and Removal via Carbon Mineralization with Inherent Regeneration of Aqueous Solvents

Rapid scientific advancements are needed to remove CO2 from our emissions. In this context, novel molecularly integrated pathways to capture and remove CO2 as environmentally benign and solid inorg...
Left Thoracotomy Beating Heart Repair of Mitral Periprosthetic Regurgitation.

Left thoracotomy is a recognized, albeit not a commonly utilized approach for mitral valve exposure. This approach represents a good alternative to repeat median sternotomy and repeat right thoracotomy especially in cases of hostile mediastinum. We present a 72-year-old woman who underwent a beating heart left thoracotomy repair of recurrent severe mitral periprosthetic regurgitation in the presence of a porcelain aorta.
The fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora requires the rpoN gene for pathogenicity in apple

RpoN is a σ(54) factor regulating essential virulence gene expression in several plant pathogenic bacteria, including Pseudomonas syringae and Pectobacterium carotovorum. In this study, we found that mutation of rpoN in the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora caused a nonpathogenic phenotype. The E. amylovora rpoN Tn5 transposon mutant rpoN1250::Tn5 did not cause fire blight disease symptoms on shoots of mature apple trees. In detached immature apple fruits, the rpoN1250::Tn5 mutant failed to cause fire blight disease symptoms and grew to population levels 12 orders of magnitude lower than the wild-type. In addition, the rpoN1250::Tn5 mutant failed to elicit a hypersensitive response when infiltrated into nonhost tobacco plant leaves, and rpoN1250::Tn5 cells failed to express HrpN protein when grown in hrp (hypersensitive response and pathogenicity)-inducing liquid medium. A plasmid-borne copy of the wild-type rpoN gene complemented all the rpoN1250::Tn5 mutant phenotypes tested. The rpoN1250::Tn5 mutant was prototrophic on minimal solid and liquid media, indicating that the rpoN1250::Tn5 nonpathogenic phenotype was not caused by a defect in basic metabolism or growth. This study provides clear genetic evidence that rpoN is an essential virulence gene of E. amylovora, suggesting that rpoN has the same function in E. amylovora as in P. syringae and Pe. carotovorum.
THE RAMOND–RAMOND SELF-DUAL FIVE-FORM'S PARTITION FUNCTION ON T10

In view of the recent interest in formulating a quantum theory of Ramond–Ramond p-forms, we exhibit an invariant partition function for the chiral four-form of Type IIB string theory on the ten-torus. We follow the strategy used to derive a modular invariant partition function for the chiral two-form of the M-theory five-brane. We also generalize the calculation to self-dual quantum fields in space–time dimension 2p = 2 + 4k, and display the automorphic forms for odd p > 1. We relate our explicit calculation to a computation of the B-cycle periods, which are discussed in the work of Witten.
Intertemporally consistent shadow prices in an open economy: Estimates for Cyprus

Abstract In the practical estimation of shadow prices, the assumption that the economy is on a steady-state growth path is often invoked, usually implicitly. Most developing countries are far from this trajectory. We derive shadow prices where the dynamic evolution of the economy is endogenously determined, important influences being initial conditions and the constraints on foreign borrowing. Hence, the resulting (dated) shadow prices of tradeables, nontradeables, labor and the accounting rate of interest (ARI) are mutually consistent. Estimates for the Republic of Cyprus show that derivations from steady-state growth can be significant, leading to large fluctuations in the ARI and thereby making the timing of investment projects crucial.
Melting of moving vortex lattices in systems with periodic pinning

We study numerically the effects of temperature on moving vortex lattices interacting with periodic pinning arrays. For low temperatures the vortex lattice flows in channels, forming a hexatic structure with long-range transverse and longitudinal ordering. At higher temperatures, a transition to a smectic state occurs where vortices wander between channels and longitudinal order is lost while transverse order remains. At the highest temperatures the vortex lattice melts into an isotropic liquid.
Global and seasonal distribution of gravity wave activity in Mars' lower atmosphere derived from MGS radio occultation data

[1] Temperature profiles from Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) radio occultation measurements reveal vertical wave structures assumed to be atmospheric gravity waves in Mars' lower atmosphere. For each vertical temperature profile derived from a radio occultation measurement, wave energy density is calculated, and results are locally averaged to derive a global distribution of gravity wave activity. Global distributions are determined for all values of solar longitude and for solar longitudes corresponding to northern summer and winter to show seasonality and for vertical wavelengths less than 10 km to remove the contribution from thermal tides, which dominate in the Martian tropics at larger vertical wavelengths. The global energy density patterns show significant wave activity over the tropics and the mountainous Tharsis region averaged over all seasons and enhanced activity in northern summer compared to winter. For the most part, the observed data does not correlate well with the orographic forcing schemes used to model gravity waves in general circulation models for Mars, suggesting that wave sources other than orography play an important role on Mars.
The Symbolic Approach to Hybrid Systems

A hybrid system is a dynamical system whose state has both a discrete component, which is updated in a sequence of steps, and a continuous component, which evolves over time. Hybrid systems are a useful modeling tool in a variety of situations, including the embedded (digital) control of physical (analog) plants, robotics, circuits, biology, and finance. We survey a computational approach to the verification and control of hybrid systems which is based on the symbolic discretization of continuous state changes. On the theoretical side, we classify infinite, hybrid state spaces as to which finite, discrete abstractions they admit. This classification enables us to apply concepts and results from concurrency theory, model checking, and game theory to hybrid systems. On the practical side, we discuss several options for implementing the symbolic approach to hybrid systems, and point to existing tool support.