cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient storage of weather radar data

SUMMARY Weather radars produce large amounts of data and this has important implications for the archiving and analysis of data. The need for methods to deal with weather radar data sets will only increase as the United States National Weather Service (NWS) continues deployment of its 137 WSR-88D radars as part of the NEXRAD program. In this article we describe a compression and archiving strategy for weather radar data and present results for 62 days of reflectivity data from a radar operated by the NWS, as well as results for 60 days of reflectivity data for a radar operated by the Bureau of Meteorology in Australia. In their original format, these two sets require 60 GB of storage. In the format we describe, they require 4.8 GB and the data is portable across many platforms. The software for manipulating the converted data is simple, efficient, and easy to implement in C or Fortran. The savings in disk space and reduction in reading time compare favorably with what is attainable with deflation, the algorithm used in the populargzip compression program. '1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping of microsatellite markers developed from a flow-sorted swine chromosome 6 library

Swine Chromosome (Chr) 6-enriched libraries, generated with size-fractionated DNA isolated from chromosomes sorted by flow cytometry, have been used to develop new Chr 6 microsatellite markers. Chromosome isolation procedures were established to reproducibly prepare high quality chromosomes from phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated swine peripheral blood lymphocytes and to sort individual chromosomes after staining with Hoechst 33258 and chromomycin A3. Chromosome purity was verified by specific staining of swine Chr 6 with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) by use of painting probes generated by degenerate oligonucleotide-primed polymerase chain reaction (DOP-PCR) amplification of as few as 300 sorted Chr 6. For library construction, DNA was extracted from flow-sorted pools representing Chr 6, amplified, size selected for fragments from 300 to 700 bp, and ligated into pBluescript SK II+ or Lambda ZAP Express. The libraries were then screened with a radiolabeled poly-(dCA) DNA probe. Of 107 (CA)n repeat-containing clones verified by sequencing, 21 were polymorphic and used to genotype the University of Illinois swine reference families. Linkage analysis was then performed with CRIMAP 2.4 (LOD > 3.0), and the results showed that 15 of the microsatellites mapped to swine Chr 6. At least three of these new markers map to locations where there were gaps in the consensus Chr 6 map. Another four markers, because of their PIC values, should provide more informative markers in other areas of the map. Most of the new markers can also be used for automated genotyping with fluorescent labeling. This set of 15 new Chr 6 markers will, therefore, be useful in helping to define QTL associated with swine Chr 6.
Evaluation and treatment of male and female pattern hair loss

Whether the thinning that occurs after age 50 to60 is all androgen related or is secondary to some other factor related to aging is not entirely clear.•Asian, Native American, and many men of African heritage have a decreased frequency of frontal hair loss andless extensive hair loss compared to Caucasians.
Nanometer-level alignment using interferometric-spatial-phase- imaging (ISPI) during silicon nanowire growth

We describe a method of detecting nanometer-level gap and tip/tilt alignment between a focusing zone plate mask and a silicon substrate using interferometric-spatial-phase-imaging (ISPI). The zone plate mask is used to generate submicrometer focused light spot to induce silicon nanowire growth in a CVD process. ISPI makes use of diffracting fringes from gratings and checkerboards fabricated on the mask to determine the correct gapping distance for the focusing zone plates. The method is capable of detecting alignment inside a gas-flow chamber with variable pressure.
Tension-free repair of hiatal hernia during laparoscopic fundoplication: a ten-year experience.

Background: The breakdown of a hiatal hernia repair can lead to clinical failure. The use of prosthetic material at the esophageal hiatus to strengthen the crural repair is relatively new and questions remain. This report examines the safety and efficacy of a tension-free crural repair with mesh. Patients and methods: Since 1993, 135 consecutive patients (19–86) [9 re-do] completed laparoscopic tension-free hiatal hernia repair prior to Nissen wrap. Esophageal hiatus was patched with a PTFE mesh (first 112 patients) or a PTFE/ePTFE composite (23 patients) secured across the defect with staples to each crura. 130 patients completed a phone questionnaire during 2003/2004 (mean f/u 64 months). Results: There have been no short-term nor long-term infections related to the PTFE mesh. Symptoms were resolved or improved and resolved with meds in 122/130 (94%). Early re-herniation occurred in one patient after vigorous exercise. Conclusions: Mesh repair/patch of the esophageal hiatus can be done without infection, with results similar to standard crural repair and consistent with surgical principles of non-tension.
Large-Scale Biomedical Image Analysis in Grid Environments

This paper presents the application of a component-based Grid middleware system for processing extremely large images obtained from digital microscopy devices. We have developed parallel, out-of-core techniques for different classes of data processing operations employed on images from confocal microscopy scanners. These techniques are combined into a data preprocessing and analysis pipeline using the component-based middleware system. The experimental results show that: 1) our implementation achieves good performance and can handle very large datasets on high-performance Grid nodes, consisting of computation and/or storage clusters and 2) it can take advantage of Grid nodes connected over high-bandwidth wide-area networks by combining task and data parallelism.
Large Scale Distributed Deep Networks

Recent work in unsupervised feature learning and deep learning has shown that being able to train large models can dramatically improve performance. In this paper, we consider the problem of training a deep network with billions of parameters using tens of thousands of CPU cores. We have developed a software framework called DistBelief that can utilize computing clusters with thousands of machines to train large models. Within this framework, we have developed two algorithms for large-scale distributed training: (i) Downpour SGD, an asynchronous stochastic gradient descent procedure supporting a large number of model replicas, and (ii) Sandblaster, a framework that supports a variety of distributed batch optimization procedures, including a distributed implementation of L-BFGS. Downpour SGD and Sandblaster L-BFGS both increase the scale and speed of deep network training. We have successfully used our system to train a deep network 30x larger than previously reported in the literature, and achieves state-of-the-art performance on ImageNet, a visual object recognition task with 16 million images and 21k categories. We show that these same techniques dramatically accelerate the training of a more modestly- sized deep network for a commercial speech recognition service. Although we focus on and report performance of these methods as applied to training large neural networks, the underlying algorithms are applicable to any gradient-based machine learning algorithm.
Early-season insect defoliation influences the critical time for weed removal in soybean

Abstract To develop more effective pest-management strategies, it is essential to understand how different pests interact with each other and the crop. Field studies were conducted in 2003 and 2004 at two Nebraska locations to determine the effects of early-season crop defoliation on the critical time for weed removal (CTWR) in narrow-row soybean. Three soybean defoliation levels were selected to simulate 0, 30, and 60% leaf tissue removal by the bean leaf beetle. Weeds were allowed to compete with the crop until V2, V4, V6, R3, and R5 growth stages. There were also season-long weedy and weed-free treatments. Results indicated that the CTWR in soybean occurred earlier as defoliation levels increased from 0 to 60%. The CTWR occurred at V3, V2, and V1 growth stage for 0, 30, and 60% defoliation levels, respectively. Overall, 60% defoliation resulted in earlier CTWR by at least 14 d. Yield losses from defoliation and weed interference were primarily associated with a reduction in number of pods per plant−1. ...
Do Foreign IT Workers Affect the Wages and Employment of the Natives

In today’s knowledge-based economy and fast growing world, it is the countries with workforces that are creative, adaptable, and skillful that will gain competitive advantage; therefore countries worldwide are designing and implementing policies to attract “the best and brightest” talents that are essential to their success. Highly skilled immigrants or foreign workers have made significant contributions to the U.S. At the same time, it has been noted that highly skilled immigrants can crowd out native workers, lower their wages, and influence their career choices. This research in progress focuses on one prominent category of skilled foreign workers, the information technology (IT) workers, and examine whether foreign IT workers have affected the wages, employment, and career choices of the native IT workers. We present some preliminary findings obtained from a large scale U.S. national survey. The results of this study can potentially bear important theoretical and practical implications.
The Brauer Group Is Not a Derived Invariant

In this short note we observe that the recent examples of derived-equivalent Calabi–Yau 3-folds with diffierent fundamental groups also have diffierent Brauer groups, using a little topological K-theory.
STRING MATCHING FOR THE NOVICE

(1994). String Matching for the Novice. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 101, No. 10, pp. 944-947.
Influence of dissolved Si3N4 on the properties of Al2O3-MgO-SiO2 glass

Mesure du coefficient de dilatation thermique, de la durete du module d'elasticite et de la temperature de transition vitreuse en fonction de la teneur en Si 3 N 4 dissous dans le verre. Relation avec les modifications dans la phase au joint de grain au cours du pressage a chaud de Si 3 N 4
Age Changes in Tooth Wear and Morphology of the Baculum in Muskrats

In the juvenile muskrat 5–8 months of age the distal end or digital processes of the baculum are cartilagenous and the calcification within has only just begun. Ossification centers are 3–6 in number. Calcification is nearly complete in all adult animals. The shaft in adults is heavier and more rugose. These differences provide a new technique for age classification of the harvest. Dimensions such as width and length of the shaft are not reliable criteria of age because considerable overlap is found in large samples. Dentition is not a valid criterion of age in Missouri muskrats.
Provincialising Heidegger; Globalising Arendt

Abstract: Dipesh Chakrabarty’s Provincializing Europe uses Martin Heidegger’s Being-with to ground his defence of a decolonial historiography. In this essay I show that Heidegger’s broader aims within Being and Time nullify Chakrabarty’s hopes for recovering fragile political spaces. In contrast to Heidegger, I propose Hannah Arendt’s writings on Jewish politics as an alternative for students of decolonisation. Arendt’s focus on plurality and new beginnings complement Chakrabarty’s critiques of historicism and political belonging in a way that more fully realises the broader ambitions of Provincializing Europe.
Relationship between university and industry education

Education for technical professionals is discussed. Goals for primary/secondary education, for university education, and for industry education are hypothesized and their relationship to the maturation of engineers is defined. A 'knowledge goal model' is described, and the maturation process is mapped onto the model. Some conclusions are drawn from the mapping, and implications for university and industry educations are drawn. This paper is intended to stimulate some thought on the part of educators in both academia and in industry. Well–planned, cooperative efforts between these educators are needed to sustain the competitiveness of industry in today's world economy.
Energy harvesting via thermo-piezoelectric transduction within a heated capillary

Thermal-to-kinetic-to-electrical energy conversion is demonstrated through the use of a piezoelectric transducer (PZT) integrated within a section of an oscillating heat pipe (OHP) partially filled with water. The sealed PZT transducer was configured as a bow spring parallel to the dominant flow direction within the OHP. The bottom portion of the OHP was heated in increments of 50 W, while its top portion was actively cooled via water blocks. At ∼50 W, the internal fluid started to oscillate at ∼2–4 Hz due to the non-uniform vapor pressure generated in the OHP evaporator. Low-frequency fluid “pulses” were observed to occur across the flexed, in-line piezoelectric transducer, resulting in its deflection and measureable voltage spikes ranging between 24 and 63 mV. The OHP, while having its internal fluid enthalpy harvested, was found to still have an ultra-high thermal conductivity on-the-order of 10 kW/m K; however, its maximum operating heat load decreased due to the pressure drop introduced by the PZT material. The thermo-piezoelectric harvesting concept made possible via the thermally driven fluid oscillations within an OHP provides a passive method for combined energy harvesting and thermal management that is both scalable and portable.
Analysis of Ultrafast Transient Absorption Spectroscopy Data using Integrative Data Analysis Platform: 1. Data Processing, Fitting, and Model Selection

This manuscript describes a workflow for analysis of transient absorption (TA) spectroscopy data using Integrative Data Analysis Platforms (IDAP) software package. Time-dependent spectral series are analyzed through evaluation of the isosbestic point and kinetics of excited state and ground-state bleach decays. Model fitting and selection based on Akaike9s Information Criterion is discussed. As a practical example, we analyze excitation decays of a common protein label, Alexa Fluor 647.
What's Fair?

Data, algorithms, and systems have biases embedded within them reflecting designers' explicit and implicit choices, historical biases, and societal priorities. They form, literally and inexorably, a codification of values. "Unfairness" of algorithms -- for tasks ranging from advertising to recidivism prediction -- has attracted considerable attention in the popular press. The talk will discuss the nascent mathematically rigorous study of fairness in classification and scoring.
Formaldehyde-mediated spectroscopic properties of heavy water from first principles simulation

Abstract Water shows incredible ability to form a rich variety of hydrogen bonded structure when encountered atmospheric solute. We have presented a first-principle Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics simulation for deuterated formaldehyde-water ( D 2 CO - D 2 O ) system with dispersion corrected density functional (BLYP-D3). We explicitly focus on the relaxation and spectroscopy associated with the CO mode of D2CO and its interaction with surrounding water molecules through deuterated-hydrogen bonding. Our study enables us to compare and contrast our findings with earlier calculations on formaldehyde in water, and thereby explore the effect of solvent on the structural and dynamical properties of the solute. Inside the first solvation shell of deuterated formaldehyde, we find that the higher frequency of OD modes of water is a result of weak interaction. The frequency fluctuations of the CO mode of solute and OD modes of the solvent water are also investigated. Our calculation with the inclusion of dispersion correction in density functional produces much better results compared with the earlier ab initio approach (Mugnai et al., 2007).
Chemotherapy-Induced Depletion of OCT4-Positive Cancer Stem Cells in a Mouse Model of Malignant Testicular Cancer

Summary Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are among the most responsive solid cancers to conventional chemotherapy. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we developed a mouse TGCT model featuring germ cell-specific Kras activation and Pten inactivation. The resulting mice developed malignant, metastatic TGCTs composed of teratoma and embryonal carcinoma, the latter of which exhibited stem cell characteristics, including expression of the pluripotency factor OCT4. Consistent with epidemiological data linking human testicular cancer risk to in utero exposures, embryonic germ cells were susceptible to malignant transformation, whereas adult germ cells underwent apoptosis in response to the same oncogenic events. Treatment of tumor-bearing mice with genotoxic chemotherapy not only prolonged survival and reduced tumor size but also selectively eliminated the OCT4-positive cancer stem cells. We conclude that the chemosensitivity of TGCTs derives from the sensitivity of their cancer stem cells to DNA-damaging chemotherapy.
Peri-procedural Corticosteroid Use in Improving Outcomes Following Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: Back to Square One?

Bilateral pulmonary vein (PV) isolation by catheter ablation has become an established therapy for highly symptomatic, drug refractory, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) (1, 2). The efficacy of pulmonary vein isolation has improved over the years through refinement of procedural technique as well as improved ablation technology involving irrigated ablation, contact force sensing, and “single shot” ablation techniques such as cryo, laser, and multielectrode ablation catheters(1, 3-5). However, durable pulmonary vein isolation has remained a significant challenge with increasing rates of pulmonary vein reconnection noted during long-term follow-up (6, 7). Similarly, acute reconnections as well as early recurrences during the blanking period have been associated with reduced freedom from AF during follow-up(8). With radiofrequency (RF) ablation, acute inflammation from the ablation lesions itself have been thought to have a major role in AF recurrences during the immediate peri-procedural period (9).
Radiology Nursing Specialty Orientation

Abstract Nurses have influenced and added value to radiology practice by incorporating assessment skills and evidence-based practice initiatives. An effective orientation program in a specialty practice such as radiology may be challenging in terms of meeting the learning needs of new employees. A learning needs assessment revealed that current educational content was sufficient, but nurses were not receiving education at the appropriate time, and consistent preceptorship was lacking. A nursing education specialist redesigned the orientation program by creating various teaching/learning methods, including independent self-study reading assignments, online modules, and scheduled monthly skills laboratories. A preceptor workgroup was established, and training was provided. Providing a solid orientation, especially for new graduates, that is consistent with values, behavioral expectations, and essential knowledge, allows for successful role transition, which in turn led to retention. In addition, staff participation in the redesign and implementation of the orientation program provided opportunities for engagement in the practice, which increased job satisfaction.
Democratic Participation with Scientists Through Socioscientific Inquiry

Attempting to ground scientific knowledge in a relevant and meaningful context, the use of socioscientific issues (SSI) in the classroom seeks to encourage students to formulate a critical understanding of the interface between science, society and technology. While rhetoric on SSI in the science education community posits lofty goals such as citizenship education, enhancing students’ connections to science, and empowering students for the betterment of society (Sadler et al. 2007), more research is now needed to investigate fully the potential of these targets. Most of the SSI research focuses heavily on the development of students’ argumentation skills and consideration of multiple views in deliberation about controversial issues such as climate change and genetic engineering (Kolsto et al. 2006). While these are indeed valuable aims centered on important global issues, it is also imperative that SSI-focused education be situated in students’ local communities, connected to their immediate interests, and tied to reflections upon their personal views and the critical dissection of multiple perspectives. Bolstering the SSI and local community connection provides opportunities for students to become active participants and contributors in their community (Hodson 2003).
Atomistic simulation of effect of impurities on Σ3 (111) grain boundary fracture in tungsten

The effect of various impurities (B, C, N, C, O, Al, Si, S, and P) on the intrinsic resistance of the Σ3 (111) grain boundary (GB) in tungsten has been investigated using molecular dynamics simulation. The Finnis–Sinclair many-body potential for W, and the so-called ‘environment-sensitive embedding energies’ for the impurities were used. The fracture resistance of the GB has been characterized by computing, in each case, the ideal work of GB separation, the Mode I stress intensity factor and the Eshelby's F1 conservation integral at the onset of crack propagation. The results obtained suggest that pure tungsten is relatively resistant towards GB decohesion; this resistance is further enhanced by the presence of B, C and N. On the other hand, O, Al and Si have a relatively minor effect on the cohesion strength of the GB. In sharp contrast, S and P greatly reduce this strength, thus enhancing the tungsten brittleness. These results have been correlated with the effect of the impurity atoms on the material evolution at the crack tip.
Net and gross sedimentation in relation to the phosphorus budget of Eau Galle Reservoir, Wisconsin

We compared P retention with direct measures of Psedimentation, estimated fromsediment cores (annual P sedimentation) and sedimenttraps (daily P sedimentation),to quantify P sedimentation in Eau Galle Reservoir,Wisconsin. Mean annual Pretention was similar to mean annual P sedimentation,as estimated from sediment corerates integrated over the entire lake basin,indicating that annual P mass balanceapproximated annual net P sedimentation in thisreservoir. However, sediment trap Prates, measured over the summer stratified period,overestimated P retention ratesdetermined over the same period, suggestingsubstantial deposition of internally-derived P.Inclusion of measured internal P loadings from avariety of sources in EauGalle Reservoir in a P mass balance only accounted foran additional 24% of thesummer sediment trap P rate, indicating substantialuncertainty in the overall P budget.Imbalances in the P budget may also suggest depositionof sediment from other as yetunquantified internal sources. Potential internalsources of P include sedimentresuspension and chemical release and direct uptake ofP from the sediment byphytoplankton.
The Puzzling Pulvinar

The functional role of the pulvinar, with its widespread cortical connectivity, has remained elusive. In this issue of Neuron, Jaramillo et al. (2019) provide a computational roadmap for how the pulvinar might influence various cognitive behaviors across multiple large-scale networks.
AirOpen image in new window

‘Air’ is the gases that make up the atmosphere. In dry air, N2 (78.084 %), O2 (20.946 %), and Ar (0.934 %) are 99.964 % of the total.
Making Jerusalem the centre of the Muslim World: Pan-Islam and the World Islamic congress of 1931

This article investigates the place of Jerusalem in the interwar Pan-Islamic movement through a discussion of the history of how the city came to host the World Islamic Congress of 1931. Arguing ag...
Advanced infrared imaging in the future (Conference Presentation)

Have we finally accomplished full maturity infrared focal planes? Are the pitches small enough, array sizes large enough, well capacity (and digital ROIC) deep enough, and quantum efficiency high enough? Have we exploited every photon that is available? Have we achieved full optical performance to include diffraction, aberrations, and processing? If not, what is left? Have we exploited spectral characteristics, polarization, and time to the limits? At what point, do these systems become adaptive imaging systems that can respond to multiple missions? At what point do these systems become known as computational imaging systems? In fact, one important question might be: are we still specifying the performance requirements of advanced infrared imagers the right way? The author does not know the answer to most of these questions, but will discuss future possibilities.
Extracellular vesicles impose quiescence on residual hematopoietic stem cells in the leukemic niche

Progressive remodeling of the bone marrow microenvironment is recognized as an integral aspect of leukemogenesis. Expanding acute myeloid leukemia (AML) clones not only alter stroma composition, but also actively constrain hematopoiesis, representing a significant source of patient morbidity and mortality. Recent studies revealed the surprising resistance of long-term hematopoietic stem cells (LT-HSC) to elimination from the leukemic niche. Here, we examine the fate and function of residual LT-HSC in the BM of murine xenografts with emphasis on the role of AML-derived extracellular vesicles (EV). AML-EV rapidly enter HSC, and their trafficking elicits protein synthesis suppression and LT-HSC quiescence. Mechanistically, AML-EV transfer a panel of miRNA, including miR-1246, that target the mTOR subunit Raptor, causing ribosomal protein S6 hypo-phosphorylation, which in turn impairs protein synthesis in LT-HSC. While HSC functionally recover from quiescence upon transplantation to an AML-naive environment, they maintain relative gains in repopulation capacity. These phenotypic changes are accompanied by DNA double-strand breaks and evidence of a sustained DNA-damage response. In sum, AML-EV contribute to niche-dependent, reversible quiescence and elicit persisting DNA damage in LT-HSC.
Through the lens of hair follicle neogenesis, a new focus on mechanisms of skin regeneration after wounding

Wound-induced hair follicle neogenesis (WIHN) is a phenomenon that occurs in adult mammalian skin, where fully functional hair follicles are regenerated in the center of large full-thickness excisional wounds. Although originally discovered over 50 years ago in mice and rabbits, within the last decade it has received renewed interest, as the molecular mechanism has begun to be defined. This de novo regeneration of hair follicles largely recapitulates embryonic hair development, requiring canonical Wnt signaling in the epidermis, however, important differences between the two are beginning to come to light. TLR3 mediated double stranded RNA sensing is critical for the regeneration, activating retinoic acid signaling following wounding. Inflammatory cells, including Fgf9-producing γ-δ T cells and macrophages, are also emerging as important mediators of WIHN. Additionally, while dispensable in embryonic hair follicle development, Shh signaling plays a major role in WIHN and may be able to redirect cells fated to scarring wounds into a regenerative phenotype. The cellular basis of WIHN is also becoming clearer, with increasing evidence suggesting an incredible level of cellular plasticity. Multiple stem cell populations, along with lineage switching of differentiated cells all contribute towards the regeneration present in WIHN. Further study of WIHN will uncover key steps in mammalian development and regeneration, potentially leading to new clinical treatments for hair-related disorders or fibrotic scarring.
Management of the Contracted Socket

The ideal anophthalmic socket has the following characteristics: a well-positioned implant of adequate volume, normal upper and lower eyelids with good height and tone, and a lining of mucous membrane with deep superior and inferior fornices to hold the ocular prosthesis. Sockets can become scarred and contracted due to trauma, recurrent infections and inflammations, chemical or thermal injuries, implant exposures, and radiation therapy. Mild contracture leads to entropion with poor cosmesis and crusting. Moderate contracture results in shallowing of the fornices with inability to close the eyelids and often difficulty in maintaining the artificial eye. Severe contracture results in complete loss of fornices, horizontal shortening, and inability to place a prosthesis. This chapter covers the causes and prevention of socket contracture as well as surgical correction. Methods include grafting with mucous membrane, amniotic membrane, dermis fat, and skin. Fornix-deepening sutures as well as fixated conformers are also discussed.
WHO NEEDS TISSUE? A MULTIMODALITY IMAGING APPROACH FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF ISOLATED CARDIAC SARCOIDOSIS

It is estimated that 25% of patients with sarcoidosis have isolated cardiac sarcoidosis (ICS). The use of cardiac imaging to diagnosis ICS has become a valuable option when tissue sampling is not feasible. A 72-year old female with a history of high-grade AV block (Figure A) presented after a
Predicting Bone Marrow Damage in the Skull After Clinical Transcranial MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound With Acoustic and Thermal Simulations

Transcranial MRI-guided focused ultrasound (TcMRgFUS) thermal ablation is a noninvasive functional neurosurgery technique. Previous reports have shown that damage in the skull bone marrow can occur at high acoustic energies. While this damage is asymptomatic, it would be desirable to avoid it. Here we examined whether acoustic and thermal simulations can predict where the thermal lesions in the marrow occurred. Post-treatment imaging was obtained at 3–15 months after 40 clinical TcMRgFUS procedures, and bone marrow lesions were observed after 16 treatments. The presence of lesions was predicted by the acoustic energy with a threshold of 18.1–21.1 kJ (maximum acoustic energy used) and 97–112 kJ (total acoustic energy applied over the whole treatment). The size of the lesions was not always predicted by the acoustic energy used during treatment alone. In contrast, the locations, sizes, and shapes of the heated regions estimated by the acoustic and thermal simulations were qualitatively similar to those of the lesions. The lesions generally appeared in areas that were predicted to have high temperatures. While more work is needed to validate the temperature estimates in and around the skull, being able to predict the locations and onset for lesions in the bone marrow could allow for better distribution of the acoustic energy over the skull. Understanding skull absorption characteristics of TcMRgFUS could also be useful in optimizing transcranial focusing.
Validation of an LC-MS/MS Assay for the Simultaneous Determination of Bictegravir, Doravirine, and Raltegravir in Human Plasma

Bictegravir (BIC), an integrase inhibitor, and doravirine (DOR), a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, were recently approved by the US FDA for HIV treatment and are recommended first line treatment options. Because certain clinical scenarios warrant using them in combination, we developed a fully validated LC-MS/MS method for simultaneous measurement of BIC and DOR, along with a legacy integrase inhibitor, raltegravir (RAL), in human plasma over a clinically relevant 1000-fold range for each analyte. These analytes were extracted from the plasma by protein precipitation with their stable, isotopically labeled internal standards (BIC-d5, 13C6-DOR, and RAL-d6). Following extraction, samples were analyzed by reverse phase chromatography on a Waters Atlantis T3 C18 (50x2.1mm, 3um particle size) column with subsequent detection by electrospray ionization in positive ion mode on an AB Sciex API-5000 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The assay was linear (R2>0.994) over the selected calibration ranges (20.0-20,000ng/mL (BIC), 3.00-3,000ng/mL (DOR), and 10.0-10,000 (RAL)). The assay was accurate (inter-assay %Bias ≤±8.5) and precise (inter-assay %CV ≤11.4). This method was validated according to FDA guidance for industry and can be used to assess the pharmacokinetics of two newly approved antiretrovirals, or to support therapeutic drug monitoring for modern antiretroviral therapy.
Non-Decision Power and Political Opportunity: Exposing Structural Barriers to Mobilization in Louisiana’s Coastal Restoration Conflict:

Louisiana’s Comprehensive Master Plan for a Sustainable Coast is the state of Louisiana’s ambitious response to its continuing land loss crisis. Coastal restoration enjoys universal approval as a p...
Cancer cachexia in a mouse model of oxidative stress

Background Cancer is associated with muscle atrophy (cancer cachexia) that is linked to up to 40% of cancer-related deaths. Oxidative stress is a critical player in the induction and progression of age-related loss of muscle mass and weakness (sarcopenia); however, the role of oxidative stress in cancer cachexia has not been defined. The purpose of this study was to examine if elevated oxidative stress exacerbates cancer cachexia. Methods Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase knockout (Sod1KO) mice were used as an established mouse model of elevated oxidative stress. Cancer cachexia was induced by injection of one million Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells or phosphate-buffered saline (saline) into the hind flank of female wild-type mice or Sod1KO mice at approximately 4 months of age. The tumour developed for 3 weeks. Muscle mass, contractile function, neuromuscular junction (NMJ) fragmentation, metabolic proteins, mitochondrial function, and motor neuron function were measured in wild-type and Sod1KO saline and tumour-bearing mice. Data were analysed by two-way ANOVA with Tukey-Kramer post hoc test when significant F ratios were determined and α was set at 0.05. Unless otherwise noted, results in abstract are mean ±SEM. Results Muscle mass and cross-sectional area were significantly reduced, in tumour-bearing mice. Metabolic enzymes were dysregulated in Sod1KO mice and cancer exacerbated this phenotype. NMJ fragmentation was exacerbated in tumour-bearing Sod1KO mice. Myofibrillar protein degradation increased in tumour-bearing wild-type mice (wild-type saline, 0.00847 ± 0.00205; wildtype LLC, 0.0211 ± 0.00184) and tumour-bearing Sod1KO mice (Sod1KO saline, 0.0180 ± 0.00118; Sod1KO LLC, 0.0490 ± 0.00132). Muscle mitochondrial oxygen consumption was reduced in tumour-bearing mice compared with saline-injected wild-type mice. Mitochondrial protein degradation increased in tumour-bearing wild-type mice (wild-type saline, 0.0204 ± 0.00159; wild-type LLC, 0.167 ± 0.00157) and tumour-bearing Sod1KO mice (Sod1KO saline, 0.0231 ± 0.00108; Sod1 KO LLC, 0.0645 ± 0.000631). Sciatic nerve conduction velocity was decreased in tumour-bearing wild-type mice (wild-type saline, 38.2 ± 0.861; wild-type LLC, 28.8 ± 0.772). Three out of eleven of the tumour-bearing Sod1KO mice did not survive the 3-week period following tumour implantation. Conclusions Oxidative stress does not exacerbate cancer-induced muscle loss; however, cancer cachexia may accelerate NMJ disruption.
Deficiency of Meis1, a transcriptional regulator, in mice and worms: Neurochemical and behavioral characterizations with implications in the restless legs syndrome

Restless legs syndrome is a sleep-related sensorimotor neurological disease affecting up to 10% of the population. Genetic analyses have identified Myeloid Ecotropic viral Integration Site 1 (MEIS1), a transcriptional regulator, to be associated with not only the restless legs syndrome but also self-reported symptoms of insomnia and sleep. This study is to determine if Meis1 deficiency in mice can lead to restless legs syndrome-like phenotypes, and if it is the case, what the underlying mechanisms are. We used two genetic model systems, Caenorhabditis elegans and mice. Egg retention assay and fluorescent reporters were used with C. elegans. For mice, we performed behavioral tests, serum and brain iron detection, qRT-PCR, western blot, immunohistochemistry, and in vitro brain-slice recording. Our results showed that with C. elegans, the function of dop-3, an orthologue of DRD2, was diminished after the knockdown of unc-62, an ortholog of MEIS1. Additionally, unc-62 knockdown led to enhanced transcription of the orthologue of tyrosine hydroxylase, cat-2. Meis1 knockout mice were hyperactive and had a rest-phase-specific increased probability of waking. Moreover, Meis1 knockout mice had increased serum ferritin and altered striatal dopaminergic and cholinergic systems. Specifically, Meis1 knockout mice showed an increased mRNA level but decreased protein level of tyrosine hydroxylase in the striatum. Furthermore, Meis1 knockout mice had increased striatal dopamine turnover and decreased spontaneous firing regularity of striatal cholinergic interneurons. Our data suggest that Meis1 knockout mice have restless legs syndrome-like motor restlessness and changes in serum ferritin levels. The symptoms may be related to dysfunctional dopaminergic and cholinergic systems.
Examining Classism and Critical Consciousness Within Psychology of Working Theory

Building from psychology of working theory, this study tested how critical consciousness, composed of perceived inequality, egalitarianism, and critical action, moderate the relations between conte...
Newborn screening and molecular features of patients with multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency in Quanzhou, China.

Objectives Multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is an autosomal recessive disorder of fatty acid, amino acid and choline metabolism. Late-onset MADD is caused by ETFDH mutations and is the most common lipid storage myopathy in China. However, few patients with MADD have been identified through newborn screening (NBS). This study assessed the acylcarnitine profiles and molecular features of patients with MADD identified through NBS. Methods From January 2014 to June 2020, 479,786 newborns screened via tandem mass spectrometry were recruited for this study. Newborns with elevated levels of multiple acylcarnitines were recalled, those who tested positive in the reassessment were referred for genetic analysis. Results Of 479,786 newborns screened, six were diagnosed with MADD. The MADD incidence in the Chinese population was estimated to be 1:79,964. Initial NBS revealed five patients with typical elevations in the levels of multiple acylcarnitines; however, in one patient, acylcarnitine levels were in the normal reference range during recall. Notably, one patient only exhibited a mildly increased isovalerylcarnitine (C5) level at NBS. The patient with an atypical acylcarnitine profile was diagnosed with MADD by targeted gene sequencing. Six distinct ETFDH missense variants were identified, with the most common variant being c.250G>A (p.A84T), with an allelic frequency of 58.35 (7/12). Conclusions These findings revealed that it is easy for patients with MADD to go unidentified, as they may have atypical acylcarnitine profiles at NBS and the recall stage, indicating the value of genetic analysis for confirming suspected inherited metabolic disorders in the NBS program. Therefore, false-negative (FN) results may be reduced by combining tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) with genetic testing in NBS for MADD.
Trade credit and profitability in production networks

Abstract We construct a sample of over 200,000 supply chains between 2003 and 2018 to conduct a chain-based analysis of trade credit. Our study uncovers novel stylized facts about trade credit both within and across supply chains. More upstream firms borrow more from suppliers, lend more to customers, and hold more net trade credit. This upstreamness effect in trade credit is weaker for more profitable firms and for longer chains. Firms in more central or more profitable chains provide more net trade credit. Our results are generally consistent with the recursive moral hazard theory of trade credit. Evidence for the financing advantage theory is mixed.
Executive Power and the Rule of Law in the Marshall Court: A Re-Reading of Little v. Barreme and Murray v. Schooner Charming Betsy

This Essay uses two 1804 opinions by Chief Justice John Marshall to explicate a world in which understandings of executive power and the rule of law were very different from those that predominate today. Scholars have misread Little v. Barreme and Murray v. Schooner Charming Betsy, this Essay argues, because they apply modern assumptions about the balance of power between Congress and the executive that do not fit the Marshall Court’s constitutional vision. Contemporary interpretations read Little for the propositions that the president’s inherent wartime power may be limited by statute and that early American jurists rejected officers’ “good faith” defenses to liability for tortious acts. But the opinion in fact reflects the Marshall Court’s view that, in an undeclared war, the president could not act at all unless authorized by Congress and that under no circumstances could the president give an officer a right to act where Congress had not. Charming Betsy, meanwhile, is known today for the “Charming Betsy canon”: Marshall’s assertion that wherever possible, courts ought to interpret the laws of Congress to accord with international law. In its historical context, however, the case illustrates Marshall’s view of the law of nations not as an external constraint on sovereignty—a common understanding of international law’s role today—but as an aspect of the rule of law critical to preserving the proper allocation of powers between Congress and the president. Indeed, read together, these cases show Marshall using the law of nations to reinforce a tenet central to the separation of powers in the new republic: that only Congress could alter the nation’s war footing. Through Little and Charming Betsy, the Marshall Court sought to foreclose Congress’s efforts to abdicate its responsibility to authorize acts of war and thus to underscore the constitutional balance that placed the war-making and lawmaking power not with the courts, not with the executive, but with Congress.
Testing the Waters, Pushing the Boundaries: Turkey’s Ambitions in the Eastern Mediterranean

Turkey is a critical actor in multiple regions including Europe, Middle East, and Central Asia. As a relatively new region of reference, Eastern Mediterranean is no exception. Turkey, under the leadership of President Tayyip Erdogan, has been pursuing an aggressive foreign policy that aims to capitalize on the newly discovered natural gas resources and the potential opportunities these resources will provide to the region’s countries. This foreign policy has caused tensions with Greece and other countries that are party to the existing formal and informal arrangements in the region. This chapter provides a background to Turkey’s ambitions in the region and ties the regional endeavors of Turkey to internal and external sources of insecurity for Turkey and Erdogan, including economic indicators, changing demographics, the rise of the opposition in domestic politics, the challenges associated with the EU membership process, and concerns about other regional conflicts.
Characteristics of Transgender Women Referred to Women's Heart Clinic.

Introduction Transgender women have been reported to have a high burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and risk factors based largely on surveys. Our aim was to describe the prevalence of CVD and associated comorbidities among a cohort of older transgender women referred to cardiology as part of their gender-affirming care. Methods This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study of transgender women at a single institution from 2017 to 2019. Results Fifty-two consecutive patients were included. The most common reasons for referral were cardiac risk factor management (45%) and pre-operative cardiac risk stratification prior to gender-affirming surgery (35%). The mean age was 57 ± 10 years, 87% were white, and 92% had insurance coverage. Forty-eight patients (92%) were taking gender-affirming hormone therapy; 5 had undergone breast augmentation, 4 had undergone orchiectomy, and 2 had undergone vaginoplasty. The most common comorbidities were depression and/or anxiety (63%), obesity (58%), and hyperlipidemia (54%). Excluding aldosterone antagonists, 46% were on cardiac medications; changes were recommended for 25% of patients: new prescriptions in 9, dose adjustments in 5, and discontinuations in 4. According to the pooled cohort equation, the 10-year risk of atherosclerotic CVD was 9.4 ± 7.7% when the study population was calculated as male and 5.2 ± 5.1% when calculated as female (p <0.001). For patients who completed exercise testing, the functional aerobic capacity was fair (77.6 ± 21.4%) when calculated as male and average (99.5 ± 27.5%) as female (p < .0001); there was inconsistency in sex used for calculating the result on the formal report. Conclusions Older transgender women may have an underestimated prevalence of CVD and its risk factors. More research is needed to identify cardiovascular health profiles, improve practice consistency, and establish normative values for transgender patients.
Pregalactic nucleosynthesis

We discuss the behavior of density fluctuations in an expanding universe and show that these should lead to the early formation of pregalactic hydrogen-helium stars of several hundred to several thousand solar masses. These stars flood the universe with radiation having a color temperature ≳105 K; this terminates star formation but permits galaxy formation to continue. About 10−2 of the mass of the galaxies is converted into heavy elements by pregalactic nucleosynthesis, with an error factor of a few.
Version Control: Mark Rothko’s Harvard Murals through the Lens of the Documentation Model for Time-Based Media Art

Long shrouded by a history of material change, Mark Rothko’s Harvard Murals are reassessed as a work of installation art, using the logic of the documentation model for time-based media art develop...
Decreased access to pediatric liver transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of the US healthcare system, including liver transplantation. The objective of this study was to understand national changes to pediatric liver transplantation during COVID-19. METHODS: Using SRTR data, we compared waitlist additions, removals, and liver transplantations for pre-COVID-19 (March-November 2016-2019), early COVID-19 (March-May 2020), and late COVID-19 (June-November 2020). RESULTS: Waitlist additions decreased by 25% during early COVID-19 (41.3/month vs. 55.4/month, p < .001) with black candidates most affected (p = .04). Children spent longer on the waitlist during early COVID-19 compared to pre-COVID-19 (140 vs. 96 days, p < .001). There was a 38% decrease in liver transplantations during early COVID-19 (IRR 0.62, 95% CI 0.49-0.78), recovering to pre-pandemic rates during late COVID-19 (IRR 1.03, NS), and no change in percentage of living and deceased donors. White children had a 30% decrease in overall liver transplantation but no change in living donor liver transplantation (IRR 0.7, 95% CI 0.50-0.95; IRR 0.96, NS), while non-white children had a 44% decrease in overall liver transplantation (IRR 0.56, 95% CI 0.40-0.77) and 81% decrease in living donor liver transplantation (IRR 0.19, 95% CI 0.02-0.76). CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic decreased access to pediatric liver transplantation, particularly in its early stage. There were no regional differences in liver transplantation during COVID-19 despite the increased national sharing of organs. While pediatric liver transplantation has resumed pre-pandemic levels, ongoing racial disparities must be addressed.