cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DME: a distributed matrix environment

The paper describes DME, a distributed matrix environment for creating and manipulating sparse matrices on distributed-memory multiprocessors. The goals of this environment are: to define a distributed sparse matrix representation scheme that can serve as a platform for building a range of important matrix operations; to provide a clean, consistent way for parallel applications to build distributed matrices; and to provide a tool-kit of utility routines for common distributed matrix operations. The paper describes the design philosophy behind DME, the DME distributed sparse matrix representation scheme, the mechanisms for creating and modifying these matrices, and the set of matrix utilities DME provides. >
Secondary aerosol formation from photochemical aging of aircraft exhaust in a smog chamber

Abstract. Field experiments were performed to investigate the effects of photo-oxidation on fine particle emissions from an in-use CFM56-2B gas turbine engine mounted on a KC-135 Stratotanker airframe. Emissions were sampled into a portable smog chamber from a rake inlet installed one-meter downstream of the engine exit plane of a parked and chocked aircraft. The chamber was then exposed to sunlight and/or UV lights to initiate photo-oxidation. Separate tests were performed at different engine loads (4, 7, 30, 85 %). Photo-oxidation created substantial secondary particulate matter (PM), greatly exceeding the direct PM emissions at each engine load after an hour or less of aging at typical summertime conditions. After several hours of photo-oxidation, the ratio of secondary-to-primary PM mass was on average 35 ± 4.1, 17 ± 2.5, 60 ± 2.2, and 2.7 ± 1.1 for the 4, 7, 30, and 85 % load experiments, respectively. The composition of secondary PM formed strongly depended on load. At 4 % load, secondary PM was dominated by secondary organic aerosol (SOA). At higher loads, the secondary PM was mainly secondary sulfate. A traditional SOA model that accounts for SOA formation from single-ring aromatics and other volatile organic compounds underpredicts the measured SOA formation by ~60 % at 4 % load and ~40 % at 85 % load. Large amounts of lower-volatiliy organic vapors were measured in the exhaust; they represent a significant pool of SOA precursors that are not included in traditional SOA models. These results underscore the importance of accounting for atmospheric processing when assessing the influence of aircraft emissions on ambient PM levels. Models that do not account for this processing will likely underpredict the contribution of aircraft emissions to local and regional air pollution.
Personal losses and relationship quality in dementia caregiving

Models of the dementia caregiving stress process specify that the impairments and behavioral problems of the person with Alzheimer's disease or related disorder (ADRD) and primary subjective stress...
Is Background Seismicity Produced at a Stationary Poissonian Rate

We tested the hypothesis that, on the scale of a decade, earthquakes deeper than 60 km are produced at an approximately constant, that is, stationary Poissonian rate. We selected earthquakes with depths greater than 60 km to avoid the ubiquitous clusters present in shallow seismicity, without declustering the data set. Six of the 90 randomly positioned volumes contained obvious aftershock sequences and, thus, were excluded from the scoring. We showed that magnitude shifts of 0.2 to 0.4 units are present in some catalogs. Since we measure the seismicity rate above a minimum magnitude, these shifts introduce artificial fluctuations in the rate. Therefore, we modeled the influence of the magnitude shifts on the test. Measuring the goodness of fit to a stationary Poisson process model by the χ 2 -test for samples of 500 earthquakes each, we found that the hypothesis cannot be rejected at the 95% confidence levels based on the data in the 84 volumes without obvious aftershock sequences. We propose that this constancy of production rate is due to the effect of a constant loading rate by tectonic plate motion on an asperity assembly with a uniform distribution of current loading stress. Although this result cannot be obtained for shallow seismicity because of the presence of numerous clusters, it seems reasonable to assume that the shallow background seismicity is also produced at a stationary Poissonian rate.
Combining stratified and unstratified log‐rank tests in paired survival data

The log-rank test is the most widely used nonparametric method for testing treatment differences in survival between two treatment groups due to its efficiency under the proportional hazards model. Most previous work on the log-rank test has assumed that the samples from the two treatment groups are independent. This assumption is not always true. In multi-center clinical trials, survival times of patients in the same medical center may be correlated due to factors specific to each center. For such data, we can construct both stratified and unstratified log-rank tests. These two tests turn out to have very different powers for correlated samples. An appropriate linear combination of these two tests may give a more powerful test than either of the individual test. Under a bivariate frailty model, we obtain closed-form asymptotic local alternative distributions and the correlation coefficient between these two tests. Based on these results we construct an optimal linear combination of the two test statistics to maximize the local power. Simulation studies with Hougaard's model confirm our construction. We also study the robustness of the combined test by simulations.
Multicentre study of abdominal aortic aneurysm measurement and enlargement

Background No effective treatment is currently available to prevent progression of small and medium-sized abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Identification of drugs with sufficient promise to justify large expensive randomized trials remains challenging. One potentially useful strategy is to look for associations between commonly used drugs and AAA enlargement in appropriately adjusted observational studies. Methods Potential AAA measurements were identified from abdominal imaging reports in the electronic data files of three medical centres from 1995 to 2010. AAA measurements were extracted manually and patients with an aneurysm of 3 cm or larger, who had at least two measurements over an interval of at least 6 months, were identified. Other data were obtained from the electronic data files (demographics, co-morbidities, smoking status, drug use) to conduct a propensity analysis of the associations of drugs and other factors with AAA enlargement. Results From 52 962 abdominal imaging studies, 5362 patients with an AAA of 3 cm or more were identified, of whom 2428 had at least two measurements over at least 6 months. Mean AAA follow-up was 3·4 years and the mean AAA enlargement rate was 2·0 mm per year. Propensity analysis demonstrated no significant association of AAA enlargement with statins, beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers. Diabetes was associated with a reduction in AAA enlargement of 1·2 mm per year (P = 0·008), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was associated with increased enlargement (0·5 mm per year; P = 0·050). Moderate AAA measurement variation and substantial terminal digit preference were also observed, but the digit preference became less pronounced after 2000. Conclusion This study confirms the negative association of diabetes with AAA progression. There was no evidence that commonly used cardiovascular drugs affect AAA enlargement.
Legal Duties of Psychiatric Patients

Psychiatric practice involves an implied contract in which each party fulfills a specialized role and incurs corresponding duties and obligations to be discharged as best able. Patients incur duties at three levels. First are specific duties that arise from patients' specialized role in their own health care: (1) to provide accurate and complete information, and (2) to cooperate with treatment within the bounds of informed consent. Second are general duties that apply to all citizens, but are especially relevant within the mental health context: (1) to respect the physical integrity of self, others, and property, and (2) to obey the law. The controversial "duty to protect" is at a third level, a transcendent duty that is specific to the context at hand, but in principle can apply to more than one party. Advantages of enforcing patients' duties include better care by treating professionals, optimum level of functioning of patients, and improved systems-wide morale and safety. Breach of patients' duty has many potential consequences in the forensic sphere: termination of care, malpractice defense, criminal prosecution, and tort liability. Complicating factors include the degree and effect of patients' psychiatric impairment, patients' legal status, and the role played by psychotherapeutic transference.
On Verification of the Software Development Process

The implementation of the best software engineering process do not guarantee the best result. The ratio of failures is still very high although the formal review of the processes shows no defects. The most common problem is the amount of additional work discovered at the very end of the projects leading either to delays and extra cost or to sufficient decrease in the product quality. All this is unacceptable in the modern rapidly evolving world with a high level of competition and demand to produce software in time with acceptable level of quality. The paper describes how the software process can be examined and verified to ensure that it is not only established, but also followed and all potential risks and uncertainties are resolved right when they occur instead of suppressing.
One era you are in—the next you are out

Trends in body size are a rich source of information for evolutionary studies. This is because body size not only has numerous implications for function and life history but also has necessary limits that differ between groups of organisms. Moreover, there are many evolutionary patterns that might underlie trends, and these patterns need not be constant over time. On page 812 of this issue, Sallan and Galimberti ( 1 ) show that trends in the body sizes of vertebrates during the Devonian and Mississippian (about 420 to 325 million years ago) not only are markedly different at different times but also likely reflect a variety of different evolutionary mechanisms.
Ultrasound mediated destruction of DNA-loaded microbubbles for enhancement of cell-based therapies: new promise amidst a confluence of uncertainties?

Ultrasound contrast agents in current clinical use are small (1 to 4 μm) gas-filled “microbubbles” comprised of a perfluorocarbon gas that is encapsulated by a biocompatible shell ([1][1]). They freely transit through the microcirculation; high-powered ultrasound can be used to selectively
Ion Pair Absorption in Pr Cl 3

One photon was known to be able to excite two Pr/sup 3+/ ions to different levels, one of which was always /sup 3/Po as detected by fluorescence. Using crystals of pure PrCl/sub 3/, 90 absorption lines corresponding to ion pair absorption were detected in the region between 22, 220, and 28,100 cm/sup -1/. Classifications and wave numbers of the lines are given. The lines show no polarization, and most of their frequencies can be written as the sum of two ordinary absorption frequencies. The width of the lines is about 6 cm/sup -1/. (D.C.W.)
Initiating Development of a Concept Inventory for Engineering Design

It has been stated that the topic of design is not conducive to assessment by concept inventory. While design problems are more ambiguous than problems in analytical subjects, such as physics, statics, or thermodynamics; the broader design education community of scholars might agree on a set of concepts that are essential to the fundamental understanding of design. Following a review of textbooks, industry interviews, and other literary sources, this paper will propose a set of commonly accepted overarching concepts that might form a nucleus of an engineering design concept inventory. This is intended primarily to initiate a dialog among the design engineering education community about the future development of a design concept inventory and it’s applicability in assessing the design content knowledge of undergraduate engineering students prior to entering the profession as graduate engineers.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
A measles outbreak and transmission route

From February 10 to April 23,twenty-six measles cases occurred in Jiande,Hangzhou.By tracing the infection source and investigating the transmission route,w e found that nosocomial infection w as the major cause.Strengthening surveillance,strict control of nosocomial infection,improving measles vaccination and conducting education w ere the effective measures for the prevention and control of measles epidemic.
Assumptions about life hardship and pain perception

The present work examines whether people assume that those who have faced hardship feel less pain than those who have not, and whether this belief contributes to the perception that Blacks feel les...
Effect of heterologous seminal plasma on the fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa as assessed by the zona-free hamster egg test *

The spermatozoa from 8 of 27 men showed a major increase (>15%) in the oocyte penetration rate, the spermatozoa from 7 men showed a major decrease ( 2 O.
An Overview of the IEEE Human Factors Standard Development Activities—2016

Since 1980 the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has supported development of human factors (HF) standards. Within IEEE, Subcommittee 5 (SC5) of the Nuclear Power Engineering Committee develops and maintains HF standards applicable to nuclear facilities. These standards are structured in a hierarchical fashion. The top-level standard defines the HF tasks required to support the integration of human performance into the design process. Five lower tier documents expand upon the upper tier standard. Presently, two new HF standards projects are underway; one to provide HF guidance for the validation of the system interface design and integrated systems operation and another for designing and developing computer-based displays for monitoring and control of nuclear facilities. In addition to producing and maintaining HF standards, SC5 is also involved in outreach activities, including sponsorship of a series of conferences on human factors and nuclear power plants.
FGF Signaling in Ear Development and Innervation

Abstract The 22 mammalian fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) acting through seven main receptor tyrosine kinase isoforms play roles in controlling the growth, differentiation, motility, and survival of cells during development. A variety of experimental approaches have begun to reveal the ways in which FGF signaling is used to control the development of the outer, middle, and inner ears. Structurally related groups of FGFs have similar receptor binding specificity in vitro and in cultured cells. For some aspects of ear development, both the relevant FGF ligand and receptor is known. In other cases, only one member of the pair has been determined, but plausible candidates can be proposed based on expression data. Despite the large number of distinct roles for FGF signaling that have been uncovered in the developing auditory system to date, it is clear that we have only begun to scratch the surface of this topic. Future studies aimed at uncovering redundant functions of FGFs and unraveling the later functions of FGFs that are required for early stages of development will help in defining the full complement of roles for FGF signaling in otic development.
Problems in computational algebra and integer programming

This thesis is a compendium of several projects that span the gap between commutative algebra and geometric combinatorics: one in tropical geometry, one in computational algebra, and two in discrete geometry and integer programming. Key tools used in this thesis include the theory of polyhedra, Grobner bases, and computational complexity theory.
Abstract A02: Cyclin A2 and CDK2 as Novel Targets of Aspirin and Salicylic acid: a Potential Role in Cancer Prevention

Data emerging from the past 10 years have consolidated the rationale for investigating the use of aspirin as a chemopreventive agent; however, the mechanisms leading to its anti-cancer effects are still being elucidated. We hypothesized that aspirin9s chemopreventive actions may involve cell cycle regulation through modulation of the levels or activity of cyclin A2/cyclin dependent kinase-2 (CDK2). In this study, HT-29 and other diverse panel of cancer cells were used to demonstrate that both aspirin and its primary metabolite, salicylic acid, decreased cyclin A2 (CCNA2) and CDK2 protein and mRNA levels. The down regulatory effect of either drugs on cyclin A2 levels was prevented by pretreatment with lactacystin, an inhibitor of proteasomes, suggesting the involvement of 26S proteasomes. In-vitro kinase assays showed that lysates from cells treated with salicylic acid had lower levels of CDK2 activity. Importantly, three independent experiments revealed that salicylic acid directly binds to CDK2. Firstly, inclusion of salicylic acid in naive cell lysates, or in recombinant CDK2 preparations, increased the ability of the anti-CDK2 antibody to immunoprecipitate CDK2, suggesting that salicylic acid may directly bind and alter its conformation. Secondly, in 8-anilino-1-naphthalene-sulfonate (ANS)-CDK2 fluorescence assays, pre-incubation of CDK2 with salicylic acid, dose-dependently quenched the fluorescence due to ANS. Thirdly, computational analysis using molecular docking studies identified Asp145 and Lys33 as the potential sites of salicylic acid interactions with CDK2. These results demonstrate that aspirin and salicylic acid down-regulate cyclin A2/CDK2 proteins in multiple cancer cell lines, suggesting a novel target and mechanism of action in chemoprevention. Citation Format: Rakesh Dachineni, Guoqiang Ai, Ramesh Kumar D, Satya Sadhu, Hemachand Tummala, Jayarama B. Gunaje. Cyclin A2 and CDK2 as Novel Targets of Aspirin and Salicylic acid: a Potential Role in Cancer Prevention. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Precision Medicine Series: Cancer Cell Cycle - Tumor Progression and Therapeutic Response; Feb 28-Mar 2, 2016; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2016;14(11_Suppl):Abstract nr A02.
Poster Abstract: EdgeStore: Integrating Edge Computing into Cloud-Based Storage Systems

We present EdgeStore, a cloud-based storage system that integrates edge computing for better performance. Preliminary results on our prototype system demonstrate the efficiency of EdgeStore when working in an edge computing environment. We believe that EdgeStore provides a new perspective on how to exploit the potential of edge computing in cloud-based systems.
Effects of FHA Loan Limit Increases by ESA 2008: Housing Demand and Adverse Selection

This paper examines the impacts of changes in the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured loan limit in response to the Economic Stimulus Act (ESA) of 2008. We use difference-in-difference approaches to compare the number of transactions and average loan-to-value ratios for properties located in high-cost areas and low-cost areas, before and after the ESA policy change. We find that the increase in loan limits does results larger demand for FHA loans, both in quantity and quality. However, the behavior is not driven by incentives to buy more housing or by wealth constraints. We find evidence of increased moral hazard in the sense that increased loan limits induced riskier borrowers (allowed “cherry-picking” against FHA), and that much of the increased demand for FHA loans came at the expense of other loans. For instance, newly qualified borrowers, especially via cash-out refinance loans, are more likely to take advantage of increased loan limit policy, and adjust their LTVs. Also, newly qualified loans had higher default rates and higher loss given default rate.
Lower Hospital Charges and Societal Costs for Catheter Device Closure of Atrial Septal Defects.

Atrial septal defects (ASD) are among the most common congenital heart defects. As more ASDs are corrected by interventional catheterization instead of surgery, it is critical to understand the associated clinical and societal costs. The goal of this study was to use a national U.S. database to describe hospital charges and societal costs for surgical and catheter-based (ASD) closure. Retrospective review of hospital discharge data from the Kids’ Inpatient Database from January 2010 to December 2012. The database was queried for admissions for <21 years old with ICD-9 procedure codes for surgical (35.51 or 35.61) or catheter (35.52) ASD closure; those with other cardiac conditions and/or additional cardiac procedures were excluded. Age, length of stay (LOS), and hospital charges and lost parental wages (societal costs) were compared between groups using t test or Mann–Whitney U test, as appropriate. Four hundred and eighty-six surgical and 305 catheter ASD closures were identified. LOS, hospital charges, and total societal costs were higher in surgical ASD compared to catheter ASD admissions (3.6 vs. 1.3 days, p < 0.001, $87,465 vs. $64,109, p < 0.001, and $90,000 vs. $64,966, p < 0.001, respectively). In this review of a large national inpatient database, we found that hospital and societal costs for surgical ASD closure are significantly higher than catheter ASD closure in the United States in the current era. Factors that likely contribute to this include longer LOS and longer post-operative recovery. Using “real-world” data, this study demonstrates a substantial cost advantage for catheter ASD closure compared to surgical.
The Transition into Young Adulthood: a Critical Period for Weight Control

Emerging adulthood (age 18–25) represents a critical period for weight control: rate of weight gain is greatest during these years and the prevalence of overweight and obesity is estimated to be at least 40% among emerging adults. Unique behavioral, psychosocial, and cognitive risk factors among this population must be specifically addressed within weight management programs. We review extant treatment approaches, including lessons learned from the nascent literature specifically targeting this population. Lastly, we provide suggestions to inform future work in this area. The EARLY consortium comprises seven clinical trials targeting weight control in young adults age 18–35. Though these studies encompass a broader age range, two of the trials enrolled large numbers of 18–25-year-olds. Results from these trials and other recent pilot trials provide a foundation for next steps with respect to developing weight management interventions for emerging adults. The design of targeted weight control approaches for emerging and young adults has contributed to improved outcomes for this high-risk population. However, suboptimal engagement and variability in response pose challenges. Identifying and intervening on individual-level behavioral and psychological variables may enhance the effects of these adapted treatments.
Why Do Children Pay More Attention to Grammatical Morphemes at the Ends of Sentences

Children pay more attention to the beginnings and ends of sentences rather than the middle. In natural speech, ends of sentences are prosodically and segmentally enhanced; they are also privileged by sensory and recall advantages. We contrasted whether acoustic enhancement or sensory and recall-related advantages are necessary and sufficient for the salience of grammatical morphemes at the ends of sentences. We measured 22-month-olds' listening times to grammatical and ungrammatical sentences with third person singular -s. Crucially, by cross-splicing the speech stimuli, acoustic enhancement and sensory and recall advantages were fully crossed. Only children presented with the verb in sentence-final position, a position with sensory and recall advantages, distinguished between the grammatical and ungrammatical sentences. Thus, sensory and recall advantages alone were necessary and sufficient to make grammatical morphemes at ends of sentences salient. These general processing constraints privilege ends of sentences over middles, regardless of the acoustic enhancement.
Skin Cancer and Other Late Effects of Cancer Therapy

Though skin cancer is uncommon in children, patients with a history of cancer therapy, solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and genetic predisposition syndromes are at increased risk. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, as well as posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder and Kaposi’s sarcoma, are covered in this chapter. When not associated with a genetic syndrome, these skin cancers can occur as side effects of cancer therapy or secondary to immunosuppression. Permanent alopecia is a very visible, challenging long-term effect of surgical, medical, and radiation therapy for cancer. Scars can be similarly distressing to cancer survivors. Autoimmune disorders, such as vitiligo and alopecia areata can occur after cancer therapy, as well. Given the importance and impact of these sequelae of therapy, care and screening recommendations and references to aid in clinical management and prevention are discussed at the end of the chapter.
Altered DNA repair; an early pathogenic pathway in Alzheimer's disease and obesity.

Unrepaired DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are lethal. The present study compared the extent of DSBs, neuronal apoptosis, and status of two major DSB repair pathways - homologous combinational repair (HR) and nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) - in hippocampus of 5–6 month and 16–18 month-old wild-type and APP/PSEN1 mice fed control diet or high fat diet (60% fat from lard). We performed immunohistochemical staining and quantification for nuclear foci formation of γ-H2AX for DSBs, RAD51, and 53BP1, which represent the functional status of HR and NHEJ, respectively. Increased γ-H2AX and caspase-3 staining indicated greater DSBs and associated neuronal apoptosis in APP/PSEN1 mice at both ages studied. RAD51-positive foci were fewer in APP/PSEN1 indicating that HR processes may be diminished in these mice, although NHEJ (53BP1 staining) appeared unchanged. High fat diet in young wild-type mice led to similar changes to those observed in APP/PSEN1 mice (γ-H2AX and caspase-3 staining, and fewer RAD51-positive foci). Overall, these data suggest that APP/PSEN1- and high fat diet-associated early accumulation of DSBs and neuronal cell death, resulted at least in part, from inhibition of HR, one of the major DSB repair pathways.
Abstract 12719: Heart Failure Self-Care Associated With Brain Injury in Executive Control Regions

Heart failure (HF) patients often have poor self-care (SC) management that is linked to increased morbidity and mortality and decreased quality of life. While inadequate SC is known to be strongly ...
Race and Ethnicity in the Lives of Sexual Minority Parents and Their Children

In this chapter we review the body of research on racial and sexual minority parenting in the USA and internationally. Findings in this literature point us toward broader conceptualizations of sexual minority parenthood that include stepparenting, kin care, and parenting in the context of heterosexual unions while maintaining a lesbian or gay identity. In addition, these findings challenge scholars to think more inclusively about what issues are relevant to sexual minority parents and children. Issues ranked as important by sexual minority parents themselves, such as welfare and immigration policies, are often neglected in scholarship that focuses disproportionately on parents’ gender and sexuality; this scholarship does not account for race, nationality, or other variance among these families. As much as this review provides important variation in the experiences of sexual minority families, it also challenges the academic community to substantially broaden its scope when studying same-sex parenting. The chapter concludes with directions for future research.
The plate collection at the Harvard College Observatory

This review presents an overview of the large and important photographic plate collection at the Harvard College Observatory, including its history, uniqueness, contents, storage, uses and successes.
The Dynamics of Stratification Systems

The first human societies were not stratified. Nomadic bands of ­hunter-­gatherers worked very hard to minimize inequalities of power and prestige (Boehm 1993, 1999; Turner and Maryanski 2008a, b). Material inequality was easy to manage because possessions had to be carried by hand from camp to camp, thereby restricting a person’s ability to accumulate material wealth. The fact that studied nomadic hunter-gatherers impose both subtle and obvious negative sanctions on those who would seek to claim power or too much honor suggests previous experiences with the disruptive effects of inequality on band cohesion. Inequalities always generate tension and increase the potential for conflict; and in early hunting and gathering bands, individuals soon learned that internal tension and conflict reduced the fitness of the band. And so, a normative system limiting claims to honor, power, and prestige was put into place and passed down across generations for millennia.
A Model for U.S. Tornado Casualties Involving Interaction between Damage Path Estimates of Population Density and Energy Dissipation

AbstractA recent study showed the importance of tornado energy as a factor in a model for tornado deaths and injuries (casualties). The model was additive under the assumption of uniform threat. He...
Pathways to Supplemental Water Resources

This chapter looks at some of what some urban water suppliers are doing to supplement their existing water supplies with nontraditional water sources. Three supplemental water solutions are discussed: harvested rainwater, collected and stored stormwater, and municipal graywater to collect both rainwater and stormwater, while also adding green spaces to the urban environment. Urban planners are adopting green infrastructure to control minor flooding while capturing this supplemental water for nonpotable uses.
Analysis of Facebook Meme Groups Used During the 2016 US Presidential Election

Using content analysis, this study examines how citizens may use memes to share grassroots political ideas in a social media group setting during elections. Specifically, it offers a glimpse at the...
Proteasomal Degradation of Enhancer of Zeste Homologue 2 in Cholangiocytes Promotes Biliary Fibrosis

During biliary disease, cholangiocytes become activated by various pathological stimuli, including transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). The result is an epigenetically regulated transcriptional program leading to a pro-fibrogenic microenvironment, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and progression of biliary fibrosis. This study evaluated how TGF-β signaling intersects with epigenetic machinery in cholangiocytes to support fibrogenic gene transcription. We performed RNA sequencing in cholangiocytes with or without TGF-β. Ingenuity pathway analysis identified "HSC Activation" as the highly up-regulated pathway, including overexpression of fibronectin 1 (FN), connective tissue growth factor, and other genes. Bioinformatics identified enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2) as an epigenetic regulator of the cholangiocyte TGF-β response. EZH2 overexpression suppressed TGF-β-induced FN protein in vitro, suggesting FN as a direct target of EZH2-based repression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays identified an FN promoter element in which EZH2-mediated tri-methylation of lysine 27 on histone 3 is diminished by TGF-β. TGF-β also caused a 50% reduction in EZH2 protein levels. Proteasome inhibition rescued EZH2 protein and led to reduced FN production. Immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry identified ubiquitin protein ligase E3 component N-recognin 4 in complex with EZH2, which was validated by western blotting in vitro. Ubiquitin mutation studies suggested K63-based ubiquitin linkage and chain elongation on EZH2 in response to TGF-β. A deletion mutant of EZH2, lacking its N-terminal domain, abrogates both TGF-β-stimulated EZH2 degradation and FN release. In vivo, cholangiocyte-selective knockout of EZH2 exacerbates bile duct ligation-induced fibrosis whereas MDR2-/- mice are protected from fibrosis by the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. Conclusion: TGF-β regulates proteasomal degradation of EZH2 through N-terminal, K63-linked ubiquitination in cholangiocytes and activates transcription of a fibrogenic gene program that supports biliary fibrosis.
Small-angle X-ray scattering of nanoporous materials

Small-angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) is a non-invasive reciprocal space characterization technique that provides statistically representative microstructural information about a material. This focus article examines SAXS as a tool to probe the microstructure of nanoporous materials. We seek to educate the reader on scattering instrumentation and requisite scattering theory pertinent to nanoporous materials, and describe analytical models used to fit SAXS data, to elucidate the microstructure of these nanoporous materials including their morphological features such as the pore size distribution, pore curvature, and specific surface area. Finally, we fit and compare the aforementioned models to real scattering data of nanoporous gold synthesized in our laboratory. The models yield realistic material parameters for the nanoporous gold morphology, in agreement with electron micrograph images. In addition, we have investigated the scattering patterns and characteristic electron micrographs of nanoporous copper and nanoporous antimony also synthesized in our laboratory. The models discussed in this paper do not yield realistic material parameters for specific nanoporous copper and nanoporous antimony morphologies, however. This could be the subject of follow-up work.
On the optimality of the variational linear comparison bounds for porous viscoplastic materials

Abstract This paper is concerned with the optimality of the variational bounds of the Hashin-Shtrikman type (VHS) for nonlinear composites, first obtained by Ponte Castaneda (1991a) by means of the corresponding HS bounds for suitably optimized linear comparison composites (LCCs). For simplicity, this problem is addressed in the context of porous viscoplastic materials with incompressible, isotropic matrix phase and two-dimensional microstructures, subjected to plane-strain loading conditions. Although special, this case—exhibiting infinite heterogeneity contrast and compressible macroscopic response—is expected to be fully representative of more general three-dimensional porous materials, as well as more general two-phase, well-ordered composites. Thus, it is shown that the VHS bounds, which were originally derived for the class of nonlinear composites with statistically isotropic microstructures, are in fact attained over the larger class of microstructures with anisotropic nonlinear response but isotropic linear response. By appealing to an exact variational representation for the effective potential of finite-rank nonlinear laminates, it is shown that there exist certain values of the applied macroscopic stress for which the finite-rank laminate (closed-cell porous) microstructures attaining the linear HS bounds also attain the nonlinear VHS bound. Explicit results are obtained in the ideally plastic limit for the yield surface of the finite-rank laminates attaining the VHS bound. In particular, the results of the paper highlight the fact that bounds for nonlinear composites are much more sensitive to microstructural details than bounds for linear composites.
In Vitro/Ex Vivo Investigation of Modified Utah Electrode Array to Selectively Sense and Pace the Sub-Surface Cardiac His Bundle.

Utah Electrode Arrays (UEAs) have previously been characterized and implanted for neural recordings and stimulation at relatively low current levels. This proof-of-concept study investigated the ap...
Supply chain and logistics innovations with the Belt and Road Initiative

Abstract The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a massive, ambitious, long-term project initiated by the Chinese government, with participation from many other countries, to facilitate trade and improve logistics in an effort to promote global economic development. In this paper, we identified the supply chain and logistics innovations linked to the BRI. These innovations include new routes and modes for global trade, new supply chain design, reduction of cross-border logistics frictions, and entrepreneurial development. Examples of some of these innovations are emerging, while new ones are being developed. These innovations can enable businesses to improve their operational performances and create economic value. At the same time, to realize the full potentials of BRI, new work processes and technologies, incentive alignment, collaborations among businesses, and optimized planning are needed. This provides great opportunities for researchers to explore how to overcome barriers and achieve the full values of BRI.
Envelope Simulation: A New Adaptive Method for Dose Optimization

Abstract We present a flexible and general adaptive experimental design for dose finding clinical trials. This method can be applied in sterotypical settings such as determining a maximum tolerated dose, when the dose response relationship is complex, or when the response is an arbitrary quantitative measure. Our design generalizes dose finding methods such as the continual reassessment method (CRM), modified CRM, and estimation with overdose control (EWOC). Similar to those, our design requires a working mathematical model, which assures efficiency, low bias, and a higher fraction of dose selected near the optimum compared to purely operational designs. Unlike typical model based designs that always employ the same model, our method allows individual dose response models tailored to the circumstance. Simulations are also integral to our design allowing it to account for both known and unknown effects of dose on outcome. This method is applicable to general dose finding problems such as those encountered with modern targeted anti-cancer agents, immunotherapies, and titrations against biomarker outcome measures. The method can also support improvements in the design of the experiment being conducted by providing a platform for concurrent simulations to assess the influence of projected design points. Although we present the design in the context of clinical trials, it is equally applicable to experiments with non-human subjects.
Synthetic, natural and bioinspired dyes as TiO2 sensitizers in sustainable solar cells

Abstract Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are low-cost and environmentally friendly photovoltaic devices, bearing strong photo-conversion efficiency especially under indoor conditions. In this chapter recent advances obtained from vegetable and bioinspired dyes are presented and a comparison with those of synthetic origin are shown. The aim is to clarify the key concepts connected to electronic injection from the dye to titania semiconductor, photoelectrochemical properties and degradation of DSSCs. Developments of natural and bioinspired sensitizers to obtain photoanodes are outlined. Various counter-electrodes and electrolytes are considered. The limits and advantages of the relevant methods for the study of energy levels and time scales involved in charge transfer processes are discussed and supported by UV-Vis., FTIR, Raman, Emission spectra, cyclic voltammetry, Electrochemical impedence spectroscopy, Tafel and current-voltage characteristic curves, roughness factor. Finally all parameters connected to photoelectric conversion efficiency are shown and some assembly techniques of aforemensioned devices are highlighted.
Single-cell RNA sequencing of mouse islets exposed to proinflammatory cytokines

Exposure to proinflammatory cytokines is believed to contribute to pancreatic β-cell damage during diabetes development. Although some cytokine-mediated changes in islet gene expression are known, the heterogeneity of the response is not well-understood. After 6-h treatment with IL-1β and IFN-γ alone or together, mouse islets were subjected to single-cell RNA sequencing. Treatment with both cytokines together led to expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA (Nos2) and antiviral and immune-associated genes in a subset of β-cells. Interestingly, IL-1β alone activated antiviral genes. Subsets of δ- and α-cells expressed Nos2 and exhibited similar gene expression changes as β-cells, including increased expression of antiviral genes and repression of identity genes. Finally, cytokine responsiveness was inversely correlated with expression of genes encoding heat shock proteins. Our findings show that all islet endocrine cell types respond to cytokines, IL-1β induces the expression of protective genes, and cellular stress gene expression is associated with inhibition of cytokine signaling.
Compton Decomposition and Recovery in a Prism-PET Detector Module

Identifying the correct Line-of-Response (LOR) in positron emission tomography (PET) requires accurate localization of the first interaction between incident gamma ray and detector. Improving the accuracy of this localization typically entails offsetting losses in detector efficiency, complexity, or cost. In this paper, we propose a solution that can localize scattered gammas without losses in detector efficiency, utilizing Prism-PET - a single-sided detector module with pixelated light guide. Using Monte Carlo simulations of gamma-detector interactions, we train a Convolutional Neural Network to predict the first interaction position of gammas incident on a detector block.
Emerging Cartilage Repair Options

Articular cartilage defects cause pain and progression to osteoarthritis, and there remains a critical need for safe and cost-effective interventions. Historically available treatments for articular cartilage defects are limited in success, in part due to the native biology of the cartilage, which has limited healing potential, as well as due to the inability to create a favorable signaling and cell environment. The evolution of cartilage treatment has been rapid, with emerging options for treatment and repair. Recent advances in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have demonstrated efficacy in growth factor delivery as well as symptom modulation. Furthermore, cell-based approaches such as autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and stem/stromal cell therapies have ushered in a new era of treatments which can be responsive to and interact with the local intra-articular environment. Finally, the technovolution of this field has led to the development of single-stage combination autologous/allogeneic treatments which have the potential to overcome logistical and recovery limitations of two-stage treatments while providing trophic factors, signaling orchestration, and autologous cells for defect repair.
How Many US Children and Adolescents with Overweight and Obesity Could Improve Their Percent Body Fat by Exercising?: Meta-Analytic Based Estimates.

Background: Provide national estimates of the number of US children and adolescents with overweight and obesity who could improve their percent body fat by exercising. Methods: Data were derived fr...
A Systematic Review of Health State Utility Values in the Plastic Surgery Literature.

Cost-utility analyses assess health gains acquired by interventions by incorporating weighted health state utility values (HSUVs). HSUVs are important in plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) because they include qualitative metrics when comparing operative techniques or interventions. We systematically reviewed the literature to identify the extent and quality of existing original utilities research within PRS. Methods A systematic review of articles with original PRS utility data was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Subspecialty, survey sample size, and respondent characteristics were extracted. For each HSUV, the utility measure [direct (standard gamble, time trade off, visual analog scale) and/or indirect], mean utility score, and measure of variance were recorded. Similar HSUVs were pooled into weighted averages based on sample size if they were derived from the same utility measure. Results In total, 348 HSUVs for 194 disease states were derived from 56 studies within seven PRS subspecialties. Utility studies were most common in breast (n = 17, 30.4%) and hand/upper extremity (n = 15, 26.8%), and direct measurements were most frequent [visual analog scale (55.4%), standard gamble (46.4%), time trade off (57.1%)]. Studies surveying the general public had more respondents (n = 165, IQR 103-299) than those that surveyed patients (n = 61, IQR 48-79) or healthcare professionals (n = 42, IQR 10-109). HSUVs for 18 health states were aggregated. Conclusions The HSUV literature within PRS is scant and heterogeneous. Researchers should become familiar with these outcomes, as integrating utility and cost data will help illustrate that the impact of certain interventions are cost-effective when we consider patient quality of life.
Informosomal and polysomal messenger RNA: Differential kinetics of polyadenylation and nucleocytoplasmic transport in Chinese hamster ovary cells

Abstract The relative kinetics of cytoplasmic appearance and polyadenylation were determined for informosomal (ribosome-free) and polysomal (ribosome-associated) mRNAs of cultured Chinese hamster cells. Label appeared in polysomal mRNA 17–20 min and into informosomal mRNA 2–5 min after addition of radio-labelled uridine. Adenosine appeared in polysomal mRNA 4–5 min before uridine. In contrast, adenosine label preceded uridine into informosomal mRNA by less than 1 min. About one-third of newly formed informosomal and two-thirds of newly formed polysomal mRNA are poly(A+). The data indicate that newly formed informosomal mRNA cannot be simple precursor to polysomal mRNA. Further, the pronounced difference in time required for polyadenylation and cytoplasmic appearances of these messenger ribonucleoproteins suggests that there may be fundamental differences in their mode of processing.