cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inserting Extrahelical Structures into Long DNA Substrates for Single-Molecule Studies of DNA Mismatch Repair.

Abstract The DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system corrects errors that occur during DNA replication. MMR needs the coordinated and highly dynamic assembly of repair enzymes at the site of the lesion. By visualizing transient intermediates of these assemblies, single-molecule approaches have shed critical insights into the mechanisms of MMR. These studies frequently require long (> 20 kb) DNA substrates with lesions and other extrahelical structures inserted at defined positions. DNA derived from bacteriophage λ (λ-DNA) is a high quality long (48.5 kb) DNA substrate that is frequently used in single-molecule studies. Here we provide detailed protocols for site-specific incorporation of recombinant sequences and extrahelical structures into λ-DNA. We also describe how to assemble DNA curtains, and how to collect and analyze single-molecule observations of lesion recognition by MMR proteins diffusing on these DNA curtains. These protocols will facilitate future single-molecule studies of DNA transcription, replication, and repair.
Genomic analysis of hepatoblastoma identifies distinct molecular and prognostic subgroups

Despite being the most common liver cancer in children, hepatoblastoma (HB) is a rare neoplasm. Consequently, few pretreatment tumors have been molecularly profiled, and there are no validated prognostic or therapeutic biomarkers for HB patients. We report on the first large-scale effort to profile pretreatment HBs at diagnosis. Our analysis of 88 clinically annotated HBs revealed three risk-stratifying molecular subtypes that are characterized by differential activation of hepatic progenitor cell markers and metabolic pathways: high-risk tumors were characterized by up-regulated nuclear factor, erythroid 2–like 2 activity; high lin-28 homolog B, high mobility group AT-hook 2, spalt-like transcription factor 4, and alpha-fetoprotein expression; and high coordinated expression of oncofetal proteins and stem-cell markers, while low-risk tumors had low lin-28 homolog B and lethal-7 expression and high hepatic nuclear factor 1 alpha activity. Conclusion: Analysis of immunohistochemical assays using antibodies targeting these genes in a prospective study of 35 HBs suggested that these candidate biomarkers have the potential to improve risk stratification and guide treatment decisions for HB patients at diagnosis; our results pave the way for clinical collaborative studies to validate candidate biomarkers and test their potential to improve outcome for HB patients. (Hepatology 2017;65:104-121).
Effects of visceral adiposity on glycerol pathways in gluconeogenesis

Objective To determine the feasibility of using oral 13C labeled glycerol to assess effects of visceral adiposity on gluconeogenic pathways in obese humans. Research Design and Methods Obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) participants without type 2 diabetes underwent visceral adipose tissue (VAT) assessment and stratification by median VAT into high VAT-fasting (n = 3), low VAT-fasting (n = 4), and high VAT-refed (n = 2) groups. Participants ingested [U-13C3] glycerol and blood samples were subsequently analyzed at multiple time points over 3 h by NMR spectroscopy. The fractions of plasma glucose (enrichment) derived from [U-13C3] glycerol via hepatic gluconeogenesis, pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle were assessed using 13C NMR analysis of glucose. Mixed linear models were used to compare 13C enrichment in glucose between groups. Results Mean age, BMI, and baseline glucose were 49 years, 40.1 kg/m2, and 98 mg/dl, respectively. Up to 20% of glycerol was metabolized in the TCA cycle prior to gluconeogenesis and PPP activity was minor (< 1% of total glucose) in all participants. There was a 21% decrease in 13C enrichment in plasma glucose in the high VAT-fasting compared with low VAT-fasting group (p = 0.03), suggesting dilution by endogenous glycerol. High VAT-refed participants had 37% less 13C enrichment in glucose compared with high VAT-fasting (p = 0.02). There was a trend toward lower [1,2-13C2] (via PPP) and [5,6-13C2]/[4,5,6-13C3] (via TCA cycle) glucose in high VAT versus low VAT groups. Conclusions We applied a simple method to detect gluconeogenesis from glycerol in obese humans. Our findings provide preliminary evidence that excess visceral fat disrupts multiple pathways in hepatic gluconeogenesis from glycerol.
Charging and Routing Activity Scheduling to Prolong Sensor Network Lifetime.

The emerging wireless charging technology is a promising alternative to address the power constraint problem in sensor networks. Comparing to existing approaches, this technology can replenish energy in a more controllable manner and does not require accurate location of or physical alignment to sensor nodes. In this chapter, we present several innovative wireless charging and routing activity scheduling schemes to prolong the sensor network lifetime. Our investigation starts from building a prototype wireless charging enabled sensor network system; then we design several charging activity scheduling schemes to prolong the network lifetime by replenishing sensors that are deficient in energy supply. To fully leverage the strengths of the wireless charging technology, we further design a practical and efficient joint routing and charging activity scheduling scheme, called J-RoC, which can proactively guide the routing activities in the network and deliver energy to where it is needed. To evaluate the performance of the proposed schemes, both testbed experiments in the prototype system and extensive simulations in large-scale networks are conducted. Evaluation results demonstrate that the propose schemes significantly elongate the network lifetime compared to existing wireless charging based schemes under various system configurations.
Politiker unter sich am Bildschirm: Die Konfrontation von Personen und Sachthemen in den Fernsehdiskussionen 1972–1980

Fernsehdebatten zwischen Bewerbern um politische Macht sind, seit Kennedy und Nixon dieses Sendungsformat 1960 einfuhrten, immer auf groses Interesse sowohl in der Offentlichkeit als auch bei den Medienforschern gestosen1. Sie bieten Gelegenheit, den Wahlkampf gleichsam als Boxkampf, Pferderennen oder Fusballspiel — je nach der bevorzugten Sportart — zu erleben. Die meisten Zuschauer verfolgen ein derartiges Ereignis nicht unvoreingenommen. Sie begleiten gelungene Spielzuge der eigenen Seite mit Beifall und die Fouls der anderen Seite mit Pfiffen. Sie konnen somit unmittelbar an der Konfrontation der Machtbewerber teilnehmen.
Crop‐associated virus infection in a native perennial grass: reduction in plant fitness and dynamic patterns of virus detection

Summary To understand the eco-evolutionary significance of plant viruses in nature, we must (i) quantify the effects of infection on plant fitness and (ii) recognize that native plants are increasingly exposed to crop-associated viruses. Studies of perennials are particularly needed: most of our knowledge of plant-virus interactions is from annuals, yet long-lived species dominate landscapes. Here we used aster models for life-history analysis and longitudinal measures of plant virus status to evaluate multi-year consequences of crop virus infection in a native perennial. We used Barley yellow dwarf virus acquired from wheat to inoculate seedlings of Panicum virgatum L. (switchgrass), a North American prairie grass. We grew inoculated and mock-inoculated individuals of two ecotypes for 3 years in the field. We measured plant size, infection status and fitness components. Aster modelling provided integrated multi-year measures of fitness. Crop virus inoculation reduced multi-year native plant fitness by 30% over 2 years despite generally asymptomatic infection and evidence of resistance. This reduction was greater than predicted from individual fitness components or most size measures. Ecotypes differed in response, with the lowland ecotype experiencing higher apparent recovery from infection. Virus treatment in the upland ecotype delayed flowering phenology and reduced seed filling. Synthesis. Our use of field experimentation, surveys of plant infection status and aster modelling demonstrates a rigorous and broadly applicable approach for quantifying the effects of viruses and other microbes on multi-year plant fitness. We found that a crop virus had negative multi-year effects on native plant fitness even after infection was no longer detected. Viruses may have substantial effects on native vegetation with domestication of landscapes and agricultural expansion.
Civic Media: Technology, Design, Practice

Civic Media is aesthetically beautiful. Cover design, size, weight, paper quality—all speak of a book with a high sticker price. Meanwhile, a quick online search reveals that the book averages $30 ...
The Impact of Segmental Trunk Support on Posture and Reaching While Sitting in Healthy Adults

The authors investigated postural and arm control in seated reaches while providing trunk support at midribs and pelvic levels in adults. Kinematics and electromyography of the arm and ipsiliateral and contralateral paraspinal muscles were examined before and during reaching. Kinematics remained constant across conditions, but changes were observed in neuromuscular control. With midribs support, the ipsilateral cervical muscle showed either increased anticipatory activity or earlier compensatory muscle responses, suggesting its major role in head stabilization. The baseline activity of bilateral lumbar muscles was enhanced with midribs support, whereas with pelvic support, the activation frequency of paraspinal muscles increased during reaching. The results suggest that segmental trunk support in healthy adults modulates ipsilateral or contralateral paraspinal activity while overall kinematic outputs remain invariant.
Grid Dependencies and Change Capacities: People and Demand Response Under Renewables

Much of everyday activity in highly technologically developed societies involves electricity from a centralized grid. This is most evident during blackouts—at which point the availability of many routine forms of information, communication, light, money, and other connectors are quickly depleted. The expectation of perfect electricity has accompanied an evolution of social practices that absolutely require a working electricity system, while practices that escape that system become abandoned or antiquated. By definition, during supply shortages, societies adapt. In less-developed countries, especially those experienced with unreliable power, and with less-dense ties to the grid, there is established capacity to cope, including substituting non-electricity for electricity, and adjusting the timing of activities. In areas that expect perfect electricity, and rarely experience failures, however, reliance on electricity is higher and coping is more fragile. Drawing on social practice theories and history of technology, this chapter explores examples in the evolution of the grid dependence and develops a concept of sociotechnical resilience. Sociotechnical resilience refers to the degree to which basic activities can be decoupled from the grid, and how they do so. This resilience obviously matters in the case of blackouts and severe supply restrictions, but it also speaks to flexibility within “portfolios” of practices in terms of their synchronization with electricity supply. Demand flexibility is expected to become increasingly important in future scenarios where electricity supply has evolved to include much higher penetrations of renewables. To date, most of the debate on how this flexibility will occur has focused on “demand response,” particularly through individual end-user behaviors, and well as through isolated and largely private backup systems to provide temporary power. Focusing instead on sociotechnical resilience broadens the scope of flexibility by looking at people, technologies, and adaptation in a more connected and intricate combination. In addition to the power markets and generation capacity markets that already exist, there is thus a need to recognize, maintain, and further develop the sociotechnical capacity to do without electricity. This possibility is rarely included within the usual boundaries of debates about the renewables and the grid, or balancing supply and demand. To illustrate, the chapter provides examples from supply disruptions in both more-developed and less-developed countries, explores how policies, language, technology design, and the public sphere might better recognize and build this sociotechnical capacity.
Fruits, vegetables, and herbs: Bioactive foods promoting wound healing

Abstract There are many micronutrients and macronutrients required by the body for repairs. The type of injury, whether it be cutaneous, a burn, an accident, or after surgery, and the degree of the injury alter the time it takes to heal. There are three stages of healing: inflammatory, proliferative, and maturation. Each stage requires different nutrients to use in the process of healing. Macronutrients required include carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Micronutrients include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, zinc, and iron. Besides the micronutrients and macronutrients required for healing, there are many plants, herbs, and other bioactive foods that increase the effects of healing and decrease the time it takes to heal. Some of these plants, herbs, and bioactive foods include honey, bromelain, Achillea millefolium, Centella asiatica, Arnebia densiflora, and Aloe vera.
Microsurgical Repair of Ruptured Aneurysms Associated with Moyamoya-Pattern Collateral Vessels of the Middle Cerebral Artery: A Report of Two Cases.

Background Patients with Moyamoya or other intracranial steno-occlusive disease are at risk for developing aneurysms associated with flow through collateral vessels. Because these lesions are rare, the optimal management remains unclear. Here, we describe 2 cases of microsurgical repair of ruptured collateral vessel aneurysms associated with middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion. Case Description The first patient was a 61-year-old man who presented with right frontal and intraventricular hemorrhage. Angiography revealed chronic right M1 occlusion and a 3-mm spherical lenticulostriate aneurysm. The frontal lobe hematoma was evacuated to reveal the aneurysm, which was safely cauterized and resected by coagulating and dividing the lenticulostriate parent vessel. The procedure was carried out with neuronavigation guidance and intraoperative neuromonitoring. The patient was discharged with no neurologic deficits. The second patient was a 53-year-old woman who presented with subarachnoid and intracerebral hemorrhage. Computed tomography angiogram showed a 2-mm saccular MCA aneurysm. Emergency left decompressive hemicraniectomy and hematoma evacuation were performed. The aneurysm, arising from a small collateral type vessel, was safely clipped without complications. Postoperative angiography revealed absence of the superior MCA trunk with a dense network of collateral vessels at the site of the clipped aneurysm. The patient recovered well and was ambulating independently 6 months postoperatively. No rebleeding occurred in the 2 patients. Conclusions Our experience suggests that patients with MCA occlusion can harbor associated aneurysms related to flow through collateral vessels and can present with hemorrhage. Microsurgical repair of these aneurysms can be performed safely to prevent rebleeding.
The relative potency between high dose oral oxycodone and intravenous morphine: a case illustration

Oxycodone is an effective opioid analgesic for cancer pain. In the United States, it is available exclusively as an oral formulation, predominantly in fixed dose combination with acetaminophen or aspirin. The latter limits its use in cancer pain due to the potential toxicity of the nonopioid component. Oxycodone is now available as a single agent, controlled release formulation. The following case report of an opioid tolerant cancer patient taking repeated high doses of oral oxycodone supports the use of a 1:1 milligram conversion ratio for oral morphine and oral oxycodone. This patient's clinical course indicates that oral oxycodone can be used safely and to good effect at high dose, that the milligram relative potency ratio for oral oxycodone to parenteral morphine during repeated dosing is 3:1, and suggests that availability of multiple formulations of oxycodone may benefit cancer patients.
Modeling an exogenic origin for the equatorial ridge on Iapetus

Abstract Iapetus has a ridge along the equator that extends continuously for more than 110° in longitude. Parts of the ridge rise as much as 20 km above the surrounding terrains. Most models for the formation of this enigmatic ridge are endogenic, generally requiring the formation of a fast-spinning Iapetus with an oblate shape due to the rotation speed. Many of these require specific scenarios and have constraining parameters in order to generate a ridge comparable to what is seen today. An exogenic formation mechanism has also been proposed, that the ridge represents the remains of an early ring system around Iapetus that collapsed onto the surface. Thus far, none of the models have conclusively identified the origin of the ridge. In this study, an exogenic origin for the ridge is assumed, which is derived from a collapsing disk of debris around Iapetus, without invoking any specific model for the generation of the debris disk. Here, we evaluate whether it is possible to generate a ridge of the size and shape as observed by simulating the impact of the collapsing debris using the CTH hydrocode. Pi-scaling calculations suggest that extremely oblique impact angles (1°–10°) are needed to add to ridge topography. These extreme impact angles severely reduce the cratering efficiency compared to a vertical impact, adding material rather than eroding it during crater formation. Furthermore, material is likely to be excavated at low angles, enhancing downrange accumulation. Multiple impacts from debris pieces will heighten this effect. Because infalling debris is predicted to impact at extremely low angles, both of these effects might have contributed to ridge formation on Iapetus. The extreme grazing angles of the impacts modeled here decouple much of the projectile energy from the target, and impact heating of the surface is not significant. These models suggest that a collapsing disk of debris should have been able to build topography to create a ridge around Iapetus.
Mental Health of Homeless Youth: Moderation by Peer Victimization and Teacher Support

The link between youth homelessness and mental health functioning was examined using state population-representative 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) data. The moderating role of victimization and perceived teacher support also was examined. Consistent with hypotheses, results indicated that homelessness was associated with greater mental health challenges, more victimization, and less teacher support. The association between homelessness and mental health was not moderated by perceived teacher support. However, victimization experiences served as a moderator such that more victimization exacerbated the effect of homelessness on mental health challenges. This study supports the utility of the YRBS for gaining understanding of the experiences and needs of youth experiencing homelessness and adds to the growing literature on predictors of individual differences in mental health functioning of these vulnerable youth.
Icarus, Blood Pressure, and the Dangers of Flying Too Close to the Sun

> In Breughel’s Icarus, for instance: how everything turns away > > Quite leisurely from the disaster … > > —W.H. Auden, Musee des Beaux Arts Icarus, according to the myth, escaped from imprisonment on the island of Crete by flying with wings his father formed from feathers and wax. Icarus’s father, Daedalus, warned him not to fly too close to the sun because the wax would melt. We all know the rest of the story: Icarus, feeling exulted as he was flying through the air, wanted more than low flight could provide and so flew higher, toward the sun, until his wings melted and he plummeted to the sea. This essay will discuss 3 unintended consequences of lowering the blood pressure threshold for hypertension as recommended in the new hypertension guidelines.1 Under the new guidelines, an additional 31 million people in the United States will be diagnosed with hypertension. The main impetus for the dramatic change in blood pressure target was data from the SPRINT study (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial), a randomized study of 9361 persons who met strictly defined entry criteria that included being at least 50 years old and …
Maintenance of Vagal Tone with Time-Release Caffeine, But Vagal Withdrawal During Placebo in Caffeine-Habituated Men

Objective: This study aimed to determine the effects of a time-release caffeine (TR-CAF) supplement and caffeine abstinence on heart rate variability (HRV) in habitual users. Methods: Ten caffeine-...
A NONLINEAR DATA-DRIVEN APPROACH TO TYPE I DIABETIC PATIENT MODELING

Abstract Glucose–insulin interactions in the Type I diabetic patient are approximated in an input–output sense using a third–order Volterra series model. Due to the large number of unique coefficients present in a third–order model, efficient parameter identification methods are developed. Several pruned model structures were examined, and maximum dynamic accuracy was obtained when a linear plus nonlinear diagonal model was employed. Increased steady state accuracy could be obtained by including semi–diagonal and off–diagonal coefficients; however, this increase in static accuracy came at a cost of decreased dynamic accuracy. Furthermore, calculation of semi-diagonal and off-diagonal coefficients requires data acquisition times infeasible for clinical applications. Hence, the linear plus nonlinear diagonal Volterra series model is a well–suited structure for approximating Type I diabetic patient glucose–insulin dynamics using input–output methods.
The Benzodiazepines: Kinetic-Dynamic Relationships

The primary pharmacologic actions of the benzodiazepine derivatives include: reduction of anxiety, induction of sleep, and anti-seizure effects. Establishing kinetic-dynamic relationships for this class of drugs is a particular challenge, since reliable quantitation of these primary pharmacologic actions is difficult to achieve. This chapter reviews methodologic issues in studying the pharmacokinetic profile and the pharmacodynamic properties of benzodiazepine derivatives, and methods for quantitative linkage of plasma concentrations with clinical effects.
Laser Applications to Cytology and Cytogenetics

The development of a laser attached to a microscope produced a valuable instrument for work in cytology and cytogenetics. This tool gave the investigator special light beams which could be focussed as accurately as any other form of light and could be placed precisely where it was actually needed. The diameter of this beam has varied from 1 micron up to 100 microns. This has permitted research varying from impacts on the mitochondria to impacts on relatively large areas of tissue for teratological studies on the fertile egg in the chick embryo.
Aging and Technological Advances: Health and Stress

A summary of the Symposium discussion on the relationship between technological change, health and stress is presented in this chapter. First, we discuss the topic of health in relation to technological change; then outline a model which suggests the paths through which technological change can make an impact on health. The latter section includes a discussion of the role of stress as an intervening variable between technogical change and health. It should be noted that, for this discussion, specific medical advances were not considered.
Impact of a program ensuring consistent response to acute drops in lung function in children with cystic fibrosis.

Abstract Background Variation in CF pulmonary outcomes is multifactorial, but a significant component appears to be dependent upon differences in CF Center care. Previous investigations suggest that high performing CF centers are more consistent and proactive in the treatment of pulmonary exacerbations. We incorporated this approach into a program that could be bundled and shared with other CF Centers. Methods The reorganization of CF pulmonary care at the Children's Hospital of Richmond included the development of a pulmonary algorithm to define a standard response to changes in lung function and run charts to track process and outcome measures. We calculated the rolling average of the best percent predicted FEV1 (ppFEV1) over the previous 12 months as our primary outcome measure. Results The mean of the best ppFEV1 in the previous 12 months rose from 87% predicted (65% predicted for those 13–18 years, 97% predicted for those 6–13 years) in January 2013 to 98% predicted (95% predicted for those 13–18 years, 110% predicted for those 6–13 years) in January 2018. The ppFEV1 difference between children 6–13 years and adolescents 13–18 years dropped from 34 to 14 during that time. Conclusions Improvements in pulmonary outcomes can be accomplished rapidly using basic quality improvement principles, including interdisciplinary team goal setting, standardized and proactive approaches that ensure consistent recognition and treatment of pulmonary exacerbations, and the use of data to follow the effectiveness of the process. We believe that the steps involved would be easy for other CF Centers to adapt to their own settings.
AGEP overlap induced by hydroxychloroquine: a case report and literature review.

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare drug reaction manifesting as pustular lesions with surrounding erythema following exposure. The disease is often self-limited and treatme...
Polarization Reconfigurable Holographic Artificial Impedance Surfaces

This paper addresses the design of polarization reconfigurable holographic artificial impedance surfaces (HAISs). the proposed metasurface is fed by two monopoles and it radiates a pencil beam with horizontal, vertical or circular polarization depending on the monopole or the combination of monopoles that feeds the metasurface. The HAIS is operated at a non-phase crossover frequency.
Smart Contracts: Legal Considerations

In this paper, we analyze the value of smart contracts and blockchains as an alternative to traditional contractual obligations. In particular, we start by exploring some of the advantages of these technologies, specifically the immutability of blockchains and automated contract remittance. We also discuss two critical shortcomings of decentralized smart contracts, namely regulatory uncertainty and a lack of confidential execution. With these issues in mind, we next explore how American legislators have begun to address smart contracts and blockchains. Though quite limited, there have been a few provisions clarifying the status of these technologies. We break down some of the language expressed in these bills so as to understand the current legal status of smart contracts and blockchains. Given this foundation, we consider the next steps that should be taken as smart contracts mature. This pertains to both the continued improvement of the underlying technology as well as the progress taken by regulators. Finally, assuming a futuristic scenario where there are no technological or regulatory barriers to smart contract adoption, we discuss how the process of contract remittance can be expedited in a world fully committed to the use of smart contracts.
Re-Engineering Clinical Trials: Best Practices for Streamlining the Development Process

Edited by Peter Schuler and Brendan M. Buckley, Published by Elsevier, 1600 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Suite 1800, Philadelphia, PA 19103, 2015. 360 p. Price $99.95 (hard cover) Description: This book evaluates current methods used in the clinical phase of drug development and presents innovative
On the use of multiresolution analysis for subsurface object detection using deep ground penetrating radar

New ground penetrating radars for the vehicle mounted system can penetrate further into the ground, providing the opportunity of detecting objects that are deeply buried. A deep target has less obvious edge behaviors, especially if it has low-metal or non-metal content, making the edge based algorithm less effective for the detection. We shall explore the use of multiresolution time-frequency analysis technique by the log-Gabor filters to improve the detection of deep targets. They act on the 2-D image at an alarm location, generate multiresolution outputs and produce classification features for detection. The multiresolution analysis is able to preserve the edge behavior while at the same time forms the extra dimension of resolution (frequency) to better characterize a target signature for distinction with false alarms. Results on the detection performance at two government test sites validate the encouraging performance of the proposed detector.
Dynamic Impedance Adjustment for Millimeter-Wave CMOS Low Noise Amplifiers Using a Current Injection Technique

This work presents a novel technique for adjusting the input impedance of a low noise amplifier (LNA) using current injection. The proposed technique can significantly improve the input return loss under varying antenna impedance and/or process variation, with minimal effect on the amplifier’s nominal performance. The simulation results show approximately 6dB input return loss improvement over the designed frequency range. The proposed current injection method is verified through the design of a single-stage LNA in a 28nm TSMC bulk CMOS technology. The LNA uses a 900mV supply voltage and operates from 17.5GHz to 20.5GHz. Nominally, the LNA exhibits 1.25dB of noise figure, 12dB of power gain, and dissipates approximately 14mW of power. Within this work, the LNA maintains an input return loss below -10dB under process (3σ), voltage (+10%), temperature (-40°C), and antenna impedance (45Ω) variations, without requiring stringent nominal design specifications, tuning, or trimming.
Developing hands-on laboratory exercises for teaching STEM students the internet-of-things, cloud computing and blockchain applications

The fields of computer science and engineering are undergoing rapid change, with significant advances in areas including the internet-of-things, cloud computing, and blockchain technologies. Consequently, the gap between traditional course material taught to students in B.S./M.S. programs at universities and the cutting edge of technology used in industry is widening at an unprecedented rate. Students may get overwhelmed and discouraged by the amount of material they need to learn, contributing to high dropout rates in STEM fields, particularly in computer science and engineering.We propose a hands-on laboratory based approach to teach the students the basics of these emerging areas. The objective is to motivate and engage students by encouraging them to tinker with physical systems, so that they can develop an intuitive understanding of the new technologies.We present an approach using the Raspberry Pi, a small and inexpensive platform that allows students to build interesting applications in the area of the internet-of-things. We provide the preferred sequencing of necessary material, and the required combination of different software modules necessary to teach the students. We discuss our experience of teaching this course to both graduate and undergraduate students.Our results should be beneficial to instructors interested in exposing their students to these emerging technologies. Our main finding is that students prefer hands-on laboratory exercises to theoretical instruction. They are able to grasp concepts better when there is a short theoretical lecture followed immediately by related hands-on laboratory exercises. We present specific laboratory exercises to teach students about the end-to-end processing involved in acquiring images, creating immutable records using a cryptographic hash function, and transmitting and storing them on the cloud. These lab exercises provide students with an understanding of camera-based security applications, basic blockchain technology, and cloud computing.
Association of In Utero HIV Exposure With Obesity and Reactive Airway Disease in HIV-Negative Adolescents and Young Adults.

Background HIV-negative individuals with in utero HIV exposure represent an emerging population, exceeding 18 million people worldwide. Long-term clinical outcomes among HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU) individuals into adolescence and young adulthood remain unknown. Setting US academic health system. Methods In this observational cohort study, we leveraged a patient data registry to identify 50 HEU adolescents and young adults. We also identified 141 HIV-unexposed controls that were matched to HEU subjects up to 3:1 on age of last encounter (±2 years), birthdate (±5 years), sex, race/ethnicity, and zip code. All subjects were born since January 1, 1990, with medical records available into adolescence and young adulthood. Primary outcomes were most recent body mass index (BMI) z-score and presence of reactive airway disease (RAD). Records were manually reviewed to extract health information. Results Fifty HEU adolescents and young adults (18 ± 3 years, 54% men) and 141 matched controls (19 ± 3 years, 54% men) were compared. HEU individuals had a higher BMI z-score (1.12 ± 1.08 vs. 0.73 ± 1.09, P = 0.03) and an increased prevalence of obesity (42% vs. 22%, P = 0.009) compared with controls. HEU subjects also had a higher prevalence of RAD vs. controls (40% vs. 23%, P = 0.03). These differences persisted on adjusting for demographic, socioeconomic, maternal, and birth-related factors. Maternal prenatal CD4 T-cell count was inversely associated with BMI z-score among HEU adolescents (r = -0.47, P = 0.01). Conclusions HEU adolescents and young adults exhibited a heightened prevalence of obesity and RAD compared with HIV-unexposed controls. Additional studies are needed to optimize care for the expanding population of HEU individuals transitioning to adulthood.
Complications and toxicity of re-irradiation following total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer

Study outcomes of re-irradiation after salvage total laryngectomy (TL) for patients with recurrent laryngeal cancer. Determine overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Determine the incidence of severe complications associated with re-irradiation with a focus on carotid blowout (CB). Patients previously irradiated, with recurrent or second primary cancer of the larynx status-post salvage TL who received a second course of radiation from 2000 to 2017 were identified. Toxicities were measured using the CTCAE 4.0. Major toxicities were defined as grade 3+. Survival data and Kaplan-Meier curves were computed in SAS 9.4. Twenty-six patients were included in the analysis. Seventeen had progression of disease and 16 died during the follow-up period. Nine patients had no evidence of disease (NED) at last follow-up. One-, two-, and five-year OS were 65.8%, 44.2%, and 23.2%. One-, two-, and five-year PFS were 48.4%, 24.7%, and 18.5%. The most common severe toxicities were fibrosis (61.5%), dysphagia (53.8%), and wound healing complication (23.1%). Four patients (15.4%) suffered carotid blowouts. Two blowouts were preceded by manipulation of the aerodigestive tract. Patients undergoing re-irradiation for recurrent laryngeal cancer have a poor prognosis with high risk of progression or recurrence. Re-irradiation may offer survival benefit at the expense of significant toxicities. The incidence of severe toxicity is high enough to warrant pretreatment counseling. Carotid blowout was seen in 15% of patients unrelated to cancer progression. Caution should be exercised in re-irradiated patients before instrumentation of the aerodigestive tract.
FULMINANT MYOCARDITIS AND COMPLETE HEART BLOCK FOLLOWING PEMBROLIZUMAB TREATMENT

While the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has brought promise for cancer treatment it can cause myocarditis. A 72-year-old male with metastatic cecal cancer received his first infusion of Pembrolizumab, ICI of programmed cell death 1 protein. ECG 21 days later showed inferior ST-
Comparison of Finite Rate Chemistry and Flamelet/Progress-Variable Models: Sandia Flames and the Effect of Differential Diffusion

In this study, large eddy simulations (LES) are conducted using both a finite-rate chemistry (FRC) model and a flamelet/progress-variable (FPV) model for a series of piloted partially premixed meth...
The ClassDojo app: training in the art of dividuation

This article emerged in response to the increasing ubiquity of the ClassDojo app, a Silicon Valley-developed digital communication and behavior management platform, in grade schools throughout the ...
Competition of three-dimensional magnetic phases in Ca 2 Ru 1 − x Fe x O 4 : A structural perspective

The crystalline and magnetic structures of ${\mathrm{Ca}}_{2}{\mathrm{Ru}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{x}{\mathrm{O}}_{4}$ ($x=0.02$, 0.05, 0.08, and 0.12) have been studied using neutron and x-ray diffraction. The Fe-doping reduces the Ru-O bond length in both apical and planar directions. The smaller Ru($\mathrm{Fe}){\mathrm{O}}_{6}$ octahedron leads to its reduced distortion. The $Pbca$ space group is maintained in all the Fe dopings, so is the octahedral flattening. Warming has a similar effect on the lattice to that of the Fe doping in releasing the distorted octahedra but precipitates an abrupt octahedral elongation near the $\mathrm{N}\stackrel{\ifmmode \acute{}\else \'{}\fi{}}{e}\mathrm{el}$ temperature. Two competing antiferromagnetic orders, $A$- and $B$-centered phases have been observed. The Fe-doping-relaxed crystal structure prefers the latter to the former. As the doping increases, the $B$-centered phase continuously grows at the cost of the $A$-centered one and eventually replaces it at $x=0.12$. The absence of the two-dimensional antiferromagnetic critical fluctuations above the magnetic transition temperature and the three-dimensional magnetic correlation below the transition, together with the anomalous lattice response, point to an important role of orbital degree of freedom in driving the magnetic phase competition.
Rectal Conditions: Rectal Cancer—Proctectomy

The modern treatment of rectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary approach often requiring several modalities of diagnostic and therapeutic techniques with surgical resection as the mainstay for curative treatment. The extent of surgical resection and reconstructive options for the patient are variable, depending on the location of the tumor within the rectum. An intimate understanding of the key anatomical landmarks and dissection planes of a total mesorectal excision are paramount to a proper proctectomy for rectal cancer. Reconstructive options with sphincter preservation has been increasingly offered, as studies have shown similar oncologic outcomes with shorter distal margins. Several minimally invasive technologies have been adapted to improve surgical, oncologic, and functional outcomes, but controversy still exists regarding the best approach for the treatment of patients with rectal cancer.
First-Order Problem Solving through Neural MCTS based Reinforcement Learning.

The formal semantics of an interpreted first-order logic (FOL) statement can be given in Tarskian Semantics or a basically equivalent Game Semantics. The latter maps the statement and the interpretation into a two-player semantic game. Many combinatorial problems can be described using interpreted FOL statements and can be mapped into a semantic game. Therefore, learning to play a semantic game perfectly leads to the solution of a specific instance of a combinatorial problem. We adapt the AlphaZero algorithm so that it becomes better at learning to play semantic games that have different characteristics than Go and Chess. We propose a general framework, Persephone, to map the FOL description of a combinatorial problem to a semantic game so that it can be solved through a neural MCTS based reinforcement learning algorithm. Our goal for Persephone is to make it tabula-rasa, mapping a problem stated in interpreted FOL to a solution without human intervention.
Antibody-dependent passive protection of mucosal surfaces

Extensive experiments performed mostly in a variety of animal models convincingly demonstrated the protective effect of polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies administered by the mucosal route. Because of the independence of the mucosal and systemic compartments of the immune system, antibodies from the circulation are not effectively transported in sufficient quantities into external secretions. Nevertheless, local application of antibodies of the desired specificity to mucosal membranes of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and female genital tracts protected experimental animals from the subsequent challenge by corresponding viral or bacterial pathogens. Thus, generation of monoclonal antibodies of desired specificity and the selection of delivery systems to extend their otherwise short survival on some mucosal surfaces are essential aims of their usability in humans for the effective prevention of mucosally acquired infectious diseases.
Lung Cancer Risk in Suspicious Lung Nodules With Negative Positron Emission Tomography Scan

ABSTRACT Background Lung CT Screening Reporting and Data System (LungRADS) Category 4 represents lung nodules with the highest likelihood of cancer. For LungRADS-4 lesions, if positron emission tomography (PET) is negative, there currently exists no uniform guideline on subsequent follow-up, particularly whether the surveillance interval can be extended. We sought to investigate the incidence of cancer, our surveillance practice and any clinical factors associated with cancer in this patient subset. Methods We retrospectively stratified LungRADS-4 patients screened at our institution from March 2015 to February 2019 into subgroups: PET-positive, PET-negative, and no PET performed. PET negativity was defined as the absence of a radiologist’s suspicion, or a maximum standardized uptake value at or below the mediastinal value. Results Of the 191 LungRADS-4 patients identified, 67 (35.1%) met criteria for PET negativity. Cancer was diagnosed in 28.8% (55/191) of the entire cohort, 77.8% (35/45) of the PET-positive subgroup, 22.4% (15/67) of the PET-negative subgroup, and 6.3% (5/79) of the no PET subgroup. The most common follow-up modality after a negative PET scan was a CT scan (47/67, 70.1%), with a median interval of 3.1 months. Clinical variables including nodule location/size, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, family history of lung cancer, pack-years, and number of years quit in former smokers were not significantly associated with greater cancer risk among PET-negatives. Conclusion For LungRADS-4/PET-negative lesions, the cancer risk remained high despite lack of activity on PET. As such, we believe the current surveillance practice of continuing to follow LungRADS-4/PET-negative patients as LungRADS-4 patients is appropriate.
Designing Machine Learning Surrogates using Outputs of Molecular Dynamics Simulations as Soft Labels

Molecular dynamics simulations are powerful tools to extract the microscopic mechanisms characterizing the properties of soft materials. We recently introduced machine learning surrogates for molecular dynamics simulations of soft materials and demonstrated that artificial neural network based regression models can successfully predict the relationships between the input material attributes and the simulation outputs. Here, we show that statistical uncertainties associated with the outputs of molecular dynamics simulations can be utilized to train artificial neural networks and design machine learning surrogates with higher accuracy and generalizability. We design soft labels for the simulation outputs by incorporating the uncertainties in the estimated average output quantities, and introduce a modified loss function that leverages these soft labels during training to significantly reduce the surrogate prediction error for input systems in the unseen test data. The approach is illustrated with the design of a surrogate for molecular dynamics simulations of confined electrolytes to predict the complex relationship between the input electrolyte attributes and the output ionic structure. The surrogate predictions for the ionic density profiles show excellent agreement with the ground truth results produced using molecular dynamics simulations. The high accuracy and small inference times associated with the surrogate predictions provide quick access to quantities derived using the number density profiles and facilitate rapid sensitivity analysis.
Defect evolution during machining of brittle materials

A simple stress based defect evolution model is developed to assess the influence of various process paramters on material removal rate (MRR) and induced damage during ceramic grinding processes. Model predictions for normal and lateral damage zones under normal indentations are first compared to fracture models as well as experimental observations on pyrex glass. The proposed model is then extended to simulate oblique indentation events depicting abrasive grit-workpiece interactions during ceramic grinding. It is also easily extendable to real grinding situations involving multiple interacting abrasive grits. Process design options for reducing induced damage in the finished part, and increasing MRR are considered next. In particular, the potential of a new design avenue involving intermittent unloading is investigated. For pyrex glass, it is observed that intermittent unloading can facilitate significant increase in force per abrasive grit without increasing the associated surface and sub-surface fragmentation in the finished part. This design feature may enable significant increase in MRR, while maintaining a very low level of process induced damage in the finished product.
MOLECULAR AND MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF TEN POLAR AND NEAR‐POLAR STRAINS WITHIN THE OSCILLATORIALES (CYANOBACTERIA)

An approximately 1400-bp region of the 16S rRNA gene was sequenced for 10 polar or near-polar strains putatively placed in the Oscillatorialean genera Oscillatoria, Phormidium, and Lyngbya obtained from the University of Toronto Culture Collection to assess phylogenetic relationships. The strains were also examined for thylakoid structure and cell division type with TEM as well as traditional morphology with LM. Phylogenetic trees constructed using parsimony, distance, and maximum likelihood methods were similar in topology. If the original epithets applied to the sequenced strains (both polar and those from GenBank) were used, it was clear that taxa were not monophyletic. However, using the revised taxonomic system of Anagnostidis and Komarek, we were able to reassign these strains to their current correct taxa (species, genus, and family). When these assignments were made, it was determined that the molecular sequence data analyses were congruent with morphology and ultrastructure. Nine of the polar strains were found to be new species, and eight were described as such: Arthronema gygaxiana Casamatta et Johansen sp. nov., Pseudanabaena tremula Johansen et Casamatta sp. nov., Leptolyngbya angustata Casamatta et Johansen sp. nov., Phormidium lumbricale Johansen et Casamatta sp. nov., Microcoleus glaciei Johansen et Casamatta sp. nov., Microcoleus rushforthii Johansen et Casamatta sp. nov., Microcoleus antarcticus Casamatta et Johansen sp. nov., Microcoleus acremannii Casamatta et Johansen sp. nov. Some genera (Leptolyngbya and Microcoleus) were clearly not monophyletic and require future revision.
The Indivisible Constitution

In The Invisible Constitution, Laurence Tribe argues that many of our most deeply-held constitutional convictions are not to be found in the words of the Constitution itself. They are, instead, part of what he calls the invisible Constitution. This review essay argues that although that claim is true, it is not worth spending a book on. Moreover, its very truth-the fact that certain “invisible” constitutional propositions are as central and well-established as textual ones-undermines the value of treating the “invisible” Constitution as a qualitatively different entity.