cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Radiation therapy and patient age in the survival from early-stage breast cancer.

Purpose: To analyze the use of radiation therapy following local excision of invasive localized breast cancer and subsequent survival by 5-year age category. Methods: Data for 27,399 women diagnosed with localized stage of breast cancer and treated with local excision surgery from 1983 through 1992 were collected and provided by the national Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program. Use of radiation therapy was analyzed by race, ethnic background, geographic location, and age at diagnosis. Survival for women treated with local excision plus radiation therapy was compared to that of women treated with local excision alone for each 5-year age category. Results: Subjects in older age groups were significantly less likely (p < 0.001) to receive radiation following local excision compared to younger age groups. Statistically significant survival advantages were conferred on women receiving radiation therapy in each 5-year age category from age 35 to 84 years (ranging from p = 0.02 to p < 0.0001). Conclusion: While the use of radiation therapy following local excision of early-stage breast tumors drops significantly in older age groups, women aged 35–84 years receiving radiation therapy had significant reductions in mortality. These results did not appear to be influenced by the presence of mortal comorbid conditions. These results strongly suggest the need to consider carefully patient characteristics other than age in deciding the course of treatment for early-stage breast cancer.
Measurements of Hydrogen Peroxide and Formaldehyde in Glendora, California

Gas-phase hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and formaldehyde (HCHO) were measured in Glendora, CA from August 14 to 21, 1986. These measurements were part of the Carbonaceous Species Methods Comparison Study sponsored by the California Air Resources Board. Both of these species were measured using enzymatic techniques, H2O2 by the peroxidase catalyzed dimerization of p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid and formaldehyde by the formaldehyde dehydrogenase catalyzed reduction of NAD+ to NADH. Both H2O2 and HCHO showed a strong diurnal variation with the highest concentrations measured during the period of maximum photochemical activity. H2O2 concentrations ranged from < 0.1 ppbv at night to a maximum of 3 ppbv for the hourly average on one day. The HCHO concentrations ranged from a low of 5 ppbv a night to a maximum of 20 ppbv during the day.
The Caenorhabditis elegans rhy-1 Gene Inhibits HIF-1 Hypoxia-Inducible Factor Activity in a Negative Feedback Loop That Does Not Include vhl-1

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcription factors implement essential changes in gene expression that enable animals to adapt to low oxygen (hypoxia). The stability of the C. elegans HIF-1 protein is controlled by the evolutionarily conserved EGL-9/VHL-1 pathway for oxygen-dependent degradation. Here, we describe vhl-1-independent pathways that attenuate HIF-1 transcriptional activity in C. elegans. First, the expression of HIF-1 target genes is markedly higher in egl-9 mutants than in vhl-1 mutants. We show that HIF-1 protein levels are similar in animals carrying strong loss-of-function mutations in either egl-9 or vhl-1. We conclude that EGL-9 inhibits HIF-1 activity, as well as HIF-1 stability. Second, we identify the rhy-1 gene and show that it acts in a novel negative feedback loop to inhibit expression of HIF-1 target genes. rhy-1 encodes a multi-pass transmembrane protein. Although loss-of-function mutations in rhy-1 cause relatively modest increases in hif-1 mRNA and HIF-1 protein expression, some HIF-1 target genes are expressed at higher levels in rhy-1 mutants than in vhl-1 mutants. Animals lacking both vhl-1 and rhy-1 function have a more severe phenotype than either single mutant. Collectively, these data support models in which RHY-1 and EGL-9 function in VHL-1-independent pathway(s) to repress HIF-1 transcriptional activity.
Is it necessary to define the ictal onset zone with EEG prior to performing resective epilepsy surgery

When evaluating candidates for neurosurgical treatment for medically intractable epilepsy, is it always necessary to define the region of seizure onset with EEG? A simple answer to this question is not possible. There are specific situations where surgery is commonly performed without clear EEG ictal localization, and other situations where electrical localization is mandatory. However, opinions differ in many other situations. What are the core issues for determining when EEG localization is necessary? Neuroimaging is imperfect. It does not always accurately identify the site of seizure origination, because seizures do not always arise from visible structural lesions. EEG localization is also imperfect, as well as expensive and time consuming. Sometimes the site of origin is not identified, or a region of spread is misidentified as site of origin. False localization and lateralization can occur. Finally, epilepsy surgery is imperfect. It can produce life-changing results, but it carries risk, and surgical failure is not rare. The limitations of these methods, and the high stakes of epilepsy surgery imply that we should be very cautious to omit EEG studies. The desire to improve access to epilepsy surgery, and to minimize the expense and risk from inpatient EEG studies, must be weighed against the possibility of an ineffective resection. To improve outcomes, improvements in both neuroimaging and EEG techniques are needed.
Molecular biologic substaging of stage I lung cancer according to gender and histology

Abstract Background . This study is designed to assess molecular biologic substaging according to gender and histology in patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods . Pathologic specimens were collected from 408 consecutive patients after complete resection for stage I NSCLC, with follow-up of at least 5 years. A panel of nine molecular markers was chosen for immunohistochemical analysis of the tumor: recessive oncogenes p53 and bcl-2, the protooncogene erbB-2, KI-67 proliferation index, retinoblastoma oncogene (Rb), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr), angiogenesis factor viii, sialyl-Tn antigen (STN), and CD-44. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to construct a risk model for cancer-specific survival according to marker status, gender, and histologic subtype. Results . Among men, the only molecular marker associated with decreased cancer-specific survival is erbB-2; among women, there are four markers: p53, Rb, CD-44, and factor viii. Among patients with squamous cell carcinoma, the only molecular marker associated with decreased cancer-specific survival is erbB-2; among patients with adenocarcinoma (AC), there are three markers: p53, CD-44, and factor viii. Multivariable analysis of interactions among molecular markers, gender, and histology demonstrates two important relationships (hazard ratio): p53+/women (2.269) and CD-44+/AC (2.266). Conclusions . Molecular biologic substaging of patients with stage I NSCLC demonstrates differential cancer-specific survival according to marker expression, gender, and histologic subtype.
Picosecond Laser Studies on the Effect of Structure and Environment on Intersystem Crossing in Aromatic Carbenes

Carbon is the most important atom in organic and biological chemistry. In nature and in the laboratory we find that the stable (low energy) form of carbon requires the formation of four chemical bonds, i.e., carbon is tetravalent. In this paper we will be concerned with abnormal, high energy and exceedingly reactive forms of carbon which exist only as reactive intermediates. The properties and reactions of this form of carbon must be measured on time scales ranging from a microsecond to a picosecond or less. In the reactive transients we will consider the carbon has only two bonds, i.e., carbon is in its divalent form. These divalent carbon intermediates constitute a family of transients called carbenes [1].
Predicting peptides bound to I-Ag7 class II histocompatibility molecules using a novel expectation-maximization alignment algorithm.

The useful structural features of class II MHC molecules are rarely integrated into T-cell epitope predictions. We propose an approach that applies a novel expectation-maximization algorithm to align the naturally processed peptides selected by the class II MHC I-A g7 molecule - focusing on the five MHC-specific anchor positions. Based on the alignment profile, log of odds (LOD) scores supplemented with the Laplace plus-one pseudocounts method are applied to identify the potential T-cell epitopes. In addition, an innovative computational concept of hindering residues using statistical and structural information is developed to refine the prediction. Performance analysis by receiver operating characteristics statistics and the experimental validation of the LOD scores demonstrate the accuracy of our predictive model. Furthermore, our model successfully predicts T-cell epitopes of hen egg-white lysozyme protein antigen. Our study provides a framework for predicting T-cell epitopes in class II MHC molecules.
On the Information Stability of Channels With Timing Errors

In this paper, we consider the class of channels corrupted by timing errors and intersymbol interference (ISI). The timing error is modeled as a discrete-time, discrete-valued random walk process. We prove that this class of channels are information stable for Markov input process of any finite order, and thereby, show achievable transmission rates in terms of asymptotic information rates. The proof we provide is extended from the proof by Dobrushin for the class of memoryless channels with independent timing errors.
Applying Common Identity and Bond Theory to Design of Online Communities

Online communities depend upon the commitment and voluntary participation of their members. Community design — site navigation, community structure and features, and organizational policies — is critical in this regard. Community design affects how people can interact, the information they receive about one another and the community, and how they can participate in community activities. We argue that the constraints and opportunities inherent in online community design influence how people become attached to the community and whether they are willing to expend effort on its behalf. We examine two theories of group attachment and link these theories with design decisions for online communities. Common identity theory makes predictions about the causes and consequences of people's attachment to the group as a whole. Common bond theory makes predictions about the causes and consequences of people's attachment to individual group members. We review causes of common identity and common bond, and show how they ...
Effects of cross host species inoculation of nitrogen‐fixing endophytes on growth and leaf physiology of maize

Plants that grow and thrive under abiotic stress often do so with the help of endophytic microorganisms. Although nitrogen-fixing (diazotrophic) endophytes colonize many wild plants, these natural relationships may be disrupted in cultivated crop species where breeding and genotype selection often occur under conditions of intensive fertilization and irrigation. Many energy crops including corn may still benefit from diazotrophic endophyte inoculations allowing for more efficient biomass production with less input of petroleum-derived fertilizer. A selection of diazotrophic endophytes isolated from willow (Salix sitchensis, Sitka willow) and poplar (Populus trichocarpa, black cottonwood) growing in nutrient-poor river sides were used as inoculum in three experiments testing the effect on plant growth and leaf level physiology of a sweet corn variety under various levels of applied nitrogen fertilizer. We report substantial growth promotion with improved leaf physiology of corn plants in response to diazotrophic endophyte inoculations. Significant gains of early biomass with a greater root : shoot ratio were found for plants receiving endophytic inocula over the uninoculated control groups regardless of the nitrogen level. Furthermore, inoculated plants exhibited consistently higher rates of net CO2 assimilation than did those without endophytic inoculation. These results have beneficial implications for enhanced plant growth in a low-input system on nutrient-poor sites. The immediate increase of root mass observed in endophyte inoculated plants has the potential to provide better establishment and early growth in resource-limited environments. The initial results of this study also indicate that the beneficial effect from endophytes isolated from poplar and willow species is not restricted to the species from which they were initially isolated.
Analytical modeling of optical burst switching with fiber delay lines

We develop a performance model for an optical burst switch employing fiber delay lines (FDLs) to enhance system performance. An M/M/k queueing model with balking is derived to predict the system behavior for both classless and prioritized traffic. Simple closed-form expressions are obtained for the burst loss probability of classless traffic. Using a conservation relation, the balking model is extended to model the performance of prioritized traffic classes. A discrete event-driven simulator is constructed to verify the accuracy of the proposed models. Numerical results show that the classless model fits simulation results very well. The model for prioritized traffic provides an accurate fit for the performance of the highest traffic class and lower bounds for the other traffic classes that are tighter than earlier known results.
Fibromyalgia Syndrome: An Overview

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FS) is a chronic pain disorder of unknown etiology characterized by widespread musculoskeletal aches and pains, stiffness, and general fatigue. Frequently misdiagnosed, FS is often confused with myofascial pain syndrome, polymyalgia rheumatica, polymyositis, hypothyroidism, metastatic carcinoma, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, or systemic lupus erythematosus, any of which may occur concomitantly with FS.1,2 Fibromyalgia syndrome is the third most commonly diagnosed rheumatic disorder (after osteoarthritis and RA). The median age of onset for FS is from 29 to 37 years, whereas the age of medical presentation (formal diagnosis) for FS is 34 to 53 years, indicating that most patients endure symptoms for several years before receiving an appropriate diagnosis.3(p228) In the United States, 3 to 6 million people may have symptoms of FS, and an estimated 15% to 20% of patients (90% of them women) seen in rheumatology practices have fibromyalgia.4(p24)
Cure-on-command technology: A review of the current state of the art

Abstract Cure-on-command technology has been under extensive investigation during the past years. It has many advantages such as rapid cure and high productivity, low capital investment, high solids and elimination of solvents, low cost and energy consumption, possible multiple operations, high degrees of cross-linking, and improved chemical, abrasion, and stain resistance. This review mainly focuses on the major classes of the cure-on-command technology. It begins with an overview on ultraviolet (UV) curing equipment. The coating application processes, exposure process, UV line equipment, exposure factor measurement, and some examples of UV coating lines are provided. In addition, fundamentals of the UV curing mechanisms including free radical initiated UV cure and cationic UV cure are highlighted. Furthermore, recent process-related UV curing developments are discussed. Electron beam (EB) curing, as one of the most useful industrial curing technologies commercially available today, is then provided. Finally, we focus on magnetically induced curing systems. The induction curing and curing through magnetic macro-initiators are discussed in detail.
A sampling-based probabilistic path planner for multirotor air vehicles in cluttered environments

Successful navigation of small, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in cluttered environments is a challenging task, especially in the presence of turbulent winds and state estimation uncertainty. This paper proposes a probabilistic path planner for UAVs operating in cluttered environments. Unlike previous sampling-based approaches which select robust paths from a set of trajectory candidates, the proposed algorithm seeks to modify an initial desired path so that it satisfies obstacle avoidance constraints. Given a desired path, Monte Carlo uncertainty propagation is performed and obstacle collision risks are quantified at discrete intervals along the trajectory. A numerical optimization algorithm is used to modify the flight path around obstacles and reduce probability of collision while maintaining as much of the originally desired path as possible. The proposed path planner is specifically designed to leverage embedded massively parallel computers for near real-time uncertainty propagation. Thus the planne...
Influence of Dietary Fat and Carbohydrate on Food Intake, Body Weight and Body Fat of Adult Dogs

SummaryAdult female dogs were fed ad libitum for 25 weeks a high-fat diet (51% of energy from fat) or a high-carbohydrate diet (59% of energy from carbohydrate). Dogs fed the high-fat diet gained m...
Leaving History Behind: CD4/CD8 Ratio as a Diagnostic Tool in Sarcoidosis.

The recent meta-analysis in EBioMedicine by Shen and colleagues is the first to report a systematic analysis of the diagnostic performance of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) CD4/CD8 ratios in sarcoidosis (Shen et al., 2016). Their results are consistent with numerous studies and BAL guidelines over the last 2 decades which have shown that elevated CD4/CD8 ratios in BALF lack sufficient sensitivity and specificity needed to replace histologic confirmation of sarcoidosis (Meyer et al., 2012). Where does the use of the BALF lymphocyte ratio fall in the diagnostic pathway for sarcoidosis? One could take the position previously suggested by Costabel in 1997, who argued that performing BAL as a first step could confirm the diagnosis in the majority of patients, and obviate the need for those patients to undergo more invasive and risky biopsy procedures (Costabel, 1997). However, based on the pooled specificity of 83% reported by Shen and colleagues, this approach fails to meet one of the primary tenets of diagnosing sarcoidosis, namely the exclusion of alternative diagnoses (Statement on Sarcoidosis, 1999). More recently, the use of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) has gained favor at most centers for the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. It has a low rate of adverse events, and a recent meta-analysis reported pooled sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 100% (Gupta et al., 2014, Trisolini et al., 2015). Although TBNA is superior to the performance of the CD4/CD8 ratio, it requires the presence of mediastinal lymphadenopathy. When a CD4/CD8 ratio is considered for cases in which EBUS is negative or not available, practitioners should be aware of factors that can alter BALF CD4/CD8 ratios, including active smoking and advanced age. In addition, BALF CD4/CD8 ratio is lower in more advanced radiographic stages of sarcoidosis (Danila et al., 2008). Sarcoidosis is considered an orphan disease. However, compared to many other orphan diseases that have many diagnostic tools and treatments in development, sarcoidosis has a relative lack of guidelines, inconsistent clinical practice across institutions, and variation in study methodology. These have resulted in significant clinical trial heterogeneity. Of the 16 studies included by Shen, 1 was blinded, 5 were retrospective, and there was variability in CD4/CD8 ratio cut-points and sarcoidosis diagnostic criteria. Significant heterogeneity still existed when the authors performed a sensitivity analysis of prospective studies with low risk of bias. For a path forward, the sarcoidosis scientific community should work for better diagnostic tools, a better understanding of pathogenesis that might alter therapeutic targets, and build consistent practices across centers. Collaboration and data sharing can then result in more reliable conclusions and progress in sarcoidosis. As we leave the CD4/CD8 ratio behind, the need for effective diagnostic biomarkers has never been higher.
Protective effects of selenium and zinc on DNA damage induced by fluoride in mouse ameloblasts LIN Zong-wei*,WU

Objective To investigate the joint protective effects of selenium and zinc on DNA damage caused by fluoride in mouse ameloblasts. Methods The mouse ameloblasts were cultured and respectively divided into control group, fluoride groups(0.25,0.50,1.00,2.00 and 4.00 mmol/L NaF), low dose selenium and zinc joint action groups(2.50 μmol/L Na2SeO3+10.00 μmol/L ZnSeO4), high dose selenium and zinc joint action groups(5.00 μmol/L Na2SeO3+20.00 μmol/L ZnSeO4), low dose selenium and zinc joint act with fluoride groups(2.50 μmol/L Na2SeO3+10.00 μmol/L ZnSeO4to act with 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, 2.00, 4.00 mmol/L NaF respectively),and high dose selenium and zinc joint act with fluoride groups(5.00 μmol/L Na2SeO3+20.00 μmol/L ZnSeO4to act with 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, 2.00 and 4.00 mmol/L NaF respectively). After exposure for 24 h, the single cell gel electrophoresis assay was used to detect the DNA damage in mouse ameloblasts. Results The tail length, olive tail moment, DNA% and tail/head length ratio in fluoride groups were higher than those of the control group in mouse ameloblasts(P0.05). The levels of tail lengths,olive tail moments,and tail/head length ratios in 2.50 μmol/L Na2SeO3+10.00 μmol/L ZnSeO4group, 5.00 μmol/L Na2SeO3+20.00 μmol/L ZnSeO4combined with 0.25,0.50,1.00,2.00 and 4.00 mmol/L sodium fluoride groups, were lower than those of corresponding fluoride groups(P0.05). Compared with low dose selenium and zinc joint act with fluoride groups, olive tail moments in high dose selenium and zinc joint act with fluoride groups were higher in mouse ameloblasts(P0.05). Conclusion Excessive fluoride can induce DNA damage in mouse ameloblasts, and selenium and zinc in combination in certain doses may antagonize the DNA damage induced by fluoride. Moreover, selenium and zinc joint effect at low dose is more obvious than at high dose in inhibiting DNA damage induced by fluoride in mouse ameloblasts.
Failure Analysis of Walking Beam of Dual Horsehead Pumping Unit Based on Stress Measurement

Dual horsehead pumping unit is power saving which is used widely in oil field.Based on such problems as cracking and breaking of walking beam in running,a type of resistance measuring technology is used to make static and dynamic stress measurement for leading components such as walking beam and rear horsehead,and the results show that the walking beam is subjected to a tensile stress by driving holes.On the basis of the force analysis of the walking beam,effective stress and efficient stress amplitude are introduced to evaluate failure strength of the walking beam according to yield condition of Von Miss,and at the same time,the causes of these problems are analyzed,which is unreasonable load property and fatigue failure,and corresponding solutions including repairing and redesigning the pumping unit are further proposed respectively.
Psychobiologic features of geriatric affective disorder.

Although the causes of major depression in the elderly are not known, certain neurochemical and neuroendocrine differences tend to distinguish groups of depressed individuals from those who are nondepressed. Several issues bear upon defining a psychobiology of major depression in the elderly, including the distinction between late-onset and early-onset depression, secondary and primary major depression, delusional and nondelusional depression, and the parallel neurochemical changes associated with both aging and depression. This article reviews recent research on selected, psychobiologic features of depression and the extent to which they may apply in the elderly, including aspects of endocrinologic function, neurochemistry, platelet measures, and electrophysical markers. Despite drawbacks, some of these biologic features may prove useful in differential diagnosis, depression subgroup identification, as validators of psychiatric diagnoses, or in predicting and monitoring clinical course.
Approach to Endoscopic Adverse Events

The applications and benefits of gastrointestinal endoscopy have increased enormously, but so too have the potential for adverse events. It is critical for the endoscopist to have a thorough understanding of the potential adverse events of any given endoscopic procedure. Optimal prevention and management requires attention to several elements, including a thorough preprocedural evaluation, careful discussion with the patient and family of the proposed procedure and its risks and benefits, efforts to limit risks, and timely recognition and appropriate management of adverse events. Herein, we outline management algorithms with regard to the more common adverse events in endoscopy: pain, bleeding, and perforation.
Experimental demonstration of optical waveguide mode converters using one-dimensional phased antenna arrays

We created optical waveguide mode converters by patterning one-dimensional phased antenna arrays on optical waveguides. We experimentally characterized waveguide mode conversion by measuring far-field emission patterns of the converted modes at λ =4 μm.
The Los Angeles Healthy Community Neighborhood Initiative: A Ten Year Experience in Building and Sustaining a Successful Community-Academic Partnership.

Author(s): King, Keyonna M; Morris, D'Ann; Jones, Loretta; Lucas-Wright, Aziza; Jones, Felica; Del Pino, Homero E; Porter, Courtney; Vargas, Roberto; Kahn, Katherine; Brown, Arleen F; Norris, Keith C; HCNI Study Group | Abstract: BackgroundDeveloping effective Community-Academic Partnerships (CAPs) is challenging, and the steps to build and sustain them have not been well documented. This paper describes efforts to form and sustain the Healthy Community Neighborhood Initiative (HCNI), a CAP to improve health in a low-income community in South Los Angeles.MethodsModerated, semi-structured discussions with HCNI community and academic partners were used to develop a framework for CAP formation.ResultsWe identified two key features, shared values and respect, as critical to the decision to form the HCNI. Five elements were identified as necessary for building and sustaining the HCNI: trust, transparency, equity and fairness, adequate resources and developing protocols to provide structure. We also identified several challenges and barriers and the strategies used in the HCNI to mitigate these challenges.ConclusionWe developed a framework to incorporate and reinforce the key elements identified as crucial in building and sustaining a CAP in a low-income community.
Existing Theories of Colorblindness and a New Framework

Chapter 3 begins with a summary of existing conceptualizations of racial colorblindness. Theoretical derivations as well as more data- and observation-driven approaches are both discussed. Following this review, a new four-variety model of racial colorblindness is presented. The new model proposes that there are four primary varieties of colorblindness united by general opposition to racial categorization. The four varieties vary based upon differences in perceptions of racial inequalities and level of underlying racial prejudice. Evidence consistent with this new framework is presented.
Teaching “in their best interest”: Preservice teachers' narratives regarding English Learners

Abstract In the United States, teachers are increasingly working with English Learners (ELs) in mainstream classrooms. Several areas of focus have been proposed to guide the preparation of teachers for working with ELs, including: language related knowledge, skills, and dispositions. This narrative study examined how field-based experiences shaped 49 preservice teachers' dispositions toward ELs. An iterative and thematic analysis of collected narratives found that preservice teachers often completed their practicum in classrooms that did not model positive dispositions or pedagogical practices toward ELs. These findings have implications for the tasks and experiences given to preservice teachers during their preparation sequence.
Context-Specific Assessment

To appropriately evaluate people in their communities requires careful consideration of a panoply of contextual parameters. These are composed of a welcoming and safe ambience; physical plant characteristics; the clinical setting (e.g., inpatient, outpatient, emergency room, homeless shelter or under a bridge, correctional setting); whether the assessment is routine, urgent, emergent, or investigatory; the nature of the evaluation’s expected product; and the cultural attributes of people, their communities, and the evaluator. Consideration of all these contextual issues will expand the evaluator’s capacity to establish a therapeutic alliance, and to engage the patient in the assessment, and possibly treatment. Awareness of and responses to these contextual concerns will improve both the evaluative process and the evaluation product.
Multiple Criteria Trajectory Decision Support Using Polyscreen Workstations: A Production Planning Illustration

This paper demonstrates how the Combined Tchebycheff/Reference Point Procedure [8] can be installed in a decision support system for solving multiple criteria trajectory optimization problems. With such problems often presenting difficult modeling and solution procedure challenges, the Combined Procedure is employed because it gives good direction while providing substantial user control. The approach of this paper is futuristic in that it explores the use of polyscreen workstations (up to six screens) in order to facilitate man/machine communications at each iteration. A multiple criteria multi-time period production planning problem is used to illustrate the decision making approach.
Challenges in the Realization of SFQ Digital Circuits

Single-flux-quantum logic circuits offer the possibility of operation at speeds up to 100 GHz, significantly exceeding those available with semiconductor circuits. This work first reviews the background and status of single-flux-quantum digital circuits and then explores challenges that must be met in the realization of large circuits of this type. Major issues are control of fabrication technology, layout sensitivity of circuits, clock distribution, high-rata-rate random-access memory, high-speed interfaces, and bit-error-rate testing at several tens of gigahertz.
Proceedings of the 25th annual ACM international conference on Design of communication

From the campus of the University of Texas at El Paso, visitors can see three states and two countries. This makes UTEP an ideal setting for SIGDOC, a conference at which people from many nations--and many disciplines--gather to share their insights, perspectives, and research. As we gather this year in the valley of the Rio Grande, we carry on a 25-year tradition of bringing our interdisciplinary perspectives to bear on the design of communication. What is the design of communication? At first, SIGDOC focused on documentation for hardware and software. In 2003 SIGDOC refocused on the design of communication, emphasizing the potentials, the practices, and the problems of multiple kinds of communication technologies, such as Web applications, user interfaces, and on-line and print documentation. SIGDOC focuses on the design of communication as it is taught, practiced, researched, and theorized in various fields. In other words, SIGDOC is a meeting place for people of different fields and disciplines who study how people communicate in many ways: in classroom and workplace activities, in using websites and web applications, in managing information, and in writing and documentation. And this year's program illustrates that focus well: it features speakers from academics and industry and from fields as diverse as computer science, information science, information architecture, usability, communications, rhetoric, and technical communication, all gathered in the borderland of El Paso to share their insights about DOC.
The relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea and postoperative delirium and pain: an observational study of a surgical cohort

Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea are at increased risk of adverse postoperative outcomes, such as cardiac and respiratory complications. It has been hypothesised that obstructive sleep apnoea also increases the risk for postoperative delirium and acute postoperative pain. We conducted a retrospective, observational study investigating the relationship of obstructive sleep apnoea with postoperative delirium and acute postoperative pain severity. Patients were classified as being at high risk for obstructive sleep apnoea if they had been diagnosed with this condition, or if they were positive for more than four factors using the 'STOP-BANG' screening tool. Adjusted logistic regression was used to investigate the association between obstructive sleep apnoea and postoperative delirium, and multivariable linear regression to study the relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea and postoperative pain severity. The incidence of postoperative delirium was 307 in 1441 patients (21.3%; 95%CI 19.2-23.5%). In unadjusted analysis, high risk for obstructive sleep apnoea was associated with delirium, with an odds ratio (95%CI) of 1.77 (1.22-2.57; p = 0.003). After adjustment for pre-specified variables, the association was not statistically significant with odds ratio 1.34 (0.80-2.23; p = 0.27). The mean (SD) maximum pain (resting or provoked) reported for the entire cohort was 63.8 (27.9) mm on a 0-100 mm visual analogue scale. High risk for obstructive sleep apnoea was not associated with postoperative pain severity (β-coefficient 2.82; 95%CI, -2.34-7.97; p = 0.28). These findings suggest that obstructive sleep apnoea is unlikely to be a strong risk factor for postoperative delirium or acute postoperative pain severity.
The importance of turtle populations to wetland restoration in the Upper Mississippi Embayment of the Mississippi Alluvial Valley.

The Upper Mississippi Embayment (UME) ecoregion covers approximately 141,895 km2 and historically supported 9,712,455 ha of bottomland deciduous forests, swamps, bayous, and rivers. Only about 500 ha (< 0.01%) of pre-settlement bottomland hardwood forest habitat in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) in the UME remained by the 1940s because the timber was clearcut and the wetlands drained for agriculture. By 1983 only a few scattered cypress-tupelo swamps remained. We studied the freshwater turtle community in Allred Lake, Missouri, a rare remnant of this ecosystem and compared these results to those from two other study sites in the MAV, Big Oak Tree State Park (BOTSP), Missouri, and Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge (CRNWR), Mississippi. Species richness included six species commonly found throughout the MAV. One species (Red-eared Slider, Trachemys scripta elegans) dominated density and biomass in all three assemblages. The occurrence of the six species we studied in man-made restored wetlands such as those in BOTSP and CRNWR indicate these turtles would adapt to restored wetlands in the MAV in southeastern Missouri and elsewhere in the ecosystem. We provide information on habitat features that could be included in restoration design and construction that would benefit turtles. Given the ongoing worldwide decline of turtles, consideration of turtle ecology and behavior in wetland restoration projects in the MAV may be warranted.
High levels of dietary methionine improves sitagliptin-induced hepatotoxicity by attenuating oxidative stress in hypercholesterolemic rats

Both cholesterol (Cho) and methionine (Met, a precursor for homocysteine) are risk factors for fatty liver disease. Since Western diets are rich in Cho and Met, we investigated the hepatic effects of feeding a diet enriched in Met and Cho. Further, based on the reported anti-oxidative and lipid lowering properties of sitagliptin (an antidiabetic drug), we tested whether it could counteract the negative effects of high Cho and Met. We therefore hypothesized that sitagliptin would ameliorate the development of liver pathology that is produced by feeding diets rich in either Cho, Met, or both. Male Sprague Dawley rats were fed ad libitum a) control diet, or b) high Met or c) high Cho, or d) high Met + high Cho diets for 35 days. From day 10 to 35, 50% of rats in each dietary group were gavaged with either vehicle or an aqueous suspension of sitagliptin (100 mg/kg/day). Liver samples were harvested for histological, molecular, and biochemical analyses. The high Cho diet produced significant hepatic steatosis which was unaffected by sitagliptin. Contrary to expectation, sitagliptin exacerbated expression of hepatic markers of oxidative stress and fibrosis in rats fed high Cho. Corresponding increases in 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and collagen deposition were demonstrated by immunohistochemistry and sirius red staining. These hepatic changes were absent in rats on the high Met diet and they were comparable to controls. The inclusion of Met in the high Cho diet resulted in significant reduction of the hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress, and fibrosis produced by high Cho alone. Sitagliptin exacerbated the effects of high Cho on both oxidative stress and fibrosis, resulting in NASH like symptoms that were significantly reversed by the inclusion of Met.
Artificial escape from XCI by DNA methylation editing of the CDKL5 gene

A significant number of X-linked genes escape from X chromosome inactivation and are associated with a distinct epigenetic signature. One epigenetic modification that strongly correlates with X-escape is reduced DNA methylation in promoter regions. Here, we created an artificial escape by editing DNA methylation on the promoter of CDKL5, a gene causative for an infantile epilepsy, from the silenced X-chromosomal allele in human neuronal-like cells. We identify that a fusion of the catalytic domain of TET1 to dCas9 targeted to the CDKL5 promoter using three guide RNAs causes significant reactivation of the inactive allele in combination with removal of methyl groups from CpG dinucleotides. Strikingly, we demonstrate that co-expression of TET1 and a VP64 transactivator have a synergistic effect on the reactivation of the inactive allele to levels >60% of the active allele. We further used a multi-omics assessment to determine potential off-targets on the transcriptome and methylome. We find that synergistic delivery of dCas9 effectors is highly selective for the target site. Our findings further elucidate a causal role for reduced DNA methylation associated with escape from X chromosome inactivation. Understanding the epigenetics associated with escape from X chromosome inactivation has potential for those suffering from X-linked disorders.
Artificial urinary sphincter: current status and future directions

Urge urinary incontinence (UUI) is one of the most troublesome complications of surgery of the prostate whether for malignancy or benign conditions. For many decades, there have been attempts to reduce the morbidity of this outcome with variable results. Since its development in the 1970s, the artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) has been the "gold standard" for treatment of the most severe cases of UUI. Other attempts including injectable bulking agents, previous sphincter designs, and slings have been developed, but largely abandoned because of poor long-term efficacy and significant complications. The AUS has had several sentinel redesigns since its first introduction to reduce erosion and infection and increase efficacy. None of these changes in the basic AUS design have occurred in the past three decades, and the AUS remains the same despite newer technology and materials that could improve its function and safety. Recently, newer compressive devices and slings to reposition the bladder neck for men with mild-to-moderate UUI have been developed with success in select patients. Similarly, the AUS has had applied antibiotic coating to all portions except the pressure-regulating balloon (PRB) to reduce infection risk. The basic AUS design, however, has not changed. With newer electronic technology, the concept of the electronic AUS or eAUS has been proposed and several possible iterations of this eAUS have been reported. While the eAUS is as yet not available, its development continues and a prototype device may be available soon. Possible design options are discussed in this review.
Epidemiology investigation on arsenism from drinking water along Huai'he River and the surrounding area of Hong'ze lake in Huai'an city of Jinngsu province in 2008

Objective To explore the distribution of water with high level arsenic and prevalence of arsenism along Huai'he River and the surrounding area of Hong'ze lake in Huai'an of Jiangsu. Methods Wate rsamples were collected and tested in 2008 from 18 villages of 6 towns according to history data in 3 counties like Xuyi,Jinhu and Hongze. Samples having arsenic level higher than 0.05 mg/L were investigated by epidemiological method and the patients were diagnosed by Standard of Diagnosis for Endemic Arsenism. Results All 5199 water samples were determined,and 260 water samples were exceeding the national drinking water quality level (0.05 mg/L) in 3 counties,the rates of exceeding diagnosis were 5.6%(247/4454),0.7%(4/597),6.0%(9/148) respectively. Total detected rate of endemic arsenic disease was 5.94%(128/2155). The detected rates of age group of 0 ～ ,20 ～,30 ～ ,40 ～ ,50 ～ ,60 ～ ,70 ～ ,80 ～ were 2.86%(1/35),2.11%(2/95),1.26%(3/239),3.10%(16/516),5.53% (32/579),10.07%(41/407),11.84%(27/228),10.71%(6/56) respectively. The detected rate of male (9.10%,78/857) was higher than that of female(3.85%,50/1298,χ~2 = 25.46,P < 0.01). Conclusions Huai'he River and the surrounding areas of Hong'ze lake like Xuyi,Jinhu and Hongze are identified existing endemic arsenic disease area. The prevention of arsenism should be strengthened in these areas. Key words: Drinking; Arsenic poisoning; Epidemiology
New Decade: “New” Devices for “Old” Drugs

One of the biggest changes in the past few years concerning adolescent substance use is not a new substance but a new way to deliver existing ones. This article reviews e-cigarettes and how they are changing the use and abuse of nicotine and THC and discusses the latest knowledge of the effects of these substances upon adolescents. Concurrent trends in the increased potency and legality of marijuana in the USA are discussed as well as suggestions for how to proactively work with adolescents around the issue of substance use. “Vaping” is changing the usage patterns of nicotine and marijuana, exposing youth to new dosages and potential effects. Increased nicotine and THC exposure is erasing public health gains, leading to new drug-related syndromes (hyperemesis syndrome, acute exogenous lipoid pneumonia) and mental health effects. More research is needed with respect to long-term effects.
Photophysical Properties of Indocyanine Green in the Shortwave Infrared Region

With the growing development of new contrast agents for optical imaging using near-infrared and shortwave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths, it is essential to have consistent bench-marks for emitters in these regions. Indocyanine green (ICG), a ubiquitous and FDA-approved organic dye and optical imaging agent, is commonly employed as a standard for photophysical properties and biological performance for imaging experiments at these wavelengths. Yet, its reported photophysical properties across organic and aqueous solvents vary greatly in the literature, which hinders its ability to be used as a consistent benchmark. Herein, we measure photophysical properties in organic and aqueous solvents using InGaAs detection (~950-1,700 nm), providing particular relevance for SWIR imaging.
Cybersecurity professionals information sharing sources and networks in the U.S. electrical power industry

Abstract This article describes an exploratory qualitative case study of information sharing among cybersecurity professionals in the critical U.S. electrical power industry. Drawing on organizational information processing theory, this study examined how information related to cybersecurity related threats and response alternatives was accessed and shared in the participants’ organizations and within their broader industry network. In-depth interviews of 13 participants from 10 organizations were conducted to identify the nature of information sharing, the networks used to access the information, and changes that could improve information sharing between cybersecurity professionals and their organizations. The study found that information sharing networks exist at interpersonal, company-to-company, and company-to-multicompany levels of analysis. The role of trust in forming these networks was notable, as was the role of certain communication media, particularly threat briefings, testing exercises, and cybersecurity mutual assistance planning. The study found that certain types of network actors, such as law enforcement agencies, had strong relationship ties with the utility companies, while other actor types had weak or nonexistent ties. The implications for critical infrastructure protection are discussed.
Patient-Specific Cerebral Flow Model Using Regional Flows and Multi-Objective Optimization

Background: Some cerebral flow models have good accuracy in predicting patient outcome, but are too complicated to be readily duplicated by others. Others are simpler, but lack accuracy in utilizing patient-specific boundary conditions. Methods: A new patient-specific cerebral flow model aimed at both simplicity and accuracy was designed and applied to predict stump pressure (SP) during balloon test occlusion (BTO). The new model simulates both a baseline and an internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion flow model. The former involves building a novel patient-specific cerebral flow model with regional flows, where the resistances of all inlet and internal vessels were obtained using a multi-objective optimization algorithm; regional blood flows were calculated using vessel flows measured from quantitative magnetic resonance angiography (QMRA). The ICA occlusion flow model computes the new blood flows and pressures of efferent, inlet and internal vessels with the simulated occlusion of the ICA, while keeping the resistances of the peripheral, inlet and internal vessels constant. Results: The model was applied to predict SPs of four patients undergoing BTO. When aortic pressures are used, the simulated SPs demonstrate -11% to 7% error when compared to actual clinical measurements. When cuff pressures are used to approximate aortic pressures, the errors of the corresponding SPs becomes -19% to 1%. Conclusions: The proposed model flow was validated with both clinically measured blood flows and SPs. Even when cuff pressures were used to approximate aortic pressures, the reliable predicted SPs were achieved. The model may be promising for clinical use. J Neurol Res. 2021;11(3-4):37-46 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jnr671