cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accurate unilateral models for the amplifier circuits and their applications

Simple and fast methods of obtaining unilateral models for both single-stage and multi-stage amplifiers are given. They facilitate obtaining the transfer functions of such amplifiers quickly. They also eliminate the need for exact analysis of such circuits and are less error-prone. Applications are provided in analyzing feedback amplifiers to show the versatility, accuracy, and superiority of the methods developed. As a result of the accuracy of the methods presented, the authors use them in various applications to amplifier circuits, such as determining their bandwidth, stability margins, and closed-loop poles, etc. >
Room-temperature creep of nanoporous silica

We show that low-density nanoporous silica monoliths (aerogels), in contrast to the case of full-density silica, exhibit pronounced time-dependent deformation during indentation at room temperature. Logarithmic indentation creep and stress relaxation are revealed, with an exponential dependency of the creep constant on the applied stress. Such time-dependent deformation is attributed to stress corrosion fracture of nanoligaments that have a large surface-to-bulk atomic fraction.
Self-Guide Framing and Persuasion: Responsibly Increasing Message Processing to Ideal Levels

The current research examines the effect that framing persuasive messages in terms of self-guides (ideal vs. ought) has on the attitudes and cognitive responses of individuals with chronic ideal versus ought self-guides. The strength of participants’ ideal and ought self-guides and the magnitude of participants’ ideal and ought self-discrepancies were measured using a computerized reaction time program. One week later, participants read a persuasive message about a fictional breakfast product, framed in terms of either ideals or oughts. Matching framing to stronger self-guide led to enhanced message processing activity, especially among individuals who were low in need for cognition. Individuals who read messages framed to match their stronger self-guides paid more attention to argument quality, as reflected in their attitudes and cognitive responses. Messages with self-guide framing that matched individuals’ stronger self-discrepancies did not have this effect on processing.
Role of MyD88-dependent and MyD88-independent signaling in Porphyromonas gingivalis-elicited macrophage foam cell formation.

Clinical studies and experimental modeling identify a potential link between periodontal disease and periodontal pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and atherosclerosis and formation of macrophage foam cells. Toll-like receptors and molecules governing their intracellular signaling pathways such as MyD88 play roles in atherosclerosis, as well as host response to P. gingivalis. The aim of this study was to define roles of MyD88 and TRIF during macrophage foam cell formation in response to P. gingivalis. In the presence of human low-density lipoprotein (LDL) mouse bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMφ) cultured with P. gingivalis responded with significant reduction in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The BMφ stained strongly with oil red O, regardless of whether bacterial challenge occurred concurrent with or before LDL treatment. Heat-killed P. gingivalis stimulated foam cell formation in a similar way to live bacteria. The BMφ from MyD88-knockout and Lps2 mice revealed a significant role for MyD88, and a minor role for TRIF in P. gingivalis-elicited foam cell formation. Porphyromonas gingivalis-elicited TNF-α and IL-6 were affected by MyD88 ablation and to a lesser extent by TRIF status. These data indicate that LDL affects the TNF-α and IL-6 response of macrophages to P. gingivalis challenge and that MyD88 and TRIF play important roles in P. gingivalis-elicited foam cell formation.
A level III sentinel lymph node in breast cancer.

Background For accurate nodal staging, all blue and radioactive lymph nodes should be sampled during the sentinel lymph node biopsy for breast cancer. We report a case of anomalous drainage in which one of the sentinel lymph nodes was unexpectedly found in the level III axillary space.
Process optimization of lead-free wafer-level underfill material used in chip scale packaging

Wafer-level underfilling is an emerging technology that consists of pre-applying the underfill material on wafer during the wafer fabrication process. The novel underfill material and the process enable the chip manufacturers to perform underfill at the wafer-level, thereby eliminating multiple steps in the packaging process and cutting production cost significantly. However, lead-free solder poses significant challenge to this new technology. Compared to eutectic solder, lead-free solder tends to have a lower yield stress, requires higher reflow temperature and forms brittle joints. With increasing demand of lead-free compatible packaging material, further advancement of wafer level underfill material and process optimization are necessary to ensure compatibility with lead-free solders, better voiding performance and higher interconnection yield. We have developed novel wafer level underfill materials for chip scale packaging that are compatible with lead-free assembly. These materials, when coated on the wafer, form clear, transparent coating after B-stage that can be diced into coated dies without any delaminating and cracking. In this paper we discuss the effect of various heating profiles and different equipment used in the B-stage step on flow of underfill during the reflow, residual solvent after B-stage, solder paste smearing, and interconnection yield. By optimizing the material properties and B-stage conditions, we demonstrated that wafer level underfill material can achieve high interconnect yield without causing smearing and voiding in lead-free assembly.
Emerging Role of IGF-1R in Stretch-Induced Neointimal Hyperplasia in Venous Grafts

Autologous saphenous veins are commonly used to circumvent occluded coronary arteries during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures.1 Although these vessels provide an effective treatment for myocardial ischemic disease, they are susceptible to accelerated atherosclerosis and fail in 50% of cases within 10 years of surgery.2–4 Venous graft disease occurs via 3 temporally distinct processes including thrombosis, neointimal hyperplasia, and atherosclerosis with each process contributing significantly to the onset of the next. During neointimal hyperplasia, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and extracellular matrix accumulate in the intimal region causing intimal thickening and narrowing of the vessel lumen.3–5 Even though the disease process has been described, the detailed mechanisms behind the cellular events are unclear. In this issue of Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology , Cheng and Du illustrate a novel underlying mechanism involving an insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) pathway by which cyclic stretch of VSMC plays a critical role in intimal thickening of venous grafts. See page 1744 Blood flow generates a wide range of hemodynamic forces including frictional wall shear stress, circumferential stress, and compressive stress.6 Arteries are exposed to cyclic circumferential stretch attributable to pulsatile blood flow. Furthermore, they experience higher pressures than veins. Whereas the endothelium is constantly subjected to fluid shear stress, the underlying layers of smooth muscle cells are exposed mainly to circumferential stretch. It has been well established that altered mechanical forces cause dysregulated cellular phenotypes and contribute to pathology in disease conditions …
How Motivated Reasoning and Temporal Frames May Polarize Opinions About Wildlife Disease Risk

We draw from theories of motivated reasoning, dual-processing models, and attribution of responsibility to examine how scientific messages may increase public polarization with respect to emerging ...
Holland's RIASEC Model as an Integrative Framework for Individual Differences

and work environments. In the present study, a theoretical framework based on Holland’s (1959, 1997) structure of interests was used to assemble constellations of individual differences variables, producing an integrated model of measures of individual characteristics and the characteristic demands placed on individuals in work environments that can be used in applied settings such as career counseling. Data from a number of published sources, measuring a diverse set of individual and environmental demands, were integrated into interest structures based on Holland’s interest types.
Asymmetrical Vertical Phorias in Normal Subjects: The Influence of Unbalanced Illumination

Purpose: One goal of this investigation was to determine whether asymmetrical vertical hetereophorias, which are qualitatively similar to a dissociated vertical deviation (DVD), occur commonly in normal people. A second goal was to establish whether the magnitude or direction of vertical phoria depends on the illumination of the occluded eye, as would be expected if vertical eye position were influenced by a dorsal light reflex. Methods: Vertical phorias were estimated in 30 normal subjects using a Maddox rod in conjunction with a dark and an illuminated occluder. Results: On average, subjects exhibited a hypophoria of less than 1 min arc with both the dark and the illuminated occluder. Asymmetrical vertical phorias that were consistent with previously published criteria for a minute DVD were found in eight subjects when a dark occluder was used and in four subjects when an illuminated occluder was used. The proportions of subjects whose vertical phorias were consistent with a DVD did not differ significa...
The Effect of Topology on Estimates of Among-Site Rate Variation

Among-site rate variation, as quantified by the gamma-distribution shape parameter, a or alpha, and the ratio of transition rate to transversion rate (Ts/Tv) influence phylogenetic inference. We examine the effect of topology on estimates of these two parameters in 12S rRNA sequences from nine species of mice belonging to the genera Onychomys and Peromyscus by generating 100 random topologies and estimating these parameters using parsimony and maximum-likelihood methods for each of the random topologies. The parsimony-based estimate of Ts/Tv from the well-corroborated topology falls within the distribution of estimates based on random topologies, whereas the maximum-likelihood estimate of Ts/Tv based on the well-corroborated topology lies well outside the distribution of estimates derived from random topologies. The Ts/Tv ratio derived via maximum-likelihood estimation is three times the parsimony-based estimate, suggesting that parsimony-based estimates are severe underestimates even when the correct topology is used. Both parsimony- and likelihood-based estimates of the gamma-distribution shape parameter (alpha) are sensitive to topology because the best estimates based on the well-corroborated topology are well outside the distributions of estimates derived from random topologies for both methods. We show that the reason for topology dependence is the presence of long internal branches in the underlying topology.
Analysis of electric power system disturbance data

In this paper, NERC (North American Reliability Council) records of power System disturbances for the year 1984 through 1999 are explored. The disturbance sizes show a power law distribution, which confirms the early results [2]. Further, we find that the probability density of time intervals between disturbances can be given an exponential fit. Based on this observation, the suitability of applying SWV analysis to power system disturbance data is questioned. An artificial time series is constructed to support our idea. A fuse model using DC load flow and fuse protection is presented to simulating the cascading events in power transmission networks. Some initial simulation results are shown to be consistent with NERC data. Besides SOC and HOT, this model gives another way to investigate power law behavior in power system disturbances.
The Diaspora Paradox: Integrating International Legal Norms into Domestic Law to Protect the Rights of Middle Eastern Diasporas

A dichotomy exists in the laws addressing diasporas. International covenants, generally influenced by the postcolonial sympathies of many UN-member states, tend toward protecting human rights. In contrast, domestic laws tend to reflect a country's xenophobia. With regard to diasporas of Middle Eastern origins, those laws are often influenced by Islamophobia and the global War on Terror. This is well illustrated by the ban on wearing the Islamic burqa and niqab spreading through Europe. While the policies are aimed at protecting religious freedom in pluralist societies, in practice it amounts to a form of State imposed covering to suppress the religious identity of Muslims. This paper will use the European headscarf bans as a case study for comparing the application of domestic and international law by reviewing international covenants, domestic laws, and the decisions of European courts and international tribunals. Relevant political theories on political identity will also be incorporated particularly Kenji Yoshino's work on covering and Anne Norton's writings on political identity as they relate to domestic laws. The Islamophobic-centric writings of Oriana Fallaci will be used as a basis for the more extreme views of Muslim immigrants in European society. Finally, this paper concludes that domestic fears of Muslims have influenced the various bans on the burqa in contrast to international obligations to protect religious freedom.
Some factors affecting flight activity in individual milkweed bugs (Oncopeltus).

Flight activity in the large milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus (Dallas) (Heteroptera: Lygaeidae), measured as a function of mean flight duration, is strongly influenced by age (Dingle, 1965). At 8-10 days after the final moult there occurs in both sexes a distinct peak of flight activity; in males, only, a second peak is present at 30-35 days. There are also other differences between the sexes. The 8-10 day flight peak is correlated with the end of cuticle growth, as measured by the deposition of daily cuticular growth rings, and thus represents a post-teneral phenomenon (Johnson, 1963, 1965). Because this period of maximum flight duration is post-teneral, pre-reproductive, and several times the mean duration usually observed, it was concluded that it in fact represents migration in Oncopeltus. The later activity of males was viewed as a possible later migration arising from non-migratory flights. In addition to the above there were also indications that virgin males exhibited greater flight activity than ' normal' individuals not deprived of sexual partners. The data did not indicate enhanced activity for virgin females. For each sex, however, only one age-group was tested; the results, therefore, were not conclusive. Further, there was a suggestion that a behavioural polymorphism might be present. Although bugs were usually tested only once each, some were later tested again. Those which did not fly initially did not do so on later trials either, but those which did fly initially frequently flew repeatedly. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of flight activity in Oncopeltus, especially as it related to migration, it seemed worth while to explore the subject further by testing virgins at several ages and following the flight patterns of individual bugs for some time. Such repeated testing would also indicate how long a single bug could fly. Therefore a series of experiments was performed in which individual bugs of both sexes, virgin and non-virgin, were repeatedly flighttested at 2- or 3-day intervals.
A metric for comparing acoustic transmission loss curves

A metric is presented for quantifying the difference between two acoustic transmission loss curves. This allows a fast, but more importantly, consistent way to determine how well two underwater acoustic transmission loss curves compare in terms of their end use. Two methods are proposed for different applications, the first involves comparing only the curves themselves and the second involves use of a figure of merit to compare the curves as they apply to an end performance estimate.
Stepping behavior and muscle activity of dairy cows on uncomfortable standing surfaces presented under 1 or 4 legs

Abstract The comfort of dairy cattle while standing has important implications for housing design. Research has examined how cattle respond to standing surfaces by presenting options under all 4 legs or under a single leg, but no work, to date, has compared presentation methods. This study examined behavior and muscle activity when cows stood on rough floors under all 4 legs or just 1 hind leg. Three treatments were tested: smooth concrete under all 4 legs (0-ROUGH), a rough surface under all 4 legs [2cm × 2cm × 4cm trapezoidal protrusions (4-ROUGH)], and a rough surface only under 1 hind leg, with other legs on smooth concrete (1-ROUGH). Twenty-four healthy Holstein cows stood on each surface for 1h/d in a repeated-measures design. Surface electromyograms (SEMG) were used to evaluate muscle fatigue and total activity. Muscle fatigue was measured using SEMG to evaluate (1) static contractions when cows were continuously weight bearing on each hind leg, before and after 1h of standing, and (2) dynamic contractions associated with steps during 1h of standing. Behavioral measures included steps per minute, time between each consecutive step, and the latency to lie down after testing. The number of legs affected by roughness influenced both behavioral and physiological responses to flooring. Cows on 1-ROUGH stepped twice as often with the rough-treated leg and one-half as much with the hind leg on smooth concrete compared with other surfaces. Similarly, on the 1-ROUGH surface, total muscle activity was reduced in the leg on the rough surface, and muscle activity was more sustained (3× higher) in the other hind leg, suggesting that cows avoid possible discomfort under 1 leg by using muscles in the other. In the 4-ROUGH treatment, time between steps was more variable than on the other 2 treatments (coefficient of variation, 4-ROUGH: 245; 1-ROUGH: 208; 0-ROUGH: 190±5.8%), likely because cows could not move away from this uneven flooring. Thus, the method of presentation of stimuli used to evaluate comfort while standing altered the response. Stepping rate and SEMG changed when roughness was under a single leg, whereas timing between consecutive steps was more variable with rough flooring under all 4 legs. These results have implications for the design of experiments evaluating standing comfort in the future.
Effects of aorto-coronary bypass grafts on myocardial contractile state: response to catecholamine stress.

The clinical success of aorta-coronary bypass grafts in the recent past suggests the efficacy of this procedure in increasing blood flow to ischemic areas of myocardium (1, 2). The ultimate effects of these grafts will be assessed subjectively by reduced disability from angina pectoris, and objectively by reduced morbidity and mortality from coronary artery disease.
Olfaction in Central Neural and Neuroendocrine Systems: Integrative Review of Olfactory Representations and Interrelations

The ultimate significance of chemical signals resides within the central nervous system. For olfactory signals this has meant classically the rhinencephalon, or “olfactory brain”. However, it is increasingly demonstrated that the “olfactory brain” has many other neural and functionally important connections. Therefore the relatively narrow olfactory connotation of “rhinencephalon” is being supplanted by the descriptive designation limbic lobe, or better, limbic system. This lobe or system represents phylogenetically older cortex that borders (limbic) the brainstem, does not have or pass through the 6-layered structural pattern typifying the isocortex, and has major functional relations with a diverse array of relatively primitive physiological and behavioral actions. Many of these actions or responses are considered emotional or emotion-related, from our not unbiased human perspective (Papez, 1937; Pribram and Kruger, 1954; MacLean, 1959, 1960; Bargmann and Schade, 1963; Adey and Tokizane, 1967; Yutzey et al., 1967; Isaacson, 1974; Wenzel, 1974; Gloor, 1975).
Physician Follow-Up Care of Children With ADHD

Follow-up care received by children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by primary care clinicians (PCCs) was evaluated by questionnaires completed by parents at an index visit and at six months, in a study at Ohio State University, Columbus, OH and several research networks.
Quality control of multichannel hematology analyzers: evaluation of Bull's algorithm.

Bull's algorithm has been evaluated by computer simulation studies. Varying amounts of systematic analytic error were simulated in either hemoglobin (Hgb), red blood cell count (RBC), or mean corpuscular volume (MCV) with the resulting red blood cell indices averaged in batches of 20 using Bull's algorithm. The number of average indices outside the limits of 0.97 means and 1.03 means (means = stable patient mean index) was tabulated and plotted against the size of the systematic shift, expressed in multiples of the long-term analytic standard deviation (SD). The resulting plots, called power functions, show that Bull's algorithm can detect large shifts effectively and that its power increases with increasing batch number. Shifts less than 2 SD rarely are detected. The minimum error that is detected 50% of the time after nine consecutive batches is shown below: (Formula: see text) The simulation of populations with outlying indices, e.g., neonates and oncology patients, resulted in both decreased and increased power, depending on the proportion of outliers averaged, the index averaged, and the direction of the shift.
Unique continuation theorems for the $$\bar \partial - Operator$$ and applications

We formulate a unique continuation principle for the inhomogeneous Cauchy-Riemann equations near a boundary pointz 0 of a smooth domain in complex euclidean space. The principle implies that the Bergman projection of a function supported away fromz 0 cannot vanish to infinite order atz 0 unless it vanishes identically. We prove that the principle holds in planar domains and in domains where the $$\bar \partial - Neumann$$ problem is known to be analytic hypoelliptic. We also demonstrate the relevance of such questions to mapping problems in several complex variables. The last section of the paper deals with unique continuation properties of the Szegő projection and kernel in planar domains.
Influence of low-frequency phase perturbation on the focal characterization of the tripling field

In this paper,the RMS Gradient is applied as the parameter to describe the low-frequency phase noise,and the model of the low-frequency phase perturbation is built up.The type Ⅰ/Ⅱ angle-detuning scheme for third harmonics generation has been taken as an example,and then the influence of low-frequency phase perturbation on the focal characterization of the tripling field has been discussed in details.The results indicate that the focal spot size of the triping field increases withthe RMS Gradient of the fundamental field obviously and is similar to that of the fundamental field when the RMS Gradient is higher.
The RoboCup 2013 drop-in player challenges: a testbed for ad hoc teamwork

As the prevalence of autonomous agents grows, so does the number of interactions between these agents. Therefore, it is desirable for these agents to be capable of collaborating without pre-coordination. While past research on ad hoc teamwork has focused mainly on relatively simple domains, the long-term vision has been to enable robots and other autonomous agents to exhibit the sort of flexibility and adaptability on complex tasks that people do. This research introduces a series of pick-up robot soccer experiments that were carried out in three different leagues at the international RoboCup competition in 2013. In all cases, agents from different labs were put on teams with no pre-coordination. This abstract summarizes the structure of these experiments and analyzes the results. The work describes a new large-scale ad hoc teamwork testbed that can serve as a starting point for future experimental ad hoc teamwork research.
Non-linear receding horizon control based real-time guidance and control methodologies for launch vehicles

This paper investigates a novel application of real-time nonlinear receding horizon control methodology with emphasis on launch vehicles. Through this work, we demonstrate a non-iterative nonlinear receding horizon control scheme, which can be implemented and run in real-time. Theory is demonstrated on a 2 state missile dynamics example, where the outcomes of the preliminary results demonstrate the applicability of such framework on complex missile dynamics and frameworks.
A Glimpse of Field Galaxies at Redshifts z~1 using HST and the Keck Telescope

Data from the Keck and Hubble Space Telescopes have been combined to explore the nature of very faint I > 22 field galaxies. At a redshift z ~ 1, such galaxies have luminosities similar to that of typical galaxies today. Though small, our sample of 33 redshifts already suggest that the median redshift for I > 22 galaxies is higher than the z = 0.6 expected for the “maximum merger model” of Carlberg (1995). At redshifts z > 0.8, mergers, interactions, and infall of minor galaxies into larger hosts appear to be common events; a wide diversity of morphological types existed; and some stellar populations were already so red that their major formation epoch occurred at redshifts z > 2.
NiCo2O4 nanosheets grown on current collectors as binder-free electrodes for hydrogen production via urea electrolysis

Abstract As a novel solid hydrogen carrier, urea (CO(NH2)2) has shown great promise in hydrogen production, hydrogen storage and transportation. Mesoporous NiCo2O4 nanosheets were synthesized on current collectors and evaluated as binder free electrodes for hydrogen production via urea electrolysis. The as-grown NiCo2O4 nanosheet electrodes with 0.6 mg cm−2 catalyst loading exhibit ca. 80 mV decreasing in the onset potential of urea oxidation in alkaline solution comparing to those of bulk nickel hydroxide modified electrodes. The NiCo2O4 nanosheet electrodes also improved the urea oxidation current density by at least 28 times at a constant potential of 0.50 V vs. Hg/HgO compared to that of bulk Ni(OH)2 electrodes. The enhanced electrocatalytic performances of the binder free NiCo2O4 nanosheet electrodes may bring new opportunities for the scale-up of the urea electrolysis technology, which will benefit energy and environmental issues, such as urea-rich wastewater treatment, hydrogen production, and fuel cells.
Altered Prolylcarboxypeptidase Expression and Function in Response to Different Risk Factors of Diabetes.

Background: Prolylcarboxypeptidase (PRCP, EC:3.4.16.2) is a cardioprotective protease. Plasma PRCP levels are elevated in type 2 diabetes (T2D) mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Objective: Since diabetic cardiomyopathy is a late complication of uncontrolled diabetes, we tested the hypothesis that glucose and free fatty acid related risk factors for T2D mellitus and cardiovascular disease may reduce the cardioprotective property of PRCP. Method: We examined the effects of glucose, saturated fatty acids, and unsaturated fatty acids on PRCP expression in cultured H9c2 cells as an in-vitro model for pharmacological studies. Selective inhibitors, known cardioprotective agents and saturating amounts of neutralizing antibodies were used to validate the effect of free fatty acids on the expression and function of PRCP. Results: The palmitate-mediated reduction of PRCP was concentration and time-dependent. Next, we explored the cardioprotective potential of thyroxin (T4) and insulin. Both T4 and insulin were able to prevent the palmitate-mediated reduction of PRCP expression in H9c2 cells. Inhibition of NF-κB with its specific inhibitor Bay 11-7082 or blockade of palmitate with polyunsaturated fatty acids was ineffective in preventing palmitate-mediated decreases in PRCP expression. Conclusion: Our data indicate that elevated palmitate inhibits PRCP expression in rat cardiomyocyte. From this inference PRCP level should be monitored in obese or diabetic patients because this simple measure could identify individuals at high risk of developing health problems, such as heart failure.
Post-prostatectomy Incontinence: Introduction and Prevalence

Urinary incontinence after prostatectomy is a significant issue that can affect the quality of life in men who are undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. With the growing number of radical prostatectomies performed globally, the incidence of post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI) continues to be on the rise. Several risk factors have been identified to predispose patients to PPI and increase the likelihood of postoperative incontinence. Early recognition of patients suffering from PPI is paramount to their timely management. Evaluation of these patients relies heavily on a thorough history and physical examination. Both conservative and surgical (sling or artificial urinary sphincter) approaches have been employed in treating PPI, though we presently lack a standardized clinical algorithm to appropriately stratify patients to the ideal treatment. In this chapter, we provide an introductory overview to PPI, with emphasis on its prevalence, impact, risk factors, pathophysiology, evaluation, and management. More in-depth discussions of underlying pathophysiology, approach to patient evaluation, and management options will be covered extensively elsewhere in this textbook.
Bayesian analysis of light-front models and the nucleon's charmed sigma term

We present the results of a recent analysis to study the nucleon's charm sigma term, ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{c\overline{c}}$. We construct a minimal model in terms of light-front variables and constrain the range of possibilities using extant knowledge from deeply inelastic scattering (DIS) and Bayesian parameter estimation, ultimately computing ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{c\overline{c}}$ in an explicitly covariant manner. We find a close correlation between a possible nonperturbative component of the charm structure function, ${F}_{2,\mathrm{IC}}^{c\overline{c}}$, and ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{c\overline{c}}$. Independent of the prescription for the covariant relativistic quark-nucleon vertex, we determine ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{c\overline{c}}$ under several different scenarios for the magnitude of intrinsic charm in DIS, namely $⟨x{⟩}_{c+\overline{c}}=0.1%$, 0.35%, and 1%, obtaining for these ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{c\overline{c}}=4\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}4$, $12\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}13$, and $32\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}34\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{MeV}$, respectively. These results imply the existence of a reciprocity between the intrinsic charm parton distribution function and ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{c\overline{c}}$ such that new information from either DIS or improved determinations of ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{c\overline{c}}$ could significantly impact constraints to the charm sector of the proton wave function.
Outcomes of revision surgery for difficult to catheterize continent channels in a multi-institutional cohort of adults.

Introduction: We aimed to describe the strategies of surgical revision for catheterizable channel obstruction and their outcomes, including restenosis and new channel incontinence. Methods: We retrospectively queried the charts of adults who underwent catheterizable channel revision or replacement from 2000‒2014 for stomal stenosis, channel obstruction, or difficulty with catheterization at the Universities of Minnesota, Michigan, and Utah. The primary endpoint was channel patency as measured by freedom from repeat surgical intervention. Secondary endpoints included post-revision incontinence and complication rates. Revision surgeries were classified by strategy into “above fascia,” “below fascia,” and “channel replacement” groupings. Results: A total of 51 patients who underwent 68 repairs (age 18‒82 years old; mean 45) were identified who met our inclusion criteria. Channel patency was achieved in 66% at a median 19 months post-revision for all repair types. There was no difference in patency by the type of channel being revised, but there was based on revision technique, with channel replacement and above the fascia repairs being more successful (p=0.046). Channel incontinence occurred in 40% and was moderate to severe in 12%. The type of channel being revised was strongly associated (p=0.003) with any postoperative channel incontinence. Surgical complications occurred in 29% of all revision procedures, although most were low-grade. Conclusions: Surgical revision of continent catheterizable channels for channel obstruction can be performed with acceptable rates of durable patency and incontinence; however, the surgeon needs to have experience in complex urinary diversion and familiarity with a variety of surgical revision strategies.
Internet-based programmes on weight loss appear to be effective for low-income postpartum women

Commentary on: Phelan S, Hagobian T, Brannen A, et al . Effect of an internet-based program on weight loss for low-income postpartum women: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA 2017;317:2381–91. Postpartum weight retention (PPWR) is prevalent: 20% of women retain at least 11 pounds, 6–18 months postpartum.1 Retaining weight after pregnancy leads to health risks and complications for future pregnancies. The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) programme provides service for approximately 15% of all pregnancies in …
It’s All Greek to Me: Recruiters’ Perceptions of Résumé Items:

Resumes are often used as a screening device for employment purposes, yet there have been very few recent empirical examinations of how recruiters perceive resume content items, particularly extrac...
Vectors: Chairman’s Introduction

In this section, the authors will discuss various aspects of introducing DNA into plants. In my view, this section represents the heart of the theme of this volume. Dr. Anne DePicker, who is currently involved in active research in one of the most highly regarded laboratories of crown gall research, discusses the overall aspects of crown gall, a natural genetic engineering system in plants. In this system, a defined piece of bacterial plasmid DNA (T-region) is transferred from the inciting strain of Agrobacterium to the plant cell where it is integrated into plant nuclear DNA. By integrating foreign DNA into this defined piece of plasmid DNA, it is possible to transfer and integrate the foreign DNA into plant cells. An important feature of this system is that cells into which T-DNA is integrated can be selected on the basis that callus tissue is able to grow in the absence of exogenously added auxin and cytokinin, two phytohormones required by the untransformed tissue. Agrobacterium also has a remarkably broad host range infecting most dicotyledonous plants. At this time, the crown gall system seems to be the best vehicle for the stable incorporation of genes into plants.
THE ABSORPTION SPECTRA OF IRON-FLAVOPROTEINS.

The reddish appearance of milk xanthine oxidase was first noted by Corran, Dewan, Gordon, and Green (l), who attributed this property to the presence of a second chromophoric group in addition to the flavin component. Morrell(2) suggested that the seemingly atypical absorption spectrum of this enzyme is caused by enhancement of the flavin absorption resulting from the mode of binding to the enzyme protein. Richert and Westerfeld (3) demonstrated the presence of iron in purified xanthine oxidase, but, concluded that the spectrum of the enzyme was not correlated with the presence of iron. The presence of an additional chromophore was assumed by Mackler, Mahler, and Green (4) as well as by Westerfeld, Richert, and Higgins (5). Since the isolation of milk xanthine oxidase, a number of other flavoproteins with similarly anomalous absorption spectra have been reported, including calf liver xanthine osidase (6), chicken liver xanthine dehydrogenase (7), rabbit liver aldehyde oxidase (8), and xanthine dehydrogenase from Clostridium cylindrosporum (9). Nonheme iron and molybdenum have been shown to be associated with each of these enzymes. Dihydroerotic dehydrogenase from Zymobacterium oroticum, which contains 1 atom of iron per flavin but no molybdenum, exhibits significant absorption at wave lengths longer than 500 rnp and greater absorption at 450 rnN than that expected from its flavin content (10). The mechanisms of action of milk xanthine oxidase, rabbit liver aldehyde oxidase, and dihydroorotic dehydrogenase have been under intensive investigation in this laboratory. In the course of these studies, evidence has been obtained which indicates that the anomalous absorption spectra of each of these various flavoproteins reflects a single, specific form of ironprotein binding.
Evaluation of Four Power Gating Schemes Applied to ECRL Adiabatic Logic

In this paper, four different power-clock gating schemes for use with four-phase adiabatic logic were evaluated and compared with respect to idle power reduction and active power consumption increase. Specifically, single buffer/inverter structures implemented in efficient charge recovery logic (ECRL) were used to generate the simulation data. Separate header and footer power-gating schemes were considered as well as standard digital control signals and pulsed adiabatic logic style control signals. All simulation data was generated using Tanner’s T-SPICE software and 180nm CMOS technology.
A technique to determine leaf cover of dicotyledonous plants

A method of determining a total leaf-cover index for dicotyledons in different height classes using a visual leaf area estimation technique that is quick and easy to use and seems to show good inter- and intra-observer reliability is descriptionbed. Values are expressed in cm2m-3 or as percentages for each height class and a 'leaf-cover profile' for the area sampled can be drawn up to give a pictorial presentation of the quantity of leaf matter present.
Exploiting dCas9 fusion proteins for dynamic assembly of synthetic metabolons

Here we reported a new strategy to construct synthetic metabolons using dCas9-guided assembly. Three orthogonal dCas9 proteins were exploited to guide the independent and site-specific assembly of their fusion partners onto a single DNA scaffold. This new platform was applied towards the construction of a two-component cellulosome. Because of the superior binding affinity, the resulting structures exhibited both improved assembly and reducing sugar production. Conditional enzyme assembly was made possible by utilizing toehold-gated sgRNA (thgRNA), which blocks cellulosome formation until the spacer region is unblocked by a RNA trigger. This platform is highly modular owing to the ease of target synthesis, combinations of possible Cas9-fusion arrangements, and expansion to other metabolic pathways.
MD Simulation of 2D Rb Liquid and Solid Phases in Graphite

We present here initial results of our molecular dynamics (MD) study of an intercalated two dimensional (2D) Rb liquid modulated by its periodic graphite host/1–4/. The circular average of the in-plane liquid structure factor S(q) has been experimentally determined by X-ray scattering for stage 2 Rb/4/, K/5/ and Cs/6/ in highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) and there is considerable X-ray photographic data on the anisotropic liquid scattering from intercalated graphite single crystals/6–9/. There is also extensive information on the in-plane alkali dynamics from inelastic/10/ and quasielastic/11/ neutron scattering that may be directly compared to MD calculations of S(q,ω).
The Buffalo Concussion Bike Test for Concussion Assessment in Adolescents.

Background:The Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test (BCTT) is a graded exertion test for assessing exercise tolerance after concussion, but its utility is limited for certain populations.Hypothesis:We...
Combined-modality therapy of locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer.

Treatment of patients with unresectable stage IIIA and IIIB non-small-cell lung cancer with conventionally-fractionated radiation therapy (ie, total doses of 50 to 60 Gy, using one fraction per day), which was standard
Paying it forward: The development and underlying mechanisms of upstream reciprocity

Abstract Two studies investigated the development and motivations underlying children’s upstream reciprocity. In Study 1, 3- and 4-year-olds (n = 40 per age group) received or did not receive help while playing a game. Subsequently, children could share stickers with a new child. The 4-year-olds, but not the 3-year-olds, showed evidence of upstream reciprocity: Those who had received help were more generous toward the new child. Study 2 (N = 46) replicated the results with 4-year-olds and found evidence for a gratitude-like motivation underlying the upstream reciprocity: Children who received help evaluated the benefactor more positively, and positive evaluations of the benefactor correlated with children’s upstream reciprocity. Thus, upstream reciprocity emerges by 4 years of age and may already be motivated by a gratitude-like mechanism.
Nerve Growth Factor in Vivo Actions on Cholinergic Neurons in the Adult Rat CNS

All living cells, including those in the nervous system, are subjected to extrinsic modulatory influences by agents in their microenvironment, be they humoral agents in the extracellular fluid or anchored agents in the extracellular matrix or on the surface of other cells. As long as such modulatory influences apply, cellular behaviors will reflect at any time the balance between stimulatory and inhibitory agents that reach the cell. For nerve cells, two classes of protein agents (“factors”) have drawn increasing attention from the neurobiologist and, more recently, the experimental neuropathologist as well. NeuronoTrophic Factors (NTFs) are special proteins controlling survival, growth and functional capabilities of selected populations of neurons. Neurite-Promoting Factors (NPFs) specifically stimulate the outgrowth of neuronal processes (“neuritis”) and may assist, but not substitute for, the required NTFs.
Introduction to x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has become one of the most widely used surface analysis techniques, and XPS instrumentation has become more user friendly, making the technique available to a large number of researchers. The number of experts in the field, however, has not increased, and XPS data are often misinterpreted in the literature. This paper is intended to provide an introduction to XPS for prospective or novice users. We present the basic principles of the technique including (1) the photoelectric effect, (2) how electrons interact with matter and escape from a surface and how this determines the surface sensitivity of the technique, and (3) how the chemical environment around an element affects the binding energy of its electrons. A description of the instrumentation helps a novice user understand how data are acquired, and information is included on sample preparation and mounting. The important parameters for data acquisition are noted to help guide users starting to acquire data. Interpretation of data on both a qualitative and quantitative level is discussed, and additional sections provide information on more advanced techniques such as angle resolved XPS, small area analysis, near ambient pressure XPS, valence XPS, and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy.
Network Changes in Insula and Amygdala Connectivity Accompany Implicit Suicidal Associations

Limited knowledge exists regarding the neurobiology of suicidal thoughts, given that there are currently no direct probes of the suicidal state. This pilot study used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to evaluate correlates of the implicit association between the self and death compared to the self and life as objective markers of suicide risk. Healthy volunteers (HVs; n=21) completed a modified version of the Suicide Implicit Association Task (S-IAT) during MEG scanning. Gamma power-which is considered a proxy measure of excitation-inhibition balance-was directly compared in the self-death/self-life contrast. As a proof-of-concept, the ability of dynamic causal modeling to categorize HVs versus four individuals with recent suicide crisis (SC) was evaluated. In HVs, enhanced gamma power in both amygdala and anterior insula were found for the self-death compared with self-life contrast. In addition, connectivity estimates between early visual cortex, anterior insula, and amygdala correctly categorized SC participants with 77% to 82% sensitivity and 80% to 85% specificity. These findings, which implicate network-level changes in salience network and amygdala connectivity in mediating suicidal associations, require further replication in larger samples. Direct probing of suicidal thoughts with the S-IAT may provide foundational markers of neural circuits associated with suicide risk.
Anesthetic Management of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair

Endovascular approaches for repair of thoracic aortic disease are increasing in frequency. The indications for intervention include descending thoracic aortic aneurysm, acute and chronic aortic dissection, penetrating aortic ulcer, traumatic aortic injury and ruptured aortic aneurysms. Various anesthetic techniques, including general, regional and local anesthesia have proven safe for these endovascular treatment approaches. Despite the advancement of the technology and surgical experience, the most devastating complications from thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) remain spinal cord injury and stroke. Vigorous spinal cord protection protocols have been shown to decrease the incidence and severity of spinal cord ischemia. Long term concerns pertinent to TEVAR are the development of endoleaks, aneurysm rupture, and stent graft migration. Other important concerns are the long term need for imaging surveillance and the costs of the health care related to this procedure.
Cholecystectomy Outcomes in the Veterans Affairs Surgical Quality Improvement Program (2006–2017)

Background: Cholecystectomy trends and outcomes have been reported extensively in the private sector. Despite being one of the most common procedures performed in the United States, there is a pauc...
Race, Racism, and Structural Injustice: Equitable Allocation and Distribution of Vaccines for the COVID-19.

Inequity has been a hallmark of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, especially in the sharply disproportionate impacts among people of color (CDC 2020). Recent studies have confirmed that t...
Zinc transporter ZIP7 is a novel determinant of ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is a newly described form of regulated cell death triggered by oxidative stresses and characterized by extensive lipid peroxidation and membrane damages. The name of ferroptosis indicates that the ferroptotic death process depends on iron, but not other metals, as one of its canonical features. Here, we reported that zinc is also essential for ferroptosis in breast and renal cancer cells. Zinc chelator suppressed ferroptosis, and zinc addition promoted ferroptosis, even during iron chelation. By interrogating zinc-related genes in a genome-wide RNAi screen of ferroptosis, we identified SLC39A7, encoding ZIP7 that controls zinc transport from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to cytosol, as a novel genetic determinant of ferroptosis. Genetic and chemical inhibition of the ZIP7 protected cells against ferroptosis, and the ferroptosis protection upon ZIP7 knockdown can be abolished by zinc supplementation. We found that the genetic and chemical inhibition of ZIP7 triggered ER stresses, including the induction of the expression of HERPUD1 and ATF3. Importantly, the knockdown of HERPUD1 abolished the ferroptosis protection phenotypes of ZIP7 inhibition. Together, we have uncovered an unexpected role of ZIP7 in ferroptosis by maintaining ER homeostasis. These findings may have therapeutic implications for human diseases involving ferroptosis and zinc dysregulations.