cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using Upper-Elementary Student Performance to Understand Conceptual Sequencing in a Blocks-based Curriculum

As more elementary schools commit to integrating computer science instruction into their curricula, they seek guidance on what concepts are appropriate for students at different grade levels. Currently, little is known about how best to sequence computer science learning across elementary grades. In this paper, we present an analysis of 123 students' (age 9-12, grades 4-6) activities in a curriculum implemented in a visual block-based programming language. The goal of this work is to better understand the developmental appropriateness of foundational computer science ideas. All 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students in a single school completed the first module of a curriculum during the same school year with the same instructor. We analyzed each task students attempted and found that for simple concepts, there was little difference in performance between grade levels. However, differences were found for more complex topics, such as whether they completed initialization tasks and the way in which they solved 2-d navigation tasks. A closer look revealed that students understood the basic concepts, but were challenged by deeper applications of the basic concepts and influenced by non-computer science skills. This work serves as an empirically grounded investigation of elementary computer science learning and contributes to our understanding of computer science learning trajectories and concept sequencing in the late elementary grades.
Government reform, public governance, and Chinese economic development

This study examines the relationship between public administration and economic development by focusing on the review of government reform and public governance and the analysis of their implicatio...
Female subjects in Carmen Martín Gaite’s New York texts

ABSTRACTThis paper examines 3 of Carmen Martin Gaite’s texts that unfold in New York: her posthumously published collage notebook Vision de Nueva York (2005), the poem “Todo es un cuento roto en Nueva York” (1983) and the short novel Caperucita en Manhattan (1990). Through the critical lenses of Lefebvre, de Certeau, Baudrillard, Wilson and others, this paper explores how Martin Gaite depicts women’s spatial practice, as they make their way out of interior spaces to access urban space. By focusing on collages in Vision de Nueva York that contain windows or personal photographs, one can observe that, as time passes, the author’s assemblages communicate an increased sense of belonging after her initial anxiety about inhabiting a new city. Connections can be drawn among specific pages of Vision de Nueva York and the poem “Todo es un cuento roto en Nueva York”, where it is possible to see how the author develops ideas that she will later use in Caperucita en Manhattan. Scholars to date have paid little critic...
Accuracy of shock index versus ABC score to predict need for massive transfusion in trauma patients

Abstract Background Various scoring systems have been developed to predict need for massive transfusion in traumatically injured patients. Assessments of Blood Consumption (ABC) score and Shock Index (SI) have been shown to be reliable predictors for Massive Transfusion Protocol (MTP) activation. However, no study has directly compared these two scoring systems to determine which is a better predictor for MTP activation. The primary objective was to determine whether ABC or SI better predicted the need for MTP in adult trauma patients with severe hemorrhage. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study which included all injured patients who were trauma activations between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2013 at an urban Level I trauma center. Patients 10 units PRBC transfusion within 24 h of emergency department arrival. Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) were used to evaluate scoring systems’ ability to predict effective MTP utilization. Results A total of 645 patients had complete data for analysis. Shock Index ≥1 had sensitivity of 67.7% (95% CI 49.5%–82.6%) and specificity of 81.3% (95% CI 78.0%–84.3%) for predicting MTP, and ABC score ≥2 had sensitivity of 47.0% (95% CI 29.8%–64.9%) and specificity of 89.8% (95% CI 87.2%–92.1%). AUROC analyses showed SI to be the strongest predictor followed by ABC score with AUROC values of 0.83 and 0.74, respectively. SI had a significantly greater sensitivity (P = 0.035), but a significantly weaker specificity (P Conclusion ABC score and Shock Index can both be used to predict need for massive transfusion in trauma patients, however SI is more sensitive and requires less technical skill than ABC score.
Analysis of electric vehicle charging impact on grid voltage regulation

As adoption of electric vehicles increases exponentially globally, there is a need for continuous relevant research in the area of the impacts of charging infrastructure integration on the grid. One of such impacts is voltage regulation. This paper develops a practical time-varying electric vehicle load model as opposed to the state-of-the-art static constant load model and simulates the impact of electric vehicles on the grid hourly, rather than daily, placed at selected nodes in the system. It is observed that as electrical distance of a charging node to the feeder increases, the occurrence of prolonged voltage drop increases. This is relevant for utility planners and industry to ascertain the hourly number of electric vehicles that can be charged in a cluster without violating the statutory voltage regulation requirement.
Different levels of resistance to cyprodinil and iprodione and lack of fludioxonil resistance in Botrytis cinerea isolates collected from pistachio, grape, and pomegranate fields in California

Abstract Botrytis cinerea is the causal agent of gray mold disease and can infect fruits of important crops like grape, pistachio, and pomegranate, causing significant yield losses worldwide. In this study, mycelial growth assays in vitro were used to evaluate the sensitivities of 160 single-spore isolates of Botrytis cinerea collected from commercial grape (n = 58), pistachio (n = 74), and pomegranate (n = 28) fields in California to cyprodinil, fludioxonil, and iprodione. Based on the effective concentration at which mycelial growth was inhibited by 50% (EC50 values), 100, 83, and 38% of the isolates from the 3 hosts were sensitive (EC50
Psychosocial Stress, Emotion Regulation, and Resilience in Adolescence

With this chapter, we review the definitions and conceptual challenges associated with research on psychosocial stress, emotion regulation, and resilience. The literatures on stress, resilience, and emotion regulation have partially independent traditions. Yet there are clear advantages to conceptualizing these phenomena within a unified framework. For example, the term resilience often implies that a person has acquired at least some emotion regulation skills in spite of significant adversity. More importantly, resilience and emotion regulation are both complex developmental processes that can be altered subtly or dramatically through stress exposure. There are many common themes across these three constructs. However, we find an interpersonal understanding of stress, emotion regulation, and resilience to be well suited for understanding how these three processes interact and develop across time. We outline the intersection of these three distinct literatures and their relevance to health research and treatment of adolescents.
Defects, Faults and Semiconductor Device Yield

Semiconductor device yield, defined as the average fraction of devices on a wafer that passes final test, is directly measured. Yield is limited by the occurrence of faults. The average number of faults per chip is in principle obtainable from direct measurement, but in practice is inferred from the observed yield. Faults result from the interaction between the device structure and defects of all sizes. Defects, or defect density, is ill-defined, and in turn needs to be inferred from the average number of faults. This paper discusses the relation between defects, faults and semiconductor yield, and attempts to illuminate areas that invite closer attention.
Association of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances With Adiposity

Importance Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are ubiquitous synthetic chemicals that are suspected endocrine disruptors. Objectives To determine the extent to which PFASs are associated with increases in weight and body size and evaluate whether a lifestyle intervention modifies this association. Design, Setting, and Participants This prospective cohort study included 957 individuals who participated in the Diabetes Prevention Program trial, conducted from July 1996 to May 2001, and the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study, conducted from September 2002 to January 2014. Statistical analysis was conducted from September 1, 2017, to May 25, 2018. Interventions and Exposures The initial lifestyle intervention consisted of training in diet, physical activity, and behavior modification, with the major goals of achieving 7% weight loss with subsequent maintenance and a minimum of 150 minutes per week of physical activity. Participants randomized to placebo received standard information about diet and exercise. A total of 6 plasma PFASs were quantified at baseline and 2 years after randomization, means were calculated from baseline and year 2 concentrations, and means were summed to assess total PFAS burden. Main Outcomes and Measures Weight, waist circumference, and hip girth were measured at baseline and at scheduled visits. Results Of the 957 participants, 625 (65.3%) were women and 731 participants (76.4%) were between 40 and 64 years of age; 481 participants were randomized to the lifestyle intervention and 476 participants were randomized to the placebo arm. The PFAS concentrations were not different by treatment arm and were similar to concentrations reported for the US population in 1999-2000. The association of PFAS and weight change differed by treatment. Each doubling in total PFAS concentration was associated with an increase of 1.80 kg (95% CI, 0.43-3.17 kg;P = .01) from baseline to 9 years after randomization for the placebo group but not the lifestyle intervention group (−0.59 kg; 95% CI, –1.80 to 0.62 kg;P = .34). Similarly, each doubling in PFAS was associated with a 1.03-cm increase in hip girth in the Diabetes Prevention Program trial for the placebo group (95% CI, 0.18-1.88 cm;P = .02) but not the lifestyle intervention group (−0.09 cm; 95% CI, −0.82 to 0.63 cm;P = .80). No associations were observed for changes in mean waist circumference. Conclusions and Relevance Among adults at high risk for diabetes, higher plasma PFAS concentration was associated with increases in weight and hip girth over time, but a lifestyle intervention attenuated these associations. Diet and exercise may mitigate the obesogenic effects of environmental chemicals. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT00004992andNCT00038727
Income, Race and its Association with Obesogenic Behaviors of U.S. Children and Adolescents, NHANES 2003-2006.

To describe the associations of income and race with obesogenic behaviors and % body fat among a large sample of U.S. children and adolescents. Data were obtained from the 2003–2004 and 2005–2006 National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey. Multiple linear regression models and interactions were used to examine the associations of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sedentary time, diet quality, and screen-time with income-to-poverty ratio and race. Separate stratified analyses explored associations among individual obesogenic behaviors within race and income groups. This study included children and adolescents (n = 3551, mean = 13.1 years, SD = 3.9 years) who were 37% Hispanic, 27% White, and 35% Black. Overall, Hispanic children/adolescents had significantly higher levels of adiposity (3.6, 95 CI = 0.9, 6.3) than white children and adolescents. Medium-income children and adolescents engaged in less MVPA (− 3.3 min, 95 CI = − 5.1, − 1.5), had poorer diet quality (− 1.1, 95 CI = − 1.9, − 0.2), and used screens less (− 33.9 min, 95 CI = − 45.4, − 22.4) than children and adolescents from low-income households. High-income children and adolescents also engaged in less MVPA (− 3.1 min, 95 CI = − 5.5, − 0.7) and used screens less (− 62.9 min, 95 CI = − 78.3, − 47.4) than children and adolescents from low-income households. However, there were significant race/ethnicity-by-income interactions for high-income Hispanic children and adolescents with diet quality (− 3.5 HEI-2010 score, 95 CI = − 6.6, − 0.4) and screen time (66.9 min, 95 CI = 24.7, 109.0). There was also a significant race/ethnicity-by-income interaction for the screen-time of Black children and adolescents from medium (33.8 min, 95% CI 0.2, 67.3) and high (75.8 min, 95% CI 34.7, 117.0) income households. There appears to be a complex relationship that varies by race/ethnicity between income, obesogenic behaviors, and adiposity levels among children and adolescents. More work is needed to identify the behavioral mechanisms that are driving disparate rates of overweight and obesity among minority children and those from low-income households.
“It’s More Appropriate for Men”: Management and Worker Perceptions of the Gendered Ideal Worker

Drawing on qualitative interviews at a Mexican-owned multinational manufacturing corporation, this article analyzes how perceptions of the ideal worker shift during workplace transformation to impa...
Serious games for learning prevention through design concepts: an experimental study.

Abstract Many accidents occur during construction and maintenance of facilities. Logically, decisions made during the design and planning of a project can influence workers’ safety. The approach of considering safety in design and planning to control workplace hazards is called Prevention through Design (PtD). Many fresh graduates from architecture, construction, and civil engineering programs do not learn about PtD. Hence, the organizations which hire these graduates have to train them in the area of PtD. In most university curricula, there is no room for a new course focused on PtD. Then non-traditional approaches such as computer games and simulations can be implemented to teach PtD in universities. Computer games are routinely considered as the most important and influential medium by today’s college students. The present work aims to measure the effectiveness of computer games to train and educate students for safe design thinking. Therefore, three interventions—a computer-based serious game, a paper-based game (the paper version of the serious game) and a traditional lecture—were developed and implemented to measure their pedagogical value. The serious game was found to be more effective as compared to the lecture. The paper-based game failed to motivate the students to learn. This paper discusses the possible reasons for the success and failures of these pedagogical approaches.
Radiomic features derived from pre-operative multi-parametric MRI of prostate cancer are associated with Decipher risk score.

Decipher, a genomic test, is used to predict the likelihood of metastasis and prostate cancer (PCa) specific mortality based on expression patterns of 22 RNA markers from radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. It has been shown to be strongly correlated with metastasis-free prognosis and has been integrated with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. However, Decipher is expensive and tissue destructive. Radiomic features refer to the high-throughput computational texture or shape features extracted from radiographic scans. Radiomic features derived from multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) of prostate cancer have been shown to be associated with clinically significant PCa. In this study, we sought to evaluate whether radiomic features derived from T2-weighted MRI (T2WI) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps of the prostate could distinguish different Decipher risk groups (low, intermediate and high). We also explored correlations between Decipher risk associated radiomic features and features relating to gland morphology on corresponding digitized surgical specimens. A retrospectively acquired, de-identified cohort of 70 PCa patients (N = 74 lesions) who underwent 3T mpMRI prior to RP and Decipher tests after RP were used in this study. The Decipher risk score, ranging from 0 to 1, was used to categorize patients into low/intermediate (D1) and high (D2) risk groups. A multivariate logistic regression model was trained (N = 37 lesions) using radiomic features selected via elastic-net regularization to predict the Decipher risk groups. The model was evaluated on a hold-out test set (N = 37 lesions) and resulted in an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0:80. Our model outperformed the prediction using PIRADS v2 (AUC = 0:67), but showed comparable performance with Gleason Grade Group (GGG) (AUC = 0:80). We observed that the best discriminating radiomic features were correlated with gland morphology and gland packing on corresponding histopathology (R = 0.43, p < 0.05).
The Interface Between Countertransference and Projective Identification in a Case Presented to Peer Supervision

This case report, presented to a supervision group, is a prenatal genetic counseling casethat caused me a great deal of emotional discomfort as the events unfolded. Thediscomfort originated during my first meeting with the couple for routine preamniocentesiscounseling and continued through later encounters. This case illustrates the process ofworking through countertransference and projective identification issues that may arise ingenetic counseling.
Moderation of the relationship between the error-related negativity and anxiety by age and gender in young children: A preliminary investigation

The error-related negativity (ERN) is a neurophysiologic response to errors that associates with anxiety. Despite the potential relevance of the ERN for understanding mechanisms of early anxiety problems in the developing brain, the relation between ERN and anxious symptoms in young children remains poorly understood. Emerging evidence suggests that ERN-anxiety associations could vary by developmental stage, but this work requires replication and consideration of gender effects, given earlier maturation of the ERN and higher rates of anxiety problems in girls relative to boys. To address this gap, the ERN was collected in 49 preschool- to school-aged children (ages 4-9; 26 girls) sampled across a wide range of anxiety severity. Regression analyses revealed that ERN - anxiety associations depended on age and gender. Specifically, larger (more negative) ERN associated with more anxiety in older girls, whereas smaller ERN associated with more anxiety symptoms in younger girls. No ERN-anxiety association was found in boys. These findings suggest that age and gender moderate the direction of the relation between ERN and anxiety in early childhood and could have important implications for the development of ERN-based risk identification and targeted treatment strategies tailored to individual children.
Adverse drug event rates in pediatric pulmonary hypertension: a comparison of real-world data sources

Objective Real-world data (RWD) are increasingly used for pharmacoepidemiology and regulatory innovation. Our objective was to compare adverse drug event (ADE) rates determined from two RWD sources, electronic health records and administrative claims data, among children treated with drugs for pulmonary hypertension. Materials and methods Textual mentions of medications and signs/symptoms that may represent ADEs were identified in clinical notes using natural language processing. Diagnostic codes for the same signs/symptoms were identified in our electronic data warehouse for the patients with textual evidence of taking pulmonary hypertension-targeted drugs. We compared rates of ADEs identified in clinical notes to those identified from diagnostic code data. In addition, we compared putative ADE rates from clinical notes to those from a healthcare claims dataset from a large, national insurer. Results Analysis of clinical notes identified up to 7-fold higher ADE rates than those ascertained from diagnostic codes. However, certain ADEs (eg, hearing loss) were more often identified in diagnostic code data. Similar results were found when ADE rates ascertained from clinical notes and national claims data were compared. Discussion While administrative claims and clinical notes are both increasingly used for RWD-based pharmacovigilance, ADE rates substantially differ depending on data source. Conclusion Pharmacovigilance based on RWD may lead to discrepant results depending on the data source analyzed. Further work is needed to confirm the validity of identified ADEs, to distinguish them from disease effects, and to understand tradeoffs in sensitivity and specificity between data sources.
Goldilocks, the Three Bears and Intensive Care Unit Utilization: Delivering Enough Intensive Care But Not Too Much. A Narrative Review

Professional societies have developed recommendations for patient triage protocols, but wide variations in triage patterns for many acute conditions exist among hospitals in the United States. Differences in hospitals' triage patterns can be attributed to factors such as physician behavior, hospital policy and real-time conditions such as intensive care unit capacity. The patient safety concern is that patients evaluated for admission to the intensive care unit during times of high intensive care unit capacity may have adverse outcomes related to delays in care. Because standardization of a national triage policy is not feasible due to differing resources available at each hospital, local guidelines should prevail that take into account hospitals' local resources. The goal would be to better match intensive care unit bed supply with demand.
Abstract B48: A LIN28B-PDZ kinase axis promotes neuroblastoma metastasis

Background: Neuroblastoma, an aggressive cancer of the developing sympathetic nervous system, continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality, highlighting the need to identify novel therapeutic vulnerabilities. We previously demonstrated that the RNA binding protein (RBP) LIN28B is an oncogenic driver and induces neuroblastoma proliferation, in part by regulating a RAN GTPase-Aurora kinase A axis. LIN28B blocks the processing of the let-7 family of tumor suppressors and binds mRNAs directly. In addition to alterations in cell cycle/apoptosis, metastatic dissemination is a hallmark of cancer that is incompletely understood, and neuroblastoma exhibits a striking proclivity for widespread metastases. In these studies, we investigated how LIN28B shapes neuroblastoma metastasis. Methods: We generated GFP-luciferase expressing neuroblastoma cell line models in which LIN28B levels were manipulated, injected these models into the tail veins of NSG mice, and tracked dissemination using an IVIS Spectrum system. We used gain- and loss-of-function approaches (siRNAs, shRNAs, microRNA mimetics) to manipulate transcripts of interest in neuroblastoma cells and measured effects on self-renewal, invasion, and downstream signaling. To discover LIN28B-associated pathways, we assessed clinically annotated mRNA expression datasets. Results: Mice injected with LIN28B-depleted neuroblastoma cells exhibit a delayed onset of tumor metastasis, reduced tumor burden, and extended survival (103 days vs. 50 days, p Conclusions: Taken together, our findings suggest that LIN28B/let-7 shapes neuroblastoma metastasis, in part through influencing PBK, a kinase not previously implicated in the pathogenesis of aggressive pediatric solid tumors. Current studies are defining whether PBK, a therapeutically tractable target for which clinically relevant inhibitors exist, represents a novel therapeutic vulnerability in metastatic neuroblastoma. Citation Format: Dongdong Chen, Julie Cox, Jayabhargav Annam, Melanie Weingart, Grace Essien, Komal Rathi, Priya Khurana, Selma Cuya, Jo Lynne Harenza, Kristopher Bosse, Adeiye Pilgrim, John M. Maris, Robert W. Schnepp. A LIN28B-PDZ kinase axis promotes neuroblastoma metastasis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on the Advances in Pediatric Cancer Research; 2019 Sep 17-20; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(14 Suppl):Abstract nr B48.
Early versus Extended Exposure in Speech Perception Learning: Evidence from Switched-Dominance Bilinguals.

Both the timing (i.e., when) and amount (i.e., how much) of language exposure affect language-learning outcomes. We compared speech recognition accuracy across three listener groups for whom the order (first versus second) and dominance (dominant versus non-dominant) of two languages, English and Spanish, varied: one group of Spanish heritage speakers (SHS; L2-English dominant; L1-Spanish non-dominant) and two groups of late onset L2 learners (L1-dominant English/Spanish learners and L1-dominant Spanish/English learners). Sentence-final word recognition accuracy in both English and Spanish was assessed across three “easy” versus “difficult” listening conditions: (1) signal-to-noise ratio (SNR; +5 dB SNR versus 0 dB SNR), (2) sentence predictability (high versus low sentence predictability), and (3) speech style (clear versus plain speech style). Overall, SHS English recognition accuracy was equivalent to that of the L1-dominant English Spanish learners, whereas SHS Spanish recognition accuracy was substantially lower than that of the L1-dominant Spanish English learners. Moreover, while SHS benefitted in both languages from the “easy” listening conditions, they were more adversely affected by (i.e., they recognized fewer words) the presence of higher noise and lower predictability in their non-dominant L1 Spanish compared to their dominant L2 English. These results identify both a benefit and limit on the influence of early exposure. Specifically, the L2-dominant heritage speakers displayed L1-like speech recognition in their dominant-L2, as well as generally better recognition in their non-dominant L1 than late onset L2 learners. Yet, subtle recognition accuracy differences between SHS and L1-dominant listeners emerged under relatively difficult communicative conditions.
Hippocampal epigenetic and insulin-like growth factor alterations in noninvasive versus invasive mechanical ventilation in preterm lambs.

Background The brain of chronically ventilated preterm human infants is vulnerable to collateral damage during invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). Damage is manifest, in part, by learning and memory impairments, which are hippocampal functions. A molecular regulator of hippocampal development is insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1). A gentler ventilation strategy is noninvasive respiratory support (NRS). We tested the hypotheses that NRS leads to greater levels of IGF1 messenger RNA (mRNA) variants and distinct epigenetic profile along the IGF1 gene locus in the hippocampus compared to IMV. Methods Preterm lambs were managed by NRS or IMV for 3 or 21 days. Isolated hippocampi were analyzed for IGF1 mRNA levels and splice variants for promoter 1 (P1), P2, and IGF1A and 1B, DNA methylation in P1 region, and histone covalent modifications along the gene locus. Results NRS had significantly greater levels of IGF1 P1 (predominant transcript), and 1A and 1B mRNA variants compared to IMV at 3 or 21 days. NRS also led to more DNA methylation and greater occupancy of activating mark H3K4 trimethylation (H3K4me3), repressive mark H3K27me3, and elongation mark H3K36me3 compared to IMV. Conclusions NRS leads to distinct IGF1 mRNA variant levels and epigenetic profile in the hippocampus compared to IMV. Impact Our study shows that 3 or 21 days of NRS of preterm lambs leads to distinct IGF1 mRNA variant levels and epigenetic profile in the hippocampus compared to IMV. Preterm infant studies suggest that NRS leads to better neurodevelopmental outcomes later in life versus IMV. Also, duration of IMV is directly related to hippocampal damage; however, molecular players remain unknown. NRS, as a gentler mode of respiratory management of preterm neonates, may reduce damage to the immature hippocampus through an epigenetic mechanism.
Palliative Care and End-of-Life Care Planning after Critical Illness

Palliative care is an interprofessional specialty and an approach to care that focuses on improving the quality of life of patients and their families who are facing serious illness. Palliative care can address many domains of symptoms and needs that are important to patients and families of critically ill patients including symptom assessment and management, communication to establish goals of care, alignment of treatments with patient preferences, attention to psychosocial and spiritual needs of both patients and their families, and planning for care transitions. Given these goals, palliative care principles and services can potentially benefit not only patients who are critically ill but also those who survive critical illness as many patients and families have palliative care needs that extend for months or years after critical illness. Older adults, people with fraility, and those with chronic critical illness might benefit most from palliative care services after critical illness. Several opportunities exist to integrate palliative care into post-ICU recovery either through integration into post-ICU clinics or in the delivery of community-based palliative care services, including enhancing communication to establish goals of care, aligning treatment plans with patient preferences for future medical care, supporting families, and helping plan and coordinate care transitions, and encouraging advance care planning.
Optical two-dimensional coherent spectroscopy of many-body dipole-dipole interactions and correlations in atomic vapors.

Many-body interactions and correlations in atomic ensembles are fundamental in understanding many-body effects such as collective and emergent phenomena and also play an important role in various atom-based applications. Optical two-dimensional coherent spectroscopy (2DCS) provides a powerful tool to measure many-body interactions and correlations. Here, we present the study of many-body dipole–dipole interactions and correlations in potassium and rubidium atomic vapors by using double-quantum and multi-quantum 2DCS. The results show that double-quantum 2DCS provides sensitive and background-free detection of weak dipole–dipole interaction between atoms with a mean separation up to about 16 μm, and multi-quantum 2DCS can excite and detect multi-atom states (Dicke states) with up to eight correlated atoms. The technique of optical 2DCS can provide a new approach to study many-body physics in atomic ensembles and can be potentially implemented to measure many-body effects in cold atoms and other atomic/molecular systems.
Best Practices for the Design of Clinical Trials Related to the Visual System.

Clinical trials for conditions affecting the visual system need to not only conform to the guidelines for all clinical trials, but also accommodate the possibility of both eyes of a single patient ...
Quantifying and Qualifying Charisma: A Theoretical Framework for Measuring the Presence of Charismatic Authority in Terrorist Groups

In the past four decades, there has been increased multidisciplinary scholarly interest in the study of charismatic authority. However, there has yet to be any systematic examination of charismatic authority in the context of terrorism, despite widespread acknowledgment of the importance of charismatic leaders in the recruitment, radicalization, and operation of terrorist groups. This article seeks to contribute to future empirical research by presenting a theoretical framework for measuring the presence of charismatic authority in terrorist groups that is based on Max Weber's seminal work on legitimate domination (herrschaft) and on theoretical insights drawn from the study of charismatic authority in new religious movements. The framework is then applied to an illustrative case study of the relationship between charismatic authority and the radicalization process within the far-right terrorist group “the Covenant, the Sword, and the Arm of the Lord.” The article concludes with a discussion of findings a...
Effect of JAK Inhibitors on Release of CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 from Human Airway Epithelial Cells.

Background CD8+ T-cells are located in the small airways of COPD patients and may contribute to pathophysiology. CD8+ cells express the chemokine receptor, CXCR3 that binds CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11, which are elevated in the airways of COPD patients. These chemokines are released from airway epithelial cells via activation of receptor associated Janus kinases (JAK). This study compared the efficacy of two structurally dissimilar pan-JAK inhibitors, PF956980 and PF1367550, and the glucocorticosteroid dexamethasone, in BEAS-2B and human primary airway epithelial cells from COPD patients and control subjects. Methods Cells were stimulated with either IFNγ alone or with TNFα, and release of CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 measured by ELISA and expression of CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 by qPCR. Activation of JAK signalling was assessed by STAT1 phosphorylation and DNA binding. Results There were no differences in the levels of release of CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 from primary airway epithelial cells from any of the subjects or following stimulation with either IFNγ alone or with TNFα. Dexamethasone did not inhibit CXCR3 chemokine release from stimulated BEAS-2B or primary airway epithelial cells. However, both JAK inhibitors suppressed this response with PF1367550 being ~50-65-fold more potent than PF956980. The response of cells from COPD patients did not differ from controls with similar responses regardless of whether inhibitors were added prophylactically or concomitant with stimuli. These effects were mediated by JAK inhibition as both compounds suppressed STAT1 phosphorylation and DNA-binding of STAT1 and gene transcription. Conclusions These data suggest that the novel JAK inhibitor, PF1367550, is more potent than PF956980 and that JAK pathway inhibition in airway epithelium could provide an alternative anti-inflammatory approach for glucocorticosteroid-resistant diseases including COPD.
Rat Brain Tyrosine Hydroxylase ACTIVATION BY LIMITED TRYPTIC PROTEOLYSIS

Treatment of rat striatal soluble tyrosine hydroxylase with limited tryptic digestion results in a marked alteration in molecular weight of the enzyme and a concomitant increase in enzymatic activity. Sucrose density gradient centrifugation yields a sedimentation coefficient of 9.2 S for native brain tyrosine hydroxylase, and 3.7 S for the trypsin-treated enzyme. The activation of brain tyrosine hydroxylase concomitant with the molecular weight change occurs through a decrease in Km for both substrate and cofactor. At the same time, heparin, which activates the native striatal enzyme (Ka = 9 µg per ml), inhibits the trypsin-treated enzyme competitive with tyrosine (Ki = 19 µg per ml). It is suggested that the native soluble striatal enzyme may exist in a conformationally constrained, relatively inactive state, and that activation may be achieved by interaction with specific mucopolysaccharides. Further, comparison of the kinetic properties of brain tyrosine hydroxylase with the adrenal enzyme suggests the existence of organ-specific isozymes.
A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results analysis of small cell carcinoma of the bladder: epidemiology, prognostic variables, and treatment trends.

BACKGROUND: Small cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder (SCCB) is difficult to characterize and study because of its rarity. For the current study, a large population-based database was used to address ill-defined clinical parameters for this disease. METHODS: The authors analyzed the incidence, sociodemographics, prognostic variables, and treatment trends of this cancer in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) limited database (1991-2005). The SEER-Medicare database (1991-2005) was used to estimate chemotherapy use. RESULTS: There were 642 patients in the SEER limited dataset. From 1991 to 2005, the incidence of SCCB increased significantly from 0.05 to 0.14 cases per 100,000 population (P < .01; approximately 500 new cases of SCCB per year, representing 0.7% of all bladder malignancies). The median overall survival was 11 months. Elderly Caucasian men were the most commonly affected (ratio of Caucasians to non-Caucasians, 10:1; ratio of men to women, 3:1; median age, 73 years). Age, race, marital status, and TNM staging were identified as independent prognostic variables (P < .05). Patients who had stage IV disease without distant metastasis (ie, positive lymph node status) had overall and cancer-specific survival rates similar to those of patients who had stage I through III disease, but they had significantly better survival compared with patients who had distant metastasis (P < .0001). Transurethral resection of the bladder tumor became the most common surgical treatment (P < .0001), representing 55% of patients from 2001 to 2005. The receipt of radiation and chemotherapy did not change significantly during the study period. CONCLUSIONS: These comprehensive data delineated the patient population for this rare disease, described several independent prognostic variables, and demonstrated clear treatment trends for this disease. The results suggest that a simpler staging system (ie, limited stage vs extensive stage) may be appropriate for patients with SCCB. Cancer 2011;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Constructivism in Music Education

Over the past twenty years, constructivism, as a theory of learning, has taken on an increasingly important role in music education. Efforts to shift music education toward a more constructivist practice have significant implications for policymaking at all levels of music education. In this article, I seek to recalibrate our thinking about what it might or might not mean to take a constructivist teaching stance in the music classroom. Building on constructivism as a theory of learning, I revisit its principles and their implications for our work with learners, the nature of knowledge, and the musics and musical experiences we bring into our classrooms. Further, I consider how constructivism has informed music education reform efforts. Throughout, I discuss ways in which a constructivist view of learning and teaching might better inform our professional practice by finding a balance between progressive and traditional views of music education. Through this, we can find a constructivist view that is more r...
Epigenetic instability of imprinted genes in human cancers

Many imprinted genes are often epigenetically affected in human cancers due to their functional linkage to insulin and insulin-like growth factor signaling pathways. Thus, the current study systematically characterized the epigenetic instability of imprinted genes in multiple human cancers. First, the survey results from TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) revealed that the expression levels of the majority of imprinted genes are downregulated in primary tumors compared to normal cells. These changes are also accompanied by DNA methylation level changes in several imprinted domains, such as the PEG3, MEST and GNAS domains. Second, these DNA methylation level changes were further confirmed manually using several sets of cancer DNA. According to the results, the Imprinting Control Regions of the PEG3, MEST and GNAS domains are indeed affected in breast, lung and ovarian cancers. This DNA methylation survey also revealed that evolutionarily conserved cis-regulatory elements within these imprinted domains are very variable in both normal and cancer cells. Overall, this study highlights the epigenetic instability of imprinted domains in human cancers and further suggests its potential use as cancer biomarkers.
Dielectrophoresis-assisted 3D nanoelectroporation for non-viral cell transfection in adoptive immunotherapy

Current transfection technologies lead to significant inter-clonal variations. Previously we introduced a unique electrotransfection technology, Nanochannel-Electroporation (NEP), which can precisely and benignly transfect small cell populations (~100–200 cells) with single-cell resolution. Here we report on the development of a novel 3D NEP system for large scale transfection. A properly-engineered array of nanochannels, capable of handling/transfecting ~60 000 cells cm−2, was fabricated using cleanroom technologies. Positive dielectrophoresis was used to selectively position cells on the nanochannels, thus allowing highly efficient transfection. Single-cell dosage control was demonstrated using both small and large molecules, and different cell types. The potential clinical relevance of this system was tested with difficult-to-transfect natural killer cell suspensions, and plasmids encoding for the chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), a model of high relevance for adoptive immunotherapy. Our results show significantly higher CAR transfection efficiencies for the DEP-NEP system (>70% vs. <30%), as well as enhanced cell viabilities.
THERMODYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF 4He: I. THE hcp PHASE AT LOW DENSITIES

Improved apparatus has been developed for measurement of the constant-volume heat capacity ${C}_{V}$ of condensed phases at low temperatures. The high-pressure calorimeter is closed by a remotely operated valve at the calorimeter and several problems associated with the usual blocked-capillary technique are thus eliminated. The heat capacity of hcp $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ has been measured from approximately 0.35 K to the temperature of the transition to a mixed phase and for molar volumes $V$ between 20.5 and 21. 0 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$/mole. The data permit reliable extrapolations to 0 K to determine ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}$, the Debye characteristic temperature at 0 K, and the entropy. ${C}_{V}$ can be represented by the same function of $\frac{T}{{\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}}$ for all molar volumes in the range studied. The data are in good agreement with Ahlers's recent measurements in the limited region of overlap, but the temperature dependence of ${C}_{V}$ at low temperatures and densities is different from that deduced by Ahlers by extrapolation from higher temperatures and densities. The values of ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}$ obtained in this work and by Ahlers at higher densities can be represented by ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}=2340{V}^{\ensuremath{-}0.8114}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}0.09690V}$.
Theory of universal incoherent metallic transport

Linear resistivity across many strongly correlated materials at high temperatures has no satisfactory explanation. A universal framework of incoherent metallic transport in which quantities are bounded could be the way forward.
HCIT broadband contrast performance sensitivity studies

The High Contrast Imaging Testbed (HCIT) at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory employs a broadband wavefront correction algorithm called Electric Field Conjugation (EFC) to obtain the required 10-10 contrast. This algorithm works with one deformable mirror (DM) to estimate the electric-field to be controlled, and with one or multiple DM's to create a "darkhole" in a predefined region of the image plane where terrestrial planets would be found. We have investigated the effects of absorbing dust particles on a flat optic, absorbing spots on the occulting mask, dead actuators on the DM, and the effects of control bandwidth on the efficiency of the EFC algorithm in a Lyot coronagraph configuration. The structural design of the optical system as well as the parameters of various optical elements used in the analysis is drawn from those of the HCIT system that have been implemented with one DM. The simulation takes into account the surface errors of various optical elements. Results of some of these studies have been verified by actual measurements.
Electron Induced Surface Reactions of Organometallic Metal(hfac)2 Precursors and Deposit Purification

The elementary processes associated with electron beam-induced deposition (EBID) and post-deposition treatment of structures created from three metalII(hfac)2 organometallic precursors (metal = Pt, Pd, Cu; hfac = CF3C(O)CHC(O)CF3) have been studied using surface analytical techniques. Electron induced reactions of adsorbed metalII(hfac)2 molecules proceeds in two stages. For comparatively low electron doses (doses 80%) of the carbon atoms remain. As a result of these various transformations the reduced metal atoms become encased in an organic matrix that is stabilized toward further electron stimulated carbon or oxygen...
Collision of electrons with laser photons in a background potential

Electron-photon scattering in presence of a background potential is considered for arbitrary intensities of laser radiations. Cross sectional expressions are derived which automatically include the effect of the background on the electron states. If the electron states are approximated by plane waves, they are shown to reproduce the results given by previous authors. An explicit result for the total elastic cross section in the combined laser pulse Coulomb field, is given. A simple upperbound is obtained for the corresponding bremsstrahlung (inverse bremsstrahlung) cross sections.
The combustion gas turbine and its applications

Several gas turbines have been placed in commercial operation within the last few years as prime movers. Their operating records indicate their use should be considered when economic studies are being made for various applications. Several possible applications are suggested.
Hostility, aggression and the risk of nonfatal myocardial infarction in postmenopausal women.

Abstract Hostility can predict coronary heart disease (CHD) and total mortality in men. However, in women this association has not been as thoroughly explored. This study examines whether hostile and aggressive attitudes are associated with myocardial infarction (MI) in postmenopausal women. Cases included 277 women who presented with an incident MI. Controls included a random sample of 988 female health maintenance organization enrollees. Women were asked the Hostile-Affect and the Aggressive-Responding factors of the Cook-Medley Hostility Scale. The Hostile-Affect score was linearly associated with increased risk for MI (odds ratio [OR] per point = 1.22; 95% confidence interval [CI 95% ]=1.07−1.38), whereas the Aggressive-Responding score had a modest protective effect (OR=0.92 per point; CI 95% =0.84−1.02); p =0.009. Adjustment for sociodemographic and MI risk factors altered these results only slightly. These hostility measures are easily administered, and could help to identify women who are at high risk for CHD and who may benefit from preventive measures.
The fluid mechanics of the ureter from a lubrication theory point of view

The function of a healthy ureter is analyzed in terms of a fluid-mechanical model. To the extent that the Reynolds number is of the order of one, the fundamental equations are shown to reduce to those of the theory of lubrication. It is found that from the point of view of the pressure variation with time (the urometrogram) the important part of the peristaltic wave is the constricting part. For this reason this part of the wave is represented with an algebraic expression of the form h ∼ x n making it possible to find closed form solutions. Using Fourier analysis in defining the complete wave shape of the ureter it was also possible to obtain numerical solutions. For both cases it is shown that there is good agreement between the theoretical and experimental pressure distributions, this not being the case for sinusoidal wave shapes. An approximate equation for the flux is developed and a universal relation is presented connecting the maximum pressure, flux and kinematic behaviour of the ureter.