cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conceptual dependency and montague grammar: a step toward conciliation

In attempting to establish a common basis from which the approaches and results can be compared, we have taken a conciliatory attitude toward natural language research in the conceptual dependency (CD) paradigm and Montague Grammar (MG) formalism. Although these two approaches may seem to be strange bedfellows indeed with often noticeably different perspectives, we have observed many commonalities. We begin with a brief description of the problem view and ontology of each and then create a formulation of CD as logic. We then give "conceptual" MG translations for the words in an example sentence which we use in approximating a word-based parsing style. Finally, we make some suggestions regarding further extensions of logic to introduce higher level representations.
State of Mind: Power, Time Zones and Symbolic Centralization

Why does China, geographically the third largest country in the world, have only one time zone, while Australia, nearly as big, has six? Concentrating on the Chinese case, we argue that control over time zones represents an example of‘‘symbolic centralization,’’ the degree to which the central state concentrates intangible or symbolic resources that reinforce and assert state control, often invisibly, over people’s everyday lives. Few state actions shape citizens’ quotidian experience as fundamentally as symbolic action like setting the boundaries of time, yet political scientists have generally elided the implications of temporal authority. And those few scholars who discuss symbolic power in a systematic way have not considered how its degree of concentration varies cross nationally. Symbolic centralization provides insights into how a distant political center may continue to shape fundamental aspects of daily life even while scoring low on resource-oriented quantitative measures of centralism. Using qualitative data and introducing a new quantitative ‘‘symbolic centralization’’ index, this article disaggregates the concept from the more commonly studied fiscal and political centralization through evidence from both conventional and anomalous cases.
Stability enhancement by boundary control in the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation

where we refer to ? 0 as the “anti-di ussion” parameter. Note that a more general form ut + 1uxxxx + 2uxx + 3uux = 0 can always be reduced to (1.1) by appropriate rescaling of t; x and u. Eq. (1.1) was derived independently by Kuramoto et al. [20–22] as a model for phase turbulence in reaction–di usion systems and by Sivashinsky [33] as a model for plane ame propagation, describing the combined in uence of di usion and thermal conduction of the gas on stability of a plane ame front. So far, it has been well understood that the KS-equation can also serve as a mathematical model for cellular instabilities in a variety of situations: the ow of thin liquid lms on inclined planes [30] (in the limit of large surface tension), dendritic fronts in dilute binary alloys [31], and Alfven drift waves in plasmas [23] (as a nonlinear saturation mechanism of the dissipative trapped ion modes).
Numerical Simulation of Transitions in Boundary Layer Convective Structures in a Lake-Effect Snow Event

Abstract Numerical simulations are used to study transitions between boundary layer rolls and more cellular convective structures observed during a lake-effect snow event over Lake Michigan on 17 December 1983. Weak lake-effect nonroll convection was observed near the eastern (downwind) shore preceding passage of a secondary cold front. After frontal passage horizontal wind speeds in the convective boundary layer increased, with subsequent development of linear convective patterns. Thereafter the convective pattern became more three-dimensional as low-level wind speeds decreased. Little directional shear was observed in any of the wind profiles. Numerical simulations with the Advanced Regional Prediction System model were initialized with an upwind sounding and radar-derived wind profiles corresponding to each of the three convective structure regimes. Model-derived reflectivity fields were in good agreement with the observed regimes. These simulations differed primarily in the initial wind speed profiles...
Does Social Capital Affect Mortgage Loan Termination by Low-IncomeHomeowners?

We study whether social capital affects low-income borrowers’ decisions to terminate their mortgage loans, originated after church leaders connected these borrowers with a lender. Loan termination is modeled in a competing-risks framework, where social capital, demographic and religious characteristics as well as traditional economic factors affect mortgage termination. We find evidence that heterogeneity of social trust in the wider community is associated with decreased default and prepayment hazards, indicating that low-income borrowers value bridging social capital linking them to the wider community. The evidence suggests a role for social capital in mortgage loans and perhaps other financial contracts.
Influence of Deposition Conditions on the optical and Electronic Properties of a-Ge:H

We have measured the optical absorption edge spectra for absorption coefficients between 1 and 105 cm−1, the photoluminescence spectra at 77 K, the conductivity-temperature relations, and the photoconductivity magnitude and spectral dependence for a series of r.f. glow discharge films of a-Ge:H. The films were deposited at the powered cathode and unpowered anode of a diode capacitive reactor having very different electric fields and plasma conditions, while substrate temperature, H2 dilution of a GeH4 plasma and applied r.f. power were varied. The structure of the films are radically different, with the anode-deposited films displaying a microstructure of low density material (voids) and the cathode-deposited films displaying homogeneity similar to that of device-quality a-Si:H. A self consistent explanation of the differences in measured optical and electronic properties is given, taking full account of the structural observations. From this analysis the conditions required for the production of a-Ge:H of good photoelectronic quality may be inferred. Preliminary structural, optical and photoelectronic data for a-Si1#x2212;xGex:H of large x, prepared under conditions extrapolated from the a-Ge study, indicate significant improvements from current data in the literature.
Near Net Shape Manufacturing of Composite Engine Components by 3-D Fiber Architecture

Responding to the need for a higher level of through thickness strength, higher damage tolerance, and near net shape manufacturing in structural engine components, there is a worldwide revival in the interest in 3-D fabric preforms. Recent advances in computer aided design, analysis and manufacturing of fully integrated 2-D and 3-D woven, knitted, and braided fibrous structures promises to lead to major advances in composite technology. Through thickness strength imparted to composites by virtue of such integrated reinforcement will open new applications for composites that could not be considered previously, primarily due to the poor transverse strength and interlaminar shear properties of traditional laminated composites. The ability of these structures to conform to shape or assume near net structural shapes promises to simplify manufacturing processes, reduce costs, and enhance design flexibility.Copyright © 1989 by ASME
Organizing for Insurgency: Intraparty Organization and the Development of the House Insurgency, 1908–1910

A legislative “breakpoint,” the Cannon Revolt profoundly transformed congressional operation, spurring a series of reforms that ultimately led to the disintegration of traditional modes of partisan authority and the creation of new patterns of governance. In this article, I argue that the Cannon Revolt affords an opportunity to examine a crucial, but poorly understood, dynamic in congressional politics. Whereas spatial theories of Congress typically hold that legislators located at the floor median are decisive actors in chamber politics, the archival account presented here suggests that these legislators require the scaffolding of an intraparty organization to secure pivotal status. As I demonstrate, intraparty organization enabled a ragtag group of Republican reformers opposed to Cannon's “czar rule” to draft and unite behind a common proposal for parliamentary reform, and to build the cross-party coalition that scholars agree was critical to its passage. In this account, the influence of the so-called “Insurgent” Republicans hinged on their collective capacity to hang together in sufficient numbers to hold the balance of power in the chamber—in effect, organizing all potentially pivotal votes into one bloc essential to sustaining the majority party coalition.
Commentaire: Applications marketing de l'analyse économique de la variété de produits:

Au premier abord, on pourrait etre decu du fait que les resultats sur le positionnement optimal dans un espace produit a deux dimensions se montrent tres sensibles a des hypotheses sur la nature du prix concurrentiel, le moment de penetration du marche, le fait que la decision d'entrer sur le marche precede ou non la fixation des prix, le nombre de firmes se repartissant le marche et le fait que les consommateurs peuvent faire des economies en recherchant une information plus specialisee concernant un segment de l'espace produit. Il peut etre encore plus decourageant de constater que les resultats s'appliquant a deux dimensions deviennent caducs pour un espace produit a plus de deux dimensions. Il existe cependant une facon de tourner ces resultats apparemment negatifs en conclusions tres utiles. Ceux-ci suggerent en effet qu'il est essentiel de considerer les conditions specifiques de chaque industrie avant de formuler des conclusions generales sur les strategies de
HYBRID AND STAGED PULMONARY VEIN ISOLATION WITH LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE CLOSURE FOR RHYTHM CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF THROMBOEMBOLISM IN ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

The combination of left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), either as a hybrid or staged procedure, may provide rhythm control and reduce the thromboembolic risk in patients with AF. However, proximity of the LAA closure device and ablation targets raises the
Condensation origin for Neoproterozoic cap carbonates during deglaciation: COMMENT

[Kennedy and Christie-Blick (2011)][1] describe sequence stratigraphic relations among a thick succession of ca. 635 Ma glacial to postglacial sediments in the Amadeus Basin of central Australia, which pass basinward into ∼3 m of laminated dolomicrite ([Fig. 1A][2]). They conclude that the cap
Study on the mechanism of dopamine-induced inhibition of hemoglobin synthesis in chick blastoderm in vitro.

SummaryThe mechanism of dopamine-induced inhibition of hemoglobin synthesis in chick blastoderm in vitro was investigated. Dopamine did not reduce the incorporation of 14C-leucine or 14C-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) into protein. The total protein per blastoderm was similar in both the dopamine-treated and control blastoderms. Addition of exogenous ALA to the dopamine-treated medium did not reverse the effect of dopamine on hemoglobin synthesis.
Rates and patterns of recurrence after curative intent resection for gallbladder cancer: a multi-institution analysis from the US Extra-hepatic Biliary Malignancy Consortium.

Background Gallbladder cancer is a relatively rare malignancy. The current study aimed to define the incidence and patterns of recurrence following gallbladder cancer resection.
Risk of brain metastases in patients with nonmetastatic lung cancer: Analysis of the Metropolitan Detroit Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data

BACKGROUND Brain metastases (BM) remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with lung cancer. The current study evaluated population-based incidence and outcomes of BM in patients with nonmetastatic lung cancer. METHODS Patients diagnosed with nonmetastatic first primary lung cancer between 1973 and 2011 in the Metropolitan Detroit Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry were used for the current analysis. Age-adjusted odds ratios of developing BM based on various demographic characteristics and histology were calculated with 95% confidence intervals. Adjusted Cox proportional hazard ratios and log-rank tests of Kaplan-Meier survival curves were calculated to evaluate survival differences for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). RESULTS The incidence of BM in patients with nonmetastatic NSCLC and SCLC was 9% and 18%, respectively. There was variation in the incidence of BM according to NCSLC histology. The incidence of BM was higher in patients aged <60 years for both NSCLC and SCLC, but there were no differences noted by race for either histological group. Female patients with NSCLC were more likely to have BM than male patients. There was variation in the proportion of BM in both patients with NSCLC and SCLC over the three 13-year periods of diagnosis. The risk of death (hazard ratio) was found to be significantly higher for patients with NSCLC with BM, but was not significantly higher in patients with SCLC with BM. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of BM in patients with nonmetastatic lung cancer varies according to histology, age, and sex. BM are associated with worse survival for patients with NSCLC but not those with SCLC. Cancer 2016. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Full- Versus Part-Day Kindergarten for Children With Disabilities Effects on Academic and Social-Emotional Outcomes

Despite the vast body of research examining the relationship between full-day kindergarten attendance and children’s outcomes, little is known about the effects of full-day kindergarten on children with disabilities (i.e., students with 1 of the 13 categories of disabilities recognized under federal law). This study fills this research void by examining whether full-day kindergarten participation predicts differences in achievement and social-emotional outcomes for children with disabilities. Using a national data set of kindergarten students from the 2010–2011 school year (ECLS-K:2011) and employing propensity matching, this study finds that relative to part-day kindergarten (PDK), full-day kindergarten (FDK) attendance is associated with higher achievement scores but also with higher frequencies of internalizing behaviors and lower incidences of self-control at the end of the kindergarten school year. The relationships between FDK attendance and outcomes varied by type of disability classification, such...
Method of Similarity Calculation of Fuzzy Concepts

Due to the fuzzy information cannot be handled by the classical approaches for ontology mapping and similarity calculation,the similarities betw een fuzzy concepts cannot be computed as w ell.To this end,a new method for similarity calculation of fuzzy concepts w as provided based on vector space model,called Sim FC-VSM(similarity of fuzzy concept based on vector space model).The fuzzy relationships in fuzzy ontologies w ere firstly used to generate vector space model(VSM).And then the fuzzy concepts w ere represented as vectors in the VSM.Finally,the similarities for fuzzy concept pairs w ere obtained by calculating vectors.Therefore,the proposed Sim FC-VSM method can be used to calculate the similarity betw een fuzzy concepts based on VSM,effectively.
Assessment on Chromium Pollution in Wheat and Corn around Leather Industrial Parks

[Objective]To investigate the level of chromium in the crops planted around leather industrial parks(LIPs),and to provide scientific data for the prevention and control of chromium pollution in food.[Methods]Samples of crops planted in the vicinity of LIPs(36 samples) and in a control area(22 samples) were collected to determine the levels of chromium.The unqualified rate of chromium was calculated according to the Maximum Levels of Contaminants in Foods(GB 2762—2005).The degree of food pollution was evaluated using single factor pollution index.[Results]The average levels of chromium in crops around the LIPs and in the control area were 0.74mg/kg and 0.18mg/kg respectively(P0.05).The unqualified rate of chromium in the crops samples from the LIPs was 16.66% which was significantly higher than that in the crops samples from the control area(0%)(P0.05).The single factor pollution indices for both wheat and corn were lower than 1.[Conclusion]Some of the crops grown around the leather industrial parks are polluted by chromium,and it is possible to have adverse health effects on the exposed population.
9 – Laboratory and Field Exercises in Soil Ecology

We offer a wide range of laboratory and field exercises in soil ecology. First, we consider root-related studies, including rhizotrons and mini-rhizotrons, sequential sampling of root cores, and root ingrowth. Process-related studies are consider next, including soil respiration, and litter decomposition.
A Rare Presentation of Isolated Congenital Splenic Hemangioma With Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome.

Introduction:Splenic hemangiomas (SHs) are the most common benign neoplasms of the spleen. However, they are rare in the newborn period. We present an extremely rare case of congenital SH complicated by Kasabach-Merritt syndrome.Case Presentation:A 2.93 kg male infant was delivered at term with a pr
Reliable Intermodal Freight Network Expansion with Demand Uncertainties and Network Disruptions

This paper develops a robust Mixed-Integer Linear Program (MILP) to assist railroad operators with intermodal network expansion decisions. Specifically, the objective of the model is to identify critical rail links to retrofit, locations to establish new terminals, and existing terminals to expand, where the intermodal freight network is subject to demand and supply uncertainties. Additional considerations by the model include a finite overall budget for investment, limited capacities on network links and at intermodal terminals, and time window constraints for shipments. A hybrid Genetic Algorithm (GA) is developed to solve the proposed MILP. It utilizes a column generation algorithm to solve the freight flow assignment problem and a multi-modal shortest path label-setting algorithm to solve the pricing sub-problems. An exact exhaustive enumeration method is used to validate the GA results. Experimental results indicate that the developed algorithm is capable of producing optimal solutions efficiently for small-sized intermodal freight networks. The impact of uncertainty on network configuration is discussed for a larger-sized case study.
Domain Organization in the 54-kDa Subunit of the Chloroplast Signal Recognition Particle.

Abstract Chloroplast signal recognition particle (cpSRP) is a heterodimer composed of an evolutionarily conserved 54-kDa GTPase (cpSRP54) and a unique 43-kDa subunit (cpSRP43) responsible for delivering light-harvesting chlorophyll binding protein to the thylakoid membrane. While a nearly complete three-dimensional structure of cpSRP43 has been determined, no high-resolution structure is yet available for cpSRP54. In this study, we developed and examined an in silico three-dimensional model of the structure of cpSRP54 by homology modeling using cytosolic homologs. Model selection was guided by single-molecule Forster resonance energy transfer experiments, which revealed the presence of at least two distinct conformations. Small angle x-ray scattering showed that the linking region among the GTPase (G-domain) and methionine-rich (M-domain) domains, an M-domain loop, and the cpSRP43 binding C-terminal extension of cpSRP54 are predominantly disordered. Interestingly, the linker and loop segments were observed to play an important role in organizing the domain arrangement of cpSRP54. Further, deletion of the finger loop abolished loading of the cpSRP cargo, light-harvesting chlorophyll binding protein. These data highlight important structural dynamics relevant to cpSRP54's role in the post- and cotranslational signaling processes.
Glutathione Metabolism as Affected by Selenium Deficiency

Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide-y-glutamylcysteinylglycine. GSH synthesized in the liver is transported across the sinusoid into the blood. The liver is the only tissue that releases GSH to the systemic circulation. Other cells can release GSSG under conditions of oxidative stress, but the liver constantly releases GSH to the blood maintaining a plasma GSH level in the micromolar range. The function of plasma GSH is currently a subject of great interest. Recently, it has been suggested that plasma GSH may be a substrate for one or more plasma enzymes (e.g., plasma GSH-Px) (Maddipati and Marnett 1987).
Imaging of Hereditary Tumors of the Female Genital System

Cancers of the female genital system, particularly endometrial and ovarian cancers, can be associated with hereditary cancer syndromes such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer and Lynch syndrome. Cancers that are found in the setting of a hereditary cancer syndrome are often unique in presentation, clinical features, and pathologic profiles when compared with sporadic tumors. This article reviews the hereditary cancer syndromes associated with gynecological malignancies, as well as the imaging findings and staging system of endometrial and ovarian cancers. These associations are important for proper patient screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
Abstract B23: A high-fat diet, but not obesity, promotes tumorigenesis in two mouse models of k-ras-driven lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and 85% of lung cancers are associated with tobacco use. Activating mutations in K-ras have been identified in ~25% of lung adenocarcinomas and are found predominantly in smokers. We previously demonstrated that reducing systemic IGF-1 levels, by treatment with the anti-diabetic drug metformin or by liver-specific ablation of the IGF-1 gene, decreases tumorigenesis in mouse models of k-ras-driven lung cancer. Since preclinical and clinical studies suggest that diet composition is the best predictor of systemic IGF-1 levels, we hypothesized that diets high in fat or carbohydrates might increase systemic IGF-1 levels and promote lung tumorigenesis. To assess the effect of diet, C57Bl/6J and A/J mice were fed standard cereal diet, high-carbohydrate diet, or high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks starting at nine weeks of age, after which plasma and tissue samples were collected. The HFD increased levels of IGF-1 and insulin in both strains of mice, and increased the weights of C57BL/6J, but not A/J mice. In contrast, the high-carbohydrate diet did not increase the weights or circulating levels of IGF-1/insulin in either strain of mice. Since insulin and IGF-I were induced more with HFD, we investigated the impact of HFD on lung tumorigenesis using two mouse models of Kras-mutant lung cancer. In the first, genetically engineered C57BL/6LA2 mice were fed a cereal diet or HFD for 10 weeks starting at weaning. Lung tumor multiplicity and tumor burden increased 2.7-fold compared to littermates fed a cereal diet. In the second model, lung tumorigenesis was initiated in 6 week old A/J mice by three weekly IP injections of the tobacco carcinogen 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) that invariably causes Kras mutations. . One week after the last NNK injection, mice were randomized to cereal or HFD for 10 weeks. Mice on HFD had a 40% increase in lung tumor multiplicity and a 60% increase in lung tumor burden. These studies show that a HFD promotes lung tumor growth caused by a mutation commonly observed in smokers. Conversely, the results imply that dietary modification could slow the progression of tumorigensis due to smoking related genetic changes in lung epithelium. Further, chemopreventative drugs, such as metformin, may have enhanced efficacy in a HFD model due to the associated increases in levels of insulin and/or IGF-I. Finally, understanding the long term effects of HFD could identify new targets for cancer prevention. Citation Format: Jeffrey W. Norris, Regan M. Memmott, Kristin Lastwika, Phillip Dennis. A high-fat diet, but not obesity, promotes tumorigenesis in two mouse models of k-ras-driven lung cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirteenth Annual AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research; 2014 Sep 27-Oct 1; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Can Prev Res 2015;8(10 Suppl): Abstract nr B23.
Geographies of race and ethnicity III: Settler colonialism and nonnative people of color

In this third progress report I consider the politics of settler colonialism in relation to nonnative people of color. Settler colonialism has become an increasingly important concept over the past...
Serotonergic Mechanisms in the Nucleus Tractus Solitarius May Regulate Blood Pressure and Behaviour in the Rat

1. Highly localized microinjections of serotonin into the nucleus tractus solitarius in rats produced dose-dependent hypotension and bradycardia and electroencephalogram (EEG) changes consistent with an alerting response. 2. Microinjection of the serotinin antagonist metergoline blocked the cardiovascular and EEG effects of serotonin but did not affect the same responses elicited by the microinjection of l-glutamate. 3. Microinjections of l-glutamate produced similar effects; acetylcholine, which lowered arterial pressure and heart rate, did not affect the EEG. 4. Bilateral injections of metergoline into the nucleus tractus solitarius occasionally produced a rise in arterial pressure but did not affect the baroreceptor reflex. 5. Serotonin may integrate cardiovascular and behavioural responses mediated by the nucleus tractus solitarius. 6. Neuronal populations within the nucleus tractus solitarius may be neurochemically and functionally differentiated.
Uncertainty Quantification in the Evaluation of DIC-Based Dynamic Fracture Parameters

A hybrid experimental-computational method is presented which takes full-field displacement data from DIC and evaluates dynamic stress intensity factors (SIFs) at fracture initiation and propagation. The technique relies on the principles of linear elastic fracture mechanics, and as such the input data must maintain a region of K-dominance ahead of the moving crack. This requires displacement fields taken outside local plastic and 3D effects at the crack tip, and mitigated from potential boundary effects, otherwise error can increase to nearly 20% of the actual material toughness. The region of useable DIC information and necessary speckle parameters directly influences the precision of the resulting dynamic fracture predictions; as does an accurate determination of elastic properties and location of the moving crack front within the speckle pattern. The sensitivity of these parameters is examined using both experimental and FEM-generated virtual displacement data. Results on brittle hard metals and polymers using nominal elastic properties have shown that misalignment of the methodology-determined crack tip location with the actual can contribute to error on the order of 1–2 MPa-m1/2 per source.
Effect of brine composition on oil-rock interaction by atomic force microscopy

Abstract Wettability alteration is known to occur in low salinity waterflooding of carbonate rocks. Oil droplets are thought to detach from the rock partially due to changes of the solid surface charge by multi-ion exchange with the brine. These mechanisms have been investigated in the past by measuring zeta potentials of calcite and oil, separately in test brines. In this work, the coupled calcite-brine-oil system was studied by measuring the adhesion force of an organic acid functionalized solid probe with a calcite surface, using an atomic force microscope. Brine compositions were varied in pH and ion concentration, to identify key conditions for minimum oil adhesion to calcite. Our experiments showed the strongest acid-calcite adhesion in formation brine. The adhesion force decreased in decreasing ionic strength NaCl brines, particularly below ∼0.1 mol/L where the diffuse double layer expanded greatly. The complex composition brines of ultra-dilute seawater and excess sulfate seawater each gave the lowest adhesion due to a combination of double layer expansion, surface charge change and gypsum passivation of the calcite surface. Modifying seawater's Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentrations showed little change in the adhesion force despite being potential determining ions for calcite. Adhesion force responded the most to pH change. Increasing pH substantially decreased the adhesion force in seawater and excess sulfate seawater until a threshold value of pH 10. Above pH 10, the adhesion increased due to brine instability (to mineral precipitation) and material precipitation onto the calcite surface.
RNA from Trained Aplysia Can Induce an Epigenetic Engram for Long-Term Sensitization in Untrained Aplysia.

The precise nature of the engram, the physical substrate of memory, remains uncertain. Here, it is reported that RNA extracted from the central nervous system of Aplysia given long-term sensitization (LTS) training induced sensitization when injected into untrained animals; furthermore, the RNA-induced sensitization, like training-induced sensitization, required DNA methylation. In cellular experiments, treatment with RNA extracted from trained animals was found to increase excitability in sensory neurons, but not in motor neurons, dissociated from naive animals. Thus, the behavioral, and a subset of the cellular, modifications characteristic of a form of nonassociative long-term memory (LTM) in Aplysia can be transferred by RNA. These results indicate that RNA is sufficient to generate an engram for LTS in Aplysia and are consistent with the hypothesis that RNA-induced epigenetic changes underlie memory storage in Aplysia.
Why Some Workers Should Be Allowed a 'Buy-In' for Social Security: A Policy Suggestion to Reduce the Regressive Adjustments of the Windfall Elimination Provision

The Windfall Elimination Provision adjusts, through a reduction, the retirement income for workers who qualify for Social Security retirement benefits and have retirement benefits from employment outside of that system. While the WEP adjustment for workers with pensions from non-covered employment (which is common from employment by state and local governments that do not participate in the Social Security) has received some attention, there is little information for workers who have the same mix of earnings but who do not and will not receive a pension. This situation arises when workers receive their non-covered retirement benefits in a lump sum or in an Optional Retirement Plan. This paper details the WEP adjustment for these workers and suggests a policy that reduces the probability that total retirement income from the combined earnings will be less than Social Security retirement benefits as if all earnings were covered by Social Security.
The chemistry and nutrition of nonnutritive fats.

Publisher Summary As the countries around the world have experienced improved economic conditions, the resulting increase in affluence has resulted in an increase in per capita calorie and fat consumption and a concomitant increase in the problem of obesity. As a result, health concerns have increased, particularly those related to cardiovascular disease. As a response to health concerns and consumer demands in the United States, the food industry has developed a wide variety of low-fat and/or low calorie products. The consumer continues to demand food products that are low-fat (or fat free), but still have the taste and mouth feel of the full-fat products they enjoy. To help meet that demand, fat-based fat substitutes were developed. Fat substitutes can be divided into three broad categories: carbohydrate-based, protein-based, and lipid-based. Many of the carbohydrate- and protein-based fat substitutes have received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, GRAS status for a compound approved for use as a food additive at low concentrations does not guarantee approval for use as a macronutrient substitute. All synthetic macronutrient substitutes face extensive safety testing prior to FDA approval. Research on fat substitutes has resulted in several formulations with functions closer to that of natural fat. Currently available carbohydrate- and protein-based fat substitutes cannot be used for frying. Synthetic substitutes are unique in that they contribute little to the caloric content of the food, yet they retain most of the important functional attributes associated with traditional fats. This chapter focuses on the fat-based, heat-stable, low- to non-caloric, synthetic fat substitutes and discusses their chemistry and nutritional implications.
Less Commonly Used Alcohol Biomarkers and Proteomics in Alcohol Biomarker Discovery

The markers discussed in this chapter are being investigated rigorously to determine if they should be used regularly in various clinical settings. Some of these markers have advantages over traditional markers, but the methodologies may not be readily available in all clinical laboratories for the determination of such emerging alcohol biomarkers.
Introduction to Latin American Studies and the Humanities: Past, Present, Future

This essay outlines the three articles in this dossier, “Latin American Studies and the Humanities: Past, Present, Future.” The authors, working in different disciplines, contribute to debates about how to reconceptualize area studies. Each article considers how area studies might be enriched by considering different spatial scales and incorporating methodologies drawn from ethnic studies disciplines. Our introduction explains how each essay contributes to our understanding of five key issues in Latin American studies: (1) the relationship between the field’s regionally bound framework and emerging conceptual paradigms like the global South; (2) the potential for interdisciplinary, rather than multidisciplinary, research; (3) how to place Latin American studies in dialogue with ethnic studies; (4) how to rethink the origins of Latin American studies by tracing the long history of Latin America–generated knowledge about the region; and (5) how recent indigenous studies approaches might decolonize the field of Latin American studies. El presente ensayo ofrece un resumen de los tres articulos, escritos por investigadores de diversas areas academicas, incluidos en el dossier “Latin American Studies and the Humanities: Past, Present, Future” (Estudios latinoamericanos y las humanidades: Pasado, presente, futuro). En su conjunto y desde sus particulares perspectivas disciplinarias los ensayos contribuyen a notables debates actuales en los estudios latinoamericanos, planteando asi como podemos enriquecer nuestras investigaciones a traves de diferentes escalas espaciales-temporales y con diferentes metodos, incluyendo varias metodologias derivadas de los estudios etnicos. El presente ensayo introductorio explica como los tres ensayos contribuyen a nuestro conocimiento de cinco temas claves en los estudios latinoamericanos, incluyendo: (1) la relacion entre las tradicionales demarcaciones geograficas de los estudios latinoamericanos y nuevos paradigmas conceptuales, entre ellos el Sur Global; (2) la posibilidad de mayores investigaciones interdisciplinarias en vez de trabajos multidisciplinarios; (3) los vinculos entre los estudios latinoamericanos y los estudios etnicos; (4) como una nueva historia de los saberes latinoamericanos, asi generados en la region, nos ayudara repensar los origenes de los estudios latinoamericanos; (5) como nuevos matices en los estudios indigenas podran descolonizar los estudios latinoamericanos.
Deep Learning Models Differentiate Tumor Grades from H&E Stained Histology Sections

Aberration in tissue architecture is an essential index for cancer diagnosis and tumor grading. Therefore, extracting features of aberrant phenotypes and classification of the histology tissue can provide a model for computer-aided pathology (CAP). As a case study, we investigate the application of convolutional neural networks (CNN)s for tumor grading and decomposing tumor architecture from hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained histology sections of kidney. The former and latter contribute to CAP and the role of the tumor architecture on the outcome (e.g., survival), respectively. A training set is constructed and sample images are classified into six categories of normal, fat, blood, stroma, low-grade granular tumor, and high-grade clear cell carcinoma. We have compared the performances of a deep versus shallow networks, and shown that the deeper model outperforms the shallow network.
Comparing performance of contrasting distance-independent and distance-dependent competition metrics in predicting individual tree diameter increment and survival within structurally-heterogeneous, mixed-species forests of Northeastern United States

Abstract Most studies comparing the predictive performance of distance-independent and -dependent competition metrics have been conducted in even-aged, single species stands. In addition, past studies have generally not considered more sophisticated distance-dependent competition metrics such as open sky-view or light interception indices. Using data from fully stem mapped inventory plots (n = 260) established in structurally complex, mixed-species experimental forests (n = 5) in the Northeastern US, we evaluated prediction performance of one- and two-sided distance-dependent as well as more conventional distance-independent competition metrics in both annualized diameter increment (n = 1735) and probability of survival models (n = 1953) developed across 26 contrasting softwood and hardwood species. Prediction accuracy of non-spatial and spatial models was further assessed by classifying observations by species shade-tolerance, relative tree height, time since harvest, and tree clumping. Our analyses revealed no general superiority of distance-dependent competition metrics over their distance-independent counterparts for either diameter increment or survival, which was particularly true for the latter variable. Distance-dependent metrics tended to outperform distance-independent ones for observations from shade-tolerant species, trees of lower crown classes, and immediately after harvest. However, results on the comparative analysis of the predictive power of the different types of competition metrics under varying stand conditions and situations were often inconsistent and not always conclusive. In addition, model complexity, i.e. number of non-spatial explanatory variables in the base model, strongly affected the performance of distance-dependent competition metrics. Our findings thus appear to support the critical assumption that distance-independent competition metrics are sufficient for most operational growth and yield applications, even in managed, naturally-regenerated and species rich forests.
Emodin inhibits colon cancer by altering BCL-2 family proteins and cell survival pathways

Currently offered therapeutics to treat colon cancer (CoCa) are toxic when given at maximum tolerated dose to achieve optimal clinical response. Hence, less toxic therapeutic intervention is needed to treat CoCa. In this study, we investigated the effect of a natural agent, Emodin, on CoCa. Cell viability (MTT) assay was used to determine the effect of Emodin on human CoCa and colon epithelial cells. Flow cytometric analysis was used to determine Emodin induced cell death. Antibody microarray and western blot analyses were used to determine Emodin induced molecular changes involved in cell death. Change in mitochondrial membrane potential in response to Emodin was determined by flow cytometric analysis. Expression and localization of Bcl-2 family proteins were assessed by western blot analysis. Emodin decreased viability of CoCa cells and induced apoptosis in a time and dose-dependent manner compared to vehicle-treated control without significantly impacting normal colon epithelial cells. Emodin activated caspases, modulated Bcl-2 family of proteins and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential to induce CoCa cell death. Further, changes in Bcl-2 family protein expression and localization correlated with loss in mitochondrial membrane potential. Signaling (MAPK/JNK, PI3K/AKT, NF-κβ and STAT) pathways associated with cell growth, differentiation, and Bcl-2 family expression or function were negatively regulated by Emodin. Ability of Emodin to impact molecular pathways involved in cell survival and apoptosis highlight the potential of this agent as a new and less toxic alternative for CoCa treatment.
Impact of Medical Students on Patient Satisfaction of Pregnant Women in Labor and Delivery Triage

Clinical rotations are an important aspect of undergraduate medical education. However, as patient satisfaction scores receive increasing attention, the impact of medical student participation on patient satisfaction and perception of quality of care is unclear. Previous studies from the Emergency Department and outpatient settings show that medical students do not negatively impact satisfaction scores. The authors sought to examine the effect of medical student involvement on patient satisfaction in the Labor and Delivery Triage setting. The authors conducted a survey study of a convenience sample of pregnant patients seen in and discharged from Labor and Delivery between January 2015 and April 2016. Surveys addressed questions about the overall satisfaction with the care patients received, as well as other outcome measures such as comfort with asking questions, time spent with a physician, and politeness of staff. 240 total surveys were collected. After excluding surveys from those that were unsure whether a medical student was involved in their care, 168 surveys were used in the final analysis. Of these, 63.7% of subjects reported being seen by a medical student. There was no significant difference (p = 0.76) in overall patient satisfaction between groups. Given the lack of a negative impact of medical student involvement on patient satisfaction, medical students should continue to be active members of the healthcare team, including in specialties such as obstetrics and locations such as Labor and Delivery triage with highly sensitive and time-dependent evaluations.
Exponential convergence to the Maxwell distribution of solutions of spatially inhomogeneous Boltzmann equations

We consider the rate of convergence of solutions of spatially inhomogeneous Boltzmann equations, with hard-sphere potentials, to some equilibriums, called Maxwellians. Maxwellians are spatially hom...
What Can Biopolitics Teach us About Democratic Representation

My interest in biopolitics took a circuitous route. My guiding interest in studying politics is the study of democratic representation. Democracy is a special institution. It holds out the hope that we can resolve our differences in a peaceful way by letting the governed govern themselves. As a graduate student, I was immediately taken by Anthony Down’s (1957) theory of democracy. It just made so much sense. People hold preferences that are ordered and coherent. They derive utility from outcomes. Government policy should, therefore, reflect the distribution of policy preferences that maximizes the utility of the most people. Easy peasy, right?
Carbon monoxide poisoning.

Address for correspondence: Joseph Varon, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.C.C.P. Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Medicine The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Box 042 Houston, TX 77030 TeL: (713)745-1771 Fax: (713)794-4590 e-mail: varon@surg.mdacc.tmc.edu
The psychology of justice buildings: A survey experiment on police architecture, public sentiment, and race

Abstract Empirical investigations examining how the architectural design of justice buildings impacts the public is scant and heavily skewed toward the design of penal institutions . Applying theories of hostile and welcoming building design, this study uses a survey experiment to investigate the impact that welcoming and hostile police station designs have on public affect and behaviorally relevant perceptions. Findings reveal main and interactive effects of architectural design on positive affect. Specifically, building design becomes a significant predictor of perceptions depending on an individual's self-identified racial or ethnic group, where Black and Latino respondents report greater positive emotional responses when presented with hostile as compared to welcoming building designs. However, there was no impact of building design on negative affect or behaviorally relevant perceptions to report crime. The results of this study have potential implications for impacting public perceptions about policing and improving service delivery experiences.
Plasma proteomic profile of age, health span, and all-cause mortality in older adults.

Aging is a complex trait characterized by a diverse spectrum of endophenotypes. By utilizing the SomaScan® proteomic platform in 1,025 participants of the LonGenity cohort (age range: 65-95, 55.7% females), we found that 754 of 4,265 proteins were associated with chronological age. Pleiotrophin (PTN; β[SE] = 0.0262 [0.0012]; p = 3.21 × 10-86 ), WNT1-inducible-signaling pathway protein 2 (WISP-2; β[SE] = 0.0189 [0.0009]; p = 4.60 × 10-82 ), chordin-like protein 1 (CRDL1; β[SE] = 0.0203[0.0010]; p = 1.45 × 10-77 ), transgelin (TAGL; β[SE] = 0.0215 [0.0011]; p = 9.70 × 10-71 ), and R-spondin-1(RSPO1; β[SE] = 0.0208 [0.0011]; p = 1.09 × 10-70 ), were the proteins most significantly associated with age. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified two of nine modules (clusters of highly correlated proteins) to be significantly associated with chronological age and demonstrated that the biology of aging overlapped with complex age-associated diseases and other age-related traits. The correlation between proteomic age prediction based on elastic net regression and chronological age was 0.8 (p < 2.2E-16). Pathway analysis showed that inflammatory response, organismal injury and abnormalities, cell and organismal survival, and death pathways were associated with aging. The present study made novel associations between a number of proteins and aging, constructed a proteomic age model that predicted mortality, and suggested possible proteomic signatures possessed by a cohort enriched for familial exceptional longevity.
Hieronymi Stridonensis Vita

In writing a sound and scholarly life of Jerome, a biography based entirely on original sources and freed from the distortion of legend and myth, Erasmus made an important contribution to his herculean task of restoring early historical Christianity. The Vita Hieronymi however was more than that. It was also a labor of love, an act of filial piety by one who considered himself Jerome’s spiritual descendant. For of all the writers of Christian antiquity, that great humanist among the Fathers appealed most strongly to the Christian among the humanists. From the first, Erasmus had felt himself drawn to Jerome by ties of common interest and inherent sympathy, and this feeling grew in scope and intensity with the gradual development of his own thought. „In the hermit of Bethlehem who translated the Scriptures, who cultivated the tongues, who loved the classics, who cared so little for systematic theology and so much for life, he saw the prototype of his own mind and the champion of the ,Philosophy of Christ’. In such respects Jerome was a perfect contrast to Augustine, the great thinker, the explainer of God’s ways, the asserter of determinism and of total depravity.