cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Epidermal growth factor induces terminal differentiation in human epidermoid carcinoma cells

Previous studies have reported that the proliferation of A431 cells, a human squamous cell carcinoma cell line, was stimulated by picomolar epidermal growth factor (EGF) but inhibited by nanomolar EGF. This biphasic dose-response phenomenon is not observed in normal human epithelial cells where nanomolar EGF is usually mitogenic. We have examined the effects of inhibitory and stimulatory concentrations of EGF on the growth and differentiation of A431 cells. In the presence of 100 pM EGF, A431 cells showed a mild increase in growth rate (129% of control) compared to cells grown in the absence of EGF. At 10 nM EGF, growth inhibition to 63% of control was observed. EGF at 10 nM stimulates a twofold increase both in cornified envelope formation and in epidermal transglutaminase activity, suggesting that high concentrations of EGF induce terminal differentiation in A431 cells. Mitogenic concentrations of EGF (100 pM) had no significant effect on these differentiation markers. Chronic exposure of A431 cells to 20 or 50 nM EGF resulted in EGF-resistant A431 variants that are neither growth arrested nor induced to terminally differentiate by 10 nM EGF. Removal of EGF from the growth medium of the EGF-resistant cells resulted in the reversion of these cells back to the wild-type A431 biphasic response pattern within 2 weeks. Our results suggest that A431 cells have the capacity to non-mutatively alter their response pattern to EGF in vitro to maintain themselves in a state of optimum proliferation and away from terminal differentiation.
Role of Actin-Bundling Protein Sac6 in Growth of Cryptococcus neoformans at Low Oxygen Concentration

Cryptococcus neoformans, the etiologic agent of cryptococcosis, is an obligately aerobic yeast that inhabits an environmental niche exposed to ambient air. The cell doubling time was significantly prolonged under 1% O2relative to that under normoxic conditions. No apparent cell cycle arrest occurred following a shift from ambient air to 1% O2. However, yeast cells became hypersensitive to the actin monomer-sequestering agent latrunculin A at 1% O2, indicating that proper actin function is critical for growth at low oxygen concentrations. We showed that Sac6, an actin-binding protein, played an important role in cell growth under low oxygen conditions. Sac6 colocalized with cortical actin patches and with the ring structures between mother cells and buds. Under low oxygen conditions, the sac6deletion mutant grew poorly, and accumulation of the actin capping protein Cap1 was observed in the vacuole of the sac6strain. Furthermore, endocytic processes were hampered in the sac6mutant, but cell polarity and cytokinesis were not visibly disturbed. The deficiency of endocytosis in the sac6strain could be rescued by 1 M sorbitol under 1% O 2, but growth remained retarded. These results suggest an absence of a direct link in C. neoformans between endocytosis and coping with the stress of low oxygen conditions. This interpretation is further supported by the observation that deletion of three conserved genes, ABP1,CRN1, andSLA2, which play important roles in endocytosis, had no effect on growth under 1% O2. Interestingly, deletion of SAC6 in C. neoformans had no effect on virulence in mice.
Chromatic correction for a VIS-SWIR zoom lens using optical glasses

With the advancement in sensors, hyperspectral imaging in short wave infrared (SWIR 0.9 μm to 1.7 μm) now has wide applications, including night vision, haze-penetrating imaging, etc. Most conventional optical glasses can be material candidates for designing in the SWIR as they transmit up to 2.2 μm. However, since SWIR is in the middle of the glasses’ major absorption wavebands in UV and IR, the flint glasses in SWIR are less dispersive than in the visible spectrum. As a result, the glass map in the SWIR is highly compressed, with crowns and flints all clustering together. Thus correcting for chromatic aberration is more challenging in the SWIR, since the Abbe number ratio of the same glass combination is reduced. Conventionally, fluorides, such as CaF 2 and BaF 2 , are widely used in designing SWIR system due to their unique dispersion properties, even though they are notorious for poor manufacturability or even high toxicity. For lens elements in a zoom system, the ray bundle samples different sections of the each lens aperture as the lens zooms. This creates extra uncertainty in correcting chromatic aberrations. This paper focuses on using only commercially available optical glasses to color-correct a 3X dual-band zoom lens system in the VIS-SWIR. The design tools and techniques are detailed in terms of material selections to minimize the chromatic aberrations in such a large spectrum band and all zoom positions. Examples are discussed for designs with different aperture stop locations, which considerably affect the material choices.
Hepatic level of rat albumin messenger RNA is influenced by factors other than dietary protein.

Dot hybridization of messenger RNA (mRNA) and complementary DNA (cDNA) has been used to measure the relative levels of albumin and a-feto- protein mRNA in liver of rats fed for 5 d a fat-free (carbohydrate-rich) diet, a high fat diet or a basal diet, all three of which were isonitrogenous. The level of albumin mRNA in rats fed the fat-free (carbohydrate-rich) diet was 30 to 45% of the level in animals fed the basal 4 % fat diet. The concentration of another mRNA, that for a- fetoprotein, remained unchanged. It has been established by others that albumin mRNA levels and albumin synthesis are diminished in response to low levels of dietary protein. We show that albumin mRNA levels are lower than those observed in animals fed the basal 4 % fat diet, even when dietary protein is adequate (30 % wt/wt), if the nonprotein calories are derived solely from carbohydrate. J. Nutr. 115: 491-495,
A 3-D adaptive integral method (AIM) for layered media

The electric-field integral-equation (EFIE) formulation and its iterative solution by the method of moments (MOM) is a popular choice for analyzing scattering from perfect electrically conducting (PEC) objects in layered media. This approach is limited to small-scale problems especially for 3-dimensional (3-D) objects because of its high computational complexity: The MOM matrix-fill time, memory use, and time per iteration scale as O(N2), where N is the number of unknowns. To reduce this complexity, this article extends the adaptive integral method (AIM) [1] to the analysis of scattering from 3-D PEC objects fully embedded inside a single layer of a planar layered medium. Just like for the classical AIM for free-space backgrounds, first, the pertinent integral equations [2] are discretized via the MOM; second, the impedance matrix entries are separated into near- and far-zone terms using an auxiliary regular grid; and third, the impedance matrix entries are approximated using sources and observers on the regular grid while the near-zone terms are pre-corrected using the original MOM matrix entries. Unlike the free-space case, the resulting AIM propagation matrices do not have a 3-level block-Toeplitz structure because the layered-medium Green functions are not translationally invariant in the stratification direction. One possible approach is to revert to 2-D FFTs that exploit the Toeplitz structure along the remaining directions [3],[4]. Although this approach is applicable even when the object resides in multiple layers, it requires O(N2 c z N cx N cy logN cx N cy ) operations per iteration and O(N c 2 z N cx N cy ) memory space, where N cz , N cx , and N cy denote the number of AIM grid points along the stratification direction and the other two Cartesian coordinates, respectively. Instead, here, the Green functions are decomposed to convolution and correlation terms [5]-[7] and two sets of AIM propagation matrices are obtained: One with 3-level block-Toeplitz and the other with Hankel-2-level block-Toeplitz structure. Using 3-D FFTs, both groups of matrices are multiplied with trial vectors in O(N c logN c ) time using O(N c ) memory space, where N c = N cx N cy N cz .
Transient model for induction machines with stator winding turn faults

A transient model for an induction machine with stator winding turn faults is derived using reference frame transformation theory. A state-space representation of the dynamic equations, suitable for digital simulation, is provided. Steady state equivalent circuits are derived, from which the sequence components of the line currents can be estimated. Experimental results are provided to validate the derived model. This model would find use in the design of turn fault detection systems for induction machines.
Subcontracting versus capacity expansion and the impact on pricing of services

The strategic trade-offs between acquiring new capacity and subcontracting (or leasing) capacity are explored for service environments characterized by rapid technological improvement or highly seasonal demand. Reflecting the focus on service-sector organizations, it is assumed that demand cannot be met from inventory. Furthermore, the critical impact that subcontracting has on a firm's competitive pricing policy is examined. The analysis presented is of particular relevance for firms in price-competitive industries such as telecommunications, information services, or health care, because subcontracting capacity represents an alternative to acquiring costly new capacity which may soon become obsolete or unnecessary. It is shown that the optimal price charged is based on the higher of the two operating costs incurred (internal unit cost or unit cost of subcontracting). It is also shown that as a consequence of subcontracting to maximize profit, the optimal price charged is never reduced and may increase. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cyclic AMP stimulation of Cl- secretion by the opercular epithelium: the apical membrane chloride conductance.

Chloride secretion (Isc) by the opercular epithelium of the teleost, Fundulus heteroclitus, is stimulated by elevations in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) elicited by β-adrenergic agonists, such as isoproterenol, and is accompanied by a small but significant increase in the transepithelial conductance (Gt). Cupric ions (Cu2+) have been shown to block the apical membrane CI− channels in this epithelium, leading to a reduction in both the Isc and Gt (Degnan, '85). In the present studies, the effects of Cu2+ on cAMP-elevated and cAMP-depleted epithelia were observed to define the actions of cAMP in this stimulatory process. At a concentration of 5 × 10−4 M in the mucosal solution, Cu2+ inhibited the Isc 79.8% and reduced the Gt 39.2%. Isoproterenol produced an attenuated stimulation of the Isc in these tissues compared to untreated controls, but had no effect on the Gt. In tissues bathed bilaterally with Cl− -free Ringer, the Isc was virtually abolished and the Gt was reduced 37.0%; neither Cu2+ nor isoproterenol had any effects on the Isc or Gt under this condition. Simultaneous 22Na and 36 Cl unidirectional flux determinations indicated that the only effects of both isoproterenol and Cu2+ were on the active Cl- secretory flux. An inhibitor of adenylate cyclase, 2′,5′ dideoxyadenosine (DDA), reduced the Isc and Gt 39.8% and 20.8% respectively. This inhibitor had no additional effects in Cu2+ -treated tissues and the action of Cu2+ on the Gt was reduced in DDA-treated tissues. The results indicate that cAMP stimulation of Cl− secretion involves only the active transcellular Cl− pathway and is accomplished in part by an increase in a Cl− -dependent, mucosal Cu2+ -inhibitable increase in the Gt, which is most likely localized to the apical membrane of the chloride cell.
Classification of power quality events using optimal time-frequency representations-Part 1: theory

Better software and hardware for automatic classification of power quality (PQ) disturbances are desired for both utilities and commercial customers. Existing automatic recognition methods need improvement in terms of their capability, reliability, and accuracy. This paper presents the theoretical foundation of a new method for classifying voltage and current waveform events that are related to a variety of PQ problems. The method is composed of two sequential processes: feature extraction and classification. The proposed feature extraction tool, time-frequency ambiguity plane with kernel techniques, is new to the power engineering field. The essence of the feature exaction is to project a PQ signal onto a low-dimension time-frequency representation (TFR), which is deliberately designed for maximizing the separability between classes. The technique of designing an optimized TFR from time-frequency ambiguity plane is for the first time applied to the PQ classification problem. A distinct TFR is designed for each class. The classifiers include a Heaviside-function linear classifier and neural networks with feedforward structures. The flexibility of this method allows classification of a very broad range of power quality events. The performance validation and hardware implementation of the proposed method are presented in the second part of this two-paper series.
A General Approach for the Statistical Analysis of Fracture

A generalised approach for analysing fracture statistics under uniaxial or multiaxial states of stress is described. The approach does not require prior assumptions about the form of the strength distribution function, and allows multiaxial fracture probabilities to be derived from uniaxial data.
The Effects of Overcast Skies on the Orientation of Free-Flying Nocturnal Migrants

Radar tracks of individual birds migrating on overcast nights were compared with a similar set of tracks obtained under clear skies. I examined the accuracy of orientation within and among tracks, flight altitude and changes in altitude, the effects of flying within clouds, and the effects of continuous overcast of several days’ duration. When birds were flying below the cloud cover there were essentially no discernible effects. Their flight was as straight, level, and fast as comparable birds flying on clear nights. Likewise, the spread in headings among birds was similar. On each of four nights when birds appeared to be flying within or between cloud layers, headings were random and the individual tracks were slightly, but significantly less straight than when birds were flying beneath the clouds. Uninterrupted overcast of several days’ duration did not result in random headings so long as the birds were flying below the cloud ceiling.
Medical Management of Male Infertility

Men presenting with impaired reproductive potential often benefit from directed medical therapy. These treatments target an array of abnormalities, including endocrine anomalies, infection/inflammation, ejaculatory dysfunction, and erectile dysfunction. In this chapter, we provide a framework for evaluating and treating men with infertility amenable to medical therapy.
Resuscitation Research Programs in Three Spheres

Research on acute dying processes, emergency resuscitation (cardiopulmonary-cerebral resuscitation, CPCR) and long-term resuscitation (intensive therapy) have the potential of leading to so far unimagined restoration of total body function, including human mentation, after sudden cardiac death from ventricular fibrillation, asphyxia or exsanguination; and also after prolonged terminal states from trauma or other insults—conditions which have so far been considered irreversible. Since the 1950's, an increasing number of investigators have embarked on resuscitation-related research.
Redesigning Civic Education for the Digital Age: Participatory Politics and the Pursuit of Democratic Engagement

The digital revolution has enabled important changes in political life. Opportunities to engage in participatory politics have expanded significantly. Participatory politics differ from institutional politics in that they are peer-based, interactive, and not guided by deference to traditional elites and institutions. These changes require a response from civic educators. Core practices of civic and political engagement, such as investigation, dialogue, circulation, production, and mobilization, must be taught differently because they are now frequently enacted differently and in different contexts. This article conceptualizes these changes, draws on a nationally representative survey to assess the frequency and expansion of these new practices, and highlights examples of curricular reform to help frame an expanded agenda for civic education in the digital age.
The Influence of Economic and Social Variables on Marriage and Fertility in Eighteenth and Nineteenth Century Japanese Villages

Among the Japanese there were fundamental similarities in the cultural conditioning of, and the individual motivations in, the limitation of family size in the Tokugawa and the modern worlds. The pressure of numbers on subsistence and the misery of poverty do not explain the control of fertility in the industrial society; they did not explain the abortion and the infanticide of the agrarian society [Taeuber, 1958, p. 33].
Gunnell on “Deductivism,” the “Logic” of Science and Scientific Explanation: A Riposte

It is impossible to tender a reply to Professor Gunnell's essay, “Deduction, Explanation and Social Scientific Inquiry,” that would be both brief and adequate. It would be impossible to be brief because Gunnell conjures up a tagraggery of issues, none of which he seems prepared and/or disposed to resolve. But no matter how extensive a reply might be, it would still be impossible to conceive it as adequate for I am not sure that I, or anyone else, can determine precisely what he means to say in the essay before us. It is impossible for me to determine with any specificity whatsoever, for example, what it means to say: Logical empiricism as an approach to the philosophy of science has been concerned with developing formal representations or reconstructions of the logical structure of scientific explanation and with a meta-logical analysis of the language applied to science. In this view there is a very strict correlation between the philosophy of science and formal logic. I haven't the foggiest notion what a “metalogical analysis of the language applied to science” might mean. I had always understood “metalogic” to refer to discourse employing logic as its object language—just as metamathematics would be a language employed in the analysis of mathematics as an object language.
Implications of an initial empirical victory for the truth of the theory and additional empirical victories

AbstractPsychologists take two propositions for granted. Specifically, empirical verification of predictions derived from a theory (a) support that the theory is more likely to be true and (b) support that additional predictions derived from the theory have an increased probability of being sustained if subjected to empirical testing. In contrast, I argue that both propositions depend strongly on whether auxiliary assumptions are taken into account. When auxiliary assumptions are not taken into account, the first proposition is valid but the second is not. When auxiliary assumptions are taken into account, the first proposition is not valid, and the second proposition encounters additional problems. I use Venn diagrams and Bayesian principles to demonstrate these conclusions.
Semi-supervised Dirichlet-Hawkes process with applications of topic detection and tracking in Twitter

Understanding ongoing topics and their evolutions in social media is of great importance. Although topic analysis is not a novel research question, social media environment has presented new challenges. First, with insufficient co-occurrence information, short text have undermined many word co-occurrence oriented topic models' applicability. Second, real time message streams make traditional discretized topic tracking methods hard to function. Third, topics' evolution mechanisms are of great importance in social media context, but many studies have ignored them. Forth, topics have more complicated correlation among each other. Considering the existing problems, this paper has proposed a Semi-Supervised Dirichlet-Hawkes Process (SDHP) to deal with topic detection and tracking from social media. The main contributions of this paper are reflected in: (1) SDHP can handle short text problem efficiently; (2) SDHP can track topics from continuous message stream; (3) SDHP can reveal topics' underlying evolution patterns; and (4) SDHP can capture topics' correlations We have evaluated SDHP's ability in both topic detection and tracking in 8 real datasets from Twitter, and the algorithm's performances are very promising.
THE EFFECTS OF PROCEDURES WHICH IMPUTE FOR MISSING ITEMS: A SIMULATION STUDY USING AN AGRICULTURAL SURVEY

This simulation study compares the effects of six procedures which impute values for missing items. Using data from an agricultural survey, this experiment covers a range of conditions which account for the method of designating which values are missing and the rate at which they are missing. An analysis of the mean square errors, the effects on the correlations, and the costs show that two versions of a ratio procedure give the best results for sample sizes which are very large.
Affect and perceived group variability: Implications for stereotyping and prejudice.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the affect and perceived group variability and presents the implications for stereotyping and prejudice. Affect is an inexorable force in intergroup relations. Contact with outgroup members is likely to be characterized by heightened levels of both arousal and affect. There are situations in which intergroup contact might produce positive emotions. When interactions between the group members are successful, members are likely to feel happy, jovial, or satisfied. If groups successfully cooperate to obtain a super-ordinate goal, positive affect is likely. In addition, if attitudes about a group are ambivalent, that is, they contain both positive and negative evaluations of the group; then, both positive and negative emotions may be simultaneously evoked by intergroup contact. Whether positive, negative, or ambivalent in valence, emotion appears to be an integral and inevitable part of intergroup interaction. Despite the likely presence of affect during intergroup encounters, relatively little empirical work has directly addressed the impact of affective states on intergroup perceptions, judgments, and behaviors.
A classical regression framework for mediation analysis: fitting one model to estimate mediation effects

Mediation analysis explores the degree to which an exposure's effect on an outcome is diverted through a mediating variable. We describe a classical regression framework for conducting mediation analyses in which estimates of causal mediation effects and their variance are obtained from the fit of a single regression model. The vector of changes in exposure pathway coefficients, which we named the essential mediation components (EMCs), is used to estimate standard causal mediation effects. Because these effects are often simple functions of the EMCs, an analytical expression for their model-based variance follows directly. Given this formula, it is instructive to revisit the performance of routinely used variance approximations (e.g., delta method and resampling methods). Requiring the fit of only one model reduces the computation time required for complex mediation analyses and permits the use of a rich suite of regression tools that are not easily implemented on a system of three equations, as would be required in the Baron-Kenny framework. Using data from the BRAIN-ICU study, we provide examples to illustrate the advantages of this framework and compare it with the existing approaches.
Functionalized Rigid Ladder Polymers from Catalytic Arene-Norbornene Annulation Polymerization

Rigid ladder polymers represent a unique polymer architecture but have limited synthetic accessibility and structural diversity. Using catalytic arene-norbornene annulation (CANAL) polymerization, we synthesized ladder polymers consisting of rigid and kinked norbornyl benzocyclobutene backbones and bearing various functional groups, such as alcohol, amine, ester, carbamate, amide, benzyl bromide, azide, and heterocycles. The incorporation of functional groups was achieved by either copolymerization of functionalized ladder-type dinorbornenes or postpolymerization functionalization. Functionalization of ladder polymers allows modification of their solubility, compatibility, and other properties, expanding their utilities. These ladder polymers remain microporous and highly glassy, which are desirable for separation and high-temperature applications.
INFLUENCE FUNCTIONS, OUTLIER DETECTION, AND DATA EDITING

Publisher Summary This chapter describes influence functions, outlier detection, and data editing. The influence function was defined by Hampel (1974) as a tool for assessing robust estimators. Gnanadesikan (1977) pointed out the potential value of the influence function for detecting outliers in multivariate observations, particularly in the case of bivariate correlation. Chernick (1982) applied the influence function for bivariate correlation to the detection of outliers in a particular Department of Energy database. The use of an influence function matrix for the auto­correlation function of a time series was presented by Chernick, Downing, and Pike (1982). Chernick and Murthy (1983) gave the influence functions and sample estimates for the mean, variance, and regression coefficients. They illustrated the potential for using these estimates to detect outliers and to assess the effect of data editing procedures on estimates. The chapter provides a detailed explanation on multivariate outliers, influence functions, inventory difference data application, and the use of influence functions for imputation.
Considering Capital: The limits of curriculum in an employment preparation programme

AbstractThis article addresses the formation of curriculum in an employment preparation programme using a theoretical perspective combining the work of Bernstein and Bourdieu. The employment preparation programme (UTP) was situated within a Canadian labour union with a progressive, community-centred philosophy. Despite this orientation, the programme was strongly reproductive of current liberal constructions of unemployment as a personal trouble rather than a public issue, resulting in a highly prescribed educational process. I explain this using ideas of social and cultural capital, viewing UTP's primary function as transmission of appropriate forms of capital to unemployed people. Like economic capital, social and cultural forms have to be guarded against contamination and inappropriate expenditure, leading to the imposition of a strong boundary around valuable knowledge. The challenge for progressive educators in vocational settings is to find a way to transmit the capital necessary for success in the ...
Addressing patient concerns about intravenous iron therapy.

Hemodialysis patients may not fully understand the relationship between anemia and kidney disease and the role of intravenous (i.v.) iron therapy in anemia management. To address this, nephrology nurses have willingly undertaken the role of patient educator in addition to technical expert. This responsibility is challenging because nurses need to understand the rationale for i.v. iron therapy and the efficacy and safety characteristics of the available i.v. iron therapies, which include iron dextran, iron sucrose, and sodium ferric gluconate. Nurses must then be able to effectively communicate this knowledge to their patients in an understandable fashion. This manuscript offers suggestions to nurses for approaches to address patient concerns about i.v. iron therapies, the latest information regarding the efficacy and safety of i.v. iron treatments, and strategies to communicate this information to patients.
Dynamic Graphs in the Sliding-Window Model

We present the first algorithms for processing graphs in the sliding-window model. The sliding window model, introduced by Datar et al. (SICOMP 2002), has become a popular model for processing infinite data streams in small space when older data items (i.e., those that predate a sliding window containing the most recent data items) are considered “stale” and should implicitly be ignored. While processing massive graph streams is an active area of research, it was hitherto unknown whether it was possible to analyze graphs in the sliding-window model. We present an extensive set of positive results including algorithms for constructing basic graph synopses like combinatorial sparsifiers and spanners as well as approximating classic graph properties such as the size of a graph matching or minimum spanning tree.
Ethnic, racial and gender differences in presentation and outcomes of gastric cancer in a Michigan cohort.

e18656Background: Studies have demonstrated inconsistent differences in the epidemiology and outcomes for gastric cancer (GC) based on race, ethnicity, and gender. We examined the association betwe...
Approximating Sweep Coverage Delay

We consider the following fundamental sweep coverage problem that arises in mobile wireless sensor networks: Given a set of k mobile sensors and a set of m points of interests (POIs) in the Euclidean plane, how to schedule the mobile sensors such that the maximum delay between two subsequent visits to a POI by any sensor is minimized. We study two scenarios of this problem: (i) start positions of the sensors are fixed such that they must return to their start positions between subsequent traversals to POIs that fall in their trajectories, and (ii) sensor positions are not fixed and they are not required to return to their start positions between subsequent traversals. Scenario (i) models battery-constrained sensors which need to be recharged frequently, whereas scenario (ii) models sensors that have no constraint on battery and hence frequent recharging is not necessary. We present two constant factor approximation algorithms for each scenario. The problem we consider is NP-hard and, to the best of our knowledge, these are the first algorithms with guaranteed approximation bounds for this problem.
Determining the Dielectric Permittivity and Thickness of a Penetrable Slab Affixed to the Human Body Using Focused CW Mm-Wave Sensing

We propose a fast and accurate method of finding the thickness and dielectric permittivity of weak dielectric objects using a focused continuous-wave radar security scanning system, to characterize objects that may be explosive threats. Building on the previously developed ray-based Virtual Source model for sensing scattering from slabs, this work presents an inversion algorithm using two observable CW millimeter wave probe parameters by considering expected small variations of dielectric slab thickness over its surface. The determination works reasonably well with a simulated dielectric covered conductive ground plane as a representation of body worn explosives.
First Draft Genome Sequence of Leishmania (Viannia) lainsoni Strain 216-34, Isolated from a Peruvian Clinical Case.

ABSTRACT We present here the first draft genome sequence of Leishmania (Viannia) lainsoni strain 216-34, sequenced using PacBio and MiSeq platforms. PacBio contigs were generated from de novo assemblies using CANU version 1.6 and polished using Illumina reads.
The Counseling Training Environment Scale: Initial Development and Validity of a Self-Report Measure to Assess the Counseling Training Environment.

AbstractThe Counseling Training Environment Scale (CTES) was developed as a self-report measure that assesses the training environment of counseling and related programs. The authors describe the m...
Bnip3 regulates airway smooth muscle cell focal adhesion and proliferation

Increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) mass is a key contributor to airway narrowing and airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma. Besides conventional pathways and regulators of ASM proliferation, recen...
Applying a Supply Chain Perspective to Understand Sustainability in the Apparel and Textiles Discipline

This research is an effort to utilize a supply chain perspective to integrate sustainability into the Apparel and Textiles (AT) discipline in universities and colleges.
Exploring ovarian cancer screening using a combined sensor approach: A pilot study

All cells release low molecular weight organic compounds that possess finite vapor pressures at body and/or ambient temperatures. These volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may possess an odor and can be found emanating from all body fluids. As cells turn malignant, analysis of changes in these VOCs can provide insight into cancer onset and diagnosis. Previous studies have demonstrated that dogs can be trained to distinguish ovarian cancer tissues of various stages and grades from normal ovarian tissue and other gynecological malignancies with sensitivity and specificity over 95%. When trained on biopsied tissue, dogs were able to detect the VOC disturbances in peripheral blood samples with the same accuracy. Building on these earlier studies, we examined the VOCs emanating from plasma samples from primary ovarian cancer patients, patients with benign reproductive tract growths, and healthy controls. We used a three-pronged sensor approach to analyze the VOCs from plasma: canines trained on tissue and plasma samples, analysis using solid phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and novel single stranded DNA-coated carbon nanotube sensor field effect transistors. Each of the three experimental approaches used in this study provided preliminary evidence that plasma from ovarian cancer patients emits a volatile odor signature that can be distinguished from the VOCs of patients with benign ovarian tumors and controls. Our results provide optimism that a diagnostic approach based on the analysis of the VOC odor signature of ovarian cancer is achievable.
Probabilistic modeling and prediction of out-of-plane unidirectional composite lamina properties

Computational simulation provides an efficient means to predict the behavior of customized hybrid material configurations using validated, physics-based models. One limitation to this approach is t...
Tax increment financing and major league venues

This article intends to shine a light on venue-related tax increment financing (TIF) through the first comprehensive inventory of its use at the major league level.,For each 2018 venue in the five North American major leagues, data was collected on TIF contributions to direct venue capital costs as well as to projects using TIF to enable real estate development ancillary to a venue. Neighborhoods surrounding a venue were also assessed for the presence of a TIF district. With both the direct and ancillary elements, data was collected from government, industry, academic, mapping and media sources. A review of this data set and findings are followed by a discussion of implications and directions for future work.,Over one-third of the TIF eligible permanent stadiums and arenas studied in the five major leagues have a direct or strong TIF connection. Direct TIF contributions to sports venues, as well as TIF use intended to generate real estate development around these venues, are most frequent and financially significant in arenas and soccer-specific stadiums. Additionally, arena and stadium projects using TIF often accompany ancillary real estate development.,A primary purpose of this article is to provide a previously missing general reference resource to governments and citizens of jurisdictions considering facility TIF use on the scope, nature, extent and identity of TIF projects related to major league sports venues. More generally, the inventory and assessment of TIF use in professional sports venues offered by this article sets the stage for future research on associative relationships between TIF contributions and facility finance outcomes as well as the normative value of venue-related TIF.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Home-Based Child Care Providers Serving Children With Provider-Reported Disabilities:

This study examines the prevalence of home-based child care providers who report serving at least one child whom they identify as having a disability. Although many families choose home-based child...
Heterotopic gastric mucosa of the proximal esophageal (HGMPE) and its potential role in pediatric dysphonia and dysphagia

Abstract Objective Despite a reported incidence of HGMPE of 10%, proof of acid production, and an increased incidence of respiratory symptoms, the pediatric otolaryngology, swallowing and voice care literature is silent on this entity. This case series describes pediatric patients confirmed to have HGMPE with dysphonia and/or dysphagia. Methods Retrospective case series of Pediatric Voice, Resonance, and Swallowing Center patients at a tertiary Children's Hospital in 2019. Setting Tertiary academic medical center. Summary of results Three patients who underwent triple endoscopy for dysphonia or dysphagia were histologically diagnosed with HGMPE. Esophageal biopsies were otherwise normal. Two of the three patients resolved their primary aerodigestive symptoms following treatment with acid suppression and a protectant (sucralfate). The third patient reported significant improvement in symptoms by phone. The significance of this case series cannot be understated: 1) A need for increased awareness among pediatric otolaryngologists, voice care and swallowing professionals of this entity given its relatively common incidence of 10% offset by a dearth of presentations & scientific publications in our literature clearly exists. 2) Otolaryngologists have abandoned operative upper aerodigestive tract endoscopy in lieu of office-based less comprehensive videolaryngostroboscopy and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing. HGMPE & other esophageal disorders (i.e. eosinophilic esophagitis) support revisiting triple endoscopy in select patients where office endoscopy has failed to diagnose and successfully treat such patients. 3) Both acid suppression therapy and a protectant (sucralfate) may be useful in these patients. 4) Modification of rigid esophagoscopy technique to carefully assess the introitus and superior esophageal segment is paramount 5) Otolaryngologists over-diagnose & over-treat laryngopharyngeal reflux. The pediatric & adult literature is replete with significant safety warnings associated with acid suppression therapy and guidelines admonish their indiscriminate use, raising the liability bar of empiric treatment. Large scale prospective, randomized and controlled studies are needed to confirm the pathophysiologic role of this entity in pediatric aerodigestive disorders. Conclusion HGMPE is a clinical entity that can be easily missed upon swift entry into the esophagus with rigid endoscopy. Careful scrutiny and visualization of the proximal esophagus is critical in order to identify HGMPE, as there is a higher rate of laryngospasm, stricture, and potentially neoplasm in this population.
Scaling laser preheat for MagLIF with the Z-Beamlet laser

Optimizing the performance of the Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF) platform on the Z pulsed power facility requires coupling greater than 2 kJ of preheat energy to an underdense fuel in the presence of an applied axial magnetic field ranging from 10 to 30 T. Achieving the suggested optimal preheat energies has not been experimentally achieved so far. In this work, we explore the preheat design space for cryogenically cooled MagLIF targets, which represent a viable candidate for increasing preheat energies. Using 2D and 3D HYDRA MHD simulations, we first discuss the various physical effects that occur during laser preheat, such as laser energy deposition, self-focusing, and filamentation. After identifying the changes that different phase plates, gas-fill densities, and magnetic fields bring to the aforementioned physical effects, we, then, consider higher laser energies that are achievable with modest upgrades to the Z Beamlet laser. Finally, with a 6.0-kJ upgraded laser, 3D calculations suggest that it is possible to deliver 4.25 kJ into the MagLIF fuel, resulting in an expected deuterium neutron yield of Y DD ≃ 1.5 × 10 14, or roughly 50 kJ of DT equivalent yield, at 20-MA current drive. This represents a 10-fold increase in the currently achieved yields for MagLIF.
Pillars of orthodontics: Dr. Ronald H. Roth (1933-2005)

It is an honor to pay tribute to Dr. Ronald H. Roth in the inaugural edition of the AJODO Clinical Companion. The name Roth is known by virtually all orthodontists. He was a pillar of orthodontics; thus, generations of orthodontists and their patients have benefited from his teaching, orthodontic goal-directed, and the example he set for everyone who knew him.
Facilitators and barriers to post-overdose service delivery in Rhode Island emergency departments: A qualitative evaluation

Abstract Background Emergency departments (EDs) in the US have increasingly incorporated interventions that seek to reduce opioid-related morbidity and mortality. However, many of these interventions are underutilized. This study examined ED provider-identified barriers and facilitators to policy-prescribed service provision for patients treated for an opioid overdose in Rhode Island EDs, and opportunities to improve care delivery. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 55 ED providers (management and clinical staff) across Rhode Island EDs from November 2019 to July 2020. Thematic analysis of interviews focused on gaps and best practices in post-overdose care delivery, including social and structural factors driving access to, and uptake of, services. Results Participants highlighted how automatic service delivery (opt out vs. opt in) and the integration of peer-based services enhanced post-overdose service provision. However, social and structural factors (e.g. insurance barriers, limited outpatient treatment resources) and gaps in provider knowledge of medications for opioid use disorder created barriers to care. Addressing long ED wait times and establishing dedicated care teams for patients following an overdose were seen as critical to improving ED service delivery. Conclusion Our findings suggest that post-overdose service delivery within EDs is a useful approach for connecting patients to services, particularly when peer support specialists are involved. However, standardizing service delivery approaches and improving provider education of harm reduction services must be prioritized alongside state-level policy changes to improve access to care for ED patients.
Compositional similarities that link the eyes and skin of cephalopods: Implications in optical sensing and signaling during camouflage.

Cephalopods, including squid, octopus, and cuttlefish, can rapidly camouflage in different underwater environments by employing multiple optical effects including light scattering, absorption, reflection, and refraction. They can do so with exquisite control and within a fraction of a second-two features that indicate distributed, intra-dermal sensory, and signaling components. However, the fundamental biochemical, electrical, and mechanical controls that regulate color and color change, from discrete elements to interconnected modules, are still not fully understood despite decades of research in this space. This perspective highlights key advancements in the biochemical analysis of cephalopod skin and discusses compositional connections between cephalopod ocular lenses and skin with features that may also facilitate signal transduction during camouflage.
Using Principles of Critical Information Theory to Teach Progressive Approaches to Regulatory Research

My article, “Critical Information Theory: A New Foundation for Teaching Regulatory Research,” which appeared in The Boulder Statements on Legal Research Education: The Intersection of Intellectual and Practical Skills, edited by Professor Susan Nevelow Mart, attempted to offer a pathway to break away from categorical thinking in legal research instruction. It was also an opportunity to revisit and offer a strategy to address the concerns presented by Professors Richard Delgado and Jean Stefancic in their 1989 essay, “Why Do We Tell the Same Stories?” and again in their 2007 follow-up, “Why Do We Ask the Same Questions?” Delgado and Stefancic challenge us to ask questions without relying on the categories that have been predetermined by legal doctrines, the legal academy, and the commercial legal publishing enterprise. My answer was found in administrative law research.
A Grassroots Approach to Protecting Physicians Against Burnout and Building an Engaging Practice Environment

Leaders at an academic medical center have empowered departmental leaders to design, develop, and deploy initiatives to curb physician burnout and enhance well-being.
Is Nature Enough?: Meaning and Truth in the Age of Science

Introduction 1. Is nature enough? 2. Religion 3. Intelligence 4. Life 5. Emergence 6. Purpose 7. Seeing 8. Cosmos 9. Morality 10. Suffering 11. Death 12. Anticipation.
Students’ units coordination activity: A cross-sectional analysis

Abstract Students’ ability to coordinate multiple levels of units constitutes a cognitive core in their mathematical development across several domains, including counting, whole number multiplication, integer addition, fractions concepts, and algebraic reasoning. Identifying a progression of students’ units coordination activity would help educators leverage and support student development within and across the three stages of units coordination. This paper contributes to that goal by describing a cross-section of units coordination activity observed during pairs of clinical interviews with 47 grade 6 students. Results include a 36-rank scale of units coordinating activity with accompanying characterizations and descriptors.
IONIZATION OF HIGH VELOCITY CLOUDS IN THE GALACTIC HALO

Recent observations of Ha emission from high velocity clouds (HVCs) have raised the question of the ionization source for these clouds, which are believed to be fairly distant from ionizing radiation sources in the galactic disk. Obs ervations with FUSE of O VI absorption in HVCs also present us with questions regarding their source of ionization and the relation to the hot gas in the halo. We discuss sources for the ionization of the Hα emitting gas and the O VI containing gas. In particular we examine if interactions between warm ionized gas in the HVCs and the hot gas of the surrounding galactic halo could explain both the highly ionized gas and the ionization of cooler gas in the clouds.
Inertia matrix singularity of planar series-chain manipulators

For series chain manipulators whose links are modeled as point masses, there is a multitude of configurations in which the inertia matrix is singular. Intuitively, it is expected that these singular configurations will be complex functions of both mass centers and geometric properties of the links. It is shown that these singularities are purely geometric and can be determined by establishing linear dependence of partial velocities of the mass centers. An iterative method to find these singular configurations by working with the individual link inertia matrices as opposed to the overall inertia matrix of the chain is presented. It is believed that once an analyst is aware that the inertia matrix of a multi-degree-of freedom mechanical system can be singular, a better job of both modeling and interpreting the results of simulation can be done. >
Culture and Liberty in the Age of the American Revolution – By Michal Jan Rozbicki

In order for historians to understand the ways in which liberty's meanings changed during the first decades of American independence, Michal Jan Rozbicki argues that they must move beyond conventio...