cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nanoshells for integrated diagnosis and therapy of cancer

Metal nanoshells are a novel type of composite nanoparticle consisting of a dielectric core covered by a thin metallic shell which is typically gold. Nanoshells possess highly favorable optical and chemical properties for biomedical imaging and therapeutic applications. By varying the relative the dimensions of the core and the shell, the optical resonance of these nanoparticles can be precisely and systematically varied over a broad wavelength region ranging from the near-UV to the mid-infrared. This range includes the near-infrared (NIR) region where tissue transmissivity peaks. In addition, nanoshells offer other advantages over conventional organic dye imaging agents, including improved optical properties and reduced susceptibility to chemical/thermal denaturation. Furthermore, the same conjugation protocols used to bind biomolecules to gold colloid are easily modified for nanoshells. We first review the synthesis of gold nanoshells and illustrate how the core/shell ratio and overall size of a nanoshell influences its scattering and absorption properties. We then describe several examples of nanoshell-based diagnostic and therapeutic approaches including the development of nanoshell bioconjugates for molecular imaging, the use of scattering nanoshells as contrast agents for optical coherence tomography (OCT), and the use of absorbing nanoshells in NIR thermal therapy of tumors.
Patterns of personality disorders in women with chronic eating disorders

The aim of this study was to describe patterns of personality disorders (PDs) in women with chronic eating disorders (EDs). An index group of nineteen women who have had EDs for an average of 8.5 years was compared with a control group of same-aged women from the general population. At the time of the study the index group received treatment at a tertiary treatment center in Stockholm. The PDs were assessed using the DSM-IV part of the DSM-IV and ICD-10 Personality Questionnaire (DIP-Q). In the index group, eighteen of nineteen fulfilled the criteria for one or more PD. The number of PD diagnoses for each women ranged from zero (n=1) to eight (n=2) with a median of three. Among the controls, only one woman fulfilled the criteria for one or more PD. The most prevalent disorders in the index group were Borderline, Avoidant, and Obsessive-Compulsive. The index group had significantly higher DIP-Q dimensional scores than the controls in the Paranoid, Schizoid, Schizotypal, Borderline, Histrionic, Avoidant, and Dependent scales. Although the assessment of PD symptoms was limited to self-reports, the high prevalence of PD diagnoses and PD symptoms most probably reflects the severe psychiatric impairments in patients suffering from chronic ED.
REFLECTANCE PROPERTIES OF SOILS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the reflectance properties of soils. In delineating differences among soils and in describing the characteristics of a soil profile, color is one of the most useful attributes for documenting these differences. Soil visible reflectance, or color, is a differentiating characteristic for many classes in all modern soil classification systems and is an essential part of the definitions for both surface and subsurface diagnostic horizons. The chapter includes instrumentation for reflectance measurements. Instruments that are used to measure the reflectance of soil are divided into two broad classes—namely, spectroradiometers and multiband radiometers. Multiband radiometers contain several optical filters to define the spectral bandpasses. These spectral bandpasses are selected to sample discrete portions of the optical spectrum, e.g., the Landsat multispectral scanner or the thematic mapper bands. The character of reflected light from a soil surface depends on the nature of the surface and the intensity and spectral quality of the radiation incident upon the surface. The soil surface may be irradiated by direct sunlight, scattered skylight, and thermal radiation from the surroundings.
Pancreaticojejunostomy Stricture After Pancreatoduodenectomy: Outcomes After Operative Revision

The natural history of radiographic strictures of the pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is difficult to characterize. The purpose of this study was to identify the indications for operative revision of PJ strictures after PD for benign and malignant disease and to evaluate its safety and clinical efficacy. A retrospective review of all patients undergoing operative revision of PJ strictures following PD at a single academic institution over an 8-year period (2006–2014) was performed. Twenty-seven patients underwent revision of a symptomatic radiographically detectable PJ stricture. The median time from PD to PJ stricture diagnosis was 46 months. The median increase in the main pancreatic duct diameter between the time of PD and PJ revision was 2 mm. The overall morbidity after PJ revision was 26 %. No postoperative mortality occurred. Twenty-one (78 %) patients experienced resolution of symptoms without recurrent acute pancreatitis after PJ revision during a median follow-up of 30 months. Durable symptom resolution was reported among 60 % of patients with chronic pancreatitis. Surgical revision of pancreaticojejunostomy strictures is technically safe and clinically effective for selected patients who experience recurrent acute pancreatitis after pancreatoduodenectomy for either benign or malignant disease.
Financial reporting quality and the choice of monitoring mechanisms in debt contracts: Evidence from borrowing base restrictions

Borrowing base restrictions are common debt contractual features which limit the amount available to the borrower based on its working capital assets. The lender determines the availability of credit to the borrower based on the success of borrowing base assets. Identifying the unique setting of borrowing base restrictions, I examine whether financial reporting quality affects the choice of monitoring mechanisms that lenders use in debt contracts. I find that borrowers with low quality financial statements are more likely to access borrowing base lines of credit, as they face high adverse selection costs in non-borrowing base lines of credit. Accordingly, I show that the effect of financial reporting quality on the cost of debt is diminished in borrowing base lines of credit as compared to non-borrowing base lines of credit. These results are robust to several financial reporting quality measures such as accrual model based proxies, internal control weakness disclosures and big auditors. Moreover, based on the narrative length of borrowing base restrictions specifically written on eligible accounts receivables in loan contracts, I construct a borrowing base restrictiveness measure and find that the effect of financial reporting quality on the cost of debt is decreasing with the restrictiveness, supporting the substitution effect between contractual monitoring mechanisms and borrower’s financial reporting quality.
Adult mouse cortical cell taxonomy revealed by single cell transcriptomics

Nervous systems are composed of various cell types, but the extent of cell type diversity is poorly understood. We constructed a cellular taxonomy of one cortical region, primary visual cortex, in adult mice on the basis of single-cell RNA sequencing. We identified 49 transcriptomic cell types, including 23 GABAergic, 19 glutamatergic and 7 non-neuronal types. We also analyzed cell type-specific mRNA processing and characterized genetic access to these transcriptomic types by many transgenic Cre lines. Finally, we found that some of our transcriptomic cell types displayed specific and differential electrophysiological and axon projection properties, thereby confirming that the single-cell transcriptomic signatures can be associated with specific cellular properties.
The Rent versus Buy Decision: Investigating the Needed Property Appreciation Rates to be Indifferent between Renting and Buying Property

This paper investigates the needed property appreciation rates (herein also referred to as hurdle rates, indifference rates, and A's) that make individuals indifferent between owning and renting in...
Using Bioethanol Wastes as an Alternative Phosphorus Source for Snap Bean and Radish Production

Biorefinery waste has potential to provide alternative sources of phosphorus (P) for plant industry if biomass has been pretreated by phosphoric acids during its production process. In this study, we investigated the potential of the fermentation waste from a bioethanol process as a P fertilizer. Three treatments were set up for growing crops of snap bean (var., Bronco) and radish (var., Crimson Giant), i.e., P source as fermentation wastes from bioethanol production, commercial P fertilizer as triple superphosphate containing 44% P2O5 and control without any P fertilizer. The yields, biomass and leaf greenness of two crops were measured. Results showed that higher leaf greenness, yields and biomass were observed for the crops treated with fermentation wastes, suggesting the wastes from bioethanol production have the potential as P fertilizer. However, more related researches in a large scale will be needed in the future.
Mechanism Design and Simulation of the ULTRA Spine: A Tensegrity Robot

The Underactuated Lightweight Tensegrity Robotic Assistive Spine (ULTRA Spine) project is an ongoing effort to create a compliant, cable-driven, 3-degree-of-freedom, underactuated tensegrity core for quadruped robots. This work presents simulations and preliminary mechanism designs of that robot. Design goals and the iterative design process for an ULTRA Spine prototype are discussed. Inverse kinematics simulations are used to develop engineering characteristics for the robot, and forward kinematics simulations are used to verify these parameters. Then, multiple novel mechanism designs are presented that address challenges for this structure, in the context of design for prototyping and assembly. These include the spine robot’s multiple-gear-ratio actuators, spine link structure, spine link assembly locks, and the multiple-spring cable compliance system.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Theoretical analysis of the role of Coulomb interactions in single and double photoionization of the helium dimer using numerical model simulations

Based on the results of numerical simulations we study scattering effects in single and double photoionization of the helium dimer. To this end we use a planar two-active-electron model of the helium dimer and abridged Hamiltonians in which different interactions between the electrons and the laser field and/or between the charged particles are removed from the full Hamiltonian. By comparing photoelectron angular distributions obtained in respective numerical simulations we are able to identify the role of the Coulomb interactions between the electrons and between the electrons and the nuclei for the primary as well as the knock-off electron in the processes.
Si-Al disorder and solid solutions in analcime, chabazite, and wairakite

Quantitative determination of the abundance of Si( n Al) tetrahedral structural units (where n = 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4) through analysis of 29Si magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) spectra was used to assess the state of Si-Al disorder in the zeolites analcime [(NaAl) x Si48− x O96·16H2O], chabazite [(Ca0.5,Na,K) x Al x Si12− x O24·12H2O], and wairakite [CaAl2Si4O12·2H2O]. Short-range Si-Al ordering in chabazite and analcime is a regular function of Al mol fraction and is fully consistent with Al avoidance, as has generally been reported for zeolites not subjected to heat treatment. The results of this study and previously reported 29Si MAS NMR spectra suggest that natural analcime samples are more Si-Al ordered than either their synthetic counterparts or chabazite. Cluster variation method (CVM) calculations were used to calculate the configurational entropy ( S CON) due to SiAl disorder in chabazite and analcime. The calculations predict that long-range Si-Al ordering develops when Al occupies 5 out of 12 tetrahedral sites in chabazite and synthetic analcime and 17 out of every 48 tetrahedral sites in natural analcime. The difference between the calculated entropies and ideal entropies of mixing was used to derive activity-composition relationships for Si-Al substitution in these frameworks. Comparison between calculated values of S CON and the results of calorimetric and phase equilibrium studies on analcime indicate that the CVM accurately assesses S CON. The 29Si MAS NMR spectrum obtained for natural wairakite indicates that this mineral is largely SiAl ordered, but comparison with a previously published spectrum indicates that natural and synthetic wairakites can exhibit significant variation in Si-Al disorder.
Resistance and Integration: Peronism and the Argentine Working Class, 1946-1976

Acknowledgements Introduction Part I. The Background: 1. Peronism and the working class, 1943-55 Part II. The Peronist Resistance, 1955-8: 2. The survival of Peronism: resistance in the factories 3. Commandos and unions: the emergence of the new Peronist union leadership 4. Ideology and consciousness in the Peronist resistance Part III. Frondizi and Integration: Temptation and Disenchantment, 1958-62: 5. Resistance and defeat: the impact on leaders, activists and rank and file 6. The corollary of institutional pragmatism: activists, commandos and elections Part IV. The Vandor Era: 1962-6 7. The burocracia sindical: power and politics in Peronist unions 8. Ideology and politics in Peronist unions: different currents within the movement Part V. Workers and the Revolucion Argentina: from Ongania to the Return of Peron, 1966-73 9. The Peronist union leaders under siege: new actors and new challenges 10. Conclusion Notes Select bibliography Index.
The Effect of Infant Allergen/Immunogen Exposure on Long-Term Health

Abstract The environment starts shaping the human immune system even before the umbilical cord is cut. The composition of the human microbiome is influenced by exposure during delivery, early nutrition like breast- or formula feeding as well as timing and nature of solid food protein introduction. The default reaction to ingested food proteins is development of oral tolerance. However, because of the influence of genetics and environmental factors, the phenomenon of oral tolerance can be breeched and food allergy may develop. Research is focusing on environmental factors and the role of food proteins to guide recommendations regarding management and prevention.
Heat treatment of Pennsylvania jasper

Heat treatment of silicate toolstone was performed prehistorically, which we assume was to improve characteristics desired in flintknapping, such as increased brittleness and more predictable and c...
Zoning effects on housing change vary with income, based on a four-decade panel model after propensity score matching

Abstract Zoning is one of the oldest policy tools for regulating private land use, but its effect on housing change is disputed. We define housing change as the difference over time in the number of housing units in a given jurisdiction. We conducted a cross-jurisdictional study of zoning effects on housing change, comparing zoned and unzoned townships in Michigan, USA (n = 709) after propensity score matching. Four-decade (1970–2010) panel models predicted zoned townships to have on average 2.2% fewer housing units a decade after zoning adoption compared to similar unzoned townships, but this effect was tempered by other variables. Higher-income townships had more housing units a decade after zoning adoption compared to higher-income unzoned townships, whereas lower-income townships with zoning had fewer housing units than similar unzoned townships. This study highlights the heterogeneous effects of zoning on rural and exurban housing change.
A FISCHER INDOLIZATION STRATEGY TOWARD THE TOTAL SYNTHESIS OF (-)-GONIOMITINE.

A Fischer indolization strategy toward the core of (–)-goniomitine is reported. Initial investigations into the Pd-catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation of dihydropyrido[1,2-a]indolone (DHPI) substrates are also discussed.
An Approach to Inguinal Pain

Inguinal pain stems from several different causes and can be a debilitating situation for many individuals. In most cases, the cause of inguinal pain can be easily explained and treated. However, there are often scenarios in which the pain is mysterious in nature and therefore a more investigative approach must be taken to determine a patient’s discomfort. Starting with the basics of a patient’s history and physical exam, a thorough evaluation is the foundation for a successful treatment plan and subsequent recovery. Often, radiology imaging will be necessary to discover the origin of the pain. Diagnostic injection can also provide helpful information. Further, one must keep in mind that inguinal pain can be referred from other regions which may not be immediately obvious. These causes can originate from internal organs, the lumbar spine, various joints, and nerve entrapment. Collaboration with other medical specialties, including general surgery, pain management, spine surgery, gynecology, and orthopedics, can aid in designing treatment modalities to provide the patient with the best outcome. The treatment plan may include surgery, local and ablative injections, electrical stimulation, medications, physical and/or psychological therapy, or a combination of these. The purpose of this chapter is to present ideas on how to provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan for inguinal pain patients.
The effects of introduced plants on songbird reproductive success

The effects of non-native plants on habitat use are well studied; however, whether introduced plants negatively influence reproductive output of animal populations has received much less attention. We conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate the influence of non-native plants on reproductive performance in songbirds. Our global search resulted in 32 relevant articles, from which we compiled a dataset of 133 songbird responses to nesting in or around non-native vegetation. Reproductive metrics examined included measures of nest survival/mortality, productivity, fledgling survival, adult survival, nestling condition, and brood parasitism. Thirty-five percent of songbird reproductive responses were negative (n = 47), with 31% positive (n = 41) and 34% neutral (n = 45) responses found. Only 15% of responses were statistically significant effects (n = 20), and of these, negative effects were reported three times as often as positive effects. Non-significant trends were more prevalent (51% of responses), and the frequency of negative and positive trends was similar. The probability of finding a negative response (significant effect or non-significant trend) was higher for birds using introduced shrubs and wetland habitats. Mechanisms underlying responses were diverse, though similar drivers, such as differences in vegetation characteristics, predation pressure, and resource availability, were offered to explain both positive and negative effects. We found evidence for non-native plants as ecological traps in 39% of articles that assessed these phenomena (n = 16). This review highlights the sparsity of research targeting reproductive responses to plant invasion and synthesizes existing information to enhance our understanding of how birds respond to non-native plants. Our findings could be used to inform future research priorities in a world increasingly dominated by novel ecosystems.
Fentanyl for epidural intravascular test dose in obstetrics.

Background and Objectives. Although dizziness and drowsiness may be produced with either intravenous or epidural fentanyl, their occurrence after an intravenous injection is more rapid and relatively more pronounced. The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not the difference between routes of administration would be a reliable method of detecting an accidental intravascular injection. Methods. In part 1, using a double-blinded protocol, we prospectively assessed in laboring women the incidence of dizziness, drowsiness, or both associated with intravenous fentanyl (100 μg). In random order, subjects received two peripheral intravenous injections: 2 ml of fentanyl and 2 ml of saline, separated by a 3-minute observation period. Results. In group 1 (18/18) and group 2 (22/22), all subjects reported a response to intravenous fentanyl within the one-minute assessment. In part 2, we evaluated in laboring patients the frequency of dizziness, drowsiness, or both to epidural fentanyl (100 μg). The study design was identical to part 1; however, the subjects received 2 ml of fentanyl and 2 ml of saline via a functional epidural catheter. In group 3 (1/18) and group 4 (1/22), one subject reported a response to epidural fentanyl within the 3-minute observation period. Conclusions. Overall, the responses to intravenous fentanyl (40/40) occurred in a remarkably more consistent fashion when compared to epidural fentanyl (2/40). Thus, the results suggest that in laboring patients, intravenous fentanyl produces predictable and easily detectable changes that may be useful in identifying an epidural catheter unintentionally placed intravascularly.
The B-cell follicle in HIV infection: Barrier to a cure

The majority of HIV replication occurs in secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs) such as the spleen, lymph nodes, and gut-associated lymphoid tissue. Within SLOs, HIV RNA+ cells are concentrated in the B-cell follicle during chronic untreated infection, and emerging data suggest that they are a major source of replication in treated disease as well. The concentration of HIV RNA+ cells in the B-cell follicle is mediated by several factors. Follicular CD4+ T-cell subsets including T-follicular helper cells and T-follicular regulatory cells are significantly more permissive to HIV than extrafollicular subsets. The B cell follicle also contains a large reservoir of extracellular HIV virions, which accumulate on the surface of follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) in germinal centers. FDC-bound HIV virions remain infectious even in the presence of neutralizing antibodies and can persist for months or even years. Moreover, the B-cell follicle is semi-immune privileged from CTL control. Frequencies of HIV- and SIV-specific CTL are lower in B-cell follicles compared to extrafollicular regions as the majority of CTL do not express the follicular homing receptor CXCR5. Additionally, CTL in the B-cell follicle may be less functional than extrafollicular CTL as many exhibit the recently described CD8 T follicular regulatory phenotype. Other factors may also contribute to the follicular concentration of HIV RNA+ cells. Notably, the contribution of NK cells and γδ T cells to control and/or persistence of HIV RNA+ cells in secondary lymphoid tissue remains poorly characterized. As HIV research moves increasingly toward the development of cure strategies, a greater understanding of the barriers to control of HIV infection in B-cell follicles is critical. Although no strategy has as of yet proven to be effective, a range of novel therapies to address these barriers are currently being investigated including genetically engineered CTL or chimeric antigen receptor T cells that express the follicular homing molecule CXCR5, treatment with IL-15 or an IL-15 superagonist, use of bispecific antibodies to harness the killing power of the follicular CD8+ T cell population, and disruption of the follicle through treatments such as rituximab.
Magic in base 3

Twelve golf balls appear identical, but eleven weigh exactly the same while one ball is either lighter or heavier than the others. Determine the “odd ball” and whether it is lighter or heavier than the others in just three weighings of the balls on a balance scale. Puzzle problems like this abound and experience has shown that they are quite attractive to students. But this is particularly true in the present case since a solution exists that appears little short of magic. This problem provides excellent motivation for developing reasoning and communication skills. It also provides strong motivation for learning arithmetic in a base other than base 10 and for developing skill at doing mental arithmetic quickly, easily, and accurately.
Mechanics of bioinspired lamellar structured ceramic/polymer composites: Experiments and models

Abstract Creation of super-tough ceramics is one of the main goals of materials science. Bioinspired design is shown to be the most effective method to achieve this goal. Previous studies on the mechanical performance of biological multilayered materials such as nacre have shown that their outstanding mechanical properties are direct results of the small-scale features and optimized arrangement of the elements in their microstructure. Hence, the freeze casting technique has been recently introduced as a novel method to create a new class of bioinspired polymer/ceramic composites. However, the method is cumbersome and the mechanics that controls the overall performance of these composites is not well-known. In this study, the mechanical performance of bioinspired alumina/polydimethylsiloxane (Al2O3/PDMS) and alumina/polyurethane (Al2O3/PU) composite samples with lamellar structure are experimentally and analytically investigated. Bioinspired multilayered samples with micron-size layers are fabricated using the challenging freeze casting technique. Different parameters such as solution concentration, freezing rate, and sintering temperature affect the structure, and subsequently, the mechanical performance of these multilayered materials. Moreover, in order to fully understand the underlying toughening and deformation mechanisms, a micromechanics model of the mechanical response of lamellar composites is presented. The closed-form solutions for the displacements of the layers as a function of constituent properties are derived to calculate the mechanical response of lamellar structured composites such as elastic modulus, strength, and tensile toughness. The experimental results agree well with the proposed analytical models. Fracture mechanics tests are also used to study the Resistance-Curve (R- Curve) behavior of the samples. Furthermore, important toughening mechanisms in these samples are discussed and governing equations for fiber bridging and fiber pull-out in lamellar ceramic/polymer composites are presented. Finally, detailed material design relationships are derived to identify future directions in the design of next generation structural composites.
Game-Theoretical Semantics as a Synthesis of Verificationist and Truth-Conditional Meaning Theories

Game-theoretical semantics (GTS) is an approach to linguistic, logical and philosophical meaning analysis which I began to develop in the early seventies.1 Its basic idea is closely related to Wittgenstein’s notion of language-game, if Wittgenstein’s true intentions are appreciated, in that certain rule-governed human activities in it are thought of as constituting the basic language–world relations.2 I have taken Wittgenstein more literally than Ludwig did himself and argued that those meaning-constituting language-games are—at least in a number of interesting and important cases—games in the sense of the mathematical theory of games. The concepts of game theory can thus be brought to bear on linguistic and logical semantics.3
An empirical model describing the dynamics of graded transmission in the lobster pyloric network

Graded synaptic transmission plays an important role in both invertebrate and vertebrate systems. Models that describe graded synaptic transmission can be valuable tools to understand network dynamics. Few studies have previously attempted to develop such models (De Schutter et al., 1993). In this paper, we present a model for graded synaptic transmission that relies on simplifying (and experimentally justified) assumptions and requires few experimental measurements.
Increased incidence of respiratory distress syndrome in neonates of mothers with abnormally invasive placentation

Background The incidence of abnormally invasive placentation (AIP) is increasing. Most of these pregnancies are delivered preterm. We sought to characterize neonatal outcomes in AIP pregnancies. Methods In this retrospective case-control study (2006-2015), AIP neonates (n = 108) were matched to two controls each for gestational age, antenatal glucocorticoid exposure, sex, plurity, and delivery mode. Medical records were reviewed for neonatal and maternal characteristics/outcomes. Univariate and multivariate Poisson regressions were performed to determine relative risk ratios (RR). Results There were no mortalities. All neonatal outcomes were similar except for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), which affected 37% of AIP neonates (versus 21% of controls). AIP neonates required respiratory support (64.8% vs. 51.9%) and continuous positive airway pressure (53.7% vs. 42.1%) for a longer duration. Univariate regression yielded elevated RRs for RDS for AIP (RR 1.78, 95% CI 1.24-2.54), placenta previa (RR = 1.94, 95% CI 1.36-2.76), and placenta previa with bleeding (RR 2.29, 95% CI 1.36-3.86). One episode of bleeding had a RR of 2.43 (95% CI 1.57-3.76), 2 or more episodes had a RR of 2.95 (95% CI 1.96-4.44), and bleeding/abruption as the delivery indication had a RR of 2.57 (95% CI 1.82-3.64). A multivariate regression stratifying for AIP and evaluating the combined and individual associations of AIP, bleeding, placenta previa, and GA, resulted in elevated RRs for placenta previa alone (RR 2.16, 95% CI 1.15-4.06) and placenta previa and bleeding (RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.001-2.85). Conclusions The increased incidence of RDS at later gestational ages in AIP is driven by placenta previa. AIP neonates required respiratory support for a longer duration than age-matched controls. Providers should be prepared to counsel expectant parents and care for affected neonates.
Overexpression or Deletion of Ergosterol Biosynthesis Genes Alters Doubling Time, Response to Stress Agents, and Drug Susceptibility in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

ABSTRACT Ergosterol (ERG) is a critical sterol in the cell membranes of fungi, and its biosynthesis is tightly regulated by 25 known enzymes along the ERG production pathway. The effects of changes in expression of each ERG biosynthesis enzyme in Saccharomyces cerevisiae were analyzed by the use of gene deletion or plasmid-borne overexpression constructs. The strains overexpressing the ERG pathway genes were examined for changes in doubling time and responses to a variety of stress agents. In addition, ERG gene overexpression strains and ERG gene deletion strains were tested for alterations in antifungal drug susceptibility. The data show that disruptions in ergosterol biosynthesis regulation can affect a diverse set of cellular processes and can cause numerous phenotypic effects. Some of the phenotypes observed include dramatic increases in doubling times, respiratory deficiencies on glycerol media, cell wall insufficiencies on Congo red media, and disrupted ion homeostasis under iron or calcium starvation conditions. Overexpression or deletion of specific enzymes in the ERG pathway causes altered susceptibilities to a variety of classes of antifungal ergosterol inhibitors, including fluconazole, fenpropimorph, lovastatin, nystatin, amphotericin B, and terbinafine. This analysis of the effect of perturbations to the ERG pathway caused by systematic overexpression of each of the ERG pathway genes contributes significantly to the understanding of the ergosterol biosynthetic pathway and its relationship to stress response and basic biological processes. The data indicate that precise regulation of ERG genes is essential for cellular homeostasis and identify several ERG genes that could be exploited in future antifungal development efforts. IMPORTANCE A common target of antifungal drug treatment is the fungal ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. This report helps to identify ergosterol biosynthesis enzymes that have not previously been appreciated as drug targets. The effects of overexpression of each of the 25 ERG genes in S. cerevisiae were analyzed in the presence of six stress agents that target essential cellular processes (cell wall biosynthesis, protein translation, respiration, osmotic/ionic stress, and iron and calcium homeostasis), as well as six antifungal inhibitors that target ergosterol biosynthesis. The importance of identifying cell perturbations caused by gene overexpression or deletion is emphasized by the prevalence of gene expression alterations in many pathogenic and drug-resistant clinical isolates. Genes whose altered expression causes the most extensive phenotypic alterations in the presence of stressors or inhibitors have the potential to be drug targets.
Mimics of Cutaneous Mesenchymal Tumors

This chapter briefly describes reactive or neoplastic mimics of primary cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms that are commonly encountered by dermatopathologists and can lead to misinterpretation as a primary soft tissue tumor, especially sarcoma. A comprehensive review of these lesions is beyond the scope of this chapter; rather, we focus our discussion on helpful histologic clues, diagnostic pitfalls, and useful ancillary tests. The entities reviewed in this chapter and their clinically important mesenchymal tumor mimics are listed in Table 3.1.
Cloning and expression of the human galanin receptor 1 in head and neck cancer cells

1864 We previously reported that loss of chromosome 18q develops with tumor progression and is associated with significantly decreased survival in head and neck cancer patients. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) on 18q occurs in 50-75% of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). The most common region of loss affecting 75% of HNSCC cell lines is centered on the microsatellite marker D18S70 in band 18q23. These results indicate the possible locus of a tumor suppressor gene in this area. One gene located within the common region of loss is galanin receptor type 1 (GALR 1). GALRs are members of G-protein coupled receptors, and there are three galanin receptors. GALR1 and GALR3 are reported to signal via the Gi/G0 pathway whereas GALR2 signals via G12/13. Previous studies have shown that galanin and its receptors mediate diverse physiological activities such as release of gastrin and stomach acid, and neurotransmitter and hormone release in the peripheral and central nervous system. However, the function and signaling of GALRs, especially GALR1 in HNSCC, is not fully understood. We postulated that GALR1 might function as a tumor suppressor gene by regulating cell growth. In this study, we established stable clones expressing GALR1 to assess the function of GALR1. The full length GALR1 gene was isolated from a human brain cDNA library by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) under optimized conditions. The resulting PCR product was cloned into the TA cloning vector that contains the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter (pCMV-GALR1). The vectors were sequenced by the University of Michigan DNA sequencing Core. The human laryngeal carcinoma cell line HEp-2 that does not express GALR1 was transduced with pCMV-GALR1, and stable clones were selected in G418. The expression of GALR1 was determined by western blotting. Compared with parent cells and empty vector controls, the growth rate of the GALR1 expressing clones was inhibited. The inhibition of proliferation was proportional to the GALR1 expression level. Furthermore, there was an obvious change in the morphology of stable clones. Inhibition of proliferation and altered morphology of the stable clones are consistent with GALR1 functioning as a possible tumor suppressor gene. These results suggest that the GALR1 signaling pathway regulates cell replication and epithelial morphology. Loss of this function may allow unregulated cell proliferation and migration. This research is supported in part by the NIH NIDCR (5 R01 DE12477), by the NIH through the University of Michigan’s Head and Neck SPORE grant (1 P50 CA97248), by the NIH NCI through the University of Michigan’s Cancer Center Support grant (5 P30 CA46592), and by the Research Center Core grant NIH NIDCD (P30 DC05188).
WIP: Factors Affecting Graduate STEM Student Attrition Rates

This Research Work-in-Progress paper presents a systematic literature review of existing work within graduate STEM education. Recently, engineering education researchers have begun to join the conversation of STEM education through studies exploring student attitudes and minority student experiences, among others. However, there is no centralized publication source for graduate STEM education leading to an under-saturated picture of existing research that causes researchers interested in graduate education to scour disparate sources to gain the necessary background to undertake their research. By conducting a systematic review of the existing literature, this work aims to give future researchers in graduate education a stepping off point for exploration understudied areas in graduate education. We conducted a search of the Journal of Higher Education and Frontiers in Education (FIE) proceedings from 2008-2018. Six articles were found that explored three factors that influence graduate student experiences. The factors are as follows: internal (e.g. advisor), programmatic (e.g. teaching assistantship) and external (e.g. family and future career). We have documented the initial conversations that have occurred in two sources. These results show graduate education as a relatively understudied area, but those seeking to do work in this area, can now more clearly understand the conversations that have occurred.
Testing Competing Models of Sales Force Communication

Based upon findings from the organizational communication, management, and marketing literatures, this study evaluates three competing models describing sales force communication. The results of the analysis suggest that the theorized PEO (Sales Manager Communication Practices⇒ Sales Force Communication Environment⇒ Salesperson Communication and Job Outcomes) Model best accounts for the relations between sales manager communication practices and salesperson communication and job outcomes. Specifically, the PEO Model holds that sales manager communication practices are positively associated with salesperson perceptions of communication quality. Communication quality is positively associated with salesperson satisfaction with communication; salesperson communication satisfaction is positively related to salesperson's job satisfaction and organizational commitment. These results and their implications for developing an effective sales force communication environment are detailed.
Direct Preparation of 3-Thienyl Organometallic Reagents: 3-Thienylzinc and 3-Thienylmagnesium Iodides and 3-Thienylmanganese Bromides and Their Coupling Reactions

3-Thienylzinc and 3-thienylmagnesium iodides can be generated from the direct oxidative addition of Rieke zinc and magnesium to 3-iodothiophene, respectively. The direct preparation of 3-thienylman...
A clinical trial to study changes in neural activity and motor recovery following brain-machine interface enabled robot-assisted stroke rehabilitation

Background: Brain-machine interfaces (BMI) based on scalp electroencephalography (EEG) have the potential to promote cortical plasticity following stroke, which has been shown to improve motor recovery outcomes. However, clinical efficacy of BMI-enabled robotic rehabilitation in chronic stroke population is confounded by the spectrum of motor impairments caused by stroke. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of neurorehabilitation therapy on upper-limb motor recovery, by quantifying changes in clinical, BMI-based, and kinematics-based metrics. Further, to identify neural correlates or biomarkers that can predict the extent of motor recovery. Methods: Chronic stroke survivors (n = 10, age 55 +/- 9.2y, chronicity 3.1 +/- 2.8y) were recruited to participate in a 4-6 weeks long clinical study. Participants completed 12 therapy sessions that involved a BMI enabled powered exoskeleton (MAHI Exo-II) for training, which targeted elbow flexion and extension. Clinical assessments including Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) and Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) were measured up to 2-months after therapy. BMI performance, kinematic performance, and change in movement related cortical potentials (MRCP) were also determined. Results: On average, 132 +/- 22 repetitions were performed per participant, per session. BMI accuracy across all sessions and subjects was 79 +/- 18%, with a small number of false positives (23 +/- 20%). FMA-UE and ARAT scores improved significantly over baseline after therapy and were retained at follow-ups (FMA-UE change = 3.92 +/- 3.73 and ARAT change = 5.35 +/- 4.62, p 5.2 or ARAT > 5.7) during the course of the study. Kinematic measures indicate that, on average, participants' movements became faster and smoother. Quantification of changes in MRCP amplitude showed significant correlation with ARAT scores (rho = 0.72, p < 0.05) and marginally significant correlation with FMA-UE (rho = 0.63, p = 0.051), suggesting higher activation of ipsi-lesional hemisphere post-intervention. The study did not have any adverse events. Conclusion: This study presents evidence that BMI enabled robotic rehabilitation can promote motor recovery in individuals with chronic stroke, several years after injury and irrespective of their impairment level, or location of the lesion (cortical/subcortical) at baseline. Further, the extent of motor recovery was correlated with changes in movement related potentials, occurring contralateral to the impaired arm.
"If You Don't Keep Going, You're Gonna Die": Helplessness and Perseverance Among Older Adults Living With Chronic Low Back Pain.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is the leading cause of disability worldwide and the most common pain complaint among the rapidly growing older adult population. As part of a larger qualitative study examining the lived experience of CLBP among older adults, the objective of the present study is to understand how older pain clinic patients experience helplessness and also how they foster perseverance amid treatment-resistant CLBP. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Using van Manen's phenomenological method, semistructured, in-depth, one-on-one interviews were conducted with 21 older pain clinic patients (aged 66-83) living with CLBP. Data were iteratively analyzed via line-by-line thematic coding. RESULTS Findings dually illustrate how participants were living a battle between helplessness and perseverance; the final thematic structure revealed 5 subthemes: (a) Feeling helpless because nothing works; (b) Feeling down and depressed; (c) Distantly wishing for an end; (d) Accepting the reality of my pain; and (e) The pain stays, I keep going. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS This study contributes a vivid illustration of older adults' CLBP illness experiences that are substantially underpinned by helplessness, depression, and a drive to continue thriving in old age. Practice implications include the need for clinic-based mood and suicide assessment.
The Nature and Extent of Component Analyses for Improving or Mitigating Behavior: A Systematic Review:

A component analysis is an approach where two or more independent variables are evaluated as a package and independently. The approach is used to assess and identify which component of a treatment package is the most effective. The purpose of this review is to document the application of component analyses to improve or mitigate non-academic behaviors with individuals with disabilities. We identified 21 research articles that used a component analysis to evaluate treatment packages with students who were identified as having or at-risk for a disability in classroom and/or alternative settings. Results from reviewing 21 articles (22 cases) indicate that 11 intervention packages had a single component that was critical for successful behavior change. Two articles suggested the entire intervention package was necessary while nine articles did not report a critical component or had variable results pertaining to critical components. The benefits and drawbacks of using component analyses for single case research are discussed. Implications for future research are also presented.
Mitochondrial Biogenesis, Activity, and DNA Isolation in Chondrocytes

Chondrocytes, the only cells in articular cartilage, are metabolically active and responsible for the turnover of extracellular matrix and maintenance of the tissue homeostasis. Changes in chondrocyte function can cause degradation of the matrix and loss of articular cartilage integrity, leading to development and progression of osteoarthritis (OA). These changes are exemplified by accumulated mitochondrial damage and dysfunction. Because mitochondria are the critical organelles to produce energy and play a key role in cellular processes, the approaches to assess mitochondrial function under both physiological and pathological conditions enable us to uncover the mechanisms on how dysfunction of mitochondria in chondrocytes mediates signaling pathways that are involved in disturbance of cartilage homeostasis. In this chapter, we describe the methods to evaluate mitochondrial biogenesis, activity and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) integrity in chondrocytes.
Pediatric Emergency Medical Care in Yerevan, Armenia: A Knowledge and Attitudes Survey of Out-of-hospital Emergency Nurses.

Abstract Background Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system in Armenia follows the Franco-German model in which physician - nurse dyads staff ambulances. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of EMS nurses regarding pediatric rapid assessment and resuscitation. Methods This is a cross-sectional, anonymous, self-administered survey study of a convenience sample of 200 out-of-hospital emergency nurses in June and July 2015. Results Response rate was 87.5%. Half of respondents failed to achieve the pre-defined passing score of 70% on the 10-question knowledge test (sample mean 6.32 ± 1.85 SD). Test score was positively correlated with pediatric training, current pediatric continuing medical education (CME), years with EMS and female gender. Questions regarding recognition of shock and initiation of neonatal and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation were most frequently missed. Nurses were least confident in their ability to care for neonates and infants. 79.4% indicated that they would benefit from further pediatric training, and 86.1% indicated that knowledge from the Anglo-American model of emergency medicine could improve pediatric emergency care (PEC) in Armenia. Conclusions There is a need for additional PEC training and continuing education for EMS nurses in Yerevan, Armenia. Training EMS nurses would improve first responder awareness of pediatric acute management and resuscitation and enhance the quality of emergency care of children.
Think Tanks Breaching the Partisan and Geopolitical Divide

Kevin Rudd, President of the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York, NY, explores the Future of Think Tanks and Policy Advice in the United States.
The Stretch-Reflex System

Let us examine the lowest motor control level for which the neural structure is delimited by the major identified neurons of the spinal cord (i.e., α- and γ-motoneurons, Ia interneurons, and Renshaw cells) and by extrafusal and intrafusal muscle fibers. The experimental data on the structure of synaptic connections between cells of these types and the characteristics of their activation during movements are well known (see, e.g., Granit 1970). Therefore, we will briefly enumerate the most important of these facts without references.
Geologic Sites: Generic Cases

In this chapter we shall explore the geologic criteria for selection of possible repository sites in different settings. Specifically, mined repositories will be explored here. Geologic considerations for deep-well injections and other nonmined repository alternatives will be explored later.