cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance debugging shared memory multiprocessor programs with MTOOL

This paper describes MTOOL, a software tool for ana­ lyzin g performance losses in shared memory parallel pro­ grams. MTOOL augments a program with low instrumentation which perturbs the program's execution as little as possible while generating enough information to isolate memory and synchronization bottlenecks. After running the instrumented version of the parallel program, the programmer can use MTOOL's window-based user interface to view memory, synchronization, and compute time bottlenecks at increasing levels of detail from a whole program level down to the level of individual procedures, loops and synchronization objects. An initial implementa­ tion of MTOOL runs on Silicon Graphics multi processors and is in use by several groups at Stanford.
Confined semiflexible polymers suppress fluctuations of soft membrane tubes

We use Monte Carlo computer simulations to investigate tubular membrane structures with and without semiflexible polymers confined inside. At small values of membrane bending rigidity, empty fluid and non-fluid membrane tubes exhibit markedly different behavior, with fluid membranes adopting irregular, highly fluctuating shapes and non-fluid membranes maintaining extended tube-like structures. Fluid membranes, unlike non-fluid membranes, exhibit a local maximum in specific heat as their bending rigidity increases. The peak is coincident with a transition to extended tube-like structures. We further find that confining a semiflexible polymer within a fluid membrane tube reduces the specific heat of the membrane, which is a consequence of suppressed membrane shape fluctuations. Polymers with a sufficiently large persistence length can significantly deform the membrane tube, with long polymers leading to localized bulges in the membrane that accommodate regions in which the polymer forms loops. Analytical calculations of the energies of idealized polymer-membrane configurations provide additional insight into the formation of polymer-induced membrane deformations.
The Curious Confluence of Legal Influence

This brief article argues that there is little diversity in the most influential positions within the legal profession. It begins by looking at the educational background of Supreme Court Justices and nominees since 1959. It then looks at the educational background of U.S. constitutional law professors. It argues that those appointed to these positions of influence are becoming increasingly similar in the important characteristic of legal education. Coinciding with this, legal influence is also subject to a significant geographic bias. It concludes by suggesting that to achieve truer diversity, those with legal influence must recognize their tendency toward selecting those like themselves and overcome it.
A Hybrid Feature Selection Algorithm Based on Mutual Information and Memetic Framework to Optimize Traffic Classification

Under the memetic framework,a new feature selection method combining filter and wrapper models was proposed.In the hybrid algorithm,classifier accruracy was used as fitness function to ensure global optimization,while joint mutual information was used as evaluation indicator to accelerate the process.The experimental results indicated that the proposed method outperformed the existing methods in computational efficeicecy and number of selected features.Applying this algorithm to traffic classification resulted in the improved accuracy with fewer features.
Thermal Transport At (001) Twist Grain Boundaries in UO 2

Abstract We use phonon wave-packet dynamics to study the phonon transmission at UO2 twist grain boundaries as a function of phonon frequency, mode and incident angle. We find that grain boundaries with more disordered structures show stronger phonon transmission than more ordered grain boundaries. The transmission coefficients are used to calculate the grain boundary thermal conductance at elevated temperature.
Renewable Energy Policymaking in New York and London: Lessons for other ‘World Cities’?

Publisher Summary There has been growing interest in renewable energy use at the city level. In response, municipalities around the world have taken up the challenging task of trying to track local energy use, rein in demand, and switch to more environmentally benign energy sources. Urban renewables policymaking also deserves attention by virtue of the fact that cities are an important part of the global energy equation. This chapter explains the underlying dynamics of renewables policymaking in London and New York City, two leading world cities. There are many parallels between the two cities, both in terms of size, and how each holds considerable financial and cultural sway over the countries and continents, where they are located. Both cities have also undertaken significant local energy planning efforts in recent years, although the factors driving action and the policy approaches pursued in each city are vastly different. There are symmetries between the two cities' energy plans, linked to the subordinate role each city plays on most energy planning matters. This situation is not unique to New York and London—indeed, most cities similarly have a constrained capacity to act, limited by state or national laws or rules specifically designed to rein in the energy policymaking powers of local authorities. The chapter briefly discusses different ways cities can engage on energy policy matters by examining local renewable energy policymaking in London and New York City, and concludes by distilling common themes and lessons relevant to other large cities around the world.
Statistical evaluation of an electrochemical probe for the detection of chlorate

Abstract We describe the use and characterization of a multilayer film, prepared via layer-by-layer deposition of cationic para-rosaniline acetate dye (i.e., PR) and the vanadium-containing Keggin-type polyoxometalate anion, [PMo11VO40]5− (i.e., PVMo11), on indium tin oxide (ITO) as an electrode for determination of chlorate. A linear cyclic voltammetry (CV) current response was observed for the 0 μM ≤ [ClO3−] ≤ 1000 μM range with a detection limit of ∼220 μM ClO3− (S/N > 3) in a pH = 2.5 solution of 100 mM sodium acetate. Electrode response was insensitive to interference by oxygen and nitrogen-based explosives like TNT, a prerequisite for use in the field. A Taguchi L16 array was used to investigate the performance of the electrode as functions of number of PVMo11/PR bilayers (L; 3–6 bilayers), solution pH (H; pH ∼1.32–2.85), solution [ClO3−] (C; 250–1000 μM), CV scan rate (S; 50–200 mV s−1), and film age (A; 1–8 weeks). Maximum current response was obtained for a 1 week old 5 bilayer film immersed in a pH 2.85 0.10 M NaCl (aq) solution containing 1000 μM ClO3−. However, current response fell as films aged, requiring aging of films for approximately 8 weeks prior to use to obtain reproducible analyses. A two-level full factorial design using films aged 8 weeks identified the variables S, L, H, and C and variable interactions LS and HS as statistically significant contributors to the film current response and provided a model describing film performance.
Binding Site Geometry and Subdomain Valency Control Effects of Neutralizing Lectins on HIV-1 Viral Particles.

Carbohydrate binding proteins such as griffithsin, cyanovirin-N, and BanLec are potent HIV entry inhibitors and promising microbicides. Each binds to high-mannose glycans on the surface envelope glycoprotein gp120, yet the mechanisms by which they engage viral spikes and exhibit inhibition constants ranging from nanomolar to picomolar are not understood. To determine the structural and mechanistic basis for recognition and potency, we selected a panel of lectins possessing different valencies per subunit, oligomeric states, and relative orientations of carbohydrate binding sites to systematically probe their contributions to inhibiting viral entry. Cryo-electron micrographs and immuno gold staining of lectin-treated viral particles revealed two distinct effects—namely, viral aggregation or clustering of the HIV-1 envelope on the viral membrane—that were dictated by carbohydrate binding site geometry and valency. “Sandwich” surface plasmon resonance experiments revealed that a second binding event occurs o...
Aspects of desertification in southern New Mexico, U.S.A.: soil properties of a mesquite duneland and a former grassland.

Surface soil samples from beneath perennial plants and the nonvegetated areas between plants along a permanent transect in southern New Mexico were evaluated for total nitrogen, soluble salts, cation exchange capacity, particle size distribution, pH and moisture retention. Also, three mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa (L. Bens.) M. C. Johnst.) dunes were intensively sampled to evaluate spatial patterns of total N. The only differences found in the paired surface samples were for soluble salts and total N. The patterns of total N in the surface and dune samples suggest that mesquite shrubs concentrate N in the soil beneath their canopies. It seems as if the entire set of changes in the soil environment, of which these patterns are a part, ensure that mesquite will occupy those sites for long periods of time.
Long-term morbidity after staging laparotomy for Hodgkin lymphoma.

Abstract Background A large cohort of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors exist. With patients transitioning from pediatric to adult care, practitioners should be aware of potential complications. The aim of this study was to describe the long-term complications of patients who had staging laparotomy for the treatment of HL. Methods After institutional review board approval, a retrospective review of hospital records at our institution was performed. Data extracted included demographics, treatment course and long-term postoperative complications. Results 24 patients with HL underwent staging laparotomy from 1971 to 1994 with median follow-up of 27.9 years. Six (33%) had intraabdominal disease. Three patients (17%) required four repeat laparotomies for bowel obstruction. Of these, one had radiation to the inguinal region for local control, one had mantle radiation. Five patients developed a second malignancy. There were no documented cases of postsplenectomy sepsis. Other late effects that were unlikely related to surgery included pulmonary fibrosis (4), heart failure (2), hypothyroidism (4), and dysphagia (3). One patient died of metastatic adenocarcinoma. Conclusions Long-term follow-up of patients who underwent staging laparotomy for HL revealed an increased incidence of repeat laparotomy and secondary malignancy. This underscores the importance of a high index of suspicion and screening in this population. Level of Evidence Level III.
Development of Behavior

This chapter discusses the development of behavior in humans. The development of behavior is influenced by a complex interaction of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. In some cases, a single gene is responsible for a major change in behavioral development. This allows the physiological mechanism of the genetic influence to be analyzed and can, in turn, suggest strategies for correcting genetically based behavioral disorders by changing the environment. For example, the severe mental retardation associated with phenylketonuria is caused by a single gene defect in phenylalanine metabolism. The retardation can be largely prevented if the disease is detected early and the child is placed on a low phenylalanine diet. Development of sexual morphology and behavior are influenced by hormones, particularly androgens, during early development. Environmental stimulation during critical periods of development may also have profound effects on behavioral development.
Post-Positivist/Functionalist Approaches

Post-positivism is a label for a set of research assumptions that underlie some organizational communication scholarship. Post-positivistic assumptions entail beliefs about reality, knowledge, and value in research. Ontology, or the philosophical study of being and reality, is one way to describe the unique assumptions of post-positivism. Post-positivistic research assumes that social reality is out there and has enough stability and patterning to be known. Social reality is conceived as coherent, whole, and singular. Epistemology, or the philosophical study of knowledge and knowing, is another way to describe the unique assumptions of post-positivism. Post-positivistic research assumes that social reality is measurable and knowable, albeit difficult to access. Together, the ontological and epistemological assumptions undergirding post-positivistic organizational communication research are rarely, if ever, described explicitly in research reports. Those assumptions, however, are the philosophical ground on which data are collected and analyzed and on which this kind of research is sensible as an intellectual enterprise with logical coherence. This entry reviews the major assumptions of post-positivism and its history and explains and illustrates several ways of identifying post-positivist approaches to contemporary organizational communication research. Keywords: communication theory; organizational communication; qualitative methods; quantitative methods
Passivation of Germanium by Graphene

The oxidation of Ge covered with graphene that is either grown on or transferred to the surface is investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Graphene properly grown by chemical vapor deposition on Ge(100), (111), or (110) effectively inhibits room-temperature oxidation of the surface. When graphene is transferred to the Ge surface, oxidation is reduced relative to that on uncovered Ge but has the same power law dependence. We conclude that access to the graphene/Ge interface must occur via defects in the graphene. The excellent passivation provided by graphene grown on Ge should enhance applications of Ge in the electronic-device industry
Plasma Sphingolipids are Associated With Gait Parameters in the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging.

Background Disrupted gait has been associated with an increased risk of frailty, disability, and death, but the causal molecular pathways are not well understood. Sphingolipids, including ceramides, are associated with multiple age-related diseases. Ceramides promote atrophy, necrosis, and proteolysis in cellular and animal models, and ceramide C16:0 levels are negatively correlated with muscle mass in men. However, there is a paucity of evidence examining sphingolipids and physical function. Methods We examined the cross-sectional association between plasma ceramides, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), and ceramide/S1P ratios and gait, a robust measure of physical function, in 340 clinically normal participants aged 70 years and older enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging. GAITRite® instrumentation was used to measure gait speed, cadence, step width, double support time, and intra-individual stride time variability. Based on previous studies, we hypothesized that higher plasma levels of ceramide C16:0 would be associated with worse gait. Results Multivariable adjusted linear regression models revealed that higher levels of ceramide C16:0 were associated with slower gait speed, decreased cadence, and increased double support time. Conclusions These results suggest an association between plasma ceramide C16:0 and physical function. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether elevated ceramide C16:0 can be utilized as a prognostic marker for functional decline.
Comparison of Banded Versus Non-banded Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: a Series of 1150 Patients at a Single Institution

Variations have been proposed in order to improve weight loss and decrease complication profiles in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients. We previously reported a preliminary result of pericardial patch ring RYGB. We aim to report a detailed result of banded RYGB by comparing these patients to non-banded RYGB patients with larger case number and longer follow-up. A retrospective chart review was performed in 543 banded RYGB and 607 non-banded RYGB patients who underwent laparoscopic RYGB between January 2009 and December 2014. Thirty-day readmission rate was 3.1% (n = 16) in the banded group and 3.8% (n = 23) in the non-banded group. Thirty-day reoperation rate was 1.5% (n = 8) in the banded group and 1.6% (n = 10) in the non-banded group. Two mortalities occurred after a mesenteric venous thrombosis and an intracranial hemorrhage in the non-banded group. The differences in 30-day readmission and reoperation rates were not statistically significant between the two groups. Mean percentage of excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) dating from the time of RYGB was 53.1, 72.5, 76.5, 78.8, and 73.3% in the banded group, and 51.5, 73.5, 78.8, 79.0, and 74.8% in the non-banded group at 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months, respectively, adjusted for preoperative BMI. The differences in %EBMIL were not significant at any follow-up points between the two groups. Banded laparoscopic RYGB with a pericardial patch may not demonstrate a significant additional weight loss or prevent future weight regain. We were not able to demonstrate a clear advantage of banded RYGB over non-banded RYGB.
Use of photodynamic therapy and acitretin in generalized eruptive keratoacanthoma of Grzybowski

Generalized eruptive keratoacanthoma of Grzybowski (GEKG), a rare variant of keratoacanthoma (KA),1 affects widespread areas of the skin and mucous membranes. First described in 1950,2 this condition is exceptionally difficult to treat. Systemic retinoids or cyclophosphamide, although sometimes effective, may not be well tolerated. We report a case of severe GEKG, unresponsive to multiple systemic agents, in which photodynamic therapy was used successfully along with acitretin for disease management.
VIX Christmas Effect

An anomaly may exist in the U.S. stock market in which the VIX trades lower during the first 17 to 22 days of December. This is potentially due to a Christmas effect, in which trading activity slows before Christmas. The authors test this hypothesis using two approaches, one from the spot VIX and the other from the VIX futures term structure. In addition, the authors test the holiday explanation, in which the VIX declines prior to holidays because trading activity declines.
Enhancement Of Normal Hematopoietic Stem Cells By Redox-Active Antioxidants

Injury to hematopoietic tissues is a major problem limiting the success of cancer therapy, including ionizing radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Acute injury to hematopoietic cells challenges hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) to regenerate for self-renewal and differentiate into different lineages of peripheral blood cells. It is well-documented that HSCs reside in a hypoxia niche and have a lower level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) than their mature progeny. Life-long measurements of local oxygen tension (pO2) in the bone marrow of living mice show that the absolute pO2 of bone marrow is Here, we demonstrate that, in transgenic mice expressing the human manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) gene, a scavenger of ROS in mitochondria, the number and function of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) under physiological conditions is enhanced. Importantly, giving MnTnBuOE-2-PyP5+ (MnP), a redox- active MnSOD mimetic, to mouse primary bone marrow cells or to C57B/L6 mice signiﬁcantly enhances the number of HSPCs. Mechanistically, MnP reduces superoxide to hydrogen peroxide, which activates intracellular Nrf2 signaling leading to the induction of antioxidant enzymes, including MnSOD and catalase, and mitochondrial uncoupling proteins. The results reveal a novel aspect of ROS signaling in regulating stem cell function, and suggest possible beneﬁcial effects of MnP in treating pathological bone marrow cell loss and increasing stem cell population for bone marrow transplantation, and the development of redox-based therapies.
Introduction to Gender and Otherness in Medieval and Early Modern Art

The essays in this volume examine how gender and otherness coalesced in the visual culture of the Middle Ages and early modern eras. They explore the intersections of gender and other cultural identities as expressed in objects from the past, and they illuminate and interrogate their persistent influence.
Prevalence of Monoclonal Gammopathy in Wild-Type Transthyretin Amyloidosis

Abstract Objective To evaluate the prevalence of monoclonal gammopathy (MG) in patients with wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt) (formerly known as senile amyloidosis). Patients and Methods We retrospectively analyzed the serum protein electrophoresis and serum immunofixation results, free light chain (FLC) levels, and renal function of 113 consecutive patients with ATTRwt seen at the Brigham and Women's Hospital's Cardiac Amyloidosis Program between February 21, 2006, and November 9, 2016. Monoclonal gammopathy was defined as a monoclonal protein present in the serum. Light chain MG was defined as an abnormal serum FLC κ/λ ratio with an elevated FLC level in the absence of a monoclonal protein. In patients with renal dysfunction, the renal FLC reference range was used. Results The mean age of the population was 75 years, 3 of the 113 patients (3%) were female, and 110 (97%) were white. Monoclonal gammopathy was present in 26 patients (23%), 24 of whom had monoclonal protein present and 2 others who met criteria for light chain MG. Most clones (12 of 20 [60%]) were λ restricted. Another 7 patients had an abnormal FLC κ/λ ratio in the setting of renal dysfunction. Conclusion In this study, MG was present in 23% of patients with ATTRwt. The finding of MG or an abnormal FLC κ/λ ratio in an elderly man may cause diagnostic confusion during subtyping of amyloidosis. A high degree of clinical suspicion for ATTRwt and precise tissue typing using mass spectrometry may overcome such diagnostic challenges.
The Effect of Lunasin on Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa-B Ligand−mediated Osteoclast Formation from RAW 264.7 Cells

Abstract Introduction To date, no study has investigated the antiresorptive property of lunasin. Hence, the present study aimed to assess the ability of lunasin to inhibit the osteoclast formation using RAW 264.7 cells. We hypothesized that lunasin is able to inhibit osteoclast formation. Methods In the present study, the murine monocytic cell line RAW 264.7 was induced to differentiate into mature osteoclasts in the presence of recombinant receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, a marker of osteoclasts, was used to identify osteoclasts. Cell lines were divided into different groups and exposed to different concentrations of 50 μmol/L, 75 μmol/L, and 100 μmol/L active and inactive lunasin. The control group was RAW 264.7 cells with receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase−positive cells of 3 or more nuclei, indicative of mature osteoclasts, were counted by 3 observers. The mean number of the data collected was analyzed using 1-way analysis of variance and the multiple comparison post hoc Bonferroni correction. Results There was a significant difference in the reduction of osteoclast formation in all the active lunasin groups (P Conclusions Considering the suppressive effect of lunasin on osteoclastogenesis, the use of lunasin as a potential antiresorptive agent can be evaluated in future studies.
Transition to drug co-use among adolescent cannabis users: The role of decision-making and mental health.

Abstract Background Co-use of cannabis and drugs other than cannabis (DOTC) influences the risk of experiencing cannabis disorders. Accordingly, we explored whether speed of transition to drug co-use, the number of DOTC used, and/or being an experimental cannabis-only user, a regular cannabis-only user, or a regular cannabis user who co-uses DOTC (i.e., cannabis-plus user) were associated with decision-making (DM), mental health disorder symptoms, or cannabis use-related characteristics. Methods We analyzed baseline data from a sub-sample of 266 adolescent (ages 14 to 16) cannabis users (CU) participating in an ongoing longitudinal study. Assessments included semi-structured interviews, self-report questionnaires, and measures of drug use, DM (measured via the Iowa Gambling Task), mental health disorders, and cannabis use-related problems. Results Endorsing a larger number of mood disorders symptoms was associated with being a regular cannabis-plus user rather than a regular cannabis-only user (AOR = 1.08, C.I.95% 1.01, 1.15). Poorer DM was associated with a faster transition to co-use, such that for each one unit increase in DM performance, the years to onset of drug co-use increased by 1% ( p = 0.032). Endorsing a larger number of cannabis use-related problems was positively associated with endorsing a larger number of DOTC used ( p = 0.001). Conclusions This study provides new evidence on the process of drug co-use among CU. Specifically, mood disorder symptoms were associated with use of DOTC among regular CU. Furthermore, poorer DM was associated with a faster transition to drug co-use. Poorer DM and mood disorder symptoms may aggravate or accelerate the onset of adverse consequences among adolescent CU.
Facilitating walking recovery with use of a wearable robotic exoskeleton in an individual with traumatic brain injury and ataxia: A case study

Individuals with ataxia often demonstrate unstable gait with high variability. Wearable robotic exoskeletons can be programmed to control limb dynamics and joint coordination patterns and, as a result, may facilitate walking recovery for these individuals. This case study explored the effects of this training paradigm on the gait quality and performance of an adolescent with ataxia. It was observed that robotic assisted gait training resulted in decreased gait speed and improved gait symmetry.
Risk Factors for Readmission Following Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Noninfective Causes.

Introduction Readmission following revision orthopedic surgery imposes tremendous costs due to the increased length of stay, procedure complexity, and revision surgery. Following revision total hip arthroplasty, as many as one in five patients are readmitted postoperatively. Readmissions cost the federal government $17.4 billion annually. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for unplanned readmission following revision total hip arthroplasty. Methods This was a retrospective case series review of randomized revision total hip arthroplasties (THA) patients between 2008 and 2018. Exclusions were as follows: outside hospital revisions, staged revisions, revisions for infection, and bilateral revisions. Data were collected by manual chart review. Readmissions were tracked from discharge until the final follow-up. Results A total of 61 patients and 85 revision THAs were analyzed. Nineteen patients (31.1%) were readmitted; 31.6% of the readmitted patients had a coronary artery disease compared to 6.5% of non-readmitted patients. Readmission was also associated with obesity, former smokers, and hypertension. Also, the mean duration of follow-up was 26.5 months for readmitted patients as compared to 8.96 for non-readmitted patients. Conclusion Obesity, former tobacco use, younger age, coronary artery disease (CAD), and hypertension were associated with readmission. The medical optimization of patients with these risk factors prior to surgery could significantly lower costs relative to revision THA.
Healing Madness and Despair through Meeting

An existential perspective on human suffering suggests that the psychoanalytic view of the unconscious poses a difficult dilemma in regard to self-examination: On the one hand, not to pursue intros...
Chronic Pain and Addiction

Is addiction a problem in chronic pain? There is a school of thought arguing that it is not. The arguments include the following: Thousands upon thousands of patients have been treated with narcotics for acute post-operative pain. It is very rare that any of them become addicts(l). Therefore treatment of pain with narcotics does not lead to addiction. Even long term use of narcotics is appropriate because, miraculously, tolerance does not develop(2,3). The proof is that many patients reach a plateau and stay there with regard to medication dose. If patients increase their dose, then it must be because their pain got worse. It has even been argued that narcotics are not pleasant and therefore no one would take more than absolutely necessary. However, the fact that pain patients reach a standard dose of narcotics does not prove that dependence is not a problem any more than the fact that heroin addicts or methadone maintenance patients reach stable doses implies that they do not have a dependency problem.
Ozone decontamination of fresh fruit and vegetables

Publisher Summary Intense consumer interest in nutritious and fresh foods in recent years has brought about changes in traditional eating habits. Fruit and vegetables have become popular and are widely consumed. Food service establishments have added fresh food options in the form of salads to their menus and may offer 30 or more items in the salad bars. Though nutritious, these fresh fruits and vegetables have been reported to harbor high levels of contaminants such as soil and dust, animal manure, moisture, and spoilage microorganisms. Some of the spoilage microorganisms are pathogenic and have resulted in a worldwide increase in foodborne disease outbreaks. Current disinfection treatments used for removing disease-causing pathogens from the surface of whole and ready-to-eat fruit and vegetables have been found to be partially effective. Although Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) approach can reduce the risk of contamination, there is a need to find effective methods to prevent diseases associated with raw produce. Ozonation has been used to purify water, in Europe, since 1906. It is a novel technology whose potential can be exploited for decontamination of fresh produce. This chapter reviews the currently used fruit and vegetable decontamination methods and the potential of ozone use as an alternative owing to its enhanced disinfection mechanism.
Is Technology the Answer? Investigating Students’ Engagement in Math

As technology has spread in schools, we know little about how technology mediates the performance of primary-aged students and their engagement in mathematics. Given the well-established link betwe...
The Complex Racial Politics of Smart People

Working from the premise that theatre and performance can yield valuable insights about the operations of race, this article explores the dramaturgical strategies Lydia R. Diamond deploys in her 20...
Commentary on Risks of Living Kidney Donation: Current State of Knowledge on Core Outcomes Important to Donors.

In this evidence-based nephrology review, Lentine et al. ([1][1]) discuss the growing evidence regarding short- and long-term risks of living kidney donation. Adopting a patient-centered approach to characterizing and prioritizing these risks, the authors identify four potential risk categories: ( 1
FDA's Cheese and Cheese Products Compliance Program guideline criteria for non-toxigenic Escherichia coli: A retrospective analysis of impacts on domestic and imported cheeses

Abstract The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) 2015 Domestic and Imported Cheese and Cheese Products Compliance Program Guidelines (CPG) (U.S. FDA, 2015) consider cheeses to be adulterated if non-toxigenic Escherichia coli levels of greater than 10 most probable number per gram (MPN/g) and less than 100 MPN/g are found in 3 or more of 5 subsamples. It is unclear if, or how, these standards impact food safety, and the extent to which these standards affect domestic and imported cheese commerce. We conducted a retrospective analysis of microbiological data from FDA's Domestic and Imported Cheese Compliance Program for cheese samples collected between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2006. Out of 3,007 cheese samples tested by the FDA for non-toxigenic E. coli, 76% (2,300) of samples contained E. coli levels that exceeded 10/g. Of these samples, 68% (2,047) exceeded 2009 regulatory guidelines of 100/g. In comparison, only 7.7% (232) of tested cheese samples exceeded European Union (EU) standards (
Indigenous women and adult learning: Towards a paradigm change?

In contemporary educational research, practice and policy, ‘indigenous women’ have emerged as an important focus in the global education arena. This Special Issue investigates what is significant a...
Intrinsic fundamental frequency of Amharic vowels

Intrinsic fundamental frequency (IF0) refers to the cross-linguistic tendency for high vowels to have a higher F0 than low vowels (Whalen and Levitt, 1995). IF0 is often thought to be a result of mechanical coupling, where tongue movement causes changes in the laryngeal structures, perturbing the F0. Ohala and Eukel (1987) propose that high vowels lead to increased vertical tension on the true vocal folds, which raises F0. In contrast, the tongue-compression hypothesis proposes that low vowels induce vocal fold slackening, which lowers F0 (Ewan, 1979). The purpose of the present study is to investigate the cause of IF0 by comparing high, mid, and low vowels in Amharic, using audio and EGG signals to measure F0 and contact quotient for different vowel heights. Amharic was chosen because it contrasts three heights of central vowels. The goals are to confirm that IF0 effects are found in Amharic and determine if voice quality changes further support either hypothesis. Discussion will focus on how F0 and contact quotient differ by vowel height, and whether the results support the tongue-pull hypothesis (where IF0 is driven by high tongue position), the tongue-compression hypothesis (where IF0 is driven by low-back tongue position), or both.Intrinsic fundamental frequency (IF0) refers to the cross-linguistic tendency for high vowels to have a higher F0 than low vowels (Whalen and Levitt, 1995). IF0 is often thought to be a result of mechanical coupling, where tongue movement causes changes in the laryngeal structures, perturbing the F0. Ohala and Eukel (1987) propose that high vowels lead to increased vertical tension on the true vocal folds, which raises F0. In contrast, the tongue-compression hypothesis proposes that low vowels induce vocal fold slackening, which lowers F0 (Ewan, 1979). The purpose of the present study is to investigate the cause of IF0 by comparing high, mid, and low vowels in Amharic, using audio and EGG signals to measure F0 and contact quotient for different vowel heights. Amharic was chosen because it contrasts three heights of central vowels. The goals are to confirm that IF0 effects are found in Amharic and determine if voice quality changes further support either hypothesis. Discussion will focus on how F0 and cont...
Frequency, Clinicopathologic Characteristics, and Follow-up of HER2-Positive Nonpleomorphic Invasive Lobular Carcinoma of the Breast.

OBJECTIVES To investigate human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive nonpleomorphic invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), which has rarely been addressed. METHODS Clinicopathologic characteristics and follow-up of HER2-positive nonpleomorphic ILCs were collected and compared to those of HER2-negative counterparts. RESULTS Twenty-one cases of HER2-positive nonpleomorphic ILCs were identified, 6.3% of the study population. Compared to HER2-negative nonpleomorphic ILC, patients with HER2 positivity were older (P < .05), likely to be hormonal receptor negative (P < .01), and had higher histologic grade and angiolymphatic invasion (P < .01). HER2 positivity in nonpleomorphic ILCs was associated with higher recurrence/metastasis with hazard ratio of 2.03 (P < .05). No patient who received neoadjuvant therapy achieved pathologic complete response, and HER2-targeted therapy tended to reduce recurrence/metastasis in patients with HER2-positive nonpleomorphic ILC. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight the existence of HER2 positivity in nonpleomorphic ILCs and reinforce that HER2 is associated with worse prognosis in nonpleomorphic ILC.
Chromosomal Structure, History, and Genomic Synteny Relationships in Lupinus

The genome assembly of narrow-leafed lupin (NLL, Lupinus angustifolius) provides critical information for inferring the evolutionary history of NLL relative to other species in the large genistoid clade and to other crop and model legumes. Based on analyses of genomic synteny, phylogenetic reconstructions, gene families, and chromosome counts, it is apparent that the ancestor of all lupin species experienced a whole-genome triplication approximately 20–30 million years ago; and that multiple chromosomal breakages, fusions, and independent duplications have subsequently led to various chromosomal counts in Lupinus. In comparison with other sequenced crop and model legume species, substantial genomic synteny is evident, frequently extending tens of megabases. Such synteny is useful information when looking for orthologous loci that may share functions identified in other legume species. At the same time, the early triplication in Lupinus and subsequent rearrangements in the genistoid and other legume lineages have scrambled the respective genomes at the chromosomal level; and the evolutionary distance to other crop and model legumes is substantial, with an estimated ~56 million years to the common ancestor.
Whiteboards: important part of the toolbox for improving patient understanding during hospitalisation

‘What are effective strategies to identifying and overcoming barriers to comprehension of information delivered to patients during hospitalisation and at discharge?’ This is one of 11 priority questions identified through the Improving Hospital Outcomes through Patient Engagement Study, a 2018 Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI)-funded project to define a patient-centred research agenda for hospital medicine.1 In this issue of BMJ Quality & Safety , Goyal et al explored the use of whiteboards in patient rooms as one such strategy. The article, entitled ‘Do Beside Whiteboards Enhance Communication in Hospitals? An Exploratory Multi-Method Study of Patient and Nurse Perspectives’, examined the perspectives of both patients and nurses on whiteboard use.2 Over a year, the team surveyed almost 500 adults admitted at the University of Michigan Hospital in order to elicit their views on usability and content of whiteboard information. The authors also included nurses’ perspectives gathered through a focus group. Both patients and nurses felt that whiteboards were an important communication tool. However, they identified opportunities for improvement too. One way to better use whiteboards for communication and information sharing may be to actively encourage patient involvement in the use of the whiteboards. Most nurses in the Goyal e t al study felt responsible for maintaining the whiteboard, and only 60% of patients reported being aware they could use the board to pose questions to the care team.2 Perhaps care teams could physically give patients a …
Developmental Expression of SULT1C4 Transcript Variants in Human Liver: Implications for Discordance Between SULT1C4 mRNA and Protein Levels

The cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULTs) metabolize a variety of xenobiotic and endogenous substrates. Several SULTs are expressed in the fetus, implying that these enzymes have important functions during human development. We recently reported that while SULT1C4 mRNA is abundant in prenatal human liver specimens, SULT1C4 protein is barely detectable. Two coding transcript variants (TVs) of SULT1C4 are indexed in GenBank, TV1 (full-length) and TV2 (lacking exons 3 and 4). The purpose of this study was to evaluate expression of the individual TVs as a clue for understanding the discordance between mRNA and protein levels. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was initially performed to identify TVs expressed in intestinal and hepatic cell lines. This analysis generated fragments corresponding to TV1, TV2, and a third variant that lacked exon 3 (E3DEL). Using reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays designed to quantify TV1, TV2, or E3DEL individually, all three TVs were more highly expressed in prenatal than postnatal specimens. TV2 levels were ∼fivefold greater than TV1, while E3DEL levels were minimal. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of another set of liver specimens confirmed that TV1 and TV2 levels were highest in prenatal liver, with TV2 higher than TV1. RNA-seq also detected a noncoding RNA, which was also more abundant in prenatal liver. Transfection of HEK293T cells with plasmids expressing individual Asp-Tyr-Lys-Asp-Asp-Asp-Asp-Lys-tagged SULT1C4 isoforms demonstrated that TV1 produced much more protein than did TV2. These data suggest that the lack of correspondence between SULT1C4 mRNA and protein levels in human liver is likely attributable to the inability of the more abundant TV2 to produce stable protein. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULTs) metabolize a variety of xenobiotic and endogenous substrates, and several SULTs are highly expressed in the fetus, implying that they have important functions during human development. SULT1C4 is highly expressed in prenatal liver at the mRNA level but not the protein level. This study provides an explanation for this discordance by demonstrating that the predominant SULT1C4 transcript is a variant that produces relatively little protein.
Afrocentricity as the Organizing Principle for African Renaissance. Interview with Prof. Molefi Kete Asante, Temple University (USA)

Professor Molefi Kete Asante is Professor and Chair of the Department of Africology at Temple University. Asante’s research has focused on the re-centering of African thinking and African people in narratives of historical experiences that provide opportunities for agency. As the most published African American scholars and one of the most prolific and influential writers in the African world, Asante is the leading theorist on Afrocentricity. His numerous works, over 85 books, and hundreds of articles, attest to his singular place in the discipline of African American Studies. His major works, An Afrocentric Manifesto [Asante 2007a], The History of Africa [Asante 2007b], The Afrocentric Idea [Asante 1998], The African Pyramids of Knowledge [Asante 2015], Erasing Racism: The Survival of the American Nation [Asante 2009], As I Run Toward Africa [Asante 2011], Facing South to Africa [Asante 2014], and Revolutionary Pedagogy [Asante 2017], have become rich sources for countless scholars to probe for both theory and content. His recent award as National Communication Association (NCA) Distinguished Scholar placed him in the elite company of the best thinkers in the field of communication. In African Studies he is usually cited as the major proponent of Afrocentricity which the NCA said in its announcing of his Distinguished Scholar award was “a spectacular achievement”. Molefi Kete Asante is interviewed because of his recognized position as the major proponent of Afrocentricity and the most consistent theorist in relationship to creating Africological pathways such as institutes, research centers, departments, journals, conference and workshop programs, and academic mentoring opportunities. Asante has mentored over 100 students, some of whom are among the principal administrators in the field of Africology. Asante is professor of Africology at Temple University and has taught at the University of California, State University of New York, Howard University, Purdue University, Florida State University, as well as held special appointments at the University of South Africa, Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, and Ibadan University in Nigeria.
ZNF416 is a pivotal transcriptional regulator of fibroblast mechano-activation

Matrix stiffness is a central regulator of fibroblast function. However, the transcriptional mechanisms linking matrix stiffness to changes in fibroblast phenotype are incompletely understood. Here, we evaluated the effect of matrix stiffness on genome-wide chromatin accessibility in freshly-isolated lung fibroblasts using assay for transposase-accessible chromatin followed by sequencing (ATAC-seq). We found higher matrix stiffness profoundly increased global chromatin accessibility relative to lower matrix stiffness, and these alterations were in close genomic proximity to known pro-fibrotic gene programs. Motif analysis of these regulated genomic loci identified ZNF416 as a putative mediator of fibroblast stiffness responses. Similarly, motif analysis of the promoters of differentially expressed genes observed in freshly sorted fibroblasts from an experimental bleomycin lung fibrosis model also identified ZNF416 as a putative mediator of in vivo fibroblast activation. Genome occupancy analysis using chromatin-immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) confirmed that ZNF416 occupies a broad range of genes implicated in fibroblast activation and tissue-fibrosis, with relatively little overlap in genomic occupancy with other mechanoresponsive and pro-fibrotic transcriptional regulators. Using loss and gain of function studies we demonstrated that ZNF416 plays a critical role in fibroblast proliferation, extracellular matrix synthesis and contractile function. Together these observations identify ZNF416 as novel mechano-activated transcriptional regulator of fibroblast biology.
Toward Designing an Intervention for Cyber-bullying

In this poster we present a preliminary inquiry into designing an intervention for teenage victims of cyber-bullying by applying Human-centered design methodology. We engaged victims of cyber-bullying in multiple research activities to inform the design of a support intervention.
Phase 2: Partitioning the Parameter Space

In this chapter we present the second phase of our two-phase method for partitioning the parameter space. Specifically, we show that all invariancy regions in this partition can be derived from a single full dimensional invariancy region returned from phase one of our method. We note that this discussion precedes that of phase one due to the fact that phase one can be viewed as a special case of phase two.
Rapid reduction of macular edema due to retinal vein occlusion with low-dose normobaric hyperoxia

We investigated the effects of a relatively inexpensive, non-invasive, short-term treatment with low-dose normobaric hyperoxia (NBH) on macular edema in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO). Participants with macular edema associated with RVO were treated with 5 LPM of NBH via facemask (40% fraction of inspired oxygen, FIO2) for 3 h. Patients with non-fovea involving edema who elected to be observed returned for a second treatment 1 month later to test reproducibility. A 3-h session of NBH (n = 45) resulted in decreased maximum macular thickness (MMT) (mean 7.10%, t34=9.63 P<.001) and central macular thickness (CMT) (mean 4.64%, t34=6.90, P<.001) when compared to untreated eyes with RVO measured over the same period of time (n = 12) or their healthy fellow eye (n = 34; MMT:t34=−9.60, P<.001;CMT: t34=−6.72, P<.001). Patients who had a second NBH treatment 1 month later experienced a recurrence of their edema, but demonstrated a similar significant reduction in MMT and CMT after the second NBH treatment. Three-hour treatment with 40% FIO2 NBH results in a significant reduction in MMT and CMT. This study supports an ischemic mechanism for macular edema associated with retinal vein occlusion. Short-term low-dose normobaric hyperoxia is a simple, inexpensive, and ubiquitous treatment that may provide an alternate or adjunctive approach to treating macular edema in patients who are resistant to or cannot afford anti-VEGF medications.