cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Separation and Quantification of Fructan (Inulin) Oligomers by Anion Exchange Chromatography

ABSTRACT Accurately quantifying inulins according to their degree of polymerization (DP) has long challenged fructan researchers. This paper describes recent advances in anion exchange chromatographic separation and improved quantification of inulin oligomers up to DP 8. Pure inulin standards were prepared by fractionating water-soluble carbohydrate extracts of Jerusalem artichoke ( Helianthus tuberosus L.) tubers using gel permeation chromatography. Samples of each pure inulin oligomer were freeze-dried and used to prepare aqueous standards of known concentrations. Elution times in a Dionex anion exchange (HPAE) system run isocratically increased non-linearly with increasing DP. Separation times for polysaccharides up to DP 40 were reduced by the use of a sodium acetate gradient. Responses by the pulsed amperometric detector (PAD) per μ g of inulin decreased in a regular manner as DP increased. Inulin polysaccharides become increasingly difficult to quantify as DP increases. In spite of this limitation, high-performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection provides a convenient and rapid method to separate and quantify inulins of low to moderate DP.
Enzymatic synthesis of a galactopyranose sophorolipid fatty acid-ester.

Sophorolipid lactones produced by Candida bombicola were deacetylated and ring opened with sodium methoxide to their corresponding methyl esters. The methyl esters, after re-acetylation with vinyl acetate using an immobilized lipase, were transesterified with 1,2-3,4-di-O-isopropylidene-d-galactopyranose in tetrahydrofuran using the same lipase catalyst. The di-O-isopropylidene sophorolipid sugar esters were hydrolyzed to give the galactopyranose sophorolipid esters as the final products.
Modeling of electromagnetic interference in electronic boards using finite difference time domain method

This paper addresses calculation and simulation of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) on the electronic boards. Keysight EMPro Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) simulator is utilized for simulation. The simulated radiated emission is studied due to level variations of excitation voltage and the spatial coordinates (angle) of simulated point regarded to the board. The simulation results are compared to the Federall Communications Commission (FCC) Part 15 Class B at three meters limit.
Classification, Treatment Goals, and Management Principles for Myelodysplastic Syndromes

The current strategies for classification, prognosis and treatment of myelodysplastic syndrome are reviewed.
Black Lives Matter: A Call to Action for Counseling Psychology Leaders:

Police brutality and widespread systemic racism represent historical and current sources of trauma in Black communities. Both the Black Lives Matter movement and counseling psychology propose to confront these realities at multiple levels. Black Lives Matter seeks to increase awareness about systemic racism and promote resilience among Black people. Counseling psychology states values of multiculturalism, social justice, and advocacy. Executive leadership in counseling psychology may seek to promote racial justice, yet struggle with how to participate in Black Lives Matter movements and address racial discrimination within larger systems spontaneously and consistently. However, counseling psychology trainees and professionals are actively involved in the Black Lives Matter movement, leading the way forward. Through the framework of spontaneity in social movements, this manuscript highlights what counseling psychologists are currently contributing to Black Lives Matter and makes recommendations that build on the opportunity counseling psychologists have for further involvement in the movement.
Healthcare disparities in pediatric otolaryngology: A systematic review

Objectives Multiple studies have reported healthcare disparities in particular settings and conditions within pediatric otolaryngology, but a systematic examination of the breadth of the problem within the field is lacking. This study's objectives are to synthesize the available evidence regarding healthcare disparities in pediatric otolaryngology, highlight recurrent themes with respect to etiologies and manifestations, and demonstrate potential impacts from patient and provider standpoints. Methods A qualitative systematic review of the PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane databases for articles focusing on racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic disparities related to pediatric otolaryngology conditions or settings was conducted. United States-based studies of any design or publication date with analysis of children 0 to 18 years old were included. Results Of 711 abstracts identified, 39 met inclusion criteria. Manual review of references from these articles yielded 22 additional studies, for a total of 61. Disparities were identified in nearly every subspecialty within pediatric otolaryngology, with otologic conditions the most frequently studied (33 of 61). The most commonly cited disparities involved low socioeconomic status (25 of 61), inadequate insurance (23 of 61), nonwhite race (21 of 61), and barriers to accessing care (21 of 61). Only six articles found no disparities regarding the condition examined in their study. Conclusion Through a variety of study topics, designs, and settings, a growing body of literature documents disparities across the spectrum of pediatric otolaryngology care. The etiologies and manifestations of such disparities are myriad. This evidence suggests the need for interventions to address these disparities at various professional and institutional levels, ideally with methodological rigor to assess the effectiveness of such interventions. Laryngoscope, 128:1699-1713, 2018.
Mechanisms of altered renal sodium handling in age-related hypertension

The prevalence of hypertension rises with age to approximately two out of three adults over the age of 60 in the United States. Although the mechanisms underlying age-related hypertension are incompletely understood, sodium homeostasis is critical to the long-term regulation of blood pressure and there is strong evidence that aging is associated with alterations in renal sodium handling. This minireview focuses on recent advancements in our understanding of the vascular, neurohumoral, and renal mechanisms that influence sodium homeostasis and promote age-related hypertension.
Validation of a Customized Bioinformatics Pipeline for a Clinical Next-Generation Sequencing Test Targeting Solid Tumor-Associated Variants.

Bioinformatic analysis is an integral and critical part of clinical next-generation sequencing. It is especially challenging for some pipelines to consistently identify insertions and deletions. We present the validation of an open source tumor amplicon pipeline (OTA-pipeline) for clinical next-generation sequencing targeting solid tumor–associated variants. Raw data generated from 557 TruSight Tumor 26 samples and in silico data were analyzed by the OTA-pipeline and legacy pipeline and compared. Discrepant results were confirmed by orthogonal methods. The OTA-pipeline reported 22 variants that were not detected by the previously validated pipeline, including seven synonymous or intronic single-nucleotide variants, five single-nucleotide variants at frequency
Free Binary Decision Diagram-Based Synthesis of Compact Crossbars for In-Memory Computing

We introduce a new computer-aided design approach based on free binary decision diagrams (FBDDs) for implementing Boolean functions on crossbars using flow-based computing. Our crossbar synthesis procedure uses generalized FBDDs to design crossbars for a Boolean formula such that there is a flow of current from an input nanowire to an output nanowire through the sneak paths in the crossbar if and only if the Boolean formula evaluates to true. Generalized FBDDs are more succinct representations of Boolean formulas than traditional reduced ordered binary decision diagrams (ROBDDs) because they do not require the same variable ordering along all paths of the decision diagram. Our experimental results with the middle bit of a multiplier show that our designs are 69.9% more succinct than flow-based crossbar computing approaches designed using ROBDDs.
Spousal bereavement is associated with more pronounced ex vivo cytokine production and lower heart rate variability: Mechanisms underlying cardiovascular risk?

Abstract The loss of a spouse is a highly stressful event that puts people at excess risk of mortality. Excess mortality among those who are widowed is highest in the first six months after the death of a spouse and decreases over time. Heart disease accounts for the largest proportion of these deaths. The psychological stress associated with stressful life events can enhance inflammation and lower heart rate variability (HRV). Both lower HRV and higher inflammation are risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Thirty-two recently bereaved individuals (Mean = 89.68 days since death, SD = 17.09) and 33 age-matched comparisons completed a blood draw, EKG, and self-report questionnaires. In both adjusted and unadjusted models, spousal bereavement was associated with enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokine production by in vitro lipolysaccharide-stimulated peripheral blood leukocytes. Moreover, spousal bereavement was associated with lower HRV in comparison to the comparison group. This study is the first to demonstrate that bereavement is associated with a more pronounced ex vivo cytokine production and lower HRV in a population that exclusively consisted of widows and widowers. These findings add to the growing literature revealing the mechanisms that underlie bereavement-related cardiovascular problems. Future longitudinal studies are needed to determine the temporal relation between these risks. Understanding the biological mechanisms that underlie this stressful life event could allow researchers to create therapeutic targets for interventions to reduce or prevent the toll of a “broken heart.”
Leadership Reflections: Resiliency in Library Organizations

ABSTRACTSimilar to individuals, organizations display characteristics that speak to qualities and abilities. Our guest writer, Lisa Bodenheimer, discusses a trait that is critical for library organizations during this period of constant change and transformation. Resiliency is the ability to rebound and flex as circumstances shift enabling an organization to thrive and adjust during difficult times. This skill is typically developed through experiences, but, as Ms. Bodenheimer outlines, organizations are able to strategize in order to build employee and organizational resilience. Such a proactive approach will enable a library organization to better weather challenging situations and times as difficulties will enviably occur. The following article provides practical suggestions for library organizations that will enable them to be more successful while leading and managing in a changing environment.
INVARIANT SETS AND A MATHEMATICAL MODEL INVOLVING SEMILINEAR DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS

The purpose of this note is twofold: first we indicate an abstract result on the existence of and invariant sets for solutions to a semilinear differential equation with inhomogeneous terms in a Banach space; and then we indicate an application of these techniques to a mathematical model of a gas exchange system. In Section I we briefly indicate that the results of Lightbourne and Martin [3] can be extended by allowing inhomogeneous terms. Very general results extending those of [3] can be found in the paper [1] by H. Amann. Here our extension is indicated in relation to the results and techniques in [3]; the reader should also compare with those of [1]. In Section II these abstract results are used to study the existence and behavior of solutions to a gas exchange model, which is also studied by D. Viaud [8] using different techniques.
Utilizing Ostrom’s institutional analysis and development framework toward an understanding of crisis-driven policy

This paper examines the institutional dynamics of policymaking in a crisis. Crises have been termed a “perceptual category,” events that at least seem to be threatening to society economically or physically or both. A crisis often calls forth public policy responses, but the events themselves are often clouded by uncertainty and ambiguity. Still, policymakers, especially if the perception persists, believe that they must do something in a crisis even when the crisis would likely be ended by market or other social forces. Elinor Ostrom’s Institutional Analysis and Development framework is utilized as a means of organizing and describing the key variables of crises and the policymaking that ensues from it. This is shown using the example of legislative policymaking during the 2007 US energy crisis.
Cell-secreted extracellular matrix influences cellular composition sequestered from unprocessed bone marrow aspirate for osteogenic grafts

Bone marrow aspirates provide a rich source of cells for use in tissue engineering of bone and other clinical indications. However, progenitor cells such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) account for a small fraction of nucleated cells in bone marrow aspirate (BMA), requiring extensive culture expansion. Accessory cell populations such as endothelial or hematopoietic cells can potentiate the bone-forming potential of MSCs, and cell-secreted extracellular matrix (ECM) can increase cell seeding efficiency and osteogenic differentiation of heterogeneous cell populations. In this study, we hypothesized that cell-secreted ECM could be used to sequester MSCs and accessory cells from BMA for bone regeneration. To generate 3D implantable constructs, BMA was resuspended in media with or without type I collagen or ECM and injected into a perfusion bioreactor system. The addition of protein coatings increased cell seeding efficiency compared to uncoated scaffolds. Compared to fresh BMA, the culture of BMA on all scaffolds reduced the proportion of CD45+ myeloid cells and increased CD31+CD45− endothelial cells. Compared to uncoated scaffolds, we observed a 143- and 30-fold increase in MSCs when fresh BMA was cultured on ECM- or collagen-coated scaffolds, respectively. Upon subcutaneous implantation, ECM-coated scaffolds promoted cell survival and early vascularization. However, bone formation was comparable across all implant groups, suggesting additional osteogenic cues are necessary to increase the bone forming potential of fresh BMA. These results motivate further investigation into strategies which elicit more robust bone regeneration by tissue aspirates.
TET1 regulates DNA repair in human glial cells.

Abstract Glioblastomas are the most aggressive of malignant brain cancers with a median patient survival of approximately 18 months. We recently demonstrated that Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 1(TET1) is involved in cellular responses to ionizing radiation (IR) in glial-, glioblastoma-, and non-tumor-derived cells. This study used a lentiviral-mediated knockdown of TET1 to further dissect the contribution of TET1 to the DNA damage response in glial cell lines by evaluating its role in DNA repair. TET1-deficient glial cell lines displayed attenuated cytotoxicity compared to non-targeted knockdown after treatment with IR but these differences were not observed between control and TET1 deficient in response to inhibitors of Na+/K+-ATPase. Additionally, the percentage of glial cells displaying γH2A.x foci was greatly reduced in TET1-deficient glial cells compared to non-targeted knockdown conditions in response to IR and topoisomerase inhibitors. We also observed a lower percentage and a delay in 53BP1 foci formation, a marker of non-homologous end-joining, in response to IR and topoisomerase inhibitors in TET1-deficient glial cells. DNA-PK, another marker of non-homologous end-joining, was also lower in TET1-deficient glial cell lines. Interestingly, TET1-deficient glial cells displayed higher numbers of DNA strand breaks compared to control cells and repaired DNA breaks less efficiently in Comet assays. We suggest that attenuated DNA repair in TET1 deficient gliomas leads to genomic instability, which underlies poor patient survival.
PMODTM-based Direct Thin Film Imaging, DTFITM, on Flexible Substrates

PMOD (Photochemical Metal Organic Deposition)-based DTFI (Direct Thin Film Imaging) methodology is a demonstrated means for patterning organic materials on flexible (plastic) substrates. This process is used to pattern 1-micron features at an aspect ratio of 8:1 using contact lithography. Use of oxygen plasma RIE etch to transfer the hard mask pattern to the organic material allows for good sidewall angle control. High etch selectivity between the novolac polymer and PMOD TiOX hard mask (< 800:1) makes the use of very thin hard masks (∼ 200 angstroms) to pattern thick organic films (<10 microns) possible. Selective removal of the PMOD TiOX (TiO2) hard mask makes this process amenable to patterning of functional organic structures fabricated from materials chosen for their desired properties (e.g., glass transition temperature (Tg), etch resisitance, optical properties, mechanical properties, etc.) not their ability to be photopatterned (e.g., photoresist).
Biochemical mechanism of acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity in human melanocytic melanoma cell lines: a tyrosinase produrg activation approach

1289 Purpose: In this work, we investigated the biochemical mechanism of acetaminophen (APAP) induced toxicity in human melanocytic melanoma cell lines. Because tyrosinase is found abundantly in melanoma it was hypothesized that tyrosinase can be utilized as a molecular target for selective bioactivation of APAP, as a prodrug, to cytotoxic quinone reactive intermediate species, hence resulting in selective toxicity in melanoma cells. Experimental procedures: UV-VIS spectra was used to investigate the enzymatic oxidation of APAP by tyrosinase enzyme. GSH depletion was used to measure the extent of APAP metabolism by tyrosinase and rat liver microsomes. The toxicity of APAP was investigated in four melanocytic melanoma cell lines (which express functional tyrosinase), and in four non-melanoma cell lines and one amelanocytic melanoma cell line (which do not express functional tyrosinase) using MTT assay. The biochemical mechanism of APAP was investigated in human SK-MEL-28 melanocytic melanoma cell line using a number of modulators. Results: Our findings indicate that APAP was metabolized 87% by tyrosinase and 33% by liver microsomes as measured by GSH depletion at 2 h. Ascorbic acid and NADH, quinone reducing agents, were significantly depleted during the enzymatic oxidation of APAP by tyrosinase. The IC50 (48 h) of APAP towards SK-MEL-28, MeWo and SK-MEL-5, B16-F0 melanoma cells was 100 µM which is within APAP therapeutic concentration when given at a regular dose as an antipyretic and analgesic drug. However, at 100 µM APAP showed no significant toxicity towards human BJ, Saos-2, SW-620, and PC3 non-melanoma cell lines and human C32 amelanocytic melanoma cell line, thus demonstrating that APAP was selectively toxic towards melanocytic melanoma cells. Dicoumarol, a diaphorase inhibitor, and 1-bromoheptane, a GSH depleting agent, enhanced APAP toxicity towards SK-MEL-28 cells. Ascorbic acid, a reducing agent, and GSH were effective in preventing APAP cell toxicity. Trifluoperazine and cyclosporin A, inhibitors of permeability transition pore in mitochondria, significantly prevented APAP induced cell toxicity. APAP caused time and dose-dependent decline in intracellular GSH concentration, which preceded cell toxicity. APAP also led to ROS formation in melanoma cells which was exacerbated by dicoumarol and 1-bromoheptane whereas cyslosporin A and trifluoperazine prevented it. Conclusion: Our investigation suggests that APAP, as a prodrug, was activated by melanoma tyrosinase to cytotoxic quinone intermediate species in melanoma cells, and that intracellular GSH depletion, ROS formation and induced mitochondrial toxicity contributed towards APAP’s selective toxicity in melanocytic melanoma cell lines.
A New Face to the Race Card? Campaigns, Racial Cues, and Candidate Credibility

Objective This research examines the effects of using positive racial imagery in the context of an electoral campaign. Method This study utilizes an experiment that was embedded in a survey conducted as part of the 2014 Cooperative Congressional Election Study. Results Unlike negative stereotypical images that activate racial prejudice, positive racial images can be used to improve perceptions of a candidate's perceived level of inclusivity and overall candidate evaluations. The ability to do so, however, is contingent on the racial attitudes of the subjects. Conclusion This study provides new insight into how racial appeals can be made in campaigns as well as the relative rigidity and fluidity of political stereotypes.
Primary Fontan, 1½ Ventricular Repair, and Fontan Conversion Operations in Adults

The Fontan operation has undergone many revisions since its introduction by Francis Fontan and Guillermo Kreutzer in 1968. Gone are the venous pathway valves, the right atrial connections to small subpulmonic ventricles, and atriopulmonary connections. The standard therapy for the functionally single-ventricle heart is determined by three distinct time periods. The first is the neonatal management of pulmonary artery flow (by systemic to pulmonary artery shunt, pulmonary artery band, or observation). At approximately 6 months of age, the second stage takes place: systemic to pulmonary artery shunt takedown or pulmonary artery band takedown and a bidirectional Glenn shunt that prepares the single ventricle by volume unloading, resulting in favorable ventricular remodeling. By 2–3 years of age, the Fontan operation is usually performed. Since the introduction of the atrial fenestration, some surgeons have used this obligatory right-to-left shunt in all cases; some surgeons have used it selectively, and others have not used it at all. Most surgeons now use the fenestration selectively, especially in cases with borderline ventricular function, small pulmonary arteries, abundant aortopulmonary artery collaterals, and single-lung physiology.
A Predictive Control Algorithm for Time-Division-Multiplexed Readout of TES Microcalorimeters

Time division multiplexing (TDM) uses a digital flux-locked loop (DFLL) to linearize each first-stage SQUID amplifier. Presently, the dynamic range of our TDM systems is limited by the use of a proportional-integral controller to maintain the DFLL. In this paper, we use simulations to assess the improvements possible with a predictive control algorithm that anticipates rapid changes in transition-edge sensor current during the rising edge of an X-ray pulse. We calculate that the predictive control algorithm can improve our TDM architecture’s dynamic range by 35%. This significant increase in multiplexing capabilities could be used to read out higher-energy X-rays, reduce readout noise, increase multiplexing factors, or reduce SQUID power output.
Two‐way immersion teacher preparation

The purpose of this qualitative study was to document the skills, knowledge, and dispositions needed for effective two‐way immersion (TWI) teacher training based on the perspectives of those practicing in the field. The research questions explored how preservice teachers, practicing TWI teachers, and TWI administrators perceived the skills, knowledge, and dispositions needed for effective TWI teaching, how they viewed the challenges for TWI teacher preparation programs and the role of a TWI field experience. The findings revealed that field experiences in a TWI classroom are essential for learning the complex pedagogy required for effective dual language education. The findings also showed that long‐term study abroad experiences in regions other than the mother country are necessary for expanding novice TWI teachers' language skills, specifically the learning of other dialects. Additional findings showed that TWI teachers' work extends beyond typical teacher capabilities, such as the teaching of academic content and literacy in two languages. This study also found that passion is fundamental for effective TWI teaching because it can inspire teachers to advocate for the program model and multilingualism. Based on the findings, the researcher recommends that TWI teacher preparation programs require specialized dual language education courses and field experiences.
12 – Are my results significant?

Chapter 12, Are My Results Significant?, returns to the issue of measurement error, now in terms of hypothesis testing. It concentrates on four important and very widely applicable statistical tests—those associated with the statistics, Z, χ2, t, and F. Familiarity with them provides a very broad base for developing the practice of always assessing the significance of any inference made during a data analysis project. We also show how empirical distributions created by bootstrapping can be used to test the significance of results in more complicated cases.
10B Conformal Doping for Highly Efficient Thermal Neutron Detectors.

This paper reports a simple and novel conformal doping strategy for microstructured silicon diodes using enriched 10B for sidewall doping while enabling enhanced neutron sensitivity. Monte-Carlo nu...
Evaluation of Some Radioisotopes as Marking Agents for Monitoring Bait Consumption

Minute quantities (1 to 20 μCi) of six gamma-emitting radioisotopes, manganese-54, zinc-65, selenium-75, iodine-125, iodine-131, and cesium-134, incorporated into nontoxic baits were found suitable as marking agents to detect bait consumption by coyotes (Canis latrans). The small quantity of isotope required minimizes detection of the marker by coyotes and potentially provides a bias-free procedure for simultaneously comparing the relative efficiency of several bait delivery techniques. Presence and identity of specific markers were determined with a multichannel analyzer on the basis of the energy level of emitted radiation. Differences in relative distribution of these isotopes among body tissues were noted. Other potential applications and constraints are discussed.
Small signal analysis of ultra-wide bandgap Al0.7Ga0.3N channel MESFETs

Abstract We report RF small signal analysis of ultra-wide bandgap AlGaN channel MESFETs with Al composition of 70%. Ohmic contacts are achieved using a linearly-graded and heavily-doped AlGaN layer grown by metal organic chemical vapor deposition. The device with a gate length of 250 nm shows a drain current density (IDSS) of 370 mA/mm when the gate is shorted to source, unity current gain cutoff frequency (fT) of 8.8 GHz, and maximum oscillating frequency (fMAX) of 15 GHz. Bias-dependent device parameters are extracted from measured S-parameters based on a small-signal equivalent circuit model. The peak effective electron velocity of 2.9 × 106 cm/s is obtained at VGS = − 7 V. We show that the average electron velocity (ve) under the gate limits the device intrinsic RF performance while the high source access resistance (Rs) and drain access resistance (Rd) limits the device extrinsic RF performance.
Test–Retest Reliability and Responsiveness of PROMIS Sleep Short Forms Within an RCT in Women With Fibromyalgia

Background: Unrestorative sleep is commonly reported by individuals with fibromyalgia. Yet there is limited information on the reliability and responsiveness of self-reported sleep measures in this population. Objectives: 1) Examine the reliability and validity of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) sleep measures in women with fibromyalgia; and 2) Determine the responsiveness of the PROMIS sleep measures to a daily transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) intervention in women with fibromyalgia over 4-weeks compared to other measures of restorative sleep. Methods: In a double-blinded, dual-site clinical trial, 301 women with fibromyalgia were randomly assigned to utilize either Active-TENS, Placebo-TENS, or No-TENS at home. Measures were collected at baseline and after 4-weeks of treatment. To assess self-reported sleep, participants completed 3 PROMIS short-forms: Sleep-Disturbance, Sleep-Related Impairment, Fatigue and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). To assess device-measured sleep, actigraphy was used to quantify total sleep time, wake after sleep onset, and sleep efficiency. Linear mixed models were used to examine the effects of treatment, time, and treatment*time interactions. Results: The PROMIS short-forms had moderate test-retest reliability (ICC 0.62 to 0.71) and high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha 0.89 to 0.92). The PROMIS sleep measures (mean change over 4-weeks (95% confidence interval), Sleep Disturbance: -1.9 (-3.6 to -0.3), Sleep-related impairment: -3.0 (-4.6 to -1.4), Fatigue: -2.4 (-3.9 to -0.9)) were responsive to improvement in restorative sleep and specific to the Active-TENS group yet not in the Placebo-TENS (Sleep Disturbance: -1.3 (-3.0 to 0.3), Sleep-related impairment: -1.2 (-2.8 to 0.4), Fatigue: -1.1 (-2.7 to 0.9)) or No-TENS (Sleep Disturbance: -0.1 (-1.6 to 1.5), Sleep-related impairment: -0.2 (-1.7 to 1.4), Fatigue: -0.3 (-1.8 to 1.2)) groups. The PSQI was responsive yet not specific with improvement detected in both the Active-TENS (-0.9 (-1.7 to -0.1) and Placebo-TENS (-0.9 (-1.7 to -0.0) groups, but not in the No-TENS group (-0.3 (-1.1 to 0.5). Actigraphy was not sensitive to any changes in restorative sleep with Active-TENS (Sleep Efficiency: -1.0 (-2.8 to 0.9), Total Sleep Time: 3.3 (-19.8 to 26.4). Conclusion: The PROMIS sleep measures are reliable, valid, and responsive to improvement in restorative sleep in women with fibromyalgia.
Disparities in the enrollment of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials of poly ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors for women's cancers

Objectives: Disparities persist in the enrollment of diverse racial and ethnic groups in clinical trials for ovarian and breast cancers. We sought to analyze the enrollment of participants by race/ethnicity in phase II and III clinical trials involving poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors for ovarian and breast cancers and compare these to the racial/ethnic prevalence of ovarian and breast cancer in the United States. Methods: This study was designed as a retrospective review of clinical trials registered with Clinicaltrials.gov. Studies included evaluated PARP inhibitors for the treatment of ovarian, fallopian tube, primary peritoneal, and breast cancers. Enrollment rates for clinical trials were stratified by race/ethnicity and type of cancer. Enrollment fractions (EF) were calculated using prevalence data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Database. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were calculated to compare minority enrollment rates to Non-Hispanic (NH) White enrollment rates. Results: A 48 trials were identified, 17 of which met inclusion criteria (12 ovarian, 2 breast and 3 breast and ovarian). For ovarian cancer trials, enrollment fractions were NH-White 1.5%, NH-Black 0.3%, Hispanic 0.5%, and Asian/Pacific Islander the largest at 2.4%. For breast cancer trials, the EF for NH-White participants was 0.005%, for NH-Black patients was 0.008%, for Hispanic patients was 0.003%, and for Asian/Pacific Islander patients, still the highest at 0.009%. Patients identified as NH-Black and Hispanic were significantly underrepresented compared to those identified as NH-White in clinical trials for ovarian cancer (OR 0.23, 95% CI [0.18-0.29] and OR 0.3, 95% CI [0.25-0.38] respectively, p-value of Download : Download high-res image (215KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions: NH-Black and Hispanic participants are significantly underrepresented in clinical trials evaluating PARP inhibitors for ovarian cancer compared to NH-White cohorts. Phase II and III trials assessing PARP inhibitors for ovarian and breast cancer do not accurately represent the populations diagnosed with these malignancies. Enrollment strategies are needed to increase diversity in PARP inhibitor clinical trials for women's cancers.
Comparing Simulation Sequencing in a Chemistry Online-Supported Project-Based Learning Unit

Numerous studies illustrate the value of simulations or project-based learning approaches to enhance the learning of science. Simulations can help students connect across macroscopic, microscopic, and symbolic representations of scientific phenomena, while project-based learning can provide a meaningful narrative and activities for students to engage in. Despite such studies, less is known about simulation sequencing within project-based learning and how such sequencing may influence conceptual understanding. This study investigates such simulation sequencing within an online-supported project-based learning unit that focuses on a drought narrative to teach solution chemistry concepts for 10th graders (n = 72). Specifically, we compare two treatments with students randomly assigned to using a simulation before (planning treatment; n = 37) or after (reflection treatment; n = 35) the design of desalination units. This quasi-experimental study includes a pre/post conceptual test, embedded conceptual measures, a student questionnaire, a teacher interview, and classroom observations. Results show significant pre/post gains for all students on solution chemistry concepts. Findings show no overall difference between the two treatments. Student and teacher comments, and classroom observations illustrate affordances and constraints for teaching solution chemistry concepts through a technology-supported project and point to future directions for iteration. We discuss the implications of this work for future technology-supported projects and science education.
On Daily Variations of Temperature and Heat Budget in the Tropical Atmosphere

The daily march of temperature from the surface to 30 km is obtained by combining 6-hourly soundings taken at different times in April–July 1956 and 1958, at a network of eight stations over the Western Tropical Pacific. A mean sounding is derived from this total of 5,227 radiosonde ascents. The daily range decreases from 3.00°C at the surface to a minimum of 0.41°C at 900 mb, then gradually increases upward to values exceeding 1°C near the tropopause and at stratospheric levels. In the surface layer, a single daytime maximum is indicated near 14 LT, whereas double maxima at 12–14 LT and 17–18 LT, respectively, are found from 900 to 650 mb. Downward heat transport by turbulent mixing with the surface layer is suggested from the timing of the temperature maxima and the minimum of the daily range near 900 mb. Nighttime conditions are characterized by a pronounced nocturnal warming in the entire column from 950 mb to the stratosphere. Periodic temperature variations were also calculated from wind variations, using a model based on the linearized equations of motion, frictionless flow, and the assumption that the oscillations are simple progressive waves. However, from the various smoothing procedures applied no reliable derivation of temperature variations from winds can be proposed. Mean lapse rate decreases from the surface layer upward, to a minimum at 850–750 mb, above which it increases to largest values at 350–150 mb. The daily range of lapse rate is conspicuous in the surface layer, but becomes small above 900 mb, except for the stratospheric layers. An attempt is made to assess the daily march of diabatic heat sources/sinks for the tropospheric column as a whole, such as the infrared radiative flux divergenceLW, the absorption of the solar radiationSW, the heating due to condensation of water vaporLP, and the sensible heat flux across the ocean-atmosphere interfaceQ s, obtaining the effect of vertical motion as a residual.LW andQ s vary little throughout the day,SW is a major factor in the daytime heating of the tropospheric column, and the daily march ofLP and the effect of vertical motion are least reliably established. A rainfall maximum and/or subsidence during the hours after midnight are considered as mechanisms for the observed nocturnal warming.
Characterizing local high-frequency solar variability and its impact to distribution studies

Abstract Accurately representing the local solar variability at timescales relevant to distribution grid operations (30-s and shorter) is essential to modeling the impact of solar photovoltaics (PV) on distribution feeders. Due to a lack of available high-frequency solar data, some distribution grid studies have used synthetically-created PV variability or measured PV variability from a different location than their study location. In this work, we show the importance of using accurate solar PV variability inputs in distribution studies. Using high-frequency solar irradiance data from 10 locations in the United States, we compare the ramp rate distributions at the different locations, use a quantitative metric to describe the solar variability at each location, and run distribution simulations using representative 1-week samples from each location to demonstrate the impact of locational solar variability on the number of voltage regulator tap change operations. Results show more than a factor of 3 difference in the number of tap change operations between different PV power variability samples based on irradiance from the different locations. Errors in simulated number of tap changes of up to −70% were found when using low-frequency (e.g., 15-min) solar variability.
Introduction to Droplet Growth Processes: Simulations, Theory and Experiments

The formation of a distribution of various size droplets is the common feature of a wide variety of systems, including thin films,1,2 breath figures,3,4 soap bubbles,5 fly ash particles,6,7 oil/water microemulsions,8 dew, clouds,9 rain, fog, foam, and froth. Figure la is an SEM micrograph of tin vapor deposited on a sapphire substrate.2 It is an example of droplet growth in thin films and it shows a distribution of various size droplets. In this type of experiment1,2 the substrate is held at a temperature slightly higher than the melting temperature of the deposited material. Since the deposited material is in a liquid state, it forms spherical (or hemispherical) droplets on the surface which grow and coalesce to form a distribution of droplet sizes.
Reduction of Optimal Thermal Range in Aging Western Cherry Fruit Flies (Diptera: Tephritidae).

The western cherry fruit fly is an economically important pest of sweet cherries in the western United States. The potential of this pest to establish and spread in areas in which it is not currently present has been the focus of recent research. Most published information on the thermal tolerance and optimal thermal range of this pest has focused primarily on the diapausing pupae and predictive phenology models. Microrespirometry and differential calorimetry can be useful tools in describing the thermotolerance and optimal thermal range of insects. This methodology was employed to investigate the effects of western cherry fruit fly adult age on the optimal thermal range. Newly emerged flies exhibited the widest optimal thermal range spanning from 6.6 to 42.2°C for a total range of 35.8°C during heating scans of 0.4°C/min from 2 to 50°C. This range diminished as the flies aged, with the shortest span observed with 28-d-old flies ranging from 10.5 to 37.8°C, a span of 27.2°C. Measurements of heat rate and oxygen consumption at isothermal, or static, temperatures indicated that all flies could survive exposure to 40°C for at least 20 min, and that metabolism was greatly reduced, with a concomitant reduction in oxygen consumption rate at 40 to 42°C. All flies exhibited a heat rate and oxygen consumption rate of zero when exposed to 45 and 50°C. The loss of thermotolerance in adult flies can influence its ability to establish and spread in climates where daily temperatures exceed the optimal thermal range of this species.
8 – COMPARING TWO INDEPENDENT GROUPS

This chapter explains the method of comparison of two independent variables or groups. In this context, the chapter describes the method of comparison of groups using some measure of location, such as the mean, trimmed mean, and the median. It also discusses the testing of hypothesis whether the measures of location are identical or how much they differ. Following this, the chapter explains the testing of hypothesis whether or not two groups have identical distributions. The method to determine the probability of a randomly sampled observation from the sampled observation is also discussed. Finally, the various measures of scale are explained.
Characterization of the promoter for the alpha 1 (IV) collagen gene. DNA sequences within the first intron enhance transcription.

Abstract Two overlapping clones spanning 19 kilobase pairs (kb) of the 5' end of the alpha 1 (IV) collagen gene were isolated and found to contain a single exon which encoded the 5'-untranslated sequence and 84 base pairs of the signal peptide. The 5' end of this exon was determined to be the 5' end of the transcript by S1 nuclease protection and primer extension. The nucleotide sequence of 1 kb of the 5'-flanking DNA was extremely G + C-rich (greater than 70%) and contained two GC boxes and a putative cAMP regulatory sequence. The transcriptional regulation of the alpha 1 (IV) gene was studied with chimeric gene constructs utilizing 2.5 kb of the 5'-flanking sequence coupled to the gene for chloramphenicol acetyltransferase. Transfection of this construct into differentiating F9 cells resulted in low chloramphenicol acetyltransferase activity compared to beta-actin or Rous sarcoma virus long terminal repeat promoters, although these cells produce large amounts of collagen IV. Inclusion of a 2.7-kb sequence 2.3 kb downstream from the first exon in either orientation increased the transcription of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase construct approximately 10-fold in F9 cells, but was not active in NIH 3T3 cells, which synthesize little collagen IV. These results indicate the presence of an enhancer within the first intron, which increases the expression of this gene.
Diabetes augments and inhaled nitric oxide prevents the adverse hemodynamic effects of transfusing syngeneic stored blood in mice.

BACKGROUND: Stored red blood cells (RBCs) undergo progressive deleterious functional, biochemical, and structural changes. The mechanisms responsible for the adverse effects of transfusing stored RBCs remain incompletely elucidated. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Awake wild-type (WT) mice, WT mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD-fed WT) for 4 to 6 weeks, and diabetic (db/db) mice were transfused with syngeneic leukoreduced RBCs or supernatant with or without oxidation (10% of total blood volume) after storage for not more than 24 hours (FRBCs) or 2 weeks (SRBCs). Inhaled nitric oxide (NO) at 80 parts per million was administered to a group of mice transfused with SRBCs. Blood and tissue samples were collected 2 hours after transfusion to measure iron and cytokine levels. RESULTS: SRBCs had altered RBC morphology and a reduced P50. Transfusion of SRBCs into WT or HFD-fed WT mice did not produce systemic hemodynamic changes. In contrast, transfusion of SRBCs or supernatant from SRBCs into db/db mice induced systemic hypertension that was prevented by concurrent inhalation of NO. Infusion of washed SRBCs or oxidized SRBC supernatant into db/db mice did not induce hypertension. Two hours after SRBC transfusion, plasma hemoglobin (Hb), interleukin-6, and serum iron levels were increased. CONCLUSION: Transfusion of syngeneic SRBCs or the supernatant from SRBCs produces systemic hypertension and vasoconstriction in db/db mice. It is likely that RBC storage, by causing in vitro hemolysis and posttransfusion hemoglobinemia, produces sustained NO scavenging and vasoconstriction in mice with endothelial dysfunction. Vasoconstriction is prevented by oxidizing the supernatant of SRBCs or breathing NO during SRBC transfusion.
Cognitive Distortions in the Poetry of Anne Sexton

Cognitive therapists have described cognitive distortions that are frequently associated with depression. These distortions include arbitrary inference, selective abstraction, overgeneralization, magnification and minimization, personalization, and dichotomous thinking, which are often present in suicidal individuals. This article suggests it is useful to conceptualize cognitive distortions in literary terms and uses the professional oeuvre of confessional poet Anne Sexton to identify salient examples.
Polarization insensitive SOAs in AlInGaAs at 1550 nm

Numerical calculations have been performed for polarization insensitive amplifiers in AlInGaAs material system for the 1550 nm wavelength window. SOAs fabricated and tested at 1527 nm show a maximum gain difference of 0.9 dB at 60 mA of drive current between the TE and the TM modes. A polarization insensitive spectral bandwidth of 40 nm was observed where the gain difference between the two polarizations was found to be less than 1 dB.
Propagation in the FM Broadcast Band

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the propagation factors in the FM broadcast band as the potentially greater volume range of transmission with FM is due largely to the differences in the propagation in the FM and in the standard AM broadcast bands. It is a popular belief that propagation on the frequencies used for FM broadcasting is limited in range approximately to line-of-sight distances, and consequently to much shorter distances than in the AM broadcast band where the propagation is characterized by surface waves which follow the curved surface of the earth to distances well beyond the line-of-sight. FM transmitting antennas are frequently erected in the built-up business areas of the city, and unless these FM antennas are higher than the buildings around them, the field intensities may be expected to be considerably below the values calculated by using the height of the antenna above the local terrain and the smooth earth theory. It is hoped that the interpretations of FM propagation presented in this chapter may provide a rough guide for future research and for the day to day decisions that must be made by the broadcasters.
Physical Attractiveness Bias in Employee Termination

We examined the impact of attractiveness on employment termination decisions. After viewing a file that contained a poor performance review and a badge with a photograph of an extremely attractive, moderately attractive, or unattractive employee, 178 participants were asked if they would terminate the employee, rated how much they liked the employee, and made a judgment of attribution of her poor performance. Participants were willing to terminate the unattractive woman more frequently than the moderate or extremely attractive women. The participants also liked the unattractive woman less than the others. When asked to rate causes of poor performance, no differences were found based directly on attractiveness, but attributions mediated the relationship between liking ratings and termination decisions.
Gifted Adolescent Females Require Differential Treatment

How one responds to the issue of differential treatment for gifted girls depends upon one's belief system. Psychometric data indicate that sex-related differences in cognitive skills exist, particularly in the areas of mathematical and/or visual spatial ability. Although many theories proposing biological causation for these differences have been offered, there is no consensus among experts on this matter. Furthermore, the existence of different individual cognitive patterns within each sex, suggests that environmental factors are influential. Based on the literature reviewed, the authors present recommendations for parents and educators of gifted adolescent females. It is argued that differential treatment will produce more equitable education and the requisite skills to achieve success in both traditional and non-traditional careers.