cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
β-Catenin signaling mediates CD4 expression on mature CD8 + T cells

Upon activation, a subset of mature human CD8+ T cells re-expresses CD4 dimly. This CD4dimCD8bright T cell population is genuine and enriched in antiviral CD8+ T cell responses. The signaling pathway that leads to CD4 re-expression on mature CD8+ T cells is not clear. Given that Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays a critical role in the transition of CD4−CD8− to CD4+CD8+ thymocytes, we determined whether β-catenin mediates CD4 expression on mature CD8+ T cells. We demonstrate that active β-catenin expression is 20-fold higher on CD4dimCD8bright than CD4−CD8+ T cells. Activation of β-catenin signaling, through LiCl or transfection with a constitutively active construct of β-catenin, induced CD4 on CD8+ T cells by ~10-fold. Conversely, inhibition of β-catenin signaling through transfection with a dominant-negative construct for T cell factor-4, a downstream effector of β-catenin signaling, diminished CD4 expression on CD8+ T cells by 50% in response to T cell activation. β-catenin–mediated induction of CD4 on CD8+ T cells is transcriptionally regulated, as it induced CD4 mRNA, and T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor sites were identified within the human CD4 promoter. Further, β-catenin expression induced the antiapoptotic factor BcL-xL, suggesting that β-catenin may mediate protection against activation-induced cell death. Collectively, these data demonstrate that β-catenin is critical in inducing CD4 expression on mature CD8+ T cells, suggesting that it is a common pathway for CD4 upregulation among thymocytes and mature CD8+ T cells.
Non-equilibrium effects evidenced by vibrational spectra during the coil-to-globule transition in poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) subjected to an ultrafast heating–cooling cycle

Molecular dynamics simulations in conjunction with finite element calculations are used to explore the conformational dynamics of a thermo-sensitive oligomer, namely poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), subjected to an ultra-fast heating–cooling cycle. Finite element (FE) calculations were used to predict the temperature profile resulting from laser-induced heating of the polymer–aqueous system. The heating rate (∼0.6 K ps−1) deduced from FE calculations was used to heat an aqueous solution of PNIPAM consisting of 30 monomeric units (30-mer) from 285 K to 315 K. Non-equilibrium effects arising from the ultra-fast heating–cooling cycle results in a hysteresis during the coil-to-globule transition. The corresponding atomic scale conformations were characterized by monitoring the changes in the vibrational spectra, which provided a reliable metric to study the coil-to-globule transition in PNIPAM and vice-versa across the LCST. The vibrational spectra of bonds involving atoms from the oligomer backbone and the various side-groups (amide I, amide II, and the isopropyl group of PNIPAM) of the oligomers were analyzed to study the conformational changes in the oligomer corresponding to the observed hysteresis. The differences in the vibrational spectra calculated at various temperatures during heating and cooling cycles were used to understand the coil-to-globule and globule-to-coil transitions in the PNIPAM oligomer and identify the changes in the relative interactions between various atoms in the backbone and in the side groups of the oligomer with water. The shifts in the computed vibrational spectral peaks and the changes in the intensity of peaks for the different regions of PNIPAM, seen across the LCST during the heating cycle, are in good agreement with previous experimental studies. The changes in the radius of gyration (Rg) and vibrational spectra for amide I and amide II regions of PNIPAM suggest a clear coil-to-globule transition at ∼301 K during the heating cycle from 285 K to 315 K. During the heating cycle, a comparison of the vibrational spectra of isopropyl groups in PNIPAM at 285 K and 315 K suggests dehydration of the isopropyl moieties at 315 K. This implies that the oligomer–water interactions are dominant below the LCST whereas oligomer–oligomer interactions pre-dominate above the LCST. On the other hand, during the cooling cycle minor changes in the Rg and vibrational spectra of the PNIPAM oligomer in going from 315 K to 285 K indicate that the interactions between oligomer–oligomer and between the oligomer and water are less perturbed during the cooling cycle. Our simulations suggest that the observed hysteresis is a consequence of ultrafast heating–cooling kinetics, which allows insufficient relaxation times for the solvated oligomer.
MODIFYING THE NEO-CLASSICAL APPROACH TO TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION WITH BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE MODELS

The dualistic nature of humans has been recognized for centuries. The intriguing question is the extent to which the human being with her/his display of concern for others can simultaneously act as an egoist, the latter being descriptive of the AOVZO oeconomicu,r rendition of the human. Multiple utility theory suggests a way to approach research on such issues. A test case of water conserwng technology adoption behavior by Florida growers is examined. Empirical evidence supports moving toward an expanded version of the mono-utility or I-utility model to include a We-utility.
Isolation of ovine luteal cell subpopulations by flow cytometry.

Differences in the characteristics of small and large luteal cells, as reported by various laboratories, may be due to species diversity and/or methodological differences in cell preparation. To evaluate whether the method of cell separation affects the properties of luteal cell subpopulations, we sorted and characterized sheep luteal cells by flow cytometry via methods previously used to investigate luteal cell subtypes from the macaque corpus luteum. Corpora lutea were obtained from superovulated ewes on Day 10 after hCG injection and enzymatically dissociated. Dispersed cells were shipped overnight on ice from the University of Arizona to the Oregon Regional Primate Research Center. Viability of cells upon arrival was - 80%. When dispersed cells were analyzed by flow cytometry based on forward and 90 ° light scatter, three distinct subpopulations (P,, P 2 , P,) were identified. In P, 35.5 2.1% of cells, most (97.0 ± 0.6%; n = 3) of which were 15-22 Fpm in diameter, stained positive (+) for 3Phydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3,-HSD) activity. The remainder of P, cells were 3-HSD negative and ' 22 m. The size distribution of P 2 was similar to that of P,, but P2 contained more (53.3 ± 4.2%; n = 4) 3-HSD (+) cells. P3 consisted mostly (88.5 ± 4.6%; n = 3) of 3,-HSD (+) cells > 25 m in diameter. Cell subpopulations were incubated (n = 6) at 37 0 C for 3 h with or without hCG (0.1-100 ng/ml), prostaglandin E 2 (PGE2; 500 ng/ml), or dibutyryl (db)-cAMP (5 mM). Unstimulated progesterone (P) production by P3 (large) cells (41.6 ± 10.9 ng/ml/10 4 cells/3 h) was nearly 10-fold greater (p < 0.05) than that by P2 (small) cells (4.6 ± 1.0 ng/ml/10 4 cells/3 h). Secretion of P by small cells was increased (p < 0.05) - 10-fold by hCG (1-100 ng/ml) and db-cAMP. Conversely, hCG (10-100 ng/ml) slightly stimulated (1.5-fold; p < 0.05) P production by large cells, whereas db-cAMP caused a greater (-2-fold; p < 0.05) increase. PGE, modestly elevated (2-fold; p < 0.05) P secretion in small but not in large cells. The small P, cells were steroidogenically similar to P2 cells. In summary, data on the size distribution, steroidogenic activity, and agonist sensitivity of ovine small and large luteal cells isolated by flow cytometry were, for the most part, similar to previously published data obtained from sheep cells separated by elutriation. However, the isolation, based on light scatter, of two subpopulations containing steroidogenic cells ' 25 pm suggests the existence of subtypes of small luteal cells. We conclude that the reported differences in the characteristics of luteal cell subpopulations from the sheep and macaque are due primarily to interspecies variation rather than to methodological differences in cell preparation. Furthermore, flow cytometry may be useful in identifying additional subtypes of ovine luteal cells.
The impact of E-learning in medical education.

The authors provide an introduction to e-learning and its role in medical education by outlining key terms, the components of e-learning, the evidence for its effectiveness, faculty development needs for implementation, evaluation strategies for e-learning and its technology, and how e-learning might be considered evidence of academic scholarship. E-learning is the use of Internet technologies to enhance knowledge and performance. E-learning technologies offer learners control over content, learning sequence, pace of learning, time, and often media, allowing them to tailor their experiences to meet their personal learning objectives. In diverse medical education contexts, e-learning appears to be at least as effective as traditional instructor-led methods such as lectures. Students do not see e-learning as replacing traditional instructor-led training but as a complement to it, forming part of a blended-learning strategy. A developing infrastructure to support e-learning within medical education includes repositories, or digital libraries, to manage access to e-learning materials, consensus on technical standardization, and methods for peer review of these resources. E-learning presents numerous research opportunities for faculty, along with continuing challenges for documenting
Stranded Capital in Fisheries: The Pacific Coast Groundfish/Whiting Case

“Stranded Capital in Fisheries: The Pacific Coast Groundfish/Whiting Case” (Wilen 2009) brings attention to an important issue for fisheries policy: avoiding redistributive policy design, though the article is about ex-post mitigation of damages. Unfortunately, the article fails to deliver useful insights into either problem. I begin this comment by anchoring the stranded processing capital issue in the literature Wilen anchors it—in the article by Matulich, Mittelhammer, and Reberte (1996), hereafter MMR. he characterizes that paper with the following assertion: “...the entire MMR conceptual apparatus is a straw man, interesting to speculate about in theory, but without relevance in the real world of fisheries” (p. 5). The next section shows this assertion misrepresents that article. Professor Wilen’s remedy, which is not anchored in economic theory, is discussed in the third section. The fourth section explains why experiences from deregulation lend no insight into fisheries rationalization policy design. Lack of constructive policy guidance is addressed in the fifth section. Two North Pacific contexts were used by Wilen to illustrate why processors should not be included in individual transferable quota (ItQ) policy design. this section corrects factual errors concerning these fishery policies and policy performance. The sixth section addresses the claim that including processors in rationalization policy design undermines the “normal process of competition.” A brief conclusion closes this comment.
Oncogenic activation of p185neu stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation in vivo.

Abstract p185, the product of the neu/erbB2 proto-oncogene, is oncogenically activated by a point mutation that substitutes glutamic acid for valine in the transmembrane domain of the protein. We have found that the transforming form of p185 differs from its normal counterpart in inducing increased tyrosine phosphorylation of other proteins in vivo and in having a much shorter half-life. These results support the model that the transforming p185 resembles a ligand-activated receptor.
Tree spacing along the Kalahari transect in southern Africa

Spatial pattern in tree distribution is examined at 10 sites along the IGBP Kalahari Transect in southern Africa in order to examine the patterns of community structure across a large average annual rainfall gradient. Analysis indicates aggregation among all individuals in the vegetation communities at most sites, with no occurrence of aggregation in individuals at the most southern arid site. The spatial distribution for the largest 25% of individuals is predominantly random. Uniform pattern is only observed in the distribution of canopy dominants at one site. A comparison between expected and observed densities of understory vegetation beneath large trees shows significant patterns at six of ten sites, with lower than expected values at both the northern and southernmost sites in the transect, and significantly higher than expected values at intermediate sites. Variation in the spatial distribution of understory individuals with respect to larger canopy individuals suggests that distribution of suitable regeneration sites and subsequent patterns of establishment may be critical phenomena in determining the spatial pattern of vegetation. # 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd.
Retrievable inferior vena cava filter use in trauma: has the fever broken?

Thromboembolic disease in the form of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality following trauma. In the United States, the incidence of nonfatal PE ranges from 450,000 to 650,000 cases per year with an estimation of 50,000 to 200,000 deaths annually. 1 DVT prophylaxis with unfractionated heparin, low-molecular weight heparin, and sequential compression devices have been used in an attempt to decrease the incidence of DVT, and thus the occurrence of PE. In the absence of major contraindication, the preferred method is anticoagulant thromboprophylaxis. The population of trauma patients at the highest risk for pulmonary embolism is that of patients with lower extremity fractures who are unable to bear weight, with an incidence of DVT as high as 67% in the absence of prophylaxis. Other patients at increased risk for the development of DVT and PE include those sustaining spine fractures, spinal cord injury, and severe traumatic brain injury.
Recrystallization of Amorphous Silicon Using Rapid Thermal Processing, Laser Annealing and Furnace Heating

Recrystallization of amorphous silicon has been investigated using conventional furnace annealing, incoherent light-based rapid thermal annealing (RTA) and pulsed laser annealing using excimner laser (wavelength=248 nm, energy density = 0.1−0.6 J/cm2) at a pulse width of approximately 20 nanoseconds. The effects of annealing methods are characterized for grain growth and crystallized orientation using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction analysis. The various recrystallization methods are compared based on the structural properties of the resulting film and optimized thermal budgets for each heating mechanism are discussed.
Ruffin: Family and Reform in the Old South

This social history focuses on the life and thought of Edmund Ruffin, a 19th-century reformer whose activities in the movement for secession made him a symbol of the antebellum South. Although much has been written about Ruffin, this is the first examination of the connections between his family life, his thought, and his career in reform. His early experiences of isolation contributed to his valuable discoveries about soil fertility, which in turn guided his notion of a reconstruction of the rural Southeast led by individuals possessing the mentality of scientific farmers. Without this rejuvenation and fundamental restructuring of institutions, Ruffin believed, the southeastern United States would be faced with a Malthusian crisis of subsistence which would lead to the complete dissolution of the social system.
A Study of How Angry Birds Has Been Used in Mathematics Education

Understanding how teachers are leveraging entertainment media for educational purposes is imperative in this age with near ubiquitous presence of digital games. In this qualitative study that considered videos posted to YouTube, we report how the digital game Angry Birds® has been implemented in a variety of settings in mathematics education. In particular we describe certain aspects the research team deemed effective and ineffective. Findings suggest that incorporation of this digital game should be done with planning and systematic organization that considers how the game can be used to explicitly connect mathematical ideas within and to the context of the game.
Airway hyperreactivity produced by short-term exposure to hyperoxia in neonatal guinea pigs

Airway hyperreactivity is recognized as one of the long-term sequelae of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Due to the improved care and prognosis of very low-birth weight infants, the incidence of BPD is increasing. There are data that suggest the increased survival of premature infants may be associated with the observed increased incidence of childhood asthma. The hyperoxia received as part of the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome is believed to be partly if not completely responsible for BPD. To gain insight into the potential role that hyperoxia might play in producing airway hyperreactivity, 4-day-old guinea pig pups were exposed to 70% oxygen or air for 96 h, and airway responsiveness to acetylcholine (ACh) was assessed both 2 and 9 days after the completion of the hyperoxia exposures. Unlike ozone, the mechanism for the persistently increased airway reactivity is not related either to the inhibition of neuronal acetylcholinesterase or inhibition of the neuronal M2 muscarinic receptor. A difference in antioxidant protection did not account for the increased response of the neonatal guinea pigs compared with hyperoxia-exposed rat pups. These data support the usefulness of the neonatal guinea pig as a model to study the mechanism responsible for hyperoxia-induced airway hyperreactivity.
Infant resuscitation is associated with an increased risk of left-handedness.

The etiology of left lateral preference is not well understood, but some studies have suggested that it can be caused by complications at birth. The authors used data from the Child Health and Development Study, a large prospective study of pregnancy and child development conducted 1959-1966 in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, to examine the association between specific birth stressors and hand and foot preference. The study population consisted of 6,968 5-year-olds with no severe congenital abnormalities, and the authors controlled for potential demographic confounders and familial left-handedness. Infants who required resuscitation after delivery or who were twins or triplets were about twice as likely to demonstrate left hand preference at age 5 years (odds ratio (OR) = 1.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3-2.5, and OR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-4.0, respectively). Left-footedness was also significantly associated with the same stressors. No other individual stresses were significantly associated with left-lateral preference, and a composite measure indicated only a weak association. Although males, blacks, and those with left-handed siblings are more likely to show left lateral preference, these variables do not confound the association between birth stress and left lateral preference. These results indicate that specific types of birth stress are strongly associated with left hand and foot preference; however, much of the left laterality in non-clinical populations remains unexplained. Language: en
Scale-up of a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model to predict the disposition of monoclonal antibodies in monkeys

Preclinical assessment of monoclonal antibody (mAb) disposition during drug development often includes investigations in non-human primate models. In many cases, mAb exhibit non-linear disposition that relates to mAb-target binding [i.e., target-mediated disposition (TMD)]. The goal of this work was to develop a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to predict non-linear mAb disposition in plasma and in tissues in monkeys. Physiological parameters for monkeys were collected from several sources, and plasma data for several mAbs associated with linear pharmacokinetics were digitized from prior literature reports. The digitized data displayed great variability; therefore, parameters describing inter-antibody variability in the rates of pinocytosis and convection were estimated. For prediction of the disposition of individual antibodies, we incorporated tissue concentrations of target proteins, where concentrations were estimated based on categorical immunohistochemistry scores, and with assumed localization of target within the interstitial space of each organ. Kinetics of target-mAb binding and target turnover, in the presence or absence of mAb, were implemented. The model was then employed to predict concentration versus time data, via Monte Carlo simulation, for two mAb that have been shown to exhibit TMD (2F8 and tocilizumab). Model predictions, performed a priori with no parameter fitting, were found to provide good prediction of dose-dependencies in plasma clearance, the areas under plasma concentration versu time curves, and the time-course of plasma concentration data. This PBPK model may find utility in predicting plasma and tissue concentration versus time data and, potentially, the time-course of receptor occupancy (i.e., mAb-target binding) to support the design and interpretation of preclinical pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic investigations in non-human primates.
Utilizing CWS to Track the Longitudinal Development of Expertise

The CWS expert performance index was applied to participants' skill development in CTEAM (Controller Teamwork Evaluation and Assessment Methodology), an air traffic control microworld environment. CWS integrates discrimination and consistency such that larger CWS scores indicate better performance. Over eight weeks, participants gained mastery over the task, which involved routing aircraft to assigned destinations. Aircraft Density and Restricted Airspace affected performance such that more complex scenarios led to lower CWS scores. Furthermore, CWS scores increased with practice. Moderate correlations between CWS scores and objective measures of performance were obtained, validating the index. Potential applications to training are discussed.
Subjective Inequality in Greater China: China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan in 2006

How do people in Greater China evaluate income inequality? This paper contributes to the broader literature on income inequality by showing that a person’s socio-economic characteristics such as level of education and age affect his evaluation of income inequality, i.e., tolerance for income inequality. A person who is lowly educated and young is more likely to have a high tolerance for income inequality than a more highly educated and older individual. By comparing China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, this paper controls for the factor of Chinese cultural norms on income inequality. Interestingly, a person’s level of income — an important predictor in the sociology and economics literature — has no statistically significant effect on a person’s level of tolerance for income inequality. While income inequality is a politically salient issue in the three Chinese societies, this paper shows that people with certain socio-economic characteristics would view income inequality differently from others.
Social transformation and evaluation

Evaluators work in contexts in which social inequities create tensions with regard to decisions about programs and their evaluation. In this article, Donna Mertens explores the meaning of ethics for evaluators who consciously position themselves as promoters of human rights and social justice. The transformative paradigm is offered as a framework for considering the assumptions that guide evaluators who take such a position in terms of methodological implications. This brings evaluators into the complex territory of cultural beliefs and norms that might support or inhibit transformative social change.
Occupancy and Activity Monitoring with Doppler Sensing and Edge Analytics: Demo Abstract

We demonstrate an occupancy detection and human activity monitoring system using low-cost motion sensing, edge computing and wireless networking devices. We design a dual Doppler sensor to achieve high signal sensitivity and wide sensing range. We develop signal filtering, detection and machine learning algorithms on an embedded computer to generate classification result in real-time. We also implement web services to enable users to access signal and room state via a wireless network. Compared with conventional occupancy sensors, the dual Doppler system has higher detection rate, and also has the capability of detecting activities even for multiple people.
Grounding in the Philosophy of Mind: A Defense

One of the main trends in metaphysics in recent years has been the development and defense of novel conceptual frameworks for representing facts about fundamentality. Of particular interest has been the concept of grounding. Often the introduction of these new concepts is motivated by the argument that other notions metaphysicians use in order to frame their positions are inadequate to the task of characterizing the important problems and views of metaphysics. These suggestions have been met with mixed reactions in philosophical circles. Some of those working on first-order metaphysical problems were quick to see the utility of these notions. However, in philosophy of mind, these proposals have been met with skepticism. A commonly voiced complaint is that these metaphysical concepts are philosophically superfluous; they add nothing to the concepts philosophers of mind have already had in their toolboxes for years. I will argue that by deploying the conceptual distinctions introduced by especially Fine, we are able to resolve debates that have been carrying on in the philosophy of mind for decades by formulating novel, clear, and conciliatory positions.
Local recurrence of cutaneous mixed tumor (chondroid syringoma) as malignant mixed tumor of the thumb 20 years after initial diagnosis

Benign cutaneous mixed tumor (chondroid syringoma) is the cutaneous counterpart of the benign mixed tumor (pleomorphic adenoma) of salivary glands, consisting of both epithelial and mesenchymal elements. The incidence of cutaneous mixed tumor is rare, composing < 0.01% of all primary skin tumors. Herein, we report a case of malignant mixed tumor which recurred in the right thumb 20 years after the reported initial diagnosis of a benign mixed tumor at this site. Histologically, the lesion consisted of highly atypical and infiltrative cells in cords and ductal structures, with an adjacent focus of residual benign mixed tumor present. Perineural invasion of multiple dermal and subcutaneous nerves was also seen. . Immunohistochemical staining was strongly and diffusely positive for CK5/6 and p63, with patchy positive S100 and CK7 staining. Wide excision was performed, with no evidence of recurrence or over metastasis five years later.
Tracking properties of adaptive signal processing algorithms

Adaptive signal processing algorithms are often used in order to "track" an unknown time-varying parameter vector. This work develops an upper bound on the mean of the norm-squared error between the unknown parameter vector being tracked and the value obtained by the algorithm. The results require very mild covariance decay rate conditions on the training data and a bounded algorithm. The upper bound illustrates the relationship between the algorithm step size and the maximum rate of variation in the parameter vector being tracked.
TPK1 mutation induced childhood onset idiopathic generalized dystonia: Report of a rare mutation and effect of deep brain stimulation.

• Case of a 23 year old male who presented with TPK1 mutation induced childhood onset idiopathic generalized dystonia.
Patient perspectives on the optimal start of renal replacement therapy.

SUMMARYBackground Healthcare systems and providers are encouraged to prepare their patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) for a planned start to renal replacement therapies (RRT). Less well understood are the socioemotional experiences surrounding the optimal start of RRT versus suboptimal haemodialysis (HD) starts with a central catheter. Objectives To characterise the experiences of patients beginning RRT. Design Qualitative, semi-structured phone interviews. Participants A total of 168 patients with stage 5 CKD initiating RRT in an integrated, capitated learning healthcare system. Approach Qualitative data from patients were collected as part of a quality improvement initiative to better understand patient-reported themes concerning preparation for RRT, patients’ perceptions of their transition to dialysis and why sub-optimal starts for RRT occur within our healthcare system. Dual review and verification was used to identify key phrases and themes within and across each domain, using both deductive a priori codes generated by the interview guide and grounded discovery of emergent themes. Results From the patient perspective, preparing for RRT is an experience rooted in deep feelings of fear. In addition, a number of key factors contributed to patients’ preparation (or failure to prepare) for RRT. While the education provided by our system was viewed as adequate overall, patients often felt that their emotional and psychosocial needs went unmet, regardless of whether or not, they experienced an optimal dialysis start. Conclusions Future efforts should incorporate additional strategies for helping patients with advanced CKD achieve emotional and psychological safety while preparing for RRT.
Perinatal and Childhood Outcomes Associated with Infertility.

Infertility affects 11% of reproductive-age women in the United States and the number of live births from infertility treatment, both in vitro fertilization (IVF) and non-IVF fertility treatment (NIFT), continues to rise. Given this trend, the perinatal and childhood outcomes of children conceived with assisted reproduction are of critical importance. We provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature, consisting primarily of observational cohort studies focused on IVF children. The outcomes of interest include (1) perinatal outcomes of low birth weight and prematurity; (2) congenital birth defects; (3) childhood development to encompass autism spectrum disorders, development, and school functioning; (4) growth and puberty: and (5) childhood cancer. Overall, these data appear to be reassuring; however, further studies are needed to clarify the role of underlying parental infertility and to focus on NIFT conceptions. There remains a paucity of long-term data for these children as they progress to adulthood and long-term prospective registries will be the key to answering these questions.
Students’ Images of Scientists and Doing Science: An International Comparison Study

This study compared students’ perceptions of doing science and scientists reflected in their drawings using a modified version of the Drawing-A-Scientist-Test across five different countries: China, India, South Korea, Turkey, and US. The participants were 1,800 students from grades three, seven and ten from the five countries. Thirty students randomly selected were interviewed using a semi-structured interview protocol. Results indicated that fewer stereotypes were exhibited at the lower grades than at the higher grades in all of the countries. Students from India, US, and South Korea perceived doing science passive more than those from Turkey and China. A larger number of Indian and Turkish students reported that they wanted to become a scientist or have a science related career compared to those from the other countries. In addition, students’ perceptions of scientist were not related to their career choices in any country. However, students who perceived science as active practice were inclined to choose science-related career more than students who regarded science as passive practice in Korea and US. There was no statistically significant difference by perception of doing science actively or passively for career choice in India, Turkey and China.
Effectiveness of Bulking Agent (Solesta) Therapy in Fecal Incontinence in Patients Refractory to Conventional Therapies

Abstract Background Fecal incontinence is a problem that imposes considerable socioeconomic consequences. Despite many medical therapies, unmet needs remain. A new treatment option is a biocompatible bulking agent (Solesta) administered by submucosal injection in the distal rectum. The aims of this study are as follows: (1) To evaluate the efficacy and safety of this bulking agent in decreasing the severity of fecal incontinence (FI) and improving quality of life. (2) To obtain objective evidence of changes in anorectal physiology by high-resolution anorectal manometry pretreatment and posttreatment. Materials and Methods From January 2014 to June 2015, 17 patients who had failed medical therapy for FI received stabilized hyaluronate injected submucosally into the rectum under direct anoscopic visualization. The treatment was considered successful if patients achieved >50% reduction in FI events during monitoring for up to 12 months. Results After the first treatment session, 14 patients (82.3%) had a successful outcome. The remaining 3 patients received a second therapy 3 months later to achieve this result. At last follow-up, 7 of the 17 patients (41%) were having no FI events. The remaining patients had reduction in fecal accidents from a mean of 6.4/week baseline to 2.8/week during follow-up. Conclusions Intrarectal injection of stabilized hyaluronate is effective for treating FI in patients who had failed standard medical treatments and is technically easy and safely performed as an outpatient procedure.
Diminished medial prefrontal cortex activation during the recollection of stressful events is an acquired characteristic of PTSD.

Background Previous research has shown relatively diminished medial prefrontal cortex activation and heightened psychophysiological responses during the recollection of personal events in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but the origin of these abnormalities is unknown. Twin studies provide the opportunity to determine whether such abnormalities reflect familial vulnerabilities, result from trauma exposure, or are acquired characteristics of PTSD. Methods In this case-control twin study, 26 male identical twin pairs (12 PTSD; 14 non-PTSD) discordant for PTSD and combat exposure recalled and imagined trauma-unrelated stressful and neutral life events using a standard script-driven imagery paradigm during functional magnetic resonance imaging and concurrent skin conductance measurement. Results Diminished activation in the medial prefrontal cortex during Stressful v. Neutral script-driven imagery was observed in the individuals with PTSD, relative to other groups. Conclusions Diminished medial prefrontal cortex activation during Stressful v. Neutral script-driven imagery may be an acquired characteristic of PTSD. If replicated, this finding could be used prospectively to inform diagnosis and the assessment of treatment response.
The Role of Mathematics in Computer Science and Software Engineering Education

Abstract Continuous mathematics is an important foundation for many science and engineering disciplines. Similarly, discrete mathematics and logic are foundations for computer based disciplines such as computer science, software engineering and information systems. However, these essential foundations are often taught independently and relevant connections to computing, required to motivate the mathematics, are usually not made. Mathematics is a natural complementary discipline for learning, understanding and appreciating many fundamental computer science concepts. Accordingly, for the students benefit, foundational mathematics should be introduced early and integrated throughout the curriculum. This chapter provides motivation, specific and general guidelines, curriculum structures and a representative first course for significantly enhancing the mathematical reasoning skills of computer science and software engineering graduates. Over twenty years teaching foundational computing, talking to and surveying students, alumni, educators and corporate people have convinced the author that graduates of mathematically oriented programs will be better general problem solvers and software practitioners.
Quantitative biometry of zebrafish retinal vasculature using optical coherence tomographic angiography

The zebrafish is a robust model for studying human ophthalmic function and disease because of its fecundity, life-cycle, and similarities between its retinal structure and the human retina. Here, we demonstrate longitudinal in vivo imaging of retinal structure using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and noninvasive retinal vascular perfusion imaging using OCT angiography (OCT-A) in zebrafish. In addition, we present methods for retinal vascular segmentation and biometry to quantify vessel branch length, curvature, and angle. We further motivate retinal vascular biometry as a novel method for noninvasive zebrafish identification and demonstrated 99.9% accuracy for uniquely identifying eyes from a set of 200 longitudinal OCT/OCT-A volumes. The described methods enable the quantitative analysis of the vascular changes in zebrafish models of ophthalmic diseases and may broadly benefit large-scale zebrafish studies.
Potential lymphangiogenesis therapies: Learning from current antiangiogenesis therapies—A review

In recent years, lymphangiogenesis, the process of lymphatic vessel formation from existing lymph vessels, has been demonstrated to have a significant role in diverse pathologies, including cancer metastasis, organ graft rejection, and lymphedema. Our understanding of the mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis has advanced on the heels of studies demonstrating vascular endothelial growth factor C as a central pro-lymphangiogenic regulator and others identifying multiple lymphatic endothelial biomarkers. Despite these breakthroughs and a growing appreciation of the signaling events that govern the lymphangiogenic process, there are no FDA-approved drugs that target lymphangiogenesis. In this review, we reflect on the lessons available from the development of antiangiogenic therapies (26 FDA-approved drugs to date), review current lymphangiogenesis research including nanotechnology in therapeutic drug delivery and imaging, and discuss molecules in the lymphangiogenic pathway that are promising therapeutic targets.
Large Popliteal Vein Aneurysm: A Case Study:

Popliteal venous aneurysms are a rare vascular pathology, with only 125 surgical cases reported worldwide. This paper focuses on duplex ultrasound and the vascular technologists role in detecting r...
Effectiveness of colonic fluid resuscitation in a burn-injured swine

To determine the effectiveness of colonic fluid absorption as a route for fluid resuscitation of a major burn. In order to assess the feasibility and performance of colonic resuscitation, the authors compared plasma volume expansion and hemodynamic parameters of animals submitted to colonic or intravenous fluid resuscitation. Twelve anesthetized swine were submitted to a 40% full thickness flame burn. Thirty minutes later fluid resuscitation was initiated with either intravenous or colonic infusion of crystalloid based on the Parkland formula. This treatment lasted 4.5 hours. The volume of fluid infused was 86 ± 18 ml/kg for the intravenous treatment and 89 ± 14 ml/kg for the colonic treatment. The percentage of fluid absorbed by the colon at the end of the protocol was 30 ± 13% of the infused fluid. Enteral resuscitation was equally effective in expanding plasma volume at the end of the protocol. Laboratorial and hemodynamic parameters were similar between the two resuscitation strategies throughout the study. Urine output was significantly higher in the intravenous group (7.9 ± 4.2 ml/kg/hr vs 0.9 ± 0.3 ml/kg/hr, P = .03). This study demonstrates that colonic infusion of normal saline in a severe burn injury model can restore hemodynamic stability and expand plasma volume to a degree that rivals the effect of direct intravenous infusion for early burn resuscitation in a swine model.
Literacies in Early Childhood: The Interface of Policy, Research, and Practice

Interest in early education as a key determinant to school readiness has steadily increased in recent years. There is good reason for this. Research demonstrates that early learning experiences are linked with later school achievement, emotional and social well-being, fewer grade retentions, and reduced incidences of juvenile delinquency and that these outcomes are all factors associated with later adult productivity (Barnett, 1995; Yoshikawa, 1995).
Role of the C language in current computing curricula part 1: survey analysis

In December 2006, an anonymous online survey was publicized on the various ACM mailing lists (SIGCSE, SIGITE). Its purpose was to determine the role of the C language in the various modern computing curricula (CS, IT...). This paper summarizes the results and stresses out the quantitative usage of this language in introductory and intermediate programming courses as well as in upper-level undergraduate courses (e.g. operating systems). We also present the qualitative reasons provided by our respondents for, or against, the adoption of the C language in these various courses. We then discuss these results and propose an analysis of when the C language might be most useful in the curriculum, how it should be introduced and what specific topics should be covered in such a re-designed "intermediate programming in C" course.
Impact of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco Health Disparities Network’s Scholarship on Professional Development of Its Recipients

Introduction Diversifying the workforce is an important strategy to reducing health disparities. Since 2007, the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) Health Disparities Network has funded a travel scholarship to promote inclusion, professional development, and diversity among investigators interested in tobacco-related health disparities research. This study examined indicators of productivity among former scholarship recipients.Methods: Scholarship recipients between 2007 and 2014 were invited to complete a survey online. The survey assessed demographic characteristics, academic productivity, and perceived professional benefit resulting from the scholarship.Results: Of the 117 scholarships recipients, 89 (77%) responded. Respondents were 67% female and had a mean age of 37.8 years. Twenty eight percent were African American, 25% Asian American, and 17% Latino. Most respondents worked in academia (80%) and nearly three-quarters (74%) reported publishing manuscripts on tobacco-related disparities, with a mean of 3.8 (SD 4.4) disparities-related publications since receiving the scholarship. Respondents' work focused on a wide range of health disparities topics and nearly all respondents reported that the scholarship removed barriers to attending the meeting and reported professional benefit from receiving the travel scholarship. Following receipt of the SRNT travel scholarship, a diverse group of scientists demonstrated scholarly productivity, professional development, and advancement of health disparities research. Similar efforts are encouraged in other professional societies. Implications This study examines the productivity of early career recipients of the SRNT Health Disparities Scholarship. Results suggest that the investment in annual travel scholarships by a professional organization is an important support system for emerging scientists from diverse backgrounds. This investment may help to advance the science of health disparities and engage researchers in an area where there are critical gaps in the research workforce.
Transforming growth factor Β receptor typr II (TGFB RII) affects the sensitivity of colon cancer cell lines to 5- fluorouracil

5209 Background: We previously demonstrated mutational inactivation of type II TGF-β receptors (TGFBR2) occurs in approximately 30% of all colon cancers. In light of the frequency of TGFBR2 mutations in colon cancer and the common clinical use of 5-FU in the treatment of colon cancer, we investigated the effect of reconstitution of wild-type TGFBR2 on the sensitivity of colon cancer to 5-FU. Methods: V-410, a MMR proficient, mutant TGFBR2 (Arg528His) colon cancer cell line; V364, another MMR proficient cell line with absent TGFBR2 expression; and HCT116, a MMR deficient, mutant TGFBR2 cell line (BAT-RII mutation), were stably reconstituted with TGFBR2, treated with 5-FU, and then assessed in a colony forming assay. Activation of specific signaling pathways was also determined. Results: Reconstitution of TGFBR2 significantly sensitized both cell lines to 5-FU. Compared to the control cell lines, V-410-RII exhibited a 21-fold reduction in clonal surviving fraction with 5 μM 5-FU and HCT116-RII demonstrated a 7-fold reduction in clonal surviving fraction with 3 μM 5-FU. We observed a 50 % reduction in proliferation as measured by thymidine incorporation in V364-RII after treatment with 5 μM 5-FU. We next found that 5-FU treatment resulted in a TGFBR2 dependent activation of AP-1 signaling, but not of Smad signaling. No induction of AP-1 or Smad signaling was observed in the control cell line V364 RII D522N. Conclusions: Thus, reconstitution of wild-type TGFBR2 in colon cancer enhances 5-FU’s effects and may do so through an AP-1 dependent mechanism. Further studies are needed to determine whether AP-1 activation is required for the TGFBR2 mediated effects on 5-FU responsiveness.
Impact of financial reimbursement on retention rates in military clinical trial research: A natural experiment within a multi-site randomized effectiveness trial with active duty service members.

Introduction Achieving adequate retention rates in clinical trials is essential to ensuring meaningful results. Although financial reimbursement is an effective strategy to increase participant retention, current policies restrict the use of federal funds to reimburse U.S. active duty Service members for research participation. It is unknown whether permitting financial reimbursement among this population would improve trial retention rates. A recent randomized effectiveness trial received approval to provide reimbursement to Service member participants several months after recruitment began, creating a natural experiment to study the effects of financial reimbursement on retention. Materials and methods Active duty Service members recruited from six U.S. military treatment facilities (N = 666) were enrolled in a collaborative care study and completed assessments at baseline, three-, six-, and 12-months. Data on study assessment completion rates at three- and six-months were analyzed using the mixed-effects binary logit model to determine the probabilities of completing assessments based on reimbursement status. Results Participants who received reimbursement were significantly more likely to complete study assessments at both time-points than participants who did not receive reimbursement (p < 0.01). Survey completion was 5% and 4% greater among participants offered reimbursement at three- and six-month time-points, respectively. Conclusion Results suggest that providing Service members with reimbursement for research participation is associated with modest increases in retention rates in clinical trials. Findings provide useful insight for researchers, funding agencies, and policy-makers in considering retention strategies to maximize the value and impact of military research.
Performance Optimization Strategies for Nanophotonic Digital Fourier Transform Spectrometers

We present techniques for improving the performance of ultra-high resolution on-chip digital Fourier transform spectrometers. These methods enable perfect optical switching, broadband operation, large visibility, and filtering of narrowband signals