cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recombinant human granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor enhances monocyte cytotoxicity and secretion of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interferon in cancer patients.

The colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) promote the proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic precursors and more recently have been shown to amplify the functions of mature phagocytes in vitro. In this study recombinant human granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rGM-CSF) was administered to cancer patients to determine whether the cytotoxic and secretory activity of their blood monocytes could be enhanced. Patients with refractory neoplastic disease were treated with rGM-CSF either as a single bolus or as a constant infusion for 14 days at either 100 or 500 micrograms/m2 per day. As has been reported by others, the number of peripheral blood monocytes and granulocytes rose markedly in a dose-response fashion during infusion with rGM-CSF. The functional capacity of monocytes was increased by rGM- CSF, since the cytotoxicity of monocytes against antibody-coated xenogeneic cells was increased during the constant infusion compared to baseline. In addition, monocytes harvested during the constant infusion and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro secreted increased quantities of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interferon (IFN). These data indicate that rGM-CSF can enhance both the number and the function of peripheral blood monocytes in vivo.
High-energy X-ray focusing and applications to pair distribution function investigation of Pt and Au nanoparticles at high pressures.

We report development of micro-focusing optics for high-energy x-rays by combining a sagittally bent Laue crystal monchromator with Kirkpatrick-Baez (K–B) X-ray focusing mirrors. The optical system is able to provide a clean, high-flux X-ray beam suitable for pair distribution function (PDF) measurements at high pressure using a diamond anvil cell (DAC). A focused beam of moderate size (10–15 μm) has been achieved at energies of 66 and 81 keV. PDF data for nanocrystalline platinum (n-Pt) were collected at 12.5 GPa with a single 5 s X-ray exposure, showing that the in-situ compression, decompression and relaxation behavior of samples in the DAC can be investigated with this technique. PDFs of n-Pt and nano Au (n-Au) under quasi-hydrostatic loading to as high as 71 GPa indicate the existence of substantial reduction of grain or domain size for Pt and Au nanoparticles at pressures below 10 GPa. The coupling of sagittally bent Laue crystals with K–B mirrors provides a useful means to focus high-energy synchrotron X-rays from a bending magnet or wiggler source.
Effect of vasoactive intestinal peptide on ion transport across dog tracheal epithelium

Under short-circuit conditions, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) did not alter net Na+ movement but selectively stimulated net Cl- secretion across dog tracheal epithelium with a high affinity (Km congruent to 10(-8) M). The increase in Cl- secretion was not different from the rise in short-circuit current (Isc). However, stimulation of Cl- secretion was not maximal, because the addition of isoproterenol (10(-6) M) to VIP-treated tissues further increased the Isc by 54%. The effect of exogenous VIP was not blocked by a combination of atropine, phentolamine, propranolol (10(-5) or 10(-6) M), or tetrodotoxin (10(-6) M). Under open-circuit conditions, VIP caused an increase in the net secretion of Cl- and Na+, but the changes did not reach statistical significance. We conclude that VIP acts directly on receptors on the surface of epithelial cells to stimulate active Cl- secretion. The abundance of VIP nerves in the submucosa suggests that VIP may be important in regulation of fluid movement across the epi...
1.5: Donna Imma's ‘Dream of Domination’ (‘Il ruggito della leonessa’, Francesca Comencini)

In contrast to most mafia-centred films including Matteo Garrone's Gomorra where women are marginal to the narrative, in Gomorra: la serie women protagonists take on central roles. Episodes 1.5 and...
Versatile Two-Level Schwarz Preconditioners for Multiphase Flow

Numerically modeling groundwater flow on finely discretized two- and three-dimensional domains requires solution algorithms appropriate for distributed memory multiprocessor architectures. Multilevel and domain decomposition algorithms are appropriate for preconditioning or solving linear systems in parallel and have, therefore, been applied to linear models for saturated groundwater flow. These algorithms have also been incorporated into more complex nonlinear multiphase flow models in the context of a linearization procedure such as Newton's method. In this work, we study a class of parallel preconditioners based on two-level Schwarz domain decomposition applied in a nonlinear two-phase flow numerical model. The restriction and interpolation operators are based on an aggregation approach that has a straightforward implementation for a variety of applications arising in subsurface modeling: structured and unstructured discretizations, finite elements and finite differences, and multicomponent model equations. We present model formulations, results from numerical experiments, and a comparison of a standard one-level Schwarz method to three two-level aggregation-based methods.
The Impact of Maternal Thyrotoxicosis and Antithyroid Drug Exposure on Fetal/Neonatal Brain Development

Elevated maternal thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy, as well as antithyroid drugs, can influence fetal and neonatal brain development. Elevated thyroid hormone levels in pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery, intrauterine growth restriction, preeclampsia, and heart failure. Fetal exposure to excessive maternal thyroid hormone is associated with inhibition of the fetal hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis, impaired maturation of pituitary thyrotrophs and thyroid gland development, and potential disruption of neurologic development. Early diagnosis and treatment of maternal hyperthyroidism during pregnancy with antithyroid drugs improves pregnancy outcomes, fetal growth, and neurologic development. The antithyroid drugs methimazole (MMI) and carbimazole (CAB), however, are associated with a rare embryopathy that may include aplasia cutis, choanal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistulas, omphalocele, omphalomesenteric duct anomalies, and facial abnormalities. Although the number of reported cases is small relative to the number of women taking MMI or CAB at the time of conception, similar congenital abnormalities have not been reported in association with exposure to the antithyroid drug propylthiouracil (PTU). Developmental delay has been described in a subset of cases of MMI/CAB-related embryopathy, potentially due to the perinatal hypoxia associated with bilateral choanal atresia. PTU has been associated with severe maternal hepatotoxicity. The current guidelines for treatment of hyperthyroidism in pregnancy reconcile the adverse profile of antithyroid drugs in pregnancy by recommending PTU in the first trimester, to minimize the risk for embryopathy, and MMI in the second and third trimesters, to minimize the risk of liver failure.
Coordinated, orderless inventory replenishment for a single supplier and multiple buyers through electronic data interchange

We develop an analytical model for a coordinated, orderless inventory system for the single product, single vendor, multiple purchasers case. Such a system is made practical by recent developments in electronic data interchange, for the exchange of information between trading partners. On the basis of the potential benefits of this technology, we propose a common cycle replenishment approach, where the supplier alone makes all replenishment decisions, without ordering on the part of the customers. Our model and concepts are demonstrated by a simple numerical example. We conclude that EDI–based inventory control can be attractive from economic, as well as other standpoints. Furthermore, this approach is consistent with and can be instrumental in moving towards just–in–time (JIT) inventory management.
Identification of High-Potency Human TLR8 and Dual TLR7/TLR8 Agonists in Pyrimidine-2,4-diamines

The induction of toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7)-dependent type I interferons (IFN-α/β) from plasmacytoid dendritic cells as well as the production of TLR8-dependent type II interferon (IFN-γ), TNF-α, and IL-12 in myeloid dendritic cells are of importance in generating T helper-1 biased adaptive immune responses. In an effort to identify novel dual TLR7/TLR8-active compounds, we undertook structure–activity relationship studies in pyrimidine 2,4-diamines, focusing on substituents at C5. Several analogues substituted with aminopropyl appendages at C5 displayed dominant TLR8-agonistic activity. N4-Butyl-6-methyl-5-(3-morpholinopropyl)pyrimidine-2,4-diamine was found to be a very potent dual TLR7/TLR8 agonist. Employing novel cytokine reporter cell assays, we verified that potency at TLR7 correlates with IFN-α/β production in human blood, whereas IFN-γ and TNF-α induction is largely TLR8-dependent. Dual TLR7/TLR8 agonists markedly upregulate CD80 expression in multiple dendritic cell subsets, providing insight i...
Genetic rescue, the greater prairie chicken and the problem of conservation reliance in the Anthropocene.

A central question in conservation is how best to manage biodiversity, despite human domination of global processes (= Anthropocene). Common responses (i.e. translocations, genetic rescue) forestal...
Active Sensing: The Rat’s Nose Dances in Step with Whiskers, Head, and Breath

Active sampling of touch and smell involves coordinated movements first observed in the rat half a century ago. A new study has unveiled the elegant choreography of this facial and head motion during tactile and olfactory exploration.
Interstitial lung abnormalities in treatment-naive advanced NSCLC patients (pts): Prevalence and impact on survival.

e19030 Background: Interstitial lung diseases are associated with increased risk of lung cancer. A radiographic scoring method of interstitial lung abnormalities (ILA) on CT was previously reported...
Estimation of Species Richness of Large Vertebrates Using Camera Traps: An Example from an Indonesian Rainforest

The number of biological species that occurs at a particular geographic unit, whether that be global, a biogeographic region, country, or national park, is of great relevance to the management and conservation of biodiversity. Major policy initiatives at the international, national, and regional levels have committed entire government programs to attaining measurable targets of this variable in the conservation of biodiversity (Danielsen et al. 2005). The Convention on Biodiversity lists a reduction in the rate of loss of biodiversity as a goal for 2010 and many of the indicators proposed to measure achievement of that goal are indices that hopefully track changes in species richness (United Nations Environment Programme 2002). It is unlikely that governments will be able to judge their progress without monitoring systems and indicators in place to assess the effectiveness of their interventions (Balmford et al. 2005). Species diversity usually refers to the number of species in a location or “species richness” (Schluter and Ricklefs 1993; Lande 1996). Species richness is often used as a state variable in evaluating the impact of management interventions and anthropogenic disturbance on biodiversity. One of the greatest hindrances to understanding and conserving biodiversity, however, is our inability to determine how many species we have and how fast that number is changing (Balmford et al. 2005; May 1988).
Understanding the Developmental and Psychosocial Needs of HIV Positive Gay Adolescent Males

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the United States disproportionately affects young men who have sex with men (MSM). Adolescence represents a period of significant transition for youth. Young HIV positive gay adolescent males experience increased challenges related to their sexuality and HIV status and the corresponding stigma often associated with negative reactions from family members, peers, and society. This chapter examines core developmental and psychosocial needs of HIV positive gay adolescent males. In this context, pertinent research explores critical experiences related to HIV- and sexuality-based stigma, family and peer relationships, academic achievement, mental health and substance use challenges, and access to treatment. Factors related to positive coping and directions for future interventions are discussed.
Microglial elimination of dopamine D1 receptors defines sex-specific changes in nucleus accumbens development and social play behavior during adolescence

Abstract Adolescence is a developmental period in which the mesolimbic dopaminergic ‘reward’ circuitry of the brain, including the nucleus accumbens (NAc), undergoes significant developmental plasticity and neural circuit maturation. Dopamine D1 receptors (D1rs) in the NAc have recently been demonstrated to be critical modulators of social behavior, but how these receptors are regulated in adolescence to mediate social behavior is not well understood. In this report, we used multi-plexed immunohistochemistry with volumetric reconstructions, co-immunoprecipitation, ex vivo, and in vivo stereotaxic, microglial manipulation, and social behavior assessment to demonstrate that microglia and complement-mediated phagocytic activity shapes sex-specific NAc development. Moreover, we report for the first time that microglia-mediated phagocytosis is required for natural developmental changes in behavior, specifically, adolescent male social play behavior. These data have broad implications for understanding how experience interacts with the developing reward circuity, sex-specific responses to stimuli in adolescence, and how neuropsychiatric disorders may arise in a sexually dimorphic manner.
Relationship Between Adolescent Suicidality, Self-Injury, and Media Habits

Media has changed the daily lives of most Americans, especially adolescents. The interplay between development and media habits is complex. There is a link between excessive media use and risk-taking behaviors, with an alarming increase in adolescent nonsuicidal self-injury, suicidal behavior, and completed suicide. The link is complex and not necessarily causal. Clinicians should routinely take a media history that distinguishes types and extent of use, content, and psychological impact. Media is a significant part of adolescents' lives and exploring their engagement with media is a critical piece of the initial assessment, risk assessment, and ongoing treatment.
Beam control for indoor FSO and dynamic dual-use VLC lighting systems

Practical VLC (Visible Light Communication) systems are expected to leverage the lighting infrastructure in order to deliver data to devices in a lighting field. These devices can be static or quasistatic (e.g., laptops or IoT devices); however, it is becoming clear that the preponderance of wireless data consumption is dominated by handheld mobile devices which will exhibit varying physical orientations and 3D dynamics. Because free-space optical and visible light communications are primarily line of sight, transmitter radiation patterns and receiver field of view are very important for predicting the data performance. Given dynamic emission characteristics, there is an opportunity to adapt to the receiver. The caveat of dynamic VLC systems is that the quality and distribution of the resulting illumination must be considered as part of the dual goal of providing high quality lighting. In this paper we investigate the impact of device orientation and mobility on static and then dynamic lighting emission under a multicell lighting model. From a source standpoint we consider the performance of beam control through angular control and beam focus for one or more sources in a lighting array. Analysis and simulation demonstrate that dynamic beam and luminaire control can increase the AP coverage range by 12.8X under a 1.67 m ceiling height. Furthermore, the use of multiple sources tracking device orientation and position can mitigate off-angle performance degradation by increasing redundancy in the number of available connections. Our proposed techniques, when applied in concert, successfully mitigate common concerns about the viability of VLC and indoor FSO (Free Space Optical Communication) methods related to signal occlusion and device dynamics.
Person–Job Fit

This chapter presents the seven motivational gifts from Romans 12 as dimensions of person–job fit. Each motivational gift is explained. Following the explanations is information about the instrument to measure the seven motivational gifts and information about profiles of the gifts.
Student Teachers' Images of Science Instruction in Informal Settings: A Focus on Field Trip Pedagogy.

The purpose of this study was to explore student teachers’ images of science instruction in informal settings and how these images explicate their field trip pedagogy. Field trips refers to planned...
Are Medicare's “Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement” Bundled Payments Stratifying Risk Adequately?

Abstract Background Bundled payments are meant to reduce costs and improve quality of care. Without adequate risk adjustment, bundling may be inequitable to providers and restrict access for certain patients. This study examines patient factors that could improve risk stratification for the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) bundled-payment program. Methods Ninety-five thousand twenty-four patients meeting the CJR criteria were retrospectively reviewed using administrative Medicare data. Multivariable regression was used to identify associations between patient factors and traditional (fee-for-service) Medicare reimbursement over the bundle period. Results Average reimbursement was $18,786 ± $12,386. Older age, male gender, cases performed for hip fractures, and most comorbidities were associated with higher reimbursement (P Conclusion More robust risk stratification could provide more equitable reimbursement in the CJR program. Level of Evidence Large database analysis; Level III.
Can God Be Trusted

Etude de la nature de la relation de confiance entre l'homme et dieu. Examinant la conception non-anselmienne de la divinite, selon laquelle l'etre parfait a le pouvoir de choisir entre le bien et le mal, et le pouvoir de changer d'avis, l'A. montre que le principe de la foi chretienne est compatible avec l'impossibilite de faire confiance a Dieu.
Protocol Design for Real-Time Estimation Using Wireless Sensors

This chapter discusses how a wireless sensor network can be built for real-time estimation purposes. The finite capacity of a wireless network in delivering information means that a real-time estimation process has finite accuracy too. Improving accuracy requires faster sampling and more communication; however, faster communication is not always a possibility due to scalability issues and the limited capacity of a network. In fact, in networks where the wireless medium is shared amongst many nodes, the increase in the amount of communication may even have a negative impact on the capacity of wireless medium, and in turn on the quality of real-time estimation (e.g., loss of network capacity as seen in CSMA/CA—Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Avoidance- networks). In this chapter we describe methods and protocols that can be employed to control the behavior of nodes to allow maximal use of the shared medium for the purpose of real-time estimation. We describe how transmission control protocols (adapting rate and range of communication) should be applied in a wireless network of mobile sensors, such as vehicles, to allow the highest possible accuracy given the limitations of the medium. Such protocols have been evaluated in the form of transmission rate and range control schemes in wireless vehicular networks, with the purpose of real-time vehicle position tracking.
Exocrine granule specific packaging signals are present in the polypeptide moiety of the pancreatic granule membrane protein GP2 and in amylase : implications for protein targeting to secretory granules

The mechanisms for segregation of secretory and membrane proteins incorporated into storage granules from those transported constitutively have been thought to be conserved in diverse cell types, including exocrine and endocrine cells. However, GP2, the major protein of pancreatic zymogen granule membranes, in its native glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-linked form, is incorporated into secretory granules when expressed in exocrine pancreatic AR42J cells, but not in the endocrine cells such as pituitary AtT20. To determine whether the protein moiety of GP2 contains the cell-type specific information for packaging into granules, a secretory form of GP2 (GP2-GPI-), with the GPI attachment site deleted, was generated and introduced into AR42J and AtT20 cells. Like native GP2, GP2-GPI- localized to the zymogen-like granules of AR42J cells and underwent regulated secretion. In AtT20 cells expressing GP2-GPI-, however, the protein was secreted by the constitutive pathway. Thus, a granule packaging signal is present in the luminal portion of GP2 that is functional only in the exocrine cells. However, this cell-type dependent sorting process is not limited to GP2 or membrane proteins. Amylase, a major content protein of pancreatic acinar and serous salivary gland granules, was also secreted exclusively by the constitutive pathway when expressed in AtT20 cells. The cell-type specific targeting of GP2 to granules correlated with its behavior in an in vitro aggregation assay where it co-aggregated more effectively with content proteins from pancreatic zymogen granules than with those from pituitary granules.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Initial SPHERES Operations Aboard the International Space Station

The Satellite Position Hold Engage Reorient Experimental Satellites(SPHERES) program, developed by the MIT Space Systems Laboratory,began operations aboard the International Space Station (ISS) on May2006. SPHERES was designed as a research facility to demonstratemetrology, control, and autonomy algorithms for distributedsatellites systems. By operating in the risk-tolerant environment ofthe ISS, SPHERES allows researchers to push the limits of theiralgorithms. Five test sessions, conducted during 2006, achievedmultiple objectives for the different areas under study. The firsttest session was dedicated to hardware checkout. The second testsession demonstrated basic 6DOF closed-loop control of thesatellites. Fault detection and isolation algorithms were alsotested, successfully using the inertial measurement system to detectsimulated faults in space. Formation flight tests during the fourthand fifth session demonstrated two types of control architectures.Following the principle of incremental algorithm development,demonstrations of multiple scenarios of spacecraft docking occurredduring test sessions one through four; the last session demonstrateddocking to a tumbling spacecraft. The results of these test sessionsare the basis upon which substantial more research will be conductedin the following years.
Aging and Autobiographical Memory: The Long and Bumpy Road

This article serves as an introduction to this special issue of Journal of Adult Development that deals with the topic of aging and autobiographical memory. Methodological issues, empirical findings, and theoretical frameworks that bear on older adults' autobiographical recall are discussed. Special emphasis is placed on an examination of the factors that underlie the offset of infantile amnesia and the reminiscence bump. An integrative approach to the study of aging and autobiographical memory is proposed that brings together paradigms from experimental psychology, clinical neuropsychology, and neuroimaging.
When to Start Levodopa Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease

Patients with Parkinson’s disease and the neurologists who treat them have had a complicated relationship with levodopa. Despite the undisputed efficacy of levodopa in ameliorating the cardinal mot...
Vesicular degradation pathways in neurons: at the crossroads of autophagy and endo-lysosomal degradation

Autophagy and endo-lysosomal degradation are two parallel degradation pathways essential for maintaining neuronal health and function. Autophagosomes and endosomes sequester cellular cargo through different mechanisms, but these pathways converge upon fusion with lysosomes. Both pathways are spatially regulated, with distinct features evident in the soma, axons, and dendrites, possibly as an adaptation to the unique morphology of neurons and the specific demands of each compartment. Relatively little is known about how autophagy and endo-lysosomal degradation interact and how their activities may be coordinated. We review our current understanding of autophagy and endo-lysosomal degradation in neurons, highlighting common features and differences as well as the intersection of these two essential cellular pathways.
Metal-Organic Framework Photoconductivity via Time-Resolved Terahertz Spectroscopy

While metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been under thorough investigation over the past two decades, photoconductive MOFs are an emerging class of materials with promising applications in light ...
51. VALIDATION OF THE MAYO EVALUATION OF REFLECTION ON IMPROVEMENT TOOL (MERIT) FOR USE IN A PEDIATRIC RESIDENCY PROGRAM

Background Quality improvement (QI) education is a requirement at all stages of medical education training. Pediatric training programs are required to assess their trainees on quality improvement reflection and knowledge as part of the Pediatric Milestones. However, there is currently no validated tool for use in pediatrics to assess reflection on quality improvement opportunities. The Mayo Evaluation of Reflection on Improvement Tool (MERIT) has been previously published with validity evidence for use in internal medicine programs, but it has not been studied for use in pediatric training programs. Objective To validate the MERIT assessment tool for use in pediatric residency programs to aid in quality improvement milestone evaluation. Design/Methods All University of Texas Southwestern (UTSW) pediatric residents completed annual improvement reflections between 2015-2017. De-identified reflections were assessed by five independent reviewers. Reviewers were oriented to the MERIT tool and compared 10 initial evaluations to ensure consistency. Completed MERIT evaluation scores were compared. Inter-rater reliability for each item on the tool was compared with intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) using a mean-rating, absolute-agreement, 2-way mixed effects model. Internal consistency for each section and the overall tool was evaluated with Cronbach's alpha and inter-item correlations. All calculations were done with SPSS statistical package version 25. Results 150 resident reflections were evaluated yielding 749 evaluation forms for study. Item mean scores were highest for the Problem of Merit section (3.19) and lowest for the Reflection on System Characteristics of Quality Improvement (1.94). Inter-rater reliability was good for all 18 items on the MERIT tool (ICC range: 0.78 - 0.90). Inter-rater reliability was good to excellent for 13 of the 18 items on the tool when 95% CI was used. Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha 0.93 overall and 0.94 - 0.95 for each section). The Cronbach's alpha did not improve if any single item was removed. Inter-item correlations were high for all three sections, but highest for the Problem of Merit section (0.67 - 0.92). Conclusion(s) Validity evidence supports the use of the MERIT in pediatric residency programs to assess resident reflections on quality improvement. The pediatric validity evidence is consistent with the previously published validation study in an Internal Medicine residency program.
First-principles identification of localized trap states in polymer nanocomposite interfaces

Ab initio design of polymer nanocomposite materials for high breakdown strength requires prediction of localized trap states at the polymer–filler interface. Systematic first-principles calculations of realistic interfaces can be challenging, particularly for amorphous polymers and fillers that necessitate the calculation of ensembles of large unit cells with hundreds of atoms. We present a computational approach for automatically generating reasonable structures for amorphous polymer–filler interfaces, combining classical molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations. We identify trap states by analyzing the localization of electronic eigenstates calculated using density functional theory on ensembles of interface structures, clearly distinguishing shallow trap states from delocalized band-edge states. Applying this approach to silica–polyethylene interfaces as an initial example, we find under-coordination and distorted coordination structures at amorphous silica surfaces contribute a combination of deep and shallow traps at these interfaces, whereas polyethylene does not generate localized interfacial states.
10 – Structured Programming

Publisher Summary Structured Programming is based on a few concepts such as GO TO-less programming, modularization of programs, and the top-down design of programs. GO TO statements are advised to be avoided in programs. GO TO statements make it difficult to follow the logic of a program and, therefore, difficult to debug. Other languages such as PL/I are better suited for writing GO TO-less programs. The introduction of the IF–THEN–ELSE into the ANS Standard FORTRAN will make GO TO-less programming in FORTRAN easier. Moreover, the IF–THEN–ELSE in conjunction with the WATFIV-S WHILE loop can make GO TO-less programming in FORTRAN as easy as it is in a few other high level languages. The top-down designs of a program, including the modularization of programs along with programming management techniques, such as the Chief Programming Team were employed at IBM in implementing a large information retrieval system for The New York Times. Flow charts are not the end-all for program design. In fact, a flow chart for any involved program is difficult to understand.
Canonical signaling by TGF family members in mesenchymal stromal cells is dispensable for hematopoietic niche maintenance under basal and stress conditions

Mesenchymal stromal cells are an important component of the bone marrow hematopoietic niche. Prior studies showed that signaling from members of the transforming growth factor (TGF) superfamily in mesenchymal stromal cells is required for normal niche development. Here, we assessed the impact of TGF family signaling on niche maintenance and stress responses by deleting Smad4 in mesenchymal stromal cells at birth, thereby abrogating canonical TGF signaling. No alteration in the number or spatial organization of CXCL12-abundant reticular (CAR) cells, osteoblasts, or adipocytes was observed in Osx-Cre, Smad4fl/fl mice, and expression of key niche factors was normal. Basal hematopoiesis and stress erythropoiesis responses to acute hemolytic anemia were normal. TGF-β potently inhibits stromal CXCL12 expression in vitro; however, G-CSF induced decreases in bone marrow CXCL12 expression and subsequent hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell mobilization were normal in Osx-Cre, Tgfbr2fl/fl mice, in which all TGF-β signaling in mesenchymal stromal is lost. Finally, although a prior study showed that TGF-β enhances recovery from myeloablative therapy, hematopoietic recovery following single or multiple doses of 5-flurauracil were normal in Osx-Cre, Tgfbr2fl/fl mice. Collectively, these data suggest that TGF family member signaling in mesenchymal stromal cells is dispensable for hematopoietic niche maintenance under basal and stress conditions.
Functional MRI Signal Complexity Analysis Using Sample Entropy

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) is an immensely powerful method in neuroscience that uses the blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) signal to record and analyze neural activity in the brain. We examined the complexity of brain activity acquired by rs-fMRI to determine whether it exhibits variation across brain regions. In this study the complexity of regional brain activity was analyzed by calculating the sample entropy of 200 whole-brain BOLD volumes as well as of distinct brain networks, cortical regions, and subcortical regions of these brain volumes. It can be seen that different brain regions and networks exhibit distinctly different levels of entropy/complexity, and that entropy in the brain significantly differs between brains at rest and during task performance.
Herramientas de control de gestión en Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas en Chile

En este articulo, se analiza el uso de herramientas de Control de Gestion en Pequenas y Medianas Empresas (PYME) en Chile a traves de un enfoque cuantitativo y exploratorio. Tomando como base metodologica el modelo de palancas de control propuesto por Robert Simons (1995) y compuestas por: sistemas de creencias, sistemas de limites, sistemas de control interactivo y sistema de control de diagnostico se realizo una encuesta entre gerentes de pequenas y medianas empresas chilenas. Los datos recolectados se analizaron en el software SPSS con una muestra de 86 empresas, encontrandose que los resultados son acordes con lo senalado por la literatura en cuanto al uso de herramientas de Control de gestion en PYMES en Chile, tratandose en su mayoria de empresas familiares, que toman sus decisiones con base a informacion cuantitativa (sistema de costeo, de inventario, presupuestos) pero mostrando en su mayoria objetivos estrategicos medianamente definidos y una excesiva centralizacion de sus organismos de control.
Past Its Prime? A Methodological Overview and Critique of Religious Priming Research in Social Psychology

Social psychologists have frequently used priming methodologies to explore how religion can impact behaviour. Despite this, no consensus currently exists on whether religious priming effects are replicable or consistently observed across a range of spiritual beliefs. Moreover, mixed evidence highlights possible methodological shortcomings within the priming literature as well as theoretical ambiguity regarding the contents of different primes. The current article examines four types of religious priming methodologies that are frequently used in social-psychological research (explicit, implicit, subliminal, and contextual) and critically inspects the current landscape of the religious priming literature. We highlight theoretical issues and suggest methodological improvements that should facilitate a clearer understanding of when and how religion influences human behaviour.
Abstract 20246: Impact of Subclinical Hypothyroidism on Lipid and Lipoprotein Subclasses

Background: It is uncertain whether subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is associated with lipid abnormalities. Therefore, we examined a range of lipid and lipoprotein subclasses across the spectrum of euthyroid, SCH, and overt hypothyroidism (HT) in apparently healthy women free of CVD. Methods: A random sample of 3914 individuals from the Women’s Health Study was selected for thyroid function analysis. From this sample, 3321 individuals were not on lipid lowering therapy and had thyroid profiles compatible with euthyroid, 2571 (77.4%); SCH, 573 (17.3%); and HT, 177 (5.3%). Lipids were measured directly, and lipoprotein subclasses were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Statistical comparison was performed by ANOVA, after adjusting for age, BMI, menopausal status, HRT, blood pressure, anti-hypertensive medication, diabetes, and current smoking. Results: Compared with euthyroid individuals, those with SCH and HT were older, had higher BMI, greater prevalence of post-menopausal status and me...
R and S

R is a programming language and an environment for interactive data analysis. The first version of R was released in 1993, growing out of the S language developed at Bell Labs in the late 70s. The main strength of R is its rich ecosystem, which includes commercial vendors, thousands of add-on packages, mechanisms for getting help, and many avenues for scientific publishing. Keywords: R; CRAN; S-plus; programming language; statistical computing; software
Features of the iSCSI protocol

The iSCSI protocol specifies how to access SCSI storage devices over a TCP network. In this article we give a brief introduction to the iSCSI protocol and a brief comparison with alternative technologies. We then discuss the basic features of the iSCSI protocol: sessions, naming, discovery, security, data placement, and recovery.
Voice outcomes following reconstruction of laryngopharyngectomy defects using the radial forearm free flap and the anterolateral thigh free flap

Objectives/Hypothesis Patients undergoing laryngopharyngectomy with extensive pharyngeal mucosal resection or those failing chemoradiation protocols are commonly reconstructed using free tissue transfer. Radial forearm free flaps (RFFFs) and anterolateral thigh free flaps (ALTs) are two of the most commonly used free flaps for laryngopharyngectomy reconstruction. It has been suggested that alaryngeal tracheoesophageal prosthesis (TEP) speech outcomes in patients undergoing ALT reconstruction may be inferior due to the possibly bulkier neopharynx. We report the results of patients treated with ALT and RFFF with regard to postoperative TEP voice outcomes. Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods We identified 42 consecutive patients who were treated with total laryngopharyngectomy and free flap reconstruction utilizing either RFFFs (20 patients) or ALTs (22 patients) between April 2001 and August 2010. Evaluations with statistical analysis of standard TEP speech outcome measures (maximal sustained phonation, fluent count, syllable count) and qualitative variables were conducted. Results Patient demographics were similar between the RFFF and ALT groups, and 95% and 91% of RFFF and ALT patients received radiation therapy, respectively. Subjective voice quality did not significantly differ between the groups. Differences in outcomes of intelligibility, maximal sustained phonation time, maximum number of syllables, and fluent count, as evaluated by a single speech pathologist, were not statistically significant between RFFF and ALT patients. There was no difference in postoperative complications. Conclusions These data indicate that reconstruction of laryngopharyngectomy defects using either the ALT or RFFF technique can produce similarly acceptable TEP voice results. Level of Evidence: 2b. Laryngoscope, 124:397–400, 2014
Detection of operator performance breakdown as an automation triggering mechanism

Performance breakdown (PB) has been anecdotally described as a state where the human operator “loses control of context” and “cannot maintain required task performance.” Preventing such a decline in performance is critical to assure the safety and reliability of human-integrated systems, and therefore PB could be useful as a point at which automation can be applied to support human performance. However, PB has never been scientifically defined or empirically demonstrated. Moreover, there is no validated objective way of detecting such a state or the transition to that state. The purpose of this work is: 1) to empirically demonstrate a PB state, and 2) to develop an objective way of detecting such a state. This paper defines PB and proposes an objective method for its detection.
Towards a trusted HDFS storage platform

As a follow-on to the authors' previous work, this paper further expands on the concept of creating a trusted Apache Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS). We discuss our motivation and evaluate a threat model for HDFS, and address a set of common security concerns within HDFS through infrastructure and software involving data-at-rest encryption and integrity validation. To accomplish these goals, we make use of technology from the Trusted Computing Group, such as the pervasively available Trusted Platform Module. In addition, we discuss our design considerations in building an encryption framework for Hadoop in a trustworthy manner, and describe the results of our experiments creating an encryption scheme for Hadoop utilizing hardware key protections and AES-NI for encryption acceleration. As part of this design we evaluate the recently implemented crypto framework for Hadoop and independently test the performance claims of AES-NI regarding mitigating performance overhead.
Spatially Resolved Near-Infrared Spectroscopy of the Seyfert 2 Galaxies Markarian 1066, NGC 2110, NGC 4388, and Markarian 3

We present near-infrared spectra with resolutions of λ/Δλ ~ 1200 in the emission lines Paβ, [Fe II] (λ = 1.2567 μm), Brγ, and H2 ν = 1–0 S(1) of the nuclei and circumnuclear regions of the four Seyfert 2 galaxies Mk 1066, NGC 2110, NGC 4388, and Mk 3. All of these galaxies show strong near-infrared line emission that is detected at radii several times the spatial resolution, corresponding to projected physical scales of 0.07 to 0.7 kpc. Velocity gradients are detected in these nuclei, as are spatial variations in line profiles and flux ratios. We compare the spatial and velocity distribution of the line emission to previously observed optical line and radio emission. The evidence indicates that the [Fe II] emission is associated with the Seyfert activity in the galaxies. Our data are consistent with X-ray heating being responsible for most of the [Fe II] emission, although differences in [Fe II] and Paβ line profiles associated with radio emission suggests that the [Fe II] emission is enhanced by fast shocks associated with radio outflows. The H2 emission is not as strongly associated with outflows or ionization cones as is the emission in other lines, but rather appears to be primarily associated with the disk of the galaxy.
Men's and Women's Perceptions of Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse.

This paper examines the reactions of college men and women (primarily white) to scenarios depicting non-consensual intercourse between men and women with varying levels of prior intimacy. Women were more likely than men to consider the scenarios unacceptable, and the gender difference increased with the level of prior intimacy between the victim and the offender in the scenario. Respondents who reported knowing a rape victim were also more likely to consider the scenarios unacceptable, and this effect was significantly larger for men. We consider the implications of these results for understanding the role of salience of sexual assault and self-interest in shaping men's and women's reactions to non-consensual intercourse.
A nano-composite polyamide imide passivation for 10 kV power electronics modules

High current and voltage handling capabilities are desired in many high-performance power electronic modules. One of the main challenges when integrating a power module is having a high-voltage insulation material that is reliable at all operating temperatures. In this work, the use of a polyamide imide (PAI) material as the high-voltage passivation for the power electronic modules was investigated. The power modules were integrated with a two-step passivation-encapsulation process using the PAI material. The fabricated modules were tested up to 10 kV to evaluate the material insulation properties.
Host detection of pathogen-induced translational inhibition: a new pathogen-specific branch of the innate immune system?

Both intracellular and extracellular pathogens ultimately disrupt processes inside the host cell to cause disease. While extracellular pathogens remain outside of the cell, they use a myriad of methods to deliver toxins into host cells, either directly with their own secretion systems or indirectly by exploiting host endocytosis. The AB toxins are a class of secreted bacterial proteins that have been studied extensively for the mechanisms by which they disrupt host processes, as well as their route of entry into host cells [1]. For example, exotoxin A (ToxA), an AB toxin produced by the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was shown to enter host cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis in 1980 [2]. Once inside of cells, ToxA inactivates the host elongation factor EF2 to block host mRNA translation. ToxA is one of several bacterial toxins, including Diphtheria toxin and Shiga toxin, which act to block translational elongation. The host response to these toxins has been poorly explored until recently, when it was shown that the translation-blocking effects of these toxins can switch on a form of host defense termed ‘surveillance immunity’ [3–5] that is part of a framework for host responses called ‘patterns of pathogenesis’ [6,7]. This pathogen-specific immunity is part of an emerging branch of the host defense that is critical for survival of nonprofessional immune cells, and may be important for professional immune cells as well.
Quantum Electrodynamics at Small Distances

In an earlier paper, it was shown that if the vacuum polarization in quantum electrodynamics is calculated neglecting corrections to internal photon lines, then the charge renormalization diverges as a single power of the logarithm of a cutoff in every order of perturbation theory. It was further shown that if the coefficient of the logarithm $f({\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{0})$ has a zero, and a further positivity condition of $f$ is satisfied, then the complete unrenormalized-photon Green's function is finite. These results we now relate to the Gell-Mann-Low investigation of renormalized quantum electrodynamics at small distances. In particular, the vanishing of the Gell-Mann-Low function $\ensuremath{\psi}$ is shown to follow from the vanishing of $f$. This demonstrates why it is sufficient, from the point of view of the renormalized theory, to study quantum electrodynamics without photon self-energy corrections in order to examine the predictions of the theory at small distances.
Two-Dimensional Crystallography of TFIIB– and IIE–RNA Polymerase II Complexes: Implications for Start Site Selection and Initiation Complex Formation

Abstract Transcription factors IIB (TFIIB) and IIE (TFIIE) bound to RNA polymerase II have been revealed by electron crystallography in projection at 15.7 A resolution. The results lead to simple hypotheses for the roles of these factors in the initiation of transcription. TFIIB is suggested to define the distance from TATA box to transcription start site by bringing TATA DNA in contact with polymerase at that distance from the active center of the enzyme. TFIIE is suggested to participate in a key conformational switch occurring at the active center upon polymerase–DNA interaction.
The EPR Spectra of Manganese(II) on Sulfonated Polystyrene Resins Cross-linked with Pure Divinylbenzene Isomers

Abstract The EPR spectra of manganese(II) ions on sulfonated polystyrene cross-linked with either pure meta or pure para divinylbenzene show distinctions indicative of ionic environments of different symmetry.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease in 2006: The imperfect diagnosis

There continues to be significant controversy related to diagnostic testing for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Clearly, barium contrast fluoroscopy is superior to any other test in defining the anatomy of the upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract. Although fluoroscopy can demonstrate gastroesophageal reflux (GER), this observation does not equate to GERD. Fluoroscopy time should not be prolonged to attempt to demonstrate GER during barium contrast radiography. There are no data to justify prolonging fluoroscopy time to perform provocative maneuvers to demonstrate reflux during barium contrast UGI series. Symptoms of GERD may be associated with physiologic esophageal acid exposure measured by intraesophageal pH monitoring, and a significant percentage of patients with abnormal esophageal acid exposure have no or minimal clinical symptoms of reflux. Abnormal acid exposure defined by pH monitoring over a 24-h period does not equate to GERD. In clinical practice presumptive diagnosis of GERD is reasonably assumed by substantial reduction or elimination of suspected reflux symptoms during therapeutic trial of acid reduction therapy.