cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
2.10 – Hormones, Brain, and Behavior in Reptiles

The enormous diversity of sexual differentiation patterns across reptiles allows for ‘natural experiments’ investigating the process of sex determination and sexual differentiation, as well as neuroanatomical and neurochemical structure-function relationships. Examples include temperature-dependent sex determination, the presence of within-sex alternative morphological phenotypes, and the evolution of all-female parthenogenetic species. The study of reptiles, which possess many phylogenetically primitive characteristics, also allows for comparisons to mammals and birds, which arose from turtle-like and crocodilian-like ancestors, respectively. These studies have yielded generalizable information regarding the interplay of genetics, brain, and hormones in the regulation of social behaviors.
Habit planes of martensite in chrome-carbon steel

Observations are reported on the scatter of the habit planes of martensite in a 2.8 pct Cr, 1.5 pct C steel. Only a small amount of the scatter is actually due to experimental error; most of it is real. Possible reasons for the real scatter are proposed and examined
Predicting Home Run Production in Major League Baseball Using a Bayesian Semiparametric Model

This article attempts to predict home run hitting performance of Major League Baseball players using a Bayesian semiparametric model. Following Berry, Reese and Larkey we include in the model effec...
NaV1.7 as a Pharmacogenomic Target for Pain: Moving Toward Precision Medicine

Chronic pain is a global unmet medical need. Most existing treatments are only partially effective or have side effects that limit their use. Rapid progress in elucidating the contribution of specific genes, including those that encode peripheral voltage-gated sodium channels, to the pathobiology of chronic pain suggests that it may be possible to advance pain pharmacotherapy. Focusing on voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7 as an example, this article reviews recent progress in developing patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and their differentiation into sensory neurons, together with advances in structural modeling, that have provided a basis for first-in-human translational studies. These new approaches will hopefully transform the treatment of pain from trial-and-error toward genomically guided, precision pharmacotherapy.
Shifting stream planform state decreases stream productivity yet increases riparian animal production

In the Colorado Front Range (USA), disturbance history dictates stream planform. Undisturbed, old-growth streams have multiple channels and large amounts of wood and depositional habitat. Disturbed streams (wildfires and logging < 200 years ago) are single-channeled with mostly erosional habitat. We tested how these opposing stream states influenced organic matter, benthic macroinvertebrate secondary production, emerging aquatic insect flux, and riparian spider biomass. Organic matter and macroinvertebrate production did not differ among sites per unit area (m-2), but values were 2 ×-21 × higher in undisturbed reaches per unit of stream valley (m-1 valley) because total stream area was higher in undisturbed reaches. Insect emergence was similar among streams at the per unit area and per unit of stream valley. However, rescaling insect emergence to per meter of stream bank showed that the emerging insect biomass reaching the stream bank was lower in undisturbed sites because multi-channel reaches had 3 × more stream bank than single-channel reaches. Riparian spider biomass followed the same pattern as emerging aquatic insects, and we attribute this to bottom-up limitation caused by the multi-channeled undisturbed sites diluting prey quantity (emerging insects) reaching the stream bank (riparian spider habitat). These results show that historic landscape disturbances continue to influence stream and riparian communities in the Colorado Front Range. However, these legacy effects are only weakly influencing habitat-specific function and instead are primarily influencing stream-riparian community productivity by dictating both stream planform (total stream area, total stream bank length) and the proportional distribution of specific habitat types (pools vs riffles).
Pattern-Triggered Immunity Alters the Transcriptional Regulation of Virulence-Associated Genes and Induces the Sulfur Starvation Response in Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000.

Pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) can confer broad defense against diverse microbes and pathogens with disparate lifestyles through the detection of microbial extracellular signatures by surface-exposed pattern recognition receptors. However, unlike recognition of pathogen effectors by cytosolic resistance proteins, PTI is typically not associated with a host-cell programmed cell death response. Although host PTI signaling has been extensively studied, the mechanisms by which it restricts microbial colonization are poorly understood. We sought to gain insight into the mechanisms of PTI action by using bacterial transcriptomics analysis during exposure to PTI. Here, we describe a method for bacterial cell extraction from inoculated leaves that was used to analyze a time course of genome-wide transcriptional responses in the pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 during early naive host infection and exposure to pre-induced PTI in Arabidopsis thaliana. Our analysis revealed early transcriptional regulation of important bacterial metabolic processes and host interaction pathways. We observed peak induction of P. syringae virulence genes at 3 h postinoculation and that exposure to PTI was associated with significant reductions in the expression of virulence genes. We also observed the induction of P. syringae sulfur starvation response genes such as sulfate and sulfonate importers only during exposure to PTI.
Integrating quantum photonics and microwaves in a rare-earth ion on-chip architecture (Conference Presentation)

Quantum interconnects allow disparate quantum systems to be entangled, leading to more powerful integrated quantum technology and increases in scalability. The foundation for such technology, including photonic quantum memories and coherent microwave-to-optical (M2O) transducers, have already been developed in rare-earth ion (REI) crystals. Here we demonstrate improved REI quantum device functionality in an on-chip platform that dramatically strengthens the ions’ interactions with optical fields and integrates with planar microwave technology. Using a photonic crystal nanobeam fabricated in a Nd-doped yttrium vanadate (YVO) crystal, we harness the enhanced ion-photon interactions that create single photon Rabi frequencies as large as 60 MHz. In particular, the large AC Stark shift is used to control an ensemble of approximately 4000 ions for photonic quantum memory applications. We demonstrate AC Stark shift control of the storage time in the atomic frequency comb protocol as well as the possibility of memories based on an all-optical variation of the hybrid photon echo rephasing protocol. The spin state of the REIs can also be addressed directly through the integration of microwave striplines and coplanar waveguide cavities. The achievement of optically detected magnetic resonance in on-chip waveguides and nanophotonic cavities in Nd:YVO will be presented along with the initial progress of achieving coherent M2O conversion using Raman heterodyne spectroscopy. With photonic quantum memories and sources, single ion qubits, and quantum M2O all feasible in the one integrated platform, REI technology is a promising platform for enabling large scale integration of diverse quantum resources.
Molecular insights into the irreversible mechanical behavior of sickle hemoglobin

Sickle cell disease is caused by the amino acid substitution of glutamic acid to valine, which leads to the polymerization of deoxygenated sickle hemoglobin (HbS) into long strands. These strands a...
The Method of Multipliers for Equality Constrained Problems

This chapter discusses the method of multipliers for equality constrained problems. By solving an approximate problem, an approximate solution of the original problem can be obtained. However, if a sequence of approximate problems can be constructed that converges in a well-defined sense to the original problem, then the corresponding sequence of approximate solutions would yield in the limit a solution of the original problem. The basic idea in penalty methods is to eliminate some or all of the constraints and add to the objective function a penalty term that prescribes a high cost to infeasible points. A parameter that determines the severity of the penalty and as a consequence the extent to which the resulting unconstrained problem approximates the original constrained problem is associated with the penalty methods.
Applications of Resonance Inverse Raman and Raman Gain Spectroscopy to Biological Systems

Resonance Raman spectroscopy ranks among the most powerful probes of biochemical molecules currently available. Few, if any, other techniques provide the combination of fairly high resolution, applicability to aqueous solutions and good sensitivity. However, spontaneous Raman spectroscopy is inapplicable to highly luminescent media and many systems of biochemical interest are fluorescent. Among the important fluorescent chromophores are the flavins, the bile pigments and aromatic amino acids. In addition, many important probe molecules are luminescent, including almost all of those which intercalate with nucleic acids.
Implications of Internal Mammary Lymph Node Sampling During Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction

Internal mammary lymph node (IMN) chain assessment for breast cancer is controversial; however, current oncologic data have shed new light on its importance. Metastatic involvement of the IMN chain has implications for staging, prognosis, treatment, and survival. Here, we analyzed our data gathered during sampling of the IMN and the oncologic treatment changes that resulted from our findings. A retrospective chart review was performed on 581 patients who underwent free-flap breast reconstruction performed by the senior author. All dissected IMNs were submitted for pathological examination. Patient demographics, oncologic data, and the results of IMN sampling were reviewed. 581 patients undergoing 981 free flaps were identified. A total of 400 lymph node basins were harvested from 273 patients. Of these, nine had positive IMNs. Two of these nine patients had positive IMNs of the contralateral nonaffected breast. Five patients had positive axillary lymph nodes. Four patients had multifocal tumors, one of which was bilateral. Seven patients had an increase in cancer stage as a result of having positive IMNs. Six patients had a change in treatment: two patients required additional chemotherapy, one received adjuvant radiation therapy, and three necessitated both supplemental chemotherapy and radiation. Opportunistic biopsy of the IMN while dissecting the recipient vessels is simple and results in no added morbidity. We recommend that biopsy of the IMN chain be performed whenever internal mammary vessels are dissected for microsurgical anastomosis in breast cancer patients. Positive IMN involvement should encourage thorough oncological workup and treatment reevaluation. Case series.
Parental Policies: A Catalyst for Gender Equality in the Arab Region

The struggle for gender equality has many facets, but one crucial aspect that is often overlooked is the role of parental policies. This refers to laws stipulating that women and men should be given time off work during and after the birth of a child. Parental policies are widely viewed as important labor rights and are enshrined under various international treaties, but the broader societal value of these policies in transforming gender dynamics and promoting equality is sometimes underappreciated.
IMPEACHMENT OR BACKSLIDING? Threats to democracy in the twenty-first century

The age of military coups has ended, but democracy still confronts major challenges in the early twenty-first century. What are the new threats for democratic survival? Is impeachment a functional equivalent to old-fashioned military coups? Using comparative data for Latin America, this paper shows that the institution of impeachment has been “stretched” for political purposes and that the social conditions that triggered military coups in the pasttrigger impeachments in the contemporary era. However, the paper argues that impeachments should not be confused with coups and presents a surprising result: even though legislators often manipulate the impeachment process to undermine elected presidents, the most common threat to democratic survival does not originate in legislatures, but in the executive branch. Concentration of power by the executive has undermined democracy in Latin Americaand elsewhere.
Crystalglobulin-Induced Nephropathy and Keratopathy.

Crystalglobulinemia, a rare manifestation of monoclonal gammopathy, results from vascular deposition of crystallized monoclonal proteins leading to tissue injury. A 56-year-old man initially presented several years earlier with migratory polyarthralgias and blurry vision with no unifying diagnosis. Following an acute episode of malignant hypertension and rapidly progressive kidney failure, kidney biopsy was performed and was interpreted as idiopathic thrombotic microangiopathy. Further evaluation revealed an underlying monoclonal protein disorder. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy evaluation showed crystalline keratopathy. Re-evaluation of the kidney biopsy material with pronase staining confirmed crystalglobulin-induced nephropathy. The patient was initially treated with cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone with partial response, followed by autologous stem cell transplantation with normalization of monoclonal protein studies, improvement in kidney function and joint symptoms, and decreased corneal deposits. His disease recurred but did not require additional treatment 1 year later. This case exemplifies the unique systemic presentation of diseases in the monoclonal gammopathy spectrum and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach when caring for these patients.
Genetic Structure and Its Implications for Genetic Epidemiology: Aleutian Island Populations

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have become a popular approach for identifying genetic variants that influence variation in susceptibility to common, complex diseases. However, association findings from such studies may be biased due to population stratification, and several techniques have been used to adjust for its influences on genetic association studies. Therefore, given attention to genetic diversity across human populations, a combination of SNPs or STRs on autosomal chromosomes, mitochondrial DNA, and NRY chromosome markers should be utilized to determine whether genetic structure exists in the population of interest. In large cosmopolitan populations that reside in urban centers, it can be difficult to assess potential genetic discontinuity and the possible sources of social stratification. In contrast, island populations are geographically isolated as well as culturally defined with boundaries that are more easily circumscribed. This chapter examines the indigenous populations of the Aleutian Archipelago for the distribution of mtDNA and NRY genetic markers and their possible discontinuity resulting from their history and geography. Despite the forced relocation and transplantation of some Aleuts for commercial purposes by the Russians in the nineteenth century and World War II invasion by the Japanese, disease epidemics, and population disruption, their genetic structure has been maintained in the mitochondrial DNA sequences. This preservation of the ancient genetic structure is revealed by the high correlation between intermatch genetic distances based on mtDNA sequences and geographical distances. Yet, there is no statistically significant correlation between geography and genetic distances, based on NRY, nor between mtDNA sequences and NRY distances. The gene structure of the Aleutian Archipelago reflects the one-way gene flow from Russian and western European males to Aleut females. There is considerable asymmetry in the genetic substructure of the Aleutian Islands depending on which molecular markers are used to assess the genetic variability.
Study on contribution of potassium, nitrogen and organic fertilizer to farmers' super rice production economy - based on empirical study of 690 rice farmers in eight counties in Liaoning, Zhejiang and Hunan Province.

[Objective] The aim was to investigate the contribution of potassium,nitrogen and organic fertilizer to super rice production.[Method] The data about the labor force input,fertilizer input,organic fertilizer input,contents of effective nitrogen and effective potassium in production,obtained through empirical study of 690 rice farmers in eight counties (cities) in Liaoning,Zhejiang and Hunan in 2009,were analyzed by using Cobb-Douglas production function model to study influence of material input (especially the fertilizer input) and labor force input to the yield of super rice,and the correlation between the input and the yield of rice production.[Result] The increase in amount of organic fertilizer has significantly increased the yield of super rice.The amount of chemical fertilizer applied is becoming more reasonable,but increase of yield does not result in increase of value.Different types of fertilizers have significantly different capabilities in increasing yields of super rice.The potassium fertilizer is superior to phosphorous fertilizer,while phosphorous is superior to nitrogenous fertilizer in improving production capacity.[Conclusion] The paper suggests that it should continue to increase the amount of organic fertilizers and potassium fertilizer and meanwhile control the amount of nitrogenous fertilizer in super rice production at present.
Building Collections through Purchase Suggestions in Academic Libraries

AbstractThis research studies the fields contained in “Suggest a Purchase” forms from 100 university libraries, focusing on the data they can provide to subject specialists to make decisions about ...
High efficiency resonance ionization of thorium

Abstract Multi-step resonance ionization spectroscopy of thorium has been performed with Ti:Sapphire lasers and a hot-cavity laser ion source. Resonance ionization schemes involving three-color, three-photon ionization processes are evaluated and a new three-photon scheme is demonstrated with measured overall ionization efficiency of 38.6(5)%. This high efficiency makes it possible to determine the thorium impurities in materials used for ultra-low background neutrino detectors and could also benefit ultra-trace thorium analysis using resonance ionization mass spectrometry for various radiochemical tracer applications.
Staphylococcus sciuri peritonitis in a patient on peritoneal dialysis.

Staphylococcus sciuri is an occasional cause of human infection that has been described in the flora of numerous animal species and in environmental specimens. Here, we report a rare case of S. sciuri peritonitis in a dialysis patient who had exposure to peridomestic animals.
Analysis of the Destabilization of Bacterial Membranes by Quaternary Ammonium Compounds: A Combined Experimental and Computational Study

The mechanism of action of quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) antiseptics has long been assumed to be straightforward membrane disruption, although the process of approaching and entering the membrane has little modeling precedent. Furthermore, questions have more recently arisen regarding bacterial resistance mechanisms, and why select classes of QACs (specifically, multicationic QACs) are less prone to resistance. In order to better understand such subtleties, a series of molecular dynamics simulations were utilized to help identify these molecular determinants, directly comparing mono-, bis-, and triscationic QACs in simulated membrane intercalation models. Three distinct membranes were simulated, mimicking the surfaces of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as a neutral phospholipid control. By analyzing the resulting trajectories in the form of a timeseries analysis, insight was gleaned regarding the significant steps and interactions involved in the destabilization of phospholipid bilayers within the bacterial membranes. Finally, to more specifically probe the effect of the hydrophobic section of the amphiphile that presumably penetrates the membrane, a series of alkyl- and ester-based biscationic quaternary ammonium compounds were prepared, tested for antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and modeled.
Hyperoxia induces glutamine-fuelled anaplerosis in retinal Müller cells

Although supplemental oxygen is required to promote survival of severely premature infants, hyperoxia is simultaneously harmful to premature developing tissues such as in the retina. Here we report the effect of hyperoxia on central carbon metabolism in primary mouse Muller glial cells and a human Muller glia cell line (M10-M1 cells). We found decreased flux from glycolysis entering the tricarboxylic acid cycle in Muller cells accompanied by increased glutamine consumption in response to hyperoxia. In hyperoxia, anaplerotic catabolism of glutamine by Muller cells increased ammonium release two-fold. Hyperoxia induces glutamine-fueled anaplerosis that reverses basal Muller cell metabolism from production to consumption of glutamine. Prematurely born babies need extra oxygen to survive, but this can cause damage to the eyes and lead to infant blindness. Here the authors show that this hyperoxia changes the metabolism of Muller cells in the retina such that they use up, rather than produce, glutamine and secrete excess ammonium.
Prompt vitrectomy for management of endophthalmitis in setting of unexposed glaucoma drainage implant

Abstract Purpose To highlight a rare case of fulminant endophthalmitis in the late post-operative stage after glaucoma drainage device implantation without evidence of device exposure, and to share the unique management that resulted in successful restoration of vision and intraocular pressure control. Observations Endophthalmitis after glaucoma drainage implantation (GDI) is a rare complication most often associated with exposure of the device. Management options are limited, but removal of GDI is a common approach in the setting of an exposed implant. Visual acuity outcomes are often significantly reduced despite adequate treatment. There is little in the existing literature about management of late-onset endophthalmitis in the setting of a GDI without implant exposure. Here we present such a case that was successfully managed by prompt pars plana vitrectomy and removal of tube from the anterior chamber with subsequent re-insertion and patch graft. Our case results in a restoration of baseline visual acuity and IOP control at 7 months follow up. Conclusions and importance Endophthalmitis occurring after GDI implantation is a challenging complication to manage. Many physicians resort to removal of device for treatment, and a majority would treat initially with intravitreal antibiotic injection of antibiotics rather than prompt pars plana vitrectomy. This article provides a different approach that avoids removal of the device.
Prospective Elementary Mathematics Specialists’ developing instructional practices: support and mentorship during an authentic residency

This case study explored Prospective Elementary Mathematics Specialists’ (PEMSs) pedagogical practices during a K-5 Mathematics Endorsement (K-5 ME) program, specifically focusing on the authentic residency with mentor sessions. Participants included nine PEMSs, with qualitative and quantitative data collected via individual interviews, professional portfolios, and observations of classroom practices. Upon completion of the K-5 ME program, all participants were implementing instructional practices learned about in the program in substantial ways. Participants were honing their skills for orchestrating effective discourse, and the application of those skills became more meaningful as they saw the impact it was having on student learning. This implementation and documentation program coursework was rigorous as PEMSs worked to develop themselves as mathematics teachers and teacher leaders. The collaborative support during the authentic residency and mentor sessions seem to have been significant for PEMSs in supporting implementation of newly learned instructional practices. Ultimately, PEMSs completed the program feeling more prepared as elementary mathematics teachers and teacher leaders.
Sampled Aperture Techniques for High Resolution Ultrasound Tomography

This paper reviews two new imaging techniques which depend upon sampling the ultrasound pressure signal at many places on an aperture. The predicted performance of these new methods is compared with well known and standard ultrasound techniques such as those found in focused piston transducer B-scan systems and phased array imaging systems. These new methods show promise for improved resolution and qualitative tissue characterization. The first of these techniques, synthetic focusing, is analogous to the seismic imaging methods known as seismic migration used in geophysical exploration for petroleum. The relationship of this method to acoustical holography will be discussed. The second sampled aperture technique, diffraction tomography, is a first-order perturbation method for finding inverse solutions of the wave equation in the interior of a region from measurements on its boundary. The method holds promise for reconstructing ultrasonic refractive index, attenuation, and specific impedance. Both new methods are capable of producing images with resolution of about one wavelength.
5 – Fractal Binding and Dissociation Kinetics of Disease-Related Compounds on Biosensor Surfaces

Publisher Summary The detection of different compounds for the onset or management of diseases remains a predominant area for the application of biosensors. The first known use of the biosensor was the detection of glucose levels in blood for the better management of diabetes. Over the years due to the ease of usage, reliability, and precision of results, biosensors are being used increasingly in different areas of application. Some of the current applications of biosensor use for the “early” detection of analytes that indicate the onset of diseases are highlighted in this chapter. It is also important to analyze the influence of the degree of heterogeneity on the biosensor surface on the binding and dissociation (if applicable) kinetics for the reactions in current applications. The intent is to obtain valuable insights into these reactions especially as far as biosensor performance parameters are concerned. It is hoped that one may be able to manipulate these values by changing the degree of heterogeneity on the biosensor surface. For most applications, a single- or a dual-fractal analysis is often adequate to describe the binding and the dissociation kinetics. Peculiarities in the values of the binding and the dissociation rate coefficients, as well as in the values of the fractal dimensions with regard to the dilute analyte systems being analyzed, are carefully noted, if applicable.
Prenatal diagnostic analysis of 8 cases diagnosed as fetal Meckel-Gruber syndrome

Objective To discuss clinical presentation and prenatal diagnosis of fetal Meckel-Gruber syndrome. Methods This is a retrospective study of all cases of fetal Meckel-Gruber syndrome(n=8)registered in the Prenatal Diagnosis Center of Obstetrics, Women and Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University from December 2005 to March 2016, with further analysis on abnormal manifestation in congenital anomalies, prenatal ultrasound features and so on. Results These cases were diagnosed prenatally by ultrasound at 21+ 4 (range 13+ 5~31+ 1) gestational weeks and pregnancies were all terminated at week 16~31+ 4. The types and frequency of major congenital anomalies in this study included encephalocele(100%, 8/8), occipital skull defect(75%, 6/8), microcephaly(12.5%, 1/8), brain dysplasia(25%, 2/8), congenital hydrocephalus(25%, 2/8), polycystic kidney disease(100%, 8/8), renal dysplasia(12.5%, 1/8), polydactyly(37.5%, 3/8), short limbs(12.5%, 1/8), lower extremity tibia bone dysplasia (12.5%, 1/8), pesequinovarus(12.5%, 1/8), congenital heart disease(50%, 4/8), and fibrotic changes of the liver(12.5%, 1/8). Conclusion Meckel-Gruber syndrome has a variety of serious structural abnormalities involving a wide range of diseases. There is also high risk of recurrence about it. The parents should be counseled about the prognosis and the outcome of the fetus. Early diagnosis is significant for timely counseling of affected couples regarding the options of pregnancy termination and prenatal genetic testing in future pregnancies. This bears great significance towards reducing birth defects. Key words: Meckel-Gruber syndrome; Fetal autopsy; Prenatal diagnosis
Parental discipline and child psychosocial outcomes in Iraq and Kurdistan: evidence from a nationally representative sample

Few empirical studies have been conducted on populations in the Middle-East, particularly in Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan, regarding the relationships between the type of discipline used by caregivers and its subsequent effect on children. Our analyses, which are based on data from the Iraq Multi-Cluster Survey 2018, replicate the prior work of scholars using Western samples, and suggest that variation in parental practices pertaining to the discipline of children is a robust predictor of several negative psychosocial outcomes among Iraqi and Kurdish youth. Specifically, we found that children who were subjected to various forms of violent physical discipline, psychological aggression, and neglectful parenting were more likely to exhibit an array of symptoms of psychosocial disorder, relative to measures of adequate parenting. Our analyses also provide strong support for the presence of comorbid psychosocial outcomes among Iraqi and Kurdish youth that stem from differences in the practice of parental discipline. The results of the current study are discussed regarding both theoretical and practical applications. The study's limitations are also addressed and suggestions for future research on the discipline-outcome nexus are given.
The sign you must not touch: Lyric obscurity and trans confession

It would not be going too far to say that contemporary trans subjects are trapped in the confessional. In order to access the medical and legal tools of transition, trans people are required to enact a ritualistic repetition of ‘their journey’ that amounts to a secularized form of religious confession. This essay turns to Renaissance lyric for another mode of trans confession, one that frustrates the basic purposes of feeding transgender affect into what Foucault calls an ‘endless mill of speech.’ Focusing on John Donne’s purposefully obscure engagements with religion and transition in ‘The Funerall,’ this essay argues that metaphysical poetry offers a form of trans confession that does not terminate in the medicalized techniques of social control.
Temporal evolution of single-cell transcriptomes of Drosophila olfactory projection neurons

Abstract Neurons undergo substantial morphological and functional changes during development to form precise synaptic connections and acquire specific physiological features. What are the underlying transcriptomic bases? Here, we obtained the single-cell transcriptomes of Drosophila olfactory projection neurons (PNs) at four developmental stages. We decoded the identity of 21 transcriptomic clusters corresponding to 20 PN types and developed methods to match transcriptomic clusters representing the same PN type across development. We discovered that PN transcriptomes reflect unique biological processes unfolding at each stage—neurite growth and pruning during metamorphosis at an early pupal stage; peaked transcriptomic diversity during olfactory circuit assembly at mid-pupal stages; and neuronal signaling in adults. At early developmental stages, PN types with adjacent birth order share similar transcriptomes. Together, our work reveals principles of cellular diversity during brain development and provides a resource for future studies of neural development in PNs and other neuronal types.
The Automorphism Conjecture for Ordered Sets of Dimension 2 and Interval Orders

Let $\lambda \in \left (0,\frac {1}{2} \right ) $ . We prove that, for ordered sets P of order dimension 2 and for interval orders, the ratio of the number of automorphisms to the number of endomorphisms is asymptotically bounded by $2^{-|P|^{\lambda } } $ . The key to the proof is to establish this bound for certain types of lexicographic sums.
Analysis of Seeing-Induced Polarization Cross-Talk and Modulation Scheme Performance

We analyze the generation of polarization cross-talk in Stokes polarimeters by atmospheric seeing, and its effects on the noise statistics of spectropolarimetric measurements for both single-beam and dual-beam instruments. We investigate the time evolution of seeing-induced correlations between different states of one modulation cycle and compare the response to these correlations of two popular polarization modulation schemes in a dual-beam system. Extension of the formalism to encompass an arbitrary number of modulation cycles enables us to compare our results with earlier work. Even though we discuss examples pertinent to solar physics, the general treatment of the subject and its fundamental results might be useful to a wider community.
Descriptive analysis of Fibulin-3 and the extracellular vesicle marker, Alix, in drusen from a small cohort of postmortem human eyes

Fibulin-3 (Fib3) is a secreted glycoprotein that is expressed in the retina and has been associated with drusen formation in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The purpose of this study was to assess whether Fib3 is associated with extracellular vesicles (EVs) in drusen from non-diseased and AMD human donors. De-identified sections of human eyes were received from the National Disease Research Institute (NDRI, Philadelphia). Donor eyes were either non-diseased (no known ocular pathology) or had been diagnosed with AMD. Retinal cryostat sections were labeled with primary antibodies targeted to Fib3, Apolipoprotein E (ApoE; a drusen marker), and ALG-2 interacting protein X (Alix, an EV marker) for confocal imaging (Leica TCS SP8). Fib3-positive (Fib3+) puncta were detected on the apical region of the RPE layer and within large AMD drusen. Alix-positive (Alix+) puncta were also detected in a single AMD druse, where a number were Fib3+ and the remaining were Fib3-negative. Similarly, there were Fib3+ puncta that were Alix-negative. Fib3 and Alix also showed a degree of colocalization in the photoreceptor outer segments of the neural retina. Our data suggest that the Alix+ puncta are EV-rich populations that accumulate, together with Fib3, within the drusen matrix during AMD. The EV population is likely heterogeneous, such that there are sub-populations with different cargo content.
Adoption, Implementation and Impact of IMF Programmes: A Review of the Issues and Evidence

This paper evaluates the literature on the lending programmes of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The first section deals with the initiation of a Fund program, which has been shown to be influenced by political and institutional variables. A second focus of research analyses the design and implementation of Fund-supported polices, since many programmes are often not successfully completed. The third issue surveyed is the impact of IMF policies on the economy of the borrowing government. The effect of Fund programmes on private capital flows is also examined.
Latent class analysis of use frequencies for multiple tobacco products in US adults.

Abstract A persistent challenge is characterizing patterns of tobacco use in terms of product combinations and frequency. Using Wave 4 (2016–17) Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study adult data, we conducted latent class analyses (LCA) of past 30-day frequency of use for 9 tobacco products. One-step LCA with joint multinomial logistic regression models compared sociodemographic factors between users (n = 13,716) and non-users (n = 17,457), and between latent classes of users. We accounted for survey design and weights. Our analyses identified 6 classes: in addition to non-users (C0: 75.7%), we found 5 distinct latent classes of users: daily exclusive cigarette users (C1: 15.5%); occasional cigarette and polytobacco users (C2: 3.8%); frequent e-product and occasional cigarette users (C3: 2.2%); daily smokeless tobacco (SLT) and infrequent cigarette users (C4: 2.0%); and occasional cigar users (C5: 0.8%). Compared to C1: C2 and C3 had higher odds of being male (versus female), younger (especially 18–24 versus 55 years), and having higher education; C2 had higher, while C3 and C4 had lower, odds of being a racial/ethnic minority (versus Non-Hispanic White); C4 and C5 had much higher odds of being male (versus female) and heterosexual (versus sexual minority) and having higher income; and C5 had higher odds of college or more education. We identified three classes of daily or frequent users of a primary product (cigarettes, SLT or e-products) and two classes of occasional users (cigarettes, cigars and polytobacco). Sociodemographic differences in class membership may influence tobacco-related health disparities associated with specific patterns of use.
A curved manifold orients rotational dynamics in motor cortex

Summary Controlling arm movements requires complex, time-varying patterns of muscle activity 1,2. Accordingly, the responses of neurons in motor cortex are complex, time-varying, and heterogeneous during reaching 2–4. When examined at the population level, patterns of neural activity evolve over time according to dynamical rules 5,6. During reaching, these rules have been argued to be “rotational” 7 or variants thereof 8,9, containing coordinated oscillations in the spike rates of individual neurons. While these models capture key aspects of the neural responses, they fail to capture others – accounting for only 20-50% of the neural response variance. Here, we consider a broader class of dynamical models. We find that motor cortex dynamics take an unexpected form: there were 3-4 rotations at fixed frequencies in M1 and PMd explaining more than 90% of neural responses, but these rotations occurred in different portions of state space when movements differ. These rotations appear to reflect a curved manifold of fixed points in state space, around which dynamics are locally rotational. These fixed-frequency rotations obeyed a simple relationship with movement: the orientation of rotations in motor cortex activity were related almost linearly to the movement the animal made, allowing linear decoding of reach kinematic time-courses on single trials. This model constitutes a fundamentally novel way to consider pattern generation: like placing a record player in a large bowl, the frequency of activity is fixed, but the location of motor cortex activity on a curved manifold sets the orientation of locally-rotational dynamics. This system simplifies motor control, helps reconcile conflicting frameworks for interpreting motor cortex, and enables greatly improved neural decoding.
Experimental and numerical investigation of standing-wave thermoacoustic instability under transcritical temperature conditions

This manuscript describes an experimental and numerical investigation of transcritical thermoacoustic instability in a standing-wave setup using the refrigerant octafluoropropane (R-218) as the working fluid. Thermoacoustic instability is excited by two microtube heat exchangers separated by a vacuum-jacketed microtube stack. R-218 is allowed to flow axially through the microtubes into a closed resonator while heating and cooling fluids flow radially over the microtubes to create a temperature gradient. The fluid achieved pressure amplitudes up to 669 kPa (97 psi) at a temperature difference ΔT=Thot−Tcold of 150 K and a base pressure, P0, of 1.3 times the critical pressure (3.43 MPa). The high pressure amplitudes obtained are attributed to the strong density variations near the critical point of the working fluid. The thermoacoustic response was characterized in a set of parametric studies in which ΔT, base pressure, and resonator length were varied. A modeling approach based on linearized Navier–Stokes equations reproduces the experimental results with fair agreement. This work demonstrates promising application of transcritical working fluids to thermoacoustic engines as devices for energy extraction and waste heat removal.
The Routledge guidebook to Plato's Republic

Series Editor's Preface Author Preface Part I: General Introduction 1. lato and the Republic Part II: The Argument of the Republic 2. What is Justice? (Book 1) 3. What good is justice? (Books 1-2) 4. Justice in the city (Books 2-4) 5. Justice in the soul (Book 4) 6. Radical politics (Books 5-7) 7. Metaphysics and epistemology (Books 5-7) 8. Injustice in the soul and the city (Books 8-9) 9. Art and immorality (Book 10) Part III: General Issues 10. Plato's ethics and politics 11. Plato's metaphysics and epistemology 12. Plato's abuses and uses of poetry 13. The afterlife of the Republic Appendix Bibliography Index
The GFMT HPMHT puzzle

Most target tracking algorithms work with data at the plot or detection level; that is, after an initial signal processing step of thresholding and centroiding that delivers point “hits” for data association and filtering. The GFMT (general frequency modulation tracker) and HPMHT (histogram probabilistic multi-hypothesis tracker), on the other hand, work directly with pixellated observation data, as on a focal plane array (FPA), meaning that the signal processing step is integral to the tracker. The HPMHT filled most of a statistical pit in the GFMT, but a perceptible hole remains. We discuss this here: If the problem can be modeled — and it can — then a solution that derives from this model ought to be available.
Role of mitochondria in regulating microRNA activity and its relevance to the central nervous system

Mitochondria serve as the powerhouse of cells, respond to cellular demands and stressors, and play an essential role in cell signaling, differentiation, and survival. Aberrant mitochondria function has been linked to diverse and complex human diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, cancers, myopathies, premature aging, and metabolic syndromes (Nunnari and Suomalainen, 2012). For example, there is clear evidence of a rapid and sustained loss of mitochondrial function following traumatic injury to the central nervous system (CNS) (Sullivan et al., 2005; McEwen et al., 2011). However, our understanding of how compromised mitochondrial activity impacts overall cellular function in the CNS is far from complete.
Six Sigma Disciplines in Automotive Applications

Six-Sigma provides the opportunity and discipline to eliminate mistakes, improve morale, and save money. Doing things right and keeping them consistent is the idea behind Six-Sigma. A fundamental objective of Six-Sigma is to achieve customer satisfaction with continuous improvement in quality. Process control and manufacturing variation reduction is important but companies often find that the majority of their quality problems were actually created during the design process. An example of improving manufacturing process capability to give bottom line cost savings and customer satisfaction is presented in this paper. The methodology to increase system robustness through Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) is presented and demonstrated through the extension of the case study of crankshaft journal lobing design robustness improvements.
Davydov solutions at 300 kelvin: The final search

The original proposal by Professor A. S. Davydov of a soliton mechanism for localization and transport of energy along linear chain molecules provided the impetus for several research efforts which have explored the properties of these nonlinear entities in differing degrees of realism. The general conclusion from all of this work is that the nonlinear equations of motion which have been used to describe these systems have soliton-like solutions when they are solved in the deterministic limit. This limit corresponds to the absolute zero of temperature, because it ignores the influence of random thermal perturbations on the system. However, the questions of existence and importance of the Davydov soliton remain controversial when non-zero temperature effects are taken into account, because numerical simulations and theoretical calculations done by independent research groups have reached diametrically opposed conclusions.
Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage in the 2003 UNESCO Convention: a critical appraisal

This critical article expounds on what 'intangible cultural heritage' is and the historical background of UNESCO's attempts to safeguard and protect the world's living cultural heritage in the wake of modernization, global mass culture and the diminishing of national identities. By the mid-1990s, as international awareness dramatically increased, UNESCO sponsored surveys of national actions (1995-99) as well as regional conferences, which led to a List of Intangible Masterpieces (2001) and a Convention (2003). The latter is still considered as a work in progress wherein experts and community members, policy-makers and scholars will try to figure out how to improve its provisions over the coming years. Indeed, the Convention looks idealistic and very challenging for several reasons: the conceptual distinction of the tangible and intangible can be problematic among the diversity of the world's people; intangible heritage must be consistent with human rights, exhibit the need for mutual respect between communities, and be sustainable; nations are expected to develop inventories and action plans for safeguarding this heritage; and those who practice the traditions should have the major responsibility for their safeguarding. The Convention imposes obligations upon states that may construct unintended negative consequences and obstacles to its success. The call to take 'necessary measures' to 'ensure the viability of intangible cultural heritage' is unrealistic as culture changes and no coercive measures may stop this evolution. More appropriate is giving aid to traditional cultural practices and their practitioners to ensure survival without influencing the outcome. In addition, the discussed inventories and UNESCO lists may have value for recognizing and valorizing various traditions, but they alone will not save them. This causes the author to question whether the Convention is adequate for the task of safeguarding living cultural practices.
Human Rights Event Detection from Heterogeneous Social Media Graphs

Abstract Human rights organizations are increasingly monitoring social media for identification, verification, and documentation of human rights violations. Since manual extraction of events from the massive amount of online social network data is difficult and time-consuming, we propose an approach for automated, large-scale discovery and analysis of human rights–related events. We apply our recently developed Non-Parametric Heterogeneous Graph Scan (NPHGS), which models social media data such as Twitter as a heterogeneous network (with multiple different node types, features, and relationships) and detects emerging patterns in the network, to identify and characterize human rights events. NPHGS efficiently maximizes a nonparametric scan statistic (an aggregate measure of anomalousness) over connected subgraphs of the heterogeneous network to identify the most anomalous network clusters. It summarizes each event with information such as type of event, geographical locations, time, and participants, and p...