cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
USE OF HISTORIC TAX CREDITS FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION IN VIRGINIA: COSTS, BENEFITS, ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS, AND PUBLIC POLICY ISSUES

USE OF HISTORIC TAX CREDITS FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION IN VIRGINIA: COSTS, BENEFITS, ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS, AND PUBLIC POLICY ISSUES By Paola Venturini Brooks, Ph.D. A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2011 Major Director: William C. Bosher, Jr. Distinguished Professor Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs A number of studies show that school facilities in the United States are deteriorating and that a substantial outlay of financial capital is required to bring school facilities to good overall condition. The current economic environment, marked by slow growth, high unemployment, and low tax revenues has highlighted widespread issues with the financial condition and fiscal sustainability of local governments. While studies show that the success of the educational process is related to the condition of school facilities, providing a safe and effective educational environment for students and teachers is a great challenge for local governments. Alternative sources of funding for the rehabilitation of old schools, which would reduce the need for long-term debt financing, are worth exploring. Federal and state historic rehabilitation tax incentive programs have proven to be successful in bringing private capital, economic activity, and jobs to distressed areas around the country, while being largely fiscally self sustaining. Current legislation, however, does not make the federal tax credit program easily accessible to public schools, and a significant court decision has the potential to undermine the viability of the entire Virginia program. This study examined the financial costs and benefits of historic tax credit financing for school construction in Virginia, investigated administrative issues related to the private-public nature of the program, and finally analyzed the relevant public policy issues. The study followed a case study methodology of two schools in Virginia which utilized historic tax credit financing, and four schools which utilized traditional financing for renovation. This study will expand the body of knowledge of modern education financing and enrich the existing literature by introducing a financing alternative that includes a private-public partnership. The study will also be of great value to policymakers, public administrators, the investor community, and the public at large as they evaluate financing alternatives for school construction.
A novel wide-angle scanning pattern reconfigurable antenna

A pattern reconfigurable planar quasi-Yagi antenna with switched connections is proposed. The antenna consists of four elements and using PIN diodes to control states. By switching between the four different states of the PIN diodes, the proposed antenna can operate in different states in similar frequency ranges. The simulated impedance bandwidth (|S 11 |<-10dB) of the four states is 18.9% with a center frequency around of 5.8 GHz. The maximum gain of four states is all more than 5.3dBi. And the main beam direction is 80°, 179°, 262° and 353° for the four states. The proposed antenna provides a potential application in multifunctional, conformal, morphing and integrated structures.
Decreased serum TRAIL is associated with increased mortality in smokers with comorbid emphysema and coronary artery disease.

Abstract Background Smokers are highly susceptible to lung and cardiovascular disease that can reduce their survival. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a protein in the circulation that may suppress vascular and pulmonary inflammation. Therefore, we hypothesized that diminished circulating TRAIL levels would be associated with poor survival in smokers with lung and cardiovascular disease. Methods Serum TRAIL level was measured by immunoassay in 474 smokers. Coronary atherosclerosis was assessed by coronary artery calcium scoring along with emphysema, lung function, and survival. Results The 474 smokers were 65.7 ± 6.3 years old and 52.2% male with 55.3 ± 31.5 pack-years of tobacco-exposure. 83 of them died during 3588.2 person-years of follow up. At baseline, lower TRAIL level was associated with more coronary artery calcium (OR = 1.2 per SD, 95%CI 1.1–1.5, p = 0.02), and with history of myocardial infarction (OR = 2.3 per SD, 95%CI 1.2–4.5, p = 0.02), angina (OR = 1.6 per SD, 95%CI 1.1–2.6, p = 0.03), and angioplasty (OR = 1.8 per SD, 95%CI 1.0–3.1, p = 0.04) in models adjusted for cardiovascular risk-factors, FEV1, and emphysema. Also, lower TRAIL level was associated with emphysema severity independent of demographics and tobacco exposure (β = 0.11 sq. root units, 95% CI 0.01–0.22, p = 0.03). Further, TRAIL level was lowest in smokers with comorbid emphysema and coronary artery calcification rather than either condition alone. Finally, lower TRAIL level was independently associated with increased mortality in smokers particularly in those with comorbid emphysema and coronary artery calcification (HR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.01–1.90). Conclusions TRAIL level is reduced in smokers with comorbid emphysema and coronary artery disease, and is associated with reduced survival.
68Gallium-DOTATATE positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET CT) changes management in a majority of patients with neuroendocrine tumors.

Abstract Background 68Gallium-DOTATATE positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET CT) has shown superior accuracy in detecting grade 1 and 2 neuroendocrine tumors over previous imaging modalities and was recently included in National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. It remains unclear which patients benefit most from this imaging modality. We therefore reviewed our initial experience with 68Gallium-DOTATATE PET CT to evaluate its usefulness in diagnosing, staging, and surveilling neuroendocrine tumors. Methods Records of patients who underwent 68Gallium-DOTATATE PET CT from March to December 2017 were prospectively evaluated. The primary endpoint was whether 68Gallium-DOTATATE PET CT changes treatment in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. Descriptive statistics, Fisher exact tests, and nested logistic regressions were conducted. Results A total of 50 consecutive patients were included. Of these, 41 patients (82%) had a biopsy-proven neuroendocrine tumor at the time of imaging. The remaining 9 patients (18%) had symptoms or biochemistry suggestive of a neuroendocrine tumor with negative cross-sectional imaging. 68Gallium-DOTATATE PET CT changed management in 33 patients (66%). There were 24 patients with intermodality changes in management and 9 patients with intramodality changes in management. Patients with scans performed for staging had a higher likelihood of a change in management (P = .006). Conclusion Performing 68Gallium-DOTATATE PET CT should be considered for staging and surveillance of neuroendocrine tumors because it is frequently associated with changes in management.
Effects of Electrospinning Solution Properties on Formation of Beads in Tio2 Fibers with PdO Particles

TiO2 fibers with catalytic PdO particles are of interest for use as porous catalytic converters to react NOx and CO to control air pollution. The fibers are first electrospun as template polymer fi...
Post-ACA Racial Disparity of Eye Examinations Among the U.S. Noninstitutionalized Population With Diabetes: 2014-2015.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a microvascular complication of diabetes, is the leading cause of blindness among adults aged 20 to 74 years (1). Between 2010 and 2014, ∼4.2 million adults aged >40 years were diagnosed with DR (2,3). Of these, 655,000 suffered from advanced DR, which can cause blindness if left untreated (2). The American Diabetes Association recommends eye examinations for people with diabetes based on the evidence of DR present (i.e., if any level of DR is present, then exams should be repeated at least annually; if there is no evidence, then exams every 2 years may suffice) (3). Regardless of stipulations, it is evidenced that racial and ethnic minorities have been previously shown to have fewer exams than recommended (4). This study assesses the racial and ethnic disparities of eye examination rates among U.S. adults with diabetes after the increased access initiatives of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Annual data from the 2014–2015 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) Household Component data files were analyzed. The study population included adults aged 18 years and older with a self-reported diagnosis of diabetes from a health care professional. The primary outcome was the annual eye examination rate, defined as …
A Zebrafish Model for Selenoprotein Synthesis and Function (OR11-01-19)

We have established a zebrafish model system that will allow unprecedented access to the role of selenoprotein function during development. The work described here focuses on a poorly characterized RNA binding protein that is similar to SECIS binding protein 2 (SBP2), which is required for the co-translational insertion of selenocysteine at select UGA codons in selenoprotein mRNAs. This protein, SECISBP2L, shares many features with SBP2 but is has no known function. We hypothesize that the zebrafish model system will reveal a selenoprotein-synthesis related function for SECISBP2L. Using CRISPR/Cas9, we generated zebrafish with a disruption in one of the conserved domains in SECISBP2L. When bred out to a homozygous mutant animal, we verified that SECISBP2L protein expression was eliminated. To analyze selenoprotein synthesis, we metabolically labeled wild-type and mutant embryos with radioactive selenium (Se-75). In terms of overt phenotypes in SECISBP2L null fish, we observed no defects in growth, mobility or fertility. However, we noticed a significant sensitivity to oxidative stress as measured by lethality associated with peroxide exposure. In order to detect changes in selenoprotein expression that may have resulted from SECISBP2L loss, we performed Se-75 labeling in embryos. We also began an investigation of the effect of oxidative stress on selenoprotein expression during development. As such, one set of embryos was treated for 24 hours with 100 nM Se-75 and the other with Se-75 plus 200 μM H2O2. In general, we did not observe an overall alteration of selenoprotein expression as a result of SECISBP2L loss. We did, however, observe a significant spike of expression for a 50 kDa selenoprotein that did not occur in the SECISBP2L null animals. Based on this molecular weight, we predict that this band corresponds to selenophosphate synthase (SEPHS2). In addition, subsequent labeling at later time points revealed a general reduction of selenoprotein expression that may result from reduced SEPHS2 expression because it is essential for selenocysteine-tRNA synthesis. We conclude that SECISBP2L is required for optimal selenoprotein expression and its function may be induced by oxidative stress. We have also demonstrated the value of a zebrafish model system for studying the mechanism of selenoprotein synthesis. Funded by the National Institutes of Health.
What is a polity? 2018 Lewis H. Morgan Lecture

In this revised text of the 2018 Lewis Henry Morgan Lecture, we encounter two communities—one a village in highland Crete, the other a small enclave in the old core of Bangkok—against which bureauc...
Peer rejection as a precursor of romantic dysfunction in adolescence: Can friendships protect?

Abstract Introduction Using a prospective longitudinal design across six years, the current study investigated whether adolescents’ experiences of peer rejection across middle school increased their risk of maladaptive (aggressive and unsupportive) behaviors in high school romantic relationships. Additionally, friendship quality following the transition to high school was examined as a potential protective factor. Methods The sample consisted of 1,987 ethnically diverse youth (54% female; Mage = 17.10) who were romantically involved at eleventh grade. Peer rejection (based on peer nominations) was assessed at four time points across three years in middle school. Students reported on their friendship quality in ninth grade and their aggressive (e.g., shouting; hitting) and supportive (e.g., listening; helping) behaviors towards a romantic partner in eleventh grade. Results Results demonstrated that adolescents who were increasingly rejected by peers during middle school were more likely to behave aggressively towards their romantic partners in high school. Friendship quality at the beginning of high school moderated prospective links from rejection to support, such that escalating middle school peer rejection predicted less supportive romantic behaviors only among youth with low-quality friendships at ninth grade. These patterns were documented over and above the effects of sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and students’ aggressive behavior at the beginning of middle school. Conclusions Together, the findings suggest that 1) increasing peer rejection during middle school may spiral into later romantic relationship dysfunction and 2) supportive friendships across a critical school transition can interrupt links between peer and romantic problems.
Addressing the Legacy of Apartheid

This chapter positions administrative reform and demographic transformation of the South African bureaucracy within the context of the ANC government’s efforts to address the legacy of apartheid. For nearly two decades, the ANC has pursued an ambitious and far-reaching policy agenda whose central thrust has been to undo the harm caused by apartheid by eliminating racial and gender inequality and reducing poverty, particularly among blacks. These policies are highly salient to historically disadvantaged groups, especially blacks, creating propitious conditions for representation of historically disadvantaged groups to improve bureaucratic performance. The discussion then turns to efforts to transform the public service into a representative bureaucracy and the demographic changes that have occurred within the public sector during the last two decades. The chapter concludes with a critique of transformation, including claims that it has eroded the capacity and performance of the public service.
Differential long noncoding RNA and messenger RNA expression profiling and functional network analysis in stroke-induced neurogenesis

Background and Purpose-Adult neurogenesis contributes to neurological recovery after stroke. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in the self-renewal and differentiation of stem cells. However, knowledge of the lncRNAs in stroke-induced neurogenesis remains unclear. Methods and Results- In the study, we isolated adult neural stem cells (NSCs) from the subventricular zone (SVZ) neurogenic region of adult non-ischemic and ischemic rats subjected to 7 day middle cerebral artery occlusion and then performed lncRNA profile analysis. In total, 155 lncRNAs were found to be significantly differentially down-regulated, while 86 lncRNAs were significantly up-regulated after stroke. Also, we identified 409 mRNAs were significantly up-regulated and 255 were down-regulated in ischemic NSCs compared with non-ischemic NSCs. We found that 4 significantly upregulated lncRNAs and 2 downregulated lncRNAs were positively correlated with their neighboring coding genes. Furthermore, the network analysis revealed matched lncRNA-mRNA correlations. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that Gene ontology (GO) of targeted genes that were positively modulated by lncRNAs was mainly related to synapse plasticity, cognition, neuron development, mitochondria, neurotransmitter signaling, calcium channel regulation, etc. Meanwhile, co-expressed genes negatively regulated by lncRNAs were correlated with DNA replication, cytokine production, cell adhesion, $\text{NF}-\kappa\mathrm{B}$ signaling, T cell process, metabolic process, etc. Conclusions- The present study provides a comprehensive catalog of lncRNAs involved in the ischemic NSCs and provides new insight into understanding the role of lncRNAs in stroke-induced neurogenesis.
Evolution: Spinal Innovation Enabled by Genome Duplication.

Summary Solid vertebrae evolved multiple times across vertebrates, but the origins and relationships of different spine forms remain unclear. A new study reveals teleost fishes evolved their solid vertebrae following genome duplication, when a novel gene repressed ancestral spine programming.
Stochastic Risk Premiums, Stochastic Skewness in Currency Options, and Stochastic Discount Factors in International Economies

We develop models of stochastic discount factors in international economies that produce stochastic risk premiums and stochastic skewness in currency options. We estimate the models using time-series returns and option prices on three currency pairs that form a triangular relation. Estimation shows that the average risk premium in Japan is larger than that in the US or the UK, the global risk premium is more persistent and volatile than the country-specific risk premiums, and investors respond differently to different shocks. We also identify high-frequency jumps in each economy, but find that only downside jumps are priced. Finally, our analysis shows that the risk premiums are economically compatible with movements in stock and bond market fundamentals.
Lipid signalling enforces functional specialization of Treg cells in tumours

Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) are essential for immune tolerance1, but also drive immunosuppression in the tumour microenvironment2. Therapeutic targeting of Treg cells in cancer will therefore require the identification of context-specific mechanisms that affect their function. Here we show that inhibiting lipid synthesis and metabolic signalling that are dependent on sterol-regulatory-element-binding proteins (SREBPs) in Treg cells unleashes effective antitumour immune responses without autoimmune toxicity. We find that the activity of SREBPs is upregulated in intratumoral Treg cells. Moreover, deletion of SREBP-cleavage-activating protein (SCAP)—a factor required for SREBP activity—in these cells inhibits tumour growth and boosts immunotherapy that is triggered by targeting the immune-checkpoint protein PD-1. These effects of SCAP deletion are associated with uncontrolled production of interferon-γ and impaired function of intratumoral Treg cells. Mechanistically, signalling through SCAP and SREBPs coordinates cellular programs for lipid synthesis and inhibitory receptor signalling in these cells. First, de novo fatty-acid synthesis mediated by fatty-acid synthase (FASN) contributes to functional maturation of Treg cells, and loss of FASN from Treg cells inhibits tumour growth. Second, Treg cells in tumours show enhanced expression of the PD-1 gene, through a process that depends on SREBP activity and signals via mevalonate metabolism to protein geranylgeranylation. Blocking PD-1 or SREBP signalling results in dysregulated activation of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase in intratumoral Treg cells. Our findings show that metabolic reprogramming enforces the functional specialization of Treg cells in tumours, pointing to new ways of targeting these cells for cancer therapy. Identification of a metabolic checkpoint involving lipid signalling that is specific to regulatory T cells (Treg cells) in the tumour microenvironment raises the possibility of targeting this checkpoint for treatment of cancer.
Reconceptualizing Student Engagement: Investigating the Validity of CCSSE Benchmarks as Indicators of International Student Engagement

International students in the United States have been increasingly attracted to community colleges as a starting point to higher education. Recently, their enrollment has been dropping. Research highlights the importance of student engagement to international students. However, few studies investigate their engagement experiences in community colleges. This study investigated the validity of the Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE) benchmarks as proxies for international student engagement in community colleges. The original CCSSE benchmarks were a poor fit for international students. Resulting constructs and underlying items differed significantly from the original benchmarks and demonstrated poor reliability. Findings highlight the inapplicability of CCSSE benchmarks in representing international student engagement. Recommendations include adding culturally relevant variables to the CCSSE structure more applicable to international student populations, and accompanying the survey with qualitative input for in-depth knowledge of international student experiences.
Oxidative Coupling of Methane

Introduction The conversion of carbonaceous feedstocks into higher value products occurs through two major routes: (1) indirect oxidation; and (2) direct oxidation, as shown in Figure 3.1. In the indirect oxidation approach, carbonaceous feedstock is first oxidized to syngas, which can then be further converted to value-added products. With respect to syngas generation, the thermodynamics and reaction characteristics of metal oxide oxygen carriers are discussed in Chapter 2; chemical looping reactor configurations are discussed in Chapter 4; and the techno-economic analyses of several chemical looping processes are discussed in Chapter 6. In the direct oxidation approach, the carbonaceous feedstock is directly upgraded to the desired product. Conceptually, the direct route simplifies the overall process and reduces costs by removing processing steps, but no commercial-scale system exists. Early research activity on direct oxidation processes, specifically for methane, can be traced back to the 1920s, but the utilization of methane in the chemical industry has been limited due to its high molecular stability. Currently, direct methane utilization involves conversion to value-added products such as aromatics, oxygenates, olefins, and paraffins, of which the three major oxidative processes are partial oxidation to methanol, to formaldehyde, as given in Section 5.4, and to ethylene and ethane via the oxidative coupling of methane (OCM). Volatility in petroleum prices and limited petroleum reserves have made natural gas resources progressively more attractive as an energy source. Recent discoveries of natural gas reserves, increased accessibility to shale gas, and low natural gas prices have propelled a resurgence in methane-to-chemicals research. Monetizing cheap natural gas to obtain higher value-added products would provide a critical opportunity to the petroleum and chemical industry.9 Research into one promising direct route, OCM, has exhibited peaks and troughs, as shown in Figure 3.2. To date, pilot-scale systems were constructed and tested at the Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) in the 1990s. In 2012, Honeywell announced plans to scale up a proof-of-concept direct methane conversion process to ethylene. More recently, in 2015 Siluria Technologies began operating a pilot-scale OCM demonstration unit to convert methane to ethylene or gasoline. In this chapter, the direct oxidation of methane to ethylene and higher hydrocarbons through OCM is presented.
Machine Learning Analysis of Hydrologic Exchange Flows and Transit Time Distributions in a Large Regulated River

Hydrologic exchange between river channels and adjacent subsurface environments is a key process that influences water quality and ecosystem function in river corridors. High-resolution numerical models were often used to resolve the spatial and temporal variations of exchange flows, which are computationally expensive. In this study, we adopt Random Forest (RF) and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) approaches for deriving reduced order models of hydrologic exchange flows and associated transit time distributions, with integrated field observations (e.g., bathymetry) and hydrodynamic simulation data (e.g., river velocity, depth). The setup allows an improved understanding of the influences of various physical, spatial, and temporal factors on the hydrologic exchange flows and transit times. The predictors also contain those derived using hybrid clustering, leveraging our previous work on river corridor system hydromorphic classification. The machine learning-based predictive models are developed and validated along the Columbia River Corridor, and the results show that the top parameters are the thickness of the top geological formation layer, the flow regime, river velocity, and river depth; the RF and XGB models can achieve 70% to 80% accuracy and therefore are effective alternatives to the computational demanding numerical models of exchange flows and transit time distributions. Each machine learning model with its favorable configuration and setup have been evaluated. The transferability of the models to other river reaches and larger scales, which mostly depends on data availability, is also discussed.
Hot corrosion behavior of refractory high entropy alloys in molten chloride salt for concentrating solar power systems

Abstract Refractory high entropy alloys have recently attracted widespread attention due to their outstanding mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, making them appealing for concentrating solar power and nuclear energy applications. However, their molten salt corrosion behavior has not been reported, which is critical in evaluating their application merit. Here, the corrosion behavior of two recently developed refractory high entropy alloys, namely TaTiVWZr and HfTaTiVZr, was studied in molten 33NaCl–22KCl–45MgCl2 (wt. %) eutectic salt at 450 °C and 650 °C, using potentiodynamic polarization technique. The results were compared with benchmark alloys, namely 304 stainless steel (SS304) and Inconel 718 (IN718). TaTiVWZr refractory high entropy alloy exhibited an order of magnitude lower corrosion current density (Icorr = 0.7× 10-3 A cm-2) compared to SS304 (Icorr = 9.2 × 10-3 A cm-2) at the higher temperature of 650 °C. The corrosion rate of all the alloys increased with increase in temperature from 450 °C to 650 °C with the exception of TaTiVWZr. The TaTiVWZr alloy showed a corrosion rate of ~ 5 mm/year at 650 °C compared to ~ 110 mm/year for SS304. HfTaTiVZr and IN718 showed comparable corrosion rates in the range of ~ 40 mm/year at 650 °C. The high corrosion resistance of the two refractory high entropy alloys was attributed to a combination of three factors: (i) slower chlorination rate of refractory elements in the molten chloride salt environment driven by thermodynamics, (ii) formation of stable Ta–V and Ta–V–W based complex oxides on their surface, and (iii) Ti/TiCl2 and Zr/ZrCl2 redox couple formation which retarded the depletion of refractory elements. In contrast, the Cr-, Fe-, and Ni-based surface passivation oxides for SS304 and IN718 were less protective in the molten salt environment, particularly at the higher temperature of 650 °C.
Poetry and possible selves: Crisis theory with/in teacher education programs

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the educational landscape. This article offers the model, Crisis Theory with/in Teacher Education Programs (CT-TEP), which examines how the interplay of preservice teachers' stressors and personal coping strategies filtered through their identity provides teacher educators strategies for helping students persevere through crises. Data collected in one teacher education program during the spring 2020 COVID-19 shutdown across the United States illuminates preservice teachers' present and possible selves, through a series of poems demonstrating emotions and coping strategies of student-participants. Implications for teacher educators to focus on possible selves with/in teacher education classrooms as a mechanism for understanding emotional health and well-being is discussed.
It’s Time to Revisit the Cairo Consensus

Just over a quarter century ago, the so-called ‘Cairo Consensus’ was forged, fundamentally improving how governments worldwide, international organisations, and the NGO community approached women’s reproductive health and reproductive rights on the world stage. Yet, the deafening silence this consensus offered on issues of runaway population growth has had massive repercussions on the world we live in today, with the ever-increasing human footprint fuelling climate change and ecological destruction on a scale that was entirely predicted. Given what we know now about how empowering, just and ethical strategies focused on women and girls can effectively bend the global population curve, it is time that we revisit the Cairo Consensus.
The Reinforcement Mechanisms of Graphene Oxide in Laser Directed Energy Deposition Fabricated Metal and Ceramic Matrix Composites: A Comparison Study

Carbon-based nanomaterials mainly including carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, and graphene oxide (GO) have superior properties of low density, outstanding strength, and high hardness. Compared with ceramic reinforcements, small amount of carbon-based nanomaterials can significantly improve the mechanical properties of metal matrix composites (MMCs) and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). However, CNTs and graphite always aggregate or degrade during the fabrication with a high temperature, especially in MMCs. GO has the advantages of easier to be dispersed in other materials and better high-temperature stability. Laser-directed energy deposition (DED) has been used to fabricate GO-MMCs and GO-CMCs due to the unique capabilities of coating, remanufacturing, and producing functionally graded materials. Laser DED, as a fusion manufacturing process, could fully melt the material powders, which could refine the microstructure and increase the density and mechanical properties. However, GO could react with matrix materials at high temperatures. The survival, degradation, and reactions of GO in laser DED fabricated GO-MMCs and GO-CMCs are still unknown. There is also no investigation on the reinforcement mechanisms of GO in metal matrix materials and ceramic matrix materials in the laser DED process. In this study, GO-reinforced Ti (GO-Ti) and GO-reinforced zirconia toughened alumina (GO-ZTA) parts were fabricated by laser DED process. Raman spectrum, XRD analysis, and EDS analysis have been applied to investigate the forms of GO in both DED fabricated GO-MMCs and GO-CMCs. The reinforcement mechanisms of GO on microhardness and compressive properties of MMCs and CMCs have been analyzed.
Randomised Trial: Peppermint Oil (Menthol) Pharmacokinetics in Children and Effects on Gut Motility in Children with Functional Abdominal Pain

Aims Little is known regarding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of menthol, the active ingredient in peppermint oil (PMO). Our aim was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of menthol at three dose levels in children and determine their effects on gut motility and transit. Methods Thirty children 7-12 years of age with functional abdominal pain underwent wireless motility capsule (WMC) testing. Approximately one week later they were randomized to 180, 360, or 540 mg of enteric coated PMO (10 participants per dose). Menthol pharmacokinetics were determined via blood sampling over 24 hours. They then took their respective dose of PMO (180 mg once, 180 mg twice, or 180 mg thrice daily) for one week during which time the WMC test was repeated. Results Evaluable area under the plasma concentration vs. time curve (AUClast ) data were available in 29 of 30 participants. A direct linear relationship (apparent dose-proportionality for systemic menthol exposure) was observed between PMO dose and menthol systemic exposure with mean elimination half-life 2.1, 3.5, and 4.6 hours for the 180, 360, and 540 mg doses, respectively. WMC technical issues precluded complete motility data in all participants. Colonic transit time was inversely related to AUClast (P=0.003); transit time in other regions were not affected. In contrast, stomach, small bowel, and whole gut (but not colonic) contractility positively correlated with menthol AUClast (P Conclusions Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of menthol derived from PMO demonstrated apparent dose-proportionality. A higher dose of PMO may be needed to achieve maximal gut response. www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT03295747.
Reinventing the Team Model: Can Quality and Lower Cost Go Hand in Hand?

The chapter presents a discussion on maintaining the quality of healthcare with a low cost budget and reinvention of team model. The chapter mentions that both personally and professionally, it is painful to operate within a budget. It can be challenging to make decisions knowing our professional efforts will be carefully scrutinized for the benefits they do or do not produce. This focus on efficiency need not mean an unavoidable decrease in quality, but the opposite may be true. The chapter mentions that a new incarnation of the team model is at the root of the special management programs addressing high blood pressure and asthma at Kaiser's San Jose facility. The Kaiser model (Kaiser Permanente, one of the oldest HMOs,), however, places nonphysicians, doctorally trained psychologists with special training in behavioral medicine in a direct, working relationship with the primary physician. The chapter discusses the effectiveness of the model of Kaiser Permanente/SanJose. The model improves outcomes and patient satisfaction and brings professionals of different disciplines together in an effective way that teaches them the value of each orientation.
Studies on immunosuppression by purine nucleoside analogues. I. Effects on the immune response to sheep red blood cells in mice.

The time dependence of optimal immunosuppressive activity of several purine nucleoside analogs was studied using the Jerne et al. plaque assay technique to§ enumerate cells forming antibody to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) in mouse spleens. A single dose of drug was given before or at different times after a single dose of SRBC in order to determine the drug-sensitive phase of anti-SRBC antibody production in mouse spleens. α-2′-Deoxythioguanosine exhibited maximum activity during the proliferative phase of the immune response. β-D-Arabinofuranosyl-6-mercaptopurine showed activity only during a limited period of the proliferative phase. β-D-Ribosyl-6-methylthiopurine was active throughout the response. The periodate oxidation product of β-D-ribosyl-6-methylthiopurine (MMPR-OP) was active when given either before or after SRBC, as was the periodate oxidation product of inosine. 6-Methylthiopurine, one of the cleavage products of MMPR-OP was active only if given after SRBC. The results are discussed in terms of the effects of these drugs on cellular kinetics and metabolism.
ULTRASOUND APPEARANCE AND EARLY DETECTION OF Vx2 CARCINOMA IN THE RABBIT KIDNEY

Vx2 carcinoma was induced in the rabbit kidney by percutaneous injection of a tumor-cell suspension. A focal renal mass similar in appearance to spontaneous renal carcinoma was produced. The mass could be detected with ultrasound as early as one week post injection, however it could not be identified until two weeks post injection using renal angiography and excretory urography. The renal tumor was recognized with ultrasound as an alteration in the cortical outline and obliteration of the renal medulla. A small amount of perirenal fluid was identified at two weeks. Intra-and extrarenal tumors were evident at three weeks with hypoechoic and anechoic areas evident within the large extrarenal mass observed four weeks post injection. Hypoechoic areas observed with ultrasound corresponded to areas of necrosis and hemorrhage while anechoic areas represented fluid accumulation within and around the tumor. Transplanted tumors were detected by ultrasound before they were evident on either the renal angiogram or excretory urogram. Ultrasound is useful as a screening procedure when renal tumor is suspected.
Three-Dimensional Sequential/Parallel Universal Array Grammars and Object Pattern Analysis

We introduce a sequential/parallel parsing algorithm for analyzing 3-dimensional objects represented by 3-d array grammars. The mechanism serves as a compromise between purely sequential methods which take too much time, and purely parallel methods which take too much hardware for large digital arrays.
Pelvic exenteration for advanced uncontrolled cancer of the cervix with preservation of coital function.

Abstract A case of pelvic exenteration for far-advanced cervical cancer is presented as being of special interest due to the presence of a functioning artificial vagina created at operation. It is suggested by the author that the perineal wound be treated in a similar manner in subsequent cases.
Long‐term, non‐local coastline responses to local shoreline stabilization

[1] The future of large-scale coastline evolution will be strongly coupled to human manipulations designed to prevent erosion. We explore the consequences of this coupling using a numerical model for large-scale coastline evolution to compare the long-term, non-local effects of two generalized classes of shoreline stabilization: 1) beach nourishment (the addition of dredged sand to an eroding beach), and 2) hard-structures (e.g., seawalls, groynes, etc.) which fix the position of the shoreline without adding sand. In centurial model experiments where localized stabilization is maintained in the context of changing climate forcing, both forms of stabilization are found to significantly alter patterns of erosion and accretion at distances up to tens of kilometers. On a cuspate-cape coastline similar to the North and South Carolina coast, USA, with stabilization applied to the eroding updrift flank of a single cape, perturbations to coastline evolution are qualitatively similar within ∼20 km for each stabilization scenario, though they differ in magnitude both updrift and downdrift of the stabilized shoreline. The “human” signal in coastline change can extend as far as a neighboring cape (approximately 100 km away), but these long-range effects differ for each scenario. Nourishment resulted in seaward growth of the stabilized cape, increasing the extent that it blocked sediment flux in downdrift regions of the coast through wave shadowing. When stabilized with a hard structure the cape's initial position remain fixed, decreasing wave shadowing.
Role of glutamine 17 of the bovine papillomavirus E5 protein in platelet-derived growth factor beta receptor activation and cell transformation.

The bovine papillomavirus E5 protein is a small, homodimeric transmembrane protein that forms a stable complex with the cellular platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) b receptor through transmembrane and juxtamembrane interactions, resulting in receptor activation and cell transformation. Glutamine 17 in the transmembrane domain of the 44-amino-acid E5 protein is critical for complex formation and receptor activation, and we previously proposed that glutamine 17 forms a hydrogen bond with threonine 513 of the PDGF b receptor. We have constructed and analyzed mutant E5 proteins containing all possible amino acids at position 17 and examined the ability of these proteins to transform C127 fibroblasts, which express endogenous PDGF b receptor. Although several position 17 mutants were able to transform cells, mutants containing amino acids with side groups that were unable to participate in hydrogen bonding interactions did not form a stable complex with the PDGF b receptor or transform cells, in agreement with the proposed interaction between position 17 of the E5 protein and threonine 513 of the receptor. The nature of the residue at position 17 also affected the ability of the E5 proteins to dimerize. Overall, there was an excellent correlation between the ability of the various E5 mutant proteins to bind the PDGF b receptor, lead to receptor tyrosine phosphorylation, and transform cells. Similar results were obtained in Ba/F3 hematopoietic cells expressing exogenous PDGF b receptor. In addition, treatment of E5-transformed cells with a specific inhibitor of the PDGF receptor tyrosine kinase reversed the transformed phenotype. These results confirm the central importance of the PDGF b receptor in mediating E5 transformation and highlight the critical role of the residue at position 17 of the E5 protein in the productive interaction with the PDGF b receptor. On the basis of molecular modeling analysis and the known chemical properties of the amino acids, we suggest a structural basis for the role of the residue at position 17 in E5 dimerization and in complex formation between the E5 protein and the PDGF b receptor.
Estimating load carriage from a body-worn accelerometer

Heavy loads increase the risk of musculoskeletal injury for foot soldiers and first responders. Continuous monitoring of load carriage in the field has proven difficult. We propose an algorithm for estimating load from a single body-worn accelerometer. The algorithm utilizes three different methods for characterizing torso movement dynamics, and maps the extracted dynamics features to load estimates using two machine learning multivariate regression techniques. The algorithm is applied, using leave-one-subject-out cross-validation, to two field collections of soldiers and civilians walking with varying loads. Rapid, accurate estimates of load are obtained, demonstrating robustness to changes in equipment configuration, walking conditions, and walking speeds. On soldier data with loads ranging from 45 to 89 lbs, load estimates result in mean absolute error (MAE) of 6.64 lbs and correlation of r = 0.81. On combined soldier and civilian data, with loads ranging from 0 to 89 lbs, results are MAE = 9.57 lbs and r = 0.91.
Phase conjugation of multicomponent Bose-Einstein condensates

We consider a trapped multicomponent atomic Bose-Einstein condensate, concentrating specifically on condensates in the hyperfine ground state $F=1,$ where spin exchange collisions result in a transfer of population between $m=0$ and $m=\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1$ internal states. Drawing an analogy with the optical situation, we show that this system can be regarded as a matter-wave analog of optical multiwave mixing. This opens up the way to realize matter-wave phase conjugation, whereby an incident atomic beam can be ``time reversed.'' In addition, matter-wave phase conjugation also offers novel diagnostic tools to study the coherence properties of condensates, as well as to measure the relative scattering lengths of hyperfine sublevels.
Moderators of the Dynamic Link Between Alcohol Use and Aggressive Behavior among Adolescent Males

Although longitudinal evidence has linked alcohol use with aggressive behavior during adolescence, most studies have failed to adequately control for the numerous between-individual differences that may underlie this association. In addition, few studies of adolescents have examined whether the nature of the within-individual association between alcohol use and aggression depends on individual and contextual factors. To address these limitations, this study examined the association between within-individual changes in alcohol use and aggressive behavior across adolescence and determined whether impulsive behavior, positive attitudes toward violence, violent peers, neighborhood crime, and race moderated this association. Data from 971 adolescent males assessed annually from ages 13 to 18 were analyzed using a within-individual regression panel model that eliminated all stable between-individual factors as potential confounds. Findings indicated that within-individual increases in alcohol use quantity from one’s own typical levels of drinking were concurrently associated with within-individual increases in aggressive behavior, and vice versa. However, increases in alcohol were more strongly linked to increases in aggressive behavior among boys with attitudes favoring violence and those who lived in high-crime neighborhoods. The association between alcohol and aggressive behavior was similar for White and Black young men. Interventions designed to reduce aggressive behaviors should consider targeting not only alcohol use, but also individual and environmental risk factors that contribute to this link.
Rabbit Immune Repertoires as Sources for Therapeutic Monoclonal Antibodies: The Impact of Kappa Allotype-correlated Variation in Cysteine Content on Antibody Libraries Selected by Phage Display

The rabbit immune repertoire has long been a rich source of diagnostic polyclonal antibodies. Now it also holds great promise as a source of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies. On the basis of phage display technology, we recently reported the first humanization of a rabbit monoclonal antibody. The allotypic diversity of rabbit immunoglobulins prompted us to compare different rabbit immune repertoires for the generation and humanization of monoclonal antibodies that bind with strong affinity to antigens involved in tumor angiogenesis. In particular, we evaluated the diversity of unselected and selected chimeric rabbit/human Fab libraries that were derived from different kappa light chain allotypes. Most rabbit light chains have an extra disulfide bridge that links the variable and constant domains in addition to the two intrachain disulfide bridges shared with mouse and human kappa light chains. Here we evaluate the impact of this increased disulfide bridge complexity on the generation and selection of chimeric rabbit/human Fab libraries. We demonstrate that rabbits with mutant bas and wild-type parental b9 allotypes are excellent sources for therapeutic monoclonal antibodies. Featured among the selected clones with b9 allotype is a rabbit/human Fab that binds with a dissociation constant of 1nM to both human and mouse Tie-2, which will facilitate its evaluation in mouse models of human cancer. Examination of 228 new rabbit antibody sequences allowed for a comprehensive comparison of the LCDR3 and HCDR3 length diversity in rabbits. This study revealed that rabbits exhibit an HCDR3 length distribution more closely related to human antibodies than mouse antibodies.
Experiential Learning in the Development of a DARwIn-HP Humanoid Educational Robot

The purpose of this study is to present the experiential learning in the development of a Dynamic Anthropomorphic Robot with Intelligence(DARwIn)-High Performance(HP) at Robotics and Mechanism Laboratory(RoMeLa). DARwIn-HP, an miniature-sized humanoid platform, has been developed by self-directed undergraduate students of RoMeLa for robotics in education. They, as the target consumer of educational robots, contributed to the design and manufacturing of the DARwIn-HP by sharing their thoughts on the necessary functionality of an educational humanoid robot. This hands-on experience allows them to understand the fundamental materials of a humanoid robot in theory as well as the usage of mechanical tools in practice. All undergraduates after experiencing the development process also recognize the importance as well as the interests on learning the subjects in the engineering curriculum. As of the final process and post-activity of robot development, encouraging all students to participate in extracurricular activities provides them with a chance of evaluating their work. There are positive effects to engineering students such as enriching their competitiveness for a range of challenges facing society.
St. Clair Strange procedure: indications, technique, and long-term evaluation

The pedicled ulnar nerve transfer (St. Clair Strange procedure) preserves the intrinsic blood supply to the transferred nerve and allows bridging of large defects in avascular, scarred wounds. We report our indications for this operation, describe the two operative stages, and report the results in seven patients. After operation progressive median nerve axonal growth in a proximal direction up the ulnar nerve was shown by a median nerve Tinel's sign. Five patients followed for a mean of 10 years achieved protective sensibility in the median nerve distribution. In two of the three patients in whom distal nerve repair was done to the median and ulnar nerve, protective sensibility also returned to the ulnar digits. Localization, stereognoses, and vibratory response was achieved in the majority of digits. All patients had active use of the hand, but none had meaningful two-point discrimination. No changes were found after a superficial radial nerve block excluded any radial nerve contribution. No intrinsic motor functional return was noted. Two patients are currently being followed.