cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
V1 Partially Solves the Stereo Aperture Problem

If a bar stimulus extends beyond a cell's receptive field, then alterations in binocular disparity parallel to the bar's orientation leave the portion of the stimulus within the cell's receptive field unchanged. This makes it hard for the cell to respond correctly to the bar's disparity. Likening the cell's receptive field to an aperture through which the cell views the world, this issue has been called the "aperture problem" and is a specific form of the more general stereo correspondence problem. We found no cells in macaque primary visual cortex (V1) that, when faced with this situation, were sensitive to the disparity of the bar. However, we did find a number of cells that showed sensitivity to parallel disparity shifts, but these cells responded only to the ends of the long bar. The ability to respond selectively to such tracking features could be the first step towards solving the stereo aperture problem. The second step would require either that the disparity information that in V1 is associated only with the ends of the stimulus be associated with the rest of the stimulus or that subsequent stages of visual processing respond preferentially to the end-selective cells. As this second step does not appear to occur in V1, we conclude that V1 only partially solves the stereo aperture problem.
On Statistical Wizardry, Construct Proliferation, and Other Challenges for Our Science

Research in counseling psychology (and most social sciences) has come to rely on powerful data analytic strategies and computer software that allow researchers to test complex multivariate models quickly and easily. New constructs also appear in our literature with regularity. Although complex models and new constructs have benefits for advancing knowledge and application, they also have drawbacks. The purpose of this article is to caution readers to (a) choose designs and data analytic strategies that are minimally sufficient to address their research questions, and (b) ensure that new constructs are empirically as well as conceptually distinguishable from extant constructs.
The humanitarians' tragedy: escapable and inescapable cruelties

Paradoxically, elements of cruelty are intrinsic to the humanitarian enterprise.(1) This paper focuses on some of these. Escapable cruelties arise from technical failings, but the gradual professionalisation of the field and improvements in relief technologies mean that they have been significantly reduced in comparison to earlier eras. Other cruelties arise from clashes among rights, and the tensions inherent in trying to promote humanity amid the horrors of war. These are inescapable and constitute the 'humanitarians' tragedy'. Among them is the individual cruelty of failing to do good at the margin: a clash between the individual's impulses and ideals and the constraints of operating in constrained circumstances. This is a version of triage. In addition, there is the cruelty of compromising dearly-held principles when faced with other competing or overriding demands. There is also the cruelty whereby humanitarians feed victims' dreams that there is an alternative reality, which in fact cannot be attained.
The Case for Transmitter Training

Transmitter side information enables techniques such as beamforming, power control, and rate control in fading channels. It is commonly accepted in the literature that the addition of transmitter information (CSIT) to receiver information (CSIR) provides better performance than receiver information alone. In this work, we examine the performance of a symmetric, single-input, multiple-output (SIMO) channel in which CSIT is acquired through the use of training symbols, and we have a genie-aided receiver. We give a closed form expression for outage probability at high SNR while accounting for the resources consumed by training. We also analyze the diversity-multiplexing tradeoff and find that, though the diversity falls far below that of systems with perfect CSIT, it is still sufficiently superior to that achieved by CSIR-only systems to justify the cost of training. We show that, at zero multiplexing, transmitter training doubles the diversity order of a CSIR-only system and offers nonzero diversity at all achievable multiplexing gains.
Assessment Benefits and Barriers: What Are You Committed to?

ne of the greatest challenges that physical educators face in their work is the assessment of student learning. To learn more about the “real” issues pertain-ing to student assessment in physical education, the authors asked a group of teachers to identify the barriers to, and beneﬁ ts of, using assessments. The purpose of this article is to discuss these teachers’ perceptions regarding assessment and to examine why physical educators are reluctant to use assessments even though they know that assessing their students is beneﬁ cial.As you read this article, please take a moment to consider how each question or statement might relate to your personal beliefs regarding assessment. The authors ask that you keep an open mind as you read the views of our colleagues, experts in the ﬁ eld of assessment, and think about the notion of commitment as it relates to assessment and teaching.
Near-Field Radiation Interaction With Molecules in Optical Microcavity

Evanescent radiation-molecule interactions in an optical microcavity device are characterized. The device is operated at whispering-gallery modes, and consists of a microcavity and a micro-waveguide coupled by a sub-micrometer air-gap. Under optical resonance, a strong evanescent field arises along the periphery of the circular resonating microcavity. This radiation will certainly interact with molecules inside the field and may induce changes in the resonant field. Such induced changes are investigated and its potential in the detection of single molecules is discussed.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Glucose and insulin responses to delayed rate of intake of concentrate meals by horses

ABSTRACT Pronounced changes in postprandial blood glucose and insulin concentrations in horses may be problematic for horses with metabolic disorders. Research has identified specific grains and processing methods for attenuating glycemic response to concentrate meals, and other methods of manipulating concentrate meals are needed when these are not available to horse caretakers. Controlling rate of intake of a concentrate meal through portioning may be one method that could attenuate glycemic response. In 2 experiments, a serial blood draw was performed in conjunction with offering of a concentrate meal to follow postprandial changes in plasma glucose and insulin. Meals were portioned into smaller allotments and offered at 15-min increments. In Exp. 1, 8 horses received 4 Mcal of DE from oats or sweet feed divided into 1, 2, 3, or 4 portions. Glucose and insulin area-under-the-curve concentrations and peak concentration values were not different between feed types or among portioning treatments (P > 0.05). In Exp. 2, the equivalent of 8 Mcal of DE divided into 1, 3, or 5 portions was offered to 6 horses fed a conventional sweet feed or a sweet feed with grains processed to minimize glycemic response. Horses consuming conventional sweet feed had greater glucose and insulin area-under-the-curve concentrations (P 0.05) on postprandial glucose and insulin responses in Exp. 2. Delaying the rate of intake of a concentrate meal under these conditions did not alter glycemic response.
Response to dexamethasone is glucose-sensitive in multiple myeloma cell lines

Background Hyperglycemia is among the major side effects of dexamethasone (DEX). Glucose or glucocorticoid (GC) regulates the expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) that controls the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the modulation of thioredoxin (TRX) activity.
A heterobimetallic complex featuring a Ti–Co multiple bond and its application to the reductive coupling of ketones to alkenes

To explore metal–metal multiple bonds between first row transition metals, Ti/Co complexes supported by two phosphinoamide ligands have been synthesized and characterized. The Ti metalloligand Cl2Ti(XylNPiPr2)2 (1) was treated with CoI2 under reducing conditions, permitting isolation of the Ti/Co complex [(μ-Cl)Ti(XylNPiPr2)2CoI]2 (2). One electron reduction of complex 2 affords ClTi(XylNPiPr2)2CoPMe3 (3), which features a metal–metal triple bond and an unprecedentedly short Ti–Co distance of 2.0236(9) A. This complex is shown to promote the McMurry coupling reaction of aryl ketones into alkenes, with concomitant formation of the tetranuclear complex [Ti(μ3-O)(NXylPiPr2)2CoI]2 (4). A cooperative mechanism involving bimetallic CO bond activation and a cobalt carbene intermediate is proposed.
Fungus Gnats, Bradysia spp. (Diptera: Sciaridae), and Other Arthropods in Commercial Bagged Soilless Growing Media and Rooted Plant Plugs

Fungus gnats, Bradysia spp., in greenhouses cause economic losses to horticultural producers by damaging young root systems during plant propagation, by spreading soilborne diseases, and by reducing the marketability of the crop. In a greenhouse cage study, our observations suggested that bagged soilless growing media or rooted plant plugs from wholesale distributors may be sources for the introduction of fungus gnats into commercial greenhouse facilities. To evaluate these possibilities, carefully collected samples of bagged soilless growing media stored in the greenhouse, as well as bagged soilless growing media and rooted plant plugs delivered from midwestern wholesale distributors, were incubated under controlled conditions in the laboratory. Fungus gnats emerged from soilless media stored in the greenhouse, soilless media delivered from wholesale distributors, and from rooted plant plugs delivered from wholesale distributors. These results demonstrate that pasteurization of even bagged soilless media may be essential to effectively managing greenhouse populations of fungus gnats. However, pasteurization is not an option for responding to contamination of rooted plant plugs. Preliminary evidence is provided that application of entomopathogenic nematodes may offer potential as a method for managing fungus gnats in plant plugs, so long as treatment is early. Other arthropods found contaminating soilless media and rooted plant plugs included the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), Collembola, Acari, Formicidae, Staphylinidae, Psychodidae, and other Diptera.
A new method for tibial torsion measurement by computerized tomography.

Abstract Background Computerized tomography (CT) is the gold standard technique for tibial torsion assessment. This study compared two methods of tibial torsion assessment and proposed a new method, which could be of value in cases of abnormal fibular changes. Methods The CT-scanograms of 60 participants were assessed by using two different techniques, differed in determination of the distal tibial axis. Results The interobserver reliability was 0.861 and 0.863 in the first and second methods, respectively. The intraobserver reliability in both measurement methods was 0.868. Conclusions We proposed a reliable method, independent of the fibular midpoint, in assessment of tibial torsion by CT.
“The Gulf of the Soul”: Melville’s Pierre and the Representation of Aesthetic Failure

Written in the wake of Moby-Dick and published few months after it, Pierre, or The Ambiguities (New York, end of July 1852) brings to completion the parabola of Melville’s most ambitious attempts at monumental works of art. If, after all, critics and reviewers had not been kind to the book of the white whale, then a few months later they proved ruthless to Pierre. Invested with charges of “metaphysics”, “second-hand Germanism”, and “Transcendentalism”, the novel did not sell well and left Melville in debt to his publishers.1 But Pierre is not only a perhaps uncontrolled failure of Melville as professional writer — an actual disaster in literary appreciation and the marketplace. It is also a controlled representation of the failure of aesthetics as such, through a deliberate authorial annihilation of the hero and his experiences.2
Mississippi Business Corporation Law: A Proposal for Progress

Mississippi's corporation law needs reform. Many of the provisions in the corporation statute are peculiar, outdated or meaningless. The problems, however, are not limited to the statute: several obsolete provisions of Mississippi corporation law may be traced to the Mississippi Constitution. Unusual and outdated provisions of Mississippi law create problems for lawyers attempting to plan for corporate clients and impede economic development in Mississippi.Nationally, corporation law has developed and changed rapidly for some time, but Mississippi has not kept pace. Many provisions in the Mississippi Act and Constitution are peculiar to Mississippi or have been updated in other jurisdictions. When the Mississippi Legislature adopted the Mississippi Business Corporation Law in 1962, it used as a guide the Model Business Corporation Act as it existed as the time of the Mississippi Law. Since its enactment, the Model Act has undergone changes, but unfortunately the Mississippi Legislature has ignored most of the revisions made since 1962. Some of the deviations from the Model Act were caused by provisions in the Mississippi Constitution; others developed from legislative preferences which apparently existed at the time. Unfortunately, many perceive Mississippi to be "backward" or "out-of-step" with the rest of the nation. This perception is increased by legal peculiarities that cause lawyers from other jurisdictions to respond unfavorably to Mississippi because of the unusual nature of Mississippi's corporation law. When this occurs, Mississippi appears unattractive as a place to conduct business, and lawyers representing out-of-state investors or corporations considering business activities in Mississippi may advise their clients to merely qualify to do business in Mississippi while forming corporations in other jurisdictions. Worse yet, lawyers may persuade clients sumply to do business in other jurisdictions.The purpose of this Article is to explain the need for reform, highlight the obsolete portions of the Mississippi Act and the Mississippi Constitution, and propose a plan for revision based on the Revised Model Business Corporation Act.
The Interaction Between NO and C2H4 on Rh Loaded CeOx(111)

The interaction between NO and C2H4 was studied on ceria-supported Rh model catalysts (Rh/CeOX). When the ceria is fully oxidized the primary reaction products observed in TPD are NO, N2, CO, and H...
Ionizing radiation damage to DNA: molecular aspects.

During the week of January 16-20, 1990, about 300 scientists assembled at Granlibakken Ski Resort at Lake Tahoe, California, to participate in a symposium on DNA damage resulting from ionizing radiation as revealed by the latest molecular techniques. The meeting was cosponsored by the Radiation Research Society and the UCLA Symposia and was organized by Susan Wallace and Robert Painter. The organization of the meeting, the collection of participants, and the idyllic setting amidst the snow-covered Sierra Nevada mountains combined to create an atmosphere which was both relaxing and scientifically charged. Topics ranged from identification of radiation-induced DNA lesions and the mechanisms of their formation, to mechanisms of repair, to consequences of damage at the molecular, cellular, and genetic levels. The meeting began with keynote speaker Richard Setlow (Brookhaven National Laboratory), who discussed radiation in the context of other environmental mutagens and carcinogens, most notably cigarette smoke and ultraviolet radiation. In his address, he reminded the participants that the best risk estimates for ionizing radiation are far from adequate, especially in the extrapolations from high to low doses and dose rates, and that we need improved methods to locate lesions in the genome and to relate them to cancer induction. In response to this charge, the participants demonstrated that the latest molecular genetic technologies are being used to investigate radiation damage to DNA and, combined with traditional radiobiology, are leading to new insights into carcinogenesis and other consequences of radiation expo-
Advances in pediatric celiac disease.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize the recent advances in celiac disease in children. RECENT FINDINGS New clues to the pathogenesis of celiac disease continue to emerge that may implicate the role of microbiome changes, antirotavirus VP7 antibodies, and the Parkinson's disease seven gene in celiac disease. Updated guidelines in pediatrics no longer support biopsies in all patients with celiac disease who have been identified by serology, clinical signs, and genetics. Serology screening of total immunoglobulin A in all patients may not be necessary in select patients. Prevalence and additional diseases associated with celiac disease continue to be elucidated. SUMMARY Our knowledge of celiac disease continues to grow with increasing evidence of the pathogenesis, genetics, diagnosis, and risk factors of the disease. Major changes have been made with respect to the guidelines for pediatric celiac disease, and potential improvements to simplify the algorithms for diagnosis and elimination of unessential testing have been proposed by new studies.
Cardiovascular complications of cocaine use.

Cardiovascular complications are among the most common and dangerous complications of cocaine abuse, ranging from episodic arrhythmias to myocardial infarction, strokes, cardiomyopathy, and sudden death. The central nervous system-mediated action of cocaine triggers an increase in circulating catecholamines, resulting in arterial vasoconstriction, increase in myocardial oxygen demand, myocardial ischemia, tachycardia, and other arrhythmias. The peripheral cardiovascular action of cocaine involves the inhibition of reuptake of catecholamines at adrenergic nerve terminals, with local release of epinephrine, direct stimulation and vasospasm of the coronary arteries, coronary intimai hyperplasia, inhibition of baroreceptors, interference with the electrical conduction through the myocardium, and direct myocardial toxicity. The cardiovascular complications of cocaine include cardiac dysrhythmias and hypertension, acute myocardial infarction, myocarditis, infectious endocarditis, ventricular dysfunction, dilated cardiomyopathy, hypotensive shock, and cerebral strokes. Cocaine-related vascular changes in the pregnant woman and fetus have been related to an increased incidence of abortion, abruptio placentae, and congenital anomalies of the fetus.
Control Effect of Different Medicament Treatments against Stem Blight of Sesame

In order to find an effective prevention method for stem blight of sesame,a randomized block design was conducted to study the control effect of mixing medicament with soil and spraying medicament in blossom node capsule period on stem blight of sesame.The results showed that mixing 55% DuPont(WP) with soil had a good prevention effect on stem blight at early growth period of sesame(such as seedling period,bud period,flowering period);spraying 10 000fold of 40% flusilazole EC in blossom node capsule period can obtain the best control effect,and can increase yield by 40.95%.Therefore,combined application of the two measures can control the occurrence of stem blight of sesame effectively,and it should be popularized in red-soil upland in Jiangxi province to prevent stem blight of sesame.
Imaging single synaptic vesicles in Mammalian central synapses with quantum dots.

This protocol describes a sensitive and rigorous method to monitor the movement and turnover of single synaptic vesicles in live presynaptic terminals of mammalian central nerve system. This technique makes use of fluorescent semiconductor nanocrystals, quantum dots (Qdots), by their nanometer size, superior photoproperties, and pH-sensitivity. In comparison with other fluorescent probes like styryl dyes and pH-sensitive fluorescent proteins, Qdots offer strict loading ratio, multi-modality detection, single vesicle precision, and most importantly distinctive signals for different modes of vesicle recycling. This application is spectrally compatible with existing optical labels for synapses and thus allows multichannel and simultaneous imaging. With easy modification, this technique can be applied to other types of cells.
Marketing Then and Now: One Librarian’s Journey

In the not so distant past, marketing was a department on campus, rather than a strategic approach used within the library. Today, the role of an academic library is subtle and varied. Frankly, it’s complicated! Libraries are increasingly asked to prove their value by documenting their impact on student engagement and success. They need to continually reinforce their reputation as a dynamic entity that supports its community in many ways. A marketing culture within the library is essential to making the case, telling the stories and creating a presence. After years of “marketing” for the library, I’m still figuring it out. In case it is instructive, here is my journey so far.
Abnormalities of the tricuspid valve in complete transposition of the great arteries with ventricular septal defect

Structural abnormalities of the tricuspid valve were encountered in 38 of 121 autopsy specimens of complete transposition of the great arteries (TGA) with ventricular septal defect (VSD) (31%). Forty abnormalities were identified, including severe straddling of the tricuspid valve tensor apparatus in two, valvular dysplasia in two, left ventricular outflow tract obstruction caused by accessory tricuspid valvular tissue in two, double orifice in one, and abnormal chordal insertions in 33. Seventeen (14%) had abnormalities which were judged to have importance in the surgical management: in two cases, a straddling tricuspid valve would have prevented VSD closure; both cases with valve dysplasia would have required anuloplasty or valve replacement; one with left ventricular outflow obstruction from accessory tricuspid tissue would have required closure of a small VSD; and 12 had abnormal chordal insertions which were surgically significant. Of these 12 who were otherwise candidates for a Rastelli repair, this approach would have been possible in two only by enlargement of the VSD and deviation of the patch. In the 10 others abnormal chordal insertions to the superior aspect of the VSD would have prohibited a Rastelli operation. Abnormal tricuspid valve chordae of this type were present in 9 of 25 (36%) cases with overriding of the pulmonary trunk. Tricuspid valvular abnormalities may significantly alter the surgical approach to patients with complete transposition of the great arteries with VSD.
Cu diffusion in a basaltic melt

Recent studies suggest a potential role of diffusive transport of metals (e.g., Cu, Au, PGE) in the formation of magmatic sulfide deposits and porphyry-type deposits. However, diffusivities of these metals are poorly determined in natural silicate melts. In this study, diffusivities of copper in an anhydrous basaltic melt ( 2 O) were measured at temperatures from 1298 to 1581 °C, and pressures of 0.5, 1, and 1.5 GPa. Copper diffusivities in anhydrous basaltic melt at 1 GPa can be described as: D Cu basalt = exp [ − ( 14 . 12 ± 0 . 50 ) − 11813 ± 838 T ] where D Cu basalt is the diffusivity in m 2 /s, T is the temperature in K, and errors are given at 1σ level. A fitting of all experimental data considering the pressure effect is: D Cu basalt = exp [ − ( 13 . 59 ± 0 . 81 ) − ( 12153 ± 1229 ) + ( 620 ± 241 ) P T ] where P is the pressure in GPa, which corresponds to a pre-exponential factor D 0 = (1.25 ×÷ 2.2)×10 −6 m 2 /s, an activation energy E a = 101 ± 10 kJ/mol at P = 0, and an activation volume V a = (5.2 ± 2.0)×10 −6 m 3 /mol. The diffusivity of copper in basaltic melt is high compared to most other cations, similar to that of Na. The high copper diffusivity is consistent with the occurrence of copper mostly as Cu + in silicate melts at or below NNO. Compared to the volatile species, copper diffusivity is generally smaller than water diffusivity, but about one order of magnitude higher than sulfur and chlorine diffusivities. Hence, Cu partitioning between a growing sulfide liquid drop and the surrounding silicate melt is roughly in equilibrium, whereas that between a growing fluid bubble and the surrounding melt can be out of equilibrium if the fluid is nearly pure H 2 O fluid. Our results are the first copper diffusion data in natural silicate melts, and can be applied to discuss natural processes such as copper transport and kinetic partitioning behavior in ore formation, as well as copper isotope fractionation caused by evaporation during tektite formation.
Missing a Type of Design: a review of Make It New: The History of Silicon Valley Design by Barry M. Katz

Make It New: The History of Silicon Valley Design by Barry Katz is seemingly written by two people – one, an erudite scholar who has thoroughly researched the topic, and two, a lively insider with ...
Vascular Aneurysms and Dissections

Aortic aneurysms (AAs) and dissections are rare but important causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Aneurysms can result from genetic predisposition in a Mendelian pattern in the young and old, as well as classical cardiovascular risk factors in older individuals. Despite elastic fiber fragmentation and pools of mucoid material being present in histopathologic specimens, in experimental murine models the causative mechanism for aneurysm progression appears to be altered transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) activity driving functional deficiencies, rather than a primary structural derangement. Altered TGF-β activity has now been documented in human syndromic aneurysmal disease and in human nonsyndromic aneurysm. This article will describe the diseases and histopathologies of AA. It will also describe the mechanistic alterations in the TGF-β pathway as a result of genetic mutations and how these perturbations inform our understanding of AA development and progression.
Neuron subset-specific Pten deletion induces abnormal skeletal activity in mice

Individuals with a history of epilepsy are at higher risk for bone fractures compared to the general population. Although clinical studies support an association between low bone mineral density (BMD) and anti-seizure medications, little is known on whether a history of seizures is linked to altered bone health. Therefore, in this study we tested the hypothesis that bone mass, morphology, and bone mineralization are altered by seizures in genetically epileptic animals and in animals subjected to an episode of status epilepticus. In this study, we used NS-Pten conditional knockout mice (a well-studied genetic model of epilepsy). We used microCT analysis to measure BMD, morphology, and mineralization in NS-Pten+/+ (wildtype) and NS-Pten-/- (knockout) mice at 4 and 8weeks, as well as adult Kv4.2+/+ and Kv4.2-/- mice. We measured BMD, bone morphology, and mineralization in adult NS-Pten+/+ mice that received status epilepticus through kainic acid (20mg/kg intraperitoneal). Further, we measured locomotion for NS-Pten+/+ and NS-Pten-/- mice at 4 and 6weeks. We found that NS-Pten-/- mice exhibited low BMD in the tibial metaphysis and midshaft compared to non-epileptic mice. Morphologically, NS-Pten-/- mice exhibited decreased trabecular volume fraction, and endocortical expansion in both the metaphyeal and diaphyseal compartments. In the midshaft, NS-Pten-/- mice exhibited reduced tissue mineral density, indicating impaired mineralization in addition to morphological deficits. NS-Pten-/- mice exhibited hyperactivity in open field testing, suggesting low bone mass in NS-Pten-/- mice was not attributable to hypoactivity. Differences in BMD were not observed following kainate-induced seizures or in the Kv4.2-/- model of seizure susceptibility. Our findings suggest that deletion of Pten in the brain results in impaired bone mass and mineralization, which may contribute to weaker bones and thereby a higher fracture risk.
Immunoglobulin led to better functional improvement than plasma exchange for the Guillain-Barré syndrome

Source Citation van der Meche FG, Schmitz PI, and the Dutch Guillain-Barre Study Group. A randomized trial comparing intravenous immune globulin and plasma exchange in Guillain-Barre syndrome. N En...
Lessons from bereaved families: Insights about how the care of patients impacts bereavement.

87Background: Feedback from bereaved families, including surveys of family members’ experiences during the patient’s illness and final days, can provide important insights into ways to improve the care of patients with advanced illness and their families. Methods: A convenience sample of 140 bereaved family members from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) completed a survey developed by the authors about their bereavement experiences. Families were asked to describe ways in which the clinical team was helpful in dealing with their loss; what they wished the clinical team had done prior to the death that would have helped in dealing with their loss; and actions taken by the team that were unhelpful or difficult for them in dealing with their loss. The Institutional Review Board at DFCI approved the study. Results: 67% of participants were female and 81% had lost a spouse or partner. The most common responses about ways in which the team was helpful in dealing with their loss included: showing compassion, s...
Estimating component yield for CLT production

The emergence of cross-laminated timber (CLT) for building construction in North America may provide an additional and possibly more valuable product market for hardwood logs. Using the RaySaw sawing and ROMI rough mill simulators and a digital databank of laser-scanned low-grade yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) logs, we examine the yield-recovery potential for components used in the production of CLT. Results include a sawing yield of 65% and a rough-mill yield of 78%, for a total material yield of approximately 50%. This study confirmed the usability of yellow poplar as a material for the production of CLT and allows to estimate the impact on our forest resource of increased use of yellow poplar CLT.
Association of Low Vitamin D Levels with Noninfectious Uveitis and Scleritis.

Purpose: To determine whether an association between Vitamin D and noninfectious ocular inflammation exists.Methods: Retrospective case-control study with 765 patients (333 uveitis cases, 103 scler...
Cadherins Interact With Synaptic Organizers to Promote Synaptic Differentiation

Classical cadherins, a set of ~20 related recognition and signaling molecules, have been implicated in many aspects of neural development, including the formation and remodeling of synapses. Mechanisms underlying some of these steps have been studied by expressing N-cadherin (cdh2), a Type 1 cadherin, in heterologous cells, but analysis is complicated because widely used lines express cdh2 endogenously. We used CRISPR-mediated gene editing to generate a HEK293 variant lacking Cdh2, then compared the behavior of rodent cortical and hippocampal neurons co-cultured with parental, cdh2 mutant and cdh2-rescued 293 lines. The comparison demonstrated that Cdh2 promotes neurite branching and that it is required for three synaptic organizers, neurologin1 (NLGL1), leucine-rich repeat transmembrane protein 2 (LRRtm2), and Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (Cadm1/SynCAM) to stimulate presynaptic differentiation, assayed by clustering of synaptic vesicles at sites of neurite-293 cell contact. Similarly, Cdh2 is required for a presynaptic organizing molecule, Neurexin1, to promote postsynaptic differentiation in dendrites. We also show that another Type I cadherin, Cdh4, and a Type II cadherin, Cdh6, can substitute for Cdh2 in these assays. Finally, we provide evidence that the effects of cadherins require homophilic interactions between neurites and the heterologous cells. Together, these results indicate that classical cadherins act together with synaptic organizers to promote synaptic differentiation, perhaps in part by strengthening the intracellular adhesion required for the organizers to act efficiently. We propose that cadherins promote high affinity contacts between appropriate partners, which then enable synaptic differentiation.
From Here to Utility

Technology and science are often perceived as polar extremes with respect to spoken language. Speech applications rarely incorporate scientific insight and conversely, basic research is often viewed as oblivious to practical concerns of the real world. Melding phonetic insight with speech technology can, however, yield extremely productive results for both applications and basic science if performed within the appropriate theoretical framework. Such an approach is illustrated with respect to the relation between prosodic (stress accent) and phonetic properties of conversational telephone dialogues (American English) using the Switchboard corpus. Phonetic properties, such as vocalic identity and duration, are shown to reflect prosodic phenomena, and thus could be used to enhance the quality of automatic speech recognition performance, as well as provide detailed insight into the nature of spoken language.
Nonaqueous liquid pool dissolution in three-dimensional heterogeneous subsurface formations

A three-dimensional numerical flow and contaminant transport model is developed to investigate the effect of variable hydraulic conductivity on average mass transfer coefficients associated with the dissolution of dense nonaqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) pools in heterogeneous, water-saturated subsurface formations. Randomly generated, three-dimensional hydraulic conductivity fields are used to represent a heterogeneous confined aquifer. Model simulations indicate that the average mass transfer coefficient is inversely proportional to the variance of the log-transformed hydraulic conductivity. A power law correlation relating the Sherwood number to the variance of the log-transformed hydraulic conductivity and appropriate Peclet numbers is developed. A reasonable fit between predicted and numerically determined mass transfer coefficients is observed.
Hypoglycemia Secondary to Metastases to the Liver: A case report and review of the literature

A 76-year-old man presented with hypoglycemic coma associated with metastatic liver disease. Serum immunoreactive insulin excluded insulinoma as a cause of hypoglycemia. Negative glucose responses to glucagon and epinephrine testing indicated failure of compensatory glycogenolysis. The patient's increased glucose requirements of 500 g per 24 hr were reduced to normal only after shrinkage of the liver tumor bulk was accomplished with chemotherapy. Hepatic hypoglycemia is discussed and the literature is reviewed.
Investing in Your Training Portfolio: Diversifying Training Methods

Serving a university community of over 49,000 students and over 20,000 faculty and staff is an ever evolving challenge. The Rutgers University Office of Information Technology in New Brunswick has a unique Help Desk and Computer Lab staff. The Help Desk and Computer Labs are run primarily by 300 student workers, along with 20 full-time staff. This arrangement presents a unique dilemma on how to train both student and full-time employees. Our training programming is based on the belief that we all can learn something from each other. This benefits our organization because it allows full-time staff to be current with technology and empowers our student staff to take on leadership roles. This approach allows our operation to evolve at the same pace as technology and campus changes. Training occurs in a variety ways including scaffolding, classes, and the use of repositories. Current needs for training are evaluated regularly through committee, staff and customer feedback, and the evaluation of technological trends. Classes and modules are based on common issues that our students may encounter while on the job. However, we also offer training in popular hobbies like building a computer, 3D printing, and App design. The autonomy and creativity given to our employees for training benefits us immensely. Students have developed apps to streamline work processes as well as enable the organization to take on new challenges such as a new staff portal and expanding our digital signage footprint.
Factors Associated With Increased Hospital Length of Stay in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients With Peritonitis: A Need for Antimicrobial Stewardship?

Background: Peritonitis remains a complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) and contributes to morbidity. Adherence to evidence-based recommendations should resolve peritonitis within 5 days; however, hospital length of stay (LOS) for patients with PD-associated peritonitis (PDAP) varies. Factors contributing to increased LOS and vigilance with antimicrobial stewardship (ASP) in this population are not well described. Methods: This was a system-wide, retrospective cohort of adult patients presenting with PDAP from August 2012 to August 2017. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on LOS: 180 mg/dL (P = .028). Opportunities for antimicrobial de-escalation were identified in 24 (52%) and 22 (50%) patients in the reduced and prolonged LOS groups, respectively; however, de-escalation occurred in only 5 (21%) and 6 (27%) of these patients. There were no differences in mortality or 30-day readmissions. Conclusions: Longer LOS was influenced by acuity of illness and possibly lack of enforced ASP. Improvement of ASP within the PDAP population is necessary.
Stabilization of T2 relaxation and magnetization transfer in cartilage explants by immersion in perfluorocarbon liquid.

PURPOSE Magnetic resonance imaging of ex vivo cartilage measures parameters such as T2 and magnetization transfer ratio (MTR), which reflect structural changes associated with osteoarthritis. Samples are often immersed in aqueous solutions to prevent dehydration and to to improve susceptibility matching. This study sought to determine the extent to which T2 and MTR changes are attributable to immersion alone and to identify immersion conditions to minimize this confounding factor. METHODS T2 and MTR were measured before and after immersion for up to 24 hours at 4°C. Bovine nasal and articular cartilage and human articular cartilage were studied. Experimental groups included undisturbed immersion in Fluorinert FC-770, a susceptibility-matched, hydrophobic liquid with minimal tissue penetration, and immersion in Fluorinert, Dulbecco's phosphate-buffered saline (DPBS), or saline, with removal from the magnet between scans. 19 F and 1 H-MRI were used to detect cartilage penetration by Fluorinert and swelling, respectively. RESULTS Saline and DPBS immersion rapidly increased T2 , wet weight and cartilage volume and decreased MTR, suggesting increased water content for all cartilage types. Fluorinert-immersed samples exhibited minimal changes in T2 or MTR. No ingress of Fluorinert was detected after 2 weeks of continuous immersion at 4°C. CONCLUSION Ex vivo quantitative MR studies of cartilage may be confounded by the effects of immersion in aqueous solution, which may be comparable to or larger than effects attributed to pathology. These effects may be mitigated by immersion in perfluorocarbon liquids such as Fluorinert FC-770.
An Evaluation of the Defined Observer Role in Simulation With Baccalaureate Nursing Students.

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to compare satisfaction, self-confidence, and engagement of baccalaureate nursing students using defined observer roles versus traditional observer role and to evaluate student perceptions of these constructs. A quasi-experimental comparative mixed-method design was utilized for the study with a convenience sample of 132 students. Data analysis indicates a statistically significant difference between overall scores for satisfaction, self-confidence, and engagement for defined observer roles (n = 67) versus traditional observer roles (n = 65). Students' perceptions of satisfaction, self-confidence, and engagement were increased with the use of defined observer roles.
Associations Among Eccentric Hamstrings Strength, Hamstrings Stiffness, and Jump-Landing Biomechanics

Context Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk can be assessed from landing biomechanics. Greater hamstrings stiffness is associated with a landing-biomechanics profile consistent with less ACL loading but is difficult to assess in the clinical setting. Eccentric hamstrings strength can be easily evaluated by clinicians and may provide a surrogate measure for hamstrings stiffness. Objective To examine associations among eccentric hamstrings strength, hamstrings stiffness, and landing biomechanics linked to ACL injury risk. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Research laboratory. Patients or other participants A total of 34 uninjured, physically active participants (22 women, 12 men; age = 20.2 ± 1.6 years, height = 171.5 ± 9.7 cm, mass = 67.1 ± 12.7 kg). Intervention(s) We collected eccentric hamstrings strength, active hamstrings stiffness, and double- and single-legged landing biomechanics during a single session. Main outcome measure(s) Bivariate associations were conducted between eccentric hamstrings strength and hamstrings stiffness, vertical ground reaction force, internal knee-extension moment, internal knee-varus moment, anterior tibial shear force, knee sagittal-plane angle at initial ground contact, peak knee-flexion angle, knee frontal-plane angle at initial ground contact, peak knee-valgus angle, and knee-flexion displacement using Pearson product moment correlations or Spearman rank-order correlations. Results We observed no association between hamstrings stiffness and eccentric hamstrings strength (r = 0.029, P = .44). We also found no association between hamstrings stiffness and landing biomechanics. However, greater peak eccentric strength was associated with less vertical ground reaction force in both the double-legged (r = -0.331, P = .03) and single-legged (r = -0.418, P = .01) landing conditions and with less internal knee-varus moment in the single-legged landing condition (r = -0.326, P = .04). Conclusions Eccentric hamstrings strength was associated with less vertical ground reaction force during both landing tasks and less internal knee-varus moment during the single-legged landing but was not an acceptable clinical estimate of active hamstrings stiffness.
Natural gas development, flaring practices and paediatric asthma hospitalizations in Texas.

Background Recent advancements in drilling technology led to a rapid increase in natural gas development (NGD). Air pollution may be elevated in these areas and may vary by drilling type (conventional and unconventional), production volume and gas flaring. Impacts of NGD on paediatric asthma are largely unknown. This study quantifies associations between specific NGD activities and paediatric asthma hospitalizations in Texas. Methods We leveraged a database of Texas inpatient hospitalizations between 2000 and 2010 at the zip code level by quarter to examine associations between NGD and paediatric asthma hospitalizations, where our primary outcome is 0 vs ≥1 hospitalization. We used quarterly production reports to assess additional drilling-specific exposures at the zip code-level including drilling type, production and gas flaring. We developed logistic regression models to assess paediatric asthma hospitalizations by zip code-quarter-year observations, thus capturing spatiotemporal exposure patterns. Results We observed increased odds of ≥1 paediatric asthma hospitalization in a zip code per quarter associated with increasing tertiles of NGD exposure and show that spatiotemporal variation impacts results. Conventional drilling, compared with no drilling, is associated with odds ratios up to 1.23 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13, 1.34], whereas unconventional drilling is associated with odds ratios up to 1.59 (95% CI: 1.46, 1.73). Increasing production volumes are associated with increased paediatric asthma hospitalizations in an exposure-response relationship, whereas associations with flaring volumes are inconsistent. Conclusions We found evidence of associations between paediatric asthma hospitalizations and NGD, regardless of drilling type. Practices related to production volume may be driving these positive associations.
Demographic Correlates of Veterans’ Adverse Social Determinants of Health

Introduction Identifying patient populations most affected by adverse social determinants of health can direct epidemiologic investigation, guide development of tailored interventions, and improve clinical care and outcomes. This study explores how demographic characteristics are associated with specific types—and cumulative burden—of adverse social determinants of health among Veterans seeking Veterans Health Administration health care. Methods Data included electronic health records for 293,872 patients of Veterans Health Administration facilities in one region of the country between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016. A series of multiple logistic regressions conducted between August and December 2019 examined how demographic variables are associated with 7 adverse social determinants of health. A negative binomial regression examined the association between demographic characteristics and cumulative burden of social determinants of health. Results Demographic characteristics were associated with increased odds of each type of adverse social determinant of health: minority race, unmarried status, and Veterans’ service connected disability status. Conversely, living in a rural area and being aged >40 years were associated with decreased odds of most of the adverse social determinants of health studied here. Hispanic ethnicity and female sex were inconsistently associated with increased odds of some adverse social determinants of health and decreased odds of others. These results are mirrored in the analysis of predictors of cumulative burden of adverse social determinants of health. Conclusions There is increasing and ongoing interest in ways to identify and respond to patients’ experiences of or exposures to adverse social determinants of health. Demographic characteristics may signal the need to assess for adverse social determinants of health. Analyses exploring latent factors among these social determinants (e.g., poverty) may inform strategies to identify patients experiencing adverse social determinants of health and provide responsive interventions.
Evolution, Sympatric Speciation, and Risk Aversion

Speciation is a crucial topic in the biological sciences. Knowledge of this process helps explain the diversity of life. In the computational realm, considerable efforts have been made to understand mechanisms and conditions that lead to speciation. Speciation has profound implications for artificial life, evolutionary computation, and evolutionary robotics, yet many aspects of it remain unexplored. Resource distribution is one of the key factors in natural selection, which is critical for sympatric speciation. Research on speciation typically assumes that there is a consistent supply of resources in each available niche. However, fluctuations in available resources might have strong impacts on the extent to which niches are occupied. Such fluctuations could be seen as analogous to risk in economics. Moreover, just as risk necessarily leads to risk aversion in reinforcement learning agents, so might fluctuations in resources lead to a phenomenon analogous to risk aversion in evolution. In this study, the effects of fluctuations in resource distribution are investigated in a simulated biological setting that has been established to favor sympatric speciation. We conclude that fluctuations in resource distribution lead to risk aversion in the process of evolution.