cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Guest Editorial: Human Security, Social Cohesion, and Disability

Elements comprising this Review of Disability Studies issue title - Human Security, Social Cohesion, Disability – invite reflection on inter-relationships and tensions: Security with or against impairment; insider/outsider status; impairment as impropriety; health definitions; measures (DALYs); elimination; professional discourse; bridging social capital; possibilities and constraints on flourishing; and concrete global examples.
Bargains, Defenses, and Cultural Codes

Shakespeare’s tragic heroes and heroines are such compelling figures, I think, because they are confronting situations that throw them into a state of internal crisis. Bernard McElroy has observed this and has offered an historical explanation. According to McElroy, what happens in these plays is that “the world-picture” of the hero is “undermined” and then “torn by several equally possible concepts of reality or else plunged into a chaotic abyss,” he struggles “to reimpose upon the world” a “meaning which it must have if it is to be endurable” (1973, 28). Stressing the fact that “Shakespeare lived in an era of intellectual, religious, and social transition” (p. 9), McElroy sees the tensions in the tragic heroes as products of cultural and ideological conflicts. The heroes are susceptible to being undermined because of certain characteristics they all share, such as self-awareness, a tendency to universalize, and a craving for absolutes; but these are thematic necessities rather than traits of personality. A character’s behavior is to be understood as predicated much more “upon his world-view” (p. 20) than upon psychological “motives.”
EXAMINING CONSUMERSâ€™ CHANNEL-MIGRATION INTENTION UTILIZING THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR: A MULTIGROUP ANALYSIS

This study examined channel-migration behavior using a decomposed Theory of Planned Behavior with crossover effects in brick-and-mortar stores and the Internet. An online survey was administered at four research sites (N = 547) and factor analysis and structural equation modeling, with multigroup analysis, were utilized for data analysis. Hedonic beliefs did not influence either of the channels, whereas, utilitarian beliefs were significant predictors in both brick-and-mortar stores and the Internet. Additionally, normative beliefs did not influence subjective norms in either of the channels, while self-efficacy influenced perceived behavioral control (PBC) in both the channels. Attitude and subjective norms influenced channel-migration intentions for both channels; whereas, PBC was a significant predictor of channel-migration intentions on the Internet only. The crossover effects of normative beliefs and subjective norms on attitude was significant for the Internet. The crossover effects for subjective norms and PBC on attitude was significant for brick-and-mortar stores. Attitude toward channel migration from the Internet to brick-and-mortar stores yielded a negative influence.
Reply to Nicola Fossati, Giorgio Gandaglia, Alberto Bossi, Francesco Montorsi, Alberto Briganti's Letter to the Editor re: Stephen J. Freedland, Voleak Choeurng, Lauren Howard, et al. Utilization of a Genomic Classifier for Prediction of Metastasis Following Salvage Radiation Therapy After Radical Prostatectomy. Eur Urol 2016;70:588–96

We appreciate the interest of Fossati et al in our study [1] and their thoughtful comments. They appropriately raised several issues regarding the prognostic and predictive role of the Decipher genomic classifier (GC; GenomeDX Biosciences, San Diego, CA, USA) in the salvage radiation therapy (SRT) setting. We hope that the following information clarifies the issues raised. Regarding the first issue raised, it is true that the definition of SRT adopted in this paper [1] led to a somewhat heterogeneous cohort, but this is more so a reflection of the lack of standard timing in radiation therapy, given the lack of level 1 evidence supporting salvage radiation rather than a flaw in methodology. With that said, we investigated the independent predictive capability of the GC while controlling for pretreatment prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in multivariable analysis in which GC remained significantly prognostic. In addition, we conducted a sensitivity analysis by defining homogeneous cohorts based on two definitions of early salvage radiation using limits on pre–radiation therapy PSA of 0.5 ng/ml and 1.0 ng/ml, as selected by Briganti et al [2] and Hsu et al [3], respectively. Importantly, even within these narrowly defined previously used cut points, the survival c-index for the GC was nearly identical to the entire cohort. As such, even though this subanalysis was based on a smaller sample size, we would argue that the consistency observed for the survival c-index and the confidence interval for the GC across all sets of patients is compelling and corroborates the significant hazard ratios seen in the full cohort. Next we address the second issue of evaluating risk models based on outcomes that are different from their originally intended end points. Both the Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment–Postsurgical (CAPRA-S) score and the Briganti nomogram were originally developed to
Calcium Channel Blockers in Systemic Hypertension

Alterations in transmembrane flux of calcium ions may be playing a role in the pathophysiology of systemic hypertension. Calcium channel blockers have been shown to be effective antihypertensive drugs with excellent safety profiles. They are efficacious in the long term treatment of systemic hypertension in all population subgroups, and have special applicability for treating patients with hypertensive urgencies and individuals with concomitant diseases such as angina pectoris and arrhythmias.
The formation mechanism of gradient porous Si in a contactless electrochemical process

Recently, gradient porous silicon has been developed to meet the requirements of various applications due to its unique physical and chemical properties. In this paper, the formation mechanism and morphology of radially symmetric gradient porous silicon films fabricated using a contactless method and their dependence on different process parameters, such as HF concentration, solution pH, current density and wafer resistivity, have been investigated in detail. The design and geometry of the sample assembly allow decreasing current density radially inward on the silicon surface in contact with HF based etchant solution. In the presence of surfactants, an increase in the distribution range of porosity, pore diameter and depth was observed by increasing HF concentration or lowering pH of the etchant solution, as the formation of pores was considered to be limited by the etch rates of silicon dioxide. Gradient porous silicon was also found to be successfully formulated both at high (10 mA cm−2) and low (3 mA cm−2) current densities. Interestingly, the morphological gradient was not developed when dimethyl sulfoxide (instead of surfactants) was used in the etchant solution potentially due to limitations in the availability of oxidizing species at the silicon–etchant solution interface.
A photoemission spectroscopic study of the interface formation in organic thin film transistors

Pentacene is widely used in organic thin film transistors due to relatively large mobilities. It has been suggested that the functional behavior in these organic thin film transistors occurs within the first few molecular layers of the device at the interfaces between the organic and the metals and dielectrics used in fabrication of the thin film transistors. This makes understanding the electronic behavior of the interfaces involved in these devices critical. In order to better understand these interfaces we investigated the interface formation using photoemission spectroscopy to examine layer by layer growth of pentacene on Au and Ag and vice versa. We observed indications of dipole formation at the interfaces between the metals and organics for organic on metal deposition. On the other hand, more complex material intermixing takes place during metal on organic deposition and as a result, the electronic structure of the interface differs from that of organic on metal deposition.
The use of HIV-1 integrase inhibitors in antiretroviral naive patients.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In this review we will discuss recent findings on the use of inhibitors of the HIV-1 integrase enzyme for the treatment of antiretroviral naive patients. We will also discuss differences between integrase inhibitors, and comment on the use of this class of drugs in the future. RECENT FINDINGS: Raltegravir when taken twice daily is as effective and well tolerated as efavirenz. Once daily dosing of raltegravir is virologically inferior to raltegravir taken twice daily. A novel nucleoside-free regimen of raltegravir in combination with a once daily ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor did not produce adequate viral suppression, although raltegravir with a twice daily protease inhibitor yielded better results. Subset analyses have demonstrated a favorable impact of raltegravir on lipid levels and body fat composition. Two once daily integrase inhibitors not yet Food and Drug Administration-approved, elvitegravir and dolutegravir, have completed phase-2 testing and are also virologically noninferior to efavirenz. SUMMARY: Integrase inhibitors provide potent antiretroviral activity, little short-term toxicity and excellent tolerability. For patients with preexisting atherosclerosis or cardiac risk factors this class of therapy is a logical preferred treatment choice. Raltegravir is a preferred option for those in whom therapy for hepatitis C virus infection is anticipated.
Search Strategy Development in a Flipped Library Classroom: A Student-Focused Assessment

Librarians at Brigham Young University compared search statement development between traditional lecture and flipped instruction sessions. Students in lecture sessions scored significantly higher on developing search statements than those in flipped sessions. However, student evaluations show a strong preference for pedagogies that incorporate elements from both lecture and flipped methodologies. Reasons for lower flipped-session scores may include a lack of student accountability, strong preference for a live demonstration, and disconnections between online tutorial content and in-class collaborative activities. Librarians using a flipped classroom should consider ways to help students make meaningful connections between online tutorials and in-class activities.
Breeding and Application of Indica Rice CMS Line Neixiang 3A with Fine Quality and Aroma

Neixiang 3A,derived from the testcross between Yixiang 1A and the selected plants of(Yixiang 1B∥1523B/Yixiang 1B) B_1F_2,followed by successive selection and backcross,is a new indica CMS line with fine grain quality and aroma developed by Neijiang Hybrid Rice Science and Technology Development Center of Sichuan Province.It has a complete and stable male sterility with 100% of sterile plants and pollen sterility,a good plant type and outcrossing characteristics,fine grain quality and strong resistance to blast.It was technically certified in Sichuan Province in August,2003.Its F_1 hybrids Neixiangyou 3,Neixiangyou 9 and Neixiang 10,registered and released for commercial production nationwide(2004),in Guizhou(2004) and in Sichuan(2005),respectively,showed good grain quality,high yield potential and strong blast resistance in trials and demonstrations,indicating a good prospect for wide extension.
Free oscillation observations through 1968

abstract All observations of the free oscillations of the Earth published through 1968 are weighted to produce a set of means and standard errors of the means. Fundamental orders 0 to 97 for spheroidal and 2 to 99 for torsional are treated, as well as many overtones up to order 49. Statistical tests indicate that some observations are path dependent at the 99 per cent confidence level. Comparison of these means and standard errors with published Earth models indicate that they form a consistent basis for inversion of free oscillation observations to infer Earth structures.
Two new techniques for evaluating prostate cancer. The role of prostate-specific antigen and transrectal ultrasound.

(1989). Two new techniques for evaluating prostate cancer. Postgraduate Medicine: Vol. 86, No. 2, pp. 197-208.
Daily interest, engagement, and autonomy support in the high school science classroom

Abstract The current investigation examined relations between high school students’ daily and cumulative situational interest in science class and their engagement, as well as their perceptions of the motivational climate of the classroom. Two-hundred and eighteen high school students in 43 science classes participated in a diary study in which students provided reports of their classroom experiences after each class session for a six-week instructional unit. Multilevel modeling results suggested that interest during science class and behavioral engagement declined over the course of the unit. Daily and cumulative interest during science class predicted behavioral engagement (working hard, participating, and paying attention), cognitive engagement, and agentic engagement. Students’ interest during science class also predicted perceptions that teachers engaged in the motivationally supportive practice of emphasizing student choice during the same and the following class day. Results suggested that the links between interest with working hard and perceptions of choice provision were stronger early in the instructional unit compared to later in the unit. Moreover, some variation was found in these relations depending on students’ gender and ethnicity, as well as depending on the course content and level. Implications for practice, theory, and future research are discussed.
ADHD and Driving Risks

A 3- to 5- year follow-up survey of driving-related risks and outcomes in 35 adolescents and young adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and 36 control subjects is reported from the Departments of Psychiatry, Neurology, and Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, MA.
Rate-Dependent Exit Conduction Block From Pulmonary Vein to Left Atrium After Entrance Block: New Implications of Pacing Rate to Confirm Bidirectional Conduction Block.

Pulmonary vein electric isolation (PVI) is an effective therapy for atrial fibrillation. Bidirectional conduction block between left atrium (LA) and the pulmonary veins (PV) is an accepted end point for PVI. We report a case of rate-dependent unidirectional exit conduction from PV to LA after PVI by large area circumferential ablation, despite entrance and exit conduction block. A 63-year-old man with symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation refractory to flecainide underwent PVI. An 8-Fr irrigated ablation catheter (Thermocool RMT) connected to a CARTO3 (Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA) electroanatomic mapping system and Stereotaxis remote navigation system were used for PVI. A circular mapping catheter was used to confirm electrogram-guided PVI by large area circumferential ablation. Isolation of the ipsilateral left PVs was obtained, and bidirectional conduction block between the left PVs and LA was confirmed. Subsequently, isolation of the right superior PV (RSPV) was noted by entrance conduction block. Of note, the left PVs and the RSPV exhibited dissociated spontaneous electric activity suggestive of exit conduction block (Figure 1). Pacing from the distal bipoles of the ablation catheter at the anterior aspect of the RSPV was performed at a cycle length of 600 ms (10 mV/2 ms). Pacing captured the PV by suppressing its dissociated activity and unexpectedly …
Teaching Introductory Artificial Intelligence with Pac-Man

The projects that we have developed for UC Berkeley’s introductory artificial intelligence (AI) course teach foundational concepts using the classic video game Pac-Man. There are four project topics: state-space search, multi-agent search, probabilistic inference, and reinforcement learning. Each project requires students to implement general-purpose AI algorithms and then to inject domain knowledge about the Pac- Man environment using search heuristics, evaluation functions, and feature functions. We have found that the Pac-Man theme adds consistency to the course, as well as tapping in to students’ excitement about video games.
The Spectral Invariant Approximation within Canopy Radiative Transfer to Support the Use of the EPIC/DSCOVR Oxygen B-band for Monitoring Vegetation

EPIC (Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera) is a 10-channel spectroradiometer onboard DSCOVR (Deep Space Climate Observatory) spacecraft. In addition to the near-infrared (NIR, 780 nm) and the 'red' (680 nm) channels, EPIC also has the O2 A-band (764±0.2 nm) and B-band (687.75±0.2 nm). The EPIC Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) is defined as the difference between NIR and 'red' channels normalized to their sum. However, the use of the O2 B-band instead of the 'red' channel mitigates the effect of atmosphere on remote sensing of surface reflectance because O2 reduces contribution from the radiation scattered by the atmosphere. Applying the radiative transfer theory and the spectral invariant approximation to EPIC observations, the paper provides supportive arguments for using the O2 band instead of the red channel for monitoring vegetation dynamics. Our results suggest that the use of the O2 B-band enhances the sensitivity of the top-of-atmosphere NDVI to the presence of vegetation.
A Different Approach to Information Provision and Retrieval

Information retrieval finds itself at an interesting juncture, where the amount of information that is available to people increases every day from its already bewildering limit. The problem is how to get the information we need in a timely and efficient fashion, without delivering useless or unwanted information. Current Web-Based IR systems do their best, but they will find it increasingly. . .
Influence of Maternal Folic Acid Supplementation on Hematopoietic Factors in Offspring.

Observational studies of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have generally supported a protective role for maternal intake of foods or vitamins rich in folic acid during pregnancy. Using C57BL/6J mice, we evaluated the effect of dietary folic acid intake in the perigestational period on surface marker and gene expression in B-lineage cells as a potential model to further elucidate the role of maternal diet in the etiology of childhood ALL. Thirty-six female mice were randomized to one of three folic-acid varied diets (low=0.3, control=2.0, high=8.0 mg/kg) one month prior to mating and maintained on the diet until pup weaning at three weeks. Reproductive characteristics and offspring red blood cell (RBC) folate were recorded, and bone marrow lymphocytes were isolated for surface marker characterization by flow cytometry. For gene expression analyses, CD19 positive B-lineage bone marrow cells were purified from three pups per dietary group using anti-CD19 microbeads. Gene expression levels were interrogated using the Agilent mouse whole genome microarray. No statistically significant differences were found among dietary groups with respect to mating success, litter size, estimated 21 day offspring weights, or the percentage of male offspring. However, there were significant differences among the 3 diets in offspring survival to the end of the experiment (39%, 84%, and 30% for the 0.3, 2.0, and 8.0 mg/kg groups, respectively). Pup RBC folate values were positively correlated with dietary folic acid dose with mean values of 428, 615, and 724 ng/ml, respectively. Mice were euthanized at 3 weeks. There was no significant difference in the expression of CD19, IgM, or kappa light chains on bone marrow lymphocytes in the offspring among dietary groups. ANOVA analysis, using Genedata Expressionist Pro software, showed differential expression of 267 genes using a Benjamini and Hochburg false discovery rate cutoff of 10%. Three main patterns of gene expression between pups of different dietary groups were identified through unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis; 152 and 86 genes were up- and down-regulated, respectively, in both the high and the low folic acid groups relative to the control group. Twenty-seven genes showed increasing expression with increasing dietary folic acid dose. In conclusion, dietary folic acid given to dams prior to conception through weaning had a significant effect on offspring survival and gene expression. Additional analyses are underway to determine the relevance of genes found to be differentially expressed with respect to risk of B-cell lineage leukemias followed by validation of relevant gene candidates through quantitative RT-PCR. These data will be used to help inform future etiologic studies of childhood ALL.
Nanosalina: A Tale of Saline-Loving Algae from the Lake's Agony to Cancer Therapy

The nanoparticles (NPs) that contain the therapeutic agent within themselves without further modifications can be coined as "self-therapeutic" NPs. The development of these agents especially when derived from natural resources can lead to a paradigm shift in the field of cancer nanotechnology as they can immensely facilitate the complex chemistry procedures and the follow up biological complications. Herein, we demonstrate that inherently therapeutic NPs "integrating" β-carotene can be synthesized from Dunaliella salina microalgae in a single step without complicated chemistry. The facile synthesis involved microwave irradiation of aqueous suspension of algae which resulted in water dispersible NPs with hydrodynamic diameter of ∼80 nm. Subsequently, extensive physiochemical characterizations were performed to confirm the integrity of the particles. The pro-oxidant activities of the integrated β-carotene were triggered by photoexcitation under UV lamp (362 nm). It was demonstrated that after UV exposure, the C32 human melanoma cells incubated with NPs experienced extensive cell death as opposed to nonilluminated samples. Further cellular analysis revealed that the significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) and in particular singlet oxygen were responsible for the cells' damage while the mode of cell death was dominated by apoptosis. Moreover, detailed endocytic inhibition studies specified that UV exposure affected NPs' cellular uptake mechanism. These inherently therapeutic NPs can open new avenues for melanoma cancer treatment via ROS generation in vitro.
A comparison between non-powder gun and powder-gun injuries in a young pediatric population.

Abstract Introduction Non-powder guns (NPG) are viewed as toys for children by the general public. Literature on firearm injuries in the pediatric population is increasing, however there are still large gaps in the published literature regarding NPG. We intended to identify and compare the epidemiology, circumstances of injury and outcomes of children with NPG versus powder-gun injuries (GSW). Patients and methods We performed a 6-year retrospective analysis of children 0–14 years old treated for NPG and GSW injuries at our level one pediatric trauma center. Mann-Whitney U test and Pearson’s X 2 were used to compare continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Results There were 43 NPG and 112 GSWs. Patients were predominantly male (36 children; 84%) NPG vs. 92 children; 82% GSW) with a median age in both groups of 11 years. Analysis of residential zip codes showed that 74% (32 children) NPG injuries and 85% (95 children) GSW lived in regions with higher poverty than the national level. Children with NPG injuries were more likely to be Caucasian (24 children; 56%) and to have suffered an unintentional injury (36 children; 84%), while children with GSW were African-American (80 children; 71%; p = 0.0002) and victims of assault (50 children; 45%; p 0.0001). When compared with NPG, children with GSW had more severe injuries, longer hospital stays, and higher overall mortality. There were no significant differences in rate of emergent OR intervention and ED mortality between the two groups. Conclusion Our results highlight two important findings. First, NPG injuries were accidental and thus preventable with improved legislation and public education. Second, health disparities related to gun violence among African-Americans are prevalent even in early childhood and prevention efforts should include this younger population.
Mobile archives of indigeneity: Building La Comunidad Ixim through organizing in the Maya diaspora

This article examines how La Comunidad Ixim, a collective of young second-generation Mayas and Guatemalans in Los Angeles, bridge their family histories and the political insights gained from their participation in other forms of social justice organizing to create a mobile archive of indigeneity. Mobile archives of indigeneity are archives that document the epistemologies and experiences of Maya migrants in materials that are also mobile and can move with migrants. Through an analysis of interviews with the organizers of La Comunidad Ixim and a close reading of their children’s book, this article emphasizes that mobile archives of indigeneity become sites that refuse to be fixed in space and that challenge the ongoing colonial regimes of power that, despite differing articulations, remain entrenched in positioning all Indigenous peoples as disappearing or gone.
Trauma, Psychopathology, and the Refugee Crisis: A Call to Action

The article discusses the author's call for America's public health community to care for and provide supportive services to displaced and refugee children as a means of preventing a potential mental health crisis as of 2017, and it mentions psychopathology and neurological trauma in relation to a global refugee crisis. Anxiety, depression, and other behavior problems in young refugees are examined, along with war-related trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder.
A computational panel of pathological RAS mutants with implications for personalized medicine and genetic medicine

The RAS proteins (KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS) play important roles in multiple diseases. This includes many types of cancer and the developmental syndromes collectively referred to as the RASopathies. There are many different RAS mutants that are found to drive these diseases. Mutant-to-mutant differences pose a challenge for personalized medicine. To investigate this problem, we extend our previously developed model of oncogenic RAS mutants to a total of 16 oncogenic mutants. We also extend our model to RASopathy associated mutants using data for 14 such RAS mutants. The model finds that the known biochemical defects of these mutants are typically sufficient to explain their elevated levels of RAS signaling. In general, our analysis finds that the oncogenic mutants are stronger than the RASopathy mutants. However, the model suggests that RAS signal intensities are spanned by the pathological variants; there does not appear to be a perfect separation between cancer promoting and developmental syndrome promoting mutants. Analysis of the panel also finds that the relative strengths of pathological RAS mutants is not absolute, but rather can vary depending on context. We discuss implications of this finding for personalized cancer medicine and for medical genetics. As genomics permeates clinical medicine, computational models that can resolve mutant specific differences, like the one presented here, may be useful for augmenting clinical thinking with their ability to logically translate biochemical knowledge into system level outputs of perceived clinical relevance.
RNAModMapper: RNA Modification Mapping Software for Analysis of Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry Data.

Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has proven to be a powerful analytical tool for the characterization of modified ribonucleic acids (RNAs). The typical approach for analyzing modified nucleosides within RNA sequences by mass spectrometry involves ribonuclease digestion followed by LC-MS/MS analysis and data interpretation. Here we describe a new software tool, RNAModMapper (RAMM), to assist in the interpretation of LC-MS/MS data. RAMM is a stand-alone package that requires user-submitted DNA or RNA sequences to create a local database against which collision-induced dissociation (CID) data of modified oligonucleotides can be compared. RAMM can interpret MS/MS data containing modified nucleosides in two modes: fixed and variable. In addition, RAMM can also utilize interpreted MS/MS data for RNA modification mapping back against the input sequence(s). The applicability of RAMM was first tested using total tRNA isolated from Escherichia coli. It was then applied to map modifications ...
Harvard Crooners: Building Intergenerational Relationships Through Participatory Music Making

ABSTRACTThe world is rapidly aging, and yet aging is fraught with many difficulties. In particular, the rights of older people to participate fully in cultural life are frequently not met. To help address this issue, we propose an innovative model for intergenerational, participatory music-making between younger people and older people. Specifically, instead of giving traditional, non-participatory performances for older people as is commonly done in nursing homes and other elderly institutions, we advocate for engaging seniors in collective music-making and singing. We believe this kind of collective music-making will better meet the rights of older adults to participate in cultural life and will lead to stronger intergenerational relationships.
Formation of Ketenimines via the Palladium-Catalyzed Decarboxylative π-Allylic Rearrangement of N-Alloc Ynamides

A new approach for the formation of ketenimines via a decarboxylative allylic rearrangement pathway that does not require strong stabilizing or protecting groups has been developed. The products can be readily hydrolyzed into their corresponding secondary amides or reacted with sulfur ylides to perform an additional [2,3]-Wittig process. Mechanistic studies suggest an outer-sphere process in which reductive alkylation is rate-limiting.
Correction scheme for point-particle models applied to a nonlinear drag law in simulations of particle-fluid interaction

Abstract Drag laws for particles in fluids are often expressed in terms of the undisturbed fluid velocity, defined as the fluid velocity a particle sees before its disturbance develops in the fluid. In two-way coupled point-particle simulations the information from the undisturbed state is not available and must be approximated using the disturbed velocity field. ([Horwitz, J. A. K. & Mani, A. 2016 Accurate calculation of stokes drag for point-particle tracking in two-way coupled flows. Journal of Computational Physics 318, 85–109]) recently developed a procedure to estimate the undisturbed velocity for particles moving at low Reynolds number and obeying the linear Stokes drag law. Using this correction, convergence of numerical simulations was demonstrated to match the expected physical behavior for a range of canonical settings. In this paper we examine this correction scheme for particles moving at finite Reynolds number, by considering the nonlinear Schiller–Naumann drag law. Our results indicate that a linear correction can significantly improve prediction of drag force up to particle Reynolds number of about 10. Additionally, we present an investigation of the impact of this correction when applied to simulations of forced homogeneous turbulent particle-laden flows to further demonstrate the importance of modelling the undisturbed fluid velocity. While the shapes of particle acceleration and Reynolds number pdfs are not sensitive to correcting for the undisturbed fluid velocity, we show that an uncorrected scheme can result in significant under-prediction of the mean particle Reynolds number and standard deviation of particle acceleration. Furthermore, examination of particle radial distribution function reveals modest enhancements in preferential concentration predicted by the correction scheme (for St > 1). Our investigations of turbulent flows indicate the undisturbed fluid velocity correction to be more important for particles with larger size, while the Stokes number dependence is more complicated. The correction procedure shows a greater difference in particle slip velocity at higher Stokes numbers but more enhancement in preferential concentration at lower Stokes numbers. Finally, we propose a regime diagram to guide scheme selection for point-particle modelling.
Mixed effects of remittances on child education

We exploit the size of the 2010 Ecuadorian Census to estimate the effect of remittances on secondary school enrollment across four key dimensions: gender, household wealth, rural vs. urban, and family migration status. Using a bivariate probit model that accounts for both endogeneity and non-linearity issues, we find both positive and negative effects of remittances on the likelihood of schooling. The strongest positive effects are for poorer, urban males, while the negative effects are for rural females. For children in wealthier households, the effects of remittances are either negative or non-significant. This suggests that the positive income effects of remittances may be offset by the negative effects of a missing parent due to migration, more visible in wealthier families where financial constraints may not be as binding. We find further support for this by estimating the effects of remittances conditional on migration status. Our results show positive effects on schooling for non-migrant households that receive remittances and no effects for children living in households where at least one parent has migrated. The sharp contrasts within and across groups, while using the same data and econometric specifications, help explain the lack of consensus in the literature.
End-of-life care in patients with primary malignant brain tumors: A systematic literature review and analysis.

e20703 Background: 80–85% of all adult brain tumors are high-grade glioma (HGG). HGG are typically treated with maximal surgical resection, followed by radiotherapy with concurrent and adjuvant chemotherapy. The median survival for anaplastic glioma is estimated to be 2-5 years and 15 months for patients with glioblastoma. Quality of life (QoL) has become an increasing important outcome assessed in clinical trials as well as in the standard care of brain tumor patients. Despite the inevitable disease trajectory, not much is known about symptoms and needs of brain tumor patients and their caretakers at the end of life. There appears to be a lack of published literature on this important aspect of neuro-oncology. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane covering the years between 1946 through 2012. In total, 7146 article citations were found. After first review 942 abstracts were obtained. Based on content 82 articles were examined separately by both authors and it was ag...
Modeling Sex Differences in Anti-inflammatory Effects of Dexamethasone in Arthritic Rats

Collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) rats are used commonly for preclinical pharmacologic research into rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Dexamethasone (DEX), a potent corticosteroid (CS), remains an important component in combination therapy for RA. Although sex differences in RA and CS pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) have been documented in humans, there has been no such comprehensive evaluation of sex differences in CIA rats. Paw size measurements were obtained for males and females from four groups of animals: healthy controls, non-drug treated arthritic animals, and both 0.225 and 2.25 mg/kg DEX-treated arthritic animals. A turnover model for disease progression, minimal PBPK model for drug concentrations, and inhibitory indirect response model were applied using population PK/PD modeling. The clearances of DEX were 43% greater in males, but other PK parameters were similar. The temporal profiles of paw swelling exhibited earlier progression, peak edema times, and disease remission in females. DEX suppressed paw edema well in both males and females with similar capacity (Imax) values (=1.0), but DEX potency was less in females with higher IC50 values (0.101 versus 0.015 ng/mL). The pharmacology of DEX was well characterized in CIA rats. This study addresses knowledge gaps about sex differences and can be a guide for more mechanistic assessment of sex, drug, and disease differences in RA.
Green-Schwarz string in AdS5 × S5: semiclassical partition function

A systematic approach to the study of semiclassical fluctuations of strings in AdS5 ? S5 based on the Green-Schwarz formalism is developed. We show that the string partition function is well defined and finite. Issues related to different gauge choices are clarified. We consider explicitly several cases of classical string solutions with the world surface ending on a line, on a circle or on two lines on the boundary of AdS. The first example is a BPS object and the partition function is one. In the third example the determinants we derive should give the first corrections to the Wilson loop expectation value in the strong coupling expansion of the = 4 SYM theory at large N.
Modeling, Simulation, and Robust Design of the TSIS Pointing Controller for ISS Deployment

To ensure high quality TSIS science measurements, stringent requirements were levied on the pointing system performance. Several factors complicated the design of the pointing system controller including uncertainty in knowledge of the ISS base motion jitter, the use of direct drive brushless DC motors for the gimbal system, and the presence of TSIS structure low frequency modes. This paper will describe the modeling, simulation, analysis, and robust design techniques employed to reduce risk resulting in a pointing system that met requirements on-orbit.
Genistein inhibits proliferation and induces senescence in neonatal mouse pituitary gland explant cultures.

Abstract Genistein is an isoflavone abundant in soybean and infants are exposed to high levels of genistein in soy-based formula. It is known that genistein mediates estrogen receptor (ER) signaling, and exposure during neonatal development could cause acute and long term endocrine effects. We assayed genistein’s impact on the neonatal mouse pituitary gland because it is an endocrine signaling hub and is sensitive to endocrine disruption during critical periods. Pituitary explant cultures, which actively proliferate and differentiate, were exposed to 0.06 μM–36 μM genistein and assayed for mRNA and protein changes. Genistein induced mRNA expression of the ERα regulated gene, Cckar, to the same magnitude as estradiol (E2) but with less potency. Interestingly, 36 μM genistein strongly inhibited pituitary proliferation, measured by a reduction in mKi67 mRNA and phospho-Histone H3 immunostaining. Examining cell cycle dynamics, we found that 36 μM genistein decreased Ccnb1 (Cyclin B1) mRNA; while mRNA for the cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor Cdkn1a (p21) was upregulated, correlated with an apparent increase in p21 immunostained cells. Strikingly, we observed a robust onset of cellular senescence, permanent cell cycle exit, in 36 μM genistein treated pituitaries by increased senescence activated β-galactosidase staining. We also found that 36 μM genistein decreased Bcl2 mRNA levels, a gene protective against apoptosis. Taken together these data suggest that genistein exposure during the neonatal period could initiate senescence and halt proliferation during a time when the proper numbers of endocrine cells are being established for mature gland function.
Chapter 2 – Resonant Tunneling Via Man-Made Quantum Well States

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on resonant tunneling via man-made quantum well states. The chapter discusses Tsu–Esaki formula, Schrodinger Equation, and Green's function for damped quantum well structures. The tunneling time of a typical resonant tunneling diode (RTD) is a couple of hundreds of femto-seconds, confirming that the ultimate device speed is ∼10 THz. Green's function used in conjunction with the Laplace transform for studying tunneling time using the time-dependent Schrodinger equation is presented. The use of Green's function is more powerful than looking for the transmission peak. For an isolated quantum well, Green's function can be calculated, but the transmission case cannot be set up. The chapter also presents some working rules for self-consistent potential calculations and describes some fundamental rules that govern junctions such as the pn-junction and heterojunctions in general. The electron transport based on the wavefunction solution of the Schrodinger equation is solved together with the Poisson equation. The new potential is now added to the original zero order solution. Quantum mechanics was designed to take care of atoms and molecules. The mathematical description of an eigenstate and an eigenvalue is just the fight tool because atoms and molecules do last indefinitely or even very long. Therefore, the use of the Hermitian Hamiltonian is natural.
The first use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the ER: triage not diagnosis

Predictions related to the impact of AI on radiology as a profession run the gamut from AI putting radiologists out of business to having no effect at all. The use of AI appears to show significant promise in ER triage in the present. We briefly discuss the emerging effectiveness of AI in the ER imaging setting by looking at some of the products approved by the FDA and finding their way into "practice." The FDA approval process to date has focused on applications that affect patient triage and not necessarily ones that have the computer serve as the only or final reader. We describe a select group of applications to provide the reader with a sense of the current state of AI use in the ER setting to assess neurologic, pulmonary, and musculoskeletal trauma indications. In the process, we highlight the benefits of triage staging using AI, such as accelerating diagnosis and optimizing workflow, with few downsides. The ability to triage patients and take care of acute processes such as intracranial bleed, pneumothorax, and pulmonary embolism will largely benefit the health system, improving patient care and reducing costs. These capabilities are all available now. This first wave of AI applications is not replacing radiologists. Rather, the innovative software is improving throughput, contributing to the timeliness in which radiologists can get to read abnormal scans, and possibly enhances radiologists' accuracy. As for what the future holds for the use of AI in radiology, only time will tell.
CORTICO-CORTICAL FEEDBACK CONTROLS SPATIAL SUMMATION IN PRIMATE VISUAL CORTEX

Our visual perception of the external world relies on neural activity across a hierarchy of visual cortical areas, communicating via complex feedforward-feedback pathways. While feedforward pathways have been a focus of study, the role of the feedback pathway has remained poorly understood. Here we have developed a novel viral vector combination allowing for selective optogenetic inactivation of feedback pathways in the non-human primate brain. We show that even the most fundamental response properties of visual neurons, such as the receptive field size, are regulated by feedback signals from other regions of the visual cortex. Depending on its activity regime, cortico-cortical feedback can regulate receptive field size and contextual modulation of visual responses or the overall response gain of neurons.
Influence of droplet velocity, spacing, and inter-arrival time on line formation and saturation in binder jet additive manufacturing

Abstract Binder Jetting (BJ) is a low-cost Additive Manufacturing (AM) process that uses inkjet technology to selectively bind particles in a powder bed. BJ relies on the ability to control, not only the placement of binder on the surface but also its imbibition into the powder bed. This is a complex process in which picoliter-sized droplets impact powder beds at velocities of 1–10 m/s. However, the effects of printing parameters such as droplet velocity, size, spacing, and inter-arrival time on saturation level (fraction of pore space filled with binder) and line formation (merging of droplets to form a line) are unknown. Prior attempts to predict saturation levels with simple measurements of droplet primitives and capillary pressure assume that droplet/powder interactions are dominated by static equilibrium and neglect the impact of printing parameters. This study analyzes the influence of these parameters on the effective saturation level and conditions for line formation when printing single lines into powder beds of varied materials (316 stainless steel, 420 stainless steel, and alumina) and varied particle size (d50=10–47 µm). Results show that increasing droplet velocity or droplet spacing decreases effective saturation while droplet spacing, velocity, and inter-arrival time affect line formation. At constant printing velocity, the conditions for successful line printing are shown to be a function of droplet spacing and square root of the droplet inter-arrival time analogous to the Washburn model for infiltration into a porous media. The results have implications to maximizing build rates and improving quality of small features in BJ.
The Question of Legitimacy: Kenya's Recognition Policy of Governments under Moi during the Cold War – Eastern Africa Countries (1978-1990)

During the 1970’s, majority of states, including Kenya followed the practice of recognizing states and not governments. In so doing, they downplayed the granting of formal recognition to new governments. Kenya’s policy, then, was clearly stated in parliament in 1971 when the then foreign affairs minister, Dr. Njoroge Mungai, was asked to comment on the Kenya government’s position on the military regime of General Idi Amin of Uganda. He stated, “Kenya could not afford to interfere with internal matters of another state nor let any state interfere with internal matters of Kenya.” However, during the Post–Cold War period, Kenya’s recognition policy underwent major transformations to include recognition of de jure governments. This study critically examines Kenya’s practice during and after the Cold War in a bid to reveal any distinct policy trends if any. The study aims to ascertain how, Kenya’s recognition policy, has largely, been formulated, articulated and exercised during Moi’s administration (1978-1990).
Equality and Family Autonomy

Contemporary family law scholarship and a growing body of doctrine often assume that a functional approach to family law – treating those who have acted like family as family – is the best way to secure equal treatment for people who live in relationships that have not been recognized legally as familial. This article argues that these functional claims, made in the name of equality, inevitably disrupt the very protection they are asking for because they undermine principles of family privacy and autonomy. In unpacking the benefits of a robust family autonomy doctrine – benefits that are crucially important to communities of color and LGBTQ communities - this article challenges not only the functional turn in family law, but feminist scholarship that has been critical of family autonomy and privacy doctrine. Building on the consistent defense of privacy that emanates from women scholars of color, this article demonstrates how functional analyses demand interference and judgement that is likely to tear at the fabric of minority communities. Functional approaches vest judges with the power to define who a family is and what it should look like. This article shows how when judges do this in the parental area, they reify dyadic, heteronormative, usually white middle class notions of parenthood. When they do it in the context of cohabitation, they reify gender roles and a morality that assumes the ubiquity of long-term conjugal relationships. Thus, the functional turn, hailed as progressive, actually re-inscribes traditional understandings of family relationships.