cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Das morphologische Substrat der Leberinsuffizienz

Leberinsuffizienz kann willkurlich und nicht scharf in zwei Formen unterteilt werden. Die erste ist eine relative milde Leberfunktionsschadigung, klinisch charakterisiert durch Mudigkeit uud Appetitlosigkeit. Die Leberfunktionsproben sind abnormal. Die andere Form ist die schwere hepatische Insuffizienz, die klinisch hauptsachlich mit cerebralen Erscheinungen wie Encephalopathie, Prakoma und Koma [1] einhergeht und bei der hamorrhagische Diathese haufig ist. Das Krankheitsbild hangt nicht nur von den strukturellen und funktionalen Anomalitaten der Leberzelle ab, sondern auch von der speziellen Sensitivitat des Gehirns. Es ist unter diesen Umstanden besonders arzneiempfindlich und Niereninsuffizienz [2, 3] kann auch eine Rolle spielen.
Gate controlled spin-density wave and chiral FFLO superconducting phases in interacting helical liquids

We explore the phases exhibited by an interacting helical liquid in the presence of finite chemical potential (applied gate voltage) and spin imbalance (applied magnetic field). We find that the helical nature gives rise to quantum orders that are expected to be absent in nonchiral one-dimensional electronic systems. For repulsive interactions, the ordered state has an oscillatory spin texture whose ordering wave vector is controlled by the chemical potential. We analyze the manner in which a magnetic impurity provides signatures of such oscillations. We find that finite spin imbalance favors a finite current carrying ground state that is not condensed in the absence of interactions and is superconducting for attractive interactions. This state is characterized by Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov (FFLO)-type oscillations where the Cooper pairs obtain a finite center-of-mass momentum. These phases can be realized on the edge of two-dimensional systems exhibiting the quantum spin Hall effect or on dislocation lines in weak topological insulators.
Mass Rearing a Mermithid Nematode, Filipjevimermis leipsandra (Mermithida: Mermithidae) on the Banded Cucumber Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

About 5 million eggs of a parasitic mennithid nematode, Filipjevimermis leipsandra Poinar and Welch, were produced each week during a 6-month period for laboratory and field experimentation by modification of existing techniques and development of new ones for culturing the parasite in vivo. The current procedures for mass rearing F. leipsandra are described.
Sliding Mode Control of Variable Modulus Structures based upon Fluidic Flexible Matrix Composites

In this research, modulus tuning of variable modulus structures based upon fluidic flexible matrix composites is investigated. By taking advantage of the high anisotropy of flexible matrix composite (FMC) tubes and the high bulk modulus of the pressurizing fluid, significant changes in the effective modulus of elasticity can be achieved by controlling the inlet valve to the fluid filled F 2 MC structure. The variable modulus F 2 MC structure has the flexibility to easily deform when desired (open valve), possesses the high modulus required during loading conditions when deformation is not desired (closed valve – locked state), and has the adaptability to vary the modulus between the flexible/stiff states through control of the valve. In this current study, a nonlinear analytical model of the F 2 MC system consisting of the FMC tube, internal working fluid, and a piezoelectric actuated spool valve is presented. A sliding mode controller is developed for tuning the modulus of the system by active valve control. Analysis results indicate that the sliding mode controller is able to tune the system to the desired modulus and handle the nonlinearities in the system.
Prospects for Foamy Viral Vector Anti-HIV Gene Therapy

Stem cell gene therapy approaches for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection have been explored in clinical trials and several anti-HIV genes delivered by retroviral vectors were shown to block HIV replication. However, gammaretroviral and lentiviral based retroviral vectors have limitations for delivery of anti-HIV genes into hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). Foamy virus vectors have several advantages including efficient delivery of transgenes into HSC in large animal models, and a potentially safer integration profile. This review focuses on novel anti-HIV transgenes and the potential of foamy virus vectors for HSC gene therapy of HIV.
Analysis on Variation of Tested Values for Grain Quality of indica Hybrid Rice

The variation and stability of the tested values of 12 indices for grain quality were analyzed by using 1036 indica hybrid rice samples from different sites and years. The results indicated that: 1) Under the comprehensive effects of genetic combination, environment and test technology, the brown rice rate, milled rice rate, grain length and length/width ratio showed high stability (CV 10%); and the protein content, amylose content, gelatinization temperature, head rice rate and gel consistency showed medium stability (10%≤CV≤25%);but the rice translucency, chalky rice rate and chalkiness degree showed low stability (CV25%). 2) In case of removing genetic effect, the CV of all tested values decreased at various degrees but the order of CV remained unchanged. 3) In case of removing both effects of genetics and environment, the CV of all tested values reduced significantly, showing the influence of test technology and skillability on the CV of tested values. The factors causing variation of the tested values and the issue on how to increase testing stability for rice quality analysis were discussed.
Preliminary study on grading of injury from adverse drug reaction

Objective To design a quantitative criterion and grading system for injury from adverse drug reaction (ADR) in order to serve the compensation system of injury from ADR. Methods Based on the other grading system of injury cases, the independent scores and serial grades were given to the ADR injury of different organs or different levels through two turns of consultation to 27 experts from Shanghai. Results Injury from ADR was graded from stage 1 to stage 10 according to the damage degree, with 1 stand for death and 10 for slightest injury. Conclusion The grading method of ADR based on the characteristics of injury accords with the condition of China, and can provide reference for making up the compensation system of ADR injury.
Slow moving protease and the seven pepsinogens. Electrophoretic demontration of the existence of eight proteolytic fractions in human gastric mucosa.

Eight electrophoretically distinct proteolytic fractions with maximum activity at acid pH have been demonstrated in extracts of human gastric mucosa. The seven fastest moving proteases are resistant to alkalinization but are destroyed by sequential acidification and neutralization. These have been termed pepsinogens (Pg) 1 through 7 in order of their decreasing electrophoretic mobility. The activity of the eighth and slowest moving protease (SMP) is not affected by acidification and neutralization. Pg 1 through 7 and SMP are found in the body and fundus of the stomach, while only Pg 6 and Pg 7 are present in the distal antrum and proximal duodenum. A protease with the same electrophoretic mobility as gastric SMP is also present in the duodenum and jejunum. The cellular origin of Pg 1 through 5 is probably the chief cell. Pg 6 and Pg 7 may be synthesized by the mucous neck cells, by the pyloric glands, and by the glands of Brunner.
Anisotropic Stereotomography based on the 2D Quasi-acoustic Eikonal Equation for VTI Media

Summary Stereo-tomography is a distinctive tomography method. The theory and application of isotropic stereo-tomography have been fully developed in the past two decades. In this paper, we apply the ray perturbation theory to the 2D quasi-acoustic eikonal equation for VTI media from whci the linear relation between the stereo-tomographic data components and the model components for qP-wave is derived. Thus the theoretical foundation of 2D VTI stereotomography based on 2D quasi-acoustic eikonal equation is established. When compared with the previous anisotropic stereo-tomography which has been derived in general anisotropic media, the kinematic information of converted wave mode and the polarization vectors are not necessarily taken into account as a data component thus the applicability of the presented method is promising. The sensitivity analysis and two synthetic data example demonstrate the correctness of the derived Frechet derivatives and the applicability of the presented work-flow.
Numerical Simulation of Wind and Wave Fields for Coastal Slender Bridges

AbstractFatigue damage of coastal slender bridges resulting from strong winds and high waves can accumulate during extreme hurricane or winter storm events and lead to possible catastrophic failures in a bridge’s lifecycle. With the transient, nonstationary features of extreme winds and strong waves, the interactions of winds, waves, and coastal slender bridges can be complicated because of the nonlinear nature of the structural system and fluid–structure interactions. For accurate coupled dynamic analysis, simulation of wind and wave fields around the structures under extreme weather conditions is necessary. This paper presents a numerical scheme to simulate the nonstationary wind and wave fields around a coastal slender bridge during hurricane events that also can be used in bridge–wind–wave (BWW) system dynamic analyses. In the present study, the wind was modeled as a time-varying mean component plus nonstationary fluctuation components, and the associated wave was modeled as a nonstationary random pro...
The Role of Incarceration and Reentry on Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Formerly Incarcerated Black and Hispanic-Latino Men in New York City

In the USA, the rate of incarceration has steadily increased from 1980 to 2010, a period called mass incarceration. Incarcerated individuals are now leaving the jail system in large numbers, the majority of whom are returning to low-income and Black and Hispanic-Latino communities. Although highly preventable, colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant risk for minority and underserved men over the age of 50. Black men have the highest CRC incidence and mortality rates, which can be prevented and treated effectively when detected early, especially via colonoscopy. Hispanic-Latino men have the third highest CRC incidence rates and the fourth highest mortality rates. This qualitative study seeks to examine how the experience of incarceration and reintegration affects the awareness of CRC screening practices, the attitudes towards these services, the availability of services, and the frequency of CRC screening among the recently released Black and Hispanic-Latino men over the age of 50 in New York City.
Cancer Stem Cell Microenvironment in Canine Glioblastoma Development: Animal Model for Human Disease

Understanding the cancer stem cells (CSCs) role in malignancy is based on a comprehensive understanding of normal stem cells role and plasticity in maintaining the normal homeostasis or regeneration in various organ tissues. The niche microenvironment that sustains and regulates stem cells is tightly regulated by physical factors and hormonal signals. In the central nervous system (CNS) malignancy the CSCs niche is deregulated by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, which disrupt the homeostatic balance from quiescence state to proliferation and differentiation that characterized glioblastoma development. Here, we review the role of microenvironment in development of glioblastoma in the dog species as an animal model for human disease for a better understanding of underlined mechanism(s) and possible target therapy for the benefit of both species. A comparative approach to the study of canine glioblastoma provides an excellent animal model for human glioblastoma pathogenesis and development of novel therapies in both species.
Sound Symbolism in Poetry

This chapter discusses sound symbolism in poetry. The sounds of speech can intimate meanings, in part because all types of sounds can suggest synesthetically, other sensory qualities. As one pass from stage to stage, one find a shift in the basic relationship between the speech sound and meaning, a shift from an intrinsic and nonarbitrary relationship to an increasingly extrinsic and capricious one. The mimetic stage corresponds to the onomatopoeic use of speech—the representation through speech of some acoustical event in nature by means of direct imitation. Between the mimetic and the symbolic, falls the analogical. As in the mimetic stage, speech mediates meaning in a fashion that is not entirely arbitrary—but with a crucial difference. Language reception—the act of listening and the act of reading—involves auditory and visual experience. Kinesthetic, visual, and auditory sensations alike are able to kindle synesthesia-like experiences. In general, suprasensory attributes form a basis for synesthetic translation, and in particular, suprasensory attributes of sound form one basis for analogical sound symbolism.
Overview of Neuropeptides: Awakening the Senses?

Humans have a diverse collection of neuropeptides that can influence a multitude of activities. There are now over 100 known neuropeptides and probably many more yet to be identified from the over 1000 predicted peptides encoded in the genome. While diverse, peptides generally share three common characteristics: (1) post-translational processing and release from vesicles, (2) activation of cell-surface receptors over a relatively large distance, and (3) modulation of target cells that are often in the brain and periphery. Within the brain, neuropeptides can modulate the activity of co-released neurotransmitters to either increase or decrease the strength of synaptic signaling. Within the periphery, neuropeptides can function similar to peptide hormones and modulate nearly all bodily functions. Given the clear involvement of the neuropeptide CGRP in migraine and the emerging evidence for other peptides, it seems likely that neuropeptides may help “awaken” the senses and contribute to the heightened sensory state of migraine.
Universal BRCA testing of TNBC and HGSOC and active family outreach to increase identification of at-risk relatives for cascade testing.

1590Background: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and high grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) are cancer types highly enriched for BRCA germline mutations. Universal BRCA testing of these patie...
Validation of Immunohistochemical Assays for Integral Biomarkers in the NCI-MATCH EAY131 Clinical Trial

Biomarkers that guide therapy selection are gaining unprecedented importance as targeted therapy options increase in scope and complexity. In conjunction with high-throughput molecular techniques, therapy-guiding biomarker assays based upon immunohistochemistry (IHC) have a critical role in cancer care in that they inform about the expression status of a protein target. Here, we describe the validation procedures for four clinical IHC biomarker assays—PTEN, RB, MLH1, and MSH2—for use as integral biomarkers in the nationwide NCI-Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (NCI-MATCH) EAY131 clinical trial. Validation procedures were developed through an iterative process based on collective experience and adaptation of broad guidelines from the FDA. The steps included primary antibody selection; assay optimization; development of assay interpretation criteria incorporating biological considerations; and expected staining patterns, including indeterminate results, orthogonal validation, and tissue validation. Following assay lockdown, patient samples and cell lines were used for analytic and clinical validation. The assays were then approved as laboratory-developed tests and used for clinical trial decisions for treatment selection. Calculations of sensitivity and specificity were undertaken using various definitions of gold-standard references, and external validation was required for the PTEN IHC assay. In conclusion, validation of IHC biomarker assays critical for guiding therapy in clinical trials is feasible using comprehensive preanalytic, analytic, and postanalytic steps. Implementation of standardized guidelines provides a useful framework for validating IHC biomarker assays that allow for reproducibility across institutions for routine clinical use. Clin Cancer Res; 24(3); 521–31. ©2017 AACR.
Estimates of genetic parameters for test day milk yields of a Holstein Friesian herd in Turkey with random regression models

Abstract. Genetic parameters for test day milk yields of Holstein Friesian cows have been estimated using a random regression model (RRM). Data consisted of 1487 monthly test day milk yield records of cows calving between 1987 and 1993 in Sarmisakli Farm, Turkey. Data were restricted to have at least 150d and at maximum 308d length of first lactations. Additive genetic and permanent environmental (co)variances were modeled with the same order polynomial regressions. Residual (measurement) error variance was assumed to be constant throughout lactation. The quadratic (k=3) order orthogonal polynomial regression was found to be sufficient. Heritability estimates for test day milk yields were high at the middle of the lactation and ranged from 0.07 to 0.32. Genetic correlations of milk yields between consecutive test days were high, but decreased as the interval between tests days increased. Genetic correlations ranged from 0.51 to 0.99. Residual error variance was estimated 13.77 kg.
Contemporary Armenian Drama and World Literature

Though they do so in the name of understanding literary culture as a universal, autonomous system, theories that develop models of world literature tend to center on the Euro-American canon. Because these models claim comprehensiveness, they eliminate the need for any meaningful engagement with languages and literatures outside their purview. Taking a contemporary Armenian play, Aghasi Ayvazyan’s Props (Dekorner), as a case in point, this chapter examines the ways in which an absurdist theatrical work produced for a small audience can undermine assertions made by critical discourses on world literature.
TRANSPORTATION AGENCIES' EXPERIENCES WITH DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS FOR AIRPORT GROUND ACCESS PLANNING

This article reports on a field investigation into the ways that transportation agencies use quantitative and qualitative information for making strategic decisions regarding airport ground access. The study analyzes the value of this information for planning airport ground access improvements at seven major international airport sites.The major finding of the research is that quantitative modeling for strategic decision support is very difficult, costly and time consuming. Modelers are confident that the models are accurate and reliable but executives generally lack confidence in the results. Transportation officials believe that the information supplied is flawed by a number of defects that minimize its value for strategic decision makers. The information defects described in this article provide an analysis of the structural difficulty of using quantitative modeling for transportation problems of strategic importance. To date, qualitative information is not frequently used, but some transportation agencies are considering its application to designing transportation services. Although this study is limited to airport ground access, the authors feel that this evidence, in conjunction with the evidence from other studies in the transportation area, dictates a need for wariness in the development of decision support systems for transportation planners. Developers of decision support systems for transportation planners must be aware of modeling costs and defects and consider how to improve the timeliness, relevance and credibility of information quantitative models provide transportation executives. Fundamentally it is important to recognize that decision makers tend, either singularly or in concert with other individuals or groups, to be the champions of a long-term vision for the community. When modeling produces inconsistent or wide ranging results that contradict their position, decision makers may not only discard modeling activities, but lose confidence in the models altogether. As a consequence, transportation planners are faced with the challenge of how to improve quantitative modeling. The most reliable and effective means for improvement is incorporation of qualitative techniques which provide greater understanding of customer perceptions and human behavior.
College Stress, Minority Status Stress, Depression, Grades, and Persistence Intentions Among Hispanic Female Students: A Mediation Model:

The present study examined the mediating role of depression symptoms in the relation of college stress and minority status stress to cumulative grade point average (GPA) and persistence intentions ...
Biased by the Group: Memory for an Emotional Expression Biases Towards the Ensemble

An emotional expression can be misremembered as more similar to previously seen expressions than it actually was – demonstrating inductive category effects for emotional expressions. Given that memory is influenced over time, we sought to determine whether memory for a single expression would be similarly influenced by other expressions viewed simultaneously. In other words, we test whether the ability to encode statistical features of an ensemble (i.e., ensemble encoding) is leveraged when attempting to recall a single expression from the ensemble. In three preregistered experiments, participants saw an ensemble of 4 expressions, one neutral and the three either happy or sad. After a delay, participants were asked to reproduce the neutral face by adjusting a response face’s expression. In Experiment 1, the ensemble comprised images of the same actor; in Experiments 2 and 3, images were comprised of individuals varying race and gender. In each experiment we demonstrated that even after only a single exposure, memory for the neutral expression in the happy group was biased happier relative to the same expression in the sad group. Data and syntax can be found at https://osf.io/gcbez/ .
Abstract 234: Nrf2-Dependent Transcriptional and Post-Transcriptional Regulatory Responses in Reductive Stress Myocardium

Background: Transient activation of nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2 (Nfe2l2/Nrf2), a master regulator of antioxidant transcription, protects from oxidative insult. However, sustained Nrf2 signal...
Curiosity and Knowledge are Vital Components of Curricular Reform.

“Google can answer anything you want, but it can’t tell you what you ought to be asking.”— Ian Leslie, from Curious: The Desire to Know and Why Your Future Depends On It As a preceptor for a critical care inpatient hospital experience, I see many students in their final year struggle to
Normal Histology of the Female Genital Tract

A review of the regional embryology and histology will be helpful in understanding the diseases of the female genital tract.
Suction Rectal Biopsy is Accurate in Late Preterm Infants with Suspected Hirschsprung Disease.

Abstract Background Few data are available to substantiate the dogma commonly held by pediatric surgeons and pediatric pathologists that rectal biopsies may be inaccurate or risky in preterm neonates. We aimed to address these concerns. Methods We performed a single-institution retrospective review of patients who underwent suction rectal biopsies at Results Forty-nine patients underwent suction rectal biopsy at Conclusion Suction rectal biopsy can be performed safely in preterm infants as small as 1590–2000 g with high accuracy. Clinicians should not hesitate to perform a biopsy for a premature infant when clinically appropriate. Type of study Study of a diagnostic test. Level of evidence Level IV.
Hidden Aspects of Valency in Immune System Regulation

Valency can be defined as the number of discrete interactions a biomolecule can engage in. Valency can be critical for function, such as determining whether a molecule acts as a scaffold for assembling large supramolecular complexes or forms a functional dimer. Here, we highlight the importance of the role of valency in regulating immune responses, with a focus on innate immunity. We discuss some of the ways in which valency itself is regulated through transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational modifications. Finally, we propose that the valency model can be applied at the whole cell level to study differences in individual cell responses with relevance to putative therapeutic applications.
Tracking emissions in the US electricity system.

Understanding electricity consumption and production patterns is a necessary first step toward reducing the health and climate impacts of associated emissions. In this work, the economic input–output model is adapted to track emissions flows through electric grids and quantify the pollution embodied in electricity production, exchanges, and, ultimately, consumption for the 66 continental US Balancing Authorities (BAs). The hourly and BA-level dataset we generate and release leverages multiple publicly available datasets for the year 2016. Our analysis demonstrates the importance of considering location and temporal effects as well as electricity exchanges in estimating emissions footprints. While increasing electricity exchanges makes the integration of renewable electricity easier, importing electricity may also run counter to climate-change goals, and citizens in regions exporting electricity from high-emission-generating sources bear a disproportionate air-pollution burden. For example, 40% of the carbon emissions related to electricity consumption in California’s main BA were produced in a different region. From 30 to 50% of the sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides released in some of the coal-heavy Rocky Mountain regions were related to electricity produced that was then exported. Whether for policymakers designing energy efficiency and renewable programs, regulators enforcing emissions standards, or large electricity consumers greening their supply, greater resolution is needed for electric-sector emissions indices to evaluate progress against current and future goals.
Preparation and electrochemical performances of silver (alloy) nanoparticles decorated on reduced graphene oxide, using self-polymerization of dopamine in an acidic environment

Abstract Self-polymerization of dopamine, in either an alkaline or an acidic environment, to form polydopamine is a material-independent surface coating technique, influencing almost all areas of material science and engineering. We demonstrated a simple, two-step method to prepare in-situ silver or silver-copper alloy nanoparticles on the surface of reduced graphene oxides, using polydopamine formed in an acidic medium. The acidic medium was created by a nonthermal micro-hollow cathode discharge device and the device was operated at atmospheric pressure, using air as the working gas. The nanocomposites were characterized with SEM, EDX, ICP-OES, and FT-IR; the electrochemical catalytic activity was tested using rotating disk electrode. The characterization methods confirmed the formation of the nanocomposites, which contain polydopamine, reduced graphene oxides, and metal nanoparticles or nanoalloy. We hypothesized that by alloying silver and copper on the surface of reduced graphene oxides, the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalytic activity of the nanocomposites will be enhanced through both alloying and substrate effects. The size range of the nanoparticles is between 10 nm and 15 nm. We find that both the silver and alloy samples catalyze the ORR via a four-electron mechanism. The alloy nanocomposites showed better performance indicator parameters than the silver one, in both mass activity and kinetic current density. This preparation method has paved a new way of synthesizing an ORR catalyst in an environmentally friendly manner.
Municipal regulation of residential landscapes across US cities: Patterns and implications for landscape sustainability

Abstract Local regulations on residential landscapes (yards and gardens) can facilitate or constrain ecosystem services and disservices in cities. To our knowledge, no studies have undertaken a comprehensive look at how municipalities regulate residential landscapes to achieve particular goals and to control management practices. Across six U.S. cities, we analyzed 156 municipal ordinances to examine regional patterns in local landscape regulations and their implications for sustainability. Specifically, we conducted content analysis to capture regulations aimed at: 1) goals pertaining to conservation and environmental management, aesthetics and nuisance avoidance, and health and wellbeing, and 2) management actions including vegetation maintenance, water and waste management, food production, and chemical inputs. Our results reveal significant variation in local and regional regulations. While regulatory goals stress stormwater management and nuisance avoidance, relatively few municipalities explicitly regulate residential yards to maintain property values, mitigate heat, or avoid allergens. Meanwhile, biological conservation and water quality protection are common goals, yet regulations on yard management practices (e.g., non-native plants or chemical inputs) sometimes contradict these purposes. In addition, regulations emphasizing aesthetics and the maintenance of vegetation, mowing of grass and weeds, as well as the removal of dead wood, may inhibit wildlife-friendly yards. As a whole, landscaping ordinances largely ignore tradeoffs between interacting goals and outcomes, thereby limiting their potential to support landscape sustainability. Recommendations therefore include coordinated, multiobjective planning through partnerships among planners, developers, researchers, and non-government entities at multiple scales.
Analysis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa c-di-GMP High and Low Subpopulations Using Flow-assisted Cell Sorting (FACS) and Quantitative Reverse Transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR).

Cyclic diguanylate monophosphate (c-di-GMP) is a second messenger signaling molecule that drives the transition from planktonic to the biofilm mode of growth in many bacterial species. Pseudomonas aeruginosa has at least two surface sensing systems that produce c-di-GMP in response to surface attachment, the Wsp and Pil-Chp systems. We recently used a plasmid-based c-di-GMP reporter (pP cdrA::gfp ) to describe how the Wsp system generates heterogeneity in surface sensing, resulting in two physiologically distinct subpopulations of cells during early biofilm formation. One subpopulation has elevated c-di-GMP and produces biofilm matrix, serving as the founders of initial microcolonies. The other subpopulation has low c-di-GMP and engages in surface motility, allowing for exploration of the surface. Here, we describe the protocol for a key experiment to confirm our initial observation of c-di-GMP heterogeneity during surface sensing: the use of flow-assisted cell sorting (FACS) to isolate subpopulations of cells with high and low c-di-GMP reporter activity, followed by quantitative Reverse Transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) of genes that are known to be transcriptionally regulated in response to cellular c-di-GMP levels (pelA, pslA). This protocol can be adapted by others to isolate subpopulations of high- and low- c-di-GMP P. aeruginosa cells that are genetically identical, but phenotypically distinct for future experiments examining specific mRNA transcripts as we did or, presumably, for additional applications like RNAseq, proteomics, or TNseq. Graphical abstract.
Finding Our Balance in the Asymmetry Debate

In Fritz (2021), I argue that positive claims of conscience (PCCs), or conscientious commitments, should be respected in the case of abortion if negative claims of conscience (NCCs), or conscientio...
On dispositional masks

Dispositions can be masked: some state of affairs might obtain which would prevent an entity from displaying the manifestation characteristic of its disposition. Yet discussions of masks overlook a number of key problems, chief among them the probabilistic nature of many dispositional masks. In this paper, I highlight the manner in which past analyses of dispositional masks have been unable to solve the problem of masks. I propose an analysis of dispositional masks which focuses on this and a number of other problems, which I argue can address them better than past accounts can. I argue that some entity masks some disposition just in case that entity makes it such that the disposition is less likely to manifest, or such that it will manifest to a lower degree.
Use of a novel 4D intracardiac echocardiography catheter to guide interventional electrophysiology procedures.

INTRODUCTION Standard two-dimensional (2D), phased-array intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) is routinely used to guide interventional electrophysiology (EP) procedures. A novel four-dimensional (4D) ICE catheter (VeriSight Pro, Philips) can obtain 2D and three-dimensional (3D) volumetric images and cine-videos in real-time (4D). The purpose of this study was to determine the early feasibility and safety of this 4D ICE catheter during EP procedures. METHODS The 4D ICE catheter was placed from the femoral vein in ten patients into various cardiac chambers to guide EP procedures requiring transseptal catheterization, including ablation for atrial fibrillation and left atrial appendage closure. 2D- and 3D-ICE images were acquired in real-time by the electrophysiologist. A dedicated imaging expert performed digital steering to optimize and postprocess 4D images. RESULTS Eight patients underwent pulmonary vein isolation (cryoballoon in seven patients, pulsed field ablation in one, additional radiofrequency left atrial ablation in one). Two patients underwent left atrial appendage closure. High quality images of cardiac structures, transseptal catheterization equipment, guide sheaths, ablation tools, and closure devices were acquired with the ICE catheter tip positioned in the right atrium, left atrium, pulmonary vein, coronary sinus, right ventricle, and pulmonary artery. There were no complications. CONCLUSION This is the first experience of a novel deflectable 4D ICE catheter used to guide EP procedures. 4D ICE imaging is safe and allows for acquisition of high-quality 2D and 3D images in real-time. Further use of 4D ICE will be needed to determine its added value for each EP procedure type.
Analysis of selected agricultural holdings profitability in relation to subsidy policy

Trading income and related profitability indicators present overall indicators for evaluation of entrepreneurial subjects. Although the fact that agrarian sector is a specific branch of national economy, unprofitable subject faces long-term threat to its existence also within this sector. Therefore subsidy policy is irreplaceable. This paper analyses the impact of subsidy policy on overall indicators for selected agricultural holdings from 1999 to 2005. This paper is a part of QG 60042 project.
Single Motherhood and Children's Health and School Performance in Japan

This paper examines the well-being of Japanese children in single-mother families relative to children living with both parents. Using data from three rounds of the National Survey of Households with Children, I first demonstrate that single mothers report their children to have significantly worse health and lower academic performance. I then estimate regression models to assess the extent to which these differences reflect single mothers' economic disadvantage, difficult work circumstances, and worse health and experience of stressful life events. Results indicate that economic disadvantage is particularly important for understanding lower levels of well-being among the children of single mothers. I conclude by discussing potential implications of these results for linkages between family behavior and inequality in Japan and for the intergenerational transmission of disadvantage.
On the Identification of α‐ and β‐Tubulin Subunits

Confusion appears to have arisen in the literature regarding the designation of alpha- and beta-tubulin in polyacrylamide gels. The presence or absence of 8 M-urea in sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gels leads to different patterns for unalkylated tubulin subunits (and other proteins), making difficult the designation of the alpha and beta subunits by original definition using electrophoretic mobility in the molecular weight dimension. The specific biochemical property of posttranslational tyrosylation of the alpha subunit has been used to identify further this subunit. Under all conditions tested, the beta subunit has been found to be more acidic than the alpha subunit, with isoelectric point differences that agree with theoretical and published values. If the tubulin subunits are reduced and alkylated, the beta subunit migrates more rapidly in SDS polyacrylamide gels, with or without urea present. However, unalkylated tubulin subunits can comigrate or even reverse their relative mobility if 8 M-urea-SDS polyacrylamide gels are used for subunit separation. The results also confirm the earlier reports that the post-translational tyrosylation of protein appears exclusively restricted to alpha-tubulin and can be demonstrated in an in vivo situation. In addition, the results suggest that only the alpha 2 subunit of tubulin is tyrosylated.
Different site, different splice

The MKK3/6-p38 pathway has been found to induce the relocalization of premessenger-RNA splicing factors from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. This represents the first physiological mechanism that alters the nuclear ratios of splicing factors and modulates alternative splice-site choice in vivo.
Translational applications of hyperpolarized 3He and 129Xe

Clinical magnetic resonance imaging of the lung is technologically challenging, yet over the past two decades hyperpolarized noble gas (3He and 129Xe) imaging has demonstrated the ability to measure multiple pulmonary functional biomarkers. There is a growing need for non-ionizing, non-invasive imaging techniques due to increased concern about cancer risk from ionizing radiation, but the translation of hyperpolarized gas imaging to the pulmonary clinic has been stunted by limited access to the technology. New developments may open doors to greater access and more translation to clinical studies. Here we briefly review a few translational applications of hyperpolarized gas MRI in the contexts of ventilation, diffusion, and dissolved-phase imaging, as well as comparing and contrasting 3He and 129Xe gases for these applications. Simple static ventilation MRI reveals regions of the lung not participating in normal ventilation, and these defects have been observed in many pulmonary diseases. Biomarkers related to airspace size and connectivity can be quantified by apparent diffusion coefficient measurements of hyperpolarized gas, and have been shown to be more sensitive to small changes in lung morphology than standard clinical pulmonary functional tests and have been validated by quantitative histology. Parameters related to gas uptake and exchange and lung tissue density can be determined using 129Xe dissolved-phase MRI. In most cases functional biomarkers can be determined via MRI of either gas, but for some applications one gas may be preferred, such as 3He for long-range diffusion measurements and 129Xe for dissolved-phase imaging. Greater access to hyperpolarized gas imaging coupled with newly developing therapeutics makes pulmonary medicine poised for a potential revolution, further adding to the prospects of personalized medicine already evidenced by advancements in molecular biology. Hyperpolarized gas researchers have the opportunity to contribute to this revolution, particularly if greater clinical application of hyperpolarized gas imaging is realized. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ELECTRON-ION AND PROTON-ION COLLISIONS IN ASTROPHYSICS

Most of the diffuse material in the Universe exists in partly ionized plasmas. In the interstellar medium, the physical conditions range from the cold weakly-ionized dense molecular clouds for which the ionization source is provided by energetic cosmic rays to the hot highly-ionized dilute galactic corona for which the ionization source is provided by thermal electrons, heated by shocks driven by supernova explosions in the disc of the galaxy. Recombination radiation created following the shock wave produces X-ray and ultraviolet photons whose absorption above the plane also contributes to the coronal heating. In planetary atmospheres, solar radiation is the primary ionization source supplemented at low altitudes by galactic cosmic rays which become relative more important for the distant planets.
Note: A single-chamber tool for plasma activation and surface functionalization in microfabrication

We present a simple apparatus for improved surface modification of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic devices. A single treatment chamber for plasma activation and chemical/physical vapor deposition steps minimizes the time-dependent degradation of surface activation that is inherent in multi-chamber techniques. Contamination and deposition irregularities are also minimized by conducting plasma activation and treatment phases in the same vacuum environment. An inductively coupled plasma driver allows for interchangeable treatment chambers. Atomic force microscopy confirms that silane deposition on PDMS gives much better surface quality than standard deposition methods, which yield a higher local roughness and pronounced irregularities in the surface.
Exploratory Factor Analysis

The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of exploratory analysis to guide users in selecting appropriate procedures. While it will occasionally be necessary to present some new material to aid in selection of appropriate techniques, no new techniques are presented here. The emphasis will be on the selections to be made and how the results may differ depending on those selections. The result, hopefully, is a guide to the selection and interpretation of appropriate exploratory factor analyses for the researcher familiar with basic factor-analytic procedures and terminology.
Guiding the Guest Experience

Excerpt] One of your many jobs as a hospitality manager is to seek ways to improve your guests' experience. You can do this, of course, by making investments to upgrade guest services or provide better products, facilities, and programs, but this is not the only place to invest your money—and it may not even be the best course. As it turns out, guests' perceptions of their experiences can be improved without huge investments. Instead, if you can get your guests to focus on the positive aspects of their experiences, their perceptions of your operation (and their evaluations) will likely improve. The other side of this coin is to avoid calling attention to unpleasant aspects of an experience. In this chapter, I want to discuss ways to encourage your guests to focus on their experience in a positive way (and to minimize attention on unpleasantness). This involves guiding the guest experience.
Intermediate Phenotypes of ATP1A3 Mutations: Phenotype-Genotype Correlations.

Background: ATP1A3-related disorders include rapid-onset dystonia–parkinsonism (RDP or DYT12), alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC), and CAPOS syndrome (Cerebellar ataxia, Areflexia, Pes cavus, Optic atrophy, and Sensorineural hearing loss). Case Report: We report two cases with intermediate forms between RDP and AHC. Patient 1 initially presented with the AHC phenotype, but the RDP phenotype emerged at age 14 years. The second patient presented with levodopa-responsive paroxysmal oculogyria, a finding never before reported in ATP1A3-related disorders. Genetic testing confirmed heterozygous changes in the ATP1A3 gene in both patients, one of them novel. Discussion: Intermediate phenotypes of RDP and AHC support the concept that these two disorders are part of a spectrum. We add our cases to the phenotype–genotype correlations of ATP1A3-related disorders.
Respiratory effects of air pollution on allergic disease.

Abstract Allergic patients have an increased susceptibility to the adverse effects of both natural and man-made air pollutants. This goes for both indoor and outdoor air pollutants and manifests itself with biochemical, cellular, and pathophysioloic expressions of adverse health effects in allergic individuals. Also occupationally induced allergic diseases will remain very important. This area has been reviewed recently by Cullen et al. 108 Since allergic patients comprise somewhere between 15% and 20% of the population, this increased susceptibility is of crucial importance not only for medical care and research but for legislative and regulatory consideration to protect these vulnerable individuals.
Economic determinants of the labor force withdrawal of Registered Nurses

This study examines two outflows that affect the labor supply of Registered Nurses (RNs), nurses leaving the profession to pursue a non-nursing occupation and employed nurses withdrawing from the labor force. Using pooled CPS data for 1980–90, a probit model is specified to estimate economic influences on the labor-force-withdrawal decisions of RNs. Evaluating the estimated probit function for different sets of RN characteristics yields different probability estimates of labor-force withdrawal. The results suggest that, although relatively few RNs leave the nursing profession to seek non-nursing occupations, a significant number withdraw, at least temporarily, from the labor force. The wage rate, other family income, presence of children, and full-time/part-time work status have a significant influence on the withdrawal decision.
FIRST HYPERPOLARIZABILITY OF THE HETEROCYCLIC SULFONAMIDES FOR LANGMUIR-BLODGETT FILMS BY CALCULATION, SOLVATOCHROMISM, AND HYPER-RAYLEIGH SCATTERING

The first hyperpolarizability β of n-alkanamides of 4-amino-N-(thiazol-2-yl)benzesulfonamide (A) and 4-amino-N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide (B) was evaluated by ab initio (Gaussian, GAMESS) and semiempirical (INDO1/S) calculations. The results obtained at the ab initio level showed that the values of β of the chromophores were 3.5−4 times that of p-nitroaniline. The calculations by INDO1/S gave preference to A and in absolute scale the β values were 104.6 and 90.9 × 10-40 m4/V for A and B, respectively, and they were slightly lower than those from ab initio. Fluorescence solvatochromism and hyper-Rayleigh scattering (HRS) was applied to determine experimentally the first hyperpolarizability of two amphiphiles containing n-hexadecanoyl (A) and n-decanoyl (B) radical. The values of β obtained by the fluorescence solvatochromism were in the same range for A and B, and were (94−100) × 10-40 m4/V while the HRS procedure gave preference to B yielding 252.1 and 197.8 (at 1064 nm), and 113.1 and 88.8 (stati...
Antigen-induced reduction in mast cell and basophil functional responses due to reduced Syk protein levels

Background: The high-affinity IgE receptor, FceRI, is unresponsive on mast cells and basophils from people in several populations through an unknown mechanism. Similarly, FceRI-positive basophils from ‘nonreleasers’ are IgE-unresponsive and are deficient in the tyrosine kinase Syk. Objective: To test the hypothesis that cross-linking FceRI on mast cells and basophils leads to FceRI nonresponsiveness through reduction in Syk protein levels. Methods: Human mast cells and basophils were used to determine if FceRI hyporesponsiveness correlated with reduced Syk levels. Results: It is shown that suboptimal antigen challenge, that did not lead to significant mediator release, induced nonresponsiveness and correlated with reduced Syk. Other IgE-associated signaling molecules were unaffected by the same treatment. The ability of IgE-unresponsive mast cells to regain FceRI responsiveness is paralleled by increased cellular Syk levels in vitro. The reduction of Syk levels with suboptimal antigen concentrations was calcium independent and mediated through a proteasome-dependent mechanism. Conclusion: These findings confirm and extend our knowledge about a novel regulatory mechanism for maintaining FceRI in a quiescent state. This mechanism may also explain why low concentrations of allergen given to patients during allergen immunotherapy induce FceRI nonresponsiveness and therapeutic benefit without inducing systemic anaphylaxis.