cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Modifiable Conceptual Unit Problem demonstrated using pollen and seed dispersal

Abstract The Modifiable Areal Unit Problem (MAUP) is a famous issue in spatial analysis that states the output of a spatial analysis is influenced by the spatial extent of the units used in the analysis. This study demonstrates that the MAUP is accompanied with another intractable spatial issue in spatial modeling; the Modifiable Conceptual Unit Problem (MCUP). The MCUP states that the conceptualization of spatial processes impacts the output of spatial analysis and occurs when a model with one spatial dimension is applied to a spatial model with more than one spatial dimension. This study demonstrates the MCUP by developing three conceptual models of dispersal and showing how they produce different results even when given the same initial dispersal curves and areal units. Three conceptual models of dispersal (sum of curve points model, area of distance range model, and the volume of distance range model) are described and applied to a grid landscape with a single point of dispersal and a grid landscape with multiple points of dispersal. A Geographic Information System (GIS) is used to evaluate how the models differ in their distribution of pollen or seeds across the landscapes. The three models of dispersal are each valid conceptualizations of the dispersal process, but when given the same dispersal curve parameters, they produce different distributions of dispersed items across grid landscapes. The sum of curve points model is the least complicated model because it only uses a few points from the defined dispersal curve. The area of distance range model uses the entire dispersal curve, but is based on a single dimension of space and thus conceptually abstracted from the grid landscape. The volume of distance range model uses the two spatial dimensions present in the grid landscape and thus is the most conceptually sound model of the three. The underlying conceptualization of the dispersal process can impact the results of dispersal models. Applying dispersal curves with one spatial dimension to grids with two spatial dimensions makes inherent assumptions about the conceptualization of dispersal. This study highlights the necessity of researchers to declare their conceptual models of dispersal when applying modeled dispersal curves to grid landscapes.
Preliminary Observations on "Paralysis" of Honeybees

Various divergent theories have previously been advanced regarding the cause of the disorder of adult honeybees commonly known as "paralysis." None of these theories have been supported by controlled experiments and practically nothing has been determined concerning the cause or even the nature of this disturbance of adult bees. Many beekeepers practice requeening affected colonies. This treatment is based on the belief that "paralysis" is a hereditary weakness for which the queen is responsible. This paper reports experiments in which "paralysis" appeared to be successfully transmitted among bees in cages and among bees in colonies. Brood from affected colonies when placed in healthy colonies produced bees which remained healthy. Conversely, brood from healthy colonies when placed in affected colonies produced' bees many of which were later affected by "paralysis." The results obtained seem to indicate that "paralysis" of adult honeybees is a slightly infectious disease that is transmitted directly from sick or dead bees to healthy ones.
Electron microscope heteroduplex studies of sequence relations among plasmids of Escherichia coli: I. Structure of F-prime factors

Abstract The sequence relations between some bacterial F-prime factors in Escherichia coli have been determined by observing, in the electron microscope, the pattern of duplex and single-stranded regions in heteroduplexes consisting of one strand from one episome and the complementary strand from another. All of the F-primes studied have a short piece of F missing. They appear to have been formed by excision from their respective Hfr's by a type I process (Scaife, 1967), leaving a piece of F remaining in the chromosome. The piece of F missing is the same in F lac and in the close relatives F450 and F 1s , although the former F-prime was derived from Hfr2 and the latter two from Hfr3. Thus, there is evidence for hot spots on F for insertion at different places in the Escherichia coli K12 chromosome to give Hfr's and hot spots for excision to give F-primes. However, a different sequence of F is missing in the episome F 8 . The physical structure of a number of F 8 episomes has been studied. In particular, we have studied the physical and genetic structures of a set of deleted F 8 episomes, prepared by P1 kc transduction of the original F 8 , and mostly deleted in some of the transfer genes. Thus, the various genetic markers have been physically mapped. A general model for the structure of F is proposed.
Abstract B150: Juxtacrine signaling between the tumor-associated macrophages and the breast cancer stem cells contribute to the cancer stem cell niche by inducing a cytokine signaling network

The cell-biological program termed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) confers on cancer cells mesenchymal traits and an ability to enter the cancer stem cell (CSC) state. In addition, EMT upregulates the expression of cell surface receptors that enable CSCs to interact with their surrounding microenvironment in order to sustain their stem cell state. We discovered that EphA4 and CD90, two cell surface proteins upregulated in the carcinoma cells by the EMT, mediate juxtacrine signalling between the CSCs and tumor-associated monocytes and macrophages (TAMs). When engaged with its counter-receptor on TAMs, EphA4 on the CSCs activates Src and PLCγ1, the latter resulting in the translocation of NF-κB into the nucleus, which cooperates with Twist to drive the rapid induction of a variety of cytokines in the CSCs. Among the secreted cytokines IL-8 and IL-6 maintain the CSC-state by reinforcing the expression of the EMT-inducing transcription factors, whereas other cytokines GM-CSF, M-CSF and IL-10 recruit monocytes and induce their differentiation into M2-like macrophages. Together these cytokines perpetuate the CSC-promoting interactions between CSCs and TAMs. Indeed, admixed TAMs promote the tumor-initiating ability of CSCs whereas ablation of endogenous macrophages substantially diminished tumor initiation. Importantly, the juxtaposition of TAMs with the mesenchymal-like CD90high CSCs can be observed at the invading edge in primary human breast tumor sections and xenograft tumors. On the contrary, we rarely find TAMS infiltrating beyond the edge of tumors into the regions where the CD90neg non-stem carcinoma cells reside. These findings underscore the importance of TAMs as critical components of the CSC niche and highlight their potential as therapeutics targets. Citation Format: Haihui Lu, Wai Leong Tam, Vera Donnenberg, Xin Ye, Rohit Bhargava, Robert Weinberg. Juxtacrine signaling between the tumor-associated macrophages and the breast cancer stem cells contribute to the cancer stem cell niche by inducing a cytokine signaling network. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR Inaugural International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; September 16-19, 2015; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2016;4(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B150.
Infections in lower extremity vascular grafts

Successful management of lower extremity vascular graft infections is often compromised by poor outflow situations and difficulties with wound management. This article reviews alternative means to revascularize limbs following groin and distal anastomotic infections, and discusses new approaches to salvage exposed and infected autogenous and prosthetic grafts.
MO‐C‐BRB‐02: The Physicists’ Leadership Role in Academic Radiology: The Chair's Perspective

With the profound changes currently occurring in medicine, the role of the medical physicist cannot stagnate, but must evolve to meet the challenges and opportunities that are presented. Medical physicists must understand these changes and establish themselves not only as relevant but as leaders in this new environment. We must increase our presence in clinical settings such as tumor boards, patient rounds, and the development of new diagnosis, imaging, and treatment techniques. By establishing ourselves as competent scientists, we can and must participate in the development of technologies through research, teaching, and clinical implementation. As medical physicists we must define our roles and value to our physician colleagues, patients, referring physicians, and senior administrators. We cannot afford to be viewed solely as quality assurance technologists, but need to move forward in step with medical and practice advances, becoming recognized as having a leadership role in providing quality research, technological development, and quality patient care. In this session, four leaders in medical research and healthcare will discuss their observations on how medical physicists have contributed to advancements in healthcare and opportunities to continue leadership in providing quality medicine through the applications of physics to research, education, and clinical practice. Learning Objectives: 1.Understand the changes in the healthcare environment and how medical physicists can contribute to improving patient care. 2.Learn how medical physicists are currently leading research efforts to improve clinical imaging and diagnosis. 3.Understand the role of medical physicists in developing new technology and leading its translation into clinical care.
Effects of a behaviour change intervention for Girl Scouts on child and parent energy-saving behaviours

Energy education programmes for children are hypothesized to have great potential to save energy. Such interventions are often assumed to impact child and family behaviours. Here, using a cluster-randomized controlled trial with 30 Girl Scout troops in Northern California, we assess the efficacy of two social cognitive theory-based interventions focused on residential and food-and-transportation energy-related behaviours of Girl Scouts and their families. We show that Girl Scouts and parents in troops randomly assigned to the residential energy intervention significantly increased their self-reported residential energy-saving behaviours immediately following the intervention and after more than seven months of follow-up, compared with controls. Girl Scouts in troops randomly assigned to the food-and-transportation energy intervention significantly increased their self-reported food-and-transportation energy-saving behaviours immediately following the intervention, compared with controls, but not at follow-up. The results demonstrate that theory-based, child-focused energy interventions have the potential to increase energy-saving behaviours among both children and their parents. Behavioural interventions targeting children can influence the whole family, making them attractive for energy-saving schemes. Boudet et al. use 30 Girl Scout groups to test interventions on residential and food and transport energy behaviours and find they have potential for increasing energy saving.
City Limits: Possibilities Beyond Violence in Abdoulaye Sadji’s Maïmouna and Nini

(2014). City Limits: Possibilities Beyond Violence in Abdoulaye Sadji’s Maimouna and Nini. Journal of the African Literature Association: Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 123-151.
SECTION 10.10 – Elastic Properties of Bone Tissue

This chapter deals with the explanation of elastic properties of bone tissue. Bone is a remarkable and extremely complex tissue. Bone differs from the other tissues because of its greater stiffness and strength. Bone is a natural composite material. It may be modeled as a linearly anisotropic elastic material for all but the rarest cases within the physiological range of loading. Large strains occur only with trauma to the bone and irreversible damage to the microstructure. There are measurable viscoelastic effects in bone, but they are generally not significant in a stress analysis of a whole bone. A method of data analysis for a set of anisotropic elastic constant measurements of a material with variable composition is applied to a database for cancellous bone. For these materials the identification of the type of elastic symmetry is complicated by the variable composition of the material. A method of data analysis, described, permits the identification of the type of elastic symmetry to be accomplished independent of the examination of the variable composition. This method of analysis is applied to any set of elastic constant measurements, but it is illustrated by application to an extraordinary database of cancellous bone elastic constants.
Genetics and Clinical Features of Inherited Ataxias

Ataxia is defined as a pathological loss of motor coordination and can be presented as either the major feature of a neurological disease or one of the clinical signs of a multisystemic disorder. Although ataxia in most disorders results from variable degeneration of neurons in the cerebellum and their afferent/efferent connections, profound proprioceptive sensory loss also causes ataxia (sensory ataxia) with or without involvement of cerebellar neurons. Cerebellar disorders can be divided into sporadic and inherited diseases. The inherited cerebellar ataxias include autosomal recessive, autosomal dominant, X-linked, and mitochondrial cerebellar ataxias. Ataxias that present as intermittent episodes of ataxia are labeled episodic ataxias. In most of these disorders, ataxia is caused by dysfunction and degeneration of the cerebellar cortex and its afferent or efferent fiber connections.
Thermodynamic and transport properties of single-crystal Yb 14 MnSb 11

Relatively large (up to 250 mg) single crystals of the intermetallic compound ${\mathrm{Yb}}_{14}{\mathrm{MnSb}}_{11}$ have been prepared by a flux-growth technique. The results of thermodynamic and transport measurements of these samples are presented. The compound orders ferromagnetically at approximately ${T}_{C}=53\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1\mathrm{K},$ with a magnetization consistent with the assignment ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{3+}$ ${(3d}^{4})$ and ${\mathrm{Yb}}^{2+}$ ${(4f}^{14}).$ The Mn moments are local in nature, with the full effective and saturated moment of the Hund's rule spin-only ground state. The electrical resistivity has a metallic temperature dependence, with only a modest anisotropy. Room-temperature values of the resistivity are relatively high for an intermetallic compound: $1630\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}160\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\Omega}\mathrm{cm}$ and $1250\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}130\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\Omega}\mathrm{cm}$ for currents flowing approximately parallel and perpendicular to the c axis, respectively. There is a distinct loss of spin-disorder scattering in the resistivity at ${T}_{C}.$ From the heat capacity, a rough estimation of the magnetic entropy gives $\ensuremath{\Delta}{S}_{M}\ensuremath{\approx}12.1\mathrm{J}/\mathrm{m}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{}\mathrm{K},$ the value in reasonable agreement with the expected $\ensuremath{\Delta}{S}_{M}\ensuremath{\approx}R\mathrm{ln}5$ from the assignment of these moments. All of these data are consistent with a picture of ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{3+}$ local moments being coupled via conduction electrons. To this end, ${\mathrm{Yb}}_{14}{\mathrm{MnSb}}_{11}$ appears to be analogous to local-moment rare-earth intermetallic compounds, and may point the way toward a class of $3d$ Kondo lattice compounds.
Systematic review with meta-analysis: recurrence of Crohn's disease after total colectomy with permanent ileostomy

SummaryBackground Subtotal or total colectomy or proctocolectomy with permanent ileostomy (TC-PI) may be a treatment option for medically refractory colonic Crohn's disease (CD). Aim To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the rate, risk factors and outcomes of CD recurrence after TC-PI. Methods In a systematic review ending 31 March 2016, we identified 18 cohort studies (1438 adults) who underwent TC-PI for colonic CD (median follow-up, 7.4 years; interquartile range, 5.3–9.0). We estimated pooled rates [with 95% confidence interval (CI)] of clinical and surgical recurrence, and risk factors for disease recurrence. Results On meta-analysis, the risk of clinical recurrence after TC-PI was 28.0% (95% CI, 21.7–35.3; 14 studies, 260/1004 patients), with a 5 and 10-year median cumulative rate of 23.5% (range, 7–35) and 40% (range, 11–60) respectively. The risk of surgical recurrence was 16.0% (95% CI, 11.1–22.7; 10 studies; 183/1092 patients), with a 5 and 10-year median cumulative rate of 10% (range, 3–29) and 18.5% (range, 14–34) respectively. The risk of clinical and surgical recurrence in patients without ileal disease at baseline was 11.5% (95% CI, 7.7–16.8) and 10.4% (95% CI, 4.5–22.5) respectively. History of ileal disease was associated with 3.2 times higher risk of disease recurrence (RR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.8–5.6). Other inconsistent risk factors for disease recurrence were penetrating disease and young age at disease onset. Conclusions Small bowel clinical recurrence occurs in about 28% of patients after total colectomy with permanent ileostomy for colonic Crohn's disease. Disease recurrence risk is 3.2 times higher in patients with history of ileal disease, and continued medical therapy may be advisable in this population. In patients without ileal inflammation at surgery, continued endoscopic surveillance may identify asymptomatic disease recurrence to guide therapy.
Establishing Peach Trees for Organic Production in Utah and the Intermountain West

Abstract Adequate weed control and nutrient supply are critical for successful establishment of fruit trees. This is of particular concern in organic orchard establishment. In order to determine the best approach for establishing peach trees ( Prunus persica L.) organically in climates characterized by hot dry summers and cold winters such as the North American Intermountain West, seven organic and three integrated and conventional treatment combinations were established in two first leaf orchards at the USU Kaysville Research Farm, Utah, in 2008 and 2009. Treatments consisted of different tree-row and alleyway mulch and fertilizer combinations. Compost or conventional fertilizer (16-16-16 and urea) were applied at a baseline rate of 4.9, 9.6, 19 g and 114 g of available nitrogen (N) per 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th leaf tree respectively and adjusted up or down on a plot basis based on tree growth. Compost was supplemented with a feather meal 13-0-0 fertilizer starting in year three to avoid over application of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Organic experiment tree growth was initially slowed by living and straw mulches present in the tree-row. By 2011, 3rd leaf trees were largest in treatments with Birdsfoot trefoil alleyways, despite considerable tree-row weed/living mulch pressure. In the integrated experiment, trees were larger in the compost plus conventional herbicide compared to conventional fertilizer and herbicide treatment. Paper mulch depressed tree growth in combination with both compost and conventional N sources, but more so in combination with compost and organic herbicide where weed control was moderate. Weed pressure not lack of N was determined to limit organic tree growth in this study. A trefoil alleyway may alleviate the need for intensive weed control when establishing organic peach orchards.
Minimizing Skin Scarring through Biomaterial Design

Wound healing continues to be a major burden to patients, though research in the field has expanded significantly. Due to an aging population and increasing comorbid conditions, the cost of chronic wounds is expected to increase for patients and the U.S. healthcare system alike. With this knowledge, the number of engineered products to facilitate wound healing has also increased dramatically, with some already in clinical use. In this review, the major biomaterials used to facilitate skin wound healing will be examined, with particular attention allocated to the science behind their development. Experimental therapies will also be evaluated.
Maximum Caliber Can Characterize Genetic Switches with Multiple Hidden Species.

Gene networks with feedback often involve interactions between multiple species of biomolecules, much more than experiments can actually monitor. Coupled with this is the challenge that experiments often measure gene expression in noisy fluorescence instead of protein numbers. How do we infer biophysical information and characterize the underlying circuits from this limited and convoluted data? We address this by building stochastic models using the principle of Maximum Caliber (MaxCal). MaxCal uses the basic information on synthesis, degradation, and feedback—without invoking any other auxiliary species and ad hoc reactions—to generate stochastic trajectories similar to those typically measured in experiments. MaxCal in conjunction with Maximum Likelihood (ML) can infer parameters of the model using fluctuating trajectories of protein expression over time. We demonstrate the success of the MaxCal + ML methodology using synthetic data generated from known circuits of different genetic switches: (i) a sing...
Abstract PD8-11: APOBEC3 contributes to mutational load in breast cancer

Breast cancer results in large part from the accumulation of multiple mutations in premalignant cells, which provide a molecular basis for genetic diversity. This genetic diversity in premalignant cells allows selection for increased proliferation and survival and ultimately leads to invasion, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Recent genome-wide sequencing data showed that APOBEC3B (A3B) contributes to mutational load in breast cancer. A3B, a DNA cytosine deaminase, is overexpressed in more than 50% of breast tumors and more than 75% of breast cancer cell lines. Its overexpression and aberrant activation lead to unexpected clusters of mutations in the majority of breast cancers. This phenomenon of clustered mutations, termed kataegis (shower in Greek) forms a unique mutation signature in breast cancer. On the basis of the finding that A3B is a key molecular determinant of the mutator phenotype in breast cancer, the goal of our research is to utilize informatics tools to systematically characterize genetic alterations of APOBEC3 family proteins in breast cancer genomic data and define the molecular impact of altered APOBEC3 family proteins on mutability and anti-tumor immunity. Our data showed that the mutation rate and copy number amplification/deletion of APOBEC3 genes are low. The levels of APOBEC3A (A3A) and A3B are highly correlated and are highest in Basal subtype and lowest in Luminal A tumors, in concordance with the proliferation of subtypes. Additionally, A3A and A3B are significantly correlated with total mutational load as well as with TP53 mutation, and with somatic copy number alterations (SCNA), especially focal SCNA. Among APOBEC3 genes, A3B is significantly associated DNA replication, DNA damage repair, cell cycle and proteasome signatures, and shows predictive and prognostic capacity in ER-positive patients. Interestingly, A3G expression is strongly associated with immune response signature genes in all breast tumors. Consequently, A3G is highly associated with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in breast and several other disease types. In summary, our data demonstrate distinct expression pattern of APOBEC3 genes in different breast cancer subpopulations. Overexpression of different APOBEC3 family members leads to distinct molecular consequences. These data provide new molecular insights into pathophysiological functions of APOBEC3 genes in breast cancer and provide therapeutic opportunities for the breast cancer patients whose tumors have altered APOBEC3 expression levels and potentially are driven by APOBEC3 genes. Importantly, APOBEC3G is associated with evidence of immune activation that may signal responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Citation Format: Zhao W, Peng Y, Mills GB, Peng G. APOBEC3 contributes to mutational load in breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PD8-11.
Associations Between Early Intervention Home Visits, Family Relationships and Competence for Mothers of Children with Developmental Disabilities.

Objectives To examine the association between intensity of home visits in early intervention (EI), perceived helpfulness of home visits in EI, and positive family relationships as predictors of maternal competence at age 3, as well as moderating effects of predictors, controlling for child characteristics, family demographics, and negative life events. Methods Data were drawn from the Early Intervention Collaborative Study (EICS), a 24-year longitudinal investigation of approximately 190 families of children with developmental disabilities who participated in EI programs in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The primary analytic strategy was multivariable regression modeling. Each independent predictor was tested individually and then all together to build the final model. Interactions between independent predictors were also examined. Results After controlling for child and family characteristics and negative life events, the intensity of home visits was not significantly associated with maternal competence at age 3. However, the helpfulness of home visits (β = 2.94, S.E. = 1.12, p < .01) and positive family relationships (β = 5.11, S.E. = 1.08, p < .001) were associated with higher maternal competence when the child was 3 years old. Conclusions for Practice Recommendations for programs and policy include collecting life course data on families, particularly on their family relationships and experiences in EI and home visiting, assessing family relationships at the beginning of EI using a strengths-based perspective, and closely monitoring the quality of services.
The Importance of Hope in the Casework Relationship

The complexity of human communication necessitates awareness of the importance of a worker's impact on the client and the client's impact on the worker
Drivers and uncertainties of forecasted range shifts for warm-water fishes under climate and land cover change

Land cover is an important determinant of aquatic habitat and is projected to shift with climate changes, yet climate-driven land cover changes are rarely factored into climate assessments. To quantify impacts and uncertainty of coupled climate and land cover change on warm-water fish species’ distributions, we used an ensemble model approach to project distributions of 14 species. For each species, current range projections were compared to 27 scenario-based projections and aggregated to visualize uncertainty. Multiple regression and model selection techniques were used to identify drivers of range change. Novel, or no-analogue, climates were assessed to evaluate transferability of models. Changes in total probability of occurrence ranged widely across species, from a 63% increase to a 65% decrease. Distributional gains and losses were largely driven by temperature and flow variables and underscore the importance of habitat heterogeneity and connectivity to facilitate adaptation to changing conditions. F...
Low-Power Optical Interconnects based on Resonant Silicon Photonic Devices: Recent Advances and Challenges

The progressive blooming of silicon photonics technology (SiP) over the last decade has indicated that optical interconnects may substitute the electrical wires for data movement over short distances in the future. A key enabler is the resonant structures that can participate in both modulation and demultiplexing of a high throughput wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) photonic link. The optical and electro-optical properties of such devices are subject to various design considerations, operation conditions, and optimization procedures. We present recent technological advances in photonic links based on resonant structures and highlight the key challenges that must be overcome at a large scale. Furthermore, we discuss how the design space of these resonant devices, down to the geometrical parameters and fabrication errors, can affect the performance and reliability of a photonic link.
Concepts of Thermoelectric Refrigeration

This chapter discusses the concepts of thermoelectric refrigeration. Thermoelectric refrigerators using thermoelements having a figure of merit of about 2.8 × 10 −3 C −1 have efficiency lower than conventional systems of large capacity. It is found that for low capacity requirements, the efficiency of thermoelectric system will probably equal that of the absorption cycle, and compare favorably with the vapor compression type. It will also occupy less space than the conventional systems. Thermoelectric systems can be made very compact by using very short thermoelements, which in turn will reduce thermocouple cooling energy ratio and increase the operating cost. A compact thermoelectric air conditioner consists of four modules, each of which is composed of 100 thermocouples. It is found that the capacity can be accurately matched to requirements, a distinct advantage when compared to large incrementation of vapor compression or absorption systems. The system is easily changed from a cooling to a heating device by changing the direction of the supply current.
Quantitative precision of an automated, fluorescence-based image cytometer

Digital image-based cytometry of clinical specimens labeled with fluorescent, disease-specific markers holds promise for becoming an important diagnostic and prognostic technique because the technique can make a diverse range of quantitative biochemical, morphologic, densitometric and contextual measurements on intact specimens. It has been previously shown by us, using an image cytometer (IC) consisting entirely of commercially available components, that the nuclei of individual cells in slide-supported specimens can be detected automatically using a fluorescent DNA stain and image analysis software. The purpose of this study was to determine the precision of the IC for quantifying the integrated fluorescence intensity and area of fluorescent standard beads and nuclei. Integrated intensities could be quantified to between 2.3% and 3.5% precision using a 40x objective lens and between 1.6% and 2.3% using a 20x objective. The main contribution to this uncertainty was 2% inaccuracy in determining the variations in sensitivity over the imaging area. Areas could be quantified to between 0.91% and 2.1% using a 40x objective and between 2.8% and 3.2% using a 20x objective. Significant quantification errors were introduced if the objects were not in focus or were touching each other. Overall, however, these results demonstrated that image cytometry of fluorescence-stained specimens can yield quantitative results with sufficient precision for determining DNA ploidy distributions and for making other measurements on clinical specimens.
Policy iteration based on a learned transition model

This paper investigates a reinforcement learning method that combines learning a model of the environment with least-squares policy iteration (LSPI). The LSPI algorithm learns a linear approximation of the optimal state-action value function; the idea studied here is to let this value function depend on a learned estimate of the expected next state instead of directly on the current state and action. This approach makes it easier to define useful basis functions, and hence to learn a useful linear approximation of the value function. Experiments show that the new algorithm, called NSPI for next-state policy iteration, performs well on two standard benchmarks, the well-known mountain car and inverted pendulum swing-up tasks. More importantly, the NSPI algorithm performs well, and better than a specialized recent method, on a resource management task known as the day-ahead wind commitment problem. This latter task has action and state spaces that are high-dimensional and continuous.
Memory and Confusion Complaints in Visually Impaired Older Adults: An Understudied Aspect of Well-Being.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of cognitive (memory or confusion) complaints in older adults with visual impairment (VI). Method: We assessed the relationship between VI (corrected visual a...
Extraversion and compatibilist intuitions: a ten-year retrospective and meta-analyses

ABSTRACTThe past ten years have seen multiple attempts to estimate the relation between the global personality trait extraversion and compatibilist free will judgments. Here, we contribute to that line of research by conducting a meta-analysis of 17 published and eight unpublished studies (N = 2,811) estimating that relation. Overall, the mean effect size was modest but remarkably robust across materials, locations, and labs (z = .19, 95% CI .15-.24, p < .001). No significant publication bias was detected in the studies (t (23) = 1.88, p = .07). While there was no significant heterogeneity in the studies (Q (24) = 34.42, p = .08, I2 = 26.05), a moderator analysis suggested that the effect is strongest in cases that contain highly affective actions (e.g., murder) (z = .22, 95% CI .17-.28, p < .001) and weakest in cases that contain actions with low affect (e.g., asking whether free will is compatible with determinism) (z = .09, 95% CI -.05-.23, p = .22). The meta-analysis provides additional evidence that ...
TiO 2 @NbSe 2 decorated nanocomposites for efficient visible-light photocatalysis

In this article, 2D NbSe2 nanosheets are combined with TiO2 nanoparticles to prepare visible-light active composite photocatalysts using sol gel reflux synthesis. The concentration of NbSe2 is varied as 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 weight percent with respect to TiO2. The prepared samples are characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis spectroscopy and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area measurement techniques to determine morphology, dimensional aspects of nanosheets, phase, optical properties and surface area of the nanocomposites, respectively. From SEM images TiO2 nanoparticles are observed on the surface of NbSe2 sheets in all the samples. AFM gives an estimate of thickness of NbSe2 nanosheets ranging from 25 to 40 nm corresponding to 30–50 layers. XRD confirms the presence of both components in nanocomposites. UV–Vis spectrum of NbSe2 nanosheets reveals its visible-light absorption capability and a narrow band gap. The surface area values as obtained from BET technique vary from 120 m2/g for TiO2 NPs alone to 162 m2/g for 2 wt% NbSe2 in TiO2 nanocomposites. To study the visible-light photocatalytic behavior the composites are employed for the photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) dye under visible-light irradiation. The prepared nanocomposites substantiate to be highly effective photocatalysts for degradation of organic dye due to visible-light absorption offered by NbSe2 together with increased surface area. The sample having 2 wt% NbSe2 shows best performance with almost complete (i.e., 98%) RhB degradation in just 60 min of visible-light irradiation. NbSe2 can facilitate the increased induction of electrons into the CB of TiO2 by visible-light absorption and higher surface area in composites also adds to substantially improved photocatalytic activity exhibited by the nanocomposites.
On Neurotheology? Why Engage Empirical Studies on Theological Concepts

Neurotheology can open new spaces of exploration and synthesis for human understanding. In his systematic book, Neurotheology (2018), Andrew Newberg compiles research of science that touches upon the sacred, making a strong case for an approach open to both neuro- and -theology. The following paper deals with the insights, methodology, and implications of this multidisciplinary approach. The first portion defines ‘neurotheology’ and its current scope for research. The second portion argues for the benefit of this systematic approach, which utilizes the scientific method and Hegelian sublation. The final portion explores the implications for humanity and for epistemology, particularly in the post-modern, post-religious milieu and for science as an emerging amicus theologiae . The hope of this project is to engage our ‘big questions’ once more in their complexity – to curiously explore experiences and creation, in order to peek into the efficacious Mystery we call God.
Gendered practices as rituals of knowledge

I learned about the Narikuravar community during my first trip to South India in December 2012. I had previously spoken about my work with Roma communities in Europe, also referred to as “Gypsies,”...
Friendship Expectations May be Similar for Mental Age-Matched Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Typically Developing Children

We assessed 3rd–5th grade children’s endorsement of 12 friendship expectations, in two mental age-matched (M = 10.15 years) groups; one with autism spectrum disorder (ASD; n = 20) and one with typical development (TD; n = 21). Groups rated friendship expectations similarly for all but one expectation, expressing care, which received significantly higher ratings in the ASD group. Overall expectation ratings were significantly and positively correlated with friendship quality in the ASD group (r = 0.43), but not the TD, group (r = 0.08). Expectations were not correlated with loneliness or self-worth in either group. In children with ASD, expectations pertaining to reliability/trust, kindness/caring, and help/reciprocity were rated highest, followed by togetherness/amusement, and finally by intimacy/disclosure.
The independent reduction in mortality associated with guideline-directed medical therapy in patients with coronary artery disease and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

AIMS Guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) is underutilized in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, there are no studies evaluating the impact of GDMT adherence on mortality among patients with CAD and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We sought to investigate the association of GDMT adherence with long-term mortality in patients with CAD and HFrEF. METHODS AND RESULTS Surgical Treatment for Ischaemic Heart Failure (STICH) was a trial of patients with an left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35% and CAD amenable to coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) who were randomized to CABG plus medical therapy (N = 610) or medical therapy alone (N = 602). Median follow-up time was 9.8 years. We defined GDMT for the treatment of CAD and HFrEF as the combination of at least one antiplatelet drug, a statin, a beta-blocker, and an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Assessment of the independent association between GDMT and mortality was performed using multivariable Cox regression with GDMT as a time-dependent covariate. In the CABG arm, 63.6% of patients were on GDMT throughout the study period compared to 66.5% of patients in the medical therapy arm (P = 0.3). GDMT was independently associated with a significant reduction in mortality (hazard ratio 0.65, 95% confidence interval 0.56-0.76; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION GDMT is associated with reduced mortality in patients with CAD and HFrEF independent of revascularization with CABG. Strategies to improve GDMT adherence in this population are needed to maximize survival.
The elaboration of exploratory play

We apply a new quantitative method for investigating how children's exploration changes across age in order to gain insight into how exploration unfolds over the course of a human life from a life-history perspective. In this study, different facets of exploratory play were quantified using a novel touchscreen environment across a large sample and wide age range of children in the USA (n = 105, ages = 1 year and 10 months to 12 years and 2 months). In contrast with previous theories that have suggested humans transition from more exploratory to less throughout maturation, we see children transition from less broadly exploratory as toddlers to more efficient and broad as adolescents. Our data cast doubt on the picture of human life history as involving a linear transition from more curious in early childhood to less curious with age. Instead, exploration appears to become more elaborate throughout human childhood. This article is part of the theme issue 'Life history and learning: how childhood, caregiving and old age shape cognition and culture in humans and other animals'.
Accurate Medication Adherence Measurement Using Administrative Data for Frequently Hospitalized Patients.

Background: Pharmacy administrative claims data remain an accessible and efficient source to measure medication adherence for frequently hospitalized patient populations that are systematically exc...
Seismic field data displaying azimuthal anisotropy, 1986–2020

AbstractThe azimuthal (az’l) processing of 3D full-azimuth full-offset P-P reflection seismic data can enable better imaging, thus yielding improved estimates of structure, lithology, porosity, por...
Intranasal oxytocin versus placebo for hyperphagia and repetitive behaviors in children with Prader-Willi Syndrome: A randomized controlled pilot trial.

Abstract Objective The effects of intranasal oxytocin and placebo on hyperphagia and repetitive behaviors were compared in children and adolescents with Prader Willi Syndrome (PWS). Methods Children and adolescents with PWS were enrolled in an 8-week double-blind placebo-controlled intranasal oxytocin randomized trial. Twenty-three (23) subjects were assigned to oxytocin (N = 11) or placebo (N = 12). Hyperphagia was measured with the Hyperphagia Questionnaire (HQ), and repetitive behavior was measured with Repetitive Behavior Scale- Revised (RBS-R). Results There were modest significant treatment by-time interactions indicating reduction in hyperphagia and repetitive behaviors across time for placebo but no reduction for oxytocin. Total HQ score showed a greater average reduction of 1.81 points/week for the placebo group vs. oxytocin, with maximum reduction at week 4. There were also greater reductions on HQ-Drive and HQ-Behavior subscales on placebo vs. oxytocin. RBS-R subscales followed similar patterns to the HQ, with a significantly greater reduction in sameness subscale behaviors (average 0.825 points/week) in the placebo group compared to the oxytocin group. Oxytocin was well tolerated, and the only adverse event that was both more common and possibly related to oxytocin vs. placebo was nocturia (n = 1 vs 0). Conclusion Placebo was associated with modest improvement in hyperphagia and repetitive behaviors in childhood PWS whereas intranasal oxytocin was not associated with improvement in these domains. More work is needed to understand the meaning and mechanism of these findings on hyperphagia and repetitive behaviors in PWS.
An iterative approach to detect pleiotropy and perform Mendelian Randomization analysis using GWAS summary statistics.

MOTIVATION The overall association evidence of a genetic variant with multiple traits can be evaluated by cross-phenotype association analysis using summary statistics from genome-wide association studies. Further dissecting the association pathways from a variant to multiple traits is important to understand the biological causal relationships among complex traits. RESULTS Here, we introduce a flexible and computationally efficient Iterative Mendelian Randomization and Pleiotropy (IMRP) approach to simultaneously search for horizontal pleiotropic variants and estimate causal effect. Extensive simulations and real data applications suggest that IMRP has similar or better performance than existing Mendelian Randomization methods for both causal effect estimation and pleiotropic variant detection. The developed pleiotropy test is further extended to detect colocalization for multiple variants at a locus. IMRP will greatly facilitate our understanding of causal relationships underlying complex traits, in particular, when a large number of genetic instrumental variables are used for evaluating multiple traits. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION The software IMRP is available at https://github.com/XiaofengZhuCase/IMRP. The simulation codes can be downloaded at http://hal.case.edu/∼xxz10/zhu-web/ under the link: MR Simulations software. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Cross-Linking Methodology for Fully Atomistic Models of Hydroxyl-Terminated Polybutadiene and Determination of Mechanical Properties

A computational method for preserving the equilibrated structure of a fully atomistic model of a prepolymer melt while introducing cross-links is introduced. An atomistic model of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) is cured using isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to form an HTPB-IPDI elastomer. After cross-linking, the elastomer is quenched to several different temperatures and subsequently stressed via both compressive and tensile deformations to assess mechanical properties as a function of temperature. This study establishes the framework for investigating the degradation and embrittlement of HTPB-IPDI binders by molecular simulation.
Primary and revision shoulder arthroplasty in patients with pulmonary hypertension: an underlying condition associated with high perioperative mortality and complications

Abstract Background Pulmonary hypertension is a progressive medical condition that has been identified as a risk factor for perioperative morbidity and mortality in both cardiac and non-cardiac surgery, including hip arthroplasty. Currently, there is very limited information on the impact of pulmonary hypertension (PHTN) on patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty. This investigation analyzed the mortality, perioperative medical complications, implant survivorship, and clinical outcomes in this medically complex cohort. Methods Between January 2000 and July 2018, 380 primary and 59 revision shoulder arthroplasties were performed at a single institution in patients with a diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension prior surgery. Average age was 72.8 ± 11.0 and 72.1 ± 9.5 years for the primary and revision SA groups, respectively (P= .65). The median American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores were predominantly class 3 in both cohorts. Descriptions of group characteristics were calculated with student tests for numerical values. Mortality after primary and revision shoulder arthroplasties were individually calculated through a cumulative incidence analysis. Implant survivorship was analyzed with a competing risk model selecting death as the competing risk. Results The 90-day mortality was 1.6% for primary and 3.4% for revision SA, respectively. The cumulative incidences of death at 2, 5, 10, and 15 years were 16.5%, 43.3%, 80.8%, and 88.5% for primary and 12.1%, 44.7%, 64.4%, and 100% for revision arthroplasties, respectively. Medical complications were observed in 13.4% of primary and 42.4% of revision shoulder arthroplasties. These included respiratory failure and/or acute respiratory distress syndrome (3.2%), arrhythmia (2.7%), deep vein thrombosis (1.8%), and pulmonary embolism (1.6%). The 10-year cumulative incidences of revision for any reason were 4.5% in primary and 10.4% in revision shoulder arthroplasties. At final follow-up, the mean VAS and ASES scores were 2.3 ± 2.5 and 72.0 ± 18.5 in primary SA and 4.1 ± 2.9 and 51.8 ± 21.8 in revision SA. Conclusions A concomitant diagnosis of PHTN in patients undergoing primary or revision shoulder arthroplasty was associated with a high rate of perioperative medical complications and mortality rates at 90 days and at 10 years in both cohorts. This information should be considered to counsel patients, optimize their perioperative management, and anticipate a more complicated and costly postoperative recovery. Level of Evidence Level IV; Case Series with no Comparison Group
The 2021 Veblen-Commons Award Recipient: Deborah M. Figart

Deborah M. Figart, Distinguished Professor of Economics, has been a valued colleague my entire professional career. I mean this in a very serious way. Whenever I begin new research or rework a cour...