cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biopolymer deposition for freeform fabrication of hydrogel tissue constructs

Three-dimensional (3D) tissue scaffolds play a vital role as extra-cellular matrices onto which cells can attach, grow, and form new tissue. Among available biomaterials, hydrogels, such as alginate, fibrin, and chitosan, have promising potential in tissue engineering applications because of their structural similarities to macromolecular-based human tissues, their biocompatibility, low toxicity, and availability. The presentation will report our recent research on development of a novel multi-nozzle biopolymer deposition system for freeform fabrication of biopolymer-based tissue scaffolds and cell-embedded tissue constructs. The process of the biopolymer deposition is conducted in a biocompatible environment which allows the construction of scaffolds with bioactive compounds and living cells. The system configuration and the process for fabrication of bioactive scaffolds through the biopolymer depositions system under different nozzle system will be described. Results of study on deposition feasibility and 3D structural formability of alginate-based tissue scaffolds will be reported. A semi-empirical model, developed based on the Poiseulle's equation for non-Newtonian fluids to predict the deposition flow rate and the deposition geometry, along with comparison of experimental data will be presented. Deposition of cell embedded tissue scaffold as well as the cell viability will be introduced. Results of effect of the process parameters on the structural, mechanical and cellular tissue engineering properties for freeform fabricated 3D alginate tissue scaffolds will also be presented.
Training fuzzy logic based software components for reuse

A training framework of an effective method for off-line training of a class of control software components (for example, for first-order nonlinear feedback control systems) using combinations of three kinds of adaptation algorithms is presented. Each control software component is represented at the abstract level by means of a set of adaptive fuzzy logic (FL) rules and at the concrete level by means of fuzzy membership functions (MBFs). At the concrete representation level adaptation algorithms specified for use in adapting MBFs are: genetic algorithms, neural net algorithms, and Monte Carlo algorithms. We specify effective combinations of these three existing adaptation algorithms to train an erroneous FL rule-based software component in the tracker problem. In the framework, training consists of two phases: testing and adapting. In this paper, only the adapting phase is addressed. For each fault scenario adaptation algorithms and their combinations are used to modify the MBFs of the component. Effectiveness of the adapting phase is determined in terms of flexibility, adaptability, and stability. We perform experiments using a genetic algorithm. Simulation results are discussed.
Enterprise Architecture Institutionalization and Assessment

The topic of enterprise architecture (EA) has been gaining significant attention from both academia and industry due to the inefficiency of current IT architectures to cope with rapid changes in business environment. In order to turn existing EA into efficient and agile one, it is necessary to institutionalize an EA based on well-established enterprise architecture frameworks (EAFs) into the enterprise. In this paper, we propose EA institutionalization processes and its metric based assessment for implemented EA based on the currently available EA frameworks. In the EA processes, we define institutionalization strategies specific to organizations’ goals, target architecture based on their baseline architecture, and transition plan for institutionalization.
Three-dimensional polycaprolactone scaffold-conjugated bone morphogenetic protein-2 promotes cartilage regeneration from primary chondrocytes in vitro and in vivo without accelerated endochondral ossification†

As articular cartilage is avascular, and mature chondrocytes do not proliferate, cartilage lesions have a limited capacity for regeneration after severe damage. The treatment of such damage has been challenging due to the limited availability of autologous healthy cartilage and lengthy and expensive cell isolation and expansion procedures. Hence, the use of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), a potent regulator of chondrogenic expression, has received considerable attention in cartilage and osteochondral tissue engineering. However, the exact role of BMP-2 in cartilage repair has been postulated to promote both cartilage formation and subsequent cartilage degradation through hypertrophy and endochondral ossification. Furthermore, it is likely that the manner in which BMP-2 is presented to chondrocytes will influence the physiologic pathway (repair vs. degeneration). This study investigates the relative influence of BMP-2 on cartilage matrix and potential subsequent bone matrix production using primary chondrocytes seeded on designed 3D polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds with chemically conjugated BMP-2. The results show that chemically conjugated BMP-2 PCL scaffolds can promote significantly greater cartilage regeneration from seeded chondrocytes both in vitro and in vivo compared with untreated scaffolds. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the conjugated BMP-2 does not particularly accelerate endochondral ossification even in a readily permissible and highly vascular in vivo environment compared with untreated PCL scaffolds. This study not only reveals the potential use of the BMP-2 conjugation delivery method for enhanced cartilage tissue formation but also gives new insights for the effects of conjugated BMP-2 on cartilage regeneration and osteochondral ossification.
The sensate fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap: a preliminary report

The ideal oromandibular reconstruction calls for restoration of intraoral sensation as well as tissue replacement because the loss of sensation in the oral cavity impairs oral function. The versatility and flexibility of the fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap in complex three dimensional spatial positioning lends itself to be desirable in composite oromandibular reconstruction. It falls short of being ideal because the skin paddle of the flap is usually insensate and thus oral sensation is not restored. The skin paddle of the fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap is innervated by the lateral sural cutaneous nerve and this nerve can be preserved and reinnervated to restore sensation to the skin paddle. The sensate fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap may be the ideal flap for one stage composite reconstruction of oromandibular defects. This is a preliminary report on the sensory return of the sensate fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap in oromandibular reconstruction.
Curcumin-induced antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects in melanoma cells are associated with suppression of IkappaB kinase and nuclear factor kappaB activity and are independent of the B-Raf/mitogen-activated/extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase pathway and the Akt pathway.

BACKGROUND Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) plays a central role in cell survival and proliferation in human melanoma; therefore, the authors explored the possibility of exploiting NF-κB for melanoma treatment by using curcumin, an agent with known, potent, NF-κB-inhibitory activity and little toxicity in humans. METHODS Three melanoma cell lines (C32, G-361, and WM 266-4), all of which had B-raf mutations, were treated with curcumin, and the authors assessed its effects on viability ((3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay) and apoptosis (flow-cytometric analysis of annexin V/propidium iodide-stained cells). Curcumin-treated cells also were examined for NF-κB binding activity (electrophoretic mobility shift assay) and for the activity of its upstream regulator, IκB kinase (IKK) (immune complex kinase assay). In addition, relevant signaling, as reflected by B-Raf kinase activity (kinase cascade assay), and steady-state levels of activated, downstream effectors, as reflected by mitogen-activated signal-regulated protein kinase (MEK), extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), and Akt phosphorylation levels (immunoblots), were assessed. RESULTS Curcumin treatment decreased cell viability of all 3 cell lines in a dose-dependent manner (50% inhibitory concentration = 6.1–7.7 μM) and induced apoptosis. NF-κB and IKK were active constitutively in all melanoma cell lines examined, and curcumin, under apoptosis-inducing conditions, down-regulated NF-κB and IKK activities. However, curcumin did not inhibit the activities of B-Raf, MEK, or ERK, and Akt phosphorylation was enhanced. Furthermore, in the presence of curcumin, the Akt inhibitor 1L-6-hydroxymethyl-chiro-inositol 2-[(R)-2-O-methyl-3-O-octadecylcarbonate] no longer suppressed Akt phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS Curcumin has potent antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects in melanoma cells. These effects were associated with the suppression of NF-κB and IKK activities but were independent of the B-Raf/MEK/ERK and Akt pathways. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Self-referenced SPR sensing via simultaneous excitation of long- and short-range surface plasmons

We demonstrate a novel surface-plasmon resonance sensor that can distinguish surface binding from bulk refractive index changes. This is accomplished by simultaneous interrogation of the sensed medium with long- and short- range surface-plasmon polaritons.
Precombustion Cleaning of Coal By Triboelectric Separation of Minerals

In one method of electrostatic beneficiation, pulverized coal is tribocharged by contact with electrically grounded copper. Coal maceral and mineral particles charge with positive and negative polarities, respectively. The charged particles are passed through a separator consisting of two plate electrodes, across which a high voltage is applied, and the positively charged coal particles are separated from the negatively charged mineral particles. The efficiency of separation is dependent upon coal bulk and surface composition, and fineness of grind. Analyses of total sulfur and ash content of the charge-separated particles were used to evaluate beneficiation success of the Illinois No. 6 and Pittsburgh No. 8 coals studied. Two-stage beneficiation demonstrated improved separation. Exposing coal powders to chemical vapors of SO 2 , NH 3 , or acetone prior to beneficiation did not enhance beneficiation.
Services discovery and composition in Intelligent Environments for mobile devices

Since the latest years, residential automation has been becoming a very discussed and recurrent subject. Part of such success is given by the meaningful diffusion and offer of portable electronic devices, with great power of computation, low energy consumption and, mainly, high level of connectivity. Joining the residential automation, the term ldquointelligent environmentsrdquo (IE) has been being defined, which brings a paradigm change, not considering the fact of just controlling devices, and leaving for a world where these are aware of everything that surrounds them. This paper proposes an architecture on management of services in IE for mobile devices, such as PDAs, cell phones and smart phones. The proposed architecture has three main characteristics: (i) discovery and remote composition of available services in the IE; (ii) adaptation of services and functionalities according to the userpsilas profile, using security policies with different levels of accessing the system; (iii) flexibility in the insertion of new residential automation devices, adding, dynamically, services to the IE. The architecture validation is presented through a case study which utilizes as scenery an automated seminaries room.
Ultrastructure of feathered triancres in the Thaumastodermatidae and the description of a new species of Tetranchyroderma (Gastrotricha: Macrodasyida) from Australia

Tetranchyroderma adeleae sp. nov. is described from North Stradbroke Island, eastern Australia, where it is present in low abundance in the clean, coarse sediments of Cylinder beach. The species is characterized by the presence of epidermal glands on the oral hood and three pairs of dorsolateral cirrata. This is also the first described species of Tetranchyroderma with mixed ancre types that consist of both ordinary triancres and feathered triancres. Ordinary triancres are present on the ventrolateral margins of the body while feathered triancres adorn the dorsal side. Details of the ultrastructure of the cuticle in T. adeleae sp. nov. and a species of Pseudostomella are compared to each other and the cuticle of additional species of Thaumastodermatidae. At the ultrastructural level, feathered triancres are composed of a thickened endocuticular base with three tines (shafts) that give rise to pointed, feather-shaped scales. The structure of the base, tines and scales reveals a finely granular construction without noticeable substructure. The ultrastructure of feathered triancres is similar to that of ordinary triancres and broadly similar to feathered triancres in other species. However, differences are noted in the contour of the feathered scales that are not detected with light microscopy. Future studies of the thaumastodermatid cuticle using scanning electron microscopy are warranted to provide enhanced three-dimensional resolution and insight into their evolution.
Diffusion of Cesium Ions in H2O-Saturated Granitic Melt.

The intrinsic self-diffusion coefficient (D) for cesium-134 in a granitic melt containing 6.1 to 6.3 percent (by weight) of dissolved H2O is three to four orders of magnitude higher than the values reported for chemically similar but dry granitic glass. For the temperature interval 700° to 800°C and a confining pressure of 2 kilobars, cesium diffusivity is given by D = 7.19 x 10–5exp (– 19.52 x 103/RT), where R is the gas constant and T is the absolute temperature; the activation energy of about 20 kilocalories per mole is less than half the value for H2O-free glass. The observed increase in ionic mobility that accompanies solution of H2O implies sharply reduced equilibration times for chemical processes that occur in H22O-bearing silicate melts.
Net continuous wave optical gain in a low loss silicon-on-insulator waveguide by stimulated Raman scattering.

We observe for the first time net continuous wave optical gain in a low loss silicon-on-insulator waveguide based on stimulated Raman scattering. We show that nonlinear optical loss due to two-photon absorption induced free carrier absorption can be significantly reduced by introducing a reverse biased p-i-n diode in the waveguide. For a 4.8 cm long waveguide with an effective core area of ~1.6 µm2, we obtain a net CW Raman gain of >3dB with a pump power of ~700mW inside the waveguide.
A Bad Experience With Endovascular Treatment of an Aortobronchial Fistula

A 35-year-old woman presented with an aortobronchial fistula after polyester graft replacement of coarctation of the descending thoracic aortic. Treatment of the fistula included antibiotic therapy and stent graft placement. Life-threatening sepsis developed in the postoperative period. Subsequent treatment required excision of the infected graft complex with extra-anatomic reconstruction of the thoracic aorta. The patient had a very stormy postoperative course and required heroic measures, including mechanical circulatory support, to achieve survival. The present case demonstrates failure of endovascular therapy of an aortobronchial fistula. The case should serve as a cautious reminder that the underlying cause for infection remains even after apparent successful endovascular therapy.
THE LACK OF SELECTIVE REINCORPORATION INTO TISSUE PROTEIN OF THE AMINO ACIDS DERIVED FROM THE CATABOLISM OF SERUM PROTEIN.

Homologous S35-labeled albumin, gamma globulin, and alpha-beta globulin were transfused into rabbits and the specific activities of the electrophoretic fractions of the sera of the recipients were determined at various time intervals up to 12 days after injection. Detectable reincorporation into a fraction other than that transfused was found only in the gamma globulin fraction after albumin injection. This activity rose between 2 and 12 days and reached a level of 2 to 3 per cent of the extrapolated zero time activity of the albumin fraction. When homologous serum protein doubly labeled with I131 and S35 was transfused into mice, marked drops in the ratios of I131 to S35 in the serum and tissue proteins were observed between 1 and 48 hours after injection. On the basis of a determination of the absolute and relative amounts of I131 and S35 found in the various tissue and serum proteins, the amount of reincorporation of S35 into each protein was calculated. The relative amounts of reincorporation of S35 among the various tissues were remarkably similar to the relative amounts of incorporation of S35 after the injection of labeled free amino acids. It is concluded that serum protein does not form a major direct source of amino acids to the tissues but feeds them indirectly through the extracellular pool.
Bilateral stress fractures of the anterior part of the tibial cortex. A case report.

Most stress fractures of the tibia, when treated appropriately, heal without sequelae. A stress fracture of the anterior part of the cortex of the tibia, an uncommon variant, is associated with atypical clinical and radiographic findings, has a propensity for nonunion, and can result in a complete fracture. We report the case of a patient who had chronic, bilateral stress fractures of the anterior part of the tibial cortex. A twenty-one-year-old male college football player who was in his junior year was first seen by us because of a five-year history of recurrent pain in both shins. The pain had worsened in September 1996, during the early part of the football season, when practices were held twice a day. Typically, the pain was most severe when the patient began running but would subside within a few minutes and then return on cessation of weight-bearing activity. The patient had not missed any games or practice sessions. Clinical examination revealed moderate tenderness along the medial border of the distal and middle thirds of the right tibia, extending for a distance of twelve centimeters, and mild tenderness in the corresponding area of the left tibia. The patient had marked bilateral pes planus and rigidity of the midfoot and forefoot. The subtalar and ankle joints had a normal range of motion. Radiographs had been made at regular intervals during the five years before the patient was evaluated in our office, and all had revealed normal findings. A triple-phase isotope bone scan was performed to confirm the provisional diagnosis of a stress fracture. The blood-pool images demonstrated mildly increased radionuclide uptake in the right as compared with the left tibia. The delayed-phase images showed four small, discrete areas of moderately increased uptake along the anterior border of the middle third of the right tibia and …
Formation of compact myelin is required for maturation of the axonal cytoskeleton

Although traditional roles ascribed to myelinating glial cells are structural and supportive, the importance of compact myelin for proper functioning of the nervous system can be inferred from mutations in myelin proteins and neuropathologies associated with loss of myelin. Myelinating Schwann cells are known to affect local properties of peripheral axons (de Waegh et al., 1992), but little is known about effects of oligodendrocytes on CNS axons. The shiverer mutant mouse has a deletion in the myelin basic protein gene that eliminates compact myelin in the CNS. In shiverer mice, both local axonal features like phosphorylation of cytoskeletal proteins and neuronal perikaryon functions like cytoskeletal gene expression are altered. This leads to changes in the organization and composition of the axonal cytoskeleton in shiverer unmyelinated axons relative to age-matched wild-type myelinated fibers, although connectivity and patterns of neuronal activity are comparable. Remarkably, transgenic shiverer mice with thin myelin sheaths display an intermediate phenotype indicating that CNS neurons are sensitive to myelin sheath thickness. These results indicate that formation of a normal compact myelin sheath is required for normal maturation of the neuronal cytoskeleton in large CNS neurons.
Metallic glass nanostructures: fabrication, properties, and applications

Remarkable progress has been made in fabrication and characterization of metal nanostructures because of their crucial role in energy conversion, nanophotonics, nanoelectronics, and biodiagnostics. Less emphasis has been placed on the synthesis of nanostructures from metallic alloys, which are better suited than elemental metals for certain applications such as fuel-cell catalysts. The main challenges in fabrication of alloy nanostructures are controlling their chemical stoichiometry, crystal structures, and shapes because of anisotropic nucleation and growth rates. These limitations can be overcome by using metallic glasses (amorphous metal alloys) which are isotropic and provide additional control handles through their tunable compositions and degree of crystallinity. Here, we review the recent developments in fabrication and characterization of metallic glass (MG) nanostructures. The focus is on sub-micron structures synthesized by unconventional thermoplastic techniques. A concept of self-assembly is introduced for fashioning functional structures using MG nanostructures as building blocks. The article concludes with a brief discussion about unique properties and prospective applications of MG nanostructures.
TURBULENT STRUCTURE IN A CHANNEL FLOW WITH POLYMER INJECTION AT THE WALL

Two-component laser velocimeter measurements in a fully developed turbulent water channel flow with polymer injection were used to examine the effect of polymer injection on the Reynolds stresses and the production terms in the Reynolds stress transport equations. These measurements show that while the root-mean-square fluctuation level of the streamwise velocity was increased, the r.m.s. of the wall-normal velocity and the Reynolds shear stress were reduced.
A high-latitude modular autonomous power, control, and communication system for application to high-frequency surface current mapping radars

High-frequency shore-based radars (HFR) collect hourly, real-time surface current data over broad areas of the coastal ocean and yield insights on the time-varying circulation, predict oil spill trajectories, evaluate circulation models, and in case of a spill, provide responders with real-time data on spill evolution. HFR requires 7.5 Kilowatt-hours/day of power but the lack of power availability inhibits HFR use in Alaska. We developed a modular, autonomous remote power module (RPM) for arctic environments (Figure 1). The RPM is designed to reduce operating costs through a reliance on renewable (wind and solar) energy. Fossil fuel based generators are costly due to frequent maintenance requirements, limited life expectancies and ongoing logistics logistics and fuel costs. The RPM consists of commercial off-the-shelf components tested to ensure low electromagnetic interference and supplies the power requirements of a typical CODAR Ocean Sensors Seasonde?, a high-speed satellite communications link, a small meteorological station and power monitoring and control equipment. The total power requirements of the electronics are approximately 10 Kilowatt-hours per day.
Protest or Riot?: Interpreting Collective Action in Contemporary France

Although both events were fundamentally acts of contestation led by different segments of France’s youth, the fall 2005 riots and the spring 2006 CPE protests received very different treatment in French public opinion. Whereas the riots were overwhelmingly condemned, the protests were not only tolerated but also often celebrated. By examining dominant interpretations of these events circulated in the news media alongside those of young people collected during a year of fieldwork in the public housing projects of a medium-sized French city, this paper shines light on fundamental French values and beliefs about how society ought to work while also contributing to ongoing debates about the cultural identity of such youth. More generally, it demonstrates the usefulness of comparison in the analysis of acts of political dissent.
Review of New York City’s “The Year of Baldwin”

This piece presents an overview of the events organized in New York to celebrate what would have been James Baldwin’s 90th year.
Assessing the Borrow Direct engineering e-book pilot

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an assessment of a one-year pilot exploring the joint purchase of e-books via demand-driven acquisition (DDA) conducted by engineering librarians from seven members of the Borrow Direct interlibrary loan partnership. Also provided are observations that may inform future initiatives of a similar nature. Design/methodology/approach – The author presents a case study approach and examination of the results. Findings – The pilot was discontinued as a result of dissatisfaction with its configuration, but it did offer significant financials savings as well as provide accessible copies of mutually acquired titles to each member. The pilot also offered several lessons that can inform future joint e-book endeavors. Originality/value – Multi-institutional joint e-book DDA acquisition has been attempted elsewhere; however, what is unique about this pilot is that it was managed by seven independent institutions without a central legal entity to oversee it. This paper ...
Vaginal adenosis: A precancerous lesion?

Abstract The prenatal administration of diethylstilbestrol (DES) during the period of vaginal organogenesis alters the embryologic localization of the original squamocolumnar junction which may be established anywhere in the vagina rather than on the cervix. Exposure of the columnar epithelium to the vaginal environment and to the low pH of the vagina stimulates the development of squamous metaplasia. Colposcopically, this squamous metaplasia is part of a large transformation zone which, in some cases, involves the entire vagina. The major clinical significance of this entity concerns the fact that in DES-exposed girls, abnormal colposcopic findings (white epithelium, mosaic pattern, punctation) are present within the transformation zone in 97 per cent of cases, as compared to only 8 per cent in unexposed girls. This highly significant difference suggests that the major clinical risk in DES-exposed girls is the potential development of squamous neoplasia rather than the rare associated case of clear-cell adenocarcinoma. In a colposcopic and histologic study of 131 cases of vaginal adenosis in DES-exposed girls, two cases of squamous carcinoma in situ, two cases of severe dysplasia, and three cases of moderate dysplasia were diagnosed.
Dynamic In Vivo SPECT Imaging of Neural Stem Cells Functionalized with Radiolabeled Nanoparticles for Tracking of Glioblastoma

279 Objectives The objective of this study was to develop a fast and reproducible fully automated method for the production of agents for image guided alpha-therapy (TAT) using miniAIO synthesis module (SmartMedix TM) made by Trasis SA. The Pb203/Pb212 is a matched pair of isotopes that can be applied for SPECT imaging [Pb203] and radiotherapy [Pb212]. Our goal was to develop and validate protocols for the automated pre-purification of Pb203, and labeling and formulation of Pb203-agents. Methods Pb203-SPECT agent automated radiosynthesis is performed either through direct Pb203-labeling of the peptide precursor or, through labeling of the peptide precursor with purified Pb203. In the latter case, the automated process includes a pre-purification/pre-concentration step of the Pb203 isotope (Lantheus Medical Imaging; NCI/NIH-Bethesda). Both approaches have been first validated in manual labeling and their efficacy was compared to the yield (RCY%) of reactions done by automated modules. The pre-concentration of Pb203 is performed using cartridge-based method described previously. [1] Briefly, Eichom Pb203 resin (30mg) is loaded with Pb203 dissolved in 0.5N nitric acid, and subsequently washed out with 2ml of 0.5M nitric acid to remove metallic impurities. The purified Pb203 is eluted using 1 ml of 0.4N ammonium acetate buffer directly to the reaction vial containing the peptide (octreotide derivative) dissolved in 1ml acetate buffer. Labeling occurs at 95°C for 10 min and is followed by direct formulation of the final product. Alternatively, the Pb203 is transferred directly to the reaction vial. The quality control of the product included its radiochemical/radionuclide characterization, pH determination, endotoxin and osmolality tests. Results RCY~ 100% was achieved for reactions of 281-595 MBq of Pb203 and 10µg of peptide. The automated process is completed within 20min (including pre-concentration and formulation step) on the miniAIO® Trasis module while the manual approach requires >35min. The labeled Pb203-peptide remains stable up to 72h post-labeling. A single manifold based cassette allows for direct labeling of Pb203 while a dual manifold based cassette system is required for the process including a pre-concentration and/or purification of the final product. There is no need for C18 post-purification of the tested product although this step was implemented for other (glycol)peptide agents. Conclusions We have developed a protocol for radiosynthesis of Pb203-peptide using the Trasis miniAIO® module (SmartMedix TM). The automation allows for consistent and reliable production of high activity doses, by increasing the efficacy of pre-concentration step, reduction of the time of synthesis and minimizing the user exposure to radiation. This process will be further validated for centralized production of Pb203-probes used in clinical studies.
Teaching Information Literacy and Library Skills to Online Nursing Students: A Selected Annotated Bibliography

Enrollment in online nursing programs has increased significantly in the last several years, due in part to the Institute of Medicine’s 2010 Future of Nursing report, which called for higher levels of training and education for nurses. Returning nursing students often face multiple challenges, including lack of confidence in their research and technology skills, which are necessary to succeed in evidence-based practice fields such as nursing. Because libraries are a primary resource for research and evidence-based practice, librarian liaisons have an important role to play in ensuring nursing students can skillfully access and evaluate the information they need to succeed in both their education and profession. Emergent themes in this bibliography include embedded librarianship, nurse educator/librarian collaboration, adaptability and flexibility with new and emerging technologies, and collaboration with instructional designers. The primary audience for the bibliography is nursing and health science liaison librarians, but distance learning, outreach, and instruction librarians may also find it useful and applicable to their specializations.
Increase in Heidenhain pouch secretion after portacaval transposition in the dog.

Summary1) Heidenhain pouch secretion in dogs is markedly increased following portacaval transposition. 2) This may be due to increased effect, after shunting of portal blood around the liver, of a humoral secretagogue which originates in the abdominal viscera and is normally inactivated or excreted by the liver. 3) This finding offers a new approach to the cause of the ulcer diathesis exhibited by patients with cirrhosis of the liver.
Records of the Bohemian Iron Industry, 1694–1875: The Basis for a Comprehensive Study of Modern Factories

In the manner of the Creole tradesmen of Louisiana, whose lagniappe to their patrons is legendary, the Editor offers a similar bonus to readers of the Review . Instead of trifling presents added to a purchase, however, our lagniappe will be notes and documents illustrative of the evolution of business enterprise.
Structural dynamics and activity of nanocatalysts inside fuel cells by in operando atomic pair distribution studies

Here we present the results from a study aimed at clarifying the relationship between the atomic structure and activity of nanocatalysts for chemical reactions driving fuel cells, such as the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In particular, using in operando high-energy X-ray diffraction (HE-XRD) we tracked the evolution of the atomic structure and activity of noble metal-transition metal (NM-TM) nanocatalysts for ORR as they function at the cathode of a fully operational proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Experimental HE-XRD data were analysed in terms of atomic pair distribution functions (PDFs) and compared to the current output of the PEMFC, which was also recorded during the experiments. The comparison revealed that under actual operating conditions, NM-TM nanocatalysts can undergo structural changes that differ significantly in both length-scale and dynamics and so can suffer losses in their ORR activity that differ significantly in both character and magnitude. Therefore we argue that strategies for reducing ORR activity losses should implement steps for achieving control not only over the length but also over the time-scale of the structural changes of NM-TM NPs that indeed occur during PEMFC operation. Moreover, we demonstrate how such a control can be achieved and thereby the performance of PEMFCs improved considerably. Last but not least, we argue that the unique capabilities of in operando HE-XRD coupled to atomic PDF analysis to characterize active nanocatalysts inside operating fuel cells both in a time-resolved manner and with atomic level resolution, i.e. in 4D, can serve well the ongoing search for nanocatalysts that deliver more with less platinum.
Quasi-three-level model applied to measured spectra of nonlinear absorption and refraction in organic molecules: publisher’s note

This note corrects author affiliations, errors in one equation, and two equation callouts of J. Opt. Soc. Am. B33, 780 (2016)10.1364/JOSAB.33.000780JOBPDE0740-3224.
Understanding the content and features of open data portals in American cities

Abstract In this paper, we present the results of research on features and content of open data portals in American cities. Five scales are developed to categorize and describe these portals: the Open Data Portal Index (ODPI), Data Content Index (DCI), a compilation of the two (Overall Index), the Number of Datasets and Number of Datasets per 100,000. Regression models explaining variation between cities on these scales indicate city population as an important influence, along with participation in a regional consortium. More variation could be explained in the number of datasets model (79.8%) than in any other model. Overall, results indicate portals are in a very early stage of development and need a great deal of work to improve user help and analysis features as well as inclusion of features to help citizens understand the data, such as more charting and analysis.
Teaching a studies-in-race course online: the challenges and the rewards

Colleges and universities are increasingly using the latest communication technologies to offer courses to students on campus and beyond. This chapter is designed to answer whether a course dealing with the potentially volatile issue of race can be effectively taught as an online class. The course, Race and Racism in the News (JPRA 320), was designed in 1997 by examining the literature pertaining to teaching online/distance courses and studies-in-race courses, as well as incorporating studies concerned with preserving the anonymity of control groups and those that looked at differences between face-to-face and computer-mediated discussions. This course was developed to effectively incorporate online instruction with race studies aimed at teaching racial sensitivity to journalism students. The course has been offered seven times between 1997 and 2002. Student feedback over the five-year period indicates that such a course can advance the national dialogue on race. Many White students, in particular, said in the required end-of-course survey that the course anonymity provided them with a freedom from political correctness and they could participate more honestly than they would have in the traditional face-to-face classroom setting. Also, students have said they are now aware of the subtle ways race impacts the coverage of news. The effectiveness of this course could have implications beyond the classroom. It is believed that students sensitive to the subtleties of racism in news coverage will make better media professionals in our increasingly multicultural world. In 1997, former President Clinton challenged the country to engage in a race dialogue. This kind of course can be added to the mix of ways in which such a dialogue can be started and maintained.
DNA-reactive B cells in lupus

IgG anti-DNA antibodies are both diagnostic and pathogenic for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). They contribute to tissue inflammation through direct tissue binding and to systemic inflammation through activation of Toll-like receptors by nucleic acid-containing immune complexes. IgG DNA-reactive antibodies originate when B cell tolerance mechanisms are impaired. The heterogeneous immune perturbations in SLE lead to the survival and activation of DNA-reactive B cells in various B cell subsets at distinct stages of B cell maturation and differentiation. We propose that the spectrum of B cell alterations and failed tolerance mechanisms for DNA-reactive B cells in lupus patients is best understood by studying genetic risk alleles. This implies that the B cells producing IgG anti-DNA antibodies and the failed tolerance mechanisms(s) will differ across patients. A better understanding of these differences should lead to better patient stratification, improved outcomes of clinical trials, and the identification of novel therapeutic targets.
A Robotic Platform for High-throughput Protoplast Isolation and Transformation

Over the last decade there has been a resurgence in the use of plant protoplasts that range from model species to crop species, for analysis of signal transduction pathways, transcriptional regulatory networks, gene expression, genome-editing, and gene-silencing. Furthermore, significant progress has been made in the regeneration of plants from protoplasts, which has generated even more interest in the use of these systems for plant genomics. In this work, a protocol has been developed for automation of protoplast isolation and transformation from a 'Bright Yellow' 2 (BY-2) tobacco suspension culture using a robotic platform. The transformation procedures were validated using an orange fluorescent protein (OFP) reporter gene (pporRFP) under the control of the Cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter (35S). OFP expression in protoplasts was confirmed by epifluorescence microscopy. Analyses also included protoplast production efficiency methods using propidium iodide. Finally, low-cost food-grade enzymes were used for the protoplast isolation procedure, circumventing the need for lab-grade enzymes that are cost-prohibitive in high-throughput automated protoplast isolation and analysis. Based on the protocol developed in this work, the complete procedure from protoplast isolation to transformation can be conducted in under 4 hr, without any input from the operator. While the protocol developed in this work was validated with the BY-2 cell culture, the procedures and methods should be translatable to any plant suspension culture/protoplast system, which should enable acceleration of crop genomics research.
Automatic threshold optimization in nonlinear energy operator based spike detection

In neural spike sorting systems, the performance of the spike detector has to be maximized because it affects the performance of all subsequent blocks. Non-linear energy operator (NEO), is a popular spike detector due to its detection accuracy and its hardware friendly architecture. However, it involves a thresholding stage, whose value is usually approximated and is thus not optimal. This approximation deteriorates the performance in real-time systems where signal to noise ratio (SNR) estimation is a challenge, especially at lower SNRs. In this paper, we propose an automatic and robust threshold calculation method using an empirical gradient technique. The method is tested on two different datasets. The results show that our optimized threshold improves the detection accuracy in both high SNR and low SNR signals. Boxplots are presented that provide a statistical analysis of improvements in accuracy, for instance, the 75th percentile was at 98.7% and 93.5% for the optimized NEO threshold and traditional NEO threshold, respectively.
Effects of microstructure on thermal fatigue life prediction of solder joints

In the present study, effects of microstructure on the fatigue life of solder joints under thermal cycling conditions are evaluated using the finite element method. A unified, viscoplastic constitutive model for solder joints of plastic ball grid array packages is employed to improve accuracy of reliability prediction. The constitutive model is then implemented into the commercial finite element analysis software, ABAQUS, to predict the thermo-mechanical behavior of solder balls in PBGA package subjected to thermal cycling. Damage parameters are obtained from the FEA results and are used to estimate the thermal fatigue life of solder balls. The Coffin-Manson equation is employed. The predicted thermal fatigue lives are discussed in detail.
Methanol and Ethanol Electrooxidation on PtRu and PtNiCu as Studied by High-Resolution In Situ Electrochemical NMR Spectroscopy with Interdigitated Electrodes

Following a recent short communication (J. Electroanal. Chem. 769 (2016) 1–4) in which we demonstrated the feasibility and proof-of-concept results of using interdigitated metal electrodes to achieve high-resolution in situ electrochemical solution NMR for studying electrochemically driven reactions such as those involved in electrolysis and electrocatalysis, we report herein a more detailed technical description of the technique and its application to studying methanol and ethanol electrooxidation on PtRu and PtNiCu electrocatalysts.
Implications of the Hierarchical Structure of Psychopathology for Psychiatric Neuroimaging.

Abstract Research into the neurobiological substrates of psychopathology has been impeded by heterogeneity within diagnostic categories, comorbidity among mental disorders, and the presence of symptoms that transcend diagnostic categories. Solutions to these issues increasingly focus neurobiological research on isolated or narrow groupings of symptoms or functional constructs rather than categorical diagnoses. We argue for a more integrative approach that also incorporates the broad hierarchical structure of psychopathological symptoms and their etiological mechanisms. This approach places clinical neuroscience research in the context of a hierarchy of empirically defined factors of symptoms, such as internalizing disorders, externalizing disorders, and the general factor of psychopathology. Application of this hierarchical approach has the potential to reveal neural substrates that nonspecifically contribute to multiple forms of psychopathology and their comorbidity and in doing so facilitate the study of mechanisms that are specific to single dimensions and subsets of symptoms. Neurobiological research on the hierarchy of dimensions of psychopathology is only just beginning to emerge but has the potential to radically alter our understanding of the neurobiology of abnormal behavior.
Computational Data Sciences and the Regulation of Banking and Financial Services

The development of computational data science techniques in natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML) algorithms to analyze large and complex textual information opens new avenues to study intricate policy processes at a scale unimaginable even a few years ago. We apply these scalable NLP and ML techniques to analyze the United States Government’s regulation of the banking and financial services sector. First, we employ NLP techniques to convert the text of financial regulation laws into feature vectors and infer representative “topics” across all the laws. Second, we apply ML algorithms to the feature vectors to predict various attributes of each law, focusing on the amount of authority delegated to regulators. Lastly, we compare the power of alternative models in predicting regulators’ discretion to oversee financial markets. These methods allow us to efficiently process large amounts of documents and represent the text of the laws in feature vectors, taking into account words, phrases, syntax, and semantics. The vectors can be paired with predefined policy features, thereby enabling us to build better predictive measures of financial sector regulation. The analysis offers policymakers and the business community alike a tool to automatically score policy features of financial regulation laws to and measure their impact on market performance.
Cultural competence of pre-licensure nursing faculty

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of cultural competence (CC) in Texas pre-licensure nursing faculty and examine the relationships between demographics and CC scores. The researchers conducted a study to determine if demographics predicted the level of CC and explored the perceptions of CC. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design used data from a 2014 online survey with a qualitative interview component. Demographics were evaluated with descriptive statistics and CC was measured with The Nurses’ Cultural Competence Scale (NCCS). Qualitative data were analyzed using a constant comparative method. The level of CC was low to moderate. Three themes emerged from the interviews: knowledge is experiential, skills require emotional intelligence, and desire requires a catalyst. Nursing faculty could benefit from experiences with culturally diverse patients and students. Continuing education offerings and courses should follow best practices models of CC education and focus on providing meaningful experiences may also increase the knowledge and skills to help faculty members.
Can Simulation Improve EMR Implementation? Application to Medication Reconciliation

Medication reconciliation refers to the process of using multiple sources of information to identify the most accurate list of all medications a patient is taking, and using this list to provide co...
Fronts in Random Burgers Equations

In groundwater and contaminant transport problems arising from environmental sciences, fronts typically travel in a spatially inhomogeneous environment because of the natural formation of porous structures. Due to lack of field data, the spatially inhomogeneous environment is often modeled as a random process. Conservation of mass then leads to a nonlinear scalar conservation law with a random flux
Centromere Silencing Mechanisms

Centromere function is essential for genome stability and chromosome inheritance. Typically, each chromosome has a single locus that consistently serves as the site of centromere formation and kinetochore assembly. Decades of research have defined the DNA sequence and protein components of functional centromeres, and the interdependencies of specific protein complexes for proper centromere assembly. Less is known about how centromeres are disassembled or functionally silenced. Centromere silencing, or inactivation, is particularly relevant in the cases of dicentric chromosomes that occur via genome rearrangements that place two centromeres on the same chromosome. Dicentrics are usually unstable unless one centromere is inactivated, thereby allowing the structurally dicentric chromosome to behave like one of the monocentric, endogenous chromosomes. The molecular basis for centromere inactivation is not well understood, although studies in model organisms and in humans suggest that both genomic and epigenetic mechanisms are involved. In this chapter, we review recent studies using synthetic chromosomes and engineered or induced dicentrics from various organisms to define the molecular processes that are involved in the complex process of centromere inactivation.