cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Impacts of Alternative Patterns of Urbanization on Greenhouse Gas Emissions in an Agricultural County

Different patterns of urban development may have widely varying long-term effects on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To investigate such effects, we used UPlan geographic information system–based software to model three 2050 urban-growth scenarios for Yolo County, a predominantly agricultural area near Sacramento, California. Two scenarios correspond to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s A2 and B1 storylines. We also added a third, infill-only scenario called AB32-Plus that assumes continued strong climate change policy in California and highly compact urban development. Results show dramatically different levels of GHG emissions from transportation and residential-building energy use in the three scenarios, especially when compact urban development is combined with strong assumptions about energy efficiency and population. The preservation of farmland is also an important climate mitigation and adaptation benefit of the compact-development alternative.
The Role of Lysosomes in Limiting Drug Toxicity in Mice

The distribution behavior of a drug within a cell is an important, yet often overlooked, variable in both activity and differential selectivity. In normal cells, drugs with weakly basic properties are known to be extensively compartmentalized in acidic organelles such as lysosomes via ion trapping. Several cancer cell lines have been shown to have defective acidification of endocytic organelles and therefore have a diminished capacity to sequester such lysosomotropic agents. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the low lysosomal pH of normal cells plays an important role in protecting normal tissues from the toxic effects of lysosomotropic anticancer drugs. The influence of lysosomal pH status on the toxicity of inhibitors of the molecular chaperone Hsp90 that did or did not possess lysosomotropic properties was evaluated in mice. Toxicity of Hsp90 inhibitors was evaluated in normal mice and in mice treated with chloroquine to elevate lysosomal pH by assessing morbidity and utilizing biochemical assays to diagnose hepatic and renal toxicity. Toxicity of the lysosomotropic inhibitor 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxy-geldanamycin (17-DMAG) was significantly enhanced in mice with elevated lysosomal pH relative to mice with normal lysosomal pH. In contrast, elevation of lysosomal pH had no significant impact on toxicity of the nonlysosomotropic inhibitor geldanamycin. These results support the notion that the low lysosomal pH of normal cells plays an important role in protecting these cells from the toxic effects of anticancer agents with lysosomotropic properties and has implications for the design/selection of anticancer drugs with improved safety and differential selectivity.
Wear of a dental composite in an artificial oral environment: A clinical correlation

The study objective was to correlate wear between an in vitro method for simulating wear and in vivo wear of a posterior dental composite. Ten subjects (12 restorations) were selected from a five-year clinical study (University of North Carolina, School of Dentistry) that assessed wear of SureFil composite (Caulk, Dentsply). Subject casts were digitized and changes in volume and mean depth with time were calculated from the 3D digital models for contact and contact-free wear. SureFil composite disks were mounted in the University of Minnesota's Artificial Oral Environment, opposed by natural enamel, subjected to mandibular-like movements for 150 K, 300 K, 600 K, 1.2 M, and 1.5 M cycles, and loaded with peak forces of 13 N (n = 7) or 30 N (n = 3). Wear rates were calculated as the slope of the linear regressions fitting the wear data. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVAs and post hoc t-tests where appropriate (p = 0.05). Clinical restorations included contact wear on seven restorations and contact-free wear on all restorations. Contact-free wear was less than contact wear (p < 0.01). SureFil clinical wear rates were 0.012 mm/year (mean depth) and 0.023 mm(3)/year (volume). Clinical restorations expanded slightly during the first year. Using a conversion rate of one year equals 3 × 10(5) cycles, there were no significant differences between the clinical and simulated data except depths at Year 5 and 13 N volume at Year 4. The 30 N simulation reproduced the clinical data if contact-free wear was taken into account. Good agreement between simulated and clinical wear implies that in vitro simulation can screen new composite formulations.
Isolation and characterization of thymineless mutants from ultraviolet-sensitive Bacillus subtilis strains.

Abstract Thymineless mutants of Bacillus subtilis 168 ind, hcr-9 were isolated by using trimethoprim. These and other Thy− strains differed drastically from Thy+ ones in their patterns of [3H]thymidine uptake and growth in trimethoprim-containing medium. Transformation was negligible between most mutants derived from the ultraviolet-sensitive strain 168 ind, hcr-9 but significant between 168 ind, thy and these mutants. The latter and these new mutants all grow in the presence of trimethoprim plus thymidine or thymine and fail to grow if thymine or thymidine is omitted.
Maize chromosomal knobs are located in gene-dense areas and suppress local recombination

Knobs are conspicuous heterochromatic regions found on the chromosomes of maize and its relatives. The number, locations, and sizes of knobs vary dramatically, with most lines containing between four and eight knobs in mid-arm positions. Prior data suggest that some knobs may reduce recombination. However, comprehensive tests have not been carried out, primarily because most knobs have not been placed on the genetic map. We used fluorescent in situ hybridization and two recombinant inbred populations to map seven knobs and to accurately place three knobs from the B73 inbred on the genomic sequence assembly. The data show that knobs lie in gene-dense regions of the maize genome. Comparisons to 23 other recombinant inbred populations segregating for knobs at the same sites confirm that large knobs can locally reduce crossing over by as much as twofold on a cM/Mb scale. These effects do not extend beyond regions ~10 cM to either side of knobs and do not appear to affect linkage disequilibrium among genes within and near knob repeat regions of the B73 RefGen_v2 assembly.
Spatial coding with curved wavefronts

Curved wavefronts of unfocused beams can be viewed as spatial codes that can be decoded to produce high quality images. The decoding process can be performed by spatial matched or Wiener filtering methods that are a generalization of synthetic receive processing for large apertures rather than small elements. Advantages of this technique over dynamic receive processing include potentially greater echo signal-to-noise ratio and improved spatial resolution. An analytical treatment of weakly focused Gaussian apodized beams shows that the spatial bandwidth is approximately constant with depth. Experiments and simulations illustrate the efficacy of spatial coding.
Are epigenetic drugs for diabetes and obesity at our door step

Recent interest in epigenetics has focused on small molecules aimed at modifying disease-specific gene expression, including diabetes and obesity. Several major classes of epigenetic modifier include drugs already in the marketplace as well as several in various stages of study. These classes include histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), histone acetyltransferase inhibitors (HATi), protein arginine methyltransferase inhibitors (PRMTis), DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis), histone demethylating inhibitors (HDMis), and sirtuin-activating compounds (STACs). In this review, we discuss drugs with epigenetic properties that have been identified as potential therapeutic agents in the treatment of diabetes and obesity, including those currently in clinical trials.
Evaluating an Open Access Publishing Fund at a Comprehensive University

INTRODUCTION As the open access movement has fostered a shift from subscriber-funded journals to author-pays models, scholars seek funding for the dissemination of their research. In response to this need, some libraries have established open access funds at their institutions. This paper presents an evaluation of an open access fund at a comprehensive university. DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM/SERVICE Wanting to learn how faculty have benefitted from an open access publishing fund, Grand Valley State University Libraries surveyed recipients of the fund. The survey asked authors why they chose an open access publishing option and whether the fund influenced this decision. Authors were also asked whether they perceived that selecting an open access option broadened exposure to their work and about their likelihood of choosing open access in the future. NEXT STEPS This article shares the results of this small survey and explores next steps in promoting and evaluating the fund and opportunities for focusing educational efforts across campus.
Routine interim disease assessment in patients undergoing induction chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia: Can we do better?

The presence of >5% blasts at "day 14" (D14), in patients undergoing induction chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is problematic. It is unclear if a second course of chemotherapy for early persistent disease will alter outcome in these patients. We conducted a retrospective study of AML patients undergoing induction chemotherapy where diagnostic, interim (around day 14), and recovery (days 21-42) bone marrow (BM) evaluations were available for review. Of the 113 patients included in the final analysis, 99 (87.6%) achieved CR at hematologic recovery. At D14, 90 patients (79.6%) had 5% blasts). Of these, 11 (47.8%) received a second course of chemotherapy (double induction [DI]) and 12 (52.2%) were observed until count recovery (single induction [SI]). No significant difference in CR rates was observed between these two groups (58.3% DI group vs. 45.5% SI group, P value = 0.684). In our analysis, D14 BM evaluation did not uniformly identify patients with primary induction failure. To unequivocally determine the value of a D14 marrow assessment in AML, prospective studies in the context of large cooperative group trials are required. Considering our findings and similar reports from others, we propose that D14 marrow assessment should be individualized, and that other factors, such as cytogenetics and early peripheral blood blast clearance should be considered, to identify patients most likely to benefit from interim disease assessment during AML induction therapy.
An Electrochemical Microbubble-Based MEMS Pressure Sensor

A novel pressure transducer concept is introduced in which external pressure variations induce changes in the volume of a trapped microbubble ( $\mu \text{B}$ ) in an electrolyte solution. These volumetric changes are monitored by electrochemical impedance-based measurements and may be used for pressure tracking applications. Microbubbles are nucleated on-demand by electrolysis within a confinement chamber with high precision (measured size RSD $\sim 1$ %). This pressure transducer concept was developed specifically for operation in liquid environments and features biocompatible construction, small footprint ( in vivo pressure monitoring applications. [2015-0203]
Further Studies on Locomotion of the Cheetah

A high-speed motion picture camera was used to record the gaits of a captive cheetah. A previous study (Hildebrand, J. Mamm., 40: 481–495, 1959) is corrected (in regard to estimated speed and rate of stride) and new data presented on motions of the body at the walk, trot and gallop. The slow gallop (± 33 mph) differs from the fast gallop (± 56 mph) in that stride is shorter (though scarcely slower), and also in the use of the spine, duration of the support periods, placement of leading feet and paths followed by the feet between footfalls.
Robot-Assisted Transabdominal Preperitoneal Ventral Hernia Repair.

Background and objectives We believe that complications due to the mesh used in ventral hernia repairs can be reduced by using the natural barrier afforded by the peritoneum. This can be challenging to do laparoscopically, however we felt that the robot-assisted laparoscopic approach reduces the difficulty in placing the mesh in the preperitoneal space, and we want to share our early experiences with this approach. We describe the surgical technique used in robot-assisted laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) ventral hernia repair with mesh. In addition, we evaluate its feasibility and present preliminary perioperative results. Methods We performed robot-assisted laparoscopic TAPP ventral hernia repairs in 3 patients in the spring of 2015. Demographic information and defect size were measured. Conversion from a laparoscopic to an open procedure was the primary outcome variable. Results There were 3 cases of robot-assisted TAPP ventral hernia repair with mesh. The mean age of the patients was 49 years, the mean body mass index was 32.6 kg/m(2), and the mean operative time was 163.7 minutes. The mean defect size was 1219.0 mm(2). There were no conversions to open during this early learning phase. All patients were discharged home within the 24-hour postoperative period. No complications were noted during a mean follow-up of 3 months. Conclusions We present our early experience with robot-assisted TAPP ventral hernia repair. We note that because of improved ergonomics and wristed instrumentation, the robotic platform enabled creation of peritoneal flaps and complete coverage of mesh with peritoneum after primary closure of the defect. The robotic approach is feasible and may provide a better environment for mesh integration and protection. Further investigations with long-term follow-up are needed to verify that this technique is effective in reducing mesh-related intra-abdominal complications.
Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress Induces Loss of GABA Inhibition in Corticotrophin-Releasing Hormone-Expressing Neurons through NKCC1 Upregulation.

Introduction: Prolonged and repeated stresses cause hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH)-expressing neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) are an essential component of the HPA axis. Materials and Methods: Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats. GABA reversal potentials (EGABA) were determined by using gramicidin-perforated recordings in identified PVN-CRH neurons through expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein driven by the CRH promoter. Plasma corticosterone (CORT) levels were measured in rats implanted with a cannula targeting the lateral ventricles and PVN. Results: Blocking the GABAA receptor in the PVN with gabazine significantly increased plasma CORT levels in unstressed rats but did not change CORT levels in CUMS rats. CUMS caused a depolarizing shift in EGABA in PVN-CRH neurons compared with EGABA in PVN-CRH neurons in unstressed rats. Furthermore, CUMS induced a long-lasting increase in expression levels of the cation chloride cotransporter Na+-K+-Cl--Cl- (NKCC1) in the PVN but a transient decrease in expression levels of K+-Cl--Cl- in the PVN, which returned to the basal level 5 days after CUMS treatment. The NKCC1 inhibitor bumetanide decreased the basal firing activity of PVN-CRH neurons and normalized EGABA and the gabazine-induced excitatory effect on PVN-CRH neurons in CUMS rats. In addition, central administration of bumetanide decreased basal circulating CORT levels in CUMS rats. Conclusions: These data suggest that chronic stress impairs GABAergic inhibition, resulting in HPA axis hyperactivity through upregulation of NKCC1.
The Human Capital Roots of the Middle-Income Trap:The Case of China

China,like other middle-income countries,is facing the challenge of falling into middle-income trap when the economic growth slows down.By examining systematically the characteristics of countries that have successfully graduated from middle to high income(Graduates)and those that are attempting to do so now(Aspirees),this paper concludes that investment into human capital is a key to manage it's future income inequality and ensure sustained development of the economy.China currently faces huge inequality in human capital,especially in poor rural areas.In discussing the sources of the human capital inequality,in addition to structural and institutional barriers that are discouraging many students(and their parents)from staying in school to achieve the levels of learning that we believe are necessary for preparing individuals for employment in the coming decades,we also identify severe nutritional and health problems,which we believe(unless addressed)are creating serious China's human capital deficiencies in poor areas of rural China and locking in decades of hard-to-address inequality.The paper ends with a call for leaders in China(and countries at the same level of income of China)to launch immediately a war on poor education,health,vision care and nutrition as one step in helping such nations avoid the middle-income trap in the coming years.
[ROM in mood, anxiety and somatoform disorders: a promising technique with pleasing results].

Background Since 2002 the Leiden University Medical Center and the psychiatric hospital Rivierduinen have been using routine outcome monitoring in patients suffering from mood, anxiety and somatoform disorders (ROM). Aim To describe the ROM-MAS set-up, explain how the system was implemented and report on the data-based scientific research that ensued. Method The study is mainly descriptive. Results Circa 80% of the patients were assessed at intake, 50% via follow-up measurements. ROM-MAS has become a regular component of patient care. However, it has proved difficult to make full use of the outcomes in clinical practice and particularly in benchmarking. The data for 8357 patients have generated various publications relating to psychometrics, epidemiology and effects of treatment. Conclusion ROM-MAS is now generally accepted and has been introduced in most psychiatric clinics. The next step is to make better use of the results for clinical practice and for benchmarking. ROM-MAS provides valuable data and generates publications relating to a naturalistic secondary-care cohort.
The management of variceal bleeding : Past, present and future

The basic principles of managing variceal bleeding have changed little in the last fifty years. Fluid resuscitation, efforts to induce intra-variceal thrombosis, and treatments to reduce portal pressures remain the keys to successful therapy. However, the last decade has seen the introduction of new modalities which have improved treatment efficacy and safety. Octreotide and, at many institutions, terlipressin have supplanted intravenous vasopressin as acute pharmacologic therapy for variceal bleeding. Endoscopic management of variceal bleeding now includes endoscopic variceal ligation in addition to the widely practiced endoscopic sclerotherapy. Placement of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts has been proven to be a reliable means of emergently inducing a reduction in portal pressure and stopping variceal hemorrhage. In the out-patient setting, therapy with non-selective beta-blockers, often coupled with oral nitrates, is increasingly accepted as a means of improving portal hypertension and reducing a patient's risk of first hemorrhage or recurrent variceal bleed. This review focuses on the history and evolution of management strategies for variceal bleeding, discusses the physiologic basis for each type of therapy, summarizes current treatment approaches, and addresses recent developments in the field.
Is the Door-in-the-Face a Concession?

The Door-in-the-Face (DITF) sequential message strategy was investigated in a three-study analysis of existing experimental findings. The current study predicted there would be a positive relationship between concession size and compliance rates in DITF studies. Study 1 included 25 comparisons where size of concession was quantifiable as measured by percentage reduction from initial to target request in the DITF condition. Study 2 data relied on a panel of undergraduate students to provide an index of concession size in 12 additional observations. A third study validated the panel procedure of rating concession size and also provided 9 additional independent observations from the pool of published studies on DITF. Results from each study indicated a positive relationship between concession size and effect size (r = 0.35, 0.55, 0.68, respectively). Study findings provide support for reciprocal concessions explanation for DITF effects.
Influence of environmental conditions on hydrogen peroxide formation by Streptococcus gordonii.

Hydrogen peroxide generated by viridans group streptococci has an antagonistic effect on many bacterial species, including a number of pathogens, in the oral environment. This study examines the influence of a variety of environmental conditions on rates of hydrogen peroxide synthesis by Streptococcus gordonii. Hydrogen peroxide was synthesized at every concentration of glucose and sucrose tested from 10 μM to 1 M, with the highest rates occurring at 0.1 mM sucrose and 1 mM glucose. S. gordonii appeared to have an intracellular store of polysaccharide which supported hydrogen peroxide formation even when the assay buffer contained no carbohydrate. Most heavy metal ions inhibited peroxidogenesis, and anaerobic conditions induced adaptive down-regulation of hydrogen peroxide synthesis; however, peroxidogenesis was generally insensitive to moderate increases in salt concentration, alteration of the mineral content of the assay solution, and changes in pH between 5.0 and 7.5. In contrast, stimulation of peroxidogenesis occurred in 1 mM Mg2+ and 10 to 50 mM potassium l-lactate. Maximum peroxidogenesis occurred during the mid-logarithmic and late-logarithmic phases of bacterial growth. These bacterial responses may have significant implications for oral ecology and oral health.
Predictive model building across different process conditions and shapes in 3D printing

Predictive models for geometric shape deformation constitute an important component in geometric fidelity control for three-dimensional (3D) printing. However, model building is made difficult by the wide variety of possible process conditions and shapes. A methodology that can make full use of data collected on different shapes and conditions, and reduce the haphazard aspect of traditional statistical model building techniques, is necessary in this context. We develop a new Bayesian procedure based on the effect equivalence and modular deformation features concepts that incorporates all available data for the systematic construction of predictive deformation models. Our method is applied to dramatically facilitate modeling of the multiple deformation profiles that exist in flat cylinders with different types of cavities. Ultimately, our Bayesian approach connects different process conditions and shapes to provide a unified framework for geometric fidelity control in 3D printing.
Changes in Minimum Certification Requirements of Physical Education Teachers in 19 States since 1947

Abstract This continuation study was commenced in 1942. Surveys are made each 5 years to ascertain the nature of changes as states revise their certification requirements. It is apparent from the findings that uniformity among states is not being reached and no two states yet have the same requirements.
A general statistical framework for designing strategy-proof assignment mechanisms

We develop a statistical framework for the design of a strategy-proof assignment mechanism that closely approximates a target outcome rule. The framework can handle settings with and without money, and allows the designer to employ techniques from machine learning to control the space of strategy-proof mechanisms searched over, by providing a rule class with appropriate capacity. We solve a sample-based optimization problem over a space of mechanisms that correspond to agent-independent price functions (virtual prices in the case of settings without money), subject to a feasibility constraint on the sample. A transformation is applied to the obtained mechanism to ensure feasibility on all type profiles, and strategy-proofness. We derive a sample complexity bound for our approach in terms of the capacity of the chosen rule class and provide applications for our results.
A Veneer of Unity? Islam and a Culture of Inclusion in Sabah

This chapter discusses the everyday practice of Islam in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, and asks whether the openness of practice implies an eventual broader social unity than currently exists between ethnic groups. Will Islam and its practice be a powerful force for a greater unity? The chapter also discusses the political background of the current state of Islam in society and suggests that while the minimalism of practice is not a negative force, it is not currently thought to be sufficient to bring about truly revolutionary cultural and social reforms.
Expression of the IFNAR1 chain of type 1 interferon receptor in benign cells protects against progression of acute leukemia

Type I interferons (IFN) were widely used for leukemia treatment. These cytokines act on cell surface receptor consisting of the IFNAR1/2 chains to induce anti-tumorigenic effects. Given that levels of IFNAR1 can be regulated by phosphorylation-driven ubiquitination and degradation that undermines IFN signaling and anti-tumorigenic effects, we sought to determine the importance of IFNAR1 downregulation in progression of acute leukemia. Using knock-in mice deficient in downregulation of IFNAR1, we uncovered that IFNAR1 expression in stromal benign cells functions to protect against progression of leukemia. We discuss putative mechanisms of this regulation and potential of therapeutic targeting of IFNAR1 downregulation to treat leukemia.
Negotiating the Corrupting Sea: Literature in and of the Medieval Mediterranean

What is medieval Mediterranean Literature? Since literary texts are defined in the first instance by the language in which they are composed, it is not immediately apparent what could count as “Mediterranean” literature. This essay explores what a “Mediterranean” literary corpus might look like: texts that highlight themes (connectivity, piracy, commerce, cultural contact, and more) described by historians of the Mediterranean; texts in which the sea or sea travel play a central role; texts that through translation and adaptation have themselves traveled across two or more Mediterranean cultures; texts in which the Mediterranean is an indispensable frame of reference; texts shaped by significant Mediterranean events (such as the Sicilian Vespers ). Special attention is given to the longue duree of Mediterranean literature (in a nod to Fernand Braudel ) and to texts that highlight the mutual intelligibility linking politically, linguistically, or religiously different societies.
Papillary Muscle Rupture

Papillary muscle rupture is a rare and potentially fatal complication often following a myocardial infarction or secondary to infective endocarditis. Acute rupture frequently results in severe mitral valve regurgitation and subsequent acute life-threatening cardiogenic shock and pulmonary edema.There are 5 papillary muscles in the heart originating from the ventricular walls. These muscles attach to the tricuspid and mitral valve leaflets via the chordae tendineae and functionally prevent regurgitation of ventricular blood via tensile strength by preventing prolapse or inversion of the valves during systole. Three of these papillary muscle and chordae tendineae complexes are attached to the tricuspid valve (anterior, posterior, septal), and 2 are attached to the mitral valve (anterolateral and posteromedial). Papillary muscle dysfunction leads to regurgitation of blood through the valves causing backflow of blood that can lead to left or right-sided heart failure.Literature first identified papillary muscle rupture as early as 1948. Visualization via 2-dimensional echocardiography was first reported in 1981. Transesophageal echocardiography was first used in 1985 in identifying the condition.The classic scenario is that of a patient with an MI involving the posterior descending coronary artery who develops sudden decompensated heart failure on days 2-7 after the infarction. The competence of the mitral valve is maintained by the actions of the anterolateral and posteromedial papillary muscles. The anterolateral muscle has a dual blood supply, whereas the posteromedial muscle has blood supply only from the posterior descending coronary; thus in most patients, it is the posteromedial papillary muscle that will rupture following an MI.Without surgical treatment, mortality is very high.
Così fan tutte: A better approach than the right to be forgotten

Abstract In this article, we argue in favor of a macro-societal approach to protect people from the potential harms of personal information online. In the tension between information and privacy, “the right to be forgotten” is not an appropriate solution. Such a micro, individual-based answer puts the burden of protection on each person instead of on external entities that can abuse such knowledge. The personal responsibility to delete personal data is challenging because of the leakage of data that happens through the connections we have with others, many of whom do not share the same privacy preferences. We show that effective deletion is almost impossible (the eternity effect), and is unfair due to the resource burden it entails when users try to achieve it, while at the same time ensuring the potential benefits we can derive in the future from having personal information online. In addition, deletion requests can negatively affect other people who are in the same location and time frame and may not want to have their information deleted. Collectively, we argue also that society is worse off because these circumstances lead people to construct sanitized personas while perpetuating a culture of distrust. Given that the harm is real, we describe technology, societal norms, and the implementation of an anti-discrimination directive for the right to a personal life, and we provide evidence on how anti-discrimination efforts in the past have succeeded when legislation leads to the development of infrastructures that help to enforce them. The dissemination of personal information through public sites and social media is, as Mozart suggested in Cosi fan tutte, gradually educating humanity about human weaknesses.
Information Technology as an Enabler of Digitisation

Information technology as a corporate function is not only required as an advisor and supporter of all specialist divisions in the transition, but also has to operate the existing technical IT environment cost-efficiently and safely as well as develop itself comprehensively. This challenge requires a “two-speed IT” which uses a holistic IT strategy based on the digitisation roadmap as a basis for its work, and also establishes a method for assessing the benefit aspects of IT for business processes. A “software-defined environment”, i. e. the complete flexibilisation of the IT infrastructure, is the basis for modern microservice-based Apps using Open Source solutions and also for Data Lake projects. Financing can be achieved through successful computing centre consolidation, application harmonisation and standardisation in service provision. The issue of security has a high priority both for business IT and shopfloor- and vehicle IT, however without being an impediment to new initiatives.
Fast algorithm synthesis for arbitrary linear transforms

A method of fast algorithm synthesis for an arbitrary linear transform is proposed. The method is based on factorization of a linear transform operator and using the factors for building computational structures performing fast linear transform on a computer or dedicated hardware platform.
Concepts of localization: Balkanization in the brain

A spate of recent anti-localizationist publications have re-ignited the old debate about the localization of function. Many of the recent attacks on localization, however, are directed at what I will argue to be a narrow and outmoded view of localization, and thus have little conceptual or empirical impact. What I hope to present here is an analysis of functional localization that more adequately reflects the sophistication and complexity of its use in neuroscientific research, both historically and recently. Proceeding first by way of contrast, I examine theanti-localizationist positions of holism andequipotentiationism. Then, I present a four-fold analysis of localization according to physical scope, physical kind, functional scope, and functional kind. Next, I turn to a discussion of the heuristic value oflocalization in deciphering structure-functionrelationships. Finally, I hope to show that the overall view of functional localization that emerges from these considerations constitutes a much more elusive target than its critics assume. It serves to mitigate, and insome instances even defeat, some forms ofanti-localizationist criticisms.
Silica-Based Materials for Thermoelectric-Legs Embedding

Sol-gel chemistry was used to synthesize low-density SiO2 aerogel for matrix embedding of silicide-based (Mg2Si and MnSi(2−x)) thermoelectric legs. In thermoelectric (TE) modules, the heat conduction in air and the convective and radiative contribution to the heat transfer play an important role in the reduction of the efficiency of the module. Silica aerogels are known for the lowest thermal conductivity of any non-evacuated solid. With this in mind, silica-based aerogel materials were employed to fill the void spaces between the thermoelectric legs of a module. In order to do this, different synthesis procedures were taken into account to produce suitable silica materials. It is important that the silica can be easily cast into place, avoiding mechanical cracks of the matrix. Silica aerogel typically requires a supercritical drying step to remove the pore fluid from the SiO2 gel, avoiding the collapse of the pores. This procedure is not practical for TE-legs embedding and it is dangerous, expensive, and time-consuming. It is known that replacing the –OH groups with organic hydrophobic substituents in the SiO2 pores prevents the pore-shrinkage and the sintering of the matrix during solvent evaporation step. This allows synthesizing relatively light materials at low temperature and ambient pressure, with no need of supercritical drying of the gel. The obtained aerogels were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry to evaluate the stability of the material and the chemical modification with increasing temperature. The thermal expansion of the silica was evaluated by means of dilatometry. Finally, the thermal diffusivity was measured with the laser flash method.
Fractional Poincaré Inequalities in Various Settings

We survey on several fractional Poincare inequalities in several constexts: the Euclidean case, the case of Lie groups and the case of Riemannian manifolds.
Seasonal sex steroids indicate reproductive costs associated with snake fungal disease

National Science FoundationNational Science Foundation (NSF) [IOS-1145625]; Stockton University Research and Professional Development Grant; Brown Center for Faculty Innovation and Excellence at Stetson University
T’áá hwó ají t’éego and the Moral Economy of Navajo Coal Workers

The development of coal mining in the Navajo Nation, the largest Indian reservation in the United States, is understood as a consequence of economic dependency, resource curse, modernization, cultu...
Enthalpy-Driven Polyisobutylene Depolymerization

Polyisobutylene (PIB) oligomers containing terminal alkene groups depolymerize rapidly at room temperature in the presence of trifluoromethanesulfonic acid and an arene solvent like benzene. This d...
Prognosticating outcomes and survival for patients with lumbar spinal metastases: Results of a bayesian regression analysis.

Abstract Objectives: To assess the impact of surgical intervention on survival, ambulatory capacity, complications and readmissions following treatment for lumbar metastases. Patients and Methods: We identified all adult patients treated for lumbar metastases between 2005−2017. To limit the potential for inherent bias to influence determinations, we used principal component analysis to identify confounders to be included in multivariable testing. Multivariable logistic regression was performed, followed by Bayesian analysis to generate conservative estimates of effect size and 95% confidence intervals (CI). In a sensitivity test, analyses were repeated in a population where patients who died before they could initiate treatment were excluded. Results: In the period under study, we identified 571 patients who met inclusion criteria. Twenty-one percent of the cohort received a surgical intervention. Bayes regression indicated surgical intervention was independently associated with decreased mortality at 6-months (odds ratio [OR] 0.49; 95% CI 0.34, 0.68) and 1-year (OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.51, 0.76), along with lower odds of being non-ambulatory at 6-months following presentation (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.18, 0.45). Surgery was also associated with increased odds of complications (OR 1.60; 95% CI 1.24, 2.06) and readmissions (OR 1.37; 95% CI 1.09, 1.72). Numerous clinical characteristics were found to be associated with the outcomes of interest including serum albumin, lung metastases and vertebral body collapse. Conclusions: Given the favorable outcomes associated with the incorporation of surgery as a component of treatment, we believe that such interventions may be considered part of the treatment approach in patients with lumbar metastases.
The Case of Jenny: A Freshman Collegiate Athlete Experiencing Performance Dysfunction

The present case study illustrates the treatment of a 19-year-old female lacrosse player, classified as experiencing Performance Dysfunction (Pdy) by the Multilevel Classification System for Sport Psychology (MCS-SP). The self-referred collegiate athlete was treated using the manualized Mindfulness-Acceptance-Commitment (MAC) protocol (Gardner & Moore, 2004a, 2007). The intervention consisted of eight individual sessions and several follow-up contacts via e-mail. The majority of the sessions addressed clinically related and sport-related concerns, including difficulties in emotion regulation and problematic interpersonal relationships. Based on self-report, coach report, and one outcome assessment measure, the psychological intervention resulted in enhanced overall behavioral functioning and enhanced athletic performance. This case study suggests that following careful case formulation based on appropriate assessment and interview data, the MAC intervention successfully targeted the clearly defined psycho...
Workup of Recurrent Respiratory Infections and a Positive Family History

Patients with late-onset X-linked Agammaglobulinemia may have normal laboratory findings at birth, with normal B-cell count and immunoglobulin levels, and antibody response to vaccines
Free to decide their destiny? Indigenous resistance to external forms of socialist modernity in Siad Barre’s Somalia

Based on a wealth of original material from Russian and East European archives, in addition to Western primary sources, this paper focuses on the uneasy Soviet–Somali patron–client relationship in ...
Abject performances: aesthetic strategies in Latino cultural production: by Leticia AlvaradoDurham and London: Duke University Press, 2018, 232 pages, 59 black and white illustrations, 10 color illustrationsISBN: 978-0-8223-7078-9 (paperback) Price $25.95

Leticia Alvarado begins Abject Performances: Aesthetic Strategies in Latino Cultural Production by closely reading the protest actions of the Dream 9, a collective of undocumented Latinx students w...
Is MCU dispensable for normal heart function

The uptake of Ca2+ into mitochondria is thought to be an important signal communicating the need for increased energy production. However, dysregulated uptake leading to mitochondrial Ca2+ overload can trigger opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore and potentially cell death. Thus mitochondrial Ca2+ entry is regulated via the activity of a Ca2+-selective channel known as the mitochondrial calcium uniporter. The last decade has seen enormous momentum in the discovery of the molecular identities of the multiple proteins comprising the uniporter. Increasing numbers of studies in cultured cells and animal models have provided insight into how disruption of uniporter proteins affects mitochondrial Ca2+ regulation and impacts tissue function and physiology. This review aims to summarize some of these recent findings, particularly in the context of the heart.
Classically activated mouse macrophages produce methylglyoxal that induces a TLR4- and RAGE-independent proinflammatory response.

The highly reactive compound methylglyoxal (MG) can cause direct damage to cells and tissues by reacting with cellular macromolecules. MG has been identified as a biomarker associated with increased sepsis-induced mortality. Patients undergoing septic shock have significantly elevated circulating MG levels compared to postoperative patients and healthy controls. Furthermore, MG has been implicated in the development of type II diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease. Because MG is generated during glycolysis, we hypothesized that MG may be produced by classically activated (M1) macrophages, possibly contributing to the inflammatory response. LPS and IFN-γ-treated macrophages acquired an M1 phenotype (as evidenced by M1 markers and enhanced glycolysis) and formed MG adducts, MG-H1, MG-H2, and MG-H3, which were detected using antibodies specific for MG-modified proteins (methylglyoxal 5-hydro-5-methylimidazolones). MG adducts were also increased in the lungs of LPS-treated mice. Macrophages treated with LPS and IFN-γ also exhibited decreased expression of glyoxalase 1 (Glo1), an enzyme that metabolizes MG. Concentrations of exogenous, purified MG > 0.5 mM were toxic to macrophages; however, a nontoxic dose of 0.3 mM induced TNF-α and IL-1β, albeit to a lesser extent than LPS stimulation. Despite prior evidence that MG adducts may signal through "receptor for advanced glycation endproducts" (RAGE), MG-mediated cell death and cytokine induction by exogenous MG was RAGE-independent in primary macrophages. Finally, RAGE-deficient mice did not exhibit a significant survival advantage following lethal LPS injection. Overall, our evidence suggests that MG may be produced by M1 macrophages during sepsis, following IFN-γ-dependent down-regulation of Glo1, contributing to over-exuberant inflammation.
Forecasting cosmological constraints from the weak lensing magnification of type Ia supernovae measured by the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope

The weak lensing magnification of type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) is sensitive to the clustering of matter and provides an independent cosmological probe complementary to SN Ia distance measurements. The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is uniquely sensitive to this measurement as it can discover high redshift SNe Ia and measure them with high precision. We present a methodology for reconstructing the probability distribution of the weak lensing magnification $\ensuremath{\mu}$ of SNe Ia, $p(\ensuremath{\mu})$, from observational data, and using it to constrain cosmological parameters. We find that the reconstructed $p(\ensuremath{\mu})$ can be fitted accurately by a stretched Gaussian distribution and used to measure the variance of $\ensuremath{\mu}$, ${\ensuremath{\xi}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}$, which can be compared to theoretical predictions in a likelihood analysis. Applying our methodology to a set of realistically simulated SNe Ia expected from the Roman Space Telescope, we find that using the weak lensing magnification of the SNe Ia constrains a combination of matter density ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{m}$ and matter clustering amplitude ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{8}$. SN Ia distances alone lead to a better than 1% measurement of ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{m}$. The combination of SN Ia weak lensing magnification and distance measurements result in a $\ensuremath{\sim}10%$ measurement on ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{8}$. The SNe Ia from Roman will be powerful in constraining the cosmological model.
Material properties of bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) horncore bone with implications for energy absorption during impacts

Bighorn sheep rams participate in high impact head-butting without overt signs of brain injury, thus providing a naturally occurring animal model for studying brain injury mitigation. Previously published finite element modeling showed that both the horn and bone materials play important roles in reducing brain cavity accelerations during ramming. However, in that study the elastic modulus of bone was assumed to be similar to that of human bone since the modulus of ram bone was unknown. Therefore, the goal of this study was to quantify the mechanical properties, mineral content, porosity, and microstructural organization of horncore cortical bone from juvenile and adult rams. Mineral content and elastic modulus increased with horn size, and porosity decreased. However, modulus of toughness did not change with horn size. This latter finding raises the possibility that the horncore cortical bone has not adapted exceptional toughness despite an extreme loading environment and may function primarily as an interface material between the horn and the porous bone within the horncore. Thus, geometric properties of the horn and horncore, including the porous bone architecture, may be more important for energy absorption during ramming than the horncore cortical bone. Results from this study can be used to improve accuracy of finite element models of bighorn sheep ramming to investigate these possibilities moving forward.
Missing Modernism (Gide)

Through an examination of the paradoxical case of Andre Gide—who is at once a towering intellectual figure and, for scholars ranging from Paul de Man and Roland Barthes to Emily Apter and Michael L...
Women in the State: Elected Women and the Challenge of Indian Politics (1957–62)

When Parvathi Krishnan (MP, Coimbatore Madras) entered India’s parliament on 28 March 1958, it was just a regular workday. She questioned a government minister about his policies toward railway wor...