cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kinetics of Crystallization in Multicomponent Systems: II. Chain-Folded Polymer Crystals.

Using polyethylene as an example, the kinetics of growth of chain-folded polymer crystals is treated using a theory for the kinetics of growth of chains in multicomponent systems. The kinetic chain is considered to be a chain-folded strip growing on the lateral face of a chain-folded lamella, and the various components are the possible lengths l j the polymer chain may form on folding at the end of the growing strip. Thus, the number of components is in principle infinite, but it is sufficient to take a number of the order of 20-50 for the calculations. By an iteration procedure, the calculations are carried out so that the average thickness of the strip is the same as that of the chain-folded lamella on which it grows. This necessitates modification of the rate constants that would be used without this requirement. The rate of growth, average thickness and its standard deviation, and the pair distribution are calculated as a function of undercooling and other relevant parameters of the system. The results for the rate of growth and thickness are similar to those of simpler theories, provided that the constant end-surface free-energy of those theories is replaced by a temperature dependent "effective" surface free-energy. The standard-deviation of the thickness is larger than commonly believed, values of 8 to 14 A being typical. Consequently, the crystals as grown may have quite rough fold surfaces, although the equilibrium roughness will be less.
Protein kinase Cβ is critical for the metabolic switch to glycolysis following B-cell antigen receptor engagement

Signals derived from the BCR (B-cell antigen receptor) control survival, development and antigenic responses. One mechanism by which BCR signals may mediate these responses is by regulating cell metabolism. Indeed, the bioenergetic demands of naive B-cells increase following BCR engagement and are characterized by a metabolic switch to aerobic glycolysis; however, the signalling pathways involved in this metabolic reprogramming are poorly defined. The PKC (protein kinase C) family plays an integral role in B-cell survival and antigenic responses. Using pharmacological inhibition and mice deficient in PKCβ, we demonstrate an essential role of PKCβ in BCR-induced glycolysis in B-cells. In contrast, mice deficient in PKCδ exhibit glycolytic rates comparable with those of wild-type B-cells following BCR cross-linking. The induction of several glycolytic genes following BCR engagement is impaired in PKCβ-deficient B-cells. Moreover, blocking glycolysis results in decreased survival of B-cells despite BCR engagement. The results establish a definitive role for PKCβ in the metabolic switch to glycolysis following BCR engagement of naive B-cells.
Antimicrobial Coatings with Dual Cationic and N-Halamine Character: Characterization and Biocidal Efficacy

A method to prepare an antimicrobial coating for food-handling materials is reported. Alternating layers of branched polyethylenimine and styrene maleic anhydride copolymer were applied onto the surface of polypropylene. The resulting coatings had low surface energy and presented enhanced antimicrobial character due to the presence of both cationic and N-halamine forming structures. In its unchlorinated form, the coating inactivated Listeria monocytogenes by ∼3 logarithmic cycles. In the form of N-halamines >5 logarithmic cycles were reached. Microbial inactivation kinetics showed a Weibullian behavior when the coating was unchlorinated and a sigmoidal behavior when chlorinated. Microscopy confirmed that the reduction in the microbial load was due to biocidal effects of the coating and not bacterial adhesion onto the modified surface. The modified surface was able to be repeatedly rechlorinated. Such rechargeable antimicrobial coatings may support improving food safety by reducing cross-contamination of m...
The Morphology and Relationships of the Stenocephalidae and Hyocephalidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Coreoidea)

The cuticular anatomy of the Stenocephalidae and Hyocephalidae confirms that they 1) are closely related each to the other, 2) are primitive within the Coreoidea, and yet 3) possess some apomorphies. Autapomorphies of the Hyocephalidae include a filament of the metathoracic scent-gland channel, the presence of a 3rd-sternal “strainer,” the arrangement of 5th-sternal trichobothria, and the lack of a vesica and sperm reservoir. Autapomorphies of the Stenocephalidae include the structure of the genital capsule's median projection, and an anterior projection of the male's 8th segment. Synapomorphies of the 2 families include the suturing between the 3rd and 4th abdominal sterna and other features of this region, a connection between the genital capsule's rims and the cuplike sclerite, the dorsal opening of the capsule, and asymmetries of the flange(s) of the spermathecal duct. Confirmation that other shared features are indeed synapomorphies must await study of other primitive Coreoidea.
Ultimate Concern of Economics: An Inspection of the Ethical Traditions of Western Economics

Western economics has a profound ethical tradition. Since Adam Smith, Western economists, combining realistic concern with ultimate concern, have continued studying man's behavior from the perspective of specific ethical relationships among men. Some of them have gone so far as to regard the relation between self benefitting and others benefitting as the core of ethical tradition on their economic studies. Chinese economic researchers should learn from the ethical tradition of Western economics, push back their horizon of economic studies as the market evolves and attach importance to studies of economic ethics to actively transform the methodology of economic study. After all, a set of standards for economic ethics with a complete development of man as the content should be established in China's economic development.
Progressive Macular Hypomelanosis

A 21-year-old African American female presented with a 6 year history of asymptomatic light colored lesions on the chest, flanks, and back. She had tried numerous over-the-counter treatments, including topical clotrimazole and selenium sulfide shampoo without improvement (Figs. 18.1 and 18.2).
Wastewater Reuse for Agriculture: Development of a Regional Water Reuse Decision-Support Model (RWRM) for Cost-Effective Irrigation Sources

Water scarcity has become a critical problem in many semiarid and arid regions. The single largest water use in such regions is for crop irrigation, which typically relies on groundwater and surface water sources. With increasing stress on these traditional water sources, it is important to consider alternative irrigation sources for areas with limited freshwater resources. One potential irrigation water resource is treated wastewater for agricultural fields located near urban centers. In addition, treated wastewater can contribute an appreciable amount of necessary nutrients for plants. The suitability of reclaimed water for specific applications depends on water quality and usage requirements. The main factors that determine the suitability of recycled water for agricultural irrigation are salinity, heavy metals, and pathogens, which cause adverse effects on human, plants, and soils. In this paper, we develop a regional water reuse decision-support model (RWRM) using the general algebraic modeling system to analyze the cost-effectiveness of alternative treatment trains to generate irrigation water from reclaimed wastewater, with the irrigation water designed to meet crop requirements as well as California's wastewater reuse regulations (Title 22). Using a cost-minimization framework, least-cost solutions consisting of treatment processes and their intensities (blending ratios) are identified to produce alternative irrigation sources for citrus and turfgrass. Our analysis illustrates the benefits of employing an optimization framework and flexible treatment design to identify cost-effective blending opportunities that may produce high-quality irrigation water for a wide range of end uses.
Informing the News: The Need for Knowledge-Based Journalism by Thomas E. Patterson

Informing the News by Thomas Patterson, professor at Harvard, is a timely and engaging (if impractical) book that argues for the introduction of a new type of practice—knowledge-based journalism—in...
Hepatitis C Treatment in HIV Coinfection: Approaches, Challenges, and Future Opportunities

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in people living with HIV/AIDS. Indeed, HCV is more likely to progress to end-organ dysfunction in HIV-infected people, and fibrosis progresses more quickly in this population than in the general population. While historical treatments combining interferon and ribavirin were less efficacious in HIV/HCV coinfection, modern direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies have shown similar clinical efficacy in HIV/HCV coinfection as in HCV monoinfection. In light of these findings, HIV/HCV-coinfected patients may benefit even more from new HCV treatment approaches. The choice of DAA therapy for HCV in HIV-infected patients should be based on the patient’s disease stage, prior treatment history, and viral characteristics such as genotype and/or resistance mutations, just as it is in patients with HCV monoinfection. Potential drug-drug interactions between HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) and HCV DAA therapy must be considered when prescribing HCV treatment and may impact the choice of treatment. Caution is advised when considering DAA regimens that have not been studied in HIV/HCV populations due to lack of data regarding efficacy, the potential for drug-drug interactions, or both. In the era of DAA therapy and with many therapeutic options available to tailor appropriate regimens in order to avoid drug-drug interactions, HCV should be treated aggressively in HIV-infected persons to reduce morbidity and mortality.
Comparison of CIGS Solar Cells Made With Different Structures and Fabrication Techniques

Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS)-based solar cells from six fabricators were characterized and compared. The devices had differing substrates, absorber deposition processes, buffer materials, and contact materials. The effective bandgaps of devices varied from 1.05 to 1.22 eV, with the lowest optical bandgaps occurring in those with metal-precursor absorber processes. Devices with Zn(O, S) or thin CdS buffers had quantum efficiencies above 90% down to 400 nm. Most voltages were 250–300 mV below the Shockley–Queisser limit for their bandgap. Electroluminescence intensity tracked well with the respective voltage deficits. Fill factor (FF) was as high as 95% of the maximum for each device's respective current and voltage, with higher FF corresponding to lower diode quality factors (∼1.3). An in-depth analysis of FF losses determined that diode quality reflected in the quality factor, voltage-dependent photocurrent, and, to a lesser extent, the parasitic resistances are the limiting factors. Different absorber processes and device structures led to a range of electrical and physical characteristics, yet this investigation showed that multiple fabrication pathways could lead to high-quality and high-efficiency solar cells.
Spotlight and Investigative Journalism: How the Film Reinforces the Essential Role of a Free, Professional Press in a Democracy

ABSTRACTThis article examines key scenes and ideas portrayed in the film Spotlight and discusses related landmark Supreme Court cases as a reaffirmation of the value of a professional, free press in a democratic society. Based on actual events, the movie adaptation follows journalists from the Boston Globe (within an investigate unit with the actual name “Spotlight”) as they reveal one of the biggest scandals of the twenty-first century, the cover up of systematic abuse of children by priests; and go up against one of the most powerful institutions in the world, the Catholic Church. By giving a voice and a platform for the victims, and by meticulously researching the story, the film provides a clear and strong argument for the continued court protection of one of the United States’ founding principles: freedom of the press.
Low-index, smooth Al_2O_3 films by aqueous solution process

We describe low-index porous alumina thin films deposited from aqueous solutions containing flat-Al13 clusters and the nonionic block copolymer Pluronic F127. The films exhibit surface roughness as low as 0.5 nm, a characteristic useful for the fabrication of multilayer optical devices. We have investigated the chemical, optical, and structural properties of the films and their formation by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, temperature programmed desorption, spectroscopic ellipsometry, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. By varying the Pluronic F127 concentration, film porosities can be tuned to produce refractive indexes between n = 1.26 and 1.54 (λ = 550 nm).
A Descriptive Epidemiology of Sexual Behavior and Interest in Older Adults with Diabetes

Objective : In this manuscript we conduct descriptive analysis of epidemiological patterns in older Americans’ experiences with diabetes, comorbid chronic conditions, and sexuality. We use data from the National Social, Health, and Life Project (NSHAP) to explore variations in sexual and social experience among Americans with diabetes in later life. Research Design and Methods : We use descriptive epidemiological methods to explore three research questions. First, how do sexual behavior and interest vary among older adults with and without diabetes? Second, do older adults with diabetes frequently cite health issues as a reason for abstaining from sexual activity? Third, what role might interrelated socio-demographic characteristics play in these patterns? Results : We illuminate consistent differences between people with and without diabetes with respect to sexual behavior, but not with respect to sexual interest. We find that older adults with and without diabetes think about and desire sex frequently. However, we also find that older adults with diabetes report having sex much less frequently than their peers without diabetes do. This difference is especially striking for older adults who have both diabetes and other chronic conditions. Conclusions : We assess these findings in the context of prior clinical, social, and behavioral research on sexuality, aging, and chronicity. We conclude with implications of our findings for further research concerning the intersection of diabetes and sexuality in the lives of older Americans.
Oceans of magma: Large Igneous Provinces (LIPS) and plumes

The Mt St Helens eruption of 1989 created world news and called forth expressions from journalists such as ‘the unbelievable power of Nature’ and ‘incredible powers of destruction’. Yet, this eruption pales into insignificance in the light of earlier volcanic events. Mt St Helens is estimated to have produced 1.2 cubic kilometres of solid material. Laki, in Iceland, is the most voluminous eruption in historic times and is estimated to have produced around 14 cubic kilometres of lava in 1783 to 1784. However, geologists know of older single eruptions that produced hundreds or even thousands of cubic kilometers of solid material and here I tell of a volcanic event that resulted in between one and ten million cubic kilometres of material in just a couple of million years or so. If this occurred at the present day it would almost certainly wipe out mankind and, indeed, earlier mass extinction events are ascribed to similar phenomena which have happened several times in the past. These events created ‘Large Igneous Provinces’ (LIPs) and here I concentrate on part of one of these to give an impression of their nature, examining what might be the cause of such enormous amounts of magma.
Chimeric 3' flanking regions strongly enhance gene expression in plants.

Plants represent a promising platform for the highly scalable production of recombinant proteins. Previously, we identified the tobacco extensin terminator lacking its intron as an element that reduced transcript read-through and improved recombinant protein production in a plant-based system. In this study, we systematically compared nonreplicating plant expression vectors containing over 20 commonly used or newly identified terminators from diverse sources. We found that eight gene terminators enhance reporter gene expression significantly more than the commonly used 35S and NOS terminators. The intronless extensin terminator provided a 13.6-fold increase compared with the NOS terminator. Combining terminators in tandem produced large synergistic effects, with many combinations providing a >25-fold increase in expression. Addition of the tobacco Rb7 or TM6 matrix attachment region (MAR) strongly enhanced protein production when added to most terminators, with the Rb7 MAR providing the greatest enhancement. Using deletion analysis, the full activity of the 1193 bp Rb7 MAR was found to require only a 463-bp region at its 3' end. Combined terminators and MAR together provided a >60-fold increase compared with the NOS terminator alone. These combinations were then placed in a replicating geminiviral vector, providing a total of >150-fold enhancement over the original NOS vector, corresponding to an estimated yield of 3-5 g recombinant protein per kg leaf fresh weight or around 50% of the leaf total soluble protein. These results demonstrate the importance of 3' flanking regions in optimizing gene expression and show great potential for 3' flanking regions to improve DNA-based recombinant protein production systems.
Critique of the Concept of the Pre-L.E. Cell

1. Cells with morphologic features apparently identical with the so-called pre-L.E. cell were demonstrated in L.E. preparations in healthy subjects and in individuals suffering from diverse cutaneous and visceral disorders, as well as in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. 2. These cells appear to be decomposition forms without diagnostic significance, resulting from nonspecific autolytic process that sets in and progresses in the course of setting up the L.E. preparation.
Resource Utilization in Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a commonly encountered rhythm disturbance characterized by an irregular and often rapid pulse rate. Mechanically, the rapid and irregular depolarization of the atria causes an alteration in the length of individual cardiac cycles resulting in irregular filling of the left ventricle during diastole and a varying pulse volume. The characteristic findings of atrial fibrillation on a surface electrocardiogram include an irregularly irregular ventricular response associated with a loss of discrete individual P-waves and/or the presence of irregular fibrillatoiy waves. Atrial fibrillation is usually well tolerated by most patients, but can occasionally cause hemodynamic instability particularly at rapid ventricular response rates.
Population biology and its application to practical problems

The principles of population biology have been successfully applied to a wide variety of practical problems. However, there is a widely held view that the practical application of the principles of population biology has often not lived up to its perceived potential. Possible reasons for this include: (1) inadequate principles (or theory), (2) overwhelming inherent variability in populations, (3) a flawed approach to applications, and (4) other exogenous political and social factors, outside the scope of this book. Biological ecology has long sought general principles in the development of a predictive science, but there is considerable dissatisfaction with progress. Ecologists have sought to characterize the general nature of the organization and dynamic behavior of communities and populations, dealing with issues such as the degree of inter-connectedness within them and their susceptibility to random environmental events. Several specific theories regarding limited aspects of their behavior (e.g., genetic structure, species coexistence) have been developed. There has been a relatively recent shift to an experimental, manipulative approach to field observations. Population biologists have also begun to pay closer attention to the philosophical underpinnings of the relationship between theory and observation. The few rules that have guided the development of theoretical principles have led to a class of simple (non-mechanistic), general (vague or unspecific) models which are central to current population and community theory. The approach to genetic theory has been based more on mechanistic models, even though the mechanisms themselves are simpler than the actual systems. We characterize the several kinds of principles of population genetics and population dynamics. We then introduce the applications covered in the following chapters in the context of the questions posed and the background review provided in this chapter.
Mutation of sequences flanking and separating transcription factor binding sites in a Drosophila enhancer significantly alter its output

Here we explore how mutating different sequences in an enhancer that regulates patterned gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster embryos can affect its output. We used quantitative imaging to analyze the effects of a wide variety of mutations in the hunchback distal anterior enhancer. This enhancer has been shown to respond to the anterior morphogen Bicoid, but we found that mutations in only one of the five strong Bicoid sites in the enhancer has a significant effect on its binding. The pioneer factor Zelda, which binds to this enhancer and is the only other factor implicated in its activity besides Bicoid. However, we found that mutations of all its sites only has modest effect that is limited to reduction of its output in more posterior regions of the embryo, where Bicoid levels are low. In contrast to the modest effects of mutating known transcription factor binding sites, randomizing the sequences between Zelda and Bicoid sites significantly compromised enhancer activity. Finer mapping suggested that the sequences that determine activity are broadly distributed in the enhancer. Mutations in short sequences flanking Bicoid binding sites have stronger effects than mutations to Bicoid sites themselves, highlighting the complex and counterintuitive nature of the relationship between enhancer sequence and activity.
DNA repair deficiency, genomic instability and immune profiling in a phase 1 study of locally advanced pancreatic cancer patients treated with veliparib, gemcitabine and radiotherapy.

4128Background: A phase I trial of veliparib (V), gemcitabine (G) and radiotherapy (RT) was conducted to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and clinical activity in patients with and withou...
Silver shoppers' attitude towards store brands: Will-They-Won't-They?

Silver shoppers represent a growing share in Western populations with many important consequences on welfare as well as on marketing policies. The present work aims at a fresh perspective on the over-65 cohort grocery shopping behavior by examining its drivers of main store choice and its attitude towards Store Brands (SBs). By means of a field survey on 420 Italian shoppers, we found that, unlike millennials, seniors prefer proximity stores with parking facilities and good store staff assistance; they do not appreciate SBs at all, so that their Store Loyalty is only partially influenced by the same. Results carry several implications for both academics and practitioners.
A Proposed Standard of Obesity Care for All Providers and Payers.

Objective The aim of this work is to develop a practical, tangible, measurable, and simple standard of care for the treatment of adult obesity that provides guidance for both clinical providers and community settings. Methods Three roundtables with relevant stakeholder groups were convened by the STOP Obesity Alliance at The George Washington University to develop the proposed standard of care. Results The proposed standard of care for adult obesity treatment proposes practices for the spectrum of clinical, community, and digitally based entities and for clinical providers. Coverage and payment policy standards are also provided. Conclusions These standards are intended to augment published guidelines developed for obesity care providers and can also be viewed as the first step to define an optimal benefit package.
Environmental benefits of using hybrid CLT structure in midrise non-residential construction: An LCA based comparative case study in the U.S. Pacific Northwest

Abstract In this study, the cradle-to-gate environmental impact of a hybrid, mid-rise, cross-laminated timber (CLT) commercial building is evaluated and compared to that of a reinforced concrete building with similar functional characteristics. This study evaluates the embodied emissions and energy associated with building materials, manufacturing, and construction. Two alternative designs are considered for fire protection in the hybrid CLT building: 1) a ‘fireproofing design’, where gypsum wallboard is applied to the structural wood; and 2) a ‘charring design’, where two extra layers of CLT are added to the panel. The life cycle environmental impacts are assessed using TRACI 2.1 and the total primary energy is evaluated using the Cumulative Energy Demand impact method. Results show that an average of 26.5% reduction in the global warming potential is achieved in the hybrid CLT building compared to the concrete building, excluding biogenic carbon emissions. Except ozone depletion, where the difference in impact between scenarios is
Ergonomics Analysis for Subjective and Objective Fatigue Between Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgical Skills Practice Among Surgeons

Introduction. Our aim was to determine how self-reported and objectively measured fatigue of upper limb differ between laparoscopic and robotic surgical training environments. Methods. Surgeons at the 2016 SAGES Conference Learning Center and at our institution were enrolled. Two standardized surgical tasks (peg transfer [PT] and needle passing [NP]) were performed twice in each surgical skills practical environments: (1) laparoscopic training-box environment (Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery [FLS]) and (2) Mimic dV-trainer (MIMIC). Muscle activation of upper trapezius (UT), anterior deltoid (AD), flexor carpi radialis, and extensor digitorum were recorded using surface electromyography (EMG; Trigno, Delsys, Inc, Natick, MA). Subjective fatigue was self-reported using Piper Fatigue Scale-12. Analysis was done using SPSS v25.0, α = .05. Results. Demographics were similar between FLS (N = 14) and MIMIC (N = 12). For PT, MIMIC had a significant increase in EMGRMS of UT (P < .001) and AD (P < .001). Conversely, FLS led to significant decreased muscle fatigue in UT (P = .015). For NP, MIMIC had a significant increase in EMGRMS for UT (P = .034) and AD (P = .031), but FLS induced more muscle fatigue for AD (P = .004). There was significant decrease in self-reported fatigue after performing FLS tasks (P = .030) but not after MIMIC (P = .663). Conclusion. Our results showed that practice with MIMIC resulted in greater activation of shoulder muscles, while FLS caused more significant muscle fatigue in the same muscles. This could be due to ergonomic disadvantages and nonoptimal ergonomic settings. Further studies are needed to understand the optimal ergonomics and its impact on fatigue and muscle activation during use of both the FLS and MIMIC training systems.
That’s So Cool. Using a Flame to Freeze Water. The Vapor-Absorption Refrigerator and How It Works

The design and operation of the vapor-absorption refrigerator (VAR) are described using the principles and tools typically covered in upper-division undergraduate physical chemistry courses. The objective is to enable students to understand in detail how this device works and how it compares with more typical vapor-compression refrigerators. Calculations of the thermodynamics and heat flow relating to the refrigeration cycles are presented, leading to the calculation of the coefficient of performance. Two types of VARs are examined, one using LiBr/water solution as the absorbing medium and water as the refrigerant, which relies on the hygroscopic nature of aqueous solutions of LiBr. The second uses water as the absorber and ammonia as the refrigerant. The device described, the Crosley IcyBall, was a popular and inexpensive home refrigerator requiring no electricity. It is an example of a VAR operating in a single-cycle mode.
Clinical Outcome of Preimplantation Genetic Testing

Thirty-year experience indicates that PGT is safe, despite the applied invasive embryo biopsy procedure that may in future be replaced by noninvasive methodologies. No difference in anomaly rates was observed in PGT follow-up compared to general population prevalence. Extremely high accuracy of up to 99.7% was revealed in the authors’ experience of 6204 PGT-M cycles. Positive and negative predictive value for PGT-A was also close to 100%, despite still problems with identification and transfer of embryos with mosaicism and sub-chromosomal variations. Special emphasis is also on randomized control studies, demonstrating significant PGT-A impact on reproductive outcome improvement.
Moldmate identification in pre-19th-century European paper using quantitative analysis of watermarks, chain line intervals, and laid line density

Handmade laid paper has the important quality that every sheet of paper formed on the same papermaking mold retains a nearly identical imprint of the mold’s wire structure. These “moldmates” are identified by analyzing the recorded wire features, which are visible using transmitted light. When visual analysis is not sufficient to distinguish moldmates, three features of the mold’s wire mesh can be quantitatively analyzed using image processing techniques: watermark shape and placement, chain line intervals, and laid line density, for which a new method of analysis is introduced here. Using signal processing procedures, the frequency of the laid lines across a sheet of paper was found to fluctuate in a pattern unique to that mold. These quantitative methods were tested on a sample set of blank sheets from a 1536 edition of De re militari by Vegetius; computational analysis using any one of the three features was able to distinguish between four molds used in the group of papers. These results demonstrate that any of these techniques can be chosen as appropriate to determine moldmates from within a set of laid paper, regardless of size or the inclusion of a full watermark.
Computational Thinking, Perception, and Confidence in Distance Learning

One of the key factors for measuring success in distance learning is student interaction with learning materials. Remote instruction has gained substantial traction with the advent of online education, and this attention has increased in the presence of global pandemics. The asynchronous nature of remote learning has deteriorated the quality of education for learners, which calls for the design of novel interactive techniques to promote student engagement. We study the impact of traditional learning tools such as textbooks and videos in contrast with interactive learning media in computational and algorithmic thinking, and investigate students' perception of learning and actual learning comprehension in higher education.
Mapping Complex Brain Torque Components and Their Genetic and Phenomic Architecture in 24,112 healthy individuals

Abstract The mechanisms determining the development and individual variability of brain torque (BT) remain unclear. Here, all relevant components of BT were analyzed using neuroimaging data of up to 24,112 individuals from 6 cohorts. Our large-scale data confirmed the population-level predominance of the typical anticlockwise torque and suggested a “first attenuating, then enlarging” dynamic across the lifespan primarily for frontal, occipital and perisylvian BT features. Sex/handedness differences in BT were found and were related to cognitive sex/handedness differences in verbal-numerical reasoning. We observed differential heritability of up to 56% for BT, especially in temporal language areas, and identified numerous genome- and phenome-wide significant associations pointing to neurodevelopment, cognitive functions, lifestyle, neurological and psychiatric disorders, sociodemographic, cardiovascular and anthropometric traits. This study provides a comprehensive description of BT and insights into biological and other factors that may contribute to the development and individual variations of BT.
Current Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism

The purpose of this review article is to analyze the current information about diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and interventional therapies regarding pulmonary embolism (PE) treatment. In addition to review the outcomes obtained by pulmonary embolism response teams. Several important contributions in the PE management have been recently published. New scoring systems, such as the PERC rule and YEARS, are used to effectively rule out PE; and stratification scores such as Bova and Hestia were validated. New evidence was favorable to support the use of direct oral anticoagulants in morbidly obese and end-stage renal disease patients; although, not in patients with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. New studies of catheter-based thrombectomy for acute PE were also published. However, a new statement from the American Heart Association criticizes the lack of randomized trials to support the use of catheter-based interventions in acute PE. Contributions about the cardiopulmonary support in massive PE patients, including ventilation techniques, vasopressors, inhaled pulmonary vasodilators and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation are available. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of the impact of Pulmonary Embolism Response Teams in the care of acute PE patients. Nearly all aspects in the diagnosis, prognosis and care of PE are evolving. In this article, we discuss the epidemiology, diagnosis, risk stratification, and therapeutic approaches to PE. We provide additional focus on advanced therapeutic strategies such as catheter-based interventions, surgical approaches, and cardiopulmonary support. The impact of a multidisciplinary team approach to PE management is also discussed.
Simulation and Visualization of Virus Transmission for Architectural Design Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has made virus transmission a significant factor in designing buildings to ensure a safe and resilient environment. Simulation has been applied to analyze the potential risk of virus transmission within built spaces. Still, most existing simulations focused on a small region of the building, over a short period of time. Here we cover how we leveraged an occupancy simulation to inform and visualize the longitudinal impacts of virus transmission, in relation to a given building design and associated dynamic occupant behaviours. The flexibility of our system makes our simulation scalable and adaptable so that it can be applied to any building or context, with various types of occupants.
Preventing Alzheimer's disease within reach by 2025: Targeted-risk-AD-prevention (TRAP) strategy

Introduction Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that currently affects 6.2 million people in the United States and is projected to impact 12.7 million worldwide in 2050 with no effective disease-modifying therapeutic or cure. In 2011 as part of the National Alzheimer's Project Act, the National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease was signed into law which proposed to effectively prevent AD by 2025, which is rapidly approaching. The preclinical phase of AD can begin 20 years prior to diagnosis, which provides an extended window for preventive measures that would exert a transformative impact on incidence and prevalence of AD. Methods A novel combination of text-mining and natural language processing strategies to identify (1) AD risk factors, (2) therapeutics that can target risk factor pathways, and (3) studies supporting therapeutics in the PubMed database was conducted. To classify the literature relevant to AD preventive strategies, a relevance score (RS) based on STRING (search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins) score for protein-protein interactions and a confidence score (CS) on Bayesian inference were developed. To address mechanism of action, network analysis of protein targets for effective drugs was conducted. Collectively, the analytic approach, referred to as a targeted-risk-AD-prevention (TRAP) strategy, led to a ranked list of candidate therapeutics to reduce AD risk. Results Based on TRAP mining of 9625 publications, 364 AD risk factors were identified. Based on risk factor indications, 629 Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs were identified. Computation of ranking scores enabled identification of 46 relevant high confidence (RS & CS > 0.7) drugs associated with reduced AD risk. Within these candidate therapeutics, 16 had more than one clinical study supporting AD risk reduction. Top-ranked therapeutics with high confidence emerged within lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, hormone, and metabolic-related drug classes. Discussion Outcomes of our novel bioinformatic strategy support therapeutic targeting of biological mechanisms and pathways underlying relevant AD risk factors with high confidence. Early interventions that target pathways associated with increased risk of AD have the potential to support the goal of effectively preventing AD by 2025.
Transactional Experiential Inquiry: From Pragmatism to Somaesthetics

In responding to five symposium articles that discuss my book Thinking through the Body and my theories of somaesthetics and pragmatism, this essay elaborates two central methodological orientations that guide my philosophical research. The first is transactional experiential inquiry in which inquiry can develop new directions, aims, methods, and standards through the dynamic experiences acquired in the course of the inquiry’s pursuit and in which its transactional experiences involve research that transcends familiar disciplinary limits and conventions. The second principle involves mitigating problematic dualisms by a strategy of inclusive disjunction. I deploy these principles in replying to the five commentaries. Besides clarifying issues in somaesthetics, my reply focuses on such topics as everyday aesthetics, eroticism, architecture, dance, Chinese philosophy, meliorism, and pragmatism.
The use of a new instrument principal component in tests of earnings management behaviour

Empirical studies have documented various approaches in detecting earnings management behaviour. Since the middle 1980s, the accrual approach has become the primary focus in the literature as the accrual is suggested as a desirable vehicle to achieve managerial manipulation and it is less likely to be detected [Journal of Accounting and Economics 18 (1994), 3–42; Journal of Accounting and Public Policy 19(4,5) (2000), 313–345]. However, the accruals approach and its associated varies models in generating a valid measurement of earnings management are often criticized. A long-standing issue lies with the model misspecification where variables that explain non-discretionary accruals have been omitted from the expectation models and so wind up on the residual term, which represents the management manipulation component of discretionary accruals. As a consequence, empirical evidences on earnings management often result in misleading inferences about earnings management behaviour. Given the potential for model misspecification in measuring earnings management, this research aims to examine the validity of alternative earnings management measurement and proposes a new aggregate measure of Principal Component (PC) to be used in detecting earnings management behaviour. The principal components that explain the highest variation among accounting variables are expected to capture earnings management behavior and reveals hidden dynamics of financial reporting without model misspecification constrains.
The Tctex1/Tctex2 Class of Dynein Light Chains DIMERIZATION, DIFFERENTIAL EXPRESSION, AND INTERACTION WITH THE LC8 PROTEIN FAMILY

The Tctex1/Tctex2 family of dynein light chains associates with the intermediate chains at the base of the soluble dynein particle. These components are essential for dynein assembly and participate in specific motor-cargo interactions. To further address the role of these light chains in dynein activity, the structural and biochemical properties of several members of this polypeptide class were examined. Gel filtration chromatography and native gel electrophoresis indicate that recombinantChlamydomonas flagellar Tctex1 exists as a dimer in solution. Furthermore, yeast two-hybrid analysis suggests that this association also occurs in vivo. In contrast, both murine and Chlamydomonas Tctex2 are monomeric. To investigate protein-protein interactions involving these light chains, outer arm dynein from Chlamydomonas flagella was cross-linked using dimethylpimelimidate. Immunoblot analysis of the resulting products revealed the interaction of LC2 (Tctex2) with LC6, which is closely related to the highly conserved LC8 protein found in many enzyme systems, including dynein. Northern dot blot analysis demonstrated that Tctex1/Tctex2 family light chains are differentially expressed both in a tissue-specific and developmentally regulated manner in humans. These data provide further support for the existence of functionally distinct populations of cytoplasmic dynein with differing light chain content.
Chapter 3 Modeling Financial Security Returns Using Lévy Processes

Abstract Levy processes can capture the behaviors of return innovations on a full range of financial securities. Applying stochastic time changes to the Levy processes randomizes the clock on which the processes run, thus generating stochastic volatilities and stochastic higher return moments. Therefore, with appropriate choices of Levy processes and stochastic time changes, we can capture the return dynamics of virtually all financial securities. Furthermore, in contrast to the hidden factor approach, we can readily assign explicit economic meanings to each Levy process component and its associated time change in the return dynamics. The economic mapping not only facilitates the interpretation of existing models and their structural parameters, but also adds economic intuition and direction for designing new models capturing new economic behaviors. Finally, under this framework, the analytical tractability of a model for derivative pricing and model estimation originates from the tractability of the Levy process specification and the tractability of the activity rate dynamics underlying the time change. Thus, we can design tractable models using any combination of tractable Levy specifications and tractable activity rate dynamics. I elaborate through examples on the generality of the framework in capturing the return behavior of virtually all financial securities, the explicit economic mapping that facilitates the interpretation and creation of new models, and the tractability embedded in the framework for derivative pricing and model estimation.
THE DETERMINANTS OF TAKEOVERS: RECENT EVIDENCE FROM U.S. THRIFTS

This paper uses a two-step methodology to examine the relationship between managerialcost inefficiency and the takeover of U.S. thrifts during a period of market liberalization and widespread takeover activity, 1994 to 2000. In the first stage using stochastic cost frontiers, we estimate controllable managerial cost inefficiency scores for all stock firms operating each year in 1994 to 2000. In a second stage, we use these scores to examinecorrelates of takeovers, focusing on cost inefficiency. For takeovers by banks, we find a significant negative relationship between cost inefficiency and takeover, suggesting anexit of more cost efficient firms from the thrift industry during this period. However,takeovers by thrifts are associated with other characteristics.
Interobserver Variability in Assessing Adequacy of the Squamous Component in Conventional Cervicovaginal Smears

We compared the interobserver reproducibility of estimating the adequacy of the squamous component of conventional Papanicolaou (Pap) smears using traditional and newly proposed criteria. Forty conventional Pap smears with varying degrees of squamous cellularity were reviewed by 13 observers who evaluated adequacy (satisfactory vs unsatisfactory) based on the traditional criterion of estimating 10% slide coverage. After being introduced to the new criterion and the reference images, the observers reevaluated adequacy on the same set of smears, using the new criterion and the reference images. With the original criterion of 10% slide coverage, 15 smears had a unanimous designation; the overall kappa value was 0.49 ( P < .001). With the newly proposed adequacy criterion and reference images, 17 smears had a unanimous designation; the overall kappa value was 0.60 ( P < .001). The difference in the kappa correlation coefficients was statistically significant ( P = .007). While traditional and newly proposed criterion resulted in fair interobserver agreement, it seemed that the newly proposed criterion, along with the use of reference images, for evaluating adequacy of the squamous component of conventional Pap smears result in better interobserver reproducibility.
Mammalian melanogenesis, tyrosinase versus peroxidase involvement, and activation mechanisms.

Abstract A study of the enzymes functioning in murine melanogenesis was carried out on tissue homogenates of the black mouse. Several major points were resolved: (a) while the enzyme peroxidase is capable of converting tyrosine to melanin in vitro , it is not responsible for observed melanogenesis in the mouse, (b) a proteolytic activation system for tyrosinase, such as that described for amphibian skin, does not seem to function in mammalian tyrosinase activation, and (c) tyrosinase activity in normal murine tissues can be stimulated with a variety of treatments.
Addictive behaviors and depression among African Americans residing in a public housing community.

Abstract Numerous studies have indicated that there is an association between cigarette smoking, alcohol use, and depression. However, little attention has been devoted to understanding how demographic factors, such as socioeconomic status and ethnicity, influence these relationships. To address this gap in the literature, cigarette and alcohol use were examined in a sample of African Americans from an urban area. A single public-housing community in Washington, DC was selected for complete ascertainment of the adult population. A total of 126 African American subjects were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to assess depressive symptoms and to characterize cigarette and alcohol use patterns. Cigarette smoking was not related to the severity of depressive symptoms. By contrast, increased symptoms of depression were related to alcohol use patterns. Light drinkers had a mean score of 5.77 on the Centers for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, compared to a mean of 8.30 for abstainers and 10.07 for heavy drinkers (F = 4.968, p