cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
30 NOVEL SPLICE DONOR REGION DNA SEQUENCE VARIANT IN THE SUCCINATE DEHYDROGENASE SUBUNIT B GENE IN A BOY WITH MALIGNANT PARAGANGLIOMA IN A FAMILY WITH NONCLASSIC CONGENITAL ADRENAL HYPERPLASIA.

Paragangliomas are rare tumors and seldom cause endocrine hypertension. Germline mutations in the succinate dehydrogenase subunit B gene (SDHB) have been associated with malignant paragangliomas. We report a family with nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in whom one member suffered from metastatic paraganglioma. A 13-year-old boy presented with delayed puberty, nocturnal enuresis, and headaches. His laboratory test results, including thyroid and adrenal tests, were within normal limits. MRI of the brain showed a lesion in the diploic space in the frontal region. CT of his head revealed a lytic bone lesion considered to likely be a histiocytic eosinophilic granuloma. A bone scan showed another lytic lesion in the right proximal femur. Bone biopsy of the skull lesion identified a paraganglioma, likely metastatic. Further imaging showed a 8 × 3 × 3 cm mass close to the vena cava and aorta. Blood pressure of this patient was normal; 24-hour urinary norepinephrine was slightly elevated, and he received preoperative therapy. After surgical tumor removal, postoperative MIBG showed persistent uptake in the abdomen and right femur. His sister was diagnosed to have 3-β-dehydrogenase deficiency; his grandmother had a pituitary adenoma. Germline mutation analysis of the SDHB gene, located at 1p36.13, revealed a known missense mutation (C.418G>T) and a previously unreported splice donor region DNA sequence variation in intron 2 (C.200+7A>G) in the index patient. His sister and father were heterozygous for this splice donor variation, whereas his mother was heterozygous for the known missense mutation. Whole-body imaging of the sister with nonclassic CAH was within normal limits. This case illustrates that malignant paragangliomas can occur in children and are associated with germline sequence variants in the SDHB gene. Clinical presentation may mimic histiocytosis and may include delayed puberty. The combination of sequence variations in the SDHB gene in the same patient may trigger tumor growth of selected chromaffin cells.
Test Circuit Using a Kind of Variable Frequency Technology to Compensate for Breaking Current Attenuation

A kind of current attenuation compensation method without compensation circuits was presented and its working principle adopted variable frequency technology to increase frequency of a loop with clearance and the current value to compensate for the attenuation of breaking current to comply with the requirements for current amplitude and duration of a loop with clearance in synthetic testing standard.The advantages and disadvantages of two type of compensation methods were compared and assessed from the aspects of economy,security,applicability and equivalence.It has been proven that using the frequency compensation method has a significant advantage.The practice shows that the test technology has a great practical value and it is worthy to spread.
Comparative Analysis of Case Studies

As noted in Chap. 1, this study of decentralized river basin management posed several questions. What factors might affect the likelihood of stakeholder involvement really contributing to effective basin-level resource management? Are efforts to conduct integrated water resource management at the basin level able to succeed? How can stakeholder involvement and effective resource management at the basin level be sustained over time and changing conditions? What factors might account for the longevity of decentralized arrangements in some cases and their demise in others? The eight river basin case studies were undertaken to pursue answers to questions such as these. This chapter discusses the eight cases with respect to those questions, while highlighting other factors that emerged as important during the course of the study.
Perovskite solar cells: Different facets of performance

The electronic properties of halide perovskites vary significantly between crystalline grains, but the impact of this heterogeneity on solar cell performance is unclear. Now, this variability is shown to limit the photovoltaic properties of solar cells, and its origins are linked to differing properties between crystal facets.
How Is Power Used

The mere outline of the powers of the principal institutions—the executive, the legislature, and the civil service—found in the constitution and the laws cannot adequately convey how policies in France are decided and implemented. The distinction between what the French have called “the legal country” and “the real country” can be seen, first, in the tendency of Fifth Republic presidents to interpret the constitution in such a way as to increase their power at the expense of that of the prime minister. This has applied not only to cabinet appointments, in which most presidents have had an almost free hand. Most important, it has also applied to the content of policy decisions. De Gaulle (who took little interest in economics) and Pompidou did give their prime ministers a great deal of discretion except, of course, in the areas of foreign and defense policies; but Giscard (an Enarque specialized in economic matters) took an active lead in almost all aspects of domestic policy (even while his government was headed by Barre, a professor of economics) and even “meddled” in the drafting of the language of government bills.
The Oxygen Cycle

The presence of abundant free oxygen in the terrestrial atmosphere is an anomaly in a solar system and universe composed predominantly of hydrogen. It is, of course, a direct consequence of the presence of life on earth, particularly the presence of photosynthetic organisms that use water as electron donor to reduce carbon dioxide to organic matter, producing molecular oxygen as a waste product.
Nonobese Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) refers to a group of conditions characterized by hepatic steatosis in the absence of significant alcohol consumption. NAFLD is seen commonly in patients with metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity, such as type II diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome. Evidently, however, not all obese subjects develop NAFLD and, more importantly, NAFLD can be found in nonobese individuals. Although NAFLD occurring in nonobese subjects has been reported in children and adults of all ethnicities, it appears to be recognized more frequently in Asians, even when strict ethnicity-specific body mass index criteria are used to define obesity. Studies based on liver biopsies suggest that the prevalence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and fibrosis does not differ significantly between nonobese NAFLD and NAFLD in obese patients. Visceral obesity as opposed to general obesity, high fructose and cholesterol intake, and genetic risk factors (eg, palatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3) may be associated with nonobese NAFLD. In general, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is associated with increased mortality, primarily from cardiovascular causes, independent of other metabolic factors. Although data regarding the mortality impact of nonobese NAFLD are not as mature, it may be important to identify high-risk nonobese NAFLD patients and manage their metabolic profile. Currently, lifestyle modification to reduce visceral adiposity, including dietary changes and physical activity, remains the standard of care in patients with nonobese NAFLD.
Neurogenesis and Brain Repair

Neurogenesis is the complex process of generating new neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Classically, neurogenesis was believed to only occur during embryonic development, never after the postnatal stage. However, the evolution of technologies in cellular and molecular biology, radiology, and so forth has resulted in the discovery of neurogenesis and neural stem cells (NSCs)/neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in the adult brain. While the discovery has led to the potential for the repair of the injured or diseased brain, there are a number of issues yet to be resolved. The complex-three dimensional structure and organization of the adult brain limits the differentiation and integration of implanted NSCs/NPCs and thereby for the repair. In this chapter, recent advances in the study of embryonic and adult neurogenesis will be described including the defining of mechanisms, molecular markers and regulatory factors operative during neurogenesis, as well as recent findings into the role of adult neurogenesis in brain disorders and brain repair.
Is a surgical CURE in the future for colorectal cancer liver metastasis

This review was constructed to evaluate the current advancements in the surgical management of colorectal cancer liver metastases. A shift from the classic conservative and palliative management of such cases has begun with transitions toward surgical management. This shift is due to multiple compounding factors of which many are being studied and presented individually. By combing these factors together, this review provides guidance on the most significant preoperative prognostic factors and suggests future treatment goals for these patients. A progressive conversion from conservative to surgical management also presents ethical implications to be considered. This review may direct future research on surgical resection of colorectal cancer liver metastases and provide advantageous information on the value of preoperative prognostic factors and the role of surgical intervention in this patient population.
Just Like in Their Home Country? A Multinational Perspective on Living Arrangements of Older Immigrants in the United States

Older immigrants are more likely to share residence with their adult children and other family members than are U.S.-born older adults. Because socioeconomic factors only partially explain these differences and direct measures of cultural preferences are seldom available, the persistently high rates of intergenerational coresidence among the older foreign-born are often interpreted as driven by cultural preferences and/or a lack of assimilation. To challenge this interpretation, this study investigates the extent to which older immigrants' living arrangements deviate from those of older adults in their home countries. The analysis combines data on immigrants from the 2008-2012 American Community Survey (ACS) with census data from three major immigrant-sending countries: Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Vietnam. Despite persistent differences from U.S.-born whites, coresidence in later life is significantly less common than in the sending countries among the older foreign-born who migrated as young adults, and especially among those who migrated as children. The older foreign-born who migrated after age 50, however, are more likely to coreside and less likely to live independently than the older adults in their home countries. The similarity of these patterns across the three immigrant subgroups suggests that the unusually high coresidence among late-life immigrants is driven by U.S. family reunification policy and not simply by cultural influences.
Separating the “Limbs” of Yoga: Limited Effects on Stress and Mood

Though millions of people practice yoga to reduce stress and improve their mood, it is unclear which aspect of yoga is responsible for these effects. To investigate relevant aspects, or “limbs” of yoga, participants who were novices in the practice of yoga engaged in a single yoga manipulation (i.e., poses, breath work, meditation, or listening to a lecture about yoga) for 20 min before experiencing a mild stressor. Participants’ heart rate, blood pressure, mood, and anxiety level were assessed, both immediately after the yoga manipulation and after the mild stressor. The 20-min yoga manipulation did not differentially affect any of the measures, including participants’ stress response after the mild stressor. Results are discussed regarding the individual components of a yoga practice.
Exotic- and native-dominated shrubland habitat use by fall migrating Swainson's Thrushes and Gray Catbirds in Michigan, USA

ABSTRACT The ability to locate high-quality stopover habitat has fitness implications for migrating landbirds, and alteration of stopover habitats due to human land-use change, including the introduction of nonnative plants, has been identified as a conservation concern. We tested whether the use and selection of shrublands dominated by exotic plants differed from that of native-dominated shrublands. Specifically, we compared capture rates, transfer rates between habitats, within-foraging-range habitat selection, and food items of Swainson's Thrushes (Catharus ustulatus) and Gray Catbirds (Dumetella carolinensis) between exotic- and native-dominated shrublands in Michigan, USA, during fall migration of 2012 and 2013. Capture rates were >20% higher for thrushes and >250% higher for catbirds in native shrubland. Capture–recapture data showed that birds moved from exotic to native shrubland at higher rates than vice versa. For radio-tagged thrushes and catbirds, native shrubland was ∼30% more likely to be us...
Reentrant Phase Transitions and Non-Equilibrium Dynamics in Membraneless Organelles

Compartmentalization of biochemical components, interactions, and reactions is critical for the function of cells. While intracellular partitioning of molecules via membranes has been extensively studied, there has been an expanding focus in recent years on the critical cellular roles and biophysical mechanisms of action of membraneless organelles (MLOs) such as the nucleolus. In this context, a substantial body of recent work has demonstrated that liquid–liquid phase separation plays a key role in MLO formation. However, less is known about MLO dissociation, with phosphorylation being the primary mechanism demonstrated thus far. In this Perspective, we focus on another mechanism for MLO dissociation that has been described in recent work, namely a reentrant phase transition (RPT). This concept, which emerges from the polymer physics field, provides a mechanistic basis for both formation and dissolution of MLOs by monotonic tuning of RNA concentration, which is an outcome of cellular processes such as tra...
Occupational Ergonomics: Emerging Approaches Toward Improved Worker Productivity and Injury Reduction

Rising healthcare and workers’ compensation costs due to an increase in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have made Occupational Ergonomics the focus of most organizations nationwide. These organizations are required to ensure worker safety by reducing or eliminating musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) while complying with applicable occupational safety and health regulations. MSDs such as carpal tunnel syndrome often lead to intractable pain, repeated surgery, employee time off, low productivity and, ultimately, higher costs for the employer. Work activities such as; loading and unloading, lifting, reaching, and workplace design factors; such as wrong work surfaces height, uncomfortable chairs and tables, and poorly designed tools; all contribute to an increased risk of MSDs. A case study on ergonomic issues was conducted to evaluate the behaviors and ergonomic injury complaints of workers from various work activities. The goal of the study was to highlight other critical aspects of occupational ergonomics, less considered by employers and workers in the manufacturing industry that could result into WMSDs. The findings revealed that employers tend to ignore some critical aspects of the job that may have high impacts on worker safety and performance. Several recommendations for improvement were offered, including improvement in the contents of the workers’ training packages, job process redesign and analysis, and involvement of ergonomics experts in the training of new employees. Feedbacks confirmed an improvement in WMSDs experience by the workers after the suggested recommendations were implemented.
ACL Clinical Outcomes

ACL reconstruction as it is currently practiced is an excellent operation for restoring gross stability to the knee joint and returning patients to sport and normal activities. But there is always room for improvement. To continue to improve outcomes after ACL reconstruction, we need to identify modifiable predictors of failure and other poor outcomes. Randomized control trials and prospective cohort studies are a great way to determine the efficacy of modifications to ACL reconstructive surgery, as well as new treatments, and the results of those types of studies will be presented in this chapter.
Radiofrequency ablation for T1a tumors in a solitary kidney: promising intermediate oncologic and renal function outcomes.

OBJECTIVE The experience with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in solitary kidneys is limited in numbers and follow-up. Therefore, we report our oncologic and renal function outcomes of RFA for T1a tumors in patients with a solitary kidney. METHODS From April 2000 to August 2007, 242 patients were treated with RFA for renal cortical masses. Sixteen patients with localized tumors < or = 4 cm in a solitary kidney were identified. Clinical and radiographic data were reviewed to assess indications, complications, disease recurrence, and renal function. RESULTS Twenty-one renal masses were ablated in 16 patients with a solitary kidney. The mean patient age was 66.1 years, and the mean tumor size was 2.6 cm (range, 1.1-4.0). Preoperative biopsy was diagnostic of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in 75% of cases. At a mean follow-up of 30.7 months (range, 1.5-66.0), 14/16 (88%) patients had no radiographic evidence of disease recurrence. One patient with three masses in a solitary kidney had a local recurrence managed by salvage RFA. The other patient with a local failure also had severe baseline renal insufficiency with progression to end stage renal disease 2.5 years following RFA and underwent a radical nephrectomy. Mean glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decreased from 54.2 ml/min/1.73m2 preoperatively to 47.5 ml/min/1.73m2 at last follow-up (p = 0.015). There were no major complications, and four patients had minor complications which resolved without intervention. CONCLUSION Radiofrequency ablation is an attractive alternative for the management of patients with T1a renal cortical tumors in a solitary kidney. Renal function appears to be adequately maintained with promising oncologic outcomes at 2.5 years.
Estimating Arterial PCO2 from Flow-Weighted and Time-Average Alveolar PCO2 During Exercise

The appropriateness of the ventilatory response to muscular exercise is best considered with respect to the precision of arterial PCO2 (PaCO2) regulation for moderate exercise and by the degree of the compensatory hyperventilation at work rates which engender a metabolic acidemia. But in order to avoid the necessity for intra-arterial sampling, which for sufficient data-density usually requires an indwelling catheter, several investigators have proposed non-invasive techniques for PaCO2 estimation. Techniques which are based upon assumptions of dead space volume (VD) or of a constant relationship between PaCO2 and end-tidal PCO2 (PETCO2) are not useful owing to the large inter-subject variability in the former case1 and the invalidity of the assumption in the latter.2,3 DuBois et al.4 proposed that the mean alveolar PCO2 could be derived from a “reconstruction” of the intra-breath time profile of PACO2 (i.e., time-average: PĀCO 2 T ), which in normal subjects would closely approximate PaCO2. Gumming,5 has shown that when the cumulative CO2 output (VCO2) is expressed as a function of the cumulative expired volume (V), the resulting relationship is — to a very close approximation — linear (following a small lag phase) with a slope which represents PĀCO2 (i.e., flow-weighted average: PĀCO 2 F ) and an intercept on the volume axis which is a measure of the “series” dead space (VD)). We were interested, therefore, in developing on-line, breath-by-breath techniques for determining these estimators and to define the acccuracy with which they reflect directly-measured PaCO2 during exercise.
Application of the Q-DFT Pauli Correlated Approximation to Atoms and Negative Ions

In Chap. 9, we determined the ground state electronic structure of atoms within Q-DFT via a systemof rigorously uncorrelated fermions.Neither Pauli nor Coulomb correlations, nor the correlation contribution to the kinetic energy were considered, the approximate wave function being a product of spin-orbitals. However, in these calculations, the incorporation of the Pauli exclusion principle, and thereby the occupation of states, was ad hoc (see Sect. 9.2.1). In this chapter, we determine the ground state electronic properties of atoms and negative ions via the Q-DFT Pauli Approximation (see Sect. 6.2.1). In this approximation, one considers a system of noninteracting fermions, with the approximate wave function being a single Slater determinant of spin-orbitals. Thus, correlations between the model fermions of parallel spin – Pauli correlations – are now explicitly incorporated via the wave function. However, Coulomb correlations and Correlation-Kinetic effects are once again ignored. The fact that Coulomb correlations are not considered is of course evident as the choice of the approximate wave function is a Slater determinant. Note, however, that the contributions of Correlation-Kinetic effects to (1) the kinetic energy, (2) the local electroninteraction potential energy that generates the spin-orbitals, and (3) the electroninteraction energy component of the total energy, are also not considered. Thus, within the Q-DFT Pauli Approximation, the local electron-interaction potential energy of the model fermions \(v^{{\rm P}}_{{\rm ee}} (r)\) (6.57) and the electron-interaction energy \(E^{{\rm P}}_{{\rm ee}} (r)\) (6.62) are solely due to Pauli correlations. In contrast, within Hartree–Fock theory, the fact that electrons of parallel spin are correlated, is explicitly accounted for in the kinetic energy. These correlations are then reflected via the selfconsistently determined spin-orbitals in the nonlocal exchange operator and in the Hartree and exchange energy components of the electron-interaction energy. Thus, differences between the results of the Q-DFT Pauli Approximation and Hartree–Fock theory can be attributed to, and are an estimate of, the contributions to the kinetic energy due to correlations arising from the Pauli exclusion principle.
Slavery and Human Trafficking

This article lays a foundation for applied ethical dilemmas within contemporary slavery and human trafficking as it exists today. As the movement to end modern slavery evolves, actors at all levels must consider how to create sustainable change. Key tools such as policy, prosecution, program design, and prevention are impacted by questions emerging from applied ethical dilemmas. Are those who enable slavery to occur evil? Are there always malevolent intentions behind enslaving another? Who is best positioned to combat slavery? Are those with power and privilege responsible to end slavery? This article addresses some of modern slavery’s basic applied ethical questions surrounding issues of malevolence, survival, power, and responsibility.
An analysis on the potential of diode-pumped solid-state lasers for dental materials.

Material structure-property relationship is strongly related to the employed process technology. Over the past years, laser processing of engineering materials has been proposed in many fields and different uses for diode lasers have been found in dentistry. In this contest, the potential of GaN- and InGaN-based laser diodes to cure dental materials was analysed. Two wavelengths of 405 nm and 445 nm were used as heat or light sources for warm condensation of gutta-percha, light transmission in dental posts and brackets or light curing of dental composites. Additive manufacturing approach was considered to fabricate 3D root analogues, suitable supports, positioning systems and moulds for optical measurements. A three-axis CAD/CAM system was implemented for positioning and aligning the laser beam. The ability of diode-pumped solid-state lasers to cure dental materials or to transmit light was compared to that of a traditional instrument. Temperature profile at the apex of an additive manufactured root canal sealed with gutta-percha, light transmission through translucent quartz fiber post or through aesthetic ceramic bracket, bending properties and morphological features of light cured dental composites (Gradia Direct - GC Corporation and Venus Diamond - Heraeus Kulzer) were measured. Results showed a very high potential of diode-pumped solid-state lasers to be used in endodontics, orthodontics and restorative dentistry.
Sub-lethal doses of surotomycin and vancomycin have similar effects on Clostridium difficile virulence factor production in vitro

Purpose. Clostridium difficile is an anaerobic spore-forming bacterial pathogen that causes a spectrum of illness severity ranging from mild diarrhoea to severe life-threatening pseudomembranous colitis. C. difficile infection (CDI) is antibiotic-associated and primarily mediated by two exotoxins, Toxins A and B. We and others have shown that some antibiotics stimulate Toxin A and B production by C. difficile in a strain-specific manner. Still, the effects of newer anti-C. difficile antibiotics on this process and spore formation remain to be investigated. Methodology. Surotomycin (formally CB-183,315) is a novel, minimally absorbed, narrow-spectrum antibiotic. We determined the effects of surotomycin on C. difficile growth, toxin production and sporulation in historical and BI/NAP1/027 epidemic strains of C. difficile. Results/Key findings. While antibiotic free controls showed toxin production during the stationary phase growth, all strains exposed to sub-inhibitory concentrations of surotomycin and vancomycin demonstrated increased TcdA and TcdB production during early (log phase) growth by all strains. However, this effect was not observed at 24 or 48 h post-treatment by any of the C. difficile strains exposed to either antibiotic. Additionally, all doses of surotomycin and vancomycin suppressed spore formation in all tested strains. Conclusion. In summary, these findings demonstrate that surotomycin and vancomycin have similar effects on exotoxin production and sporulation by C. difficile in vitro. Furthermore, since spores contribute to recurrent infection, the ability of surotomycin to suppress spore formation may explain its ability to disrupt the reinfection cycle in the clinical setting.
Light capture and pigment diversity in marine and freshwater cryptophytes

Phenotypic traits associated with light capture and phylogenetic relationships were characterized in 34 strains of diversely pigmented marine and freshwater cryptophytes. Nuclear SSU and partial LSU rDNA sequence data from 33 of these strains plus an additional 66 strains produced a concatenated rooted maximum likelihood tree that classified the strains into 7 distinct clades. Molecular and phenotypic data together support: (i) the reclassification of Cryptomonas irregularis NIES 698 to the genus Rhodomonas, (ii) revision of phycobiliprotein (PBP) diversity within the genus Hemiselmis to include cryptophyte phycocyanin (Cr-PC) 569, (iii) the inclusion of previously unidentified strain CCMP 2293 into the genus Falcomonas, even though it contains cryptophyte phycoerythrin 545 (Cr-PE 545), and (iv) the inclusion of previously unidentified strain CCMP 3175, which contains Cr-PE 545, in a clade with PC-containing Chroomonas species. A discriminant analysis-based model of group membership correctly predicted 70.6% of the clades using three traits: PBP concentration · cell-1 , the wavelength of PBP maximal absorption, and habitat. Non-PBP pigments (alloxanthin, chl-a, chl-c2 , α-carotene) did not contribute significantly to group classification, indicating the potential plasticity of these pigments and the evolutionary conservation of the PBPs. Pigment data showed evidence of trade-offs in investments in PBPs vs. chlorophylls (a +c2 ).
6–10 GHz Circularly-Polarized Multistatic Array for Standoff Microwave Imaging

A system for performing standoff microwave imaging has been developed for the evaluation of imager performance in the upper C- and lower X-bands. The imaging system aperture is based on a sparse multistatic topology compatible with fast imaging techniques. Details on the design and realization of the imaging aperture are presented, as well as experimental images formed with the fabricated imaging array.
Protein Condensates with Appropriate Material Properties Regulate Tumorigenesis

Abstract It remains unknown if material properties of biomolecular condensates regulate cancer. Here we show that AKAP95, a nuclear protein that regulates transcription and RNA splicing, plays an important role in tumorigenesis by promoting cancer cell growth and suppressing oncogene-induced senescence. We show that AKAP95 forms phase-separated and liquid-like condensates in vitro and in nucleus. Mutations of key residues to different amino acids perturb AKAP95 condensation in opposite directions. Importantly, the activity of AKAP95 in splice regulation is abolished by disruption of condensation, significantly impaired by hardening of condensates, and regained by substituting its condensation-mediating region with other condensation-mediating regions from irrelevant proteins. Moreover, the abilities of AKAP95 in regulating gene expression and promoting tumorigenesis require AKAP95 to form condensates with proper liquidity and dynamicity. These results thus link phase separation to tumorigenesis and uncover an important role of appropriate material properties of protein condensates in gene regulation and cancer.
Linking Proactive Personality and Proactive Behavior:The Mediating Effect of Regulatory Focus

This study investigates the linkage between proactive personality and proactive behavior using regulatory focus theory (RFT). Using a sample of 188 supervisor/subordinate dyads, I examine the different effects of promotion and prevention foci on employee behavior. Results indicate that work regulatory focus (WRF) mediates the relationships between proactive personality and both task performance and proactive behavior (taking charge and problem prevention). Findings indicate that RFT is useful in predicting different types of employee behavior. This study extends the domain of proactivity in the workplace by demonstrating that RFT provides incremental understanding of the motivational processes that underlie proactive behavior.
Fuzzy Model for Capturing Moving Object with Pneumatic Mechanisms

The paper considers the way for controlling a grip mechanism. A program code for controlling the movement of mechatronic complex mechanisms is presented. The software is written in the LAD programming language used for programming logical controllers Siemens s7-1200. The software model is written in the environment TiaPortal v14.1. An algorithm for calculating the time delay based on fuzzy logic has been developed and is presented. This algorithm allows increasing the productivity and reducing the energy costs of the system. The results of the experiment showing the advantages of the proposed algorithm are given.
Engaging youth in public lands monitoring: opportunities for enhancing ecological literacy and environmental stewardship

AbstractThe US Forest Service has a long history of youth conservation education. We investigated U.S. Forest Service citizen science programs that involve secondary school students in field collec...
Empowering the Career Development of Persons With Disabilities (PWD)

A narrative literature review was conducted with the intention of providing practitioners with foundational knowledge regarding the career development trajectory of persons with disabilities (PWD)....
Prediction of Cancer Using Logistic Regression, K-Star and J48 algorithm

In the present world, cancer is one of the common causes of death. Bangladesh is recognized as a developing country but its medical site is not as developed as other countries in the world. From the large existing dataset by extracting it useful information can be found this process is known as data mining process. It allowing users to survey data from different categorize and dimensions. For predicting cancer in this paper logistic regression, K-star and J48 algorithms are used. Logistic Regression Algorithms strategic relapse is the most popular AI calculation after direct relapse-star or K* is an occasion based classifier algorithm. Weka tool is used to identify accuracy, error rate, precision, sensitivity, specificity, and out-of-sample testing. For predicting cancer out-of-sample testing is used. In Logistic regression the accuracy is 99.3%, k-star accuracy is 99.5% and j48 accuracy is 99.1%.
Fluence Map Prediction Using Deep Learning Models - Direct Plan Generation for Pancreas Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

Purpose: Treatment planning for pancreas stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is a difficult and time-consuming task. In this study, we aim to develop a novel deep learning framework to generate clinical-quality plans by direct prediction of fluence maps from patient anatomy using convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Materials and Methods: Our proposed framework utilizes two CNNs to predict intensity-modulated radiation therapy fluence maps and generate deliverable plans: (1) Field-dose CNN predicts field-dose distributions in the region of interest using planning images and structure contours; (2) a fluence map CNN predicts the final fluence map per beam using the predicted field dose projected onto the beam's eye view. The predicted fluence maps were subsequently imported into the treatment planning system for leaf sequencing and final dose calculation (model-predicted plans). One hundred patients previously treated with pancreas SBRT were included in this retrospective study, and they were split into 85 training cases and 15 test cases. For each network, 10% of training data were randomly selected for model validation. Nine-beam benchmark plans with standardized target prescription and organ-at-risk constraints were planned by experienced clinical physicists and used as the gold standard to train the model. Model-predicted plans were compared with benchmark plans in terms of dosimetric endpoints, fluence map deliverability, and total monitor units. Results: The average time for fluence-map prediction per patient was 7.1 s. Comparing model-predicted plans with benchmark plans, target mean dose, maximum dose (0.1 cc), and D95% absolute differences in percentages of prescription were 0.1, 3.9, and 2.1%, respectively; organ-at-risk mean dose and maximum dose (0.1 cc) absolute differences were 0.2 and 4.4%, respectively. The predicted plans had fluence map gamma indices (97.69 ± 0.96% vs. 98.14 ± 0.74%) and total monitor units (2,122 ± 281 vs. 2,265 ± 373) that were comparable to the benchmark plans. Conclusions: We develop a novel deep learning framework for pancreas SBRT planning, which predicts a fluence map for each beam and can, therefore, bypass the lengthy inverse optimization process. The proposed framework could potentially change the paradigm of treatment planning by harnessing the power of deep learning to generate clinically deliverable plans in seconds.
On the necessity of Chvátal’s Hamiltonian degree condition

In 1972 Chvatal gave a well-known sufficient condition for a graphical sequence to be forcibly Hamiltonian, and showed that in some sense his condition is best possible. In this paper, we conjectur...
The Perineal Approach to Rectal Prolapse

The surgical management of rectal prolapse may be performed via an abdominal or perineal approach, with the perineal approach often reserved for patients with comorbidities that limit the ability to tolerate an abdominal operation. The trade-off of utilizing the less morbid perineal approach is of higher recurrence rates. Despite these higher recurrence rates, perineal approaches are utilized frequently and are necessary in the armamentarium of the surgeon who treats rectal prolapse. This chapter will discuss the operative techniques and outcomes of perineal approaches in addition to highlighting indications, complications, and tips and tricks to optimizing their success.
GC-1 spg cells are most similar to Leydig cells, a testis somatic cell-type, and not germ cells

GC-1 spg is an immortalized cell line derived from an adult mouse testis and reported to be most similar to spermatocytes, a male germ cell-type. However, immunofluorescence indicates that GC-1 spg cells express WT1, a marker of testis somatic cells, and do not express markers of germ cells. Transcriptomic profiling indicate GC-1 cells are most similar to Leydig cells. Therefore, we conclude that GC-1 spg cells are most similar to testis somatic cells.
Reinhold Niebuhr: The law of love and the omnipresence of power:

The twentieth-century theologian and public intellectual Reinhold Niebuhr frequently employed a formulation confounding to his readers, simultaneously appealing to the loftiest altruism as summed u...
The Journey to the Mayflower: God’s Outlaws and the Invention of Freedom: by Stephen Tomkins, London, Hodder & Stoughton, 2020, 372 pages, £15 Hardback, ISBN 978 1 473 64910 1

It's not often you hear Baptist origins being discussed on BBC Radio 4, but that was my introduction to Stephen Tomkins discussing his latest book with Andrew Marr (January 2020). The Journey to th...
Robust decentralized switching control of UAVs using UWB-based localization and cooperation

Abstract In this paper, we implement a switched decentralized controller, along with a proposed communication protocol, to control a nested multi-agent system without the need for a centralized processing node. More specifically, we apply a recently developed method for switched systems synthesis, which gives exact conditions for existence of a block-lower triangular path-dependent controller with L2 induced norm performance. The synthesis conditions are given in the form of a semidefinite program (SDP), which is computed offline for a predefined switching sequence. Each robot is equipped with a ultra-wideband (UWB) unit, which allows it to both estimate its position and communicate with other robots.
Coaching that supports teachers’ learning to enact ambitious instruction

Teacher learning is a huge challenge in instructional change, but relatively little work has carefully examined the mechanisms by which teachers learn, in contrast to the extensive work on programs that help teachers learn and the high-leverage instructional practices that are strong predictors of student learning. Specifically, relatively little is known about how teachers learn to effectively implement these new instructional practices. Using a mixed-methods, case-comparison design, this study examines specific instructional coaching practices that support 4th–8th grade mathematics teachers in learning to implement ambitious instructional practices. The study leverages a large, state-wide representative dataset in order to purposively select carefully-matched contrasting cases for qualitative analysis from a starting sample of hundreds of teachers, which enabled selecting teachers that began in a very similar place but then progressed at different rates. In-depth qualitative coding was systematically conducted on detailed transcripts of coach-teacher conversations from these carefully selected cases. Finally, these codes were analyzed quantitatively to determine whether the content and form of these conversations predicted improvement in teachers’ instructional practices. Results showed that coach-teacher pairs who discuss when and why certain practices should be implemented, and provide more opportunities for teacher input, see larger gains in ambitious instruction in later lessons. Implications for a coaching model based in the cognitive sciences are discussed.
Characteristics of electronic cigarette user and traditional smokers: 2017 Youth risk behavior surveillance system.

Background Although electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use among adolescents rapidly has increased over the past decade, which has raised concerns over the corresponding behavioral health risks, the current literature presents limited data for understanding the characteristics of adolescent e-cigarette users. Objective The purpose of this study was to (1) identify general characteristics that may be shared between e-cigarette users and traditional cigarette smokers and (2) examine the unique characteristics of e-cigarette users vis-a-vis traditional cigarette smokers. Design Cross-sectional descriptive study. Sample and data source A total of 14,765 9th- to 12-grade students drawn from the CDC 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System. Results We observed that the prevalence of marijuana, alcohol, and other illicit drug use was higher among e-cigarette users and traditional tobacco users than non-users. Moreover, physically active adolescents were more likely to use e-cigarettes than those who were physically inactive, although the level of the activity did not predict smoking status. Conclusion We recommend that primary prevention strategies for e-cigarette use should be incorporated in physical education programs and target adolescents who engage in not only health risk behaviors, but also health promoting behaviors, such as physical activity.
Overcoming Bounded Scalability: Achieving Interoperability Through Behavioral Boundary Objects

Behavioral design’s preference for bespoke, contextualized solutions to behavioral challenges allows it to solve targeted problems with precision, but also makes it difficult to systematically capture and apply lessons from successful interventions. This state of “bounded scalability” is traditionally framed as a generalizability challenge to scaling solutions; however, it may be better characterized as an interoperability challenge, which requires new methodology to democratize who gets to participate, and supports learning in addition to problem solving. Deploying boundary objects—artifacts and concepts that can effectively translate content across disciplinary contexts—as a means to achieve interoperability can lower the bar to sharing and applying effective intervention outcomes, while also raising the floor for less formally trained practitioners. In particular, the boundary objects known as pattern languages that support both analytic and synthetic activities may help interdisciplinary collaborators and non-professionals more effectively participate in behavioral problem solving.
Extracellular Micrornas in Blood Differentiate Between Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke Subtypes

Background: Rapid identification of patients suffering from cerebral ischemia, while excluding intracerebral hemorrhage, can assist with patient triage and expand patient access to chemical and mechanical revascularization. We sought to identify blood-based, extracellular microRNAs (ex-miRNAs) predictive of major stroke subtypes using clinical samples from subjects with intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and ischemic stroke due to cerebral vessel occlusion. Methods: We collected blood from patients presenting with IPH (n=19), SAH (n=17) and ischemic stroke (n=21). We isolated extracellular vesicles from plasma, extracted RNA cargo, sequenced the small RNAs, and performed bioinformatic analyses to identify ex-miRNA biomarkers predictive of the stroke subtypes. Findings: 67 miRNAs were significantly variant across the stroke subtypes. A subset of ex-miRNAs differed between hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes, and LASSO analysis could distinguish SAH from the other subtypes with an accuracy of 0.97 +/- 0.002. Further analyses predicted miRNA classifiers that stratify IPH from ischemic stroke with accuracy of 0.81 +/- 0.004 and distinguish hemorrhagic from ischemic stroke with accuracy of 0.81 +/- 0.003. Interpretations: Blood-based, ex-miRNAs have predictive value, capable of distinguishing between major stroke subtypes. Such a biomarker may serve as point-of-care tests to rapidly and reliably differentiate between major stroke subtypes and aid with the triage of patients to expand the pool eligible for chemical and mechanical revascularization. Funding: This work was funded by the NIH-National Center for Translational Sciences (1UH2TR000891/1UH3TR000891). SK was also supported by Texas A&M System Chancellor's Research Initiative for the Center for Computational Systems Biology at Prairie View A&M University. Declaration of Interest: KVKJ is a member of the scientific advisory board at Dyrnamix Ethical Approval: This study was approved by the institutional review boards of St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center (13BN094) and WIRB (#20120512).
Sensory processing and P300 event-related potential correlates of stimulant response in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A critical review.

Abstract Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with considerable impairment in psychiatric and functional domains. Although stimulant medication can reduce core symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, a subgroup of patients does not respond to this intervention. A precision medicine approach has been proposed, whereby biomarkers are used to identify an effective treatment approach for a given individual. This review synthesizes the existing literature on event-related potential (ERP) correlates of stimulant response in children diagnosed with ADHD, with the goal of evaluating the potential for ERP to inform precision medicine care in this population. Forty-three articles were examined and results tentatively suggest that stimulant medications normalize the amplitude of the P300 component, and this is also associated with behavioral improvement. In contrast, results generally indicate that stimulants do not significantly alter early processing components, although there are some exceptions to this finding. Implications for research, theory, and clinical work are considered and concrete recommendations for future directions are provided. While recognizing limitations of existing literature (e.g., homogenous samples, variable methodologies), we conclude that ERP methods represent a promising approach for precision medicine care of patients with ADHD.
Prediction and multi-objective optimization of mechanical, economical, and environmental properties for strain-hardening cementitious composites (SHCC) based on automated machine learning and metaheuristic algorithms

Abstract This study develops a framework for property prediction and multi-objective optimization of strain-hardening cementitious composites (SHCC) based on automated machine learning. Three machine learning models are developed to predict the compressive strength, tensile strength, and ductility of SHCC. A tree-based pipeline optimization method is enhanced and used to enable automatic configuration of machine learning models, which are trained using three datasets considering 14 mix design variables and achieve reasonable prediction accuracy. With the predictive models, five objective functions are formulated for mechanical properties, life-cycle cost, and carbon footprint of SHCC, and the five objective functions are optimized in six design scenarios. The objective functions are optimized using innovative optimization and decision-making techniques (Unified Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm III and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution). This research is expected to promote efficient development and applications of high-performance SHCC in concrete and construction industry.