cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Strains and strategies for large-scale gene deletion studies of the diploid human fungal pathogen Candida albicans.

Candida albicans is the most common human fungal pathogen and causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Nevertheless, the basic principles of C. albicans pathogenesis remain poorly understood. Of central importance to the study of this organism is the ability to generate homozygous knockout mutants and to analyze them in a mammalian model of pathogenesis. C. albicans is diploid, and current strategies for gene deletion typically involve repeated use of the URA3 selectable marker. These procedures are often time-consuming and inefficient. Moreover, URA3 expression levels—which are susceptible to chromosome position effects—can themselves affect virulence, thereby complicating analysis of strains constructed with URA3 as a selectable marker. Here, we describe a set of newly developed reference strains (leu2Δ/leu2Δ, his1Δ/his1Δ; arg4Δ/arg4Δ, his1Δ/his1Δ; and arg4Δ/arg4Δ, leu2Δ/leu2Δ, his1Δ/his1Δ) that exhibit wild-type or nearly wild-type virulence in a mouse model. We also describe new disruption marker cassettes and a fusion PCR protocol that permit rapid and highly efficient generation of homozygous knockout mutations in the new C. albicans strains. We demonstrate these procedures for two well-studied genes, TUP1 and EFG1, as well as a novel gene, RBD1. These tools should permit large-scale genetic analysis of this important human pathogen.
Mean momentum balance in moderately favourable pressure gradient turbulent boundary layers

Moderately favourable pressure gradient turbulent boundary layers are investigated within a theoretical framework based on the unintegrated two-dimensional mean momentum equation. The present theory stems from an observed exchange of balance between terms in the mean momentum equation across different regions of the boundary layer. This exchange of balance leads to the identification of distinct physical layers, unambiguously defined by the predominant mean dynamics active in each layer. Scaling domains congruent with the physical layers are obtained from a multi-scale analysis of the mean momentum equation. Scaling behaviours predicted by the present theory are evaluated using direct measurements of all of the terms in the mean momentum balance for the case of a sink-flow pressure gradient generated in a wind tunnel with a long development length. Measurements also captured the evolution of the turbulent boundary layers from a non-equilibrium state near the wind tunnel entrance towards an equilibrium state further downstream. Salient features of the present multi-scale theory were reproduced in all the experimental data. Under equilibrium conditions, a universal function was found to describe the decay of the Reynolds stress profile in the outer region of the boundary layer. Non-equilibrium effects appeared to be manifest primarily in the outer region, whereas differences in the inner region were attributed solely to Reynolds number effects.
BIRDS DEFEND OIL PALMS FROM HERBIVOROUS INSECTS

Top-down forces are expected to be important in regulating herbivore populations in most agricultural systems where primary productivity is high and species diversity is low. Under such conditions, trophic cascades are predicted to occur when predator populations are reduced or removed. Studies on how predator removal indirectly affects herbivory rates in agricultural systems are lacking. Through a bird-exclosure experiment, I test the hypothesis that insectivorous birds indirectly defend oil palms (Elaeis guineensis) from herbivorous insects. Results show that bird exclusion significantly increased herbivory damage to oil palms, and that the size of this exclusion effect increased with bird density, although the latter result was not statistically significant. These findings suggest that insectivorous birds deliver a natural pest control service for oil palm agriculture, which is important not only for the direct benefits it delivers for human welfare, but also in strengthening the economic justifications for conserving the remaining natural habitats and biodiversity in agricultural landscapes.
Thermal characterization of thin film Cu interconnects for the next generation of microelectronic devices

With the dramatic scaling of the transistors, the important issues like RC delay, electromigration failure and heat dissipation emerge, which need to be addressed urgently. Substitution of copper for aluminum has been suggested to reduce the RC delay of interconnects. While the electrical and mechanical properties of thin copper films have been extensively investigated; their thermal characterizations have received less attention. The lateral thermal conductivity of a 144 nm thick copper film is measured using the electrical resistance Joule heating and thermometry in a suspended bridge. The thermal conductivities at 300 K and 450 K are 240 and 280 W/m-K, respectively, which is smaller than the corresponding bulk values. The impact of the interconnect dimension and thermal conductivity on the self-heating is investigated as a function of interconnect via density. It is concluded that for via separation distances less than 5 /spl mu/m, the combination of Cu interconnect and vias can significantly reduce the average temperature rise in multilayer interconnects.
Personality and Coping

Personality psychology addresses views of human nature and individual differences. Biological and goal-based views of human nature provide an especially useful basis for construing coping; the five-factor model of traits adds a useful set of individual differences. Coping—responses to adversity and to the distress that results—is categorized in many ways. Meta-analyses link optimism, extraversion, conscientiousness, and openness to more engagement coping; neuroticism to more disengagement coping; and optimism, conscientiousness, and agreeableness to less disengagement coping. Relations of traits to specific coping responses reveal a more nuanced picture. Several moderators of these associations also emerge: age, stressor severity, and temporal proximity between the coping activity and the coping report. Personality and coping play both independent and interactive roles in influencing physical and mental health. Recommendations are presented for ways future research can expand on the growing understanding of how personality and coping shape adjustment to stress.
Simulation in automated material handling systems design for semiconductor manufacturing

We present the simulation methodologies used in the design of automated material handling systems (AMHS) at the Intel wafer fabs. The models used in AMHS design can be categorized as AMHS models and production models. The AMHS models support the design of Interbay and Intrabay systems. The Interbay systems handle the material flow between different bays (production centers). The systems handle the material flow within the bays. The production models compliment the AMHS models. We review the general model structures and simulation examples under these categories used in actual system implementations.
Pericardial tamponade presenting as abdominal pain in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosis

Abdominal pain is a common complaint in children presenting to the emergency department. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at increased risk of infection, bowel necrosis and perforation, especially if they are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids or immunosuppresive agents, which may mask the signs and symptoms of the underlying condition, hence delay diagnosis and treatment. This article presents the case of an ado- lescent girl whose abdominal pain was related to cardiac tamponade and provides an overview of the cardiac and gastrointestinal manifestations of SLE. RESUME : La douleur abdominale est un symptome couramment rencontre chez les enfants recus a l'urgence. Les patients atteints de lupus erythemateux aigu dissemine (LEAD) courent un risque plus grand d'infection, de necrose intestinale et de perforation, surtout s'ils recoivent des anti- inflammatoires non steroidiens, des corticosteroides ou des immunosuppresseurs qui peuvent mas- quer les signes et symptomes de la condition sous-jacente, et par le fait meme, retarder le diag- nostic et le traitement. Le present article decrit le cas d'une adolescente dont la douleur abdomi- nale etait liee a une tamponnade cardiaque et offre un apercu des manifestations cardiaques et gastro-intestinales du LEAD.
Electronic Conductivity and Related Properties of Amorphous and Crystallized V2O5-Based Glasses

Crystallization of V2O3 from V2O3P2O3, glasses containing 0 to 9 mol% B2O3, during heat treatment in the range 220° to 410°C, caused progressive micro structural changes which dramatically affected the electronic conductivity (γ), the activation energy for conduction (W), and the resistance to chemical attack. All compositions were ≊83% crystalline after heating to 410°C. As a result, the values of γ and W were almost identical to those observed for pure polycrystalline V2O5.
Chronic mesenteric ischemia: evaluation with phase-contrast cine MR imaging

PURPOSE: To compare superior mesenteric artery (SMA) blood flow in healthy volunteers and patients with stenoses in the fasting state and after food intake by using phase-contrast (PC) cine magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten healthy subjects, four asymptomatic patients (three with 50% stenosis, one with 70% stenosis), and one symptomatic patient (with 80% stenosis) were studied. All subjects were studied after fasting at least 8 hours and 15, 30, and 45 minutes after ingesting a standard meal. RESULTS: In healthy volunteers, SMA blood flow at all postprandial intervals increased significantly compared with that obtained after fasting (P < or = .0005). The percentage change in SMA blood flow 30 minutes after food intake provided the best distinction between the healthy subjects, the asymptomatic patients, and the symptomatic patient. CONCLUSION: Cine PC MR imaging is an effective, noninvasive technique for measuring SMA blood flow.
Copper Release into Milk Products and Orange Juice from Waukesha Alloy

Abstract Filling mechanism on a common filler for milk products in paperboard cartons has a disc made of an alloy containing copper. Results of the analysis of milk, skim milk, half and half, and cultured skim milk indicated that a statistically significant increase in copper did not occur during packaging of these products. The increase in copper content per 100g of orange juice when the disc was submerged for 1, 10, and 60min averaged 1.43,4.22, and 7.75μg.
The need for speed: accelerating CMR imaging assessment of cardiac function.

Assessment of cardiac function is a cornerstone of the diagnosis and care of patients with heart disease. The use of various imaging methods for measuring cardiac function has become increasingly important in both clinical practice and research. In particular, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has
Ultrasonic Investigation of Novel Superconducting Systems

Ultrasonic attenuation measurements are reported for the superconducting, normal, and mixed states of the heavy Fermion superconductors UPt3 and URu2Si2 and in the alloys of the ternary superconductors Er1-x HoxRh4B4. A peak in attenuation in the mixed state of UPt3 may be indicative of collective excitations of the flux line lattice. A broad maximum in attenuation is found below the superconducting transition temperature of URu2Si2. An increase in attenuation in the superconducting phase of the reentrant ternary superconductors with x = 0.6 and 0.813 is ascribed to increased spin phonon interaction induced by superconducting screening of crystalline electric fields.
INFLUENCE OF SPRAY ADJUVANTS ON THE EFFICACY OF SUCCESS AGAINST WESTERN FLOWER THRIPS, SPRING 2002

The objective of the study was to compare the efficacy of Success against western flower thrips (WFT) when applied alone and in combination with several spray adjuvants. Lettuce was direct seeded on 12 Dec at the Yuma Valley Agricultural Center, Yuma, AZ, into double row beds on 42-inch centers. Stand establishment was achieved using overhead sprinkler irrigation, and irrigated with furrow irrigation thereafter. Plots were two-beds wide by 50-ft long and bordered by two untreated beds. Four replications of each treatment were arranged in a randomized complete block design. Formulations and rates for each compound are provided in the tables. Foliar applications were made with a CO2 operated boom sprayer at 40 psi and 26.5 gpa. A directed spray (~75% band, with rate adjusted for band) was delivered through three nozzles (TX-18) per bed. Sprays were applied on 7 and 19 Feb, and 5 Mar. Numbers of thrips adults and larvae from 5-8 plants per replicate were recorded on each sample date. Relative thrip numbers were measured by removing plants and beating them vigorously against a screened pan for a predetermined time. A 6 inch by 6 inch sticky trap was placed inside of the pan to catch the dislodged thrips. Sticky traps were then taken to the laboratory, where adults and larvae were counted under magnification. WFT counts were transformed (log10 n+1) before ANOVA to stabilize variances that were found to be heterogeneous. Untransformed means are presented in tables. Data were analyzed as a one-way ANOVA with means compared where appropriate using a protected LSD F-test(P < 0.05).
Skipped diynes—VII

Abstract The tris (t-butylethynyl)carbonium ion (δ CH 3 1·86) has been prepared in chlorosulfonic acid from the corresponding carbinol. Apart from a few esters, triethynylmethyl derivatives appear to be unknown, contary to previous claims. Tris (t-butylethynyl) carbinol ( 1a ) may, however, be converted into 1,1-di-t-butylethynyl-3-t-butylallenes, e.g., chloride, bromide, and carboxylic acid. These haloallenes dimerize ( ∼ 25°) to give one of the fourteen possible structures, the unsymmetrical 1,2-dimethylenecyclobutane ( Z - I ). Tris (1-propynyl) carbinol is generally similar to 1a , although its chloroallene leads directly to two dimers (Eq 4). Upon heating ( ∼ 100°) dimer Z - 1 (Cl) is quantitatively isomerized to the trans - II (Cl) dimer. Thus far, the known chemistry of I and II is largely associated with replacement of the halogen by acetate, alkoxide and hydroxide.
Organization of a radiology teaching program in a changing health care environment.

Acad Radio11995;2"1119-1120 © 1995, Association of University Radiologists T he city and county municipal hospital system provides excellent teaching opportunities for the training of diagnostic radiology residents and fellows. However, one of the dilemmas for academic radiology in the 1990s is how to provide adequate and competitive faculty salaries to support these hospitals. The radiology departments supporting these hospitals are under increasing pressure to "do more with less" (i.e., an increasing number of patients and requests for diagnostic imaging studies and procedures associated with the required high-level faculty supervision of residents). These demands come at a time of stagnation or reduction in fiscal resources because of budgetary constraints at the national (grants and Medicare), state (funding for medical schools and Medicaid), and local (tax support) levels. The obvious solution is more money; however, the reality is that funding will probably be less in the future, especially in the current era of health care reforms. Another option is needed. Faced with this dilemma, a new and innovative program has been instituted at our county hospital to resolve the faculty funding and staffing problem. The new program is implemented for resident supervision and faculty interpretation of 155,000 diagnostic imaging studies yearly. The 155,000 studies are divided into two sections: academic and clinical. The academic section faculty are responsible for teaching and supervising the radiology residents and double-reading all the studies. The studies retained in the academic section were based on optimal resident teaching and hands-on experience and include all examinations and procedures for interventional and special procedures, neurologic and body computed tomography, neurologic and body magnetic resonance imaging, neurologic and body ultrasound, mammograms, and intensive care (surgical, neurosurgical, pediatric/neonatology, and medicine). Other inpatient and outpatient studies are included to round out the residents' exposure to diagnostic radiology but not exceed the maximum faculty-to-study ratio. The clinical section faculty are responsible for interpreting the remaining radiographic studies (i.e., those that have less teaching value or are duplicated in teaching value at our other teaching hospital). The clinical studies are interpreted by board-eligible or boardcertified radiologists, therefore
Instilling a Desire to Learn: The Importance of a Well Designed Course

A Chinese proverb says, “Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself.” My goal as an educator is to inspire students to enter by instilling a desire to learn and think critically. To achieve this, I strive to (1) have well designed courses, (2) use a variety of tools and techniques, (3) include practical applications of theory, and (4) lead the students by example.
Study on the Converter Station's AC Overvoltage Level as Zhaotong-Conghua DC Transmission Project in Islanded Operation Mode

It is the key issue to control the converter station's AC overvoltage of Zhaotong-Conghua ± 500 kV DC same-tower double circuit transmission project as it is in islanded operation mode,which is one of the normal operation modes designed for the project with benefit to the improvement of CSG's stability level. Calculations on the AC overvoltage level as the project being in islanded operation mode are carried out in this paper,and the results are as following: 1. 68 p. u. is the maximum switching overvoltage in various fault conditions,and it meets the demands of regulations; 1. 49 p. u. is the highest transient overvoltage level,and it will be in short duration after adopting certain measures as to meet the requirement of equipments; 1 329 kV is the limit of maximum recovery voltage across AC filter / capacitor circuit breakers; 3 617 kJ is the maximum arrester absorption energy in various fault conditions including the little probability case where double circuit simultaneous bipolar ESOF occurred in islanded operation,and thus it has a margin of 39. 7%. Hence,the overvoltage level,arrester absorption energy and transient recovery voltage across AC filter bank circuit breakers are all in control.
Primary Discussion About the Valuation Criterions of Class Teaching Quality

In general the valuation criterions of teaching quality in class are exactness,lifelikeness and profundity.The author's own understanding and some suggestions about the criterions will be put forward in this article.
Smoking and smokeless tobacco use among adolescents: trends and intervention results.

Abstract Data from a 2-year study describe tobacco use trends, perceptions, and prevention effects for 1,281 5th and 6th graders enrolled in 12 randomly selected Washington State elementary schools. Youths were pretested, then randomly divided by school into skills, discussion, and control groups. Preventive intervention curriculums for the skills and discussion groups included age-relevant information on smoked and smokeless tobacco use, peer testimonials, debates, games, and homework. Youths in the skills group also learned communication and problem-solving methods for handling difficult situations around tobacco use. Following intervention, youths were posttested, then retested semiannually for 2 years. During the 2-year study, three-quarters of all smokers and nonusers and half of all smokeless tobacco users maintained their statuses. Only 10 percent of all smokers and 3 percent of all smokeless users quit their habits. One in six reported new tobacco use, one-third of smokers began using smokeless tobacco, and two-thirds of all smokeless users began smoking during the study. Most youths at final measurement perceived smokeless tobacco as less of a health risk than smoking. Nearly one in two of all smokeless users intended to smoke, and two-thirds were actually smoking at 24-month followup. Both smoked and smokeless tobacco use rates increased in all groups, and youths in the skills intervention group consistently showed the lowest rates relative to the other groups. These findings demonstrate the potential of skills intervention methods for lowering tobacco use rates among adolescents.
Towards a generic computation model for smart city platforms

Smart emergency response systems, smart transportation systems, smart parking spaces are some examples of multi-domain smart city systems that require large-scale, open platforms for integration and execution. These platforms illustrate high degree of heterogeneity. In this paper, we focus on software heterogeneity arising from different types of applications. The source of variability among applications stems from (a) timing requirements, (b) rate and volume of data they interact with, and (c) behavior depending on whether they are stateful or stateless. These variations result in applications with different computation models. However, a smart city system can comprise multi-domain applications with different types and therefore computation models. As such, a key challenge that arises is that of integration; we require some mechanism to facilitate integration and interaction between applications that use different computation models. In this paper, we first identify computation models based on different application types. Second, we present a generic computation model and explain how it can map to previously identified computation models. Finally, we briefly describe how the generic computation model fits in our overall smart city platform architecture.
Democracy, Patriotism, and Schooling After September II

This is a difficult time in American history. The tragic and horrific terrorist acts of September 11 suggest a traumatic and decisive turning point in the history of the United States. Some commentators have compared it to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Others suggest that the history of the twenty-first century will be defined against the cataclysmic political, economic, and legal changes inaugurated by the monstrous events of September 11. Similarly, many people are now aware that, for better or worse, the United States is part of a global system, the effects of which cannot be completely controlled.1 There is also a newfound sense of unity, organized not only around flag-waving displays of patriotism but also around collective fears and an ongoing militarization of visual culture and public space.
Polarization charge and coercive field dependent performance of negative capacitance FETs

Negative capacitance FETs (NCFETs) [1, 2] have garnered an immense interest due to the possibility of achieving sub-60mV/decade sub-threshold swing at room temperature. NCFETs employ a ferroelectric (FE) material in the gate stack (Fig. 1) and utilize the negative capacitance associated with the FE to generate a voltage step up at the gate terminal, thereby achieving steep switching. In this work, we analyze the dependence of NCFET characteristics and circuit performance on the polarization charge and coercive field of FE-based gate stack through extensive experimental characterization of FE and device-circuit simulations.
Generation of multipotent induced cardiac progenitor cells from mouse fibroblasts and potency testing in ex vivo mouse embryos

Here we describe a protocol to generate expandable and multipotent induced cardiac progenitor cells (iCPCs) from mouse adult fibroblasts using forced expression of Mesp1, Tbx5, Gata4, Nkx2.5 and Baf60c (MTGNB) along with activation of Wnt and JAK/STAT signaling. This method does not use iPS cell factors and thus differs from cell activation and signaling-directed (CASD) reprogramming to cardiac progenitors. Our method is specific to direct CPC reprogramming, whereas CASD reprogramming can generate various cell types depending on culture conditions and raises the possibility of transitioning through a pluripotent cell state. The protocol describes how to isolate and infect primary fibroblasts; induce reprogramming and observe iCPC colonies; expand and characterize reprogrammed iCPCs by immunostaining, flow cytometry and gene expression; differentiate iCPCs in vitro into cardiac-lineage cells; and test the embryonic potency of iCPCs via injection into the cardiac crescent of mouse embryos. A scientist experienced in molecular cell biology and embryology can reproduce this protocol in 12-16 weeks. iCPCs can be used for studying cardiac biology, drug discovery and regenerative medicine.
'Let the Sun Shine in': The Impact of Industry Payment Disclosure on Physician Prescription Behavior

U.S. pharmaceutical companies frequently pay doctors to promote their drugs. This has raised concerns about conflict of interest, which policy-makers have attempted to address by introducing payment disclosure laws. However, it is unclear if such disclosure has an effect on physician prescription behavior. We use individual-level claims data from a major provider of health insurance in the U.S. and employ a difference-in-differences research design to study the effect of the payment disclosure law introduced in Massachusetts in June 2009. The research design exploits the fact that while physicians operating in Massachusetts were impacted by the legislation, their counterparts in the neighboring states of Connecticut, New York, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island were not. In order to keep the groups of physicians comparable, we restrict our analysis to physicians in the counties that are on the border of these states. We find that the Massachusetts disclosure law resulted in a decline in prescriptions in all three drug classes studied: statins, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. Our findings are robust to alternative control groups, time periods and estimation methods. We also show that the effect is highly heterogeneous across physician groups. Finally, we explore potential mechanisms driving these results.
Missed Nursing Care in Pediatrics

OBJECTIVES: A growing literature suggests that missed nursing care is common in hospitals and may contribute to poor patient outcomes. There has been scant empirical evidence in pediatric populations. Our objectives were to describe the frequency and patterns of missed nursing care in inpatient pediatric settings and to determine whether missed nursing care is associated with unfavorable work environments and high nurse workloads. METHODS: A cross-sectional study using registered nurse survey data from 2006 to 2008 was conducted. Data from 2187 NICU, PICU, and general pediatric nurses in 223 hospitals in 4 US states were analyzed. For 12 nursing activities, nurses reported about necessary activities that were not done on their last shift because of time constraints. Nurses reported their patient assignment and rated their work environment. RESULTS: More than half of pediatric nurses had missed care on their previous shift. On average, pediatric nurses missed 1.5 necessary care activities. Missed care was more common in poor versus better work environments (1.9 vs 1.2; P P CONCLUSIONS: Nurses in inpatient pediatric care settings that care for fewer patients each and practice in a professionally supportive work environment miss care less often, increasing quality of patient care.
Sources and toxicities of phenolic polychlorinated biphenyls (OH-PCBs).

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a group of 209 congeners that differ in the number and position of chlorines on the biphenyl ring, are anthropogenic chemicals that belong to the persistent organic pollutants (POPs). For many years, PCBs have been a topic of interest because of their biomagnification in the food chain and their environmental persistence. PCBs with fewer chlorine atoms, however, are less persistent and more susceptible to metabolic attack, giving rise to chemicals characterized by the addition of one or more hydroxyl groups to the chlorinated biphenyl skeleton, collectively known as hydroxylated PCBs (OH-PCBs). In animals and plants, this biotransformation of PCBs to OH-PCBs is primarily carried out by cytochrome P-450-dependent monooxygenases. One of the reasons for infrequent detection of lower chlorinated PCBs in serum and other biological matrices is their shorter half-lives, and their metabolic transformation, resulting in OH-PCBs or their conjugates, such as sulfates and glucuronides, or macromolecule adducts. Recent biomonitoring studies have reported the presence of OH-PCBs in human serum. The occurrence of OH-PCBs, the size of this group (there are 837 mono-hydroxyl PCBs alone), and their wide spectra of physical characteristics (pKa’s and log P’s ranging over 5 to 6 orders of magnitude) give rise to a multiplicity of biological effects. Among those are bioactivation to electrophilic metabolites that can form covalent adducts with DNA and other macromolecules, interference with hormonal signaling, inhibition of enzymes that regulate cellular concentrations of active hormones, and interference with the transport of hormones. This new information creates an urgent need for a new perspective on these often overlooked metabolites.
Grain Growth in Nanocrystalline Mg-Al Thin Films

An improved understanding of grain growth kinetics in nanocrystalline materials, and in metals and alloys in general, is of continuing interest to the scientific community. In this study, Mg-Al thin films containing ~10 wt pct Al and with 14.5 nm average grain size were produced by magnetron sputtering and subjected to heat treatments. The grain growth evolution in the early stages of heat treatment at 423 K, 473 K, and 573 K (150 °C, 200 °C, and 300 °C) was observed with transmission electron microscopy and analyzed based upon the classical equation developed by Burke and Turnbull. The grain growth exponent was found to be 7 ± 2 and the activation energy for grain growth was 31.1 ± 13.4 kJ/mol, the latter being significantly lower than in bulk Mg-Al alloys. The observed grain growth kinetics are explained by the Al supersaturation in the matrix and the pinning effects of the rapidly forming beta precipitates and possibly shallow grain boundary grooves. The low activation energy is attributed to the rapid surface diffusion which is dominant in thin film systems.
"Categorical Legitimation: News Media, Discursive Market Networks, and New Market Emergence"

This paper investigates the role of the news media in the process of categorical legitimation of an emerging market through the examination of founding and failure rates of semiconductor integrated...
Evidence of anthropogenic trauma in marine mammals stranded along the central California coast, 2003–2015

A total of 11,162 stranded marine mammals was admitted to a rehabilitation center on the central California coast between January 2003 and September 2015. Six hundred seventeen animals (6%) had evidence of anthropogenic trauma (AT). California sea lions comprised the majority (83%) of AT cases, particularly by entanglement in marine debris (n = 277) and gunshot injuries (n = 165). Guadalupe fur seals had the highest prevalence of entanglement in marine debris. Cetaceans were primarily affected by boat collisions (n = 19). The highest numbers of overall strandings were recorded in 2009 (n = 1,690) and 2015 (n = 1,666); 2009 also had the highest total number (n = 137) and prevalence (8%) of AT cases. Prevalence of fishing tackle cases increased compared to similar data from 1986 to 1998 while prevalence of gunshot cases decreased, and other causes remained static. Cases of fisheries interactions were further examined and characterized, and when direct fisheries interactions were separated from other causes of AT, fisheries interactions accounted for 50% (n = 310) of all AT cases during the study period. Direct fisheries interactions were the most common type of AT observed among stranded marine mammals in central California. Tracking AT trends is important to further understand possible causes and inform mitigation efforts.
The Role of Mesohyl Cells in Sponge Allograft Rejections

H. V. Wilson, in 1907, attempted and failed to produce chimeric sponges from xenogeneic (different species) mixtures of dissociated sponge cells. His failed experiment, however, initiated an interest in cellular recognition and interaction that has continued to the present. Studies on cell communication have expanded to involve many types of cells from organisms of all kinds, while interest in sponge cell recognition and aggregation has endured. More recent work has elucidated the reactions of intact sponges to naturally and artificially transplanted allogeneic (same species) tissues, and some initial information on cell function that is important in these reactions has been reported. In this chapter, I will review the current knowledge about the involvement of sponge cells in allograft rejections as studied in whole, intact sponges, and about the relationships between cell aggregation and allogeneic reactions as studied in vitro, using allogeneic mixtures of dissociated cells. Analyses and discussions of various sponge species will be mainly limited to data that include identification of the cells involved.
Industrial Agriculture and Its Harms

This chapter provides an overview of industrial agriculture and its harms, especially to animals, in order to provide a vivid and alarming context for my analysis of Tyson Foods’ website. First, the origins of industrial agriculture are traced. The chapter continues with emphasis on some of the particular harms of raising and processing animals for food in the industrial system, specifically harm to animals, harm to the environment, and harm to human health.
Co-existing Hepatitis C and Alcoholic Liver Disease: A Diminishing Indication for Liver Transplantation?

Aims To provide an overview of published literature on the interaction of alcohol and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the accelerated progression of liver disease to cirrhosis as relates to decision-making for the management of the liver transplant candidate and recipient. Methods General PubMed search was employed along with expert input to identify the relevant articles on the topic. The authors also utilized both backward and forward citation review of the relevant articles and reviews to identify articles on identified topic. Results In HCV cases, heavy alcohol use has been associated with more severe fibrosis, but even low rates of use may have deleterious effects. Patients with chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease can be cured of the HCV-theoretically positively impacting outcome and reducing the need for liver transplantation. Current antiviral therapy achieves virologic cure or sustained viral response (SVR) in over 90% of cases. Antiviral therapy is so effective that most liver transplant candidates or recipients can be cured of HCV either prior to or after transplantation. However, despite successful antiviral therapy, liver disease may progress after SVR due to the effects of ongoing alcohol use. Conclusion Antiviral therapy in patients with HCV plus alcohol should improve pre- and post-transplant outcomes, but providers must remain firm in limiting use of alcohol to avoid progression of liver disease post HCV cure. Short summary Abusive alcohol use and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) commonly co-exist and both need to be addressed in liver disease. With high rates of HCV cure with new therapies, attention needs to turn toward ongoing abusive alcohol patterns that may determinately impact liver health both before and after liver transplant.
A Triangulated Qualitative Study of Veteran Decision-Making to Seek Care During Heart Failure Exacerbation: Implications of Dual Health System Use:

Among Veterans, heart failure (HF) contributes to frequent emergency department visits and hospitalization. Dual health care system use (dual use) occurs when Veterans Health Administration (VA) en...
ACL Treatment in the Skeletally Immature Patient

ACL tears in skeletally immature patient are an important clinical problem because they occur frequently and the long-term effects can be significant. Because these patients are still growing, there is the risk of growth disturbances with surgery. There is also concern regarding early onset of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Management of ACL tears in the pediatric population must consider these risks. Conservative treatment, which has been considered the first-line treatment to avoid growth disturbances, often does not reduce instability nor does it prevent subsequent damage to the knee, including the destruction of the menisci and cartilage. Surgical treatments in the pediatric population have been developed to reduce the risk of growth disturbance, though this risk is not eliminated. In this chapter, we will review the nonoperative and operative treatment options for young patients and the risks and benefits of each.
Bud development and dormancy in slash and loblolly pine. II. Effects of ethephon applications

Ethephon application on four dates did not induce budset in slash and loblolly pine seedlings. Ethephon promoted slash pine budbreak by 11 days when applied in mid-November and delayed loblolly pine budbreak by 8 days when applied in late November. Mid-November and early February applications of ethephon promoted height growth of both species.
Blurring boundaries: Effects of device features on metacognitive evaluations

Abstract Many emerging technologies, such as our smartphones and computers, extend the capabilities of our cognitive systems by serving as external memory and sources of information. Despite such positive impacts, the increasingly ubiquitous human-computer partnership may fundamentally alter the ways in which humans perceive and evaluate themselves. This study examines features of technological devices that influence evaluations of personal knowledge (i.e., knowledge "in the head"). In two experiments, participants evaluated their cognitive abilities after using a technological device to find answers to trivia questions. In Experiment 1, participants who retrieved answers from the internet reported higher cognitive evaluations compared to participants who could not use the internet. Routine use of the device used to access the internet moderated this effect. In Experiment 2, participants who used their own device to find answers reported higher cognitive evaluations compared to participants who used a control device, and participants who used a smartphone reported higher cognitive evaluations compared to participants who used a laptop. We conclude by highlighting several variables emanating from both the sources present through the device interface (e.g., search engine), and the physical manifestation of the device itself, which may contribute to illusions of internal knowledge through technology use.
Educational attainment & quitting smoking: A structural equation model approach.

Abstract In the United States, disparities in smoking prevalence and cessation by socioeconomic status are well documented, but there is limited research on reasons why and none conducted in a national sample assessing multiple potential mechanisms. We identified smoking and cessation-related behavioral and environmental variables associated with both educational attainment and quitting success. We used a structural equation model of cross-sectional data from respondents ≥25 years from the United States 2010–2011 Tobacco Use Supplement-Current Population Survey. Quitting success was defined as former (n = 2607) versus continuing smokers (n = 7636); categories of educational attainment were ≤high school degree, some college/college degree, and advanced degree. Results indicated that using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) >1 month and having a home smoking restriction were associated with both educational attainment and quitting success. Those with lower educational attainment versus those with an advanced degree were less likely to report using NRT >1 month (≤high school: β = −0.50, p 1 month, in turn, was positively associated with quitting success (β = 0.25, p 1 month and having a home smoking restriction are two strategies that may explain the association between low education and lower cessation success; these strategies should be further tested for their potential ability to mitigate this association.
A mixed-modeling framework for analyzing multitask whole-brain network data.

The emerging area of brain network analysis considers the brain as a system, providing profound insight into links between system-level properties and health outcomes. Network science has facilitat...
PU.1 and epigenetic signals modulate 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D 3 and C/EBPα regulation of the human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide gene in lung epithelial cells

LL-37, the only known human cathelicidin which is encoded by the human antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) gene, plays a critical role in protection against bacterial infection. We previously demonstrated that cathelicidin is induced by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH) 2 D 3 ) in human airway epithelial cells with a resultant increase in bactericidal activity. In this study we identify key factors that co-operate with 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 in the regulation of CAMP. Our results show for the first time that PU.1, the myeloid transcription factor (which has also been identified in lung epithelial cells), co-operates with the vitamin D receptor and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (CEBPα) to enhance the induction of CAMP in lung epithelial cells. Our findings also indicate that enhancement of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 regulation of CAMP by histone deacetylase inhibitors involves co-operation between acetylation and chromatin remodeling through Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1; a component of the SWItch/sucrose nonfermentable [SWI/SNF] complex). BRG1 can be an activator or repressor depending on BRG1-associated factors. Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5), a methlytransferase which interacts with BRG1, represses 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 induced CAMP in part through dimethylation of H4R3. Our findings identify key mediators involved in the regulation of the CAMP gene in lung epithelial cells and suggest new approaches for therapeutic manipulation of gene expression to increase the antibacterial capability of the airway.
Shadowing Networks: Cross-training and workplace networks

This article assesses the causal effects of cross-training, a core element of the “high performance work” practices that have diffused broadly across firms, on workplace social networks. The author...
Efficient solution for a single pile under torsion

Abstract This paper presents a simple and more efficient solution mechanism for solving the linear response of a single pile with a circular cross section under torque in “n” multilayered soils. The pile-soil system is modeled by a series of independent springs distributed along the pile shaft with each spring representing an individual layer of soil. The properties of each soil layer are assumed constant with the allowance for variation from layer to layer. The method is based on the energy principles and variational approach initially proposed by Vallabhan and Mustafa (1996) for a single pile under a vertical load, developed by Guo and Lee (2001) for a single pile under a lateral load, and developed by Zhang (2010) and Misra et al. (2013) for a pile under torque. With the proposed iterative solution scheme, the equivalent stiffness of a soil-pile system of individual pile segments is calculated from the bottom element to the top element, while torque and the angles of twist are calculated from the top element to the bottom element of the pile without having to simultaneously solve a large number of equations. The solution provides: (1) the distribution of the angles of twist, (2) the distribution of torque along the pile and (3) the equivalent stiffness of the pile-soil system. A comparison of the results of the analysis using the proposed new solution mechanism with those of existing analytical solutions and a three-dimensional finite element analysis shows that the proposed method is much more efficient.
Self-care practices among foster parents: An exploratory study

Abstract Given the multifarious challenges facing foster parents and the impact these challenges may have on caring for young people, it is imperative that researchers examine aspects of wellness among foster parents. This study explored the personal self-care practices of foster parents (N = 1271) in one southeastern state. Researchers utilized the Self-Care Practices Scale (SCPS) to explore the personal self-care practices of foster parents, as well as the relationships between demographic and foster parenting characteristics and self-care, respectively. Congruent with other research related to helping professionals, results from the current study indicate that foster parents engage in moderate amounts of self-care. In addition, analyses detected significant differences in personal self-care scores by gender, relationship status, health status, and current financial status. Significant predictors of self-care include gender, race, sexual orientation, employment status, health status, and current financial situation. Implications associated with training and support for foster parents are discussed.
Evaluating sag resistance with a multinotched applicator: correlation with surface flow measurements and practical recommendations

Sag is a coating defect that results from excessive, gravity-driven flow after deposition. Accordingly, characterizing resistance to sag is critically important. In this paper, sag resistance predicted using a multinotched applicator test is compared with results obtained using an in situ particle tracking technique that measures surface velocity. Four commercial latex paints dried on substrates inclined at three angles were investigated. The results are used to provide insight into the strengths and limitations of using a multinotched applicator to evaluate sag resistance. For coatings dried on vertical surfaces (90°), the suggested condition for the multinotched applicator, sag lengths found by particle tracking show differences between paints that the multinotched applicator ranked as identical. At smaller angles (e.g., 10°), the resolution of the multinotched applicator test is greatly enhanced owing to a reduction in the shear stress difference between adjacent coated lines. Based on these results, specific recommendations are made for successfully employing a multinotched applicator to evaluate sag resistance based on user-specific goals.
Robotic partial nephrectomy for clinical T2a renal mass is associated with improved trifecta outcome compared to open partial nephrectomy: a single surgeon comparative analysis.

Utilization of partial nephrectomy (PN) for T2 renal mass is controversial due to concerns regarding burden of morbidity, though most cited data are from open PN (OPN). We compared surgical quality and functional outcomes of RPN and OPN for clinical T2a renal masses (cT2aRM). Retrospective analysis of 150 consecutive patients [RPN 59/OPN 91] who underwent PN from July 2008 to June 2016. Main outcome was achievement of Trifecta [negative surgical margin, no major urologic complications, and ≥90% preservation of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)]. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify factors of Trifecta attainment. Mean tumor size (RPN 7.9 vs. OPN 8.4 cm, p = 0.139) and median RENAL score (p = 0.361) were similar. No difference was noted for positive margins (RPN 3.4% vs. OPN 1.1%, p = 0.561), ΔeGFR (RPN − 6.2 vs. OPN − 7.8, p = 0.543), and ≥ 90% eGFR recovery (RPN 54.1% vs. OPN 47.2%, p = 0.504). RPN had lower blood loss (p = 0.015), hospital stay (p = 0.013), and Clavien ≥ 3 complications (RPN 5.1% vs. OPN 16.5%, p = 0.041). Trifecta rate was significantly higher in RPN (47.5% vs. 34.0%, p = 0.041). Multivariable analysis demonstrated decreasing RENAL score (OR 1.11, p < 0.001), RPN (OR 1.2, p = 0.013), and decreasing EBL (OR 1.02, p = 0.016) to be associated with Trifecta attainment. RPN provided similar functional and oncologic precision to OPN, while being associated with improvements in major complications, the latter of which was reflected in a higher rate of Trifecta achievement for RPN. RPN may be considered to be a first-line option for select patients with cT2aRM when feasible and safe.