cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of pumping style on milk production in mothers of non-nursing preterm infants.

Milk production was examined in 39 lactating mothers of non-nursing preterm infants from 2 tertiary care centers. The purposes of this study were (1) to compare milk production of those using sequential single (SEQ) or simultaneous double (SIM) breast-pumping regimen, and (2) to examine the relationship of selected variables to inadequate ( or = 3500 g/week) milk production. In multivariate analysis, mothers using SIM produced a similar amount of milk by weight during weeks 2 to 5 postpartum compared to those using SEQ. A logistic regression model including frequency of kangaroo care, frequency of pumping, high versus low income, and previous breastfeeding experience was predictive of mothers producing adequate versus inadequate milk volume 79% of the time. All of the mothers producing > 3500 g at week 2 produced adequate amounts of milk at weeks 4 and 5. None of the mothers producing < 1700 g at week 2 reached adequate production by weeks 4 and 5. Of the remaining mothers who produced 1700 g to 3500 g at week 2, 54% achieved adequate production during weeks 4 and 5 postpartum.
The Rapid Preparation of Celloidin Serial Sections Following India Ink Injections

For the study of capillary penetration in the central nervous system of the chick embryo, following India ink injections, celloidin serial sections are superior to those prepared by the paraffin technic. The celloidin sections are arranged on a moist cigarette paper mat, which when filled is inverted and applied to a microscope slide so that the sections contact the glass surface. Subsequent to dehydration and clearing the sections are isolated on the slide by peeling off the cigarette paper. Forty-five minutes are required to prepare a slide of thirty sections from the time the block is trimmed until the cover slip is mounted with Clarite.
Golgi-situated endoplasmic reticulum α-1, 2-mannosidase contributes to the retrieval of ERAD substrates through a direct interaction with γ-COP

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) α-1, 2-mannosidase (ERManI) contributes to ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) by initiating the formation of degradation signals on misfolded N-linked glycoproteins. Despite its inferred intracellular location, we recently discovered that the mammalian homologue is actually localized to the Golgi complex. In the present study, the functional role of Golgi-situated ERManI was investigated. Mass spectrometry analysis and coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) identified a direct interaction between ERManI and γ-COP, the gamma subunit of coat protein complex I (COPI) that is responsible for Golgi-to-ER retrograde cargo transport. The functional relationship was validated by the requirement of both ERManI and γ-COP to support efficient intracellular clearance of the classical ERAD substrate, null Hong Kong (NHK). In addition, site-directed mutagenesis of suspected γ-COP–binding motifs in the cytoplasmic tail of ERManI was sufficient to disrupt the physical interaction and ablate NHK degradation. Moreover, a physical interaction between NHK, ERManI, and γ-COP was identified by co-IP and Western blotting. RNA interference–mediated knockdown of γ-COP enhanced the association between ERManI and NHK, while diminishing the efficiency of ERAD. Based on these findings, a model is proposed in which ERManI and γ-COP contribute to a Golgi-based quality control module that facilitates the retrieval of captured ERAD substrates back to the ER.
Engineering Problem Analysis with Microcomputer Spreadsheets

The use of microcomputers (personal computers) to solve Engineering related problems is a recent and rapidly growing phenomenon. A considerable amount of software by literally hundreds of vendors is available for purchase. The vendor software that is available is usually for the purpose of solving major engineering problems as opposed to the "single formula" problems that may require large amounts of data. However, these "single formula" problems can be very time consuming to solve, especially if the same formula is to be used repeatedly to calculate various reactions to varying data. For those engineers knowledgeable of computer programming, a simple solution is for them to write a program to find answers to their engineering problems. However, there are a considerable number of engineers who do not know, nor want to know, how to program a computer. For those individuals, a solution is to use microcomputer spreadsheets. No knowledge of formal programming is required, just the use of a microcomputer and the spreadsheet software. Spreadsheets can be conceptualized as a two dimensional mathematical matrix consisting of input data to a formula, and the relationships between the various data (the formula). Results can be in mathematical or graphical form. This paper provides an overview of microcomputer spreadsheets in general, and how these spreadsheets can be utilized to solve specific engineering related problems. Problem examples discussed are component reliability, component failure time distribution, and manufacturing interval estimation.
Modeling Public-Private Partnerships in Disaster Management via Centralized and Decentralized Models

The objective of this paper is to help both public and private sectors make better decisions in defensive resource allocation through public and private partnerships PPPs. In this paper, efficient PPPs are studied with regard to disaster preparedness using a decentralized model sequential game where the public sector is the first mover and a centralized model. This paper identifies the best public investment policies by evaluating the effectiveness of incentive provisions based on the various private strategic responses. This paper also provides insights into understanding a how to construct optimal public and private partnerships and b whether, when, and to what extent public and private investments in disaster preparedness could form better PPPs. We study the conditions of the private and public sectors' allocation strategies when they are strategic complements or substitutes. We find that the private sector that has a higher target valuation or lives in more risky areas invests more and has higher potential to partner with the public sector. We also compare the decentralized model results with the results of the centralized model to study the efficiency of the PPPs and find that the results are similar when the target valuation or the probability of disasters is small.
Effect of diet and mating status on ovarian development in a predaceous stink bug Perillus bioculatus (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

A method is presented to quantitatively score the degree of ovarian maturation in a predacious pentatomid with asynchronous follicle development. The effects of artificial diet and mating status on ovarian maturation rates were examined. Ovarian scores were not influenced by mating status but were significantly lower in females fed the artificial diet. Ovarian follicles start forming when females are 2.3 d old, reaching a peak at 4.5 d. In controls, the rate of new follicle formation decreases after the onset of vitellogenesis. By 4.5 d, all control ovarioles contained at least 1 vitellogenic follicle, and by 9.5 d all ovarioles had chorionated follicles. In contrast, females fed the artificial diet had 40% of the ovarioles with a vitellogenic and chorionated follicle at 10.5 d of age. Mating started when females were 3.5 d old and correlated with the start of vitellogenesis. Two peaks in mating were observed, one at 4.5 d and the other at 9.5 d. Regulatory mechanisms for oogenesis are discussed.
Off-Label, On-Target: Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Implantation With the SAPIEN Valve.

For patients with significant congenital heart disease, the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) represents one of the most frequent areas prone to surgical and transcatheter modification. Surgical reconstruction (transannular patches, right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits, bioprosthetic
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Key Considerations Before and After Liver Transplantation

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common etiology of chronic liver disease in developed countries and is on trajectory to become the leading indication for liver transplantation in the USA and much of the world. Patients with NAFLD cirrhosis awaiting liver transplant face unique challenges and increased risk for waiting list stagnation and dropout due to burdensome comorbidities including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. Thus far, patients transplanted for NAFLD cirrhosis have excellent mid- and long-term patient and graft survival, but concerns regarding short-term morbidity and mortality continue to exist. Post-liver transplantation, NAFLD occurs as both a recurrent and de novo manifestation, each with unique outcomes. NAFLD in the donor population is of concern given the growing demand for liver transplantation and mounting pressure to expand the donor pool. This review addresses key issues surrounding NAFLD as an indication for transplantation, including its increasing prevalence, unique patient demographics, outcomes related to liver transplantation, development of post-liver transplantation NAFLD, and NAFLD in the liver donor population. It also highlights exciting areas where further research is needed, such as the role of bariatric surgery and preconditioning of marginal donor grafts.
Absenteeism and Turnover Impact on Labor Productivity for Electrical Contractors

This document specifies the effects of absenteeism and turnover on labor productivity for the electrical contracting industry. Losses in efficiency were studied on the macro (entire project) and micro (task specific) levels. Percent absenteeism on the macro level is defined as the ratio between the number of craftsmen that fail to appear for work to the number of craftsmen employed, and on the micro level as the ratio between the number of craftsmen who fail to appear to the original number of workers who were assigned to that one specific activity. Percent turnover was studied on the macro level and identified as ratio of the number of craftsmen hired to replace those who have left to the number of craftsmen employed. This document begins by reviewing literature on the subject and presenting qualitative information determined from 98 responses of a comprehensive questionnaire detailing absenteeism and turnover from both manager and electrician perspectives. Data for the micro-analysis was collected through a monthly data collection form from five on-going projects also located across the United States. Data for the macro-analysis was collected by questionnaire from 31 completed electrical projects located across the United States. Statistical analysis techniques such as, P-Value Tests, Two sample T-Tests, Analysis of Variance, and Multiple Regression were executed to develop quantitative relationship curves. The results showed distinct relationships on both levels with losses of efficiency depending on project specific factors. This paper also lists best practices for electrical contractors to assist in reducing absenteeism and turnover within their company.
Experimental study of splitter plates for use with semispan wing models

A common technique when testing a three-dimensional wing in a wind tunnel is to use a semispan, also known as a half-span, wing as opposed to a complete aircraft model. The semispan technique has several important advantages over a model of a complete aircraft. Semispan models can typically achieve double the Reynolds number of the similar full-span model due to the increased size. Additional benefits of the large model size include improved model strength, higher geometric fidelity and more room for instrumentation. The semispan model can also typically be constructed for less cost if complex features such as high-lift systems or flow through nacelles are required. 1 The primary drawbacks to the semispan model include increased wind tunnel wall effects due to the large model size, and more importantly, the aerodynamic influence of the specific mounting method. Unlike a full-span model, a semispan wing does not require any sting or support strut, and there are several ways in which a semispan wing is typically mounted in a wind tunnel. The most straightforward method is to simply mount the wing directly to the tunnel wall. A semispan model is typically one side of a symmetric geometry so ideally the tunnel wall would act as a reflection plane boundary condition. Unfortunately, there are several ways in which the tunnel floor boundary layer can influence the aerodynamics of the semispan model and invalidate the reflection plane boundary condition. First, the loading near the root of the semispan wing is reduced due to the low dynamic pressure in the tunnel floor boundary layer. Secondly, the tunnel floor boundary layer can separate near the wing leading edge resulting in the formation of a horseshoe vortex system. Finally, the adverse pressure gradient along the surface of the wing can cause the tunnel floor boundary layer to separate anywhere along the aft section of the wing root. 1,2,3,4 These modifications to the flowfield resulting from the tunnel floor boundary layer can lead to a reduction in the lift curve slope, increased zero lift incidence and increased drag on the semispan wing compared to the full-span. 2,3,5
Simultaneous Mode versus Sequential Mode in Real-Time Computer-Mediated Conferencing

A ‘standard’ simultaneous response mode of computer-mediated real-time conferencing was compared to a sequential response mode in order to examine whether deficiences in the former were responsible for earlier observations of arousal and disinhibited behavior of participants towards one another. Twenty four discussions of twelve groups of three and the responses on a postexperimental “preferences-difficulties” questionnaire were analyzed. It was found that both the modes have deficiences which could contribute to arousal and disinhibition. Main deficiences of the simultaneous and sequential modes are identified and discussed. Recommendations for design of conference software based on the analyses are suggested.
Kafka's Eternal Present: Narrative Tense in "Ein Landarzt" and Other First-Person Stories

Many of Kafka's stories in the first person either use the present tense throughout or shift from past to present in the course of narration. The stories told entirely in the present render the inner monologue of a speaker caught in a durative psychic struggle; the stories in which the tense changes tell of a past calamity that leads to an everlasting predicament. “Ein Landarzt” is structured on an “einmal-niemals” pattern, and thus belongs to the second of these general types; but in this story Kafka also tries—again by shifting to the present tense—to achieve within the narration of past events the immediacy of present experience. He thereby effaces the demarcation between outer event and inner reflection and eliminates the temporal distance between the narrating and the experiencing self. This use of the present tense results in mutually exclusive verbal gestures and contradictory temporal references. The stylistic incongruities in “Ein Landarzt” thus point up the difficulties of rendering the immediacy of experience in a first-person narrative, and help to explain why Kafka usually preferred to use the third person in his novels and novellas.
THE NEW VIEWP01NT ON THE MECHANISM AND INFLUENCE FACTORS OF FORMING FLUIDE ULTRA-PRESSURE IN PORES OF MUDSTONE

It follows the law of low-velocity seepage that the water in pores of mudstone flows outward, after mud-sediment has been changed stone, the water in pores of middle part of mudstone layer is not able to flow outward if the starting resistance by the water film forming is not overcomed, the water is preserved in the pores so as to form undereompaction of the mudstone layer, the ultra-pressure forms by the water in the pores undertakes the part weight of the superjacent stratum, therefore, starting resistance is the fundamental reason that the fluid in pores of mudstone layers forms ultra-pressure. In the early stage of diagenesis, the starting resistance is lesser, the fluid in pores is able to flow, the ultra pressure is made up starting resistance and viscous resistance. In the middle later period of diagenesis, the starting resistance increases, the fluid is not able to flow, the viscous resistance is equal to zero, the ultra-pressure value is equal to starting resistance. Because starting resistance is the characteristic of mudstone, there is the ultra-pressure of fluid in the pores is inevitable if there are neither cracks nor faults. Starting resistance increases with increase of thickness of mudstone layer, and increase of buried depth, and heightening of diagenesis degree, and decrease of sandy content, the ultra-pressure of fluid in pores increases as much as starting resistance with the change of above factors.
Expression of Aquaporin-6 in the Mouse Kidney During Embryonic Development

Objective To observe the expression of aquaporin-6(AQP-6) protein in the Mouse Kidney during Embryonic Development,in order to investigate their relationships and effects.Methods Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expressions of AQP-6 in mouse kidney of embryonic day 14,16 and 18.Results AQP-6 was rarely detected at the embryonic day 14.It was located in renal tubule and collecting duct cells.The expression of AQP-6 was increased gradually with the kidney development.Conclusion AQP-6 might be related to the developmental and functional maturation of the fetal kidney.
Optimal Capital Allocation in Multi-projects Portfolio based on Startup Level under Two-period Investment

It intends to study a problem of capital allocation in the case of enterprise determines to activate multi-projects simultaneously for portfolio with two stage of investment.Because the funding capital amount is limited,it introduces the notion of the project's startup level,which means that the project would be rejected if its capital invested is lower than this level.It suppose that the amounts of each project's profit as well as the amounts of project's capital invested can be described as a linear function of the project's startup level.Moreover,it build the models for multi-projects portfolio of two stage of investment,and analyzes they are 0-1 knapsack problem and a continuous knapsack problem respectively,which are both shown to be NP-hard.On the basis of constructing theorem,lemma and definition for the portfolio,it obtains an optimal strategy for the problem with dynamic programming algorithm,branch and bound algorithm and greedy principle of valuable density.
Characteristics of Dyslexia and Their Remedial Implication

This paper presents an outline of characteristics common to the complex syndrome of dyslexia. The author reviews its nature, variability, degree of impairment, and suggests remedial procedures which, he feels, will work toward the improvement of the dyslexic's reading ability.
Attitudes of inner city patients with cardiovascular disease towards meditation

Objectives Meditation is a stress reduction intervention that is of potential benefit to patients with cardiovascular disease, but its interest in inner city cardiology patients is unknown. We surveyed patients at an inner city cardiology clinic about their interest in learning meditation and the impact of stress on their lifestyles. Methods A survey was distributed to 215 consecutive patients in an inner city cardiology clinic. Chi-square tests were used to compare those interested and not interested in meditation. Results Of the 215 surveys, 54 were excluded because of 2 or more missing responses, leaving 161 for analysis. The mean age was 61 (+/- 16.5) years; 59% were female, 37% were black non-Hispanic, and 34% were Hispanic, and 18% were white. Overall, 46% expressed interest in learning meditation, and 64% agreed that less stress would facilitate living a healthy lifestyle. In subgroup analysis, the highest levels of interest in meditation classes occurred in patients who were younger than 65 years old (69% interested) and those who agreed that less stress would facilitate living a healthy lifestyle (71% interested). Conclusion Many of the patients at an inner city cardiology clinic may have interest in learning meditation. Given the effects of stress in this population, clinical trials involving meditation are warranted.
Scalable information organization

We present three scalable extensions of the star algorithm for information organization that use sampling. The star algorithm organizes a document collection into clusters that are naturally induced by the topic structure of collection, via a computationally efficient cover by dense subgraphs. We also provide supporting data from extensive experiments.
Discordant Dry Eye Disease (An American Ophthalmological Society Thesis).

PURPOSE To improve understanding of dry eye disease and highlight a subgroup of patients who have a component of central sensitization and neuropathic pain contributing to their condition. METHODS Prospective, cross-sectional, IRB-approved study comparing isolated dry eye disease (n=48) to fibromyalgia (positive control; n=23) and healthy (negative control; n=26) individuals with ocular surface examination, corneal confocal microscopy, quantitative sensory testing, and self-reported ocular symptoms and systemic associations. A subset of patients also underwent skin biopsy and/or brain neuroimaging. Dry eye patients were split into concordant (ie, those with dry eyes on examination) and discordant (ie, those with dry eye symptoms but normal examination) subgroups for further analysis. We hypothesized that on the systemic measures included, concordant patients would resemble healthy controls, whereas discordant patients would show evidence of centralized mechanisms similar to fibromyalgia. RESULTS Schirmer test and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores indicated significant decreases in tear production (Schirmer: healthy, 18.5±8.2 mm; dry, 11.2±5.4 mm; fibromyalgia, 14.4±7.5; P<.001) and increases in self-reported dry eye symptoms (OSDI: healthy, 1.9±3.0; dry, 20.3±17.7; fibromyalgia, 20.3±17.1; P<.001) in the dry eye and fibromyalgia patients, compared to controls. The discordant subgroup had decreased corneal nerve density and decreased visual quality-of-life scores, similar to patients with fibromyalgia. Concordant patients were more similar to healthy controls on these measures. CONCLUSIONS Individuals with discordant dry eye may have a central pathophysiologic mechanism leading to their eye pain symptoms, which could be an important factor to consider in treatment of chronic idiopathic dry eye.
Palliative Care in Huntington Disease: Personal Reflections and a Review of the Literature.

Background Huntington disease is a fatal, autosomal dominant, neurodegenerative disorder manifest by the triad of a movement disorder, behavioral disturbances, and dementia. At present, no curative or disease modifying therapies exist for the condition and current treatments are symptomatic. Palliative care is an approach to care that focuses on symptom relief, patient and caregiver support, and end of life care. There is increasing evidence of the benefit of palliative care throughout the course of neurodegenerative conditions including Parkinson disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, beyond its application at the end of life, little is known about the role of palliative care in Huntington disease. Methods In this article, we discuss what is known about palliative care in Huntington disease, specifically related to early disease burden, caregiver burnout, advance care planning, and end of life care. Results We provide a review of the current literature and discuss our own care practices. Discussion We conclude by discussing questions that remain unanswered and positing ideas for future work in the field.
On looking at faces in an automobile: Issues, algorithms and evaluation on naturalistic driving dataset

Face detection is a vital step in the process of extracting semantic information about the driver's state, such as distraction and fatigue, from pixel values in images looking at the driver. Therefore, in the context of time and safety critical situation like driving, efficient use of time and reliable detection of faces is essential. While challenges like lighting and occlusion are prevalent in the vehicle cockpit and disruptive for time and reliabilities sake, the automobile cabin has a unique and advantageous environment for face detection. In this study we introduce a deep CNN based face detection method with discrete head pose estimation which address key challenges such as lighting conditions, occlusions, varying view points. One of the vital points in training the CNN based system is the compilation of positive samples via real-world dataset and synthetic data augmentation useful for in-vehicular settings. Performance evaluation on publicly available naturalistic driving data set, called VIVA-Face Dataset, shows promising results compared to baseline methods.
Integration of Gamification into Course Design: A Noble Endeavor with Potential Pitfalls

In this article, we provide a commentary on the current state of gamification in higher education by reviewing the research literature, noting a lack of research focused on the design of gamified p...
Facets as a Viewpoint Framework: Enhancing Connections in Search and Discovery

For this Golden Jubilee of SRELS, it is appropriate to revisit the contributions of S.R. Ranganathan to library and information science (LIS), a field long concerned with providing optimal access to cultural heritage resources. Serious obstacles to this goal remain. This paper will discuss ongoing work to address the difficulties in creating effective access for two types of cultural heritage materials – films and folktales – that draws from the facet analytical approach developed by Ranganathan. Chief among the lessons that will be discussed is the abiding positive valence of frames of reference, viewpoints and context as guideposts during searching for both groups of users in these projects.
P193 Incidence of AT1R- antibody in women with hellp syndrome

Aim Antibodies against the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R-Abs) have been implicated in a number of disease processes, including development of fibrosis in cystic fibrosis and systemic sclerosis, antibody mediated rejection in solid organ transplantation and more recently frailty in an aging population. AT1R-Abs were originally isolated in women with preeclampsia characterized by development of hypertension during pregnancy. Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome has been recognized as a complication of preeclampsia in pregnant women. Diagnostic tools are needed to distinguish women who develop HELLP syndrome from preeclampsia. In this study we determined the prevalence of AT1R-Ab in patients with HELLP syndrome. Methods Sera from 45 women (11 controls defined as having normal pregnancies, 19 HELLP or partial HELLP, 15 preeclampsia) were tested for presence of AT1R-Ab. The average gestational age was 31.9 weeks. The group included 21 Caucasian, 19 African American and 5 non-Caucasian, non-African American women. AT1R-Ab testing was performed using quantitative ELISA (One Lambda, ThermoFisher). A concentration >17 Units/ml was considered positive for AT1R-Ab. Results Three of the 19 HELLP patients (16%) and 1 of the 15 preeclampsia patients (6%) were positive for AT1R-Ab. None of the patients in the control group had AT1R-Ab >17 Units/ml. Overall, there was no significant difference in the mean AT1R-Ab concentration between the control group and the diseased group (preeclampsia and HELLP; 11.39 Units/ml versus 9.48 Units/ml respectively; p = 0.2). Conclusions In this small study, we did not find a significant difference in the concentration of AT1R-Ab in the disease population compared to the control group. Interestingly, while none of the patients in the control group had concentrations >17 Units/ml, 4 patients in the diseased group had strong antibody. A larger patient population may be needed to determine significance. Evaluation of the AT1R-Ab ELISA for detection of AT1R-Ab in populations other transplant patients can be beneficial.
Giant Pressure‐Induced Enhancement of Seebeck Coefficient and Thermoelectric Efficiency in SnTe

The thermoelectric properties of polycrystalline SnTe have been measured up to 4.5 GPa at 330 K. SnTe shows an enormous enhancement in Seebeck coefficient greater than 200% after 3 GPa, which correlates to a known pressure-induced structural phase transition that is observed through simultaneous in-situ X-ray diffraction measurement. Electrical resistance and relative changes to the thermal conductivity were also measured providing determination of relative changes in the dimensionless figure of merit (ZT), which increases dramatically after 3 GPa reaching 350% of the lowest pressure ZT value. The results signify the fundamental relationship between structure and thermoelectric behaviors, and suggest pressure to be an effective tool to control them
Considerations of Droplet Processes in Liquid Hazardous Waste Incineration

Abstract Droplet processes which could be relevant to the incineration of liquid hazardous wastes arc discussed, with emphases on the combustion-resistant nature of these wastes, on possible emissions in off-design operations, and on cost issues. Special topics considered include assessment of droplet gasification times and of initial droplet size requirements, ignition and extinction phenomena, flame holding, and soot formation. The potential of developing a rational blending strategy to promote multi-waste incineration for enhanced overall incineration efficiency and economy is discussed. Recent experimenal results on the droplet combustion of mixtures of chlorinated hydrocarbons support the viability of the blending concept.
Parathyroid Hormone Signaling in Osteocytes

Osteocytes are the most abundant cell type in bone and play a central role in orchestrating skeletal remodeling, in part by producing paracrine-acting factors that in turn influence osteoblast and osteoclast activity. Recent evidence has indicated that osteocytes are crucial cellular targets of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Here, we will review the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which PTH influences osteocyte function. Two well-studied PTH target genes in osteocytes are SOST and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). The molecular mechanisms through which PTH regulates expression of these two crucial target genes will be discussed. Beyond SOST and RANKL, PTH/PTH-related peptide (PTHrP) signaling in osteocytes may directly influence the way osteocytes remodel their perilacunar environment to influence bone homeostasis in a cell-autonomous manner. Here, I will highlight novel, additional mechanisms used by PTH and PTHrP to modulate bone homeostasis through effects in osteocytes. © 2017 The Authors. JBMR Plus is published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
mRNA-nanoparticles to enhance and track dendritic cell migration.

72Background: Despite aggressive clinical interventions, glioblastoma (GBM) remains almost universally fatal. In a pilot, randomized, and blinded clinical trial, we recently demonstrated that administration of RNA-loaded dendritic cell (DC) vaccines was associated with significantly improved progression-free and overall survival in patients with GBM (Mitchell et al, Nature 2015). Furthermore, clinical outcomes correlated with migration of Indium-111-labeled DCs to vaccine-site draining lymph nodes (LNs) measured by SPECT/CT imaging. While these studies demonstrated that DC migration may be an important clinical biomarker for response to DC vaccination, the complexity and regulatory requirements associated with nuclear labeling to track DC migration limits widespread application of this technique. We have therefore developed RNA-loaded magnetic nanoparticles (RNA-NPs) to enhance DC migration to LNs and track that migration with a widely available imaging modality (i.e. MRI). Methods: Cationic liposomes wer...
Developmental Dynamics of Green Fluorescent Chromatophores in the Daggerblade Grass Shrimp, Palaemonetes Pugio Holthuis, 1949 (Decapoda, Caridea, Palaemonidae)

ABSTRACT The daggerblade grass shrimp, Palaemonetes pugio Holthuis 1949 relies heavily on transparency as the primary form of camouflage yet possess several types of pigmented chromatophores located throughout the body. A distinct sub-population of yellow/white chromatophores have been discovered to exhibit brilliant green fluorescence. These cells develop in the embryo and are the primary chromatophore present in larval organisms. Post-larval grass shrimp undergo a major restructuring of the pattern and morphology of fluorescent chromatophores after metamorphosis with chromatophores found uniformly distributed throughout the body and at high concentration on the hepatopancreas and the eye stalks. In adult P. pugio the number of fluorescent chromatophores is significantly reduced and fluorescence is limited to only a subset of these chromatophores. The novel fluorescent properties of these cells, there relatively high abundance during early life stages, and pattern of development, suggest important cellular functions for these fluorescent chromatophores in grass shrimp.
Towards Dynamic Monitoring of Cell Cultures Using High Throughput Sequencing

We used a combination of DOP-PCR with high throughput sequencing (HTS) to study infected cell cultures over time to assess the feasibility of using this technique to provide a read-out other than cytopathic effect in cell culture infectivity assays. Because DOP-PCR primers feature a short constant sequence at their 3' terminus, the procedure yields a reproducible representational library of products from a given PCR template, including viral nucleic acids. Using SV40- and MVM-infected cultures harvested at different times, we show that the number of viral matches among DOP-PCR products parallels the quantity of virus as shown by real-time PCR, and further show that HTS analysis of specific DOP-PCR products that increase in quantity over time could be used to identify the infecting virus with a sensitivity similar to that of typical cell-culture assays that rely on cytopathic effect.
Sueños De Los Flyover States: Narratives of Latino Males in the Great Plains

ABSTRACTIn this study, we use a narrative inquiry approach to present the stories of two Latino males attending community colleges in the Great Plains region of the United States that includes the ...
Influence of austenitizing parameters on microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-Si coated press hardened steel

Abstract The influence of the austenitizing parameters on the microstructure and mechanical behavior of Al-Si coated press hardened 22MnB5 steel was evaluated in this study. Increasing the austenitizing temperature and hold time resulted in microstructural homogenization, an increase in the prior austenite grain size (PAGS), and increased thickness of the substrate-coating interdiffusion layer. The mechanical properties were evaluated using smooth-sided tensile testing, double edge-notch tensile testing, and free bend testing. Refinement of the PAGS was, in general, beneficial for the mechanical performance of the press hardened steel (PHS); i.e. strength, notch displacement, maximum bending load, and bend angle at maximum load all generally increased with decreasing PAGS. The stress and strain state experienced during each type of test influenced the sensitivity of mechanical and fracture behavior of the PHS to austenitizing conditions. Furthermore, the thickening of the substrate-coating interdiffusion layer, composed of brittle intermetallic phases, at higher austenitizing temperature negatively influenced bendability of the PHS. Ductile fracture was commonly observed in the steel matrix composed of a lath martensitic structure. However, quasi-cleavage fracture was observed for the martensitic matrix with the largest PAGS, which implies a loss of toughness, possibly because of the increased substructure size.
Cognitive assessment in a predominantly Hispanic and Native American population in New Mexico and its association with kidney transplant wait-listing.

The association between cognitive function and the likelihood of kidney transplant (KT) wait-listing, especially in minority populations, has not been clearly delineated. We performed a retrospective review of our pre-KT patients, who consist mainly of Hispanics and Native Americans, over a 16-month period. We collected data on baseline demographics and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score, at the initial KT evaluation. We defined cognitive impairment as MoCA scores of <24. We constructed linear regression models to identify associations between baseline characteristics with MoCA scores and used Cox proportional hazards models to assess associations between MoCA score and KT wait-listing. During the study period, 154 patients completed the MoCA during their initial evaluation. Mean (standard deviation) MoCA scores were 23.9 (4.6), with 58 (38%) participants scoring <24. Advanced age, lower education and being on dialysis were associated with lower MoCA scores. For every one-point increase in MoCA, the likelihood of being wait-listed increased 1.10-fold (95% CI 1.01-1.19, P = .022). Being Native American and having kidney disease due to diabetes or hypertension were associated with longer time to wait-listing. Cognitive impairment was common in our pre-KT patients and was associated with a lower likelihood of KT wait-listing.
Photoinduced Terminal Hydride of [FeFe]-Hydrogenase Biomimetic Complexes.

The active site of the [FeFe]-hydrogenase ([FeFe]-H2ase) has a bridging carbonyl ligand and a terminal hydride in the key H-cluster intermediate Hhyd. However, nearly all of the synthetic mimics re...
From Simon Cowell to Tim Gunn: What Reality Television Can Teach Us About How to Critique Our Students' Work Effectively

In an effort to illustrate and inform what makes for more effective critique of students' legal writing, this essay analogizes the various critiquing techniques currently taking place on the popular reality programs American Idol and Project Runway to the critiquing techniques used by legal writing professors.
Soundscape shifts during the 2017 total solar eclipse: an application of dispersed automated recording units to study ephemeral acoustic events

Shifts in soundscapes often reflect diurnal patterns. In 2017 a total solar eclipse occurred in the US, resulting in a period of 3 h with the sun partially covered by the moon and 2 min of total da...
Florida Crop/Pest Management Profile: Cabbage

Florida’s cabbage production is exclusively for the fresh market. The higher-quality cabbage obtained during the late fall, winter, and early spring months in Florida allows the shipment of fresh cabbage to areas of the United States that cannot produce cabbage during that part of the year. This 18-page fact sheet summarizes production practices and pest management for cabbage production in Florida. Written by Wael M. Elwakil and Mark Mossler, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, April 2013. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pi042
A theoretical framework for analyzing coupled neuronal networks: Application to the olfactory system

Determining how synaptic coupling within and between regions is modulated during sensory processing is an important topic in neuroscience. Electrophysiological recordings provide detailed information about neural spiking but have traditionally been confined to a particular region or layer of cortex. Here we develop new theoretical methods to study interactions between and within two brain regions, based on experimental measurements of spiking activity simultaneously recorded from the two regions. By systematically comparing experimentally-obtained spiking statistics to (efficiently computed) model spike rate statistics, we identify regions in model parameter space that are consistent with the experimental data. We apply our new technique to dual micro-electrode array in vivo recordings from two distinct regions: olfactory bulb (OB) and anterior piriform cortex (PC). Our analysis predicts that: i) inhibition within the afferent region (OB) has to be weaker than the inhibition within PC, ii) excitation from PC to OB is generally stronger than excitation from OB to PC, iii) excitation from PC to OB and inhibition within PC have to both be relatively strong compared to presynaptic inputs from OB. These predictions are validated in a spiking neural network model of the OB–PC pathway that satisfies the many constraints from our experimental data. We find when the derived relationships are violated, the spiking statistics no longer satisfy the constraints from the data. In principle this modeling framework can be adapted to other systems and be used to investigate relationships between other neural attributes besides network connection strengths. Thus, this work can serve as a guide to further investigations into the relationships of various neural attributes within and across different regions during sensory processing.
Modeling self-healing behavior of vitrimers using molecular dynamics with dynamic cross-linking capability

Abstract Vitrimers are a special class of polymers that undergo dynamic cross-linking under thermal stimuli. Their ability to exchange covalent bonds can be harnessed to mitigate damage in a composite or to achieve recyclable aerospace composites. This work addresses the primary challenge of modeling dynamic cross-linking reactions in vitrimers during thermomechanical loading. Dynamic bond exchange reaction probability change during heating and its effect on dilatometric and mechanical response are simulated for the first time in large scale molecular dynamics simulations. Healing of damage under thermal cycling is computed with mechanical properties predicted before and after self–healing.
Outcomes of Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair in Systolic Versus Diastolic Congestive Heart Failure.

INTRODUCTION Percutaneous mitral valve repair with MitraClip device has been approved for treatment of mitral regurgitation in symptomatic patients deemed high risk for surgical repair. This study compares outcomes of Mitraclip in patients with systolic (SHF) versus diastolic heart failure (DHF). METHODS The study population was extracted from the 2016 Nationwide Readmissions Data (NRD) using International Classification of Diseases, tenth edition, clinical modifications/procedure coding system (ICD-9-CM/PCS) codes for the Mitraclip, SHF, DHF, and procedural complications. Study endpoints included in-hospital all-cause mortality, cardiogenic shock, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), acute kidney injury (AKI), stroke, acute respiratory failure, bleeding, blood transfusion, length of hospital stay (LOS) as well as 30-day readmission rate. RESULTS A total of 1681 discharges that had Mitraclip during the index hospitalization and had a history of SHF (909) or DHF (772) were included in this analysis. The mean age was 78.5 years and 46.6% were female. SHF group was associated with higher post-procedural cardiogenic shock (7.3% versus 2.0%, p < 0.01), AMI (2.1% versus 0.8%, p = 0.03), AKI (21.0 versus 14.2%, p < 0.01), acute respiratory failure (13.2% versus 9.6%, p = 0.02), and longer LOS (9.6 versus 5.7 days, p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between groups in terms of in-hospital all-cause mortality (3.4% versus 2.3%, p = 0.18), stroke (0.7% versus 1.4%, p = 0.15), bleeding (10.7% versus 8.9%, p = 0.23), need for blood transfusion (5.7% versus 3.6%, p = 0.05), or 30-day readmission rate (15.7% versus 16.1%, p = 0.86). CONCLUSIONS In comparison to DHF, patients with SHF undergoing the MitraClip had higher in-hospital morbidities and longer LOS but comparable mortality and 30-day readmission rates.
Celda: A Bayesian model to perform bi-clustering of genes into modules and cells into subpopulations using single-cell RNA-seq data

Complex biological systems can be understood by dividing them into hierarchies. Each level of such a hierarchy is composed of different subunits which cooperate to perform distinct biological functions. Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) has emerged as a powerful technique to quantify gene expression in individual cells and is being used to elucidate the molecular and cellular building blocks of complex tissues. We developed a novel Bayesian hierarchical model called Cellular Latent Dirichlet Allocation (Celda) to perform bi-clustering of co-expressed genes into modules and cells into subpopulations. This model can also quantify the relationship between different levels in a biological hierarchy by determining the contribution of each gene in each module, each module in each cell population, and each cell population in each sample. We used Celda to identify transcriptional modules and cell subpopulations in publicly-available peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) dataset. In addition to the major classes of cell types, Celda also identified a population of proliferating T-cells and a single plasma cell that was missed by other clustering methods in this dataset. Transcriptional modules captured consistency in expression patterns among genes linked to same biological functions. Furthermore, transcriptional modules provided direct insights on cell type specific marker genes, and helped understanding of subtypes of B- and T-cells. Overall, Celda presents a novel principled approach towards characterizing transcriptional programs and cellular and heterogeneity in single-cell data.
How Large Would Russia Be If It Were a Corporation? A Comparison of Russia’s GDP to Selected Corporations’ Revenue

Russia is the largest country in the world in terms of square kilometers. It is ranked #11 in terms of GDP. This study compares Russia’s GDP to the revenue of selected corporations.
A POSSIBLE LATE TIME ΛCDM-LIKE BACKGROUND COSMOLOGY IN RELATIVISTIC MOND THEORY

In the framework of relativistic MOND theory (TeVeS), we show that a late time background ΛCDM cosmology can be attained by choosing a specific F(μ) that also meets the requirement for the existence of Newtonian and MOND limits. We investigate the dynamics of the scalar field ϕ under our chosen F(μ) and show that the slow roll regime of ϕ corresponds to a dynamical attractor, where the whole system reduces to ΛCDM cosmology.
Military integration and intelligence capacity: informational effects of incorporating former rebels

Military integration seeks to improve counterinsurgency and peacebuilding outcomes by incorporating former rebels into preexisting or new state security forces during or after civil wars. While pea...