cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Endothelial Cell-Specific Regulatory Mutation in Galgt2 Is the Major Cause of Prolonged aPTT in Mice.

The regulation of endothelial cell gene expression plays a central role in maintaining hemostatic balance. However, little is known about the key sequence elements responsible for the control of the endothelial gene expression program. We previously identified the cause of low levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) in the inbred mouse strain RIIIS/J as a regulatory mutation in the gene encoding an N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase, GALGT2. This low VWF allele, which we termed Mvwf1 , results from a tissue-specific switch in expression program from intestinal epithelium to vascular endothelium. The ectopic expression of Galgt2 in vascular endothelial cells results in aberrant post-translational modification of VWF, leading to accelerated clearance. The specific regulatory DNA sequences responsible for this remarkable lineage-specific transcriptional switch were mapped genetically to an ~300kb region surrounding the Galgt2 gene. To further define the critical regulatory sequences, we have generated transgenic mice using three overlapping C57BL/6J bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) encompassing the Galgt2 gene. All three transgenes directed wild-type (C57BL/6J) GI epithelial expression of Galgt2 , mapping the GI specific regulatory elements to an 84kb interval shared by these three BACs. Direct sequencing of RIIIS/J over >80kb flanking the transcriptional start site identified a region of 2–3% sequence divergence from C57BL/6J beginning ~25kb upstream of exon 1 and extending ~10kb into intron 1. This region contains several insertions and deletions ranging from 120bp to 6.4kb. We are currently testing chimeric RIIIS/J:C57BL/6J BACs to fine map the critical regulatory elements responsible for the switch. PCR genotyping of 49 mouse strains identified a total of 9 strains that have RIIIS/J polymorphisms within the region of high sequence divergence. Extensive sequencing confirmed a common haplotype block of at least 55kb in length that is shared by all 9 Mvwf1 strains that also exhibit the GI epithelial to endothelial switch in Galgt2 expression. These data identify an ancient founder allele present in a number of mouse strains and retained at a low level within the wild mouse population. In a survey of the Jackson Phenome Database, Mvwf1 strains accounted for 5 of the 6 highest aPTTs, establishing this single allele as the most common cause of prolonged aPTTs in laboratory mice. The prevalence of this allele also suggests that it has been maintained through positive selective pressure. In summary, we have identified a common allele leading to low VWF levels in the mouse. We have characterized a haplotype block shared by all Mvwf1 mice that begins at least 35kb upstream of the Galgt2 transcriptional start site and overlaps the 84kb interval that confers wild-type Galgt2 expression. Continued analysis of these sequences should provide important new insights into endothelial cell-specific gene expression and the more general problem of tissue specific gene regulation.
Lymphomatoid Papulosis: Assessing Treatment Response and Associated Lymphomas in a Study of 180 Patients

Introduction: Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) is a CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorder, with a self-regressing clinical course and malignant histopathology. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate characteristics, risk factors, associated malignancies, long-term outcome and treatment of LyP in a large cohort representing the experience of the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients with LyP seen between 1999 and 2015. Patient charts, clinical and histopathological data were evaluated, searching the MD Anderson Cancer Center cutaneous T-cell lymphoma database. A total of 237 patients with the diagnosis of LyP were identified, with 180 patients meeting the inclusion criteria of both clinical diagnosis of LyP and confirmatory biopsy. Results: A total of56.6% of patients were male and 43.3% were female. The majority of patients were Caucasians (77.7%, n=139). The mean age at diagnosis was 52.7±17.2 years. The mean time from symptom onset to a biopsy proven diagnosis of LyP was 45.0±75.4 months. The majority of patients (51.6%, n=83) had less than twelve lesions at the worst time point. Histologic subtype A was found in 47.2%, type B in 17.2%, type C in 22.8%, type D in 7.8%, type E in 0.6% and mixed subtype in 4.4% of the patients. Associated lymphomas (n=114) were observed in 93 patients with mycosis fungoides (61.4%, n=70) and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (26.3%, n=30) being the most common forms (Table). Men were 2.85 times (95%CI: 1.55-5.24) more likely to develop a secondary lymphoma than women. Other risk factors for development of lymphoma included histologic subtypes B and C and older age. Number of lesions, symptom severity and ethnicity were not associated with lymphoma development. Patients with type D (CD8+) were less likely to develop lymphomas. Despite the high number of detected secondary malignancies, the prognosis of LyP is excellent. Only eight out of 180 evaluated patients died of their disease. A broad variety of treatment options are available for symptomatic relief only, since no treatment modality was found to prevent progression to lymphoma. Conclusion: We could demonstrate that LyP is associated with other cutaneous and extra-cutaneous malignancies, the most common being MF and ALCL. To date the risk of developing associated lymphomas cannot be altered by medication. Long term follow-up exams and proper patient counseling are required to ensure early detection of evolving secondary malignancies. Disclosures Duvic:Therakos: Research Funding.
Characterization and conditioning of SSPX plasma facing surfaces

Abstract The Sustained Spheromak Physics Experiment (SSPX) will examine the confinement properties of spheromak plasmas sustained by DC helicity injection. Understanding the plasma-surface interactions is an important component of the experimental program since the spheromak plasma is in close contact with a stabilizing wall (flux conserver) and is maintained by a high current discharge in the coaxial injector region. Peak electron temperatures in the range of 400 eV are expected, so the copper plasma facing surfaces in SSPX have been coated with tungsten to minimize sputtering and plasma contamination. Here, we report on the characterization and conditioning of these surfaces used for the initial studies of spheromak formation in SSPX. The high pressure plasma-sprayed tungsten facing the SSPX plasma was characterized in situ using β-backscattering and ex situ using laboratory measurements on similarly prepared samples. Measurements showed that water can be desorbed effectively through baking while the removal rates of volatile impurity gases during glow discharge and shot conditioning indicated a large source of carbon and oxygen in the porous coating.
Authoritarian Evolution: Agency and Institutional Change in the Controlled Chinese Press

What drives gradual change in authoritarian regimes? This paper argues the institutional turn in comparative authoritarianism benefits from more robust engagement with theories of endogenous change that give greater weight to the role of cognition, ideas, and agency. While structural accounts of elite bargaining at critical junctures are key to understanding authoritarian change they are indeterminate with respect to long-term outcomes. Empirically, this article addresses unexplained puzzles, such as the emergence of a relatively professional print media in the otherwise controlled environment of the Chinese press. This analysis thus highlights political factionalism, principle-agent problems, and horizontal selection of policy ideas as important additional mechanisms of institutional change in authoritarian systems.
Psychological autopsy study comparing suicide decedents, suicide ideators, and propensity score matched controls: results from the study to assess risk and resilience in service members (Army STARRS).

Background The suicide rate has increased significantly among US Army soldiers over the past decade. Here we report the first results from a large psychological autopsy study using two control groups designed to reveal risk factors for suicide death among soldiers beyond known sociodemographic factors and the presence of suicide ideation. Methods Informants were next-of-kin and Army supervisors for: 135 suicide cases, 137 control soldiers propensity-score-matched on known sociodemographic risk factors for suicide and Army history variables, and 118 control soldiers who reported suicide ideation in the past year. Results Results revealed that most (79.3%) soldiers who died by suicide have a prior mental disorder; mental disorders in the prior 30-days were especially strong risk factors for suicide death. Approximately half of suicide decedents tell someone that they are considering suicide. Virtually all of the risk factors identified in this study differed between suicide cases and propensity-score-matched controls, but did not significantly differ between suicide cases and suicide ideators. The most striking difference between suicides and ideators was the presence in the former of an internalizing disorder (especially depression) and multi-morbidity (i.e. 3+ disorders) in the past 30 days. Conclusions Most soldiers who die by suicide have identifiable mental disorders shortly before their death and tell others about their suicidal thinking, suggesting that there are opportunities for prevention and intervention. However, few risk factors distinguish between suicide ideators and decedents, pointing to an important direction for future research.
Agency, Identity, and the Emergence of Ritual Experience:

We draw from psychological research on meaningful activity to identify the conditions that promote ritual experience among individuals. Specifically, we ask whether feelings of agency and expressio...
Abstract P029: Resolving Discordance of Human Cardiomyogenesis Estimates in the Healthy Adult Heart

Rationale: Estimates of the endogenous cell turnover rates in healthy human hearts conflict, varying from 0% to over 30%. Turnover rate age-dependence is also controversial with some studies indicating decreasing turnover with advancing age and other studies suggesting that turnover increases with age. Methods/Results: We created a hybrid mathematical model encompassing two prominent analyses of human adult cardiomyogenesis that concluded highly disparate turnover rates. The model was programmed to accept input parameters for age-dependent cardiomyogenesis and apoptosis. High-turnover input parameters (10%–30%, increasing with age), extracted from a recent publication by Kajstura, et. al., were used to create 12 model patient hearts with ages and birthdates corresponding to the 12 patients analyzed by a C14 fate-mapping technique in a publication by Bergmann, et. al., which reported low turnover rates of 1%–0.45%, decreasing with age. Modeled hearts parameterized with high, age-increasing input turnovers produced low (5%–0.5%), age-decreasing estimates of turnover when the C14 analysis technique was applied. This systematic underestimation reflects the inability of fate-mapping models to account for turnover events in which myocytes created after patient birth are destroyed prior to patient death. This effect may underestimate true turnover events by over 90% and is more severe for patients with longer lifespans, predisposing such techniques to report decreasing turnover with advancing age. We next evaluated the effect of input parameter uncertainty on the hybrid model. We observed non-linear sensitivity of fate-mapping algorithms to polyploidization correction factors, with 20% variation in correction factor leading to approximately 30% changes in reported turnover. The Kajstura model was acutely sensitive to estimates of myocyte half-life (Δ20% produced a 45% change in average myocyte age) and stem cell expansion coefficient (Δ20% produced a 2-fold change in reported turnover). Conclusions: Accounting for short-lived myocytes in fate-mapping models reconciles apparent differences between the models. Recognition of realistic input parameter uncertainty improves interpretation of these models.
The Effects of Emotionality on Conscious and Unconscious Information Processing

Experiential (episodic) data constitute the major components of conscious awareness and in general contribute the most important influences that shape personality. They always carry emotional charge (positive, negative, or neutral), and no discussion of their processing would be complete without a consideration of the influences of such charges. Mechanical and semantic operations are also strongly influenced by motivational—emotional forces (e.g., the effects of stress on stuttering). However, at this time, we shall restrict ourselves to a discussion of the effects of emotionality on episodic material; in Chapter 17 we shall consider the effects of stress on procedural processing.
Neurological Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation

Many reports in the literature have suggested the effect of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RFR) (10 kHz-300,000 MHz) on the functions of the nervous system. Such effects are of great concern to researchers in bioelectromagnetics, since the nervous system coordinates and controls an organism’s responses to the environment through autonomic and voluntary muscular movements and neurohumoral functions. As it was suggested in the early stages of bioelectromagnetics research, behavioral changes could be the most sensitive effects of RFR exposure. At the summary of session B of the proceedings of an international symposium held in Warsaw, Poland, in 1973, it was stated that “The reaction of the central nervous system to microwaves may serve as an early indicator of disturbances in regulatory functions of many systems” [Czerski et al., 1974].
Fish Feeding Behavior in a Local Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) Population

ABSTRACT.— North American geese (Anserini) are largely herbivorous, yet exploration and exploitation of a variety of food sources is well known. Utilization of a novel food source can be limited by many factors, including, but not limited to, general morphology and physiology, availability in the landscape, and energy balance constraints. Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) are documented to be exclusively herbivorous, yet herein we report observations over a two-year period of at least 8 different individual Canada Geese catching and eating fish. We hypothesize that this behavior represents an opportunistic exploitation of a readily available food source during a time when weather conditions limit foraging activities on the surrounding landscape. Our observations suggest the possibility of fish as a potential food source not previously recognized for Canada Geese.
The Future of Financial Reporting: Insights from Research

Research offers insights that, if heeded and built upon, could improve financial reporting, thereby contributing to a more prosperous society. In particular, research suggests improvement could stem from greater use of fair value; a performance statement designed to reveal the information embedded in changes in fair value; better information to help investors assess the value of intangible assets; more specific information about risk and uncertainty; information that is unbiased, rather than conservative; acceptance of a degree of earnings management together with a determination of how much earnings management is acceptable; and a financial reporting package designed to convey information users need, which presumably is broader than today's financial statements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Rx for addiction and medication safety: An evaluation of teen education for opioid misuse prevention

Abstract Background Rhode Island (RI) ninth graders report lifetime nonmedical use of prescription opioids (NMUPO) of 8.9%. NMUPO is associated with transition to heroin use, opioid overdose, and death. Objectives Measure changes in 9th grade students' knowledge, confidence, perceptions of opioid use disorder prevention, overdose response with naloxone, treatment, and recovery, following the delivery of an interactive substance use disorder curriculum. Methods Eight RI public high schools were recruited to participate. Freshman in each school were administered identical surveys that collected demographic data, substance use and misuse knowledge, students' perceptions of substance misuse harm, reported drug use, and risk and protective behaviors before and after the curriculum. Results Among 969 pre-intervention survey respondents, 19% reported use of marijuana, 3% heroin use, and 21% nonmedical use of prescription opioids. Between the pre-intervention to the post-intervention survey, significantly more students identified that addiction is a chronic brain disease (79%–83%, p = 0.05), drug users are not responsible for their addiction (81%–88%, p = 0.001), and that non-medical use of a prescription medication is use without a prescription (81%–88%, p = 0.001). Improved confidence was also reported in identifying opioid withdrawal symptoms (26%–45%, p Conclusions Students reported significant NMUPO prevalence. Ninth grade students' knowledge and confidence of opioid misuse, overdose response, and recovery resources increased following the delivery of a multi-modal interactive substance use disorder curriculum. Community, school, and student-level interventions are needed to reduce NMUPO.
Protein variations in Listeria monocytogenes exposed to sodium lactate, sodium diacetate, and their combination.

Most studies of the effect of adverse conditions on survival of Listeria monocytogenes have focused on stress caused by acid or sodium chloride. However, no information is available on resistance of this pathogen to stress caused by salts of organic acids. Sodium lactate and sodium diacetate are generally recognized as safe substances and are approved as ingredients for use in foods. We evaluated antilisterial properties of each of these salts and the enhanced inhibition effected by their combination in ready-to-eat meat products at pH 6.3. Changes in proteins found in this pathogen were studied in the presence of the salts in a chemically defined medium at the same pH using a proteomic approach. The total numbers of protein spots obtained from two-dimensional electrophoresis were 198, 150, and 131 for sodium diacetate, sodium lactate, and the control, respectively. Sodium diacetate treatment produced the highest number of unmatched proteins (124 versus 53 in lactate), the greatest increase in expression ...
The effects of preoperative steroids on tonsillectomy patients.

A prospective, randomized, double-blind study to determine the postoperative efficacy of steroids in tonsillectomy was performed in 49 children. A single dose of intravenous dexamethasone or placeb...
Efficiency of Fiscal Expenditures in Nevada Elementary Schools Using Data Envelopment Analysis.

iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS v TABLE OF CONTENTS vi LIST OF TABLES xi LIST OF FIGURES xiii CHAPTER 1INTRODUCTION 1 Statement of Problem 4 Purpose of the Study 5 Research Questions 5 Conceptual Framework 5 Summary of Methodology 7 Sources of Data 9 Definition of Terms 10 Related to School Finance 10 Related to Efficiency and Microeconomics 11 Related to Data Envelopment Analysis 12 Related to Resource Allocation/Downward Accounting 14 Assumptions 17 Limitations and Delimitations 17 Significance of the Study 18 Summary 18
Meander-Like Shape Optimization of the Stator-Rotor Platform Cavity

Recent progress in additive manufacturing has enabled opportunities to explore novel stator rim geometries which can be implemented to improve cooling strategies in turbomachinery. This paper presents a simplified stationary geometry optimization strategy to produce enhanced stator-rotor cavity sealing and highlights main driving mechanisms.The stator and rotor rims were designed using a design strategy based on inspiration from the meandering of rivers. A minimum thickness of 2 millimeters was maintained throughout the cavity to ensure a practical implementation. The computational domain comprised of the stator outlet, hub disk leakage cavity, and rotor platform was meshed using NUMECA Int. package, Hexpress. The numerical analysis required 3D Unsteady Reynolds Average Navier-Stokes to replicate vorticial structures using Ansys Fluent. The operating conditions were representative of engine-like conditions, exploring a wide range of mass flow ratios from 1 to 3 percent. The optimization yielded designs that provide 30 percent reduction in rear platform temperature while minimizing coolant mass flow. The applicability of the design was compared against 3D sector in both stationary and in rotation.
The species category as a scientific kind

Marc Ereshefsky’s project of eliminative pluralism holds that, as there is no unifying feature among all species concepts, we ought to doubt the existence of the species category. Here, I argue that one promising strategy for saving the species category is to reframe it as a natural kind after the practice turn. I suggest situating the species category within a recent account of natural kinds proposed by Marc Ereshefsky and Thomas Reydon called “scientific kinds”. Scientific kinds highlight ontological boundaries. More importantly, they recognize boundaries drawn from the lab and the field, not only from the armchair. The point of this exercise is to situate the species category within an account of natural kinds that is sensitive to scientific practice. In order to argue for a realist interpretation of the species category, and not merely a pragmatic one, I rely on an approach to scientific metaphysics from Ken Waters that shifts the attention from “theory focused” to “practice-centered” analysis.
We Demand: The University and Student Protests

Ferguson’s book, We Demand: The University and Student Protests, offered a critical, nuanced look at college student activism from the 1950s–1970s and how the subsequent responses from the governme...
Multiscale Homogenization Analysis of Alkali–Silica Reaction (ASR) Effect in Concrete

Abstract The alkali–silica reaction (ASR) is one of the major long-term deterioration mechanisms occurring in concrete structures subjected to high humidity levels, such as bridges and dams. ASR is a chemical reaction between the silica existing inside the aggregate pieces and the alkali ions from the cement paste. This chemical reaction produces ASR gel, which imbibes additional water, leading to gel swelling. Damage and cracking are subsequently generated in concrete, resulting in degradation of its mechanical properties. In this study, ASR damage in concrete is considered within the lattice discrete particle model (LDPM), a mesoscale mechanical model that simulates concrete at the scale of the coarse aggregate pieces. The authors have already modeled successfully ASR within the LDPM framework and they have calibrated and validated the resulting model, entitled ASR-LDPM, against several experimental data sets. In the present work, a recently developed multiscale homogenization framework is employed to simulate the macroscale effects of ASR, while ASR-LDPM is utilized as the mesoscale model. First, the homogenized behavior of the representative volume element (RVE) of concrete simulated by ASR-LDPM is studied under both tension and compression, and the degradation of effective mechanical properties due to ASR over time is investigated. Next, the developed homogenization framework is utilized to reproduce experimental data reported on the free volumetric expansion of concrete prisms. Finally, the strength degradation of prisms in compression and four-point bending beams is evaluated by both the mesoscale model and the proposed multiscale approach in order to analyze the accuracy and computational efficiency of the latter. In all the numerical analyses, different RVE sizes with different inner particle realizations are considered in order to explore their effects on the homogenized response.
Prostaglandin E2 Induces miR675-5p to Promote Colorectal Tumor Metastasis via Modulation of p53 Expression

Background & Aims Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) promotes colorectal tumor formation and progression by unknown mechanisms. We sought to identify microRNAs (miRNAs) that might mediate the effects of PGE2 on colorectal cancer (CRC) development. Methods We incubated LS174T colorectal cancer cells with PGE2 or without (control) and used miRNA-sequencing technology to compare expression patterns of miRNAs. We knocked down levels of specific miRNAs or proteins in cells using small interfering RNAs or genome editing. Cells were analyzed by immunoblot, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, chromosome immunoprecipitation, cell invasion, and luciferase reporter assays; we measured gene expression, binding activity, cell migration and invasion, and transcriptional activity of transcription factors. NOD-scidIL-2Rg–/– mice were given injections of LS174T cells, and growth of primary tumors and numbers of liver and lung metastases were quantified and analyzed by histology. We used public databases to identify correlations in gene expression pattern with patient outcomes. Results We identified miRNA 675-5p (miR675-5p) as the miRNA most highly up-regulated by incubation of colorectal cancer cells with PGE2. PGE2 increased expression of miR675-5p by activating expression of Myc, via activation of protein kinase B, also known as (AKT), nuclear factor κB, and β-catenin. PGE2 increased the invasive activities of cultured CRC cells. LS174T cells incubated with PGE2 formed more liver and lung metastases in mice than control LS174T cells. We identified a 3′ untranslated region in the TP53 messenger RNA that bound miR675-5p; binding resulted in loss of the p53 protein. Expression of miR675-5p or its precursor RNA, H19, correlated with expression of cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 and shorter survival times of patients with CRC. Conclusions We found that treatment of mice with PGE2 increased CRC cells invasive activity and ability to form liver and lung metastases. PGE2 down-regulates expression of p53 by increasing expression of miR675-5p, which binds to and prevents translation of TP53 messenger RNA. These findings provide insight into the mechanisms by which PGE2 promotes tumor development and progression. Strategies to target PGE2 might be developed for treatment of CRC.
Emotions, media and politics: Karin Wahl-Jorgensen, Cambridge, Polity Press, 2019, 248 pp., @24,95 (pbk.), ISBN: 978-0-745-66105-6

Journalism and politics have been understood in the Western context often as the result of a flawed premise: that we can abandon our passion, affect, and emotion, and that logic and reason instead ...
A Hybrid Internal Iliac Artery Reconstruction for Open Common Iliac Artery Aneurysm Repair

Common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysms present across a spectrum of anatomic variants that can pose unique operative challenges. A wide variety of procedural approaches have been described in the literature with current therapeutic options including both open and endovascular repair. These techniques may involve either ligation or embolization of the internal iliac artery (IIA) with reliance on collateralized blood flow to the pelvis to mitigate postoperative complications. However, preservation of the IIA is often preferred. This case report describes a hybrid surgical approach for treating CIA aneurysms while preserving IIA perfusion. Our technique mitigates the risks of hypogastric artery dissection (including hypogastric vein injury) in the presence of a large CIA aneurysm.
Peer influence on household energy behaviours

Studies across multiple disciplines demonstrate the importance of peers in shaping energy-related behaviours. Research on this process is wide ranging, from documenting spatial peer effects in the adoption of rooftop solar—when an individual’s behaviour is influenced by the behaviours of neighbours—to showing how neighbour comparisons can be used to reduce household electricity consumption. However, gaps exist in our understanding of how and why these peer effects occur. In this Review, we examine recent findings on social influence in energy behaviour and discuss pathways through which social influence can result in peer effects. We propose a conceptual framework for predicting which social influence processes will most often result in peer effects, depending on the targeted energy behaviour. We also review the limitations of social influence as well as evidence for when it is expected to be the strongest. Household energy behaviours are influenced by the behaviour of others. In this Review, the authors review recent findings on social influence in energy consumption and technology adoption and discuss pathways through which social influence can result in peer effects.
Runtime Hardware Security Verification Using Approximate Computing: A Case Study on Video Motion Detection

The heterogeneous CPU-FPGA system architecture has been adopted in system-on-chip (SoC), server, and cloud computing platforms to achieve design flexibility and hardware-level performance acceleration. While benefiting the system performance, the newly added FPGA component in the traditional CPU-based computing platforms could result in undetectable system security issues via third-party FPGA IP cores that are produced by untrusted vendors. Traditional hardware and/or software security verification mechanisms do not suffice to address the unique security and runtime performance challenges introduced by the new system architecture. In this paper, we develop a novel approximate computing-based approach to achieve a fast and accurate enough repeated execution for security verification. We implement and evaluate the approximate computing-based security verification framework by conducting a case study on a CPU-FPGA based video motion detection system, in which our experiments on Xilinx Zynq SoC justifies the premium security and low performance overhead obtained by the proposed approach.
Partial oxidation of o-xylene to phthalic anhydride in a fixed bed reactor with axial thermowells

Abstract The present study analyses the thermowell system for monitoring temperatures in a fixed bed catalytic reactor for the highly exothermic partial oxidation of o-xylene to phthalic anhydride. Particle-resolved computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are presented for the cases of randomly-packed spheres inside cylindrical tubes with tube-to-particle diameter ratios (N) of 3.96, 5.96 and 7.99. Results are obtained for each N value for cases with inner thermowell radius to outer tube radius ratios of 0.0 (no thermowell), 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2. Comparisons of radial void fraction and axial velocity profiles, axial pressure drop and axial temperature profiles under reaction conditions are presented. The presence of the thermowell did change the mass and heat transfer and reaction inside and around the particles, especially at the bed center. The configurations of catalyst particles were rearranged, leading to changes in voidage, flow and temperature profile. The axial temperature profiles from the thermowells differed from the profiles in the undisturbed beds.
Autonomic Formation of Large-Scale Wireless Mesh Networks

Real-world deployments of low-cost, peer-to-peer Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs) for communication in under-served settings are hampered by low throughput capacity and high complexity of network control. We present a design of autonomic agents that manipulate the formation of WMN topologies by organizing a node placement into dynamic network partitions while enforcing inter-partition connectivity to promote the WMNs' capacity through density control, increased frequency diversity and multi-domain SDN-based control. We show that our competing Self-Organizing and Self-Healing agents achieve fast convergence to stable partition sets and global re-connectivity, relying on local information. Moreover, the design achieves global inter-partition connectivity with less than 20% of healing agents on nodes, converging under extreme node churn conditions. The design is robust to the average node placement density, producing partitions isolated at the physical and link layers with the properties of bounded diameter and node degree, and elected partition control node to act as an SDN domain controller.
Click evoked Middle Ear Muscle Reflex: Implications for Medial Olivocochlear System Assays

Abstract This study describes a time series-based method of middle ear muscle reflex (MEMR) detection using bilateral clicks, with implications for otoacoustic emission (OAE)-based medial olivocochlear reflex (MOCR) assays. Although current click-based methods can detect changes in the OAE evoking stimulus to monitor the MEMR, these methods do not discriminate between true MEMR-mediated vs. artifactual changes in the stimulus. We measured MEMR in 20 young clinically normal hearing individuals using a series of clicks presented at six levels (65 to 95 dB peak-to-peak SPL in 6 dB steps). Results were well-approximated by double-exponential functions. The change in ear canal pressure due to MEMR increased monotonically as a function of click level but non-monotonically with frequency. MEMR thresholds estimated using this method were lower than that obtained from a clinical tympanometer in ~94% of the participants. It is recommended that the OAE-evoking stimulus be monitored to determine the presence of MEMR across a wide band of frequencies in MOCR assays. A time series-based method, along with statistical tests, may provide additional confidence in detecting the MEMR. MEMR effects were smallest at 2 kHz which may provide avenues for minimizing the MEMR influence on the MOCR.
E-Government and information technology coursework in public administration programs in Asia:

New technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are changing how the public sector serves constituents. Academic programs in public administratio...
Factors Associated With Unilateral Hearing Loss and Impact on Communication in US Adults.

ObjectiveTo investigate the factors associated with unilateral hearing loss (UHL) and its impact on communication in US adults.Study DesignCross-sectional study.SettingNationally representative sam...
Techno-economic analysis of balancing California’s power system on a seasonal basis: Hydrogen vs. lithium-ion batteries

Abstract Non-emitting variable renewable energy (VRE) resources are needed on the power grid if the United States is to “deeply decarbonize” the power sector. The intermittent nature of these resources makes them difficult to integrate into the power system. Existing energy storage technologies, such as lithium-ion (LI) batteries, could be used to aid the integration of these resources, but these technologies are sized to produce power for hours at a time before needing to be charged again. While these energy storage technologies could address daily imbalances between supply and demand for electric power, they cannot address the seasonal nature of power production of VREs. This paper details a methodology to estimate the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of meeting this seasonal imbalance with either a hydrogen-fired gas turbine (HFGT) or lithium-ion battery system (LI) as a measure of economic efficiency of the technologies. Applying our model, we find the average LCOE associated with meeting this seasonal imbalance is $2400/MWh using a HFGT fueled with green hydrogen and $3000/MWh using a LI. If we allow the model to operate the HFGT with blue hydrogen the average LCOE decreases to $1560/MWh. However, we find the power prices required to justify investment in an HFGT to replace a natural gas-fired gas turbine are considerably higher than those seen in the market today.
Wearable Fitness Devices: An Investigation into Co-constructed Meaning of Use:

This article investigates practical uses of Wear Fitness Devices (WFDs) and extends literature to include a co-constructed process. Previous research has looked at various aspects of the devices. Y...
Student Voices on Leadership Training Needs to Care for Underserved Populations.

Introduction Experts suggest that leadership education should begin during medical school. However, little information exists on preferences of medical students on leadership development and particularly of those who want to work with underserved communities. This student-led study surveyed medical students on leadership development skills and perceptions on curricular needs. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study using a 26-question survey with Likert scales, multiple choice, and open-ended questions. We anonymously surveyed 83 students (medical school years 1 through 4) at the Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California and conducted a one-time focus group with six students to assess leadership aspirations and training needs. We compared student responses based their desire to serve in underserved communities in their careers. Results Medical student desire to practice in underserved communities was greatest among respondents in their first 2 years (62% and 67%), compared to 36% and 53% for respondents in third and fourth year, respectively. Students interested in underserved communities were statistically more likely (t test 2.07, P=.04) to indicate "My well-being may need to be sacrificed in order to serve as a leader," based on the survey. The survey showed similar top-five leader characteristics (competent, dependable, honest, inspiring, supportive) were valued among all respondents. Optional leadership modules were selected to enhance medical education by the most respondents and could potentially meet their curricular needs. Conclusion Our findings show that medical students welcome leadership training opportunities and prefer optional longitudinal modules. Students who plan to practice in underserved communities have similar preferences on training but may need additional support related to maintaining their well-being.
Melanoma Addiction to GCDH is Mediated by NRF2 Tumor Suppressor Function

Tumor dependency on specific metabolic signals has guided numerous therapeutic approaches. Here we identify melanoma addiction to the mitochondrial protein Glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH), a component in lysine metabolism which controls protein glutarylation. GCDH knockdown promoted apoptotic Unfolded Protein Response signaling and cell death in melanoma cells, an activity blocked by knockdown of the upstream lysine catabolism enzyme DHTKD1. Correspondingly, reduced GCDH expression correlated with improved survival of melanoma patients. A key mediator of GCDH-dependent melanoma cell death programs is the transcription factor NRF2, which induces ATF3, CHOP, and CHAC1 transcription linking lysine catabolism with the UPR signaling. NRF2 glutarylation upon GCDH KD increased its stability and DNA binding activity, which coincided with increased transcriptional activity, promoting apoptotic UPR signaling and tumor suppression. In vivo, genetic GCDH inhibition effectively inhibited melanoma tumor growth. Overall, these findings demonstrate an addiction of melanoma cells to GCDH, which by controlling NRF2 glutarylation limits apoptotic UPR signaling. Inhibiting the GCDH pathway could represent a novel therapeutic modality to treat melanoma.
Vibrational States of Al Adsorbed on Ge Clusters

Interference enhanced Raman spectra of Al adsorbed on Ge clusters reveal an Al induced vibrational band. The resulting effective force constant implies a significantly weaker interaction than that of the similar reduced mass Si-Ge system. Consistent XPS core line shifts of Al and Ge (0.6eV) suggest the formation of a weak covalent bond between the metal adsorbate and semiconductor clusters.
Semi-supervised Segmentation Based on Level Set

The segmentation result of Region-based Active Contour (RAC) usually has little relationship with the initial contour which brings difficulties for Human-Computer Interaction. Based on the interactive information between user and system as the prior knowledge, this paper proposed an interactive object segmentation algorithm RIS. The model proposed is based on the active contour without edge (CV) and the prior shape. As the reason of imprecise prior shape user inputs, the weighted area algorithm based on the gradient and laplace was introduced. To overcome the issue of shrink of the object contour, a new area inspiring item was added into the energy function. The experimental results have shown that, without the prior knowledge model based on the shape training set, the proposed algorithm can segment ROI based on the user inputs information.
Evaluations of reproductive health programs in humanitarian settings: a systematic review

Provision of reproductive health (RH) services is a minimum standard of health care in humanitarian settings; however access to these services is often limited. This systematic review, one component of a global evaluation of RH in humanitarian settings, sought to explore the evidence regarding RH services provided in humanitarian settings and to determine if programs are being evaluated. In addition, the review explored which RH services receive more attention based on program evaluations and descriptive data. Peer-reviewed papers published between 2004 and 2013 were identified via the Ovid MEDLINE database, followed by a PubMed search. Papers on quantitative evaluations of RH programs, including experimental and non-experimental designs that reported outcome data, implemented in conflict and natural disaster settings, were included. Of 5,669 papers identified in the initial search, 36 papers describing 30 programs met inclusion criteria. Twenty-five papers described programs in sub-Saharan Africa, six in Asia, two in Haiti and three reported data from multiple countries. Some RH technical areas were better represented than others: seven papers reported on maternal and newborn health (including two that also covered family planning), six on family planning, three on sexual violence, 20 on HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and two on general RH topics. In comparison to the program evaluation papers identified, three times as many papers were found that reported RH descriptive or prevalence data in humanitarian settings. While data demonstrating the magnitude of the problem are crucial and were previously lacking, the need for RH services and for evaluations to measure their effectiveness is clear. Program evaluation and implementation science should be incorporated into more programs to determine the best ways to serve the RH needs of people affected by conflict or natural disaster. Standard program design should include rigorous program evaluation, and the results must be shared. The papers demonstrated both that RH programs can be implemented in these challenging settings, and that women and men will use RH services when they are of reasonable quality.
Formal quantization of quadratic momentum observables

The problem of quantizing classical observables is a venerable one. It is well known that it is impossible to fully quantize all classical observables [1-3]; in fact, it is not even possible to consistently quantize the algebra of polynomials on a Euclidean phase space [1,3-6]. Consequently, research has centered on both quantizing restricted classes of observables [1,7,8] and weakening the notion of a "full" quantization [2,8-10]. To these ends, numerous quantization schemes have been developed (see, e.g., [7,10-15])o In this paper, I study the quantization of quadratic momentum observables using the geometric quantization procedure of Kostant and Souriau [12-14] in the Schr~dinger representation° Consider a classical system with an oriented n-dimensional configuration space M. It is convenient (but certainly not necessary) in what follows to assume that M comes equipped with a semi-Riemannian metric g. Let V = ker T~ be the vertical polarization on phase space T'M, where ~:T~M ÷ M is the projection. I take the prequantization line bundle to be trivial and use the orientation on M to induce a metaplectic structure for V on T*M. Relative to this data, the quantum Hilbert space is L2(M, Idet gl1⁄2) o Turning now to the classical observables, denote by CN(V) the subspace of C~(T~M) consisting of functions which are at most Nth-degree polynomials along the fibers of ~o Then C0(V) = ~*C~(M) is the set of configuration observables. The space CI(V ) consists of linear momentum observables PX + f' where f e Co(V) and PX is the momentum in the direction of the vector field X on M. The linear momentum observables play a distinguished role in quantization theory since they form a Schrodinger subalgebra [2,16] of the Poisson algebra C=(T*M). In particular, this means that elements of CI(V) can be unambiguously and equivalently quantized in all viable quantization schemes [2,8]. This is so in geometric quantization because the flow of (the Hamiltonian vector field of) each such observable preserves the vertical polarization. Specifically, PZ + f ~ CI(V) is quantized as the operator
Structures and Properties of Keratin-Based and Related Biological Materials

Keratin, complimentary fibrous proteins to collagen, is represented by two classes or molecular structures, alpha (a) and beta (b), having similar amino acid sequences and biological functions. Prominent examples include wool and silk fibers, avian materials, biological armor (including varieties of scales and shells), and exoskeleton composites.
Sources of error in the use of arsonium reagents: Part i. compositions and thermal stabilties of some Tetraphenyl and Triphenylmmethyl-Arsonium Salts

Abstract A search has been made for sources of error in the use of arsonium salts as reagents. Compositions, thermogravimetric curves and hydrate vapor pressures have been measured for a variety of tetraphenylarsonium and triphenylmethylarsonium salts and triphenylarsine oxide. Some of the salts are hygroscopic and form hydrates. Tetraphenylarsonium salts are more stable to heat than triphenylmethylarsonium salts. Some published data on these compounds are incorrect.
The Role of Dielectric Heating and Effects of Ambient Humidity in the Electrical Breakdown of Polymer Dielectrics

Polymer-based dielectric materials have potential applications in microelectronics, power electronics, photovoltaics, flexible electronics, MEMS, and sensing industries. The possibility of premature electrical breakdown due to high electric fields, particularly at high frequencies and in high ambient temperature and humidity conditions, has restricted its widespread adoption. In this paper, we generalize the thermochemical model of dielectric breakdown and establish dielectric heating as the primary ac degradation mechanism in polymers and develop an analytical dielectric breakdown model that satisfactorily explains measured trends in constant and ramp stress tests under both ac and dc electric fields applied to 5- $\mu\mbox{m}$ -thick PBO capacitors. We also study and quantify the effects of exposure to ambient relative humidity on the electrical breakdown lifetime of polymer dielectrics. Our study provides a fundamental physical understanding of the frequency, ambient humidity, and thickness dependencies of lifetime and breakdown strength for polymer dielectrics; the proposed breakdown model suggests far more optimistic dielectric lifetimes when accelerated test results are scaled to normal operating conditions.
Lack of a significant temperature influence on the incorporation of Cd into benthic foraminiferal tests

[1] Benthic foraminiferal Cd/Ca is an important proxy for seawater paleonutrient concentrations and therefore deep ocean paleocirculation. Although previous work suggests that the incorporation of Cd into benthic foraminiferal calcite is insensitive to temperature, at least one species of planktonic foraminifer appears to be strongly influenced. The present study provides a closer look at the relationship between benthic Cd partition coefficients and temperature, using new and previously published data from the Bahama Banks. Neither calcitic taxa nor the aragonitic Hoeglundina elegans exhibits any consistent changes in partition coefficients over the range 4 to 18°C.