cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
When complex neuronal structures may not matter

Much work has explored animal-to-animal variability and compensation in ion channel expression. Yet, little is known regarding the physiological consequences of morphological variability. We quantify animal-to-animal variability in cable lengths (CV = 0.4) and branching patterns in the Gastric Mill (GM) neuron, an identified neuron type with highly-conserved physiological properties in the crustacean stomatogastric ganglion (STG) of Cancer borealis. We examined passive GM electrotonic structure by measuring the amplitudes and apparent reversal potentials (Erevs) of inhibitory responses evoked with focal glutamate photo-uncaging in the presence of TTX. Apparent Erevs were relatively invariant across sites (mean CV ± SD = 0.04 ± 0.01; 7-20 sites in each of 10 neurons), which ranged between 100-800 µm from the somatic recording site. Thus, GM neurons are remarkably electrotonically compact (estimated λ > 1.5 mm). Electrotonically compact structures, in consort with graded transmission, provide an elegant solution to observed morphological variability in the STG.
Epoxy hybrid networks with high mass fraction molecular-level dispersion of pendant polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)

Abstract A novel high shear continuous reactor method was developed to obtain molecular level incorporation of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) containing one amine group and seven isobutyl groups into epoxy network as pendant cage. The method consisted of optimizing reaction time and temperature for the synthesis of POSS-epoxy precursor in a high shear continuous reactor. A full conversion of POSS into POSS-epoxy precursor was achieved within 30–40 s of reaction time in a continuous reactor for all molar compositions from 1:140 to 1:1.05 in comparison to a batch process with the reaction time of 18 h. The structure of this precursor at the end of the reaction, determined by silicon Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (29Si NMR), was close to the ideal one. The distribution of reaction product was determined by size exclusion chromatography (SEC). The reaction product containing up to 1:3-mol ratio of POSS: epoxy molecules showed ‘epoxy-POSS-epoxy’ precursor as a primary product in comparison to 1:2 and 1:1.05-mol ratios with higher molecular weight precursor as the primary product. Hybrid networks containing up to 50 wt % POSS were prepared by curing these precursors with an aromatic amine curative 4, 4'diamino diphenyl methane (DDM). The resulting networks are completely transparent and no phase separation was observed by SEM and TEM in the course of polymerization despite the incompatibility of the isobutyl groups attached to the POSS with the aromatic epoxy-amine networks. In addition to that, DMA and TGA results prove that the introduction of high shear continuous reactor promotes the dispersion of pendant POSS to a molecular level into epoxy networks.
Being a Friend to Nature: Environmental Virtues and Ethical Ideals

AbstractThis paper argues that environmental virtue ethics requires the adoption of an ethical ideal in order to guide the identification and practice of virtues. I recommend friendship as one such ideal due to emphasis such an ideal places upon the quality of the relationship with nature rather than the evaluation of individual actions. After describing the value of friendship as an ethical ideal, I respond to some of the objections that have been raised against it in the context of environmental virtue.
Oncolytic adenovirus expressing apoptotic genes targets radiation resistant (RR) esophageal cancer

21043 Background: Only 25% of esophageal cancer patients achieve pathological complete response after standard chemoradiotherapy. Radiation dose escalation is associated with higher toxicity but no...
Toy-Based Technologies for Children with Disabilities Simultaneously Supporting Self-Directed Mobility, Participation, and Function: A Tech Report

Go Baby Go is a community-based outreach, research, and clinical treatment program that works with families, clinicians, service providers and industry to provide pediatric equipment to children with disabilities for movement, mobility and socialization. The purpose of the current technical report is to describe two innovative and novel extensions of the initial modified ride-on car technology that encourages self-directed mobility, participation and function for young children with disabilities. The current report provides a description of the ‘sit-to-stand’ and ‘throw-baby-throw’ ride-on car technologies: (1) Sit-to-stand modified ride-on car technology: Commercially available, battery-operated, ride-on cars are adapted by installing a large, easy-to-press activation switch that is placed on the steering wheel. The switch has a large surface area and turns on at the slightest touch allowing easier activation for children with disabilities. Common materials such as PVC pipe, swimming kickboards and fun noodles, and Velcro are used to build a custom seating system that provides optimum support for each child. There are no commercially available powered wheelchairs for children with disabilities from birth to three years old. An innovative sit-to-stand version of modified ride-on car will be presented and requires a child to stand up in order to activate the switch to encourage the physical skills of pulling from sit-to-stand, weight bearing, and balance; (2) Throw-baby-throw technology: Children with disabilities that experience limited upper-extremity function are not able to throw an object. The throw-baby-throw technology includes modification of a commercially available, toy-based ball pitching’ machine that projects foam balls to. We modified the toy so that it is switch activated and attached to a modified ride-on car. Our modified throwing device allows children with disabilities to engage in the fundamental motor skill of throwing. Both technologies presented in this technical report embrace the holistic view of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health framework by placing equal emphasis on the body structure and function, activity, and participation domains. Both technologies specifically target the advancement of physical skills while simultaneously providing opportunities to engage in experiences associated with activity and participation.
Inflammatory responses to acute elevations of carbon dioxide in mice.

Elevated levels of CO2 are often found in indoor air and cause adverse health effects, but the mechanisms have not been identified. In a murine model, environmentally relevant levels of CO2 were fo...
Development, and effect of water temperature on development rate, of pikeperch Sander lucioperca embryos.

Abstract Knowledge of embryo development is essential to the application of reproductive biotechnology in aquaculture, including for pikeperch Sander lucioperca . We describe pikeperch embryo development and demonstrated effects of temperature on the duration of embryogenesis. Developmental stages in embryos incubated at 15 °C were identified as zygote, 0–1.5 h post-fertilization (hpf); cleavage, 2.5–7.5 hpf; blastula, 9–18.75 hpf; gastrula, 21–39, hpf; segmentation, 45–105 hpf; and hatching, 125–197 hpf. Additional groups of eggs were fertilized and incubated at 10, 15, 20, and 25 °C to document stages of development, development rate, and survival. The optimal fertilization and incubation temperature was shown to be 15 °C, with the highest fertilization, survival, and hatching rates. Embryo development was slower at 10 °C, with 45% of fertilized embryos surviving to hatching. Development was accelerated at 20 °C, and resulted in a 56% survival rate of fertilized embryos. At 25 °C, embryos did not develop to the blastula stage. Pikeperch could be a valuable percid model for research in which flexible incubation temperatures is required.
Effect of alternate day fasting on markers of bone metabolism: An exploratory analysis of a 6-month randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND Alternate day fasting (ADF) is a novel diet therapy that reduces body weight, but its effect on bone health remains unknown. OBJECTIVE This study examined the impact of ADF versus traditional daily calorie restriction (CR) on markers of bone metabolism in a 6-month randomized controlled trial. METHODS Overweight and obese subjects (n = 100) were randomized to 1 of 3 groups for 6 months: 1) ADF (25% energy intake fast day, alternated with 125% intake feast day; 2) CR (75% intake every day); or 3) control (usual intake every day). RESULTS Body weight decreased similarly (P < 0.001) by ADF (-7.8±1.2%) and CR (-8.8±1.5%), relative to controls by month 6. Lean mass, total body bone mineral content and total body bone mineral density remained unchanged in all groups. Circulating osteocalcin, bone alkaline phosphatase, and C-terminal telopeptide type I collagen (CTX) did not change in any group. IGF-1 increased (P < 0.01) in the CR group, with no change in the ADF or control group. When the data were sub-analyzed according to menopausal status, there were no differences between premenopausal or postmenopausal women for any marker of bone metabolism. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that 6 months of ADF does not have any deleterious impact on markers of bone metabolism in obese adults with moderate weight loss.
Eight World Historians

This critique identifies the key concepts through which Christian, Manning, Fernandez-Armesto, Ansary, and Gabitov have woven world historical narratives and the themes through which Peter Stearns, Merry Wiesner-Hanks, and Candice Goucher have cross-sectioned world history. The essay highlights the commonalities between the eight authors and points towards the innovations that the “global turn” entails.
Hospital volume and cesarean delivery among low-risk women in a nationwide sample

We sought to determine if hospital delivery volume was associated with a patient’s risk for cesarean delivery in low-risk women. This study retrospectively examines a cohort of 1 657 495 deliveries identified in the 2013 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Hospitals were stratified by delivery volume quartiles. Low-risk patients were identified using the Society for Maternal–Fetal Medicine definition (n=845 056). A multivariable logistic regression accounting for hospital-level clustering was constructed to assess the factors affecting a patient’s odds for cesarean delivery. The range of cesarean delivery rates was 2.4–51.2% among low-risk patients, and the median was 16.5% (IQR 12.8–20.5%). The cesarean delivery rate was higher in the top two-volume-quartile hospitals (17.4 and 18.2%) compared to the bottom quartiles (16.4 and 16.3%) (P<0.001). Hospital volume was not associated with a patient’s odds for cesarean delivery after adjusting for patient and other hospital characteristics (P=0.188). Hospital delivery volume is not an independent predictor of cesarean delivery in this population.
Radiation-induced meningiomas: A case-control study at single center institution

Abstract Background Our understanding of radiation induced meningiomas (RIM) is limited. It has been suggested that RIM harbor more aggressive cellular pathology and must be observed vigilantly. However, the actual recurrence rates of RIM compared to the sporadic meningiomas has yet to be defined. Objective We employ a single center case-control study to retrospectively assess recurrence rates between RIM (n = 12) and sporadic meningiomas (n = 118). Methods The criteria for the RIM group included the following: 1) History of intracranial clinical-dose radiation 2) Initial pathology other than meningioma, 3) Radiation administered greater than 5 years prior to meningioma onset. Recurrence rates, extent of resection and outcomes were analyzed. Results There was a significant difference in recurrence rates between the RIM group and sporadic meningioma: 50% vs. 5% respectively, p = 0.004. There was no significant difference in race, preoperative tumor volume, extent of resection, Ki67, or age between the two groups. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that size (OR 0.95 95%CI (0.92–0.99)), extent of resection (OR 1.08 95%CI (1.01–1.14)), WHO grade (OR 160.24 95% CI (6.32–74509)) and history of previous radiation (OR 1.28 95%CI (1.01–1.62)) were independent risk factors for recurrence. RIM patients had significantly higher proportion of atypical or malignant histology compared to sporadic patients (p Conclusion RIM patients may have a higher predisposition for tumor recurrence than patients with sporadic RIM. The use of Ki67 indices may help identify patients with a higher risk of tumor recurrence. Prospective studies focusing on newly diagnosed patients with RIM may help identify an optimal surveillance and treatment plan.
Understanding and Manipulating Viral Immunity: Antibody Immunodominance Enters Center Stage

Adaptive immune responses against antigenically variable viruses and cellular pathogens are efficient in many cases, but largely limited to the infecting or immunizing strain. A major factor that limits immunity is immunodominance (ID), the hierarchical focusing of adaptive immune responses on a subset of antigenic determinants. While CD8+ T cell ID has been extensively studied, studies of basic mechanisms of B cell ID are limited, despite the importance of antibodies (Abs) for durable protection against pathogens. Here, we review recent progress in understanding the basic rules and mechanisms of B cell ID, compare B and CD8+ T cell ID, and outline challenges to overcoming ID to develop Ab-based ‘universal’ vaccines for influenza A and other highly variable viruses.
Standing on the Shoulders of Midgets: The U.S. Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program in the United States is one of the most important public policy programs,with a goal of generating innovative hi-technology firms and promoting competitiveness and growth. The purpose of this paper is to describe the SBIR, explain why it has emerged as an important policy instrument, and provide an evaluation of the impact of the SBIR. The findings of this paper suggest that the SBIR has generally accomplished its mission by contributing to the creation of high-technology small firms and enhancing U.S. competitiveness.
Needs of Parents and Families Whose Children Have Learning and Behavior Problems

This study was designed to assess parent service requests and services used by parents of learning and behavior problem children. Special education teachers also estimated those services they perceived that parents needed. Results revealed that the needs of parents of behaviorally disordered and learning disabled children differed within and between groups. In addition, teachers perceived parents to have needs in excess of those they use or request. Implications of the present study are discussed in relation to teacher training and service delivery systems.
Integrating genome-scale metabolic models into the prediction of microbial kinetics in natural environments

Abstract We propose a new method to predict microbial metabolic rates in natural environments using genome-scale metabolic models. This method is a hybrid of existing approaches, i.e., rate laws and flux balance analysis (FBA). It accounts for the availabilities of chemical energy and growth nutrients in the environment, and applies FBA independently to the respiration and biosynthesis pathways of genome-scale metabolic models. We illustrate the new method by modeling the metabolism of a representative methanogen – Methanosarcina barkeri – in laboratory reactors and in pristine and biostimulated aquifers. The laboratory application demonstrates that the hybrid method predicts the rates of individual biochemical reactions within overall cell metabolism and tracks, explicitly, cellular fluxes of carbon and energy. The aquifer applications reveal that the growth of methanogens in natural systems can be limited by multiple factors, including energy sources and growth nutrients, and that the limitations are subject to Liebig’s Law of the Minimum. These results highlight the improvements of the new method in biogeochemical reaction modeling, including its applicability to diverse environments, from eutrophic to oligotrophic.
Frequent monoallelic or skewed expression for developmental genes in CNS-derived cells and evidence for balancing selection

Cellular mosaicism due to monoallelic autosomal expression (MAE), with cell selection during development, is becoming increasingly recognized as prevalent in mammals, leading to interest in understanding its extent and mechanism(s). We report here use of clonal cell lines derived from the CNS of adult female [Formula: see text] hybrid (C57BL/6 X JF1) mice to characterize MAE as neural stem cells (nscs) differentiate to astrocyte-like cells (asls). We found that different subsets of genes show MAE in the two populations of cells; in each case, there is strong enrichment for genes specific to the respective developmental state. Genes that exhibit MAE are 22% of nsc-specific genes and 26% of asl-specific genes. Moreover, the promoters of genes with MAE have reduced CpG dinucleotides but increased CpG differences between the two parental mouse strains. Extending the study of variability to wild populations of mice, we found evidence for balancing selection as a contributing force in evolution of those genes showing developmental specificity (i.e., expressed in either nsc or asl), not just for genes showing MAE. Furthermore, we found that genes showing skewed allelic expression (SKE) were similarly enriched among cell type-specific genes and also showed a heightened probability of balancing selection. Thus, developmental stage-specific genes and genes with MAE or SKE seem to make up overlapping classes subject to selection for increased diversity. The implications of these results for development and evolution are discussed in the context of a model with stochastic epigenetic modifications taking place only during a relatively brief developmental window.
Analysis of Biased Agonism.

Abstract Agonists and most natural ligands bind to receptors in their inactive state and quickly induce an active receptor conformation that initiates cell signaling. The active receptor state initiates signaling because of its structural complementariness with coupling proteins that activate signaling pathways, such as G proteins and G protein-coupled receptor kinases. Agonist bias refers to the propensity of an agonist to direct receptor signaling through one pathway relative to another. Thus, if the agonist exhibits much higher affinity for active state 1 compared to active state 2, it will cause a robust activation of receptor coupling protein 1 but not 2, and ultimately, a preferential stimulation of signaling pathway 1. Biased agonists are potentially more selective therapeutic agents because there are numerous cases where the therapeutic and adverse effects of an agonist are mediated by distinct pathways involving G proteins and β-arrestin. Given the mechanism for agonist bias, the most straightforward approach for quantifying bias involves the estimation of agonist affinity for the inactive receptor state and the active receptor states involved in signaling through different pathways. The approach provides quantitative estimates of the sensitivities of different signaling pathways, enabling one to determine to what extent the observed selectivity is caused by agonist or system bias. In addition, the approach is a powerful adjunct to in silico docking studies and can be applied to in vivo assays, structure–activity relationships, and the analysis of published agonist concentration–response curves.
Mutations in Plasmodium falciparum actin-binding protein coronin confer reduced artemisinin susceptibility.

Drug resistance is an obstacle to global malaria control, as evidenced by the recent emergence and rapid spread of delayed artemisinin (ART) clearance by mutant forms of the PfKelch13 protein in Southeast Asia. Identifying genetic determinants of ART resistance in African-derived parasites is important for surveillance and for understanding the mechanism of resistance. In this study, we carried out long-term in vitro selection of two recently isolated West African parasites (from Pikine and Thies, Senegal) with increasing concentrations of dihydroartemisinin (DHA), the biologically active form of ART, over a 4-y period. We isolated two parasite clones, one from each original isolate, that exhibited enhanced survival to DHA in the ring-stage survival assay. Whole-genome sequence analysis identified 10 mutations in seven different genes. We chose to focus on the gene encoding PfCoronin, a member of the WD40-propeller domain protein family, because mutations in this gene occurred in both independent selections, and the protein shares the β-propeller motif with PfKelch13 protein. For functional validation, when pfcoronin mutations were introduced into the parental parasites by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing, these mutations were sufficient to reduce ART susceptibility in the parental lines. The discovery of a second gene for ART resistance may yield insights into the molecular mechanisms of resistance. It also suggests that pfcoronin mutants could emerge as a nonkelch13 type of resistance to ART in natural settings.
Cost-effectiveness of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (10- or 13-valent) versus no vaccination for a national immunization program in Tunisia or Algeria.

To evaluate the expected impact of the Algeria national immunization program (NIP) and potential impact for a Tunisia NIP, this study assessed the public health and economic value of vaccination, through a cost-effectiveness analysis, for a PCV13 or PCV10 NIP, compared with no vaccination. A decision-analytic model was programmed in Microsoft Excel™ and adapted to evaluate the clinical and economic outcomes of PCV vaccination. Assuming a steady state, the model estimated invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD; bacteremia and meningitis), all-cause pneumonia (inpatient and outpatient), and all-cause otitis media cases as well as the associated costs from a payer perspective. The base case scenario assumed direct effects for both PCVs and indirect effects (against IPD) for PCV13 only. In Algeria, compared with no vaccination program, PCV13 would save 2177 lives and avoid nearly 349,000 cases of IPD, pneumonia, and AOM at a highly cost-effective value of $308 per QALY. In Tunisia, PCV13 would save 308 lives and avoid 1305 cases of IPD, 4833 cases of pneumonia, and 54,957 cases of AOM at a highly cost-effective value of $848 per QALY. PCV10 prevented 1224 deaths and 270,483 cases of disease in Algeria and prevented 172 deaths and 56,610 cases in Tunisia. PCV10 was cost-effective in both Algeria at $731/QALY and in Tunisia at $1366/QALY. The ongoing NIP in Algeria is projected to reduce the impact and economic toll of pneumococcal disease in Algeria. If an NIP were also introduced in Tunisia, a commensurate impact would be expected. PCV NIPs are highly cost-effective, highly impactful public health interventions. Pfizer.
Biofilm Formation in Candida albicans

This chapter focuses on biofilm formation by the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans. Biofilms are surface-associated microbial communities surrounded by an extracellular matrix. The chapter examines the steps of biofilm formation, from the genes known to function in C. albicans biofilm development, the cell-cell communication within the biofilm, the environmental responses that contribute to biofilm formation, the drug resistance of biofilms, and experimental techniques used to study biofilms. Cell wall genes and adhesins provide mechanisms that promote biofilm initiation, and the transcription factors that regulate their expression couple biofilm initiation with internal and external signals. The study of transcription factors has laid the framework for gene regulatory networks. While much is now known, detailed testing of other known adherence factors, cell wall proteins, transcription factors, kinases, and others is required to identify more genes involved in biofilm formation, and the elucidation of upstream regulation of these factors will allow for greater insights into the signaling events important for biofilm development. Quorum sensing governs functions as diverse as bioluminescence and virulence. It has a vital role in bacterial biofilm dynamics, and its role in C. albicans biofilms is now beginning to be understood. While major challenges lie ahead to further refine the gene regulatory networks and correlate them to in vivo results, it is nonetheless an exciting time for the field of C. albicans biofilm formation.
Drivers of Community College Costs and Prices

The rising price of a year in college looms large on the American political landscape. Calls to make college free, or at least debt free, will figure prominently in policy and political debates goi...
High dose vitamin D supplementation does not rescue bone loss following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in female rats

Abstract Postoperative bone loss and increased fracture risk associated with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) have been attributed to vitamin D/calcium malabsorption and resultant secondary hyperparathyroidism (HPT). Adequate vitamin D supplementation (VDS), particularly in an older female population, reduces incidence of secondary HPT but the effect on bone loss and fracture risk remains unclear. To investigate whether VDS corrects the RYGB bone phenotype, 41 obese adult female rats were randomized to RYGB with 1000 IU (R1000) or 5000 IU (R5000) vitamin D/kg food or a sham surgical procedure with either paired (PF) or ad libitum (AL) feeding. Bone turnover markers, urinary calcium/creatinine ratio (CCR), and serum calciotropic and gut hormones were assessed throughout a 14-week postoperative period. Femurs were analyzed by micro-computed tomography (μCT), three-point bending test, and histomorphometry. 1000 IU animals had low 25‑hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), high serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), and very low urine CCR levels. 5000 IU corrected the 25(OH)D and secondary HPT but did not increase urine CCR or serum levels of 1,25‑dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)D) significantly between RYGB groups. Compared to sham animals at 14 weeks, RYGB animals had significantly higher serum osteocalcin (OCN) and C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) levels. The gut hormone peptide tyrosine tyrosine hormone (PYY) was higher in the RYGB groups, and leptin was lower. μCT and biomechanical testing revealed RYGB females had decreased cortical and trabecular bone volume and weaker, stiffer bone than controls. Histomorphometry showed decreased bone volume and increased osteoid volume with increased mineral apposition rate in RYGB compared to controls. No differences in bone phenotype were identified between 1000 IU and 5000 IU groups, and osteoclast numbers were comparable across all four groups. Thus, in our model, 5000 IU VDS corrected vitamin D deficiency and secondary HPT but did not rescue RYGB mineralization rate nor the osteomalacia phenotype. Longer studies in this model are required to evaluate durability of these detrimental effects. Our findings not only underscore the importance of lifelong repletion of both calcium and vitamin D but also suggest that additional factors affect skeletal health in this population.
Prediction and mitigation of flow breakdown occurrence for weather affected networks: case study of Chicago, Illinois

This study investigates the prediction and mitigation of the phenomenon of traffic flow breakdown when affected by varying weather conditions. First, the probability of breakdown occurrence is exam...
Intrauterine Fetal Transfusion

1. A woman is pregnant at 31 weeks’ gestation with Rh (D)–negative, antibody-negative blood type. She develops a placental abruption, prompting delivery of a viable preterm infant with Rh (D)–positive blood type. Which of the following is recommended after delivery to prevent D-alloimmunization in the mother? 2. Unfortunately she does not receive the appropriate treatment. She then has a miscarriage while traveling and has an extremely elevated anti-D antibody titer in her next pregnancy 2 years later. She is diagnosed with fetal anemia at 22 weeks’ gestation and ultimately has a procedure ( Video 1). What procedure is being shown in this video? Video 1. Click here to view the video. Fetal intraperitoneal transfusion. Alloimmunization is the development of antibodies to foreign red blood cell antigens. Fetal red blood cell antigens are determined by maternal and paternal red blood cell phenotypes. If the fetus expresses antigens foreign to the pregnant woman, the woman can develop immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to this …
Astronomy On Ice

A solar seismology program based on observations made at the South Pole is discussed. Environmental and observing conditions at the South Pole are reviewed, and the solar telescopes used in the program are described. The history of solar seismology and of observations of solar surface oscillations is briefly summarized. It is noted that the South Pole was chosen as the site for the program to obtain good frequency resolution and that the observations have produced more than 600 million bytes of computer data.
Near Peer Mentors to Address Socio-Emotional Issues Among Underrepresented Minority High School Students in Research Intensive STEM Programs: Perceptions of Students and Mentors

A Near Peer Mentoring Program (NPMP) was developed in which Medical Student Training Program (MSTP) students met weekly with small groups of high school students who were participating in an intensive summer biomedical research immersion program. The goal of the NPMP was to provide and engage the high school students with opportunities to express and discuss their research and more importantly, their stresses and concerns. After initial reservations, the NPMP provided a comfortable venue for high school students to engage in discussions of both laboratory and personal topics. Overall, their concerns and stresses were expressed in five categories: 1) College Preparation, 2) Preparation for MD and PhD Training and Careers, 3) Summer Research Programmatic Issues and Laboratory Social Structure, 4) Social Issues, and 5) Health and Wellness. High school students identified the following major factors as contributing to programmatic success: relatability, role models, comfort and approachability, organization, and mentor fit. The Near Peer Mentoring initiative revealed the need for STEM and other programs targeting academic success and career development to be alert to social and emotional concerns of students and to provide opportunities for their expression, discussion and guidance.
Museums as an Avenue for Enhancing Engagement and Educational Outcomes for Underserved Students

Museums are the places where we hold treasures for display and study and where learning on a broad range of subjects can occur. However, for many marginalized populations, museums feel off-limits a...
Keeping the left at bay: Delegate selection system choice in US Democratic presidential nominations

Abstract In the modern era of US presidential nominations, every election cycle we witness around 20% change in delegate selection system types. This variance remains unexplained and for the most part unexplored. At the same time, prior formal and empirical models offer contradicting expectations of party leader behavior in their choice of system. This paper looks to bridge this divide. We argue state party leaders use delegate selection systems to select candidates favorable to their own ideological position. When the median partisan is ideologically left relative to the position of state Democratic leaders, the leaders of the Party will open up the delegate selection system to dilute the voices furthest on the left. We employ maximum likelihood estimation as a method to show that left positioning of citizens relative to state Democratic leaders increases the likelihood the state Democratic Party will use a primary system as opposed to a caucus.
Harlan's Dissent: Citizenship, Education, and the Color-Conscious Constitution

In his dissent in Plessy v. Ferguson, Justice John Marshall Harlan wrote, “Our constitution is color-blind, and neither knows nor tolerates classes among citizens.” Racial conservatives have argued that Harlan’s dissent should invalidate policies that partially redress the historical injuries inflicted on African Americans. This article contends that the concept of colorblindness misstates Harlan’s central claim. His dissent insisted black Americans are entitled to the full fruits of citizenship. This rearticulation reveals that race-conscious policies, particularly within public education, fulfill, rather than undermine, Harlan’s primary objective of defending black citizenship. The article shows that racial conservatives’ colorblind ideology emerged as a strategic response to their legal defeats over segregated schools and to attack affirmative action. The Supreme Court’s later use of colorblind principles is contrasted with empirical evidence of the efficacy of color-conscious pedagogies within schools. The recent Gary B. v. Whitmer case highlights the linkages between full citizenship and race-conscious pedagogies.
A Sum of Its Parts: Party Fit and Party Change in the U.S. House:

Previous research has noted the transformation of the American parties since the 1970s, as exhibited in their increased ideological polarization and transformation on social issues like civil right...
Optimizing the Interfaces of Energetic Textiles with Perfluorinated Oligomer-Coated Aluminum Nanoparticles: Implications for Metastable Intermolecular Composites

Metal powders have long been utilized as the primary fuel component in many conventional pyrolant-based energetic materials. Significant enhancements to their energetic performance are realized wit...
Vitamin B6 deficiency with normal plasma levels of pyridoxal 5'-phosphate in perinatal hypophosphatasia.

Abstract Pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP), the principal circulating form of vitamin B6 (B6), is elevated in the plasma of individuals with hypophosphatasia (HPP). HPP is the inborn-error-of-metabolism caused by loss-of-function mutation(s) of ALPL, the gene that encodes the “tissue-nonspecific” isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP). PLP accumulates extracellularly in HPP because it is a natural substrate of this cell-surface phosphomonoester phosphohydrolase. Even individuals mildly affected by HPP manifest this biochemical hallmark, which is used for diagnosis. Herein, an exclusively breast-fed newborn boy with life-threatening perinatal HPP had uniquely normal instead of markedly elevated plasma PLP levels before beginning asfotase alfa (AA) TNSALP-replacement therapy. These abnormal PLP levels were explained by B6 deficiency, confirmed by his low plasma level of 4-pyridoxic acid (PA), the B6 degradation product. His mother, a presumed carrier of one of his two ALPL missense mutations, had serum ALP activity of 50 U/L (Nl 40–130) while her plasma PLP level was 9 μg/L (Nl 5–50) and PA was 3 μg/L (Nl 3−30). Her dietary history and breast milk pyridoxal (PL) level indicated she too was B6 deficient. With B6 supplementation using a breast milk fortifier, the patient's plasma PA level corrected, while his PLP level remained in the normal range but now in keeping with AA treatment. Our experience reveals that elevated levels of PLP in the circulation in HPP require some degree of B6 sufficiency, and that anticipated increases in HPP can be negated by hypovitaminosis B6.
Cryo-EM structures tell a tale of two telomerases.

New atomic-resolution structures provide detailed insights into the molecular mechanism of telomerase, ushering in a new era of rational drug design to target telomerase in human genetic disorders and cancer.
Identity-Conscious Supervision in Student Affairs: Brown, R., Desai, S., & Elliott, C. (2019). Identity-conscious supervision in student affairs: Building relationships and transforming systems. Routledge. 228pp. ISBN: 978-1-138-36559-9

Identity-Conscious Supervision in Student Affairs offers future and current practitioners a new framework for approaching supervision through an identity-conscious and intersectional lens. Brown et...
Cytochemical localization of enzymes in plant cells

Publisher Summary This chapter highlights the cytochemical localization of enzymes in plant cells. Most methods used in the cytochemical detection of plant enzymes are similar to, or derived from, those that have been developed for animal cytochemistry. These include the use of diaminobenzidine (DAB), which is used to detect the activity of oxidases, ferricyanide, cerium chloride, and immunogold labeling. Immunogold techniques are the most powerful and specific methods available for the cytochemical detection of enzymes. The cytochemical stains permit the intracellular localization of some enzymes; however, their use is limited by the nature of the reaction they participate in and by their relative nonspecificity for individual enzymes. Immunological methods demand certain specific requirements for the effective interpretation of data. These include the monospecificity of the antibody used in the localization studies, the techniques used in the fixation and embedding of a plant material, and the condition of incubation used for a specific labeling. Standard biochemical methodology—using a combination of salt fractionation, gel filtration, ion-exchange chromatography, and chromatofocusing—usually permits the isolation of abundant enzymes in a relatively pure state.
Defining a Proper Role for Public Nuisance Law in Municipal Suits Against Gun Sellers: Beyond Rhetoric and Expedience

During the past few years, more than a score of municipalities (and the State of New York) have brought suit against gun manufacturers, distributors and retailers, seeking to hold them accountable for the consequences of gun violence within the municipalities' jurisdiction. This article critically assesses whether the theory of public nuisance is an appropriate vehicle for bringing such suits. Inasmuch as public nuisance theory is itself only dimly understood, the article begins with an historical summary of public nuisance law. It then considers contemporary objections to the continued vitality of public nuisance, and concludes that, properly defined and limited, public nuisance can be appropriately employed to hold gun sellers responsible for truly outrageous conduct, typically in cases involving the subversion or avoidance of legislative will. As to remedy, however, the article takes the position that, consistent with a proper understanding of public nuisance's appropriate role in the safeguarding of public health, only such relief as is likely to work toward abatement of the nuisance should be granted. As a practical matter, this means that courts should be sympathetic to requests for practical steps such as requiring persistently defiant dealerships to close down and forcing manufacturers to seriously monitor distributors and dealers. On the other hand, courts should not, at least under a theory of public nuisance, award damages that will repay municipalities for the costs incurred in dealing with gun violence, such as increased police and hospital costs.
Exposure to violence and its psychological correlates in institutionalized children and adolescents 8 to 17 years of age in Iasi County, Romania.

by OVIDIU GAVRILOVICI The purpose of the research was descriptive and associational with respect to violence exposure in three of the areas of daily living for residents of placement centers in Iasi County, Romania. This study examines the degree of the universality of the theoretical model and the methodology previously developed and used by Singer and colleagues (1995, 1998, and 1999). The focus was on testing a specific methodology to determine its ability to identify relationships among correlates of trauma symptoms in relation to exposure to violence. The 448 respondents ages 8 to 17 of both genders reported recent and past experiences of violence as victims and witnesses, assessed parental/caregiver monitoring, their own violent behavior, TV Viewing habits, and provided a series of demographic variables. The study describes high levels of exposure to violence especially in institutions, as a setting, compared to schools and neighborhoods. The
An Evaluation of a GLR Control Chart for Monitoring the Process Mean

The problem of detecting both large and small shifts in the mean of a normally distributed process variable is considered using a generalized likelihood ratio (GLR) control chart where the likelihood is based on a moving window of past observations. The..
A Review of “Food: The Key Concepts”

There is no one better than Warren Belasco to take you on a tour through the world of food studies. First, there's his credentials (which he would modestly downplay), starting twenty years ago with...
A Survey of Cluster Headache (CH) Sufferers Using Vitamin D3 as a CH Preventative (P1.256)

OBJECTIVE: To present survey results of 110 CH sufferers (CH9ers) using a daily anti-inflammatory regimen of vitamin and mineral supplements including 10,000 IU/d vitamin D3, (cholecalciferol) and Omega-3 fish oil as a CH preventative. BACKGROUND: Cluster headache is one of the most painful and disabling headache disorders known to man. Results from an informal survey CH’ers using the anti-inflammatory regimen as a CH preventative indicated a surprisingly high efficacy. A survey was needed to qualify and quantify the efficacy of this regimen. DESIGN/METHODS: A questionnaire was developed to capture efficacy, 25(OH)D lab results along with essential demographic and epidemiological information. Participants were advised to consult with their PCP or neurologist before starting this regimen and to ask for the 25(OH)D lab tests before and after 蠅30 days of use or a favorable response. RESULTS: 80% of CH9ers reported significant reductions in frequency, severity and duration of their CH. 60% reported remaining substantially PF. Average starting 25(OH)D was 23.4 ng/mL. Average 25(OH)D response after 蠅30 days or favorable response was 76 ng/mL. Regimen appears equally effective for both ECH and CCH, although ECH9ers enjoy a slightly higher efficacy of 85% vs. 70% for CCH. A stress test of 25(OH)D reserves after 13 mo. PF, resulted in a return of CH after 8 days without vitamin D3. 33% reported comorbidities. There were no major adverse events reported. CONCLUSIONS: Empirical data suggest a possible causal relationship between a vitamin D3 insufficiency/deficiency and cluster headache. At Disclosure: Dr. Batcheller has nothing to disclose.
Harvesting Collective Intelligence: Temporal Behavior in Yahoo Answers

When harvesting collective intelligence, a user wishes to maximize the accuracy and value of the acquired information without spending too much time collecting it. We empirically study how people behave when facing these conflicting objectives using data from Yahoo Answers, a community driven question-and-answer site. We take two complementary approaches. We first study how users behave when trying to maximize the amount of the acquired information, while minimizing the waiting time. We identify and quantify how question authors at Yahoo Answers trade off the number of answers they receive and the cost of waiting. We find that users are willing to wait more to obtain an additional answer when they have only received a small number of answers; this implies decreasing marginal returns in the amount of collected information. We also estimate the user's utility function from the data. Our second approach focuses on how users assess the qualities of the individual answers without explicitly considering the cost of waiting. We assume that users make a sequence of decisions, deciding to wait for an additional answer as long as the quality of the current answer exceeds some threshold. Under this model, the probability distribution for the number of answers that a question gets is an inverse Gaussian, which is a Zipf-like distribution. We use the data to validate this conclusion.
Sociocultural Contexts of Language and Literacy

Contents: Preface. Part I: Theoretical Perspectives on Language and Literacy. B. Perez, Literacy, Diversity, and Programmatic Responses. B. Perez, Language, Literacy, and Biliteracy. B. Perez, Writing Across Writing Systems. Part II: Language and Literacy Acquisition in Diverse Communities. T.L. McCarty, L.J. Watahomigie, Language and Literacy in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities. M.E. Torres-Guzman, Language, Culture, and Literacy in Puerto Rican Communities. T.T. Dien, Language and Literacy in Vietnamese American Communities. J-M. Chang, Language and Literacy in Chinese American Communities. H.L. Smith, Literacy and Instruction in African American Communities: Shall We Overcome? A. Davila de Silva, Emergent Spanish Writing of a Second Grader in a Whole-Language Classroom. Part III: Literacy Development in Multilingual, Multicultural Classrooms. B. Perez, A. Nordlander, Making Decisions About Literacy Instructional Practices. B. Perez, Creating a Classroom Community for Literacy. B. Perez, Literacy, Curriculum, and Language Diversity.
Autocatalytic synthesis of a tetranucleotide analogue

As an approach to the study of the kind of chemical process that might have contributed to the origin of life, attempts have been made to develop purely chemical systems in which oligonucleotides self-replicate. Although preformed oligonucleotides have been shown to facilitate the formation of their complements from activated mononucleotides, only a restricted range of oligomers are efficient templates1 and it will clearly be difficult to find a pair of complementary oligomers each of which will facilitate the formation of the other2. Many of the difficulties facing the development of a self-replicating system could be overcome by using a pair of complementary substrate molecules that condense together more easily than ribonucleotides. It would also be helpful if each substrate molecule contained equal numbers of purine and pyrimidine bases as, otherwise, there is a tendency for purines to be over-represented in the products1. We have therefore explored the chemistry of 3'-amino-3'-deoxynucleotides3 and their dimers4. We report here that the tetranucleoside triphosphoramidate GNHpCNHpGNHpCN3 acts as a template to catalyse the condensation of GNHpCNH2 and pGNHpCN3, forming further molecules of the template. The system is therefore autocatalytic, and in accordance with elementary theory the amount of product made increases with the square root of the template concentration.
Phylogenetic conservation and physical mapping of members of the H6 homeobox gene family

Homeobox genes represent a class of transcription factors that play key roles in the regulation of embryogenesis and development. Here we report the identification of a homeobox-containing gene family that is highly conserved at both the nucleotide and amino acid levels in a diverse number of species. These species encompass both vertebrate and invertebrate phylogenies, ranging from Homo sapiens to Drosophila melanogaster. In humans, at least two homeobox sequences from this family were identified representing a previously reported member of this family as well as a novel homeobox sequence that we physically mapped to the 10q25.2–q26.3 region of human Chromosome (Chr) 10. Multiple members of this family were also detected in three additional vertebrate species including Equus caballus (horse), Gallus gallus (Chicken), and Mus musculus (mouse), whereas only single members were detected in Tripneustes gratilla (sea urchin), Petromyzon marinus (lamprey), Salmo salar (salmon), Ovis aries (sheep), and D. melanogaster (fruit fly).