cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rituximab Provides Steroid-Sparing Therapy in New-Onset Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease

s / Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 19 (2013) S129eS149 S140 3.15 vs.9.34%; p1⁄40.045). As reported in chronic HIV viremia, expanded CD21B cells in cGVHD patients also expressed higher inhibitory receptors namely FCRL4, CD22 and CD85J, chemokine receptors CD11c, CXCR3 and lower CD62L and CCR7 compared with naive (CD27-CD21+CD19+) and classical memory CD27+CD21+CD19+) B cells. Moreover, B cells in patients with cGVHD had a lower proliferative potential following B-cell receptor crosslinking compared with B cells from patients with no GvHD or HC, a feature of exhaustion associated with high expression of inhibitory receptors. Finally, the frequencies of circulating CD21B cells correlated with cGvHD grade (r1⁄40.67; P 1⁄4 .002) but not with time from SCT (r1⁄40.28; P 1⁄4 .15). These data suggest that CD21B cells may play a role in the pathogenesis of cGVHD and could be used as as a marker of disease severity.
Remainder formula and zeta expression for extremal CFT partition functions

We derive a remainder formula for the coefficients of modular invariant partition functions of extremal conformal field theories of central charge c = 24k, where k is a positive integer. The formula encodes, in particular, asymptotics of these coefficients and it provides for additional corrections to Bekenstein–Hawking black hole entropy. We also relate these partition functions to a Patterson–Selberg zeta function. More generally, when c is divisible by 8 we relate this zeta function to vacuum characters of affine E 8 and \(E_{8} \times E_{8}\).
Research on race and ethnicity in leisure: Anticipating the fourth wave

Abstract Because the quantity of research on race and ethnicity in leisure has increased significantly in recent years, there is opportunity for identifying trends and likely trajectories for future work. This paper briefly outlines three waves of research on race and ethnicity in leisure studies. It concludes by calling for systematic assessments of the literature on race and ethnicity, re‐focusing on race and racism, and engaging practitioners in race and ethnicity research.
An importance sampling technique for a symbol-by-symbol TCM decoding/equalization algorithm

An importance sampling simulation technique is used to estimate the bit-error rate (BER) of a symbol-by-symbol trellis-coded modulation (TCM) decoder/equalizer proposed for digital microwave radio applications. To evaluate the performance at a BER smaller than 10/sup -6/, we investigate a randomized bias technique previously developed by the authors. To properly select the bias vectors, the asymptotic (infinite signal-to-noise ratio) decision boundary is first determined. The simulation technique is then extended to the one-shot symbol-by-symbol TCM decoding/equalization algorithm which is equivalent to the recursive symbol-by-symbol detection algorithm of Abend and Fritchman (1970). By using this novel importance sampling technique, we can speed up the simulation and efficiently evaluate the BER performance of the TCM decoder/equalizer.
Constrained Fourier space method for compensation of missing data in emission computed tomography

A method is introduced to compensate for missing projection data that can result from gas between detectors or from malfunctioning detectors. This method uses constraints in the Fourier domain to estimate the missing data, thus completing the data set so that the filtered backprojection algorithm can be used to reconstruct artifact-free images. The image reconstructed from estimates using this technique and a data set with gaps is nearly indistinguishable from an image reconstructed from a complete data set without gaps, using a simulated brain phantom. >
Regulation of KCNQ channels by manipulation of phosphoinositides.

Activation of phospholipase C (PLC) through G-protein-coupled receptors produces a large number of second messengers and regulates many physiological processes. Many membrane proteins including ion channels require the phosphoinositide phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) to function. Activation of PLC can shut down their activity if it depletes the PIP2 pool strongly. Such a mechanism accounts for the muscarinic suppression of current in KCNQ channels. We describe a variety of methods used to show that these channels require PIP2 and that current in the channels is suppressed when receptor-activated PLC depletes PIP2. The methods include observing translocation of lipid-sensitive protein domains, overexpression of enzymes of phosphoinositide metabolism, engineering these enzymes to move to the plasma membrane in response to a chemical signal, and direct chemical analysis of phospholipids. These approaches are general and can be used to test for PIP2 requirements of other membrane proteins.
Leading Change with Slogans: Border University in Transition.

In this study, the authors problematize the use of slogans when it comes to leading major organizational change. Specifically, they outline the slogans that Border University leaders used to explain and justify the university’s transition from a regional, primarily teaching-focused university to an aspiring nationally recognized, Tier One research university. They argue that Border leaders used slogans built out of dominant and attractive logics, which led to the silencing of important questions and critiques that faculty members had about the change, but failed to voice aloud. Educational leaders who are interested in administering a democratic and discursive organization will find the insights in this study useful.
Microaggressions and Latina/o Americans: An analysis of nativity, gender, and ethnicity.

Este estudio exploratorio examino experiencias de Latina/os con microagresiones, y considero si esta discriminacion se manifiesta en maneras diferentes basadas en genero, grupo etnico, o natividad con 311 Latina/o Americanas/os. Analisis descriptivas de experiencias con microagresiones fueron examinadas con un analisis multivariado de varianza y una serie de pruebas-T. Los resultados mostraron diferencias significantes en experiencias con microagresiones: las mujeres pasaron mas microagresiones en el lugar de trabajo y escolar; Dominicanas/os auto-identificados fueron mas probable de tener experiencias de ser exotizadas/os; y puertorriquenos mas probables de ser tratados como ciudadanos de segunda clase o criminales. Los resultados tambien mostraron que jovenes Latinas/os, y esos con bajos niveles de educacion, fueron mas probables de tener experiencias de micro-invalidacion. Aunque los resultados apoyan estudios previos que indican que minorias raciales y etnicas tienen experiencias de micoagresiones, el estudio presente extiende esta literatura academica mostrando el papel que tiene las diferencias dentro del grupo en las experiencias de Latina/o-Americanas/os con microagresiones. Se discuten las implicaciones para la investigacion y la literatura academica de microagresiones.
Synthesis of a Class of Non-linear Systems†

ABSTRACT A problem in the practical application of the Volterra series to nonlinear theory is the synthesis of systems with a given set of Volterra kernels. In this article we present a method of determining whether a given Volterra kernel can be synthesized exactly by using only a finite number of multipliers. A method for the synthesis of such kernels is also presented. The use of the techniques discussed here is illustrated by examples.
The Evolution of the Internet Community and the"Yet-to-Evolve" Smart Grid Community: Parallels and Lessons-to-be-Learned

The Evolution of the Internet Community and the “Yet-to-evolve” Smart Grid Community: Parallels and Lessons-to-be-learned Charles McParland, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory November 2009
Theodore N. Vail and the Role of Innovation in the Modern Bell System

The record of long–term innovation at the American Telegraph and Telephone Company seems to defy conventional economic and social theories of the firm. The following essay, based on extensive research in the AT&T Archives, argues that CEO Theodore Vail made this possible by transforming the Bell System's orientation to innovation, its structure, and its culture. He also gave the System a cadre of leaders who sustained over the long term Vail's strategy of blending adaptive and formative innovations to promote network efficiency.
Proactive Tax Risk Management

Tax Risk Management requires seven steps to ensure complete compliance by taxpayers, in an international environment where tax authorities are becoming better equipped and organized in closing tax gaps. Part of the process of tax authorities is the formation of Large Tax Units that expect to classify taxpayers into two categories: co-operative taxpayers, and those that are not. A proactive tax risk management process ensures that taxpayers fall into the former category. This paper examines the major steps that should be taken to achieve this.
The gender factor in virtual reality navigation and wayfinding

An area of interest that remains to be more thoroughly investigated is that of human navigation and wayfinding in VR. This study attempted to examine the effect of gender on VR navigation and wayfinding. A tool named virtual reality navigation tool (VRNT) was designed to conduct experiments for this research. Four experiments were conducted to track navigational patterns employed by the subjects while interacting with the 3D-maze environment. As each subject was performing a prescribed task, the VRNT was tracking navigational behavior, specifically, the number of turns taken, time spent and the number and order of rooms traversed. The analysis of the tracking revealed some common navigational behaviors. The study results suggest that the tendency to take left and right turns is influenced by gender; whereas, the time traveled and numbers of rooms visited are not.
A new species of Castilleja (Orobanchaceae) from Trujillo, Venezuela.

Castilleja exigua is described from an ample collection obtained in the Paramo de Guirigay, Monumento Natural Teta de Niquitao, Trujillo, Venezuela. The new species is a member of subg. and sect. Castilleja. This apparently very rare species is known at present from a single, geographically restricted population and should be considered globally endangered.
Spatial Homogeneity of Bacterial Communities Associated with the Surface Mucus Layer of the Reef-Building Coral Acropora palmata

Coral surface mucus layer (SML) microbiota are critical components of the coral holobiont and play important roles in nutrient cycling and defense against pathogens. We sequenced 16S rRNA amplicons to examine the structure of the SML microbiome within and between colonies of the threatened Caribbean reef-building coral Acropora palmata in the Florida Keys. Samples were taken from three spatially distinct colony regions—uppermost (high irradiance), underside (low irradiance), and the colony base—representing microhabitats that vary in irradiance and water flow. Phylogenetic diversity (PD) values of coral SML bacteria communities were greater than surrounding seawater and lower than adjacent sediment. Bacterial diversity and community composition was consistent among the three microhabitats. Cyanobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Alphaproteobacteria, and Proteobacteria, respectively were the most abundant phyla represented in the samples. This is the first time spatial variability of the surface mucus layer of A. palmata has been studied. Homogeneity in the microbiome of A. palmata contrasts with SML heterogeneity found in other Caribbean corals. These findings suggest that, during non-stressful conditions, host regulation of SML microbiota may override diverse physiochemical influences induced by the topographical complexity of A. palmata. Documenting the spatial distribution of SML microbes is essential to understanding the functional roles these microorganisms play in coral health and adaptability to environmental perturbations.
Four Problems Solved by the Probabilistic Language of Thought

We argue for the advantages of the probabilistic language of thought (pLOT), a recently emerging approach to modeling human cognition. Work using this framework demonstrates how the pLOT (a) refines the debate between symbols and statistics in cognitive modeling, (b) permits theories that draw on insights from both nativist and empiricist approaches, (c) explains the origins of novel and complex computational concepts, and (d) provides a framework for abstraction that can link sensation and conception. In each of these areas, the pLOT provides a productive middle ground between historical divides in cognitive psychology, pointing to a promising way forward for the field.
Commentary: The Development of Creativity—Ability, Motivation, and Potential

A major question for research on the development of creativity is whether it is interested in creative potential (a prospective approach that uses measures early in life to predict adult creativity) or in children's creativity for its own sake. We suggest that a focus on potential for future creativity diminishes the fascinating creative world of childhood. The contributions to this issue can be organized in light of an ability × motivation framework, which offers a fruitful way for thinking about the many factors that foster and impede creativity. The contributions reflect a renewed interest in the development of creativity and highlight how this area can illuminate broader problems in creativity studies.
Medical Literature Evaluation Education at US Schools of Pharmacy

Objective. To determine how medical literature evaluation (MLE) is being taught across the United States and to summarize methods for teaching and assessing MLE.Methods. An 18-question survey was administered to faculty members whose primary responsibility was teaching MLE at schools and colleges of pharmacy.Results. Responses were received from 90 (71%) US schools of pharmacy. The most common method of integrating MLE into the curriculum was as a stand-alone course (49%). The most common placement was during the second professional year (43%) or integrated throughout the curriculum (25%). The majority (77%) of schools used a team-based approach. The use of active-learning strategies was common as was the use of multiple methods of evaluation. Responses varied regarding what role the course director played in incorporating MLE into advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs).Conclusion. There is a trend toward incorporating MLE education components throughout the pre-APPE curriculum and placement of li...
An Aristotelian Praxis Approach To Action Research

Action research can be a form of Aristotelian critical, ethical praxis that developmentally changes the action researcher and the external world. Bernstein’s (1971) and Eikeland’s (2008) interpreta...
Centralized Data Collection Platform Based on CORBA

With the fast development of telecommunication network management technology,CORBA is becoming the mainstream of interface technology because of the advantages of object oriented management,cross-platform supporting,multiple languages compatibility,independent network protocol etc.Some northbound interfaces which accord with TMF814 standards had been developed,which the centralized data collection platform is required.This paper introduces the software framework and realization processes of centralized data collection platform,and illustrates the development of southbound interface based on CORBA architecture and TMF814 standards,and discusses the key technologies for centralized data collection of southbound interface,and put forward the solution that accord with the network security regulations in power system.
Characteristics and results of treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in young people — Experience of the Pediatric Branch, NCI, USA

In 1977, a protocol for the treatment of childhood non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, known as 77–04 was initiated at the Pediatric Branch of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), USA. The objective of this protocol was to provide information on prognostic factors in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in young people. At that time, data on this subject were scanty and, in general, results of therapy were extremely poor with few exceptions [1].
Topological Graph Sketching for Incremental and Scalable Analytics

We propose a novel, scalable, and principled graph sketching technique based on minwise hashing of local neighborhood. For an n-node graph with e-edges (e >> n), we incrementally maintain in real-time a minwise neighbor sampled subgraph using k hash functions in O(n x k) memory, limit being user-configurable by the parameter k. Symmetrization and similarity based techniques can recover from these data structures a significant portion of the original graph. We present theoretical analysis of the minwise sampling strategy and also derive unbiased estimators for important graph properties such as triangle count and neighborhood overlap. We perform an extensive empirical evaluation of our graph sketch and it's derivatives on a wide variety of real-world graph data sets drawn from different application domains using important large network analysis algorithms: local and global clustering coefficient, PageRank, and local graph sparsification. With bounded memory, the quality of results using the sketch representation is competitive against baselines which use the full graph, and the computational performance is often better. Our framework is flexible and configurable to be leveraged by numerous other graph analytics algorithms, potentially reducing the information mining time on large streamed graphs for a variety of applications.
Design and operation of a high-heat flux, flush-mounted ‘rail’ Langmuir probe array on Alcator C-Mod

Abstract A poloidal array of toroidally-extended, flush-mounted ‘rail’ Langmuir probes was recently installed on Alcator C-Mod's vertical target plate divertor. The aim was to investigate if a Langmuir probe array could be designed to survive reactor-level heat fluxes and have the ability to make measurements that could be reliably interpreted under reactor-level plasma densities, neutral densities and magnetic fields. Langmuir probes are typically built to have incident field-line angles > 10° to avoid interpretation issues associated with sheath expansion. However, at the high parallel heat fluxes experienced in reactor-relevant conditions such a probe would quickly overheat and melt. To mitigate both the issues of extreme heat flux and sheath expansion, each probe was designed to be flush with the divertor surface, toroidally-extended and field-aligned, giving it a ‘rail’ geometry. The flush mounted probes have proven to be exceptionally robust surviving the 2015–2016 campaign – a first for a C-Mod probe system. Examination of the probe current-voltage (I-V) characteristics reveals that they are immune to sheath expansion at incident field angles down to ∼0.5°. Comparison of the flush probes to traditional proud probes shows that both measure the same electron pressure across the divertor plate. However, there are significant and systematic differences in the density, temperature and floating potential. This suggests that there is important physics, perhaps unique to conditions in a vertical-target plate divertor with small field-line attack angles, that affects the I-V characteristics and is not currently included in probe data analyses. Finally, the probe response is examined in the ‘death-ray’ regime, just near detachment. Previous work using proud probes has suggested that the ‘death-ray’ is an artefact of the probe bias. However, on flush mounted probes the ‘death-ray’ manifests itself under different conditions, which may provide insight into this unique phenomenon.
Exploiting expression patterns across multiple gene isoforms to identify radiation response biomarkers in early-stage breast cancer patients.

In an effort to understand the underlying biology of radiation response along with whole transcriptome effects of preoperative radiotherapy in early-stage breast tumors, we propose two efficient score-based statistical methods that exploit gene expression patterns across all available gene transcript isoforms and identify potential biomarkers in the form of differentially expressed genes and differentially enriched gene-sets. We demonstrate the effectiveness of these two methods using extensive simulation studies that show that both of our methods give improved performance, in terms of statistical power, over the most commonly used methods. By exploiting radiation-induced changes in all available gene transcript isoforms, we identified several statistically significant differentially expressed genes related to PI3K-AKT and JAK-STAT signaling pathways along with radiation-induced oncogenic signaling pathways and tumor microenvironment gene signatures that could be potential targets to improve response to radiotherapy in breast tumors.
Economics as Religion: From Samuelson to Chicago and Beyond

(2002). Economics as Religion: From Samuelson to Chicago and Beyond. Journal of Economic Issues: Vol. 36, No. 1, pp. 225-227.
Who We Are and What We Can Become: An Analysis of Professional Identity Formation in IR

Abstract Purpose To characterize the unique experiences, values, and perspectives of interventional radiology (IR) fellows. Materials and Methods Sixteen fellows from 4 US vascular and IR programs were interviewed within 2 months of beginning and 2–3 months following their 2015–2016 fellowships about patient interactions, training experiences, and views of IR and other specialties. Interviews were systematically analyzed for dominant themes by using constructivist grounded theory. Four interviews with 2015–2016 interventional cardiology fellows, 16 interviews with IR attending physicians, and online descriptions of IR were also analyzed for context. Themes were compared qualitatively and quantitatively. Results Interobserver agreement was good for interview themes (κ = 0.70; P P = .05), but clinical interests common in medical specialties were limited, and descriptions of "nonprocedural patient care" were primarily periprocedural (81%). Descriptions of the future of the field conveyed competing pressures, loose role definition, and disconnect between academic and private-practice IR. Conclusions IR fellows share professional interests, views of their field and others, and descriptions of patient care, but there is uncertainty regarding future roles of the specialty and a need for more specific and unified definitions of nonprocedural patient care in IR.
How Do Mutant Clones Expand in Normal Tissue

Normal tissue in human skin, breast, lung, colon, pancreas, and blood contains clones of mutant cells, often at high frequency. These seem to be early stages in cancer development. Clonal expansion from a single mutant cell appears to be driven by physiological events affecting the entire tissue, rather than by the mutant cell acquiring an additional mutation that triggers “uncontrolled proliferation”. In epithelial tissue, these physiological events include apoptosis and stem-cell fate decisions, which act as selection pressures favoring the mutant cell. These events create incubators for genetic variation and guide the course of tumor evolution.
Automatic Detection of Histological Artifacts in Mouse Brain Slice Images

A major challenge in automatic registration, alignment and 3-D reconstruction of conventionally processed mouse brain slice images is the presence of histological artifacts, like tissue tears and losses. These artifacts are often produced from manual sample preparation processes, which are ubiquitous in most neuroanatomical laboratories. We present a novel geometric algorithm to automatically detect these artifacts (damage regions) in mouse brain slice images. Our algorithm is guided by our observation that the tears and tissue loss in brain slice images result in external geometric medial axis of the outer contours to go deep inside the tissue. We tested our algorithm on 52 mouse brain slice images with major histological artifacts and successfully detected all the damage regions in the dataset. Our algorithm also demonstrated much lower errors when quantitatively evaluated by performing feature based registration between all 52 slices and their corresponding Allen Reference Atlas (ARA) images.
A metabolic hypothesis for the evolution of temperature effects on the arterial PCO2 and pH of vertebrate ectotherms

ABSTRACT Body temperature increases in ectothermic vertebrates characteristically lead to both increases in arterial P CO 2 ( P a CO 2 ) and declines in resting arterial pH (pHa) of about 0.017 pH units per 1°C increase in temperature. This ‘alphastat’ pH pattern has previously been interpreted as being evolutionarily driven by the maintenance of a constant protonation state on the imidazole moiety of histidine protein residues, hence stabilizing protein structure–function. Analysis of the existing data for interclass responses of ectothermic vertebrates shows different degrees of P a CO 2 increases and pH declines with temperature between the classes, with reptiles>amphibians>fish. The P a CO 2 at the temperature where maximal aerobic metabolism ( V O 2 ,max ) is achieved is significantly and positively correlated with temperature for all vertebrate classes. For ectotherms, the P a CO 2 where V O 2 ,max is greatest is also correlated with V O 2 ,max , indicating there is an increased driving force for CO 2 efflux that is lowest in fish, intermediate in amphibians and highest in reptiles. The pattern of increased P a CO 2 and the resultant reduction of pHa in response to increased body temperature would serve to increase CO 2 efflux, O 2 delivery and blood buffering capacity and maintain ventilatory scope. This represents a new hypothesis for the selective advantage of arterial pH regulation from a systems physiology perspective in addition to the advantages of maintenance of protein structure–function.
Critical for Whom? Genealogy and the Limits of History

This article explores the relationships between the critical and persuasive claims of genealogy. It begins by contesting a recent trend in scholarship that insists genealogies are meant to dismantle metaphysical ideas, not persuade concrete individuals to give up their beliefs. It argues such an interpretation conflates genealogical critique into Kantian, excises the role of the reader, and illegitimately allows genealogists to escape the question of whether the method’s efficacy is historically contingent. The second section investigates the assumptions about the historical position and normative commitments of both the genealogist and the reader that must be in place for genealogy’s critical work to become persuasive. It then questions whether those assumptions are compatible with the basic commitments of genealogy as outlined by Nietzsche and Foucault. The final section asks whether structures of authority such that genealogy as a tool still addresses the authority structures of the present moment.
Using the 3-Diethylaminobenzyl Group as a Photocage in Aqueous Solution.

We have demonstrated that the 3-diethylaminobenzyl (DEABn) photolabile protecting group (PPG) is an effective and structurally simple PPG for releasing molecules in aqueous environment. In general, the photoreaction is clean, and the released substrate and the PPG product, i.e., 3-diethylaminobenzyl alcohol, are obtained in high yield. The clean photoreaction can also be achieved under mild ambient conditions with sunlight, while the reactant is stable under indoor lighting. Release of two substrates from one PPG chromophore in aqueous solution has been demonstrated to be feasible. We have also compared the uncaging properties of the DEABn and the widely used o-nitrobenzyl (o-NB) group, given their comparable structural simplicity. With its clean and efficient photochemical reaction, DEABn should find wide applications, including in the basic and applied research areas where o-NB and its various derivatives are widely used.
Refining the assessment of stroke risk after the maze procedure.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common significant arrhythmia in the general population, with an estimated prevalence of 3% to 4%, which increases to almost 9% after the age of 80 years ([1][1]). Atrial fibrillation increases the risk for death by almost 2-fold and the risk for ischemic stroke by
Medical Students’ Improved Attitudes Toward Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases From Entry to Graduation

First-year medical students have been previously reported to have positive attitudes about disease prevention, in general, and about cardiovascular disease prevention, in particular. Whether medical school experiences exert a positive, negative, or neutral effect on prevention-oriented attitudes in medical students is not known. We assessed attitudes toward heart disease prevention in 770 entering medical students enrolled at six selected American medical schools, each having some curricular emphasis on preventive cardiology, and repeated the attitude survey near graduation in the 750 fourth-year students enrolled in the six schools. Response rates were similar at each of the schools for each administration and averaged 88% in entering students and 74% in the graduating students. We used two mean attitude scores, ranging from 1.0 to 5.0 representing the most positive attitude. The score treating the importance of primary prevention increased from 4.08 ± 0.39 to 4.35 ± 0.41. The attitude score concerning the importance of research in preventive cardiology also increased from 3.65 ± 0.56 to 3.90 ± 0.64 (P
Iatrogenic Lithotripsy Failure: Penetration of Shock Waves through Tape

AbstractFoam tape used to protect epidural catheters during immersion in a Dornier HM3 lithotriptor was identified retrospectively as the cause of poor stone fragmentation. Studies of shock wave penetration through various protective type materials indicate that a particular water repellant tape is least likely to impair shock wave penetration.
Antifreeze protein hydration waters: Unstructured unless bound to ice

How do fish, insects, and other organisms survive in frigid polar environments? They do so with the help of remarkable molecules known as antifreeze proteins (AFPs), which suppress freezing and associated cell death despite being present at concentrations of less than 1 wt % (1). In contrast, automotive antifreeze needs roughly 20 to 50 wt % of the additive to function (2). AFPs are able to suppress freezing at such low concentrations because, unlike antifreeze, they do not rely on altering the inherent structure of water; instead, they bind to nascent ice nuclei and prevent them from growing (3). Thus, being able to recognize and preferentially bind ice in a vast excess of water is the key to AFP function (1). However, in the absence of any chemical differences between water and ice, how do AFPs discriminate between them? Moreover, both water and ice are composed of a tetrahedral network of hydrogen bonds, so even the structural differences between them are subtle. Indeed, how AFPs are able to perform what has been touted as one of the most challenging molecular-recognition tasks in all of biology has long been a source of amazement and intrigue (1, 4). In PNAS, Hudait et al. (5) clarify important aspects of the ice-recognition puzzle by using molecular simulations to study Tm AFP, a hyperactive insect AFP. What makes this puzzle even more fascinating is that a wide array of organisms, ranging from bacteria to insects and fishes, has independently evolved AFPs that display substantial differences in their sequences, structures, and ice-binding sites (IBS) (6, 7). In other words, there is not one, but a diversity of motifs that can confer AFPs with their ice-binding abilities. What, then, are the characteristic features of IBS, and how do they enable AFPs to bind ice? Early … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence should be addressed. Email: amish.patel{at}seas.upenn.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Albinism in Sugarcane: Significance, Research Gaps, and Potential Future Research Developments

The usefulness of breeding to improve sugarcane (Saccharum sp. hybrids) crop performance and productivity depends heavily on the continued availability of new and beneficial genes and on novel approaches to the reproductive and agronomic controls used to access their full potential. One such novel approach is perhaps in the study of full or partial (variegation) albinism, an underexplored topic with implications both in sugarcane cultivar development and crop production. In sugarcane and other domesticated cereal grasses, cell culture (e.g., anther, callus, and immature embryo culture) has been employed via haploid and diploid embryogenesis in order to obtain genetically favorable parents, though rates of albinism in the regenerated plantlets are significantly high and remain a major bottleneck. The rate of photosynthesis in sugarcane leaves is known to throttle down throughout the growing season, and there is evidence that sink availability provides strong feedback. How an albino tiller—a genuine photosynthate sink—will accumulate sugar and biomass and respond to light cues and senescence, as well as how the rest of the plant will respond to an albino tiller, is currently unknown. In this short communication, we discussed the significance, critical gaps, and potential future developments of albinism in sugarcane research.
Modeling Finite State Machines

In this chapter, we will look at modeling finite state machines (FSMs). An FSM is one of the most powerful circuits in a digital system because it can make decisions about the next output based on both the current and past inputs. Finite state machines are modeled using the constructs already covered in this book. In this chapter, we will look at the widely accepted three-process model for designing a FSM.
Structural Dream Analysis: a narrative research method for investigating the meaning of dream series in analytical psychotherapies

Patient dreams in psychotherapy can be seen as narratives pointing to underlying conflicts as well as to potential solutions for overcoming mental health problems. Conceptualizations of the dream and its potential in the psychoanalytic tradition meanwhile are well supported by empirical dream research, which has moved dream interpretation from a Freudian perspective towards CG Jung’s theory of dreaming. Nevertheless there is a strong need for more research connecting the meaning conveyed by the dream with the psychopathology of the patient and with process in psychotherapy. Structural Dream Analysis (SDA) as a method to investigate the meaning conveyed in dream series from analytical psychotherapies is introduced. It combines earlier methods of narrative analysis with psychoanalytic ways of interpreting symbols into a coherent and manualised interpretive method; the application of the method is demonstrated with a case example.
Oxygen involvement in betanin degradation. Oxygen uptake and influence of metal ions

The uptake of dissolved oxygen by betanin was measured to better understand the role of oxygen in the degradation of this pigment. Measurements of the simultaneous disappearance of betanin and oxygen from solution suggested over all second-order reactions kinetics. The uptake of oxygen was pH-dependent, with increased uptake occurring above and below the pH range in which betanin is most stable (pH 4.0–6.0). The addition of cupric ion increased the uptake. Copper(II), iron(II), and iron(III) ions in the concentration range 0.05–1.0 mM were evaluated for their effects on the rate of betanin degradation. At a given concentration, cupric ions had the greatest influence and ferric ions the least. Increasing levels of cupric ions caused a rapid increase in the rate of betanin loss until a plateau in the rate was reached at a concentration of approximately 0.1 mM. In the presence of cupric, cuprous, and mercuric ions, the colour of betanin solutions instantly changed, suggesting the formation of metal-pigment complexes. These spectral changes could be reversed by acidification and/or the addition of EDTA.
Genomic Tools for Environmental Epigenetics and Implications for Public Health.

Abstract Epigenetics refers to the study of mitotically heritable and potentially reversible changes in gene expression unrelated to the DNA sequence itself, influenced by epigenetic marks including chromatin modifications, noncoding RNA (ncRNA), and alterations to DNA itself via methylation and hydroxymethylation. Epigenetics has taken center stage in the study of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegeneration; however, its integration into the field of environmental health sciences and toxicology (e.g. toxicoepigenetics) is in its infancy. This review highlights the need to evaluate surrogate and target tissues in the field of toxicoepigenetics as the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences multiphased Toxicant Exposure and Response by Genomic and Epigenomic Regulators of Transcription consortia make headway and the emergence of ncRNA biomarkers. The review also discusses lead (Pb) as a potential toxicoepigenetic exposure, where prenatal and postnatal Pb exposure is associated with reprogramming of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNA expression, representing potential biomarkers or predictors for Pb-induced health outcomes. Finally, new advances in epigenome editing, highlighting the potential of small ncRNA, will be explored for environmental health sciences research.
Taking Public Action on Private Troubles: The Power of Hybrid Methodology Mixed Methods Research in the Public Sphere:

Qualitative inquiry is well positioned to aid in public education on crucial social problems. Implementing a dual perspective engages not only quantitative approaches, but centers the critical role...
The Use of Statistical Significance Tests in Research: Bootstrap and Other Alternatives

AbstractThree of the various criticisms of conventional uses of statistical significance testing are elaborated. Three alternatives for augmenting statistical significance tests in interpreting results are then elaborated. These include emphasizing effect sizes, evaluating statistical significance tests in a sample size context, and evaluating result replicability. Ways of estimating result replicability from data in hand include crossvalidation, jackknife, and bootstrap logics. The bootstrap is explored in some detail.
Effect of State Policy Changes in Florida on Opioid-Related Overdoses.

Introduction With a rapid increase in prescription opioid overdose deaths and a proliferation of pain clinics in the mid-2000s, Florida emerged as an epicenter of the opioid overdose epidemic. In response, Florida implemented pain clinic laws and operationalized its Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. This study examines the effect of these policies on rates of inpatient stays and emergency department visits for opioid-related overdoses. Methods Using data from the 2008–2015 State Emergency Department Databases and State Inpatient Databases, quarterly rates of inpatient stays and emergency department visits for prescription opioid-related overdoses and heroin-related overdoses were computed. A comparative interrupted time series analysis examined the effect of these policies on opioid overdose rates. North Carolina served as a control state because it did not implement similar policies during the study period. The data were analyzed in 2019. Results Compared with North Carolina, Florida's polices were associated with reductions in the rates of prescription opioid-related overdose inpatient stays and emergency department visits, a level reduction of 2.31 per 100,000 and a reduction in the trend of 0.16 per 100,000 population each quarter. The policies were associated with a reduction of 13,532 inpatient stays and emergency department visits for prescription opioid-related overdoses during the study period. No statistically significant association was found between the policies and heroin-related overdose inpatient stays and emergency department visits. Conclusions To address the opioid overdose epidemic, states have implemented policies such as Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs and pain clinic laws designed to reduce inappropriate opioid prescribing. Such laws may be effective in reducing prescription opioid-related overdoses.
Spectrum and frequency of critical procedures performed at a Level I adult and pediatric trauma center.

Objectives The primary objective of this study was to provide physician-level data about the frequency of critical procedures at a combined adult and pediatric Level I trauma center, high-acuity, high-volume academic ED. The inspiration for this study question came from a previous study by Mittiga et al. (2013) describing pediatric critical procedure data at a similar high-acuity, high-volume, pediatric-only academic ED. Our secondary objective is to compare our pediatric level procedural spectrum and frequency with those published by Mittiga et al. (2013). Methods This prospective observational study occurred over eleven consecutive months at an urban, Level I combined adult/pediatric trauma center with 96,000 annual visits (8500 pediatric). We recorded only procedures performed in the resuscitation bays. All data analysis is descriptive. Results Over eleven months, data on 3891 resuscitations were collected (3686 adults and 205 children); 38 faculty physicians supervised 1838 total critical procedures, 64 on children. The mean number of critical procedures per physician per month was 4.42 (0.15 on children). Additionally, ultrasound for intravenous access, extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (e-FAST), or cardiac ultrasound were performed in 3862 resuscitations (178 pediatric). Conclusions Emergency medicine faculty physicians at a combined Level I adult and pediatric trauma center performed and/or supervised 4.4 total (0.15 pediatric) critical procedures per month per faculty which is nearly 6 times more critical procedures monthly than faculty at a similar volume pediatric-only trauma center. However, fewer critical procedures were performed on children at the combined facility.
Towards a unified approach to nonlocal elasticity via fractional-order mechanics

Abstract This study presents a fractional-order continuum mechanics approach that allows combining selected characteristics of nonlocal elasticity, typical of classical integral and gradient formulations, under a single frame-invariant framework. The resulting generalized theory is capable of capturing both stiffening and softening effects and it is not subject to the inconsistencies often observed under selected external loads and boundary conditions. The governing equations of a 1D continuum are derived by continualization of the Lagrangian of a 1D lattice subject to long-range interactions. This approach is particularly well suited to highlight the connection between the fractional-order operators and the microscopic properties of the medium. The approach is also extended to derive, by means of variational principles, the governing equations of a 3D continuum in strong form. The positive definite potential energy, characteristic of our fractional formulation, always ensures well-posed governing equations. This aspect, combined with the differ-integral nature of fractional-order operators, guarantees both stability and the ability to capture dispersion without requiring additional inertia gradient terms. The proposed formulation is applied to the static and free vibration analyses of either Timoshenko beams or Mindlin plates. Numerical results, obtained by a fractional-order finite element method, show that the fractional-order formulation is able to model both stiffening and softening response in these slender structures. The numerical results provide the foundation to critically analyze the physical significance of the different fractional model parameters as well as their effect on the response of the structural elements.
Verification Testing to Confirm V˙O2max in a Hot Environment.

Verification tests to confirm graded exercise test (GXT) V[Combining Dot Above]O2max are growing in popularity but the validity and reliability of such testing in the heat remains unknown. Purpose To evaluate the validity and reliability of a verification test to confirm GXT V[Combining Dot Above]O2max in a hot environment. Methods Twelve recreationally trained cyclists completed a two-test protocol that included a GXT progressing 20 W·min followed by a biphasic supramaximal-load verification test (1 min at 60% increasing to 110% maximal GXT wattage until failure) in a hot environment (39° C, 32% relative humidity). Rest between tests occurred in a thermoneutral room and was anchored to the duration required for gastrointestinal temperature to return to baseline. Results Mean verification test V[Combining Dot Above]O2max (51.3±8.8 mL·kg·min) was lower than GXT (55.9±7.6 mL·kg·min; p = 0.02). Verification tests confirmed GXT V[Combining Dot Above]O2max in 92% of participants using individual analysis thresholds. Bland-Altman analysis revealed a sizable mean bias (-4.6±4.9 mL·kg·min) with wide 95% limits of agreement (-14.0 to 5.0 mL·kg·min) across a range of V[Combining Dot Above]O2max values. The high coefficient of variation (9.6%) and typical error (±3.48 mL·kg·min) indicate potential issues of test-retest reliability in the heat. Conclusions Verification testing in a hot condition confirmed GXT V[Combining Dot Above]O2max in virtually all participants indicating robust utility. To enhance test-retest reliability in this environment, protocol recommendations for work rate and recovery between tests are provided.
Taxonomy and Identification of Principal Foliar Nematode Species ( Aphelenchoides and Litylenchus)

Nematodes are Earth's most numerous multicellular animals and include species that feed on bacteria, fungi, plants, insects, and animals. Foliar nematodes are mostly pathogens of ornamental crops in greenhouses, nurseries, forest trees, and field crops. Nematode identification has traditionally relied on morphological and anatomical characters using light microscopy and, in some cases, scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This review focuses on morphometrical and brief molecular details and key characteristics of some of the most widely distributed and economically important foliar nematodes that can aid in their identification. Aphelenchoides genus includes some of the most widely distributed nematodes that can cause crop damages and losses to agricultural, horticultural, and forestry crops. Morphological details of the most common species of Aphelenchoides (A. besseyi, A. bicaudatus, A. fragariae, A. ritzemabosi) are given with brief molecular details, including distribution, identification, conclusion, and future directions, as well as an updated list of the nominal species with its synonyms. Litylenchus is a relatively new genus described in 2011 and includes two species and one subspecies. Species included in the Litylenchus are important emerging foliar pathogens parasitizing trees and bushes, especially beech trees in the United States of America. Brief morphological details of all Litylenchus species are provided.