cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular Features of Highly Pathogenic Avian and Human H5N1 Influenza A Viruses in Asia

The highly pathogenic avian H5N1 influenza virus could infect humans with high mortality rate, even though it has not yet become efficiently transmissible among humans. This proteomic study investigated the molecular basis of interspecies transmission and host range of this lethal virus in Asia, due to its potential pandemic threat. Although there are host markers located in previous research between general avian and human influenza viruses, the novelty of our work was to uncover host markers between highly pathogenic avian and human H5N1 viruses in Asia. Many host markers we found were not present in the previous general markers, thus expanding the current repertoire of host markers with these strain-specific host markers. Ranked by their order of importance, the top 10 host markers discovered in this report were PB2_627, HA_325, NS1_205, PB2_524, HA_86, NA_201, NP_373, NS1_7, HA_156, NA_74, confirming our current knowledge that PB2_627 is the most critical site for distinguishing avian and human H5N1. We also identified several naturally-occurred mutations in the HA protein that might shift the receptor binding preference of Asian avian H5N1, since early detection of mutations that might lead to emergence of a new pandemic virus is of prime importance. Finally, we analyzed the distinctive interaction patterns within and between proteins of avian and human H5N1 in Asia at protein level and individual residue level. From multiple viewpoints, our findings reinforced the experimental observation that multiple genes of Asian avian H5N1 are involved in its gradual adaptation to human hosts.
Televised Models of Female Achievement Revisited: Some Progress

In a previous study which analyzed the content of a sample of 1972 primetime television programming, Manes and Melnyk (1974) concluded that television portrayed employment and marriage as incompatible life-styles for women. The present study applied the same content analysis procedures to a sample of 1978 prime-time television programming. Results indicated that female characters employed outside the home were significantly less likely to be married than were employed male characters (p <.001), a finding which replicated the result obtained previously. In contrast to the 1972 results, however, analyses of the 1978 data revealed that employed married women were not significantly less likely than either their male counterparts or unemployed housewives to be depicted as successfully married.
Enantioselective Preparation of Dihydropyrimidones

Carbamic acid, 2-propen--1-yl ester Carbamic acid, N-[phenyl(phenylsulfonyl)methyl]-,2-propen-1-yl ester (betaR)-Benzenpropanoic acid, alpha acetyl-beta-[[(2-propen-1-yloxy)carbonyl]amino]-methyl ester (betaR)-Benzenepropanoic acid, alpha acetyl-beta-[[[(phenylmethyl)amino]carbonyl]amino]-,methyl ester (4S)-5-Pyrimidinecarboxylic acid, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6-methyl-2-oxo-4-phenyl-1-(phenylmethyl)-,methyl ester Keywords: dihydropyrimidones; enantiselective preparation; chiral compounds; mannich reaction; stereochemical configuration
Professional Development Research Consensus, Crossroads, and Challenges

Commentaries regarding appropriate methods for researching professional development have been a frequent topic in recent issues of Educational Researcher as well as other venues. In this article, the authors extend this discussion by observing that randomized trials of specific professional development programs have not enhanced our knowledge of effective program characteristics, leaving practitioners without guidance with regard to best practices. In response, the authors propose that scholars should execute more rigorous comparisons of professional development designs at the initial stages of program development and use information derived from these studies to build a professional knowledge base. The authors illustrate with examples of both a proposed study and reviews of evidence on key questions in the literature.
Genetic Analysis of Cell Wall Traits Relevant to Cellulosic Ethanol Production in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Maize hybrids with improved stover yield and quality are needed to support the emerging cellulosic biofuels industry. Knowledge of the genetic variation, covariation, and genetic archi- tecture of agronomic and cell wall traits will help maize breeders improve relevant traits through selective breeding and genetic engineering. We utilized the maize intermated B73 × Mo17 (IBM) recombinant inbred line (RIL) population to map quantitative trait loci (QTL) and to evalu- ate the genetic relationships among traits rel- evant for cellulosic biofuel production, including grain yield, stover yield, neutral detergent fi ber digestibility (NDFD), and glucan, xylan, and lig- nin concentration. Intermated B73 × Mo17 RIL were evaluated per se and as testcrosses to W604S to assess how well performance and QTL effects correspond between inbreds and hybrids. There were no unfavorable correlations between agronomic and cell wall traits within the testcross progeny. Polysaccharide content was either positively correlated to, or not cor- related to, NDFD, indicating that increasing both carbohydrate content and convertibility is fea- sible. Quantitative trait loci were identifi ed for all traits evaluated, but few QTL were in common between inbred per se and testcross evaluations despite moderate to high genotypic correlations between progeny types. This study provides information that will support the development of dual-purpose maize hybrids that are high in grain yield and also high in yield of digestible cellulosic feedstock.
Detecting virus mutations via dynamic matching

To defeat current commercial antivirus software, the virus developers are employing obfuscation techniques to create mutating viruses. The current antivirus software cannot handle the obfuscated viruses well since its detection methods that are based upon static signatures are not resilient to even slight variations in the code that forms the virus. In this paper, we propose a new type of virus signature, called dynamic signature, and an algorithm for matching dynamic signatures. Our dynamic signature is created based on the runtime behavior of a virus. Therefore, an obfuscated virus can also be detected using a dynamic signature as long as it dynamically behaves like the original virus. We also discuss issues related to deploying our virus detection approach. Our experiments based upon several known mutating viruses show that our method is effective in identifying obfuscated viruses.
Primary biliary cirrhosis.

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic, cholestat- ic liver disease that is characterized by progressive im- mune mediated destruction of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Over time, fibrosis extends out of the portal tracts and progresses to cirrhosis. Neither the etiology nor the pathogenesis are well understood; however, most of the current evidence suggests that it is an au- toimmune condition that may be triggered by environ- mental stimuli in genetically predisposed individuals. Since the precise mechanisms involved in the pathogen- esis of PBC have not been elucidated, curative therapy has not been identified and the focus has been on pre- venting disease progression. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), the only approved therapy for PBC, improves histology and retards disease progression. Future stud- ies will likely combine UDCA with anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, immunomodulatory or antimi- crobial agents. Once the etiology and pathogenesis of PBC are better delineated, more definitive therapy can be designed with curative intent.
Use of Language Learning Strategies by Spanish Adults for Business English.

The aim of this phenomenological study was to explore the language learning strategies (LLSs) of Spanish adults in a business context. The research questions examined the specific LLSs used by Spanish adults in business communication tasks. In addition, this study addressed the cultural influences on LLSs from the Spanish educational system along with the influence from current and historical events in Spain. The conceptual framework was the Oxford LLS model. These qualitative data were collected through 11 semistructured, indepth interviews with Spanish business people who use English in their work and who studied English in Spanish secondary school. The data were analyzed following a typological analysis. The results show a strong tendency towards cognitive, metacognitive, and social strategies in business tasks. Cultural influences include the media, past political situation in Spain, and general issues in the English class in Spanish secondary schools.
Human Cancer Cells Commonly Acquire DNA Damage during Mitotic Arrest

The mitotic checkpoint is a mechanism that arrests the progression to anaphase until all chromosomes have achieved proper attachment to mitotic spindles. In cancer cells, satisfaction of this checkpoint is frequently delayed or prevented by various defects, some of which have been causally implicated in tumorigenesis. At the same time, deliberate induction of mitotic arrest has proved clinically useful, as antimitotic drugs that interfere with proper chromosome-spindle interactions are effective anticancer agents. However, how mitotic arrest contributes to tumorigenesis or antimitotic drug toxicity is not well defined. Here, we report that mitotic chromosomes can acquire DNA breaks during both pharmacologic and genetic induction of mitotic arrest in human cancer cells. These breaks activate a DNA damage response, occur independently of cell death, and subsequently manifest as karyotype alterations. Such breaks can also occur spontaneously, particularly in cancer cells containing mitotic spindle abnormalities. Moreover, we observed evidence of some breakage in primary human cells. Our findings thus describe a novel source of DNA damage in human cells. They also suggest that mitotic arrest may promote tumorigenesis and antimitotic toxicity by provoking DNA damage.
For Which Students with Learning Disabilities Are Self-Concept Interventions Effective?

We have previously conducted a meta-analysis of outcomes of school-based interventions aimed at enhancing the self-concept of students with learning disabilities (LD). This study extends the previous findings by analyzing intervention effect sizes in relation to students' levels of self-concept prior to intervention. The results of these analyses indicated that only groups of students with documented low self-concept benefited significantly from intervention. For these students, intervention effects were much larger than the effects previously estimated from aggregations that included groups with wide-ranging or unknown levels of self-concept prior to intervention. These findings underscore the need for researchers and practitioners to identify students for self-concept intervention based on their documented need, rather than assuming a need based on the students' identification as students with LD.
Directed growth and selective differentiation of neural progenitor cells on micropatterned polymer substrates

Directional growth and differentiation of adult rat hippocampal progenitor cells (AHPCs) were investigated on micropatterned polymer substrates in vitro. Astrocytes or AHPCs cultured on micropatterned polystyrene substrates chemically modified with laminin exhibited over 75% alignment in the groove direction. AHPCs co-cultured with astrocytes preferentially acquired neuronal morphology, with nearly double the percentage of cells expressing class III β-tubulin on the micropatterned half of the substrate, as opposed to the planar half of the substrate, or compared to those growing in the absence of astrocytes. This indicates that substrate three-dimensional topography, in synergy with chemical (laminin) and biological (astrocytes) guidance cues, facilitates neuronal differentiation of the AHPCs. Through multi-dimensional cell–cell interactions, this environment provides spatial control selectively enhancing neuronal differentiation and neurite alignment on topographically different regions of the same substrate. Integrating these cues is important in understanding and controlling neural stem cell differentiation and designing scaffolds for guided nerve regeneration.
Bisphosphonate-induced, hemichannel-mediated, anti-apoptosis through the Src/ERK pathway: a gap junction-independent action of connexin43.

Preservation of the mechanosensory function of osteocytes by inhibiting their apoptosis might contribute to the beneficial effects of bisphosphonates in bone. We report herein a mechanism by which connexin43 hemichannel opening by bisphosphonates triggers the activation of the kinases Src and ERKs and promotes cell survival. Bisphosphonate-induced anti-apoptosis requires connexin channel integrity, but not gap junctions. Osteocytic cells express functional hemichannels that are opened by bisphosphonates, as demonstrated by dye uptake, regulation by established agonists and antagonists, and cell surface biotinylation. The anti-apoptotic effect of bisphosphonates depends on connexin43 expression in mouse embryonic fibroblasts and osteoblastic cells. Transfection of connexin43, but not other connexins, into connexin43 naive cells confers de novo responsiveness to the drugs. The signal transducing property of connexin43 requires the pore-forming, as well as the C-terminal domains of the protein, the interaction of connexin43 with Src. and the activation of both Src and ERK kinases. These studies establish a role for connexin43 hemichannels in bisphosphonate action, and a novel function of connexin43--beyond gap junction communication--in the regulation of survival signaling pathways.
Antibody development in pediatric sickle cell patients undergoing erythrocytapheresis.

Background Erythrocytapheresis, or red blood cell exchange transfusion (RBCX), with donor red blood cell (RBC) units is now increasingly used in the treatment of acute and chronic complications of sickle cell disease (SCD). As in all transfusions, RCBX carries a risk of immunization against foreign antigen on transfused cells. However, by selecting donor units with RBC phenotypes similar to the patient, the risk of allo- and autoimmunization can be reduced. Procedure The formation of RBC alloantibodies and/or autoantibodies in 32 multitransfused pediatric SCD patients undergoing monthly RBCX over a 11-year period (12/1998 to 12/2009) was evaluated utilizing a retrospective patient chart review at Kosair Children's Hospital, Louisville, Kentucky. Results After starting C, E, K antigen-matched RBCX, the rate of clinically significant allo-immunization decreased from 0.189/100 to 0.053/100 U, with a relative risk of 27.9%. Likewise, the rate of autoimmunization decreased from 0.063/100 to 0.035/100 U, with a relative risk of 55.9%. Conclusion After controlling for clinically insignificant antibodies, our auto- and alloimmunization rate was much less than previously reported values. In addition, the incidence of clinically significant allo- and autoimmunization decreased in our patient population after starting minor antigen-matched RBCX. These results suggest that by matching selected RBC phenotypes, there may be an association in the risk of allo- and autoimmunization of multi-transfused SCD patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:1134–1137. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Nitrogen removal by granular nitritation-anammox in an upflow membrane-aerated biofilm reactor.

The nitritation-anammox process has been a promising nitrogen removal technology towards sustainable wastewater treatment, but its application in treating domestic wastewater with relatively low ammonium concentrations (mainstream) remains a great challenge. In this study, an innovative lab-scale upflow membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (UMABR) was employed to treat a synthetic wastewater containing 70 mg N L(-1) ammonium. With a DO level at 0.6 ± 0.1 mg O2 L(-1) and HRT of 32 h, the effluent ammonium concentration was 4.8 ± 2.0 mg N L(-1). Increasing the nitrogen loading rate from 52.4 to 104.8 g N m(-3) d(-1) with stepwise decreasing HRT from 32 to 16 h resulted in an average TN removal efficiency of 81% without nitrite accumulation. The average observed NO3(-)-N (residue)/NH4(+)-N (consumed) ratio of 8% was below the "theoretical ratio" of 13% and further reduction of nitrate residue needs to be addressed. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and high-throughput sequencing analyses showed the coexistence of anammox bacteria and ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) in both biofilm and granular samples. Anammox bacteria accounted for up to 63.3% of the microbial community of the granules, with Candidatus Jettenia being the distinctly dominant anammox genus. In contrast, the biofilm contained abundant Nitrosomonadaceae (AOB, 33.1%). In addition, the brown-yellow granules exhibited a more balanced community structure with anammox bacteria and AOB accounting for 33.7% and 18.2%, respectively, which may contribute to the long-term operation of single-stage nitritation-anammox process. These results demonstrate that the nitritation-anammox UMABR could potentially be used for nitrogen removal from mainstream in some specific regions with relatively warm temperature.
Automatic assessment of average diaphragm motion trajectory from 4DCT images through machine learning.

To automatically estimate average diaphragm motion trajectory (ADMT) based on four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT), facilitating clinical assessment of respiratory motion and motion variation and retrospective motion study. We have developed an effective motion extraction approach and a machine-learning-based algorithm to estimate the ADMT. Eleven patients with 22 sets of 4DCT images (4DCT1 at simulation and 4DCT2 at treatment) were studied. After automatically segmenting the lungs, the differential volume-per-slice (dVPS) curves of the left and right lungs were calculated as a function of slice number for each phase with respective to the full-exhalation. After 5-slice moving average was performed, the discrete cosine transform (DCT) was applied to analyze the dVPS curves in frequency domain. The dimensionality of the spectrum data was reduced by using several lowest frequency coefficients (fv) to account for most of the spectrum energy (Σfv2). Multiple linear regression (MLR) method was then applied to determine the weights of these frequencies by fitting the ground truth—the measured ADMT, which are represented by three pivot points of the diaphragm on each side. The ‘leave-one-out’ cross validation method was employed to analyze the statistical performance of the prediction results in three image sets: 4DCT1, 4DCT2, and 4DCT1 + 4DCT2. Seven lowest frequencies in DCT domain were found to be sufficient to approximate the patient dVPS curves (R = 91%−96% in MLR fitting). The mean error in the predicted ADMT using leave-one-out method was 0.3 ± 1.9 mm for the left-side diaphragm and 0.0 ± 1.4 mm for the right-side diaphragm. The prediction error is lower in 4DCT2 than 4DCT1, and is the lowest in 4DCT1 and 4DCT2 combined. This frequency-analysis-based machine learning technique was employed to predict the ADMT automatically with an acceptable error (0.2 ± 1.6 mm). This volumetric approach is not affected by the presence of the lung tumors, providing an automatic robust tool to evaluate diaphragm motion.
Centralization of pancreatoduodenectomy a decade later: Impact of the volume-outcome relationship

Background The hospital volume–outcome relationship for complex procedures has led to the suggestion that care should be centralized. This study was performed to investigate whether centralization is occurring for pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and to examine its effect on short-term postoperative outcomes. Methods We queried the New York State Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database (n = 6,185, 2002–2011) and the California and Florida State Inpatient Databases (n = 6,766 and 4,810, respectively, 2002–2011) for PD. Hospitals were divided into low (≤10), medium (11–25), high (25–60), and very high (≥61) groups depending on annual volume. Hierarchical logistic modeling accounted for patient clustering within hospitals. Results A migration of cases from low-volume to medium, high, and very high-volume (MHVH) hospitals occurred in these 3 states (P Conclusion Centralization of PD is occurring in these 3 states and probably across the nation. After PD, MHVH hospitals had statistically better outcomes (mortality, morbidity, and duration of stay) than low-volume hospitals. Readmission rates were not affected by volume.
Frontiers and Border-Crossing: Incest, History, and Cinematic Structure in John Sayles's Lone Star

Abstract:John Sayles's Lone Star (1996) takes the occasion of Hispanic and Anglo cultural differences to concentrate thematically on an array of epistemological borders: between history and myth, parent and child, and genders, as well as racial and cultural matrixes. And the cinematic structure of the film itself compounds these efforts through a fragmented presentation that engages viewers self-consciously in the problematic seamlessness of any narrative sequence. In every way, the film ponders the question of unified identity, shared and nearly shared, simply by dramatizing the contrasts that allow for coherence itself to be achieved.
Sodium and potassium contents of frog muscle after extraction in 50% glycerol.

SummaryAfter extraction in 50% glycerol frog muscles retain more sodium than potassium. If they are then immersed in solutions containing equal concentrations of KCl and NaCl the muscles are found to contain again more sodium than potassium. The ability of the normal muscle to concentrate potassium seems therefore to depend upon the intactness of the membrane or the presence of some specific transport mechanism.
Large-Scale Aerooptical Distortions: Role of the Thickness of Turbulent Compressible Fluid Interfaces

The interfacial-fluid-thickness (IFT) approach is extended to investigate the structure of high-gradient regions of the density field and their eect on the aberrations of optical wavefronts in turbulent compressible separated shear layers. A new aerooptics facility was designed and built to allow simultaneous imaging of the density field and the flowgenerated optical wavefront distortions. This novel facility consists of a main Aerooptics Pressure Vessel that has an inside diameter of 4 feet, an internal height of 8 feet, and it can be pressurized up to 20 atm. The new Aerooptics Pressure Vessel Facility enables the simultaneous measurement of density-field images and optical-wavefront images from a turbulent separated shear layer over a range of compressibilities (Mc 0.15 1.0) and at large Reynolds numbers (Re 10 6 10 8 ). The variations in interfacial fluid thickness or inverse of the local density gradient can be extracted from the density-field images in order to examine their direct eect on the propagation of optical wavefronts. One of the major benefits of using the IFT approach is being able to identify spatially isolated highgradient networks corresponding to locally-thin interfaces, which dominate the large-scale aerooptical distortions on the basis of direct correlation between the measured optical wavefront distortions and the instantaneous flow structure. The IFT approach suggests a new way to physically describe and model both the flow structure and the aerooptical distortions at large Reynolds numbers and over a wide range of flow compressibilities.
Size-Dependent Energy Transfer Pathways in CdSe Quantum Dot–Squaraine Light-Harvesting Assemblies: Förster versus Dexter

Energy transfer coupled with electron transfer is a convenient approach to mimic photosynthesis in light energy conversion. Better understanding of mechanistic details of energy transfer processes is important to enhance the performance of dye or quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. Energy transfer through both long-range dipole-based Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and short-range Dexter energy transfer (DET) mechanisms have been identified to occur between CdSe quantum dots (QDs) linked to a red-infrared-absorbing squaraine dye through a short thiol functional group (SQSH). Solutions of SQSH linked to CdSe were investigated through steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopy experiments to explore both mechanisms. Photoluminescence studies revealed that smaller QDs had higher energy transfer efficiencies than predicted by FRET, and femtosecond transient absorption experiments revealed faster energy transfer rates in smaller donor QD sizes. These findings supported a DET process dominating at sma...
Transferring and attribution model of phosphorus in the multi-stage eco-ponds/wetlands system sediment

The rule of form distribution and release of phosphorus in the sediments of different units of multi-stage eco-ponds/wetlands treatment system was studied. Affection of season and sediment retention time on form distribution and release of phosphorus were investigated. The proportion of calcium-bound-phosphorus increased gradually and that of aluminum-bound-phosphates and alkali-extractable-organic phosphorus decreased from the front to the latter of this system. The concentrated release period of sedimentary phosphorus was from March to June, the main release unit was hybrid facultative pond and the release forms were aluminum-bound- and alkali-extractable-organic phosphorus, most of these phosphorus would be all released to waters in sediment retention time of 1.3 years. Calcium-bound- and iron-bound- phosphorus were main form of storing phosphorus in this sediment.
Ex Vivo Generation of Functional Immune Cells by Mitochondria-Targeted Photosensitization of Cancer Cells

Stimulating the immune system for potent immune therapy against cancer is potentially a revolutionary method to eradicate cancer. Tumors stimulated with photosensitizers (PSs) not only kill cancer cells but also help to boost the immune system. We recently reported that tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) generated by delivery of a mitochondria-acting PS zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) to MCF-7 breast cancer cells followed by laser irradiation can lead to ex vivo stimulation of mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). The antigens generated from the breast cancer cells were also found to cause significant DC maturation and the activated DCs were able to stimulate T cells to cytotoxic CD8(+) T cells. In this protocol, we describe methods to engineer a mitochondria-targeted biodegradable nanoparticle (NP) formulation, T-ZnPc-NPs for delivery of ZnPc to the mitochondria of MCF-7 cells, subsequent photodynamic therapy (PDT) using a long wavelength laser irradiation to produce TAAs, DC stimulation by the TAAs to secrete interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and matured DC-driven T-cell activation.
Immobilization of opiates by membrane lipids.

The polarization of the intrinsic fluorescence of levorphanol and related morphinans was used to investigate the physical and chemical nature of opiate-lipid complexes in both organic solvents and aqueous buffers. Phosphatidylserine, but neither phosphatidylethanolamine nor stearic acid, produced a large fluorescence polarization of levorphanol in a cyclohexane solvent system, suggesting that the drug became immobilized by phosphatidylserine micelles. Aqueous suspensions of phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositol produced a maximal fluorescence polarization of levorphanol, whereas the same concentrations of cerebroside sulfate and phosphatidic acid were much less effective and phosphatidylethanolamine, not at all. Thus phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositOl greatly restricted the rotational mobility of the bound opiate while the other lipids did not. A modified Scatchard treatment of the data indicated single binding sites with dissociation constants of 8.8 x 10-5 and 5.7 x 10-5 M for the serine and inositol phosphatides, respectively. The accessibilities of chloroform and I- to the drug bound to phosphatidylserine liposomes were determined from fluorescence quenching experiments. Chloroform was about 10 times more accessible than I-, suggesting that levorphanol was intercalated in the hydrophobic interior of the lipid bilayer and remote from the aqueous/lipid interface. Stereospecificity was absent, since the (+) enantiomer of levorphanol, dextrorphan, had the same binding affinities as levorphanol for both phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositol. A hydrogen bond between phosphatidylserine and the phenolic hydroxyl of opiate derivatives was demonstrated by infrared techniques in an organic solvent. The finding that the fluorescence of dextromethorphan could be polarized by the addition of phosphatidylserine liposomes demonstrated that hydrogen bonding between the phenolic hydroxyl and the lipid was not required for immobilization of the bound drugs. It is suggested that phosphatidylserine or phosphatidylinositol could be a site for the nonspecific binding of opiates and related compounds to nerve membranes.
A New Sectoral Econometric Model for Greece

In Greece, certain studies have explored the macroeconomic impact of the CSF on the Greek economy. Capros and Karadeloglou (1989) measure the effects of the first CSF for Greece and find that the output increase is lower than the rest of the European countries, which implies that the existing disparities in growth patterns are exacerbated. Lolos and Zonzilos (1992) reach similar results. Lolos et al. (1995) use a general equilibrium model and establish that the first CSF could have raised GDP in Greece by 1.2 percent during its implementation. However, these studies concentrate on the demand effects. As a result, all positive effects are found to be temporary and cease with the end of the programme, ignoring the possibility that the investments undertaken by the CSF may accelerate growth itself.
The Specific Pattern of Social Problems Engulfing the Global Underclass

As the high-tech industrial capitalist economy expands into the developing nations, a new class structure is generated within them — and within the more advanced nations.
What Anna Is

We can do a lot more with modern programming languages than we currently do. Normally, we use them simply to write programs. But programs have become problematic in so many ways — bugs, size, cost, and incompatibility, to mention but four — that attention is shifting from the program itself to the processes of writing programs. What are the processes we refer to as “programming”? How can we turn programming into a precise science?
Modeling Abductive Reasoning

The following chapter introduces the problem of abduction understood as a form of practical reasoning. It is necessary to state up front that the scope and stakes of this problem vastly exceed what may be adequately measured or encompassed here.
Extracellular Matrix Stiffening Induces a Malignant Phenotypic Transition in Breast Epithelial Cells

Tumors are much stiffer than healthy tissue, and progressively stiffen as the cancer develops. Tumor stiffening is largely the result of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, for example, deposition and crosslinking of collagen I. Well established in vitro models have demonstrated the influence of the microenvironment in regulating tissue homeostasis, with matrix stiffness being a particularly influential mediator. Non-malignant MCF10A mammary epithelial cells (MECs) lose their epithelial characteristics and become invasive when cultured in stiff microenvironments, leading to the hypothesis that tumor stiffening could contribute directly to disease progression. However, previous studies demonstrating MCF10A invasion have been performed in gels with constant mechanical properties, unlike the dynamically stiffening tumor microenvironment. Here, we employ a temporally stiffening hydrogel platform to demonstrate that matrix stiffening induces invasion from and proliferation in MCF10A mammary acini. After allowing MCF10A acini to form in soft hydrogels for 14 days, the gels were stiffened to the level of a malignant tumor, giving rise to a proliferative and invasive phenotype. Cells were observed to collectively migrate away from mammary acini while maintaining cell–cell contacts. Small molecule inhibition of PI3K and Rac1 pathways was sufficient to significantly reduce the number and size of invasive acini after stiffening. Our results demonstrate that temporal matrix stiffening can induce invasion from mammary acini and supports the notion that tumor stiffening could be implicated in disease progression and metastasis.
Clustered, Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9-coupled Affinity Purification/Mass Spectrometry Analysis Revealed a Novel Role of Neurofibromin in mTOR Signaling.

Neurofibromin (NF1) is a well known tumor suppressor that is commonly mutated in cancer patients. It physically interacts with RAS and negatively regulates RAS GTPase activity. Despite the importance of NF1 in cancer, a high quality endogenous NF1 interactome has yet to be established. In this study, we combined c lustered, r egularly i nterspaced s hort p alindromic r epeats (CRISPR)/Cas9-mediated gene knock-out technology with affinity purification using antibodies against endogenous proteins, followed by mass spectrometry analysis, to sensitively and accurately detect NF1 protein-protein interactions in unaltered in vivo settings. Using this system, we analyzed endogenous NF1-associated protein complexes and identified 49 high-confidence candidate interaction proteins, including RAS and other functionally relevant proteins. Through functional validation, we found that NF1 negatively regulates mechanistic target of rapamycin signaling (mTOR) in a LAMTOR1-dependent manner. In addition, the cell growth and survival of NF1-deficient cells have become dependent on hyperactivation of the mTOR pathway, and the tumorigenic properties of these cells have become dependent on LAMTOR1. Taken together, our findings may provide novel insights into therapeutic approaches targeting NF1-deficient tumors.
Controlling silicon crystallization in aluminum-induced crystallization via substrate plasma treatment

The effect of reactive ion etching using chlorine or fluorine-based plasmas on aluminum-induced crystallization (AIC) of silicon on fused silica glass substrates was investigated with the goal of chemically modifying the substrate surface and thereby influencing the crystallization behavior. Chlorine etching of the glass prior to AIC resulted in six times faster silicon crystallization times and smaller grain sizes than films formed on untreated substrates while fluorine etching resulted in crystallization times double than those on untreated surfaces. The differences in crystallization behavior were attributed to changes in surface chemistry and surface energy of the glass as a result of the plasma treatment as supported by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and contact angle measurements. The different surface treatments were then combined with optical lithography to control the location of crystallization on the substrate surface to realize the production of patterned polycrystalline silicon films from i...
Ultra-liberal attitude reports

Although much has been written about the truth-conditions of de re attitude reports, little attention has been paid to certain ‘ultra-liberal’ uses of those reports. We believe that if these uses are legitimate, then a number of interesting consequences for various theses in philosophical semantics follow. The majority of the paper involves describing these consequences. In short, we argue that, if true, ultra-liberal reports: (1) bring counterexamples to a popular approach to de re attitude ascriptions, which we will call ‘descriptivism’; and (2) combine with independently plausible principles about the logic of belief to imply that subjects can achieve omniscience about what exists from the armchair. Although we are not committed to the view that ultra-liberal reports are false, in the final part of the paper we discuss the prospects of pursuing a line according to which the acceptability of such reports ought not be taken at face value. We conclude by arguing that those who are sympathetic with this move might have reason to doubt the truth of an even broader class of acceptable de re attitude reports, namely those that have been taken to undermine orthodox accounts of de re attitude ascriptions.
Ablation Therapy for Barrett's Esophagus: New Rules for Changing Times.

In this review, we discuss different endoscopic techniques in the eradication of Barrett’s esophagus (BE) as well as some controversies in the field of treatment. Patients with T1a esophageal adenocarcinoma and BE of high-grade dysplasia should undergo endoscopic ablative therapy. The most studied technique to date is radiofrequency ablation. It can be combined with endoscopic mucosal resection in cases containing nodular and flat lesions. Cryotherapy and APC have shown promise with good efficacy and safety profiles so far, but are not mainstream as more studies are needed. Surveillance is still required post-ablation since recurrence is common. Low-grade dysplasia can be treated with either endo-ablative therapy or surveillance. Non-dysplastic BE treatment is controversial and so far, only surveillance is recommended. Research is ongoing to better risk stratify these patients. Our ability to diagnose and treat BE has come a long way in the past few years with the goal of preventing its progression into malignancy. The advent of endoscopic techniques in the eradication of BE has provided a less invasive and safer modality of treatment as compared to surgical esophagectomy. Data in the form of randomized trials and high-volume registries has provided good evidence to support the efficacy of these techniques and their long-term durability.
Quantified self meets perceptual learning: how to brew a cup of tea

Despite increasing interests in learning tea mastery, current tea apps lack supports for tracking tea practices done by apprentices in the tea industry and tea aficionados who want to improve their skills. Because many of them practice their tea skills individually, a system is needed to support learners by (1) tracking tea practices in real time, and (2) estimating their improvements over time. This workshop paper analyzes recently released tea apps, suggests QS design sketches that support users' learning by displaying and comparing quantitative data collected from the trials of tea practices, and finally discusses challenges and the future work. This paper aims to provide insight into an understudied user group for future QS studies and suggests a novel design considering the users' needs.
Geology of Greece and Turkey: Potential Marble Source Regions

Marble is a product of the medium to high grade metamorphism of carbonate sediments. Much limestone, both crystalline and otherwise that can take a high polish has been called marble, not only in modern commerce but also in the archaeological literature. Since (1) nearly all important Roman and Greek statuary and most monuments are made of marble, sensu strictu, (2) most limestone was quarried and only used locally, and (3) only marble was traded widely throughout classical Greece and Rome, this report, as this symposium, will be concerned only with marble.
Distribution and predictors of urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites in two pregnancy cohort studies.

Abstract Pregnant women and their fetuses represent susceptible populations to environmental contaminants. Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) among pregnant women may contribute to adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth. Multiple previous studies have assessed airborne sources of PAHs among pregnant women but few have measured urinary PAH metabolites which can capture total exposure through multiple routes. The aim of this study was to bridge this knowledge gap by assessing longitudinal urinary PAH metabolite concentrations over two time points in pregnancy cohorts in Boston (N = 200) and Puerto Rico (N = 50) to better understand exposure distributions throughout pregnancy and how they relate to demographic factors. Urine samples were analyzed for 1-NAP, 2-NAP, 2-FLU, 1-PHE, 2,3-PHE, 4-PHE, 9-PHE, and 1-PYR. Concentrations of 2-NAP, 1-PYR, and 4-PHE were higher in Puerto Rico, while all other metabolites were present in higher concentrations in Boston. In Puerto Rico, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were weak to moderate, ranging from 0.06 to 0.42. PAH metabolite concentrations were significantly higher among younger, heavier (except 1-NAP and 9-PHE), and less educated individuals in Boston only. Consistent significant associations between PAH concentrations and measured covariates were not found in Puerto Rico. Our results suggest that potentially important differences in PAH exposure exist between these two populations. Additionally, our results indicate that multiple urinary measurements are required to accurately assess PAH exposure throughout pregnancy.
A 20-year experience with nocardiosis in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients in the Southwestern United States: A single-center study

Background Nocardiosis is a life-threatening opportunistic infection. Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients are at higher risk (incidence 0.04%-3.5%) of developing nocardiosis. Rate of nocardiosis in the Southwestern US may be high due to environmental factors. Methods We performed a retrospective review study on 54 SOT patients diagnosed with Nocardia between 1997 and 2016 at our center. To explore the association of various risk factors with both the development of disseminated disease and mortality, a series of Fisher's exact tests was used. Findings Incidence of nocardiosis in SOT patients was 2.65%. Fisher's exact tests revealed no association between development of disseminated disease and the following variables: transplant rejection (P = 1), elevated tacrolimus levels (P = .4), and CMV viremia (P = .06). Also, we did not find any association between mortality and the variables we evaluated: type of transplant, transplant rejection, renal failure, disseminated nocardia, and patient's age. Overall mortality and 1-year mortality were 17% and 11%. Interpretation Based on our findings, daily 1 DS TMP/SMX prophylaxis did not appear to provide reliable protection against nocardiosis. However, we could not state definitely that TMP/SMX prophylaxis was or wasn't protective because of lack control group. None of the Fisher's exact tests revealed associations between the tested risk factors and either disease dissemination or mortality. This could be due to a true lack of association between the variables in each pair. However, it is also likely that our relatively small sample size limited our power to detect underlying relationships that may be present. Compared with other studies, 1-year mortality was lower at our institution (11% vs 16%).
Faculty Research-Driven vs. Community-Driven Experiential Learning in the Quantitative Public Administration Curriculum

This paper contributes to the literature on public administration experiential learning pedagogy in three ways. First, it outlines two alternative approaches to experiential learning in the quantit...
CHEMOKINES, CC | TECK (CCL25)

Thymus-expressed chemokine (TECK) is a CC chemokine first identified in 1997. The sequence of TECK/CCL25 was selected by comparison of random sequencing products to previously described molecular sequences of murine CC chemokines. CCL25 is expressed predominantly in the thymus and its function is associated with T-cell development. In addition, CCL25 is highly expressed in the small intestine and has a pivotal role in the selective recruitment of lymphocytes to the epithelial lining of the small intestine. The function of CCL25 is comparable to that of the lymphoid chemokines, CCL17, CCL19, CCL21, and CXCL12. CCL25 mRNA was also detected in murine pro-T-cells, a population of noncommitted intrathymic T-cell progenitor cells. Detection of mCCL25 mRNA in murine fetal thymus further supported early hypotheses that the role of CCL25 was early in thymic development. This lymphoid tissue chemokine is important in the migration, localization, and maturation of immature double positive thymocytes. In addition, CCL25 participates in the development and gut-homing of T-cell subsets and localization of immunoglobulin A (IgA)-secreting plasma cells within the gut associated lymphoid tissue. CCL25 exerts these functions primarily via binding of the CC chemokine receptor CCR9.
The Legalization of Marijuana: A Dead-End or the High Road to Fiscal Solvency

California has long engaged in the debate over the legalization of marijuana and has been a wellspring of innovation in marijuana legislation. In 1996, it became the first state to legalize the medical use of marijuana. Since then fourteen other states have followed suit. California is currently considering legislation and ballot initiatives that would legalize all marijuana use, in a manner similar to alcohol. Advocates argue that California is in a state of economic crisis and that the legalization and taxation of marijuana would generate much needed revenue for the State. For the first time, this proposal has a chance of passing. California, come November, may be the first state to legalize marijuana by popular vote. The goal of this Article is to provide the framework and information necessary for a rational debate on marijuana legalization. Sections II and III of the Article provide background on the current CA state and federal laws and a comparison of the proposed initiatives. As discussed, any measure legalizing marijuana would be at odds with the federal prohibition of marijuana. Thus, before engaging in debate on any of the issues involved, it must be determined whether legalization could even be implemented. Section IV discusses this
Perometry versus simulated circumferential tape measurement for the detection of breast cancer-related lymphedema

Despite increasing emphasis on screening and early intervention for breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), there is marked heterogeneity in diagnostic methodology, including for volumetric measures. This retrospective study compared two volumetric modalities, perometry and simulated circumferential tape measurement (anatomic- and interval-based), for BCRL detection. Between 2005 and 2017, 287 female patients with unilateral breast cancer were prospectively screened for BCRL by perometry and the relative volume change (RVC) formula. Circumferential measurement was performed by sampling at five anatomic landmark-based points or 4-cm intervals from pairs of perometer arm diameter measurements. Volumetric conversion was by a frustum model. The Bland–Altman method was used to compare segmental volume differences. Confusion matrix analysis was performed for each circumferential measurement technique against perometry. Median follow-up was 34.7 months over 4 postoperative visits. There was no difference in total arm volume comparing any of the circumferential measurement techniques to perometry. Landmark-based methods significantly underestimated upper arm volume (mean difference − 207 mL [− 336, − 78 mL]) and overestimated forearm volume (mean difference + 170 mL [+ 105, + 237 mL]). Landmark-based methods had greater sensitivity and specificity compared to 4-cm interval methods for detection of both RVC ≥ 10 and 5–10%. Landmark-based methods were comparable to perometry for detection of RVC ≥ 10%, but sensitivity was only 63.2–66.7% for RVC 5–10%. This hypothesis-generating study suggested the superiority of anatomic landmark-based circumferential tape measurement compared to interval-based methods, while generating questions about the underestimation of upper arm volume and overestimation of forearm volume of circumferential tape measurement compared to perometry.