cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Establishment of a Functional Ovine Fetoplacental Artery Endothelial Cell Line with a Prolonged Life Span

To study mechanisms governing fetoplacental vascular function, we have established a primary ovine fetoplacental artery endothelial (OFPAE) cell line. These OFPAE cells produce nitric oxide (NO), proliferate, and migrate in response to fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). To overcome the senescence crisis that this primary OFPAE cell line will eventually enter, we attempted to establish a functional OFPAE cell line with a prolonged life span by transfecting cells with plasmids containing a neomycin resistance gene and a simian virus 40 gene (SV40) expressing large T (T) and small t (t) antigens. The OFPAE cells at passage 8 were transfected. After neomycin selection, the surviving OFPAE (designated SV40 OFPAE) cells were expanded up to passage 80. Up to passage 30, these SV40 OFPAE cells maintained a morphology similar to untransfected OFPAE cells. Expression of T and t antigens in SV40 OFPAE cells was confirmed by immunocytochemistry. These SV40 OFPAE cells exhibited positive uptake of acetylated low-density lipoprotein (Ac-LDL) and positive staining for NO synthase 3 (NOS3) and formed capillary-like tube structures on Matrigel. Up to passages 20-23, these SV40 OFPAE cells proliferated (P < 0.05) and produced (P < 0.05) NO in response to both FGF2 and VEGF. Moreover, this cell proliferation stimulated by FGF2 and VEGF was dose-dependently inhibited (P < 0.05) by PD98059 (a selective mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 and 2 [MAP2K1/2, also termed MEK1/2] inhibitor) or by LY294002 (a selective phosphoinositide 3-kinase [PI3K] inhibitor). These data indicate that SV40 OFPAE cells, at least at passage 23, retain endothelial phenotypes and functions similar to their parental, untransfected OFPAE cells. Thus, a functional OFPAE cell line with an extended life span has been successfully established, potentially providing a valuable cell model for studying fetoplacental endothelial function.
Data Caching under Number Constraint

Caching can significantly improve the efficiency of information access in networks by reducing the access latency and bandwidth usage. However, excessive caching can lead to prohibitive system cost and performance degradation. In this article, we consider the problem of caching a data item in a network wherein the data item is read as well as updated by other nodes and there is a limit on the number of cache nodes allowed. More formally, given a network graph, the read/write frequencies to the data item by each node, and the cost of caching the data item at each node, the problem addressed in this article is to select a set of P nodes to cache the data item such that the sum of the reading, writing (using an optimal Steiner tree), and storage cost is minimized. For networks with a tree topology, we design an optimal dynamic programming algorithm that runs in O(|V|3P2), where |V| is the size of the network and P is the allowed number of caches. For the general graph topology, where the problem is NP-complete, we present a centralized heuristic and its distributed implementation. Through extensive simulations in general graphs, we show that the centralized heuristic performs very close to the exponential optimal algorithm for small networks, and for larger networks, the distributed implementation and the dynamic programming algorithm on an appropriately extracted tree perform quite close to the centralized heuristic.
THE ORIGINS OF PRIVATE OWNERSHIP OF LAND IN EGYPT: A REAPPRAISAL

In the historiography of Egypt it has long been accepted that private ownership of land was introduced in the nineteenth century.' This development in statute law has often been linked analytically to a process of "moderni~ation."~ Modernization theory posits a fundamental dichotomy between two ideal-type societies, the traditional and modern, which implies an equally sharp discontinuity between historical eras: before and after the beginning of modernization. In this view, traditional societies lack the potential for generating significant social change from within. Change results rather from the expansion of communications and diversification of technology worldwide from modem Europe and North America. In the process of modernization, traditional norms and structures break down in the host societies, and new, rational values and institutions emerge in their place. The development of Egypt's new land regime is usually considered one such change.
Treatment of leg veins: A comparison of laser therapy with a noncoherent, multiwave light source

Various lasers (CO/sub 2/ laser, Nd:YAG, argon, tunable dye, and flash-lamp pulsed dye lasers) have been used for treatment of leg veins with minimal benefit and various adverse sequelae. A phototherapy device producing pulsed (100 /spl mu/sec to 20 msec) incoherent light as a continuous spectrum 550 nm to 1200 nm has been developed to target both oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin and to reach larger and deep vessels. >
Young children's flexible use of semantic cues to word meanings: converging evidence of individual and age differences.

A new test of children's flexible use of semantic cues for word learning extended previous results. In Experiment 1, three- to five-year-olds (N = 51) completed two tests of interpreting several novel words for the same stimulus arrays. Within-sentence phrasal cues implied different stimulus referent properties. Children's cue-using flexibility in the new Flexible Induction of Meanings [Words for Animates] test (FIM-An) was strongly correlated with an established test (Flexible Induction of Meanings [Words for Objects]; Deak, 2000). Individual children showed between-test consistency in using cues to flexibly assign words to different referent properties. There were large individual differences, as well as limited age differences, in the distribution of flexible and inflexible response patterns. The comprehensibility of specific cues, and perceptual salience of specific properties, explained much of the variance. Proportions of flexible and inflexible patterns shifted with age. Experiment 2 replicated these results in N=36 three- and four-year-olds, using a modified FIM-An with more distinctive cues.
Storage Space - Advance Reservation and Scheduling

With the proliferation of data grids, tremendous amounts of data are being distributed and stored at data centers. To ensure availability of storage, reserving space at these data centers becomes essential. Considering this necessity, in this paper, we discuss the advance reservation and scheduling of storage space. We define a model for scheduling advance reservations requests and compare various reservation techniques. We show in our experimental results that using the worst-fit reservation technique is better for both lowering the blocking probability and increasing storage space utilization.
Transient flame propagation process and flame-speed oscillation phenomenon in a carbon dust cloud

A detailed numerical study was conducted to understand the transient flame propagation process and the flame-speed oscillation phenomenon in a carbon dust cloud. The modeling included the solution of a set of time-dependent conservation equations developed for the gas phase and the particle phase in a spherical coordinate. The gas-phase reactions used detailed chemistry, variable thermodynamic properties, and multicomponent transport properties. The particle-phase equations include the two-phase force interactions in the momentum equation by considering Stoke drag force and thermophoretic force resulting from the gas-phase temperature gradient. Mass and species transfer between the two phases were modeled as a result of both gas-phase and particle surface reactions. Energy transfer between the two phases, including convective, conductive, and radiative heat transfer, were included. Radiation absorption and emission by particles were both especially considered. The results show that because of the different inertia between particles and gas, a velocity slip occurs between the two phases in the region ahead of the flame front. The slip is more significant in the early flame propagation stage than in the later stage. The radiation heat losses of the hot gases and particles to the cold ambient and the radiation gain as a result of the absorption of unburned particles are both important in the present dust flame, because the characteristic time scale of the chemical reactions is longer than that of gaseous flames. Lastly, an analysis of the detailed numerical simulations shows that a slip between the gas and particle velocities is the cause of flame-speed oscillation. The slip leads to a periodic change in local particle number density in the reaction zone, which in turn changes the local fuel equivalence ratio periodically, causing the oscillation.
Moving thoughts make for moving targets: Capturing time-sensitive effects in global/local processing

ABSTRACTWe examined the time-course of global/local processing with the goal of describing average change over time and individual differences in that change, namely, variability in level (intercept) and magnitude (slope) of change. To do so, we probed global/local processing across a broad time-course so that effects of time may be estimated from a randomly sampled set of time-points from the “true” population of time-points. Results showed that, on average, processing transitioned from global to local dominance; variation around this average, however, pointed to an ebb-and-flow in dominance rather than strict linear change.
Patient-reported versus objectively-measured physical function and mortality risk among cancer survivors.

Abstract Objective This study aimed to characterize the relationship of patient-reported functional limitations, gait speed, and mortality risk among cancer survivors. Materials and Methods This study included cancer survivors from the Third National Health and Nutrition Survey. Patient-reported functional limitations were quantified by asking participants to assess their ability to complete five tasks: (1) walking 1/4mi, (2) walking up 10 steps, (3) stooping, crouching, or kneeling, (4) lifting or carrying an object of 10lb, and (5) standing up from an armless chair. Gait speed was quantified using a 2.4-meter walk. Vital status was obtained through the United States National Center for Health Statistics. Results The study sample included 428 cancer survivors who averaged 72.1years of age. The average number of patient-reported functional limitations was 1.8 (out of 5) and 66% of participants reported ≥1 functional limitation. Patient-reported functional limitations and gait speed were related, such that each functional limitation associated with a −0.08m/s slower gait speed (95% confidence interval: −0.10 to −0.06; P P Conclusion Patient-reported functional limitations are prevalent among cancer survivors, and associate with slower gait speeds and shorter survival. These data may provide increased insight on long-term prognosis and inform clinical decision-making by identifying subgroups of cancer survivors who may benefit from rehabilitative intervention.
Emergency planning and nuclear power

Abstract Emergency planning for nuclear power plants has greatly Improved since the accident at Three Mile Island in 1979. The nuclear industry is now better prepared than any other to cope with a major accident. Nonetheless, following Chernobyl there have been calls for wider planning zones, and some state and local governments have blocked licensing by refusing to participate in offsite planning. Controversy rages over subsequent attempts by the federal government and industry to resolve the current impasse by shrinking the planning zones and restricting local input in the licensing process. Current regulations are also criticized for failing to take cognizance of the extensive research on human behaviour during emergencies.
Barbershops as Cultural Forums for African American Males

This ethnographic study explores the social interactions of African American males in an urban, Southeastern barbershop. Barbershops have become frequent research sites for communicating health mes...
Differential collagen and fibronectin production by Thy 1+ and Thy 1- lung fibroblast subpopulations

Pulmonary fibrosis resulting from diverse etiologies is characterized by proliferation of fibroblasts and excessive accumulation of interstitial collagen. Whether fibrosis is associated with selective expansion of fibroblast subpopulations differing in amounts or types of collagens synthesized is unknown. We have previously isolated lines and clones of normal murine lung fibroblasts based on the presence of the Thy 1 surface antigen. These subpopulations differ in morphology, growth characteristics, and display of class II major histocompatibility complex antigens (R.P. Phipps, D.P. Penney, P. Keng, H. Quill, A. Paxhia, S. Derdak, and M. E. Felch. Am. J. Respir. Cell Mol. Biol. 1: 65-74, 1989). We evaluated the amounts and types of collagen and fibronectin synthesized by Thy 1+ (Fib2-T-3+) and Thy 1- (Fib2-T-4-) lung fibroblast lines and clones. Thy 1+ fibroblast line synthesized two- to threefold more collagen and noncollagen protein than the Thy 1- line. In contrast, both the Thy 1+ and Thy 1- lines synthesized similar amounts of fibronectin. Thy 1+ and Thy 1- lines and clones expressed mRNA for alpha 1(I)-and alpha 1(III)-procollagen and synthesized both types (predominantly type I and lesser amounts of type III) of collagen, protein, and mRNA. The fibroblast clones varied significantly in total collagen and fibronectin production, with one Thy 1- clone (D3) synthesizing the largest amount of collagen but relatively little fibronectin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
A study on the effect of distributed generation on short-circuit current

In short-circuit studies, phase shifts in transformers (e.g., connected in wye-delta or vice versa) make difficult to calculate fault current flowing in sequence-component networks. Therefore, they are often ignored because the magnitude of fault current is much more of interest than phase angles from the protection point of view (e.g., overcurrent relays). As high-capacity distributed generation (DG) resources are being deployed into distribution networks, they may change the direction and the phase angle of fault current and cause abnormal operations of directional or distance relays. Thus, the objective of this paper is to develop a short-circuit analysis algorithm able to (a) calculate changes in phase shifts caused by transformers in sequence networks with high-capacity DG sources and (b) analyze the effect of not only various capacities (e.g., 10, 30, and 50 percent) of DG resources but also various locations of faults on current that flows during a short circuit. To verify the developed algorithm, using MATLAB, case studies that generate a single line-to-ground fault on (a) the high- and low-voltage sides and (b) a weakly meshed network are presented.
Research on Illustrations in Text: Issues and Perspectives

So many studies have failed to show significant effects for illustrations in texts and teaching materials that, the author remarks, if the research is taken at face value, it is not difficult to begin believing that illustrations really are not very important in assisting learning. However, he concludes, their value has been confirmed by a sufficient number of studies to support intuitive beliefs and researchers now must move on, using new frameworks to study the reasons illustrations can aid learning.
Do the anterior and lateral thalamic nuclei make distinct contributions to spatial representation and memory

The anterior and lateral thalamus has long been considered to play an important role in spatial and mnemonic cognitive functions; however, it remains unclear whether each region makes a unique contribution to spatial information processing. We begin by reviewing evidence from anatomical studies and electrophysiological recordings which suggest that at least one of the functions of the anterior thalamus is to guide spatial orientation in relation to a global or distal spatial framework, while the lateral thalamus serves to guide behavior in relation to a local or proximal framework. We conclude by reviewing experimental work using targeted manipulations (lesion or neuronal silencing) of thalamic nuclei during spatial behavior and single-unit recordings from neuronal representations of space. Our summary of this literature suggests that although the evidence strongly supports a working model of spatial information processing involving the anterior thalamus, research regarding the role of the lateral thalamus is limited and requires further attention. We therefore identify a number of major gaps in this research and suggest avenues of future study that could potentially solidify our understanding of the relative roles of anterior and lateral thalamic regions in spatial representation and memory.
Diameter of the cochlear nerve in deaf humans: implications for cochlear implantation.

Although the parameters that are most important for postoperative speech perception in cochlear implantation have not been identified, it is assumed that the numbers of remaining cochlear neurons and spiral ganglion cells in the implanted deaf ears are critical. In this study, we evaluated the correlation of the maximum diameter of the cochlear and vestibular nerve trunks with the number of spiral ganglion cells in horizontal sections of the temporal bone of 42 patients who were profoundly deaf during life, and in 5 patients with normal hearing. The maximum diameters of the cochlear, vestibular, and eighth cranial nerves were significantly smaller in the deaf population as compared to normal-hearing controls. In addition, the counts of the remaining spiral ganglion cells were significantly correlated with the maximum diameter of the cochlear (p = .0006), vestibular (p = .001), and eighth cranial nerves (p = .0003). The regression equation estimated that 25% of the variance of the spiral ganglion cell count was predicted by the maximum diameter of the eighth nerve. Although the results of this study suggest that preoperative radiographic imaging of the diameter of the eighth nerve may be helpful in predicting the residual spiral ganglion cell count, the wide variability of diameters of the eighth nerve in hearing and deaf subjects militates against this theoretic usefulness.
Effects of in Process Inventory on an Assembly Line

In previous studies, the effects of work in process (WIP) and its inventory costs on the line balancing solution have been generally overlooked. This paper provides an analytical framework for the study of these effects on the design of assembly lines in the production system. A procedure is developed for computing efficiently the W.I.P. inventory cost. The profitability of a line can be improved by appropriately grouping the activities into work stations. Several propositions are developed based upon which a solution procedure is suggested for obtaining the best combination of the number of work stations and production cycle time in the production system.
Close encounters of the type-six kind: injected bacterial toxins modulate gut microbial composition

Bacteria of the phylum Bacteroidetes constitute a substantial portion of the human gut microbiota, including symbionts and opportunistic pathogens. How these bacteria coexist and provide colonization resistance to pathogenic strains is not well understood. In this issue of EMBO Reports , Hecht and colleagues describe a mechanism by which strains of Bacteroides fragilis compete with each other for an intestinal niche [[1][1]]. Prompted by the observation that B. fragilis populations appear to be dominated by either commensal, non‐toxigenic strains, or by enterotoxigenic, potentially pathogenic strains, the authors investigated mechanisms of competition between these two subsets. In agreement with two recent studies [[2][2]], [[3][3]], Hecht et al [[1][1]] found that competition between B. fragilis strains is dependent on a type‐6 secretion system (T6SS) apparatus, secreted effectors, and immunity genes. They identify a T6SS effector–immunity gene pair that enables a non‐toxigenic strain to competitively exclude enterotoxigenic B. fragilis , thus providing a proof of principle for the use of T6SS‐mediated killing as a therapeutic strategy to eradicate pathogenic strains. [1]: #ref-1 [2]: #ref-2 [3]: #ref-3
Photopigment Absorptance and Directional Sensitivity in Peripheral Primate Retina

We simultaneously measured the light being absorbed at every location across a patch of fresh excised primate retina. Rod and cone axial absorptances were 0.5 and 0.3 respectively, consistent with the specific density of photopigment and outer segment length. The photometric quantum efficiency of patches of peripheral retina was 0.12. There was little evidence for directional sensitivity in patches of rods. Great care must be taken when interpreting bright spots in images of excised retina.
Cryo-EM structure of a CD4-bound open HIV-1 envelope trimer reveals structural rearrangements of the gp120 V1V2 loop

The HIV-1 envelope (Env) glycoprotein, a trimer of gp120–gp41 heterodimers, relies on conformational flexibility to function in fusing the viral and host membranes. Fusion is achieved after gp120 binds to CD4, the HIV-1 receptor, and a coreceptor, capturing an open conformational state in which the fusion machinery on gp41 gains access to the target cell membrane. In the well-characterized closed Env conformation, the gp120 V1V2 loops interact at the apex of the Env trimer. Less is known about the structure of the open CD4-bound state, in which the V1V2 loops must rearrange and separate to allow access to the coreceptor binding site. We identified two anti–HIV-1 antibodies, the coreceptor mimicking antibody 17b and the gp120–gp41 interface-spanning antibody 8ANC195, that can be added as Fabs to a soluble native-like Env trimer to stabilize it in a CD4-bound conformation. Here, we present an 8.9-A cryo-electron microscopy structure of a BG505 Env–sCD4–17b–8ANC195 complex, which reveals large structural rearrangements in gp120, but small changes in gp41, compared with closed Env structures. The gp120 protomers are rotated and separated in the CD4-bound structure, and the three V1V2 loops are displaced by ∼40 A from their positions at the trimer apex in closed Env to the sides of the trimer in positions adjacent to, and interacting with, the three bound CD4s. These results are relevant to understanding CD4-induced conformational changes leading to coreceptor binding and fusion, and HIV-1 Env conformational dynamics, and describe a target structure relevant to drug design and vaccine efforts.
CREB Transgenic Mice Develop Myeloproliferative Disease/Myelodysplastic Syndrome after a Prolonged Latency.

Abstract The cyclic AMP Response Element Binding Protein, CREB, is a basic leucine zipper transcription factor that induces genes that regulate cell proliferation and survival. CREB is a downstream target of GM-CSF signaling pathways in myeloid cells, resulting in transactivation of critical target genes. We previously demonstrated that both CREB protein and mRNA levels are increased in the bone marrow cells of patients with AML at diagnosis. In contrast, CREB is expressed at low levels in normal bone marrow cells. To examine the expression of CREB in specific bone marrow and leukemia stem cell populations, we performed quantitative real-time PCR. AML blast cells were sorted and were shown to have increased CREB mRNA expression in CD34+CD33+ and CD34-CD33+ population compared to normal bone marrow progenitor cells. To understand the role of CREB in normal hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis, we created transgenic mice in which the myeloid specific hMRP8 promoter controls CREB expression. Within months, these mice developed increased monocytes and neutrophils in the peripheral blood. The increased cells in the peripheral blood and bone marrow were Gr1+Mac1+. We did not observe increases in other cell lineages using FACS analysis and the markers, B220, CD3, and Ter119. Bone marrow cells from CREB transgenic mice displayed increased colony size, greater numbers of colonies, and immortalization in colony replating assays with methylcellulose containing IL-3, IL-6, and Stem Cell Factor, compared to age-matched littermate controls. Bone marrow from CREB transgenic mice grew in the absence of cytokines, demonstrating factor-independent growth. Increased numbers of CFU-M was observed with CREB transgenic mouse bone marrow in colony assays with methylcellulose containing M-CSF. Although the mice did not develop acute leukemia, 7 out of 8 CREB transgenic mice compared to 0 out of 13 control mice developed enlarged spleens and myeloproliferative disease (MPD) after 12 months of age. Histology of the spleens showed destruction of the normal architecture with aberrant myeloid cells, suggestive of a myeloproliferative disease/myelodysplastic syndrome. Both the indolent course and phenotype of our mice were similar to Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML) observed in humans. Interestingly, myeloid cells from patients with CML in chronic phase also express higher levels of CREB. Studies are underway to characterize CREB expression in peripheral blood or bone marrow cells from patients with MPD/MDS, including CML, CMML, and transient myeloproliferative disease of Down Syndrome. We are also analyzing the spleens from CREB transgenic mice that develop MPD/MDS. Our results demonstrate that overexpression of CREB is sufficient to induce myeloid cell transformation to a preleukemic state in vivo. Therefore, the CREB transgenic mouse provides a useful model to test novel therapies to treat MPD/MDS.
FACTORS IN THE ECOSYSTEM OF FOOD PROCESSING EQUIPMENT CONTRIBUTING TO OUTGROWTH OF MICROORGANISMS ON STAINLESS STEEL SURFACES1

A laboratory system using 1 cm2 pieces of stainless steel with controlled temperature, humidity, and inocula was used to study the fate of the microflora of dairy origin on various films. Metal squares were treated to simulate incomplete cleaning, then inoculated with raw milk. After incubation for 16 hr at 80, 86, 93, or 100% RH, the microflora was recovered in sterile phosphate buffer and evaluated using the standard plate count method. Isolates from countable plates were observed for general characterization. Humidity of the ecosystem was a major factor in rate of water loss from a film. Available water, and indirectly the solute concentration, influenced the microenvironment and the resulting population density of microorganisms. Likewise, the microenvironment had a selective effect on outgrowth of bacteria, because of varying sensitivity of bacteria to drying and solute concentration. The gram-negative bacteria were inhibited at a lower humidity (80% RH), while the higher humidities (93 or 100% RH) p...
Time-course of muscle growth, and its relationship with muscle strength in both young and older women.

Aim The time-course for changes in muscle size and strength is not well understood, particularly in women. In addition, contributions of muscle size to strength are commonly assessed utilizing a pre–post change score; however, a more appropriate within-subject correlational analysis has never been used. Methods To determine the time-course for thigh muscle size and strength in young (aged 18–25 years) and older (aged 50–65 years) women, and determine the relationship between size and strength after 8 weeks of training carried our three times per week. Results Anterior muscle thickness at the 50% site increased after 1 week of training, and exceeded the measurement error after 2 weeks (mean difference 0.23 cm, 95% CI 0.12–0.34 cm). Anterior muscle thickness at the 70% site increased and exceeded the measurement error after 2 weeks (mean difference 0.30 cm, 95% CI 0.15–0.45 cm). Posterior muscle thickness at the 50% site increased after 1 week of training, and exceeded the measurement error after 2 weeks (mean difference 0.24 cm, 95% CI 0.03–0.44 cm). Posterior muscle thickness at the 70% site increased after 1 week, and exceeded the measurement error after 3 weeks (mean difference 0.21 cm, 95% CI 0.07–0.35 cm). Muscle strength, assessed through one-repetition maximum, increased by 2 weeks in most measurements, and the within-subject variance explained by changes in muscle size ranged between 9% and 35%. Conclusions Muscle growth appeared to occur early into a training program in both young and older women. Furthermore, although a large portion remains unexplained, the variance in muscle strength explained by muscle size is greater than previous studies not utilizing within-subject correlations. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 2000–2007.
Handing out beauty: Gabriele D’Annunzio’s ritual squanderers

D’Annunzio’s approach to beauty has largely unnoticed connections with the anti-modern anthropological discourse on symbolic economy that at the turn of the 20th century begins to reject instrumentality in life and representation. From the cultural primitivism of his time, D’Annunzio develops a consistent reflection on the aesthetic and ethical significance of ritual exchange that informs his search for a higher morality through art. Focusing on the nexus of art, giving, and temporality, this article addresses the intuitions and the contradictions of unconditional expenditure in D’Annunzio’s works, analyzing the leitmotif of the hand as an ambivalent carrier of lavishness and power. From Trionfo della morte to Il fuoco, from Le vergini delle rocce to his autobiographical writings, the implications of D’Annunzio’s argument contribute to an extended theoretical debate that interrogates the role of value in aesthetic and social practices—from Nietzsche, Mauss, and Bataille to Heidegger and Derrida. Can art’s...
SME Financing and the Financial Crisis: A Framework and Some Issues

Studies of net job creation generally confirm the importance of the SME sector as an engine that can drive the economy out of a recession. The SME sector cannot perform this role without access to external finance. This article examines new paradigms that have expanded our understanding of how SME loans are underwritten and how underwriting changes during a macro financial shock. We also use these paradigms to examine two interesting issues related to SME financing during the current financial crisis: the behavior of foreign-owned banks particularly in developing economies and the efficacy of government guarantee programs.
1 – GENE EXPRESSION SYSTEMS BASED ON BACTERIOPHAGE T7 RNA POLYMERASE

This chapter reviews the gene expression systems based on bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase (RNAP). In recent years, expression systems using the bacteriophage T7 DNA-dependent RNAP have been used to produce a large number of proteins in bacterial hosts. This chapter reviews the development and the popularity of these systems that have driven the commercial development of several vectors specifically designed to face challenges peculiar to certain applications. The biochemistry of transcription by T7 and related RNAPs, with particular attention to aspects relevant to artificial gene expression systems is explained in the chapter. The chapter studies the natural habitat and biochemistry of T7 RNAP besides the T7-based gene expressions. The chapter concludes that the high productivity of systems using T7 RNAP is the feature that motivates its choice in studies calling for recombinant gene expression. T7-based systems currently in use take advantage of transcriptional control of the RNAP and posttranslational control.
Instructional Utility and Learning Efficacy of Common Active Learning Strategies

The adoption of active learning instructional practices in college science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses has been shown to result in improvements in student learning, con...
Stroke: A Complication of Stellate Ganglion Block

Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a procedure wherein local anesthetic is injected to block the nerves of the lower cervical and upper thoracic sympathetic chain. Although the procedure historically had been performed using a blind technique, SGBs are now almost universally performed under either fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance. Indications for this procedure are myriad and include complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) of the upper extremities, poststroke pain, vascular headache, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hearing loss, and vasomotor instability associated with menopause, among others. SGBs carry a greater risk of morbidity than typical interventional pain procedures and include recurrent laryngeal nerve block, phrenic nerve paralysis, hypotension, seizure, pneumothorax, retropharyngeal hematoma, and stroke. Although the safety profile of SGB has improved with the advent of fluoroscopic guidance and should improve further with the increasing use of ultrasound guidance, the risk of adverse outcomes remains present.
Assessing Receptivity to Empirically Supported Treatments in Rape Crisis Centers

Survivors of sexual violence are at risk for PTSD, depression, and anxiety. There are several empirically supported treatments (EST) that are effective for addressing these trauma symptoms; however, uptake of these ESTs among Rape Crisis Center (RCC) counselors is low. This research project sought to determine counselors’ attitudes toward evidence-based practices (EBPs); their perceptions of the intervention characteristics of three specific ESTs: Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy; and differences in attitudes and perceptions based on agency setting (urban/rural) and counselor education. The Consolidated Framework for Advancing Implementation Science (CFIR) was used to construct a web-based survey to send to all RCCs in Texas (n=83) resulting in an overall agency response rate of 72% (n=60) and responses from 76 counselors. Counselors’ attitudes towards EBP and perspectives on specific ESTs suggest that dissemination and implementation efforts are needed within the RCC service sector to advance the uptake of CPT, EMDR and PE.
Elucidating Zn and Mg Electrodeposition Mechanisms in Nonaqueous Electrolytes for Next-Generation Metal Batteries

Cyclic voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry with an ultramicroelectrode (UME) were employed to study Zn and Mg electrodeposition and the corresponding mechanistic pathways. CVs obtained at a Pt UME for Zn electroreduction from a trifluoromethylsulfonyl imide (TFSI–) and chloride-containing electrolyte in acetonitrile exhibit current densities that are scan rate independent, as expected for a simple electron transfer at a UME. However, CVs obtained from three different Mg-containing electrolytes in THF exhibit an inverse dependence between scan rate and current density. COMSOL-based simulation suggests that Zn electrodeposition proceeds via a simple one-step, two-electron transfer (E) mechanism. Alternatively, the Mg results are best described by invoking a chemical step prior to electron transfer: a chemical–electrochemical (CE) mechanism. The chemical step exhibits an activation energy of 51 kJ/mol. This chemical step is likely the disproportionation of the chloro-bridged dimer [Mg2(μ–Cl)3·6THF]+ pre...
Roux en Y gastric bypass hypoglycemia resolves with gastric feeding or reversal: Confirming a non-pancreatic etiology.

Abstract Objective Postprandial hypoglycemia is an infrequent but disabling complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Controversy still exists as to whether the postprandial hyperinsulinemia observed is due to inherent changes in pancreatic β-cell mass or function or to reversible alterations caused by RYGB anatomy. We aimed to determine if gastric feeding or reversal of RYGB would normalize postprandial glucose and hormone excursions in patients with symptomatic hypoglycemia. Methods We completed a prospective study of six patients with severe symptomatic RYGB hypoglycemia who underwent RYGB reversal. An additional subject without hypoglycemia who underwent RYGB reversal was also studied prospectively. Mixed meal tolerance testing (MTT) was done orally (RYGB anatomy), via gastrostomy tube in the excluded stomach in the setting of RYGB, and several months after RYGB reversal. Results All subjects reported symptomatic improvement of hypoglycemia after reversal of RYGB. Weight gain after reversal was moderate and variable. Postprandial glucose, insulin, and GLP-1 excursions were significantly diminished with gastric feeding and after reversal. Insulin secretion changed proportional to glucose levels and insulin clearance increased after reversal. Glucagon/insulin ratios were similar throughout study. We further compared the impact of modified sleeve gastrectomy reversal surgery to those with restoration of complete stomach and found no significant differences in weight regain or in postprandial glucose or hormone levels. Conclusions Reversal of RYGB is an effective treatment option for severe postprandial hypoglycemia. The pathophysiology of this disorder is primarily due to RYGB anatomy resulting in altered glucose, gut, and pancreatic hormone levels and decreased insulin clearance, rather than inherent β-cell hyperplasia or hyperfunction.
Adapting the Graduation Efficiency Index to Provide a Consistent Basis for Assessment of Student Progress towards Graduation.

ABSTRACTGraduation efficiency is of top concern for institutions of higher education throughout the world. Increasingly, accountability metrics have come under scrutiny as policymakers seek to ensu...
Sunlight, Clouds, Sea Ice and Albedo: The Umbrella Versus the Blanket

The surface radiation budget plays a central role in summer ice melt and is governed by clouds and surface albedo. I calculated the net radiation flux for a range of albedos under sunny and cloudy skies and determined the break-even value, where the net radiation is the same for cloudy and sunny skies. Break-even albedos range from 0.30 in September to 0.58 in July. For snow covered or bare ice, sunny skies always result in less radiative heat input. In contrast, leads always have, and ponds usually have, more radiative input under sunny skies than cloudy skies. Snow covered ice has a net radiation flux that is negative or near zero under sunny skies, resulting in radiative cooling. Areally averaged albedos for sea ice in July result in a smaller net radiation flux under cloudy skies. For the other four months, the net radiation is smaller under sunny skies.
Case Report: Myiasis—The Botfly Boil

Cutaneous furunculoid myiasis arises from the infestation of skin or mucous membranes with dipterous larvae. Myiasis from the botfly Dermatobia hominis is a common parasitic disease of the tropics of Central and South America, and may present in the United States. With increasing travel by U.S. citizens, there is potential for increased occurrence; it is important to be able to accurately diagnose myiasis and differentiate it from entities with similar presentations, such as leishmaniasis. The authors describe four cases of myiasis from D. hominis infestation and review clinical features, differential diagnosis, and treatment.
Most Current Smokers Desire Genetic Susceptibility Testing and Genetically-Efficacious Medication.

The clinical translation of genetic research on nicotine dependence and treatment response requires acceptance of genetic testing by smokers. This study determines (1) which current smokers are receptive to genetic susceptibility testing for nicotine dependence and (2) to what potential extent smokers motivated to quit desire to take smoking cessation medication when hypothetical genetic results predict their pharmacogenetic medication response. Current smokers from a genetic nicotine dependence study (n = 1306) and an ongoing smoking cessation trial (n = 209) were surveyed on their hypothetical interest in seeing genetic testing results related to risk of nicotine dependence. Most current smokers (84.8%) reported high interest in receiving genetic testing results. Factors associated with high interest included age ≥ 40 years, having a college degree, and a positive medical history (≥1 medical condition). In the ongoing smoking cessation trial, current smokers motivated to quit (n = 474) were surveyed on their desire to take smoking cessation medication given hypothetical below or above average pharmacogenetic responses to the medication. When the hypothetical medication response changed from below to above average, significantly more smokers reported a desire to take medication (from 61.0% to 97.5%, p < .0001). These preliminary findings suggest that genetic testing for personalized smoking cessation treatment is well-received by smokers and that a positive hypothetical pharmacogenetic response increases desire to take smoking cessation medication among current smokers motivated to quit.
Mortality and comorbidities in narcolepsy – an Olmsted County, Minnesota community-based study (S14.005)

Objective: To assess the incidence, prevalence, mortality, and comorbidities of narcolepsy in Olmsted County, Minnesota. Background: Recent studies have suggested an increase in narcolepsy-associated morbidity and mortality; however, the design of these studies did not allow for verification of patients’ diagnoses or review of underlying sleep study data, limiting the generalizability of these important studies. As such, a need remains for a community-based study of narcolepsy-associated mortality and comorbidities capturing all narcolepsy patients within a defined population, with diagnoses verified by objective testing, and follow-up by sleep specialists over an extended period of time. Design/Methods: A community-based narcolepsy cohort was identified for the years 2000–2014. Age and sex-specific incidence and prevalence were computed and mortality was compared to the Olmsted County population and to a 4:1 age and sex-matched cohort also used to for comorbidity rate comparison. Results: The incidence of narcolepsy was 2.56 per 100,000 person-years; prevalence was 32.4 per 100,000. Age-adjusted narcolepsy-related mortality rate was non-significantly elevated when compared to an age and sex-matched cohort and to the Olmsted County population. At diagnosis and after prolonged follow-up, narcolepsy had more association [odds ratios (OR); 95% confidence interval, initial and after prolonged follow-up)] with psychiatric disorders (4.73, 2.49–9.01; 3.40, 1.94–5.98), endocrinopathies (4.15, 1.81–9.56; 2.45, 1.33–4.49), obstructive sleep apnea (69.25, 9.26–517.99; 13.55, 5.08–36.14), chronic low back pain (5.46, 2.46–12.11; 2.58, 1.39–4.77), depression (4.88, 2.45–9.73; 3.79, 2.12–6.79), and obesity (2.27, 1.13–4.56; 2.07, 1.15–3.7). Increased at diagnosis were anxiety (4.56, 1.99–10.44), thyroid disease (3.07, 1.19–7.90), hypertension (2.69, 1.22–5.93), and hyperlipidemia (2.49, 1.05–5.92). Increased after prolonged follow-up were peripheral neuropathy (11.21, 1.16–108.11), non-migrainous headache (6.00, 1.73–20.83), glucose intolerance (2.39, 1.05–5.45), and automobile-related trauma (2.43, 1.08–5.45). Conclusions: There was a non-significant increase in age-adjusted mortality with narcolepsy. Close attention should be given to the significantly increased comorbidities of obstructive sleep apnea, low back pain, depression, anxiety, and thyroid disease. Disclosure: Dr. Cohen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mandrekar has nothing to disclose. Dr. St. Louis has received personal compensation for activities with Axovant, Inc. and Inspire, Inc. Dr. Silber has received royalty payments from UpToDate. Dr. Kotagal has received personal compensation for activities with INC Research. Dr. Kotagal has received royalty payments from UpToDate.
Driving cessation and social participation in late life: A systematic review

Driving cessation is a major life transition in late life and can affect the quality of social life in older adults. The present study aims to systematically review the literature on how driving ce...
Stall in Heart Disease Death Rates, Evidence From Maine, 1999-2017.

INTRODUCTION Since the 1950s, heart disease deaths have declined in the United States, but recent reports indicate a plateau in this decline. Heart disease death rates increased in Maine from 2011-2015. We examined reasons for the trend change in Maine's heart disease death rates, including the contributing types of heart disease. METHODS We obtained Maine's annual heart disease death data for 1999-2017 from CDC's Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER). We used joinpoint regression to determine changes in trend and annual percentage change (APC) in death rates for heart disease overall and by demographic groups, types of heart disease, and geographic area. RESULTS Joinpoint modeling showed that Maine's age-adjusted heart disease death rates decreased during 1999-2010 (-4.2% APC), then plateaued during 2010-2017 (-0.1% APC). Death rates flattened for both sexes and age groups ≥45 years. Although death rates for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) decreased through 2017, hypertensive heart disease (HHD) and heart failure death rates increased. Death rates attributable to diabetes-related heart disease and non-AMI ischemic heart disease (IHD) plateaued. CONCLUSION Declines in Maine's heart disease death rates have plateaued, similar to national trends. Flattening rates appear to be driven by adverse trends in HHD, heart failure, diabetes-related heart disease, and non-AMI IHD. Increased efforts to address cardiovascular disease risk factors, chronic heart disease, and access to care are necessary to continue the decrease in heart disease deaths in Maine.
Using mobile technology in assessment of entrustable professional activities in undergraduate medical education.

The adoption of competency-based medical education requires objective assessments of a learner’s capability to carry out clinical tasks within workplace-based learning settings. This study involved an evaluation of the use of mobile technology to record entrustable professional activity assessments in an undergraduate clerkship curriculum. A paper-based form was adapted to a mobile platform called eClinic Card. Students documented workplace-based assessments throughout core clerkship and preceptors confirmed accuracy via mobile phones. Assessment scores for the 2017–2018 academic year were collated and analyzed for all core rotations, and preceptors and students were surveyed regarding the mobile assessment experience. The mobile system enabled 80 students and 624 preceptors to document 6850 assessment submissions across 47 clinical sites over a 48-week core clerkship curriculum. Students’ scores demonstrated progressive improvement across all entrustable professional activities with stage-appropriate levels of independence reported by end of core clerkship. Preceptors and students were satisfied with ease of use and dependability of the mobile assessment platform; however, students felt quality of formative coaching feedback could be improved. Our preliminary evaluation suggests the use of mobile technology to assess entrustable professional activity achievement across a core clerkship curriculum is a feasible and acceptable modality for workplace-based assessment. The use of mobile technology supported a programmatic assessment approach. However, meaningful coaching feedback, as well as faculty development and support, emerged as key factors influencing successful adoption and usage of entrustable professional activities within an undergraduate medical curriculum.
Modular High Power RF Sources for Compact Linear Accelerator Systems

SLAC is pursuing high efficiency, low cost RF source designs that are suitable for mass production, in order to enable the next generation of linear accelerators. These efforts have driven the development of compact linac systems with integrated modulators, klystrons, and accelerator structures, based on a modular, low voltage klystron topology. There is substantial demand for compact linacs for X-ray radiography with security applications, and for new radiation therapy machines that reduce treatment times by orders of magnitude and may yield beneficial biological effects. In this presentation, details and challenges for these new compact accelerator systems and the corresponding RF sources are discussed.