cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quasihereditary algebras and Kazhdan-Lusztig theory

A major unsolved problem in finite group theory centers on determining the characters and degrees of the irreducible modular representations of finite groups of Lie type in their defining characteristic. Lusztig took a significant step toward a solution in 1979 by formulating his celebrated conjecture [22] for the characters of simple modules for semisimple algebraic groups. Since that time, mathematicians have devoted considerable effort to establishing this conjecture, which would completely solve the above problem for primes p of modest size relative to the root system (p ≥ h, the Coxeter number, which is n for SL n ). In addition, recent work by Richard Dipper and Gordon James suggest parallels between the describing and nondescribing characteristic representation theory, so that a proof of the conjecture might provide insight into the irreducible representations of these finite groups in all characteristics, cf. [14], [13], [18].
Long-Run Growth of Nondefense Government Expenditures in the United States:

To test a number of hypotheses regarding determinants of long-run trends Abstract in nondefense government expenditures, regression equations were estimated by the method of least squares using the...
Phosphorylation of a Novel Site on the β4 Integrin at the Trailing Edge of Migrating Cells Promotes Hemidesmosome Disassembly

Hemidesmosomes (HDs) are multiprotein structures that anchor epithelial cells to the basement membrane. HD components include the alpha6beta4 integrin, plectin, and BPAGs (bullous pemphigoid antigens). HD disassembly in keratinocytes is necessary for cells to migrate and can be induced by EGF through beta4 integrin phosphorylation. We have identified a novel phosphorylation site on the beta4 integrin: S(1424). Preventing phosphorylation by mutating S-->A(1424) results in increased incorporation of beta4 into HDs and resistance to EGF-induced disassembly. In contrast, mutating S-->D(1424) (mimicking phosphorylation) partially mobilizes beta4 from HDs and potentiates the disassembly effects of other phosphorylation sites. In contrast to previously described sites that are phosphorylated upon growth factor stimulation, S(1424) already exhibits high constitutive phosphorylation, suggesting additional functions. Constitutive phosphorylation of S(1424) is distinctively enriched at the trailing edge of migrating keratinocytes where HDs are disassembled. Although most of this S(1424)-phosphorylated beta4 is found dissociated from HDs, a substantial amount can be associated with HDs near the cell margins, colocalizing with plectin but always excluding BPAGs, suggesting that phospho-S(1424) might be a mechanism to dissociate beta4 from BPAGs. S(1424) phosphorylation is PKC dependent. These data suggest an important role for S(1424) in the gradual disassembly of HDs induced by cell retraction.
Changes in Health Behaviors Made by Pregnant Substance Users

A descriptive survey was conducted with 31 pregnant women who were substance users enrolled in a perinatal treatment program. The purpose of the study was to determine the women's health behaviors by using open-ended questions. Most of the women were between 20 and 29 years of age, Hispanic, not married, unemployed, and had partial or completed high-school education. The women had multiple pregnancies with few living children. The majority of the women were 4 to 6 months pregnant and all had received prenatal care. The women made health behavior changes during pregnancy related to nutrition, substance use, self-care, exercise, lifestyle, and seeking counseling. Over 52% of the women reported they made these behavioral changes because they wanted a healthy baby.
Low Temperature Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition of Silicon Nitride Thin Films for Microelectronics Applications

Silicon nitride technology has been incorporated in ultra-large scale integration (ULSI) microchip fabrication, thin film transistors (TFT), solar cells, and many other applications in a rapidly expanding market. Nevertheless, silicon nitride technologies currently in use face considerable limitations. Low pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) occurs at relatively high temperature (>700 °C) and plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), although occurring at temperatures below 300 °C, produces hydrogen-rich films and could be self-limiting in terms of conformality and damage to the devices due to ion bombardment. In the present work, successful low temperature thermal chemical vapor deposition (LTCVD) of silicon nitride is reported on 8” silicon wafers. The use of a halide-based silicon precursor, tetraiodosilane (SiI4) has led to the deposition of high quality silicon nitride thin films at temperatures as low as 300 °C. Characterization of resulting film properties has been performed to determine their dependence on deposition parameters by Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES), Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Nuclear Reaction Analysis (NRA), Ellipsometry, Capacitance-Voltage (C-V), and Current-Voltage (I-V) measurements.
Hydrologic Analyses of the July 17-18, 1996, Flood in Chicago and the Role of Urbanization

On July 17–18, 1996, two mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) passed through northeastern Illinois, causing a record 440-mm total storm rainfall within a 24-h period at Aurora, Illinois, with values exceeding 200 mm throughout a broad area of the region. The storm caused flooding with a return period larger than 100 years at different USGS regional stream gauging locations. The Davenport, Iowa, Weather Surveillance Radar–1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) radar coverage allows high-quality characterization of the storm at fine spatial and temporal scales. Of particular interest is the inter- and intravariability in watershed response to the two pulses of intense rainfall. Spatial distribution of rainfall and the degree of urbanization of the individual basins are the dominant factors determining the magnitude of runoff response. These properties are highly dependent on the extent and history of urbanization. Examination of the annual maximum instantaneous peak discharge and the peaks-over-threshold (POT) time series at three stream gauging stations in Illinois (Blackberry Creek, DuPage River, and Sawmill Creek) over the past 50 years points to the large effect of urbanization on the flood peak distribution in the greater Chicago metropolitan area.
Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes in breast cancer

SUMMARY There is an increased understanding and recognition of paraneoplastic syndromes in patients with a variety of malignancies. Paraneoplastic syndromes are associated with many tumor types and can potentially affect most organ systems. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, including in the USA, and can be associated with a variety of paraneoplastic syndromes affecting many systems, including the endocrine, neurologic, dermatologic, rheumatologic, hematologic and psychiatric systems. These syndromes can cause significant morbidity; therefore, effective diagnostic and treatment strategies need to be applied to improve quality of life, enhance delivery of cancer therapy and potentially prolong survival. This review focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of major paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes associated with breast cancer.
Clostridium septicum Infection Associated with Necrotizing Pancreatitis, Transmural Gastric Necrosis, and Liquefaction of the Spleen

Spontaneous infection with Clostridium septicum (C. septicum) is rare, but when isolated it is commonly associated with malignancy. We report a case of a 47-year-old man with infected pancreatic necrosis involving greater than 80% of the pancreas, transmural gastric necrosis, and liquefaction necrosis of the spleen. Initial cultures revealed C. septicum infection. He was managed with prompt aggressive surgical debridement, resection, appropriate broad spectrum antibiotics, and early enteral nutrition.
Computational Geometry of Contour Extraction

We present a method for extracting contours from digital images using techniques from computational geometry. Our approach is different from traditional pixelbased methods in image processing. Instead of working directly with pixels, we extract a set of oriented feature points from the input digital images, then apply classical geometric techniques such as clustering, linking, and simplification to find contours among these points. Experiments on synthetic and natural images show that our method can effectively extract contours even from images with considerable noise; moreover the extracted contours have a very compact representation.
Pancreatic injury in damage control laparotomies: Is pancreatic resection safe during the initial laparotomy?

Abstract Objectives While damage control (DC) techniques such as the rapid control of exsanguinating haemorrhage and gastrointestinal contamination have improved survival in severely injured patients, the optimal pancreatic injury management strategy in these critically injured patients requiring DC is uncertain. We sought to characterise pancreatic injury patterns and outcomes to better determine optimal initial operative management in the DC population. Materials and methods A two-centre, retrospective review of all patients who sustained pancreatic injury requiring DC in two urban trauma centres during 1997–2004 revealed 42 patients. Demographics and clinical characteristics were analysed. Study groups based on operative management (pack ± drain vs. resection) were compared with respect to clinical characteristics and hospital outcomes. Results The 42 patients analysed were primarily young (32.8 ± 16.2 years) males (38/42, 90.5%) who suffered penetrating (30/42, 71.5%) injuries of the pancreas and other abdominal organs (41/42, 97.6%). Of the 12 patients who underwent an initial pancreatic resection (11 distal pancreatectomies, 1 pancreaticoduodenectomy), all distal pancreatectomies were performed in entirety during the initial laparotomy while pancreaticoduodenectomy reconstruction was delayed until subsequent laparotomy. Comparing the pack ± drain and resection groups, no difference in mechanism, vascular injury, shock, ISS, or complications was revealed. Mortality was substantial (packing only, 70%; packing with drainage, 25%, distal pancreatectomy, 55%, pancreaticoduodenectomy, 0%) in the study population. Conclusions The presence of shock or major vascular injury dictates the extent of pancreatic operative intervention. While pancreatic resection may be required in selected damage control patients, packing with pancreatic drainage effectively controls both haemorrhage and abdominal contamination in patients with life-threatening physiological parameters and may lead to improved survival. Increased mortality rates in patients who were packed without drainage suggest that packing without drainage is ineffective and should be abandoned.
Shaping the Learning Environment: Connecting Developmentally Appropriate Practices to Brain Research

Connections are shown between recent findings in brain research and principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practices to explore the implications for early childhood learning environments and teaching practices. New research on how the growing mind learns appears to bear out the value of NAEYC’s constructivist approach to early childhood education where environments are designed to gain the learner’s attention, foster meaningful connections with prior understanding, and maximize both short- and long-term memory through patterns and active problem solving. Each unique learner needs to feel challenged, but not fearful, so that stimulating experiences result in an exchange of ideas and promote deeper understanding.
Some Effects of Rearing Density on the Biology of the Elm Spanworm

The elm spanworm, Ennomos subsignarius (Hubner), a defoliator of oaks and hickories in the Southern Appalachians, was reared under three population densities — one, two, and four larvae per cage. The size of the group influenced to a degree the time spent in the larval stage, but was even more significantly related to the duration of the hatch to adult period. Although male pupal weight was not related to group size, female weight and fecundity were. Females reared singly had significantly greater pupal weight and fecundity than those reared in groups.
On H2-optimization with stable controllers

The problem of obtaining the H2-optimal stable feedback controller for a general optimality criterion is considered. It is shown that this optimization reduces to finding the "best" function in RH2 (i.e. of minimum norm) that satifies an avoidance constraint. A design procedure is proposed for obtaining an optimal stable controller that minimizes the performance index and maintains internal stability. Given an initial point, this is achieved by minimizing a nonlinear objective function subject to nonlinear inequality constraints via a sequential gradient programming method.
Resisting Memory Storage: Activating Endogenous Protein Kinease C Inhibitors

We have recently proposed a model of long-term potentiation (LTP), a physiological model of memory storage in the brain, that has as its major theme the view that signal transduction mechanisms on both sides of the synapse leads to the enhanced synaptic communication of LTP (Colley and Routtenberg, 1992). This involves a sequence of events requiring bidirectional communication, the first signal being presynaptic transmitter release. A modified version of this model is shown in Figure 1. In the present chapter I will first review the model and then discuss the likely control points in the sequence and the synergistic relation between messengers and retrograde signals.
Introduction and Spread of Pest Mole Crickets: Scapteriscus vicinus and S. acletus Reexamined

Neither of the mole crickets most damaging to turf, pastures, and crops in southeastern United States is taxonomically what it has been thought to be. Scapteriscus vicinus Scudder, also called “changa” or “Puerto Rican mole cricket,” is distinct in calling song and interdactyl distance from the species known by the same name in Puerto Rico. Therefore its introduction at Brunswick, GA, ca. 1899, was from some other source. By 1960 its U.S. distribution included all of Florida, southern Georgia, and southernmost South Carolina. No additional spread has been reported during the past 20 years. Scapteriscus acletus Rehn and Hebard, long believed native to southeastern United States, was introduced at Brunswick, Georgia, ca. 1904. It was apparently introduced anew at Charleston, SC (ca. 1915), Mobile, AL (ca. 1919), and Port Arthur, TX (ca. 1925). Variations in pronotal color patterns suggest that the Charleston and Port Arthur introductions had a different origin than the Brunswick and Mobile introductions. By 1960, acletus had spread throughout Florida and southern Georgia, as far north as southern North Carolina, and as far west as eastern Louisiana; it had also occupied a large disjunct area in western Louisiana and eastern Texas. It has since spread to central Louisiana and been collected at scattered localities northward. Neither S. vicinus nor S. acletus reached peninsular Florida prior to 1925, but Scapteriscus abbreviatus Scudder, a flightless species of minor pest status, was introduced at six coastal cities of peninsular Florida, as well as at Brunswick, Georgia, prior to 1925. The homelands of U.S. Scapteriscus spp. should be located and their pathogens, parasites, and predators studied as potential biological control agents.
Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms in Loeys–Dietz syndrome

Background Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS) is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder characterized by extensive arterial aneurysms. The successful clipping of intracranial aneurysms in patients with LDS has been reported in a limited number of patients but endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms in LDS has never before been described. The first successful cases of endovascular management of five intracranial aneurysms in two patients with LDS are reported. Clinical presentation The first patient was an asymptomatic 45-year-old woman with LDS and two incidentally discovered, unruptured wide necked aneurysms (6×5 mm and 4×2 mm) arising from the ophthalmic segment of the left internal carotid artery. Both aneurysms were successfully embolized via Neuroform stent assisted coiling. The second patient was an asymptomatic middle 40s woman with LDS found to have an unruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm (7×4 mm) as well as two ophthalmic segment aneurysms (2.5×3.7 mm and 2.9×3.5 mm). All three aneurysms were successfully embolized via Neuroform stent assisted coiling in two staged procedures. There were no periprocedural complications in either patient. Long term follow-up imaging demonstrated durable embolization in all aneurysms in both patients. Conclusion This is the first reported case series of endovascular management of intracranial aneurysms in the setting of LDS. The endovascular approach was safe, effective and durable in all aneurysms in both patients, and should be considered when treating patients with LDS and intracranial aneurysms.
Staining of Trichomonas vaginalis with Fluorescent Brighteners

Objective: Infection with Trichomonas vaginalis ( T. vaginalis) is an important and common sexually transmitted infection that often is unsuspected and undiagnosed. While sensitive laboratory tests such as culture and those based on genetic probes or antigen detection are available, many laboratories still use a relatively insensitive microscopic examination of an unstained wet preparation to diagnosis this infection. Cultured T. vaginalis expresses chitin on its cell surface that fluoresces when stained with calcofluor white (CFW). This study investigated whether CFW improves the sensitivity of microscopic detection of trichomonads. Methods: Uvitex 2B and 7 different commercial preparations of CFW were tested with 23 urine and 20 vaginal specimens positive by microscopy for trichomonads. In addition to adding the fluorescence brighteners (FBs) to wet preparations, air-dried smears were stained with the FBs using a variety of fixation methods, FB concentrations, and staining duration. Ten recently isolated strains of T. vaginalis in cultures were also examined. Results: In 40 clinical specimens, no fluorescence was seen with any of the FB staining procedures used, either in wet preparations or smears; 3 vaginal specimens produced only minimal fluorescence. Some of the cultured trichomonads produced fluorescence, depending upon the age of the culture and fixation method. Conclusion: For laboratories using microscopy to detect T. vaginalis in vaginal smears and urine specimens, FBs do not appear to improve sensitivity compared with unstained wet preparations. * T. vaginalis : Trichomonas vaginalis ; FB : fluorescent brightener; CFW : calcofluor white; U2B : uvitex 2B; PBS : phosphate buffered saline; AO : acridine orange; NNDSS : National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System; RT : room temperature
Blood Diastase as an Indicator of Liver Function

The method developed in this laboratory for the estimation of diastase in biological material satisfies 2 essential requirements: it yields accurate quantitative results, and is sufficiently sensitive to permit the determination of very small quantities of the enzyme.The quantity of the enzyme we express as the amount of reducing matter, in terms of glucose, which is produced by a known amount of the enzyme-bearing material under standardized conditions. As applied to blood, when we state that the diastase value of human blood serum is on an average 120, this means that 100 cc. of serum, incubated with 1.5% starch paste for 1/2 hour at 40°, produces a quantity of reducing matter which in regard to reducing capacity is equivalent to 120 mg. of glucose. The determination is actually carried out with 1 cc. of plasma (or serum), which is incubated with 5 cc. of starch paste and 2 cc. of a 1% NaCl solution for 30 minutes, and subsequently deproteinized by our copper method. The reduction value determined in th...
Infection of Cockroaches with Herpomyces (Laboulbeniales) II. Histology and Histopathology

The Laboulbeniales are a group of fungi assigned to the Ascomyceteae. All of the approximately 1500 described species are obligate parasites growing on the cuticle of living insects or mites. Most of the species are described from adult Coleoptera and Diptera, but the 25 species of Herpomyces are all found exclusively on cockroaches (Thaster, 1931). We have studied three species in colonies here: H. stylopygae Spegazzini on Blatta orientalis, H. ectobiae Thaxter on Blattella germanica, and H. tricuspidalus Thaxter on Blaberus craniifer. These fungi are largely host specific. (Richards and Smith, 1955b). Most of our work has dealt with infections of H. stylopygae on oriental cockroaches. In Part I of this series we presented data on the location, maintenance and transmission of the infection, and on the interesting phenomenon of the infection being lost at ecdysis. In Part III we plan to treat host specificity, and in subsequent installments other facets of this host-parasite relationship.
Magnetic resonance imaging safety in cardiothoracic imaging

Patient safety is a priority for patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This article reviews MRI safety issues related to devices, pharmacologic stress agents, contrast agents, anesthesia, and external equipment, focusing on cardiothoracic MRI.
A UV-Independent Topical Small-Molecule Approach for Melanin Production in Human Skin

Summary The presence of dark melanin (eumelanin) within human epidermis represents one of the strongest predictors of low skin cancer risk. Topical rescue of eumelanin synthesis, previously achieved in "redhaired" Mc1r- deficient mice, demonstrated significant protection against UV damage. However, application of a topical strategy for human skin pigmentation has not been achieved, largely due to the greater barrier function of human epidermis. Salt-inducible kinase (SIK) has been demonstrated to regulate MITF, the master regulator of pigment gene expression, through its effects on CRTC and CREB activity. Here, we describe the development of small-molecule SIK inhibitors that were optimized for human skin penetration, resulting in MITF upregulation and induction of melanogenesis. When topically applied, pigment production was induced in Mc1r -deficient mice and normal human skin. These findings demonstrate a realistic pathway toward UV-independent topical modulation of human skin pigmentation, potentially impacting UV protection and skin cancer risk.
Paediatric liver transplantation: an overview

Abstract The only definitive treatment for end stage liver disease is transplantation. This has been made possible by advances in vascular surgery and immunosuppression. In the paediatric population, liver transplantation is most commonly performed for liver failure secondary to biliary atresia. Successful transplantation depends on patient preparation by a dedicated multidisciplinary team and meticulous peri-operative care. Improvements in timing of transplantation, immunosuppression advances and peri-operative intensive care have all contributed to improvements in patient survival. Currently the survival rates for children undergoing deceased donor liver transplant in the UK is 95.7% at 1 year and 91.8% at 5 years. These outcomes are reliant on multi-disciplinary care, which is best provided in centres that provide the expertise in each of the specialist fields required to care for these children. This article provides an overview of the entire process. It describes the selection process, the surgery undertaken and early and late post-operative complications.
Herpes Zoster in the Older Adult

Herpes zoster (HZ) is the result of reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus (VZV) and occurs most frequently in older adults. Classically, HZ presents as a unilateral, selflimited, dermatomal rash. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common sequela, presenting as severe pain that persists after the rash has resolved. In the elderly, PHN can be debilitating and requires a prompt diagnosis, treatment with antivirals, and adequate pain control. A longer-term pain management strategy is required if PHN occurs. A modestly effective vaccine exists and is recommended for older individuals.
Harmonic regression of Landsat time series for modeling attributes from national forest inventory data

Abstract Imagery from the Landsat Program has been used frequently as a source of auxiliary data for modeling land cover, as well as a variety of attributes associated with tree cover. With ready access to all scenes in the archive since 2008 due to the USGS Landsat Data Policy, new approaches to deriving such auxiliary data from dense Landsat time series are required. Several methods have previously been developed for use with finer temporal resolution imagery (e.g. AVHRR and MODIS), including image compositing and harmonic regression using Fourier series. The manuscript presents a study, using Minnesota, USA during the years 2009–2013 as the study area and timeframe. The study examined the relative predictive power of land cover models, in particular those related to tree cover, using predictor variables based solely on composite imagery versus those using estimated harmonic regression coefficients. The study used two common non-parametric modeling approaches (i.e. k-nearest neighbors and random forests) for fitting classification and regression models of multiple attributes measured on USFS Forest Inventory and Analysis plots using all available Landsat imagery for the study area and timeframe. The estimated Fourier coefficients developed by harmonic regression of tasseled cap transformation time series data were shown to be correlated with land cover, including tree cover. Regression models using estimated Fourier coefficients as predictor variables showed a two- to threefold increase in explained variance for a small set of continuous response variables, relative to comparable models using monthly image composites. Similarly, the overall accuracies of classification models using the estimated Fourier coefficients were approximately 10–20 percentage points higher than the models using the image composites, with corresponding individual class accuracies between six and 45 percentage points higher.
Feigned Miranda Impairment by Legally Involved Juveniles: The Vulnerability of Forensic Measures and the Development of Effective Screens:

Forensic studies have almost entirely neglected research on adolescent offenders and their abilities to engage in malingering and other forms of deception. The present research represents the first...
3,4 DAP (FIRDAPSE) Improves Progressive Dok-7 Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome (CMS) Weakness: Clinical Experience in Two Patients (P6.452)

Objective: To describe treatment challenges in Dok-7 Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome (CMS) and clinical response to 3,4 DAP in two siblings with progressive worsening of muscle weakness including respiratory insufficiency. Background: Postsynaptic structural or organizational defects involving abnormal clustering/function of acetylcholine receptor are estimated in as 80% of all CMS cases. One of them, autosomal recessive Dok-7 congenital myasthenia has variable onset and severity with progressive course of a limb-girdle pattern of weakness with ambulatory and respiratory difficulties. Facial and bulbar weakness is common. Ventilatory failure may occur by the third decade. Albuterol employed orally is commonly utilized for respiratory insufficiency, in addition to supportive therapy such as BiPAP. Patients with Dok-7 deficiency may benefit from 3,4 DAP up to 1 mg/kg/day in some but not all cases. Design/Methods: Brother and sister, now 45 and 41-years-old respectively, developed exercise intolerance and ambulatory difficulty during childhood. Sister had more severe phenotype with delayed motor milestones and axial muscle weakness requiring extensive spinal fusion as a teenager. Both patients’ symptoms worsened with AchE inhibitors. Results: Patients were diagnosed genetically with Dok-7 CMS (A. Engel) as teenagers, and placed on Albuterol 4 mg three times daily with benefit. Sister also required oral steroids for several years. During her pregnancy, she went into myasthenic crisis requiring intubation and feeding tube. Siblings are ambulatory without assistance at present time. Brother has been dependent on BiPAP, while sister is not using it, although indicated. Introduction of 3,4 DAP 60–80 mg a day has provided a burst of energy and sustained improvement of stamina and respiratory status for both patients (pre-3,4 DAP FVC Conclusions: 3,4 DAP can be effective in stabilizing and potentially improving Dok-7 CMS symptoms. Study Supported by: N/A Disclosure: Dr. Shimamoto has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rakocevic has nothing to disclose.
A Survey of Multipartitions Congruences and Identities

The concept of a multipartition of a number, which has proved so useful in the study of Lie algebras, is studied for its own intrinsic interest. Following up on the work of Atkin, we shall present an infinite family of congruences for P_k (n), the number of k-component
CD4+ memory T cells infected with latent HIV-1 are susceptible to drugs targeting telomeres.

The population of HIV reservoir in infected person is very small, but extremely long-lived and is a major obstacle for an HIV cure. We previously showed that cells with established HIV latency have deficiencies in DNA damage response (DDR). Here, we investigated ability of HIV-1 to interfere with telomere maintenance, and the effects of targeting telomeres on latently infected cells. Our results show that telomeres are elongated in cultured primary memory CD4 + T cells (TCM) after HIV-1 infection and when virus latency is established. Similarly, much longer telomeres were found in several Jurkat-derived latently infected cell lines, indicating that virus stimulates telomere elongation. Exposing primary CD4+ TCM cells to BRACO19, an agent targeting telomeres, resulted in a higher rate of apoptosis for infected cultures at day 3 post-infection, during HIV-1 latency and for PMA-stimulated cultures with low level of HIV-1 reactivation. Importantly, BRACO19 induced apoptosis in infected cells with potency similar to etoposide and camptothecin, whereas uninfected cells were less affected by BRACO19. We also determined that apoptosis induced by BRACO19 is not caused by telomeres shortening, but is related to formation of gamma-H2AX, implicating DNA damage or uncapping of telomeres, which triggers genome instability. In conclusion, our results indicate that HIV-1 stimulates telomere elongation during latency, suggesting that HIV reservoir has greater capacity for clonal expansion and extended lifespan. Higher rates of apoptosis in response to BRACO19 treatment suggest that HIV reservoirs are more susceptible to targeting telomere maintenance and to inhibitors targeting DDR, which is also involved in stabilizing telomeres.
Utilizing High-Density Electroencephalography and Motion Capture Technology to Characterize Sensorimotor Integration While Performing Complex Actions

Studies of sensorimotor integration often use sensory stimuli that require a simple motor response, such as a reach or a grasp. Recent advances in neural recording techniques, motion capture technologies, and time-synchronization methods enable studying sensorimotor integration using more complex sensory stimuli and performed actions. Here, we demonstrate that prehensile actions that require using complex sensory instructions for manipulating different objects can be characterized using high-density electroencephalography and motion capture systems. In 20 participants, we presented stimuli in different sensory modalities (visual, auditory) containing different contextual information about the object with which to interact. Neural signals recorded near motor cortex and posterior parietal cortex discharged based on both the instruction delivered and object manipulated. Additionally, kinematics of the wrist movements could be discriminated between participants. These findings demonstrate a proof-of-concept behavioral paradigm for studying sensorimotor integration of multidimensional sensory stimuli to perform complex movements. The designed framework will prove vital for studying neural control of movements in clinical populations in which sensorimotor integration is impaired due to information no longer being communicated correctly between brain regions (e.g. stroke). Such a framework is the first step towards developing a neural rehabilitative system for restoring function more effectively.
Morphological evaluation of ultralow density microcellular foamed composites developed through CO2-induced solid-state batch foaming technique utilizing water as co-blowing agent:

In this work, microcellular acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene foams were developed with utilization of water as a co-blowing agent and CO2 as the primary blowing agent through the solid-state batch f...
Communication and the Accumulation of Genetic Information

Prior chapters have emphasized information and its management. Certainly, DNA is a crucial aspect of information and absolutely vital to the living condition. However, in recent years, there has been a consequential shift in understanding how the genetic code operates. The concept of the genome as a linear “blueprint” of genetic information has been placed to the wayside (Ball 2016). Yet, that does not mean that organisms have not continued to be viewed in terms of their DNA information. One alternative direction has been through complex systems analysis, such as cybernetics. That perspective suggests that there ought to be identifiable hierarchical principles of feedback and control that might instill some teleological end to biological and evolutionary development (Ball 2016). Others have suggested that the issue can be conquered by a more pluralistic approach to DNA content through epigenetics and exogenetics (Griffiths 2017). Yet, despite these attempts, the issue remains unclear. Even prior concepts that had been nearly unquestioned have been overturned by modern research. For example, Crick's central dogma which declared that there was only a unilateral flow of information from DNA to protein that could not be reversed is no longer deemed tenable (Shapiro 2009; Wills 2016).
The Expansion of Educational Opportunities

Traditional special education programs for disabled students so often tend to curtail decision-making experiences that students are unprepared for adult responsibilities. Career choices for both me...
Behavioral Tests for Mouse Models of Autism: An Argument for the Inclusion of Cerebellum-controlled Motor Behaviors

Mouse models of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have been interrogated using a variety of behavioral tests in order to understand the symptoms of ASD. However, the hallmark behaviors that are classically affected in ASD - deficits in social interaction and communication as well as the occurrence of repetitive behaviors - do not have direct murine equivalents. Thus, it is critical to identify the caveats that come with modeling a human disorder in mice. The most commonly used behavioral tests represent complex cognitive processes based on largely unknown brain circuitry. Motor impairments provide an alternative, scientifically rigorous approach to understanding ASD symptoms. Difficulties with motor coordination and learning - seen in both patients and mice - point to an involvement of the cerebellum in ASD pathology. This brain area supports types of motor learning that are conserved throughout vertebrate evolution, allowing for direct comparisons of functional abnormalities between humans with autism and ASD mouse models. Studying simple motor behaviors provides researchers with clearly interpretable results. We describe and evaluate methods used on mouse behavioral assays designed to test for social, communicative, perseverative, anxious, nociceptive, and motor learning abnormalities. We comment on the effectiveness and validity of each test based on how much information its results give, as well as its relevance to ASD, and will argue for an inclusion of cerebellum-supported motor behaviors in the phenotypic description of ASD mouse models. LAY SUMMARY: Mouse models of Autism Spectrum Disorder help us gain insight about ASD symptoms in human patients. However, there are many differences between mice and humans, which makes interpreting behaviors challenging. Here, we discuss a battery of behavioral tests for specific mouse behaviors to explore whether each test does indeed evaluate the intended measure, and whether these tests are useful in learning about ASD.
Lithium stimulation of granulopoiesis in diffusion chambers--a model of a humoral, indirect stimulation of stem cell proliferation

Lithium has been recognized as a stimulator of granulopoiesis both in vivo and in vitro. The mechanism by which lithium provokes this stimulation is unclear, with previous data focusing on such divergent causes as direct effects on progenitor cells v elevations in granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating activity (GM-CSA) production. In the present study, we used a model system of granulopoiesis in diffusion chambers to study this stimulation of granulopoiesis. Lithium pretreatment of mice followed by a rest period to allow for excretion of the lithium (confirmed by serum assays) revealed a stimulation of progenitor cell growth within the diffusion chambers. No changes in the serum and chamber fluid GM-CSA levels were discernible between the control host mice and the lithium-pretreated mice. These data indicate that lithium stimulates granulopoiesis by an indirect mechanism that does not appear to involve GM-CSA.
Hybrid Violin Performance: Model-Free, Abductive Experiment

My augmented violin is a personal instrument consisting of an acoustic violin, realtime signal processing, a custom sensor glove, and a violin shoulder rest embedded with voice coils for haptic feedback. Feature construction in software is not model-based but built by abductive experimentation---continuously refined by trial and error. My approach to movement analysis is not based on classifying formalized styles of bowing but on continuous tracking of non-tokenized movement and gesture. These techniques are co-developed with novel sonification methods ad libitum, conditioning the performance media without schematizing possible gestures a priori. Furthermore, ongoing development of the instrument, which includes novel haptic feedback elements, effectively symmetrizes sensory feedforward and feedback paths---the enactive loop between action and perception---yielding refined instrumental dynamics, yet the signal processing decisions entail no claim to universality or scientific validity. I improvise with this instrument in live performance, unfurling its possibilities and resingularizing my technique.
Challenges in Ki‐67 assessments in pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinomas

Aims To gather the best available evidence regarding Ki-67% values in large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) and determine whether certain cut-off values could serve as a prognostic feature in LCNEC. Methods and results Aperio ScanScope AT Turbo, eSlide Manager and ImageScope software (Leica Biosystems) were used to measure Ki-67% in 77 resected LCNEC diagnosed by World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria. Cases were stratified into six classes by 10% Ki-67 increments. Using the Kaplan-Meier method, overall (OS) and disease-free survivals (DFS) were compared by AJCC stage, by six Ki-67% classes and with Ki-67% cut-points ≥20% and ≥40%. Tumours were from 0.9 to 11.5 cm and pathological stages 1-3. The system measured Ki-67% positivity using 4072-44 533 tumour nuclei per case (mean 16610 ± 8039). Ki-67% ranged from 1 to 64% (mean = 26%; median = 26%). Only 16 (21%) tumours had Ki-67% ≥40%. OS ranged from 1 to 298 months (median follow-up = 25 months). DFS ranged from 1 to 276 months (median follow-up = 9 months). OS and DFS differed across AJCC stage (overall log-rank P = 0.038 and P = 0.037). However, neither OS nor DFS significantly correlated with Ki-67% when six or two classes were used with either ≥20% Ki-67 or ≥40% Ki-67 as cut-point. A literature review identified 14 reports meeting our inclusion criteria with ≥10 LCNEC. Reported Ki-67% ranged from 2% to 100%. Problems contributing to variability in Ki-67% measurements are discussed. Conclusion Our findings caution against a blanket use of 20%, 40% or other Ki-67% cut-points for LCNEC diagnosis or prognostication.
Can Permissionless Blockchains Avoid Governance and the Law

Permission-less (or public) block-chain networks are a new form of decentralized private governance in the digital sphere. Though legal scholars recognize the significance of law in the use of block-chain, existing research using legal and institutional perspectives leaves block-chain governance as something of a black box. We provide a more granular analysis, finding that block-chain governance operates on four distinct levels. Governance at the protocol layer involves discrete institutional design choices intended to constrain network members’ incentives in an ongoing sense. Subsidiary governance arises from the need for communities to draft protocol updates and from the fact that governance protocol design choices create discrete concentrations of political power within the network. Competitive governance forces arise because cryptocurrency networks are constrained by the possibility of exit of participants and users to other alternatives. Finally, in terms of superior governance, permission-less cryptocurrency participants and users are subject to a variety of laws and regulations due to how cryptocurrencies implicate property, contracts, tax, and securities law. Since the interaction of these governance aspects shapes the operation of any given network, legal and regulatory governance of block-chain ought to consider permission-less block-chains as confronting political and governance dilemmas much like any complex organization. Predicting the effect legal and regulatory treatment of permission-less block-chains requires an accurate understanding of the incentives of their members, all of which are greatly shaped by the governance forces we outline in detail here.
GLOBULAR CLUSTERS IN THE OUTER GALACTIC HALO: NEW HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE/ADVANCED CAMERA FOR SURVEYS IMAGING OF SIX GLOBULAR CLUSTERS AND THE GALACTIC GLOBULAR CLUSTER AGE-METALLICITY RELATION*

Color-magnitude diagrams (CMDs) derived from Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Advanced Camera for Surveys F606W, F814W photometry of six globular clusters (GCs) are presented. The six GCs form two loose groupings in Galactocentric distance (R{sub GC}): IC 4499, NGC 6426, and Ruprecht 106 at {approx}15-20 kpc and NGC 7006, Palomar 15, and Pyxis at {approx}40 kpc. The CMDs allow the ages to be estimated from the main-sequence turnoff in every case. In addition, the age of Palomar 5 (R{sub GC} {approx} 18 kpc) is estimated using archival HST Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 V, I photometry. The age analysis reveals the following: IC 4499, Ruprecht 106, and Pyxis are 1-2 Gyr younger than inner halo GCs with similar metallicities; NGC 7006 and Palomar 5 are marginally younger than their inner halo counterparts; NGC 6426 and Palomar 15, the two most metal-poor GCs in the sample, are coeval with all the other metal-poor GCs within the uncertainties. Combined with our previous efforts, the current sample provides strong evidence that the Galactic GC age-metallicity relation consists of two distinct branches. One suggests a rapid chemical enrichment in the inner Galaxy while the other suggests prolonged GC formation in the outer halo. The lattermore » is consistent with the outer halo GCs forming in dwarf galaxies and later being accreted by the Milky Way.« less
Equality for (almost) all: Egalitarian advocacy predicts lower endorsement of sexism and racism, but not ageism

Past research has assumed that social egalitarians reject group-based hierarchies and advocate for equal treatment of all groups. However, contrary to popular belief, we argue that egalitarian advocacy predicts greater likelihood to support "Succession"-based ageism, which prescribes that older adults step aside to free up coveted opportunities (e.g., by retiring). Although facing their own forms of discrimination, older individuals are perceived as blocking younger people, and other unrepresented groups, from opportunities-that in turn, motivates egalitarian advocates to actively discriminate against older adults. In 9 separate studies (N = 3,277), we demonstrate that egalitarian advocates endorse less prejudice toward, and show more support for, women and racial minorities, but harbor more prejudice toward (Studies 1 and 2), and show less advocacy for (Studies 3-6), older individuals. We demonstrate downstream consequences of this effect, such as support for, and resource allocation to, diversity initiatives (Studies 3-6). Further, we isolate perceived opportunity blocking as a critical mediator, demonstrating that egalitarian advocates believe that older individuals actively obstruct more deserving groups from receiving necessary resources and support to get ahead (Studies 4-6). Finally, we explore the intersectional nature of this effect (Study 7). Together this research suggests that when it comes to egalitarianism, equality for all may only mean equality for some. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Evaluation of Cost Growth Factors in Design-Build Highway Projects Using Structural Equation Modeling

AbstractDesign-build (DB) project delivery is often used to overcome limitations of the traditional design-bid-build delivery method. Identification of project performance influencing factors is im...
The Effects of Negotiator Confidence on Integrative Bargaining: Bandura at the Negotiation Table

There is little research investigating the effects of negotiator confidence levels on integrative bargaining performance. Yet, textbooks frequently warn negotiators of the overconfidence bias and urge them to reduce their confidence as a means of facilitating integrative performance. This study invokes self-efficacy models and suggests that dyads composed of more confident negotiators will set higher goals, engage in more problem-solving tactics, persist longer, and achieve more integrative agreements than dyads composed of less confident negotiators. Dyads composed of negotiators warned to avoid being overconfident reported lower confidence levels, set lower goals, engaged in fewer integrative tactics, and integrated logrolling interests more poorly than dyads composed of negotiators given diametrically opposite advice. They did not persist longer. The hypotheses were not supported for compatibility performance.
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors

The tyrosine kinase inhibitors are a family of small molecules or peptides with the ability to inhibit either cytosolic or receptor tyrosine kinases. Inhibition by this class of agents is through direct competition for ATP binding to the …