cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia is associated with polyps and frequently has metaplastic change.

Aims: Endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN) is a monoclonal precursor to endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma characterized by a geographic cluster of crowded glands with epithelial cytology altered relative to the background. It may demonstrate epithelial metaplastic changes, or arise within polyps, but the frequencies of these features as encountered in practice is unknown. The aim was to report the epithelial differentiation state and polyp context of 83 sequential EIN lesions diagnosed over a 2-year period. Methods and results: EIN is a rare lesion, seen in only 1.4% of endometrial biopsy specimens in a busy hospital-based practice. Of 83 EIN cases, 39 contained metaplastic changes (18% squamous morular, 14% tubal secretory and 5% each of secretory, mucinous or ciliated change). Endometrial polyps were more likely (odds ratio 5.2, P < 0.001) to occur in the endometrial biopsy specimens of women with EIN lesions (43.3%), compared with the background polyp rate (12.9%) of comparable specimens from the same patient population. Conclusions: Non-endometrioid differentiation and occurrence within polyps are frequent presentations of EIN lesions. Possible mechanisms of polyp association with EIN include: non-shedding of polyp tissue creating a shelter for persistence of pre-existing neoplastic glands, or promotion of premalignant glandular clones by unique polyp stroma.
Comparison of cathodoluminescence and photoluminescence of CdSeTe films grown on Si by molecular beam epitaxy

For the first time, cathodoluminescence of CdSexTe1-x (with x = 0-1) films grown by molecular beam epitaxy on (211) Si substrates were systematically studied and compared with photoluminescence. The Se mole fraction was consistently determined by x-ray rocking-curve diffraction, wavelength-dispersive spectroscopy, and Rutherford backscattering. The band gap energy, as determined by both cathodoluminescence and photoluminescence, was found consistent with literature. The band gap energy varied parabolically with composition as predicted by theory. The results suggest cathodoluminescence can be used to conveniently map composition fluctuations such as Se segregation in CdSe x Te 1-x films, with higher spatial resolution than photoluminescence.
How good is endoscopic ultrasound in differentiating various T stages of rectal cancer? Meta-analysis and systematic review.

Published data on accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in differentiating T stages of rectal cancers is varied. Study selection criteria were to select only EUS studies confirmed with results of surgical pathology. Articles were searched in Medline and Pubmed. Pooling was conducted by both fixed and random effects models. Initial search identified 3,630 reference articles, of which 42 studies (N = 5,039) met the inclusion criteria and were included in this analysis. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of EUS to determine T1 stage was 87.8% [95% confidence interval (CI) 85.3–90.0%] and 98.3% (95% CI 97.8–98.7%), respectively. For T2 stage, EUS had a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 80.5% (95% CI 77.9–82.9%) and 95.6% (95% CI 94.9–96.3%), respectively. To stage T3 stage, EUS had a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 96.4% (95% CI 95.4–97.2%) and 90.6% (95% CI 89.5–91.7%), respectively. In determining the T4 stage, EUS had a pooled sensitivity of 95.4% (95% CI 92.4–97.5%) and specificity of 98.3% (95% CI 97.8–98.7%). The p value for chi-squared heterogeneity for all the pooled accuracy estimates was > 0.10. We conclude that, as a result of the demonstrated sensitivity and specificity, EUS should be the investigation of choice to T stage rectal cancers. The sensitivity of EUS is higher for advanced disease than for early disease. EUS should be strongly considered for T staging of rectal cancers.
Universality of Short-Channel Effects in Undoped-Body Silicon Nanowire MOSFETs

Experimental data from undoped-body gate-all-around (GAA) silicon nanowire (NW) MOSFETs with different sizes demonstrate the universality of short-channel effects as a function of LEFF/λ, where LEFF is the effective channel length and λ is the electrostatic scaling length. Data from undoped-body single-gate extremely thin SOI (ETSOI) devices additionally show that the universality of short-channel effects is valid for any undoped-body fully depleted SOI MOSFET. Our data indicate that LEFF of undoped GAA NW MOSFETs can be scaled down by ~2.5 times compared with undoped single-gate ETSOI MOSFETs while maintaining equivalent short-channel control.
Comparative genomic analysis of mouse and human mammary tumors

Human breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease consisting of at least five molecular subtypes. With our increasing understanding of the genetic underpinnings of human breast cancer subtypes, many genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) have been created to mimic these subtypes. Traditionally, these GEMMs have been analyzed individually; however, when consolidated into a single dataset, these models have an increased sensitivity for detecting significant overlap with human subtypes. These associations between GEMMs and human subtypes can provide insight into the genetic alterations associated with the human subtypes and can provide a translational resource for preclinical drug testing. We previously performed an analysis of 13 GEMMs [1] and have since expanded our dataset to include 29 murine models. Using DNA expression microarrays and unsupervised hierarchical clustering, we identified 17 distinct murine classes from this set of 29 models. After comparison with the human subtypes by using gene set analysis, we found that seven of our classes show statistically significant overlap with five human subtypes. Although we observed no statistical overlap with the human luminal B subtype, the MMTV-NeuPyMT class shows significant overlap with the combined luminal A and B subtypes. Some of the new models fall into classes that have been defined previously, but many, such as the AIB1 and ETV6 murine models, are associated with new groups. The AIB1 and ETV6 models fall into their own classes, and each shows statistically significant overlap with HER2-enriched tumors, a subtype that was not previously observed to overlap with any GEMM. These expanded analyses have identified new and important models and are laying the groundwork for additional studies focused on DNA copy number changes and mutation status similarities between mice and humans.
Ultra-wideband technology: Yesterday, today, and tomorrow

In recent years, ultra-wideband communications have attracted increasing interests, since the FCC certification of the UWB spectral mask. UWB research and development have made unprecedented progress in a wide range of applications, including WPAN for high- data-rate multimedia networking, wireless connection and localization among low-power distributed sensors, and body area networking (BAN) for medical as well as entertainment purposes. This paper will provide an overview of UWB technology fundamentals, recent developments, together with envisioned applications and open problems.
Tobacco Reduces Membrane HLA Class I That Is Restored by Transfection with Transporter Associated with Antigen Processing 1 cDNA

HLA class I molecules are recognized by CTL that eliminate virally infected and malignantly transformed cells presenting foreign peptide—a process termed immunosurveillance. Many tumors have reduced levels of membrane HLA class I. Tumor cells with mutations that reduce HLA class I avoid immunosurveillance and continue to proliferate. As tobacco use can induce tumors, we examined the effect of tobacco extracts on membrane HLA class I. These studies show that culture of cells in media containing tobacco extracts reduces membrane HLA class I, but not other proteins, on primary keratinocytes and other cell types. Culture in tobacco extracts, but not extracts of other substances, reduces TAP1 protein, but does not reduce expression of HLA class I H chain, L chain, or the housekeeping protein β-actin. The reduction of TAP1 protein occurs within 4 h and is dose-dependent. Culture in tobacco extracts reduces TAP1 protein abundance, but not steady-state mRNA abundance. Tobacco-treated cells show defects in HLA class I biosynthesis similar to those found in TAP1-deficient cell lines. Transfection with TAP1 cDNA restores TAP1 protein abundance, HLA class I biosynthesis, and cell surface expression. Combined, these data show that culture in tobacco extracts reduces TAP1 protein abundance and membrane HLA class I levels. Reduction in membrane HLA class I could permit subsequent malignant transformation of cells to be undetected by the immune system.
Comparison of analytical and CFD models with regard to micron particle deposition in a human 16-generation tracheobronchial airway model

Abstract A representative human tracheobronchial tree has been geometrically represented with adjustable triple-bifurcation units (TBUs) in order to effectively simulate local and global micron particle depositions. It is the first comprehensive attempt to compute micron-particle transport in a (Weibel Type A) 16-generation model with realistic inlet conditions. The CFD modeling predictions are compared to experimental observations as well as analytical modeling results. Based on the findings with the validated computer simulation model, the following conclusions can be drawn: (i) Surprisingly, simulated inspiratory deposition fractions for the entire tracheobronchial region (say, G0–G15) with repeated TBUs in parallel and in series agree rather well with those calculated using analytical/semi-empirical expressions. However, the predicted particle-deposition fractions based on such analytical formulas differ greatly from the present simulation results for most local bifurcations, due to the effects of local geometry and resulting local flow features and particle distributions. Clearly, the effects of realistic geometries, flow structures and particle distributions in different individual bifurcations accidentally cancel each other so that the simulated deposition efficiencies during inspiration in a relatively large airway region may agree quite well with those obtained from analytical expressions. Furthermore, with the lack of local resolution, analytical models do not provide any physical insight to the air–particle dynamics in the tracheobronchial region. (ii) The maximum deposition enhancement factors (DEF) may be in the order of 10 2 to 10 3 for micron particles in the tracheobronchial airways, implying potential health effects when the inhaled particles are toxic. (iii) The presence of sedimentation for micron particles in lower bronchial airways may change the local impaction-based deposition patterns seen for larger airways and hence reduces the maximum DEF values. (iv) Rotation of an airway bifurcation cause a significant impact on distal bifurcations rather than on the proximal ones. Such geometric effects are minor when compared to the effects of airflow and particle transport/deposition history, i.e., upstream effects.
Subseasonal Variations in Warm-Season Moisture Transport and Precipitation over the Central and Eastern United States.

Abstract Subseasonal variations in warm-season (May–August) precipitation over the central and eastern United States are shown to be strongly linked to variations in the moisture entering the continent from the Gulf of Mexico within a longitudinally confined “channel” (referred to here as the Texas corridor or TC). These variations reflect the development of low-level southerly wind maxima (or jets) on a number of different timescales in association with distinct subcontinental and larger-scale phenomena. On the diurnal timescale, the TC moisture flux variations are tied to the development of the Great Plains low-level jet. The composite nighttime anomalies are characterized by a strong southerly moisture flux covering northeast Mexico and the southern Great Plains, and enhanced boundary layer convergence and precipitation over much of the upper Great Plains. The strongest jets tend to be associated with an anomalous surface low over the Great Plains, reflecting a predilection for periods when midlatitude...
Wounding stress increases the phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of purple-flesh potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.)

Several abiotic stresses, including ethylene, methyl jasmonate, temperature, light, and wounding, were tested for their ability to induce accumulation of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity in purple-flesh potatoes (cv. All Blue). Results indicated that temperature, ethylene, methyl jasmonate, and light treatments did not significantly affect the accumulation of phenolic compounds compared to control samples. Only tubers with low initial anthocyanin levels treated with methyl jasmonate showed approximately 60% anthocyanin accumulation. Wounding induced the accumulation of phenolics compounds and an increase of PAL-activity in sliced tissue compared to the control. Total phenolics increased approximately 60% with a parallel 85% increase in antioxidant capacity. These results show that selection of appropriate abiotic stresses can enhance the nutritional and functional value of potatoes.
Retrieval of Reflected Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) Signals for Earth Science Applications

This paper presents the results of a pilot study that provides an initial assessment of the applicability of reflected DBS signals for Earth remote sensing. The study uses off-the-self hardware and signals from a Dish Network satellite at 12 GHz (Ku-band) reflected from soil and water to characterize the power reflected from these surfaces. Power levels directly from the satellite are compared to the power levels obtained from reflections from the soil and water. It is shown that the power reflected from water reaches 54 % of the direct power. Conversely, the power reflected from the soil is shown to be within the noise floor of the off-the-shelf hardware. The high DBS reflected power from water, much stronger than that found in the already successful use of reflected GPS, gives rise to high expectations for oceanographic remote sensing applications.
New directions in Wilson Cycle concepts: Supercontinent and Tectonic Rock Cycles

Modern earth science pedagogy is increasingly based on an integrated systems framework, where all of the major earth systems, including lithospheric cycles, are interlinked and dependent on each other through feedback loops. Most secondary school and introductory college-level geology courses present the concepts of plate tectonics and rock classifi cations. However, many instructional approaches fail to integrate these topics within an earth systems viewpoint, where supercontinent cycles are viewed in both spatial and temporal dimensions, and the classifi cation of rock types is intrinsically dependent on the tectonic, as well as the depositional environment in which they were formed. This contribution presents new tectonic animations and images that allow students to investigate supercontinent cycles (e.g., the assembly and breakup of Rodinia, and the Paleozoic interactions of Laurentia, Gondwana, and Baltica) and integrated Wilson Cycle and Tectonic Rock Cycles that equate rock genesis with tectonic and environmental settings. Central to these visualizations is the concept that processes of rock genesis have evolved, and will continue to evolve, through geologic time. We discuss the conceptual and historical background for each of these visualizations, and follow this with detailed descriptions of, and educational uses for, the images and animations. To be of optimal instructional utility, the animations and images consider the visual domain as a primary, rather than secondary instructional tool. As such, they are designed to function optimally in an inquiry-driven educational setting. They take into account the complex cognitive interactions between visual and verbal representations in learning environments by providing rapid interchange between these two domains. Where factual information is of interest, e.g., when introducing a topic or relaying important background information, the typical verbal primacy is observed. But in instances where spatial and temporal relationships are of interest, such as in the Rodinia and Pangaea supercontinent cycles, and the “No Rock is Accidental” tectonic rock cycle, the visualizations assume the primary role, with text-based annotations or verbal discussion as secondary. We conclude with discussions on the importance of inquiry-based educational approaches and effective ways of evaluating educational visualizations. We suggest that to best utilize the available media (digital and paper based), the level of cognitive engagement of the learning task should be closely tied to a taxonomy of visualizations that encompass detailed, integrated representations and animations. Inquiry-based interfaces, such as we present in this paper, promote more mindful articulations of the desired learning tasks and an increased retention of the subject material outside the bounds of the classroom. Teaching a systems-based understanding of the Earth and the concepts of evolving tectonic and rock cycles provides students with holistic foundations from which they can better evaluate, and make decisions about, their living environment.
Update on the Positive Effects of Light in Humans

The adverse effects of sunlight, from melanoma to cataracts, are well known and frequently reported (1). However, because humans evolved under sunlight, it is not surprising that there are many positive effects of light on human health. Light that reaches the human eye has two fundamental biological functions: regulation of the visual cycle and of circadian rhythm. We report here the most recent developments in both of these areas.
Advanced statistical analysis and discrimination of gunshot residue implementing combined Raman and FT-IR data

We report a novel analytical and statistical approach to gunshot residue (GSR) analysis, characterization and discrimination. Spectroscopic data from two complementary techniques (Raman and FT-IR) were combined into a single dataset to improve statistical discrimination of GSR.
Myosin Heavy Chain Phosphorylation Sites Regulate Myosin Localization during Cytokinesis in Live Cells

Conventional myosin II plays a fundamental role in the process of cytokinesis where, in the form of bipolar thick filaments, it is thought to be the molecular motor that generates the force necessary to divide the cell. In Dictyostelium, the formation of thick filaments is regulated by the phosphorylation of three threonine residues in the tail region of the myosin heavy chain. We report here on the effects of this regulation on the localization of myosin in live cells undergoing cytokinesis. We imaged fusion proteins of the green-fluorescent protein with wild-type myosin and with myosins where the three critical threonines had been changed to either alanine or aspartic acid. We provide evidence that thick filament formation is required for the accumulation of myosin in the cleavage furrow and that if thick filaments are overproduced, this accumulation is markedly enhanced. This suggests that myosin localization in dividing cells is regulated by myosin heavy chain phosphorylation.
Rapid and accurate latch characterization via direct Newton solution of setup/hold times

Characterizing setup/hold times of latches and registers, a crucial component for achieving timing closure of large digital designs, typically occupies months of computation in industries such as Intel and IBM. We present a novel approach to speed up latch characterization by formulating the setup/hold time problem as a scalar nonlinear equation h(tau) = 0 derived using state-transition functions, and then solving this equation by Newton-Raphson (NR). The local quadratic convergence of NR results in rapid improvements in accuracy at every iteration, thereby significantly reducing the computation needed for accurate determination of setup/hold times. We validate the fast convergence and computational advantage of the new method on transmission gate and C2MOS latch/register structures, obtaining speedups of 4-10times over the current standard of binary search
Endothelial cell apoptosis in systemic lupus erythematosus: a common pathway for abnormal vascular function and thrombosis propensity

Women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at risk for premature atherothrombosis independent of Framingham risk factors. We investigated whether endothelial cell (EC) apoptosis predicts abnormal vasomotor tone and contributes to circulating tissue factor (TF) levels in this disease. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and nitroglycerin-mediated dilation were determined in women with SLE, healthy control subjects, and subjects with coronary artery disease (CAD) (n = 43/group). Quantification of circulating apoptotic ECs was performed by flow cytometry (CD146(+) cells that stained for Annexin V [CD146(AnnV+)]) and immunofluorescent microscopy. Plasma TF was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Compared with healthy control and CAD subjects, patients with SLE had higher numbers of circulating CD146(AnnV+) cells (10 +/- 3, 18 +/- 5, and 89 +/- 32 cells/mL, respectively, mean +/- SEM; P <.01). Increased CD146(AnnV+) cells correlated strongly with abnormal vascular function (P =.037). After adjusting for known predictors of endothelial function, CD146(AnnV+) was the only variable that predicted FMD (beta = -4.5, P <.001). Increased CD146(AnnV+) was strongly associated with elevated levels of circulating TF (r =.46, P =.002). Circulating apoptotic ECs are elevated in young women with SLE and strongly correlate with markedly abnormal vascular function and elevated TF levels. Heightened endothelial apoptosis may represent an important mechanism for development of atherothrombosis in SLE.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: Postmortem Investigation and Risk Factors

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the largest single “category” of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) in babies over 1 month old in developed countries. SIDS is defined as the sudden death of an infant under 1 year of age, which remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation, including performance of a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene, and review of the clinical history. SIDS is, consequently, a diagnosis by exclusion and the result of a “negative” postmortem. The investigation of any case of SUDI is best conducted using a multidisciplinary approach. Only when the recognized causes of death are excluded is it appropriate to label the death as due to SIDS. In addition, it is best to arrive at this conclusion after a multidisciplinary inquiry. As data accumulates, the percentage of cases ascribed to SIDS diminishes. Keywords: autopsy; sudden infant; death syndrome; SIDS; sudden; unexpected; death in infancy; SUDI
Simulating agent based processing in an ADS using C++ SIM

Currently public networks have an enormous number of computers capable of providing many services. Autonomous mobile agents are being used to access their information sources. These agents are modeled in the context of network simulation as mobile network processes. The paper demonstrates that distributed mobile agents can be simulated effectively using C++ over CSIM. C++ over CSIM achieves the clarity and logic of agent based simulation for network services. Inheritance and specialization under object orientation allow the design and reuse of simulation objects. This combination facilitates rather straightforward simulation designs that are scalable, accurate, flexible and generalizable. The design for such large scale simulation is sketched and the run time behavior of the simulator is analyzed.
Effect of deposition temperature on reactively sputtered CdS:O

Thin films of CdS and CdS:O were deposited using RF magnetron sputtering at room temperature and at 270 °C in sputtering ambient with 0–4% O 2 (balance Ar). These films were characterized with respect to their optical and structural properties. The samples were then subjected to a heat treatment similar to that experienced during CdTe closed space sublimation deposition, after which the samples were re-characterized.
Plasma endotoxin concentrations in experimental and clinical equine subjects

Endotoxin (LPS) was quantitated in experimental subjects and in horses with naturally occurring gastrointestinal strangulation obstruction and/or septicaemic diseases to establish the fate of LPS and the clinical usefulness of the Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) assay. The assay was validated for sensitivity (10 pg/ml), recovery (90 to 106 per cent), intra-assay precision (CV = 5.5 per cent) inter-assay precision (CV = 11 per cent), and stability of diluted, heat treated, frozen samples (at least 90 days). Plasma concentrations of LPS after sublethal (3 micrograms/kg) jugular or portal vein bolus injections of LPS rose to 4000 pg/ml and 1500 pg/ml respectively followed by a rapid phase of clearance. Peak plasma concentrations of LPS, associated with slow portal infusion, were lower than peak values associated with bolus injections, remained elevated during the infusion (2 h), but rapidly decreased after infusion was stopped. Thirty seven horses with 38 episodes of naturally occurring gastrointestinal or septicaemic disease were assayed for LPS. Eight episodes involving gastrointestinal disease and eight involving septicaemic disease were positive for LPS. It is concluded that the LAL assay is sensitive and reliable for detecting LPS in equine plasma and it may have clinical value for establishing the severity of endotoxaemia or for distinguishing between septic and non-septic conditions. Problems of rapid clearance of LPS from plasma, low concentrations, the possibility of sample contamination, and the time and method of sample procurement remain to be addressed.
Harms of CT scanning prior to surgery for suspected appendicitis

In this brief analysis we compare the risks and benefits of performing a CT scan to confirm appendicitis prior to surgery instead of operating based on the surgeon's clinical diagnosis. We conclude that the benefit of universal imaging is to avoid 12 unnecessary appendectomies but the cost of those 12 avoided surgeries is one cancer death due to the imaging.
Helminths in an intensively stocked population of lake trout, Salvelinus namaycush, from Lake Huron.

Eighty stocked lake trout Salvelinus namaycush (Salmonidae), collected from 2 locations in Lake Huron in May 1995, were examined for parasites. The parasite fauna of this top predator in Lake Huron was characterized by only 6 helminth species. Echinorhynchus salmonis infected all lake trout with a mean intensity of 163.9. The intensity of this acanthocephalan species significantly increased with host length and weight. Eubothrium salvelini infected 78 lake trout with a maximum number of 81 scoleces counted. Diplostomum sp., Cyathocephalus truncatus, Capillaria salvelini, and Neoechinorhynchus sp. infrequently infected lake trout. The low parasite species richness in these lake trout is believed to be due to their large size at stocking and to the loss of historical enzootic host–parasite relationships that followed the absence of this fish species in Lake Huron for 26 yr.
Properties of Rhythmic Activity Generated by the Isolated Spinal Cord of the Neonatal Mouse

We examined the ability of the isolated lumbosacral spinal cord of the neonatal mouse (P0–7) to generate rhythmic motor activity under several different conditions. In the absence of electrical or ...
Variations in an African Grey parrot's speech patterns following ignored and denied requests.

Communicative competence is one measure of an individual’s ability to navigate conversations with social partners. The current study explored the possibility of basic communicative competence in a non-mammal speaker, a speech-using African Grey parrot. Spontaneous conversations between one Grey named Cosmo and her caregiver were recorded, from which three corpora (i.e., bodies of text) of Cosmo’s vocalizations were developed: (1) Baseline: Vocalizations containing no requests, (2) Ignored Requests: Vocalizations immediately following Cosmo’s caregiver ignoring Cosmo’s requests, and (3) Denied Requests: Vocalizations immediately following Cosmo’s caregiver denying Cosmo’s requests. The distributions of social (e.g., “I love you,” kiss sounds) and nonsocial (e.g., answering machine beeps, “That’s squirrel”) vocalizations, as well as speech and nonword vocalizations, were statistically different across the three corpora. Additionally, qualitative analysis of the datasets indicated Cosmo was persistent in repeating vocalizations when denied and ignored, and interrupted her caregiver more often when requests were denied compared to ignored. Neither repetition nor interruption occurred during the Baseline conversations. The data indicate that despite the outcome being the same (i.e., request was unmet), Cosmo treated an ignored request differently than a denied request, modifying her vocalizations in accord with the specific context. Such modification is evidence of basic communicative competence.
Comparison of production risks in the state-contingent framework: application to balanced panel data

In a balanced panel data setting, this article proposes an empirical application of the state-contingent (SC) framework for production uncertainty. The SC approach (e.g., Chambers and Quiggin 2000) casts production decisions under uncertainty as the decision to select a portfolio of Arrow-Debreu SC outputs, scheduled to be delivered in the contingent states of nature. Under some stationarity assumptions on the SC decisions (i.e., no technical change, time-invariant states of nature, time-invariant SC portfolio decisions) and regularity assumptions on the data generating process (i.e., cross-sectionally homogeneous state realizations), SC technology can be estimated from balanced panel data that are framed as cross-sectional data of partially-revealed SC portfolio decisions. This allows one to simulate an optimal SC portfolio, determined by the interaction between the estimated SC technology and given risk preferences. In the application to Maryland dairy production data, the stochastic technologies of confinement and intensive-grazing dairy systems are compared. Of the two time intervals (years 2000–2004 and ye0ars 2006–2009) separately analyzed, the optimal production decision has generally become riskier for the confinement system and less risky for the grazing system. These contrasting trends appear directly related to the volatile milk prices, feed cost hikes, and increasing organic milk production during 2006–2009. The risk associated with the optimal portfolio is substantially lower under the SC analysis compared to a typical residual-as-uncertainty approach, suggesting that the typical approach may overstate the risk due to uncertainty.
Non-coding RNA profiling of the developing murine lens

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are emerging as an important player in the regulation of genome integrity and gene expression, and they have been implicated in the pathogenesis of many diseases. The aim of the present study is to identify the repertoire of ncRNAs expressed in the developing mouse lens. We previously reported the mouse lens transcriptome, including mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) profiling at two embryonic (E15 and E18) and four postnatal (P0, P3, P6, and P9) time points. We analyzed the data from small RNA-Seq and mRNA-Seq libraries to investigate the ncRNA profile. Our analysis revealed expression of 12 different classes of ncRNA in the murine lens at six developmental time points. Annotation of small RNA data showed expression of 1,756 antisense ncRNA (asncRNA) in the mouse lens transcriptome. Likewise, we identified 82 P-element-induced wimpy testis (PIWI)-interacting RNA (piRNA), 345 transfer RNA (tRNA), 12 small nuclear RNA (snRNA), 167 small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA), 19 small Cajal body-specific RNA (scaRNA), six ribosomal RNA (rRNA), 18 tRNA-like structures, one MALAT1-associated small cytoplasmic RNA (mascRNA), one Vault RNA (vtRNA), and one Y RNA expressed in the developing mouse lens. In parallel, bioinformatic investigation of mRNA-Seq data identified expression of 1,952 long intergenic ncRNA (lincRNA) in the developing mouse lens. In conclusion, we report a comprehensive ncRNA profile in the murine lens at six developmental time points. To the best of our knowledge, this is first report investigating different classes of ncRNAs in the developing mouse lens and will be monumental in elucidating processes essential for the development of the ocular lens and the maintenance of its transparency.
Improved Ohmic Contacts to n-Type GaAs, Using Oiboride Diffusion Barriers

Ohmic contacts employing Au/Metal/Au/Ge/Ni (Metal=Ni or. TiB2) to n-type GaAs have been investigated. Alloying of the contacts, performed by both optical (rapid thermal) and strip heater methods, resulted in very low specific contact resistivities for the samples employing the TiB2 diffusion barrier. Such contacts are shown to be stable on aging at 350C for 180 hours.
Ovipositional Preference and Synchronization of Rhinocyllus conicus with Carduus nutans and C. acanthoides

Rhinocyllus conicus exhibited ovipositional preference for Carduus nutans over C. acanthoides in cage studies both in the field and the greenhouse. Field observations of an established weevil colony also showed that oviposition was better synchronized with C. nutans than with C. acanthoides at a site where both thistles were present.
Hierarchical nanoparticle topography in amphiphilic copolymer films controlled by thermodynamics and dynamics.

This study systematically investigates how polymer composition changes nanoparticle (NP) grafting and diffusion in solvated random copolymer thin films. By thermal annealing from 135 to 200 °C, thin films with a range of hydrophobicity are generated by varying acrylic acid content from 2% (SAA2) to 29% (SAA29). Poly(styrene-random-tert butyl acrylate) films, 100 nm thick, that are partially converted to poly(styrene-random-acrylic acid), SAA, reversibly swell in ethanol solutions containing amine-functionalized SiO2 nanoparticles with a diameter of 45 nm. The thermodynamics and kinetics of NP grafting are directly controlled by the AA content in the SAA films. At low AA content, namely SAA4, NP attachment saturates at a monolayer, consistent with a low solubility of NPs in SAA4 due to a weakly negative χ parameter. When the AA content exceeds 4%, NPs sink into the film to form multilayers. These films exhibit hierarchical surface roughness with a RMS roughness greater than the NP size. Using a quartz crys...
Inheritance of a Genetic Marker in the Tobacco Budworm

A mutant character resulting in black pupae was found in a methyl parathion-resistant strain of Heliothis virescens (F.). A strain homozygous for the character was established, and the mutant was designated as ebony, mutant symbol e. Appropriate crosses established that the inheritance of the mutant follows simple Mendelian genetics. The color is controlled by a single autosomal gene for which the ebony pupae were homozygous recessive. Also, a 1:1 sex ratio among laboratory-reared pupae is reported.
Humbug? Bah! Altschuler and Blumin and the Riddle of the Antebellum Electorate

Contemporary political historians have grown up in the school of hard knocks. Most active practitioners from the baby boom generation were scarcely born when Thomas C. Cochran issued his famous critique of "the presidential synthesis in American history," justly denouncing the then-reigning tendency to conceive the nation's past in rigid, four-year increments, punctuated by disconnected national elections.' Since then, we have absorbed the gospel of history "from the bottom up" and embraced the exciting opportunities to study the millions who were overlooked or taken for granted by those who fixated on presidents and congressmen. More recently, the rise of women's history and the history of racial minorities has put some of us on the defensive again, trying to explain why it is important to study an inherently hierarchical activity from which women and blacks were so frequently excluded. In the prevailing intellectual climate, it is a wonder that politics have continued to be studied at all. Glenn C. Altschuler and Stuart M. Blumin's attack on current studies of antebellum political culture and behavior is thus the latest volley in a long-established line of criticism. Their announced purpose is to document how "the political engagement of antebellum Americans varied significantly." This is a laudable goal and a useful corrective to the perhaps too easy conclusions of recent political historians that antebellum political engagement was uniformly high. Much of their evidence is effectively mobilized to make this point, but the authors evidently have a further goal in mind. Instead of merely showing the variation in Americans' political engagement (which would include periods of intense and sincere interest as well as periods of cynical detachment, probably varying further across region, class, and party), they attempt to show that detachment from politics was virtually the rule rather than an intermittent exception. Citing the example of the nineteenth century's most famous purveyor of "humbug," they leave the impression that
Can East Asia be an Engine of Growth for the World Economy

The U.S. functioned as an engine of growth until the financial crisis. Now, U.S. imports have plummeted. This paper considers whether East Asia can be an engine of growth. Using data on consumption imports from 27 countries, the results indicate that income increases in East Asian countries would cause large increases in imports. The evidence also implies that an RMB appreciation would raise China's imports. Thus if domestic markets rather than exports could drive job creation in Asia, not only would Asian consumers enjoy the fruits of their labor but the world economy would have a new locomotive to pull it out of recession.
Voices from the Field

This research study sought to determine the impact from participation in a practicum field experience on teacher candidates' perceived professional dispositions for effective teaching. A further intent was to describe what teacher candidates perceived to be the necessary professional dispositions for effective teaching as they reflected on their experiences in their particular preparation contexts. A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was used to examine and understand the development of dispositions from pre-service teachers' perspectives. The participants consisted of seventeen middle grade undergraduate students who completed over 200 hours of field experience while attending a mid- size university in the Southeastern region of the U.S. The results of a paired- samples t-test showed there was a statistically significant difference on perceived dispositions for effective teaching before practicum experiences and after practicum experiences. From qualitative data analysis, three categories emerged to understand what the pre-service teachers perceived to be professional dispositions for effective teaching: the context for learning, student advocacy, and professional practices. The voices of the seventeen participants in this study provide valuable insights and implications for other teacher education programs who are involved in the planning and development of professional dispositions.
Lateral Violence in Nursing: Implications and Strategies for Nurse Educators

Lateral violence among nurses persists as a prevalent problem, contributing to psychological distress, staff turnover, and attrition. Newly graduated nurses are at particular risk for being targets of lateral violence and experiencing its negative sequelae. Preparing student nurses to respond to lateral violence prior to entering the nursing may alter this scenario. A review of the literature was conducted to determine the potential for nursing faculty to change the cycle of lateral violence. Based on this review, we recommend 3 main strategies, specifically for nursing faculty, aimed at reducing incidences of lateral violence and preparing students to manage this phenomenon. First, curricular content can address integrating lateral violence content into simulation experiences and facilitating this knowledge into clinical experiences. Second, codes of conduct should guide behaviors for both students and faculty. Finally, as role models, faculty should be aware of their own behaviors, role model respectful communication, facilitate a courteous academic environment, and develop nurses capable of identifying and appropriately responding to lateral violence.
Special Presentations of Thyroid Cancer in Thyrotoxicosis, Renal Failure, and Struma Ovarii

Differentiated thyroid cancer most commonly exists in euthyroid individuals, who present with a thyroid mass or who have a structural thyroidal abnormality detected on a radiologic study. In contrast to this typical presentation, there are several groups of patients who have thyroid cancer associated with other clinical circumstances and therefore may require special attention. This chapter discusses these special situations and includes patients with thyroid cancer and (1) concomitant thyrotoxicosis, (2) renal failure on dialysis, and (3) tumor origin in an ectopic site. The general principles underlying the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer in these subgroups are comparable to cancer presenting in the more typical cases, but these special circumstances require additional considerations.
How Smart are 'Smart Beta' ETFs? Analysis of Relative Performance and Factor Exposure

Using a comprehensive sample of 164 domestic equity Smart Beta (SB) ETFs during 2003-2014 period, I analyze whether these funds beat their benchmarks by tilting their portfolios to well-known factors such as size, value, momentum, quality, beta and volatility. I then test if Smart Beta funds harvest factor premiums more efficiently than their traditional cap-weighted benchmarks by periodic trading against price movements. While 60% of SB fund categories have beaten their raw passive benchmarks, I find no conclusive empirical evidence to support the hypothesis that SB ETFs outperform their risk-adjusted benchmarks over the studied period. Performance of SB funds is also insignificant when compared with the risk-adjusted blended benchmark that uses existing cap-weighted funds to provide low-cost passive exposure to market, size and value factors. SB ETFs exhibit potentially unintended factor tilts which may work to offset the return advantage from intended factor tilts. After decomposing total allocation component of SB funds into static and dynamic effects, I find that the benefit from dynamic factor allocation is neutral at best. This is consistent with the hypothesis that static factor exposure rather systematic rule-based rebalancing is the main driver of SB ETFs performance.
Endocrinology of puberty. II. Aberrations of sexual maturation.

The causes of delayed sexual development and of precocious sexual maturation are considered in this part. The evaluation and management of children with aberrations of sexual maturation are discussed.
The Association between Pediatric NAFLD and Common Genetic Variants

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common complications of obesity. Several studies have shown that genetic predisposition probably plays an important role in its pathogenesis. In fact, in the last few years a large number of genetic studies have provided compelling evidence that some gene variants, especially those in genes encoding proteins regulating lipid metabolism, are associated with intra-hepatic fat accumulation. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the gene variants that have affected the natural history of the disease.
Transfer RNA genes of Euglena gracilis chloroplast DNA : A review.

Transfer RNA genes have been mapped to at least nine different loci on the physical map of the Euglena gracilis chloroplast genome. One of these loci in the ribosomal RNA operons is present three times per genome. The DNA sequences of six of the nine different loci, containing 21 different tRNA genes, have been determined. Genes corresponding to the amino acids Ala, Arg, Asn, Cys, Gln, Gly (2), Glu, His, Ile, Leu (2), Met (2), Phe, Ser, Thr, Trp, Tyr, Val, and one unassigned species have been identified. All genes except one are found in clusters of 2–6 genes. None of the known genes contains introns, nor codes for the 3′-CCA terminus. In addition to these genes, two pseudo tRNA genes are present in the rDNA leader region.
Activatable clinical fluorophore-quencher antibody pairs as dual molecular probes for the enhanced specificity of image-guided surgery.

The emergence of fluorescently labeled therapeutic antibodies has given rise to molecular probes for image-guided surgery. However, the extraneous interstitial presence of an unbound and nonspecifically accumulated probe gives rise to false-positive detection of tumor tissue and margins. Thus, the concept of tumor-cell activation of smart probes provides a potentially superior mechanism of delineating tumor margins as well as small tumor deposits. The combination of molecular targeting with intracellular activation circumvents the presence of extracellular, nonspecific signals of targeted probe accumulation. Here, we present a demonstration of the clinical antibodies cetuximab (cet, anti-EGFR mAb) and trastuzumab (trast, anti-HER-2 mAb) conjugated to Alexa Fluor molecules and IRDye QC-1 quencher optimized at the ratio of 1∶2∶6 to provide the greatest degree of proteolytic fluorescence activation, synonymous with intracellular lysosomal degradation. The cet-AF-Q-C1 conjugate (1∶2∶6) provides up to 9.8-fold proteolytic fluorescence activation. By preparing a spectrally distinct, irrelevant sham IgG-AF-QC-1 conjugate, a dual-activatable probe approach is shown to enhance the specificity of imaging within an orthotopic AsPC-1 pancreatic cancer xenograft model. The dual-activatable approach warrants expedited clinical translation to improve the specificity of image-guided surgery by spectrally decomposing specific from nonspecific probe accumulation, binding, and internalization.
Tibialis Anterior Reconstruction With Hamstring Autograft Using a Minimally Invasive Approach.

Background:Tibialis anterior tendon ruptures are rare and can cause significant dysfunction. Often, conservative measures are prescribed because of the morbidity of a tendon transfer as an operativ...
At the Expense of a Life: Race, Class, and the Meaning of Buprenorphine in Pharmaceuticalized “Care”

Background/Objective: Office-based buprenorphine maintenance has been legalized and promoted as a treatment approach that not only expands access to care, but also reduces the stigma of addiction t...