cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Superior vena cava syndrome from an invasive thymoma with transcaval invasion to the right atrium.

Invasive thymoma with transcaval extension to the right atrium is a rare cause of superior vena cava syndrome. We present a case on a 74-year-old female presenting with dyspnea on exertion, and facial and upper extremity swelling. Physical examination revealed mild facial swelling, non-pitting edema involving the upper extremities and distention of superficial veins of the anterior chest wall and jugular veins. An echocardiogram showed moderate right atrial dilation with a mobile mass in the atrial cavity prolapsing through the tricuspid valve. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 9.9 × 4.3 cm heterogeneous mass in the anterior mediastinum compressing the superior vena cava and endovenously extending into the right atrium. Tissue biopsy of the mediastinal mass revealed a type B1 thymoma, further staged as a Masaoka IVa invasive thymoma that underwent successful en bloc resection followed by removal of intracaval and right atrial mass.
Developing preservice elementary teachers’ specialized content knowledge: the case of associative property

Specialized content knowledge (SCK) is a type of mathematical content knowledge specifically needed for teaching. This type of knowledge, although serving as a critical component for preservice teacher education, is often challenging to develop with preservice elementary teachers (PTs). The purpose of this study is to investigate PTs’ development of SCK for teaching fundamental mathematical ideas in a university methods course. Focusing on the case of the associative property (AP) of multiplication, the author as the course instructor identified three instructional opportunities (a formal introduction and two delayed revisits) to stress two SCK components, representations, and explanations. PTs’ learning progresses were assessed through three diagnostic tests (a pretest, a mid-term exam, and a final exam) and two prompts, which informed the upcoming lesson design. Meanwhile, the course instructor conducted ongoing reflections on PTs’ learning, which also informed the corresponding lessons. It was found that PTs initially generated abstract number sentences without reasoning about the contexts of word problems. This representational sequence indicates a symbol precedence view. When prompted for explanations, PTs focused on individual numbers rather than quantitative relationships, and they could not consistently apply the basic meaning of multiplication for reasoning. The methods course, when designed to address these issues, promoted PTs’ SCK development. At the end of the course, the majority of PTs were able to generate number sentences based on the word problem structures and provided reasonable explanations; however, the methods course also faced dilemmas due to PTs’ robust symbol precedence view and the tension between PTs’ learning and children’s learning. Very few studies have explored ways to support PTs’ knowledge growth in SCK, especially for teaching fundamental mathematical ideas. This study, by carefully documenting the successes and challenges in developing PTs’ SCK, contributes to the existing literature. Based on our findings, this study highlights the importance of stressing basic meanings so as to develop PTs’ explanation skills. Meanwhile, to develop PTs’ representation skills, university instructors should be aware of the tension between PTs’ and children’s learning as manifested by PTs’ symbol precedence view. Finally, to support PTs’ SCK growth, it is also important to emphasize the role of elementary textbooks.
Performance Research on Chase Combining HARQ Scheme in TD-SCDMA

The HARQ scheme,in which chase combining algorithm is applied,is proposed based on TD-SCDMA system,and tracking merger HARQ algorithm is given.Two performance indicators,which are throughput and false piece rate,are used to measure the advantage and disadvantage of the algorithm.The downlink performance under some conditions such as different channel environment or different control parameters is simulated.Simulation results exhibit the effectiveness of the chase combining HARQ scheme in reducing block error rate(BLER) as well as in increasing throughput.Also,through the experiments it is found that the more retransmission time in chase combining,the smaller BLER in the downlink.
Differential expression of integrins on human thymocyte subpopulations

Integrins represent a candidate group of cell surface receptors that may control the homing and population of the thymus by T-cell precursors and the subsequent migration of developing thymocytes through the thymic architecture. We have used multiparameter flow cytometric methods to characterize the expression of several members of the integrin family (alpha 3 beta 1, alpha 4 beta 1, alpha 5 beta 1, alpha 6 beta 1, and alpha L beta 2) on thymocyte subpopulations and have correlated integrin expression with other well-defined thymocyte differentiation markers. alpha 4 beta 1 was expressed by all thymocytes, but expression was highest on CD4-CD8- double-negative (DN) cells, high on CD+CD8+ double-positive (DP) cells, and lowest on mature single-positive (SP) cells, alpha 3 beta 1, alpha 5 beta 1, and alpha 6 beta 1 were present on 13%, 63%, and 26% of thymocytes, respectively, with maximal levels of expression on DN and SP cells, and low levels of expression on DP cells. Simultaneous analysis of alpha 4 beta 1, alpha 5 beta 1, and CD3 expression suggested a pathway of T-cell differentiation in the thymus in which the majority of the DN cells were alpha 4 beta 1hi alpha 5 beta 1hi, the DP cells alpha 4 beta 1hi alpha 5 beta 1lo/-, and the most mature SP cells were alpha 4 beta 1int. The stage-specific expression of integrins strongly implies their functional involvement during T-cell maturation in the thymus.
Distributed algorithms for barrier coverage via sensor rotation in wireless sensor networks

When deploying sensors to monitor boundaries of battlefields or country borders, sensors are usually dispersed from an aircraft following a predetermined path. In such scenarios sensing gaps are usually unavoidable. We consider a wireless sensor network consisting of directional sensors deployed using the line-based sensor deployment model. In this paper we propose distributed algorithms for weak and strong barrier coverage that allow sensors to determine their orientation such that the total number of gaps is minimized. We use simulations to analyze the performance of our algorithms and to compare them with related works.
The Relation between Infant Covert Orienting, Sustained Attention and Brain Activity

This study used measures of event-related potentials (ERPs) and cortical source analysis to examine the effect of covert orienting and sustained attention on 3- and 4.5-month-old infants' brain activity in a spatial cueing paradigm. Cortical source analysis was conducted with current density reconstruction using realistic head models created from age-appropriate infant MRIs. The validity effect was found in the P1 ERP component that was greater for valid than neutral trials in the electrodes contralateral to the visual targets when the stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) was short. Cortical source analysis revealed greater current density amplitude around the P1 peak latency in the contralateral inferior occipital and ventral temporal regions for valid than neutral and invalid trials. The processing cost effect was found in the N1 ERP component that was greater for neutral than invalid trials in the short SOA condition. This processing cost effect was also shown in the current density amplitude around the N1 peak latency in the contralateral inferior and middle occipital and middle and superior temporal regions. Infant sustained attention was found to modulate infants' brain responses in covert orienting by enhancing the P1 ERP responses and current density amplitude in their cortical sources during sustained attention. These findings suggest that the neural mechanisms that underpin covert orienting already exist in 3- to 4.5-month-old, and they could be facilitated by infant sustained attention.
Advanced 300mm 130nm BCD technology from 5V to 85V with Deep-Trench Isolation

This paper demonstrates an advanced 300mm 130nm BCD (Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS) automotive grade platform with high modularity. The platform offers logic-devices, flash-devices and high performance power devices with rated voltages up to 85V as well as complimentary analog devices such as a BJT, MIM and Poly Resistor. The power devices in the process have best-in-class specific on-resistance and wide safe operating region. In addition, Deep-Trench Isolation (DTI) and highly doped n-buried layers are introduced to ensure much better immunity to parasitic coupling effects and isolation between sensitive devices and power stages.
The associations between space and order in numerical and non-numerical sequences

Spatial-numerical associations have been found across different studies, yet the basis for these associations remains debated. The current study employed an order judgment task to adjudicate between two competing accounts of such associations, namely the Mental Number Line (MNL) and Working Memory (WM) models. On this task, participants judged whether number pairs were in ascending or descending order. Whereas the MNL model predicts that ascending and descending orders should map onto opposite sides of space, the WM model predicts no such mapping. Moreover, we compared the spatial-order mapping for numerical and non-numerical sequences because the WM model predicts no difference in mapping. Across two experiments, we found consistent spatial mappings for numerical order along both horizontal and vertical axes, consistent with a MNL model. In contrast, we found no consistent mappings for letter sequences. These findings are discussed in the context of conflicting extant data related to these two models.
Charge-coupled devices detectors with high quantum efficiency at UV wavelengths

We report on multilayer high efficiency antireflection coating (ARC) design and development for use at UV wavelengths on CCDs and other Si-based detectors. We have previously demonstrated a set of single-layer coatings, which achieve >50% quantum efficiency (QE) in four bands from 130 to 300 nm. We now present multilayer coating designs that significantly outperform our previous work between 195 and 215 nm. Using up to 11 layers, we present several model designs to reach QE above 80%. We also demonstrate the successful performance of 5 and 11 layer ARCs on silicon and fused silica substrates. Finally, we present a five-layer coating deposited onto a thinned, delta-doped CCD and demonstrate external QE greater than 60% between 202 and 208 nm, with a peak of 67.6% at 206 nm.
A potential gDNA methylation epigenetic mechanism to explain the long term complications of type 1 and 2 diabetes

Metabolic memory (MM) is the persistence of diabetic (DM) complications even after glycemic-control is pharmacologically achieved. Using a zebrafish diabetic model that induces a MM state, we previously reported that in this model, tissue dysfunction was of a heritable nature based on cell proliferation studies in limb tissue and this correlated with epigenetic gDNA-methylation changes that paralleled alterations in gene expression. Bioinformatics analysis found that gene expression of the DNA replication/DNA metabolism processgroup was altered in the DM state and altered expression continued into MM state. In this mini-review, we propose that the underlying mechanism(s) that explain how these gene expression changes relate to the long term complications observed in diabetes stems from alterations in the ability of transcription factors to bind to their respective gDNA binding sites. gDNA methylation changes of promoter regions (both proximal and distal to the transcription start site) would disrupt the ability of transcription factors to bind to their gDNA binding sites and this would be tissue specific; thus explaining the variety of problems observed patients suffering from the long term complications of diabetes mellitus (e.g. problems associated with the kidney, retina, skin wound healing processes, and angiogenesis, etc.). Clinical studies are now in planning to translation of these findings to human DM.
Insurance-Based Differences in Time to Diagnostic Follow-up after Positive Screening Mammography

Background: Insurance may lengthen or inhibit time to follow-up after positive screening mammography. We assessed the association between insurance status and time to initial diagnostic follow-up after a positive screening mammogram. Methods: Using 1995–2010 data from a North Carolina population-based registry of breast imaging and cancer outcomes, we identified women with a positive screening mammogram. We compared receipt of follow-up within 60 days of screening using logistic regression and evaluated time to follow-up initiation using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results: Among 43,026 women included in the study, 73% were Conclusions: We found differences in time to initial diagnostic follow-up after a positive screening mammogram by insurance status and age group. Uninsured women younger than 65 years at a positive screening event had delayed follow-up. Impact: Replication of these findings and examination of their clinical significance warrant additional investigation. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(11); 1474–82. ©2016 AACR .
Impact of Application Rate, Treatment Interval, and Placement on the Control of Phytophthora Shoot Blight on Annual Vinca with Azoxystrobin

Abstract Drenches and directed sprays of two rates of azoxystrobin (Heritage 50W) were evaluated at 2- and 4-week intervals for the preventative control of Phytophthora shoot blight (Phytophthora parasitica) in a simulated landscape planting of annual vinca (Catharanthus roseus). ‘Tropicana Rose’ and ‘Pacifica Punch’ annual vinca were planted in May 1998 and April 1999, respectively, adjacent to beds known to be heavily infested with the causal fungus P. parasitica. Regardless of application rate and fungicide placement, the survival rate of plants was often higher when treated with azoxystrobin on a 2-week rather than on a 4-week schedule. Fungicide placement appeared to have little impact on the efficacy of azoxystrobin for the control of Phytophthora shoot blight. In 1998, survival rates of 85 and 90% for ‘Tropicana Rose’ were obtained with directed sprays of 0.35 (9.6 oz/100 gal) and 0.7 gm a.i./liter (19.2 oz/100 gal), respectively, of azoxystrobin applied on a 2-wk schedule as compared with a 10% su...
Continuous Observability of the Heat Equation Under a Single Mobile Point Sensor

In this chapter we consider the problem of continuous observability of the heat equation in Q = Ω × (0, θ), Ω ⊂ R n , θ > 0 in the case when the observation data, obtained from a single mobile point sensor, lie in L ∞ (ɛ, θ), ɛ > 0. The results are then extended to the case of discrete-time scanning sensors. Related approximate controllability results are also discussed.
A framework for the estimation and reduction of hospital readmission penalties using predictive analytics

Recent US legislation imposes financial penalties on hospitals with excessive patient readmissions. Predictive analytics for hospital readmissions have seen an increase in research due to the passage of this legislation. However, many current systems ignore the formulas used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for imposing penalties. This research expands upon current methodologies and directly incorporates federal penalization formulas when selecting patients for which to dedicate resources. Hospital discharge summaries are structured using clinical natural language processing techniques. Naive Bayes classifiers are then used to assign a probability of readmission to each patient. Hospital Readmission Reductions Program formulas and probability of readmission are applied using four readmission scenarios to estimate the cost of readmission. The highest cost patients are identified and readmission mitigation efforts are attempted. The results show that the average penalty savings over currently employed binary classification to be 51.93%. Binary classification is also shown to select more patients than necessary for readmission intervention. Additionally, intervening in only high-risk patients saved an average of 90.07% compared to providing all patients with costly aftercare. Focusing resources toward the potentially most expensive patients offers considerably better results than unfocused efforts. Utilizing direct calculation to estimate readmission costs has shown to be a more efficient use of resources than current readmission reduction methods.
Persulfate activation by glucose for in situ chemical oxidation.

Abstract Sodium persulfate has become the most popular oxidant source for the in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) treatment of organic contaminants in the subsurface. The most common persulfate activators, iron chelates and base, are often ineffective in initiating the generation of reactive oxygen species in field applications. In this study, glucose was investigated as a persulfate activator in systems containing varying concentrations of sodium hydroxide using nitrobenzene as a hydroxyl radical probe and hexachloroethane as a reductant + nucleophile probe. Glucose activation of persulfate increased as a function of sodium hydroxide addition, but was still effective at circumneutral pH regimes. Use of central composite rotatable experimental designs showed that hydroxyl radical and reductant + nucleophile generation rates increased as a function of persulfate at near-neutral pH regimes. Glucose activation of persulfate has the advantages over other activation pathways of more options and flexibility for effective process chemistry and of minimizing or eliminating the mass of sodium hydroxide added to the subsurface. The results of this research can be applied in the field by first evaluating glucose activation compared to base and iron chelate activation of persulfate in laboratory treatability studies.
Cryptosporidium parvum disrupts intestinal epithelial barrier function via altering expression of key tight junction and adherens junction proteins.

Infection with the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium parvum (CP) causes cryptosporidiosis, a widespread diarrhoeal disease. Impaired intestinal epithelial barrier function and increased permeability are most commonly associated with diarrhoeal diseases caused by enteric infections. However, studies on barrier disruption and underlying mechanisms in cryptosporidiosis are extremely limited. Epithelial tight junctions (TJs) and adherens junctions (AJs) are important in maintaining barrier integrity. Therefore, we examined the effects of CP infection on paracellular permeability and on the expression of the major TJ and AJ proteins utilising in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models. CP infection (0.5 × 106 oocysts/well in Transwell inserts, 24 hr) increased paracellular permeability (FITC-dextran flux) in Caco-2 cell monolayers and substantially decreased the protein levels of occludin, claudin 4, and E-cadherin. Claudin 3, zonula occludens-1 (ZO1) and α-catenin were also significantly decreased, whereas claudins 1 and 2 and β-catenin were not altered. Substantial downregulation of occludin, claudin 4, and E-cadherin was also observed in response to CP infection ex vivo in mouse enteroid-derived monolayers and in vivo in the ileal and jejunal mocosa of C57BL/6 mice. The mRNA levels of these proteins were also significantly decreased in CP-infected mouse ileum and jejunum but were unaltered in Caco-2 cells. Further, bafilomycin-A, an inhibitor of lysosomal proton pump, partially abrogated CP effects on occludin expression in Caco-2 cells, suggesting a potential role of posttranslational mechanisms, such as induction of protein degradation pathways, in mediating the effects of the parasite. Our studies suggest that disruption of barrier function via downregulation of specific key components of TJ and AJ could be a major mechanism underlying CP infection-induced diarrhoea.
Altered Brain Dynamics in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes During Working Memory Processing

It is now generally accepted that diabetes increases the risk for cognitive impairment, but the precise mechanisms are poorly understood. A critical problem in linking diabetes to cognitive impairment is that patients often have multiple comorbidities (e.g., obesity, hypertension) that have been independently linked to cognitive deficits. In the study reported here we focused on young adults with and without type 1 diabetes who were virtually free of such comorbidities. The two groups were matched on major health and demographic factors, and all participants completed a verbal working memory task during magnetoencephalographic brain imaging. We hypothesized that patients would have altered neural dynamics in verbal working memory processing and that these differences would directly relate to clinical disease measures. Accordingly, we found that patients had significantly stronger neural responses in the superior parietal cortices during memory encoding and significantly weaker activity in parietal-occipital regions during maintenance compared with control subjects. Moreover, disease duration and glycemic control were both significantly correlated with neural responses in various brain regions. In conclusion, young healthy adults with type 1 diabetes already have aberrant neural processing relative to their peers without diabetes, using compensatory responses to perform the task, and glucose management and duration may play a central role.
Two-phase differential expression analysis for single cell RNA-seq.

Motivation Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) has brought the study of the transcriptome to higher resolution and makes it possible for scientists to provide answers with more clarity to the question of 'differential expression'. However, most computational methods still stick with the old mentality of viewing differential expression as a simple 'up or down' phenomenon. We advocate that we should fully embrace the features of single cell data, which allows us to observe binary (from Off to On) as well as continuous (the amount of expression) regulations. Results We develop a method, termed SC2P, that first identifies the phase of expression a gene is in, by taking into account of both cell- and gene-specific contexts, in a model-based and data-driven fashion. We then identify two forms of transcription regulation: phase transition, and magnitude tuning. We demonstrate that compared with existing methods, SC2P provides substantial improvement in sensitivity without sacrificing the control of false discovery, as well as better robustness. Furthermore, the analysis provides better interpretation of the nature of regulation types in different genes. Availability and implementation SC2P is implemented as an open source R package publicly available at https://github.com/haowulab/SC2P. Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Thermodynamics of Combustion

Although combustion processes often involve chemical reactions that may be far from equilibrium, the equilibrium state provides a useful guide on the ultimate combustion state if sufficient time is given. Chemical compositions of the combustion products at equilibrium, heating value of a fuel, and flame temperature can be determined from thermodynamics. In comparison to the thermodynamics of a pure substance, the thermodynamics of combustion systems are complicated by the change of components during combustion. That is, the components in the final state are different from those in the initial state. With the introduction of enthalpy of formation, the general approach normally used to solve thermodynamic problems of a pure substance can be extended to combustion systems. The following topics will be discussed in this chapter: (1) properties of mixtures, (2) combustion stoichiometry, (3) heating values and enthalpy of formation, (4) adiabatic flame temperatures, and (5) equilibrium state (Cantera Program).
Capitalization of Parent, School, and Peer Group Components of School Quality into House Price

We test competing models of how K-12 public school quality is capitalized into house prices. The value added model proposes that only locationally fixed district-specific factors such as inputs to schooling and the characteristics of student peers are capitalized into house prices. This model claims that portable inputs to student outcomes, such as parental inputs, are not capitalized. A competing model argues that value added is not easily observed; rather, educational outcomes such as proficiency test scores and expenditures per pupil are easily observed and are capitalized into house prices. Based on our study of 123 school districts and 27,000 house transactions, we find no support for the value added model. Instead we find that the district's average proficiency test scores and real expenditures per pupil influence households' valuations of their local public schools.
The Influence of Physics Parameters on Tokamak Reactor Design

Twelve important tokamak reactor parameters were surveyed, and the results of sensitivity studies serve as a guide for reactor design. Numerous magnetohydrodynamic equilibria are studied to determine influences of geometry, pressure profile, safety factor, and beta on the plasma current. A steady-state transport model, which averages particle and power balances in flux space, reveals the effects of temperature and density profiles, impurities, and temperature on power density and anti n/sub i/tau. The blanket/shield thickness, major radius, and magnetic field are likewise shown to influence reactor performance.
Territorial logic of the Islamic State: an interdisciplinary approach

While scholars and experts unanimously identify the group also known as Islamic State (ISIS) as a ‘territorial’ organization, there is little systematic analysis in International Relations (IR) res...
Evidence that dissociation of Spt16 from transcribed genes is partially dependent on RNA Polymerase II termination

FACT (FAcilitates Chromatin Transactions) is a highly conserved histone chaperone complex in eukaryotic cells that can interact and manipulate nucleosomes in order to promote a variety of DNA-based processes and to maintain the integrity of chromatin throughout the genome. Whereas key features of the physical interactions that occur between FACT and nucleosomes in vitro have been elucidated in recent years, less is known regarding FACT functional dynamics in vivo. Using the Saccharomyces cerevisiae system, we now provide evidence that at least at some genes dissociation of the FACT subunit Spt16 from their 3' ends is partially dependent on RNA Polymerase II (Pol II) termination. Combined with other studies, our results are consistent with a two-phase mechanism for FACT dissociation from genes, one that occurs upstream from Pol II dissociation and is Pol II termination-independent and the other that occurs further downstream and is dependent on Pol II termination.
When to Say No (or Not to Say No): Balancing Academic Development with a Clinical Practice

One of the greatest challenges for an academic surgeon is time management. During the training continuum in medical school, residency and research or clinical fellowships, time demands are rather structured. During clinical training, the focus is singularly on learning the clinical discipline with little time for academic development or pursuits. Conversely, during academic development or research time, clinical duties are minimal, leaving dedicated time to focus on research. Typically for the first time, the young academic surgery faculty member has considerable autonomy over his or her time and therefore must learn to balance time commitments between the various missions.
4.3 – Vinyl Substitutions with Organopalladium Intermediates

Organopalladium halides, acetates, triflates and similar derivatives lacking β sp3-bonded hydrogens generally react easily with unhindered alkenes to form new alkenes in which an original, vinyl hydrogen is replaced by the organic group of the palladium reactant. The reactions occur in solution. Other Group VIII metals are ineffective in bringing about this transformation in acceptable yields. In the palladium reaction the organopalladium(II) reactant is reduced to the zero valent state while the halide, acetate, triflate or other, initial anionic ligand is converted into the corresponding acid (equation 1). If alkyl groups are attached directly to the double-bond carbons, double-bond rearrangement may occur and allylically substituted products can be produced. Normally, substitution occurs before any double-bond rearrangement occurs in the reactant alkene and the substituent is placed on one of the initial double-bond carbons (equation 2). Rearrangement of the double bond along a hydrocarbon chain to positions more distant from the substituent than the allylic position is occasionally observed, most often when X is a halogen and the halogen acid produced by the reaction is not neutralized as it is formed by inclusion of a base.
Belonging in general chemistry predicts first-year undergraduates’ performance and attrition

Feeling a sense of belonging in a learning environment can have positive effects on student success. The impact of this psychosocial variable on undergraduates’ achievement and retention has been demonstrated in STEM disciplines, especially for women within physical sciences where large disparities in gender representation persist. The current study explores the relationship between belonging and student success in undergraduate chemistry, where greater gender parity has recently emerged. In particular, this research investigates the belonging of first-year students enrolled in a two-semester General Chemistry course sequence. The study begins by examining whether students’ early sense of belonging in the course, indexed by two survey measures (perceived belonging, belonging uncertainty) varies depending on their demographics and academic preparation. The belonging measures are then used as predictors of performance in General Chemistry 1 and 2 and attrition from one semester to the next. Paralleling research in other STEM disciplines, the results show that female students, especially those from underrepresented minority groups, reported lower belonging and higher uncertainty than male students within the first weeks of the course. After accounting for demographics, preparation, and participation in a course supplemental program, the belonging measures predicted performance and attrition for all students. These findings suggest that course-level belonging in General Chemistry can have practical consequences for student success, and early disparities in belonging may have downstream effects on the retention of women and other groups underrepresented in STEM. Strategies for creating an inclusive and engaging environment that supports the success of all students are discussed.
A history of sex estimation of human skeletal remains

Abstract This chapter traces the origins of how, first, the sexes were differentiated skeletally and then, later, how sex has been estimated and interpreted from the human skeleton. This chapter includes cultural accounts and scientific research on sex differences dating back to biblical times up until the mid-1950s. An emphasis is placed on how our knowledge grew from early anatomical studies to research focusing specifically on modern skeletal collections.
Simple Method to Quantify Protein Abundances from 1000 Cells

The rise of single-cell transcriptomics has created an urgent need for similar approaches that use a minimal number of cells to quantify expression levels of proteins. We integrated and optimized multiple recent developments to establish a proteomics workflow to quantify proteins from as few as 1000 mammalian stem cells. The method uses chemical peptide labeling, does not require specific equipment other than cell lysis tools, and quantifies >2500 proteins with high reproducibility. We validated the method by comparing mouse embryonic stem cells and in vitro differentiated motor neurons. We identify differentially expressed proteins with small fold changes and a dynamic range in abundance similar to that of standard methods. Protein abundance measurements obtained with our protocol compared well to corresponding transcript abundance and to measurements using standard inputs. The protocol is also applicable to other systems, such as fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)-purified cells from the tunicate Ciona. Therefore, we offer a straightforward and accurate method to acquire proteomics data from minimal input samples.
Application of flow cytometry in the analysis of lymphoid disease in the lung and pleural space

Various types of lymphoid neoplasms can occur in the lung. Lung parenchyma, the pleura or the pleural cavity can be the primary site of a lymphoid neoplasm or can be involved secondarily as a result of systemic dissemination from a separate primary site. Recognition of pulmonary lymphoid neoplasms (PLN) has increased secondary to technological advances in the medical field. Multiparameter flow cytometry (FC) is a one of the diagnostic tools that serves an essential role in the detecting and categorizing PLNs. FC allows for rapid identification and immunophenotypic characterization of PLN. In this article, we discuss the role of FC in the diagnosis of the most commonly encountered PLNs as well as their basic clinicopathologic features. We briefly discuss the role of FC in identifying non-hematolymphoid neoplasms in lung specimens as well.
An alternative procedure to leukapheresis for peripheral hematopoietic progenitor cell collection in very-low-weight children: A single pediatric center experience.

Background PBSC collection using a blood cell separator in very low weight patients can be frequently complicated by severe adverse effects and technical difficulties. Material and methods From March 2013 to January 2017, 14 PBSC collections were performed in 12 children weighing less than 10 kg, affected by different solid tumours. PBSC collection was performed with a "homemade" aseptically assembled circuit. The circuit is composed by a 150 mL collection bag connected with a 4 stopcock ramp, perfused with ACD. This circuit allows collection of a specific total blood amount from CVC, depending on CD34+ /kg target. Results Mean CD34+ cell performance per collection was 9.3 × 106 /kg. Tolerance to the procedure was very good as none of the patients experienced complications, with the exception of a patient who showed mild cyanosis and pallor after collection. Moreover, no bleeding or thrombotic complications have been observed. To date, 16 PBSC reinfusions have been performed in 7 children with a mean CD34+ cells viability of 98.1% ± 2.7 and mean WBC viability of 57% ± 10. Cell recovery after thawing was 87% ± 10.8. A rapid graft intake for both neutrophils and platelets, between day 7 and 20 after reinfusion was observed. Discussion The procedure of total blood collection without the use of a cell separator is feasible and allows a good PBSC collection without significant side effects in very low-weight children. Moreover, this method could represent a valid and safe alternative to leukapheresis in patients where classic procedure could be difficult to apply.
Political Inequality in the Digital World: The Puzzle of Asian American Political Participation Online:

This paper adds to existing literature by reassessing the racial participation gap after placing online activity within the repertoire of minorities’ political actions. Even though Asian Americans ...
Molten calcium–magnesium–aluminosilicate interactions with ytterbium disilicate environmental barrier coating

Thermochemical interactions between calcium–magnesium–aluminosilicate (CMAS) glass and an environmental barrier coating of ytterbium disilicate (Yb2Si2O7) and ytterbium monosilicate (Yb2SiO5) were investigated. Top coats were deposited by plasma spray-physical vapor deposition onto silicon carbide substrates. CMAS powder was prepared as a glass and cast into a tape to yield a CMAS loading of ~29 mg/cm2. Samples were heat treated with CMAS at 1300 °C for 1–10 h or at 1400 °C for 1 h in air. Polished specimen cross-sections were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy to evaluate resulting microstructures, phases, and compositions at CMAS/Yb2Si2O7 interfaces. Coatings exposed at 1300 °C—10 h and 1400 °C—1 h were fully infiltrated and compromised by CMAS. Dissolution of ytterbium silicate into molten CMAS followed by precipitation of cyclosilicate, silicocarnotite, and Yb2Si2O7 at 1300 °C and Yb2Si2O7 at 1400 °C enabled CMAS to effectively infiltrate top coats, rendering the predominantly Yb2Si2O7 coating ineffective at arresting molten CMAS degradation.
The Rhesus Macaque as a Translational Model for Neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s Disease

A major obstacle to progress in understanding the etiology of normative and pathological human brain aging is the availability of suitable animal models for experimentation. The present article will highlight our current knowledge regarding human brain aging and neurodegeneration, specifically in the context of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Additionally, it will examine the use of the rhesus macaque monkey as a pragmatic translational animal model in which to study underlying causal mechanisms. Specifically, the discussion will focus on behavioral and protein-level brain changes that occur within the central nervous system (CNS) of aged monkeys, and compare them to the changes observed in humans during clinically normative aging and in AD.
Leiomyosarcoma of the Duodenum: Report of a Case With Necropsy

Summary A case of leiomyosarcoma of the duodenum with multiple metastases is presented. A survey of the literature revealed 32 cases previously reported up to September 1954.
How Important are the Equations of Motion in a Chaotic System

We inquire whether some important features might be lost in studying the gravitational n-body problem because chaos makes it impossible to follow exact phase trajectories. We test this by comparing deliberately crude ‘integrations’ with published results from more precise methods. A general tendency found with high-quality integrations is that a central singularity forms at finite time. The time until that singularity forms is fairly reproducible for systems started from a more or less standard form. We find the same tendency with crude methods, although the time to reach that singularity from the usual initial conditions is less accurately reproduced with cruder methods.
Zeno's Paradox: Voices of Martial Art Bodies

Scholars have noted the increase in “Eastern movement forms” (e.g., non-sporting martial arts, yoga, meditation, and Tai Chi), which have been penetrating into social-cultural spaces and institutions outside their native contexts. The practice halls and studios where such movement forms are trained are intercorporeal communicative spaces where practitioners are not only grappling with the specificity of movements, but enmeshed in an assemblage of moving bodies and cultural resources. By plunging into the practice of aikido, a martial art style originating from Japan, this study explores how practitioners in the United States understand their martial art practice through their bodies. Three themes emerged: practicing, ki , and mastering. Listening to the voices of martial art bodies revealed that skillfulness is a ceaseless endeavor that uses movement to draw new relationalities between one's own corporeal assemblage and those of others rather than the internationalization of movement techniques. In the case of aikido practice, the on-site learning and practice open the way for new relationship-making across multiple lines of difference, suggesting cultural appropriation as a transformational process that exceeds the simple use and borrowing of cultural elements.
Sequential Uptake of Horseradish Peroxidase by Lymphoid Follicle Epithelium of Peyer's Patches in the Normal Unobstructed Mouse Intestine: An Ultrastructural Study

Membranous epithelial or "M" cells in lymphoid follicle epithelium of Peyer's patches extend between the adjacent columnar cells, forming a membrane separating lymphocytes in the epithelial cell layer from the intestinal lumen. They lack developed microvilli, glycocalyx, or terminal web but contain numerous vesicles. Transport of particles from ligated intestinal loops by such cells without evidence of further uptake of these particles by lymphocytes has been described by others. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP), an enzyme known to function orally and parenterally as a foreign protein antigen, was injected into the unligated intestines of fasted healthy 2-month-old white Swiss mice to determine if HRP would be absorbed in detectable quantities by M cells, and whether subsequent uptake of HRP by lymphocytes could be documented. At intervals from 1 to 60 min the most distal ileal Peyer's patch was fixed, removed, reacted with H2O2-3,3'-diaminobenzidine and examined by light and electron microscopy for HRP reaction product. At 1 min HRP adhered to surfaces of columnar cells and M cells and extended down into surface pits in the M cell. After 5 min HRP was found in vesicles of M cells but not in columnar cells. At 1 hr HRP was detected in the extracellular space between M cells and their enfolded lymphocytes, as well as in vesicles within these lymphocytes. Transport of intestinal luminal material by M cells with subsequent uptake by lymphocytes provides a specific route for antigen uptake into the intestinal lymphoid system.
Leadership Training In An MBA Program Using Peer-led Team Learning

Leadership training is an important part of any MBA program, but is often difficult to provide in an effective way. Over the last three years, we implemented a program of Peer-Led Team Learning in two core courses of our MBA curriculum, which we believe provides a good solution. The program combines leadership training with practical hands-on application of the ideas taught, and provides for an effective feedback loop. Response to the program has been overwhelmingly positive. The program and benefits for learning leadership are discussed in this paper.
Social Influence and Sustainable Behavior

This chapter recommends using social marketing strategies to promote sustainable behavior. The chapter builds on the basic notion that social animals devote much of their time and energy to both influencing others and being influenced by others. In today’s environment, this means that both offline and online, people influence each other in a variety of ways. Agents interested in promoting sustainable behavior can employ this constant social exchange to encourage people to behave in a sustainable manner. The chapter details a variety of such influence tactics, many borrowed from the for-profit world and from current social theories.
Increased effective immunogenicity to high‐dose and short‐interval hepatitis B virus vaccination in individuals with chronic hepatitis without cirrhosis

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination is recommended for individuals with chronic liver disease. However, the response to standard doses of hepatitis B vaccines in such individuals has been poor. The aim of the present study was to assess the response to high-dose short-interval HBV vaccination in individuals with chronic liver disease of different aetiologies. A total two hundred and 24 subjects with chronic liver disease (138 chronic active hepatitis and 86 cirrhosis) and 26 healthy controls were vaccinated using a high-dose (40 microg) short-interval (monthly for 3 consecutive months) HBV vaccination schedule. One hundred and thirty-eight of the 224 subjects with chronic liver disease (62%) seroconverted to anti-HBs antibody positivity (>10 mIU/mL) after the third dose of vaccine as compared with 24 of the 26 controls (92%) (P < 0.01). The response rate was reduced in individuals with cirrhosis (36/86, 42%), particularly in alcohol-induced cirrhosis (2/17, 12%), as compared with individuals with chronic hepatitis (102/138, 74%) (P < 0.001). No significant HBV vaccination-related adverse effects were seen in individuals with or without cirrhosis as well as in the controls. High-dose short-interval HBV vaccination is safe and efficacious in individuals with chronic liver disease. The response to HBV vaccination is reduced in cirrhotics, particularly those with alcoholic cirrhosis. These data suggest that HBV vaccination should be accomplished early in an individual cause of chronic liver disease prior to the development of cirrhosis.
Cholesterol esterification and cholesteryl ester hydrolysis by rabbit and human ovaries

Esterification of cholesterol occurred in vitro in rabbit and human ovaries via an acyl CoA-cholesterolO-acyltransferase reaction. The rate of esterification was increased in early pregnancy and may be one of the mechanisms whereby the content of stored ovarian cholesteryl esters is increased during this period. The increased cholesteryl esters were primarily in the form of cholesteryl oleate. The cholesteryl ester fatty acid patterns in both rabbit and human ovaries differed from those in sera, suggesting that a significant portion of these esters may have been derived from in situ synthesis. The rate of hydrolysis of cholesteryl esters during pregnancy was also increased, and occurred at a faster in vitro rate than esterification. Of the agents tested, only soy lecithin was found to significantly enhance the rate of hydrolysis of cholesteryl oleate by ovarian homogenates.
I have a voice but I just can't sing: a narrative investigation of singing and social anxiety

The purpose of this study was to investigate adult singing anxieties arising within the context of a music methods course. Participants were three female elementary education majors who reported suffering from anxiety related to singing. Anxiety toward singing was evidenced through observations and participants’ descriptions of cognitive, somatic, behavioral, and affective symptoms. Several themes emerged from data collected over a 10-week period through participant journals, interviews, and field texts. Singing anxiety only seemed to arise within a social context, where participants seemed concerned with the possibility that they would be personally evaluated by others. The self-presentational theory of social anxiety was supported by these cases. All participants traced the roots of their anxiety to negative experiences in a school music program. Music teachers and family members seemed to have the greatest influence in shaping their beliefs about singing ability and singer identity.
Increased activity of Ca2+-dependent enzymes of membrane lipid metabolism in synaptosomal preparations from ethanol-dependent rats.

: In synaptosomal fractions of rat brain the activities of phospholipase A2 and the phospholipid base exchange enzymes are highly dependent on external Ca2+ concentrations. Their activity is inhibited by the presence of 50 mM ethanol in vitro. Administration of ethanol to rats by inhalation causes a progressive increase in the activity of these enzymes in synaptosomal preparations at all Ca2+ concentrations studied. The increased activity of these enzymes persists in preparations from rats undergoing a physical syndrome of withdrawal from ethanol. The addition of ethanol in vitro to preparations from animals that had received ethanol in vivo had no significant effect on enzyme activity. The results are discussed in relation to the possible roles of membrane lipid metabolism and synaptic Ca2+ sensitivity in ethanol tolerance and physical dependence.