cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Model Constructions in Stationary Logic. Part I. Forcing

In this series of two papers we wish to discuss two new methods of constructing models for an arbitrary theory T of stationary logic, L (aa). The original work in constructing models for this logic appears in Barwise-Kaufmann-Makkai [BKM] (which we shall refer to as BKM for brevity). In that paper the authors prove completeness, compactness, and omitting types theorems for L (aa) by a technique similar to that used by Keisler [1970] in constructing models of L(Q 1 ) , logic with the generalized quantifier “there exist uncountably many”. In this paper we give an alternative method of constructing models using a method of model-theoretic forcing similar to that of Bruce [1978]. In a succeeding paper we will give yet another method of constructing models using definable ultrapowers. As applications of this new forcing construction we give new proofs of the completeness and omitting types theorems for L B (aa), where L B (aa) is any countable fragment of L ω1ω (aa). We also give new proofs of versions of the Barwise completeness and compactness theorems for L A (aa) where A is a countable admissible set. In proofs of these theorems the model constructions via forcing are used in a way very similar to that of consistency properties in L ω1ω . Aside from the ease in handling the model theory of L ω1ω (aa) we see two other advantages in this sort of model construction. The first is in the ability to prove versions of theorems relativized to formulas of low complexity (e.g. relativized omitting types theorems). The second is that we have a high degree of control over the construction of standard models and hence have a better knowledge of the structure of the model (see the remarks following the proof of Lemma 3.3), something that should prove useful in constructing more complicated models.
Development of Miscible Blends of Bisphenol A Polycarbonate and Lightly Sulfonated Polystyrene Ionomers from Intrapolymer Repulsive Interactions

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize the phase behavior and interactions of blends of the free acid derivative and lithium and sodium salts of lightly sulfonated polystyrene (MSPS) with Bisphenol A polycarbonate (PC). The blends exhibited upper critical solution temperature (UCST) phase behavior and a miscibility window with respect to the sulfonation level. At a fixed blend composition, a minimum in the cloud point temperature occurs at the sulfonation level marking the middle of the miscibility window. The miscibility window depended on the sulfonate cation used. No interactions involving either the carbonate carbonyl group or the sulfonate groups were detected for any of the blends. Miscibility was attributed to intramolecular repulsive interactions within the ionomer.
MAKING A CLEAN BREAK: ADDICTION AND ULYSSES CONTRACTS

I examine current models of self-destructive addictive behaviour, and argue that there is an important place for Ulysses contracts in coping with addictive behaviour that stems from certain problematic preference structures. Given the relevant preference structures, interference based on a Ulysses contract need not involve questionably favouring an agent's past preferences over her current preferences, but can actually be justified in terms of the agent's current concerns and commitments.
Comments on "On the type of linear multivariable systems"

The internal model principle is interpreted for unity feedback systems and then used to compare the results of the research of system type. It is shown that the internal model principle provides more insight into the problem and can be used to address a number of issues which cannot be clarified by the study of the system type. We believe that the study of system types can be covered by the internal model principle as a special case.
Proximity Distribution Kernels for Geometric Context in Category Recognition

We propose using the proximity distribution of vector- quantized local feature descriptors for object and category recognition. To this end, we introduce a novel "proximity distribution kernel" that naturally combines local geometric as well as photometric information from images. It satisfies Mercer's condition and can therefore be readily combined with a support vector machine to perform visual categorization in a way that is insensitive to photometric and geometric variations, while retaining significant discriminative power. In particular, it improves on the results obtained both with geometrically unconstrained "bags of features" approaches, as well as with over-constrained "affine procrustes." Indeed, we test this approach on several challenging data sets, including Graz-01, Graz-02, and the PASCAL challenge. We registered the average performance at 91.5% on Graz-01, 82.7% on Graz-02, and 74.5% on PASCAL. Our approach is designed to enforce and exploit geometric consistency among objects in the same category; therefore, it does not improve the performance of existing algorithms on datasets where the data is already roughly aligned and scaled. Our method has the potential to be extended to more complex geometric relationships among local features, as we illustrate in the experiments.
Redistricting and the Courts Judicial Activism in the 1990s

This article assesses the impact of three types of change factors—legal, political, and technological—on increases in litigation and judicial activism in the congressional and state legislative redistricting arena of the 1990s. Analyzing a data set composed of redistricting outcomes in the states, the author demonstrates that litigation challenging redistrictings is on the increase and that judicial activism has also grown. Judicial activism has occurred particularly where the courts have declared political impasses to exist and have imposed court-drawn plans. The author concludes by discussing new developments in law coming out of the recent redistricting litigation.
The Influence of Demographic Factors and Modality on Loss of Residual Renal Function in Incident Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

ObjectiveTo determine whether gender, race, diabetes, peritoneal dialysis (PD) modality, and comorbid conditions influence loss of residual renal function (RRF).DesignRetrospective study of inciden...
Temporal Relationship of Thrips Populations to Tomato Spotted Wilt Incidence in Tomato in the Field

Abstract Thrips-transmitted Tomato spotted wilt (TSW) virus (Family Bunyaviridae Genus Tospovirus) is an important problem in tomato in the southeastern United States. Tobacco thrips, Frankliniella fusca (Hinds), and western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), (Thysanoptera:Thripidae) are the known major vectors of TSW virus in Georgia; however, the temporal relationship of thrips to TSW disease incidence in tomato is not clear. Field studies were conducted in 2005 and 2006 specifically to compare thrips population dynamics to disease incidence in untreated tomato fields. Populations of F. fusca were observed to increase approximately 3 wks prior to increased TSW incidence and correlated positively with TSW when considering this delay. Populations of F. occidentalis positively correlated with TSW occurrence in 2005, but not in 2006. Additionally, tomato fruit yield decreased greater in plants with early TSW symptoms than in plants that developed symptoms later in the season. Both results...
THREE CASES OF ATOPIC CATARACTS IN ADOLESCENT PATIENTS WITH ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Atopic cataract is one of the most serious ocular complications in the patient with atopic dermatitis, and occurs mostly in adolescent period.We experienced 3 cases of atopic cataracts with atopic dermatitis. There were several common factors, i. e. (1) severe atopic dermatitis (2) asthma (3) high serum IgE level (4) positive RAST or skin test to house dust, mite, candida etc. Some of these factors may lead to the exacerbation of atopic cataract.Prevention of atopic cataract is the most urgent problem in the management of atopic dermatitis. Atopic cataract is exacerbated commonly in adolescent period. Therefore in this period, we should diagnose cataract in early stage by ophthalmological examination, and adequate treatment of atopic dermatitis may result in prevention of atopic cataract.
Simplified technic for partial hepatectomy in rats with fatty livers.

SummaryA method is described for partial hepatectomy in the rat which is applicable to animals with fatty livers. It was found that in rats with enlarged livers, due to fatty infiltration, the relation of the weights of the various lobes to one another and to the total liver weight was similar to that in normal rats. Apparently, the individual lobes maintain their relationship in spite of fatty infiltration.
Über die nicht-stationäre Bewegung von Luft und Butandampf durch Holz

Gesetzmasigkeiten der nicht-stationaren Gasstromung durch douglasienholz wurden an Hand von Versuchen mit Luft und Butandampf mittels einer kleinen Cellon-Impragnieranlage untersucht. Um Grenzbedingungen fur theoretische Berechnungen des Stromungsverlaufes zu erhalten, wurden Druckanderungen an der Oberflache und mit Hilfe einer elektrischen Mesrurcke auch im Innern von Rundholzern gemessen. Fur die Analyse der nicht-stationaren Stromung diente als theoretisches Schema eine partielle Differentialgleichung, die auf der Stromungsformel von Darcy beruht. Die aus theoretischen Berechungen resultierenden. Ergebnisse zeigten fur die Stromung von Luft eine gute Ubereinstimmung mit exprimentellen Meswerten. Obwohl der Verlauf der Druckabfallskurven beim Entfernen von Butandampf denjenigen von Luft in ihrer Form glichen, vollzog sich der Druckabfall doch langsamer als errechnet. Als Grund dafur durfte eine Verminderung der Permeabilitat des Douglasienholzes durch die Impragnierung mit verflussigtem Butan anzufuhren sein. Auf Grudn der Ergebnisse wurden einigen theoretische uberlegungen hinsichtlich des Druckverlaufes im Rundholz bei der Evakuierung von Luft angestellt.
Subset selection for the least probable multinomial cell

An inverse sampling procedureR is proposed for selecting a randomsize subset which contains the least probable cell (i.e., the cell with the smallest cell probabilities) from a multinomial distribution withk cells. Type 2-Dirichlet integrals are used (i) to express the probability of a correct selection in terms of integrals with parameters only in the limits of integration, (ii) to prove that the least favorable configuration underR is the so-called slippage configuration withk equal cell probabilities, and (iii) to express exactly the expectation of the total number of observations required and the expectation of the subset size under the procedureR.
Systematic Insights from Medicinal Chemistry To Discern the Nature of Polymer Hydrophobicity

Predicting polymer hydrophobicity based on monomer structure is an ill-posed problem. Generally, the hydrophobicity of a polymer or a series of polymers has been determined through indirect methods (i.e., contact angle) after polymerization. This sequence presents a problem for the systematic design and rapid evaluation of specialty polymers synthesized via controlled polymerization methods. Here, we propose an approach inspired by medicinal chemistry to predict polymer hydrophobicity based on octanol–water partition coefficients (LogPoct) determined through simple computational approaches. We envisioned that LogPoct, analogous to what is used in drug design, could provide a rational methodology to translate molecular structures of monomers and oligomers into quantifiable hydrophobicity values for polymers. A combination of critical design criteria and the predictive power of LogPoct values, normalized by surface area (LogPoct/SA), accurately assess polymer hydrophobicity. Experimental corroboration with ...
Analysis on Epidemiological Characteristics of Measles in Fengshan County from 1980 to 2010

Objective To analyze the epidemiological features of measles,and to evaluate the effectiveness of measles control. Methods The situation of measles control in Fengshan in 31 years was divided into four stages according to the control strategy,and the method of descriptive epidemiology was used to analyze each stage of the measles epidemic. Results Most of the patients at each stage of the measles epidemic were the children aged under 15 years,and the incidence rate of the age group of 0-5 years was the highest.The average incidence rate and the mortality of measles at stage I were 197.12/100,000 and 1.40/100,000,respectively.The coverage rate of townships was 100%.There were morbidity peaks in winter and spring.The interval of prevalence peak was between 3 and 4 years,and the peak profile was steep.The average incidence rate and the mortality of measles at stage II were 74.88/100,000 and 0.36/100,000,respectively.The interval of prevalence peak was between 5 and 6 years.The average incidence rate and the mortality of measles at stage III were 35.53/100,000 and 0.29/100,000,respectively.The interval of prevalence peak was between 7 and 8 years.And the peak profile increased rapidly but decreased slowly.The average incidence rate of measles at stage IV was 1.38/100,000,and no death case occurred.The coverage rate of townships was decreased by 72.73%.There were morbidity peaks in spring and summer.The interval of prevalence peak was between 8 and 9 years.And the peak shape became short. Conclusions High-quality implementation of preventive inoculation of live attenuated measles vaccine and standardized management of measles epidemic are the good strategies for control and elimination of measles.
Progressive Early Breakdown of Retinal Pigment Epithelium Function in Hyperglycemic Rats

Purpose Diabetic macular edema (DME), an accumulation of fluid in the subretinal space, is a significant cause of vision loss. The impact of diabetes on the breakdown of the inner blood-retina barrier (BRB) is an established event that leads to DME. However, the role of the outer BRB in ocular diabetes has received limited attention. We present evidence that the breakdown of normal RPE function in hyperglycemia facilitates conditions conducive to DME pathogenesis. Methods Brown Norway rats (130-150 g) were injected intraperitoneally with streptozotocin (STZ; 60 mg/kg) to induce hyperglycemia. After 4 weeks, Evans blue (EB) dye was injected intravenously to determine whether there was leakage of albumin into the retina. Subretinal saline blebs (0.5-1 μL) were placed 4 and 9 weeks after STZ injection, and time-lapse optical coherence tomography tracked the resorption rate. In a subset of rats, intravitreal bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody targeted to VEGF, was given at 5 weeks and resorption was measured at 9 weeks. Results The ability of the RPE to transport fluid was reduced significantly after 4 and 9 weeks of hyperglycemia with a reduction of over 67% at 9 weeks. No EB dye leakage from inner retinal vessels was measured in hyperglycemic animals compared to control. The intravitreal administration of bevacizumab at week 5 significantly increased the rate of fluid transport in rats subjected to hyperglycemia for 9 weeks. Conclusions These results demonstrate that chronic hyperglycemia altered RPE fluid transport, in part dependent on the actions of VEGF. These results support the idea that RPE dysfunction is an early event associated with hyperglycemia that contributes to fluid accumulation in DME.
Model food systems and protein functionality

Publisher Summary Model food systems today find utility for investigating the functionality of many other food components, including starches, gums, and emulsifiers, as well as factors affecting areas of continued interest. Model food systems provide a means of determining how the ingredients and the process alter the characteristics of the final product, as well as evaluating the sensitivity of the characteristics of the food to the different ingredients and processing steps. Model food systems are based on the formulation and processing of real foods, using laboratory and pilot plant facilities. Generally, ingredients that do not have a main effect on the final characteristics of the product are eliminated. One potential limitation is the use of processing equipment that does not scale up to commercial equipment. The utilization of carefully selected statistical designs is essential to unravel the multiple interactions that do occur and to optimize food formulation and processing. A major limitation of model food systems is that they do not provide any information as to the mechanisms by which the ingredients and the process control the final characteristics of the product.
Delta-beta coupling is associated with paternal caregiving behaviors during preschool

Neural systems that index self-regulation have been associated with mental health outcomes, including risk for anxiety problems, from early in life. Yet, little is known about the environmental factors that may impact the development of neural systems of regulation. Behavioral work suggests that sensitive parenting, or parents' ability to correctly interpret and respond to children's signals, supports the development of regulation. Conversely, harsh parenting, or uninvolved or punitive parent behaviors, is thought to compromise developing regulatory systems. We recorded preschoolers' baseline electroencephalography (EEG) and tested whether individual differences in delta-beta coupling were linked to sensitive or harsh parenting behaviors in mothers and fathers. Using Fisher's r-to-z transform, we found that preschoolers whose fathers were low (vs. high) in harsh parenting showed greater coupling at parietal electrode sites (z=2.66, p=0.00); preschoolers whose fathers were high (vs. low) in harsh parenting showed greater coupling at frontal electrode sites (z=-2.14, p=0.02). Heightened coupling at frontal electrodes was also visible for children who showed high (vs. low) levels of social fear (z=-2.11, p=0.02), suggesting that enhanced frontal coupling may be associated with increased risk for anxiety problems. No differences in coupling were seen based on levels of sensitive parenting behaviors in mothers or fathers. Results provide initial evidence that harsh parenting behaviors in fathers are associated with differences in a general index of neural regulation in preschoolers, which may have implications for the development of social fear in early life.
Effect Of Low Dose Bortezomib On Bone Formation In Smoldering Myeloma Patients

Background Bortezomib has been shown to produce an anabolic bone effect (increase bone ALP and osteocalcin) in relapsed/refractory patients. This study examined the bone anabolic effect in patients with smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) who, with a historical median age of 67 years, have frequent evidence of osteopenia not associated with lytic bone disease. SMM is usually followed expectantly without therapy. The overall risk of progression to active MM has been estimated up to 20% in the first year from diagnosis (Kyle et al, 2007). The primary aim of this trial is to determine the effect of a course of low-dose Bortezomib on bone remodeling and on disease progression. Methods The dose of bortezomib used in this trial of 0.7mg/m² is the lowest dose which has shown efficacy in the 3 largest monotherapy trials with bortezomib. Patients enrolled in this study had serum M protein ≥ 3 g/dL and/or bone marrow plasma cells ≥ 10% with absence of anemia, renal failure, hypercalcemia, and lytic bone lesions. Patients received 9 cycles of bortezomib given on days 1, 8, 15, 22 every 42 days. No bisphosphonates were allowed during the trial, Vitamin D supplements were allowed. Results Seventeen patients (9 males) with a median age of 61 years were enrolled in the study. Fourteen had IgG paraprotein and 3 had an IgA. Two participants did not complete the treatment; the first because of development of a skin rash and the second for personal reasons. A total of 11 patients completed the protocol. Four are still receiving treatment. At the time of this analysis with a median follow-up of 20 months, all patients are alive and none has progressed (Figure 1). The mean M component at baseline, end-of-study, and at most recent follow-up are shown in Figure 2. The treatment was well tolerated by the patients. One patient developed reversible grade 3 neuropathy and a drug related rash and only 3 grade 3 hematological adverse events were recorded (15%). Bone densities by DEXA scan were obtained at baseline, end of study, and yearly thereafter. Out of 17 patients, 13 had bone density T-scores before and after treatment. Six patients (46%) showed an improvement in hip T-score (mean T-score improvement 0.41, range 0.1-1.35). In the overall group, mean T scores improved by 38% (range, 3-200%). T score in lumbar spine improved in 3 patients (23%), who had a mean T-score improvement of 0.2 (range, 0.05-0.43). Conclusions The use of low dose Velcade in smoldering myeloma patients was well tolerated and produces significant increases in bone density in 46% of participants. Disclosures: Zangari: Millenium Pharm.: Research Funding. Off Label Use: Use of Bortezomib in smoldering myeloma. Salama: Eli Lilly and Co: Research Funding.
Sleep Homeostatic and Waking Behavioral Phenotypes in Egr3-Deficient Mice Associated with Serotonin Receptor 5-HT2 Deficits.

Study objective The expression of the immediate early gene early growth response 3 (Egr3) is a functional marker of brain activity including responses to novelty, sustained wakefulness, and sleep. We examined the role of this gene in regulating wakefulness and sleep. Methods Electroencephalogram/electromyogram (EEG/EMG) were recorded in Egr3-/- and wild-type (WT) mice during 24 h baseline, 6 h sleep disruption and 6 h recovery. Serotonergic signaling was assessed with 6 h EEG/EMG recordings after injections of nonselective 5-HT2 antagonist (clozapine), selective 5-HT2 antagonists (5-HT2A; MDL100907 and 5-HT2BC; SB206553) and a cocktail of both selective antagonists, administered in a randomized order to each animal. Results Egr3-/- mice did not exhibit abnormalities in the timing of wakefulness and slow wave sleep (SWS); however, EEG dynamics in SWS (suppressed 1-3 Hz power) and in quiet wakefulness (elevated 3-8 Hz and 15-35 Hz power) differed in comparison to WT-mice. Egr3-/- mice showed an exaggerated response to sleep disruption as measured by active wakefulness, but with a blunted increase in homeostatic sleep drive (elevated 1-4 Hz power) relative to WT-mice. Egr3-/-mice exhibit greatly reduced sedative effects of clozapine at the electroencephalographic level. In addition, clozapine induced a previously undescribed dissociated state (low amplitude, low frequency EEG and a stable, low muscle tone) lasting up to 2 h in WT-mice. Egr3-/- mice did not exhibit this phenomenon. Selective 5-HT2A antagonist, alone or in combination with selective 5-HT2BC antagonist, caused EEG slowing coincident with behavioral quiescence in WT-mice but not in Egr3-/- mice. Conclusion Egr3 has an essential role in regulating cortical arousal, wakefulness, and sleep, presumably by its regulation of 5-HT2 receptors.
Calibration procedures for a two-modular generalized ellipsometer

A Two-Modulator Generalized Ellipsometer (2-MGE) has been extremely useful in characterizing optical properties of uniaxial bulk materials, thin films and diffraction gratings. The instrument consists of two polarizer- photoelastic modulator pairs, one operating as the polarization state generator and the other as the polarization state detector. Each photoelastic modulator operates at a different resonant frequency, making it possible to measure eight elements of the reduced sample; Mueller matrix simultaneously. In certain configurations, light reflection from non-depolarizing anisotropic samples can be completely characterized by a single measurement, and the entire reduced Jones matrix can be determined, including the cross polarization coefficients. The calibration of the instrument involves the measurement of the azimuthal angle of the polarizer with respect to the modulator, the modulation amplitude, and the modulator strain for each polarizer photoelastic modulator pair, where the lat two are functions of wavelengths. In addition, it is essential to calibrate the azimuthal modulator pair, where the lat two are functions of wavelengths. In addition, it is essential to calibrate the azimuthal angles of the polarization state generator and the polarization state detector with respect to the plane of incidence in the ellipsometry configuration that is used in the measurements. Because two modulators operating at different frequencies are used, these calibrations are actually easier and more accurate than for one modulator ellipsometers. In this paper, we will discuss these calibrations and the resultant accuracy limitations of the 2-MGE.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Case 16: Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis

70-year-old man diagnosed 5 weeks ago with acute pancreatitis presenting with persistent abdominal pain.
Diabetes Mellitus and the Colon

Diabetes mellitus (DM) can affect the structure and function of the colon promoting commonly encountered lower gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, abdominal distention, bloating, and abdominal pain. Specific colonic disorders for which adults with DM are at greater risk include chronic constipation, enteropathic diarrhea, colorectal cancer (CRC), inflammatory bowel disease, microscopic colitis, and Clostridium difficile colitis. Smooth muscle structure and function, density of the interstitial cells of Cajal, and the health and function of the autonomic and enteric nerves of the colon are all potential affected by DM. These effects can in turn lead to alterations in colon motility, visceral sensation, immune function, endothelial function, and the colonic microbiome. The evaluation and treatment for slow transit constipation as well as pelvic floor dysfunction should be considered when constipation symptoms are refractory to initial treatment measures. DM-related medications and small bowel conditions such as celiac disease and small intestinal bowel overgrowth should be considered and excluded before a diagnosis of enteropathic diarrhea is made. Given the higher risk of CRC, adults with DM should be appropriately screened and may require a longer bowel preparation to ensure an adequate evaluation.
High-Frequency and High-Field Hysteresis Loop Tracer for Magnetic Nanoparticle Characterization

Existing metrology tools for magnetic nanoparticles cannot generate magnetic fields of the necessary high strength at high frequency to determine particle saturation and coercivity at conditions representative of their use, for example, in composite inductor cores, medical imaging, and hyperthermia treatments for cancer. To address this measurement need, this letter presents the design of a high-field and high-frequency hysteresis loop tracer capable of 0.16 T at 46.4 kHz. Hysteresis loops of commercial and custom iron oxide nanoparticles in varying sizes are measured and compared to typical vibrating sample magnetometer results in demonstration of the insight into nanoparticle behavior enabled by the new capabilities.
Trait emotional intelligence, coping, and occupational distress among resettlement workers.

OBJECTIVE Trait emotional intelligence has recently emerged as a negative predictor of work-related distress. However, research that considers the mechanisms underlying the relationship between trait emotional intelligence and distress is lacking, in particular among workers with emotionally intensive occupations. The purpose of this study was to analyze the mediating pathway of coping behaviors in the relations between trait emotional intelligence, and work-related distress outcomes, namely secondary traumatic stress and job burnout in a sample of refugee resettlement workers. METHOD Participants were 210 resettlement workers from six organizations in the United States who completed a questionnaire. Questions included self-reported measures of secondary traumatic stress, burnout, trait emotional intelligence, coping behaviors, and history of trauma. The majority of participants identified as White (64.9%) and female (73.6%). The average participant was 32.96 years old (SD = 10.22) and was employed in the same position for 2.64 years (SD = 4.67). RESULTS Unhealthy coping (e.g., substance use and denial), emerged as a significant mediator of the relations between trait emotional intelligence and the outcomes, with 43% and 64% of the total effects for secondary traumatic stress and burnout mediated. Specifically, trait emotional intelligence negatively related to secondary traumatic stress and burnout via a reduction in unhealthy coping behaviors, rather than an increase in healthy coping ones. CONCLUSIONS Training programs promoting the psychological well-being of employees often focus on the promotion of healthy coping practices. These results suggest the potential value of including trait emotional intelligence training in the development of such programs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).
LEUKOCYTE KINETICS STUDIED BY NITROGEN MUSTARD INDUCED ALTERATIONS IN DNA PHOSPHORUS LABELING

The effect of a large dose of nitrogen mustard on total and differential leukocyte counts in rabbits was studied in conjunction with the effect on DNA labeling with inorganic radiophosphorus. Considered together, the findings indicate that this dose of nitrogen mustard has a direct lethal effect on lymphocytes and effectively blocks P/sup 32/ incorporation into leukocyte DNA for several days by killing the elements capable of division. The post-mitotic granulocyte reservoir seems to remain intact and is of sufficient size to replace those lost from the circulation for about 56 hours. Granulocyte circulating half- time under the conditions of these experiments falls between two and seven hours. The post-mitotic granulocyte reservoir is calculated to be 40 times the size of the circulating pool. During the period of rapid granulocyte recovery, leukocytes have been shown to exhibit a decreasing concentration of DNA label per element and maintenance of the same level of label per element depending on the availability of precursor P/sup 32/. At present no conclusion about DNA labeling characteristics with inorganic P/sup 32/ under steady state conditions is warranted. (auth)
Latent variable methods for ordinal data

Many datasets include variables whose distributions cannot be represented by the normal, binomial or Poisson distributions we have studied thus far. For example, distributions of common survey variables such as age, education level and income generally cannot be accurately described by any of the abovementioned sampling models. Additionally, such variables are often binned into ordered categories, the number of which may vary from survey to survey. In such situations, interest often lies not in the scale of each individual variable, but rather in the associations between the variables:
Macrophage Function in Peyer’s Patch Epithelium

Peyer’s patches play a critical role in the initiation of mucosal immune responses in the intestine, especially to particulate and macromolecular antigens. When some forms of antigen are introduced into isolated intestinal loops, specific antibody is produced only if a Peyer’s patch is present in the loop where the antigen is administered (1). In Peyer’s patches, collectins of lymphoid nodules bulge into the intestinal lumen among villi and are covered by an epithelium with special characteristics which enhance sampling and uptake of luminal antigenic constituents (2). Goblet cells which produce a blanket of mucus, trapping and carrying organisms away from other portions of the epithelium over villi, are reduced in Peyer’s patches allowing the approach of microrganisms and particles to the surface of lymphoid follicles. The cuboidal epithelium over follicles contains M cells (also known as nurse or FAE cells) which form a membrane-like barrier between the lumen and migrating lymphoid cells (3,4). M cells take up macromolecules and luminal particles by pinocytosis and transport them through vesicles into the space between cells in the epithelium.
Somatic expression of piRNA and associated machinery in the mouse identifies short, tissue-specific piRNA

Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that associate with PIWI proteins for transposon silencing via DNA methylation and are highly expressed and extensively studied in the germline. Mature germline piRNAs typically consist of 24-32 nucleotides, with a strong preference for a 5' uridine signature, an adenosine signature at position 10, and a 2'-O-methylation signature at the 3' end. piRNA presence in somatic tissues, however, is not well characterized and requires further systematic evaluation. In the current study, we identified piRNAs and associated machinery from mouse somatic tissues representing the three germ layers. piRNA specificity was improved by combining small RNA size selection, sodium periodate treatment enrichment for piRNA over other small RNA, and small RNA next-generation sequencing. We identify PIWIL1, PIWIL2, and PIWIL4 expression in brain, liver, kidney, and heart. Of note, somatic piRNAs are shorter in length and tissue-specific, with increased occurrence of unique piRNAs in hippocampus and liver, compared to the germline. Hippocampus contains 5,494 piRNA-like peaks, the highest expression among all tested somatic tissues, followed by cortex (1,963), kidney (580), and liver (406). The study identifies 26 piRNA sequence species and 40 piRNA locations exclusive to all examined somatic tissues. Although piRNA expression has long been considered exclusive to the germline, our results support that piRNAs are expressed in several somatic tissues that may influence piRNA functions in the soma. Once confirmed, the PIWI/piRNA system may serve as a potential tool for future research in epigenome editing to improve human health by manipulating DNA methylation.
Relationships among motor skill, perceived self-competence, fitness, and physical activity in young adults.

Abstract Purpose This large-scale, exploratory study sought to examine the associations between motor skill proficiency (MSP), perceived self-competence (PC), physical fitness (PF), and self-reported physical activity (PA) to assess the assumption that relationships among these variables found in childhood and adolescence persist into young-adulthood. Specifically, predictors of PF and PA were assessed. Additionally, the contributions body mass index (BMI) and gender made to these relationships, as well as that of process- versus product-oriented motor skills data, were studied. Finally, how these relationships differed by gender was explored. Methods Participants’ (n = 448) MSP was assessed using select measures from the TGMD-2 and the BOT-2, while PF was evaluated using the FitnessGram. Participants also completed surveys to assess PC (SPPCS), PA (past-week MAQ), and demographic information. Height and weight were collected to calculate BMI. Results Models predicting physical fitness had good fit to the observed data, with perceived athletic competence, locomotor skill, upper-limb coordination, BMI, and gender accounting for about 75% (R2 = 0.748) of aerobic PF variance and about 48% (R2 = 0.476) of variance in push-up performances. About 18% (R2 = 0.178) of variance in curl-up performances was predicted by perceived athletic competence, locomotor skill, upper-limb coordination, and PA. The PA model demonstrated weaker predictive power, with only about 10% (R2 = 0.097) of variance explained. When considering male and female models separately, female models demonstrated better fit when predicting all PF and PA outcome variables. BMI and gender operated as significant predictors to differing degrees across the various models. Conclusions There is compelling evidence to believe relationships found among MSP, PC, PF, and PA in childhood and adolescence also exist in early adulthood. However, differences in the roles of gender and physical fitness versus physical activity are likely to exist.
The Meaning of the University Experience: A Service Science Approach

This paper focuses on the concept of experience design with the purpose of reflecting on how to create meaning from the experience of studying at university. The first part translates certain concepts based on service design to the field of Higher Education and the second describes the making of a questionnaire which intends to find the keys used by students to describe the university experience, from an exploratory point of view. The outcome of a first application of this questionnaire is analyzed and the most relevant conclusions are highlighted.
A low-cost and easy-to-use cell preservation reagent for 4°C or room temperature sample storage

Abstract Current biospecimen storage and preservation methods no longer meet the demands of basic research and clinical diagnostics. Biospecimen preservation methodology has not advanced to accommodate cutting edge molecular analysis technologies that target single cells and full-length transcripts. Traditional methods, such as flash freezing and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedding (FFPE), were designed to provide information on cell structure and spatial relationships in whole tissues. These methods, however, do not maintain the integrity of proteins and nucleic acids. In this proof-of-concept study we examine preservation mechanisms utilized in nature for survival during cold seasons or periods of drought. Plants, brine shrimp, and tardigrades rely on components such as disaccharides or intrinsically disordered proteins to maintain cellular structure and biological activity in the settings of these environmental stresses. Our study demonstrates that these reagents aid in mammalian cell preservation for at least one week when a sample is stored in solution at 4°C, or as a dried sample in a low humidity desiccator.
Simulation Investigation on Acoustic Noise Caused by “Singing” Capacitors on Mobile Devices

Recently, the acoustic noise emanating from mobile devices becomes an important issue for user experience. The vibration of multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) mounted on printed circuit board (PCB) can transfer to the PCB and lead to acoustic noise. To mitigate singing cap acoustic noise, sometimes it has to trade off EMC/SI/PI performance during system design. So, simulation methodology is critical to predict critical acoustic issue and help design tradeoff. In this paper, a simulation methodology to provide design guideline for MLCC placement and PCB fixation with the aim to decrease board vibration is proposed. A finite element model of the multilayer PCB considering detailed copper/dielectric distribution of each layer is developed. Modal analysis is firstly performed to analyze the vibration characteristics of the bare PCB. Then the harmonic response of the board due to vibration excitation of MLCC is modeled. Based on the modal analysis result, the design guideline for MLCC placement and PCB fixation location can be established. The proposed guideline is validated through PCB harmonic response simulation.
Placental Growth Factor Concentrations in Bone Marrow of Sickle Cell Patients.

Although sickle cell anemia (SCA) is the result of an abnormality in the beta globin chain of hemoglobin, its clinical manifestations cannot be explained solely on that basis. It has become clear over the last several years that inflammation and inflammatory mechanisms contribute to the clinical syndromes associated with SCA, and that sickle cell disease, even in steady-state, is an inflammatory process. Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor family and is associated with inflammation and with pathologic angiogenesis. Perelman and colleagues have reported that PlGF is released from marrow erythroid cells and that its circulating concentration is 50% higher in patients with severe SCA than it is in healthy controls, and also that PlGF induces the expression of inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) (Blood2003;102:1506–14; Blood2003;102:1514–24). As part of our studies of the regulation of erythropoiesis by inflammation in sickle disease, we collected bone marrow aspirates from homozygous SCA patients not currently in crisis (n=5) and from healthy volunteers (n=10), and evaluated PlGF concentrations in the marrow aspirate plasma. The SCA patients studied were all adults, and were not on chronic transfusion, erythropoietin, or hydroxyurea. PlGF concentrations were significantly higher in the marrow aspirate plasma from SCA patients compared to healthy controls (range 38.7 – 90.2 pg/mL vs. 8.7–21.9 pg/mL; p = 0.002). In contrast, plasma PlGF concentrations were overlapping (range 6.2– 11.3 pg/mL for SCA patients vs. 2.2–27.0 pg/mL; p = 0.59). When PlGF concentration was normalized to marrow CFU-E concentration, mean PlGF protein per CFU-E was substantially higher for SCA patients (0.86 pg/10 5 CFU-E vs. 0.13 pg/10 5 CFU-E ), although the difference did not achieve statistical significance ( p = 0.07). Since cytokines induced by PlGF, such as TNF and IL-1, are known to inhibit CFU-E colony formation, the effects of PlGF on erythroid colony formation in vitro by marrow from SCA patients and healthy volunteers were studied. At concentrations 10 – 1000 pg/mL, no inhibition of CFU-E colony formation was observed, and there was no difference in the response of progenitors from SCA patients and from normal volunteers. In summary, PlGF concentrations in bone marrow aspirate plasma are significantly greater than those observed in healthy controls, and the degree of this difference is more substantial than has been reported for circulating PlGF concentrations. Erythroid progenitors from SCA patients tend to produce PlGF at a higher level then do progenitors from healthy controls. PlGF does not inhibit erythroid colony formation in vitro, and would not be expected to contribute directly to impairment of erythropoiesis in SCA patients.
The Effectiveness of Library Instruction for Graduate/Professional Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Objective - This study sought to assess the effectiveness of library instruction for increasing information literacy skills and/or knowledge among graduate and professional students. Methods - A search was conducted in Library Literature and Information Science Index (H. W. Wilson); Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts; Medline; CINAHL; ERIC; Library and Information Science Abstracts (LISA); and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. Studies were included if they were published between 2000 and 2019, in English, reported on library instruction for graduate or professional students, and objectively measured change in information literacy knowledge/skills. Results - Sixteen studies were included in the systematic review; 12 of the 16 studies included sufficient information to be included in the meta-analysis. The overall effect of library instruction was significant [SMD = 1.03, SE=0.19, z=5.49, P<.0001, 95% CI=0.66-1.40], meaning that on average, a student scored about one standard deviation higher on an information literacy assessment after library instruction. High heterogeneity indicated a need for subgroup analysis, which showed a significant moderation of effect by discipline of students, but none by format of instruction. However, subgroup analysis must be viewed with caution due to the small number of studies in several of the subgroups. Conclusions - This meta-analysis indicates that library instruction for graduate students is effective in increasing information literacy knowledge and/or skills. However, to strengthen the accuracy of results of future meta-analyses, there is a need for more precise descriptions of instructional sessions as well as more complete data reporting by authors of primary studies. There is also a need for the publication of more studies, particularly studies of hybrid and online instruction.
Riders on the storm: loggerhead sea turtles detect and respond to a major hurricane in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean.

Extreme weather events, including hurricanes, have considerable biological, ecological, and anthropogenic impacts. Hurricane Irene caused substantial economic damage when it hit the Mid-Atlantic Bight (MAB) off of the eastern United States in August of 2011. The MAB is highly stratified during the summer when a strong thermocline separates warm, surface water from deep, cold water, and this oceanographic phenomenon makes modeling hurricane strength difficult. Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) forage in the MAB primarily during the stratified season and their dive behavior to the bottom allows them to experience the oceanographic conditions of the entire water column. In this study, we analyzed the movements and dive behavior of juvenile and adult-sized loggerhead sea turtles (n = 18) that were foraging in the MAB as Hurricane Irene moved through the region. The satellite tags deployed on these turtles transmitted location data and dive behavior as well as sea surface temperature (SST) and temperature-depth profiles during this time. Behavioral and environmental shifts were observed during and after the hurricane compared to conditions before the storm. During the hurricane, most of the turtles (n = 15) moved north of their pre-storm foraging grounds. Following the storm, some turtles left their established foraging sites (n = 8) moving south by 7.3–135.0 km, and for the others that remained (n = 10), 12% of the observed dives were longer (0.54–1.11 h) than dives observed before the storm. The in situ data collected by the turtle-borne tags captured the cooling of the SST (Mean difference = 4.47°C) and the deepening of the thermocline relative to the pre-storm conditions. Some of the loggerhead behavior observed relative to a passing hurricane differed from the regular pattern of seasonal movement expected for turtles that forage in the MAB. These data documented the shifts in sea turtle behavior and distribution during an ecosystem-level perturbation and the recorded in situ data demonstrated that loggerheads observe environmental changes to the entire water column, including during extreme weather events.
From the Boundaries of Storytelling to the History of a People

Ikejimba-from the boundaries of storytelling to the history of a people. We are celebrating THINGS FALL APART at 60. This chapter celebrates literature and books. After all, Chinua Achebe remarked that nothing is more important to man than literature. The author presents thoughts of an elder (onye okenya) who has traveled the world, loved books, and lived long enough to know that todo cambia (everything changes) in the words of Argentinian singer Mercedes Sosa. Only literature and art endure to affirm that we live, that we are. The writer demonstrates this with abundant references to literary works from many peoples in many languages; references to art; references to rivers of history; specific observations on THINGS FALL APART, time, mortality, and memory. The chapter also includes stories of the writer’s friendship with Chinua Achebe.
Submicron Thickness Characterization of poly-Si thin films on Textured Surfaces by X-ray Diffraction for Minimizing Parasitic Absorption in Poly-Si/SiO2 Passivating Contact Cells

Poly-Si/SiO 2 passivating contacts have shown great potential for industry-relevant next-generation solar cells. Previous work has demonstrated an improved J sc from dry reactive ion etching in an SF 6 environment, using front metal grids as a self-aligned mask. Here, we show an effective method to measure the front poly-Si thickness on an alkaline textured surface using X-ray diffraction. The calculated thicknesses are compared with cross-section SEM analysis and Quokka simulation. We show that by thinning the front poly-Si from 200 nm to 60 nm, J sc increases by 2.4 mA/cm2, leading to an absolute efficiency gain of 1.73%. Finally, we discuss possible reasons for the premature loss of passivation before the removal of all poly-Si.