cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rhomboid 4 (ROM4) Affects the Processing of Surface Adhesins and Facilitates Host Cell Invasion by Toxoplasma gondii

Host cell attachment by Toxoplasma gondii is dependent on polarized secretion of apical adhesins released from the micronemes. Subsequent translocation of these adhesive complexes by an actin-myosin motor powers motility and host cell invasion. Invasion and motility are also accompanied by shedding of surface adhesins by intramembrane proteolysis. Several previous studies have implicated rhomboid proteases in this step; however, their precise roles in vivo have not been elucidated. Using a conditional knockout strategy, we demonstrate that TgROM4 participates in processing of surface adhesins including MIC2, AMA1, and MIC3. Suppression of TgROM4 led to decreased release of the adhesin MIC2 into the supernatant and concomitantly increased the surface expression of this and a subset of other adhesins. Suppression of TgROM4 resulted in disruption of normal gliding, with the majority of parasites twirling on their posterior ends. Parasites lacking TgROM4 bound better to host cells, but lost the ability to apically orient and consequently most failed to generate a moving junction; hence, invasion was severely impaired. Our findings indicate that TgROM4 is involved in shedding of micronemal proteins from the cell surface. Down regulation of TgROM4 disrupts the normal apical-posterior gradient of adhesins that is important for efficient cell motility and invasion of host cells by T. gondii.
Holocene Geologic Development of the Cape Hatteras Region, Outer Banks, North Carolina, USA

ABSTRACT Peek, K.M.; Mallinson, D.J.; Culver, S.J., and Mahan, S.A., 2014. Holocene geologic development of the Cape Hatteras region, outer banks, North Carolina, USA. Micropaleontological, geophysical, and chronologic data indicate that normal salinity conditions occurred over currently estuarine back-barrier areas of the Outer Banks of eastern North Carolina during the peak of the Medieval Climate Anomaly. Sedimentary units several meters thick, containing foraminiferal assemblages usually found on the continental shelf of North Carolina, are present in 16 vibracores acquired from the shallow shoals of Pamlico Sound behind Cape Hatteras. Optically stimulated luminescence age estimates from these normal salinity units range from approximately 1360 to 980 calibrated years (cal yr) BP, corresponding with a previously documented collapse of a segment of the southern Outer Banks. It is vital to understand past scenarios of barrier island formation and segmentation to provide insight on how these islands may ...
Power and tuning characteristics of a broadly tunable femtosecond optical parametric oscillator based on periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate

We report on power, tuning, and temporal characteristics of an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) based on a periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate (PPSLT) crystal and pumped by a high-power mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser. Focus is given to the OPO operating range spanning from 900 to 1350 nm, which is important in nonlinear optical microscopy and spectroscopy. Generation of peak powers beyond the 10 kW level is strongly affected by the onset of intracavity power-dependent loss, which is due to the high ultrafast Kerr nonlinearity of the gain material. The crystal withstands combined power densities higher than 60 GW/cm2 for ∼100 fs optical pulses before breakdown occurs. A resonator design that mitigates self- and cross-beam focusing effects delivers ∼40 kW peak power for 85–160 fs pulses. The high parametric gain of the PPSLT allows OPO operation at the twelfth harmonic of the pump laser repetition rate (∼0.91 GHz). Stable operation with the possibility of broad wavelength tuning is demonstrated without active cavity length stabilization at a repetition rate of ∼530 MHz and average powers above 150 mW. In addition, up to 50 mW of power at ∼530 nm is output as a result of SHG of the 1060 nm signal beam resulting from third-order quasi phase matching.
Event-Related Potentials: Search for Positive and Negative Child-Related Schemata in Individuals at Low and High Risk for Child Physical Abuse.

OBJECTIVE: The present investigation used event-related potentials (ERPs, N400 and N300) to determine the extent to which individuals at low and high risk for child physical abuse (CPA) have pre-existing positive and negative child-related schemata that can be automatically activated by ambiguous child stimuli. METHODS: ERP data were obtained from individuals at low (n=13) and high risk (n=12) for CPA and used in a procedure check, from which a sub-group of low-risk (n=7) and high-risk (n=7) individuals were selected for inclusion in the main study. ERP data were collected during the presentation of a priming paradigm consisting of non-child pictures (primes) and congruent and incongruent word descriptors (targets). ERP data also were collected during a second priming paradigm consisting of ambiguous child pictures (primes) and positive and negative word descriptors (targets). Data from this second paradigm were used to test the hypothesis that low-risk and high-risk individuals' putative pre-existing child-related schemata (i.e., positive schemata in low-risk individuals and negative schemata in high-risk individuals) provide a context that influences whether targets (positive or negative word descriptors) are congruent or incongruent with ambiguous child picture primes. RESULTS: Analyses revealed the expected larger N400 waves in response to non-child picture, incongruent word pairs. There were no N400 differences between risk groups nor were there any risk group interactions, indicating that all participants responded in a similar manner to the non-child picture, congruent/incongruent word presentations. However, when ambiguous child picture primes were used with positive and negative word descriptors, low-risk individuals showed greater N400 and N300 responses to negative, relative to positive, word descriptors; whereas high-risk individuals showed no ERP differences with respect to positive and negative word descriptors. CONCLUSIONS: ERP evidence supports the view that low-risk individuals have greater accessibility to pre-existing positive (relative to negative) child-related schemata, which may reduce the likelihood of negative child-related evaluations. In contrast, high-risk individuals have pre-existing positive and negative child-related schemata that are equally accessible. Hence, high-risk, relative to low-risk, individuals appear to have greater accessibility to negative child-related schemata that may increase the likelihood of negative child-related evaluations and attributions that have been linked to CPA risk. Language: en
Host Specialization among Wood-Decay Polypore Fungi in a Caribbean Mangrove Forest1

Abstract Host specialization in highly diverse tropical forests may be limited by the low local abundance of suitable hosts. To address whether or not fungi in a low-diversity tropical forest were released from this restriction, fruiting bodies of polypore basidiomycete fungi were collected from three species of mangroves (Avicennia germinans, Laguncularia racemosa, and Rhizophora mangle) in a Caribbean mangrove forest in Panama. Unlike other tropical forests, the polypore assemblage in this mangrove forest was strongly dominated by a few host-specialized species. Three fungal species, each with strong preference for a different mangrove host species, comprised 88 percent of all fungi collected.
Advances in International Comparative Management

The article presents a review of the book “Advances in International Comparative Management,” edited by Richard N. Farmer.
Assessment of Patellar Tendon Reflex Responses Using Second-Order System Characteristics

Deep tendon reflex tests, such as the patellar tendon reflex (PTR), are widely accepted as simple examinations for detecting neurological disorders. Despite common acceptance, the grading scales remain subjective, creating an opportunity for quantitative measures to improve the reliability and efficacy of these tests. Previous studies have demonstrated the usefulness of quantified measurement variables; however, little work has been done to correlate experimental data with theoretical models using entire PTR responses. In the present study, it is hypothesized that PTR responses may be described by the exponential decay rate and damped natural frequency of a theoretical second-order system. Kinematic data was recorded from both knees of 45 subjects using a motion capture system and correlation analysis found that the mean value was 0.99. Exponential decay rate and damped natural frequency ranges determined from the sample population were −5.61 to −1.42 and 11.73 rad/s to 14.96 rad/s, respectively. This study confirmed that PTR responses strongly correlate to a second-order system and that exponential decay rate and undamped natural frequency are novel measurement variables to accurately measure PTR responses. Therefore, further investigation of these measurement variables and their usefulness in grading PTR responses is warranted.
Official/Unofficial Images: Photographs from the Crane Pacific Expedition, 1928-1929

The Crane Pacific Expedition was privately funded by Cornelius Crane and institutionally sponsored by the Field Museum, Chicago. Originally planning a pleasure trip, Crane offered to fund and organize a scientific one for the museum. The expedition circled the globe from November 1928 to October 1928, and collected over 18,000 specimens of ally types for various departments at the Field Museum. Sculpures were also collected and given to several museums. However, the Crane Expedition is particularly significant for its photographic record of the Sepik River, New Guinea. On official photographer, Sidney N. Shurcliff, was documented, yet five men are now known to have taken photographs and motion pictures. Over 500 photographs were made of people, art, architecture, and everyday life in New Guinea, especially while traveling the Sepik, Keram, and May Rivers during April and May 1929. The article discusses the planning and participants, and provides information and attributions for both the official and unofficial photgraphers of the Crane Pacific Expedition.
Relationship between insecticide resistance and performance in choice tests of field-collected German cockroaches (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae).

Topical application (LD) and time-mortality response (LT) methods were used to determine resistance levels of field-collected strains of the German cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.). LD50s for chlorpyrifos were determined for seven strams. LT50s and LT90s with eight insecticides were determined for another three strains. Resistance ratios (RR) of >10 to chlorpyrifos (LD50) were directly related to a significant decrease in activity in Ebeling choice-box tests. Using the LT method, the three field-collected strains were shown to possess zero to moderate resistance at the RR50 level (0.9–5.3) to organophosphates, moderate to high resistance to (1.4–>21.0) to carbamates, moderate to high resistance (4.3–20) to cypermethrin, and high resistance (>17–>35) to synergized pyrethrins. When the three field-collected strains were tested in choice boxes, RR50s of 1.2–2.2 for chlorpyrifos and 2.5–5.3 for diazinon directly related to significantly lower efficacy. Low-level propoxur resistance (RR50 of 1.4–2.3) also reduced choice-box efficacy, but an RR50 of 0.9–1.3 for acephate did not reduce its performance. Cypermethrin deposits used in choice tests killed cockroaches exhibiting RR50s as high as 20 in the lethal time test, perhaps because resistance mechanisms could not detoxify the exceptional activity of the active ingredient formulated as a wettable powder. Because they were repellent, residual deposits of pyrethrins resulted in poor efficacy in choice tests with either susceptible or field-collected strains. Strains with low-level physiological resistance as measured by the time-mortality response method survived insecticide exposure in choice-box tests to certain organophosphate and carbamate insecticides, indicating that these compounds would not be effective in the field.
Effect of diet on longevity and fecundity of laboratory-reared face flies.

Known numbers of laboratory-reared face flies, Musca autumnalis De Geer, were fed diets containing sugar and various proteinaceous materials. The materials were powdered milk, egg solids, whole beef blood, yeast hydrolysate, peptone, and blood albumin. These laboratory studies indicated that sugar is essential for adult survival and that a proteinaceous substance is necessary for reproduction. The most successful protein diets were 5 or 10% blood and 5% milk added to 5% sugar.
Boosting Research and Industry by Providing Extensive Resources for Fungal Research

Bringing microbes into living collections represents the transition from oral history to written history. The growing utilization of fungi in technology and commerce depend on access to validated materials for taxonomy, standardization, reproducibility, and for technological progress including molecular and basic areas. Like libraries before them, formal living microbe collections allow trans-generational collaboration by assuring that materials generated in one era are available to scientists and engineers of the next generation. To support this strong impact on the advance of fungal biology, living collections in every country preserve and share fungal germplasm and molecular reagents in support of their diverse mission areas. Most countries have growing living microbe collections and sharing of resources is managed according to international and local laws as well as local customs. Among international mandates, the Convention on Biological Diversity requires parties to establish and maintain living ex situ microbe repositories. Open access to living microbial germplasm through collections such as the Fungal Genetics Stock Center (FGSC) catalyze advances in technology impacting basic understanding and practical utilization of fungal resources. Among the resources in the FGSC, plasmids for expression and manipulation of proteins in fungal hosts have been widely utilized. The most popular plasmids have diverse host range and have benefitted from work with classical genetic model organisms. New approaches to transformation have expanded the host range for protein manipulation in fungi and collections insure that these resources and techniques are widely available and multiply the impact of the laboratories that deposit materials in public collections.
Attorneys' Fees in Class Actions Governed by Fee-Shifting Statutes

Calculating the ideal compensation for plaintiffs' attorneys in class actions is difficult. When plaintiffs bring suit individually (rather than as members of a class), they usually set their attorneys' fees by contract before the attorneys provide any services.' In contrast, it is impossible for a plaintiff class to contract with its attorneys before filing suit.2 This is because a class cannot be certified, and therefore cannot exist, until after suit is filed3 through the initiative of entrepreneurial attorneys.4 Thus, attorneys' fees in class actions are inevitably set by the court after settlement or trial rather than before the case begins.5 Frequently, plaintiffs' attorneys are compensated for their time, effort, and risk out of a "common fund" created for the benefit of the 6 class. After settlement or judgment in the class's favor, several considerations militate in favor of compensating the attorneys generously, including the effective enforcement of laws, the work necessary to overcome the low incentives for any of the numerous class members to sue individually, and the substantial uncertainty of success.7 But
International Group Work Research: Guidelines in Cultural Contexts

This article offers 10 guidelines for conducting international group work research. These guidelines include the importance of establishing relationships, conducting a needs assessment, co-constructing the research questions/design, determining the approach, choosing culturally relevant instruments, choosing culturally responsive group interventions, following required/ethical research procedures, determining data analysis/dissemination plan, engaging in effective communication, and practicing cultural humility throughout the process. Using a group stage conceptualization, a case study focusing on an international group work research effort being conducted in 2 primary schools in Malawi is given to highlight the guidelines.
Youth secrets are associated with poorer sleep and asthma symptoms via negative affect.

Abstract Objective Among older children and adolescents, keeping secrets from parents is consistently associated with lower levels of psychological well-being. Further, concealing one's thoughts and emotions has been associated with poor physical health outcomes in adults. However, it remains an open question whether secret-keeping is associated with poorer health and health-related behaviors (such as sleep) among youth and, if those hypothesized links exist, what the psychological mechanisms might be. We investigated the associations among youth secrecy towards parents, daily asthma symptoms and daily sleep behaviors in a sample of low-income youth with asthma aged 10–17 and tested negative affect as a possible mediator of these associations. Methods One hundred and seventy two youths reported the extent to which they kept secrets towards parents over a period of four days. Asthma symptoms, nighttime awakenings, sleep onset latency, and subjective sleep quality were assessed with daily diaries completed by youths. Results More frequent secret-keeping was associated with more severe asthma symptoms, lower ratings of sleep quality and greater number of nighttime awakenings. Secrecy was also associated with increased negative affect, which accounted for the associations between secrecy and number of awakenings and daytime asthma symptoms. These findings remained significant after controlling for youth age and other relevant demographic factors. Conclusions Our findings suggest that secrecy towards parents can have consequential health outcomes for youth with asthma and point to the importance of investigating affective processes as mediators of the influence of secret-keeping on youth health.
Association Between HIV Infection and the Risk of Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction and Preserved Ejection Fraction in the Antiretroviral Therapy Era: Results From the Veterans Aging Cohort Study.

Importance With improved survival, heart failure (HF) has become a major complication for individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. It is unclear if this risk extends to different types of HF in the antiretroviral therapy (ART) era. Determining whether HIV infection is associated with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), or both is critical because HF types differ with respect to underlying mechanism, treatment, and prognosis. Objectives To investigate whether HIV infection increases the risk of future HFrEF and HFpEF and to assess if this risk varies by sociodemographic and HIV-specific factors. Design, Setting, and Participants This study evaluated 98 015 participants without baseline cardiovascular disease from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study, an observational cohort of HIV-infected veterans and uninfected veterans matched by age, sex, race/ethnicity, and clinical site, enrolled on or after April 1, 2003, and followed up through September 30, 2012. The dates of the analysis were October 2015 to November 2016. Exposure Human immunodeficiency virus infection. Main Outcomes and Measures Outcomes included HFpEF (EF≥50%), borderline HFpEF (EF 40%-49%), HFrEF (EF Results Among 98 015 participants, the mean (SD) age at enrollment in the study was 48.3 (9.8) years, 97.0% were male, and 32.2% had HIV infection. During a median follow-up of 7.1 years, there were 2636 total HF events (34.6% were HFpEF, 15.5% were borderline HFpEF, 37.1% were HFrEF, and 12.8% were HF of unknown type). Compared with uninfected veterans, HIV-infected veterans had an increased risk of HFpEF (hazard ratio [HR], 1.21; 95% CI, 1.03-1.41), borderline HFpEF (HR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.09-1.72), and HFrEF (HR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.40-1.86). The risk of HFrEF was pronounced in veterans younger than 40 years at baseline (HR, 3.59; 95% CI, 1.95-6.58). Among HIV-infected veterans, time-updated HIV-1 RNA viral load of at least 500 copies/mL compared with less than 500 copies/mL was associated with an increased risk of HFrEF, and time-updated CD4 cell count less than 200 cells/mm 3 compared with at least 500 cells/mm 3 was associated with an increased risk of HFrEF and HFpEF. Conclusions and Relevance Individuals who are infected with HIV have an increased risk of HFpEF, borderline HFpEF, and HFrEF compared with uninfected individuals. The increased risk of HFrEF can manifest decades earlier than would be expected in a typical uninfected population. Future research should focus on prevention, risk stratification, and identification of the mechanisms for HFrEF and HFpEF in the HIV-infected population.
Design of a new family of narrow-linewidth mid-infrared lasers

We describe the design of a new family of high-spectral-brightness narrow-linewidth mid-infrared lasers—of <1 MHz anticipated linewidths—with potential for operation at any target wavelength between 2.5 and 9.5 μm. More specifically, we analyze the potential performance characteristics of mid-infrared distributed-feedback (DFB) Raman fiber lasers (RFLs) based on π-phase-shifted (PPS) fiber Bragg gratings written in appropriately chosen low-phonon-energy glass fibers. In particular, we calculate anticipated threshold pump powers for optimal laser designs and pump wavelengths for single-frequency (fundamental mode) operation of specific mid-infrared DFB-RFLs operating at chosen target wavelengths and show that these pump powers can be as low as a few milliwatts for MIR DFB-RFLs fabricated with appropriate low-loss small-mode-area single-mode fibers. As such, we clearly establish the PPS-DFB-RFL platform as a very practical approach for constructing a broad range of narrow-linewidth MIR coherent sources for numerous applications, including proximal and remote sensing of molecules and various high-spectral-brightness and long-coherence-length MIR applications.
NIGERIAN BANKING INDUSTRY AND AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS IN VIEW

In developing countries and especially in oil producing Nations, agriculture has been neglected such that it has been left for the ruralites who happen to mainly get involved in peasant farming only, there by the need for the banking industry to get involved in the financing of farm business as an incentive for improved agriculture in Nigeria, this study used questionnaires and hypothesis tested. The sample size for the study is twenty senior staff and twenty-eight junior staff making a total of forty-eight (48) staff. This study made use of five points likert scale to award points to each of the research question responses. The research findings include that Union bank plc encourage the small-scale agricultural business in the economy in procurement of machinery and agricultural equipments. It gives special assistance to the small-scale business. The study made some recommendations amongst which are Small and medium size firms requires import licenses to bringing in machinery and equipment, spare part and raw material should be giving special attention by the government specially where such fund are to purchase goods and service with the ultimate objective of replacing imported ones. The Central Bank of Nigeria should encourage financing project through a number of commercial banks.
Engineered nanomaterial-induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization and anti-cathepsin agents

ABSTRACTEngineered nanomaterials (ENMs), or small anthropogenic particles approximately < 100 nm in size and of various shapes and compositions, are increasingly incorporated into commercial products and used for industrial and medical purposes. There is an exposure risk to both the population at large and individuals in the workplace with inhalation exposures to ENMs being a primary concern. Further, there is increasing evidence to suggest that certain ENMs may represent a significant health risk, and many of these ENMs exhibit distinct similarities with other particles and fibers that are known to induce adverse health effects, such as asbestos, silica, and particulate matter (PM). Evidence regarding the importance of lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP) and release of cathepsins in ENM toxicity has been accumulating. The aim of this review was to describe our current understanding of the mechanisms leading to ENM-associated pathologies, including LMP and the role of cathepsins with a focus on infl...
Steroidogenesis in Leydig cells: effects of aging and environmental factors

Serum testosterone (TS) levels decrease with aging in both humans and rodents. Using the rat as a model system, it was found that age-related reductions in serum TS were not due to loss of Leydig cells, but rather to the reduced ability of the Leydig cells to produce TS in response to luteinizing hormone (LH). Detailed analyses of the steroidogenic pathway have suggested that two defects along the pathway, LH-stimulated cAMP production and cholesterol transport to and into the mitochondria, are of particular importance in age-related reductions in TS production. Although the mechanisms involved in these defects are far from certain, increasing oxidative stress appears to play a particularly important role. Interestingly, increased oxidative stress also appears to be involved in the suppressive effects of endocrine disruptors on Leydig cell TS production.
Quantifying Remote Heating from Propagating Surface Plasmon Polaritons.

We report a method to electrically detect heating from excitation of propagating surface plasmon polaritons (SPP). The coupling between SPP and a continuous wave laser beam is realized through lithographically defined gratings in the electrodes of thin film gold “bow tie” nanodevices. The propagating SPPs allow remote coupling of optical energy into a nanowire constriction. Heating of the constriction is detectable through changes in the device conductance and contains contributions from both thermal diffusion of heat generated at the grating and heat generated locally at the constriction by plasmon dissipation. We quantify these contributions through computational modeling and demonstrate that the propagation of SPPs provides the dominant contribution. Coupling optical energy into the constriction via propagating SPPs in this geometry produces an inferred temperature rise of the constriction a factor of 60 smaller than would take place if optical energy were introduced via directly illuminating the const...
Dynamic analyses of a viscoelastic plate on a generalised Pasternak foundation

AbstractThis paper studies the problem of a slab-on-grade subjected to short-duration dynamic loading. The slab-on-grade system is modelled as a viscoelastic plate resting on a generalised Pasternak foundation, which accounts for the effects of inertia, damping and shear resistance. A semi-analytical forward-solution is proposed by making use of a Hankel transform in space and a finite difference method in time. To evaluate the ability of the considered model to describe the response of slab-on-grade systems, the behaviours of several pavement sections under dynamic loading are examined. A quasi-Newton inverse analysis is employed to find the model parameters by comparing the field-measured and model-calculated responses. The results show that the generalised Pasternak model can simulate the behaviour of slab-on-grade systems with a wide range of slab and grade properties.
Detection of dysregulated protein-association networks by high-throughput proteomics predicts cancer vulnerabilities

The formation of protein complexes and the co-regulation of the cellular concentrations of proteins are essential mechanisms for cellular signaling and for maintaining homeostasis. Here we use isobaric-labeling multiplexed proteomics to analyze protein co-regulation and show that this allows the identification of protein-protein associations with high accuracy. We apply this 'interactome mapping by high-throughput quantitative proteome analysis' (IMAHP) method to a panel of 41 breast cancer cell lines and show that deviations of the observed protein co-regulations in specific cell lines from the consensus network affects cellular fitness. Furthermore, these aberrant interactions serve as biomarkers that predict the drug sensitivity of cell lines in screens across 195 drugs. We expect that IMAHP can be broadly used to gain insight into how changing landscapes of protein-protein associations affect the phenotype of biological systems.
Modifiable Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease in Children with Type 1 Diabetes: Can Early Intervention Prevent Future Cardiovascular Events?

Patients with type 1 diabetes have increased risk for cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this review is to examine the following: Subclinical CVD presents in children as increased carotid intima-media thickness, increased arterial stiffness, and endothelial and myocardial dysfunction. Modifiable risk factors for CVD include hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, obesity, hypertension, depression, and autonomic dysfunction. Very few randomized controlled studies have been done in children with T1DM to examine how modification of these risk factors can affect their CVD. Children with T1DM have subclinical CVD and multiple modifiable risk factors for CVD. More research is needed to define how modification of these factors affects the progression of CVD.
Perceptions of Mobile Device Authentication Mechanisms by Individuals who are Blind

This paper describes an exploratory study focusing on the methods of mobile authentication currently utilized by individuals who are blind. Perceptions of security are discussed, along with the trade-offs with usability and accessibility. A tactile aid for a mobile authentication interface was introduced to participants to obtain preliminary feedback on its design. The aid was found to offer promise for supporting orientation, which could be used support novice users, and provide assistance when the mobile device must be used privately in public spaces.
Rumination in relation to suicide risk, ideation, and attempts: Exacerbation by poor sleep quality?

Abstract Background Rumination, particularly brooding rumination, is associated with suicide risk, ideation and attempts; however, findings are inconsistent with respect to reflective rumination. Recent research suggests reflective rumination might be associated with increased suicide risk specifically among vulnerable individuals. Poor sleep quality is related to both suicide risk and rumination, yet no research has examined whether reflective rumination and sleep quality interact in relation to suicidal risk. This study, therefore, examined whether sleep quality moderates the link between ruminative subtypes and (a) suicide risk overall, and (b) suicidal ideation and (c) history of suicide attempts, specifically. Methods Participants were 1696 college students (ages 18–29 years; 65% female) who completed measures assessing rumination, sleep, and suicidal ideation and behavior. Hierarchical linear and logistic regressions were performed regressing overall suicide risk (linear), suicidal ideation (linear) and history of attempts (logistic) on ruminative subtypes controlling for demographics. Sleep quality was examined as a moderator of the rumination-suicide risk/ideation/attempts link. Results Brooding rumination was significantly associated with increased suicide risk, ideation, and attempts but these associations were not moderated by sleep quality. Sleep quality exacerbated the association of reflective rumination with overall suicide risk and suicidal ideation specifically. Reflective rumination was not itself, or in interaction with sleep quality, significantly associated with a history of suicide attempts. Limitations The study is cross-sectional and utilizes a college student sample. Conclusions This study adds to the literature that suggests reflective rumination is associated with suicide risk and ideation in certain cases, such as in individuals with lower sleep quality. In addition, the study adds continued support for an association between brooding rumination and suicidal behaviors. More studies that examine the relations between ruminative subtypes and attempts are needed. Interventions that target sleep problems and rumination may be beneficial for suicide prevention and intervention.
The Maltose-Maltodextrin­ Transport System of Escherichia coli K-12

Gram-negative bacteria inhabit a wide variety of environments and have evolved different strategies for capturing useful substances from the external milieu. Some active transport systems for sugars and amino acids are composed of a single polypeptide species. These systems usually function as secondary transporters that are energized by the electrochemical proton gradient. Examples of these are the permeases for s-galactosides and glycerol-3-phosphate. In contrast to these “simple” systems, many growth substrates are transported by multicomponent systems that include a water-soluble substrate-binding protein in the periplasmic space, as well as proteins in the cytoplasmic membrane. These systems function as primary active transport systems that pump substrates into the cell at the expense of chemical energy. They are energized by an as yet undefined compound that is derived from the high-energy phosphoester pool of the cell (Berger, 1973; Berger and Heppel, 1974).
Geoffroy's Giraffe: The Hagiography of a Charismatic Mammal

In 1826, the Pasha of Egypt offeredto the King Charles X an unusual present: aliving giraffe. While offering remarkableanimals was a common practice among monarchs,the choice of a giraffe was somewhatextraordinary since it was the firstrepresentative of its kind to set foot inFrance. The Royal Menagerie of the ParisMuseum national d'histoire naturelle wasasked to oversee the transportation of thisprecious mammal and Etienne GeoffroySaint-Hilaire, one of its professors, was sentto Marseilles to fetch it on foot all the wayback to the capital. The whereabouts of thisexotic procession stirred passions throughoutthe country, generating a fashion craze ``a la girafe.'' The so-called Pasha's giraffe, King's giraffeor French giraffe is also – and perhaps moreimportantly – Geoffroy's giraffe. The giraffeepisode is representative of Geoffroy's largerscientific career. Because of its Egyptianflavor, its adventurous aspect, its politicaland diplomatic undertones, as well as thepopular attention and educational opportunitiesit afforded, that mission was ideally suitedfor the flamboyant naturalist. So close werethe animal's and the French zoologist's fates,that they passed away a couple months apart andboth fell into relative oblivion. But evendead and dissected, Geoffroy's giraffe couldnot easily be dissociated from its companion. The afterlife of its ``saintly'' relics mirrorsthe popular and scholarly revival ofEtienne Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, portrayedby some as a forgotten ``prophet.''
Trefftz-type boundary elements for the evaluation of symmetric coefficient matrices

The classical Trefftz-method can be generalized such that different types of finite elements and boundary elements are obtained. In a Trefftz-type approach we utilize functions which a priori satisfy the governing differential equations. In this paper the systematic construction of singular Trefftz-trial functions for elasticity problems is discussed. For convenience a list of solution representations and particular solutions is given which did not appear together elsewhere. The Trefftz-trial functions with singular expressions on the boundary are constructed such that the physical components (stresses, strains, displacements) remain finite in the solution domain and on the boundary. The unknown coefficients of the linearly independent Trefftz-trial functions for the physical components can be obtained by using a variational formulation. The symmetric coefficient matrix in the discussed procedure can be obtained from the evaluation of boundary integrals. As an application of the proposed boundary element algorithm, the symmetric stiffness matrices of subdomains (finite element domains) are calculated. For the numerical example the solution domain is decomposed into triangular subdomains so that a standard finite element program could be used to assemble the system of equations. The chosen example is meant as a simple test for the proposed algorithm and should not be understood as a proposal for a new triangular finite element. Using the proposed boundary element techniques, symmetric stiffness matrices for irregular shaped subdomains (finite elements) can be derived. However, in order to use the method in a finite element package for the coupling of irregular shaped subdomains some program modifications will be necessary.
CT and MRI Protocol Variation and Optimization at an Academic Medical Center.

PURPOSE To reduce CT and MRI protocol variation across a multisite radiology practice at an academic medical center so that patients with similar clinical presentations are examined the same way. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was performed at a large academic radiology practice performing ∼800,000 radiology examinations annually. To diminish variability across the enterprise (2 general radiology divisions; 10 subspecialty imaging divisions), a Harmonization Oversight Committee was created and tasked with ensuring patients with similar clinical presentations undergo the same CT or MRI protocol, regardless of where they are imaged. A process for decision making and conflict resolution was established, supported by the department chair. Primary outcome measure was standardization of CT and MRI protocols across all sites. Secondary outcome was percent reduction of CT and MRI protocols postharmonization. RESULTS Over the 5-month harmonization process, most conflicts arose for abdominal imaging protocols because they are performed in four distinct subspecialty divisions, but all were addressed effectively through the conflict resolution process. Overall, there was a 31% reduction in the total number of CT and MRI protocols (before harmonization 481, after harmonization 331). There was significant variation in reduction of protocols per workgroup (multiple P values; range <.0001 to .9) with largest reduction in workgroups that overlapped multiple divisions. CONCLUSION A structured, organ system- and consensus-based quality improvement process with unambiguous decision-making and conflict resolution processes can be used to harmonize imaging protocols across complex, matrixed, multisite radiology practices so that patients with similar clinical presentations are imaged with the same imaging protocol.
Surgical Technique and Anatomical Considerations for the Modified L'Episcopo Tendon Transfer.

Background: Birth brachial plexus injury usually affects the upper trunks of the brachial plexus and can cause substantial loss of active shoulder external rotation and abduction. Due to the unbala...
Copyright Infringement and the First Amendment: User-Generated Content and DMCA Interpretation -- Youtube. I Tube. We All Tube

Under the Digital Millinium Copyright Act (DMCA), YouTube can be held liable for copyright-infringing material on the site if -- as the hosting site -- it has actual ("red flag") knowledge or control and a direct financial benefit from that copyright infringing content.
Power Electronics Testbed for Converting Methane to Liquid Fuels via Electrical Corona

Methane is often considered a waste gas, and is commonly cited as a greenhouse gas. This paper presents an innovative process to efficiently convert waste methane to liquid transportation fuels (e.g., gasoline and diesel) through the use of electrical corona. To generate the controlled corona a power electronics testbed has been developed to compare the electrical efficiency and chemical products' yield for de discharges across the methane gas stream. In the ionized/free charge particle corona environment, the methane gas carbon atoms recombine into longer carbon chains enabling condensation into liquid fuels, where temperature is used to control the length of the hydrocarbon chains. This paper describes the methane to liquid fuels conversion process and the power electronics testbed, and provides simulation and experimental results, and conclusions.
Trends in Environmental Law Scholarship 2008-2015

This comment provides a brief empirical snapshot of the environmental law scholarship published in top general law reviews and environmental law journals for academic years 2008-2009, 2009-2010, 2010-2011, 2011-2012, 2012-13, 2013-14, and 2014-15. The analysis suggests that over 400 environmental law articles were published each year in these journals. The articles included for each year are identified on lists available on the Environmental Law and Policy Review websites of Vanderbilt University Law School and the Environmental Law Institute.
Polymer-inorganic solid-electrolyte interphase for stable lithium metal batteries under lean electrolyte conditions.

The solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) is pivotal in stabilizing lithium metal anodes for rechargeable batteries. However, the SEI is constantly reforming and consuming electrolyte with cycling. The rational design of a stable SEI is plagued by the failure to control its structure and stability. Here we report a molecular-level SEI design using a reactive polymer composite, which effectively suppresses electrolyte consumption in the formation and maintenance of the SEI. The SEI layer consists of a polymeric lithium salt, lithium fluoride nanoparticles and graphene oxide sheets, as evidenced by cryo-transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and surface-sensitive spectroscopies. This structure is different from that of a conventional electrolyte-derived SEI and has excellent passivation properties, homogeneity and mechanical strength. The use of the polymer–inorganic SEI enables high-efficiency Li deposition and stable cycling of 4 V Li|LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 cells under lean electrolyte, limited Li excess and high capacity conditions. The same approach was also applied to design stable SEI layers for sodium and zinc anodes. Solid–electrolyte interphase is crucial for stabilizing lithium metal anodes for rechargeable batteries. A molecular-level design using a reactive polymer composite is now shown to effectively construct a stable SEI layer and suppress electrolyte consumption upon cycling.
Occupational and Physical Therapy

Occupational and physical therapists offer a wide range of therapies for individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) on the basis of specific deficits and difficulties. This chapter explores the differences between occupational and physical therapy in terms of the differing roles that each discipline plays and the expertise each contributes, in relation to the interdisciplinary team. In addition, the chapter discusses and presents empirical support for several therapeutic techniques commonly used when treating individuals with ASD.
Tumor Evolution Decoder (TED): Unveiling Tumor Evolution Based on Mutation Profiles of Subclones or Single Cells

Abstract Cancer cells constantly evolve accumulating somatic mutations. To describe the tumor evolution process, we develop the Tumor Evolution Decoder (TED), a novel algorithm for constructing phylogenetic tree based on somatic mutation profiles of tumor subclones or single cells. TED takes a unique strategy that reduces the total number of duplicated mutations and dropout mutations in the tumor evolution process, which has not been explored by previous phylogenetic tree methods. TED allows multiple types of somatic mutations as input, such as point mutations, copy number alterations, gene fusion, and their combinations. Theoretical properties of TED are derived while its numerical performance is examined using simulated data. We applied TED to analyze single-cell sequencing data from an essential thrombocythemia tumor and a clear cell renal cell carcinoma, to investigate the ancestral relationships between tumor cells, and found genes related to disease initialization and development mutated in the early steps of evolution. We also applied TED to the subclones of a breast invasive carcinoma and provided important insights on the evolution and metastasis of the tumor.
Orthopedic Master's in Business Administration: A career path analysis.

In recent years, it has become increasingly important for physicians to understand the healthcare system holistically. Thus, some physicians have sought formal education in business through a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). In this study, we looked specifically at orthopedic MD-MBAs and their career trajectories. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 127 orthopedic surgeons who have both MD and MBA degrees. Through online searches and phone calls, we compiled information regarding years in practice, fellowship training, practice type, non-clinical roles, and business school education. Almost all (96.85%) orthopedic MD-MBAs identified are still practicing clinically. The most common nonclinical roles are administration (38.58%), industry consulting (20.47%), and entrepreneurship (11.02%). Most (65.35%) pursued MBAs after medical school, but dual-degree programs are increasing in popularity. Almost all (88.57%) graduates of such programs have been practicing for less than 15 years. Orthopedic surgeons participate in a variety of nonclinical roles including administration, consulting, and entrepreneurship. For those currently in training, it is important to recognize the many opportunities that exist and the potential paths to pursuing them.
Analytic Models for the Mechanical Structure of the Solar Core

All stars exhibit universal central behavior in terms of new homology variables (u,w). In terms of these variables, we obtain simple analytic fits to numerical standard solar models for the core and radiative zones of the ZAMS and present Suns, with a few global parameters. With these analytic fits, different theoretical models of the solar core, neutrino fluxes, and helioseismic observations can be parametrized and compared.
Bare-bulb Upper-Room Germicidal Ultraviolet-C (GUV) Indoor Air Disinfection for COVID-19 .

Reliable indoor air disinfection could make clinical and other necessary indoor spaces safer during epidemics with airborne transmission like COVID-19. Low-dose upper-room germicidal ultraviolet-C (GUV 254 nm) is well suited for this because of the SARS-CoV-2 virus' sensitivity to GUV inactivation and GUV's relatively easy adaptability to many types of indoor spaces without respect to outside weather conditions. However, most existing upper-room GUV fixtures are relatively expensive and inefficient at creating an upper-room disinfection zone due to loss of disinfecting UV-C photons caused by the casing and louvers designed to protect persons in the occupied space. Presented herein are two moderate-size restaurant spaces, 900 ft2 (83.6 m2 ) and 630 ft2 (58.5 m2 ), respectively, in which low-cost bare-bulb GUV fixtures, without exterior casing, were installed with upward-pulling ceiling fans to provide upper-room disinfection and lower-room safety. Proper safety-tested installations like these are adaptable to hospital emergency department waiting rooms, clinics, nursing home and prison common areas, public libraries, schools and restaurants.