cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Search for Opportunities by Small Business Owners

This paper identifies specific factors that cause some small business owners to search for new opportunities while other owners choose to remain with the status quo. Using concepts drawn from the literatures in decision making. entrepreneurship, organization theory, and strategy, we develop a model of factors that stimulate opportunity identification. Determinants include characteristics of the industry environment, intentions and personalities of small business owners, and strategic planning activities. The model is then applied to two actual small businesses in order to illustrate its potential usefulness. Implications for small business managers, consultants, and business researchers are discussed.
Symmetric and Asymmetric Mitosis and Cytokinesis in the Root Tip of Hydrocharis Morsus-Ranae L

In the roots of Hydrocharis morsus-ranae , certain cells of the protoderm divide asymmetrically to form a small, highly cytoplasmic trichoblast proximally, and a larger, more vacuolate epidermal cell distally. The former develops as a root hair without further division; the latter divides several times to form ordinary epidermal cells. During mitosis, presumed dictyosome vesicles and fragments or sections of reticulated or serrate sheets of ER, aligned with the spindle microtubules, were observed among the chromosomes as early as metaphase, suggesting that the portions of ER were involved in formation of the cell plate or in some other function in the equatorial region. A pre-prophase band of microtubules was not observed. Asymmetric divisions differ from symmetric ones in the skewed orientation of the metaphase plate, the formation of a curved, rather wavy cell wall and the slightly greater vacuolation of one daughter cell. Less difference in the ultrastructure of the daughter cells resulting from an asymmetric division was observed in this rather slowly growing material than in other examples previously described in the literature.
Mechanisms of Excimer Laser Ablation of Wide Band-Gap Materials: the Role of Defects in Single Crystal MgO

Laser ablation has important applications in surface modification, materials analysis, and thin film deposition. We have been examining the details of processes that lead to the emission and formation of particles (atomic/molecular ground state neutrals, excited neutrals, ±ions, electrons) when wide band gap materials are irradiated with pulsed UV laser light. Etching and deposition of wide bandgap materials is of particular interest due to their excellent insulating and optical properties. Our studies bear directly on achieving control of emission intensities and particle characteristics for use in film deposition and materials analysis. In model wide bandgap materials such as single crystal alkali halides and MgO (nominally transparent materials), exposure to repeated pulses of 248 nm excimer laser radiation of a few J/cm2 results in substantial interaction including extensive biaxial deformation and cleavage. Significant surface heating also occurs, consistent with strong free-carrier/laser interactions. We present strong evidence that achieving intense emission of atomic, molecular, and ionic particles actually depends on point defect production by laser-induced deformation and fracture. Defect production via dislocation motion yields orders of magnitude increases in laser vaporization of these wide bandgap materials, including cluster ion formation. The dependence of the laser-material interaction on dislocation density and mobility, as well as point defect density, suggests several novel strategies for the enhancing the ablative response or preventing laser damage.
Effect of Void-Generated Thermocapillary Convection on Dopant Segregation in Microgravity Solidification Experiments

Three recent microgravity experiments have been hampered by convection caused by unwanted voids and/or bubbles in the melt. In this work, we present a numerical study to delineate the influence of voidgenerated thermocapillary convection on solidification of a doped single crystal from its dilute binary melt in microgravity. A detailed numerical model for the Bridgman solidification process is developed. The finite element numerical model solves the quasi-steady Navier Stokes equations together with the conservation equations for transport of energy and species. The complicating effects of thermocapillary convection generated by the void and solutal rejection at the melt-solid interface are included. Through a quasi-steady analysis, it is shown that the convection generated by the void can affect radial segregation drastically, especially, if the thermocapillary vortex penetrates the solutal boundary layer at the growth interface. From a transport point of view, three different regimes are identified based on the distance between the void and the growth interface. These range from a diffusion-controlled regime where most of the radial nonuniformity in the interfacial composition is due to interface curvature with minimal flow effects to a fully-mixed regime where the penetration of the solutal boundary layer by the thermocapillary vortex tends to homogenize the interfacial compositions. Nomenclature C = scaled concentration, (C*/C,)
Flexural Testing of Shape Memory Polymers for Morphing Aircraft Applications

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential to return to a “memorized” state when warmed above their glass transition temperature Tg . However, they also have potential in morphing aircraft applications because of their significant modulus change above and below Tg . Much less energy is required to deform this material when in its soft state, but when the material returns to the hard state, it is able to support significant loads. In the proposed effort, SMP is experimentally considered as a candidate material for morphing aircraft applications where the material’s ability to support out of plane loads above and below the Tg is of primary importance. The SMP of study in the work is Veriflex®.© 2007 ASME
Effect of Rice Diet on Diabetes Mellitus Associated With Vascular Disease

(1958). Effect of Rice Diet on Diabetes Mellitus Associated With Vascular Disease. Postgraduate Medicine: Vol. 24, No. 4, pp. 359-371.
Overview of the angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors

The pharmacology of angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and their role in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) are described, and pharmacokinetic properties and common adverse events are presented. ACE inhibitors play a vital role in the RAS by regulating the potent vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. All ACE inhibitors share the same basic structure; however, they can be separated on the basis of their functional (binding) group: carboxyl, sulfhydryl, or phosphinyl. These functional groups are, in part, responsible for differences in the pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of these agents. Captopril and lisinopril are the only ACE inhibitors that are not prodrugs requiring activation through hepatic biotransformation. Differences among the ACE inhibitors in lipophilicity are described; fosinopril has the greatest lipophilicity and lisinopril the least. ACE is found in numerous tissues, and there is increasing evidence of differences among ACE inhibitors in their ability to inhibit tissue ACE. Most ACE inhibitors are eliminated mainly by the kidneys and to a lesser extent through the liver. Lisinopril is the only ACE inhibitor that does not require hepatic metabolism. In the selection of an ACE inhibitor for once-daily use to treat hypertension, differences in trough-peak ratios are clinically relevant. Fosinopril, ramipril, and trandolapril have minimum trough-peak ratios of 50% or greater. ACE inhibitors are generally well tolerated, with hypotension, cough, and hyperkalemia being the most frequently reported adverse effects for the entire class. Drug interactions across the ACE inhibitor class as well as agent-specific interactions are described. Factors to be considered in the selection of an ACE inhibitor include differences in potency, affinity for ACE, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity that are related to structural properties of the drug; whether the trough-peak ratio enables use of a once-daily dose; and potential adverse effects related to a drug's functional (binding) group.
Media ethics theorizing, reoriented: : A shift in focus for individual-level analyses

This project argues that multidisciplinary methods and work to reconsider key concepts are critical if media ethics scholarship is to continue to mature. It identifies 3 dimensions of a reoriented framework for media ethics theory: one that conceptualizes moral motivation as the focus of inquiry at the individual level; another that focuses on promising assessments of autonomy and organizational influences for a transformed media landscape; and a third that applies formalist virtue ethics as the best framework for normative claims arising from the first 2.
Numerical simulation of shallow-lying explosion effects on road base

Road base is a multi layer structure made up of concrete,bitumen,cement stabilized course and clay,and under penetrating explosion of projectile,its stress course is very complicated.By using Lagrange algorithm,the explosion damage numerical simulation of the charge in multilayer medium target,such as concrete and bitumen,can be realized by AUTODYN-3D nonlinear dynamics analysis software. The results show that the anti shallow-lying explosion capability of bitumen is better than that of concrete.Reasonable varying law was shown in computational results of different charge and different concrete strength,which indicated that the effectiveness of the foundation of numerical simulation modeling and the computational results.
Determination of the content of iodine in iodine-enriched food

Objective:Study of content of iodine in iodine-enriched food and of determination of them,in order to guide people in their iodine supplement.Methods: Determination of content of Iodine in high-iodine food by titration analysis of sodium thiosulfate standard solution,and determination of content of Iodine in other iodine-enriched food on principle of iodine catalysis in arsenic-cerium redox reaction.Results: Taking different content of iodine samples,respectively,the coefficient of variation of 6 repeated measurement was between 2.60%～9.52%.Conclusion: The methods are accurate on determination of the content of iodine in iodine-enriched food,while eliminating the blindness of sampling method in determination,and overcoming the error of treated sample solution by repeated dilution.
Examination of an Alternate Structure for Ba2YCu3O6+x Using Single‐Crystal X‐Ray Diffraction.

There exist two models of the structure of the high Tc superconductor: 1. a layered perovskite-variant with oxygen vacancies both in the Y layer and in the Cu layer between the Ba layers, and 2. an alternate structure, where Cu is substituted into the Y site at a level of 0.2-0.3 mol fraction (based on XANES results).
Sports Nutrition for the Young Female Athlete

The 1970s was an important era for the growth of sports opportunities for women. It was also during this period that there was an increase in the number of laboratories focusing on both exercise physiology and sports nutrition. Initially, studies focused mainly on endurance sports and the nutritional status of male participants. Results showed that what an athlete consumed before, during, and after exercise could help to improve performance [1]. The importance of studying both male and female athletes is better recognized today because there are significant differences. For example, food portions, nutrient requirements, and metabolic rates often differ between females and males.
Intersections of Curves

An algebraic curve is the graph of a polynomial equation in two variables x and y. Because we consider products of powers of both variables, the graphs can be intricate even for polynomials with low exponents.
A case study of myocardial visualization of Tc-99m MAA during lung perfusion: superior vena cava obstruction and systemic to pulmonary venous shunt

2535 Objectives To provide an alternative imaging maneuver when performing lung perfusion scan in a patient with superior vena cava obstruction and systemic to pulmonary venous shunt. Methods 5 mCi Tc-99m MAA was administered in the right antecubital vein. Planar chest images were acquired in the anterior, posterior and oblique projections. Planar images were also acquired of the brain and the kidneys. As the lungs were poorly visualized, 2.6 mCi Tc-99m MAA was administered through a femoral catheter. Planar chest images were then acquired in the anterior, posterior and oblique projection. Chest CTA images were evaluated after the scanning procedure was completed and reviewed by a radiologist. Results The lungs were poorly visualized after 5 mCi Tc-99m MAA was administered in the right antecubital vein. Radiotracer uptake was observed in the myocardium, spleen, brain, and right lateral chest. 2.6 mCi Tc-99m MAA administered through the femoral catheter resulted in improved pulmonary perfusion images. Review of a chest CTA performed earlier in the department showed evidence of early pulmonary venous contrast enhancement during pulmonary artery imaging phase. An extensive collateral network of vessels was visualized on the MIP Chest CTA image. Conclusions The hemodynamic pathway of Tc-99m MAA may be altered in the presence of chronic SVC obstruction and systemic to pulmonary venous shunt. Commonly, the shunting of Tc-99m MAA into systemic circulation may lead to the visualization of the kidneys, spleen, and brain. Tc-99m MAA is rarely visualized in the myocardium. In this case, the systemic to pulmonary venous shunt and the extensive network of collaterals may explain the unusual Tc-99m MAA visualization in the myocardium. The lower extremity veins should be used for Tc-99m MAA dose administration in suspected cases of superior vena cava obstruction and systemic to pulmonary venous shunt.
Renewable DNA Hairpin-Based Logic Circuits

Developing intelligent molecular systems for the desired functions is a significant current research topic in the field of nanoscience. Several materials have been explored to construct interesting systems, such as molecular motors, molecular walkers, and Boolean logic circuits. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is one of the most widely used materials as the Watson–Crick base pairing makes it a versatile substrate. A significant achievement in DNA nanoscience has been the construction of large-scale logic circuits. However, most of the prior works have focused on developing the single-use DNA logic circuits. These single-use circuits can perform robust computations. However, the computing material, such as gate strands, cannot be reused to achieve the same (or a different) computation again. Such reusable behavior is essential for applications, such as feedback and sequential logic computation. In this paper, we propose a novel design strategy for building renewable DNA logic circuits. First, we propose a renewable DNA hairpin-based motif and, then, use this motif to implement a Boolean logic gate. Such renewable circuits make the overall sample preparation convenient and straightforward. We believe that our work will serve as a seed for the development of renewable intelligent molecular systems.
Heat and mass transfer in combustion: Fundamental concepts and analytical techniques☆

Fundamental combustion phenomena and the associated flame structures in laminar gaseous flows are discussed on physical bases within the framework of the three nondimensional parameters of interest to heat and mass transfer in chemically-reacting flows, namely the Damkoehler number, the Lewis number, and the Arrhenius number which is the ratio of the reaction activation energy to the characteristic thermal energy. The model problems selected for illustration are droplet combustion, boundary layer combustion, and the propagation, flammability, and stability of premixed flames. Fundamental concepts discussed include the flame structures for large activation energy reactions, S-curve interpretation of the ignition and extinctin states, reaction-induced local-similarity and non-similarity in boundary layer flows, the origin and removal of the cold boundary difficulty in modeling flame propagation, and effects of flame stretch and preferential diffusion on flame extinction and stability. Analytical techniques introduced include the Shvab-Zeldovich formulation, the local Shvab-Zeldovich formulation, flame-sheet approximation and the associated jump formulation, and large activation energy matched asymptotic analysis. Potentially promising research areas are suggested.
Cost-Effectiveness of Primary Radiation Therapy Versus Radical Prostatectomy for Intermediate- to High-Risk Prostate Cancer.

Purpose To compare, using a cost-effectiveness analysis, the quality-adjusted life expectancy (QALE) and cost between the 2 treatment options for intermediate- to high-risk prostate cancer: (1) radiation (RT) with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or (2) radical prostatectomy (RP) followed by adjuvant RT for patients with risk factors. Methods and Materials Our Markov model allowed patients to transition between health states with yearly probabilities of developing cancer recurrence and/or toxicity. Probabilities were assigned according to favorable intermediate, unfavorable intermediate, or high-risk prostate cancer groups. The primary analysis examined outcomes for patients aged 65 years, whereas secondary analyses explored the effects of younger age, elevated baseline cardiovascular risk, and the use of salvage therapy. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. Results Across all primary and secondary analyses, and using a wide-range of assumptions, RT + ADT was the preferred treatment strategy for men with intermediate- to high-risk prostate cancer. The QALE was higher after RT + ADT by 0.5 to 1.14 quality-adjusted life years, compared with RP. Radiation plus ADT was cost-effective in all situations, falling beneath a threshold of $100,000 per quality-adjusted life year. Among all risk groups, a greater proportion of patients undergoing RP experienced single or multiple treatment toxicities. Conclusions Radiation plus ADT may result in improved QALE compared with RP for intermediate- to high-risk prostate cancer. Although biochemical failure is similar between treatment groups, there is a higher rate of developing multiple toxicities among patients treated with upfront RP.
Extreme responsiveness of the pupil of the dark-adapted mouse to steady retinal illumination.

PURPOSE. To measure the dependence of the size of the pupils of mice on steady retinal illumination. METHODS. Anesthetized C57BL/6 mice aged 7 to 8 weeks were placed in a ganzfeld chamber in darkness, and in monochromatic (510 nm) and white light whose intensity was varied more than 6 log units. The pupils of the mice were photographed with an infrared video camera and recorded on videotape and the pupil areas determined by digital image analysis of the video recordings. RESULTS. Fully dark-adapted murine pupils had an area of 2.29 ± 0.35 mm 2 . The minimum pupil size at saturating intensity was 0.10 ± 0.05 mm 2 . The steady state pupil area declined to half its dark-adapted maximum when ganzfeld luminance was 10 -5 scotopic candela (scot. cd) per meter squared. Pupil area declined to 20% of the dark-adapted magnitude at approximately 10 -3 scot. cd/m 2 . CONCLUSIONS. The mouse pupil can regulate retinal illumination by a factor exceeding 20. The neural circuitry that determines steady state murine pupil size is extremely sensitive to retinal illumination and under these experimental conditions is controlled almost exclusively by rod signals. This follows, because the ganzfeld illuminance (10 -5 scot. cd/m 2 ) that causes the pupil to constrict to half its dark-adapted value corresponds to only approximately 0.01 photoisomerization per rod per second, whereas 80% reduction in pupil area occurs at approximately 1 photoisomerization per rod per sec. Based on this extreme responsiveness to steady illumination, the hypothesis is proposed that the murine pupil functions to protect a retinal circuit that can become saturated at extremely low photon capture rates. General principles of dark-adapted retinal circuitry support the identification of the first three neurons in the circuit as the rod, the rod bipolar, and the AII-amacrine. The rod and rod bipolar neurons do not approach saturation at the intensities at which the pupil constricts, however, and it seems unlikely that the AII-amacrine does. Thus the retinal neurons protected from saturation by the mouse pupil constrictions are probably ganglion cells with large receptive fields that have sustained responses.
Pottery Use-Alteration Analysis

Pottery use-alteration consists of three traces: residue, carbonization, and attrition. An analysis of these traces leads to stronger inferences about actual pottery function. Residue analysis relies on gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy and other available techniques and can inform on the former contents of the vessels. Patterns of external carbonization, or sooting, are created while a vessel is over a fire and depends upon the type of hearth and the methods of cooking. Internal carbonization is created when food inside the vessel is charred and can be used to infer the mode (wet or dry) of cooking as well as aspects about the cooking process. Attrition, either on the interior or exterior of the vessel, can be used to infer a variety of use activities. In this chapter, the various use-alteration traces are reviewed and methods for analysis are outlined.
Introduction to Eating Disorders for Substance Abuse Specialists

Eating disorders and substance use disorders co-occur frequently; however, at the present time there are no evidence-based treatments to guide the practitioner faced with this comorbid condition. Given the high rates of co-occurrence and the complex nature of these disorders, it is surprising to note that most substance abuse clinicians and treatment programs have not incorporated eating disorder protocols into their practices. Likewise, most eating disorder specialists are not adequately trained in the treatment of substance use disorders, and very few eating disorder treatment programs provide comprehensive, integrated services for these dually diagnosed patients. Consequently, clinicians presented with these patients tend to focus on their area of specialty without addressing directly the other comorbid condition. Inadvertently, this can prolong the patient’s suffering as they vacillate between their substance use disorder and their eating disorder. Additionally, outpatient clinicians needing to refer patients to a higher level of care or parents seeking treatment for their loved one with both disorders find locating providers or programs that effectively treat both disorders complicated and confusing. Should they seek a reputable substance abuse program or an eating disorder program? This chapter is designed for substance abuse specialists that have limited knowledge or expertise in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of individuals with ED. Cross-training between fields is the foundation to developing comprehensive and integrated programs for this population.
Queering the Word: Patricia Nell Warren's Adaptation of Christian Sacraments in The Fancy Dancer

The essay explores the ways in which Patricia Nell Warren's The Fancy Dancer (1976) employs Roman Catholic sacraments to depict the developing sexuality of a young gay priest. The essay explores the parallels between sacramental spiritual development and the individual and communal markers of a burgeoning gay or lesbian identity. Additionally, the novel's connections between conversion narratives and coming-out narratives are examined. The essay argues that Warren, in using the rhetoric, symbols, and models of the Church differently, disrupts the narrow epistemology underlying Christianity. Finally, novels such as Warren's suggest that gay and lesbian authors can adapt elements of Christianity while undermining its oppressive presumptions, and establishing a liberatory rhetoric that maintains the intelligibility and recognizability of familiar Christian models.
Synaptic Pathology in Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive cognitive disorder characterized by the accumulation of structural and biochemical changes that occur in association areas of the neocortex and the hippocampus. Recent work has demonstrated that synaptic loss provides an excellent correlation with cognitive ability and may provide the best correlate of dementia. The loss of synaptic connectivity in the brain of individuals with AD appears to occur early in the disease process and may represent a loss of brain plasticity. Decline in synaptic plasticity does not appear to be an inevitable consequence of the aging process but may be disease related. This chapter reviews and summarizes some of the morphological evidence for Alzheimer-related synaptic loss in the neocortex and hippocampus.
Can Moral Authorities Be Hypocrites

Empirical research suggests that professional ethicists do not exhibit morally better behaviour than other academic professionals (Schwitzgebel and Rust (2010, 2014)). These findings are problematic if professional ethicists are to be considered moral authorities, i.e. those who are mandated—by their (moral) expertise—to give advice on moral matters, and to whose views on such matters we ought to give significant weight. In this chapter, I propose that being a moral authority requires not only knowing the relevant moral facts, but also applying these facts in practice (i.e. acting morally). More specifically, I argue that moral authorities are not hypocrites. That is, if one is a moral authority, one rarely (or never) acts hypocritically—against one’s own good advice to others—but instead, generally, follows one’s own (good) moral advice. As such, those that regularly fail to display morally good behaviour (which they recognize as morally good and prescribe to others) are not moral authorities. This argument rests on two core claims which I defend throughout the chapter. First, if one is a moral authority, then one is a trustworthy source of reliable moral advice. Second, if one is a trustworthy source of reliable moral advice, then one is not a hypocrite. The arguments for the latter rest on considerations about systematicity of moral motivation and the non-trustworthiness of hypocrites.
Rethinking Data Sharing at the Dawn of a Health Data Economy: A Viewpoint

A health data economy has begun to form, but its rise has been tempered by the profound lack of sharing of both data and data products such as models, intermediate results, and annotated training corpora, and this severely limits the potential for triggering economic cluster effects. Economic cluster effects represent a means to elicit benefit from economies of scale from internal data innovations and are beneficial because they may mitigate challenges from external sources. Within institutions, data product sharing is needed to spark data entrepreneurship and data innovation, and cross-institutional sharing is also critical, especially for rare conditions.
China’s education, curriculum knowledge and cultural inscriptions: Dancing with the wind,

A book whose form is loyal to its content, China’s Education, Curriculum Knowledge and Cultural Inscriptions overturns so many received categories in and beyond educational studies, taking on compa...
Developing Sustainable Suppliers: Roles of Codes of Conduct & Sustainable Human Resource Development

Although significant research has been initiated and completed on sustainable and green supply chain management, the investigation of the roles of two important sustainable supply chain management ...
Vibrations of Dynamical Systems

Engineers must often analyze and design systems that vibrate. In many cases the vibrations are of very small amplitude so that the equations governing them are linear. This allows one to use a variety of analytical tools to solve for the motion and forces. This chapter examines vibrating systems with multiple degrees of freedom where matrix methods can be used to great advantage. The vibration of single degree of freedom systems is covered in Appendix D.
Race-Related Differences in Self-Reported and Validated Turnout in 1986

Black Americans are less likely to participate in politics than white Americans are, but many students of political participation have argued that these differences result solely from racial differences in socioeconomic status. We have questioned these conclusions by analyzing the 1964, 1976, 1978, 1980, and 1984 vote validation studies in which local registration and voting records were used to measure electoral participation. When participation was measured by the vote validation studies, racial differences were reduced after controls were introduced, but whites were still more likely to vote than blacks. The 1986 Survey Research Center-Center for Political Studies (SRC-CPS) vote validation study is used to update our findings. The results are consistent with our previous analyses. The 1986 study does not confirm the finding of U.S. Census Bureau survey that young blacks were more likely to vote than young whites. However, our analyses do support the basic finding of the bureau that racial differences i...
Consumers' perceptions of the safety of fresh produce sold at farmers' markets.

Abstract The number of the farmers' markets has been increasing rapidly due to the growing demand for fresh and local foods. However, the number of foodborne illnesses linked to fresh produce has increased in the last decade. The main purpose of this research was to investigate consumers' awareness of safety of locally grown fresh produce sold at farmers' markets in Kentucky. Consumers' practices that were employed to ensure food safety at farmers' markets and their households were also evaluated. Surveys were administered to farmers' market consumers at 8 farmers' markets between April and October of 2017. Data from 239 completed surveys were analyzed. The results revealed that 97% of respondents stated that product freshness and product taste were very important or extremely important reasons for shopping at the local farmers' markets. Almost 65% of the participants reported they were concerned about the safety of perishable farmers' market purchases. The farmers (43.3%) and consumers (42.9%) were perceived to be the most responsible party to food safety at farmers' markets. A better understanding of consumers’ perceptions allows stakeholders, including growers and vendors, to make better informed decisions regarding their food safety policies and practices.
Pronounced Dilatation of Cowper’s Gland Duct Manifest as a Perineal Mass: A Recommendation for Management

AbstractIt is generally accepted that large dilatations of Cowper’s gland duct presenting as a perineal mass should be managed by perineal excision. Experience with such a case suggests that if the lesion also is visualized endoscopically, transurethral unroofing should be the initial choice of management.
Micro-modular myDAQ Labs

Many actual developments in mobile learning deal with “Remote Laboratories”. The development of different electronics kits and the decrease in their price lead directly and easily to the idea of “student home labs” and empowered the idea of “learning by doing”. Following discussions with many students we reached the idea of developing myDAQ Micro-Modular units able to be implemented in university laboratories or even by students in their homes. We started to develop and implement some easy to build and low price Micro-Modular devices for myDAQ (and/or myRIO) controlled by simple LabVIEW applications. These devices will be tested and developed during the next semester at the 2nd year bachelor students within the Electronics Measurement Laboratories.
Management of early PEG tube dislodgement: simultaneous endoscopic closure of gastric wall defect and PEG replacement.

A 53-year-old man with dysphagia underwent uneventful placement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube for long-term enteral feeding access. 11 hours after the procedure, it was discovered that he had accidentally dislodged the feeding tube. On physical examination, he was found to have a benign abdomen without evidence of peritonitis or sepsis. He was observed overnight with serial abdominal examinations and nasogastric decompression. In the morning, he was taken back to the endoscopy suite where endoscopic clips were employed to close the gastric wall defect and a PEG tube was replaced at an adjacent site. The patient was fed 24 hours thereafter and discharged from the hospital 48 hours after the procedure. Early accidental removal of a PEG tube in patients without sepsis or peritonitis can be safely treated with simultaneous endoscopic closure of the gastrotomy and PEG tube replacement, resulting in earlier enteral feeding and shorter hospital stay.
Identification of Gain and Loss of Function Missense Variants in MRGPRX2's Transmembrane and Intracellular Domains for Mast Cell Activation by Substance P.

The neuropeptide substance P (SP) contributes to neurogenic inflammation through the activation of human mast cells via Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor-X2 (MRGPRX2). Using pertussis toxins and YM-254890, we demonstrated that SP induces Ca2+ mobilization and degranulation via both the Gαi and Gαq family of G proteins in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells stably expressing MRGPRX2. To determine the roles of MRGPRX2’s transmembrane (TM) and intracellular domains on SP-induced responses, we utilized information obtained from both structural modeling and naturally occurring MRGPRX2 missense variants. We found that highly conserved residues in TM6 (I225) and TM7 (Y279) of MRGPRX2 are essential for SP-induced Ca2+ mobilization and degranulation in transiently transfected RBL-2H3 cells. Cells expressing missense variants in the receptor’s conserved residues (V123F and V282M) as well as intracellular loops (R138C and R141C) failed to respond to SP. By contrast, replacement of all five Ser/Thr residues with Ala and missense variants (S325L and L329Q) in MRGPRX2’s carboxyl-terminus resulted in enhanced mast cell activation by SP when compared to the wild-type receptor. These findings suggest that MRGPRX2 utilizes conserved residues in its TM domains and intracellular loops for coupling to G proteins and likely undergoes desensitization via phosphorylation at Ser/Thr residues in its carboxyl-terminus. Furthermore, identification of gain and loss of function MRGPRX2 variants has important clinical implications for SP-mediated neurogenic inflammation and other chronic inflammatory diseases.
Modulation of Robot Orientation Via Leg-Obstacle Contact Positions

We study a quadrupedal robot traversing a structured (i.e., periodically spaced) obstacle field driven by an open-loop quasi-static trotting walk. Despite complex, repeated collisions and slippage between robot legs and obstacles, the robot's horizontal plane body orientation (yaw) trajectory can converge in the absence of any body level feedback to stable steady state patterns. We classify these patterns into a series of “types” ranging from stable locked equilibria, to stable periodic oscillations, to unstable or mixed period oscillations. We observe that the stable equilibria can bifurcate to stable periodic oscillations and then to mixed period oscillations as the obstacle spacing is gradually increased. Using a 3D-reconstruction method, we experimentally characterize the robot leg-obstacle contact configurations at each step to show that the different steady patterns in robot orientation trajectories result from a self-stabilizing periodic pattern of leg-obstacle contact positions. We present a highly-simplified coupled oscillator model that predicts robot orientation pattern as a function of the leg-obstacle contact mechanism. We demonstrate that the model successfully captures the robot steady state for different obstacle spacing and robot initial conditions. We suggest in simulation that using the simplified coupled oscillator model we can create novel control strategies that allow multi-legged robots to exploit obstacle disturbances to negotiate randomly cluttered environments.
Leonardo García Pabón. The Sentimental Short Story in Bolivia (19th Century)

Esta es una resena de Leonardo Garcia Pabon . El cuento sentimental romantico en Bolivia (siglo XIX) . La Paz: Plural Editores, 2017. Pp. 457.
Based on the entropy weight method of Urumqi municipal CDC in 2008-2017 comprehensive evaluation on the scientific research capability

Objective Through the analysis of the data such as the publication of the paper and the scientific research project of urumqi disease prevention and control center from 2008 to 2017, the research ability level of the center is comprehensively evaluated. Methods In this paper, the entropy weight method is used to process and analyze the data. According to the results of information entropy and weight, the comprehensive scores of each index project are obtained and sorted. Results The information entropy of the paper is the smallest, the weight is the largest, the information entropy of the scientific progress award and the result identification is the largest, and the weight is the smallest. The top four years in the comprehensive score are: 2016, 2017, 2014 and 2015; The ranking year is 2012, 2010, 2013 and 2011 respectively. The last two years are 2008 and 2009. Conclusions Urumqi center for disease control and prevention, 2008-2017, scientific research and comprehensive ability level, although each year a little ups and downs, but overall present a curve upward trend, have a qualitative leap in the area of scientific research, achieved the zero breakthrough, and formed a "scientific promoting business, business support scientific research " as the new situation. Key words: Entropy weight method; CDC; Scientific research capability
High‐content, label‐free analysis of proplatelet production from megakaryocytes

The mechanisms that regulate platelet biogenesis remain unclear; factors that trigger megakaryocytes (MKs) to initiate platelet production are poorly understood. Platelet formation begins with proplatelets which are cellular extensions that originate from the MK cell body. Proplatelet formation is a highly dynamic and asynchronous process which poses unique challenges for researchers to accurately capture and analyze. We have designed an open-source, high-content, high-throughput, label-free analysis platform. Phase-contrast images of live, primary MKs are captured over a 24-hour period. Pixel-based machine-learning classification done by ilastik generates probability maps of key cellular features (circular MKs and branching proplatelets), which are then processed by a customized CellProfiler pipeline to identify and filter structures of interest based on morphologic parameters. CellProfiler Analyst, provides a final, supervised, machine learning classification to bolster accurate identification of cellular structures. This entire workflow yields the percent of proplatelet production, area, and count of proplatelets and MKs, as well as other statistics including skeletonization information for measuring proplatelet branching and length. We propose using a combination of these analyzed metrics, in particular the area measurements of MKs and proplatelets, when assessing in-vitro proplatelet production. Accuracy was validated against manually counted images and an existing algorithm. We then used the new platform to test compounds known to cause thrombocytopenia, including bromodomain inhibitors, and uncovered previously unrecognized effects of drugs on proplatelet formation, thus demonstrating the utility of our analysis platform. This advance in creating unbiased data analysis will increase the scale and scope of proplatelet production studies and potentially serve as a valuable resource for investigating molecular mechanisms of thrombocytopenia.
Sequencing of Sclerosing Microcystic Adenocarcinoma Identifies Mutational Burden and Somatic Variants Associated With Tumorigenesis

Background/aim Sclerosing microcystic adenocarcinoma (SMA) is a rare oral cavity neoplasia, histologically resembling microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) of the skin. Only nine SMA cases have been reported in the literature, frequently in the context of immunosuppression; SMA has not been recognized in the most recent WHO tumor classification. We sought to identify potential molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis in a case of SMA relative to those known for MAC. Case report A 41-year-old female with psoriatic arthritis undergoing immunosuppression therapy presented with a tongue mass. Biopsy revealed a diagnosis of SMA. Partial glossectomy and neck dissection showed no residual tumor or nodal disease. Results whole exome sequencing revealed moderate mutational burden and putative loss of function mutations in CDK11B but no overlap with known MAC mutations. Conclusion We characterized the genomic profile of SMA for the first time, identifying both mutational burden and unique somatic variants associated with tumorigenesis.
Biologically mediated abiotic degradation (BMAD) of bisphenol A by manganese-oxidizing bacteria.

Abstract Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical of environmental concern, is recalcitrant under anoxic conditions, but is susceptible to oxidative degradation by manganese(IV)-oxide (MnO2). Microbial Mn(II)-oxidation generates MnO2-bio; however, BPA degradation in cultures of Mn(II)-oxidizing bacteria has not been explored. We assessed MnO2-bio-mediated BPA degradation using three Mn(II)-oxidizing bacteria, Roseobacter sp. AzwK-3b, Erythrobacter sp. SD-21, and Pseudomonas putida GB-1. In cultures of all three strains, enhanced BPA degradation was evident in the presence of Mn(II) compared to replicate incubations without Mn(II), suggesting MnO2-bio mediated BPA degradation. Increased Mn(II) concentrations up to 100 µM resulted in more MnO2-bio formation but the highest BPA degradation rates were observed with 10 µM Mn(II). Compared to abiotic BPA degradation with 10 μM synthetic MnO2, live cultures of strain GB-1 amended with 10 μM Mn(II) consumed 9-fold more BPA at about 5-fold higher rates. Growth of strain AzwK-3b was sensitive to BPA and the organism showed increased tolerance against BPA in the presence of Mn(II), suggesting MnO2-bio alleviated the inhibition by mediating BPA degradation. The findings demonstrate that Mn(II)-oxidizing bacteria contribute to BPA degradation but organism-specific differences exist, and for biologically-mediated-abiotic-degradation (BMAD), Mn-flux, rather than the absolute amount of MnO2-bio, is the key determinant for oxidation activity.
Gastrointestinal manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019.

Purpose of review The ubiquitous expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 receptors and its significance as the origin of viral entry have assisted in comprehending the pathophysiology of extrapulmonary manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In this review, we focus on the clinical significance of gastrointestinal manifestations. Recent findings The global pandemic, a result of the widespread implications of SARS-CoV-2, remains a significant burden to current healthcare systems. Fever, dyspnea, and tussive symptoms have primarily been recognized as the most common presenting signs/symptoms. During the past one year our scope of practice has transcended beyond the management of the respiratory system to incorporate other varying systemic manifestations such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The outcomes reported by recent studies suggest an association between the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms and important clinical factors such as delay in presentation, disease severity, and mortality. Summary We provide a summarization of the most recent in-depth investigations of coronavirus disease 2019 with gastrointestinal manifestations and their conclusions. Although the pathophysiology remains an area of evolving interest, a better understanding of this disease process may allow for early recognition, efficient triage, and improved prognostication for those presenting with gastrointestinal manifestations of SARS-CoV-2.
Caveat Emptor: Pre- and Postmillennialism in the Late Reformation Period

The study of late Reformation eschatology is frequently bogged down in a quagmire of terminology which can be as puzzling to novices as it is to those who plumb its depth. All too often modern assumptions about, and definitions of, the terms “premillennialism” (whose adherents place Christ’s Second Coming at the beginning of the thousand years during which Satan is bound in the “abyss” according to Rev. 20:1–3) and “postmillennialism” (whose adherents place Christ’s reappearance at the end of the millennium) are rigidly superimposed upon the developing historical context in the early modern era. Modern interpreters frequently characterize sixteenth- and seventeenth-century postmillennialists as forward looking thinkers who welcome scientific innovation and engage in literally transforming the fallen world into a terrestrial paradise; on this view, postmillennial progressivists know that they already live in the golden age of “the world’s conversion under an increased potency of grace” prior to Christ’s visible reappearance at the Day of Judgment.1 Postmillennialist activism became the predominant eschatological ideology of the nineteenth century, historians have usually argued, because it appealed to the intellectuals among the apostles of progress who embraced science, democracy, and human perfectibility as God’s ultimate gift to mankind.2 An inverse rationale is generally applied to premillennialism which, so the story goes, appealed to a more conservative contingent whose voluntaristic fundamentalism demanded nothing less than supernatural intervention to offset the chaos of human affairs. The supposed gloom-and-doom of the premillennialists, these modern critics explain, was engendered by their trepidation as they passively awaited their wrathful King of Kings to return at the beginning of the millennium, a prospect which inspired in them, according to the “official” interpretation, little more than abject terror or a dour melancholy.
CHAPTER 22 – Pesticide Disposition: Dermal Absorption

Percutaneous absorption is reported as the possible route of entry in 65-85% of all cases of occupational exposure with pesticides. This chapter focuses on mechanisms and pathways of dermal absorption and experimental models used to assess dermal absorption by in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo methods. The effects of biological variability, pesticide chemistry and formulations, and environmental variables that influence dermal absorption are discussed. The skin is relatively impermeable to aqueous solutions and ions, but it may be permeable in varying degrees to a large number of drugs or xenobiotics. Drug or xenobiotic delivery pathways can hypothetically involve intercellular and intracellular passive diffusion across the epidermis and dermis and/or transappendageal routes via hair follicles and sweat pores. Regional variation in skin permeability in different body sites may be related to skin thickness, number of cell layers, cell size of the epidermis and stratum corneum, and distribution of hair follicles and sweat pores.