cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Paranodal transverse bands are required for maintenance but not initiation of Nav1.6 sodium channel clustering in CNS optic nerve axons

The rapid, efficient, and faithful propagation of action potentials in myelinated nerve fibers depends on the appropriate complement and localization of ion channels. Recent work has suggested that specific voltage-dependent sodium (Nav) channel isoforms are differentially regulated both spatially and temporally in a myelin-dependent manner. Since the principal site of axoglial contact occurs at the paranode, we postulated that disrupted paranodal structure might result in altered nodal Nav channel isoform localization and clustering. We have used UDP-galactose/ceramide galactosyl transferase (CGT)-deficient mice, which form compact myelin and paranodal loops but lack the transverse bands normally found at the interface of the axon and overlying glial cell, to determine if this structure contributes to the signaling machinery responsible for clustering and localization of distinct Nav channel isoforms. We find that as in control animals, most mutant nodes of Ranvier had Nav1.6 in high-density clusters in the peripheral and central nervous systems; the localization of Nav1.2 and the protein levels of Nav1.2 and Nav1.6 were also normal in the CGT-deficient mouse. However, with increasing age, in the mutant mouse we observed a decrease in the total number of nodal Nav1.6 clusters, a decrease in the density of Nav1.6 channels at nodes, and an increase in the average size of the Nav1.6 clusters. Thus, transverse bands are not required for Nav1.6 clustering and localization at nodes or for exclusion of Nav1.2 from myelinated nerve fibers, but are required for the maintenance of nodal Nav1.6 cluster size and density.
Localization of Giα proteins in the centrosomes and at the midbody: implication for their role in cell division

At the plasma membrane, heterotrimeric G proteins act as molecular switches to relay signals from G protein–coupled receptors; however, Gα subunits also have receptor-independent functions at intracellular sites. Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) 14, which enhances the intrinsic GTPase activity of Giα proteins, localizes in centrosomes, which suggests the coexpression of Giα. We show expression of Giα1, Giα2, and Giα3 in the centrosomes and at the midbody. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer analysis confirms a direct interaction between RGS14 and Giα1 in centrosomes. Expression of GTPase-deficient Giα1 results in defective cytokinesis, whereas that of wild-type or GTPase-deficient Giα3 causes prolonged mitosis. Cells treated with pertussis toxin, with reduced expression of Giα1, Giα2, and Giα3 or with decreased expression of RGS14 also exhibit cytokinesis defects. These results suggest that Giα proteins and their regulators at these sites may play essential roles during mammalian cell division.
Palatal Complexity Revisited: An Electropalatographic Analysis of /ɲ/ in Brazilian Portuguese with Comparison to Peninsular Spanish:

Are palatal consonants articulated by multiple tongue gestures (coronal and dorsal) or by a single gesture that brings the tongue into contact with the palate at several places of articulation? The lenition of palatal consonants (resulting in approximants) has been presented as evidence that palatals are simple, not complex: When reduced, they do not lose their coronal gesture and become dorsals; instead, they manifest reduced linguopalatal contact while retaining their anterior place of articulation. The frequently-reported deocclusivization of the Brazilian Portuguese (BP) palatal nasal may support this claim. However, the linguopalatal configuration of this sound has not been studied directly. Electropalatographic evidence from three speakers of BP (compared with data from three speakers of Peninsular Spanish) demonstrates that the palatal nasal is frequently realized as an approximant. There is no evidence of anterior occlusion in BP's post-palatal, lenited nasal. Under conditions of focus/hyperarticulation, there is no evidence of stronger/more anterior occlusion. We argue that the articulatory target of the BP palatal nasal is neither occluded nor anterior.
An outbreak of late-term abortions, premature births, and congenital deformities associated with a Bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 subtype b that induces thrombocytopenia.

Bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 (BVDV-1) subtype b was isolated from premature Holstein calves from a dairy herd that experienced an outbreak of premature births, late-term abortions, brachygnathism, growth retardation, malformations of the brain and cranium, and rare extracranial skeletal malformations in calves born to first-calf heifers. Experimental inoculation of 3 colostrum-deprived calves aged 2-4 months old with this BVDV isolate resulted in thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, and leukopenia. Outbreaks of brachygnathism are rarely associated with BVDV, and thrombocytopenia is rarely associated with BVDV-1 strains.
A tunable metamaterial-based passive limiter for protection from HPM and UWB sources

The development of a high power in-line limiter utilizing varactor-loaded metamaterial structures is presented. A metamaterial structure is an artificial structure engineered to provide electromagnetic properties not available in nature, more explicitly defined as a material having simultaneously negative permittivity and negative permeability. A singly-negative material (SNG) structure, the split-ring resonator (SRR), is a negative permeability material which acts as a notch filter with resonant frequency f 0 . The resonant frequency of the SRR filter yields itself to tuning since the capacitance between the SRR and transmission lines is easily changeable through the use of varactors. At nominal power levels, f 0 is significantly offset from the receiving frequency such that the receiving frequency is unattenuated. When an in-band high power microwave (HPM) is incident upon the filter, a DC bias is applied to several varactors and shifts the resonant frequency of the filter to that of the receiving frequency due to the change in capacitance of the varactors. This effectively attenuates the incident HPM. The filter uses a microwave rectifying circuit to extract a DC voltage from the in-band HPM, which serves as the DC bias voltage across the varactors. Ansoft's HFSS was used to accurately model and design the SRR structure to minimize the E-field and maximize resonant effects. Both high and low power continuous wave testing verified minimal insertion loss as well as verification that the use of varactors in conjunction with a split ring would effectively shift the resonant frequency of the notch filter.
Work in progress — Do students know what they know?: Comparing self-assessments to exam performance

We report on the preliminary results from an on-going study of students' ability to gauge how well they are prepared for a particular exam by asking them to rate their preparedness in conjunction with the exam. The study is being conducted in two kinds of courses, an engineering ethics course with essay questions, and a Statics course with traditional problem solving. In the former case, students are asked to rate their confidence with what they wrote in response to the exam questions, and the latter case students are asked to rate their general preparedness before reading the questions. This study is motivated by the use of similar kinds of feedback from students for ABET accreditation where they are asked to rate how well they have mastered the ABET program outcomes in their respective programs. While ABET has gradually advised programs to de-emphasize such sources of evidence, the practice continues, and we felt that a study related to the validity of such student feedback would be useful to the accreditation process. Preliminary results indicate that students have a limited ability to predict how well they are prepared for or have performed on exams.
Using photovoice with sex workers: The power of art, agency and resistance:

Situated within an arts-based research framework, photovoice method was utilized with women working in diverse aspects of the sex industry. The purpose of this project was to understand sex workers...
Anti-apogens and anti-engulfens: monoclonal antibodies reveal specific antigens on apoptotic and engulfment cells during chicken embryonic development

We have isolated a group of monoclonal antibodies that specifically recognize either apoptotic or engulfment cells in the interdigit areas of chicken hind limb foot plates, and throughout the embryo. Ten of these antibodies (anti-apogens) detect epitopes on dying cells that colocalize to areas of programmed cell death, characterized by the presence of apoptotic cells and bodies with typical cellular and nuclear morphology. Our results indicate that cells destined to die, or that are in the process of dying, express specific antigens that are not detectable in or on the surface of living cells. The detection of these apoptotic cell antigens in other areas of programmed cell death throughout the chick embryo indicates that different cell types, which form specific tissues and organs, may utilize similar cell death mechanisms. Six of the monoclonal antibodies (antiengulfens) define a class of engulfment cells which contain various numbers of apoptotic cells and/or apoptotic bodies in areas of programmed cell death. The immunostaining pattern of the anti-engulfen R15F is similar to that of an antibody against a common leukocyte antigen, suggesting the participation of cells from the immune system in the removal of apoptotic cell debris. These novel monoclonal antibody markers for apoptotic and engulfment cells will provide new tools to assist the further understanding of developmental programmed cell death in vertebrates.
Nanoscale Phenomena in Ferroelectric Thin Films

This paper reviews recent progress in our group in the area of thin film ferroelectrics. Specific focus is on nanoscale phenomena and relaxation dyanmics in model thin films using voltage modulated scanning force microscopy. Using this technique we show the 3 dimensional reconstruction of the polarization vector in lead zirconate titanate(PZT) thin films. Secondly the time dependent relaxation of remanant polarization in epitaxial PZT ferroelectric thin films, containing a uniform 2-dimensional grid of 90° domains ( c -axis in the plane of the film), has been investigated extensively. The 90° domain walls preferentially nucleate the 180° reverse domains during relaxation. Relaxation occurs through the nucleation and growth of reverse 180° domains, which subsequently coalesce and consume the entire region as a function of relaxation time. The kinetics of relaxation is modeled through the Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov approach with a decreasing driving force. In addition we also present results on investig...
Bilateral Control and Interhemispheric Coordination in the Avian Song Motor System

Birdsong is a complex learned motor behavior controlled by an interconnected network of vocal control nuclei that are present in both cerebral hemispheres. Unilateral lesions of song nuclei in the left or the right hemisphere result in different effects on song structure, suggesting that normal song output results from the activation of two parallel but functionally different motor pathways. Because each syringeal half is innervated primarily by ipsilateral motor structures and activity in both halves is tightly coordinated during singing, motor commands originating from both hemispheres must be tightly coordinated to produce the appropriate vocal output. This coordination occurs despite the absence of direct interhemispheric connections between song control nuclei. In this article, we discuss how motor commands in nucleus HVC, a key forebrain song control region, are coordinated by precisely timed inputs that act to synchronize premotor activity in both hemispheres. Synchronizing inputs are tightly linked to syllable and note onset, which suggests that bilaterally organized circuits in the midbrain or brainstem act in specifying higher-order song features, such as duration, order, and possibly even structure of individual song syllables. The challenge ahead lies in identifying the networks that generate the synchronizing timing inputs and to determine how these inputs specify the motor commands in HVC. Resolving these issues will help us gain a better understanding of how pattern-generating networks in the midbrain/brainstem interface with forebrain circuits to produce complex learned behaviors.
Management of long-standing partially torn and flipped laser in situ keratomileusis flaps

We describe 2 cases of traumatized and torn laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flaps, partially flipped anteriorly or posteriorly, fixed for 8 months or 4 months, and accompanied by epithelial ingrowth. The 2 patients had had uneventful bilateral LASIK 6 years and 1 year before the trauma. In Case 1, the anteriorly flipped flap was removed with transepithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy. Next, mitomycin-C 0.04% was applied for 30 seconds. In Case 2, the portion of the flap that was flipped posteriorly and buried under the remaining intact LASIK flap was restored to its original normal position and epithelial ingrowth was removed mechanically with a microcurette. Irrigation with 20% ethanol was performed to inhibit the recurrence of interfacial epithelial ingrowth. The stretched amniotic membrane overlay over the cornea and sclera was sutured tightly to the episclera as the biologic pressure patch for the inhibition of epithelial re-ingrowth. Good visual acuity was restored in both cases. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Safety and Efficacy of Nicotine Replacement Therapy in the Perioperative Period: A Narrative Review

Patients who smoke cigarettes are at increased risk for development of complications both during and after surgical procedures, including respiratory, cardiac, and healing-related complications. Abstinence from smoking can considerably reduce these risks. Pharmacotherapy, including nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), is an important component of efficacious tobacco use interventions. However, the use of NRT in the perioperative period is controversial. In this narrative review, we discuss the current evidence for the efficacy and safety of NRT in patients scheduled for surgical procedures, with emphasis on evidence from human studies. We performed a literature search for articles published from January 1, 1990, through May 1, 2015, in the PubMed online database using various permutations of the Medical Subject Headings terms surgery; surgical procedures, operative; nicotine; and smoking cessation. Studies were selected for inclusion according to their relevance to the preclinical and clinical evidence pertaining to how NRT affects surgical outcome and long-term rates of abstinence from tobacco. There is strong evidence that NRT enhances the efficacy of tobacco use interventions. Some preclinical studies suggest that nicotine in high doses that exceed those produced by NRT decreases the viability of skin flaps. Although the available data are limited, there is no evidence from human studies that NRT increases the risk of healing-related or cardiovascular complications. Individual clinical trials of tobacco use interventions that include NRT have revealed either no effect or a reduction in complication rates. Therefore, given the benefits of smoking abstinence to both perioperative outcomes and long-term health and the efficacy of NRT in achieving and maintaining abstinence, any policies that prohibit the use of NRT in surgical patients should be reexamined.
A Scheme for Continuous Data Assimilation

Abstract Major revisions to the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory's (GFDL) continuous data-assimilation system have been implemented and tested. Shortcomings noted during the original processing of data from FGGE [First GARP (Global Atmospheric Research Program) Global Experiment) served as the basis for thew improvements. This new system has been used to reanalyze the two FGGE special observing periods. The main focus here will be on assessing the changes to the assimilation system using comparisons of rerun test results with results from the original FGGE processing. The key new features in the current system include: a reduction in the assimilation cycle from 12 to 6 h; the use of a 6-h forecast first guess for the OI (optimum-interpolation analysis) as opposed to the previous use of persistence as a first guess; an extension of the OI search range from 250 to 500 km with an increase in the maximum number of observations used per analysis point from 8 to 12; the introduction of incremental linear n...
Spatially Explicit Rangeland Erosion Monitoring Using High-Resolution Digital Aerial Imagery

Abstract Nearly all of the ecosystem services supported by rangelands, including production of livestock forage, carbon sequestration, and provisioning of clean water, are negatively impacted by soil erosion. Accordingly, monitoring the severity, spatial extent, and rate of soil erosion is essential for long-term sustainable management. Traditional field-based methods of monitoring erosion (sediment traps, erosion pins, and bridges) can be labor intensive and therefore are generally limited in spatial intensity and/or extent. There is a growing effort to monitor natural resources at broad scales, which is driving the need for new soil erosion monitoring tools. One remote-sensing technique that can be used to monitor soil movement is a time series of digital elevation models (DEMs) created using aerial photogrammetry methods. By geographically coregistering the DEMs and subtracting one surface from the other, an estimate of soil elevation change can be created. Such analysis enables spatially explicit quantification and visualization of net soil movement including erosion, deposition, and redistribution. We constructed DEMs (12-cm ground sampling distance) on the basis of aerial photography immediately before and 1 year after a vegetation removal treatment on a 31-ha Pinon-Juniper woodland in southeastern Utah to evaluate the use of aerial photography in detecting soil surface change. On average, we were able to detect surface elevation change of ± 8−9cm and greater, which was sufficient for the large amount of soil movement exhibited on the study area. Detecting more subtle soil erosion could be achieved using the same technique with higher-resolution imagery from lower-flying aircraft such as unmanned aerial vehicles. DEM differencing and process-focused field methods provided complementary information and a more complete assessment of soil loss and movement than any single technique alone. Photogrammetric DEM differencing could be used as a technique to quantitatively monitor surface change over time relative to management activities.
The discovery of HTLV-1, the first pathogenic human retrovirus

After the discovery of retroviral reverse transcriptase in 1970, there was a flurry of activity, sparked by the “War on Cancer,” to identify human cancer retroviruses. After many false claims resulting from various artifacts, most scientists abandoned the search, but the Gallo laboratory carried on, developing both specific assays and new cell culture methods that enabled them to report, in the accompanying 1980 PNAS paper, identification and partial characterization of human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV; now known as HTLV-1) produced by a T-cell line from a lymphoma patient. Follow-up studies, including collaboration with the group that first identified a cluster of adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) cases in Japan, provided conclusive evidence that HTLV was the cause of this disease. HTLV-1 is now known to infect at least 4–10 million people worldwide, about 5% of whom will develop ATL. Despite intensive research, knowledge of the viral etiology has not led to improvement in treatment or outcome of ATL. However, the technology for discovery of HTLV and acknowledgment of the existence of pathogenic human retroviruses laid the technical and intellectual foundation for the discovery of the cause of AIDS soon afterward. Without this advance, our ability to diagnose and treat HIV infection most likely would have been long delayed.
Vortex Interference Effects From A Segmented Spatial Light Modulator And A Supercontinuum Source

We generate optical vortices from the supercontinuum output of an ultrafast laser interacting with a micro-structured fiber. Using a spatial light modulator, single and multiple vortices are generated, controlled and made to interfere.
109. Marital status is related to Epstein-Barr virus latency in individuals undergoing cancer diagnostic procedures

Married individuals reap many health benefits, including higher 5-year relative survival rates from cancer than unmarried individuals. We investigated whether cellular immune function differed by marital status (married vs. single vs. divorced, separated, or widowed) during the stress of cancer diagnosis. Immune dysfunction was indexed by reactivation of latent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and was measured using EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA) IgG antibody titers. In 393 men and women awaiting or shortly following diagnosis for breast or colorectal cancer, EBV antibody titers differed significantly by marital status, p
"Sustaining optimal motivation: A longitudinal analysis of interventions to broaden participation of underrepresented students in STEM": Correction to Hernandez et al. (2013)

Reports an error in "Sustaining optimal motivation: A longitudinal analysis of interventions to broaden participation of underrepresented students in STEM" by Paul R. Hernandez, P. Wesley Schultz, Mica Estrada, Anna Woodcock and Randie C. Chance (Journal of Educational Psychology, 2013[Feb], Vol 105[1], 89-107). In the article “Sustaining optimal motivation: A longitudinal analysis of interventions to broaden participation of underrepresented students in STEM” by Paul R. Hernandez, P. Wesley Schultz, Mica Estrada, Anna Woodcock, and Randie C. Chance (Journal of Educational Psychology, Vol. 105, No. 1, pp. 89–107 doi: 10.1037/a0029691), there was an error in the Appendix. The items listed below should have appeared without an asterisk. TGO-6. An important reason I do my school work is because I enjoy it. PAp-2. It’s important to me that the other students in my classes think that I am good at my work. PAp-3. I want to do better than other students in my classes. PAv-1. It’s very important to me that I don’t look stupid in my classes. PAv-5. One reason I would not participate in class is to avoid looking stupid. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2012-21984-001.) The underrepresentation of racial minorities and women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines is a national concern. Goal theory provides a useful framework from which to understand issues of underrepresentation. We followed a large sample of high-achieving African American and Latino undergraduates in STEM disciplines attending 38 institutions of higher education in the United States over 3 academic years. We report on the science-related environmental factors and person factors that influence the longitudinal regulation of goal orientations. Further, we examine how goal orientations in turn influence distal academic outcomes such as performance and persistence in STEM. Using SEM-based parallel process latent growth curve modeling, we found that (a) engagement in undergraduate research was the only factor that buffered underrepresented students against an increase in performance-avoidance goals over time; (b) growth in scientific self-identity exhibited a strong positive effect on growth in task and performance-approach goals over time; (c) only task goals positively influenced students' cumulative grade point average, over and above baseline grade point average; and (d) performance-avoidance goals predicted student attrition from the STEM pipeline. We discuss the implications of these findings for underrepresented students in STEM disciplines.
Repurposing video recordings for structure motion estimations

Video monitoring of public spaces is becoming increasingly ubiquitous, particularly near essential structures and facilities. During any hazard event that dynamically excites a structure, such as an earthquake or hurricane, proximal video cameras may inadvertently capture the motion time-history of the structure during the event. If this dynamic time-history could be extracted from the repurposed video recording it would become a valuable forensic analysis tool for engineers performing post-disaster structural evaluations. The diﬃculty is that almost all potential video cameras are not installed to monitor structure motions, leading to camera perspective distortions and other associated challenges. This paper presents a method for extracting structure motions from videos using a combination of computer vision techniques. Images from a video recording are ﬁrst reprojected into synthetic images that eliminate perspective distortion, using as-built knowledge of a structure for calibration. The motion of the camera itself during an event is also considered. Optical ﬂow, a technique for tracking per-pixel motion, is then applied to these synthetic images to estimate the building motion. The developed method was validated using the experimental records of the NEESHub earthquake database. The results indicate that the technique is capable of estimating structural motions, particularly the frequency content of the response. Further work will evaluate variants and alternatives to the optical ﬂow algorithm, as well as study the impact of video encoding artifacts on motion estimates.
Advances in the Research of Nanoparticle Vaccines

Nanoparticles are defined as any particulate materials with size 100-1 000nanometres. The use of nanoparticles in vaccine formulations not only improves antigen stability and immunogenicity,but also allows targeted delivery and slow release,inducing the production of immune responses.In this review,we provide an overview of recent advances in the broad area of nanovaccinology.Types of nanoparticles used are outlined and their interaction with immune cells and the biosystem are discussed.
Analyzing the Effect of Aging on CD8+ T-Cell Phenotype Using Flow Cytometry.

One of the most noticeable changes in T-cell immunity with aging is the expansion of memory CD8+ T cells, with a decline in naive phenotype T cells that reflects both diminished thymopoiesis and the effects of chronic antigenic stimulation with age. Flow cytometry is a useful tool in evaluating immune cells including the phenotype characteristics of different T-cell subsets. Here, we show flow cytometric methods measuring the different subsets of human CD8+ T cells that change with aging.
Use of Contraindicated Antiplatelet Medications in the Setting of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background— Several antiplatelet medications used during and after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are contraindicated for specific patient groups. A broad assessment of contraindicated medication use and associated clinical outcomes is not well described. Methods and Results— Using national Veterans Affairs (VA) Clinical Assessment, Reporting, and Tracking (CART) Program data for all PCI between 2007 and 2013, we evaluated patients with contraindications to commonly used antiplatelet medications during and after PCI, defined in accordance with package inserts. Adjusted association between contraindicated medication use and outcomes of periprocedural bleeding and 30-day mortality were assessed using Cox proportional hazards with inverse probability weighting. Among 64 294 patients undergoing PCI, 11 315(17.6%) had a contraindication to a common antiplatelet medication and 737 (6.5%) of these patients received a contraindicated medication. In unadjusted analyses, any contraindicated medication use was associated with both increased bleeding and 30-day mortality. In adjusted models, contraindicated abciximab use in patients with thrombocytopenia (hazard ratio, 2.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.58–3.16) and in patients with a previous stroke (hazard ratio, 1.93; 95% confidence interval, 1.37–2.71) remained significantly associated with increased bleeding. Contraindicated abciximab use was not significantly associated with 30-day mortality in adjusted models. Use of eptifibatide in dialysis patients was not significantly associated with an increased risk of bleeding or mortality. Conclusions— In this national cohort, ≈18% of patients undergoing PCI had contraindications to common antiplatelet medications. Approximately 6% of those patients received a contraindicated medication with attendant bleeding risk, although this did not translate into significantly higher risk of 30-day mortality. Continued efforts to reduce contraindicated medication use may help avoid periprocedural complications.
Review: invasive management after unstable angina or non-ST-segment elevation MI does not reduce risk for death or MI.

Source Citation Choudhry NK, Singh JM, Barolet A, Tomlinson GA, Detsky AS. How should patients with unstable angina and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction be managed? A meta-analysis of...
Ανισότητες του κεϕαλαίου. Επίκαιρες θεωρήσεις της δυναμικής των ανισοτήτων στην πολιτική οικονομία του σύγχρονου καπιταλισμού

Σ κοπός του άρθρου eίναι να καταδeίξeι τη σημασία και τα όρια των πρόσϕατων θeματοποιήσeων της σύνδeσης των ανισοτήτων μe τη δυναμική του κeϕαλαίου eντός της συγκυρίας της τρέχουσας οικονομικής κρίσης των αναπτυγμένων καπιταλιστικών οικονομιών. Το κeίμeνο λαμβάνeι eπομένως ως βάση του τη διάσπαρτη στη σύγχρονη βιβλιογραϕία των κοινωνικών eπιστημών διαπίστωση ότι η eπίταση των κοινωνικών ανισοτήτων συμβαδίζeι και τροϕοδοτeίται από τους πρόσϕατους ασθeνeίς ρυθμούς μeγέθυνσης του προϊόντος. Eντός αυτού του πλαισίου θα αναϕeρθούμe και θα αναλύσουμe την eπιχeιρηματολογία τριών πρόσϕατων σημαντικών προσπαθeιών στις κοινωνικές eπιστήμeς για τη θeματοποίηση του ρόλου των ανισοτήτων στον σύγχρονο καπιταλισμό. πρόκeιται για τα βιβλία των J. Stiglitz , The Price of Inequality ( 2012 ), W. Streeck , Gekaufte Zeit: Die Vertage Krise des demokratischen Kapitalismus ( 2013 ) και T. Piketty , Le Capital au xxI e Siecle ( 2013 ). Σκοπός μας όμως δeν eίναι απλώς να υιοθeτήσουμe την ισχυρή κριτική που τα παραπάνω eπιχeιρήματα προβάλλουν eνάντια στην eπίταση των κοινωνικών ανισοτήτων, αλλά να καταδeίξουμe τα βασικά θeωρητικά τους όρια ως προς την αντίληψή τους για την έννοια του κeϕαλαίου.
Microtubule–microtubule sliding by kinesin-1 is essential for normal cytoplasmic streaming in Drosophila oocytes

Cytoplasmic streaming in Drosophila oocytes is a microtubule-based bulk cytoplasmic movement. Streaming efficiently circulates and localizes mRNAs and proteins deposited by the nurse cells across the oocyte. This movement is driven by kinesin-1, a major microtubule motor. Recently, we have shown that kinesin-1 heavy chain (KHC) can transport one microtubule on another microtubule, thus driving microtubule-microtubule sliding in multiple cell types. To study the role of microtubule sliding in oocyte cytoplasmic streaming, we used a Khc mutant that is deficient in microtubule sliding but able to transport a majority of cargoes. We demonstrated that streaming is reduced by genomic replacement of wild-type Khc with this sliding-deficient mutant. Streaming can be fully rescued by wild-type KHC and partially rescued by a chimeric motor that cannot move organelles but is active in microtubule sliding. Consistent with these data, we identified two populations of microtubules in fast-streaming oocytes: a network of stable microtubules anchored to the actin cortex and free cytoplasmic microtubules that moved in the ooplasm. We further demonstrated that the reduced streaming in sliding-deficient oocytes resulted in posterior determination defects. Together, we propose that kinesin-1 slides free cytoplasmic microtubules against cortically immobilized microtubules, generating forces that contribute to cytoplasmic streaming and are essential for the refinement of posterior determinants.
Scavenging as Queer Methodology

Queer Theory (QT) and Queer Legal Theory (QLT) provide useful frameworks for Critical Policy Analysis within educational studies. As critical lenses, these theories are particularly attuned to uncovering sites where all forms of oppression, but especially homophobia and heteronormativity, lead to the stigmatization and erasure of queer identities and queer issues in schools and school policy. One of the challenges faced by scholars using QT and QLT has been accessing, or even finding, data for such qualitative and historical research. Consequently, queer scholars have developed creative strategies to scavenge for data and have created hybrid analytic frameworks in similarly creative ways. This chapter discusses scavenging as a queer research methodology, with an emphasis on combining QT and QLT for Critical Policy Analysis in education.
A Systematic Review of Extramural Presentations and Publications from Pharmacy Student Research Programs

The author retains the right to distribute the published manuscript provided that all such use is for personal noncommercial benefit.
Millennials’ ethical ideology effects on responses to alcohol advertisements: The role of strength of ethnic identification and ethical appraisal of the ad

AbstractIn an extension of generational theory, the present research argues that ethical ideology (i.e. idealism vs. relativism) impacts attitude toward the ad (Aad), attitude toward the brand (Abr...
Natural Rule Interactions

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the natural rule interactions. Concepts such as marked and unmarked were not applied to the interaction of rules until the focus of phonological investigation turned from the inventory of sound units in a language to the rules that govern the combination of these sound units to form morphemes and words. Those relate these underlying sound units to their phonetic manifestations. Thus, the investigation of problems of naturalness with respect to rule interaction is in its infancy. The feeding and counterbleeding orders of application serve to maximize the utilization of the rules of the grammar. It does not follow from the observation that feeding and counter-bleeding maximize the utilization of rules that these particular orders of application are more natural than counterfeeding and bleeding. There is no priori connection between maximal utilization of rules and naturalness. The basis for the claim that there is a connection between maximization of rule use and naturalness was not a priori but rather the consequence of Kiparsky's interpretation of certain linguistic changes.
Visible-light fluorescence photomodulation in azo-BF2 switches

Azo-BF2 switches 1 and 2 with their extended phenanthridinyl π-system exhibit red-light fluorescence whose intensity can be photomodulated using visible-light. The para-methoxy group in 2 leads to a bathochromic shift in the emission band, pushing its tail further to the near infrared region. This group also changes the isomerization properties in 2, as it does not display the concentration-dependent isomerization rate change observed in 1, most likely because of a change in mechanism from rotation to inversion, and weaker π−π interaction in the system.
Association between missing tooth count and mortality: A systematic review.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this review was to analyze existing literature on the relationship between tooth count and mortality by evaluating the findings in the context of methodological variations. We aimed at addressing the question of whether preserving natural teeth can impact mortality. Study selection PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL databases were systematically searched using various combinations of related and synonymous keywords for "tooth count" and "mortality". The references of included articles were also evaluated for inclusion. Overall 49 studies found to be eligible were critically evaluated and their key findings were summarized. Results Studies were conducted in various continents and differed substantially in regards to their sample size, population, methodology, the definition of the tooth count variable, the confounders as well as the mediators accounted for in the analysis. Follow-up period ranged from 1 to 56 years. Conclusions Although high variability in the studies precludes a definite conclusion about the relationship between number of teeth and mortality, the overall finding from this review is that reduced tooth count is associated with higher mortality. However the impact of factors such as smoking, health-care access, baseline co-morbidity and risk profile, dental and periodontal health, the presence of dental prosthesis as well as socio-economic status, in mediating whole or part of the association cannot be overlooked and needs further investigation using more standard methodologies. Any differences in males vs. females, as well as among different age groups, will also need further consideration in the future studies.
Performance of Coated Extra-Large Hulled Confectionary Sunflower Kernels for Precision Planting

Extra-large (XL) confectionary sunflower seeds are too large to plant with current precision planters, and a high proportion of seed does not emerge upon planting. Hulling the XL seeds and then coating the kernels has been proposed to improve the viability and plantability of these seeds. Therefore, the objectives were to evaluate the effect of various coating materials and buildup levels, develop lab methods to measure the viability and plantability of coated kernels, and evaluate the impact of seed lubricants on plantability of coated kernels. In this study, eight types of coating materials were applied to sunflower kernels by seed-coating companies, or in house at buildup levels ranging from 8 to 50% resulting in 20 different treatments, and the coated kernels were then evaluated for viability and plantability. The pre-planting germination test results ranged from 72 to 92% among all coated kernel treatments; however, germination was reduced by 6% on average after passage through the planter test stand. The singulation of all the coated kernels improved by up to 24% compared to the XL seed. Singulation of polymer-coated kernels was comparable to large seed. Addition of lubricant to the coated kernels significantly increased the overall singulation and post-planting germination of the coated kernels by 4 and 3%, respectively. Overall, this study showed that coating of kernel—together with the use of a seed lubricant—substantially increased singulation compared to XL seeds, while retaining the kernel viability.
Racial disparities in omission of oncotype DX but no racial disparities in chemotherapy receipt following completed oncotype DX test results

To examine racial/ethnic disparities in Oncotype DX (ODX) testing among patients with node-negative, estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancers and possible racial/ethnic disparities in chemotherapy receipt following ODX testing within Recurrence Score (RS) category (Not Done, Low, Intermediate, High), as well as chemotherapy receipt time trends within RS categories. A retrospective cohort list of 125,288 women who were potentially indicated for ODX testing from 2010 to 2014 was obtained using the National Cancer Database. We fit multivariate logistic regression predicting chemotherapy receipt, adjusting for clinical factors, patient demographic factors, and hospital-level factors, separately by RS category, and calculated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), as well as time trends. Overall, ODX testing was completed for 46.1% of Non-Hispanic (NH) Whites, 43.9% of NH Blacks, and 41.7% of Hispanics. Among patients who did not receive ODX testing, NH Black and Hispanic women both experienced statistically significant increases in chemotherapy receipt relative to NH White women (NH Black OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.11–1.37; Hispanic OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.07–1.42). However, among patients with ODX results, no statistically significant racial/ethnic differences in chemotherapy receipt were observed within strata of RS category. Trend analyses demonstrated increasing adherence to national guidelines for ODX testing. We identified racial disparities in omission of ODX testing but no differences in chemotherapy receipt if ODX test results were obtained, suggesting increasing access to ODX testing may improve racial equality in efficacious use of adjuvant chemotherapy for ER-positive HER2-negative breast cancer.
Facilitation and Dialogue as Methods of Reflective Practice in Professional Education

Students may fear sharing their learning in public because classrooms are not traditional places where we teach skills needed for mutual understanding, such as facilitation and dialogue. This is a ...
Picosecond Quantum Cutting Generates Photoluminescence Quantum Yields Over 100% in Ytterbium-Doped CsPbCl3 Nanocrystals.

Recent advances in the ytterbium doping of CsPbX3 (X = Cl or Cl/Br) nanocrystals have presented exciting new opportunities for their application as downconverters in solar-energy-conversion technologies. Here, we describe a hot-injection synthesis of Yb3+:CsPbCl3 nanocrystals that reproducibly yields sensitized Yb3+ 2F5/2 → 2F7/2 luminescence with near-infrared photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) well over 100% and almost no excitonic luminescence. Near-infrared PLQYs of 170% have been measured. Through a combination of synthesis, variable-temperature photoluminescence spectroscopy, and transient-absorption and time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopies, we show that the formation of shallow Yb3+-induced defects play a critical role in facilitating a picosecond nonradiative energy-transfer process that de-excites the photoexcited nanocrystal and simultaneously excites two Yb3+ dopant ions, i.e., quantum cutting. Energy transfer is very efficient at all temperatures between 5 K and room temperatur...
Monitoring and Apnea Alarm for Infant Primates: Apparatus

A recent survey (Health Devices, 1974) listed the criteria for the acceptance of an apnea monitor for use with human patients. The monitor must detect the cessation of breathing reliably and accurately; it must produce an audible and visible alarm; it must be safe; and it should be sufficiently small to be unobtrusive in a hospital setting. Franks and colleagues (1976) have further suggested that a respiration monitor should be noninvasive, requiring neither surgical intervention nor direct contact with the patient. Obviously, any respiratory monitor must be absolutely safe, producing neither long-term nor short-term damage to the subject.
Structure of the Human IgA Subclasses and Allotypes

Abstract The human IgA subclasses and allotypes are a unique class of Igs characterized by: i ) two subclasses (IgA1 and IgA2) that are defined, respectively, by the α1 and α2 chains, ii ) allotypes A2m(1) and A2m(2) of the α2 chain, iii ) unique repetitive hinge regions of which IgA1 is cleavable by bacterial IgA proteases and IgA2 is not, iv ) a specific carbohydrate distribution pattern, and v ) association of J chain and secretory (SC) component. Amino acid sequence analysis supported later by gene sequence analysis indicated that the A2m(1) α2 gene is a hybrid gene produced by a late evolutionary recombination of the α1 and α2 genes. The IgA1 and IgA2 subclasses and allotypes differ in the presence of 4-5 GalN oligosaccharides in the α1 hinge region and their absence in α2, and also differ in the number of GlcN oligosaccharides. Though highly homologous to other Ig classes of man and various species, IgA differs most in the hinge region. These structural features and the localized biosynthesis of IgA provide a special role for it in the immune response
Selection of immunodominant epitopes during antigen processing is hierarchical.

Abstract MHC II proteins present processed antigens to CD4 + T cells through a complex set of events and players that include chaperons and accessory molecules. Antigen processing machinery is optimized for the selection of the best fitting peptides, called ‘immunodominant epitopes’, in the MHC II groove to which, specific CD4 + T cells respond and differentiate into memory T cells. However, due to the complexity of antigen processing, understanding the parameters that lead to immunodominance has proved difficult. Moreover, immunodominance of epitopes vary, depending on multiple factors that include; simultaneous processing of multiple proteins, involvement of multiple alleles of MHC II that can bind to the same antigen, or competition among several suitable epitopes on a single protein antigen. The current dogma assumes that once an antigenic determinant is selected under a specific condition, it would emerge immunodominant wherever it is placed. Here we will discuss some established parameters that contribute to immunodominance as well as some new findings, which demonstrate that slight changes to antigen structure can cause a complete shift in epitope selection during antigen processing and distort the natural immunodominant epitope.
Factors affecting family firms’ communication behaviour: a cross-cultural study

This study explores heterogeneity in family firms’ communication behaviour across cultures. The authors propose that variations in the background of family firms, including culture, industry, publi...
Changes in GABAergic Transmission to and Intrinsic Excitability of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Neurons during the Estrous Cycle in Mice

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons form the final common central output pathway controlling fertility and are regulated by steroid feedback. In females, estradiol feedback action varies between negative and positive; negative feedback typically regulates episodic GnRH release whereas positive feedback initiates a surge of GnRH, and subsequently luteinizing hormone (LH) release ultimately triggering ovulation. During the estrous cycle, changes between estradiol negative and positive feedback occur with cycle stage and time of day, with positive feedback in the late afternoon of proestrus in nocturnal species. To test the hypotheses that synaptic and intrinsic properties of GnRH neurons are regulated by cycle stage and time of day, we performed whole-cell patch-clamp studies of GnRH neurons in brain slices from mice at two times considered negative feedback (diestrous PM and proestrous AM) and during positive feedback (proestrous PM). GABAergic transmission can excite GnRH neurons and was higher in cells from proestrous PM mice than cells from proestrous AM mice and approached traditional significance levels relative to cells from diestrous PM mice. Action potential response to current injection was also greater in cells from proestrous PM mice than the other two groups. Interestingly, the hormonal milieu of proestrous AM provided stronger negative feedback on both GnRH neuron excitability and GABAergic postsynaptic current (PSC) amplitude than diestrous PM. These observations demonstrate elements of both synaptic and intrinsic properties of GnRH neurons are regulated in a cycle-dependent manner and provide insight into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying cyclic changes in neuroendocrine function among states of estradiol negative and positive feedback.