cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A TNF-induced gene expression program under oscillatory NF-κB control

The cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) initiates tissue inflammation, a process mediated by the NF-κB transcription factor. In response to TNF, latent cytoplasmic NF-κB is activated, enters the nucleus, and induces expression of inflammatory and anti-apoptotic gene expression programs. Recently it has been shown that NF-κB displays two distinct activation modes, monophasic and oscillatory, depending on stimulus duration. Characterization of temporal expression patterns for the NF-κB network and determination of those genes under monophasic- or oscillatory control has not been experimentally addressed. To identify the kinetics of NF-κB-dependent gene expression and determine whether these two types of NF-κB translocation modes control distinct gene programs, a detailed kinetic analysis of a validated microarray data set was performed on 74 unique NF-κB-dependent genes in response to TNF. Hierarchical clustering identified distinct expression profiles termed the "Early", "Middle", "Late" response groups, peaking 1, 3, and 6 h after stimulation, respectively. These expression patterns were validated by Quantitative Real Time PCR (Q-RT-PCR) and NF-κB binding was demonstrated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. Each response group was mapped to its molecular function; this analysis indicated that the Early group encodes cytokines or negative regulators of the IKK-NF-κB pathway, and the Late group encodes cell surface receptors, adhesion molecules and signal adapters. That similar coordinated sequential cascades of gene expression were also seen in response to stimulation by the cytokine IL-1, and expression patterns observed in MRC-5 fibroblasts indicated that the epithelial NF-κB program is relatively stimulus- and cell type-independent. Bioinformatic analysis of the Early and Late gene promoters indicates that although both groups contain similar patterns of NF-κB-binding sites, only the Early gene promoters contain NF-κB-binding sites located in phylogenetically conserved domains. Stimulation protocols designed to produce either monophasic or oscillatory NF-κB activation modes showed that the oscillatory mode is required only for expression of the Late genes. This analysis provides important insights into the TNF-regulated genetic response program in epithelial cells, where NF-κB controls sequential expression patterns of functionally distinct genes that depend on its oscillatory activation mode.
Phosphorylation‐dependent and Phosphorylation‐independent Regulation of Helicobacter pylori Acid Acclimation by the ArsRS Two‐component System

Background The pH-sensitive Helicobacter pylori ArsRS two-component system (TCS) aids survival of this neutralophile in the gastric environment by directly sensing and responding to environmental acidity. ArsS is required for acid-induced trafficking of urease and its accessory proteins to the inner membrane, allowing rapid, urea-dependent cytoplasmic and periplasmic buffering. Expression of ArsR, but not its phosphorylation, is essential for bacterial viability. The aim of this study was to characterize the roles of ArsS and ArsR in the response of H. pylori to acid. Materials and Methods Wild-type H. pylori and an arsR(D52N) phosphorylation-deficient strain were incubated at acidic or neutral pH. Gene and protein expression, survival, membrane trafficking of urease proteins, urease activity, and internal pH were studied. Results Phosphorylation of ArsR is not required for acid survival. ArsS-driven trafficking of urease proteins to the membrane in acid, required for recovery of internal pH, is independent of ArsR phosphorylation. ArsR phosphorylation increases expression of the urease gene cluster, and the loss of negative feedback in a phosphorylation-deficient mutant leads to an increase in total urease activity. Conclusions ArsRS has a dual function in acid acclimation: regulation of urease trafficking to UreI at the cytoplasmic membrane, driven by ArsS, and regulation of urease gene cluster expression, driven by phosphorylation of ArsR. ArsS and ArsR work through phosphorylation-dependent and phosphorylation-independent regulatory mechanisms to impact acid acclimation and allow gastric colonization. Furthering understanding of the intricacies of acid acclimation will impact the future development of targeted, nonantibiotic treatment regimens.
Lesbian and Bisexual Women’s Adjustment After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis:

BACKGROUND: Little research has been devoted to lesbian and bisexual survivors’ adjustment after breast cancer. OBJECTIVES: To determine differences between lesbian and bisexual survivors and to examine whether sexual minority–specific issues contribute to these survivors’ adjustment. DESIGN: We recruited 180 lesbian and bisexual survivors with primary diagnoses of DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) or I-III nonrecurrent breast cancer from a cancer registry and the community. RESULTS: The characteristics of lesbian and bisexual survivors of breast cancer were similar, with few exceptions, such as partner status and gender of partner. Sexual minority–specific factors contributed toward explaining lesbian and bisexual survivors’ anxiety and depression but did not contribute toward explaining survivors’ physical and mental health. CONCLUSIONS: Awareness about vulnerabilities due to partner status and about the sexual minority–specific issues that contribute to adjustment is important for medical and mental heal...
Optimal control of voltage and power in a Multi Zonal Shipboard MVDC Power System

Recent advancements in Voltage Source Converters (VSCs) of high-voltage and high-power rating had a significant impact on the development of Multi-Terminal HVDC (MTDC) power transmission systems. The U.S. Navy has proposed MultiZonal Medium Voltage DC (MVDC) Shipboard Power System (SPS) architecture for the next generation of their surface combatants. A Multi-Zonal MVDC SPS consists of several VSCs exchanging power through a DC network. Following a system fault or damage, the current flow pattern in the DC distribution grid will change and the DC voltages across the VSCs will assume new values. DC voltage reference or power reference settings of VSCs have to be determined, in advance, which can maintain the voltage within desired margins (usually 5% around the nominal DC voltage) in steady state under the pre-fault as well as the post-fault conditions. This paper presents a voltage sensitivity based method and an optimization based method to determine the reference voltage and power settings of the VSCs. The results have been demonstrated on MVDC shipboard power system architecture.
On the language and logic of psychophysiology: a reply to Donchin.

Donchin's critique of the paper by Schwartz and Pritchard illustrates several common faults in the use of language and logic. These include: 1. Inconsistent use of language and confusion in the use of theoretically meaningful terms; 2. The confusion of psychological and physiological domains, i.e., the use of psychological constructs as “explanations” in physiological theory and vice versa; 3. The tendency to be selective of data and explanations “justifying” a particular theoretical orientation without establishing criteria for the selections. For the study of electrical responses of the human brain to have significance for understanding information processing, theories must be founded in logical and consistent use of language, according to explicit decision criteria.
How Infidelity Creates a Sticky Situation

Errors in translation cause cytotoxic protein misfolding and aggregation. In this issue, Ling et al. (2012) show that scavenging or suppression of reactive oxygen species in E. coli reduces the cellular costs of error-induced aggregation.
Outcomes after surgical treatment of native and prosthetic valve infective endocarditis.

Background The risk of death and complications of infective endocarditis (IE) treated medically has to be balanced against those from surgery in constructing a therapeutic approach. Recent literature has drawn conflicting conclusions on the benefit of surgery for IE. We reviewed patients treated surgically for IE at the Cleveland Clinic from 2003 to 2007 to examine their outcomes. Methods A retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent surgery for native and prosthetic valve endocarditis between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2007, was conducted. Surgical outcomes were reviewed to include survival and postoperative complications. Survival was evaluated at end of hospital stay, 30 days, 1 year, and at last follow-up. Results Four hundred twenty-eight patients underwent surgery for IE during the study period: 248 (58%) had native valve endocarditis and 180 (42%) had prosthetic valve endocarditis. Overall 90% of patients survived to hospital discharge. When compared with patients with native valve infection, patients with prosthetic infection had significantly higher 30-day mortality (13% versus 5.6%; p p = 0.19). Patients with IE caused by Staphylococcus aureus had significantly higher hospital mortality (15% versus 8.4%; p p = 0.05), and 1-year mortality (28% versus 18%; p = 0.02) compared with non–S aureus IE. Conclusions Surgical treatment of IE was associated with 90% hospital survival. Outcomes within the 30 days were better for native valve than for prosthetic valve endocarditis. Long-term outcomes were similar. Finally, S aureus was associated with significantly higher mortality compared with other pathogens.
Mental Health Problems and Sexual Abuse Among Adolescents in Foster Care: Relationship to HIV Risk Behaviors and Intentions

Adolescents in foster care present with multiple psychosocial and mental health problems that individually are associated with increased risk for HIV infection. However, few studies have examined empirically the interrelationships among these problems and HIV risk behaviors in this population. This study examined the sexual abuse histories and mental health problems among 343 youths in foster care to determine their association with HIV-risk behaviors and behavioral intentions. Results indicated that 25% reported internalizing behaviors (withdrawn, somatic complaints, depressed) and 28.3% reported externalizing behaviors (delinquent and aggressive behaviors). Of the sample, 37% reported some form of prior sexual abuse. Multivariate analyses using simultaneous entry of variables indicated that controlling for demographic variables and behavioral intentions, externalizing behaviors showed the strongest relationship with HIV-risk behaviors. Likewise, in the multivariate model, it was most strongly associated with behavioral intentions. Moreover, there was a significant race-by-gender interaction, with White females engaging in more risky behaviors than their male counterparts and youths of color.
Binary optical elements using spatial light modulators

We discuss the encoding of new types of binary optical elements onto programmable spatial light modulators (SLMs). After introducing the technique and limitations, some past work will be reviewed and new ideas presented.
Simulation of proton therapy treatment verification via PET imaging of induced positron-emitters

Earlier works, including a recent one at BNL, demonstrated that PET is a promising technique to verify the dose distribution of proton therapy, which is increasingly used in radiation oncology because the dose conforms more tightly to the tumor than common x-ray radiation therapy. Proton therapy produces positron-emitting isotopes along the beam path, allowing the therapy dose distribution to be imaged by PET as a form of quality assurance of the treatment. This is especially important when treating inhomogeneous organs such as the lungs or the head-and-neck, where the calculation of the expected dose distribution for treatment planning is more difficult. In this paper, we present Monte Carlo simulations of the yield of positron emitters produced by proton beams up to 250 MeV, followed by statistically realistic Monte Carlo simulation of the images expected from a clinical PET scanner. The emphasis of this study is to accurately predict the positron emitter distribution and to determine the quality of the PET signal in the region near the Bragg peak which is critical to the success of PET imaging for verification of proton beam location and dosimetry. In this paper, we also demonstrate that the image results depend strongly on the available nuclear reaction cross section data. We determine quantitatively the differences in the calculated positron emitter yields resulting from four different sets of input nuclear reaction cross section data. They are compared to the simulated distributions of positron emitter productions and absorbed proton energies.
Modulation of heterocyclic amine-induced mutagenicity and carcinogenicity: an ‘A-to-Z’ guide to chemopreventive agents, promoters, and transgenic models

A landmark report by Widmark in 1939 describing "cancer-producing substances in roasted food", and the seminal work of Sugimura and colleagues in the 1970s on the isolation of potent mutagens from cooked meat and fish stimulated a major international effort on the study of heterocyclic amines and their modulators. The latter term is used in its broadest context to mean agents or conditions that positively or negatively influence the mutagenic or carcinogenic activities of heterocyclic amines in vitro or in vivo. An 'A-to-Z' list of these modulators includes well over 150 natural or synthetic phytochemicals, micronutrients and antioxidants, as well as several large chemical classes (polyphenols, flavones, retinoids, porphyrins), food fractions, and food preparation methods. In many cases, the findings reported in the literature can be regarded as descriptive, but for a number of specific agents there is sufficient evidence to glean some understanding of the inhibitory or promotional mechanisms of action. These mechanisms can be divided into 11 separate sub-categories, arranged within a general classification scheme that encompasses such terms as 'blocking agents', 'suppressing agents', 'desmutagens', 'bioantimutagens', 'interceptor molecules' and 'tumor promoters'. In addition, new research directions, most notably during the past 2-3 years or so, have led to the use of novel dosing protocols and unique animal models (including transgenic species) that provide insight into exposure conditions and genetic background as modulators of heterocyclic amine activity in vitro and in vivo. Overall, the more than 250 citations on the subject give ample evidence of the growing interest in modulators of heterocyclic amine carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, and their possible importance in determining human cancer risk in defined populations.
A computer-based system for problem list maintenance and medical informatics

In clinical care, maintaining an accurate, up-to-date problem list for each patient is essential for effective treatment. As a result, several proposals have been made to facilitate the maintenance of such a list. Our work differs from existing proposals by defining computer-based support for inferences, i.e. the automated suggestion of new problems based on ordered tests, test results and treatments prescribed by a physician. In addition, cause-effect relationships among problems are maintained. The inference engine portion of the system is developed on a Sun workstation, while the user interface is developed as a Java applet, permitting a physician to use the system from any platform that provides Internet access.
Regulatory Linkages Between Flagella and Surfactant During Swarming Behavior: Lubricating the Flagellar Propeller?

Many bacteria explore their immediate environment using flagellar locomotion, and on semi-solid surfaces this type of flagella-driven motility is known as swarming (22).…
Power-Sharing in Post-Conflict Societies: Implications for Peace and Governance

Which conditions do power-sharing governments rule more effectively? Adopting a disaggregated view of political power-sharing, we argue that certain components of political power-sharing are associated with better governance and duration of peace than others. In particular, countries that adopt closed-list proportional representation (PR) electoral systems tend to have superior governance outcomes and, as a result, experience more enduring periods of post-conflict peace and stability. Characteristics of closed-list PR systems such as tight party discipline, which provides more checks on executive power, and reduced incentives for personalistic voting, may account for the positive relationship between this electoral system and superior governance and regime survival. The introduction of political institutions in post-conflict peace agreements allows us to test the independent effects of institutions on governance and stability using large-n analysis and carefully selected case studies.
Maxillofacial Swelling and Infections

A variety of conditions may result in maxillofacial swelling in children, prompting a visit to the emergency department. Some of these diagnoses are self-limiting, whereas others may be life-threatening. Furthermore, the pediatric population is at significant risk for problems that rarely occur in adults. Emergency medicine providers must be able to identify these conditions, especially if specialty consultation is required. Some of the most common and significant causes of maxillofacial swelling in children are reviewed to help familiarize the practitioner with their presentation, causes, and available treatment options.
Peripartale Adaption des Fetus

Der fetale Sauerstoffpartialdruck ist prapartal wesentlich niedriger als postnatal. Auch bei optimalem Sauerstoffangebot ubersteigt der umbilikalvenose Sauerstoffpartialdruck 50 bis 60 mmHg nicht. Der Sauerstoffgehalt ist jedoch trotz niedriger Sauerstoffsattigung vergleichbar mit dem eines Kleinkindes, da der Fetus mit ungefahr 18 g/dL eine hohe Hamoglobinkonzentration im Blut aufweist. Um Sauerstoff aus dem intervillosen Raum der Plazenta bei einem relativ niedrigen Sauerstoffpartialdruck (PaO2) extrahieren zu konnen, benotigt das fetale Hamoglobin eine hohere Sauerstoffaffinitat. Der Sauerstoffpartialdruck, bei dem Hamoglobin zu 50% gesattigt ist (P50), betragt beim Feten 19 bis 21 mmHg, versus 27 mmHg fur das P50 des Erwachsenen. Dieser Unterschied ist hauptsachlich durch die hohe Konzentration von fetalem Hamoglobin (ungefahr 75 bis 85% des absolouten Hamoglobingehaltes) im fetalen Blut bedingt (1). Die hohere Sauerstoffaffinitat des fetalen Hamoglobins kann durch eine Interaktion zwischen Hamoglobin F und dem 2,3-Diphosphoglycerat (2,3-DPG) erklart werden, bei der letztendlich 2,3-DPG die Sauerstoffaffinitat im Hamoglobin F weniger senkt als im Hamoglobin A. Die Sauerstoffaffinitat von fetalem Blut ist im schon im dritten Lebensmonat vergleichbar mit der Sauerstoffaffinitat von Erwachsenen.
Signaling Pathways of SARS-CoV In Vitro and In Vivo

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a respiratory illness with variable symptoms that was recognized as the first near-pandemic infectious disease of the twenty-first century. A novel human coronavirus, named SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV), derived from SARS patients was reported as the etiologic agent of SARS. Studying the signaling pathways of SARS-infected cells is key to understanding the molecular mechanism of SARS viral infection. Cell death is observed in cultured Vero E6 cells after SARS-CoV infection. From SARS-CoV infection to cell death, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is a key participant in the determination of cell death and survival. Two signaling pathways comprising signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (p90RSK) are downstream of p38 MAPK. AKT and JNK (Jun NH2-terminal kinase) signaling pathways are important to establish persistent infection of SARS-CoV in Vero E6 cells. Expression studies of SARS-CoV proteins indicate that the viral proteins are able to activate signaling pathways of host cells. The study of signaling pathways in SARS-CoV patients is difficult to perform compared with in vitro studies due to the effects of the human immune system. This review highlights recent progress in characterizing signal transduction pathways in SARS-CoV-infected cells in vitro and in vivo.
Allogeneic T Cells That Express an Anti-CD19 Chimeric Antigen Receptor Induce Remissions of B-Cell Malignancies That Progress After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation Without Causing Graft-Versus-Host Disease

PurposeProgressive malignancy is the leading cause of death after allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (alloHSCT). After alloHSCT, B-cell malignancies often are treated with unmanipulated donor lymphocyte infusions (DLIs) from the transplant donor. DLIs frequently are not effective at eradicating malignancy and often cause graft-versus-host disease, a potentially lethal immune response against normal recipient tissues.MethodsWe conducted a clinical trial of allogeneic T cells genetically engineered to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting the B-cell antigen CD19. Patients with B-cell malignancies that had progressed after alloHSCT received a single infusion of CAR T cells. No chemotherapy or other therapies were administered. The T cells were obtained from each recipient’s alloHSCT donor.ResultsEight of 20 treated patients obtained remission, which included six complete remissions (CRs) and two partial remissions. The response rate was highest for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, ...
Gap junctions between human corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells: gating properties and unitary conductance

We previously showed that corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells are connected via gap junctions in situ and in culture and that a major protein component of these gap junctions is connexin43. To characterize the physiological properties of the gap junctions between corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells, we now demonstrate that the cells are dye and electrically coupled and describe some of the gating properties of these gap junctional channels at macroscopic and single-channel levels. Junctional conductance (gj) between corporal smooth muscle cells was moderately voltage sensitive; was reduced rapidly, reversibly, and completely by halothane; and was increased by treatment with a tumor-promoting phorbol ester [12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)] and decreased by isoproterenol. Histograms of unitary junctional currents revealed multiple conductance peaks with events of approximately 90 pS being the most abundant. TPA and phenylephrine produced large increases in relative frequencies of the smaller events, whereas isoproterenol and 8-bromoadenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-BrcAMP) slightly increased the relative frequencies of the larger events. None of the tested drugs substantially affected the steady-state voltage dependence of gj. These second messenger systems also affected expression of connexin43 by corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells, as judged by immunoblots. At 6 h of treatment, both TPA- and 8-BrcAMP-treated cultures showed markedly elevated levels of connexin43, whereas at 24 h, the level of connexin43 in TPA-treated cultures had returned to control levels. Together, these data indicate that second messenger molecules involved in penile erection produce changes in gap junction expression and function; it is plausible that these changes could be physiologically relevant in altering and propagating changes in vasomotor tone.
Insect-Host Tissue Interrelations between Xyleborus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) and Theobroma cacao in Costa Rica1

The biology and life history of Xyleborus ferrugineus (F.) were studied under natural and laboratory conditions in Costa Rica. Beetles attacked Theobroma cacao L. showing no obvious external symptoms of decline. Attack involved the entire diameter of the basal trunk and root collar. The invaded tissues deteriorated more slowly than the other portions of the trees and several generations of the insect usually were supported in each plant.
Cobalamin's (Vitamin B12) Surprising Function as a Photoreceptor

Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is an adenosyl- or methyl-donating cofactor for many enzymes, yet many proteins with unknown or nonenzymatic function also contain B12-binding domains. Recent studies show that light excitation energy can promote covalent linkage of B12 to transcription factors with this linkage, affecting gene expression. Thus, B12 now has a newly described regulatory function. Here, our bioinformatics analysis reveals other transcription factors, photoreceptors, kinases, and oxygen sensors that harbor a B12-binding domain that could also regulate activity in response to light absorption.
Prognostics and Health Management of Wind Turbines—Current Status and Future Opportunities

The global wind industry has seen tremendous growth during the past two decades. However, the industry is challenged by premature component failures, which lead to increased turbine downtime and subsequently, cost of energy for wind power. To mitigate the impacts from these failures, the wind industry has been exploring various areas for improvements ranging from product design, new materials or lubricants, to operation and maintenance (O&M) practices. Condition-based maintenance or prognostics and health management (PHM) has been explored as one enabling technology for improving O&M practices. This chapter provides a brief overview of wind turbine PHM with a focus on operational data mining and condition monitoring of drivetrains. Some future research and development opportunities in wind turbine PHM are also briefly discussed.
Impact of protein supplementation on muscle recovery after exercise-induced muscle soreness

We investigated whether protein (PRO [0.4g/kg]) vs. carbohydrate (CHO [0.4g/kg]) vs. placebo nutrition supplements would alleviate muscle soreness when consumed immediately after eccentric exercise in 21 untrained men aged 18-30 years. During this double-blind randomized block study design, each subject completed three, 3-day trials (separated by >2 weeks), identical except for treatment, with each serving as his own control. Trials began with a bout of right leg eccentric exercise (Biodex), followed directly by treatment. At 0 (baseline), 24, and 48 hours, data were collected: creatine phosphokinase (CPK) from pre-exercise blood samples, subjective muscle soreness questions, and strength tests (power, torque, work.). ANOVA indicated that exercise caused mild muscle damage, evidenced by an overall day effect (p≤0.0001) for muscle soreness, with the lowest median values (0 to 10 scale) on day 1 (0.7), increasing (p≤0.0001) on day 2 (3.2), and remaining elevated on day 3 (3.4). We also noted an overall day effect (p≤0.0001) for CPK, with lowest median values (U/L) on day 1 (136), increasing (p≤0.0001) on day 2 (235), and remaining elevated on day 3 (189). ANOVA revealed no significant treatment effect on indicators of soreness or damage during recovery. Our results indicated that a PRO or CHO supplement after exercise causing mild muscle damage did not facilitate muscle recovery in adequately nourished, healthy young men.
Hunter-gatherer males are more risk-seeking than females, even in late childhood

Abstract Observed economic and labor disparities between the sexes may, in part, result from evolved sex differences in risk preferences. Using incentivized economic games, we report on sex differences in risk preferences in the Hadza, a population of hunter-gatherers. One game played in 2010 (n=233) found that more Hadza males than females prefer to gamble for a chance to earn more maize rather than settle for a sure, but smaller, amount. Similarly, a second game played in 2013 (n=102) found that male Hadza gamble a greater proportion of honey for a chance to earn more compared to female Hadza. Effect sizes are small to medium. We find weak evidence that risk-taking increases in men as their mating opportunities increase. In both games, the sex difference widens throughout childhood and is greatest among adolescents; though note that child samples are small. We explore developmental trends further using observational data on food returns in children (n=357). Our data suggest that while the mean number of calories boys bring to camp remains stable with age, the variance in their caloric returns increases. Among girls, the variance remains stable with increased age. Both the economic games and food return data are consistent with the sexual division of labor wherein boys, beginning in late childhood, begin to target riskier foods. To the extent that the Hadza allow us to make inferences about long-standing patterns of human behavior, we suggest that sex differences in risk preferences may have been present long before agriculture and the modern work environment.
Über Goethes Meister

Die Rezension von Goethes Roman Wilhelm Meisters Lehrjahre gilt als »die ausfuhrlichste und eindringlichste positive Wurdigung, die Schlegel je einer Dichtung gewidmet hat« (2, LXXI).
The impact of irradiation dose on the computed tomography radiographic response of metastatic nodes and clinical outcomes in cervix cancer in a low-resource setting.

Introduction: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the radiation dose to pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes, nodal response, and clinical outcomes in a resource-poor setting based on computed tomography (CT) nodal size alone. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study from 2009 to 2015 included 46 cervical cancer patients with 133 metastatic pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes definitively treated with chemoradiation and brachytherapy in a public hospital with limited access to positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Hence, short axis of the lymph node on CT scan was used as a measure of metastatic nodal disease, before and following radiation therapy. Inclusion criteria required the pelvic and para-aortic nodes to have the shortest axis diameter on CT scan of ≥8 mm and ≥10 mm, respectively. Based on PET resolution, a node that decreased to half of its inclusion cutoff size was considered to have a complete response (CR). Relevant clinical outcomes were documented and correlated with nodal features, nodal radiation doses, and treatment characteristics. Results: After controlling for other predictive factors, increased nodal dose was associated with increased probability of CR per study definition ( P = 0.005). However, there was no statistically significant association between dose and pelvic/para-aortic, distant and total recurrence (TR), and any recurrence at any location (P = 0.263, 0.785, 1.00, respectively). Patients who had no CR nodes had shorter pelvic/para-aortic recurrence-free survival (PPRFS) and TR-free survival (TRFS) than patients who had at least one CR node ( P = 0.027 and 0.046, respectively). Patients with no CR nodes also had shorter PPRFS than patients who had all nodes completely respond ( P Conclusions: Using CT-based measures, we found that increased nodal dose is associated with an increased probability of CR (as defined) and nodal CR is associated with increased PPRFS and TRFS. We were unable to determine the cutoff dose required for a CR.
Cohomology Computations Related to the ι-Adic Abel-Jacobi Map Modulo ι

Let k be a field, \( \bar k \) a separable closure and X a smooth, projective, geometrically irreducible curve over k. Fix a prime, \( l \ne char(k) \) and letM be a locally constant sheaf of finite dimensional ℤ/ l-vector spaces on X et. Let \( \Xi \subset {\rm X} \) be a non-empty, closed, finite subset. Define $$ H_\Xi ^2{({X_{\bar K}},\mathcal{M})_0}: = Ker[H_\Xi ^2({X_{\bar K}},\mathcal{M}) \to {H^2}({X_{\bar K}},\mathcal{M})]. $$
Influence of corrosion and surface roughness on wettability of ASTM A36 steels

Abstract This study aims at investigating the influence of corrosion on water wettability of ASTM A36 steel. To this end, ASTM A36 steel specimens are subjected to different corrosion durations and water wettability of these specimens is determined using contact angle tests based on sessile drop method. Water wettability is found to increase with increase in corrosion of ASTM A36 steels. Pitting corrosion associated with higher corrosion exposure is observed to increase the surface roughness and the subsequent non-uniformity of the corroded surfaces. The increase in the surface roughness due to corrosion is hypothesized as the reason behind the increase of water wettability in corroded specimens. In order to prove this hypothesis, different set of specimens are grinded and polished to achieve a range of surface roughness values. When contact angle tests are conducted on these specimens, it is observed that increase in surface roughness results in increase in the wettability of steel proving the above stated hypothesis. The converse of the hypothesis is also verified by exposing specimens with different surface roughness values to corrosive environment. From a visual examination, specimens with higher roughness values exhibited more corrosion when compared to smoother specimens when exposed to a corrosive environment for same duration. Finally, predictive equations are proposed to estimate the water contact angle of ASTM A36 as a function of surface roughness.
Use of Geospatial Data and Technology for Wilderness Search and Rescue by Nonprofit Organizations

Geospatial data and tools are key in locating lost or missing persons in as short a time as possible. In this study, we used a geographic information system (GIS) to analyze four years of search an...
Assessing Academic STEM Women’s Sense of Isolation in the Workplace

This chapter explores the Alliance for the Advancement of Florida’s Academic Women in Chemistry and Engineering (AAFAWCE)’s collaborative interdisciplinary approach to learning about the isolation issues that impact the academic women participating in its ADVANCE-PAID activities, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF, n.d.).
Middle school geography teachers׳ professional development centered around historical photographs

Abstract This paper describes three social studies teachers’ participation in an approximately 50-h, 13-month, Lesson Study-type professional development program called Beyond Words. The program centered around promoting teachers’ understanding of historical domain knowledge through experiences with innovative visual curriculum materials and sustained collaboration. This qualitative investigation answers: To what degree can Beyond Words help in-service geography teachers design and implement powerful instruction centered around historical photographs? Throughout Beyond Words the teachers demonstrated a spirit of open-mindedness and a willingness to experiment with unfamiliar ideas; they planned and implemented a lesson that featured engaging historical photographs, thinking critically about the past, and making claims about a public issue. At the end of the program, however, they demonstrated conventional approaches toward social studies instruction, especially regarding curriculum and assessment. The work shared here suggests that helping teachers craft high-quality questions to anchor student-inquiry and scaffolding teachers’ sensemaking of student-outcome data should be high priorities for professional development providers.
Two-Dimensional Anode Materials for Non-lithium Metal-Ion Batteries

Non-Li metal-ion rechargeable battery systems, e.g., Na-, K-, Mg-, and Ca-ion systems, are at the brink of playing a major role for sustainable energy and grid storage, in part owing to their signi...
Modular path integral for discrete systems with non-diagonal couplings

The modular decomposition of the path integral, which leads to linear scaling with the system length, is extended to Hamiltonians with intermonomer couplings that are not diagonalizable in any single-particle basis. An optimal factorization of the time evolution operator is identified, which minimizes the number of path integral variables while ensuring high accuracy and preservation of detailed balance. The modular path integral decomposition is described, along with a highly efficient tensor factorization of the path linking process. The algorithm is illustrated with applications to a model of coupled spins and a Frenkel exciton chain.
Early Axonal Injury and Delayed Cytotoxic Cerebral Edema are Associated With Microglial Activation in a Mouse Model of Sepsis

Sepsis-induced brain injury is associated with an acute deterioration of mental status resulting in cognitive impairment and acquisition of new functional limitations in sepsis survivors. However, the exact nature of brain injury in this setting is often subtle and remains to be fully characterized both in preclinical studies and at the bedside. Given the translation potential for the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to define sepsis-induced brain injury, we sought to determine and correlate the cellular changes with neuroradiographic presentations in a classic murine model of sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Sepsis was induced in 6-10-week-old male C57/BL6 mice by CLP. We used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to define neuropathology in a mouse model of sepsis along with parallel studies using MRI, focusing on cerebral edema, blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, and microglial activation on days 1 and 4 days after CLP. We demonstrate that septic mice had evidence of early axonal injury, inflammation, and robust microglial activation on day 1 followed by cytotoxic edema on day 4 in the cortex, thalamus, and hippocampus in the absence of BBB disruption. We note the superiority of the MRI to detect subtle brain injury and cytotoxic cerebral edema in comparison with the traditional gold standard assessment, i.e., percent brain water (wet-dry weight method). We conclude that inflammatory changes in the septic brain can be detected in real time, and further studies are needed to understand axonal injury and the impact of inhibition of microglial activation on the development of cerebral edema.
Association of Medicaid Expansion Under the Affordable Care Act With Stage at Diagnosis and Time to Treatment Initiation for Patients With Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Importance Medicaid expansions as part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) are associated with decreases in the percentage of uninsured patients who have received a new diagnosis of cancer. Little is known about the association of Medicaid expansions with stage at diagnosis and time to treatment initiation (TTI) for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Objective To determine the association of Medicaid expansions as part of the ACA with stage at diagnosis and TTI for patients with HNSCC. Design, Setting, and Participants A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Commission on Cancer–accredited facilities among 90 789 patients identified from the National Cancer Database aged 18 to 64 years with HNSCC that was diagnosed during the period from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2016. Statistical analysis was conducted from February 18 to November 8, 2019. Main Outcomes and Measures Outcome measures included health insurance coverage, stage at diagnosis, and TTI. Absolute percentage change in health insurance coverage, crude and adjusted difference in differences (DD) in absolute percentage change in coverage, stage at diagnosis, and TTI before (2010-2013) and after (2014-2016) ACA implementation were calculated for Medicaid expansion and nonexpansion states. Results Of the 90 789 nonelderly adults with newly diagnosed HNSCC (mean [SD] age, 54.7 [7.0] years), 70 907 (78.1%) were men, 72 911 (80.3%) were non-Hispanic white, 52 142 (57.4%) were between 55 and 64 years of age, and 54 940 (60.5%) resided in states with an ACA Medicaid expansion. Compared with nonexpansion states, the percentage of patients with HNSCC with Medicaid increased more in expansion states after the implementation of the ACA (adjusted DD, 4.6 percentage points [95% CI, 3.7-5.4 percentage points]). The percentage of patients with localized disease (American Joint Committee on Cancer stage I-II) at diagnosis increased in expansion states compared with nonexpansion states for the overall cohort (adjusted DD, 2.3 percentage points [95% CI, 1.1-3.5 percentage points]) and for the subset of patients with nonoropharyngeal HNSCC (adjusted DD, 3.4 percentage points [95% CI, 1.5-5.2 percentage points]). The mean TTI did not differ between expansion and nonexpansion states for the cohort (adjusted DD, –12.7 percentage points [95% CI, –27.4 to 4.2 percentage points]) but improved for patients with nonoropharyngeal HNSCC (adjusted DD, –26.5 percentage points [95% CI, –49.6 to –3.4 percentage points]). Conclusions and Relevance This study suggests that Medicaid expansions were associated with a greater increase in the percentage of patients with HNSCC with Medicaid coverage, an increase in the percentage of patients with localized disease at diagnosis for the overall cohort of patients with HNSCC, and improved TTI for patients with nonoropharyngeal HNSCC.
Continuity of Hospital Care and Feeding Tube Use in Cognitively Impaired Hospitalized Persons.

Objectives Hospitalists are increasingly the attending physician for hospitalized patients, and the scheduling of their shifts can affect patient continuity. For dementia patients, the impact is unknown. Design Longitudinal study using physician billing claims between 2000 and 2014 to examine the association of continuity of care with the insertion of a feeding tube (FT). Setting US hospitals. Participants Between 2000 and 2014, 166,056 hospitalizations of patients with a prior nursing home stay, advanced cognitive impairment, and impairments in four or more activities of daily living (mean age = 84.2 years; 30.4% male; 81.0% white). Measurements Continuity of care measured at the hospital level with the Sequential Continuity Index (SECON; range = 0 to 100; higher score indicates higher continuity). Results Rates of a hospitalist acting as the attending physician increased from 9.6% in 2000 to 22.6% in 2010, whereas a primary care physician with a predominant outpatient focus acting as the attending physician decreased from 50.3% in 2000 to 12.6% in 2014. Post-2010, a mixture of physician specialties increased from 55.5% to 66.4% with a reduction in hospitalists from 22.6% (2010) to 14.1% (2013). Continuity of care decreased over time with SECON dropping from 63.0 to 43.5. Adjusting for patient baseline risk factors, a nonlinear association was observed between SECON and FT insertion. Using cubic splines in the multivariate logistics regression model, the risk of FT insertion in hospitals where the SECON score dropped from 82 to 23 had an adjusted risk ratio (ARR) of FT insertion of 1.48 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.34-1.63); hospitals in which SECON dropped from 51 to 23 had an ARR of FT insertion of 1.38 (95% CI = 1.27-1.50). Conclusion Hospitalized dementia patients in hospitals in which continuity of care was lower had higher rates of FT insertions. Newer models of care are needed to enhance care continuity and thus ensure treatment consistent with likely outcomes of care and goals of care. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1852-1856, 2020.
A social network analysis approach to group and individual perceptions of child physical activity.

Child physical activity (PA) is influenced by social environment. Self-perception and perception of others' behaviors may impact health behaviors such as PA. This study examines associations between child networks, perception of their own PA and the network's perception of their PA. Children (n = 89, M age = 10.00, SD = 1.34) at a summer care program reported demographics (54% female; 46% Black), PA, and physical skill competency. Children indicated up to five people they interacted with the most while at the program and how active they perceived each person to be. Multilevel modeling was used to determine significant associations between skill competency, network measures, and child's perception of their own PA, the network's perception of their PA, and the absolute difference between the two. Children perceived themselves to be more physically active if they perceived their friends were more physically active. Children who were central in the network and more physically competent were perceived as more active by their peers. Absolute differences between self-reported and network perceived PA were significantly larger for females. This work builds on understanding of how network position may impact child PA perceptions at summer care programs. Implications of these perceptions for PA promotion programs are discussed.
Availability of Resources, Knowledge, Applicability and Preferred Teaching Methods regarding Electrocardiography in a Resource-Limited Clinic in Rural Thailand

Introduction: Electrocardiography (ECG) is a rapid, non-invasive and inexpensive test requiring minimal training to perform. ECG is used ubiquitously in the developed world to assess the cardiac and metabolic status of Emergency Department (ED) patients; however, its utility in resource-limited settings has not yet been assessed. In order to shed light on ECG utility in developing areas around the world, as well as the perceptions of resources availability, knowledge, applicability and preferred teaching methods regarding ECGs were examined in a resource-limited clinic in Mae Sot, Thailand. Methods: Focus group discussions and self-administered surveys were conducted among healthcare workers in a clinic in rural Thailand in November 2013. Results: Five administrative staff and supervising providers participated in focus groups; twenty-nine medics and two physicians participated in the survey. Providers described limited knowledge of ECG interpretation and limited availability of treatments for diagnosed conditions. Providers reported that ECGs are useful when counseling patients and families on prognosis and when deciding when and where to transfer patients to facilities with more resources. Reported preferred training methods include hands-on training, lectures with handouts and specific ECG case examples. Conclusion: Despite limited treatment options in low-resource settings, ECG can be an informative diagnostic and prognostic tool. Implementation of an ECG educational program at this clinic should focus on training in three areas: ECG interpretation, delivering available treatments even when the “gold standard” treatment is not available, and counseling of patients and family members.
A descriptive analysis of academic engagement and collaboration of students with autism during elementary computer science

Elementary computer science (CS) can be engaging and challenging for some students with disabilities who struggle with complex problem solving. This study examined academic engagement of students w...