cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Saline lavage: a rapid, effective, and acceptable method for cleansing the gastrointestinal tract.

The standard preparation for cleansing the gastrointestinal tract for diagnostic studies such as barium enema usually involves dietary restrictions, purgatives, and cleansing enemas. This preparation is time consuming, often uncomfortable for the patient, and frequently unsuccessful. In this study, we examined the efficacy of saline lavage (without dietary restrictions or cleansing enemas) as a gentle, alternative method for cleansing the bowel, and compared lavage to the standard castor oil method of bowel preparation. Lavage cleansing was preferred by 75% of patients who had previously experienced a castor oil preparation. Although 11% of patients could not consume an adequate (4-liter) lavage volume, there was no significant difference in preparation success rate between the remaining lavage patients and the castor oil patients. Total preparation time for lavage (3 ± 1 hr) was 60% less than for castor oil. The anticipated dehydration produced by castor oil and the hydration produced by lavage were confirmed. No significant changes were noted, however, in serum electrolytes with either method of preparation. Additional early studies are promising for the lavage method when used in inflammatory bowel disease patients and as a cleansing preparation for colonoscopy.
Enhancing the value of orthodontic treatment: incorporating effective preventive dentistry into treatment.

research and patient treatment efforts have been directed at preventing damage to periodontal tissues during orthodontic treatment. In 1989, our research team at UCSF published in the AJO/DO the first prospective longitudinal study1 of comprehensive orthodontic treatment in adults who had received periodontal treatment versus periodontal healthy adults and adolescents. The results of that study showed that no significant damage to periodontal tissues occurred in adult periodontal patients if they were provided adequate preventive dental measures, which included successful initial control of active disease and 3-month periodontal maintenance visits throughout orthodontic treatment. Six-month examinations and prophylaxis were performed for healthy adults and adolescents. All adult and adolescent patients were also instructed and reinforced at each monthly orthodontic visit for plaque removal effectiveness. The results showed that adults, in general, had significantly less plaque accumulation and healthier gingival tissues than adolescents during treatment. The results also showed that healthy adults could be treated without significant periodontal breakdown. However, approximately 20% to 30% of the adolescents had inadequate plaque removal during treatment and lost significant periodontal bone support during treatment. A later prospective longitudinal study2 reported in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry in 1992 showed that adolescents who had ineffective plaque removal during treatment would also develop significant decalcification. This was an important finding because the adolescents in that study were raised primarily in an environment where fluoride was present in the water and had a very low incidence of smooth surface caries before treatment. When our team at UCSF and later at the University of the Pacific investigated different methods of enhancing the effectiveness of plaque removal in adolescent patients in other similar prospective longitudinal studies, the results showed a number of significant findings including the following:
The Performance of Currency Value-Adjusted Stock Indices

Indices aggregate the price and return performance of stocks to provide summary measures. The local currency represents the underlying index basis. Variations in the underlying currency value distort indices and can lead to interpretation errors. A 1% decline in an index accompanied by a 2% increase in the underlying currency value implies the investor has a wealth gain. An investor observing the index level in isolation would interpret the data as indicating a wealth decline. This article develops new stock indices that control for the effects of dollar value fluctuations. Globalization and recent instability in currency values highlight the importance of this work.
Efficient Inverse Modeling of Barotropic Ocean Tides

Abstract A computationally efficient relocatable system for generalized inverse (GI) modeling of barotropic ocean tides is described. The GI penalty functional is minimized using a representer method, which requires repeated solution of the forward and adjoint linearized shallow water equations (SWEs). To make representer computations efficient, the SWEs are solved in the frequency domain by factoring the coefficient matrix for a finite-difference discretization of the second-order wave equation in elevation. Once this matrix is factored representers can be calculated rapidly. By retaining the first-order SWE system (defined in terms of both elevations and currents) in the definition of the discretized GI penalty functional, complete generality in the choice of dynamical error covariances is retained. This allows rational assumptions about errors in the SWE, with soft momentum balance constraints (e.g., to account for inaccurate parameterization of dissipation), but holds mass conservation constraints. Wh...
INVERTEBRATE FAUNA ASSOCIATED WITH TORPEDOGRASS, PANICUM REPENS (CYPERALES: POACEAE), IN LAKE OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA, AND PROSPECTS FOR BIOLOGICAL CONTROL

Abstract Torpedograss, Panicum repens L., is an adventive, rhizomatous grass species that has become an invasive weed of terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic environments in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Until recently, strategies for controlling torpedograss in the USA have focused almost exclusively on mechanical and chemical methods, either alone or in combination, with varied results. A survey of the arthropods and nematodes currently associated with the plant in Lake Okeechobee, Florida, was conducted as part of a feasibility study to determine whether torpedograss is an appropriate target for a classical biological control program. Overall, approximately 4,000 arthropods and 400 nematode specimens were collected. Sweep, clipped vegetation, and soil core samples were dominated by representatives of the arthropod orders Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, and Acari. Lesion nematodes of the genus Pratylenchus were commonly associated with the roots of torpedograss. None of the organisms collect...
Introduction to the Special Issue on Color Rendition

Address correspondence to Kevin Houser, Department of Architectural Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, 104 Engineering Unit A, University Park, PA 16802, USA. E-mail: khouser@engr.psu.edu Color captivates me because it defines so much of our visual experience, while being devilishly difficult to truly comprehend. A light source may cause colors to look natural, distorted, saturated, or muted. Or, more subtly, red objects may be saturated while green objects are muted, or red objects may be hue-shifted toward orange while green-objects are hue-shifted toward blue, or any number of other possible effects. The understanding and characterization of these color-rendition outcomes— that is, changes in hue and saturation caused by light—are the central themes of this LEUKOS Special Issue on Color Rendition. Some of the topics covered in this special issue include preferred color rendition of skin under various LED sources, tradeoffs between color rendition and luminous efficacy of radiation, essential characteristics of test color samples for color rendering measures, and a new concept of color fidelity based on the lighting of the frescos in the Sistine Chapel. Several papers comment on the need for new and better measures of color rendition. As this issue was going to press, IES published TM-30-15 IES Method for Evaluating Light Source Color Rendition. TM-30-15 addresses some of the core issues addressed in this special issue. The IES method includes an index to assess color fidelity that is more accurate that the CIE color rendering index, an index to assess the relative gamut (that is, average increase or decrease in saturation), and graphics that visually portray changes in hue and saturation. There has been much anticipation for a new system for characterizing color rendition, and much hope placed on the new IES method, but we are yet to see how it will be received by industry. This issue’s guest editorial discusses what’s next now that TM-30-15 has been approved, including how the IES method may influence future research about color rendition by providing a framework for hypothesis development.
Dopaminergic modulation of spinal neurons and synaptic potentials in the lamprey spinal cord.

Kemnitz, Christopher P. Dopamineric modulation of spinal neurons and synaptic potentials in the lamprey spinal cord. J. Neurophysiol. 77: 289–298, 1997. It has been shown previously that dopamine-i...
Liquidating Real Estate Assets Quickly: What Affects the Probability of a Quick Sale?

This study empirically examines what factors increase the probability of a quick sale, an event where a property sells quicker than what is considered a normal marketing duration. This investigation is the first to explore the determinants of the probability of a quick sale utilizing a Probit methodology. Findings of the study suggest that overpricing, increased housing inventory, and increased listings by the listing broker decrease the probability of a quick sale. Dual agency, rising interest rates, and vacant properties increase the probability of a quick sale.
Evaluation of a Heparin-Calibrated Antifactor Xa Assay for Measuring the Anticoagulant Effect of Oral Direct Xa Inhibitors:

The introduction of oral direct anti-Xa anticoagulants apixaban and rivaroxaban has significantly impacted the treatment and prevention of thromboembolic disease. Clinical scenarios exist in which a quantitative assessment for degree of anticoagulation due to these agents would aid management. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the chromogenic antifactor Xa assay calibrated with heparin standards at our institution for assessment of intensity of anticoagulation with rivaroxaban or apixaban in addition to its current use for unfractionated heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin. We also aimed to propose expected steady state peak and trough antifactor Xa activities for these agents based upon dosing regimens approved for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Antifactor Xa activity correlated very strongly with apixaban and rivaroxaban concentration in both spiked samples and treated patient plasma samples (r (2) = .99, P < .001). This correlation was observed over a broad range (20-500 ng/mL) of drug concentrations, as sample dilution with pooled normal plasma significantly extended the range of quantitative assessment. Based on drug concentrations previously published in pharmacokinetic studies, the expected steady state peak and trough antifactor Xa activity ranges for apixaban are 1.80 to 2.20 IU/mL and 0.70 to 1.10 IU/mL, respectively. For rivaroxaban, these ranges are 3.80 to 6.20 IU/mL and 0.60 to 1.00 IU/mL, respectively. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that heparin-calibrated antifactor Xa activity correlates strongly with apixaban and rivaroxaban concentration. The dilution of samples allowed for this correlation to be extended over the majority of on-therapy drug concentrations.
Politics as a Peculiar Business: Societal Tectonics and the Art of the Deal

This is a preliminary draft of the seventh of what will be eight chapters in a book titled Politics as a Peculiar Business: Public Choice in a System of Entangled Political Economy. This chapter explains that collectively organized economic activity is catallactical in nature, as those activities are instantiations of a generalized art of the deal. To be sure, political catallaxy operates under different institutional arrangements than market catallaxy. Market transactions are at base reducible to dyadic interactions. In contrast, political transactions are necessarily triadic. This difference in transactional structure generates a continual flow of societal tectonics of varying magnitudes, but which are baked into the cake, so to speak, all the same.
Living Life to the Fullest: A Perspective on Positive Aging

Older people are living longer, particularly older women. Many lead productive and satisfying lives. This paper notes factors associated with positive aging and some of the barriers to living life to its fullest. The article includes personal reflections by each of the authors.
The educational validity and utility of single-case design research in building evidence-based practices in education

ABSTRACTImproving academic, behavioural, and social outcomes of students through empirical research has been a firm commitment among researchers, policy-makers, and other professionals in education across Europe and the United States (U.S.). To assist in building scientific evidences, executive bodies such as the European Commission and the Institute for Education Sciences at the U.S. Department of Education have established systematic dialogues and expert panels to determine the rigour, relevance, and impact of educational practices and supports as investigated through a range of research methodologies. In this paper, we give an overview of the single-case design (SCD) research, which is part of the quantitative experimental research and is used widely in education and applied behaviour analysis. First, we describe the philosophical assumptions and defining features of SCD methodology and we explain how SCD researchers exert control for data believability. Second, we review criteria suggested by task-for...
Identifying Zn-bound histidine residues in metalloproteins using hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry.

In this work, we have developed a method that uses hydrogen–deuterium exchange (HDX) of C2-hydrogens of histidines coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) to identify Zn-bound histidines in metalloproteins. This method relies on differences in HDX reaction rates of Zn-bound and Zn-free His residues. Using several model peptides and proteins, we find that all Zn-bound His residues have substantially lower HDX reaction rates in the presence of the metal. The vast majority of non-Zn-binding His residues undergo no significant changes in HDX reaction rates when their reactivity is compared in the presence and absence of Zn. Using this new approach, we then determined the Zn binding site of β-2-microglobulin, a protein associated with metal-induced amyloidosis. Together, these results suggest that HDX-MS of His C2-hydrogens is a promising new method for identifying Zn-bound histidines in metalloproteins.
Sources of Archaeological Obsidian in the Greater American Southwest: An Update and Quantitative Analysis

Obsidian studies in the greater American Southwest have come of age. No longer does the region lag behind other adjoining regions both in the understanding of source provenance and the integracion of obsidian source studies into regional designs. Most of the archaeological obsidian sources discussed here were originally presented in semi-quantitative form in this journal in 1988 (Shackley 1988a). The purpose here is to present that same data in broadly useable quantitative form calibrated to international standards, update the source descriptions when appropriate, and, finally, present data on a few new sources recently located. This is a necessary step to continue the momentum of obsidian studies in the region and make the information available to all. Finally, some discussion is directed toward the archaeological utility of obsidian studies in the region.
Isolation of partially purified human plasmin (fibrinolysin).

SummaryA method for preparation and isolation of plasmin from purified human plasminogen after activation with streptokinase is presented. The product is water soluble, stable in the frozen state and produced no toxic manifestations in the dog after intravenous infusion of 1 mg/kg.
Evaluation of a proximity card authentication system for health care settings

Abstract Background Multiple users access computer workstations in busy clinical settings, requiring many logins throughout the day as users switch from one computer to another. This can lead to workflow inefficiencies as well as security concerns resulting from users sharing login sessions to save time. Proximity cards and readers have the potential to improve efficiency and security by allowing users to access clinical workstations simply by bringing the card near the reader, without the need for manual entry of a username and password. Objectives To assess the perceived impact of proximity cards and readers for rapid user authentication to clinical workstations in the setting of an existing electronic health record with single sign-on software already installed. Methods Questionnaires were administered to clinical faculty and staff five months before and three months after the installation of proximity card readers in an inpatient birthing center and an outpatient obstetrics clinic. Open-ended feedback was also collected and qualitatively analyzed. Results There were 71 and 33 responses to the pre- and post-implementation surveys, respectively. There was a significant increase in the perceived speed of login with the proximity cards, and a significant decrease in the self-reported occurrence of shared login sessions between users. Feedback regarding the system was mostly positive, although several caveats were noted, including minimal benefit when used with an obstetric application that did not support single sign-on. Conclusions Proximity cards and readers, along with single sign-on software, have the potential to enhance workflow efficiency by allowing for faster login times and diminish security concerns by reducing shared logins on clinical workstations. The positive feedback was used by our health system leadership to support the expanded implementation of the proximity card readers throughout the clinical setting.
Analysis on epidemic situation of notifiable disease in Suizhong County of Liaoning in 2012

[Objective]To analyze the epidemic situation of notifiable disease in Suizhong County of Liaoning in 2012,provide scientific basis for making the prevention and control countermeasures of infectious disease.[Methods]The epidemic data of notifiable disease in Suizhong County in 2012 were analyzed with the descriptive epidemiological method.[Results]1 460 cases of 17 notifiable diseases were reported in Suizhong County in 2012,and the incidence rate was 248. 08 / lakh,which increased by 12. 14% as compared with that in 2011. There was 1 death case with the mortality rate of 0. 17 / lakh,and there was no death case in 2011. No category A infectious disease case was reported. The top five notifiable diseases with high incidence rate were tuberculosis,viral hepatitis,other infectious diarrhea,hand-foot-and-mouth disease,and epidemic hemorrhagic fever,and there were 1 235 cases in total,accounting for 84. 59% of total cases. [Conclusion]The situation of notifiable disease prevention is still grim in Suizhong County in 2012. It is necessary to pay attention to the tuberculosis,viral hepatitis,other infectious diarrhea,hand-foot-and-mouth disease,and epidemic hemorrhagic fever,and focus on the epidemic situation of syphilis and brucellosis at the same time. The comprehensive prevention and control measures should be implemented in key area and population,to control the infectious disease.
Reduced Order Modeling of Deflection of a Membrane Covered Airfoil in a Fluid Flow

Flow over a flexible membrane is different to that over a rigid object. Fluid stresses developed over a membrane create a deflection, which in turn affects the flow field and generates a new stress distribution, thereby altering the original deflection. The behavior of the membrane can be modeled using the Young-Laplace equation which links the pressure difference across the membrane and the surface tension force with the radius of curvature of the membrane surface. In this work a computational approach is developed to solve the Young-Laplace equation. The approach is validated with a simple case of simply supported membrane subjected to a pressure load and a pretension. The performance of a S825 airfoil whose upper surface is replaced with a membrane is studied for various angles of attack. It is noted that the deformed airfoils perform better than the S825 till α = 6°. Beyond this angle of attack it is observed that the drop in performance is small.© 2013 ASME
Dr. King's Protest Philosophy of Nonviolence and Vision of the Beloved Community: A Reading of and Reflection on the Letter from Birmingham Jail (1963)

This paper is a textual study and an interpretive analysis of Dr. King’s philosophy of nonviolent civil disobedience for social change and racial justice, with respect to what he called the “third way,” and centered on a critical reading of and reflection on his Letter from Birmingham Jail (1963). The paper looks at and critically examines the twelve most important moral concepts or phrases that underline his protest philosophy of nonviolent civil resistance, and which served as an eloquent articulation for the phrase “why we can’t wait” in the epochal struggle for civil rights and to end racism (as a form of social injustice) in America. Dr. King’s protest philosophy, as a liberation philosophy in the Gandhian tradition, was based on his notion of Christian love and rooted in a vision of humanity as a unity in the hope for building the beloved community. In the course of presenting this paper, effort will be made to make logically coherent connections between his ethics of Christian love, racism as the denial of human personality, nonviolent civil disobedience and noncooperation with evil system as a necessary moral obligation, and also his complete rejection of violence for the “third way” as the right choice to resist evil in the quest for freedom and social justice.
ポアソンパラメータλに対するSPC Q管理図 短期または長期操業

Approximately normalized control charts, called Q Charts, have been given by the author in other work for charting variables and for a binomial attributes chart. We consider here the corresponding ...
Active shooter mitigation for gun-free zones

Active shooting violence poses a serious threat to public safety. The outcome is tragic due to the large number of casualties and injuries that can occur as well as the lasting emotional devastation it causes. This study examines the impact of active shooters in gun-free zones. Gun-free zones include all areas where the general public is forbidden to carry firearms. The goal of an active shooter is to shoot, at random, as many people as possible in the shortest amount of time. This makes gun-free zones a likely target since no one inside is permitted to carry a gun. The study uses a computer simulation program, called AnyLogic®, to create a lifelike gun-free zone workplace. Using the agent-based simulation model, different policy decisions are tested against one another. Those policy decisions include a default scenario in which no safety protocol is in place other than law enforcement response, a security guard scenario in which an armed security guard is present, a concealed carry scenario in which employees are allowed to carry concealed weapons, and a locked door scenario in which all interior doors are locked. The study demonstrates how response time has the largest impact of any variable in ensuring the least amount of casualties in an active shooting situation. Response time and number of casualties can be decreased depending upon the policy chosen. The purpose of this study is to allow policy makers to compare the costs and benefits of policies for their respective gun-free zones in order to make more informed decisions which could save lives.
Changes in Non-Volatile Compounds and Extracts of Wines Due to Yeast Species and Fermentation Temperature

The real reducing sugar-free extracts and the calculated extracts of wines vary significantly with fermentation temperature within the range of l2°-2l°C. Relevant compositional changes are shown and discussed. The three yeasts used did not cause any significant difference in the calculated extracts. The conclusions were that any critical assessment of wine or juice amelioration based only on these forumulas would be subject to criticism.
Technicolor Racism or Caricature Assassination? Satirizing White Anxiety About the Obama Presidency

Using the theory of iconography, this article deconstructs the “Politics of Fear” caricature of Barack and Michelle Obama, featured on the cover of The New Yorker magazine, to investigate White ima...
Circulating IL-2R, IL-8, IL-15 and CXCL10 Levels Are Independently Prognostic In Primary Myelofibrosis: A Comprehensive Cytokine Profiling Study

Abstract 3068 Background: Abnormal cytokine expression accompanies the disease process in primary myelofibrosis (PMF) and the levels of proinflammatory cytokines have been shown to be down-regulated by JAK inhibitor therapy. The prognostic relevance of increased cytokine levels in PMF has not been systematically studied. The objectives of the current study were to describe the spectrum of abnormal cytokine expression in PMF and determine its prognostic relevance. Methods: A multiplex biometric sandwich immunoassay (Invitrogen multiplex assays, Invitrogen Corporation-Carlsbad CA, USA) was used for simultaneous analysis of 30 cytokine levels. Diluted plasma was mixed with fluorescently addressed microbeads bound with anti-cytokine antibodies. Biotin anticytokine secondary antibodies were then added and allowed to bind to cytokine-bead complexes. Total surface fluorescence for each bead was then measured using a Luminex (Luminex Corporation, Austin, TX, USA) fluorescent flow-based detection system. Results: Cytokine levels at diagnosis were analyzed for a total of 127 treatment naive patients with PMF, who had stored sera at the time of diagnosis or first referral to the Mayo Clinic. The circulating levels of 30 cytokines in the multiplex assay were compared between PMF patients ( n =127) and normal controls ( n =31). Significant differences (p Conclusions: Elevated serum levels of IL-2R, IL-8, IL- 15 and CXCL10 independently predict shortened survival in PMF and such prognostication appears to be independent of DIPSS and cytogenetic risk category. The current study suggests clinical relevance of multiple cytokines in PMF that could be therapeutically targeted. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Effective Strategies to Help Teachers Learn About Brain Development

This chapter initially discusses the debate regarding the brain information, classroom practices, and subsequent commerce that has been created to serve the educational market.
On absence of steady state in the Bouchaud-Mézard network model

Abstract In the limit of infinite number of nodes (agents), the Ito-reduced Bouchaud–Mezard network model of economic exchange has a time-independent mean and a steady-state inverse gamma distribution. We show that for a finite number of nodes the mean is actually distributed as a time-dependent lognormal and inverse gamma is quasi-stationary, with the time-dependent scale parameter.
Mitral annular calcification progression and the risk of atrial fibrillation: results from MESA.

Aims To determine if progression of mitral annular calcium (MAC) detected by cardiac computed tomography (CT) predicts incident atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods and results This analysis included 5683 participants (mean age 64 ± 10 years; 52% women; 40% whites; 27% blacks; 21% Hispanics; 12% Chinese-Americans) from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. MAC was measured by cardiac CT at baseline and at a follow-up CT scan over a mean time of 2.4 ± 0.84 years. AF was ascertained by review of hospital discharge records and from Medicare claims data through 31 December 2012. Cox regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between MAC progression and AF. Over a median follow-up of 8.6 years, a total of 533 (9.4%) incident AF cases were detected. In a model adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, income, baseline MAC, systolic blood pressure, body mass index, diabetes, smoking, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, antihypertensive medications, lipid-lowering therapies, and aspirin, any MAC progression (>0/year) was associated with an increased risk for AF (HR = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.20-1.87). Multiplicative interactions were not significant between MAC progression and AF by age (<65 year vs. older), sex, or race/ethnicity (whites vs. non-whites). Conclusion Important prognostic information regarding AF risk is obtained with follow-up MAC measurement, as the risk for participants with any MAC progression was substantively greater than participants without progression. MAC progression may detect underlying left atrial abnormalities that predispose to AF.
Robot-assisted incisional hernia repair in a super obese patient after placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt - a video vignette.

Large incisional hernias as consequence of VPS insertion are anecdotical1. Common complications are infections, peritoneal pseudocysts and volvulus2,3. There are no reports of a minimally-invasive repair in the literature in these cases. We present a video of a super obese (BMI 60) 38-year old female underwent ventriculo-peritoneal shunt (VPS) placement after craniopharyngioma resection two years before. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Exploring the influence of perceived mattering, role stress, and emotional exhaustion on physical education teacher/coach job satisfaction:

Job dissatisfaction has been linked to decreased performance and increased workplace turnover. It is, therefore, important to understand the experiences that are associated with physical education teacher job satisfaction and dissatisfaction. This study examined relationships among perceived mattering, role stress, emotional exhaustion, and job satisfaction in teacher/coaches and non-coaching physical education teachers. The participants included 500 physical educators (251 females, 249 males) from the United States. Most participants (91.20%) were Caucasian, and over half (53.60%) coached. Data were collected using an online survey, and analyzed using latent variable modeling procedures. Results supported the conceptual framework, ?2(214) = 511.49, p < .001, RMSEA = .052 (90% CI = [.046, .058], p = .216), SRMR = .06, NNFI = .95, CFI = .96, and commonly experienced pathways were invariant across coaching and non-coaching groups. A key goal for schools should be to increase teacher perceived mattering and reduce role stress and emotional exhaustion.
IL-13 in LPS-Induced Inflammation Causes Bcl-2 Expression to Sustain Hyperplastic Mucous cells.

Exposure to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) causes extensive neutrophilic inflammation in the airways followed by mucous cell hyperplasia (MCH) that is sustained by the anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2. To identify inflammatory factor(s) that are responsible for Bcl-2 expression, we established an organ culture system consisting of airway epithelial tissue from the rat nasal midseptum. The highest Muc5AC and Bcl-2 expression was observed when organ cultures were treated with brochoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid harvested from rats 10 h post LPS instillation. Further, because BAL harvested from rats depleted of polymorphonuclear cells compared to controls showed increased Bcl-2 expression, analyses of cytokine levels in lavages identified IL-13 as an inducer of Bcl-2 expression. Ectopic IL-13 treatment of differentiated airway epithelial cells increased Bcl-2 and MUC5AC expression in the basal and apical regions of the cells, respectively. When Bcl-2 was blocked using shRNA or a small molecule inhibitor, ABT-263, mucous cell numbers were reduced due to increased apoptosis that disrupted the interaction of Bcl-2 with the pro-apoptotic protein, Bik. Furthermore, intranasal instillation of ABT-263 reduced the LPS-induced MCH in bik +/+ but not bik −/− mice, suggesting that Bik mediated apoptosis in hyperplastic mucous cells. Therefore, blocking Bcl-2 function could be useful in reducing IL-13 induced mucous hypersecretion.
Harnessing Imine Diversity To Tune Hyperbranched Polymer Degradation

Dynamic-covalent chemistry has enabled the facile synthesis of a new generation of degradable materials, but controlling the rate at which these materials degrade remains elusive. Using segmented hyperbranched polymers (SHPs) as model branched architectures, we demonstrate that SHPs containing imine cross-links degrade under acidic conditions into well-defined linear chains at rates controllable via modification of the imine N-substituent. Imine-cross-linked SHPs were synthesized in a one-pot protocol by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) copolymerization of novel divinyl compounds containing dynamic-covalent oxime, semicarbazone, and acyl hydrazone moieties. The extent of SHP branching could be controlled through the relative stoichiometric ratios of cross-linker and chain transfer agent (CTA), and studies of the polymerization kinetics confirmed the growth of polydisperse branched species at high monomer conversions. When subjected to aqueous acidic conditions, the polydisperse bran...
Continuity and Change in Low-Income Children’s Early Learning Experiences Across the School Transition: A Comparison of Head Start and Kindergarten Classrooms

In this chapter, we leverage the nationally representative Head Start Family and Children’s Experiences Survey (FACES) to provide a US population-based description of prekindergarten and kindergarten learning experiences among an economically disadvantaged group: 4-year-old children attending Head Start. We begin by introducing Head Start as a federal initiative to support the school readiness of low-income children. We then highlight emerging evidence of benefits associated with continuity in supportive educational experiences across early schooling. After a brief overview of the FACES data, we describe structural elements (i.e., programmatic infrastructure or design elements) and process-related elements (i.e., direct interactions among individuals or between individuals and learning activities) of children’s learning experiences, focusing on areas of continuity and change across the 2 years. Findings highlight strengths of children’s Head Start and kindergarten experiences while revealing areas of discontinuity across the transition that may be targeted to bolster Head Start children’s school readiness and adjustment. These patterns also speak to the role of early education policy in promoting high-quality early learning experiences for low-income children across preschool and kindergarten years.
LOG-PERIODIC ANTENNAS

The first successful log-periodic antennas were discovered by DuHamel and Isbell only after a great deal of experimenting with diverse designs. The unsuccessful attempts were log-periodic; however, the variation of pattern and impedance over a period was too much for all usual applications. In other words, the problem in the beginning was to find designs that gave nearly constant performance over one period. It seemed that this requirement made the dimensions very critical, and for some years after the secret of successful designs was a mystery. This chapter discusses the symmetry properties of the switched dipole array, planar-sheet structures, inclined plane-sheet structures, and wire structures. A typical wire antenna consists of two wires in an expanding rectangular wave form and two booms lying along their center lines. The input terminals are, therefore, at the junction of the booms, so that the antenna can be fed by passing a coaxial cable through one boom, which forms the outer conductor, and connecting the inner conductor to the other boom.
Functional anatomy of the cartilage of the distal phalanx and digital cushion in the equine foot and a hemodynamic flow hypothesis of energy dissipation.

Objectives To examine macro- and microscopic characteristics of cartilage of the distal phalanx (ungual cartilage [UC]) and digital cushion in the equine foot and to relate them to the foot's function of energy dissipation. Animals 85 horses and 5 foals of various breeds and ages. Procedure Feet, obtained at necropsy, were perfused with India ink (n = 30), latex (5), or polymer plastic (10). Select feet were examined histologically for tissue architecture and to identify elastic fibers. Immunochemistry to identify substance P peptides in nerves (feet from foals) and gold chloride impregnation of axons (n = 10) were performed. Feet were sectioned transversely (n = 27) or coronally (62 feet in a matched-paired study). Ungual cartilage was measured at the navicular bone. Digital cushions were examined for relative tissue composition between forefeet and hind feet. Results Ungual cartilage formed an axial projection that extended towards the midline to overlie the bars, and dorsally along the semilunar line of the distal phalanx. Ungual cartilage of forefeet was significantly larger than that of hind feet. The digital cushion was composed of fat and elastic tissues in feet with thin UC, or fibrous and fibrocartilaginous tissue and elastic tissue in feet with thicker UC. Sensory nerves and an extensive network of venovenous anastomoses were found in the UC. Conclusions and clinical relevance Ungual cartilage and the digital cushion provide the basis for a hemodynamic flow hypothesis of energy dissipation. Maximum energy dissipation depends on proper hoof preparation and shoeing.
Inhibiting geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthesis reduces nuclear androgen receptor signaling and neuroendocrine differentiation in prostate cancer cell models.

Background Following androgen deprivation for the treatment of advanced adenocarcinoma of the prostate, tumors can progress to neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC). This transdifferentiation process is poorly understood, but trafficking of transcriptional factors and/or cytoskeletal rearrangements may be involved. We observed the role of geranylgeranylation in this process by treatment with digeranyl bisphosphonate (DGBP), a selective inhibitor of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthase which blocks the prenylation of small GTPases such as Rho and Rab family proteins, including Cdc42 and Rac1. Methods We examined the therapeutic potential of DGBP in LNCaP, C4-2B4, and 22Rv1 cell culture models. Cell morphology and protein expression were quantified to observe the development of the neuroendocrine phenotype in androgen-deprivation and abiraterone-treated LNCaP models of NEPC development. Luciferase reporter assays were utilized to examine AR activity, and immunofluorescence visualized the localization of AR within the cell. Results Essential genes in the isoprenoid pathway, such as HMGCR, MVK, GGPS1, and GGT1, were highly expressed in a subset of castration resistant prostate cancers reported by Beltran et al. Under treatment with DGBP, nuclear localization of AR decreased in LNCaP, 22Rv1, and C4-2B4 cell lines, luciferase reporter activity was reduced in LNCaP and 22Rv1, and AR target gene transcription also decreased in LNCaP. Conversely, nuclear localization of AR was enhanced by the addition of GGOH. Finally, induction of the NEPC structural and molecular phenotype via androgen deprivation in LNCaP cells was inhibited by DGBP in a GGOH-dependent manner. Conclusions DGBP is a novel compound with the potential to reduce AR transcriptional activity and inhibit PCa progression to NEPC phenotype. These results suggest that DGBP may be used to block cell growth and metastasis in both hormone therapy sensitive and resistant paradigms.
Genital Sensibility in the Neophallus: Getting a Sense of the Current Literature and Techniques.

Introduction Phalloplasty attempts to achieve a functional and aesthetic phallus. Sensation is a key component for sexual pleasure. Sensation is also important for protection in the setting of penile implant insertion. Little data are available on genital sensibility outcomes after phalloplasty, and there are no standardized approaches for assessment of either sensibility or erogenous perception. Methods A literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE databases was conducted with terms related to genital sensibility after phalloplasty. Data on patient demographics, nerves used for coaptation, and measurements of genital sensibility were collected. Pooled event rates were determined for recovered glans sensibility and recovered erogenous sensation using a Freeman–Tukey arcsine transformation. Results A total of 341 articles were identified of which 26 met the inclusion criteria for final analysis. The dorsal cutaneous branch of the pudendal nerve and ilioinguinal were the most common donor nerves. The lateral and medial antebrachial cutaneous and lateral femoral cutaneous were the most common recipient nerves. Pooled event rates suggest that some recovered glans sensibility occurs in more than 70% of cismale patients and in more than 90% of transmale patients. Recovered “erogenous” sensation occurs in more than 75% of cismale patients and more than 95% of transmale patients. In cismale patients, outcomes of recovered glans sensibility and erogenous sensation may be better for upper extremity recipient nerves than lower extremity recipient nerves. Conclusions Based on the limited data in current literature on genital sensibility after phalloplasty, it is difficult to draw evidence-based conclusions. Yet data support improved outcomes with innervation. A validated outcome measure of “erogenous sensation” and a standardized approach to measuring cutaneous sensibility are required.
Influence of Social Connections on Smoking Behavior across the Life Course

Although we know much about demographic patterns of smoking, we know less about people's explanations for when, how and why they avoid, develop, or alter smoking habits and how these explanations are linked to social connections across the life course. We analyze data from in-depth interviews with 60 adults aged 25-89 from a large southwestern U.S. city to consider how social connections shape smoking behavior across the life course. Respondents provided explanations for how and why they avoided, initiated, continued, and/or quit smoking. At various times, social connections were viewed as having both positive and negative influences on smoking behavior. Both people who never smoked and continuous smokers pointed to the importance of early life social connections in shaping decisions to smoke or not smoke, and viewed later connections (e.g., marriage, coworkers) as less important. People who quit smoking or relapsed tended to attribute their smoking behavior to social connections in adulthood rather than early life. People who changed their smoking behavior highlighted the importance of transitions as related to social connections, with more instability in social connections often discussed by relapsed smokers as a reason for instability in smoking status. A qualitative approach together with a life course perspective highlights the pivotal role of social connections in shaping trajectories of smoking behavior throughout the life course.
Immunohistochemistry: A Dako Perspective

Dako has been an industry leader developing automated staining solutions for decades. We have invited Dako to offer perspectives and insights on the past, present, and future of automated staining systems. Experts from Dako answer questions regarding what automation can and cannot provide, how automation can improve workflow, how to secure high staining quality, gains from connection to laboratory information systems, and the application of digital pathology, LEAN and Six Sigma principles in the pathology laboratory.
Poincaré inequality 3/2 on the Hamming cube

For any n≥1, and any f:{−1,1}n→R, we have RE(f+i|∇f|)3/2≤R(Ef)3/2, where z3/2 for z=x+iy is taken with principal branch, and R denotes the real part. We show an application of this inequality: it sharpens a well-known inequality of Beckner.
Physics from an Underrepresented Lens: What I Wish Others Knew

In this paper, I (SH) will apply a counter-storytelling method to highlight a perspective that is not often present in the physics culture. The counter-storytelling (or counter-narrative) method gives voice to people from traditionally marginalized groups to share their untold experiences. Counter-storytelling, as the name implies, challenges common social views and ideas, and, in this paper, highlights the need for changes in the current physics culture. At a young age, I was never encouraged to go into a STEM field. I have always leaned more towards math and science, but I never thought of a science-related career until my sister inspired me in high school. I later realized that in STEM fields, people can let their imaginations run wild, making new observations and discoveries every day. And yet, amid pursuing these wonderful opportunities, individuals from groups underrepresented in STEM fields face challenging situations imposed by those surrounding them in the field. My physics instructor once told me that some people have their lives set on a more difficult mode than others because of their background and identities. As a Latina student whose family is from Mexico, I have come to know an unfortunate truth: my gender, ethnicity, cultural background, and status create barriers for me. This has been the case throughout my life, but most especially in my journey pursuing an undergraduate STEM degree. Because of this, I want others to know my challenging experiences in education and how they have affected me. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to work for change in the STEM fields and in the classroom.
Caregiver "objective attitude" toward patients with neurodegenerative disease: Consequences for caregiver strain and relationship closeness.

Many caregivers of patients with neurodegenerative disease experience physical and psychological strain, which is associated with negative health outcomes. Caregiver strain may be partly attributable to negative emotional responses (e.g.of resentment) to the behavioral, cognitive, and physical changes associated with patients' disease. The philosopher Peter Strawson observed that in dealing with people who have neurological impairments, we often choose to suspend such emotional responses, adopting what he labeled the "objective attitude," though this may come at the expense of our relationships with them. In this study, we assessed the mediating effect of caregivers' adoption of the objective attitude on caregiver strain and relationship closeness in the setting of disease progression. Caregivers of patients with neurodegenerative disorders (n = 215) completed the Clinical Dementia Rating, Relationship-Closeness scale, Caregiver Strain Index, and a novel questionnaire assessing the adoption of the objective attitude. A structural equation model assessing associations among these variables demonstrated good fit (χ2 (88)=164.621, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.929, RMSEA = 0.064.) and showed that adoption of the objective attitude mediated the association between disease progression and relationship closeness (total β= -0.233, 95% CI: -0.351, -0.113; indirect β= -0.483, 95% CI: -0.602, -0.364; direct β = 0.250, 95% CI: 0.117, 0.384), but did not mediate the association between disease progression and caregiver strain (total β = 0.323, 95% CI: 0.234, 0.412; indirect β = 0.089, 95% CI: -0.027, 0.206; direct β = 0.153, 95% CI: -0.043, 0.349). For future work, we propose longitudinal measurements of these constructs to test the directionality of associations and consideration of how models for caregiver support can draw upon interdisciplinary insights.