cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Psychological Ambiguity of Immigration and Its Implications for Promoting Immigration Policy

Immigration can evoke two recurring and contradictory social psychology situations: group inclusion and group threat. This ambiguity implies that immigration can bring out either people's communal, egalitarian natures, or their prejudicial, oppressive natures. Further, it means that immigration policies can be framed in ways that appeal to one psychological orientation or the other. Using this perspective, we examined Californians' attitudes toward a fictitious immigration policy. The policy was framed in one of two ways, and participants' values concerning group equality versus group dominance were measured. Results showed that framing the policy as a way of maintaining dominance over immigrants appealed to those high in social dominance orientation, whereas framing the policy as a way of increasing equality between immigrants and members of the receiving society appealed to those low on social dominance orientation. The practical political aspects of promoting immigration policy are discussed.
PERK is activated differentially in peripheral organs following cardiac arrest and resuscitation

Visceral organs display differential sensitivity to ischemia and reperfusion injury, but the cellular mechanisms underlying these differential responses are not completely understood. A significant response to ischemia identified in brain is stress to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), as indicated by PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum eIF2alpha kinase (PERK)-mediated phosphorylation of eIF2alpha. To determine the generality of this response, we evaluated the PERK pathway in brain, GI tract, heart, liver, lung, kidney, pancreas and skeletal muscle following a clinically relevant, 10 min cardiac arrest-induced whole body ischemia and either 10 or 90 min reperfusion. The potential role of nitric oxide (NO) on PERK activation was investigated by conducting ischemia and reperfusion in the presence and absence of the NO synthase inhibitor nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Organ stress could be ranked with respect to the degree of eIF2alpha phosphorylation at 10 min reperfusion. Brain, kidney and GI tract were reactive organs, showing 15 to 20-fold increases in eIF2alpha(P) compared to controls. Moderately reactive organs included liver and heart, showing <10-fold increases in eIF2alpha(P). Pancreas, lung and skeletal muscle were nonreactive. Although treatment of cultured neuroblastoma 104 cells with the NO-donor S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine (SNAP) activated PERK, administration of L-NAME had no effect on PERK activation or eIF2alpha phosphorylation in organs following ischemia and reperfusion. Thus, PERK is activated differentially in reperfused organs independent of NO. These results suggest that ER stress may play a role in differential responses of viscera to ischemia and reperfusion. ER stress in viscera may contribute to the pathophysiology of resuscitation from cardiac arrest and during organ transplantation procedures.
Portico: tangible interaction on and around a tablet

We present Portico, a portable system for enabling tangible interaction on and around tablet computers. Two cameras on small foldable arms are positioned above the display to recognize a variety of physical objects placed on or around the tablet. These cameras have a larger field-of-view than the screen, allowing Portico to extend interaction significantly beyond the tablet itself. Our prototype, which uses a 12" tablet, delivers an interaction space six times the size of the tablet screen. Portico thus allows tablets to extend both their sensing capabilities and interaction space without sacrificing portability. We describe the design of our system and present a number of applications that demonstrate Portico's unique capability to track objects. We focus on a number of fun applications that demonstrate how such a device can be used as a low-cost way to create personal surface computing experiences. Finally, we discuss the challenges in supporting tangible interaction beyond the screen and describe possible mechanisms for overcoming them.
EEG findings in heroin addicts during induction and maintenance on methadone.

Abstract This study investigated changes in the EEG of addicts initially on heroin as they progressed through the induction and maintenance phases of a methadone program. Spectral analysis of bipolar recordings revealed significant consistent differences only in the eyes-closed resting state. Patients under the influence of heroin showed large sharp peaks at 9–10 c/sec, particularly in the parieto-occipital recording. Methadone induction led either to marked reduction of this peak and widening of alpha band activity or to an increase in frequency of the alpha peak to 12 c/sec. After several months of methadone the alpha peak was still absent unless heroin abuse was present, a theta peak was present in three of four patients, and the alpha bandwidth remained broad. Changes in the theta band were more difficult to interpret.
Men's and Women's Affective Response to Photographed Subjects Who Differ in Iris-Color, Pupil-Size and Sex:

Black-and-white, 8-in. × 10-in. photographs of adult strangers were presented to randomly assigned groups of college men and women. These photographs were identical except that in 2 of them the str...
Interpolation of shaped reflector surfaces by cubic pseudosplines

A recent study demonstrated the superior stability of quintic pseudosplines, when compared with usual oscillatory series expansions, for global interpolation of numerically defined reflector surfaces presenting critical behavior of their principal curvatures. Although interpolating functions with continuous derivatives up to second order are necessary for ray-optical field evaluations, C-class surface descriptions are sufficient when the antenna secondary field is calculated by integration of physical-optics-induced currents. In this connection, the applicability of cubic pseudosplines is explored via numerical comparison with previously obtained results from the implementation of the quintic ones. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons. Inc.
Mutants of the γδ resolvase: A genetic analysis of the recombination function

The resolvase protein encoded by the gamma delta transposon has two functions. It catalyzes a site-specific recombination, and it negatively regulates the expression of two transposon genes. Both functions involve the action of resolvase at the res site. To define regions of resolvase that are involved specifically in the recombination reaction, we have isolated and characterized mutants that are defective in cointegrate resolution but retain the ability to bind to res (as measured by regulatory activity). Nine independent mutants were found to contain six different amino acid substitutions among just four distinct residues. The altered residues all lie within the 140 amino acid amino-terminal domain of resolvase and fall within two clusters of amino acids that are highly conserved in other related recombinases. The regulatory properties of the mutants suggest that one of these clusters may be involved in the interaction of the catalytic domain with the crossover site.
Crown Ethers in Nonaqueous Electrolytes for Lithium/Air Batteries

The effects of three crown ethers, 12-crown-4, 15-crown-5, and 18-crown-6, as additives and co-solvents in non-aqueous electrolytes on the cell performance of primary Li/air batteries operated in a dry air environment were investigated. Crown ethers have large effects on the discharge performance of non-aqueous electrolytes in Li/air batteries. A small amount (normally less than 10% by weight or volume in electrolytes) of 12-Crown-4 and 15-crown-5 reduces the battery performance and a minimum discharge capacity appears at the crown ether content of ca. 5% in the electrolytes. However, when the content increases to about 15%, both crown ethers improve the capacity of Li/air cells by about 28% and 16%, respectively. 15-Crown-5 based electrolytes even show a maximum discharge capacity in the crown ether content range from 10% to 15%. On the other hand, the increase of 18-crown-6 amount in the electrolytes continuously lowers of the cell performance. The different battery performances of these three crown ethers in electrolytes are explained by the combined effects from the electrolytes’ contact angle, oxygen solubility, viscosity, ionic conductivity, and the stability of complexes formed between crown ether molecules and lithium ions.
Increased stability of the p16 mRNA with replicative senescence.

Expression of p16INK4a is elevated during ageing and replicative senescence. Here, we report the presence of an instability determinant within the 3′-untranslated region (UTR) of the p16 messenger RNA in WI-38 human diploid fibroblasts. The p16 3′UTR was found to be a specific target of AUF1, an RNA-binding protein implicated in promoting mRNA decay. Both AUF1 levels and AUF1–p16 mRNA associations were strikingly more abundant in early-passage than late-passage fibroblast cultures. Moreover, short interfering RNA-based reductions in AUF1 levels increased the stability of p16 3′UTR-containing transcripts, elevated the expression of p16 and accentuated the senescence phenotype. Together, our findings show that p16 mRNA turnover decreases during replicative senescence and that the instability-conferring region is located within the 3′UTR of p16, as well as identifying AUF1 as a critical mediator of these regulatory events.
FOG-2, a novel F-box containing protein, associates with the GLD-1 RNA binding protein and directs male sex determination in the C. elegans hermaphrodite germline.

Male sex determination in the Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodite germline requires translational repression of tra-2 mRNA by the GLD-1 RNA binding protein. We cloned fog-2 by finding that its gene product physically interacts with GLD-1, forming a FOG-2/GLD-1/tra-2 3′untranslated region ternary complex. FOG-2 has an Nterminal F-box and a novel C-terminal domain called FTH. Canonical F-box proteins act as bridging components of the SCF ubiquitin ligase complex; the N-terminal F-box binds a Skp1 homolog, recruiting ubiquination machinery, while a C-terminal protein-protein interaction domain binds a specific substrate for degradation. However, since both fog2 and gld-1 are necessary for spermatogenesis, FOG-2 cannot target GLD-1 for ubiquitin-mediated degradation. We propose that FOG-2 also acts as a bridge, bringing GLD-1 bound to tra-2 mRNA into a multiprotein translational repression complex, thus representing a novel function for an F-box protein. fog-2 is a member of a large, apparently rapidly evolving, C. elegans gene family that has expanded, in part, by local duplications; fog-2 related genes have not been found outside nematodes. fog-2 may have arisen during evolution of self-fertile hermaphroditism from an ancestral female/male species. SUMMARY
Future grid business model innovation: A prosumer-based cost-benefit framework for valuation of Distributed Energy Resources

The electric power landscape is undergoing a profound change driven by a confluence of environmental concerns, economic forces, regulatory trends and significant advances in technology. The traditional electricity business model has been characterized by a centralized architecture where utilities deliver power from centrally coordinated generators and receive revenue based on volume of energy sales. The introduction of distributed generation and storage allows traditional consumers to not only consume, but also to produce, or store energy. The active participation of these so called “prosumers” transforms the traditional electricity business model and allows them to participate in the value chain by offering new services. However, how these capabilities should be valued and integrated into the overall system operation is unclear. There is a need for cost-benefit frameworks that provide stakeholders the insight they need to make informed investment decisions. This paper presents a prosumer-based, cost-benefit and business model innovation framework for valuation of distributed energy resources. The valuation framework is based on a decentralized, layered, architecture and multisided platform that continuously connects a network of prosumers and describes the value exchange among energy service providers and customers in business areas that will include not only traditional energy generation and delivery, but other related products and valued added services enabled by new technologies. The business innovation framework expands the prosumer-centered approach and includes grid objectives of ultra-reliability, economic optimization and sustainability. If properly implemented, the framework would provide electric utilities, energy service providers and prosumers the foundation to evaluate the net benefits of Distributed Energy Resources and how to maximize them.
Method of Making Micro-Sections of Rubber Stocks

Abstract THE possibility of seeing pigment particles in a rubber stock has always been a desire of rubber chemists. There has been a natural belief that if the particles in rubber could actually be observed with a microscope more could be learned about their action and properties. The main difficulty in attaining this end lies in the preparation of sufficiently thin sections. For clear observation of highly loaded gas-black stocks the sections must be less than 1 micron thick. For bright-field work with light-colored or colorless pigments, such as litharge and zinc oxide, the sections may be somewhat thicker. However, if the examination is to be made with dark-field illumination the sections for even the colorless pigments must again be very thin. Several methods have been proposed and utilized for making thin sections, and the names of Dannenberg (2), Depew (3), Green (4), Grenquist (5), Hauser (7), Moore (11), Pohle (9), Ruby (3), Spear (11), and Walton (12) are identified with the skilful manipulation ...
Origins of Spectral Broadening in Iodated Vaska’s Complex in Binary Solvent Mixtures

Linear absorption spectroscopy of the iridium-bound carbonyl on an iodated adduct of Vaska’s complex has shown that the mean vibrational frequency is insensitive to solvation by a broad range of so...
Spline Notation Applied to a Volume Problem

(1979). Spline Notation Applied to a Volume Problem. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 86, No. 1, pp. 50-51.
Flexible manufacturing systems: Characteristics and assessment

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to provide a generic description of a Flexible Manufacturing System which captures not only its operational characteristics, but more importantly, emphasizes the fundamental attributes of its “flexibility”.
Review of Formation Flying and Constellation Missions Using Nanosatellites

Small satellites are enabling multisatellite missions that were not otherwise possible because of their small size and modular nature [1]. Multiple small satellites can be flown instead of a much bigger and costlier conventional satellite for distributed sensing applications such as atmospheric sampling, distributed antennas [2], and synthetic apertures [3,4]. Missions with multiple small satellites can deliver a comparable or greater mission capability than a monolithic satellite, but with significantly enhanced flexibility (adaptability, scalability, evolvability, and maintainability) and robustness (reliability, survivability, and fault tolerance) [1,5]. Small satellites that weigh less than 10 kg can be broadly classified into nanosatellites (mass between 1 and 10 kg), picosatellites (mass between 0.1 and 1 kg), and femtosatellites (mass less than 100 g) [1,6].
Characteristics and Research Framework of Automated Demand Response in Smart Utilization

The key characteristics of smart utilization is to achieve flexible interaction between the power system and end-users by means of energy flow,information flow and business flow.Demand response,as the core business of smart utilization,is now moving toward the automated demand response to achieve information exchange standardization,intelligent decision and implementation automation.Based on the new development conditions confronted by demand response in the smart utilization,this paper proposes a research framework of automated demand response in smart utilization including 5 modules and 20 submodules,analyzes the research task and its role in the study of the framework,and presents the overall business process of automated demand response.
Longitudinal Trajectory of Adolescent Exposure to Community Violence and Depressive Symptoms Among Adolescents and Young Adults: Understanding the Effect of Mental Health Service Usage

Research on the impact of exposure to community violence tends to define victimization as a single construct. This study differentiates between direct and indirect violence victimization in their association with mental health problems and mental health service use. This study includes 8947 individuals from four waves of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health and examines (1) whether sub-types of adolescent victimization are linked to depressive symptoms; (2) whether adolescent victimization is linked with mental health service use; and (3) the role of mental health service use in attenuating symptoms arising from victimizations. Adolescents witnessing community violence were more likely to experience depressive symptoms during adolescence but not during their young adulthood; direct exposure to violence during adolescence does not predict depressive symptoms in adolescence but does in adulthood. Use of mental health service mediates report of depressive symptoms for adolescent witnessing community violence.
Irregular Plasma Glucose Concentrations, Elevated Plasma Non-estcrified Fatty Acid Concentrations and Unchanged Glucokinase Activities in Brain, Muscle and Liver during Pregnancy Toxaemia in Sheep

SUMMARY Plasma concentrations of glucose, acetone-plus-acetoacetate (AAA) and non-cstcrified fatty acid (NEFA), and glucokinase activities in brain, muscle and liver have been estimated in 4 groups of sheep: normal pregnant; fasted pregnant; fasting-hydrocorti-sonc-treated; and spontaneously toxaemic. Plasma glucose was lower than normal in the fasting group, but not the fasting-hydrocortisone group. The variance of the plasma glucose concentrations in the field cases of toxaemia was significantly greater than that of the normal sheep; this irregularity was taken to reflect a loss of homeostatic ability to regulate blood glucose. Elevations of plasma AAA and NEFA were found in the fasting, fasting-hydrocortisone, and toxaemic groups. The degree of hyperketonaemia was significantly greater in the toxaemic group than in the fasting group. This suggested that other ketogenic factors become superimposed on fat mobilization during the disease, and exacerbate the ketosis. The glucokinase activities were similar in all groups, so neither the observed irregular glycaemias, nor the postulated defects in glucose utilization, could be attributed to a lack of this enzyme in brain, liver and muscle.
Human Pancreatic Mesenchymal Stem Cells Produce Blood in the Non-Injury Fetal Sheep Model.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are known for their relatively easy isolation, expansion by culture, and low immunogenicity. Here we report the isolation and characterization of a human fetal pancreas-derived MSC population (pMSC), and its long-term engraftment and differentiation into hematopoietic elements. We started a three step in-vitro culture system with freshly digested human fetal pancreatic cells cultured on uncoated plastic in RPMI media supplemented with 2% FBS for 48 hours. Next, adherent cells were further cultured in restrictive media (0.5% FBS) for about 4 weeks where the ensued starvation depleted contaminating cells. In the third phase, human pMSC were expanded in the presence of 10% FBS, bFGF, and EGF. The pMSC maintained their proliferative capacity even after repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Characterization of the pMSC was done by FACS analyses, RT-PCR, and differentiation studies. Cultured cells became CD44 + , CD29 + , CD90 + , CD105 + , CD34 − , and CD45 − , a phenotype similar to the bone marrow-derived MSC. RT-PCR analyses revealed that the pMSC from our culture system did not express pancreatic tissue-specific markers including insulin, PDX1 and PAX6, but expressed the general stem cell marker Nestin and also the c-Met marker attributed to primitive endodermal and pancreatic stem cells. Using specific differentiation inductive media, the pMSC were able to differentiate in-vitro into adipocytes and osteocytes. Thus, the cultured cells could be labeled as pMSC as confirmed by their multi-lineage differentiation when induced, as well as their ability to remain undifferentiated in restrictive media with the expression of characteristic markers listed above. To investigate the engraftment and in-vivo differentiation potential of human pMSC we transplanted these cells into pre-immune sheep (1–2x10e6 cells/fetus) (n=8) at 55–60 days of gestation by intra-peritoneal injections. Repeated evaluation of the recipients up to 1 year of age confirmed the engraftment of human cells in the bone marrow of animals by PCR for the human-specific GAPDH gene and by flow cytometry using human-specific antibodies. Human hematopoietic markers including CD47, CD45, CD133, and CD15 were found in both the bone marrow and peripheral blood of chimeric animals. Sargramostim (human specific GM-CSF) treatment of one animal (5 micrograms/ kg /day for three days) induced up-regulation of the human CD47, CD45, CD36, and CD56 expressing human cells. Methylcellulose culture of a bone marrow sample from this animal generated colonies that tested positive for human GAPDH by PCR thereby confirming the presence of human hematopoietic progenitors. In summary, we established a three step in vitro culture system for the isolation and expansion of human fetal pMSCs. Using the non-injury sheep model we were able to demonstrate the plasticity of human pMSC which gave rise to hematopoietic elements for up to one year following engraftment. These animals will be further evaluated for the pMSC contribution in other tissues including the pancreas.
"ASCUS, rule out HSIL": cytologic features, histologic correlates, and human papillomavirus detection.

Risk factors, cytologic and histopathologic features, and human papillomavirus (HPV) detection associated with 75 cervical smears classified as atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance, rule out high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASCUS, rule out HSIL) were reviewed. Cases were identified in a pathology panel review of material collected from 1953 women participating in a 5-year prospective study of HPV infection and squamous intraepithelial lesions at Kaiser Permanente, Portland, Oregon, sponsored by the National Cancer Institute. Initial abnormal smears diagnosed as ASCUS, rule out HSIL by one panelist or diagnosed as ASCUS by one pathologist and as HSIL by another were included. The 75 ASCUS, rule out HSIL smears identified were examined again by two pathologists after the study. These cases were compared with cases of ASCUS, not otherwise specified (ASCUS, NOS) and HSIL identified in the same group of 1953 women. Findings in ASCUS, rule out HSIL included tissue fragments (21%); atypical immature metaplasia (17%); atypical mature metaplasia (15%); small atypical cells (9%); and atypical repair (4%). A final patient classification of HSIL, reflecting all available data, was assigned to 11 (24%) of 46 women with ASCUS, rule out HSIL and to 1(1%) of 80 women with ASCUS, NOS in the original review (P < .001). Detection of oncogenic HPV types at diagnosis in ASCUS, rule out HSIL; ASCUS, NOS; and HSIL was similar, but data were unavailable for many subjects. Among women not tested at diagnosis, enrollment testing (1 to 4 years earlier) revealed that HPV detection in women with ASCUS, rule out HSIL was intermediate in frequency between ASCUS, NOS and HSIL. These data suggest that ASCUS, rule out HSIL is a distinct diagnosis from ASCUS, NOS because it is more often associated with an underlying HSIL. Consequently, women with ASCUS, rule out HSIL should be referred for colposcopic examination.
Canonical orderings on grids

Jump Point Search, an algorithm developed for fast search on uniform cost grids, has successfully improved the performance of grid-based search. But, the approach itself is actually a set of diverse ideas applied together. This paper decomposes the algorithm and gradually re-constructs it, showing the component pieces from which the algorithm is constructed. In this process, we are able to define a spectrum of new algorithms that borrow and repurpose ideas from Jump Point Search. This decomposition opens the door for applying the ideas from Jump Point Search in other grid domains with significantly different characteristics from two dimensional grids.
A Markov chain collaborative filtering model for course enrollment recommendations

In this paper we detail our initial approach and early results in examining the efficacy of a Markovbased stochastic model to course enrollment recommendations. We outline a Markov-based collaborative filtering model to recommend courses to students at each semester based on the sequence of courses they have taken in the previous semesters. The proposed model is based on the enrollment data and no prior knowledge of the institution, course prerequisites, curriculum or degree requirement is assumed. Using enrollment data from a research university in Canada, we evaluate and compare the Markov model with traditional collaborative filtering approaches for course recommendation. Our initial results show that the Markov-based model significantly outperforms traditional collaborative filtering models when applied to course enrollment recommendation.
Abstract 12827: Exercise Training Fails to Reduce Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Though exercise is an integral part of diabetes care, the existing studies on exercise for BP reduction have inconsistent results. As noted in a 2010 position statement from the American Diabetes Association and American College of Sports Medicine, exercise may slightly reduce SBP and DBP reductions are less common. The evidence was rated category C, which indicates a consensus viewpoint or expert opinion rather than high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCT) or meta-analyses. Methods: This was a 6-month prospective RCT of a supervised moderate-intensity combined aerobic and resistance training 3 times per week; controls followed usual care physical activity and diet advice. Patients (N=140, M=81, F=59; aged 40-65 years, mean (SD) 56.4±6.1 years) had uncomplicated diabetes not requiring insulin and untreated SBP of 120 to 159 mm Hg or DBP of 85 to 99 mm Hg, or, if being treated with one or more anti-hypertensive medications, any SBP below 159 mm Hg or DBP below 99 mm Hg. Arterial stiffness was indexed by the aortofemoral pulse-wave velocity (PWV). Results: Fifty-three exercisers and 65 controls completed the study. Exercisers significantly improved aerobic and strength fitness, increased lean body mass and reduced general and abdominal obesity. Baseline BP was 126.3±12.3/71.7±7.9 mm Hg in exercisers and 126.0±13.5/70.3±8.7 mm Hg in controls, with no group differences p=ns. At 6-months, BP was 125.2±14.6/69.9±9.3 mm Hg in exercisers and 125.7±13.1/70.3±8.5 mm Hg in controls, with no group differences (p=ns) or change from baseline in either group (p=ns). Baseline PWV was 902.2±322.8 cm/s in exercisers and 918.4±351.0 in controls, p=ns. At 6-months, PWV was 902.7±307.0 cm/s in exercisers and 905.4±344.7 in controls, with no group differences (p=ns) or change from baseline in either group (p=ns). Conclusions: Exercisers achieved a training effect as evidenced by increases in fitness and lean mass and reductions in body fat yet BP remained virtually unchanged. The lack of reduction in arterial stiffness suggests that patients with type 2 diabetes may be resistant to exercise-induced reductions in SBP. Though exercise produced several health benefits, this RCT did not find a reduction in SBP or DBP in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Approximating Multiple Itô Integrals with “Wide-Band Width” Processes, and Application to Filtering Theory

Abstract Let ne(·) denote a "wide-band widt h" vector valued process. We are concerned with limits of ∫ 0 t ∫ 0 τ n e ' (τ)L(τ,s)ne(s)dτds, and for the m-multiple integral case. A weak convergence result is obtained, and the “correction” terms exhibited. An application to a likelihood functional and hypothesis testing problem is given. There, the weak convergence result (rather than mere convergence of finite dimensional distributions) is essential if the limit approximation is to make sense as an approximation to the likelihood functional. The correction terms depend only on the limit (as e → 0) of the correlation function of the (renormalized) ne(·).
Integrating the teaching of process and physical metallurgy

A long look at today’s metallurgy shows that it is more logically divided into fields based on scientific principles rather than the traditional technology. It is here shown how thermodynamics, kinetics, and structure may be taught as principles, with applications in both physical and process work.
Describing pharmacy student participation in an international, interprofessional medical mission trip as part of an advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE).

Abstract Background and purpose Several schools of pharmacy across the United States have taken steps to incorporate international medical mission trips into the doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) curriculum. This study aims to describe the impact of advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE)-level student pharmacists on an interprofessional team during an international medical mission trip to Jamaica. Educational activity and setting The Jamaica Medical Mission (JMM) trip is an annual event involving healthcare professionals from several disciplines across multiple universities and healthcare systems. At this institution, the JMM trip is included as part of a rural health elective APPE rotation. Students electing to participate in this rotation are provided with the opportunity to serve as active participants on an interprofessional healthcare team in underserved and under-resourced communities throughout Jamaica. The JMM trip that took place during June 2016 included healthcare professionals and students in the fields of medicine, dentistry, optometry, nursing, and pharmacy. A total of five pharmacist preceptors and 10 pharmacy students attended the JMM trip in June 2016. Approximately three to five clinic sites per day were conducted simultaneously on each of the seven clinic days at various locations throughout Jamaica. The interprofessional healthcare teams provided free medical care, including physical exams and access to prescription and non-prescription medications. Findings The interprofessional healthcare team saw a total of 1014 patients and dispensed 1879 prescriptions during the seven clinic days. A total of 811 clinical recommendations were made by student pharmacists and/or pharmacy preceptors. Of these recommendations, 561 (69%) were made by student pharmacists without pharmacy preceptor prompting, 103 (13%) were made by the student pharmacist with preceptor prompting, and 147 (18%) were made by pharmacy preceptors. Over 70% of recommendations made by student pharmacists without pharmacy preceptor prompting were accepted by prescribers. Discussion and summary This study sought to describe the impact of APPE-level student pharmacists on an interprofessional team during an international medical mission trip. Our findings demonstrate that APPE-level student pharmacists were capable of making a substantial number of clinical recommendations without preceptor prompting. The number of recommendations made by students without preceptor prompting were consistently greater than the number of recommendations made with preceptor prompting throughout the trip. Future studies should address student competence in achieving learning objectives associated with international, interprofessional APPE rotations.
Combinatorial optimization of elk habitat effectiveness and timber harvest volume

Forest resource planning processes in the western United States have been placing an increasing emphasis on wildlife and fish habitat goals. With this in mind, we developed a method that incorporates a Habitat Effectiveness Index (HEI) for Roosevelt elk (Cervus elaphus roosevelti) into the objective function of a mathematical forest planning model. In addition, a commodity production goal is proposed (maximum timber production), and the habitat and commodity production goals are allowed to act as goals in a multi-objective goal programming planning problem. A heuristic programming technique (tabu search) is used to develop feasible solutions to the resulting non-linear, integer programming problem. Using a hypothetical example, we illustrate results of five scenarios, where the emphasis of the achievement of one or both goals is altered. The main contribution of this approach is the ability to measure and evaluate the trade-offs among achieving a certain level of a complex wildlife goal and achieving commodity production goals. These trade-offs are measured using a flexible model, allowing planners to formulate non-linear spatial goals as objectives of a problem, rather than forcing them to rely on posterior evaluations of the suitability of management plans to goals such as elk HEI.
Structure and function of cross-linked DNA. II. Loss of reversibility of HNO2-cross-linked DNA during transformation of Bacillus subtilis.

Abstract 1. 1. DNA containing interstrand cross-links resulting from reaction with nitrous acid has been used in an attempt to gain insight into the process of transformation of Bacillus subtilis. DNA reisolated from a competent auxotrophic culture after 30 min exposure to cross-linked prototrophic DNA showed no heat-stable prototrophic transforming activity. This indicates that cross-links were not transferred to the recipient DNA during transformation. 2. 2. On the basis of this result several recombination schemata are eliminated, and alternatives are discussed.
Response of Subtropical Stationary Waves and Hydrological Extremes to Climate Warming in Boreal Summer

AbstractSubtropical stationary waves may act as an important bridge connecting regional hydrological extremes with global warming. Observations show that the boreal summer stationary-wave amplitude...
Who Should Certify the Safety of Genetically Modified Foods

Two methods of addressing consumer concerns regarding the use of genetically modified foods are evaluated using conjoint analysis – the use of a familiar brand and government certification. In one survey, consumers were asked to rate hypothetical products based on brand, price, and production technology attributes. In a second survey, consumers rated hypothetical products that included government certification, price, and production technology attributes. Both the individual and aggregate results indicate that government certification would be more effective at assuaging consumers concerns than would the use of a familiar brand, although a familiar brand was sufficient to address consumer concerns for a significant number of respondents. The analysis also indicated that different factors are associated with strong consumer preferences for a familiar brand and government certification.
Identification of low prostate-specific antigen, high Gleason prostate cancer as a unique hormone-resistant entity with poor survival: A contemporary analysis of 640,000 patients.

5080Background: The clinical implications of a low prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in high-grade prostate cancer are unclear. We examined the prognostic and predictive value of a low PSA in high-gr...
Effect of single-dose ibuprofen on follicular fluid levels of interleukins in poor responders undergoing in vitro fertilization.

Premature follicular rupture during in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a well-known culprit for cycle cancellation. We sought to evaluate whether a single oral dose of ibuprofen will have an effect on...
Poor Antigen Processing of Poxvirus Particles Limits CD4+ T Cell Recognition and Impacts Immunogenicity of the Inactivated Vaccine.

CD4 + T cells play critical roles in defending against poxviruses, both by potentiating cellular and humoral responses and by directly killing infected cells. Despite this central role, the basis for pox-specific CD4 + T cell activation, specifically the origin of the poxvirus-derived peptides (epitopes) that activate CD4 + T cells, remains poorly understood. In addition, because the current licensed poxvirus vaccines can cause serious adverse events and even death, elucidating the requirements for MHC class II (MHC-II) processing and presentation of poxviral Ags could be of great use. To address these questions, we explored the CD4 + T cell immunogenicity of ectromelia, the causative agent of mousepox. Having identified a large panel of novel epitopes via a screen of algorithm-selected synthetic peptides, we observed that immunization of mice with inactivated poxvirus primes a virtually undetectable CD4 + T cell response, even when adjuvanted, and is unable to provide protection against disease after a secondary challenge. We postulated that an important contributor to this outcome is the poor processability of whole virions for MHC-II–restricted presentation. In line with this hypothesis, we observed that whole poxvirions are very inefficiently converted into MHC-II–binding peptides by the APC as compared with subviral material. Thus, stability of the virion structure is a critical consideration in the rational design of a safe alternative to the existing live smallpox vaccine.
High-Frequency Broadband Acoustic Scattering from Temperature and Salinity Microstructure: From Non-Linear Internal Waves to Estuarine Plumes

Abstract : LONG-TERM GOALS. To understand high-frequency broadband acoustic backscattering from small-scale physical processes, such as internal waves, turbulence, and microstructure, in shallow, stratified coastal waters. OBJECTIVES. The primary objective of the proposed research is to measure high-frequency broadband acoustic backscattering from temperature and salinity microstructure. Testing the validity of existing scattering models and the initial development of new, and/or extension of existing, simple physicsbased scattering models is a secondary objective of this work.
FERROELECTRIC THIN LAYERS BY SOLUTION CHEMISTRY

The deposition of ferroelectric thin layers from solution is described. Emphasis is placed on the powder-free ceramic processing method of polymeric sol-gel processing. Materials, include, PbTiO3, PbZrO3, Pb(Zr,Ti)O3, (Pb,La)TiO3, (Pb,La)(Zr,Ti)O3, BaTiO3, (Ba,Pb)TiO3 and other related materials, including LiNbO3. Processing parameters which affect the properties of ferroelectric thin layers are reviewed, including, solution chemistry and heat-treatment conditions. The results are interpreted in terms of the chemistry of precursors and gels, densification and crystallization behaviors, and interfacial reactions with the substrate and with the atmosphere during firing. Properties are reported for each class of materials, and compared with the properties of thin layers prepared by other chemical and physical methods, and with the properties of bulk ceramics and crystals. Of particular importance is the interaction of ferroelectric thin layers with various substrate materials, including semiconductors, for potential electrical and optical devices.
Structural and functional insights into the Diabrotica virgifera virgifera ATP-binding cassette transporter gene family

The western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, is a pervasive pest of maize in North America and Europe, which has adapted to current pest management strategies. In advance of an assembled and annotated D. v. virgifera genome, we developed transcriptomic resources to use in identifying candidate genes likely to be involved in the evolution of resistance, starting with members of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter family. In this study, 65 putative D. v. virgifera ABC (DvvABC) transporters were identified within a combined transcriptome assembly generated from embryonic, larval, adult male, and adult female RNA-sequence libraries. Phylogenetic analysis placed the deduced amino-acid sequences of the DvvABC transporters into eight subfamilies (A to H). To supplement our sequence data with functional analysis, we identified orthologs of Tribolium castaneum ABC genes which had previously been shown to exhibit overt RNA interference (RNAi) phenotypes. We identified eight such D. v. virgifera genes, and found that they were functionally similar to their T. castaneum counterparts. Interestingly, depletion of DvvABCB_39715 and DvvABCG_3712 transcripts in adult females produced detrimental reproductive and developmental phenotypes, demonstrating the potential of these genes as targets for RNAi-mediated insect control tactics. By combining sequence data from four libraries covering three distinct life stages, we have produced a relatively comprehensive de novo transcriptome assembly for D. v. virgifera. Moreover, we have identified 65 members of the ABC transporter family and provided the first insights into the developmental and physiological roles of ABC transporters in this pest species.
Machine learning approaches for classifying lunar soils

Abstract We examine the ability of machine learning (ML) techniques to determine the physical and mineralogical properties of lunar soil using reflectance spectra. We use the Lunar Soil Characterization Consortium (LSCC) dataset to train and assess the predictive power of classification models based on their type (Mare soil and Highland soil), particle size, maturity, and the dominant type of pyroxene (High-Ca and Low-Ca). Nine ML algorithms including linear methods, non-linear methods, and rule-based methods (three from each) were selected, representing a range of characteristics such as simplicity, flexibility, computational complexity, and interpretability along with their ability to handle different types of data. Fifteen spectral parameters were initially introduced to the models as input features and a maximum of four features was selected as the best feature combinations to classify lunar soils based on their types, particle size, maturity, and the type of pyroxene. The Support Vector Machine with radial basis function (svmRadial) and the penalized logistic regression model (glmnet) performed well for all target variables with high accuracies. Band depths and Integrated band depths at 1 μm, 1.25 μm and 2 μm, band position of the 1 μm band, along with four band ratios (band tilt, band strength, band curvature, and olivine/pyroxene) are important features for classifying soil type, grain size, maturity, and type of pyroxene from reflectance spectra. This study shows that proper preprocessing and feature engineering techniques are crucial for high performance of the predictive models.
Economic viability of pitaya (Hylocereus sp.) Cultivation in Tomé-Açú Municipality, Pará State, Brazil

Pitaya ( Hylorereus sp.) is a fruit from the botanical family Cactaceae, originally from Latin America. In Brazil, pitaya cultivation is promising due to the fruit’s reputation of being nutritious and having many uses. This study’s objective was to analyze the economic viability of two pitaya production systems in Tome-Acu municipality, the largest producer of pitaya in the Para state, Brazilian Amazon. The data were obtained through interviews with two producers, along with field observations of their production systems, which are representative of the cultivation norms in Tome-Acu. The data were used to estimate the planting and maintenance costs for 1 ha of land using different cultivation methods, identified as: 1) extensive production system and 2) intensive production system. The two systems’ cash flows were estimated over a 20-year period, then analyzed to estimate the net present value, internal rate of return, benefit-cost index, payback period, and break-even point. The intensive production system was found to have a higher implementation cost, due to its irrigation system, while the extensive production system was found to have lower investment and maintenance costs. The economic viability indicators show that both production systems are economically viable, with the extensive production system being more attractive, especially for family farmers who cannot invest in expensive irrigation infrastructure and chemical inputs. In conclusion, the investment in pitaya cultivation is economically viable and constitutes an alternative to agricultural cultivation in Para state, which can contribute to fruit diversification.
Cell polarity (the 'four lines') distinguishes gastric dysplasia from epithelial changes in reactive gastropathy.

Aims Gastric dysplasia is a risk factor for synchronous and subsequent gastric carcinoma. Distinguishing gastric dysplasia from reactive changes is subject to interobserver disagreement and is a frequent reason for expert consultation. We previously used assessment of surface cell polarity (the 'four lines') as a key feature to decrease equivocal diagnoses in Barrett oesophagus. In the current study, we examined for the presence or absence of the four lines in gastric dysplasia and reactive gastropathy. Materials and methods The study includes all (n = 91) in-house biopsies with at least gastric dysplasia from the surgical pathology archives of two academic institutions during a 5-year period from 2008 to 2012. A reactive gastropathy group (n = 60) was created for comparison. Results The dysplasia/neoplasia group was comprised of 14 biopsies of gastric foveolar-type dysplasia, 59 of intestinal-type dysplasia, 14 with dysplasia in fundic gland polyps, three pyloric gland adenomas and one oxyntic gland adenoma. Loss of surface cell polarity was seen in all 88 dysplasia cases with evaluable surface epithelium. All 57 reactive gastropathy cases with evaluable surface epithelium showed intact surface cell polarity except in focal areas directly adjacent to erosions in 17 cases, where the thin wisp of residual surface mucin could not be appreciated on haematoxylin and eosin. Conclusion Surface cell polarity (the four lines) was lost in all gastric dysplasia biopsies with evaluable surface epithelium and maintained in all biopsies of reactive gastropathy. Caution should be taken in using this feature adjacent to erosions in reactive gastropathy.
La toma de decisiones en la atención de la salud mental: el papel del cuidador

This paper sets a framework for considering ethical issues related to involuntary treatment in people with a) intellectual and developmental disabilities, b) progressive neurocognitive impairments, or c) compromised mental health from the caregiver’s perspective. The different time courses for three groups of conditions are described, and potential impacts on the person affected and their caregivers in relation to decision. While some issues for caregivers who are supporting capabilities of their loved ones to make healthcare decisions will vary, some principles apply across all groups. All caregivers need recognition and support for the roles they undertake. They need access to evidence-based, coherent and trustworthy information about available options, how to best fulfil these roles and how to look after their own health and wellbeing to best look after the person for whom they are caring.