cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Model-Based Traceability for System Stabilization

Traceability is commonly adopted as an aid to manage test cases in face of changing requirements. Our approach to traceability is to help decide which tests and bugs should be prioritized in order to minimize the time necessary to execute acceptance test activities of testing, debugging and fixing. Our approach is to apply a set of models based on traceability among requirements, tests, and software components. In this paper we demonstrate the facts motivating the model and how the model is to be operated. We also offer as future work some research questions and possible extensions. Index Terms — Model-Driven Engineering, Traceability, Bug Triage.
Chest radiographic anatomy retention: the impact of preclinical groundwork on clinical recall in two schools.

Rationale and Objectives The aim of this study was to verify earlier work on learning and retaining chest radiographic anatomy introduced during preclinical education and revisited in the clinical years by comparing the initial clinical group to clinical students in a second setting who had no preclinical exposure. Materials and Methods One hundred thirty-seven clinical medical students were pretested and posttested on the same 10 items as were used in the first study. Scores on these 10-item standardized pretests and posttests were compared and assessed for statistical significance. Results Although the clinical students with preclinical exposure scored significantly higher on the pretest than the students without preclinical exposure (mean, 4.42 vs 4.09), there was a much larger significant difference in posttest improvement (mean, 8.65 vs 6.09). Isolating only the senior students to control for clinical experience (pretest, 4.42 vs 4.38; posttest, 8.65 vs 6.09) did not significantly affect outcomes. Conclusions Many medical schools are revising curricula and incorporating new models of learning. It may be important to recognize that older approaches such as memorization and testing are still necessary to start building the enormous “filing cabinet” of facts that must be cross-linked, revisited, and retrievable to contribute to a usable fund of medical knowledge.
Patterns of analgesic adherence predict health care utilization among outpatients with cancer pain

BACKGROUND Studies in chronic noncancer pain settings have found that opioid use increases health care utilization. Despite the key role of analgesics, specifically opioids, in the setting of cancer pain, there is no literature to our knowledge about the relationship between adherence to prescribed around-the-clock (ATC) analgesics and acute health care utilization (hospitalization) among patients with cancer pain. PURPOSE To identify adherence patterns over time for cancer patients taking ATC analgesics for pain, cluster these patterns into adherence types, combine the types into an adherence risk factor for hospitalization, identify other risk factors for hospitalization, and identify risk factors for inconsistent analgesic adherence. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data from a 3-month prospective observational study of patients diagnosed with solid tumors or multiple myeloma, having cancer-related pain, and having at least one prescription of oral ATC analgesics were collected. Adherence data were collected electronically using the medication event-monitoring system. Analyses were conducted using adaptive modeling methods based on heuristic search through alternative models controlled by likelihood cross-validation scores. RESULTS Six adherence types were identified and combined into the risk factor for hospitalization of inconsistent versus consistent adherence over time. Twenty other individually significant risk factors for hospitalization were identified, but inconsistent analgesic adherence was the strongest of these predictors (ie, generating the largest likelihood cross-validation score). These risk factors were adaptively combined into a model for hospitalization based on six pairwise interaction risk factors with exceptional discrimination (ie, area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve of 0.91). Patients had from zero to five of these risk factors, with an odds ratio of 5.44 (95% confidence interval 3.09-9.58) for hospitalization, with a unit increase in the number of such risk factors. CONCLUSION Inconsistent adherence to prescribed ATC analgesics, specifically the interaction of strong opioids and inconsistent adherence, is a strong risk factor for hospitalization among cancer outpatients with pain.
Hydrodynamic model of a Hall thruster with ionization and recombination

Hall thruster plasma dynamics is studied in the framework of multi-fluid model with ionization and recombination. Electrons are modeled as magnetized and hot, whereas ions are assumed unmagnetized and cold. The neutral dynamics is included through the neutral continuity equation with uniform neutral flow. The computed plasma density profile shows that the maximum density is located slightly inward from the channel exit suggesting maximum ionization inside the channel. The electron temperature peaks just near the exit closer to the inner wall. The plasma potential is fairly flat in most part of the channel before falling at the exit. Simulation results are interpreted in the light of published experimental data and numerical results.
Vector Proofs in Solid Geometry

(1970). Vector Proofs in Solid Geometry. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 77, No. 10, pp. 1051-1065.
An Overview of Aging and Mistreatment of LGBT Elders

Many older adults experience their later life as a time when they may be able to enjoy the company of family and friends to an extent not possible during their working years. Most older adults, including those who are LGBT, remain in their homes as they age; most enjoy good and appropriate treatment by their family members, their extended family, and their services providers. However, for some older adults, old age is marred by unhealthy dependencies of families, friends, and others to the point that the older adult may experience abuse, neglect, and exploitation discretely or in escalation. Such harsh and life-threatening treatment of individuals in later life can occur in community as well as facility settings, as a single occurrence or over a protracted period of time. Elder mistreatment is thought to affect one in nine older adults, with 23.5 instances of mistreatment going unreported for each one reported to authorities.
MAF and haplotype frequencies of 404 SNPs in ROR2 gene in Han Chinese in Beijing

Objective:SNPs screening for etiologic studies involving ROR2 gene.Methods: SNPs in ROR2 gene were analyzed using CHB data from HapMap by Haploview program.Results and Discussion: Among the 404 SNPs genotyped in ROR2 gene,a total of 263 SNPs have passed our quality control criteria(Genotyping call rate80%,MAF1%,HWE test P0.01 and gender difference P0.05).The number of SNPs dropped due to MAF=0 were 103(25.5%) and these SNPs should be avoided in SNPs selection in ROR2 gene related studies that will be conducted in Chinese population.Seventy two percent(189) of the 263 eligible SNPs have MAF greater than 10% providing a rich resource for etiologic studies.Seventy seven tagging SNPs were identified in 263 eligible SNPs with five haplotype blocks identified.The frequencies for the top two haplotypes among each of the five haplotype blocks were between 68.1% and 92.3%.Conclusion: Our analysis of SNPs in ROR2 gene provided clues for future studies involving this gene and primary method for studying other genes as well.
Use and reported adverse effects of new chemical entities.

Reports submitted to the FDA through 1987 of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to new chemical entities (NCEs) approved after 1983 are described, and estimates of each NCE's proportionate use in hospitals and within its therapeutic class are reported. This review was limited to those domestic spontaneous ADR reports submitted to the FDA by healthcare professionals. NCEs accounted for approximately 20% of the total number of domestic spontaneous ADR reports received in 1987, 22% of the reports of serious ADRs, and 24% of the reports that listed death as an outcome. Data on the use of these NCEs were obtained through the U.S. Pharmaceutical Market--Drugstores and Hospitals and the National Prescription Audit. Of the 93 drugs designated as NCEs in 1987, 65 had measurable use, with 41% of those used principally in hospitals. Most hospital-use NCEs were injectable antimicrobial agents, surgical drugs, and radioactive diagnostic agents. Because NCEs account for a disproportionate share of the ADRs reported to the FDA, and because of the high use of NCEs in hospitals, hospital pharmacists should be aware of the importance of monitoring and reporting serious ADRs associated with NCEs.
Peripheral leukocyte kinetic studies of acute leukemia in relapse and remission and chronic myelocytic leukemia in blastic crisis.

Peripheral blood leukocyte dynamics were investigated in a group of patients with acute leukemia both in relapse and remission and in chronic granulocytic leukemia in blastic crisis. In acute leukemia in relapse and in chronic granulocytic leukemia in blastic crisis, labeled blast cells appeared promptly with a peak at one to two days. Secondary peaks occurred 40-70 hours following the first peaks with labeled blasts usually the predominant labeled cell in both peaks. The time interval between these successive waves of labeled blasts could represent a generation time. The leukocyte specific activity patterns obtained in patients in blastic crisis resembled some of the patterns of patients with acute leukemia. The leukocyte kinetic patterns in patients with acute leukemia considered to be in complete remission were usually normal. However, in some patients in bone marrow remission only, an abnormal early peak was present usually composed of labeled abnormal cells released early into the peripheral circulation. In the presence of a known leukemic infiltrate, alteration of the normal leukocyte kinetic curve apparently depended upon release of these leukemic cells into the circulating blood.
Re-enactments in their developmental context

The power of the repetition compulsion is felt in an especially keen way during re-enactments within psychodynamic psychotherapy. In this paper, the authors recommend greater attention to the developmental aspects of re-enactments as providing valuable information about the affective character of the crisis being brought to life in the treatment. Specifically, the authors suggest that the current developmental stage of the patient influences the experience and expression of the core developmental conflict that lies at the heart of the re-enactment in the treatment dyad. Re-enactments in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood, as well as at midlife and in the later years, each have different signatures. Thus, increased knowledge and awareness of both developmental stage and developmental core conflict is important for the following reasons: It provides a firmer theoretical foundation for understanding what is, by definition, a formidable moment in treatment; it adds another dimension and thus enhanced ...
Stroke and the Eye

This chapter discusses the effect of stroke on eyes. There are a host of manifestations of cerebrovascular disease that affect the visual and ocular motor systems. The eye and its behavior reflect the manifest or incipient effects of stroke. There is a logical division into abnormalities of the visual system from retina to the occipital cortex and abnormalities of the ocular motor system from the hemispheres to the brainstem. Amaurosis fugax or fleeting loss of vision is characterized clinically by transient and sudden monocular, complete or partial, loss of vision. It is the hallmark of extracranial carotid system disease. Central retinal artery occlusion and branch retinal artery occlusion are usually considered together. It is also believed that central retinal artery occlusions are a special form of anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. Because of the extensive collateral blood supply available to the globe from the external carotid circulation, unilateral carotid vascular disease, including stenosis or gradual occlusion, rarely produces remote ischemic symptoms. The external carotid system and even the ophthalmic artery may be affected by atherosclerotic disease, however, that there is a potential for the development of acute or chronic ocular hypoxia.
Urethral Stricture in the Spinal Cord Injured Patient—What Are the Unique Considerations?

Urethral stricture disease in spinal cord injured (SCI) patients presents a challenging clinical scenario. Determining the appropriate course of management requires consideration of the unique issues of these patients, and unfortunately there is sparse published literature. The goals of treatment should be determined before the treatment modality is chosen. Endoscopic management options such as direct visual internal urethrotomy (DVIU), although less invasive, have a very high recurrence rate compared to urethral reconstruction or urinary diversion. Catheterization, whether clean intermittent catheterization (CIC), suprapubic catheter (SPC), or indwelling catheter (IDC), is often problematic. Urethral strictures in SCI patients are usually best treated with urethral reconstruction or urinary diversion. However, urethral reconstruction is associated with a significant rate of reoperation and subsequent necessity for urinary diversion; therefore, urinary diversion may be most appropriate in many patients. Detailed discussion and consideration of unique patient factors as well as patient preferences are important components of preoperative counseling.
American Indian and Alaska Native Men's Use of Sexual Health Services, 2006-2010.

CONTEXT American Indian and Alaska Native men experience poorer sexual health than white men. Barriers related to their sex and racial identity may prevent them from seeking care; however, little is known about this population's use of sexual health services. METHODS Sexual health service usage was examined among 923 American Indian and Alaska Native men and 5,322 white men aged 15–44 who participated in the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth. Logistic regression models explored differences in service use by race and examined correlates of use among American Indians and Alaska Natives. RESULTS Among men aged 15–19 and those aged 35–44, men with incomes greater than 133% of the federal poverty level, men with private insurance, those living in the Northeast and those living in rural areas, American Indians and Alaska Natives were more likely than whites to use STD or HIV services (odds ratios, 1.5–3.2). The odds of birth control service use did not differ by race. Differences in service use were found among American Indian and Alaska Native men: For example, those with a usual source of care had elevated odds of using sexual health services (1.9–3.4), while those reporting no recent testicular exam had reduced odds of using these services (0.3–0.4). CONCLUSIONS This study provides baseline data on American Indian and Alaska Native men's use of sexual health services. Research exploring these men's views on these services is needed to help develop programs that better serve them.
Podemos’ Performative Power: Space Struggles and/as Political Transformation

This chapter presents an analysis of Podemos as, first of all, an outcome of the shrinking space of privilege in post-crisis Spain and the social mobilizations that followed, and, second, a potential producer of a more democratic or “common” political culture through its different performative actions in institutional spaces. Drawing on theorizings of space as a structured and (re)structuring force that regulates broader social relations (Lefebvre 1991), I first discuss the intrinsic relation between Indignad@s’ particular uses of space, the development of a common social position for this social movement, and the emergence of Podemos as a political project. Then, I focus on Podemos’ ability to overcome the fixing trap of place, or the attaching of certain meanings to only a particular location, which was possible thanks to a further spatial “reterritorialization” (Deleuze and Guattari 1988) beyond the plaza, and the “streets” more generally. I argue that, through different performances of politics geared toward the reappropriation of institutional spaces such as Congress or Parliament, Podemos tried to challenge the dominant, unmarked—but equally performative—accepted practices that constitute these spaces through exclusion. Overall, although still in need of being further integrated as part of Podemos’ hybrid project, these powerful performances of politics can be seen as manifestations of cultural (re)production and potential political transformation.
New Insights into the Compositional Dependence of Li-Ion Transport in Polymer-Ceramic Composite Electrolytes.

Composite electrolytes are widely studied for their potential in realizing improved ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability. Understanding the complex mechanisms of ion transport within composites is critical for effectively designing high-performance solid electrolytes. This study examines the compositional dependence of the three determining factors for ionic conductivity, including ion mobility, ion transport pathways, and active ion concentration. The results show that with increase in the fraction of ceramic Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) phase in the LLZO–poly(ethylene oxide) composites, ion mobility decreases, ion transport pathways transit from polymer to ceramic routes, and the active ion concentration increases. These changes in ion mobility, transport pathways, and concentration collectively explain the observed trend of ionic conductivity in composite electrolytes. Liquid additives alter ion transport pathways and increase ion mobility, thus enhancing ionic conductivity significantly. It is also...
Thermodynamic and kinetic hydricities of metal-free hydrides

Metal-free hydrides are of increasing research interest due to their roles in recent scientific advances in catalysis, such as hydrogen activation with frustrated Lewis pairs and electrocatalytic CO2 reduction with pyridinium and other aromatic cations. The structural design of hydrides for specific applications necessitates the correct description of their thermodynamic and kinetic prowess using reliable parameters – thermodynamic hydricity (ΔGH−) and nucleophilicity (N). This review summarizes reported experimental and calculated hydricity values for more than 200 metal-free hydride donors, including carbon-, boron-, nitrogen- and silicon-based hydrides. We describe different experimental and computational methods used to obtain these thermodynamic and kinetic parameters. Furthermore, tabulated data on metal-free hydrides are discussed in terms of structure–property relationships, relevance to catalysis and contemporary limitations for replacing transition-metal hydride catalysts. Finally, several selected applications of metal-free hydrides in catalysis are described, including photosynthetic CO2 reduction and hydrogen activation with frustrated Lewis pairs.
Development and Validation of a Financial Self-Efficacy Scale

The influence of a financial sophistication scale on adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) borrowing is explored. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis using recent data from the Survey of Consumer Finances reveal that ARM borrowing is driven by both the least and most financially sophisticated households but for different reasons. Less sophisticated households are more likely to choose ARMs when they are income constrained, while more sophisticated households are more likely to choose ARMs to take advantage of higher interest rate spreads between fixed-rate mortgages and ARMs. These results highlight the importance of financial sophistication in making effective mortgage decisions and the value financial counselors and planners can provide in helping households understand the benefits and risks of ARM borrowing.
The Harrington-O'Shea Career Decision-Making System, Microcomputer Edition, 1985: A Review

The Career Decision-Making System, Microcomputer Edition, is reviewed. The user and practitioner are provided with a wealth of information, and the instrument's assets outweigh its limitations.
How Intraoperative Tools and Techniques Have Changed the Approach to Brain Tumor Surgery

Surgical treatment of brain tumors remains an integral part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Here, we review technological advances that have enhanced what surgeons are capable of doing within and outside the traditional operating room. Extent of surgical resection has improved with the use of MRI and fluorescent dyes intraoperatively. Neurological injury during brain tumor surgery has decreased with appropriate use of neurophysiological monitoring. New operative scopes have enhanced ability of surgeons to visualize tissues during dissection. Laser interstitial therapy and radiation treatment have made possible the treatment of previously considered non-operable brain tumors in addition to replacing or serving as adjunct to surgical treatment of brain tumors. Surgery remains an important pillar in treatment of most brain tumors. Ongoing technological advances have augmented extent of what is possible in this realm.
Performance Implications of Changes in Regulatory and Social Legitimacy

This study develops a dynamic legitimacy framework to examine gaining/losing regulatory and social legitimacy. We draw on the institutional and psychology literatures to predict how changes in legi...
Combatting Stereotypes in Computing Using Personality Type

This Innovative Practice Work in Progress focuses on encouraging the persistence of computing majors. Research has shown that one factor in whether or not a student persists in a computing major is a sense of belonging. We are using Myers-Briggs personality types to help students see that even if they feel they are currently in a minority, others who are similar to them are successfully enjoying a computing career. It is our hope that our discussion of Myers-Briggs personality types also facilitates students’ understanding of the value of diversity in a computing environment.
Synthesis, characterization, peripheral studies, and structural analysis of E-4-(N-methylanilino)-3-pentene-2-one, C12H15NO

Crystallographic structural refinement of E-4-(N-methylanilino)-3-pentene-2-one (I) has been carried out by means of three-dimensional single-crystal X-ray diffractometry. The title compound crystallizes in space group C2 (No. 5,Z = 4). The lattice constants are a = 21.543(4), b = 6.433(1), c = 8.019(2) A, and β = 97.82(3)°. Characterizations include physical property determinations and spectrometric identifications employing IR, 1H and 13C NMR, and X-ray powder analyses. The molecules in the crystal lattice are held together by van der Waals forces. Selected bond distances and angles are presented and discussed as well as synthesis and peripheral studies.
Abstract 5193: Conditional knockout of histone chaperone FACT in mice: Consequences for normal tissues

Histone chaperone FAcilitates Chromatin Transcription (FACT) is, a complex of SSRP1 and SPT16, involved in chromatin remodeling during transcription, replication, and DNA repair. FACT is selectively expressed during early stages of development and later exclusively present in the stem cell niches in adult normal tissues. It is expressed in undifferentiated aggressive tumors with poor prognosis.¹ FACT inhibition is not tolerated by most tumor, unlike normal cells. This vulnerability of tumor cells upon FACT inactivation suggests evaluating FACT inhibition as an antitumor therapeutic approach.¹ Since FACT knockout (KO) is embryonically lethal (E3.5),² study of FACT’s function in different non-tumor cells of mammalian organisms was not possible and was mostly studied in single cell organisms and in tumor cell lines. Therefore, to assess the safety of FACT inhibition as an anticancer approach, by understanding its role in normal physiology, we generated a conditional KO of Ssrp1 mouse model using CreERT2-LoxP system.³ We harvested stem cells of different lineages to better understand the role of FACT in normal mouse physiology. Using the hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from the bone marrow (BM), we performed BM colony formation assay. We found that FACT inactivation significantly decreased the number of colonies of HSCs. Furthermore, inhibiting FACT significantly increased caspase 3 expression in mouse adipose stem cells (ASCs), resulting in apoptosis and decreased survival. These results prompted us to comprehensively evaluate roles of FACT in stem cell development and survival. To this end, fibroblasts in a conditional knockout mouse were reprogrammed by retroviral vector encoding four pluripotency transcription factors (Oct3/4, Klf4, Sox2 and c-Myc). We have found successful generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells 14 days after reprogramming. In conclusion, FACT associates with development and/or survival of mouse HSCs and ASCs. Further evaluation using iPS cells is expected to delineate roles of FACT in various stages of stem cell development and thus normal physiology. 1. Garcia H, et al. Cell Rep, 2013 4(1) 2. Cao S, et al. Mol Cel Bio. 2003 23(15) 3. Sandlesh P et al. PLOS ONE. 2018 13(6) Citation Format: Masaki A. Ito, Poorva Sandlesh, Imon Goswami, Laura A. Prendergast, Katerina Gurova. Conditional knockout of histone chaperone FACT in mice: Consequences for normal tissues [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5193.
Interlibrary loan availability of nursing journals through DOCLINE and OCLC: a five-state survey.

L'etude de la presence des principaux periodiques utiles aux infirmiers dans les systemes de pret interbibliotheque OCLC et DOCLINE montre que le premier offre davantage de titres et qu'il y a des differences concernant le cout et le niveau des notices
The Use of BrainPath Tubular Retractors in the Management of Deep Brain Lesions: A Review of Current Studies.

Abstract Background Traditional manual retraction to access deep-seated brain lesions has been associated with complications related to vascular compromise of cerebral tissue. Various techniques have been developed over time to minimize injury, such as self-sustaining retractors, neuronavigation, and endoscopic approaches. Recently, tubular retractors such as the ViewSite Brain Access System (VBAS; Vycor Medical Inc.) have been developed to reduce mechanical damage from retraction by dispersing the force of the retractor radially over the parenchyma, thus we sought to review the current literature to accurately assess the indications, benefits, and complications associated with use of VBAS retractors. Methods A literature search for English articles published between 2005 and 2019 was performed using the MEDLINE database archive with the search terminology “Vycor OR ViewSite OR Brain-Access-System NOT glass”. The Vycor™ VBAS website was also examined. Only articles detailing neurosurgical procedures using the VBAS tubular retractor system alone, or in combination with other retractors were included. Post-operative morbidity and mortality were analyzed to estimate complications linked to using the retractor. Results Twelve publications (n=106 patients) met the inclusion criteria. The VYCOR retractor was used for tumor resections, hematoma evacuations, cyst removal, foreign body extractions, and lesion resection in toxoplasmosis and multiple sclerosis. These cases were subdivided into groups based on lesion location, size, and resection volume for further analysis. Gross-total resection was achieved in 63% of tumor excisions and subtotal resection in 37%. Hematoma evacuation was successful in all cases. There were 3 short-term postoperative complications linked to the retractor with an overall complication rate of 2.8%. Conclusions This report is the first formal assessment of the VBAS, highlighting technical considerations of the retractor from the surgeon’s perspective, patient outcomes, and complications. VYCOR retractor is a safe, efficacious tubular retraction system that can be used for tumor biopsy and resection, colloid cyst removal, hematoma evacuation, and removal of foreign bodies. However, further randomized controlled trials are indicated to accurately assess complication rates and outcomes.
Effects of Earnings Announcements on Liquidity, Pricing Efficiency, and Trading Activities: New Evidence from Implementation of ASC 606

The implementation of the new revenue recognition standard (ASC 606) has significantly changed the impact of earnings announcements on various measures of market quality and trading activities. In contrast to prior research findings, we show that earning announcements are accompanied by a decrease in the bid-ask spread, the price impact of trades, informed trading, and pricing efficiency, and an increase in the quoted depth after the implementation of ASC 606. These results indicate that ASC 606 has improved the informativeness of earnings and changed the effect of earnings announcements on the firm’s information and trading environments accordingly.
The corporatization of dermatopathology

The corporatization of dermatopathology has long preceded that of dermatology and has been driven by federal legislation and economic influences. Although the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments and the Stark Law limited physician-owned laboratories, loopholes via the Safe Harbor Exemptions outlined in the Anti-Kickback Statute allowed corporate laboratories to flourish through relationships built by health information technology donations. The rise of corporatization has had widespread effects on the fields of dermatopathology and dermatology, resulting in reduced numbers of dermatology-trained dermatopathologists and decreased caseloads in academic institutions, potentially compromising dermatology residency education. Although there have been efforts to counteract these effects, more global changes will be required to alter the direction of this subspecialty.
Wnt-inducible Lrp6-APEX2 Interacting Proteins identify ESCRT Machinery and Trk-Fused Gene as Components of the Wnt Signaling Pathway

The canonical Wnt signaling pathway serves as a hub connecting diverse cellular physiological processes, such as {beta}-catenin signaling, differentiation, growth, protein stability, macropinocytosis, and nutrient acquisition in lysosomes. We have proposed that sequestration of {beta}-catenin destruction complex components in multivesicular bodies (MVBs) is required for sustained canonical Wnt signaling. In this study, we investigated the events that follow activation of the canonical Wnt receptor Lrp6 using an APEX2-mediated proximity labeling approach. The Wnt co-receptor Lrp6 was fused to APEX2 and used to biotinylate targets that are recruited near the receptor during Wnt signaling at different time periods. Lrp6 proximity targets were identified by mass spectrometry, and revealed that many components of the ESCRT (Endocytic Sorting Components Required for Transport) machinery interacted with Lrp6 within 5 minutes of Wnt3a treatment. This supports the proposal of a central role of multivesicular endosomes in canonical Wnt signaling. Interestingly, proteomic analyses identified the Trk-fused gene (TFG), previously known to regulate the cell secretory pathway and to be rearranged in thyroid and lung cancers, as being strongly enriched in the proximity of Lrp6. We provide evidence that TFG specifically co-localized with MVBs after Wnt stimulation. TFG depletion with siRNA, or knock-out with CRISPR/Cas9, significantly reduced Wnt/{beta}-catenin signaling in cell culture. In vivo, studies in the Xenopus system showed that TFG is required for endogenous Wnt-dependent embryonic patterning. The results suggest that the multivesicular endosomal machinery and the novel player TFG have important roles in Wnt signaling. SignificanceWnt/{beta}-catenin signaling is a conserved pathway involved in cell differentiation and in the regulation of many other processes, including cell growth and proliferation, macropinocytosis, and cell metabolism. Endocytosis is required to regulate Wnt signaling, but the precise factors at play are still elusive. Here, we describe a biotin-dependent proximity labeling approach using ascorbate peroxidase-tagged Lrp6, a Wnt co-receptor. Proteomic analysis of biotinylated-enriched targets identified numerous multivesicular endosome proteins that were recruited to the receptor shortly after addition of Wnt protein. Additionally, we identified the protein TFG as one of the strongest interactors with Lrp6. TFG co-localized with Wnt-induced multivesicular endosomes. Xenopus embryo assays revealed that TFG is required in vivo for canonical Wnt signaling.
Disparities in Presentation at Time of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Diagnosis: A United States Safety-Net Collaborative Study

While hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is ideally diagnosed outpatient by screening at-risk patients, many are diagnosed in Emergency Departments (ED) due to undiagnosed liver disease and/or limited access-to-healthcare. This study aims to identify sociodemographic/clinical factors associated with being diagnosed with HCC in the ED to identify patients who may benefit from improved access-to-care. HCC patients diagnosed between 2012 and 2014 in the ED or an outpatient setting [Primary Care Physician (PCP) or hepatologist] were identified from the US Safety-Net Collaborative database and underwent retrospective chart-review. Multivariable regression identified predictors for an ED diagnosis. Among 1620 patients, median age was 60, 68% were diagnosed outpatient, and 32% were diagnosed in the ED. ED patients were more likely male, Black/Hispanic, uninsured, and presented with more decompensated liver disease, aggressive features, and advanced clinical stage. On multivariable regression, controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, poverty, insurance, and PCP/navigator access, predictors for ED diagnosis were male (odds ratio [OR] 1.6, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–2.2, p = 0.010), black (OR 1.7, 95% CI: 1.2–2.3, p = 0.002), Hispanic (OR 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1–2.6, p = 0.029), > 25% below poverty line (OR 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.9, p = 0.019), uninsured (OR 3.9, 95% CI: 2.4–6.1, p < 0.001), and lack of PCP (OR 2.3, 95% CI: 1.5–3.6, p < 0.001) or navigator (OR 1.8, 95% CI: 1.3–2.5, p = 0.001). The sociodemographic/clinical profile of patients diagnosed with HCC in EDs differs significantly from those diagnosed outpatient. ED patients were more likely racial/ethnic minorities, uninsured, and had limited access to healthcare. This study highlights the importance of improved access-to-care in already vulnerable populations.
Antiarrhythmic Treatment Duration and Tachycardia Recurrence in Infants with Supraventricular Tachycardia

We sought to assess the effect of a shorter medication treatment course (up to 4–6 months of age) on the recurrence of infantile supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). This was a retrospective review of infants with SVT diagnosed at age 0–12 months at Rady Children’s Hospital (2010–2017). Infants with structural congenital heart disease, automatic tachycardias, atrial flutter, or lack of follow-up data were excluded. Seventy-four infants met criteria. Median age at diagnosis was 6 days (IQR 0–21 days); 28.4% presented with fetal tachycardia. Median gestational age was 38.4 weeks (IQR 36–40), 30% were preterm. Median age at medication discontinuation was 6.7 months (IQR 4.6–9.8). Therapy was stopped at younger age in patients managed by pediatric electrophysiologist (vs. general pediatric cardiologist): 4.9 vs. 8.6 months (p = 0.03). Thirty-eight patients (51.4%) were treated for 12 months. SVT recurrence was similar for these groups: 13.2% vs. 16.7%, and 33.3%, respectively, (p = 0.27). Most patients with recurrence required emergency care, though none had significant adverse outcomes. Infants with SVT and structurally normal cardiac anatomy, who remain recurrence free on a single agent, have no increased risk of recurrence with shorter treatment courses of 4–6 months, compared to traditional treatment duration of 6–12 months.
Bayesian Estimation of a Tail-Index with Marginalized Threshold

In this paper, we develop a new method for estimating the tail-index found in extreme value statistics. Using a fixed quantile, model-selection approach, we derive the posterior distribution of the tail-index marginalizing out the unknown threshold and nuisance parameters. Our marginalized threshold method relies on a spliced likelihood density for the bulk and extreme tail of the underlying distribution where the switch-point is specified as a fixed quantile. We derive a closed form expression for the posterior of the tail-index and illustrate its application to quantile, or value-at-risk, estimation. Our simulation results show that the marginalized threshold outperforms the maximum likelihood method, or the Hill estimate, for both tail-index and quantile estimation. We also illustrate our method using returns for the S&P 500 stock market index from 1928 - 2020.
Electrical-potential induced surface wettability of porous metallic nanostructures

Abstract Wettability is a critical factor for the design and fabrication of micro- and nanoscale structures. Manipulating surface wettability using physical methods such as electrowetting is advantageous for many engineering applications. This study examines the effects of an electrical potential on the wettability of a porous metallic nanostructure (PMN). Experimental results in wetting performance showed that applying an electrical potential induces an increase in wettability. Wettability was also affected by pore size, with larger pore sizes exhibiting less wetting. Based on the Young–Lippmann model, a modified equation was proposed to express the force balance between absorbing and repelling at the pore walls. The force balance model was established in terms of the height of a water droplet in the pore. This research reveals that PMNs can be used for numerous electrowetting applications and for fabricating other types of nanostructures.
Sensitivities of immersion freezing: Reconciling classical nucleation theory and deterministic expressions

[1] Ice particle number concentrations are often described deterministically, i.e., ice nucleation is singular and occurs on active sites unambiguously at a given temperature. Other approaches are based on classical nucleation theory (CNT) that describes ice nucleation stochastically as a function of time and nucleation rate. Sensitivity studies of CNT for immersion freezing performed here show that ice nucleation has by far the lowest sensitivity to time as compared to temperature, ice nucleus (IN) diameter, and contact angle. Sensitivities generally decrease with decreasing temperature. Our study helps to reconcile the apparent differences in stochastic and singular freezing behavior, and suggests that over a wide range of temperatures and IN parameters, time-independent CNT-based expressions for immersion freezing may be derived for use in large-scale models.
Enhancing the recruitment and retention of first-year students with improved career selection opportunities

The paper describes an on going project to improve the persistence of first year engineering technology majors. This project involves a pilot course that uses an experiential learning approach to provide students with an improved understanding of engineering and technology. The team taught course also helps to develop the students' academic support system, including interaction with upper class technology students. Initial evaluations indicate that the students found the attitude of the faculty, the active learning instructional method, and content material helpful in their career selection and persistence in the technical area.
The structure of the molybdenum cofactor. Characterization of di-(carboxamidomethyl)molybdopterin from sulfite oxidase and xanthine oxidase.

Abstract A di-(carboxamidomethyl) derivative of molybdopterin, the organic component of the molybdenum cofactor, has been prepared under conditions favoring retention of all of the structural features of the molecule. The specific radioactivity of [1-14C]iodoacetamide incorporated relative to the amount of phosphate indicated two alkylation sites per pterin. Energy-dispersive x-ray analysis of the derivative showed the presence of 2 sulfurs in the derivative. An exact mass corresponding to the molecular formula C14H18N7O5S2 was obtained for the MH+ ion of the alkylated, dephosphorylated compound by fast atom bombardment mass spectroscopy. 1H NMR spectra of the phosphorylated and dephosphorylated forms of alkylated molybdopterin, in conjunction with the other data, have provided strong corroboration of the validity of the proposed structure of molybdopterin (Johnson, J. L., and Rajagopalan, K. V. (1982) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 79, 6856-6860) as a 6-alkylpterin with a 4-carbon side chain containing an enedithiol on C-1' and C-2', a secondary alcohol on C-3', and a phosphorylated primary alcohol on C-4'. As isolated, the di-(carboxamido-methyl)molybdopterin was found to be a 5,6,7,8-tetrahydropterin.
Direct graphene growth on (111) Cu2O templates with atomic Cu surface layer

Abstract This work explores nucleation and epitaxy of graphene on crystalline Cu2O templates formed via self-assembly and surface reduction of Cu2O nanocrystallites on the cubic textured (100) orientation Cu (CTO-Cu) and polycrystalline Cu (poly-Cu) substrates, respectively. It has been found that the presence of sub-surface oxygen causes the reconstruction of Cu surface due to the formation of oriented Cu2O nanocrystallites at a low H2 gas flow. Self-assembly of the Cu2O nanocrystallites into a textured surface template provides direct nucleation sites for graphene growth after the oxygen-sublattice on the template surface is reduced. The atomic Cu surface layer provides advantages of high graphene growth rate due to the catalytic role of Cu and in-plane alignment of graphene nuclei. It is particularly important that the Cu2O crystallites have predominantly (111) orientation aligned to each other in the plane of the (100) CTO-Cu substrates, which allows epitaxy of graphene with much lower defect density as compared to that in the poly-Cu case. Since Cu2O (111) templates may be developed on lattice matched (100) surfaces of other dielectric materials, this self-assembly approach provides a promising pathway for large-scale, transfer free graphene epitaxy on nonmetallic surfaces.
Relationships between Viscosity of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose and Plasma Cholesterol in Hamsters

Dietary high viscosity hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) lowered plasma and liver cholesterol concentrations in cholesterol-fed hamsters. To determine the level of viscosity needed to effect a significant reduction in total plasma cholesterol, hamsters were fed for 3 wk diets containing 0.12% cholesterol and either 4% cellulose or one of four preparations of HPMC that varied in viscosity between 14 and 1698 centipoise (cP), as estimated in vitro. Blood was collected for plasma cholesterol determination, and intestinal contents were obtained by finger-stripping of the excised small intestine. Contents were centrifuged and the supernatant (ex vivo) viscosity determined. In vitro and ex vivo viscosities were correlated (R2 = 0.96). Plasma cholesterol concentrations declined as in vitro or ex vivo viscosity increased. Maximal plasma cholesterol reduction occurred at an ex vivo viscosity of approximately 150 cP. There was a linear relationship between plasma cholesterol and the logarithm of ex vivo viscosity (R2 = 0.98). Our results suggest that materials that increase the viscosity of intestinal contents can be effective in reducing plasma cholesterol and that only moderate increases in viscosity are necessary to achieve this effect.
Paradoxical Authorship: Tracing Authority in the Gorakhbāṇī

?Como podemos entender a un autor que pudo o no haber existido hace cientos de anos, pero que resulta crucial para la comprension de un texto? Se cree que el Gorakhbāṇī , un texto filosofico que contiene las ensenanzas del yogui Gorakh, fue compuesto en algun momento del siglo XVII. Entre otras cosas, el texto hace hincapie en la necesidad de un maestro o guru para comprender el verdadero significado: “La palabra verdadera constituye un calculo de oro. Quien carece de maestro es un impostor, el discipulo de un guru permanece virtuoso. Quien deambula sin maestro cae en el vicio” (Barthwal, Gorakh-Bānī , 149).Sin embargo, el guru al que se refiere este texto es el asceta indio semi legendario Guru Gorakhnāth, quien se cree que vivio cientos de anos antes de la composicion del texto. Esta problematica ocasiona dificultades especificas al tratar la cuestion de la autoria de este texto premoderno. En este ensayo, mi argumento es que es necesario concebir a este guru como el autor del texto. Mientras que su existencia es fundamental para comprender la veracidad del texto, al mismo tiempo el resulta necesariamente inexistente. Recurriendo a las teorias de Roland Barthes y Michel Foucault, el objetivo es sugerir que la autoria del Gorakhbāṇī debe entenderse segun su propio y paradojico rubro.
Relative Effectiveness of Personalized and Form Covering Letters in Initial and Follow-up Mail Surveys

Nonresponse is a serious threat to validity in mail surveys, prompting the need for research on techniques for increasing response rates. The relative effectiveness of personalized versus form covering letters in obtaining responses in a mail questionnaire survey was investigated for both initial and follow-up mailings. A questionnaire eliciting opinions about content in college courses in measurement was sent to 1000 Utah school teachers, randomly divided into two groups, with 500 receiving personalized letters and 500 receiving form letters. Nonrespondents in each group were randomly divided, with half receiving personalized follow-up letters and half receiving form follow-up letters. Using nondirectional hypothesis tests, no statistically significant differences were found in the relative effectiveness of personalized or form letters in either initial or follow-up mailings. These findings do not support the widely held belief that personalized covering letters improve response rates.
LASER MACHINING OF CERAMICS: A REVIEW

ABSTRACT Laser machining techniques for ceramics are reviewed. The effect of laser characteristics on ceramics is examined and suggestions are given on the direction of future research.
(+)-Myristinin A, a Naturally Occurring DNA Polymerase β Inhibitor and Potent DNA-Damaging Agent

The first stereoselective total synthesis of the naturally occurring flavan myristinin A has been accomplished, as well as its biochemical evaluation. This synthesis verified the structural assignment and allowed for the determination of the absolute stereochemistry. Myristinin A exhibits biochemical activity both as a potent DNA-damaging agent and DNA polymerase β inhibitor. Relaxation of supercoiled plasmid DNA was observed at picomolar concentrations, in addition to inhibition of polymerase β at low micromolar concentrations.