cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increased mitochondrial K(ATP) channel activity during chronic myocardial hypoxia: is cardioprotection mediated by improved bioenergetics?

Abstract—Increased resistance to myocardial ischemia in chronically hypoxic immature rabbit hearts is associated with activation of ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels. We determined whether chronic hypoxia from birth alters the function of the mitochondrial KATP channel. The KATP channel opener bimakalim (1 μmol/L) increased postischemic recovery of left ventricular developed pressure in isolated normoxic (Fio2=0.21) hearts to values (42±4% to 67±5% ) not different from those of hypoxic controls but did not alter postischemic recovery of developed pressure in isolated chronically hypoxic (Fio2=0.12) hearts (69±5% to 72±5%). Conversely, the KATP channel blockers glibenclamide (1 μmol/L) and 5-hydroxydecanoate (5-HD, 300 μmol/L) attenuated the cardioprotective effect of hypoxia but had no effect on postischemic recovery of function in normoxic hearts. ATP synthesis rates in hypoxic heart mitochondria (3.92±0.23 μmol ATP · min−1 · mg mitochondrial protein−1) were significantly greater than rates in normoxic he...
Designers' and General Contractors' Perceptions of Offsite Construction Techniques in the United State Construction Industry

This study examines the current use of offsite construction techniques in the building sector of the U.S. construction industry, discusses the perceptions of experienced industry practitioners regarding the benefits and barriers of using these techniques, and also identifies the top three reasons and challenges of using offsite construction techniques. The findings indicate that offsite construction techniques have not been widely used in the U.S. construction industry in 2005. The benefits of using offsite construction techniques include: 1) reducing project schedules, 2) reducing the need for skilled craft workers, 3) reducing the negative environmental impacts of construction operations, and 4) increasing the safety performance onsite. The top three reasons for using these techniques were identified as reducing: 1) the construction duration, 2) overall project schedule, and 3) the effect of incremental weather conditions. The top three challenges of using these techniques were: 1) inability to make cha...
Nitrogen sources for starch digestion by rumen microorganisms.

Abstract The effectiveness of selected ammonium salts, amino acids, amides, and amidines as nitrogen sources for in vitro digestion of starch by rumen microorganisms has been compared with that of urea. Each nitrogen source was added toprovide 3, 6, and 9mg of nitrogen per 20ml of an incubation mixture containing washed rumen microorganisms, minerals, buffers, and approximately 100mg of purified corn starch. Ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, ammonium acetate, and ammonium phosphate were equivalent to urea at all levels tested. Aspartic acid was inferior to urea, but significantly more effective than the other amino acids tested. Arginine, serine, methionine, valine, and glutamic acid additions resulted in moderate-to-slight increases in starch digestion. Lysine was not effectively utilized. Acetamide, propionamide, butyramide, succinimide, malonamide, guanidine acetate, or aminoguanidine bicarbonate did not consistently stimulate starch digestion. High ammonia levels after 4 or 8 hr of fermentation were associated with stimulation of starch digestion.
Inlay split skin grafts: a simplified technique.

A simplified technique for the fixation and compression of inlay split skin grafts is described.
Legal Issues in Prescribing Psychoactive Medications

The psychiatrist-patient relationship has gradually changed over the past few years. In all areas of practice, psychiatric paternalism has declined. Hospital­ization is now sometimes viewed as deprivation of liberty, and psychotropic agents are increasingly condemned as “unwarranted invasion of privacy” or “involuntary mind control.” Such characterizations have bewildered many practitioners. Since psychiatrists have directed their efforts toward liberating the mind from psychotic processes, they have sometimes felt that patient advocates challenge their competency and professionalism and undermine patients’ medical needs. Currently, the foremost area of conflict involves the use of psychoactive medications. This chapter describes the legal issues that the clinician must consider when prescribing these drugs.
Role of bedside electroencephalography in the adult intensive care unit during therapeutic neuromuscular blockade.

Size, weight and technical difficulties limit the use of ponderous strip chart electroencephalographs (EEGs) for real time evaluation of brain wave function in modern intensive care units (ICUs). Portable, computer processed, bedside EEGs provide real time brain wave appraisal for some brain functions during therapeutic neuromuscular blockade when the visual clues of the cerebral function disappear. Critically ill ICU patients are frequently placed in suspended animation by neuromuscular blockade to improve hemodynamics in severe organ system failure. Using the portable bedside EEG monitor, several cerebral functions were monitored continuously during sedation of selected patients in our ICU. The processed EEG is able to continuously monitor the end result of some therapeutics at the neuronal level when natural artifacts are suppressed or eliminated by neuromuscular blockade. Computer processed EEG monitoring may be the only objective method of assessing and controlling sedation during therapeutic musculoskeletal paralysis.
HOXA9 Participates in the Transcriptional Activation of E-Selectin in Endothelial Cells

The homeobox gene HOXA9 has recently been shown to be an important regulator of endothelial cell (EC) differentiation and activation in addition to its role in embryonic development and hematopoiesis. In this report, we have determined that the EC-leukocyte adhesion molecule E-selectin is a key target for HOXA9. The depletion of HOXA9 protein in ECs resulted in a significant and specific decrease in tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-)-induced E-selectin gene expression. In addition, HOXA9 specifically activated the E-selectin gene promoter in ECs. Progressive deletional analyses together with site-specific mutagenesis of the E-selectin promoter indicated that the Abd-B-like HOX DNA-binding motif, CAATTTTATTAA, located in the proximal region spanning bp 210 to 221 upstream of the transcription start site was crucial for the promoter induction by HOXA9. Both HOXA9 in EC nuclear extract and recombinant HOXA9 protein bound to this sequence in vitro. Moreover, we showed that HOXA9 binds temporally, in a TNF--dependent manner, to the region containing this Abd-B-like element in vivo. We have thus identified a novel and functionally critical cis-regulatory element for TNF--mediated transient expression of the E-selectin gene. Further, we provide evidence that HOXA9 acts as an obligate proinflammatory factor by mediating cytokine induction of E-selectin.
Engine Deterioration When Exposed to Particulate Flows

The design and development of high performance turbomachinery operating in a particulate flow environment requires a thorough knowledge of the fundamental phenomena associated with solid particulate flows. Because of the serious consequences of turbomachinery erosion on performance and life, it is important to have reliable methods for predicting their erosion when solid particles are ingested with incoming flow. Many of these studies, which are essential to predicting blade surface erosion intensity and patterns, have been conducted at the University of Cincinnati’s Turbomachinery Erosion Laboratory over the past thirty years. A brief review of the experimental work will be presented for the following materials and coatings: Ti6-4 cemented tungsten carbide (85WC, 6TiC, 9 Co) and MAR-M-246. Coatings include TiC, TiN, Al2 O3 , and platinum aluminide (RT-22B). While operating aircraft engines or stationary turbines in dust laden or particulate environments the blades and vanes are prone to deterioration by solid particle erosion, which causes decreased engine performance and higher specific fuel consumption. The coatings presented in this paper are shown to prevent such deterioration and thus prolong engine operating life.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Land surface remote sensing and geographical information systems for water quality modeling

Recent trends in surface water quality of various rivers in the USA and abroad clearly demonstrate an increasing pattern of solute concentrations. These changes in surface water quality are mainly attributed to human influences that both transform land-use/land-cover from one type to another and that change or intensify the management regime on lands over regional and global scales. Space-borne satellite observations in the visible and near-infrared bands enable us to gather information on land-use/land-cover on a frequent basis which can be used for real-time water quality modeling. Geographical information systems (GIS) provide an appropriate technology for efficient storage, handling, manipulation of large volumes of spatially referenced data derived from remote sensing. This paper demonstrates that both land surface remote sensing and GIS coupled with an empirical model (viz. the export coefficient model) can successfully be employed to estimate surface water quality. The approach has a potential for real time estimation of surface wafer quality on regional, continental and global scales.
Trichomoniasis and its treatment

Trichomonas vaginalis has long been recognized as a cause of infectious vaginitis in women. More recently, studies have demonstrated a significant burden of disease in men with urethritis or men at high risk for sexually transmitted diseases. There is increasing interest in this pathogen as more data accumulates linking it to HIV transmission and perinatal morbidity. New diagnostic methods have emerged that may increase sensitivity of diagnosis or improve point-of-care access to testing. Nitroimidazoles remain the mainstay of therapy. Metronidazole and tinidazole are highly effective as single-dose therapy. Unfortunately, despite the link between T. vaginalis infection and perinatal morbidity, nitroimidazole therapy during pregnancy remains controversial. Although metronidazole resistance is currently uncommon, pharmacological features and nitroimidazole resistance patterns suggest that tinidazole may be more effective in treating patients with metronidazole treatment failure. Alternatives to nitroimidazole therapy are few, and most have limited efficacy and significant toxicity.
High-energy proton scattering and the structure of light nuclei

The elastic and total cross sections of 1-BeV protons on ${\mathrm{H}}^{2}$, ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$, ${\mathrm{C}}^{12}$, and ${\mathrm{O}}^{16}$ are analyzed, in conjunction with the corresponding electron scattering measurements, on the basis of Glauber's high-energy approximation. This leads to information which cannot be obtained from the electron data alone.
Business and Public Policy: Is greener whiter yet? Resistance or beyond-compliance by the US ski industry

Is the Sustainable Slopes Program (SSP) a symbolic, self-regulatory scheme that allows its participants to improve their green reputation without actually improving their environmental protection performance? If so, the SSP may be an effective avoidance strategy that has allowed the US ski industry to resist the adoption – by the US Forest Service (USFS) – of stricter environmental regulations discussed in the previous chapter of this book. This chapter aims to help to address these issues by focusing on two general research questions: are voluntary programs effective in promoting higher environmental performance by participant firms? If so, which distinct areas of environmental performance are more likely to be improved by firms joining a voluntary environmental program? We tackle these questions by assessing the implementation of the ski industry's Sustainable Slopes Program in the western United States between 2001 and 2005. For some time now, public policy and management scholars have been interested in identifying mechanisms that encourage environmental protection by businesses. Public policies, in terms of environmental regulations, monitoring, penalties, institutional norms, and economic incentives, have historically been identified as positively related to regulatory compliance. Recently, these factors have also been identified with an increased likelihood of participation in voluntary environmental programs (VEPs) that seek to promote proactive corporate environmental protection in more flexible and cost-efficient ways (Carmin et al ., 2003; Delmas and Toffel, 2004; Khanna, 2001; King and Lenox, 2000; Rivera, 2004). Indeed, many of the George W. Bush's administration environmental policies were predicated upon VEP-type programs.
Foley catheter placement for induction of labor with or without stylette: a randomized clinical trial

Background Foley catheters are used for cervical ripening during induction of labor. Previous studies suggest that use of a stylette (a thin, rigid wire) to guide catheter insertion decreases insertion failure. However, stylette effects on insertion outcomes have been sparsely studied. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare catheter insertion times, patient-assessed pain levels, and insertion failure rates between women who received a digitally placed Foley catheter for cervical ripening with the aid of a stylette and women who received the catheter without a stylette. Study Design We conducted a randomized clinical trial of women aged ≥ 18 years who presented for induction of labor. Inclusion criteria were singletons with intact membranes and cephalic presentation. Women received a computer-generated random assignment of a Foley catheter insertion with a stylette (treatment group, n = 62) or without a stylette (control group, n = 61). For all women, a standard insertion technique protocol was used. Three primary outcomes were of interest, including the following: (1) insertion time (total minutes to successful catheter placement), (2) patient-assessed pain level (0–10), and (3) failure rate of the randomly assigned insertion method. Treatment control differences were first examined using the Pearson's test of independence and the Student t test. Per outcome, we also constructed 4 regression models, each including the random effect of physician and fixed effects of stylette use with patient nulliparity, a history of vaginal delivery, cervical dilation at presentation, or postgraduate year of the performing resident physician. Results Women who received the Foley catheter with the stylette vs without the stylette did not differ by age, race/ethnicity, body mass index, or any of several other characteristics. Regression models revealed that insertion time, patient pain, and insertion failure were unrelated to stylette use, nulliparity, and history of vaginal delivery. However, overall insertion time and failure were significantly influenced by cervical dilation, with insertion time decreasing by 21% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5–34%) and odds of failure decreasing by 71% (odds ratio, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.10–0.86) per 1 cm dilation. Resident postgraduate year also significantly influenced insertion time, with greater time required of physicians with less experience. Mean insertion time was 51% (95% CI, 23–69%) shorter for fourth-year than second-year residents. Statistically nonsignificant but prominent patterns in outcomes were also observed, suggesting stylette use may lengthen the overall insertion procedure but minimize variability in pain levels and decrease insertion failure. Conclusions The randomized trial suggests that, even after accounting for nulliparity, history of vaginal delivery, cervical dilation, and physician experience, Foley catheter insertions with and without a stylette are equivalent in insertion times, patient pain levels, and failure of catheter placement.
Reading Recovery: Exploring the Effects on First-Graders' Reading Motivation and Achievement

ABSTRACTThis study examined the effects of Reading Recovery on children's motivational levels, and how motivation may contribute to the effect of the intervention on literacy achievement. Prior studies concluded that Reading Recovery was positively associated with increased student motivation levels, but most of those studies were limited methodologically. The achievement and motivation levels before and after the intervention of Reading Recovery students and similarly low-performing first-grade students were compared using structural equation modeling. It was found that Reading Recovery had a .31 treatment effect on achievement after controlling for baseline achievement and motivational differences among the treatment and comparison students. Reading Recovery also was associated with greater average levels of posttest motivation, and motivation was found to mediate the treatment-achievement relationship. This study highlights how important it is for early reading interventions to consider the role motiva...
Bootstrapping the Language Archive

There are grounds to believe that language technology in general, and natural language processing in particular, have important roles to play in creating and analyzing corpora for small languages. This goes beyond the development of data management tools to the application of natural language processing techniques to small and noisy datasets, and the design of new methods that operate within the constraints of linguistic field data. A set of seven such constraints (or "axioms for scalable work with small languages") are presented, and suggestions for further NLP research are related back to these axioms.
The Millennial Generation and the Church: Doing it Differently

The church struggles to engage the millennial generation, despite millennials and the church sharing similar values: personal transformation, purpose, community, spirituality, social transformation, and ecological concerns. The ecclesial worlds built by tradition, baby boomers, and Gen Xers, however, are being changed. Amidst the tension between the generations and as the number of “unaffiliated” religious traditions grow, anthropologist Margaret Mead may provide a possible framework that can guide discernment. The emergence of a public spirituality for self and social transformation is identified alongside the practicing of a public pastoral theology.1
Anesthetic management of bilateral nephrectomy in children with congenital nephrotic syndrome

先天性ネフローゼ症候群とは,生後1ヵ月以内に発症するネフローゼ症候群を指し,年長児,成人におけるネフローゼ症候群とは特徴を異にする疾患である.本疾患では治療として両側腎摘出術が行なわれるが,患者は高度の低蛋白血症,発育障害を来しており,慎重な麻酔管理が要求される.当院ではこれまでに3例の先天性ネフローゼ症候群患児の両側腎摘出術の麻酔を経験した.いずれも麻酔は笑気,酸素,フェンタニールを主とし,輸液に関しては晶質液主体とし,通常の両側腎摘出術よりも減少させる麻酔管理を行い,無事に手術を終了し得た.
Microring Resonator Based Widely Tunable Semiconductor Lasers

We propose a new class of widely tunable semiconductor laser structures that use microring resonators as either wavelength selective reflectors or as inter-cavity filters. Microring resonator based lasers can have tuning bandwidths reaching 50 nanometers, and can have side mode suppression ratios better than 30 dB over the entire tuning bandwidth. The tuning bandwidth is found to be limited by the loss in the microring resonators. We compare the performance of microring resonator based lasers to grating based widely tunable lasers and show that the performance of the former is much more sensitive to loss. We present results from numerical simulations and analytical models, and give designs rules for fabricating microring resonator based tunable lasers with the existing technologies.
Dental implants and evolving discipline.

ic s. co m Modern dental implantology begins with the work of Professor Per-Ingvar Branemark (1929-2014) at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, and Professor Andre Schroeder (1918-2004) at the University of Bern, Switzerland. Professor Branemark was the first to observe that titanium had the unique property of developing a permanent attachment to bone, which he termed “osseointegration.” From this observation, he then had the further understanding that titanium could be utilized as a material for permanent dental implants. At the Toronto Conference on Osseointegration in Clinical Dentistry in 1982, Professor Branemark gave his landmark presentation that convinced dentists that a new era had dawned for dental implants, which became rapidly adopted as a new method of root form screws. Many other individuals contributed further to the development of modern dental implants, including Professor Andre Schroeder, who published in 1976 early histological evidence of dental implant osseointegration and collaborated with Dr Fritz Straumann of Waldenburg, Switzerland to develop improved dental implant designs. Continued scientific research into the basic science of bone biology, dental implant metal surfaces, and metallurgy has allowed new dental implant developments. Building on the refinements of dental implants themselves
Automatic generation of Raven's progressive matrices

Raven's Progressive Matrices (RPMs) are a popular family of general intelligence tests, and provide a non-verbal measure of a test subject's reasoning abilities. Traditionally RPMs have been manually designed. To make them readily available for both practice and examination, we tackle the problem of automatically synthesizing RPMs. Our goal is to efficiently generate a large number of RPMs that are authentic (i.e. similar to manually written problems), interesting (i.e. diverse in terms of difficulty), and well-formed (i.e. unambiguous). The main technical challenges are: How to formalize RPMs to accommodate their seemingly enormous diversity, and how to define and enforce their validity? To this end, we (1) introduce an abstract representation of RPMs using first-order logic, and (2) restrict instantiations to only valid RPMs. We have realized our approach and evaluated its efficiency and effectiveness. We show that our system can generate hundreds of valid problems per second with varying levels of difficulty. More importantly, we show, via a user study with 24 participants, that the generated problems are statistically indistinguishable from actual problems. This work is an exciting instance of how logic and reasoning may aid general learning.
Tracing LGBTQ Community College Students' Experiences.

In this article, the authors note that, although literature on under-represented, under-served, marginalised students in two- and four-year colleges arguably calls for additional examination, little is known about LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) students at community colleges. This exploratory study, emergent in nature, used a qualitative approach and aimed to provide a distinct view of the everyday life of LGBTQ people attending community colleges. It was guided by the following questions: What are the coming-out experiences of community college LGBTQ students? Are student support services for LGBTQ students at community colleges considered adequate? Do LGBTQ students and faculty/staff allies perceive the community college climate welcoming?
The Men of Property: Politics and the Languages of Class in the 1790s

Political rhetoric in Ireland in the 1790s — the sharply conflicting vocabularies of reform and disaffection, liberty, innovation. nation, constitution, Protestant Ascendancy and Catholic relief — was saturated by the assumptions, platitudes and invective, in short by the ‘languages’ of ‘class’. Correlations between social position and political affiliation are scarcely stable or clear-cut, but to contemporaries, as to later historians, it seemed apparent that there were indeed alignments between the two. Conservatives routinely understood challenges to the established order in the idiom of class, just as radicals and reformers often diagnosed society’s ills in terms of a corrupt, unjust and ‘monopolising’ aristocratic elite. And in Ireland, inevitably, class antagonisms overlapped and interpenetrated with religious divisions — Catholic, Protestant and Dissenter.
Discrete cavity model of a standing-wave free-electron laser

A standing-wave free-electron laser (SWFEL) has been proposed for use in a two-beam accelerator (TBA). Unlike a conventional microwave free-electron laser, the SWFEL has a wiggler that is divided by irises into a series of standing-wave cavities, and the beam is reaccelerated by induction cells between cavities. We introduce a one-dimensional discrete-cavity model of the SWFEL. In contrast to the continuum model that has been extensively used to study the device, the new model takes into account time-of-light effects within the cavity and applies the reacceleration field only between cavities, where the ponderomotive force is absent. As in previous SWFEL models, only a single signal frequency is considered. Using this model, effects of finite cavity length are investigated. For moderately long cavities, it is shown that there are no adverse effects on the phase stability of the device.
Applications of biaxially anisotropic media in review

This paper provides a review of the work to date in the area of applications of biaxially anisotropic materials in RF devices.
Trends and applications of multi-criteria decision analysis: use in government agencies

Government agencies are responsible for making complex, high-stake decisions, which require them to balance political, technical, and economic considerations. Pressure from stakeholders and administrative requirements necessitate a traceable and transparent method for decision making. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) methods are available to decision makers to facilitate systematic treatment of the information and factors necessary to make informed and effective decisions in complex circumstances. A survey of gray and academic literature was conducted to gauge the level of application and awareness of MCDA methods by US government agencies and determine if the tools’ benefits are being realized. Results show an increase in awareness and consideration of MCDA from 2000 to the present, and that agencies are especially considering and using tools to engage with stakeholders. Government agencies would benefit from extending the application of MCDA to strategic planning and congressional engagement, as well as by standardizing MCDA use to better enable inter-agency collaboration and communication.
Variability of Delivery of Timolol for the Treatment of Infantile Hemangiomas.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Topical timolol maleate solution or gel-forming solution is used alone or in conjunction with oral propranolol for the treatment of infantile hemangiomas. The consistency of the amount of timolol dispensed has never been evaluated. We evaluated the variability of drug delivery between different brands and formulations of timolol solution and gel-forming solution. METHODS Five blinded volunteers sequentially dispensed five drops from each of the eight bottles containing timolol 0.5% solution or gel-forming solution. This was repeated three times per user for each bottle. The average amount of timolol dispensed was analyzed according to brand, formulation, and user for variability. The intra- and interuser variability of dispensing both formulations of timolol was also measured. RESULTS Our study demonstrates statistically significant differences in the amount of timolol dispensed between timolol solution and gel-forming solution, with the latter closer to manufacturer estimates. Significant differences in the amount of timolol dispensed were noted between users regardless of the formulation or brand. Variability in the amount of timolol dispensed was greater for gel-forming solution than 0.5% solution. Inter- and intrauser variability in the amount of timolol dispensed was greater for gel-forming solution than 0.5% solution. CONCLUSION Statistically significant differences were noted in the amount of timolol dispensed according to formulation, brand, and user. Whether this is clinically significant is unknown given the lack of pharmacokinetic data available for timolol.
Integration of Principles in Population Health Management

The health-care and patient care outcomes for poly chronic conditions can be improved through the integration of multiple domains of the population health management approach and comprehensive coordination across multiple levels utilizing interdisciplinary care teams and appropriate applications of health information technology. Patient identification and risk stratification enable health-care providers to focus the appropriate resources on the patients with the greatest needs. By preventing acute events and worsening health status in higher-risk patients and providing preventative and wellness services for lower-risk patients, care management efforts can achieve optimal impact on health outcomes and cost-effectiveness. This chapter highlights the need for integrating contextual (macrolevel) and individual personalized care (microlevel) approaches to population health in solving multimorbidities.
Deltamethrin-resistant German cockroaches are less sensitive to the insect repellents DEET and IR3535 than non-resistant individuals.

The German cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.) (Blattodea: Blattellidae), is a serious worldwide pest with a considerable economical and sanitary impact. It is mainly controlled by the application of synthetic insecticides, but repeated use of these substances has promoted the appearance of resistance in cockroach populations throughout the world. The aim of this study was to compare the behavior of deltamethrin-susceptible (CIPEIN colony) and deltamethrin-resistant (JUBA and VGBA colonies) first instar nymphs exposed to the repellents N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) and ethyl 3-[acetyl(butyl)amino]propanoate (IR3535). Firstly, the behavior of the nymphs was assessed in an experimental arena in the absence of repellents. The parameters Distance Traveled, Velocity, Mobility Time, and Time Spent (in each half of the arena) were quantified using an image analyser, and showed that the behavior elicited by the three colonies was similar. After this, the behavior of the nymphs was quantified in an arena, half of which had been treated with repellent. The repellency of DEET increased as a linear function of log concentration for the three colonies. DEET elicited repellency as from a concentration of 97.49 µg/cm2 for the CIPEIN and JUBA colonies and 194.98 µg/cm2 for the VGBA colony. The repellency of IR3535 was weaker and started at a concentration of 389.96 µg/cm2 for the CIPEIN colony, 779.92 μg/cm2 for JUBA, and 1559.84 μg/cm2 for VGBA . Finally, nymphs were exposed to 3:1, 1:1, and 1:3 DEET:IR3535 mixtures, and a synergistic effect was observed only in the CIPEIN colony.
Effects of Dendrimer-Like Biopolymers on Physical Stability of Amorphous Solid Dispersions and Drug Permeability Across Caco-2 Cell Monolayers.

During the production process, an editorial error occurred where the label numbering for the first two tables were inadvertently switched. The original article has been corrected.
Development of a vitamin D-responsive organ culture system for adult and old rat intestine.

The purpose of this study was to develop an organ culture system for adult and old rat small intestine that is responsive to vitamin D. Explants from F344 rats were cultured on Millipore tissue culture inserts placed in 6-well dishes at a temperature of 28°C and in the presence of 95% oxygen. Explants from young (2 months old), adult (12 months old), and old (22 months old) rats were viable for up to 12 hr as determined by constant rates of DNA and protein synthesis. Hormonal responsiveness was characterized by measuring the capacity of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], the hormonal form of vitamin D, to increase mRNA levels of the intestinal 24-hydroxylase cytochrome P-450 (CYP24). Jejunal explants from young rats increased CYP24 mRNA levels in a linear fashion with an EC50 of 3 nM in response to 1,25(OH)2D. There was no change with age in the magnitude of the jejunal response with regard to time (0–12 hr) or dose (0.1–100 nM). However, in the duodenum, 1,25(OH)2D increased CYP24 mRNA to significantly higher levels in the adult compared to the young. Since the 24-hydroxylase is the first step in the degradative pathway for 1,25(OH)2D in the intestine, increased duodenal expression of the 24-hydroxylase may contribute to the decreased action of 1,25(OH)2D on the adult duodenum.
Genomic Characterization of the McNay Angus Beef Cattle Herd

Recent calf crops and their sires and dams from the University Angus herd are currently being characterized for high-density SNP genotypes. Some 30 of the herd sires are being individually sequenced. This will be the first purebred beef herd to be so characterized and the data will aid many research and graduate teaching programs, and improve predictions of breeding performance at State and National levels.
Complex Socio-Technical Problems for Engineers: Pedagogical Motivation and Experience at the Undergraduate Level

Engineering courses, focused on complex, sociotechnical systems, at the undergraduate level, have been rare. Traditionally, most students develop technical understanding in a specific engineering discipline, but get little opportunity to analyze engineered complex systems, where both technical and social issues need to be well understood for devising long lasting solutions. In this chapter, authors describe the motivation, design, and learning outcomes of an introductory course on Engineering Systems that has been developed and offered at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The course is based on the theme of critical contemporary issues (CCIs) including energy, mobility, sustainability etc. The aim of the course is to expose undergraduates to quantitative tools for methodically analyzing complex contemporary engineering challenges. The course consists of lectures on system dynamics, networks and uncertainty, along with semester-long team-based projects. For the first pilot offering of the class (Spring semester 2011), the students gave an average rating of 5.9/7.0 regarding how likely they were to recommend this class to others (7 being absolutely certain). There was also evidence (however, based on limited and anecdotal data) of continued student interest (outside of class) in engaging with the complex socio-technical problems they worked on during the term.
Regulation of the Expression of the Reovirus Genome in Vivo and in Vitro

Animal viruses enter their host cells as nucleoprotein complexes. The role of the nucleic acid portion of these nucleoproteins has been understood for some time, but the importance of the proteins has been appreciated only recently with the discovery that many animal viruses contain DNA and RNA polymerizing activities. Recognition of an RNA transcriptase activity within vaccinia virus (1), for instance, resolved the theoretical problems surrounding the mechanism(s) whereby a double-stranded DNA virus initiates RNA transcription in the cytoplasm of a eukaryotic cell. The finding that RNA tumor viruses contain enzymes which catalyze the synthesis of DNA (2, 3) resolved, at least in part, one pathway by which those viruses may induce stable malignant transformation of animal cells. Similarly, the mechanism by which the double-stranded RNA containing reoviruses initiates genetic function in animal cells remained obscure until Borsa and Graham (4) and Shatkin and Sipe (5) demonstrated an RNA transcriptase activity within the virion.
Longitudinal Beam-Shaping Simulation for Enhanced Transformer Ratio in Beam-Driven Accelerators

A beam-driven structure wakefield accelerator (SWFA) is currently under consideration for future multi-user xray free-electron-laser (FEL) light sources. One of the challenges associated with SWFA is the efficient energy transfer from the drive to the main bunch that can be enhanced via a precise control over the drive-bunch current profile. This paper discusses the development and initial beam-dynamics simulation of the drive-bunch longitudinal dynamics using the fast-tracking program TWICE. This code, written in PYTHON, allows for rapid prototyping of the beam shaping process while taking into account the collective effects using simplified models. This paper describes the algorithm implementation and its capabilities of including collective effects into both forward and backward tracking. Initial results of optimizing beam shape with a conventional linac to produce a drive beam with a shape optimized for SFWA are presented.
Reflections on 27 years of manipulated ecosystem warming in a subalpine meadow

Abstract From analyses of data obtained in a 27-year climate manipulation experiment, insight has accumulated about the importance of: (1) combining manipulation experiments with both modeling and observational studies, particularly along gradients; (2) avoiding the temptation to make long-term predictions from short-term studies; (3) optimally designing manipulation experiments and measurement protocols to yield useful data; and (4) taking an evolutionary as well as ecological perspective on population responses to experimental warming. Those and other insights, along with a summary of the key findings of the experiment, especially findings relevant to climate-ecosystem feedbacks, are described here.
Measuring particulate matter in air

Results obtained from measurements of the concentration and size of particulate matter in air are dependent on the method used. Filtration samplers in conjunction with gravimetric analysis, as exemplified by the high-volume air sampler, represent the most commonly used technique in this country. The spot tape sampler and smokeshade devices have value in assessing the soiling properties of particulate matter, but are poor indicators of mass loading. Continuous monitors now available for measuring the concentration of atmospheric particulate matter appear promising, although further field testing is needed to assess their accuracy. Devices are available for determining the size distribution of particles by number or by weight. Care should be taken not to interchange the results of a number and a weight distribution since they are not equivalent nor necessarily directly relatable. The author prefers cascade impactors for determining the weight size distribution because the fractionated sample is retained for chemical analysis and the respiratory portion can be assessed.
Data Collection from Outdoor IoT 802.15.4 Sensor Networks using Unmanned Aerial Systems (poster)

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are a promising technology for data collection from outdoor sensor networks. Environmental and agricultural networks may not have existing internet backhauls for data delivery due to low population densities in rural areas, making UASs a potential data delivery alternative. UASs can be deployed as aerial network relay nodes [1, 2, 3, 4] or as data mules [5, 6]. In addition to mending network fragmentation, UAS applications include post-disaster data collection involving inoperative communication infrastructure [7, 8, 9], supplementing existing communication in- frastructure for vehicular networks [10], and rural applications in environmental monitoring [11, 12] and precision agriculture [13, 14].
STING (or SRC) Like an ICB: Priming the Immune Response in Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is associated with a poor prognosis and resistance to immune checkpoint blockade. Zhang and colleagues demonstrate that inhibiting DNA repair by pharmacologic blockade or siRNA silencing of ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) increases type I IFN release via a cGAS/STING-independent, SRC-dependent mechanism in models of pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, combining ATM inhibition and radiotherapy amplifies type I IFN signaling, increases programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, tumor CD8+ T cells, and proinflammatory tumor macrophages. Finally, the combination of ATM silencing, radiotherapy, and PD-L1 blockade markedly improves in vivo murine tumor responses, supporting further investigation of this promising approach in pancreatic adenocarcinoma.See related article by Zhang et al., p. 3940.
Morris Cohen and the Art of Book Collecting

Mr. Widener asserts that Morris Cohen was an artist, that book collecting was his art, and that his masterpiece is the Juvenile Jurisprudence Collection, a collection of law-related children�s books that Cohen donated to the Yale Law Library in 2008. He argues that libraries and individual collectors should emulate this style of collecting, and that the art of collecting is important to law libraries and legal studies.
Clinical and economic burden of neurofibromatosis type 2 in the United States

Abstract Objectives We aimed to investigate the prevalence and cost-associated risk factors for hospital stays for Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) patients in the past decade. Patients and methods A multi-year cross-sectional study was performed using the National Inpatient Sample. Patients with a diagnosis code of NF2 according to the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification coding system were queried from 2006–2014. Sampling discharge weights were used to calculate trend estimates for national demographics, hospital characteristics, comorbidities, and surgical interventions. Regression analysis was performed to determine significant independent associations between comorbidities and admission cost. Results From 2006–2014, there were 5,078 discharges for patients diagnosed with NF2. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and procedures performed were overall consistent over time. The most common admission diagnoses were hearing loss (28.2 %), acoustic schwannoma (14.3 %), cranial meningioma (11.8 %) and epilepsy (10.8 %). The most common procedures performed were craniotomy and meningioma resection (10.2 %) and acoustic neuroma open resection (7.9 %). The median inflation-adjusted cost of admission did not change over time, with an admission cost value of $12,387 [6,042 – 26,051]. On regression analysis, obstructive hydrocephalus, craniotomy and meningioma resection, acoustic neuroma open resection, and spine tumor resection were all independent predictors of increased cost. Conclusion The care for NF2 patients continues to evolve over time. We report the prevalence of patient demographics, comorbidities, and treatments in the NF2 inpatient population. Further studies are warranted to better understand the risk factors for higher costs, so that patients with NF2 may continue to receive life-long quality care in a cost-effective manner.
Hierarchical Improvement of Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm for Object Detection: (Invited Paper)

Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA) provides approximate solution to combinatorial optimization problems. It encodes the cost function using a $p$ -level quantum circuit where each level consists a problem Hamiltonian followed by a mixing Hamiltonian. Despite the promises, few real-world applications (besides the pedagogical MaxCut problem) have exploited QAOA. The success of QAOA relies on the classical optimizer, variational parameter setting, and quantum circuit design and compilation. In this study, we implement QAOA and analyze its performance for a broader Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Optimization (QUBO) formulation to solve real-word applications such as, partially occluded object detection problem. Furthermore, we analyze the effects of above influential factors on QAOA performance. We propose a 3-level improvement of hybrid quantum-classical optimization for object detection. We achieve more than 13X execution speedup by choosing L-BFGS-B as classical optimizer at the first level and 5.50X additional speedup by exploiting parameter symmetry and more than 1.23X acceleration using parameter regression at the second level. We empirically show that the circuit will achieve better fidelity by optimally rescheduling gate operations (especially for deeper circuits) at the third level.
The unique contribution of character strengths to quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis.

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of the 24 character strengths in Peterson and Seligman's (2004) model on quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), controlling for more commonly investigated biopsychosocial variables including resilience, social support, personality traits, depression, fatigue, and disability. Method Six hundred and 24 individuals with MS completed an online survey. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the contribution of character strengths over the control variables. Results The character strengths variables were significantly related to quality of life, even after controlling for the other variables. Individually, appreciation for beauty, gratitude, hope, and zest all significantly contributed to quality of life. The control variables, as a group, were significantly associated with quality of life. Individually, fatigue, depression, resilience, social support from family, conscientiousness, emotional stability, extraversion, and openness all significantly contributed to quality of life. Conclusions The findings of this study provide support for the development of character strengths interventions to help increase quality of life in individuals with multiple sclerosis. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Another Meeting Just Might Do It!: Enhancing Volunteer Engagement Using Effective Meetings

Volunteers are an essential part of the economy and impact our communities by helping nonprofit organizations provide services to those in need. Finding practical strategies to facilitate engagemen...
Emerging Roles of Cannabinoids and Synthetic Cannabinoids in Clinical Experimental Models.

In recent years, an increasing number of investigations has demonstrated the therapeutic potential of molecules targeting the endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoids of endogenous, phytogenic, and synthetic nature have been assessed in a wide variety of disease models ranging from neurological to metabolic disorders. Even though very few compounds of this type have already reached the market, numerous preclinical and clinical studies suggest that cannabinoids are suitable drugs for the clinical management of diverse pathologies.In this chapter, we will provide an overview of the endocannabinoid system under certain physiopathological conditions, with a focus on neurological, oncologic, and metabolic disorders. Cannabinoids evaluated as potential therapeutic agents in experimental models with an emphasis in the most successful chemical entities and their perspectives towards the clinic will be discussed.
Female fashion, divine punishment, and local pride in the accounts of the 1698 Ambato earthquake

In the early hours of 20 June 1698, an earthquake killed thousands of people and destroyed Riobamba, Ambato, and Latacunga, along with other smaller nearby towns in the Real Audiencia de Quito. In ...
Performance Based Earthquake Engineering

Over the past years there have been two concomitant developments: (1) performance based earthquake engineering (PBEE) which is a proposed new paradigm for the seismic safety investigation of a building and (2) potential failure mode analysis (PFMA) which is a generally accepted methodology to assess dam safety. Though similar, and written by different communities, much can be gained through an attempt to bring together those two paradigms. Figure 21.1 highlights the similarities between the two approaches in general. Each one will be discussed later in detail.
A note on mean field games of controls with state constraints: existence of mild solutions

We show the existence of "mild solutions" for a first-order mean field game of controls under the state constraint that trajectories be confined in a closed and bounded set in euclidean space. This extends the results of Cannarsa and Capuani to the case of a mean field game of controls. Our controls are velocities and we find that the existence of an equilibrium is complicated by the requirement that they should have enough regularity. We solve this by imposing a small Lipschitz constant on the dependence of the Lagrangian on the joint measure of states and controls, and showing that regular paths can be approximated within the same class of functions despite the constraint.