cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Determining noisy attractors of delayed stochastic gene regulatory networks from multiple data sources

Motivation: Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) are stochastic, thus, do not have attractors, but can remain in confined regions of the state space, i.e. the ‘noisy attractors’, which define the cell type and phenotype. Results: We propose a gamma-Bernoulli mixture model clustering algorithm (ΓBMM), tailored for quantizing states from gamma and Bernoulli distributed data, to determine the noisy attractors of stochastic GRN. ΓBMM uses multiple data sources, naturally selects the number of states and can be extended to other parametric distributions according to the number and type of data sources available. We apply it to protein and RNA levels, and promoter occupancy state of a toggle switch and show that it can be bistable, tristable or monostable depending on its internal noise level. We show that these results are in agreement with the patterns of differentiation of model cells whose pathway choice is driven by the switch. We further apply ΓBMM to a model of the MeKS module of Bacillus subtilis, and the results match experimental data, demonstrating the usability of ΓBMM. Availability: Implementation software is available upon request. Contact:andre.sanchesribeiro@tut.fi; xiaofeng.dai@tut.fi Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
On zone-balancing of peer-to-peer networks: analysis of random node join

Balancing peer-to-peer graphs, including zone-size distributions, has recently become an important topic of peer-to-peer (P2P) research [1], [2], [6], [19], [31], [36]. To bring analytical understanding into the various peer-join mechanisms, we study how zone-balancing decisions made during the initial sampling of the peer space affect the resulting zone sizes and derive several asymptotic results for the maximum and minimum zone sizes that hold with high probability.
Do leukoreduction filters passively reduce the transmission risk of human granulocytic anaplasmosis

Background Human granulocytic anaplasmosis, caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, poses an increasing public health risk in the United States. Since 2000, case reports have increased annually; 2782 cases were reported in 2013. Despite the increasing frequency of clinical cases, only eight cases of transfusion-transmitted anaplasmosis (TTA) have been reported. We investigated if current leukoreduction practices impact transfusion risk. Study Design and Methods Whole blood units (WBUs) with integral red blood cell (RBC) leukoreduction filters were collected and spiked with A. phagocytophilum–infected HL-60 cells equivalent to 0.01, 1, or 5% of total neutrophils. After 24 hours at 4°C WBUs were processed into plasma and RBCs, the latter subsequently leukoreduced (LR RBCs). To evaluate the removal of A. phagocytophilum by filtration, pre- and postfiltration samples were compared by culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results Compared to Day 0 or Day 1 positive controls, LR RBCs demonstrated reduced levels of A. phagocytophilum by culture and PCR. At 0.01% infection levels LR RBCs yielded no positive cultures and a log reduction of 2.5 by PCR. Similarly, at 1 and 5% infections levels, LR RBCs produced only 44% (4/9) and 56% (5/9) positive cultures, respectively. PCR results were comparable, 3.0 log reduction for 1% and 3.3 log reduction for 5% infection levels. Conclusions The recent increase in TTA suggests that A. phagocytophilum may represent an emerging blood safety issue. However, the current study indicates that the widespread practice of leukoreduction might passively reduce, but not eliminate, TTA risk. In the absence of viable testing or pathogen inactivation and/or reduction options, leukoreduction may offer some protection from transmission risk.
Myxosarcomas Associated with Avian Leukosis Virus Subgroup A Infection in Fancy Breed Chickens

Abstract Formalin-fixed suspect tumors were submitted to the Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center at the University of Georgia (Athens, GA) for diagnosis. Samples were from fancy breed chickens with a history of increased tumor prevalence in both hens and roosters. Microscopically, in all the samples, there were neoplastic proliferations of spindle-shaped cells. The matrix surrounding tumor cells stained positively with Alcian blue at pH 2.5, but neoplastic cells did not stain with periodic acid–Schiff. Immunohistochemistry stains were positive for vimentin and neuron-specific enolase and negative for desmin, smooth muscle actin, and S-100 protein. Tumors were determined to be myxosarcomas. All samples were positive for PCR targeting the gp85 avian leukosis virus (ALV) envelope protein. However, analysis of the predicted amino acid sequences in the envelope gene from three separate samples showed high similarity between them and to ALV subgroup A.
The multidrug-resistant phenotype associated with overexpression of the new ABC half-transporter, MXR (ABCG2)

Mechanisms of drug resistance other than P-glycoprotein are of increasing interest as the list of newly identified members of the ABC transport family has grown. We sought to characterize the phenotype of the newly discovered ABC transporter encoded by the mitoxantrone resistance gene, MXR, also known as ABCP1 or BCRP. The pharmacodynamics of mitoxantrone and 12 other fluorescent drugs were evaluated by confocal microscopy in four multidrug-resistant human colon (S1) and breast (MCF-7) cancer cell lines. We utilized two sublines, MCF-7 AdVp3000 and S1-M1-80, and detected overexpression of MXR by PCR, immunoblot assay and immunohistochemistry. These MXR overexpressing sublines were compared to cell lines with P-glycoprotein- and MRP-mediated resistance. High levels of cross-resistance were observed for mitoxantrone, the anthracyclines, bisantrene and topotecan. Reduced levels of mitoxantrone, daunorubicin, bisantrene, topotecan, rhodamine 123 and prazosin were observed in the two sublines with high MXR expression. Neither the P-glycoprotein substrates vinblastine, paclitaxel, verapamil and calcein-AM, nor the MRP substrate calcein, were extruded from MCF-7 AdVp3000 and S1-M1-80 cells. Thus, the multidrug-resistant phenotype due to MXR expression is overlapping with, but distinct from, that due to P-glycoprotein. Further, cells that overexpress the MXR protein seem to be more resistant to mitoxantrone and topotecan than cells with P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance. Our studies suggest that the ABC half-transporter, MXR, is a potent, new mechanism for conferring multiple drug resistance. Definition of its mechanism of transport and its role in clinical oncology is required.
Conformational signaling required for synaptic plasticity by the NMDA receptor complex

The NMDA receptor (NMDAR) is known to transmit important information by conducting calcium ions. However, some recent studies suggest that activation of NMDARs can trigger synaptic plasticity in the absence of ion flow. Does ligand binding transmit information to signaling molecules that mediate synaptic plasticity? Using Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) imaging of fluorescently tagged proteins expressed in neurons, conformational signaling is identified within the NMDAR complex that is essential for downstream actions. Ligand binding transiently reduces FRET between the NMDAR cytoplasmic domain (cd) and the associated protein phosphatase 1 (PP1), requiring NMDARcd movement, and persistently reduces FRET between the NMDARcd and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), a process requiring PP1 activity. These studies directly monitor agonist-driven conformational signaling at the NMDAR complex required for synaptic plasticity.
A Survey of Software Techniques for Using Non-Volatile Memories for Storage and Main Memory Systems

Non-volatile memory (NVM) devices, such as Flash, phase change RAM, spin transfer torque RAM, and resistive RAM, offer several advantages and challenges when compared to conventional memory technologies, such as DRAM and magnetic hard disk drives (HDDs). In this paper, we present a survey of software techniques that have been proposed to exploit the advantages and mitigate the disadvantages of NVMs when used for designing memory systems, and, in particular, secondary storage (e.g., solid state drive) and main memory. We classify these software techniques along several dimensions to highlight their similarities and differences. Given that NVMs are growing in popularity, we believe that this survey will motivate further research in the field of software technology for NVMs.
Finite antichain cutsets in posets

In 1985 I. Rival and N. Zaguia conjectured that in a chain complete poset having the finite cutset property every element belongs to an antichain cutset iff there is no alternating-cover cycle. In this paper a counterexample is given to show that the condition that there is no alternating-cover cycle is not sufficient and other two conditions on generalized alternating-cover paths are added to complete the characterization.
Potentials of Mean Force and Escape Times of Surfactants from Micelles and Hydrophobic Surfaces Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations

We calculate potentials of mean force (PMFs) and mean first passage times for a surfactant to escape a micelle, for both ionic sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and nonionic ethoxylated alcohol (C12E5) micelles using both atomistic and coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The PMFs are obtained by umbrella sampling and used in a Smoluchowski first-passage-time theory to obtain the times for a surfactant to escape a micelle. The calculated mean first passage time for an SDS molecule to break away from a micelle (with an aggregation number of 60) is around 2 μs, which is consistent with previous experimental measurements of the “fast relaxation time” for exchange of surfactants between the micellar phase and the bulk solvent. The corresponding escape time calculated for a nonionic ethoxylated alcohol C12E5, with the same tail length as SDS, is 60 μs, which is significantly longer than for SDS primarily because the PMF for surfactant desorption is about 3kT smaller than for C12E5. We also show that ...
Accumulation of Bacteriophage in Spleen and Liver Following Its Intravenous Inoculation

SummaryIt has been demonstrated that bacteriophage injected intravenously into rats accumulates in the spleen and liver. These organs accumulate phage to the same general degree as they do bacteria.The role of the reticulo-endothelial system in removing microorganisms from the blood stream has been generally recognized in recent years. The earlier work of Bull1 in this field has been supported and extended by others, particularly Cannon2,3 and his coworkers. The question arose as to whether or not a readily filterable biological principle such as bacteriophage, which is probably particulate and of the general order of magnitude of the filterable viruses, would be removed from the blood stream by organs of the reticulo-endothelial system to a greater degree than by organs with few fixed phagocytic cells.Y. Shitate4 reported on the fate of bacteriophage in the body. Since he made no attempt to obtain quantitative results, his findings do not aid in answering the above question. Smirnow and Goldin5 made a si...
Is there an effective countercurrent system in the superficial renal cortex

SummaryFlow relations between adjacent tubular loops and an interdigitated capillary were examined by following the direction of movement of injected oil droplets. Little evidence for a true countercurrent flow between blood and tubular fluid could be obtained. Countercurrent flow between adjacent tubular loops was often seen.
Structure-Guided Discovery of Selective Antagonists for the Chromodomain of Polycomb Repressive Protein CBX7.

The chromobox 7 (CBX7) protein of the polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) functions to repress transcription of tumor suppressor p16INK4a through long noncoding RNA, ANRIL (antisense noncoding RNA in the INK4 locus) directed chromodomain (ChD) binding to trimethylated lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27me3), resulting in chromatin compaction at the INK4a/ARF locus. In this study, we report structure-guided discovery of two distinct classes of small-molecule antagonists for the CBX7ChD. Our Class A compounds, a series including analogues of the previously reported MS452, inhibit CBX7ChD/methyl-lysine binding by occupying the H3K27me3 peptide binding site, whereas our Class B compound, the newly discovered MS351, appears to inhibit H3K27me3 binding when CBX7ChD is bound to RNA. Our crystal structure of the CBX7ChD/MS351 complex reveals the molecular details of ligand recognition by the aromatic cage residues that typically engage in methyl-lysine binding. We further demonstrate that MS351 effectively induces tr...
Analysis on blood pressure level and risk factors of hypertension patients in Taicang

Objective To understand about blood pressure level and relevant risk factors of hypertension patients in Taicang,and provide basis for the patient management in community.Methods According to "Embodiment of National Hypertension Standardized Management Project ",information was collected and blood pressures for patients were measured.T test and chi-square test were performed to analyze the risk factors in group with different ages and gender.Results The average systolic blood pressure in hypertension patients was(140 ±16) mmHg and diastolic blood pressure was(86± 9) mmHg.Significant statistical differences were shown in gender and ages(P0.01).The prevalence of hypertension complicated with diabetes mellitus,stroke and coronary disease were 5.2%,4.1%ke and 1.5% respectively with significant statistical differences(P0.01).Incidence of hypertension complicated with stroke and coronary disease increased obviously with the increasing of age.The prevalence of family history of hypertension,diabetes mellitus,stroke and coronary disease showed significant statistical difference on ages in the highest group of 45 to 54 years old.Moreover,there was meaningful statistical differences in different age groups(P0.01).As related to the risk factors,incident rates of adiposity,abdominal obesity,salty food,drinking often and frequent smoking,exception of less physical exercise,were in the highest group with ages 45 to 54 years.Incidence rates of adiposity,abdominal obesity,and less exercising in females were higher than that in males;incident rates of drinking often and frequently smoking were higher in males than that in females,which had significant statistical differences(P0.01).Conclusion The blood pressure level in hypertension patients was better by community management.It is therefore propose to perform the target interventions according to the risk factors of different characteristics in hypertension patients,so as to prevent onset cardiovascular and cerebrovascular for hypertension patients.
An Experimental Study of Sales District Decision

In this study we present an easy and quick method to make sales district decision. Our main concern is to arrange equal opportunity of visiting new customers for a sales representative in his assigned district while maintaining the workload variation as low as possible. The intuitive method, an example, and the experimental results are reported.
Grazing Herbivore Nutrition

Ungulate herbivores have two types of digestive systems; the ruminant system and the cecal digestive system. Fermentation processes by bacteria and protozoa are similar in both systems, but their anatomy is substantially different. A ruminant is any even-toed, hoofed mammal that chews the cud and has a four-chambered stomach, a member of the Ruminantia animal division. The ability of the ruminant to convert organic substances, not usable by humans and other monogastric animals, into human food of high quality and desirability is a truly great natural phenomenon and benefit to mankind. However, the ruminant animal has relatively low conversion efficiency. In the cecal digestive system, there is a single-compartment stomach, which is relatively small and functions mainly as storage and regulation of ingesta reaching the small intestine. The rumen functions like a filter that selectively delays food particles, whereas the cecum provides less selective retention and functions more like a perfect mixer. The ideal nutritional state in large herbivores is when all required nutrients are obtained in the same general time frame. However, since animals can withstand some variance from the normal average intake of nutrients, they need not maximize (optimize) intake of any particular nutrient or a specific mix of nutrients within each meal or even on a daily basis.
Industrial Policies in East and West Europe Compared

Our comparison of industrial policies in East and West Europe is carried out along three lines. First we review the reasons for implementing an industrial policy and the means of doing so. Although the theoretical underpinnings of an industrial policy in a market economy have been widely articulated, it is important to evaluate them within the context of a planned economy. In view of our comparative approach it is vital that we develop some understanding of the effect of systemic differences on the need for, the likely forms of, and the effectiveness of industrial policies. Our second line of inquiry is a review of industrial policies in a number of East and West European countries. We do not aim at a comprehensive survey in a paper of this length. Rather we wish to uncover, on the basis of a sample of countries, similarities and differences in policy objectives, industries selected for promotion and the success of industrial policies. Lastly, we examine changes in industrial structure in a number of European countries, and compare these changes in an intra-European setting, in order to gauge the effectiveness of industrial policy.
Particle-scale effects on global axial and torsional interface shear behavior

Summary An extensive literature on the shear behavior of continuum–particulate interfaces has been developed during the last four decades. However, relatively limited work regarding the behavior of interfaces under different loading conditions has been published. This paper presents a discrete element modeling study, along with comparisons from experimental data, of interface behavior under axial and torsional drained loading conditions. Detailed studies allow for links between micro-scale particle behavior and observed global response to be developed and for the latter to be evaluated in light of particle–particle and particle–continuum interactions. The results of this study indicate that axial and torsional interface shear induce inherently different loading conditions, as shown by the different failure envelopes, stress paths, and induced soil volume changes and deformations. Furthermore, the results presented in this paper indicate that particle-level mechanisms, such as particle rotations and contact slippage, play different roles in axial and torsional shear. Coordination number, polar histograms, particle displacements, particle rotations, and local void ratio measurements provide further insights into the fabric evolution, loading conditions, and failure mechanisms induced by these two shear modes. This study expands the current understanding of interface behavior and discusses potential improvements to geotechnical systems that leverage the characteristics of different imposed loading conditions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microwave photonics: what are the technology tipping points for military system applications?

The defense advanced research projects agency (DARPA), the central research and development organization for the US department of defense (DoD), sponsors many pioneering and ongoing research in microwave photonics in US. The advanced technology office (ATO) of DARPA researches, demonstrates, and develops high payoff projects in maritime, communications, special operations, command and control, and information assurance and survivability mission areas. These projects support military operations throughout the spectrum of conflict. ATO adapts advanced technologies into military systems and also exploits emerging technologies for future programs. The ultimate goal is superior cost-effective systems the military can use to respond to new and emerging threats. A special invited talk by ATO's office director discusses the technology "tipping points" for military system applications.
Abstract 2798: Quercetin inhibits Cr(VI)-induced malignant transformation of human lung epithelial cells by targeting miR-21-Pdcd4 signaling pathway

Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is an important human carcinogen associated with pulmonary diseases and lung cancer. Cancer prevention using natural products has become an integral part of cancer control. Quercetin is one of the most abundant dietary flavonoids widely present in many fruits and vegetables, possesses potent antioxidant activity capable of protecting normal cells from various stimuli-induced oxidative stress and cell death. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is a key regulator of oncogenic processes. It is significantly elevated in the majority of human tumors and functionally linked to cellular proliferation, invasion and migration. Studies have shown that miR-21 exerts its oncogenic activity by targeting the tumor suppressor gene programmed cell death 4 (Pdcd4). The present study examined the effect of quercetin on the inhibition of Cr(VI) induced carcinogenesis and the role of miR-21-Pdcd4 signaling involved. Our results showed that quercetin decreased ROS generation induced by Cr(VI) exposure in Beas-2B cells. Chronic Cr(VI) exposure induced malignant cell transformation, increased miR-21 expression and caused inhibition of Pdcd4, which were significantly inhibited by the treatment of quercetin in a dose dependent manner. Stable knockdown of miR-21 or overexpression of pdcd4 in Beas-2B cells significantly reduced the Cr(VI) induced cell transformation. Furthermore, Quercetin also inhibited the Cr(VI) induced beta-catenin/TCF-dependent transcription. Taken together, these results demonstrate that quercetin is able to protect Beas-2B cells from Cr(VI)-induced carcinogenesis by targeting miR-21-Pdcd4 signaling. Keywords: Hexavalent chromium, Quercetin, miR-21-Pdcd4 signaling Citation Format: Pratheeshkumar Poyil. Quercetin inhibits Cr(VI)-induced malignant transformation of human lung epithelial cells by targeting miR-21-Pdcd4 signaling pathway. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 2798. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-2798
Culture media-based selection of endothelial cells, pericytes, and perivascular-resident macrophage-like melanocytes from the young mouse vestibular system

Abstract The vestibular blood-labyrinth barrier (BLB) is comprised of perivascular-resident macrophage-like melanocytes (PVM/Ms) and pericytes (PCs), in addition to endothelial cells (ECs) and basement membrane (BM), and bears strong resemblance to the cochlear BLB in the stria vascularis. Over the past few decades, in vitro cell-based models have been widely used in blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-retina barrier (BRB) research, and have proved to be powerful tools for studying cell-cell interactions in their respective organs. Study of both the vestibular and strial BLB has been limited by the unavailability of primary culture cells from these barriers. To better understand how barrier component cells interact in the vestibular system to control BLB function, we developed a novel culture medium–based method for obtaining EC, PC, and PVM/M primary cells from tiny explants of the semicircular canal, sacculus, utriculus, and ampullae tissue of young mouse ears at post-natal age 8–12 d. Each phenotype is grown in a specific culture medium which selectively supports the phenotype in a mixed population of vestibular cell types. The unwanted phenotypes do not survive passaging. The protocol does not require additional equipment or special enzyme treatment. The harvesting process takes less than 2 h. Primary cell types are generated within 7–10 d. The primary culture ECs, PCs, and PVM/M shave consistent phenotypes more than 90% pure after two passages (∼ 3 weeks). The highly purified primary cell lines can be used for studying cell-cell interactions, barrier permeability, and angiogenesis.
A Hayekian Case Against Anarcho-Capitalism: Of Street Grids, Lighthouses, and Aid to the Destitute

Murray Rothbard and other anarcho-capitalists would abolish all governments. Individuals instead would voluntarily subscribe to the services of one of a number of competing private protective associations. This vision is a pipe dream. Building on the ideas of small-government classical liberals such as Friedrich Hayek and Milton Friedman, I first identify some utilitarian programs that, on account of transaction costs, overlapping protective associations could not realistically provide. These include the assembly of land for major public works and the control of air pollution. Second, and more fundamentally, competition among rival protective associations within a given territory would not long endure. On account of efficiencies of scale and scope, the provision of governance services is a natural territorial monopoly. Anarcho-capitalists, by imagining a stable system of competing private associations, ignore both the inevitability of territorial monopolists in governance, and the importance of institutions to constrain those monopolists’ abuses.
Racing to the Bottom or to the Top? Decentralization, Revenue Pressures, and Governance Reform in China

Summary China’s decentralization has been praised for promoting inter-jurisdictional competition that incentivizes local officials to promote economic development. The downside of decentralization is that it enables these same local authorities to slow or block implementation of centrally mandated governance reforms, especially when these may negatively affect local development goals. We suggest that China’s fiscal system and promotion system have created mismatched incentives that encourage cash-strapped local authorities to disregard central governance reforms. Specifically, we show that cities with weaker revenue bases were slower to implement new, centrally mandated environmental transparency regulations. Additional evidence points to a bifurcation in development strategies. In fiscally strong cities, increased foreign investment leads to greater compliance. In fiscally weak cities, foreign investment is associated with decreased disclosure, suggesting they aim to promote local development by becoming pollution havens. Similarly, high levels of pollution induce fiscally strong cities to increase pollution disclosures while the opposite holds in fiscally weak cities. These findings imply that mismatched decentralization policies can undermine other important governance reforms, even ones that might be expected to be complementary to decentralizing initiatives.
Effect of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Demyelinated Neuron Populations

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is non-invasive neuromodulation therapy which uses time-varying magnetic fields to induce electric fields within the patient’s brain, thus allowing for neural stimulation of the targeted region. While past studies have used finite-element analysis (FEA) to model the effects of stimulation on brain tissue, there have been limited studies which analyze the effects of the same stimulation on the neuron responses. We use a python package called NEST to model the populations of neurons which are healthy as well as those that have diminished or absent myelin sheath. We model diminished myelin sheath by increasing the capacitance of the neuron. We study the effects of TMS on the synaptic activity of these populations by utilizing clinical parameters specific to TMS. Furthermore, we compare our results to the models of brain tissue stimulation using the FEA software Sim4Life. Our results indicate that all neuron populations, regardless of their myelination state, retain some stimulation threshold which increases discretely as the myelin sheath diminishes. Using tissue analysis, we also computed the range of TMS current necessary to reach these stimulation thresholds for demyelinated populations. Furthermore, we find that the maximum-induced E-field on the cortical surface does not exceed 220 V/m for stimulation of highly demyelinated neuron populations. Therefore our study finds that although demyelinated neurons exhibit much lower nominal synaptic activity than healthy neurons, they are nevertheless responsive to TMS, and these stimulation thresholds can be reached without inducing an unsafe maximum E-field on the cortex.
Geospatial modelling in guiding health program strategies in resource-limited settings-the way forward.

Public health decision-making is a complex process that demands careful rational and ethical reasoning based on sound scientific evidence. When evaluating the potential benefits and outcomes of public health programs, policymakers often find themselves in challenging situations due to competing needs, limited resources, and lack of access to quality data, among others. In recent years, mathematical modelling has gained increasing popularity in public health practice for its ability to assist with projecting outcomes of intervention strategies and policies.
Children with Cancer Who Have Liver Disease

Children with haematological or solid organ malignancies may develop liver involvement due to cytotoxic treatment, an impaired immune system or as part of the complications of bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.
A one-pot, isothermal DNA sample preparation and amplification platform utilizing aqueous two-phase systems

Infectious diseases remain one of the major causes of death worldwide in developing countries. While screening via conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the gold standard in laboratory testing, its limited applications at the point-of-care have prompted the development of more portable nucleic acid detection systems. These include isothermal DNA amplification techniques, which are less equipment-intensive than PCR. Unfortunately, these techniques still require extensive sample preparation, limiting user accessibility. In this study, we introduce a novel system that combines thermophilic helicase-dependent amplification (tHDA) with a Triton X-100 micellar aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) to achieve cell lysis, lysate processing, and enhanced nucleic acid amplification in a simple, one-step process. The combined one-pot system was able to amplify and detect a target gene from whole-cell samples containing as low as 102 cfu/mL, and is the first known application of ATPSs to isothermal DNA amplification. This system's ease-of-use and sensitivity underlie its potential as a point-of-care diagnostic platform to detect for infectious diseases. Graphical abstract ᅟ.
Self-Assembly of Oscillatory Neurons and Networks

The activity of rhythmic central pattern generating circuits depends on both the intrinsic properties of neurons and their synaptic interactions. We describe experiments on the development of the stomatogastic nervous system and on its recovery from removal of modulatory inputs that suggest that activity may be important in regulating the intrinsic and synaptic properties of these networks. Our computational studies argue that simple activity-dependent rules in which activity governs the regulation of intrinsic neuronal properties and the strength of inhibitory connections may be sufficient to account for the selfassembly of rhythmic networks.
On Quickest Detection of System Structure Variation

Consider a ‘variable structure’ system in which the universe of possible structures is a known and finite number. Such a model is not totally unrealistic; a direct example is the military’ stores’ problem for aircraft, where the number of possible configurations is finite. It has also been employed by some authors in parameter estimation problems [2], Suppose now there is an abrupt random change from one structure to another. How can we detect that a change has occurred in the shortest possible time based on noisy, partial observation of the system? This is the problem that we shall formulate and attempt to solve. We use a ‘white noise’ model for the observation noise and the associated non-linear filtering theory as in [2], We follow the recent work of Shiryayev [3] on optimising the detection algorithm for the ‘order-disorder’ problem. We also go on to formulate an ‘adaptive control’ problem for uncertain systems and indicate some generalizations.
Two-Proton Decay Energy and Width of 19 Mg(g.s.)

We use a weak-coupling procedure and results of a shell-model calculation to compute the two-proton separation energy of $^{19}\mathrm{Mg}$. Our result is at the upper end of the previous range, but $^{19}\mathrm{Mg}$ is still bound for single proton decay to $^{18}\mathrm{Na}$. We also calculate the $2p$ decay width.
Introduction: the future of non-destructive evaluation (NDE) and structural health monitoring (SHM)

Abstract: As the use of fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites increases there is an increasing need for ensuring both a high level of quality control and that products and systems respond as required over extended periods of time. Thus, while there is a continuing need for methods of non-destructive evaluation (NDE), there is also a need to go further than just detection to the assessment of the effect of the defect on performance and life. It is important to keep in mind that the field is developing extremely rapidly and methods of testing and evaluation are increasingly being integrated with complex models and simulations along with technological advances that make it possible to combine specific methods with the means of assessment to enable rapid structural health monitoring (SHM) in the field.
B-Cell Development

B lymphocytes protect individuals against invading pathogens by producing antibody-secreting plasma cells. In this chapter we discuss several fundamental concepts concerning the development, activation, and differentiation of B cells. We consider the role of specific transcription factors in the general development of B cells, the process whereby B cells synthesize receptors for antigen selection processes important for regulating potentially self-reactive B cells and the signals that promote the differentiation of pathogen-specific B cells into antibody-secreting cells. We also discuss several assay systems used to evaluate B cell function, and briefly discuss how toxins might interfere with B cell development and/or function.
The Effects of Cross-Cultural Competence and Social Support on International Students’ Psychological Adjustment: Autonomy and Environmental Mastery

This study investigated relationships between cross-cultural competence, social support, and international students’ psychological adjustment. Participants included 94 international students studying in the United States. The researchers conducted a series of standard multiple regression analysis to predict autonomy and environmental mastery as measured by the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-Being (Ryff & Keyes, 1995). They found significant positive relationships between autonomy and cross-cultural competence as measured by the Intercultural Competence Scale (ICCS; Fantini & Tirmizi, 2006), and environmental mastery and social support as measured by the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS; Zimet, Dahlem, Zimet, & Farely, 1988). A significant negative relationship was also found between length of residency in the host country, autonomy, and environmental mastery.
Editorial Trends and Challenges in Translation of Point-of-Care Technologies in Healthcare

Point-of-Care Technologies (POCT) in Healthcare have emerged as a potential pathway in global and resource-limited environments towards improving access to healthcare with emphasis on preventive, personalized and precision medicine. The potential uses for POC technologies by patients or clinicians are many—from home-based monitoring to semi-managed and clinical inpatient healthcare. However, it is yet to be proven precisely what technologies are necessary or how they should be used to make an impact in improving access to quality healthcare. Although there is great potential for the application of new technologies in healthcare, physicians are skeptical about POCT since they fear it will generate large amounts of unreliable and overwhelming information of unknown benefit. Because the benefits and acceptance of POCT are unknown, a necessary first step in its development is performing market research of patients and clinicians to determine what POCT protocols would be most beneficial and acceptable. Research into POCT involves first understanding what the needs are of patients and clinicians, and then researching the best way to apply new technology to improve clinical care based on the understanding of these needs. The conference featured 5 keynote, 8 panel and 4 breakout sessions involving leaders from several stakeholder groups, including technology research, federal funding and regulatory agencies, industry and clinical healthcare. Through numerous presentations and group discussions, the conference participants concluded that the future of POCT depends upon facilitation of collaborative translational research towards development and meaningful validation of POCT in addressing specific healthcare and clinical needs with clear benefits and user acceptance.
The Five‐Star Skilled Nursing Facility Rating System and Care of Disadvantaged Populations

Objectives To examine characteristics and locations of high‐ and low‐quality skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and whether certain vulnerable individuals were differentially discharged to facilities with lower quality ratings. Design Retrospective observational study. Setting Medicare‐certified SNFs providing postacute care. Participants SNF stays (N=1,195,166) of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older admitted to 14,033 SNFs within 2 days of hospital discharge. Measurements We used Medicare claims from October 2013 to September 2014 and SNF 5‐star ratings published on Nursing Home Compare. We describe the characteristics and populations of facilities according to quality, and the location of low (1 star) and high (5 stars) quality facilities. We used logistic regression models to estimate odds of admission to a low‐quality facility after hospital discharge according to race, ethnicity, dual Medicare–Medicaid enrollment, functional status, discharge from a safety‐net or low‐quality hospital, and residence in a county with more low‐quality SNFs. Results More than one‐fifth (22.2%) of the facilities had a 5‐star (high quality) rating, and 15.9% had a one‐star (low quality) rating. Low‐quality facilities were more likely to be in the south (44%), for profit (85%), and larger (>70 beds (86%)). Dual enrollment was the strongest predictor of admission to a 1‐star facility (odds ratio (OR) = 1.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.51–1.55), although racial or ethnic minority status (black: OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.22–1.28; Hispanic: OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.06–1.14) and geographic prevalence of facilities (for a 10% increase in 1‐star beds located in the county of individual's residence: OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.26–1.27) were also significant predictors. Conclusion Vulnerable groups are more likely to be discharged to lower‐quality facilities for postacute care. Policy‐makers should monitor disparities in SNF quality. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:108–114, 2019.
Using a Laryngeal Mask Airway During Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy is Safe and Obviates the Need for Paralytics.

Background Bedside percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) placement in critically ill patients is performed in a variety of ways, largely driven by institutional preference. We have recently transitioned to primarily extubating the patient and placing a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) before tracheostomy insertion in lieu of retracting the endotracheal tube (ETT) in place. This allows for lower sedative use and provides a superior view of the operative field. Here, we seek to describe the safety and efficiency of that approach. Methods This is a single-center cross-sectional study from 2014 to 2016 comparing patients who underwent PT with the ETT in place retracted to the proximal larynx versus those who were extubated and had a LMA placed. Procedural length, sedative totals, and safety outcomes were recorded. Results In total, 125 patients underwent PT during the study period, 75 via a LMA and 50 via existing ETT. There was no difference in procedural duration (LMA: 53.5±21.4 min vs. ETT: 50.4±16.8; P=0.41), total complications (LMA: 29.3% vs. 16%; P=0.09) or major complications (4% in both groups). Cisatracurium use was significantly lower in the LMA arm (LMA: 1.0±3.6 mg vs. ETT: 11.5±5.9 mg; P Conclusion Replacing the ETT with an LMA before PT is equally safe, does not increase total procedural duration, and all but eliminates the need for paralytic agents.
School leadership for professional development: the role of social media and networks

The purpose of this study was to describe and examine how school leaders in the United States used social media and networking (SMN) for professional development (PD), and to determine which SMN pl...
THE USE OF PHYSICAL METHODS TO DETERMINE POLYMER CONFORMATION IN SOLUTION

ABSTRACT Of the physical methods used to determine polymer conformations in solution, we present three. The first combines optical rotatory dispersion and circular dichroism, viscosity, dipole moments, and semiempirical conformational energy calculations which we have used with asymmetric polyamides in solution. The second examines conformational changes in the mutarotation of poly(trans-5-methyl-L-proline) by determining the kinetics of the mutarotation using optical rotatory dispersion, circular dichroism, ultraviolet and infrared spectroscopy. Lastly, the conformation of a macromolecule in solution can be studied by kinetic methods. If the macromolecule contains catalytic functions, their reactivity towards a particular substrate will frequently depend on the spatial arrangement of the groups along the polymer chain. We have studied the rate of hydrolysis of poly-4 (5)-vinylimidazole in water-alcohol solutions on substituted substrates and have found we can associate these changes in the rate of hydrolysis partly with conformational changes.
Dynamics of Driver's Gaze: Explorations in Behavior Modeling and Maneuver Prediction

The study and modeling of driver's gaze dynamics are important because, if and how the driver is monitoring the driving environment is vital for driver assistance in manual mode, for takeover requests in highly automated mode and for semantic perception of the surround in fully autonomous mode. We developed a machine vision-based framework to classify driver's gaze into context rich zones of interest and model driver's gaze behavior by representing gaze dynamics over a time period using gaze accumulation, glance duration, and glance frequencies. As a use case, we explore the driver's gaze dynamic patterns during maneuvers executed in freeway driving, namely, left lane change maneuver, right lane change maneuver, and lane keeping. It is shown that condensing gaze dynamics into durations and frequencies leads to recurring patterns based on driver activities. Furthermore, modeling these patterns show predictive powers in maneuver detection up to a few hundred milliseconds a priori .
Performance Assessment of Machine Learning Based Models for Diabetes Prediction

Diabetes is a major chronic disease which impacts all age groups. It has increasing prevalence worldwide. Certain factors increase the chances of diabetes occurrence in individuals. Prediction-based modeling has been used previously to provide a prevention based approach to diabetes. Prediction models have predominantly been based on regression and feature elimination. In this paper, a machine learning-based approach is presented to predict the individual diabetes occurrence based on specific lifestyle, and demographic factors. A publicly available dataset - continuous NHANES, was used. To account for small data size due to missing data and class imbalanced data, certain statistical techniques were applied. Synthetic minority over sampling technique was used via Gower’s distance calculation to avoid class imbalanced data. Additionally, principal component analysis was used as a feature extraction technique. Predictive models were developed using MATLAB. A dataset with 140 data samples and 11 predictor variables (converted to eight principal components) was used. The output variable had two classes - diabetic and not diabetic. A training data set of 98 and 42 samples for training and testing respectively. Two machine learning models - bagged trees and linear SVM were developed. Two validation techniques - 5- fold cross validation and holdout validation were assessed. The highest accuracy of 91% (90.82%, on test data) was obtained by the linear SVM model using both 5-fold cross validation and hold out validation approaches (AUC of 0.908 in both cases).
Nodal β spectrins are required to maintain Na + channel clustering and axon integrity

Clustered ion channels at nodes of Ranvier are critical for fast action potential propagation in myelinated axons. Axon-glia interactions converge on ankyrin and spectrin cytoskeletal proteins to cluster nodal Na+ channels during development. However, how nodal ion channel clusters are maintained is poorly understood. Here, we generated mice lacking nodal spectrins in peripheral sensory neurons to uncouple their nodal functions from their axon initial segment functions. We demonstrate a hierarchy of nodal spectrins, where β4 spectrin is the primary spectrin and β1 spectrin can substitute; each is sufficient for proper node organization. Remarkably, mice lacking nodal β spectrins have normal nodal Na+ channel clustering during development, but progressively lose Na+ channels with increasing age. Loss of nodal spectrins is accompanied by an axon injury response and axon deformation. Thus, nodal spectrins are required to maintain nodal Na+ channel clusters and the structural integrity of axons.
Plasma Cell Fate Is Orchestrated by Elaborate Changes in Genome Compartmentalization and Inter-chromosomal Hubs.

Summary The transition from the follicular B to the plasma cell stage is associated with large-scale changes in cell morphology. Here, we examine whether plasma cell development is also associated with changes in nuclear architecture. We find that the onset of plasma cell development is concomitant with a decline in remote genomic interactions; a gain in euchromatic character at loci encoding for factors that specify plasma cell fate, including Prdm1 and Atf4; and establishment of de novo inter-chromosomal hubs. We find that, in developing plasma cells and concurrent with transcriptional silencing, the Ebf1 locus repositions from an euchromatic to peri-centromeric heterochromatic environment. Finally, we find that inter-chromosomal hubs are enriched for the deposition of either H3K27Ac or H3K27me3. These data indicate that plasma cell fate is orchestrated by elaborate changes in genome topology and that epigenetic marks, linked with super-enhancers or transcriptionally repressed regions, are enriched at inter-chromosomal hubs.