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Systemic fungal pathogens typically gain entry through a single portal and disseminate to affect multiple body systems. Infections caused by fungal Penicillium species are rare in dogs, and these cases have a poor prognosis. An unknown Penicillium species was isolated from the right eye of a middle‐aged Border Collie without evidence of systemic disease. Due to financial limitations, an extensive diagnostic evaluation could not be performed. Histopathology alone failed to identify the specific causative agent; however, fungal culture on aqueous humor provided the definitive diagnosis. This case highlights the advantage of collecting ocular fluids after enucleation to diagnose atypical fungal infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated microaggressions Black children experienced in early childhood education during the pandemic. Using racial microaggressions as a framework, we sought to gain insights into these experiences through counter-narratives from parents of Black children. Parents provided unique insights into their children's experiences, giving voice to their daily realities in early learning contexts. This article focuses on how Black children are treated with second-class student status. Black children being positioned with second-class status was the most predominant theme from this work during the pandemic. This is noteworthy, as few studies have considered how the pandemic uniquely shaped Black children's educational realities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces the Choquet integral of fuzzifying functions with respect to a fuzzy measure. To express various phenomena or ambiguous values in many applications may not be enough to show them as a function, in which case a fuzzifying function can be applied to achieve better expressions or flexibility for given function values. To apply Choquet integrals of fuzzifying functions, we consider Choquet integrals of interval-valued functions as an operator which are α-level functions of fuzzifying functions. In this study, we investigate some properties of Choquet integral of fuzzifying functions and present their applications. As part of this, a series of relevant examples and their subsequent applications are provided, along with the fuzzification of two integrands: A probability density function (PDF) and a utility function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate large voltage-induced changes of magnetic properties in thin films of Ni80Fe20 (permalloy) when gated using an ionic liquid medium [1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMIMTFSI)]. The coercivity and magnetic moment of 5 nm thick permalloy films could be reduced by 75% and 35%, respectively, by using applied voltages. These changes were partially restored by reversing the potential polarity. Electrochemical, time-course magnetometry and surface analysis measurements suggest that the voltage-induced changes are due to changes in the oxidation state at the surface of the film, causing a thinning of the permalloy layer. The control of soft magnetic properties with low voltages may be of use in tuneable devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to illuminate how Black boys are framed and engaged in early childhood education, from the narratives of the parents of Black children. Using critical race counterstorytelling, four interwoven themes emerged from this study. The stories from the narratives of the parents depicted a viewpoint that their sons were assumed to be troublemakers, surveilled by teachers, and policed for small infractions, singled-out for punishment among their peers, and subjected to harsher and more prolonged punishments for perceived wrongdoing. We characterized this experience through the moniker suspected, surveilled, singled-out, and sentenced to account for the four areas where an assumption of criminality manifests in early learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the time when prehistoric populations were uprooting and relocating themselves across much of the Southwest, an influx of thousands of immigrants possibly arrived onto the elevated and windswept terrain of Perry Mesa in central Arizona. During the Late Classic (A.D. 1280–1400), the expanded populations built large and imposing pueblos equally spaced along the mesa edge and overlooking 1000-foot cliffs. How so many people moved to Perry Mesa in late prehistory is a question we address with survey and ceramic analyses. We assess three migration scenarios: (1) a rapid deployment of a large population en masse for defense; (2) a prolonged migration stream, whereby newcomers steadily arrived to join founder groups, and (3) a scenario that truly was not a migration at all, but rather a local reorganization including the construction of the big pueblos. We also consider how the Perry Mesa case contributes to theory building for migration processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key areas in which microbially influenced corrosion (MIC) has been found to be a problem is in the bilges of maritime vessels. To establish effective biological monitoring protocols, baseline knowledge of the temporal and spatial biological variation within bilges, as well as the effectiveness of different sampling methodologies, is critical. We used 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding of pelagic and sessile bacterial communities from ship bilges to assess the variation in bilge bacterial communities to determine how the inherent bilge diversity could guide or constrain biological monitoring. Bilge communities exhibited high levels of spatial and temporal variation, with .80% of the community able to be turned over in the space of 3months, likely due to disturbance events such as cleaning and maintenance. Sessile and pelagic communities within a given bilge were also inherently distinct, with dominant exact sequence variants (ESVs) rarely shared between the two. Taxa containing KEGG orthologies (KOs) associated with dissimilatory sulfate reduction and biofilm production, functions typically associated with MIC, were generally more prevalent in sessile communities. Collectively, our findings indicate that neither bilge water nor an unaffected bilge from within the same vessel would constitute an appropriate reference community for MIC diagnosis. Optimal sampling locations and strategies that could be incorporated into a standardized method for monitoring bilge biology in relation to MIC were identified. Finally, taxonomic and functional comparisons of bilge diversity highlight the potential of functional approaches in future biological monitoring of MIC and MIC mitigation strategies in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explored the experiences and perceptions of Black girls as conveyed through the narratives of their parents. In particular, this study focused on racial microaggressions in early childhood education (preschool through third grade). The study employed narratives written by 44 parents of Black children. Ultimately, their narratives demonstrated that Black hair was viewed as a marker of second-class citizenship and as an indicator of defilement. The individuals communicating these microaggressions ranged from educators to other children in the classroom. Negative messages about Black hair are particularly concerning in early childhood education, especially given the important role early learning has on children's formative development. Implications for early childhood educators are extended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Latinas in the USA and Spanish-speaking countries experience elevated rates of perinatal depression (PND) because of high psychosocial stressors. Latinas are heterogeneous and have varying cultural practices. It is unclear whether specific cultural orientations have differential risks for PND. This systematic review aimed to determine whether degree of acculturation, Marianismo, and religiosity are risks or protective factors for PND in Latina women living in the USA, Latin America, and other countries. The review included PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), and Social Services Abstracts, and used Boolean combined keywords. English and Spanish language articles were considered. The review was conducted between July 2017 and February 2018, with no boundaries on publication dates. Ten studies were selected for inclusion. Of those, two studies were conducted in Mexico and most studies conducted in the USA included women of Mexican descent. Degree of acculturation (adoption of mainstream values) was inconsistently directly associated with PND; evidence suggest indirect associations. Marianismo, the traditional female role of virtue, passivity, and priority of others over oneself, was inconsistently correlated with risk for depression in pregnancy, but significantly and indirectly associated with postpartum depression. Two of three studies found religiosity to be protective postpartum. Further research on protective and risk factors of specific cultural orientations, particularly degree of acculturation and Marianismo, for PND in Latinas in the USA and abroad is needed. Attention to specific perinatal periods is necessary given the inconsistent findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guided by the concept of culturally relevant pedagogy, this study explored whether exposure to racially salient images effected test performance, stereotype-threat and anxiety among Black collegians. Students completed an excerpt of an SAT test prep, and measures of anxiety and stereotype threat. Those in the experimental condition were exposed to racially salient images (termed "Mirror Artifacts") on their test forms and those in the control condition were not exposed to any images. Data was analyzed using independent samples t-tests. Results indicated that those in the experimental condition had lower levels of anxiety and stereotype threat than those in the control condition. It is recommended that racially salient images be displayed as a simple and cost-effective way to effect student non-cognitive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This chapter addresses the ethical implications of chronic traumatic encephalopathy for community colleges with intercollegiate football teams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which analyzed phase transitions of powdered potassium nitrate at two impurity concentrations. Details on the experiment; Results of the study; Conclusions.

Objective: To identify laryngeal mRNA gene changes in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Method: Laryngeal biopsies from non‐smoking LPR patients (n=10; Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) >12 and a Reflux Finding Score (RFS) >6) and controls (n=9; RSI <12 and RFS <6) were collected from four subsites (true vocal cord, false vocal cord, medial arytenoid and posterior commissure) of the larynx. qRT‐PCR analyses were conducted on 20 reflux‐ and inflammation‐related genes, including interleukins 6 and 8, cytokeratins 8 and 14, mucin genes MUC1, MUC2, MUC3B, MUC4, MUC5B, MUC6 and MUC7 and carbonic anhydrase III. Statistical analysis (Mann‐Whitney U test) compared gene expression levels between LPR and control groups at each subsite. Results: Site‐specific differences in squamous metaplasia and gene expression were noted in LPR patients, with the majority present in the medial arytenoid region. Significant.differences were noted in genes related to mucosal defence and inflammation, including CRNN, CD1d, TGFβ‐1, MUC2, MUC5B and CDH1. Conclusion: Whilst the posterior commissure is commonly identified as the area demonstrating the most significant macroscopic change in LPR, the histological changes and genes assessed here showed more pronounced LPR associated differences in the medial arytenoid. We identified differences in expression of mucin genes, cytokeratin‐14 and molecular markers of inflammation. Whilst some of these changes may be metaplasia‐related, further evaluation of the mRNA expression of these genes may provide a useful biomarker panel for diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of LPR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To construct a detailed mechanistic and physiologically based biopharmaceutics model capable of predicting 1) device-formulation-tissue interaction during the injection process and 2) binding, degradation, local distribution, diffusion, and drug absorption, following subcutaneous injection. This paper is part of a series and focusses on the first aspect. Methods: A mathematical model, SubQ-Sim, was developed incorporating the details of the various substructures within the subcutaneous environment together with the calculation of dynamic drug disposition towards the lymph ducts and venous capillaries. Literature was searched to derive key model parameters in healthy and diseased subjects. External factors such as body temperature, exercise, body position, food or stress provide a means to calculate the impact of "life events" on the pharmacokinetics of subcutaneously administered drugs. Results: The model predicts the tissue backpressure time profile during the injection as a function of injection rate, volume injected, solution viscosity, and interstitial fluid viscosity. The shape of the depot and the concentrations of the formulation and proteins in the depot are described. The model enables prediction of formulation backflow following premature needle removal and the resulting formulation losses. Finally, the effect of disease (type 2 diabetes) or the presence of recombinant human hyaluronidase in the formulation on the injection pressure, are explored. Conclusions: This novel model can successfully predict tissue back pressure, depot dimensions, drug and protein concentration and formulation losses due to incorrect injection, which are all important starting conditions for predicting drug absorption from a subcutaneous dose. The next article will describe the absorption model and validation against clinical data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research focuses on factors predicting faculty-student engagement for Black male collegians. In this study, the authors investigated whether students' perceptions of racial/gender stereotypes had a moderating effect on the determinants of engagement with faculty. The sample population was derived from 16 urban community colleges located across four states. A total of 340 Black men participated in the Community College Survey of Men. Degree utility and intrinsic interest were both found to be positive determinants of faculty-student engagement. The variable with the most significant contribution to the model was faculty validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study discusses the impact of employment on academic success among Black male students in the community college, from students’ perspectives. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews with 28 participants from a southwestern community college. Findings from this study illustrated that students, in general, discussed employment as a barrier to their academic success. In particular, students noted the difficulty in adjusting to new working schedules, being too tired to fully apply themselves to their studies, and tenuous relationships with supervisors/employers. Recommendations for preparing students for and facilitating a successful work–college balance are extended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different organogel formulations used as beef fat (BF) replacement (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) were utilized to optimize the mechanical properties of frankfurters. Organogels, made of canola oil (CO), included different concentrations of ethyl cellulose (EC) and sorbitan monostearate (SMS). They consisted of: 8% EC + 1.5% SMS referred to as organogel-I (OG-I), 8% EC + 3.0% SMS (OG-II), and 10% EC + 1.5% SMS (OG-III), which were found promising in a previous study when used at 100% replacement. Replacement of BF with organogels at all levels could bring down the very high hardness values (texture profile analysis and sensory) of frankfurters prepared using CO by itself, relative to the BF control. OG-I and OG-II quantity had no significant effect on hardness and springiness, being similar in many cases to the BF and lower than the CO control. Shear force values of all organogel treatments were not significantly different from one another, and were between the BF and CO controls. Smokehouse yield showed a pattern of decreasing losses with increasing organogel replacement level. Sensory analysis revealed that using CO by itself significantly increased hardness, but structuring the oil (via organogelation), brought it down to the BF control value in all OG-I and OG-II formulations. Juiciness was significantly reduced by using liquid oil but increased with raising the amount of organogels. Oiliness sensation increased with higher organogel substitution and was actually higher than the beef control. The study demonstrates the potential use of vegetable oil structuring in replacing the more saturated BF in emulsion-type meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the residual stress state in brazed joints is crucial for the operational design and lifetime performance of the part in service. High-magnitude residual stresses are expected in the joined materials following cooling from brazing temperatures ( \approx 950~^\circ \textC ) due to large mismatches in the thermal and mechanical properties. This paper aims at further understanding of the residual stresses caused when brazing tungsten to copper and tungsten to 316L austenitic steel using a eutectic gold-copper brazing alloy. These configurations are potentially useful for future diverter designs. Finite element analysis has been used to predict the brazing-induced stresses and residual stress measurements were carried out on the brazed joint by X-ray diffraction to validate the prediction model. Large residual stresses are predicted and measured in the tungsten; however, there is disagreement in the nature of the stress in the tungsten–copper configuration. Predicted stresses are highly tensile in nature close to the brazing interface, whereas the measured stresses are highly compressive. The disagreement is believed to be caused by the model not accurately simulating the complex brazing process. Residual stress measurements on the copper were not possible due to texturing during brazing, grain growth, and significant inelastic strains. There is excellent correlation between the measured and predicted stresses in the tungsten-316L configuration. High-tensile stresses were predicted in the tungsten (magnitude approximately 1000 MPa close to the braze interface) and high tensile stresses were measured (magnitude approximately 800 MPa in the same region). Joint misalignment of parent materials was also observed to significantly affect the residual stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amygdala is essential for generating emotional-affective behaviors. It consists of several nuclei with highly selective, elaborate functions. In particular, the central extended amygdala, consisting of the central amygdala (CEA) and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is an essential component actively controlling efferent connections to downstream effectors like hypothalamus and brain stem. Both, CEA and BNST contain high amounts of different neuropeptides that significantly contribute to synaptic transmission. Among these, neuropeptide Y (NPY) has emerged as an important anxiolytic and fear-reducing neuromodulator. Here, we characterized the expression, connectivity and electrophysiological function of NPY and Y2 receptors within the CEA. We identified several NPY-expressing neuronal populations, including somatostatin- and calretinin-expressing neurons. Furthermore, in the main intercalated nucleus, NPY is expressed primarily in dopamine D1 receptor-expressing neurons but also in interspersed somatostatin-expressing neurons. Interestingly, NPY neurons did not co-localize with the Y2 receptor. Retrograde tract tracing experiments revealed that NPY neurons reciprocally connect the CEA and BNST. Functionally, the Y2 receptor agonist PYY, reduced both, inhibitory as well as excitatory synaptic transmission in the centromedial amygdala (CEm). However, we also provide evidence that lack of NPY or Y2 receptors results in increased GABA release specifically at inhibitory synapses in the CEm. Taken together, our findings suggest that NPY expressed by distinct populations of neurons can modulate afferent and efferent projections of the CEA via presynaptic Y2 receptors located at inhibitory and excitatory synapses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Context. Transfer is a core function of community colleges; this is a critical point given that these institutions serve as the primary pathway into postsecondary education for Black men. However, too few Black men identify transfer as a primary goal and/or eventually transfer to a 4-year college or university. Purpose: Using Nora and Rendón's (1990) research on transfer predisposition as a theoretical guide, this study investigated determinants of Black male community college students' predisposition to transfer from a community college to a 4-year university. This research sought to determine whether student-level and institutional-level measures of engagement were predictive of transfer intent. This research also examined whether engagement predictors at the student level had randomly varying slopes across colleges. Population: This study employed a quantitative analysis of secondary data from the Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE). A total of 11,384 Black men nested within 259 community colleges were included in the analytic sample. Research Design: Data were analyzed using multilevel, multinomial logistic regression. Students' predisposition to transfer was modeled in three categories, transfer as a primary goal, secondary goal, or not a goal. The first analysis examined predictors of students' intent to transfer using student-level variables while the second analysis added institutional-level variables. In the third analysis, the researchers' constructed random slopes and intercepts models to investigate whether the student-level engagement slopes on the outcome differed across the nested structure. Findings/Results: Students with transfer as a primary goal (as opposed to not being a goal) were more likely to be younger, have earned more credits, non-first-generation, full-time enrollees, and to have taken developmental education courses. They were also more likely to spend more hours per week studying and involved in extracurricular activities. These students were also more engaged in active and collaborative learning and used student services on campus. Conclusions/Recommendations: This research has shown that that the factors influencing Black men's predisposition toward transfer largely mirror that of their White and Hispanic peers. Findings from this study demonstrated that social integration was a positive predictor of students' intent to transfer; the finding diverges from prior research on Black men in the community college, which have shown social integration to serve as a negative predictor of success outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This chapter describes the establishment of the Minority Male Community College Collaborative (M2C3), a research and practice center at San Diego State University. M2C3 partners with community colleges across the United States to enhance access, achievement, and success among men of color. This chapter begins with a description of the national trends and concerns that led to the center's focus on supporting the capacity of community colleges to address challenges facing historically underrepresented and underserved men, particularly men of color. Next, the chapter describes the concepts of 'equity-mindedness' and 'institutional responsibility' that informed the conceptualization of the center's intervention approach. Guided by these concepts, partnerships advanced by institutional assessment tools such as the Community College Survey of Men (CCSM), the Community College Insights Protocol (CCIP), and the Community College Student Success Inventory (CCSSI) are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors of this chapter present the Socio-Ecological Outcomes Model as a means of predicting student success for community college men of color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fatigue-resistant cladding concept confirms the presence of compressive residual stresses in a cylinder weld clad with 17–4 PH stainless steel while tensile residual stresses exist in an Inconel 625 clad layer. In this study, autofrettage of an Inconel 625 thick-walled clad cylinder is investigated with modified residual stress distributions obtained indicating that tensile residual stresses throughout the clad layer are transformed to compressive in nature, discontinuity stresses at the clad/substrate interface are almost entirely eliminated and compressive residual stresses exist to a depth of around 18 mm. An alternative clad material, 17–4 PH stainless steel, is investigated resulting in compressive residual stresses in the clad layer without the need for autofrettage. The complexity of modelling a martensitic stainless steel is discussed and sensitivity studies undertaken to illustrate the influence of coefficient of thermal expansion on resulting residual stresses. Strain hardening effects and the assumption of an idealised interface are discussed. Contour method measurements prove that discontinuity stresses are reduced in reality due to alloying and diffusion effects, highlighting also the need for further characterisation of 17–4 PH. Additional considerations such as the weld clad profile and process parameters are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined faculty participation in service in the Arizona public university system among faculty of color and White faculty. Data were utilized from a survey of faculty in the colleges of education at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and University of Arizona. Independent t-tests revealed that faculty of color were more likely to be engaged in liaison-related service than their White counterparts. Findings also illustrated that faculty of color were more likely to be involved as leaders in professional organizations. This study affirmed current national-level research on faculty service which indicates that faculties of color are more involved in service than other faculties. Based upon the study's findings, suggestions for revamping the weight value of faculty service within the retention, tenure, and promotion process are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonality is an important timescale driving variability in the waters of many continental shelf regions globally. Along the east coast of Australia, it has been recognised that the East Australian Current (EAC), the Western boundary current (WBC) of the South Pacific gyre, warms and strengthens in the Austral summer. Thus it has been hypothesised that shelf currents also warm and strengthen (poleward) annually. However, the EACs highly dynamic nature results in large variations in the latitude of separation from the coast and eddy shedding. Until recently the lack of long term in-situ observations on the shelf has precluded a study into low frequency (seasonal) variability in shelf circulation. Using at least 3 years of moored in silu temperature and velocity observations we investigate low frequency variability in shelf waters at 2 cross-shelf locations (i) upstream and (ii) downstream of the typical EAC separation latitude. The local winds vary bi-modally upstream and tri-modally downstream varying with the passage of fronts, thus do not drive a seasonal response in the circulatioa Harmonic analysis of the velocity and temperature fields shows that upstream of the separation zone, only 6% of the velocity variability occurs on the seasonal timescale, compared to 49% of the temperature variability. Cross shelf temperature gradients and vertical velocity shear increase in summer with an increase in poleward heat advection in the EAC Downstream of the separation point the influence of episodic eddy encroachments precludes seasonality in the vertical structure of the flow despitean annual cycle in the stratifkatioa The seasonal cycle in temperature moves out of phase with increasing depths, with maxima (minima) in March (September) at 30 m compared to maxima (minima) in May (November) at the bottom. This is expected to have a large influence on the timing of nutrient injection onto the shelf, and thus phytoplankton species composition and abundance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bio-response Operational Testing and Evaluation (BOTE) Project was a cross-government effort designed to operationally test and evaluate a response to a biological incident (release ofBacillus anthracis[Ba]spores, the causative agent for anthrax) from initial public health and law enforcement response through environmental remediation. The BOTE Project was designed to address site remediation after the release of aBasimulant,Bacillus atrophaeusspp.globigii(Bg), within a facility, drawing upon recent advances in the biological sampling and decontamination areas. A key component of response to a biological contamination incident is the proper management of wastes and residues, which is woven throughout all response activities. Waste is generated throughout the response and includes items like sampling media packaging materials, discarded personal protective equipment, items removed from the facility either prior to or following decontamination, aqueous waste streams, and materials generated through the application of decontamination technologies. The amount of residual contaminating agent will impact the available disposal pathways and waste management costs. Waste management is an integral part of the decontamination process and should be included through “Pre-Incident” response planning. Overall, the pH-adjusted bleach decontamination process generated the most waste from the decontamination efforts, and fumigation with chlorine dioxide generated the least waste. A majority of the solid waste generated during pH-adjusted bleach decontamination was the nonporous surfaces that were removed, bagged, decontaminated ex situ, and treated as waste. The waste during the two fumigation rounds of the BOTE Project was associated mainly with sampling activities. Waste management activities may represent a significant contribution to the overall cost of the response/recovery operation. This paper addresses the waste management activities for the BOTE field test.Implications:Management of waste is a critical element of activities dealing with remediation of buildings and outdoor areas following a biological contamination incident. Waste management must be integrated into the overall remediation process, along with sampling, decontamination, resource management, and other important response elements, rather than being a stand-alone activity. The results presented in this paper will provide decision makers and emergency planners at the federal/state/tribal/local level information that can be used to integrate waste management into an overall systems approach to planning and response activities. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The amygdala is fundamental for associative fear and extinction learning. Recently, also the central nucleus of the amygdala (CEA) has emerged as a site of plasticity actively controlling efferent connections to downstream effector brain areas. Although synaptic transmission is primarily mediated by glutamate and GABA, neuropeptides critically influence the overall response. While neuropeptide Y (NPY) acting via postsynaptic Y1 receptors exerts an important anxiolytic and fear-reducing action, the role of the predominantly presynaptic Y2 receptors is less defined. To investigate the role of Y2 receptors in the CEA we employed viral-vector mediated over-expression of the Y2 selective agonist NPY 3-36 in fear conditioning and extinction experiments. NPY 3-36 over-expression in the CEA resulted in reduced fear expression during fear acquisition and recall. Interestingly, this effect was blocked by intraperitoneal injection of a brain-penetrant Y2 receptor antagonist. Furthermore, over-expression of NPY 3-36 in the CEA also reduced fear expression during fear extinction of CS-induced but not context-related fear. Again, fear extinction appeared delayed by peripheral injection of a Y2 receptor antagonist JNJ-31020028. Importantly, mice with over-expression of NPY 3-36 in the CEA also displayed reduced spontaneous recovery and reinstatement, suggesting that Y2 receptor activation supports a permanent suppression of fear. Local deletion of Y2 receptors in the CEA, on the other hand, increased the expression of CS-induced freezing during fear recall and fear extinction. Thus, NPY inhibits fear learning and promotes cued extinction by reducing fear expression also via activation of presynaptic Y2 receptors on CEA neurons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine factors contributing to Black male students' sense of belonging with faculty members. Data from this study were derived from the Fall 2013 administration of the Community College Survey of Men (CCSM) and was analyzed using hierarchical linear regression. Findings from this study indicate that, after controlling for relevant extraneous variables, perceived racial-gender stereotypes held by faculty members, faculty validation, and faculty student engagement are significant predictors of respondents' perceptions of belonging with faculty members. Additionally, masculine identity (e.g., school as a feminine domain, breadwinner orientation and competitive ethos) moderated the effects of the perceptions of belonging with faculty members. Implications for policy, practice, and future research are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Radiation therapy is a commonly used treatment in head and neck oncology, whether used alone or as an adjunct to other treatments. Osteoradionecrosis and radiation-induced malignancy are both rare, late complications of radiation therapy.Methods:This paper describes a case of radiation-induced sarcoma of the mandible initially presenting as osteoradionecrosis. In addition, the literature on the identification and treatment of these entities is reviewed.Results:The patient underwent excision and reconstruction of the presumed osteoradionecrosis. Final pathology demonstrated radiation-induced sarcoma. The patient suffered tumour recurrence at seven months post-operatively.Conclusion:When evaluating a patient with osteoradionecrosis, clinicians should be cognisant of the risk of malignancy. This paper describes the first case of radiation-induced sarcoma presenting as osteoradionecrosis. Primary treatment of radiation-induced sarcoma is wide surgical extirpation, with a very limited role for chemotherapy. Overall survival for this entity is poor. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

We demonstrate three-photon excitation in quantum dots with a mode-locked fiber laser operating in the telecommunications band. We compare spectra and intensity dependence of fluorescence from one- and three-photon excitation of commercially available 640-nm quantum dots, using a 372-nm diode laser for one-photon excitation and 116-fs pulses from a mode-locked fiber laser with a center wavelength of 1,575 nm for three-photon excitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fast development of solar radiation and energy applications, such as photovoltaic and solar thermodynamic systems, has increased the need for solar radiation measurement and monitoring, not only for the global component but also for the diffuse and direct. End users look for the best compromise between getting close to state-of-theart measurements and keeping low capital, maintenance and operating costs. Among the existing commercial options, SPN1 is a relatively low cost solar radiometer that estimates global and diffuse solar irradiances from seven thermopile sensors under a shading mask and without moving parts. This work presents a comprehensive study of SPN1 accuracy and sources of uncertainty, which results from laboratory experiments, numerical modeling and comparison studies between measurements from this sensor and state-of-the art instruments for six diverse sites. Several clues are provided for improving the SPN1 accuracy and agreement with state-of-the art measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the readability of existing patient education materials and explored the potential of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT-4 and Google Gemini, to simplify these materials to a sixth-grade reading level, in accordance with guidelines. Seven patient education documents were selected from a major radiology group. ChatGPT-4 and Gemini were provided the documents and asked to reformulate to target a sixth-grade reading level. Average reading level (ARL) and proportional word count (PWC) change were calculated, and a 1-sample t-test was conducted (p=0.05). Three radiologists assessed the materials on a Likert scale for appropriateness, relevance, clarity, and information retention. The original materials had an ARL of 11.72. ChatGPT ARL was 7.32 ± 0.76 (6/7 significant) and Gemini ARL was 6.55 ± 0.51 (7/7 significant). ChatGPT reduced word count by 15% ± 7%, with 95% retaining at least 75% of information. Gemini reduced word count by 33% ± 7%, with 68% retaining at least 75% of information. ChatGPT outputs were more appropriate (95% vs. 57%), clear (92% vs. 67%), and relevant (95% vs. 76%) than Gemini. Interrater agreement was significantly different for ChatGPT (0.91) than for Gemini (0.46). Generative AI significantly enhances the readability of patient education materials, which did not achieve the recommended sixth-grade ARL. Radiologist evaluations confirmed the appropriateness and relevance of the AI-simplified texts. This study emphasizes the capabilities of generative AI tools and the necessity for ongoing expert review to maintain content accuracy and suitability. • AI tools reduced radiology material reading levels from 11 to ∼7 grade level. • ChatGPT outperformed Google Gemini in appropriateness, clarity, and relevance. • AI simplification maintained high content accuracy and relevance in most cases. • Radiologist oversight remains crucial to ensure patient safety and preparation. • Study suggests AI can make radiology education more accessible to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of academic variables (e.g., grade point average, major change, informal meetings with faculty) on six year persistence and attainment among black male students in community colleges. Data was collected from the Beginning Postsecondary Students Longitudinal Study and was analyzed using logistic regression. Findings from this study indicated that select variables reflective of academic integration serve as significant predictors of black male persistence and attainment in the community college. These variables included students’ grade point average, whether a student ever received an incomplete, repeating courses for higher grades, withdrawing from courses after the add or drop deadline, and informal meetings with faculty. Implications for future research are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Aim Raman spectroscopy of human tissue can provide a unique biochemical 'fingerprint' that alters with disease progression. Light incident on tissue is scattered and may be altered in wavelength, which can be represented as a Raman spectrum. A confocal fibreoptic Raman probe designed to fit down the accessory channel of a colonoscope has been constructed. This in-vitro study evaluated the accuracy of pathological diagnosis in the colon using probe-based Raman spectroscopy. Method Biopsy samples were collected at colonoscopy, snap frozen and stored at −80°C. Raman spectra with 10-s and 1-s acquisition periods were measured with the probe tip in contact with the mucosal surface of thawed specimens. Mathematical modelling using principal component analysis followed by linear discriminant analysis was used to correlate Raman spectra with histopathological diagnoses. Results Three-hundred and seventy-five Raman spectra were measured from a total of 356 colon biopsies (81 of normal colon mucosa, 79 of hyperplastic polyps, 92 of adenomatous polyps, 64 of adenocarcinoma and 40 of ulcerative colitis) from 177 patients. Spectral classification accuracies comparing pathology pairs ranged from 72.1 to 95.9% for 10-s acquisitions and from 61.5 to 95.1% for 1-s acquisitions. For a three-group model of normal, adenomatous and adenocarcinoma tissue, accuracies were 74.1% for 10-s acquisitions and 63.5% for 1-s acquisitions. Conclusion The confocal Raman probe system can distinguish between different colorectal pathologies. The probe has potential to establish Raman spectroscopy as a clinical tool for instant diagnosis at colonoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpine-subalpine areas are sensitive environments that support large numbers of endemic species. They are also popular for human recreation. Increasing demands for tourism means that infrastructure in alpine resorts is expanding. Consequently, habitat is being modified and fragmented, potentially adversely affecting fauna. However, research investigating the effects of ski resorts on wildlife, particularly reptiles, is limited, and the effectiveness of management strategies in mitigating adverse impacts is unknown. To quantify the effects of ski-related disturbances on specialist and generalist reptile species, we surveyed sites in disturbed and undisturbed subalpine habitats. We also examined vegetation composition and habitat structure to determine whether structural or compositional habitat features were driving patterns of reptile occurrence. Our results indicate that the effects of ski-related disturbance varied between species, but that adverse effects - particularly on ski runs - were more pronounced for specialists. Given that each species studied was positively associated with compositional or structural features of the environment, we argue that alterations to these habitat attributes when creating ski runs will suppress lizard abundances in these areas. However, while ski runs have an adverse effect on reptiles, the persistence of these animals in ski resorts can be facilitated by retaining habitat structure and minimizing disturbance to native vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents selected findings drawn from a larger investigation of Black male students in the community college. In the larger study, qualitative interviews were conducted with 28 Black males attending a public two-year college in the southwestern United States. The focus of the larger study was on identifying factors which, from the perspectives of students, affected their academic success. Academic success referred primarily to students’ grade point averages or achievement and secondarily to continuation towards students’ self-proclaimed collegiate goals. A large portion of Black male participants in this study indicated that academic disengagement served to negatively affect their achievement in the community college. Students discussed academic disengagement as a reluctance to fully engage as active agents in their own academic development through necessary interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]