cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New Tools for Genetically Targeting Myeloid Populations in the Central Nervous System

Abstract As the resident macrophages of the brain and spinal cord, microglia are crucial for the phagocytosis of infectious agents, apoptotic cells and synapses. Developmentally, microglia originate from the embryonic yolk sac and serve important roles in the sculpting of neonatal neural circuits. During brain injury or infection, bone-marrow derived macrophages invade neural tissue, making it difficult to distinguish between invading macrophages and resident microglia. In addition to circulation-derived monocytes, other non-microglial central nervous system (CNS) macrophage subtypes include borderzone (meningeal and perivascular) and choroid plexus macrophages. To distinguish between resident microglia and these other CNS macrophage subtypes, we generated a P2ry12-CreER mouse line. P2RY12 is a microglial-specific nucleotide sensing GPCR that is important for microglial response to tissue damage. Using immunofluorescent labeling and flow cytometry experiments, we show that P2ry12-CreER recombination is exceptionally specific to parenchymal microglia. We also perform ribosome immunoprecipitations and transcriptional profiling of P2ry12-CreER recombined cells, using a Cre-dependent Rpl22-HA mouse line. By identifying genes enriched in this dataset that are not correspondingly enriched in a broader Cx3CR1-CreER; Rpl22 dataset, we isolate a number of borderzone macrophage-specific transcripts, including the gene PF4. Using a PF4-Cre mouse line, we show that PF4 expression robustly marks borderzone macrophages. Together, we demonstrate two new methods to genetically target distinct CNS macrophage subtypes.
Frailty, Cognitive Impairment, and Anticoagulation Among Older Adults with Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation.

Background/objectives Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is challenging in older patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) who are often frail and have cognitive impairment. We examined the characteristics of older NVAF patients associated with higher odds of physical and cognitive impairments. We also examined if these high-risk patients have different OAC prescribing patterns and their satisfaction with treatment because it may impact optimal management of their NVAF. Methods The patients in the Systematic Assessment of Geriatric Elements in Atrial Fibrillation (SAGE-AF study cohort 2016-2018) had NVAF, were aged 65 and older, and eligible for the receipt of OAC. Measures included frailty (Fried Frailty scale), cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment Battery), OAC prescribing and type (direct oral anticoagulant [DOAC] or vitamin K antagonist [VKA]), depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), bleeding, stroke risk, and treatment benefit (Anti-Clot Treatment Scale). Results Patients (n = 1,244) were 49% female, aged 76 (standard deviation = 7) years. A total of 14% were frail, and 42% had cognitive impairment. Frailty and cognitive impairment co-occurred in 9%. Odds of having both impairments versus none were higher with depression (odds ratio [OR] = 4.62; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.59-8.26), older age (OR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.29-1.88), lower education (OR = 3.81; 95%CI = 2.13-6.81), race/ethnicity other than non-Hispanic White (OR = 7.94; 95% CI = 4.34-14.55), bleeding risk (OR = 1.43; 95% CI = 1.12-1.81), and stroke risk (OR = 1.35; 95% CI = 1.13-1.62). OAC prescribing was not associated with CI and frailty status. Among patients taking OACs (85%), those with both impairments were more likely to take DOAC than VKA (OR = 1.69; 95% CI = 1.01-2.80). Having both impairments (OR = 1.87; 95% CI = 1.08-3.27) or cognitive impairment (OR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.09-2.24) was associated with higher odds of reporting lower treatment benefit. Conclusion In a large cohort of older NVAF patients, half were frail or cognitively impaired, and 9% had both impairments. We highlight the characteristics of patients who may benefit from cognitive and physical function screenings to maximize treatment and enhance prognosis. Finally, the co-occurrence of impairment was associated with low perceived benefit of treatment that may impede optimal management.
Cellular/Vascular Reconstruction Using a Deep CNN for Semantic Image Preprocessing and Explicit Segmentation.

Maps of brain microarchitecture are important for understanding neurological function, behavior, and changes due to chronic conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases. New high-throughput microscopy techniques produce whole organ data sets imaged at sub-cellular resolution. The resulting volumetric data is composed of densely packed cells and interconnected microvascular networks. The data size and complexity makes manual annotation impractical and automatic segmentation challenging. In this paper, we propose a processing pipeline to segment, reconstruct, and analyze cellular and vascular microstructures in large rodent brain volumes. We first introduce a fully-convolutional, deep, and densely-connected encoder-decoder for pixel-wise semantic segmentation as a pre-processing step in our pipeline. Excessive memory complexity is mitigated by compressing the features passed through skip connections, resulting in fewer parameters and enabling a significant performance increase over prior architectures. We then quantify the pipeline’s scalability, accuracy, and reliability for extracting explicit cellular and vascular images, including vessel connectivity. Finally, we demonstrate the viability of this processing pipeline on a large (1 \(\mathrm {mm}^{3}\)) region of the mouse somatosensory cortex as a proof of efficacy.
The Gender Bias Tug-of-War in a Co-creation Community: Core-Periphery Tension on Wikipedia

Commitment to a neutral point of view is a pillar of Wikipedia culture. Despite a strong culture, the open nature of the community presents challenges for cultural assimilation. Central contributor...
Picturing the flag in the New South

This study draws on several thousand images submitted by 56 fine art photographers for the largest exhibition of photographs about the American South yet undertaken, Southbound: Photographs of and ...
Genomic and Biochemical Proteasomal Adaptations in Carfilzomib-Resistant Plasma Cells That Limit HLA-Desensitization in Transplantation Candidates

Abstract Bone marrow plasma cells (BMPCs) are the source of long-term humoral immunity including HLA antibodies, which promote organ rejection. End-stage renal disease (ESRD) affects more than 660,000 patients per year in the U.S. and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Renal transplantation remains the optimal treatment for a substantial proportion of ESRD patients and dramatically improves patient overall survival and quality-of-life. However, preformed human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-specific antibodies are associated with reduced transplantation rates, graft loss and poorer outcomes. Proteasome inhibitor (PI) therapies that target BMPCs to reduce HLA-antibody levels represent an effective means of enhancing transplantation outcomes but are limited by resistance mechanisms. Single antigen bead assays determined that the spectrum of antibody production by HLA-sensitized patient (BMPCs) was remarkably similar to that detected in matching serum samples, supporting the role of BMPCs as the primary source of circulating HLA antibodies. Desensitization therapy with the irreversible proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib reduced PCs in patient BM by ~70% and was associated with a profound reduction in HLA antibodies. We then used bulk RNA-seq transcriptomics to explore potential drug resistance mechanisms within carfilzomib-resistant BMPCs. Network-based pathway analysis revealed that genes encoding the immunoproteasome, a specialized proteasome variant with unique catalytic subunits, and the proteasome activator PA28 were upregulated in BMPCs that survived carfilzomib therapy. Native gel electrophoresis and in vitro functional studies confirmed that BMPCs isolated after carfilzomib therapy contained greater levels of immunoproteasomes as well as increased immunoproteasome-specific peptide-hydrolyzing activity relative to BMPCs from healthy donors or untreated HLA-sensitized patients. Supervised hierarchical clustering analysis (Fig. 1A) and western blotting (Fig. 1B) indicated that PSMB8, which encodes an immunoproteasome catalytic subunit, and PSME1 and PSME2 which encode the proteasome PA28 activator, were significantly upregulated in BMPCs isolated from patients following carfilzomib therapy. Assays then demonstrated that BMPCs that survived carfilzomib therapy were resistant to the FDA-approved PIs bortezomib, carfilzomib and ixazomib but were sensitive to an immunoproteasome-specific inhibitor KZR-616. Thus, we have uncovered proteasomal adaptations in BMPCs as a resistance mechanism underlying carfilzomib therapy and suggest novel strategies that could improve desensitization regimens and reduce antibody-mediated rejection in organ transplantation. Download : Download high-res image (224KB) Download : Download full-size image Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Photon Recycling in Semiconductor Thin Films and Devices

Photon recycling (PR) plays an important role in the study of semiconductor materials and impacts the properties of their optoelectronic applications. However, PR has not been investigated comprehensively and it has not been demonstrated experimentally in many different kinds of semiconductor materials and devices. In this review paper, first, the authors introduce the background of PR and describe how this phenomenon was originally identified in semiconductors. Then, the theory and modelling of PR is reviewed and some of the important parameters that are used to quantify PR are highlighted. Next, a variety of the methods used to achieve and characterize PR in materials and devices are discussed. Examples of how the performance parameters of different types of optoelectronic devices are affected by PR are described. Finally, a summary of the roles of PR in semiconductor materials and devices and an outlook on how PR can be used to solve existing problems and challenges in the field of optoelectronics are provided. From this review, it is apparent that PR can have a positive impact on optoelectronic device performance, and that further in-depth theoretical and experimental studies are needed to rigorously demonstrate the advantages and importance of PR.
Resistance to Charcoal Rot Identified Within Soybean Cyst Nematode Resistant Accessions

Two infectious root diseases that cause significant yield losses worldwide in soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) are charcoal rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. and the soybean cyst ...
Power, Identity, and Liminality in an American Hospital

Losing the sense of oneself is no trivial matter regardless of the reasons. But when these reasons have to do with the doubly-marginalizing circumstances of serious physical illness and subsequent hospitalization, the loss can be devastating in ways that extend beyond the patient’s release. Because the hierarchical practices and juridical moral theories that govern physician-patient hospital relationships in the United States largely disregard such losses by paying insufficient attention to power differentials and to the unique dilemmas presented by individual cases, patient care calls for better, nonideal approaches to the well-being of this vulnerable population. Specifically, the medical and administrative norms that pervade patient care both harm and alienate those subject to their power by damaging whatever sense of personal identity that an otherwise seriously ill patient might still have. By stripping away not only patient self-trust and voice, but also any semblance of agency itself, the current normative models of hospital care mark those already burdened by illness as mere bodies—not as morally equal participants in the pursuit of healing. Moving toward any semblance of change requires a fundamental re-assessment of the relationship between the patient and the institutional arrangements and priorities. For such a reevaluation to take place, nothing less than an institutional shift toward nonideal, narratively-grounded approaches to the overall well-being of the patient is required. Only then might the status of the patient as a person begin to matter as an essential part of meaningful practices of hospital care.
Ten-year changes in plasma L-carnitine levels and risk of coronary heart disease.

L-Carnitine is abundant in animal source foods, particularly red meat, and circulating L-carnitine may be related to the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD). We investigated whether long-term changes in plasma L-carnitine over 10 years were associated with the CHD incidence and also examined joint associations of carnitine-rich red meat consumption and L-carnitine changes on the subsequent risk of CHD. This prospective nested case–control study included 772 healthy women at baseline (386 incident CHD cases and 386 healthy controls). Plasma L-carnitine levels were measured both at the first (1989–90) and second blood collections (2000–02). Incident cases of CHD were prospectively followed from the date of the second blood collection through 2016. Overall, a greater increase in L-carnitine from the first to the second time point was related to a higher risk of CHD, regardless of the initial L-carnitine levels (relative risk: 1.36 (95% CI 0.999, 1.84) per 1-SD increase). The 10-year changes in L-carnitine were positively associated with red meat consumption over time, and women with higher red meat intake (≥ 36 g/day) and with greater increases in L-carnitine had a 1.86 (95% CI 1.13, 3.09) times increased risk of CHD, as compared to those with lower red meat intake and lesser increases in L-carnitine. Long-term increases in L-carnitine levels were associated with the subsequent incidence of CHD, especially among women with higher intake of red meat. Our results suggest the importance of atherogenic L-carnitine changes and dietary intakes over time in the prevention of CHD.
Principles of Imaging Lung Disease

Imaging plays a key role in the evaluation of disease of the thorax. Not only is it used to document the presence or absence of disease but also to guide the diagnostic work-up, select the most appropriate site and pathway to obtain pathologic material, and in some cases provide a definitive diagnosis. Inherent in this is a need to understand the value of the important diagnostic tests and variants, the nomenclature and lexicon of the report, and the ability to resolve discrepancies between imaging and pathology when they arise. A multidisciplinary approach is critical particularly when imaging and/or pathologic findings are indeterminate. This chapter reviews the most relevant imaging techniques and the terminology associated with imaging findings.
Quadratic Two-Species Population Models

We proceed now to look at a rather general model for the interaction of two biological species. Special cases of this model will represent Predator-Prey, Competitive and Mutualistic interactions. We will however be able to demonstrate a very general result for all such models. Specifically, we will show that the models almost never admit periodic (cyclic) solutions. This of course means that in terms of finding a model which describes an ecosystem which is known to behave in a cyclic manner, the model discussed below is not adequate.
Don't Drink the Water: Colonialism and Pete Hautman's Godless

Nodelman's thesis of childhood as a colonized state, with every aspect controlled and mandated by adults, purposes that children and teenagers can be controlled through a variety of pressures. A colonial reading of a story can be used to determine typical controlling factors and to examine how such colonization subverts childhood, or adolescents. In Pete Hautman’s Young Adult novel Godless , religion is the controlling factor under examination. While Hautman’s novel does not insult or belittle religion, it does showcase how an adult’s use of religion is one of the greatest powers he or she has over a teenager.
A Portrait of Exclusion: The Archetype of the Scientist at Work in Life Magazine

This article investigates the role that scientific portraits play in shaping public perceptions of scientists and, by extension, the scientific enterprise. A new category of scientific portrait, termed the “scientist at work,” is introduced and discussed through the lens of Perelman and Olbrechts-Tyteca’s theories about creating value and presence for an audience.
Binomial and Poisson Random Variables

Before stating the fundamental principle of counting we give an example. Example 1. Assume that a restaurant offers five different specials and for each one of them you can pick either a salad or a soup. How many choices do you have? In this simple example we can just enumerate all the possibilities.
Intelligent network reconfiguration of shipboard power systems

Electric power systems of ships supply energy to sophisticated systems for weapons, communications, navigation and operation. In this new era of the US navy with goals to reduce manning and increase system survivability, automatic reconfiguration of the electrical network in a shipboard power system is critical for quickly restoring service to a section of the power of the power system to survive battle damage. Also reconfiguration is critical to meet operational requirements such as changing from one mission to another, avoiding possible over loading of the system or removing equipment for maintenance. In this paper various aspects of intelligent reconfiguration of shipboard power systems are presented.
Rotationally-resolved spectroscopy of the ν16 band of 1,3,5-trioxane

Abstract Rotationally-resolved spectra of the ν 16 band of 1,3,5-trioxane, centered near 1177 cm - 1 , have been obtained via cavity ringdown spectroscopy using a continuous-wave external-cavity quantum cascade laser and a slit expansion nozzle. 219 transitions were identified and fitted to determine the excited state rotational constants for this band. In addition to fundamental interest, these data could facilitate spectroscopic detection of trioxane in cometary comae as a tracer for polyoxymethylene.
The human CD5L/AIM-CD36 axis: A novel autophagy inducer in macrophages that modulates inflammatory responses

CD5L (CD5 molecule-like) is a secreted glycoprotein that participates in host response to bacterial infection. CD5L influences the monocyte inflammatory response to the bacterial surface molecules lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA) by inhibiting TNF secretion. Here we studied the intracellular events that lead to macrophage TNF inhibition by human CD5L. To accomplish this goal, we performed functional analyses with human monocytic THP1 macrophages, as well as with peripheral blood monocytes. Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PtdIns3K) reversed the inhibitory effect of CD5L on TNF secretion. Among the various PtdIns3K isoforms, our results indicated that CD5L activates PtdIns3K (whose catalytic subunit is termed PIK3C3), a key modulator involved in autophagy. Further analysis revealed a concomitant enhancement of autophagy markers such as cellular LC3-II content, increased LC3 puncta, as well as LC3-LysoTracker Red colocalization. Moreover, electron microscopy showed an increas...
CENP-A exceeds microtubule attachment sites in centromere clusters of both budding and fission yeast

The stoichiometries of kinetochores and their constituent proteins in yeast and vertebrate cells were determined using the histone H3 variant CENP-A, known as Cse4 in budding yeast, as a counting standard. One Cse4-containing nucleosome exists in the centromere (CEN) of each chromosome, so it has been assumed that each anaphase CEN/kinetochore cluster contains 32 Cse4 molecules. We report that anaphase CEN clusters instead contained approximately fourfold more Cse4 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and ∼40-fold more CENP-A (Cnp1) in Schizosaccharomyces pombe than predicted. These results suggest that the number of CENP-A molecules exceeds the number of kinetochore-microtubule (MT) attachment sites on each chromosome and that CENP-A is not the sole determinant of kinetochore assembly sites in either yeast. In addition, we show that fission yeast has enough Dam1–DASH complex for ring formation around attached MTs. The results of this study suggest the need for significant revision of existing CEN/kinetochore architectural models.
Effects of cryogenic cooling on surface layer alterations in machining of AISI 52100 steels

Microstructural phase transformations, commonly known as white layer formation in hard turned steel components, have in recent times become an interesting research topic in machining as they are related to the surface integrity and functional performance of components. Three main theories have been proposed to justify the mechanisms of white layer formation: (1) rapid heating and quenching; (2) severe plastic deformation; and (3) surface reaction with the environment. Coolant application also affects the surface microstructural alterations resulting from machining operations, which have a significant influence on product performance and life. The present work aims at understanding the effects of cryogenic coolant application on the machined surface alterations during machining of hardened AISI 52100 bearing steel. Experiments were performed under dry and cryogenic cooling conditions using cubic boron nitride tool inserts with varying initial work material hardness, tool shape, cutting speed and feedrate. ...
First report of Meloidogyne partityla on pecan in New Mexico.

For several years, decline was observed in mature pecan (Carya illinoensis (F.A. Wangenheim) K. Koch) trees in an orchard in Dona Ana County, New Mexico despite normal fertilization and irrigation practices. Affected trees were growing in sandy soil in two widely separated irrigation terraces and exhibited chlorosis of foliage and substantial die-back of branches in the upper canopy. Examination of feeder roots revealed the presence of numerous small galls and egg masses, with root-knot nematode females often visibly protruding from root tissue. Attempts to culture the nematode on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. ‘Rutgers’) were unsuccessful. Females and egg masses were collected from fresh pecan roots and sent to the USDA Nematology Laboratory in Beltsville, MD, in October 2000, where specimens were identified as Meloidogyne partityla Kleynhans (1) based on morphological examination. This is the first report of M. partityla from New Mexico, and the second report of this nematode outside South Africa...
Education as Free Use: Giorgio Agamben on Studious Play, Toys, and the Inoperative Schoolhouse.

In this essay, I argue that the work of Giorgio Agamben provides us with a theory of studious play which cuts across many of the categories that polarize educational thought. Rather than either ritualized testing or constructivist playfulness, Agamben provides a model of what he refers to as studious play—a practice which suspends the logic of both ritual and play. In order to explore this notion of studious play, I first articulate Agamben’s fleeting remarks on the topic with an important problematic found in his early, literary work: transmission. If ritual transmits cultural traditions to ensure continuity with the past, and play as constructivist invention makes such transmission impossible, then studious play transmits transmissibility itself as a pure potentiality. Studious play accomplishes this peculiar educational task by suspending without destroying traditional things: laws, signs, and so on. I end the essay with a consideration of the ontological status of suspended things, arguing that they are transformed into toys via the action of study. Finally, I give a literary example of studious play found in Robert Walser’s novel Jakob von Gunten in which the school itself is imagined to be a kind of toy.
An Investigation Into the Use of Springs and Wing Motions to Minimize the Power Expended by a Mechanical Pigeon for Steady Flight

In this paper, we investigate the effect of using springs and wing motions to minimize the power required by a mechanical bird to fly. Inertia forces as well as aerodynamic forces on the wing are included. The design takes into account different flight speeds in the range from 0 to 20 m/s. Two ways in which springs can be attached, are considered. The frequency of wing beat is kept fixed and both flapping and feathering are assumed to be simple harmonic. Constraints are imposed on the maximum power expended by the two actuators of a wing. The results show that introduction of springs increases the power required at lower speeds, marginally reducing the power at higher speeds. In the manner in which they are used here, springs do not appear to be useful to reduce power. However, the optimal solutions obtained without springs indicate that it is possible to develop pigeon like mechanical birds which can hover and fly steadily up to 20 m/s.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Interaction of the Monsoon and Pacific Trade Wind System at Interannual Time Scales. Part III: A Partial Anatomy of the Southern Oscillation

Abstract Studies of surface wind fields, sea surface temperature (SST), precipitation and sea level pressure in the tropical band extending ±30° of the equator from Africa to South America led to the following conclusions. The Southern Oscillation, El Niflo, and climatic variations in the Monsoon System are all part of one global scale phenomenon. The new information is that this phenomenon appears in the sea level pressure field to have a strong propagating component that appears first in the northern Indian Ocean and moves eastwardinto the eastern Pacific. Similar propagation of information was found in the surface wind field and equatorial precipitation regimes. These same conditions were amply demonstrated during the 1982-83 event and so it may be concluded that the evolution of that event bears many similarities to those in the historical record studies referred to in this paper. In the surface wind field of the equatorial wave guide, the large-scale signal appears to take the form of a forced Kelvin...
Deconstructing Mayberry: Utopia and racial diversity in the Andy Griffith Show

The popularity of the Andy Griffith Show has elevated its community of Mayberry into the pantheon of other more famous utopias. The series has received criticism in recent years due to its all-white cast and its absence of any racial minority representation. However, because Mayberry's central claim to utopia is communal harmony and redemption of the social Other, the Andy Griffith Show must undermine the dominant ideolgy to remain utopic. Consequently, the social Other can be read as the racial Other. Using the strategy of deconstruction within existing utopian scholarship and discpourse, it is possible for Mayberry to be racially coded as other than white due to how it negotiates and redefines structures of whiteness, otherness, and ideology.
NIR Fluorescent Proteins with Synthetic Chromophores for Deep Tissue Imaging

Nearly all existing genetically encoded fluorescent tags prove inadequate for imaging deep within tissues and small animals due to the overwhelming absorbance, scatter, and autofluorescence contributed by native chromophores. While the majority of such interference is confined to the visible spectrum of light, few genetically encoded probes operate in the near infrared (NIR) where tissues are most optically transparent. We aim to generate a toolbox of NIR-emitting fluorescent proteins that utilize synthetic chromophores capable of reporting physiological parameters. These chromophores, which we call fluorogens, are non-fluorescent until incorporated into their cognate protein (an scFv derivative). We have shown that existing fluorogens can be systemically delivered in animals via intraperitoneal or intravenous injection to generate a fluorescent signal exclusively at the site of cognate protein expression. To date, we have discovered and characterized two protein:fluorogen pairs that produce easily separable colors appropriate for deep tissue imaging, with excitation and emission maxima at 702/731 nm and 744/764 nm, respectively.This system promises a degree of modularity unrivalled by traditional fluorescent proteins, as specific sites on each fluorogen can be manipulated without greatly perturbing its ability to bind to its cognate protein. Utilizing this feature, we have developed cell permeant and impermeant fluorogens, the latter allowing investigators to selectively interrogate targets such as membrane proteins that are exposed to the extracellular environment. Further efforts will focus upon the development of new fluorogens that expand the available palette of separable NIR colors, minimize cross-labeling between structurally distinct fluorogens, and incorporate the ability to detect and report upon environmental conditions such as pH and other ion concentrations.
Pharmacokinetics of coumarin and its 7-hydroxy-metabolites upon intravenous and peroral administration of coumarin in man.

The pharmacokinetics of coumarin (C) upon i.v. and p.o. administration and its metabolites 7-hydroxy-coumarin (7-HC) and 7-hydroxy-coumarin glucuronide (7-HCG) have been studied. Six healthy volunteers were involved in this investigation. Four of the volunteers participated in a crossover study. Coumarin was administered i.v. and p.o. in dose sizes of 0.25 mg/kg and 0.857 mg/kg, respectively. Coumarin is rapidly absorbed p.o., however the availability to systemic circulation is less than 4%. The rest of the dose appears quantitatively as 7-HC and 7-HCG in systemic circulation suggesting an extensive firstpass effect. Coumarin and 7-HCG are best fitted to an open two-compartment model, whereas 7-HC is best fitted to an open one-compartment model. The biological half-life of both C (0.80 vs. 1.02 h) and 7-HCG (1.47 vs. 1.15 h) was not significantly different for the two routes of administration. The large total clearance of C again suggests a first-pass effect; while that of 7-HCG, which is nearly exclusively eliminated into urine, indicates active tubular secretion of the glucuronide.
Heat-flow near a North Atlantic fracture zone

Abstract Fifteen new heat-flow measurements are reported, fourteen of which are located in or near a fracture zone near 43°N on the mid-Atlantic Ridge. These data, combined with earlier nearby measurements, show the fracture zone to have an observable, positive effect on the regional heat-flow field. A good correlation is observed between large near-bottom water potential temperature gradients and the occurrence of significant variations with depth in the measured rate of heat-flow. One measurement was taken in the Horseshoe abyssal plain west of Gibraltar and gave a value of 1.38 μcal/cm2s.
Working Adult Undergraduate Students’ Interest and Motivation in Service Learning and Volunteering

Abstract This article focuses on incorporating service learning activities and college-organized volunteering in the teaching of working adult undergraduate students. Ninety-one adult students (ranging in age from 27 to 61) participated in a mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative) survey. The majority of participants (94.4%) reported that they were interested in service learning activities in general, and that rate increased to 95.5% if a service learning activity replaced a course requirement, such as a paper or examination. Per qualitative responses, most participants believe that service learning and volunteer opportunities should be increased, but college/university faculty and staff who wish to promote service learning and college-organized volunteering should focus on scheduling activities at convenient times and locations. More implications, as well as limitations of these findings, are addressed.
Effects of carbonylcyanide‐m‐chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) and acetate on Escherichia coli O157:H7 and K‐12: uncoupling versus anion accumulation

Non-growing cells of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and K-12 that were incubated anaerobically in sodium phosphate buffer at pH 6.5 consumed glucose at a rate of approximately 8 μmol·(mg protein)−1·h−1 and had intracellular pH values of 7.3 and 7.5, respectively. The uncoupler, carbonylcyanide-m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), caused a marked decrease in intracellular pH, ATP and potassium of both strains. Low concentrations of CCCP stimulated glucose consumption rate, but higher concentrations were inhibitory. Acetate also caused a decrease in intracellular pH, but it never caused a large decrease in glucose consumption rate. Acetate decreased the intracellular ATP of E. coli K-12, but it had no effect on the ATP of O157:H7. Acetate had no effect on the intracellular potassium of E. coli O157:H7, and acetate-treated K-12 cells had even more potassium than untreated controls. Based on these results, acetate and CCCP appear to have different effects on E. coli. The comparison of E. coli O157:H7 and K-12 indicated that intracellular pH, acetate accumulation and intracellular potassium were related. E. coli K-12 maintained a higher intracellular pH than O157:H7, accumulated more acetate and had a greater intracellular potassium.
High glucose and diabetes modulate cellular proteasome function: Implications in the pathogenesis of diabetes complications

The precise link between hyperglycemia and its deleterious effects on retinal and kidney microvasculature, and more specifically loss of retinal perivascular supporting cells including smooth muscle cell/pericytes (SMC/PC), in diabetes are not completely understood. We hypothesized that differential cellular proteasome activity contributes to sensitivity of PC to high glucose-mediated oxidative stress and vascular rarefaction. Here we show that retinal endothelial cells (EC) have significantly higher proteasome peptidase activity compared to PC. High glucose treatment (HGT) increased the level of total ubiquitin-conjugated proteins in cultured retinal PC and EC, but not photoreceptor cells. In addition, in vitro proteasome activity assays showed significant impairment of proteasome chymotrypsin-like peptidase activity in PC, but not EC. The PA28-α/-β and PA28-β/-γ protein levels were also higher in the retina and kidney glomeruli of diabetic mice, respectively. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, that high glucose has direct biological effects on cellular proteasome function, and this modulation might be protective against cellular stress or damage induced by high glucose.
Morphine augments calcium‐dependent potassium conductance in guinea‐pig myenteric neurones

Abstract Intracellular recordings were made from myenteric neurones removed from guinea-pig ileum and maintained in vitro. Action potentials were elicited by passing brief depolarizing currents through the recording electrode. In AH cells they were followed by afterhyperpolarizations resulting from an increase in potassium conductance (GK,Ca). Morphine (1 nM - 1 microM), applied by superfusion, increased the duration of the afterhyperpolarization (and the underlying GK,Ca) which followed from 1 to 30 action potentials. Morphine did not change the peak amplitude of the afterhyperpolarization. This action of morphine occurred both in cells which showed no change in resting membrane potential or resistance and in cells which were hyperpolarized. It was prevented by naloxone (10 nM - 1 microM). The possibility is proposed that morphine inhibits one of the mechanisms by which myenteric neurones control their free intracellular calcium concentration close to the plasma membrane.
Feebly projectable ℓ -groups

In the article [17], we introduced and investigated feebly and flatly projectable frames. In this article, we apply these two properties to lattice-ordered groups. An example is constructed to illustrate that the two properties are distinct, which solves a question from [17]. We also investigate these properties with respect to archimedean l-groups with weak order unit, as well as commutative semiprime f-rings.
Elastic minimum-weight design for specified fundamental frequency☆

Abstract A one-dimensional structure with segmentwise constant specific stiffness is to have a prescribed fundamental frequency. The number of segments of constant specific stiffness is given, but their boundaries and specific stiffnesses are to be determined to minimize the structural weight. A sufficient condition for optimality is established and its use is illustrated by an example.
Some Consequences of Early Infant-Mother-Infant Interaction.

The author summarizes human and animal studies of the feedback system of infant‐mother‐infant interactions. It is shown that not only does the mother provide the environment to the infant, but the young also exerts an influence on the mother. The succession of their mutual modifications of behaviors can be depicted as a system of continuous feedback in terms of behaviors. Evidence for failure of feedback within the system was found in studies of infants that cry excessively despite much stimulation by their mothers, and of infants that show failure to thrive despite any apparent physiological deficits. In these cases, both the mother and infant may contribute to the failure. †The research described in this paper was supported by Grant Foundation, by Public Health Service Grant HD‐03591 from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and by Grant RR‐81 from the General Clinical Research Centers Program of the Division of Research Resources, National Institutes of Health. I want to give sp...
The real-time error compensation technique for CNC machining systems

Abstract One of the important trends in precision machining is the development of real-time error compensation technique. This paper presents the research work under the authors and their team in this area. The technique has been applied to more than 10 different kinds of machines including: turning centers and machining centers; small, medium and large machines; new products and retrofitted machines. The accuracy improvement is in the range of 3–10 times. The error sources being compensated for include machine geometric and thermal errors, cutting force-induced errors, and workpiece thermal errors. The paper discusses some important aspects of the technique: the general approach for developing real-time error compensation system; the formulation of the error synthesis model; the mapping of the machine errors; optimal modeling; thermal error mode analysis; the optimization of the sensor locations; cutting force-induced error compensation; compensation control implementation; and other critical problems in the real-time error compensation technique.
Learning About Literature While Reading With Children

AbstractThis article explores the assumptions teachers make about students’ -thinking and their intellectual and imaginative lives, and presents ways to -challenge those assumptions and see more clearly what Michael Armstrong called “thinking in all its forms.” It details a process of inquiry directed at -children's ideas based on practices of teacher research.
Variability of the QTc interval: Impact on defining drug effect and low-frequency cardiac event

Abstract Prolongation of the QT interval corrected for heart rate (QTc) can lead to the development of torsades de pointes, a life-threatening form of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. However, the QTc interval duration exhibits a high degree of spontaneous variability and is not necessarily a direct predictor of the risk of torsades. This observation holds implications for the assessment of the potential proarrhythmic effects of noncardiac pharmacologic agents. To date, the antihistamine terfenadine is the only noncardiac drug that has undergone a comprehensive and systematic evaluation related to the consequences of its causing QTc prolongation. The results suggest that QTc prolongation resulting solely from terfenadine at clinical doses does not have an important impact on clinically relevant endpoints. The risk of serious ventricular arrhythmias with terfenadine using epidemiologic data is the same or less than that associated with traditional first-generation antihistamines. The risk of a clinical cardiac event (QTc prolongation, ventricular arrhythmias, syncope, or sudden death) with terfenadine is similar to that of other antihistamines. Factors associated with increased risk in patients taking terfenadine include significant liver disease, hypokalemia, overdose, and concomitant administration of ketoconazole-like agents or erythromycin; use of terfenadine is relatively contraindicated in these settings. No increased risk of serious arrhythmias has been confirmed in conjunction wtth the use of terfenadine in patients with cardiac disease.
A LABORATORY INVESTIGATION OF DROPLET FREEZING

Abstract Laboratory experimentation was undertaken to investigate the effects of various soluble and insoluble nuclei on the freezing temperature of water droplets. The freezing temperature and size of over 15,000 droplets were obtained. Pure water was produced, and subsequently frozen in droplet form. The freezing temperatures of various sizes of pure water droplets were used as a reference standard for the other phases of the experiment. The experiment showed that soluble salts, commonly found in the atmosphere, caused the freezing temperatures of the droplets to become colder than would be anticipated by bulk freezing point lowering calculations in all cases. Insoluble nuclei increased the freezing temperatures of the droplets. The addition of soluble salts to water droplets containing insoluble nuclei caused a marked depression of the freezing point below that originally observed. The magnitude of the depression was found to be a function of the solute concentration. Certain aspects of the role of dro...
Microinjection of thymidine kinase and bovine serum albumin into mammalian cells by fusion with red blood cells

A procedure is described by which proteins can be rapidly and efficiently microinjected into large numbers of culture cells. Proteins were first introduced into mammalian red blood cells during hypotonic hemolysis, and the resealed red cells were subsequently fused to culture cells using Sendai virus. In seven experiments, thymidine kinase or 125I-BSA were transferred to culture cells during fusion. Although proteins were used in the present experiments, the microinjection procedure should work equally well for other macromolecules.
Effect of antibiotic therapy on gluten-sensitive enteropathy.

In 2 cases of gluten-sensitive enteropathy, clinical recovery, partial in one and complete in the other, followed the administration of a gluten-free diet. When challenged with gluten both patients had a pronounced relapse. After the prolonged administration of tetracycline both patients have resumed a normal diet and show no effect when challenged with gluten. If these results can be confirmed in other patients, there must be a factor other than gluten in the so-called gluten-sensitive enteropathy.
Random access with limited carrier sensing

In this paper, we consider the random-accessing of a single slotted channel by a finite number of independent, data transmitting users. We adopt the realistic assumption that each user monitors the channel or carrier only when he is blocked. We also assume that the channel outcomes visible to each user are trinary. That is, each channel slot is perceived as either empty or successfully busy, or as a collision slot. We disregard propagation delays. For the above model and identical binomial users, we propose and analyze a collision resolution protocol (CRLS) with tree search characteristics. We include some numerical results for different numbers of users.
Intraventricular dissociation due to complete intraventricular block.

Intraventricular dissociation due to intraventricular block occurred in a patient with cardiac arrest due to massive cerebral hemorrhage. The electrocardiogram showed complete atrioventricular block with three different types of accelerated ventricular rhythm. The ectopic beats did not interfere with each other because of the existence of an area of complete block surrounding the areas in which impulse formation occurred. Hence, the corresponding QRS complexes did not result from depolarization of all the ventricular muscle mass but only of certain regions. The latter were large enough to produce ventricular complexes of enough size to be recorded at the body surface. This phenomenon is the clinical counterpart of the multiple isolated focal contractions which may be seen directly in the ventricles of dying hearts.
Cross-Reactivity of Rabbit Anti-Bovine Thrombin IgGs With Human α-Thrombin and a Recombinant Version of Human Thrombin (Recothrom)

It has been reported that patients exposed to topical bovine thrombin preparations may develop antibodies against bovine thrombin, factr V or various other proteins found in these preparations. Such antibodies can cross-react with human endogenous coagulation proteins and may lead to alterations in the coagulation laboratory parameters, hypersensitivity reactions, and severe bleeding or thrombosis. The underlying mechanisms for the coagulopathy are not fully understood yet. To better understand the cross-reactivity of anti-bovine thrombin antibodies with human corresponding coagulation proteins, bovine crude thrombin, and its purified versions, thrombin 4A (the old version of Thrombin-JMI before year 2008) and thrombin 4B (the current version of Thrombin-JMI on market), were used to generate relevant anti-bovine thrombin immunoglobulin G (IgGs) in rabbits. Using Western blotting, the cross-reactivity of each IgG with human alpha-thrombin and a recombinant version of human thrombin (Recothrom) was investigated. The results indicated that no cross-reactivity with either human alpha-thrombin or Recothrom was observed with both anti-bovine crude thrombin IgGs and thrombin 4B IgGs. However, anti-bovine thrombin 4A IgGs showed apparent cross-reactivity with human alpha-thrombin and Recothrom in a protein amount-dependent manner. Furthermore, the results revealed that the cross-reactivity of anti-bovine thrombin 4A IgGs with human alpha-thrombin and Recothrom was immunization time-dependent. The minimum concentration of 4A IgG required to exhibit cross-reactivity with human alpha-thrombin and Recothrom varied considerably among individual rabbits. These results indicate that rabbit anti-bovine thrombin IgGs can cross-react with human alpha-thrombin and Recothrom, suggesting that human antibodies against bovine thrombin may also cross-react with human recombinant thrombin. Thus, the patients who were previously exposed to bovine thrombin may also develop antibodies which can cross-react with human recombinant thrombin.
Treating Patients with Eating Disorders: An Examination of Treatment Providers' Experiences

Patients with eating disorders bring unique challenges to treatment providers. The purpose of this study was to explore treatment providers' experiences working with patients with eating disorders. Specifically, we investigated 1) the frequency and management of commentary about the treatment providers' appearance from patients, 2) personal changes in affect, vigilance around appearance, and eating behaviors in treatment providers, and 3) feedback and suggestions about effectively working with these patients. Using quantitative and qualitative methods, 43 professional eating disorder treatment providers attending the Multiservice Eating Disorder Association (MEDA) annual conference completed a questionnaire created for this study. Results suggest that most treatment providers experienced direct and indirect commentary about their appearance from patients and experienced notable changes in their view of food, eating behaviors, and vigilance of their own and others' appearance while working with these patie...