cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 4306: NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) regulates MAPK activation and cellular protection against chemical stress.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1) is a cytosolic redox-regulating enzyme modulated by Nrf2-mediated stress signaling pathways, with an established role in regulation of stress-related transcription factors. In these studies we investigate the role of NQO1 in regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Quantitative PCR and western blot studies showed that constitutive levels of several MAPK members are upregulated in NQO1-null mouse skin as well as in skin-derived keratinocytes, relative to WT. However, though total protein levels are increased, inducibility of these kinases by known MAPK inducers such as EGF and benzo[a]pyrene (BP) is significantly decreased in NQO1-null cells. NQO1 regulation of MAPK signaling was confirmed by studies showing that NQO1 knockdown by siRNA led to decreased MAPK activation, and overexpression of NQO1 protein led to increased MAPK activation by EGF. Similarly, downregulation of activity via dicoumarol caused loss of ERK phosphorylation, while NQO1 activation via t-BHQ caused increased ERK phosphorylation, which was blocked by MAPK pathway-specific inhibitors. To investigate the functional role of MAPK deactivation in skin-derived keratinocytes, studies with BP and menadione showed that lack of NQO1 expression led to increased susceptibility to ROS generation, and that this ROS generation causes increased toxicity. Taken together, these results show a significant role for NQO1 in regulation of MAPK signaling pathways, which ultimately lead to protection against ROS-mediated apoptosis. Citation Format: Brad A. Patrick, Anil K. Jaiswal. NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) regulates MAPK activation and cellular protection against chemical stress. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4306. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4306
Existence and stability of travelling wave solutions of a nonlinear integral operator

In this paper, we establish the existence and stability property of travelling wave solutions of a nonlinear integral operator in the inferior case.
Sea level fluctuations in central California at subtidal to decadal and longer time scales with implications for San Francisco Bay, California

Abstract Sea level elevations from near the mouth of San Francisco Bay are used to describe the low-frequency variability of forcing of the coastal ocean on the Bay at a variety of temporal scales. About 90% of subtidal fluctuations in sea level in San Francisco Bay are driven by the sea level variations in the coastal ocean that propagate into the Bay at the estuary mouth. We use the 100-year sea level record available at San Francisco to document a 1.9 mm/yr mean sea level rise, and to determine fluctuations related to El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and other climatic events. At time scales greater than 1 year, ENSO dominates the sea level signal and can result in fluctuations in sea level of 10–15 cm. Alongshore wind stress data from central California are also analyzed to determine the impact of changes in coastal elevation at the mouth of San Francisco Bay within the synoptic wind band of 2–30 days. At least 40% of the subtidal fluctuations in sea level of the Bay are tied to the large-scale regional wind field affecting sea level variations in the coastal ocean, with little local, direct wind forcing of the Bay itself. The majority of the subtidal sea level fluctuations within the Bay that are not related to the coastal ocean sea level signal are forced by an east–west sea level gradient resulting from tidally induced variations in sea level at specific beat frequencies that are enhanced in the northern reach of the Bay. River discharge into the Bay through the Sacramento and San Joaquin River Delta also contributes to the east–west gradient, but to a lesser degree.
Transition-Metal Oxide Electrocatalysts for O2 Electrodes: The Pyrochlores

There has been wide interest in the search for bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts which can reversibly or nearly reversibly catalyze both the reduction and the generation of O2. There are two possible approaches: (1) use of a single bifunctional electrocatalyst which promotes both reactions; and (2) use of separate electrocatalysts for the two reactions within one electrode. Both approaches have been tried by various groups. The use of separate catalysts for these two functions provides a much wider range of materials for consideration. In this chapter, however, the first approach will be emphasized, with the focus on the transition-metal pyrochlore oxides, particularly the lead ruthenate pyrochlore and related materials. These pyrochlores have metallic conductivity, can be prepared in very high area forms, and also show high electrocatalytic activity for both O2 reduction and generation.(1–4) The nature of the electrocatalysis is also very much dependent on the surface electronic properties of the catalyst, which in turn are dependent to some extent on the bulk properties.
Three-dimensional optical data storage in refractive media by two-photon point excitation.

What is to our knowledge the first high-density (>1012 bits/cm3) optical recording of digital information in a multilayered, three-dimensional format is reported. Information is written as submicrometer volume elements of increased refractive index in a photopolymer by two-photon excitation of a photoinitiator at the waist of a highly focused beam from a colliding-pulse mode-locked laser. Quadratic dependence of two-photon excitation on intensity confines polymerization to the focal volume. Information is read with sufficient axial resolution by differential interference contrast microscopy. This write-once, read-many technique should increase the capacity of the spinning disk format by 100-fold.
The Hanford Advisory Board: A Case Study in Democracy, Technology, and Representation

The Hanford Advisory Board (HAB) is a broadly representative, deliberative body that provides formal policy advice on Department of Energy (DOE) proposals and decisions at the Hanford nuclear cleanup site near Richland, Washington. Despite considerable skepticism about the effectiveness of citizen advisory boards, we contend that the HAB offers promising institutional innovations. Drawing on our analysis of the HAB’s formal advice as well as our interviews with board members and agency officials, we explore the HAB’s unique design, outline a normative framework for evaluating participatory institutions, and assess the HAB’s effectiveness in rendering the DOE accountable to the local public.
An alternative control strategy for the thyristor based HVDC interconnection of renewable energy supplies

In service experience of renewable energy systems, particularly wind generation has shown a large degree of variability in the output of such generation in terms of both real and reactive power. The controllability of a thyristor based HVDC scheme can be utilised to isolate the main power system from the variability in this generation and reduce the thermal stresses imposed on the transmission equipment. An alternative control method for a HVDC scheme is presented and results of simulations shown.
Dependence and interdependence in marketing relationships: meta-analytic insights

The authors conduct a meta-analysis to examine dependence and interdependence in marketing relationships. Analyses reveal that dependence affects performance primarily through relationship quality and cooperation, while interdependence has substantial direct effects as well as effects mediated through relationship-specific investments and cooperation. Regarding relationship context, effects of dependence are stronger in channel relationships than end-user relationships and for services than goods; interdependence does not display the same pattern. Regarding methodological context, dependence measures that emphasize relationship value versus switching costs have different moderating effects; greater general dependence content is associated with weaker effect sizes for dependence but conversely greater effect sizes for interdependence. These results suggest that new insights can be gained by distinguishing relationship value and switching cost components of dependence and by investigating the possibility that the conceptual domain of interdependence differs from that of dependence. Future research that strives for greater precision in the measurement of dependence and interdependence constructs and that simultaneously examines dependence and interdependence is recommended.
Classifying infants and toddlers with developmental vulnerability: who is most likely to receive early intervention?

Background Infants and toddlers with developmental difficulties represent a heterogeneous group who often receives early intervention (EI). Notable population heterogeneity exists and complicates unmet need and effectiveness research. However, a mix of relatively homogeneous clinically policy relevant ‘subgroups’ may create the apparent heterogeneity. To date, methodological challenges have impeded identifying these potential groups and their policy-relevance. Methods From the 2005–2006 National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs, we derived a sample (n = 965) of infants and toddlers with parent-reported developmental difficulties. We used latent class analysis (LCA) to identify subgroups of developmental vulnerability based upon functional, social and biological characteristics that would make children eligible for EI. Mixture modelling estimated the likelihood of each subgroup receiving parent-reported EI, controlling for race/ethnicity, child's age, and state of residence. Results LCA identified four distinct subgroups of developmental vulnerability: developmental disability (Group 1), mild developmental delay (Group 2), socially at risk with behaviour problems (Group 3), and socially at risk with functional vision difficulties (Group 4). Black, non-Hispanic children are significantly more likely than their white counterparts to be in Group 3 (β = 1.52, P = 0.001) or group 4 (β = 1.83, P < 0.001). Compared with children with a mild developmental delay (Group 2), children in group 1 (β = −0.61, P < 0.001), group 3 (β = −0.47, P = 0.001) and group 4 (β = −0.38, P = 0.009) are significantly less likely to receive EI. Conclusions Racial and ethnic differences exist with regard to membership in developmental vulnerability subgroups. Observed inconsistencies in access to EI suggest the need for improved surveillance, referral and outreach.
Nerve fibers in the sympathetic trunk of Rana pipiens: a quantitative electron microscope study.

The numbers and diameters of nerve fibers were determined for the first time for all interganglionic rami of the sympathetic chain of the frog. The number of myelinated fibers ranged from 57 to 263 and was generally highest in the anterior portion (207) and lowest at the posterior end (57) of the chain. The exception was between the fourth and fifth ganglia where the middle splanchnic nerves arise — the number of myelinated fibers was highest here (263). Unmyelinated fiber counts were similar throughout the chain (417–814) except above and below the first sympathetic ganglion (7325 and 3026, respectively), and at the level where the middle splanchnic nerves arise (3780). Unmyelinated fibers constituted 75–97% of the fibers of the chain. The myelinated fibers ranged in diameter from 0.5 to 9.0 μ, 75% of them measuring between 1.5 and 3.0 μ. The diameter range for unmyelinated fibers was 0.1 to 5.0 μ with 78% being 0.1 to 1.0 μ.
Multi-spectral surface-plasmon resonant infrared detectors

We demonstrate a multi-spectral polarization sensitive mid-infrared photodetector utilizing surface-patterned plasmonic resonators. This design provides a responsivity enhancement of up to 5x while adding only one lithography step to current focal plane array processing.
OPTIMAL CONTROL PROFILE SPECIFICATION FOR BOUNDARY VALUE SYSTEMS.

Abstract : The specification of the space-wise control profile to maximize a performance index for a distributed second order system with boundary conditions is achieved by reduction to a first order system with inequality constraints as terminal conditions and the application of a maximum principle formulation. Computation of the temperature profile to maximize intermediate product yield in a reactor with axial mixing is illustrated. Modified methods based upon the gradient of the Hamiltonian have been found to be highly effective for making successive approximations to the control profile. (Author)
High Refractive Index Si/SiOx Based Nanocomposites

Nanosized materials and their composites have generated enormous interest in recent years. [1-3] The need for high refractive index materials that readily conform to the elaborate structures proposed for photonic band-gap structures,[4,5] have attracted considerable attention in high loading nanocomposites.[6-8] The potential benefits in generating materials that gradually bridge the large refractive index gap between organics and inorganics along with maintaining reduced absorption and scattering, could benefit an array of photonic devices by improving the optical-coupling efficiencies between semiconductors and plastics or glass.[9]For example, the refractive indices of polymers vary between 1.3 and 1.7, while those of inorganic semiconductors vary between 2 and 5.[10] Some specialty polymers can exhibit refractive index greater than 2, such as poly(thiophene) with n = 2.12,[11] although this is strongly coupled to optical absorbance in the visible region. Inorganic high band-gap materials, such as TiO2, could reach up to refractive indices of 2.9 in their crystalline state, but above this limit it is necessary to consider composites of inorganic semiconductors such as those presented in Table 1.[10] Table 1 Refractive indices and absorption coefficients in the visible range for some ofthe ultra-high refractive index semiconductor inorganics Material Refractive Index (n) Absorption Coefficient (k) 400 nm 500 nm 620 nm 400 nm 500 nm 620 nm Crystalline Si 5.57 4.30 3.91 0.387 0.073 0.022 Amorphous Si 4.38 4.47 4.23 2.02 0.992 0.461 Ge 4.14 4.34 5.59 2.215 2.384 0.933 GaP 4.20I 3.59 3.32 0.275 2.5×10-3 2.8×10-7 InP 4.42 3.82 3.55 1.735 0.511 0.317 PbS 3.62 4.35 4.19 2.015 2.238 1.773
Introduction of a 14-hour work shift model for housestaff in the medical ICU

Study objective: To describe the outcomes of switching housestaff from a traditional model of “long-call” every 4 days to a 14-h work-shift model in a medical ICU (MICU) over a 5-week pilot period. Design: Retrospective comparison of a 5-week pilot period for a 14-h work-shift model vs a 4-month period for the traditional model. Setting: The MICU of a tertiary medical center. Participants: A total of 626 patients admitted to the MICU and 34 internal medicine residents taking care of them. Interventions: None. Measurements: Severity-adjusted patient outcomes, housestaff performance on end-of-rotation examinations, and scheduled duty hours during the 5-week 14-h work-shift pilot period compared to a 16-week traditional nonpilot work period. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in patients’ adjusted mortality rates, hospital lengths of stay, or housestaff performance on end-of-rotation knowledge assessment examinations between the pilot and nonpilot periods. During the pilot period, each resident was scheduled to work for an average of 61.3 h weekly, and each fellow for 65.3 h weekly. In comparison, each resident and fellow was scheduled to work for an average of 73.3 h weekly during the nonpilot period. Conclusions: The 14-h work shift is a feasible option for housestaff rotation in the MICU. Although the power of our study to detect significant differences in mortality, length of stay, and educational outcomes was low, there was no evidence of compromised patient care or housestaff education associated with the 14-h shift model over the course of this 5-week pilot study.
Effect of fibrin sealant composition on human neutrophil chemotaxis.

The use of fibrin sealants offers one of the most physiologically compatible approaches to preventing postoperative adhesions. Although a number of fibrin sealant formulations have been developed, little is known about how the various components of these preparations affect the wound-healing process. Because one of the key steps in wound healing is the migration of phagocytic leukocytes, such as neutrophils, into the site of injury, we performed studies to characterize systematically the effects of various fibrin sealant components on neutrophil chemotaxis. Using a transwell chemotaxis assay, we found that increasing fibrin concentration resulted in an inhibition of the ability of the cells to migrate through the clots in a dose-dependent manner, and at fibrin clot concentrations >2.0 mg/mL chemotaxis was completely blocked. Factor XIII crosslinking of the clots also had a significant impact on neutrophil chemotaxis, and sealant preparations deficient in Factor XIII allowed neutrophil migration at much higher fibrin concentrations. The presence of various other fibrin sealant components such as plasminogen and fibrinolysis inhibitors (aprotinin and tranexamic acid) did not have any significant effects on the ability of neutrophils to migrate through fibrin clots as compared to control clots without these components. Overall, these studies show that the composition of fibrin sealant preparations can significantly affect neutrophil migration into the site of injury, which could possibly influence the wound healing process.
A 15-GHz integrated CMOS switch with 21.5-dBm IP/sub 1dB/ and 1.8-dB insertion loss

A 15-GHz CMOS switch was fully integrated in a 0.13-/spl mu/m CMOS foundry process. With on-chip LC impedance transformation networks (ITNs), the switch achieves 21.5-dBm input P/sub 1dB/ and 34.5-dBm input IP3. The insertion loss and isolation are 1.8 dB and 17.8 dB. The degradation of insertion loss due to use of ITNs is made negligible by reducing the degradation of insertion loss due to the bond pad capacitances in the switch without ITNs. This is the first CMOS switch operating at 15 GHz with competitive performance as GaAs switches, and requires 3V/1.2V control voltages.
Camber Controlled Airfoil Design for Morphing UAV

Morphing technology, inspired by bat and bird flight, can enable an aircraft to adapt its shape to best suit the flight condition thereby enhancing mission performance. In this paper, we propose a camber change for the morphing of airfoils with the aim of improving aerodynamic efficiency. The Global Hawk UAV mission in general and its LRN1015 airfoil in particular is in focus due to the relative long mission times spent at the two different flight conditions, namely high-speed dash and low speed loiter. Specifically, we are in search of the basic relationships between flap deflection and airfoil morphing based on a camber change. We are using several tools to virtually simulate a morphing wing including XFOIL to perform fast and relatively accurate two-dimensional steady-flow simulations of different morphed configurations using a camber controlled morphed wing to maneuver. Results show that for the LRN1015 airfoil, we can achieve the lift differential required to perform a maneuver while maintaining higher efficiency than an aircraft using flaps to perform the same maneuver.
Dynamic Signature Verification Using Embedded Sensors

This paper presents a new method for signature verification using a pen equipped with sensors. Traditional dynamic signature verification methods use digitizing tablets to record data. Here real time data is gathered using sensors embedded in the pen as the person signs. These sensors capture dynamic information of the signing process such as instantaneous acceleration, rotation, and other data. After processing raw data, classification is made using a combination of techniques such as dynamic time warping and hidden Markov models with Gaussian mixtures. Along with global feature comparison this method yields low false acceptance rate and false rejection rate. Details of a prototype system and performance on human subjects are also presented.
Why The Government Budget Is Too Small in a Democracy

In a democratic society, the division of resources between the public and private sectors is roughly determined by the desires of the electorate. But because it is such a complex and time-consuming task to acquire adequate political information, the electorate is chronically ignorant of the costs and benefits of many actual and potential government policies. It is my belief that this ignorance causes governments to enact budgets smaller than the ones they would enact if the electorate possessed complete information. Yet these undersized budgets stem from rational behavior by both the government and the electorate; hence they are extremely difficult to remedy. Furthermore, the resulting misallocation of resources becomes more and more serious as the economy grows more complex.
A computer model of the interpersonal effect of emotion displayed in a social dilemma

The paper presents a computational model for decision-making in a social dilemma that takes into account the other party's emotion displays. The model is based on data collected in a series of recent studies where participants play the iterated prisoner's dilemma with agents that, even though following the same action strategy, show different emotion displays according to how the game unfolds. We collapse data from all these studies and fit, using maximum likelihood estimation, probabilistic models that predict likelihood of cooperation in the next round given different features. Model 1 predicts based on round outcome alone. Model 2 predicts based on outcome and emotion displays. Model 3 also predicts based on outcome and emotion but, considers contrast effects found in the empirical studies regarding the order with which participants play cooperators and non-cooperators. To evaluate the models, we replicate the original studies but, substitute the humans for the models. The results reveal that Model 3 best replicates human behavior in the original studies and Model 1 does the worst. The results, first, emphasize recent research about the importance of nonverbal cues in social dilemmas and, second, reinforce that people attend to contrast effects in their decision-making. Theoretically, the model provides further insight into how people behave in social dilemmas. Pragmatically, the model could be used to drive an agent that is engaged in a social dilemma with a human (or another agent).
A format-driven handwritten word recognition system

A format-driven word recognition system is proposed forrecognition of handwritten words. Unlike most traditionalhandwritten word recognizers being given a set of target wordsas lexicon, we assume that our system is given a set of formatdescriptions other than lexicon words. Applications of the proposedsystem include recognition of relatively more importantkeywords such as postal codes, titles or trademarks. The formatdescriptions are in terms of the lengths of the keywords,the types of the characters in the keywords and positional informations.Due to the important role of the keywords in theapplications, the recognition expectations in terms of recognitionrate and accuracy are usually higher then lexicon-drivenword recognizers.
Experience with a language for writing coherence protocols

In this paper we describe our experience with Teapot [7], a domain-specific language for writing cache coherence protocols. Cache coherence is of concern when parallel and distributed computing systems make local replicas of shared data to improve scalability and performance. In both distributed shared memory systems and distributed file systems, a coherence protocol maintains agreement among the replicated copies as the underlying data are modified by programs running on the system. Cache coherence protocols are notoriously difficult to implement, debug, and maintain. Unfortunately, protocols are not off-the-shelf items, as their details depend on the requirements of the system under consideration. This paper presents case studies detailing the successes and shortcomings of using Teapot for writing coherence protocols in two systems. The first system, loosely coherent memory (LCM) [16], implements a particular type of distributed shared memory suitable for data-parallel programming. The second system, the xFS distributed file system [9], implements a high-performance, serverless file system. Our overall experience with Teapot has been very positive. In particular, Teapot's language features resulted in considerable simplifications in the protocol source code for both systems. Furthermore, Teapot's close coupling between implementation and formal verification helped to achieve much higher confidence in our protocol implementations than previously possible and reduced the time to build the protocols. By using Teapot to solve real problems in complex systems, we also discovered several shortcomings of the Teapot design. Most noticeably, we found Teapot lacking in support for multithreaded environments, for expressing actions that transcend several cache blocks, and for handling blocking system calls. We believe that domain-specific languages are valuable tools for writing cache coherence protocols.
Tumorigenic transformation of mammalian cells induced by a normal human gene homologous to the oncogene of Harvey murine sarcoma virus

A normal human gene homologous to the p21 ras oncogene of Harvey murine sarcoma virus induced oncogenic transformation and high p21 ras levels in murine fibroblasts when this gene was ligated to a control element (the long terminal repeat) from a murine or feline retrovirus. These results indicate that high levels of a gene product encoded by a normal human oncogene can induce tumorigenic transformation.
Control of end-point forces of a multijoint limb by functional neuromuscular stimulation

A multivariable feedback controller was designed and tested for regulating the magnitude and orientation of the force vector at the end point of a multijoint limb in contact with an isometric load. The force vector was produced by electrical stimulation of muscles. Two coupling issues must be dealt with by the control system. First, there is a geometric coupling between the end-point force vector and joint torques on which amplitude and orientation of the force vector depend. Second, torques at two joints may be coupled due to activation of muscles that cross them (biarticular coupling). To eliminate the geometric coupling, a transformation of controller error from the Cartesian space to the joint space was employed. A multivariable proportional-plus-integral (PI) control law was used to calculate muscle activation based on the transformed controller error. Centralized and decentralized controls were investigated for decoupling the effects of biarticular muscles. Test results show that the magnitude and orientation of end-point forces could be regulated by this controller. >
Identification and Characterization of an Antigen I/II Family Protein Produced by Group A Streptococcus

ABSTRACT Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a gram-positive human bacterial pathogen that causes infections ranging in severity from pharyngitis to life-threatening invasive disease, such as necrotizing fasciitis. Serotype M28 strains are consistently isolated from invasive infections, particularly puerperal sepsis, a severe infection that occurs during or after childbirth. We recently sequenced the genome of a serotype M28 GAS strain and discovered a novel 37.4-kb foreign genetic element designated region of difference 2 (RD2). RD2 is similar in gene content and organization to genomic islands found in group B streptococci (GBS), the major cause of neonatal infections. RD2 encodes seven proteins with conventional gram-positive secretion signal sequences, six of which have not been characterized. Herein, we report that one of these six proteins (M28_Spy1325; Spy1325) is a member of the antigen I/II family of cell surface-anchored molecules produced by oral streptococci. PCR and DNA sequence analysis found that Spy1325 is very well conserved in GAS strains of distinct M protein serotypes. As assessed by real-time TaqMan quantitative PCR, the Spy1325 gene was expressed in vitro, and Spy1325 protein was present in culture supernatants and on the GAS cell surface. Western immunoblotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays indicated that Spy1325 was produced by GAS in infected mice and humans. Importantly, the immunization of mice with recombinant Spy1325 fragments conferred protection against GAS-mediated mortality. Similar to other antigen I/II proteins, recombinant Spy1325 bound purified human salivary agglutinin glycoprotein. Spy1325 may represent a shared virulence factor among GAS, GBS, and oral streptococci.
Making Prudent vs. Impulsive Choices: The Role of Anticipated Shame and Guilt on Consumer Self-Control

We examine the differential effects of anticipating shame vs. guilt on choice likelihood of a hedonic product. The results demonstrate that when offered a hedonic snack (chocolate cake) consumers who anticipate shame are significantly less likely to choose to consume it compared to those who anticipate guilt. Anticipating guilt also has a more circumscribed effect, impacting choice likelihood only for those consumers who are not attitudinally inclined toward the hedonic product. The results also show that anticipating guilt versus shame has different effects on anticipated happiness after lapses in self-control.
Delépine amine synthesis

The reaction between alkyl halides and hexamethylenetetramine, followed by cleavage of the resulting salt with ethanolic HCl to yield primary amines. Cf. Gabriel synthesis, where the product is also an amine and Sommelet reaction, where the product is an aldehyde.
Charles Duncan Michener, 1918–2015

Paul was just 15 when he met Michener (Mich), who was curator of Lepidoptera at the American Museum of Natural History. He seemed to be very old to Paul (Mich was 29) and Paul thought even then that Mich was a great scientist (he was right). Mich was doing research on the taxonomy of butterflies and moths because he couldn’t find employment working with bees, his first and last love.
Bone marrow adipogenesis is affected by insulin-like growth factor-1 complexes

Fat tissue, which is composed of lipid-filled adipocytes that accumulate during aging, displaces mineralized tissue and reduces the mechanical integrity bone. Bone marrow adipocytes provide stroma for maintenance of mesencymal stem cells (MSC) and reside at sites of bone turnover (i.e., endosteal surfaces where osteoblasts form new bone), potentially influencing cell activity via a paracrine route.© 2009 ASME
Action of P-Aminobenzenesulfonamide on Type III Pneumococcus Infections in Mice

ConclusionsThe oral administration of p-aminobenzenesulfonamide is capable of prolonging, and in some cases of saving, the lives of mice infected subcutaneously with approximately 10 minimal lethal doses of highly virulent Type 111 pneuniococci.†, ‡
Junk Hunter: Autonomous Rendezvous, Capture, and De- Orbit of Orbital Debris

** * * * * , The Junk Hunter mission concept is a space mission architecture designed to address the issue of removing space debris from Earth orbit. The Junk Hunter mission involves the removal of ten large pieces of debris from low earth orbit using ten small satellites launched from one launch vehicle. Each small satellite will be autonomously capable of rendezvous, capture and de-orbit of a large piece of debris, such as a dead satellite, and will consist of an existing de-orbit device integrated onto a commercial satellite bus alongside an innovative new device for debris capture currently being designed and tested by the REsearch and Development for the Capture and Removal of Orbital Clutter (REDCROC) senior project team at the University of Colorado at Boulder. The Junk Hunter mission target debris resides in an orbital range between 900 km and 1,000 km at an inclination of 82-83 degrees, a location having a high density of debris. Large debris, which can be continuously tracked on Earth and are 30 cm or greater in diameter, were chosen as the target because of the increased collision risk they pose. A single satellite debris capture architecture was chosen for this mission based on a number of factors including cost, simplicity, heritage components, and system redundancy. The Junk Hunter satellite consists of three major components: the LMx 9000 commercial satellite bus, the Gossamer Orbit Lowering Device (GOLD) de-orbit device, and the REDCROC debris capture system. The REDCROC system utilizes a deployable, inflatable boom structure supporting a mesh netting that can be secured around captured debris. The captured debris and Junk Hunter satellite can then be de-orbited, burning up upon re-entry and clearing orbital space of a large piece of debris.
Probability Model of Insecticide Efficacy for Western Spruce Budworm (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

A computer model, based on probability theory and designed to simulate efficacy of insecticides to Douglas-fir tussock moth and western spruce budworm, is described. Simulations of applications of acephate or carbaryl included the following variables: insecticide dosage at the foliage-insect level, genetically determined response characteristics of the insect population to the insecticide, instar distribution of the population on the day of spray, type of exposure, moisture condition of foliage at the time of spray, rainfall after spray, and presence or absence of larvae at the time of spray.
Bioinformatic analysis reveals the expression of unique transcriptomic signatures in Zika virus infected human neural stem cells.

The single-stranded RNA Flavivirus, Zika virus (ZIKV), has recently re-emerged and spread rapidly across the western hemisphere’s equatorial countries, primarily through Aedes mosquito transmission. While symptoms in adult infections appear to be self-limiting and mild, severe birth defects, such as microcephaly, have been linked to infection during early pregnancy. Recently, Tang et al. (Cell Stem Cell 2016, doi: 10.1016/j.stem.2016.02.016 ) demonstrated that ZIKV efficiently infects induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs), resulting in cell cycle abnormalities and apoptosis. Consequently, hNPCs are a suggested ZIKV target. We analyzed the transcriptomic sequencing (RNA-seq) data (GEO: GSE78711) of ZIKV (Strain: MR766) infected hNPCs. For comparison to the ZIKV-infected hNPCs, the expression data from hNPCs infected with human cytomegalovirus (CMV) (Strain: AD169) was used (GEO: GSE35295). Utilizing a combination of Gene Ontology, database of human diseases, and pathway analysis, we generated a putative systemic model of infection supported by known molecular pathways of other highly related viruses. We analyzed RNA-sequencing data for transcript expression alterations in ZIKV-infected hNPCs, and then compared them to expression patterns of iPSC-derived hNPCs infected with CMV, a virus that can also induce severe congenital neurological defects in developing fetuses. We demonstrate for the first time that many of cellular pathways correlate with clinical pathologies following ZIKV infection such as microcephaly, congenital nervous system disorders and epilepsy. Furthermore, ZIKV activates several inflammatory signals within infected hNPCs that are implicated in innate and acquired immune responses, while CMV-infected hNPCs showed limited representation of these pathways. Moreover, several genes related to pathogen responses are significantly upregulated upon ZIKV infection, but not perturbed in CMV-infected hNPCs. The presented study is the first to report enrichment of numerous pro-inflammatory pathways in ZIKV-infected hNPCs, indicating that hNPCs are capable of signaling through canonical pro-inflammatory pathways following viral infection. By defining gene expression profiles, new factors in the pathogenesis of ZIKV were identified which could help develop new therapeutic strategies.
An Examination of Inmate Physical Assaults on Jail Correctional Staff: Exploring Inmate-Level and Jail-Level Conditions in the United States

ABSTRACTThe current study examines individual-level determinants of inmate-on correctional staff assaults, particularly the demographic characteristics of inmates, and the context of structural/environmental characteristics of specific jails. Findings from a series of negative binomial regression models indicate some significant relationships, with additional analyses highlighting the nonlinear nature of the relationship between racial representation and assaults. The findings give credence to both the “lone-wolf” and “gang mentality” perspectives, in that jails with an unbalanced racial composition have higher rates of inmate assaults on correctional staff when groups are both under- and over-represented as a proportion of the jail population.
Stable (18) O-labeling method for stercobilin and other bilins for metabolomics.

Rationale Bilin tetrapyrroles including stercobilin are unique to mammalian waste; they have been used as markers of source water contamination and may have important diagnostic value in human health conditions. Unfortunately, commercial isotopomers for bilins are not available. Thus, there is a need for isotopomer standards of stercobilin and other bilins for quantification in environmental and clinical diagnostic applications. Methods A procedure is described here using H218O to label the carboxylic acid groups of bilin tetrapyrroles. Reaction conditions as a function of temperature and reagent volume were found to produce a mixture of isotopomers, as assessed by electrospray ionization and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICRMS). Stability as a function of storage time and temperature and in conjunction with solid-phase extraction (SPE) was assessed. Results The highest labeling efficiency was achieved at 70 °C for 8 h, while a stable ratio of the isotopmers could be produced at 60 °C for 4 h. The stability of the isotopic distribution was maintained under storage (room temperature or frozen) for 20 days. It was also stable throughout SPE. The high mass accuracy and resolving power of FTICRMS enables clear distinction between 18O-labeled bilins from other unlabeled bilins present, avoiding a potential interference in quantitation. Conclusions A procedure was developed to label bilins with 18O. The final ratio of the 18O-labeled bilin isotopomers was reproducible and highly stable for at least 20 days under storage. This ratio was not changed in any statistically significant way even after SPE. Thus a reliable method for producing stable isotopomer ratios for bilins has been achieved. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methylphenidate for ADHD in Preschoolers

The effectiveness of methylphenidate (MPH), 0.3 and 0.5 mg/kg 2x daily, in the treatment of 31 children, aged 4 to 6 years, with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was investigated by a double-blind, placebo-controlled study at the University of Ottawa, Canada.
Waste Incineration – The Bridge Between Today'S Capability and Future Goals

As the world-wide effort to reduce waste gains momentum, there will be a changing attitude towards waste generators. This transition will require the construction of incinerators to provide a critical link in managing the difficult wastes that remain. They must demonstrate the best available technology and quality operation. These incinerators become the bridge that allows time for the transition of world-wide manufacturing facilities to meet the environmental expectations now gaining prominence.
Factors Motivating HPV Vaccine Uptake Among Vaccinated and Nonvaccinated Hispanic Young Adult Women.

Introduction:To identify factors influencing human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination up taking decision making among vaccinated and nonvaccinated Hispanic college women.Participants:Hispanic young w...
The Effect of Culture, Product Self-Image Congruence, and Brand Attitudes on the Propensity to be Brand Loyal

There is evidence that consumers from dissimilar cultures understand and interact with brands differently. This study is unique in that it tests a model of brand loyalty proneness across a large cross-section of 22 countries reflective of both developed and emerging economies. In addition, it is rare in its focus on a gestalt phenomenon of interest (i.e., brand loyalty proneness) rather than on brand behaviors associated with specific brands. This study also measures specific aspects of culture (collectivism and uncertainty avoidance), in contrast to the predominant approach in cross-national research that typically notes national differences and assumes it is caused by culture. Finally, the tested conceptual model is unique in that it includes three key factors: culture, product self-image congruency, and brand attitudes; rarely, if ever, have these factors been included in a solitary empirical work on branding. The results show that culture is an important determinant of product self-image congruency, which in turn positively affects brand attitudes. Finally, brand attitudes positively affect the propensity to be brand loyal.
Angular under-sampling effect on VMAT dose calculation: An analysis and a solution strategy

Purpose Most VMAT algorithms compute the dose on discretized apertures with small angular separations for practical reasons. However, machines deliver the VMAT dose with a continuously moving MLC and gantry and a continuously changing dose rate. The computed dose can deviate from the delivered dose, especially if no, or loose, MLC movement constraints are applied for the VMAT optimization. The goal of this paper is to establish a simplified mathematical model to analyze the discrepancy between the VMAT plan calculation dose and the delivered dose and to provide a reasonable solution for clinical implementation. Methods A simplified metric is first introduced to describe the discrepancy between doses computed with discretized apertures and a continuous delivery model. The delivery fluences were formed separately for six different leaf movement scenarios. The formula was then rewritten in a more general form. The correlation between discretized and continuous fluence is summarized using this general form. The Fourier analysis for the impacts from three separate factors – dose kernel width, aperture width, aperture distance – to the dose discrepancy is also presented in order to provide insight into the dose discrepancy caused by under-sampling in the frequency domain. Finally, a weighting-based interpolation (WBI) algorithm, which can improve the aperture interpolation efficiency, is proposed. The associated evaluation methods and criteria for the proposed algorithm are also given. Results The comparisons between the WBI algorithm and the equal angular interpolation (EAI) method suggested that the proposed algorithm has a great advantage with regard to aperture number efficiency. To achieve a 90% gamma passing rate using the dose computed with apertures generated with 0.5° EAI, with the initial optimization apertures as the standard for the comparison, the WBI needs only 66% and 54% of the aperture numbers that the EAI method needs for a 2° and a 4° angular separation of the VMAT optimization, respectively. The results also suggested that the weighted dose error index value, Θ, can be used as a stopping criterion for an interpolation algorithm, e.g., WBI or EAI, or as an indicator for sampling level evaluations. The phantom results indicate that the gamma passing rate decreases with increasing depth, from the phantom surface to the iso center, for the plans computed with under-sampled apertures. No obvious variation trends were observed for the plans computed with well-sampled apertures. Conclusions The mathematical analysis suggests that the dose discrepancies due to under-sampling are strongly correlated with the aperture width, the distance between apertures, and the width of the dose kernel. The WBI algorithm proves to be an efficient aperture interpolation strategy and is useful for dose computation of VMAT plans.
Farmer Cooperatives as Systems of Attributes: An Analysis of Ownership and Investment Complementarities

The long-term economic viability of the farmer cooperative mode of organization is often assumed to be jeopardized by an equity constraint. To inform possible solutions, the farmer cooperative is conceptualized as an independent firm comprising a system of attributes, thus facilitating a better understanding of the dual function of organized farm producers as both patrons and capitalists. We place emphasis on the hybrid assignment and configuration of claim rights to find possible complementarities between ownership and investment so as to loosen the equity constraint. Based on survey data on US farmer cooperatives, we analyze multiple configurations of membership access, ownership transferability, equity redeemability, preferred stock provision and ownership, and upfront capital contribution in relation to the desire to patronize and the obligation to capitalize the cooperative. Thus, we inform constitutional responses to rapid developments in the agri-food industry, which force farmer cooperatives to find additional equity for necessary growth in scale and scope.
A Revised Sociogenomic Model of Personality Traits

In this article, I seek to update the sociogenomic model of personality traits (Roberts & Jackson, 2008). Specifically, I seek to outline a broader and more comprehensive theoretical perspective on personality traits than offered in the original version of the sociogenomic model of personality traits. First, I review the major points of our 2008 article. Second, I update our earlier model mostly with insights derived from a deeper reading of evolutionary theoretical systems, such as those found in life-history theory and ecological-evolutionary-developmental biology. In particular, this revision incorporates two evolutionary-informed systems, labeled pliable and elastic systems, that provide new insights into how personality traits develop. Third, I describe some of the implications of this new understanding of the biological and evolutionary architecture that underlies human phenotypes such as personality traits.
Dual-width Plasmonic Nanogap Gratings electrodes for GaAs Metal-Semiconductor-Metal Photodetectors Enhancement

A dual-width plasmonic nanograting structure with a 5 nm gap has been designed and simulated. Optical enhancement was calculated for the application of improving the performance of metal-semiconductor-metal photodetectors (MSM-PDs).
Childhood and nation: interdisciplinary entanglements

As noted at the beginning of Childhood and nation: interdisciplinary entanglements, over the past few decades a robust body of literature focused on ‘notions of childhood and nation’ (1) has emerge...