cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Infrared laser-induced gene expression for tracking development and function of single C. elegans embryonic neurons

Visualizing neural-circuit assembly in vivo requires tracking growth of optically resolvable neurites. The Caenorhabditis elegans embryonic nervous system, comprising 222 neurons and 56 glia, is attractive for comprehensive studies of development; however, embryonic reporters are broadly expressed, making single-neurite tracking/manipulation challenging. We present a method, using an infrared laser, for reproducible heat-dependent gene expression in small sublineages (one to four cells) without radiation damage. We go beyond proof-of-principle, and use our system to label and track single neurons during early nervous-system assembly. We uncover a retrograde extension mechanism for axon growth, and reveal the aetiology of axon-guidance defects in sax-3/Robo and vab-1/EphR mutants. We also perform cell-specific rescues, determining DAF-6/patched-related site of action during sensory-organ development. Simultaneous ablation and labelling of cells using our system reveals roles for glia in dendrite extension. Our method can be applied to other optically/IR-transparent organisms, and opens the door to high-resolution systematic analyses of C. elegans morphogenesis.
Cataglyphis: An autonomous sample return rover

This paper presents the design of Cataglyphis, a research rover that won the NASA Sample Return Robot Centennial Challenge in 2015. During the challenge, Cataglyphis was the only robot that was able to autonomously find, retrieve, and return multiple types of samples in a large natural environment without using Earth-specific sensors such as GPS and magnetic compasses. It navigates through a fusion of measurements collected from inertial sensors, wheel encoders, a nodding Lidar, a set of ranging radios, a camera on a panning platform, and a sun sensor. In addition to visual detection of a homing beacon, computer vision algorithms provide the sample detection, identification, and localization capabilities, with low false positive and false negative rates demonstrated during the competition. The mission planning and control software enables robot behaviors, determines sequences of actions, and helps the robot to recover from various failure conditions. A compliant, under-actuated manipulator conforms to the natural terrain before picking up samples of various size, weight, and shape.
Geometrical Model of the Microvasculature of Rabbit Omentum from in Vivo Measurements

The diameter and length relationships of the anastomosing microvessels of the rabbit omentum were determined from serial photographs taken in vivo. Complete maps from input to output vessels in these microvascular beds were used to construct a hemodynamic model. The principal features are uniform distribution of surface area and volume from 20μ arterioles to 25μ venules and uniform hydraulic hindrance up to the venules, where it drops to 5% of the total value.
Coal and family through the boom and bust: A look at the coal Industry's impact on marriage and divorce

Abstract Rural America has a long relationship with the coal industry. Long-term shifts toward less labor intensive practices in the industry, coupled with policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions have resulted in substantial employment losses in coal communities. While the economic impacts of declining industries in rural America have been documented, less work has been done to investigate the impact of coal employment losses on social outcomes. We address this gap in the literature by assessing the association between county-level measures of coal employment and marriage, divorce, and cohabitation in nonmetro America. We use a novel proprietary data set to isolate the relationship between marital outcome and coal mining from all other types of mining that aggregated in publicly available data sets. Additionally, we compare these relationships across boom and bust periods. We find that after controlling for total employment growth, the presence of coal mining in a county is significantly associated with marital outcomes and these relationships differ across nonmetro and metro areas. We find some evidence that rural areas that typically have more experience with extraction industries display greater resilience to both positive and negative coal industry shocks compared to metropolitan counties.
Encapsulation of Microelectronic Assemblies for use in Harsh Environments

Abstract Microelectronic systems that are intended for use in high shock and vibration environments are encapsulated to achieve stable and reliable operation. The physical design of the electronic assembly, the material properties of the encapsulant, and the magnitude and frequency of the inertial loading must all be factored into the system design. Overall robustness to shock and vibration are improved by minimizing the physical size and mass of the system, which increases its stiffness and reduces the magnitude of the inertial forces that must be supported. This work describes the development of an encapsulation process and facilities that are optimized for building high-reliability microelectronic systems that range between one and five cubic centimeters in volume. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is used to ensure that sensitive components are not overstressed by the encapsulant as a result of residual curing stresses and inertial loading effects. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software is used to mo...
Personalized thermal comfort inference using RGB video images for distributed HVAC control

Abstract HVAC systems account for more than 40% of energy consumption in buildings to provide satisfactory indoor environments for occupants. The integration of personalized thermal comfort in the operation of HVAC systems has been shown to be highly effective in enhancing energy efficiency of buildings. To this end, research efforts have proposed personalized thermal comfort assessment through voting (i.e., occupant feedback) and profiling as well as physiological response measurement. In this study, we have proposed a novel approach for enabling RGB video cameras as sensors for measuring personalized thermoregulation states – an indicator of thermal comfort. If their feasibility for thermoregulation state inference could be established, optical cameras provide a cost-effective and omnipresent solution for distributed measurement of thermal comfort and consequently control of HVAC systems for energy saving. Accordingly, we have proposed a framework that draws on the concepts of thermoregulation mechanisms in the human body as well as the Eulerian video magnification approach. The framework is composed of several components including face detection, skin pixels isolation, image magnification. And calculation of detection index to infer subtle blood flow variations to the facial skin surface (i.e., blood perfusion), which is due to thermoregulation adjustments. In order to minimize the impact of variable illumination condition and the ambient noise on the results, different combinations of methods for framework components were taken into account. The feasibility assessments were conducted through an experimental study with 21 participants under low (20 °C) and high (30 °C) temperatures. In total, 16 positive cases out of 18 statistically significant cases were observed resulting in 89% of success rate using the most promising combinations of the methods. The results demonstrate that the proposed framework could contribute to realization of a non-intrusive, cost-effective, and ubiquitous distributed thermal comfort assessment that has been proven critical in increasing energy efficiency of the HVAC system through distributed control feedback.
Enzymatic construction of highly strained carbocycles

Small carbocycles are structurally rigid and possess high intrinsic energy due to their ring strain. These features lead to broad applications but also create challenges for their construction. We report the engineering of hemeproteins that catalyze the formation of chiral bicyclobutanes, one of the most strained four-membered systems, via successive carbene addition to unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds. Enzymes that produce cyclopropenes, putative intermediates to the bicyclobutanes, were also identified. These genetically encoded proteins are readily optimized by directed evolution, function in Escherichia coli, and act on structurally diverse substrates with high efficiency and selectivity, providing an effective route to many chiral strained structures. This biotransformation is easily performed at preparative scale, and the resulting strained carbocycles can be derivatized, opening myriad potential applications.
Changing River Ice Seasonality and Impacts on Interior Alaskan Communities

AbstractSubsistence harvesters in high latitudes rely on frozen rivers for winter access to local resources. During recent decades, interior Alaskan residents have observed changes in river ice regimes that are significant hindrances to travel and subsistence practices. We used remote sensing in combination with local observations to examine changes in seasonality of river breakup and freeze-up and to assess the implications on travel for subsistence harvesters. Spring and autumn air temperatures, respectively, were found to impact timing of breakup (−2.0 days °C−1) and freeze-up (+2.0 days °C−1). Spring air temperatures have increased by 0.2°–0.6°C decade−1 over the last 62–93 years, depending on study area and time period. Local observations indicate that the breakup season has advanced by about 6 days over the last century. Autumn air temperatures have not changed over the long term, but have been generally warmer over the last 15 years. Over various time periods throughout the last century, we found n...
The Problem of Regional Equity

Ever since at least 1788 when Hamilton, Madison, and Jay published the federalist articles, there has been lively debate over whether civic decision-making in the United States ought to be based on principles of local autonomy or national supremacy. To the political scientist and legal philosopher, the issue focuses on the assests and liabilities of decentralized versus centralized government. For the ethician or moral philosopher, one of the key difficulties is whether regional or local equity (equality of consideration among regions or locales) is either possible or desirable within a centralized system. To the welfare economist, this question involves whether the national government can and ought to distribute the various social, political, industrial, technological, and environmental costs and benefits of federal projects equally among all geographical areas.
Exploring Functional In Vivo Consequences of the Selective Genetic Ablation of mTOR Signaling in T Helper Lymphocytes

The mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) defines a crucial link between nutrient sensing and immune function. In CD4+ T cells, mTOR has been shown to play a critical role in regulating effector and regulatory T cell differentiation as well as the decision between full activation versus the induction of anergy. In this chapter, we describe how our group has employed the Cre-lox technology to genetically delete components of the mTOR signaling complex in T cells. This has enabled us to specifically interrogate mTOR function in T cells both in vitro and in vivo. We also describe techniques used to assay immune function and signaling in mTOR-deficient T cells at the single-cell level.
The effects of ice immersion on concentric and eccentric isokinetic muscle performance in the ankle

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of cryotherapy on isokinetic ankle strength immediately after ice immersion treatment. Concentric (CON) and eccentric (ECC) isokinetic ankle strength was measured on 20 male subjects using a Kin Com 125 AP (Chattanooga Group, Hix-son, TN) isokinetic dynamometer. Plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, inversion and eversion motions were assessed at speeds of 60°/s and 120°/s before and immediately after an ice immersion treatment (10°C for 20'). Peak torque (PT) values were extracted from the maximal torque curves and used in the data analysis. ECC PT was higher than CON PT at both speeds and was not affected by ice immersion treatment. The only notable finding was a significant main effect for test (PRE vs. POST) for CON dorsiflexion ankle strength. The Tukey post hoc test determined that POST test PT values (39.7 ± 12.7 Nm) were significantly lower than PRE test scores (45.9±11.2 2Nm). This finding suggests that CON dorsiflexion strength in the ankle may be adversely affected immediately after ice immersion application. Clinicians should still exercise caution when allowing athletes to return to competition immediately following ice immersion application to the lower leg.
Evolving fuzzy systems

The problem that is presented in this paper is that of a robot that is supposed to follow a line in an oval track as smoothly as possible. The robot is equipped with 2 sensors, each pointing at a 90-degree angle from the direction of motion. These act as the right and left range sensors having a pre-defined vision range of 100 units. In addition, the robot has a compass. It is limited to making turns of up to 10 degrees per step.
Reproductive factors, exogenous hormone use and incidence of melanoma among women in the United States

Although the photosensitising effects of oestrogens may increase the impact of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on melanoma risk, few prospective studies have comprehensively assessed the association between oestrogen-related factors and melanoma. We examined the associations between reproductive factors, exogenous oestrogen use and first primary invasive melanoma among 167 503 non-Hispanic white, postmenopausal women in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. Satellite-based ambient UVR estimates were linked to geocoded residential locations of participants at study baseline. Increased risk of melanoma was associated with early age at menarche (≤10 vs ≥15 years: HR = 1.25, 95% CI: 0.92, 1.71; P for trend = 0.04) and late age at menopause (≥50 vs <45 years: HR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.59; P for trend = 0.001). The relationship between ambient UVR and melanoma risk was highest among women with age at menarche ≤10 years (HR per UVR quartile increase = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.58; P-interaction = 0.02). Melanoma risk was not associated with parity, age at first birth, use of oral contraceptives or use of menopausal hormone therapy. Our findings suggest that increased melanoma risk is associated with early age at menarche and late age at menopause. Effect modification findings support the hypothesis that endogenous oestrogen exposure in childhood increases photocarcinogenicity. Future studies should include information on personal UVR exposure and sun sensitivity.
MicroRNA-181a/b-1 over-expression enhances osteogenesis by modulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling and mitochondrial metabolism

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that play important roles in many cellular processes including proliferation, metabolism and differentiation. They function by binding to specific regions within the 3'UTR of target mRNAs resulting in suppression of protein synthesis and modulation of potentially many cellular pathways. We previously showed that miRNA expression levels differed between cells from distinct regions of developing human embryonic long bones. Specifically, we found that miR-181a-1 was significantly more highly expressed in hypertrophic chondrocytes compared to proliferating differentiated or progenitor chondrocytes, suggesting a potential role in regulating chondrocyte hypertrophy and/or endochondral bone formation. The goal of this study was to determine how miR-181a-1 together with its clustered miRNA, miR-181b-1, regulates osteogenesis. We show that over-expression of the miR-181a/b-1 cluster enhanced osteogenesis and that cellular pathways associated with protein synthesis and mitochondrial metabolism were significantly up-regulated. Metabolic assays revealed that the oxygen consumption rate and ATP-linked respiration were increased by miR-181a/b-1. To further decipher a potential mechanism causing these metabolic changes, we showed that PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog) levels were suppressed following miR-181a/b-1 over-expression, and that PI3K/AKT signaling was subsequently increased. Over-expression of PTEN was found to attenuate the enhancing effects of miR-181a/b-1, providing further evidence that miR-181a/b-1 regulates the PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis to enhance osteogenic differentiation and mitochondrial metabolism. These findings have important implications for the design of miR-181a/b targeting strategies to treat bone conditions such as fractures or heterotopic ossification.
Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of 2′-β-fluoro-2′,3′-dideoxyadenosine (F-ddA) Through Local Inhibition of Intestinal Adenosine Deaminase

Purpose. Intestinal enzyme inhibition may be an effective tool to increase the oral bioavailability of compounds that undergo first-pass intestinal metabolism. However, systemic enzyme inhibition may be undesirable and therefore should be minimized. 2-β-fluoro-2′,3′-dideoxyadenosine (F-ddA) is an adenosine deaminase (ADA) activated prodrug of 2-β-fluoro-2′,3′-dideoxyinosine (F-ddI) with enhanced delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) that has been tested clinically for the treatment of AIDS. Unfortunately, intestinally localized ADA constitutes a formidable enzymatic barrier to the oral absorption of F-ddA. This study explores various factors involved in inhibitor selection and dosage regimen design to achieve local ADA inhibition with minimal systemic inhibition.
Sepsis Presenting in Hospitals versus Emergency Departments: Demographic, Resuscitation, and Outcome Patterns in a Multicenter Retrospective Cohort.

Background Differences between hospital-presenting sepsis (HPS) and emergency department-presenting sepsis (EDPS) are not well described. Objectives We aimed to (1) quantify the prevalence of HPS versus EDPS cases and outcomes; (2) compare HPS versus EDPS characteristics at presentation; (3) compare HPS versus EDPS in process and patient outcomes; and (4) estimate risk differences in patient outcomes attributable to initial resuscitation disparities. Design Retrospective consecutive-sample cohort. Setting Nine hospitals from October 1, 2014, to March 31, 2016. Patients All hospitalized patients with sepsis or septic shock, as defined by simultaneous (1) infection, (2) ≥2 Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) criteria, and (3) ≥1 acute organ dysfunction criterion. EDPS met inclusion criteria while physically in the emergency department (ED). HPS met the criteria after leaving the ED. Measurements We assessed overall HPS versus EDPS contributions to case prevalence and outcomes, and then compared group differences. Process outcomes included 3-hour bundle compliance and discrete bundle elements (eg, time to antibiotics). The primary patient outcome was hospital mortality. Results Of 11,182 sepsis hospitalizations, 2,509 (22.4%) were hospital-presenting. HPS contributed 785 (35%) sepsis mortalities. HPS had more frequent heart failure (OR: 1.31, CI: 1.18-1.47), renal failure (OR: 1.62, CI: 1.38-1.91), gastrointestinal source of infection (OR: 1.84, CI: 1.48-2.29), euthermia (OR: 1.45, CI: 1.10-1.92), hypotension (OR: 1.85, CI: 1.65-2.08), or impaired gas exchange (OR: 2.46, CI: 1.43-4.24). HPS were admitted less often from skilled nursing facilities (OR: 0.44, CI: 0.32-0.60), had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR: 0.53, CI: 0.36-0.78), tachypnea (OR: 0.76, CI: 0.58-0.98), or acute kidney injury (OR: 0.82, CI: 0.68-0.97). In a propensity-matched cohort (n = 3,844), HPS patients had less than half the odds of 3-hour bundle compliant care (17.0% vs 30.3%, OR: 0.47, CI: 0.40-0.57) or antibiotics within three hours (66.2% vs 83.8%, OR: 0.38, CI: 0.32-0.44) vs EDPS. HPS was associated with higher mortality (31.2% vs 19.3%, OR: 1.90, CI: 1.64-2.20); 23.3% of this association was attributable to differences in initial resuscitation (resuscitation-adjusted OR: 1.69, CI: 1.43-2.00). Conclusions HPS differed from EDPS by admission source, comorbidities, and clinical presentation. These patients received markedly less timely initial resuscitation; this disparity explained a moderate proportion of mortality differences.
Creating safe, equitable, engaging schools: A comprehensive, evidence-based approach to supporting students

School leaders should welcome this comprehensive, systematic compilation of research-based practices and advice. Osher and his co-editors have organized the book into four parts that are aimed at p...
Targeting the Mitochondria in Heart Failure: A Translational Perspective.

Highlights •Cardiac energy deprivation due to mitochondrial dysfunction is characteristic of heart failure. •Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to worsening of the heart failure state. •Pharmacologic targeting of mitochondria in heart failure is an unmet need. •Mitochondrial dysfunction in heart failure can be reversed with novel experimental drugs.
Gender Interaction Effects on Reporting Assaults to the Police.

This study used two theoretical perspectives—coercive power and gender norms—to examine how gender affects victims’ decisions to report physical assaults to the police. The coercive power perspecti...
Chapter 4 – The Atmosphere

The atmospheric environment is integral to the major chemical cycles of Earth's ecosystems, and plays an essential role in controlling the planet's climate. Furthermore, the maintenance of adequate air quality is indispensable to protect human health. In this chapter, the transport and chemical processes of the atmosphere are considered at the global scale, at which climate is controlled; at intermediate scales, at which detailed knowledge of both weather formation and the transport of pollutants is often essential; and at smaller scales that are often important in determining human exposure to chemicals in urban and indoor air. The chapter builds on concepts developed in Chapters 1-3 Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3, highlighting similarities and pointing out important differences between the atmosphere and both the surface water and subsurface environments. The photochemical processes that often govern chemical fate in the atmosphere are described in detail, as are the interactions among Earth's natural chemical cycles, the release of anthropogenic gases, and ongoing global climate change driven by the enhanced greenhouse effect.
The User Experience on a 3-Dimensional Heads-Up Display for Vitreoretinal Surgery Across All Members of the Health Care Team: A Survey of Medical Students, Residents, Fellows, Attending Surgeons, Nurses, and Anesthesiologists:

Purpose:This work assesses the educational use of a 3-dimensional (3D) heads-up visualization system for vitreoretinal surgery.Methods:A cross-sectional survey was performed among 18 medical studen...
Design and implementation of a regional inpatient psychiatry unit for patients who are positive for asymptomatic sars-cov-2

BACKGROUND: Patients with psychiatric illnesses are particularly vulnerable to highly contagious, droplet-spread organisms such as SARS-CoV-2. Patients with mental illnesses may not be able to consistently follow up behavioral prescriptions to avoid contagion, and they are frequently found in settings with close contact and inadequate infection control, such as group homes, homeless shelters, residential rehabilitation centers, and correctional facilities. Furthermore, inpatient psychiatry settings are generally designed as communal spaces, with heavy emphasis on group and milieu therapies. As such, inpatient psychiatry services are vulnerable to rampant spread of contagion. OBJECTIVE: With this in mind, the authors outline the decision process and ultimate design and implementation of a regional inpatient psychiatry unit for patients infected with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 and share key points for consideration in implementing future units elsewhere. CONCLUSION: A major takeaway point of the analysis is the particular expertise of trained experts in psychosomatic medicine for treating patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Self-serving bias across strategic and non-strategic dictator games with production

This paper investigates behaviour across strategic and non-strategic dictator games with a preceding production phase. In both treatments subjects remain paired and play a trust game immediately fo...
Supreme Court Reform and American Democracy

In "How to Save the Supreme Court," we identified the legitimacy challenge facing the Court, traced it to a set of structural flaws, and proposed novel reforms. Little more than a year later, the conversation around Supreme Court reform has only grown louder and more urgent. In this Essay, we continue that conversation by engaging with critics of our approach. The current crisis of the Supreme Court is, we argue, inextricable from the question of the Supreme Court’s proper role in our democracy. For those interested in reform, there are three distinct strategies for ensuring the Supreme Court maintains its proper role relative to democracy: internal restraints, external constraints, and structural reforms. We argue that internal restraints and external constraints both suffer from serious drawbacks as strategies for restraining the Court. Structural reforms remain the most promising option for reforming—and saving—the Supreme Court.
Controlled Light-Driven Levitation of Macroscopic Plates

Photophoretic or light-driven levitation has been studied extensively in the context of the motion of illuminated micron-sized particles, such as dust grains in the atmosphere under sunlight [1,2], and in relation to Crooks radiometers [3]. When heated by incident light, a micron-sized particle experiences a temperature gradient that in turn results in uneven gas-surface interactions and a net propulsive force [4]. Though thoroughly investigated for micron-sized particles, this phenomenon has rarely been studied to controllably levitate macroscopic objects. We report light-driven levitation of 0.5-um thick mylar samples that have been modified by depositing a 300-nm-thick layer of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on a single side. The CNT layer serves three key purposes: 1) It acts as a lightweight light absorber, absorbing ~ 90% of the incident light and elevating the temperature of the sample. 2) It increases the structural rigidity of the mylar film, allowing cm-scale discs with submicron thicknesses to hold their shape. 3) It creates a structured porous surface that traps impinging gas molecules, which results in an accommodation coefficient difference between the top and bottom surfaces for gas-surface interactions. Air molecules that rebound from the CNT-coated side have on average higher velocities than those departing from the opposing uncoated mylar surface. We show that the net force thus created can be used to levitate the mylar films. Moreover, we will demonstrate our ability to manipulate a light field in order to control the flight of levitating samples for extended periods of time. References: Jovanovic, O. Photophoresis—Light induced motion of particles suspended in gas. Journal of quantitative spectroscopy & radiative transfer 110, 889–901, (2009) Horvath, Photophoresis – a forgotten force ??, KONA powder and particle journal, 31, 181–199 (2014) Ketsdever, N. Gimelshein, S. Gimelshein, and N. Selden, “Radiometric phenomena: From the 19th to the 21st century”, Vacuum 86, 1644-1662 (2012). Loesche, G. Wurm, T. Jankowski, M. Kuepper, Photophoresis on particles hotter/colder than the ambient gas in the free molecular flow. J. Aerosol Sci, 97, 22–33 (2016)
Non-planar platinum group metal-free fuel cell cathodes for enhanced oxygen transport and water rejection

Abstract Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) with cathodes using platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) catalysts could significantly reduce costs, but the lower volumetric oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity requires thick electrodes that suffer from liquid water flooding and increased oxygen transport resistance. To address these challenges, we developed a 3D gas diffusion electrode (GDE) architecture to enhance liquid water removal through the diffusion media and reduce cathode saturation. The cathode features a uniform catalyst layer adjacent to the membrane for high ORR activity and then pillars of the hydrophilic catalyst layer that pass through the microporous layer (MPL), providing a low capillary pressure barrier pathway to the carbon fiber paper layer and channel. The non-planar cathode also increases the interfacial area between the catalyst layer and hydrophobic MPL for a greater fraction of the cathode with high O2 concentration. Our studies included parametric experimental study of the pillar density to identify the optimum pitch between pillars. Our measurements show significant improvements in the mass transport region of the polarization curve with 3D structured electrodes leading to an 8% increase in maximum current density, 19% increase in maximum power density, and 16% increase in current density at 0.67 V with air.
Differential RNA packaging into small extracellular vesicles by neurons and astrocytes

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) mediate intercellular communication by transferring RNA, proteins, and lipids to recipient cells. These cargo molecules are selectively loaded into sEVs and mirror the physiological state of the donor cells. Given that sEVs can cross the blood–brain barrier and their composition can change in neurological disorders, the molecular signatures of sEVs in circulation can be potential disease biomarkers. Characterizing the molecular composition of sEVs from different cell types is an important first step in determining which donor cells contribute to the circulating sEVs. Cell culture supernatants from primary mouse cortical neurons and astrocytes were used to purify sEVs by differential ultracentrifugation and sEVs were characterized using nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy and western blot. RNA sequencing was used to determine differential expression and loading patterns of miRNAs in sEVs released by primary neurons and astrocytes. Motif analysis was conducted on enriched miRNAs in sEVs and their respective donor cells. Sequencing total cellular RNA, and miRNAs from sEVs isolated from culture media of postnatal mouse cortical neurons and astrocytes revealed a distinct profile between sEVs and their corresponding cells. Though the total number of detected miRNAs in astrocytes was greater than neurons, neurons expressed more sEV-associated miRNAs than astrocytes. Only 20.7% of astrocytic miRNAs were loaded into sEVs, while 41.0% of neuronal miRNAs were loaded into sEVs, suggesting differences in the cellular sorting mechanisms. We identified short RNA sequence motifs, or EXOmotifs, on the miRNAs that were differentially loaded or excluded from sEVs. A sequence motif GUAC was enriched in astrocytic sEVs. miRNAs preferably retained in neurons or astrocytes had a similar RNA motif CACACA, suggesting a cell-type-independent mechanism to maintain cellular miRNAs. mRNAs of five RNA-binding proteins associated with passive or active RNA sorting into sEVs were differentially expressed between neurons and astrocytes, one of which, major vault protein was higher in astrocytes than in neurons and detected in astrocytic sEVs. Our studies suggest differences in RNA sorting into sEVs. These differences in miRNA signatures can be used for determining the cellular sources of sEVs altered in neurological disorders.
Algebra Instruction for Students with Learning Disabilities in the Era of Common Core

The Common Core State Standards in Mathematics (CCSSM) were released more than 10 years ago. This set of standards outlines the mathematics that all students should know and be able to do to prepar...
Near-monostatic angular Mueller matrix measurements using a simple laser polarimeter

A near-monostatic laser polarimeter has been designed, built, and used to measure angular Mueller matrices characterizing the polarization-dependent reflectance of materials in support of research into polarization lidar. Here we explain the system, show that it has qualitatively similar results as previous complex systems, and show example measurements for red brick, concrete, sheetrock, tar shingles, milled aluminum, and plain steel.
Humanoid Interaction with Material-Moving Carts and Wheelbarrows

A whole-body kinematics approach is applied to a humanoid for maneuvering material-handling equipment normally used during disaster response scenarios. Dynamically different carts are used to explore the effects on gait stability. A shopping cart and a wheelbarrow are both utilized with emphasis being on the latter. In addition, external factors such as terrain and distinct loads are also varied in order to assess the impacts these may have on cart pushing. A full sized humanoid is used as a platform to evaluate gait performance. Furthermore, gait quality was assessed throughout different scenarios by calculating the ZMP error. Experimental results showed a 95% success rate throughout a varied range of tests.
Is there any point in making co‐crystals?

Many aspects of co-crystals, including their synthesis, characterization and possible applications, are receiving considerable attention from academia and industry alike. The question is, can this interdisciplinary activity be translated into new fundamental insight and new solid forms of high-value materials with improved performances.
Developing Performance Support for Computer Systems: A Strategy for Maximizing Usability and Learnability

INTRODUCTION Why Performance Support? What is Performance Support? Design Approach Types of Performance Support Performance Support System Model How to Use This Book References DESIGN ENVIRONMENTS AND STRATEGIES Introduction Ideal Environment Typical Environment Late Involvement Environment References PROJECT PLANNING Introduction Planning Environment Estimation Factors and Impacts Planning Methodology and Tools Sample Plan for Performance Support Projects Planning for Electronic Performance Support Products References NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND TASK ANALYSIS Introduction Development Environment Constraints Needs Assessment Methods Task Analysis for Performance Support References MATCHING PERFORMANCE SUPPORT METHODS TO TASK REQUIREMENTS Introduction Determining Skill and Knowledge Requirements Performance Support Considerations and Alternatives Performance Support Selection Aid References GENERAL DESIGN GUIDANCE Introduction User Considerations Information Presentation Layout and Structuring Consideration Media Selection Use of Color Icons Accessibility Internationalization References DEVELOPING PERFORMANCE SUPPORT PRODUCTS Introduction Documentation Performance Aids Online Help Coaches, Advisors and Wizards Instruction Electronic Performance Support Iterative Approach to Electronic Performance Support References TESTING PERFORMANCE SUPPORT PRODUCTS Introduction When to Test Test Planning Developmental Testing--Heuristic Evaluation Developmental Testing--Alpha Testing Usability Testing Beta Testing Product Testing Follow-up Evaluation Test Reporting References Appendices
Septic abortion with shock.

Abstract 1. 1. A series of 12 cases of septic abortion with shock due to infection are presented. These occurred in 662 cases of septic abortion seen in Detroit Receiving Hospital in the past 2 years. 2. 2. The early recognition of these cases and the institution of massive antibiotic therapy is of crucial importance, since such therapy is the mainstay of their treatment. 3. 3. Since the shock in these women is due to sepsis rather than to actual blood loss, these patients present the potential danger of being overtransfused and thus thrown into cardiac decompensation. This danger is actually greater than might be expected because such sepsis also confers actual instability of the patient's apparatus for maintaining blood pressure. 4. 4. Dilatation of the cervix and evacuation of the uterus of any pus or retained placental tissue should be done after 24 hours of antibiotic therapy in all cases unless this is contraindicated on some sound basis.
Neural and Behavioral Sequelae of Blast-Related Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract : Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are a common occurrence from roadside blasts of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In the proposed cross-sectional study, we aim to apply neurobehavioral testing and advanced MRI techniques [task-activated functional MRI (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)] to gain a comprehensive understanding of the neural changes underlying blast-related MTBI. We will accomplish this goal by conducting advanced neuroimaging (task-activated fMRI and DTI fiber tracking) and neurobehavioral testing (computerized assessment and standard neuropsychological testing) on 60 chronic trauma patients: 15 military MTBI patients who have experienced blast injuries, 15 civilian MTBI patients with mechanical closed head injuries, 15 military and 15 civilian patients with orthopedic injuries. Year one of the project has been devoted to the development of the necessary infrastructure for the execution of this complex multisite study. A number of development tasks have been undertaken, including hiring and training a new coordinator in Houston, developing uniform procedures for analysis of image data in Cleveland and Houston, and further developing the avenues for recruitment of subjects. We have recruited 32 subjects and acquired imaging and cognitive data from 25 of these subjects. We are satisfied that the accrual of data is of high reliability and integrity. Over the next year, we will continue recruitment, acquisition of data, and data analysis across the two study sites.
Degranulation and abnormal bactericidal function of granulocytes procured by reversible adhesion to nylon wool.

Granylocyte bactericidal capacity, chemotaxis, hexose monophosphate shung activity (before and after phagocytic stimulus), and quantitative nitroblue tetrazolium reduction and enzyme content were examined in cells obtained by filtration leukaphresis (FL) and continuous-flow centrifugation (CFC). A decrease in the bactericidal efficiency of FL- produced cells compared to that of both normal and CFC-procured granulocytes was found; the decrease was 17% with a cell-to-bacteria ratio of 5:1, and 55% with a 1:1 ratio. Moreover, FL-acquired cells were often vacuolated and consistently contained less acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase than did normal granulocytes. When normal cells were incubated for 1–2 hr with nylon wool, 30% of the total acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase was released, with no evidence of cell death, thus suggesting degranulation. Similar results were obtained with glass, cotton, or polysulfone plastic fibers. Electron microscopic and peroxidase cytochemical studies of the adherence of normal granulocytes to nylon fibers were also carried out. After 30 min of incubation, cell-to-fiber attachment and cellular aggregation had occurred, although the cells per se appeared normal. After 60 and 120 min, other changes became apparent: (1) a decrease in the amount of cytoplasmic granules; (2) large, intracytoplasmic vaculoles; and (3) extracellular peroxidase on fiber surfaces. We conclude that granulocytes obtained by adherence to nylon fibers show both morphological and biochemical evidence of degranulation and diminished bactericidal capacity, and that these abnormalities may be causally related to decreased granulocyte survival in transfusion recipients.
Neuroprotective actions of dipyridamole on cultured CNS neurons

We report that dipyridamole is neuroprotective for a variety of rat embryonic CNS neurons cultured in serum-free basal medium lacking trophic factors or other additives. We also describe the mechanism underlying this action. Neurons died rapidly in basal medium but were rescued in large measure by 10 μm dipyridamole. The protective action of dipyridamole seems to be attributable to its antioxidant property. Vitamin E and N -acetylcysteine provided comparable neuroprotection in basal medium, whereas an array of compounds that mimic other actions of dipyridamole (inhibition of phosphodiesterases, blockade of nucleoside and chloride transport, interference with the multidrug resistance protein, and enhancement of prostacyclin synthesis) failed to promote survival. Thus, a major cause of neuronal death in this system seems to be oxidative stress that is relieved by dipyridamole. Iron plays a significant role in generation of such stress, as indicated by the observations that addition of apotransferrin or iron chelators to basal medium or use of iron-free medium also afforded protection. Although oxidative stress was a major determinant of neuronal death, it was not the only factor. Dipyridamole or other antioxidant measures did not provide sustained neuroprotection. However, provision of insulin, which was not protective alone in basal medium, along with dipyridamole significantly enhanced long-term neuronal survival. Hence, optimal protection requires both trophic support and relief from oxidative stress. These findings lend credence to the potential use of dipyridamole or its derivatives in prevention and/or treatment of CNS injuries and degenerative disorders in which oxidative stress is a significant component.
Le Corbusier and Postwar America

In 1946 Le Corbusier returned to the United States in conjunction with a French mission to study American architecture, public works, and planning. He traveled with Eugene Claudius-Petit, who would become minister of reconstruction in France. Their principal objective was to visit the Tennessee Valley Authority, considered a model for postwar reconstruction. In Le Corbusier and Postwar America: The TVA and Beton Brut , Mardges Bacon argues that the TVA’s regional planning and societal synthesis served as a model for Le Corbusier’s second-machine-age civilization. The TVA’s reinforced concrete dams employed industrial piping and a new formwork technique. Examining Le Corbusier’s postwar agenda through the prism of the TVA and a collaborative practice, Bacon contends that his work showed greater monumentality and plasticity, the integration of architecture and infrastructure, and an aesthetic treatment of beton brut , which situates his Unite d’Habitation in Marseilles (1945–52) within a transatlantic as well as a Mediterranean culture.
Modeling the Corporate Real Estate Decision

The corporate real estate decision has been viewed traditionally in a capital budgeting context. Due to recent capital market innnovations, it is now more useful to view this decision from a combin...
Invasion of the shelter snatchers: behavioural plasticity in invasive red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii

1.âIn many freshwater systems, competition for shelter plays an important role in determining the persistence of both native and alien species. The red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, is currently invading the native habitat of the signal crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus, in southern Oregon, and interspecific competition for shelter may be driving the species replacement in this region. 2.âWe designed a 2âAâ3 factorial mesocosm experiment, with shelter density and species combination as factors, to investigate shelter occupancy and resource competition. Contrary to our predictions, the two crayfish species are equal competitors for shelter. Further, the invasive P.Â clarkii modified its shelter occupancy behaviour in the presence of the native P.Â leniusculus and has broader microhabitat preferences. 3.âSpecifically, we found that P.Â clarkii alters shelter occupancy and space use patterns when the two species occurred together, such that shelter use was identical between P.Â clarkii and P.Â leniusculus in mixedâspecies treatments. In such treatments, both species increased their use of shelters when shelter density increased. When P.Â clarkii was alone, however, individuals did not alter shelter use as a function of shelter density, whereas P.Â leniusculus exhibited similar densityâdependent behaviour in both mixedâ and singleâspecies treatments. 4.âIn a complementary field survey, we employed an âepicentreâbasedâ design to sample two field sites. We observed patterns of microhabitat use and breadth for each species similar to those in our mesocosm experiment: the invasive P.Â clarkii was more abundant across different habitats and used a broader range of microhabitats than the native P.Â leniusculus. As such, we found that P.Â clarkii was more abundant across both field sites than the P.Â leniusculus, occupying microhabitats within and beyond the preferred range of P.Â leniusculus. Both field sites were affected by urban development and agriculture. 5.âThe use of microhabitats by both species was similar in the laboratory and the field. This study confirms that P.Â clarkii individuals can, and do, successfully occupy microhabitats preferred by P.Â leniusculus in the Willamette Valley. The results from our study may be relevant to other freshwater systems inhabited by P.Â clarkii and contribute to the understanding of âniche opportunityâ, a concept which defines the environmental conditions that promote biological invasions.
Pyrido[1,2-b] indazole and its derivatives

A new route to pyrido[1,2-b]indazole and its derivatives is described and the nitration of the parent compound is reported. The formation of δ-carbolines as byproducts is discussed.
Intracellular Trafficking of Nano-Carriers

A multistage delivery system based on biodegradable mesoporous silicon particles loaded with one or multiple second stage nano-particles is likely to be useful for drug delivery. Upon intravenous injection the silicon nano-carriers will travel through the blood stream and migrate to the vessel wall. Vascular endothelial cells have been shown to be promising candidates for drug delivery as they represent both an anchor point and target.[1] It has been shown that human endothelial cells can act as nonprofessional phagocytes internalizing our silicon micron-sized nano-carriers.[2] The complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms required for the internalization of the particles into cells, as well as their fate once internalized, is crucial for the choice and formulation of appropriate second stage particles to be loaded in the silicon carrier. For example, different types of coatings or functionalization for both silicon nano-carriers and nano-particles could favor different trafficking pathways or promote endosomal escape following cellular uptake. In this study the uptake and trafficking of silicon nano-carriers in Human Microvascular Vein Endothelia Cells (HMVECs) was monitored using TEM, confocal microscopy and immunofluorescence.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Radiation belt probes launched

Storms on Earth delayed by only a few days the launch of NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP), which blasted off on 30 August for a 2-year tour to explore the Van Allen radiation belts. The two satellites will help scientists learn about the processes that affect electrons and ions in the donut-shaped belts and how the belts change in the context of geomagnetic storms. “The information collected from these probes will benefit the public by allowing us to better protect our satellites and understand how space weather affects communications and technology on Earth,” said John Grunsfeld, associate administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate. Each probe carries an identical suite of instruments, including an Energetic Particle, Composition, and Thermal Plasma Suite; Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument Suite and Integrated Science; Electric Field and Waves Suite; Radiation Belt Storm Probes Ion Composition Experiment; and Relativistic Proton Spectrometer. RBSP is part of NASA's Living With a Star program and is managed for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University's Applied Physics Laboratory. For more information, see http://rbsp.jhuapl.edu.