cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 3249: Long-term Calcitriol Therapy alters Prostate Tumor Vascularity in TRAMP mice

Calcitriol (1,25 dihydroxycholecalciferol), the active metabolite of vitamin D exhibits potent antitumor activity against a variety of murine tumors and human tumor xenografts. We have previously demonstrated that early administration of calcitriol to transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice has a chemopreventive effect as measured by decreased prostate weight, lower tumor grade (high to low), decreased proliferation and increase in E-cadherin expression. However, the mechanisms that contribute to the observed tumor control are poorly understood. Recent studies by others and us have demonstrated significant inhibition of endothelial proliferation and angiogenesis following calcitriol treatment. The overall goal of this study was to examine the effects of calcitriol treatment on tumor vascular function in the TRAMP model. To achieve this goal, non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used for morphologic and functional assessment of prostate cancer in TRAMP mice. T2-weighted MRI was initially performed on TRAMP mice at different times (6-26 weeks) to visualize changes in prostate tumor growth in vivo. To study the effects of calcitriol on tumor vascular function in the prostate, T1-weighted contrast-enhanced MRI was performed in calcitriol-treated and saline-treated TRAMP mice. TRAMP mice received calcitriol (20µg/kg i.p. x 3/week, MWF) from 4 weeks of age until time of palpable tumor. Control TRAMP mice received equal volume of saline during this period. At 16 weeks of age, T1-weighted contrast-enhanced MRI was carried out using the intravascular contrast agent, albumin-GdDTPA. T1-relaxation rates (R1=1/T1) of the prostate were measured before and after contrast agent administration in calcitriol-treated and saline-treated mice (n=5 per group). The change in R1 (ΔR1) of prostate tissues were normalized to murine muscle tissue of individual mice to account for potential differences in contrast agent administration. Linear regression analysis of normalized contrast agent concentration (ΔR1tumor/muscle) was performed to estimate relative vascular volume and permeability. No significant differences in prostate volume or vascular permeability were observed between calcitriol-treated mice and saline-treated controls. However, at 16 weeks of age, calcitriol-treated animals showed a marked reduction in relative vascular volume (y-intercept; P Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3249.
Diastolic dysfunction: Pathophysiology, clinical features, and assessment with radionuclide methods

Basic to our understanding of heart failure is the distinction between systolic and diastolic ventricular dysfunction. Diastolic dysfunction implies that the ventricle cannot accept blood at normally low pressures. The ventricular filling pattern and the relation between ventricular diastolic pressure and volume reflect a dynamic interaction between time course of relaxation, conversion of elastic forces into elastic recoil, and the passive properties of the ventricle. In the early part of diastolic filling, the pressure-volume relationship is influenced primarily by relaxation; in the latter part of diastole, passive filling properties are important. Mitral inflow patterns reflect these time-varying filling dynamics and are commonly assessed with echocardiography. Disorders of diastolic filling are observed in patients with heart failure with normal ejection fraction, myocardial ischemia, and even dilated cardiomyopathy. Patients with concentric ventricular hypertrophy, normal ejection fraction, and heart failure are the prototype of patients with diastolic dysfunction. In this article we review the physiology and pathophysiology of diastole and the main clinical disorders associated with diastolic dysfunction, and we outline in brief the application of radionuclide techniques in the assessment of diastolic dysfunction.
Selective up-regulation of PDE1B2 upon monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation

Granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is a major regulator of monocyte to macrophage differentiation. In both humans and mice, the main phenotype of decreased GM-CSF function is pulmonary proteinosis due to aberrant function of alveolar macrophages. Recently, this cytokine has been shown to up-regulate a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase, PDE1B. Two PDE1B variants with unique N-terminal sequences, PDE1B1 and PDE1B2, have been identified. Here, we report that the previously uncharacterized PDE1B2 is selectively increased by GM-CSF by stimulation of transcription at a previously unknown transcriptional start site. Analysis of the exon and intron organization of the PDE1B gene reveals that PDE1B2 has a different N-terminal sequence because of a separate first exon that is located 11.5 kb downstream from the PDE1B1 first exon. By using 5′-RACE, alignment of EST sequences, and a luciferase-reporter system, we provide evidence that PDE1B2 has a separate transcriptional start site from PDE1B1 that can be activated by monocyte differentiation. Furthermore, IL-4 treatment in the presence of GM-CSF, which shifts the differentiation from a macrophage to a dendritic cell phenotype, suppresses the up-regulation of PDE1B2. Induction of PDE1B2 is also found in T cells upon activation by PHA. Therefore, PDE1B2 may have a regulatory role in multiple immune cell types. Last, characterization of the catalytic properties of recombinant PDE1B2 shows that it prefers cGMP over cAMP as a substrate and, thus, is likely to regulate cGMP in macrophages. Also, PDE1B2 has a nearly 3-fold lower EC50 for activation by calmodulin than PDE1B1.
Diagnosing pulmonary embolism

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common, treatable, highly lethal emergency, which despite advances in diagnostic testing, remains an under diagnosed killer. The mortality rate of diagnosed and treated pulmonary embolism ranges from 3-8%, but increases to about 30% in untreated pulmonary embolism. PE is a part of the spectrum of venousthromboembolic disease and most pulmonary emboli have their origin from clots in the iliac, deep femoral, or popliteal veins. Nonspecific clinical signs and symptoms with low sensitivity and specificity of routine tests such as arterial blood gas, chest roentgenogram and electrocardiogram make the diagnosis of PE very challenging for the clinician. Pulmonary angiography is the gold standard diagnostic test, but this technique is invasive, expensive, not readily available and labor intensive. Diagnostic strategies have revolved around establishing clinical probabilities based on predictive models, then ruling in or ruling out the diagnosis of PE with various tests. The aim of this article was to review the literature and present an evidence- based medicine approach to diagnosis of pulmonary embolism.
Energy efficient neural stimulation: coupling circuit design and membrane biophysics.

The delivery of therapeutic levels of electrical current to neural tissue is a well-established treatment for numerous indications such as Parkinson’s disease and chronic pain. While the neuromodulation medical device industry has experienced steady clinical growth over the last two decades, much of the core technology underlying implanted pulse generators remain unchanged. In this study we propose some new methods for achieving increased energy-efficiency during neural stimulation. The first method exploits the biophysical features of excitable tissue through the use of a centered-triangular stimulation waveform. Neural activation with this waveform is achieved with a statistically significant reduction in energy compared to traditional rectangular waveforms. The second method demonstrates energy savings that could be achieved by advanced circuitry design. We show that the traditional practice of using a fixed compliance voltage for constant-current stimulation results in substantial energy loss. A portion of this energy can be recuperated by adjusting the compliance voltage to real-time requirements. Lastly, we demonstrate the potential impact of axon fiber diameter on defining the energy-optimal pulse-width for stimulation. When designing implantable pulse generators for energy efficiency, we propose that the future combination of a variable compliance system, a centered-triangular stimulus waveform, and an axon diameter specific stimulation pulse-width has great potential to reduce energy consumption and prolong battery life in neuromodulation devices.
An Item Response Theory Analysis of the General and Academic Scales of the Self-Description Questionnaire II

Abstract The psychometric properties of four Self-Description Questionnaire II scales (SDQII; Marsh, 1990) were analyzed in a sample of eighth graders ( N = 1,141). Specifically, item response theory (IRT) techniques were used to study the bandwidth-fidelity and gender equivalence of the SDQII General, School, Math, and Verbal scales. Findings indicated that the SDQII scales have peaked test information curves, providing excellent discrimination among examinees who are low or moderate in self-concept. Several items, however, appear to be redundant in terms of the psychometric information they provide, indicating that the measures could be shortened. Results also revealed that with few exceptions, the SDQII items function equivalently across genders. Implications are discussed in terms of self-concept measurement and, more generally, in terms of IRT analysis of personality scale item responses.
An approach to the identification of T cell epitopes in the genomic era: application to Francisella tularensis

The identification and characterization of epitopes is essential for modern immunologic studies. Here, we describe a novel methodology we have developed to identify T cell epitopes exploiting the phenomenon of cross presentation. Particulate antigens, in the form of beads, are very effective in delivering exogenous antigen to both the class I and class II pathways. We will review our efforts to screen entire genomes of pathogens for T cell epitopes taking advantage of the advances in genomics using Francisella tularensis as a model. By automating aspects of this technology we will be able to functionally screen the entire genome of F. tularensis for T cell epitopes. This technology should be applicable not only to F. tularensis, but also to many other pathogens as well.
Climate change associated effects on grape and wine quality and production

Climate change is exerting an increasingly profound influence on vine phenology and grape composition, and ultimately affects vinifications, wine microbiology and chemistry, and sensory aspects. Among the most important climate change-related effects are advanced harvest times and temperatures, increased grape sugar concentrations that lead to high wine alcohol levels, lower acidities and modification of varietal aroma compounds. Under extremely hot temperatures, which are already being experienced in some regions, vine metabolism may be inhibited leading to reduced metabolite accumulations, which may affect wine aroma and color. Musts with high sugar concentrations cause a stress response in yeast, which leads to increased formation of fermentation co-products, such as acetic acid. If not controlled by acid addition, the higher pH can lead to significant changes in the microbial ecology of musts and wines and increase the risk of spoilage and organoleptic degradation.
Influence of surface treatment of iron, magnesium, and aluminum alloys on the character of wetting by aqueous solutions

We study the limiting angles of wetting of surfaces of low-carbon and stainless steels, copper, brass, aluminum alloys, and magnesium alloys by water, aliphatic alcohols, monocarboxylic acids, and some inhibitors. It is shown that the surfaces of metals with passive film are more hydrophobic than the surfaces of low-carbon steel, medium-carbon steel, and magnesium. The plasma electrolytic oxidation of aluminum and magnesium alloys enhances the hydrophilicity of their surfaces. The introduction of chromium to an oxide ceramic coating facilitates the hydrophobization of the surface. The mechanical pulse hardening of steel leads to the formation of a nanostructure of the surface, hydrophobizes it, and increases the adsorption of surface-active substances. Preliminary 2.5–15% plastic deformation increases the wettability of the surface by water, increasing the adsorption of organic inhibitors and somewhat decreasing the adsorption of inorganic inhibitors. The in-service degradation of pipe steel (30 years) decreases the wetting angles, the values of which are comparable with those for plastically deformed steel at 2.5% strain.
A Note on Moving Poles in Nonlinear Oscillating Systems

Since poles of the complex imnmittance of a linear system represent the decrements and frequencies of rotating phasors in the linear time domain, it is suggested that a nonlinear system might be represented by moving poles whose instaneous decrements and frequencies are associated with phasors rotating in the nonlinear or time-distorted phase space. This idea is applied to the analysis of a class of nonlinear oscillation generators of the second order which is described by the differential equation, ?-N1(?, X)=0.
Radiation-induced effects in pyrochlores and nanoscale materials engineering

Abstract Pyrochlore materials, A2B2O7, encompass a wide range of compositions and are technologically important for energy and environmental issues. For example, they may be used as ionic conductors in solid oxide fuel cells or nuclear waste forms for the storage of actinides, particularly Pu. Here, the recent progress in understanding ion beam irradiation-induced phenomena in pyrochlore compounds is briefly reviewed with a focus on the ion beam-induced crystalline-to-amorphous and pyrochlore-to-fluorite structural transitions. Systematic ion irradiation studies of lanthanide pyrochlores with B = Ti, Zr and Sn have indicated that the radiation response of the pyrochlore compounds is highly dependent on compositional changes. Both the ionic size and cation electronic configurations (e.g. bond-types) affect the structural distortion from the ideal fluorite structure and thus the response of pyrochlore-structure types to ion beam irradiation. An ion beam-induced pyrochlore-to-fluorite structural transition occurs in all irradiated pyrochlore compositions, and the independent kinetics of the cation and anion disordering processes has been discussed. Numerous novel nanostructures have been created by utilizing the ion beam-induced amorphization, order–disorder transition and phase decomposition, such as amorphous and disordered nano-domains, perfectly lattice matched two-dimensional nanolayers, self-organized ripple structures, metallic nanoparticles and nanowires.
Review: Eplerenone is not more effective for reducing mortality than other aldosterone antagonists

Source Citation Chatterjee S, Moeller C, Shah N, et al. Eplerenone is not superior to older and less expensive aldosterone antagonists. Am J Med. 2012;125:817-25. 22840667
Correlating the compliance and permeability of photo-cross-linked polyelectrolyte multilayers.

Photo-cross-linkable polyelectrolyte multilayers were made from poly(allylamine) (PAH) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) modified with a photosensitive benzophenone. Nanoindentation, using atomic force microscopy (AFM) of these and unmodified PAH/PAA multilayers, was used to assess their mechanical properties in situ under an aqueous buffer. Under the conditions employed (and a 20 nm radius AFM tip), reliable nanoindentations that appeared to be decoupled from the properties of the silicon substrate were obtained for films greater than 150 nm in thickness. A strong difference in the apparent modulus was observed for films terminated with positive as compared to negative polyelectrolytes. Films terminated with PAA were more glassy, suggesting better charge matching of polyelectrolytes. Multilayers irradiated for up to 100 min showed a smooth, controlled increase in the modulus with little change in the water contact angle. The permeability to iodide ion, measured electrochemically, also decreased in a controlle...
Optimal control of linear systems with state equality constraints

Abstract This paper deals with the optimal control problem for systems with state linear equality constraints. For deterministic linear systems, first we find various existence conditions for constraining state feedback control and determine all constraining feedback gains, from which the optimal feedback gain is derived by using the result of singular optimal control. For systems with stochastic process noises, it is shown that the same gain used for constraining the deterministic system also optimally constrains the expectation of states inside the constraint subspace and minimizes the expectation of the squared constraint error. We compare performance between unconstrained and constrained controllers for both deterministic and stochastic systems.
Formal ontology, common sense and cognitive science

Abstract Common sense is on the one hand a certain set of processes of natural cognition—of speaking, reasoning, seeing, and so on. On the other hand common sense is a system of beliefs (of folk physics and folk psychology). Over against both of these is the world of common sense, the world of objects to which the processes of natural cognition and the corresponding belief-contents standardly relate. What are the structures of this world and how does its scientific treatment relate to traditional and contemporary metaphysics and formal ontology? Can we embrace a thesis of common-sense realism to the effect that the world of common sense exists uniquely? Or must we adopt instead a position of cultural relativism which would assign distinct worlds of common sense to each group and epoch? The present paper draws on recent work in the fields of naive and qualitative physics, in perceptual and developmental psychology, and in cognitive anthropology, in order to consider in a new light these and related questions and to draw conclusions for the methodology and philosophical foundations of the cognitive sciences.
The Interplay of Stress and Attachment in Individuals Weathering Loss of Employment.

This study addressed two questions concerning the interplay between adult romantic attachment and exposure to stressful circumstances: do stressful events predict fluctuation in romantic attachment during a period of unemployment, and does attachment measured at one point predict later changes in stressors? Stressors and attachment were measured over a six month period following involuntary job loss for a sample of 426 adults. Autoregressive models found evidence for both the stress-effects and stress-generation hypotheses, with more stressors associated with prospective decreases in attachment, and lower attachment associated with prospective increases in stressors. These findings support a more dynamic formulation of the interplay between attachment and exposure to stressors over the months following job loss.
Prostate Specific Antigen in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Purification and Characterization

AbstractPurpose: The ratio of free-to-total prostate specific antigen (PSA) in serum is greater in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) than in those with prostate cancer, and it provides a means of partially discriminating these 2 diseases. To understand the molecular mechanism of why the free-to-total PSA ratio is greater in BPH than in prostate cancer we analyzed PSA obtained directly from nodules of BPH tissue.Materials and Methods: PSA from BPH nodule fluids was first purified by gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography. Purified BPH PSA was characterized by gel electrophoresis, enzyme assay and N-terminal sequence analysis of the amino acids.Results: A single band at 30 kDa. on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under nonreducing conditions was identical to that of seminal fluid PSA. Under reducing conditions most BPH PSA was degraded, whereas most seminal fluid PSA existed as an intact molecule. BPH PSA had multiple internal cleavages in addition to the comm...
Impacts and the early Earth (lecture notes in Earth sciences, Volume 91); Impact stratigraphy, the Italian record (lecture notes in Earth sciences, Volume 93)

These two volumes present research stemming from a European Science Foundation Program called “The Response of the Earth System to Impact Processes” (IMPACT). The goal of this program, which commenced in 1998 and will culminate in 2002, is to bring together European scientists to conduct interdisciplinary work on problems associated with impacts and their effects on the Earth system, emphasizing studies of environmental, biological, and geological changes, and evaluation of their consequences for the biodiversity of ecosystems. Although IMPACT is a European program, many non-Europeans participate in the workshops, short courses, and other activities.
Direct contact condensation of steam bubbles in water at high pressure

Abstract Experiments have been carried out to investigate direct contact condensation of saturated steam bubbles introduced into a quiescent subcooled water environment. The experiments were performed for a range of pressures from 10.3 to 62.1 bar (150–900 lb in 2 ), for subcooling from 15 to 100°C, and for initial bubble diameters of about 3mm. The data reduction of high speed motion pictures was based on a frame by frame analysis wherein the coordinates of the bubble perimeter were recorded in digital form and subsequently processed to yield quantitative information about the bubble collapse history and heat-transfer coefficient. The photographs showed that the successive shapes of the bubbles during their collapse histories proceeded from a sphere to a hemisphere to an ellipsoid to a sphere to collapse; short-lived bubbles collapsed as ellipsoids. The time to collapse and the height to collapse increased with increasing pressure and with decreasing temperature difference. The rise velocities of the bubbles were essentially constant, with an overall range of 15–22cm/s. The average heat-transfer coefficients were on the order of 104W/m2·°C (1750 Btu/h·ft2·°F), with only modest variations with pressure level and temperature difference. The instantaneous heat-transfer coefficients did not differ appreciably from the average coefficients.
Formation damage due to colloidally induced fines migration

The in-situ release of fine particles in a porous medium resulting from changes in the colloidal character of fines induced by changes in the electrolytic condition of the permeating fluid and its effects on processes related to enhanced oil recovery (EOR) are examined. Experimental results show that high pH and low salinity cause fines to be released which, in turn, causes a drastic decline in the permeability of the medium. These results and other key experiments establish the interplay between salinity changes, cation exchange, and pH during a water shock, and elucidate the vital role of the ion-exchange process in formation damage. A physico-chemical model based on the fundamental principles of ion exchange and colloidal chemistry shows qualitative agreement with experimental observations. The results of this study will find use in various areas such as: bacteria migration in soils, failure of earthen embankments, and contaminant transport during ground water flow.
Simulation study of the CIGRE HVDC benchmark model with the WSCC nine-bus power system network

This paper presents a simulation study of the CIGRE high voltage direct current (HVDC) benchmark transmission system with the Western system coordinating council (WSCC) 3-machine, 9-bus power system network. The CIGRE HVDC benchmark system is embedded between generator-two and generator-three of the WSCC system to conduct the simulation. A three phase to ground fault on the AC side of the inverter is applied to study system responses such as settling time after the fault is cleared and the relative load angles.
Advances in Computers

Advances in Computers carries on a tradition of excellence, presenting detailed coverage of innovations in computer hardware, software, theory, design, and applications. The book provides contributors with a medium in which they can explore their subjects in greater depth and breadth than journal articles typically allow. The articles included in this book will become standard references, with lasting value in this rapidly expanding field. * Presents detailed coverage of recent innovations in computer hardware, software, theory, design, and applications* Includes in-depth surveys and tutorials on new computer technology pertaining to computing: combinatorial testing, constraint-based testing, and black-box testing* Written by well-known authors and researchers in the field* Includes extensive bibliographies with most chapters* Presents volumes devoted to single themes or subfields of computer science
Broken: rock, paper, scissors

When Rock stumbles upon the magical Paper, it's love at first sight. When the wrath of Scissors threatens the well-being of Paper, Rock must stop at nothing to save his love, no matter the cost.
Retinoids for treatment of retinal diseases

Knowledge about retinal photoreceptor signal transduction and the visual cycle required for normal eyesight has increased exponentially over the past decade. Substantial progress in human genetics has facilitated the identification of candidate genes and complex networks underlying inherited retinal diseases. Natural mutations in animal models that mimic human diseases have been characterized and advanced genetic manipulation can now be used to generate small mammalian models of human retinal diseases. Pharmacological repair of defective visual processes in animal models not only validates their involvement in vision, but also provides great promise for the development of improved therapies for millions who are progressing towards blindness or are almost completely robbed of their eyesight.
Organizational recruitment website effects on viewers’ perceptions of organizational culture

When utilizing traditional recruitment media, organizations are typically limited to providing job seekers with information solely on their vacant positions. Organizational recruitment websites, on the other hand, allow organizations to provide prospective applicants with both job descriptions and other information about the organization. However, little research exists regarding the impressions that viewers gain from organizational recruitment websites. The present study identified aspects of recruitment websites that may give rise to job seekers’ perceptions of organizational culture. Results indicated that both website design features and information about organizational values, policies, awards, and goals affected viewers’ perceptions of organizational culture.
A retrospective on Adaptive Dynamic Programming for control

Some three decades ago, certain computational intelligence methods of reinforcement learning were recognized as implementing an approximation of Bellman's Dynamic Programming method, which is known in the controls community as an important tool for designing optimal control policies for nonlinear plants and sequential decision making. Significant theoretical and practical developments have occurred within this arena, mostly in the past decade, with the methodology now usually referred to as Adaptive Dynamic Programming (ADP). The objective of this paper is to provide a retrospective of selected threads of such developments. In addition, a commentary is offered concerning present status of ADP, and threads for future research and development within the controls field are suggested.
Estimating tidally driven mixing in the deep ocean

[1] Using a parameterization for internal wave energy flux in a hydrodynamic model for the tides, we estimate the global distribution of tidal energy available for enhanced turbulent mixing. A relation for the diffusivity of vertical mixing is formulated for regions where internal tides dissipate their energy as turbulence. We assume that 30 ± 10% of the internal tide energy flux dissipates as turbulence near the site of generation, consistent with an estimate based on microstructure observations from a mid-ocean ridge site. Enhanced levels of mixing are modeled to decay away from topography, in a manner consistent with these observations. Parameterized diffusivities are shown to resemble observed abyssal mixing rates, with estimated uncertainties comparable to standard errors associated with budget and microstructure methods.
The Invariant Component Structure of the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) Full Scales

We investigated methodological and sample-based characteristics that might contribute to discrepancies in the structure of the 22-scale Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI; Morey, 1991, 2007). In Study 1, we used parallel analysis, Velicer's minimum average partial procedure, and random variables to determine the appropriate number of principal components to retain in a clinical sample (N = 227). We retained 3 oblique dimensions that broadly emphasized (a) general distress, (b) elevated mood and dominance, and (c) substance abuse and psychopathy. In Study 2, we applied the same uniform criteria and procedures to 5 previously published samples and conducted orthogonal vector matrix comparisons to determine how congruent 3- and 4-dimensional structures were across samples. Results suggested the PAI has 3 dimensions that are highly congruent across samples. Using Morey's normative sample, we provide the formulas needed to compute T scores for each component so they can be used in clinical work with patients. We discuss clinical implications and directions for future PAI research.
Editorial Commentary: The Shifting Sands of Gonococcal Antimicrobial Resistance

In the current issue of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Kirkcaldy et al [1 ]r eport that extended-spectrum cephalosporins (cefixime and ceftriaxone) are likely to continue their inexorable march toward failure [2]. They propose that using combination therapy to treat gonococcal infection is the logical next step while awaiting the identification of a new antibiotic or class of antibiotics that can be used singly. Unfortunately, no antibiotic or unique class of antibiotics has emerged that is likely to overcome for long the gonococcus’ sv ast array of machinery that enables the organism to circumvent antimicrobial killing. Traditionally, effective therapy that meets Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria for efficacy [3] requires treatment that shows mean efficacy of >95% across well-conducted trials using per protocol (PP) analysis (evaluable) and a lower 1sided confidence interval (CI) bound by ≥95% CI [3]. This standard, translated to “real-world” efficacy, had in the past (1) used an acceptable mode of administration(single-dose oral orintramuscular); (2) was inexpensive; (3) demonstrated good patient tolerability; and (4) eliminated need to perform follow-up tests of cure. In the face of a potential epidemic with Neisseria gonorrhoeae ,t he“superbug,” these standards may now be impossible to meet and traditional expectations may have to be lowered while exploring new approaches to optimize therapy and control spread of infection. This well-designed and conducted ran
System in package "the rebirth of SIP"

SIP, or system in package, is a fairly old concept that is enjoying rebirth in a new body, literally. On the scene over the years as a means to create a tightly coupled high performance system using bare chips attached in a single package, the new embodiment of SIP is targeting handheld computing and communication products which require space minimization. For SIP to be successful requires reaching toward new assembly technologies to enable die thinning and stacking. Stacking the multiple chips needed for the system helps to minimize x-y package dimensions, while thinning minimizes total height, especially when stacking many chips. This paper provides an overview of several SIP approaches, describes the required assembly technologies, the key silicon-package integration challenges, and how these are being brought together to enable increasing performance and function in ever decreasing space.
Adenosine A1 receptor signaling inhibits BK channels through a PKCα‐dependent mechanism in mouse aortic smooth muscle

Adenosine receptors (AR; A1 ,A 2A ,A 2B, and A3) contract and relax smooth muscle through different signaling mechanisms. Deciphering these complex responses remains difficult because relationships between AR subtypes and various end-effectors (e.g., enzymes and ion channels) remain to be identified. A1AR stimulation is associated with the production of 20–hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20–HETE) and activation of protein kinase C (PKC). 20–HETE and PKC can inhibit large conductance Ca 2+ /voltage-sensitive K + (BK) channels that regulate smooth muscle contraction. We tested the hypothesis that activation of A1AR inhibits BK channels via a PKC-dependent mechanism. Patch clamp recordings and Western blots were performed using aortae of wild type (WT) and A1AR knockout (A1KO) mice. There were no differences in whole-cell K + current or a and b1 subunits expression between WT and A1KO. 20–HETE (100 nmol/L) inhibited BK current similarly in WT and A1KO mice. NECA (5′–N–ethylcarboxamidoadenosine; 10 lmol/L), a nonselective AR agonist, increased BK current in myocytes from both WT and A1KO mice, but the increase was greater in A1KO (52 15 vs. 17 3%; P < 0.05). This suggests that A1AR signaling negatively regulates BK channel activity. Accordingly, CCPA (2–chloro–N(6)-cyclopentyladenosine; 100 nmol/L), an A1AR-selective agonist, inhibited BK current in myocytes from WT but not A1KO mice (81 4v s. 100 7% of control; P < 0.05). G€ (100 nmol/L), aP KCa inhibitor, abolished the effect of CCPA to inhibit BK current (99 3% of control). These data lead us to conclude that, in aortic smooth muscle, A1AR inhibits BK channel activity and that this occurs via a mechanism involving PKCa.
Trust-based decision-making for the adaptation of public displays in changing social contexts

Public displays may adapt intelligently to the social context, tailoring information on the screen, for example, to the profiles of spectators, their gender or based on their mutual proximity. However, such adaptation decisions should on the one hand match user preferences and on the other maintain the user's trust in the system. A wrong decision can negatively influence the user's acceptance of a system, cause frustration and, as a result, make users abandon the system. In this paper, we propose a trust-based mechanism for automatic decision-making, which is based on Bayesian Networks. We present the process of network construction, initialization with empirical data, and validation. The validation demonstrates that the mechanism generates accurate decisions on adaptation which match user preferences and support user trust.
Plant traits, productivity, biomass and soil properties from forest sites in the Pacific Northwest, 1999–2014

Plant trait measurements are needed for evaluating ecological responses to environmental conditions and for ecosystem process model development, parameterization, and testing. We present a standardized dataset integrating measurements from projects conducted by the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research and Regional Analysis- Pacific Northwest (TERRA-PNW) research group between 1999 and 2014 across Oregon and Northern California, where measurements were collected for scaling and modeling regional terrestrial carbon processes with models such as Biome-BGC and the Community Land Model. The dataset contains measurements of specific leaf area, leaf longevity, leaf carbon and nitrogen for 35 tree and shrub species derived from more than 1,200 branch samples collected from over 200 forest plots, including several AmeriFlux sites. The dataset also contains plot-level measurements of forest composition, structure (e.g., tree biomass), and productivity, as well as measurements of soil structure (e.g., bulk density) and chemistry (e.g., carbon). Publically-archiving regional datasets of standardized, co-located, and geo-referenced plant trait measurements will advance the ability of earth system models to capture species-level climate sensitivity at regional to global scales.
Subject-specific optimization of channel currents for multichannel transcranial magnetic stimulation

The goal of this work is to develop a focal transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) system using a multichannel coil array for high-resolution neuromodulation. We proposed a novel spatially-distributed stimulation strategy to significantly improve the focality of TMS. Computer simulations were conducted to evaluate the proposed approach and test the merits of multichannel TMS. Three different multichannel coil arrays were modeled in addition to a conventional figure-8 coil for comparison. Simulations were performed on finite element head models of six subjects constructed from anatomical MR images via an automated pipeline. Multichannel TMS arrays exhibited significantly more focal induced electric field magnitudes compared to the figure-8 coil. Additionally, electrical steering of stimulation sites without physical movement of the coil array was demonstrated.
Some Studies Needed in Marketing

THE PURPOSE of this article is to suggest certain studies whi h need to be made to improve our materials for the teaching of beginning marketing courses. The original list of studies grew out of an extended tabulation of the points where marketing texts seem to display the need for more information. This list was then revised to take account of studies released since the texts were written. It should be emphasized that in this article no attempt is made to list, discuss, or summarize existing material on any subject. Where certain works are mentioned the aim is merely to illustrate what certain writers have done. This article aims to suggest needed studies, rather than to catalogue past studies.
Review on research of strip steel with longitudinal ribs

Strip steel with longitudinal ribs is a kind of specially shaped strip which on surface there are multiple longitudinal ribs throughout the strip width. The characteristic of the ribbed-strip rolling is that it has a combined feature of both strip rolling and section steel rolling. And it has severe local deformation. The strip with longitudinal ribs main application and its status of theory and experiment study by the scholars at home and abroad were introduced. The influence factors in the process of rolling, such as reduction, rolling temperature, thickness of raw strip, rolling force, plate width and so on,on the rate of ribbing were summarized. Finally, the outlooks of the study and application prospect of strip steel with longitudinal ribs were put forward.
Analysis of Structures of the Extrusion Die of Sealing Strip of EPDM Rubber and Test Validaty

In general,cross section of sealing strip of rubber is complicated.To obtain a uniform relaxed and stable product at the end of the extrusion line,reasonable flow channel of extrusion die should be designed to balance the outlet velocity and extrusion pressure.In this study,firstly,Bird-Carreau rheology model was employed after analyzing the EPDM rheological properties.Secondly,Polyflow software was used to analyze the influence of structures of the extrusion die to the extrusion results of sealing strip of EPDM rubber.The simulation results were validated with a real sealing strip in production.The analysis shows that it is beneficial to balance the outlet velocity and extrusion pressure by making the flow channel wider and deeper toward the narrow section of the die lip,which are useful to direct the extrusion simulation and die design of sealing strips of rubber.
Linking comparative genomics and environmental distribution patterns of microbial populations through metagenomics

Combining well-established practices from comparative genomics and the emerging opportunities from assembly-based metagenomics can enhance the utility of increasing number of metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). Here we used protein clustering to characterize 48 MAGs and 10 cultivars based on their entire gene content, and linked this information to their environmental distribution patterns to better understand the microbial response to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico coastline. Our results suggest that while most oil-associated bacterial populations originated from the ocean, a few actually emerged from the sand rare biosphere. These new findings suggest that there are considerable benefits to employ approaches from comparative genomics to study the whole content of newly identified genomes, and the investigation of emerging patterns in the environmental context can augment the efficacy of assembly-based metagenomic surveys.
How Russia is Not Ruled: The Russian 1990s in Comparative Perspective

Spread the truth-the laws of economics are like the laws of engineering. One set of laws works everywhere. – Lawrence Summers, then chief economist of the World Bank, October 1991. There are no special countries from the point of view of economists. If economics is a science, with its own laws – all countries and all economic stabilization plans are the same. – Pyotr Aven, Russian Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, February 1992. Russians compensate for the severity of their laws by ignoring them. – Anonymous Introduction To what extent has the Russian exit from communism been unique? After all, Russia is only one of more than two dozen states to have charted an independent path since the disintegration of communist power in Europe between 1989 and 1991. From the perspective of initial starting conditions, then, post-Soviet Russia had much in common with post-Soviet Ukraine, post-Soviet Estonia, and the other republics of the USSR as well as with a number of the formerly communist states of Eastern Europe. Given the apparent similarity of key starting points, a comparison of the post-communist states should shed useful light on whether Russia possesses any distinctive features that may have shaped its postcommunist path of development. Likewise, many social scientists have defined the exit from communism as part of a broader, global process toward democratization that began with the end of authoritarian rule in Spain, Portugal, and Greece in the mid-1970s, so that the Russian “transition” may also be compared to a series of states with noncommunist but authoritarian political legacies.
Genetic Counseling and Testing

The understanding of the genetic basis of ophthalmic and systemic diseases has greatly improved over the last few decades. With the advent of new and effective genetic testing options and the increasing importance of these tests for appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic management of patients, the need for specialists in genetics has become more critical. The appropriateness of tests for individual patients needs to be understood, and the tests need to be judiciously selected. The incentives for obtaining genetic testing include confirmation of a clinical diagnosis, direct medical management, and the determination of recurrence risks.
Translational Perspectives in Auditory Neuroscience: Normal Aspects of Hearing

Translational Perspectives in Auditory Neuroscience: Normal Aspects of Hearing, is one in a three-part series of edited books by Drs. Kelly L. Tremblay and Robert F. Burkard that encompass a broad ...
Development of a Culturally Informed Child Safety Curriculum for American Indian Families

American Indian (AI) children are disproportionately affected by unintentional injuries, with injury mortality rates approximately 2.3 times higher than the combined rates for all children in the United States. Although multiple risk factors are known to contribute to these increased rates, a comprehensive, culturally informed curriculum that emphasizes child safety is lacking for this population. In response to this need, academic and tribal researchers, tribal community members, tribal wellness staff, and national child safety experts collaborated to develop a novel child safety curriculum. This paper describes its development and community delivery. We developed the safety curriculum as part of a larger randomized controlled trial known as Healthy Children, Strong Families 2 (HCSF2), a family-based intervention targeting obesity prevention in early childhood (2-5 years). During the development of the HCSF2 intervention, participating tribal communities expressed concern about randomizing enrolled families to a control group who would not receive an intervention. To address this concern and the significant disparities in injuries and unintentional death rates among AI children, we added an active control group (Safety Journey) that would utilize our safety curriculum. Satisfaction surveys administered at the 12-month time point of the intervention indicate 94% of participants (N = 196) were either satisfied or very satisfied with the child safety curriculum. The majority of participants (69%) reported spending more than 15 min with the curriculum materials each month, and 83% thought the child safety newsletters were either helpful or very helpful in making changes to improve their family's safety. These findings indicate these child safety materials have been well received by HCSF2 participants. The use of community-engaged approaches to develop this curriculum represents a model that could be adapted for other at-risk populations and serves as an initial step toward the creation of a multi-level child safety intervention strategy.
MYOELECTRIC ACTIVATION DIFFERENCES IN TRANSFEMORAL AMPUTEES DURING LOCOMOTOR STATE TRANSITIONS

Locomotor state transitions are challenging for transfemoral (TF) amputees due to the lack of active knee control even in the current powered prosthetic devices. Myoelectric activation has been used successfully to classify steady-state locomotion states, but classification of transitions between locomotion states remains a challenge, especially for TF amputees. The purpose of this study was to determine if lower-extremity muscle activation differences between pre-transition and transition gait cycles occur in the involved or uninvolved limb of TF amputees during locomotion state transitions. Surface electromyography (EMG) was collected from residual muscles on the involved limb and from the uninvolved limb from five TF amputees as they transitioned between different locomotion states (level ground, ramp ascent/descent, stair ascent/descent). Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) was used to assess differences in activation. When analyzed as a group, the only significant differences were observed in the va...
Computational Fluid Dynamics Model of a Planar Solid-Oxide Electrolysis Cell for Hydrogen Production from Nuclear Energy

A three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model has been created to model high-temperature steam electrolysis in a planar solid-oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC). The model represents a single cell as it would exist in an electrolysis stack. Details of the model geometry are specific to a stack tested at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). Mass, momentum, energy, and species conservation and transport are provided via the core features of the commercial CFD code FLUENT. A solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC) model adds the electrochemical reactions and loss mechanisms and computation of the electric field throughout the cell. The FLUENT SOFC user-defined subroutine was modified to allow for operation in the SOEC mode. Model results provide detailed profiles of temperature, Nernst potential, operating potential, anode-side gas composition, cathode-side gas composition, current density, and hydrogen production in a range of stack operating conditions. Mean model results are shown to compare favorably with experimental results obtained from an actual ten-cell stack tested at INL.