cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular analysis of mitotic chromosome condensation using a quantitative time-resolved fluorescence microscopy assay

Chromosomes condense during mitotic entry to facilitate their segregation. Condensation is typically assayed in fixed preparations, limiting analysis of contributing factors. Here, we describe a quantitative method to monitor condensation kinetics in living cells expressing GFP fused to a core histone. We demonstrate the utility of this method by using it to analyze the molecular requirements for the condensation of holocentric chromosomes during the first division of the Caenorhabditis elegans embryo. In control embryos, the fluorescence intensity distribution for nuclear GFP:histone changes during two distinct time intervals separated by a plateau phase. During the first interval, primary condensation converts diffuse chromatin into discrete linear chromosomes. After the plateau, secondary condensation compacts the curvilinear chromosomes to form shorter bar-shaped structures. We quantitatively compared the consequences on this characteristic profile of depleting the condensin complex, the mitosis-specific histone H3 kinase Aurora B, the centromeric histone CENP-A, and CENP-C, a conserved protein required for kinetochore assembly. Both condensin and CENP-A play critical but distinct roles in primary condensation. In contrast, depletion of CENP-C slows but does not prevent primary condensation. Finally, Aurora B inhibition has no effect on primary condensation, but slightly delays secondary condensation. These results provide insights into the process of condensation, help resolve apparent contradictions from prior studies, and indicate that CENP-A chromatin has an intrinsic role in the condensation of holocentric chromosomes that is independent of its requirement for kinetochore assembly.
Uncontrolled forward motion of an ablation catheter through a recently available deflectable sheath

Non-operator controlled forward motion of an ablation catheter within a deflectable sheath (Mobicath, Biosense-Webster) is illustrated in Figure 1 and Supplementary material online, Video …
Risk Factors of Attempted Suicide in Bipolar Disorder

Suicide rates of bipolar patients are among the highest of any psychiatric disorder, and improved identification of risk factors for attempted and completed suicide translates into improved clinical outcome. Factors that may be predictive of suicidality in an exclusively bipolar population are examined. White race, family suicide history, and history of cocaine abuse were predictive of suicidal histories. Gender, nicotine use, medical comorbidity, and history of alcohol and other drug abuse were not, although a trend was noted for a history of benzodiazepine abuse. Attempts, although less common among African Americans, were equally as violent. Likewise, attempts were as violent among females as males, in distinction to general population studies.
Comment on “Viscoelastic properties of confined polymer films measured via thermal wrinkling” by E. P. Chan, K. A. Page, S. H. Im, D. L. Patton, R. Huang, and C. M. Stafford, Soft Matter, 2009, 5, 4638–4641

Abstract : In the original paper using the thin film wrinkling technique, results were presented for the rubbery plateau modulus and viscosity of a polystyrene (PS) material having a molecular mass of approximately 600 kg mol 1. The wrinkling technique itself, for the elastic case, is fully described in a number of previous publications. The comments are concerned with the viscoelastic analysis and the data presented for the polystyrene relative to that in the macroscopic state. In particular, we show that there is an error of several orders of magnitude in the reported macroscopic viscosity for the PS and these were, seemingly, consistent with the thin film results. This suggests that the method is not refined enough to provide viscoelastic data in the long time regime of polymers. We also show that the values of the rubbery modulus determined for the thin polymer film are highly sensitive to the assumptions made for the Poisson's ratio of the polymer in the (nearly incompressible) rubbery state. The viscosity estimates are also sensitive to the assumed value of Poisson's ratio, but not sufficiently to explain the orders of magnitude differences with literature reports. Because of issues with the constrained thin film analysis, we examine here an analysis of the data using a conventional analytical solution for a thick compliant layer, i.e. where the material is not confined, and again find that the results for the PS film are not consistent with measured bulk properties. This suggests that these thin film wrinkling experiments may be in a region where the confinement is not well defined and/or that further refinement to the reported viscoelastic model is required to fully capture the viscoelastic properties of confined polymer films.
Effects of Endothelin Receptor Inhibition on Cerebral Arterioles in Hypertensive Rats

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of endothelin receptor inhibition on cerebral arterioles in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP). Structure and mechanics of cerebral arterioles were examined in untreated Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and SHRSP that were either untreated or treated for 3 months with bosentan, an inhibitor of endothelin receptors (100 mg/kg per day). We measured pressure, external diameter, and cross-sectional area of the vessel wall (histologically) in maximally dilated (EDTA) arterioles on the cerebrum. Bosentan reduced but did not normalize arteriolar mean pressure (103±3 and 81±5 mm Hg in untreated and treated SHRSP versus 51±4 mm Hg in WKY, P P 2 ), and CSA in treated SHRSP (1287±78 μm 2 ) was similar to that in WKY (1299±65 μm 2 ). Bosentan had no effect on reductions in external diameter (remodeling) of cerebral arterioles (104±7 and 96±4 μm in untreated and treated SHRSP compared with 126±7 μm in WKY, P
X-ray scattering studies of multilayer interfaces

The results of specular and diffuse x-ray scattering studies of multilayers are discussed. We show here that such studies can yield detailed statistical information about the interfacial roughness and morphology. Results on a GaAs/AlAs multilayer are presented and the data is analyzed within the Born approximation.
Measurements in the millimeter to micron range

Measurement techniques and measuring instruments in the millimeter and submillimeter wavelength range are described. Included are discussions of devices in dominant (TE 10 )-mode rectangular waveguide such as a bolometer which possesses an efficiency of 95 percent, a gas absorption wattmeter with an accuracy of 5 percent and a sensitivity of 10-6watts, and isolators and variable attenuators. Components in circular TE 01 -mode waveguide are described, including a standing-wave indicator with a residual VSWR of 1.02 and an adjustable attenuator with 30 dB of attenuation and a VSWR of 1.08. Devices for use in free space include a pair of dielectric prisms for use as an adjustable directional coupler, a hybrid junction, and an adjustable attenuator. Attenuation is readily adjustable from zero to 30 dB with directivity in excess of 15 dB. Also described are dielectric slab filters and calorimetric power meters with accuracies of 0.5 percent in the power range 1-50 mW. Interferometers for use as wavemeters with accuracy as good as 0.04 percent and for use as cavities with Q as high as 106are described. They can be used in the measurement of dielectric constant with accuracies of 2 percent. Measurements of the characteristics, attenuation, field distribution, and loss per iteration of beam waveguides and reflecting beam guides have been made which yield good confirmation of theoretical predictions. Measurements of focal length, aberrations, and other characteristics of gas lenses for use in free-space waveguides are described. Measurements are carried out using the lateral shear interferometer, and the Mach-Zehnder interferometer.
Symbiotic germination of three semi-aquatic rein orchids (Habenaria repens, H. quinquiseta, H. macroceratitis) from Florida

The destruction of wetlands in populated areas (e.g. Florida) has prompted interest in habitat restoration. We describe a symbiotic technique to germinate seeds of three semi-aquatic rein orchid species from Florida (Habenaria repens, H. quinquiseta, H. macroceratitis) and to cultivate H. repens seedlings on soil ex vitro. Seeds of all three Habenaria spp. germinated within 21 days of inoculation. Leaf-bearing seedlings of H. repenswere obtained using two fungal isolates (Epulorhiza spp.) recovered from Florida orchids Spiranthes brevilabrisand Epidendrum conopseum . Seedlings infected with the S. brevilabris fungus that were transferred to peat in a greenhouse had the highest (88.9%) survival (>159 days ex vitro). One H. repens seedling initiated anthesis 18 months after seed sowing. The methods outlined by this study have the potential to be adopted by wetland restoration projects seeking to include an orchid ( H. repens) and mycorrhizal fungi as biotic agents. © 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Quality of Education, Economic Performance and Institutional Environment

This paper addresses two questions. First, how does the quality, rather than the quantity, of education impact economic performance? Second, does the quality of education have a larger impact on economic performance in countries with better institutions (i.e., social and political variables which affect economic outcomes)? Using data from more than fifty countries, we observe that there is a positive relationship between the quality of education and GDP per capita. In addition, we find that the quality of education has a more beneficial effect on GDP per capita in countries with better law and order conditions, government stability, and overall institutional environment. These results remain unchanged under various scenarios.
An efficient approach to automatic shape recognition

Automated shape recognition in two dimensions is analyzed, and an efficient approach is provided to reduce the redundancy of the matching process. Shape recognition is achieved through locating the objects to be recognized within the field of view. Two theorems are presented. The first theorem is applied to the shape-recognition problem and indicates a clear advantage in reducing the redundancy involved in the matching process when morphological operations are used. Experiments show that a large amount of computing time is saved as a consequence of this theorem. This theorem also offers advantages when performing automated shape recognition on images acquired in a noisy environment. The second theorem suggests that edges of shapes can be used as a structuring element, and all possible outcomes due to noisy environments need to be exhausted. >
Advanced Carcinoma of the Tonsil Treatment results

(1980). Advanced Carcinoma of the Tonsil Treatment results. Acta Radiologica: Oncology: Vol. 19, No. 6, pp. 425-431.
Selection's Uniform Guidelines: Help, Hindrance, or Irrelevancy?:

Personnel directors from 76 Texas cities assessed the Uniform Guidelines’ impact and described their jurisdictions’ procedures for selecting police officers. Sixty percent felt that the Guidelines had little or no effect on their cities’ procedures while 37 percent said their city now uses more valid, varied, or standardized selection information because of federal requirements. Only three percent said the Guidelines had caused their city to abandon good selection instruments or be less willing to innovate their standardize procedures.
Penicillin-resistant pneumococci.

Penicillin-resistant pneumococci are of concern in respiratory tract infections. Currently, nearly all of the "penicillin resistance" to Streptococcus pneumoniae is relative resistance which indicates decreased antibiotic activity in terms of the MIC, but these isolates are still susceptible to sensitive antibiotics given in the usual/high doses. The emergence of highly resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae may be minimized by preferentially using antibiotics known to have a high degree of antipneumococcal activity with a low resistance potential, e.g., doxycycline, cefprozil, levofloxacin, cefepime or meropenem. While vancomycin is useful to treat highly resistant strains, its use should be decreased to minimize the emergence of VRE and strains of Staphylococcus aureus with intermediate vancomycin sensitivity.
Abstract 155: Density of breast lobules in benign breast tissue and association with future breast cancer risk.

Background: Women with benign breast disease (BBD) have increased breast cancer risk, and histologic features of the lesion stratify individual risk. We hypothesized that the concentration and type of terminal duct lobular units in BBD tissue is associated with future breast cancer risk. Methods: A nested case-control series of 770 breast cancer cases and 1273 age- and year of biopsy-matched controls was identified within a cohort of 13,647 women with BBD from 1967-2001 (median follow-up 15.3 years). One representative HE p=0.06). LD associations were somewhat attenuated after adjusting for involution (total OR 1.04 p=0.41; fibrocystic OR 1.13 p=0.02; proliferative OR 1.28 p=0.002) and primary BBD histology (total OR 1.04 p=0.49; fibrocystic OR 1.08 p=0.15; proliferative OR 1.18 p=0.07). Conclusions: The density of proliferative lobules in benign breast biopsy tissue is related to other BBD histologic features but may provide additional breast cancer risk stratification among women with proliferative BBD. Additional research will more fully evaluate the ability of this promising novel measure to predict breast cancer risk. Citation Format: Amy C. Degnim, Lynn C. Hartmann, Tanya L. Hoskin, Marlene H. Frost, V Shane Pankratz, Derek C. Radisky, Lorelle L. Benetti, Celine M. Vachon, Teresa M. Allers, Robert A. Vierkant, Daniel W. Visscher. Density of breast lobules in benign breast tissue and association with future breast cancer risk. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 155. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-155
CARCINOID HEART DISEASE: A RARE CAUSE OF ACQUIRED VALVULAR HEART DISEASE

Carcinoid heart disease is an unusual cause of acquired valvular heart disease with significantly worse survival. Early diagnosis and treatment is associated with better prognosis. A 27 year old man presented with exertional dyspnea, flushing and diarrhea. Examination revealed pansystolic murmur of
Time series decomposition

A constructive result on time series decomposition is presented and illustrated. Developed through dynamic linear models, the decomposition is useful in analysis of an observed time series through inference about underlying, latent component series that may have physical interpretations. Particular special cases include state space autoregressive component models, in which the decomposition is useful for isolating latent, quasi-cyclical components, in particular. Brief summaries of analyses of some geological records related to climatic change illustrate the result.
PHARMACODYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF PROPRANOLOL AND 4-HYDROXYPROPRANOLOL

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation of beta-adrenoceptor block-ing activity against plasma concentration of propranolol(PPL) and its active metabolite 4-hydroxypro-pranolol (4-OH-P) in 20 healthy volunteers, and to establish the pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamicunited model of propranolol. After oral administration of propranolol,the suppressive effects on heart rates and blood pressurewere more remarkable during exercise than that at rest. Posture had little effect on the reduction ofblood pressure. There was significant correlation between plasma concentration and the suppressive ef-fects during exercise, but poor compliance with the effects at rest. when plasma level of propranololplus that of 4-OH-P, the concentration-effect correlation will be improved in comparison with onlypropranolol (p0.05). At steady-state the AUC of propranolol was increased by 1.6 times, compared with single doses,but no change for the AUC of 4-OH-P. Thus, the average steady-state concentration ratio for 4-OH-P/PPL went down relatively, which suggested that there was a decrease in intrinsic hepatic clea-rance of propranolol, leading to an increase in bioavailability at steady-state. The maximal pharmacological effect of inhibiting heart rates (Emax) were 37.2±12.7%. TheCss50, plasma concentration producing 50% Emax, were 44.66±35.24ng/ml. The half-life ofpharmacodynamics for cardiac suppressive effect of propranolol was significantly longer than that ofpharmacokinetics (t1/2Keo: 8.78±2.27 vs t1/2K: 4.32±2.17h, p0. 01). Therefore, the design ofrational dosing regimens for clinical therapeutics must be performed by combined application of theprinciples of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
A perspective on the Materials Genome Initiative

U.S. President Obama introduced the Materials Genome Initiative(MGI) and clearly stated that the goal of MGI is "to discover, develop, manufacture, and deploy advanced materials at twice the speed than is possible today." The pertinent whitepaper "Materials Genome Initiative for Global Competitiveness" released by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy in June 2011 outlines the Materials Innovation Infrastructure as consisting of three platforms: computational tools, experimental tools and digital data. The MGI will accelerate materials design and deployment by: ①developing effective and reliable computational methods and software tools, ②developing high-throughput experimental methodologies to validate theories and to provide reliable experimental data to the materials databases, and ③establishing reliable and widely applicable databases and materials informatics tools. The ultimate intent of MGI is to usher in a new paradigm/culture of materials research and innovation where materials design is conducted by up-front simulations/predictions followed by key validation experiments in contrast to the current practice that is heavily based on experimental iterations and experiences.
Proton-Coupled Electron Transfer in a Strongly Coupled Photosystem II-Inspired Chromophore-Imidazole-Phenol Complex: Stepwise Oxidation and Concerted Reduction.

Proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions were studied in acetonitrile for a Photosystem II (PSII)-inspired [Ru(bpy)2(phen-imidazole-Ph(OH)(tBu)2)]2+, in which Ru(III) generated by a flash–quench sequence oxidizes the appended phenol and the proton is transferred to the hydrogen-bonded imidazole base. In contrast to related systems, the donor and acceptor are strongly coupled, as indicated by the shift in the RuIII/II couple upon phenol oxidation, and intramolecular oxidation of the phenol by Ru(III) is energetically favorable by both stepwise and concerted pathways. The phenol oxidation occurs via a stepwise ET-PT mechanism with kET = 2.7 × 107 s–1 and a kinetic isotope effect (KIE) of 0.99 ± 0.03. The electron transfer reaction was characterized as adiabatic with λDA = 1.16 eV and 280 < HDA < 540 cm–1 consistent with strong electronic coupling and slow solvent dynamics. Reduction of the phenoxyl radical by the quencher radical was examined as the analogue of the redox reaction between the PSII t...
A small molecule targeting protein translation does not rescue spatial learning and memory deficits in the hAPP-J20 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease

A small molecule named ISRIB has recently been described to enhance memory in rodents. In this study we aimed to test whether ISRIB would reverse learning and memory deficits in the J20 mouse model of human amyloid precursor protein (hAPP) overexpression, a model that simulates many aspects of Alzheimer's disease in which memory deficits are a hallmark feature. We did not observe a significant rescue effect with ISRIB treatment on spatial learning and memory as assessed in the Morris water maze in J20 mice. We also did not observe a significant enhancement of spatial learning or memory in nontransgenic mice with ISRIB treatment, although a trend emerged for memory enhancement in one cohort of mice. Future preclinical studies with ISRIB would benefit from additional robust markers of target engagement in the brain.
Real-World Impact of HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Impairment

While major advances in HIV management over the last 20 years have resulted in drastically improved health and survival outcomes, neurocognitive dysfunction remains a major health burden. HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders primarily affect frontostriatal neural systems disproportionally disrupting cognitive flexibility, working memory, generativity, and novel learning and recall, and increased risk for a host of downstream adverse real-world outcomes. Our chapter reviews the current literature on the nature and impact of HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment on everyday functioning, including both subjective and objective indicators of global independence on activities of daily living, antiretroviral adherence, employment, driving, HIV transmission risk behaviors, and health-related quality of life. We propose a multifactorial model of everyday functioning, with a specific focus on the neurocognitive contribution, to help guide our thinking of how HIV-associated central nervous system dysfunction may manifest in the real world. A considerable body of literature supports the unique role of neurocognitive impairment, especially executive dysfunction and deficits in episodic memory, as a risk factor for real world problems among individuals with HIV. These data converge to further establish the relationship between HIV-associated neurocognitive dysfunction and everyday abilities, and point to the need for novel theoretically and empirically based treatment tools to support cognitive health and successful everyday functioning in the ever-changing landscape of HIV disease.
Targeted inactivation of copper transporter Atp7b in hepatocytes causes liver steatosis and obesity in mice.

Copper-transporting ATPase 2 (ATP7B) is essential for mammalian copper homeostasis. Mutations in ATP7B result in copper accumulation, especially in the liver, and cause Wilson disease (WD). The major role of hepatocytes in WD pathology is firmly established. It is less certain whether the excess Cu in hepatocytes is solely responsible for development of WD. To address this issue, we generated a mouse strain for Cre-mediated deletion of Atp7b and inactivated Atp7b selectively in hepatocytes. Atp7bΔHep mice accumulate copper in the liver, have elevated urinary copper, and lack holoceruloplasmin but show no liver disease for up to 30 wk. Liver inflammation is muted and markedly delayed compared with the age-matched Atp7b-/- null mice, which show a strong type1 inflammatory response. Expression of metallothioneins is higher in Atp7bΔHep livers than in Atp7b-/- mice, suggesting better sequestration of excess copper. Characterization of purified cell populations also revealed that nonparenchymal cells in Atp7bΔHep liver maintain Atp7b expression, have normal copper balance, and remain largely quiescent. The lack of inflammation unmasked metabolic consequences of copper misbalance in hepatocytes. Atp7bΔHep animals weigh more than controls and have higher levels of liver triglycerides and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase. By 45 wk, all animals develop liver steatosis on a regular diet. Thus copper misbalance in hepatocytes dysregulates lipid metabolism, whereas development of inflammatory response in WD may depend on copper status of nonparenchymal cells. The implications of these findings for the cell-targeting WD therapies are discussed.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Targeted inactivation of copper-transporting ATPase 2 (Atp7b) in hepatocytes causes steatosis in the absence of inflammation.
Air Mattresses Are Not Appropriate Sleep Spaces for Infants

An introduction is presented in which the author discusses an article in the journal dealing with the risks that are associated with the practice of allowing infants to sleep on air mattresses, and it mentions the risk of sudden infant death syndrome and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
The Importance of a Male Presence in College Counseling

The Taoist concept of yin and yang asserts that in order to have a healthy equilibrium in society, as in nature, integration must be achieved between two complementary and interdependent energies. ...
Epilogue: Scenes from Afar

Lee’s parting word in the book is a brief autobiographical reflection on scenes from (recently) post-colonial Singapore that ponders the cultural ambivalence (and reticence) attending much of the analysis through the book. Through scenes of a mission school and the teeming crowds of Chinatown, the anecdote strives to depict the inner life of its (culturally) bifurcated citizenry.
Toward Measuring Empathy in Virtual Reality

While VR is often described as an empathy-inducing medium, it is difficult to link specific features of a VR experience to empathy outcomes. This is due in large part to the challenges of measuring empathy constructs, and the difficulty of capturing the subjective emotional experience of a player in VR. In response, the authors propose a lightweight, inexpensive framework that researchers can use to easily establish a VR testing environment and begin gathering data on the subjective empathic response of users in VR. The authors also propose future research needed to expand, modify, and validate the proposed user-testing protocol.
Pregnancy-adapted uterine artery endothelial cell Ca2+ signaling and its relationship with membrane potential.

Abstract Pregnancy‐derived uterine artery endothelial cells (P‐UAEC) express P2Y2 receptors and at high cell density show sustained and synchronous [Ca2+]i burst responses in response to ATP. Bursts in turn require coupling of transient receptor potential canonical type3 channel (TRPC3) and inositol 1,4,5‐triphosphate receptor type 2 (IP3R2), which is upregulated in P‐UAEC in a manner dependent on connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junctions. While there is no known direct interaction of TRPC3 with Cx43, early descriptions of TRPC3 function showed it may also be influenced by altered membrane potential ( V m ). Herein, we ask if enhanced TRPC3 Ca2+ bursting due to enhanced Cx43 coupling may be coupled via dynamic alterations in V m in P‐UAEC, as reported in some (HUVEC) but not all endothelial cells. Following basic electrical characterization of UAEC, we employed a high sensitivity cell imaging system to simultaneously monitor cell V m and [Ca2+]i in real time in continuous monolayers of UAEC. Our findings show that while acute and sustained phase [Ca2+]i bursting occur dose‐dependently in response to ATP, V m is not coregulated with any periodicity related to [Ca2+]i bursting. Only a small but significant progressive change in V m is seen, and this is more closely related to overall mobilization of Ca2+. Surprisingly, this is also most apparent in NP‐UAEC > P‐UAEC. In contrast [Ca2+]i bursting is more synchronous in P‐UAEC and even achieves [Ca2+]i waves passing through the P‐UAEC monolayer. The relevance of these findings to mechanisms of pregnancy adaptation and its failure in hypertensive pregnancy are discussed.
Spatial, Seasonal, and Sexual Variation in the Diet of Graptemys flavimaculata, a Threatened Turtle of the Pascagoula River System, Mississippi, USA

The conservation of imperiled species often depends upon conserving their prey. Graptemys flavimaculata (Yellow-blotched Sawback) is an imperiled turtle endemic to the Pascagoula River system of Mississippi, USA. We investigated diet variability of G. flavimaculata relative to site geography, sex, seasons, and size. We captured individuals from May to October in 2007 and 2008 at two distant sites. One site is an inland freshwater tributary (Leaf River, LR) and the other site is coastal and tidally influenced (Pascagoula River, PR). Feces from males (n = 68) and females (n = 74) were collected and analyzed. Using the Index of Relative Importance (IRI; 0–100 scale, 100 = only item present in all samples), we found that G. flavimaculata are primarily sponge specialists for both males (IRILR = 85, IRIPR = 91) and females (IRILR = 84, IRIPR = 65). For both sexes, between-site differences were more varied than within-site differences; for the latter, prey items were typically similar for males and females at a single site, but importance varied. Seasonal comparisons suggest that both LR and PR females shifted diets towards mollusks during the spring and fall, possibly associated with increasing energy and calcium for reproduction. Based on the frequency of wood fragments in feces, submerged deadwood appears important for prey species, and therefore, managers should conserve deadwood along riverbanks (i.e., mature riparian corridors). If channel maintenance is needed, deadwood should be moved toward banks rather than removed to conserve structure for prey species colonization.
Active Kallikrein, Preprokallikrein, and Kallikrein-Inhibitor Complex

Active kallikreins isolated from various exocrine and endocrine tissues were identified by a monoclonal antibody in Western blot analyses to be ~ 38,000 dalton proteins. Kallikreins isolated from rat pancreas, kidney, submandibular gland, brain, spleen and urine were indistinguishable with respect to molecular weight and immunological characteristics. Preprokallikreins were synthesized in a cell-free translation system directed by mRNAs and immunoprecipitated by affinity-purified kallikrein antibody. Analysis of the precipitates by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed a ~ 37,000 dalton polypeptide in kidney, brain and submandibular gland translation products. This 37,000 dalton kallikrein precursor was hybrid- arrested by a kallikrein cDNA encoding tissue kallikrein which was isolated from a rat submandibular gland cDNA library. The immunoprecipitates of products directed by pancreaticv mRNA showed a major protein with Mr of ~ 30,000. An endogenous ~ 92,000 dalton component in rat urine and kidney was also identified by a monoclonal antibody to tissue kallikrein and represents a kallikrein-inhibitor complex. These results indicate that tissue kallikreins can be initially synthesized as 37,000 or 30,000 dalton prepropeptides and then converted into a 38,000 dalton active form by proteolytic processing and glycosylation. The active kallikrein is capable of binding to an inhibitor to form a 92,000 dalton complex.
Performance of wireless networks subject to constraints and failures

Recent years have seen a proliferation in the use of wireless multi-hop networks in diverse scenarios ranging from community mesh networks to wireless sensor networks. As wireless networks find application in such wide-ranging arenas and are deployed at large scale, they will increasingly need to operate in the presence of heterogeneous, and often constrained, hardware capabilities. Furthermore, fault-tolerant communication algorithms will be required to provide the building blocks for reliable operation in the face of failure and/or disruption. In this dissertation, we have investigated performance and fault-tolerance issues in networks of such wireless devices. We have studied two specific problem domains, viz., throughput performance in multi-channel wireless networks where devices have heterogeneous and constrained channel switching capabilities, and feasibility of fault-tolerant broadcast in single channel wireless networks where devices can exhibit Byzantine or crash-stop failure.
On Boundary Conditions for Fluids of the Differential Type

There have been several, recent investigations devoted to the study of the ex-istence and uniqueness of solutions to the equations governing the flows of fluids of the differential type. As these equations are usually higher order partial differential equations than the Navier-Stokes equations, we need to address the issue of whether the “no slip” boundary condition is sufficient to have a well-posed problem. While this issue has been raised earlier (see Rajagopal, 1984; Rajagopal and Kaloni, 1989; Rajagopal, 1992 and Rajagopal and Gupta, 1984), given the critical role it plays in shaping the theory, it has not been accorded the importance it deserves. This question cannot be answered in any generality for fluids of the differential type of complexity n, for arbitrary n. However, if attention is confined to fluids of grade 2 or grade 3, we can indeed provide some definitive answers, while some partial answers are possible for fluids of grade n (Rajagopal, 1984).
Die Methode der Extension und Intension

In diesem Kapitel wird eine Methode der semantischen Bedeutungsanalyse entwickelt. Sie wird auf diejenigen Ausdrucke eines semantischen Systems S angewendet, die wir Designatoren nennen; sie schliesen (deklarative) Satze, Individuenausdrucke (d. h. Individuenkonstanten oder Individuenbeschreibungen) und Pradikatoren (d. h. Pradikatkonstanten oder zusammengesetzte Pradikatausdrucke einschlieslich Abstraktionsausdrucke) ein. Wir beginnen mit den semantischen Begriffen der Wahrheit und L-Wahrheit (logischen Wahrheit) von Satzen (§§ 1, 2). Aus der Definition von L-Wahrheit kann man sehen, das sie fur einen Satz gilt, wenn seine Wahrheit allein aus den semantischen Regeln folgt, ohne Bezug auf (ausersprachliche) Tatsachen (§ 2). Zwei Satze werden (material) aquivalent genannt, wenn beide wahr oder beide nicht wahr sind. Der Gebrauch dieses Aquivalenzbegriffs wird dann auf Designatoren, die nicht Satze sind, ausgedehnt. Zwei Individuenausdrucke sind aquivalent, wenn sie fur dasselbe Individuum stehen. Zwei Pradikatoren (vom Grade eins) sind aquivalent, wenn sie fur dieselben Individuen gelten. L-Aquivalenz (logische Aquivalenz) wird sowohl fur Satze wie auch fur andere Designatoren in der Weise definiert, das sie fur zwei Designatoren gilt, wenn und nur wenn ihre Aquivalenz allein aus den semantischen Regeln folgt. Die Begriffe der Aquivalenz und L-Aquivalenz in ihrem erweiterten Gebrauch sind fur unsere Methode grundlegend (§ 3).
Generalized optical theorem for an arbitrary incident field

A formalism of optical theorem extended for an arbitrarily shaped wave field is presented. The formalism concerns only time-harmonic scattering in free space. The theorem relates the extinction cross section to the imaginary part of the total scattering amplitude at the forward direction of the individual plane wave components multiplied by the corresponding plane wave amplitude in the angular spectrum of the incident wave. A differential extinction cross section is defined from the theorem. An alternative formalism relating the total cross section to plane wave scattering is also presented. Physical interpretation is provided and applications are discussed.
Designing Modular Rehabilitation Objects for Interactive Therapy in the Home

Interactive home based rehabilitation therapy is a promising treatment development for stroke survivors. As the impairment characteristics of each stroke survivor are unique, interactive rehabilitation systems need to be customized to the functional and movement quality outcome goals of the patient, and adaptable over time as therapy progresses. In this paper, we present our iterative co-design process creating a set of modular therapy objects and a rehabilitation protocol for upper extremity stroke survivors. Our objects and training protocol are adaptable components within a computer vision based interactive system that captures and analyzes stroke survivors completing rehabilitation activities. We report on findings from a pilot study with nine stroke survivors and a workshop with five physiotherapists where we highlight challenges in designing objects for impaired grasps, opportunities for aligning objects with activities of everyday living, and the responsibility of design sensitivity.
Corporate responsibility and the plurality of market aims

A number of recent authors, most notably Joseph Heath, have persausively defended a market‐centered account of corporate responsibility that grounds standards of business conduct upon the normative presuppositions of the market. They have us focus on two important items: first, the value of welfare, or Pareto efficient outcomes, which underwrites the legitimacy of market arrangements; and second, the behavioral requirements needed to assure that corporations conduct business in a manner consistent with this value. This article critically examines the aspirations of this literature by embracing its basic method but questioning how well it understands the aim of the market. It puts forth a limited case for corporate responsibility anchored in other dimensions of the public good, distinct from the value of efficiency, and argues that a plausible understanding of corporate responsibility arises from the notion that market arrangements are sites of delegated social authority to provision other aspects of the common good.
Cellular Effects of Butyrate on Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells are Mediated through Disparate Actions on Dual Targets, Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Activity and PI3K/Akt Signaling Network

Vascular remodeling is a characteristic feature of cardiovascular diseases. Altered cellular processes of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a crucial component in vascular remodeling. Histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACI), butyrate, arrests VSMC proliferation and promotes cell growth. The objective of the study is to determine the mechanism of butyrate-induced VSMC growth. Using proliferating VSMCs exposed to 5 mM butyrate, immunoblotting studies are performed to determine whether PI3K/Akt pathway that regulates different cellular effects is a target of butyrate-induced VSMC growth. Butyrate inhibits phosphorylation-dependent activation of PI3K, PDK1, and Akt, eliciting differential effects on downstream targets of Akt. Along with previously reported Ser9 phosphorylation-mediated GSK3 inactivation leading to stability, increased expression and accumulation of cyclin D1, and epigenetic histone modifications, inactivation of Akt by butyrate results in: transcriptional activation of FOXO1 and FOXO3 promoting G1 arrest through p21Cip1/Waf1 and p15INK4B upregulation; inactivation of mTOR inhibiting activation of its targets p70S6K and 4E-BP1 impeding protein synthesis; inhibition of caspase 3 cleavage and downregulation of PARP preventing apoptosis. Our findings imply butyrate abrogates Akt activation, causing differential effects on Akt targets promoting convergence of cross-talk between their complimentary actions leading to VSMC growth by arresting proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis through its effect on dual targets, HDAC activity and PI3K/Akt pathway network.
Tuning the chromatin landscape of embryonic stem cells.

During implantation, cells of the embryo dramatically increase their proliferation rate. This developmental transition involves increased demand for the synthesis of building blocks needed to support the growth of post-implantation epiblast cells. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) cultured in serum closely resemble cells of the post-implantation epiblast and similarly exhibit high proliferation rates (1).
The Potential for Pharmacokinetic Interactions Between Cannabis Products and Conventional Medications.

Purpose Increased cannabis use and recent drug approvals pose new challenges for avoiding drug interactions between cannabis products and conventional medications. This review aims to identify drug-metabolizing enzymes and drug transporters that are affected by concurrent cannabis use and, conversely, those co-prescribed medications that may alter the exposure to one or more cannabinoids. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted utilizing the Google Scholar search engine and MEDLINE (PubMed) database through March 2019. All articles describing in vitro or clinical studies of cannabis drug interaction potential were retrieved for review. Additional articles of interest were obtained through cross-referencing of published bibliographies. Findings After comparing the in vitro inhibition parameters to physiologically achievable cannabinoid concentrations, it was concluded that CYP2C9, CYP1A1/2, and CYP1B1 are likely to be inhibited by all 3 major cannabinoids Δ-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN). The isoforms CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2B6, and CYP2J2 are inhibited by THC and CBD. CYP3A4/5/7 is potentially inhibited by CBD. Δ-Tetrahydrocannabinol also activates CYP2C9 and induces CYP1A1. For non-CYP drug-metabolizing enzymes, UGT1A9 is inhibited by CBD and CBN, whereas UGT2B7 is inhibited by CBD but activated by CBN. Carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) is potentially inhibited by THC and CBD. Clinical studies suggest inhibition of CYP2C19 by CBD, inhibition of CYP2C9 by various cannabis products, and induction of CYP1A2 through cannabis smoking. Evidence of CBD inhibition of UGTs and CES1 has been shown in some studies, but the data are limited at present. We did not identify any clinical studies suggesting an influence of cannabinoids on drug transporters, and in vitro results suggest that a clinical interaction is unlikely. Conclusions Medications that are prominent substrates for CYP2C19, CYP2C9, and CYP1A2 may be particularly at risk of altered disposition by concomitant use of cannabis or 1 or more of its constituents. Caution should also be given when coadministered drugs are metabolized by UGT or CES1, on which subject the information remains limited and further investigation is warranted. Conversely, conventional drugs with strong inhibitory or inductive effects on CYP3A4 are expected to affect CBD disposition.
Gaba-Activated Currents in Ganglion Cells Isolated From Goldfish Retina

Since ganglion cells are anatomically and functionally the most proximal neurons of the retina, their physiology must be influenced either directly or indirectly by all of the major types of neuron in the retina. The dominant direct influences appear to be exerted by bipolar and amacrine cells at synapses onto ganglion cells in the inner plexiform layer (see Cajal, 1972; Dowling and Boycott, 1966; Werblin and Dowling, 1969; Miller and Dacheux, 1976; Naka, 1977). Recently, various subtypes of these inputs have been recognized, largely by two experimental approaches.
Carbon nanotube enhanced dynamic polymeric materials through macromolecular engineering

Dynamic covalent Diels–Alder chemistry was combined with multiwalled carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforcement to develop strong, tough and conductive dynamic materials. Unlike other approaches to functionalizing CNTs, this approach uses Diels–Alder bonds between diene pendant groups on the polymer and the CNT surface πσ bonds acting as dienophiles. Experimental and simulation data align with the CNT reinforcement coming from dynamic covalent bonds between the matrix and the CNT surface. The addition of just 0.9 wt% CNTs can lead to an almost 3-fold increase in strength and 6–7 order of magnitude increases in electrical conductivity, and materials with 0.45 wt% CNTs show excellent strength, self-healing and conductivity.
Drowning injuries in the United States: Patient characteristics, mortality risk, and associated primary diagnoses.

Abstract Objectives To determine patient demographics, associated primary diagnoses, mortality risk, and inpatient mortality of admitted drowning patients in the U.S. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional study using 2016 National Inpatient Sample Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality dataset. External cause codes were used to identify drowning records, excluding self-inflicted/suicides. ICD-10 diagnosis and procedure codes, patient demographics, and admission-related data were collected. Results Of the 4,355 admissions in 2016, 68.3% were male (95% CI 65.3-71.3%) and 70.3% were white (95% CI 66.9-73.6%) with mean length of stay of 5.5 days (95% CI 4.9-6.2) and mean total charge of $81,624 (95% CI $70926-$92321). 8.2% of admissions resulted in inpatient death. Those that died were significantly younger than those that did not die (χ2=5.9, p=0.02). There was a statistically significant association between primary payer and inpatient mortality (χ2=10.5, p=0.02). Conclusion Younger, male, and white patients accounted for the majority of drowning admissions and deaths. A significantly larger proportion of Medicaid patients died compared to inpatient mortality of those with other insurance. Recognizing those most impacted by drowning could help better tailor prevention efforts.
Carotid body tumor as a potential cause of paroxysmal hemicrania.

Abstract A 70-year-old woman presented to our emergency department with a severe left-sided headache. The headache's location and accompanying symptoms are consistent with paroxysmal hemicrania. On workup, a cervical computed tomography scan incidentally revealed a left carotid body tumor, and the patient was referred to vascular surgery. After the resection of the tumor, the patient recovered well in the following months. Furthermore, she no longer experienced any additional headache episodes, which were likely caused by the carotid body tumor.
Efficient Asian Option Pricing Under Regime Switching Jump Diffusions and Stochastic Volatility Models

Utilizing frame duality and a FFT-based implementation of density projection we develop a novel and efficient transform method to price Asian options for very general asset dynamics, including regime switching Levy processes and other jump diffusions as well as stochastic volatility models with jumps. The method combines Continuous-Time Markov Chain (CTMC) approximation, with Fourier pricing techniques. In particular, our method encompasses Heston, Hull-White, Stein-Stein, 3/2 model as well as recently proposed Jacobi, alpha-Hypergeometric, and 4/2 models, for virtually any type of jump amplitude distribution in the return process. This framework thus provides a unified approach to pricing Asian options in stochastic jump diffusion models and is readily extended to alternative exotic contracts. We also derive a characteristic function recursion by generalizing the Carverhill-Clewlow factorization which enables the application of transform methods in general. Numerical results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the method. Various extensions of this method have since been developed, including the pricing of barrier, American, and realized variance derivatives.
Organizational Learning: The Effects of (Network) Structure and (Individual) Strategy

Earlier theoretical accounts of collective learning relied on rules and operating procedures as the organizational memory (March, 1991; Rodan, 2005). This paper builds on this tradition drawing on ideas from social network theory. Learning is modeled as a social-psychological process (Darr & Kurtzberg, 2000; Rulke, Zaheer, & Anderson, 2000), in which organizations learn by exchanging information internally between their members (Argote, Ingram, Levine, & Moreland, 2000c; Carley, 1991, 1995). Learning is also characterized as stochastic and creative (Gruenfeld, Martorana, & Fan, 2000). This model is used to explore predictions about to the effect social networks have on idea generation and learning and alternative strategies for choosing from whom to seek information.
Hybrid and monolithic GaN power transistors for high power S-Band Radar applications

This paper presents the design, development and characterization of three products for S-Band Radar applications. These products include two 240 Watt hybrid power transistors and a fully integrated 75 Watt packaged MMIC.
Enhanced Spatial Priors for Segmentation of Magnetic Resonance Imagery

A Bayesian, model-based method for segmentation of Magnetic Resonance images is proposed. A discrete vector valued Markov Random Field model is used as a regularizing prior in a Bayesian classification algorithm to minimize the effect of salt-and-pepper noise common in clinical scans. The continuous Mean Field solution to the MRP is recovered using an Expectation-Maximization algorithm, and is a probabilistic segmentation of the image. A separate model is used to encode the relative geometry of structures, and as a spatially varying prior in the Bayesian classifier. Preliminary results are presented for the segmentation of white matter, gray matter, fluid, and fat in Gradient Echo MR images of the brain.