cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Near-infrared imaging of fast intrinsic optical responses in visible light-activated amphibian retina.

High performance functional imaging is needed for dynamic measurements of neural processing in retina. Emerging techniques for visual prosthesis also require advanced methodology for reliable validation of electromagnetic stimulation of the retina. Imaging of fast intrinsic optical responses associated with neural activation promises a variety of technical advantages over traditional single and multichannel electrophysiological techniques for these purposes, but the application of fast optical signals for neural imaging has been limited by low signal-to-noise ratio and high background light intensity. However, by using an optimized near-infrared probe light and improved optical system, we improve the optical signals substantially, allowing single pass measurements with approximately micron resolution. We image fast intrinsic optical responses with different optical modalities, i.e., bright field, dark field, and cross-polarization, from isolated retina activated by visible light stimulation. At single cell resolution, bright-field imaging discloses the maxima of optical responses ~5% dI/I, where dI is the dynamic optical change and I is the baseline light intensity. Dark-field imaging techniques further enhance the sensitivity of optical measurements, and show the maxima of optical responses exceeding 10% dI/I. Cross-polarized imaging provides optical sensitivity similar to dark-field imaging, but different patterns of neural activation are observed.
Regularity Results for the Ordinary Product Stochastic Pressure Equation

We consider a stochastic pressure equation with log-normal coefficient and infinite dimensional noise. Using a white noise framework, we study spatial and stochastic regularity of solutions of the ...
The Need for Imagination and Creativity in Instructional Design

The purpose of this article is to explore the need for imagination and creativity in adult education instructional design both online and face-to-face. It defines both imagination and creativity as well as provides an overview of the history of instructional design. It provides an examination of imagination and its application in educational settings. Suggestions are presented for promoting creativity in instructional design as well as overcoming obstacles to creativity when creating classes. The article will also examine how creative activities in both online and face-to-face classes can contribute to successfully meeting learning goals in adult education.
The effects of similarity, parasocial identification, and source credibility in obesity public service announcements on diet and exercise self-efficacy.

This study examined the effect of the audience’s similarity to, and parasocial identification with, spokespersons in obesity public service announcements, on perceived source credibility, and diet and exercise self-efficacy. The results (N = 200) indicated that perceived similarity to the spokesperson was significantly associated with three dimensions of source credibility (competence, trustworthiness, and goodwill), each of which in turn influenced parasocial identification with the spokesperson. Parasocial identification also exerted a positive impact on the audiences’ diet and exercise self-efficacy. Additionally, significant differences were found between overweight viewers and non-overweight viewers on perceived similarity, parasocial identification with the spokesperson, and source credibility.
Detection Probabilities for Log-Normally Distributed Signals

The amplitude and power of a large family of radio signals are observed to have log-normal probability density functions. Among these are signals propagated through random inhomogeneous media, a notable example being low frequency atmospheric radio noise. Of greater importance are certain radar targets that have been observed to have essentially log-normal density functions. Both ships and space vehicles may fall into this category. Curves of probability of detection vs. signal-to-noise ratio for the case of log-normal signals in Gaussian noise have been computed and are presented in this paper. The curves apply for square-law detection with varying degrees of postdetection linear integration. Both fully correlated and completely uncorrelated fluctuating signals are considered. It is shown that for log-normal signal distributions having large variances, the probability of detection differs significantly from that obtained using curves based on an assumed Rayleigh signal distribution.
Structural polarity and directional growth of microtubules of Chlamydomonas flagella

Abstract A basic question concerning microtubule assembly is the polarity of growth, namely, whether subunits can add to either end of a growing microtubule or whether growth proceeds by subunit addition to only one end. To approach this question in an in vitro system, experiments were carried out on the addition of microtubule subunits to isolated flagellar axonemes. Flagella were detached from Chlamydomonas by brief treatment with non-ionic detergent, isolated by differential centrifugation, and incubated with crude high-speed extracts of porcine brain tissue or with purified tubulin (obtained by repetitive temperature-dependent assembly and disassembly). Electron microscopy of negatively stained samples showed as many as 11 long microtubules added at one end of more than 90% of the axonemes. Colchicine (100 μ m ), CaCl 2 (2.5 m m ), and low temperature (0 °C) both prevented and reversed microtubule assembly but had no effect on axonemal length. In crude extracts microtubules formed on both members of the axonemal central pair but on only the A-tubule of the outer doublets. Flagellar fragments, produced by mechanical shearing, were also incubated with microtubule subunit. Single tubules formed at only one end of outer doublet fragments; the appearance of single tubules on one or both members of central pair fragments was predominantly unidirectional. Structural analysis of frayed axonemes and the asymmetry of side-arm attachments permitted the absolute polarity of the axonemal fragments to be determined and revealed that assembly proceeded by addition of subunits to the distal ends of the axonemal microtubules. Using purified brain tubulin, a limited extent of proximal addition and growth on the B-tubule also occurred. The extent of proximal addition increased with increasing protein concentration and temperature. We conclude that the microtubules of flagella have an intrinsic polarity reflected in their side-arm attachments and in their directionality of growth.
Dose dependent alcohol effects on the aggressive behavior of the convict cichlid (Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum)

Previous research has indicated that the fish is a useful model system for research on the effects of alcohol on behavior. The present investigation examined the effect of known blood levels of alcohol, as ascertained from uptake data reported here, on conspecific aggression in the convict cichlid. In different groups, known doses of alcohol (0.2 and 0.5%) were added to a tank containing fish. At various intervals up to 6 hr, fish were sacrificed and the alcohol concentration of their blood compared with the tank ethanol concentration. The results indicate that 6 hr is required for the blood concentration to approach equilibrium with the tank at an average of 65% of the tank concentration. To investigate the effects of various alcohol doses (0.07, 0.18, or 0.33%) on the aggressive behavior of a single male convict cichlid, an intruding male was introduced into the resident fish's tank in a glass tube. At the highest ethanol dose almost half of the fish did not attack the intruder. Those fish which did attack were significantly less aggressive than fish in any of the other groups. The intermediate dose (0.18%) produced significantly more aggresssion than was observed in controls or at higher or lower alcohol doses. These results indicate that ethanol enhances aggression at moderate doses and reduces it at high levels.
Lipid and lipoprotein levels remain stable in acute ischemic stroke: The Northern Manhattan Stroke Study

Serum lipoproteins including lipoprotein(a), Lp(a), are emerging as possible biological markers for cerebrovascular disease. Existing data on Lp(a) and serum lipids levels following acute ischemic stroke (AIS) are however equivocal. To determine whether serum Lp(a) and other lipid levels obtained within 24 h of acute ischemic stroke onset changed over the ensuing 4 weeks and whether these levels are related to an acute phase response, acquired nutritional deficiency, and neurovascular data, we conducted repeated measurement analyses among 19 subjects (mean age 65.0 +/- 12.1 years; 32% women) presenting with AIS (evaluated within 9.7 +/- 12.7 h). Eleven of the subjects had a moderate-to-severe stroke, defined by NIH stroke severity scale, and seven patients had a large cerebral infarction. Seven serial measurements of Lp(a), total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and other lipoproteins, major acute phase reactants and albumin levels were collected for each subject over 4 weeks. The mean initial levels, (mg/dl), of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, Lp(a), apolipoproteins A-I and B were: 225 +/- 57.6, 154 +/- 56.0, 40 +/- 10.4, 181 +/- 93.7, 52 +/- 28.6, 130 +/- 24.6, and 141 +/- 46.1, respectively. There were no significant changes in mean serum lipid, apolipoprotein or Lp(a) levels over the 4-week study period, analyzed by a random effects model to test for time trend. In addition, there were no significant changes in established acute phase or nutritional markers (C-reactive protein, alpha 1-glycoprotein, haptoglobin or serum albumin). Our findings suggest that serum lipid, apolipoprotein and Lp(a) levels remain stable following AIS, consistent with the absence of acute phase response or nutritional deficiency.
p21 Expression by human urothelial carcinoma cells modulates the phenotypic response to BCG.

Abstract Purpose The direct phenotypic effects of BCG on human urothelial carcinoma (UC) cells include cell cycle arrest, apoptotic resistance, and caspase-independent cell death. These effects are associated with increased expression of the cyclin dependant kinase inhibitor (CDKI) p21. This study assessed the role of p21 expression in mediating the phenotypic effects observed in response to BCG. Materials and methods Inducible systems for the autocrine expression of p21, or the blockade of p21 expression in response to BCG, were established in the human UC line T24. The effect of increasing or inhibiting p21 expression on tumor phenotype was assessed using assays for cell cycle compartmentalization (flow cytometry), apoptotic sensitivity (caspase 3 activation), and cytotoxicity (vital dye exclusion). Results p21 Overexpression resulted in cell cycle arrest with an increase in the percentage of the cell in G0/G1 phase when compared with the untreated group. p21 Expression decreased basal caspase-3 expression compared with the untreated group, and reversed camptothecin-induced caspase-3 activity compared with camptothecin alone group. p21 Overexpression increased BCG's direct cytotoxicity. shRNA-mediated inhibition of p21 expression in response to BCG failed to reverse BCG-induced changes in cell cycle compartmentalization. p21 Inhibition partially reversed the antiapoptotic effect of BCG. The expression of p21 was required for the direct cytotoxic effect of BCG. Conclusions p21 Expression is sufficient but not necessary for BCG-induced cell cycle arrest. It is both sufficient and necessary for the full antiapoptotic effect of BCG. p21 Expression alone is not sufficient for caspase-independent cytotoxicity but is necessary for BCG's direct cytotoxic effect.
A structural explanation for the twilight zone of protein sequence homology

Homology modeling of protein structures as a function of sequence breaks down at the twilight zone limit of sequence identity between the template and target proteins. Our results suggest that protein sequences that have diverged from a common ancestor beyond the twilight zone may adopt side-chain interactions that are very different from those endowed by the ancestral sequence.
Design for Simultaneous Reaction and Liquid−Liquid Extraction

A general method for the design of liquid extraction−reaction cascades is described. Composition profiles are determined by solving the reactor−extractor model equations, and reactive-phase holdups are determined as a function of reactant conversions, number of reactor-extractors, and solvent flow rate. These methods are intended for conceptual design, e.g., to determine the incentive for using a solvent in a reactive system to extract product from the reactive phase. The results apply to the limiting case where the interphase mass transfer is significantly faster than the rate of chemical reaction. The production of butyl acetate by the esterification of acetic acid with butanol is examined to demonstrate the method. For this reaction system, a cocurrent cascade is preferred over the countercurrent arrangement.
On the frequency domain specification of ESD waveforms

Abstract Traditionally, electrostatic discharge (ESD) waveforms have been measured and analyzed in the time domain and various waveform parameters have been related to the severity of the discharge charge induce effects. The present paper proposes the specification of ESD waveforms in the frequency domain. Measured ESD waveforms are digitized and their amplitude spectra are calculated and plotted. Parameters of the frequency domain spectra are related to the time domain parameters. It is demonstrated that frequency domain characteristics provide a standardized and easily interpreted specification of ESD waveforms which should be considered in conjunction with traditional time domain parameters.
Oxidation of 3,4‐dehydro‐d‐proline and other d‐amino acid analogues by d‐alanine dehydrogenase from Escherichia coli

3,4-Dehydro-dl-proline is a toxic analogue of l-proline which has been useful in studying the uptake and metabolism of this key amino acid. When membrane fractions from Escherichia coli strain UMM5 (putA1::Tn5 proC24) lacking both l-proline dehydrogenase and l-Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase were incubated with 3,4-dehydro-dl-proline, pyrrole-2-carboxylate was formed. There was no enzyme activity with 3,4-dehydro-l-proline, but activity was restored after racemization of the substrate. Oxidation of 3,4-dehydro-dl-proline by membrane fractions from strain UMM5 was induced by growth in minimal medium containing d- or l-alanine, had a pH optimum of 9, and was competitively inhibited by d-alanine. An E. coli strain with no d-alanine dehydrogenase activity due to the dadA237 mutation was unable to oxidize either 3,4-dehydro-d-proline or d-alanine, as were spontaneous Dad− mutants of E. coli strain UMM5. Membrane fractions containing d-alanine dehydrogenase also catalyzed the oxidation of d-2-aminobutyrate, d-norvaline, d-norleucine, cis-4-hydroxy-d-proline, and dl-ethionine. These results indicate that d-alanine dehydrogenase is responsible for the residual 3,4-dehydro-dl-proline oxidation activity in putA proC mutants of E. coli and provide further evidence that this enzyme plays a general role in the metabolism of d-amino acids and their analogues.
Chronic dyspnea unexplained by history, physical examination, chest roentgenogram, and spirometry. Analysis of a seven-year experience.

The purpose of this article is to describe the spectrum and frequency of diseases presenting as unexplained dyspnea and to develop a logical diagnostic approach to such patients. Seventy-two consecutive physician-referred patients had dyspnea greater than one-month duration unexplained by the initial history, physical examination, chest roentgenogram, and spirometry. Patients underwent a standard diagnostic evaluation. A definite cause for dyspnea was recognized in 58 patients, and no answer was found in 14. Twenty-two diseases were recognized in the patient group. Dyspnea was due to pulmonary disease in 26 (36 percent) patients, cardiac disease in ten (14 percent) patients, hyperventilation in 14 (19 percent) patients, and only 3 patients had extrathoracic disease causing dyspnea. Age younger than 40 years, intermittent dyspnea, and normal alveolar-arterial oxygen pressure difference (P[A-a]O 2 ) at rest breathing room air was strongly predictive of bronchial hyperreactivity or hyperventilation. No patient diagnosed as having disease of the lung parenchyma or vasculature had a P(A-a)O 2 ≤20 mm Hg. The differential diagnosis to explain dyspnea in patients with nondirective histories, normal findings from physical examinations, normal chest roentgenograms, and normal spirograms is extensive. The patient's age and measurement of gas exchange at rest help to formulate a diagnostic approach.
Thinking through Scale: The Role of State Governance in Globalizing North Pacific Fisheries

Debates about the relationship between globalization and state power have often relied on a static view of spatial scales as discrete stages for social interaction. Focusing instead on the ‘production of scale’, several researchers have argued that globalization leads to rescaling of the state, as regulatory powers are realigned both upwards to supranational regimes and downwards to regional, local, and urban governance structures. Although this perspective quite usefully treats scale as relational, this ‘glocalization’ argument remains somewhat schematic and does not allow for a full range of possible scalar configurations. Highlighting instead heterogeneity of scalar relations, in this paper I analyze the ways that United States' fishery development in the North Pacific produced both national power and transnational economic activity. After extending political jurisdiction over waters up to 200 nautical miles from shore, the United States implemented fishery development policies that emphasized the ‘Ame...
On the level of h2 quadrupole absorption in the Jovian atmosphere

Abstract The hydrogen quadrupole absorption lines are uniquely characterized by the property of being collision narrowed. For the 3-0 and 4-0 bands the lines continue to narrow to below the pressure levels in the Jovian atmosphere where they appear to be formed. Since the collision narrowing is the reverse of the case for ordinary molecular absorptions the use of the Curtis-Godson approximation must be reconsidered. We have done this using the line shape for this process derived by Galatry and find that the Curtis-Godson approximation represents the absorption very well through the inhomogeneous Jovian atmosphere. The hydrogen quadrupole absorptions, 3-0 S (l) and 4-0 S (l), have been analysed by a procedure which has been shown to give self-consistent results for the methane 3v3 manifolds. The 3-0 S(1) line is strongly saturated and even the weak 4-0 S(l) line (equiv width ∼ 8mA) exhibits a 10% saturation. We derive a mixing ratio (by volume) of approx 7 x 10 −4 for methane to hydrogen in agreement with earlier results.
A response to reimportation

In this issue of Structure , Holmes et al. (2005) describe elements of an innate defense mechanism that provides mammals a means to restrict bacterial growth. The host protein siderocalin scavenges struc turally dissimilar bacterial siderophores and prevents the uptake of Fe 3+ already earmarked for bacterial import.
Pairing models of Pb206, Pb204 and Pb202

Abstract Exact eigenstates of the pairing-force Hamiltonian are used to study paring models of Pb 206 , Pb 204 and Pb 202 . The properties of the eigenstates are discussed as functions of the interaction strength g and numerical results are given for g = 0.146 MeV. This interaction strength is stronger than the value, g = 0.111 MeV, adopted in a previous study of these models which used the approximate methods of the theory of superconductivity. However, using the exact eigen states and the stronger pairing interaction, the experimentally observed spectra of these three nuclei are predicted with an average error of 0.1 MeV. This error is 1 3 as large as that of the approximate calculation in which the weaker pairing interaction was used.
Behavioral Indices of Adrenal Gland Weight in the California Ground Squirrel

The behavioral characteristic time—in—sight promises to be a reliable, objective index to the weight of the adrenal gland in California ground squirrels. Time—in—sight is defined as the percentage of time during scheduled observation periods that a squirrel is actually in view. The more an animal is available to be seen, the smaller its adrenal, and vice versa (correlation coefficient r=—0.835). Another promising index of gland weight is based on the experienced observer's subjective evaluation of the squirrel's behavior. The initial study included observations of male squirrels in one locality and in one season only. Further validation is needed with regard to variations in sex, season, and locality. Establishment of a behavioral index of adrenal gland size eliminates the need to kill to obtain gland weights in studies of social biology and population dynamics. With such an index ongoing studies of living animals are possible. See full-text article at JSTOR
Arabidopsis Receptor of Activated C Kinase1 Phosphorylation by WITH NO LYSINE8 KINASE

Receptor of activated C kinase1 (RACK1) is a versatile scaffold protein that binds to numerous proteins to regulate diverse cellular pathways in mammals. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), RACK1 has been shown to regulate plant hormone signaling, stress responses, and multiple processes of growth and development. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism underlying these regulations. Here, we show that an atypical serine (Ser)/threonine (Thr) protein kinase, WITH NO LYSINE8 (WNK8), phosphorylates RACK1. WNK8 physically interacted with and phosphorylated RACK1 proteins at two residues: Ser-122 and Thr-162. Genetic epistasis analysis of rack1 wnk8 double mutants indicated that RACK1 acts downstream of WNK8 in the glucose responsiveness and flowering pathways. The phosphorylation-dead form, RACK1AS122A/T162A, but not the phosphomimetic form, RACK1AS122D/T162E, rescued the rack1a null mutant, implying that phosphorylation at Ser-122 and Thr-162 negatively regulates RACK1A function. The transcript of RACK1AS122D/T162E accumulated at similar levels as those of RACK1S122A/T162A. However, although the steady-state level of the RACK1AS122A/T162A protein was similar to wild-type RACK1A protein, the RACK1AS122D/T162E protein was nearly undetectable, suggesting that phosphorylation affects the stability of RACK1A proteins. Taken together, these results suggest that RACK1 is phosphorylated by WNK8 and that phosphorylation negatively regulates RACK1 function by influencing its protein stability.
Rules, reciprocity, and rewards: A developmental study of resource allocation in social interaction

Abstract Most studies of children's fairness have been conducted in settings of minimal interdependence. However, understanding the development of fair behavior also requires exploration of the processes operating in settings of ongoing interaction. It was hypothesized that in such settings reciprocity would be an important determinant of children's reward allocations. Second and sixth grade boys and girls ( N = 80) participated in a simulated interaction requiring them to take turns with a fictitious co-worker distributing earnings over a series of 10 trials. Co-worker's distributions were consistently selfish, generous, equitable, or equalitarian across trials. Results indicated, for both age groups, a strong influence of co-workers' prior distributions that increased across trials. For sixth graders, the modal distributions in each of the three experimental groups matched the co-workers'. They understood the rules of equity and equality and considered both fair. Neither selfishness nor generosity was considered fair, even as reciprocation of others' prior distribution. Second graders understood the equality norm although they tended to act selfishly and consider both equality and selfishness fair, despite having contributed less work than their co-workers. Generous and equitable co-workers influenced second graders' distributions away from selfishness but not enough to match the co-workers' distributions. Second graders considered neither equity nor generosity fair and displayed little understanding of the equity norm.
Hume on Suicide

Abstract This essay examines Hume’s attitude to suicide, in which he had an ongoing philosophical interest, as found in the dialogue at the end of An Enquiry concerning the Principles of Morals, and in his brief essay on the topic. His attitude to, arguments, and views on suicide are placed in the context of his other writings and biographical elements from his own life. The views of other early modern thinkers to suicide, Locke, Kant, and Montaigne, are presented and their arguments evaluated for contrast and comparison with Hume’s views. The views of other writers, most notably the Stoics and St. Thomas Aquinas, are also examined to further elucidate Hume’s views. By carefully reconstructing and evaluating his argument, Hume’s line of reasoning on suicide is found to be out of harmony with his general moral philosophy. The major weakness of his argument is identified as the failure to realize the harm caused to others by suicide.
The structures of pukeleimides A, B, D, E, F, and G

Abstract Structures for pukeleimides A, B, D, E, F, and G, six novel pyrrolic compounds from a shallow-water variety of the marine blue-green alga bar|Lyngbya majuscula, are proposed from spectral data.
Low-Socioeconomic-Status Enrollees In High-Deductible Plans Reduced High-Severity Emergency Care

One-third of US workers now have high-deductible health plans, and those numbers are expected to grow in 2014 as implementation of the Affordable Care Act continues. There is concern that high-deductible health plans might cause enrollees of low socioeconomic status to forgo emergency care as a result of burdensome out-of-pocket costs. We analyzed emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations over two years among enrollees insured in high-deductible plans through small employers in Massachusetts. We found that plan members of low socioeconomic status experienced 25–30 percent reductions in high-severity ED visits over both years, while hospitalizations declined by 23 percent in year 1 but rose again in year 2. Similar trends were not found among high-deductible plan members of high socioeconomic status. Our findings suggest that plan members of low socioeconomic status at small firms responded inappropriately to high-deductible plans and that initial reductions in high-severity ED visits might hav...
A Second Form of Argument from Analogy

: One form of argument from analogy is identified and Stephen Barker's remarks about a second kind of argument from analogy, non-inductive (and non-deductive) argument from analogy, are used as a springboard to identify a second form. That form is then refined, explained, exemplified, and related to the first form. It is argued that there is a spectrum of different forms of argument from analogy, with the two forms identified being end points on the spectrum. Except in terms of form, however, there is no reason to speak of two different kinds of argument from analogy.
Optimal pole shifting for discrete multivariable systems

A method for shifting the open-loop eigenvalues by a proportion of 1/δ is presented. In each step of the method it is required to solve a first-order or a second-order matrix equation for shifting one real pole or two complex conjugate poles, respectively. The presented method yields a solution which is optimal with respect to a quadratic performance index. One of the two attractive features of the method is that it can be easily applied to large-scale systems without solving any large order matrix equations. The second feature is its recursive nature which makes it applicable to open-loop systems with multiple eigenvalues.
Venous and Arterial Gas Embolism Associated With Positive Pressure Ventilation

We report a 53-year-old woman with ARDS who required positive pressure ventilation with positive end-expiratory pressure. She sustained an acute right ventricular myocardial infarction associated with cardiovascular instability. The next day she sustained a fatal cerebral arterial gas embolism. Intravascular gas was documented within the cerebral, coronary, and pulmonary arterial circulations. Clinicians need to be aware of venous and arterial gas embolism as a complication of mechanical ventilation.
A note on a conjecture of T. H. Foregger

In this note, we prove that for any positive integer n and 0 c  1/n there exists an integer N(n, c)  1 such that if S−(sn )∊Ω n satisfies then per(S 2k)per(S) for all k N(n c). This gives a partial result to a conjecture of T. H. Foregger.
ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE OF K0.8Fe2Se2 FROM DENSITY FUNCTIONAL THEORY GW METHOD SIMULATION

First principles density functional theory — based (GW) method — was used to simulate the electronic structure of the novel iron-based superconductor K0.8Fe2Se2. The calculated band gap of K0.8Fe2Se2 at the Γ point is 0.15 eV, which is significantly lower than the 0.61 eV of vacancy free crystal KFe2Se2. The d-orbital of Fe atom is overlapped with the p-orbital of Se atom. Charge density analysis shows strong lattice distortion and vacancy related electric dipole and quadruple near the K vacancy. The reflectivity is anisotropic in three coordinate directions.
IL-17 and intestinal tumorigenesis

IL-17 is an important proinflammatory cytokine in autoimmune diseases. The constant presence of IL-17 in the intestinal tract raises the possibility that it may be a critical enhancer of intestinal tumorigenesis. Yet the role of IL-17 in cancer development is controversial. Animal studies and clinical studies suggest that the role of IL-17 may be differential depending on type of cancer and tumor microenvironment. The role of IL-17 in intestinal tumorigenesis is largely proinflammatory and likely affects Treg function. Thus, targeting IL-17 in intestinal tumorigenesis may be an effective approach for treating cancer.
Thickness-scaling of sputtered PZT films in the 200 nm range for memory applications

In this paper, we present electrical and material properties of thin films (100 to 400 nm) of magnetron-sputtered ferroelectric PZT for memory applications. The optimal lead-compensation power (and the resulting film composition) is independent of film-thickness. Reduction of film-thickness leads to a reduction in the crystallization temperature (from 700°C for 400 nm films to 575°C for 100 nm films), and yields evidence for a two-step growth of perovskite rosettes. An optimized 100 nm film yields 12 μC/cm2 for 1.5V operation and fatigues by 25% after 1010 unipolar stress cycles.
Pharmacokinetics of tertiary butyl alcohol in male and female Fischer 344 rats

Tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA) is a small aliphatic alcohol with multiple industrial and scientific uses. A comprehensive pharmacokinetic profile for TBA has not been determined in rats. The purpose of this study was to fully characterize the pharmacokinetics of TBA in male and female F-344 rats following intravenous administration of 37.5, 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg TBA. TBA was observed to undergo a rapid distribution phase followed by a slower elimination phase. The steady-state volume of distribution for TBA was roughly 4.5 times greater than total body water, and the clearance was lower than the estimated glomerular filtration rate. The elimination of TBA appears to saturate at higher doses, as evidenced by a disproportional increase in area under the concentration-time curve and decreased rate of clearance.
Online Failure Forecast for Fault-Tolerant Data Stream Processing

In this paper, we present a new online failure forecast system to achieve predictive failure management for fault-tolerant data stream processing. Different from previous reactive or proactive approaches, predictive failure management employs failure forecast to perform informed and just-in-time preventive actions on abnormal components only. We employ stream-based online learning methods to continuously classify runtime operator state into normal, alert, or failure, based on collected feature streams. We have implemented the online failure forecast system as part of the IBM system S stream processing system. Our experiments show that the on-line failure forecast system can achieve good prediction accuracy for a range of stream processing software failures, while imposing low overhead to the stream system.
The C. elegans dosage compensation complex propagates dynamically and independently of X chromosome sequence.

Summary Background The C. elegans dosage compensation complex (DCC) associates with both X chromosomes of XX animals to reduce X-linked transcript levels. Five DCC members are homologous to subunits of the evolutionarily conserved condensin complex, and two noncondensin subunits are required for DCC recruitment to X. Results We investigated the molecular mechanism of DCC recruitment and spreading along X by examining gene expression and the binding patterns of DCC subunits in different stages of development, and in strains harboring X;autosome (X;A) fusions. We show that DCC binding is dynamically specified according to gene activity during development and that the mechanism of DCC spreading is independent of X chromosome DNA sequence. Accordingly, in X;A fusion strains, DCC binding propagates from X-linked recruitment sites onto autosomal promoters as a function of distance. Quantitative analysis of spreading suggests that the condensin-like subunits spread from recruitment sites to promoters more readily than subunits involved in initial X targeting. Conclusions A highly conserved chromatin complex is appropriated to accomplish domain-scale transcriptional regulation during C. elegans development. Unlike X recognition, which is specified partly by DNA sequence, spreading is sequence independent and coupled to transcriptional activity. Similarities to the X recognition and spreading strategies used by the Drosophila DCC suggest mechanisms fundamental to chromosome-scale gene regulation.
UDP-galactose: ceramide galactosyltransferase of rat central nervous system myelin during development.

The activity of UDP-galactose: hydroxy fatty acid containing ceramide galactosyltransferase was studied in the myelin and microsomal fractions of rat cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum and spinal cord during development. In all three regions, the specific activity of the enzyme reached a maximum in myelin prior to that in the microsomal membranes. This temporal relationship between myelin and microsomal fraction was similar in all the three regions, although the overall timing was shifted corresponding to known differential timing of myelin deposition in these regions. The activity of the enzyme from both the membranes, during development, increased in parallel with temperature up to 45°C. Specific localization of galactosyltransferase in early myelin may suggest specific role of the enzyme in the myelination process.
Numerical analysis of the radiated fields of ultrasonic transducers

A finite element model is implemented for simulating the radiated fields of both planar and curved transducers in acoustic media. The approach is based on general finite element analysis developed for solving the governing equations of elastic wave propagation. The distributions of the wave fields are presented for both the nearfield and farfield regions of the transducer. Three excitation pulses with the same center frequency but different bandwidths are examined and the accuracy is indicated by a comparison of the simulation results for the axial and transverse fields with the analytical results for continuous wave excitation.
Studies of quaternary saline lakes—I. Hydrogen isotope fractionation in saline minerals

Abstract Borax, gaylussite, nahcolite and trona were synthesized in aqueous solution at temperatures ranging from 8° to 35°C. Except for borax, deuterium was always depleted in these hydrated minerals relative to the solutions from which they were crystallized. In borax, no significant fractionation was found. The fractionation factor of D H for the trona-water system exhibited a marked temperature dependence. By combining the deuterium contents of trona and the solution from which trona was crystallized, the following thermometer scale was obtained: In ( D H ) trona ( D H )water = 1.420 × 10 4 T 2 + 23.56 T (1) An attempt to establish a geothermometer based on C 13 C 12 fractionation between carbonate minerals and carbonate ions in aqueous solution was not successful.
Insight about psychosis among outpatients with schizophrenia.

Methods Patient sampk. Participants were drawn from two highly intensive aftencare programs at the Western Psychiatnic Institute and Clinic in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. One is a research program on environmental and persona! indicators in the course of schizophrenia; the other is a day hospital program called the Therapeutic Learning Center. The programs include repeated psychoeducation and other interventions, such as family therapy and social skills training, to forestall relapse in schizophnenic patients. Twenty-five patients engaged in the programs in summer 1987 signed consent forms to participate in the study. The 16 men and nine women in the study sample had a mean±SD age of 30±7 years, with a range from 19 to 45 years. They had a mean±SD of 4±5 previous hospitalizations, with a range ofnone to 23. The study began a mean±SD of 9±6 years after the patients’ first hospitalization, with a range of 1 to 22 years. A!! patients had clinical diagnoses of schizophnenia or schizoaffective disorder based
Complications after sternal reconstruction: A 16-y experience

Abstract Background Unlike risk factors associated with sternotomy complications, those associated with sternal reconstruction have not been well elucidated. We sought to examine complication rates after sternal wound reconstruction and to identify perioperative risk factors associated with these complications. Methods We evaluated the records of 230 consecutive patients who underwent sternal reconstruction with muscle flaps after cardiac surgery. Patient demographics, clinical comorbidities, and operative procedure types were evaluated against two outcome variables—major complications and reconstructive failure. Results The mean age of our cohort was 62 y. Major complications (readmission, reoperation, or death) occurred in 76 patients (33%), including mortality rate of 3.5%. Obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and type of reconstructive procedure correlated with an increased risk of major complications. Reconstructive failure occurred in 39 patients (17%) and was associated with female gender, obesity, previous coronary artery bypass graft procedure, and prior left internal mammary artery usage. Regression analyses demonstrated that obesity is independently associated with an increased risk of major complications and that women are at an increased risk of reconstructive failure. Reconstructions involving the rectus abdominis were correlated with an increased risk of major complications, but this difference was not significant in multiple regression analysis. Conclusions Usual risk factors for sternal wound development after cardiac surgery include diabetes, age, obesity, tobacco use, history of stroke, bilateral left internal mammary artery harvest, and significant blood transfusion. In distinction, this study found that the risks independently associated with major complications and reconstructive failures after reconstruction of sternal wounds are limited to obesity and female gender.
Failure to detect integrins of the beta-2 subclass on the human sperm surface.

: Several cell-to-cell recognition systems utilize the tripeptide Asp-Gly-Arg (RGD) as a cell surface signaling sequence. Mac-1, a member of the integrin subfamily defined by the beta-2 subunit, recognizes C3bi by means of an RGD sequence. Because C3 complement components have been detected on the gamete surfaces and RGD has been demonstrated to be involved in sperm-egg interaction, we explored the possibility that a member of the b2 integrin subfamily was present on the sperm surface and involved in egg recognition. Two methods were utilized to detect integrins on the sperm surface. Sperm were exposed to Mabs directed against different epitopes of each member of this integrin subfamily; and spermatozoa were tested for their ability to bind zymosan or yeast, since Mac-1 bearing cells possess this property. Both methods failed to demonstrate such integrins on the sperm surface, suggesting that another RGD receptor is involved in gamete recognition.
Natural variability of the Keetch-Byram Drought Index in the Hawaiian Islands

The Hawaiian Islands experience damaging wildfires on a yearly basis. Soil moisture or lack thereof influences the amount and flammability of vegetation. Incorporating daily maximum temperatures and daily rainfall amounts, the Keetch–Byram Drought Index (KBDI) estimates the amount of soil moisture by tracking daily maximum temperatures and rainfall. A previous study found a strong link between the KBDI and total area burned on the four main Hawaiian Islands. The present paper further examines the natural variability of the KBDI. The times of year at which the KBDI is highest, representing the highest fire danger, are found at each of the 27 stations on the island chain. Spectral analysis is applied to investigate the variability of the KBDI on longer time scales. Windward and leeward stations are shown to have different sensitivities to large-scale climatic fluctuations. An El Nino signal displays a strong relationship with leeward stations, when examined with a band-pass filter and with a composite of standardized anomalies. Departure patterns of atmospheric circulations and sea surface temperatures over the North Pacific are investigated for composites of extremely high KBDI values when fire risk is high. The winter, spring, and fall show anomalous surface anticyclonic circulations, surface divergence, and subsidence over the islands for the upper quartile of KBDI. The winter, spring, and fall composites of equatorial sea surface temperatures for the upper quartile of KBDI are investigated for possible links to atmospheric circulations. These analyses are an effort to allow fire managers some lead time in predicting future fire risks.
Lysosomal storage disease as an etiology of nonimmune hydrops

We performed a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the incidence and types of lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) in case series of nonimmune hydrops (NIH). PubMed and Ovid were reviewed for case series evaluating the workup of NIH diagnosed in utero or in the neonatal period in human subjects. Search terms were as follows: nonimmune hydrops, non immune hydrops, metabolic genetic disorders, and lysosomal storage disorders. The time period searched was 1979 through January 2014. Retrospective case series with at least 5 cases of fetal and/or neonatal NIH with its workup mentioned were identified. Idiopathic NIH was defined as NIH without an apparent cause after an initial workup. Exclusion criteria included studies published in languages other than English and review articles. The 3 authors screened all abstracts and manuscripts independently. Metaanalysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines were followed. Fifty-four case series with 678 total cases of NIH were identified. The overall incidence of LSD was 5.2% (35 of 678) in all NIH cases that tested for any LSD and 17.4% (35 of 201) in idiopathic NIH cases. The 3 most common LSDs identified in cases of NIH, in order of decreasing incidence, were Mucopolysaccharidosis type VII, Gaucher's disease, and GM1-gangliosidosis. LSDs occur in 5.2% of all NIH cases and in 17.4% of idiopathic NIH cases and so should be screened for in this clinical scenario. Additionally, if a comprehensive LSD workup is completed on idiopathic cases, 29.6% of those would be reclassified as LSD. LSD testing does not only allow diagnosis but also ensures better counseling, appropriate management, and planning for possible early intervention. Moreover, their detection may aid in a prenatal diagnosis in subsequent pregnancies.
Mapping of cardiac electrical activation with electromechanical wave imaging: An in silico–in vivo reciprocity study

BACKGROUND Electromechanical wave imaging (EWI) is an entirely noninvasive, ultrasound-based imaging method capable of mapping the electromechanical activation sequence of the ventricles in vivo. Given the broad accessibility of ultrasound scanners in the clinic, the application of EWI could constitute a flexible surrogate for the 3-dimensional electrical activation. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this report is to reproduce the electromechanical wave (EW) using an anatomically realistic electromechanical model, and establish the capability of EWI to map the electrical activation sequence in vivo when pacing from different locations. METHODS EWI was performed in 1 canine during pacing from 3 different sites. A high-resolution dynamic model of coupled cardiac electromechanics of the canine heart was used to predict the experimentally recorded electromechanical wave. The simulated 3-dimensional electrical activation sequence was then compared with the experimental EW. RESULTS The electrical activation sequence and the EW were highly correlated for all pacing sites. The relationship between the electrical activation and the EW onset was found to be linear, with a slope of 1.01 to 1.17 for different pacing schemes and imaging angles. CONCLUSION The accurate reproduction of the EW in simulations indicates that the model framework is capable of accurately representing the cardiac electromechanics and thus testing new hypotheses. The one-to-one correspondence between the electrical activation and the EW sequences indicates that EWI could be used to map the cardiac electrical activity. This opens the door for further exploration of the technique in assisting in the early detection, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring of rhythm dysfunction.
Realistic transverse images of the proton charge and magnetization densities

We develop a technique, denoted as the finite radius approximation (FRA), that uses a two-dimensional version of the Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem to determine transverse densities and their uncertainties from experimental quantities. Uncertainties arising from experimental uncertainties on the form factors and lack of measured data at high ${Q}^{2}$ are treated. A key feature of the FRA is that a form factor measured at a given value of ${Q}^{2}$ is related to a definite region in coordinate space. An exact relation between the FRA and the use of a Bessel series is derived. The proton Dirac form factor is sufficiently well known such that the transverse charge density is very accurately known except for transverse separations $b$ less than about 0.1 fm. The Pauli form factor is well known to ${Q}^{2}$ of about 10 GeV${}^{2}$, and this allows a reasonable, but improvable, determination of the anomalous magnetic moment density.
The decay of localized states into delocalized band states. Theory and preliminary experimental investigations using optically detected electron spin coherence

Abstract A technique for measuring the decay of localized excited triplet states into the delocalized band states of a solid utilizing the optical detection of electron spin coherence is described. Specifically, the use of optically detected electron spin locking for measuring kinetic phenomena in the presence of fluctuating triplet spin sublevel populations is presented and illustrated. In addition, preliminary experimental data is reported which yields the temperature dependence of the phonon assisted promotion of a localized isotopic site to an energy equal to that associated with the energies of the host exciton band. Finally, the data is analyzed in terms of a kinetic model which relates the localized state's rate of promotion and radiationless decay into the exciton band states to explicit features of the exciton and phonon band structure.