cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
BIOCHEMICAL STEPS IN VISUAL TRANSDUCTION: ROLES FOR NUCLEOTIDES AND CALCIUM IONS*

— Recent studies from this laboratory permit the suggestion of a scheme for describing molecular mechanisms which may regulate excitation and adaptation in amphibian rod photoreceptor cells. The experiments have studied several chemical changes which occur upon illumination of isolated rod outer segments: (1) activation of cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase which is sensitive to calcium concentration, (2) a resulting rapid drop in cyclic GMP levels which has stoichiometry and time course appropriate for the internal transmitter presumed to mediate between photon absorption in the disc membrane system and the permeability decrease in the plasma membrane, (3) a dephosphorylation of two small proteins whose phosphorylation is controlled by cyclic GMP levels, and (4) a slower hydrolysis of GTP which may drive efflux of calcium from the outer segment. It is suggested that the rapid decrease in sodium conductance which follows illumination is caused by the dephosphorylation of the two small proteins, with their dephosphorylation being controlled by the cyclic GMP decrease. In a slower reaction light activates a GTP-dependent extrusion of calcium from the cytoplasmic space. This lowering of internal calcium causes desensitization of the light-sensitive phosphodiesterase enzyme responsible for the cyclic GMP decrease, so that its intensity-response function now resembles that of the light-adapted rod photoreceptor. Thus, changes in plasma membrane conductance are regulated by cyclic GMP, and the sensitivity of the system is controlled by slower calcium movements which set the light-sensitivity of the phosphodiesterase enzyme. Finally, the light-initiated phosphorylation of rhodopsin also appears to play a role, with phosphorylated rhodopsin causing desensitization of the phosphodiesterase enzyme.
Key 15-item memorization and dot counting scores in a “stress” claim worker's compensation population: Relationship to personality (MCMI) scores

The relationship between apparent faking of cognitive impairment (as detected by such "malingering" tests as 15-item Memorization and Dot Counting) and faking of psychiatric symptoms has not been investigated formally. In addition, no empirical literature is available on the relationship between personality traits and faking of cognitive symptoms. Of 154 subjects who claimed "stress" psychiatric injury, 12% appeared to be faking cognitive impairment; 4.5% failed the 15-item Memorization Test, and 10% failed the Dot Counting task. Faking of cognitive symptoms occurred in only 23% of subjects who were faking/exaggerating psychological symptoms on the MCMI. Malingering test failure was associated with significant elevations on MCMI personality scales, although this appeared to be an artifact of attempts to fake/exaggerate on the MCMI, rather than a reflection of "true" personality traits.
Physeal-Specific MRI Analysis of Growth Plate Disturbance Following All-Inside Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Skeletally Immature Patients: Does a Physeal-Sparing Technique Offer any Advantage?

Objectives:The decision to perform anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in skeletally immature patients carries a risk of growth disturbance due to iatrogenic physeal injury. Multiple ph...
Moral Dimensions of the Work–Family Nexus

Transformations in family and work life in the USA have led to widespread feelings of conflict between these two domains. The work–family literature, hamstrung by assumptions of narrow rational action and structural determinism, has largely overlooked the moral dimension of this conflict. In contrast, I argue that work and family institutions are potent sites of moral prescriptions, meanings, and emotions. I encourage a model of human action that recognizes ideological constraint: institutions define morally potent ends that motivate action. This model also recognizes more creativity, by which people use moral understandings to justify work–family situations and to interpret them as meaningful and honorable. I show how adopting a moral lens would help the work-family literature solve some empirical puzzles and add to our understanding of gender. Finally, I raise questions about how the work-family nexus articulates with axes of social inequality and broader ideologies of individualism.
EVIDENCE OF A GIANT TYRANNOSAURID (DINOSAURIA: THEROPODA) FROM THE UPPER CRETACEOUS (?CAMPANIAN) OF MONTANA

We report an isolated right lacrimal of a tyrannosaurid theropod dinosaur, probably from the Upper Cretaceous (upper Campanian) Judith River Formation of Fergus County, Montana. The lacrimal was originally associated with the holotype of the giant crocodylian Deinosuchus rugosus, but was later identified as that of a tyrannosaurid. It is of comparable size to the corresponding element in the gigantic Maastrichtian tyrannosaurid Tyrannosaurus. Moreover, comparison of the lacrimal to those of other tyrannosaurids tentatively supports its referral to this genus. Consequently, provided that its stratigraphic provenance has been correctly identified, the specimen represents the oldest-known North American record of a Tyrannosaurus-sized tyrannosaurid, and possibly the most ancient occurrence of this genus yet documented.
Towards engineered architecture evolution

Architecture evolution, a key aspect of software evolution, is typically done in an ad hoc manner, guided only by the competence of the architect performing it. This process lacks the rigor of an engineering discipline. In this paper, we argue that architecture evolution must be engineered — based on rational decisions that are supported by formal models and objective analyses. We believe that evolutions of a restricted form — close-ended evolution, where the starting and ending design points are known a priori — are amenable to being engineered. We discuss some of the key challenges in engineering close-ended evolution. We present a conceptual framework in which an architecture evolutionary trajectory is modeled as a sequence of steps, each captured by an operator. The goal of our framework is to support exploration and objective evaluation of different evolutionary trajectories. We conclude with open research questions in developing this framework.
Revised δ34S reference values for IAEA sulfur isotope reference materials S-2 and S-3†

Revised δ34S reference values with associated expanded uncertainties (95% confidence interval (C.I.)) are presented for the sulfur isotope reference materials IAEA-S-2 (22.62 ± 0.16‰) and IAEA-S-3 (−32.49 ± 0.16‰). These revised values are determined using two relative-difference measurement techniques, gas source isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GIRMS) and double-spike multi-collector thermal ionization mass spectrometry (MC-TIMS). Gas analyses have traditionally been considered the most robust for relative isotopic difference measurements of sulfur. The double-spike MC-TIMS technique provides an independent method for value-assignment validation and produces revised values that are both unbiased and more precise than previous value assignments. Unbiased δ34S values are required to anchor the positive and negative end members of the sulfur delta (δ) scale because they are the basis for reporting both δ34S values and the derived mass-independent Δ33S and Δ36S values. Published in 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Particle fluxes into permeable sediments: Comparison of mechanisms mediating deposition

Fine particle deposition in coarser sediment beds plays an important role in biogeochemical cycling in sediments by 1 supplying organic matter, attached microorganisms, and nutrients and 2 mediating interfacial fluxes through changes in permeability. In some cases, particles could be associated with contaminants or particles could clog pores in the sediment resulting in ecological impacts through changes in porewater chemistry e.g., dissolved oxygen profiles. We compare two mechanisms for fine particle deposition to permeable sediments. First, for flat beds, particle delivery by sediment grain-scale flows coupled with particle retention within the sediment could result in deposition in excess of the gravitational settling. Second, pressure-driven flows across ripples may deliver additional particles directly into the sediment, although sediment transport can counteract deposition. Flume experiments were used to measure deposition rates over a range of particle and sediment sizes for both flat and rippled beds. Flat bed deposition rates were greater than the particle settling velocities and comparable to the deposition rates to rippled beds under similar flow conditions. An empirical expression based on parameters for flow, sediment, and particle conditions predicts where each mechanism dominates the deposition rate. This result illustrates the potential importance of grain-scale processes for the deposition of fine particles to permeable sediments regardless of bed roughness. Predictions of particle fate, penetration into the sediment, and degradation following the deposition still require a description of bed topography in addition to sediment properties.
The patient safety chain: Transformational leadership's effect on patient safety culture, initiatives, and outcomes

The purpose of this study is to investigate the existence of a patient safety chain for hospitals. Drawing on high reliability organization theory, multifactor leadership theory and total quality management literature, we develop and test a model for improving patient safety – a critical issue facing hospitals today. Specifically, we hypothesize that improving patient safety begins at the highest level of the organization with a transformational leadership style. This leads to a sequence of linkages whereby transformational leadership has an important relationship with creating a culture of safety, which in turn is associated with the adoption of patient safety initiatives, and ultimately with positive improvements in patient safety outcomes. Using data from a nationwide survey of over 200 hospitals, we use structural equation modeling to provide empirical support for the effectiveness of this patient safety chain model. The results have major implications for enhancing operations in hospital settings.
Glutamate and the Presynaptic Control of Spinal Sensory Transmission

Sensory neurons, in particular the small- and medium-diameter cells that sense painful stimuli, express both ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors, which may regulate transmission between sensory neurons and their targets in the spinal cord dorsal horn. Although the roles that these receptors play in normal physiology are not completely understood, recent work has provided strong evidence for their ability to modulate transmitter release from primary afferent terminals.
Information propagation speed study in multihop cognitive radio networks

Information propagation speed (IPS) in a multihop cognitive radio network (CRN) is an important factor that affects the network's delay performance and needs to be considered in network planning. The impact of primary user (PU) activities on IPS makes the problem of analyzing IPS in multihop CRNs very challenging and hence unsolved in existing literature. In this paper, we fill this technical void. We establish a IPS model in multihop CRNs, and compute the maximum network IPS that maximizes IPS across a network topology over an infinite plane. We reveal that the maximum network IPS is determined by the PU activity level and the placement of secondary user relay nodes. We design optimal relay placement strategies in CRNs to maximize the network IPS under different PU activity levels. The correctness of our analytical results is validated by simulations and numerical experiments.
Decentralized Output-Feedback for Delayed Large-Scale Interconnected Nonlinear Systems via Dynamic High-Gain Scaling

Abstract A general class of nonlinear large-scale interconnected systems is considered wherein each subsystem is comprised of a nominal part in a general strict-feedback-like structure and a set of appended dynamics. The system structure is allowed to contain parametric and functional uncertainties, time delays, and a a general coupling interaction structure between dynamic components within each subsystem and across subsystems in the overall large-scale interconnected system. The controller design is based on the dual dynamic high-gain scaling technique and provides decentralized robust adaptive output-feedback delay-independent global stabilization and disturbance attenuation.
The Bocconi boys go to Brussels: Italian economic ideas, professional networks and European austerity

ABSTRACTThis article shows how a specific set of Italian economic ideas, which were first formulated in the first half of the twentieth century and later espoused by a network of economists from Bocconi University, Milan, came to play an important role in shaping European policy responses to the Great Recession and establishing the doctrine of ‘expansionary austerity.' It argues that two factors – the formalization of these ideas in the language of mainstream economics and the establishment of professional networks that operated across a host of linked ecologies – contributed to their influence. The result was a ‘boomerang effect’, or a transfer of economic ideas from the European periphery to centers of policy-making power and back again. This phenomenon is understudied in the existing political economy literature, which tends to assume that ideational traffic is one-way, with ideas originating in centers of power and travelling from there to the periphery.
Introduction to Spin Temperatures and their Relation to the Bloch Equations

One of the most useful simplifications of the general problem of N nuclei coupled to one another, to applied fields, and to the lattice is the famous Bloch equations $$d{M_z}/dt = \gamma {\left( {\overrightarrow M \times \overrightarrow H \left( t \right)} \right)_z} + \left( {{M_o} - {M_z}} \right)/{T_1}$$ (1) $$d{M_{x,y}}/dt = \gamma {\left( {\vec M \times \vec H\left( t \right)} \right)_{x,y}} - {M_{x,y}}/{T_2}$$ (2) where “x,y” stands for either the x component or the y component, and where \(\overrightarrow H (t)\)(t) is the applied magnetic field consisting of a static component Ho in the z-direction and a time dependent term of arbitrary orientation.
Nice Legal Studies

Unlike contemporary politics, much of our recent legal theory urges us to “make nice,” that is, to minimize social conflict and economize on disagreement whenever possible. By focusing our attention and energy on what we can agree on, it claims to privatize animosity and promote productive social action. Most important, it purports to have no substantive politics. This essay criticizes both the theorists and jurists who advocate this view for concealing the deep and controversial politics their calls entail. By looking closely at Tom Nagel’s Concealment and Disclosure, which most fully lays out the foundations of this position, and Cass Sunstein’s One Case At A Time: Judicial Minimalism On The Supreme Court, which normatively defends it as appropriate judicial practice, this article shows how theorists employ it in an attempt to disarm conservative politics. Niceness, in their hands, forestalls conflict that could unwind prior judicial accomplishments they approve of. The essay then discusses Chief Justice John Roberts’s seemingly paradoxical championing of this same position. Why does he self-consciously adopt a view liberal theorists developed in order to preserve the legacy of the Warren and Burger Courts against conservative challenge? He employs it differently to pull the sting from conservative judicial practice. The article looks at two of his most important opinions on the Court: his controlling opinion in FEC v. Wisconsin Right to Life II and his partial majority and plurality opinion in Parents Involved In Community Schools v. Seattle School District No. 1. The first shows how he employs niceness to overturn the leading constitutional case supporting campaign finance reform: McConnell v. FEC. His strategy is to disarm all criticism by presenting himself as doing nothing at all. The second illustrates a somewhat different use of this strategy. In it, he claims Brown v. Board of Education as authority for a very controversial reading of the equal protection clause-one that would outlaw most affirmative action in education. Here he again tries to appear to be doing nothing at all-this time not by finely parsing leading constitutional precedent but by broadly reweaving the constitutional past in order to make it appear necessarily continuous with his position. To the extent he is successful, his opponents, not he, break with perhaps the most sacrosanct constitutional case of the last several generations.
Meso-Scale Evolution of Shear Localization Observed in Plane Strain Experiment on Kaolin Clay

Undrained plane strain compression experiments were conducted on slurry consolidated kaolin clay samples to elucidate the mechanism of shear localization in clays. The biaxial device was heavily internally instrumented, thus enabling the multiple boundary displacement measurements. These measurements were combined with boundary digital imaging to compute and verify displacements of the shear band. The orientation of shear band was determined from photographs thus enabling the computation of its dilatancy angle. Finally, the volumetric and shear strains of the shear band were computed for two limiting initial thicknesses of the shear band corresponding to 1 mm and 1.5 mm. The computed meso scale strains are several times larger than those reported in sand
Morality and Expectations

This paper (an early-stage draft) is part of a series that aims to displace the dominant economic conceptions of negligence law.The goal of this paper is to provide one possible moral foundation for this effort, based on the contractualism of T.M. Scanlon. The central conclusion is that violating the expectations of others may violate rights in more situations than commentators traditionally suppose (at least where those expectations are reasonable, though whether a non-circular definition exists for that kind of reasonableness is insufficiently explored in this draft of the paper).
Reactivity of TEMPO toward 16- and 17-electron organometallic reaction intermediates: a time-resolved IR study.

The (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl radical (TEMPO) has been employed for an extensive range of chemical applications, ranging from organometallic catalysis to serving as a structural probe in biological systems. As a ligand in an organometallic complex, TEMPO can exhibit several distinct coordination modes. Here we use ultrafast time-resolved infrared spectroscopy to study the reactivity of TEMPO toward coordinatively unsaturated 16- and 17-electron organometallic reaction intermediates. TEMPO coordinates to the metal centers of the 16-electron species CpCo(CO) and Fe(CO)4, and to the 17-electron species CpFe(CO)2 and Mn(CO)5, via an associative mechanism with concomitant oxidation of the metal center. In these adducts, TEMPO thus behaves as an anionic ligand, characterized by a pyramidal geometry about the nitrogen center. Density functional theory calculations are used to facilitate interpretation of the spectra and to further explore the structures of the TEMPO adducts. To our knowledge, this ...
DECISION AIDS ARE INITIALLY DISRUPTIVE AND MAY REQUIRE MULTIPLE USES FOR SUSTAINED IMPLEMENTATION: RESULTS FROM CLINICIAN INTERVIEWS FOLLOWING USE OF AN IN-VISIT DECISION AID (PCI CHOICE)

Despite Class I guideline recommendations, shared decision making (SDM) in cardiology remains underutilized. Decision aids demonstrate improved patient-centered outcomes, such as knowledge and satisfaction, and are designed to facilitate SDM. Many decision aids are not deployed by clinicians within
Interaction between a tannin-containing legume and endophyte-infected tall fescue seed on lambs' feeding behavior and physiology.

It was hypothesized that a tannin-rich legume such as sainfoin attenuates the negative postingestive effects of ergot alkaloids in tall fescue. Thirty-two 4-mo-old lambs were individually penned and randomly assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with 2 legume species, sainfoin (SAN; 2.9% condensed tannins) or cicer milkvetch (CIC; without tannins) and a mixed ration containing tall fescue seed (50:30:20 seed:beet pulp:alfalfa) with 2 levels of endophyte infection (endophyte-infected tall fescue seed [E+; 3,150 ug/L ergovaline] or endophyte-free tall fescue seed [E-]). For a 10-d baseline period, half of the lambs were fed SAN and half were fed CIC and all lambs had ad libitum amounts of E-. In an ensuing 10-d experimental period, the protocol was the same except half of the lambs fed SAN or CIC received E+ instead of E-. Subsequently, all lambs could choose between their respective legume and seed-containing ration and between E+ and E-. Finally, an in vitro radial diffusion assay was conducted to determine whether tannins isolated from SAN would bind to alkaloids isolated from E+. All groups consumed similar amounts of E- during baseline period ( > 0.10), but lambs ate more E- than E+ during the experimental period ( 0.10), but lambs fed E+ had lower rectal temperatures per gram of feed ingested when supplemented with SAN than with CIC ( 0.10). All lambs preferred their treatment ration over their treatment legume, but lambs in the SAN and E+ treatment ate more legume + ration than lambs in the CIC and E+ (CIC-E+; < 0.05) treatment. All lambs preferred E- over E+, but lambs in the CIC-E+ treatment ate the least amount of E+ ( < 0.05). Binding of isolated SAN tannins to protein was reduced by the E+ isolate ( < 0.05), suggesting a tannin-alkaloid complexation but only from tannins extracted from SAN fed early in the experimental period. In summary, SAN supplementation increased intake of and preference for E+ and reduced rectal temperatures relative to CIC supplementation. Our results suggest that these effects were mediated by the condensed tannins in SAN through alkaloid inactivation, an interaction that declined with plant maturity.
Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute: R&D, Training, Crisis Response. Accomplishments, Opportunities and Policy Questions

The Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI) mission is to preserve and protect the health and performance of U.S. military personnel through research and training that advance understanding of the effects of ionizing radiation. This mission encompasses (1) basic and applied research to identify and develop measures to prevent, assess and treat radiation injury; (2) education and training to maintain a pool of qualified radiation biologists, health care providers, disaster preparedness personnel and operational planners; and (3) maintenance of an advisory team ready to be activated in the event of radiological crises and consequence management missions. Products resulting from the AFRRI program will prevent, mitigate and treat radiation injury and provide guidance for medical management. These products will expand the ability of warfighters to accomplish missions and will improve morale. AFRRI is funded to identify and develop products to the point where they are poised for advanced development. A number of countermeasure candidates have been developed with efficacies that would save tens of thousands of people in a mass casualty scenario. Examples of current research findings are: (1) Effect of radiation quality on countermeasure efficacy; (2) Accelerated hematopoietic syndrome in a minipig model; (3) Roles of REDD1 and miRNA30c in radiation injury and (4) multiparameter biodosimetry in a nonhuman primate model. Policy questions include the timing of administration relative to irradiation, the possibility of far-forward fielding, the administration route, and whether the priority is mass casualty or small-scale scenarios (which affects the availability of medical care).
Radical Prostatectomy Findings in White Hispanic/Latino Men With NCCN Very Low-risk Prostate Cancer Detected by Template Biopsy.

Radical prostatectomy (RP) outcomes have been studied in White and Black non-Hispanic men qualifying for Epstein active surveillance criteria (EASC). Herein, we first analyzed such outcomes in White Hispanic men. We studied 70 men with nonpalpable Gleason score 3+3=6 (Grade Group [GG] 1) prostate cancer (PCa) with ≤2 positive cores on biopsy who underwent RP. In 18 men, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) density (PSAD) was >0.15 ng/mL/g. Three of these had insignificant and 15 had significant PCa. The remaining 52 men qualified for EASC. One patient had no PCa identified at RP. Nineteen (37%) had significant PCa defined by volume (n=7), grade (n=7), and volume and grade (n=5). Nine cases were 3+4=7 (GG 2) (5/9 [56%] with pattern 4 0.5 cm. Significant PCa is either a larger-volume anterior disease that may be detected by multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging-targeted biopsy or anterior sampling of the prostate or higher-grade smaller-volume posterior disease that in most cases should not pose immediate harm and may be detected by repeat template biopsies.
3D Holographic Photonic Crystals Containing Embedded Functional Features

Lack of good ways to incorporate functional features and materials into 3D architectures has impeded progress in 3D photonic crystals (PhCs). Utilizing a modified transfer printing strategy, this study demonstrates the introduction of functional external materials of a diversity of form-factors into the interior of holographically defined 3D PhCs. PhCs containing solid SU-8 features, layers of porous silicon (PSi) or emissive LaF3:Nd3+ nanocrystals, and silica colloids are formed. For the LaF3:Nd3+ layer, both enhancement (≈50%) and suppression (≈25%) of the spontaneous emission (λ ≈ 1.32 μm) could be realized by modifying the position of the photonic crystal stop band relative to the rare earth emission. Finite-difference time-domain simulations suggest the observed spontaneous emission modification is a result of Bragg mirror-like reflection, while the measured enhancement is likely caused by the spontaneous emission coupling to a defect mode. Via electrodeposition, this study demonstrates structural inversion of a low refractive index photonic crystal (photoresist-based) to a high (Cu2O) refractive index contrast photonic crystal in the presence of an embedded defect, providing an opportunity to enhance the light-matter interactions using a materials system with transparency in the visible.
Data-Driven Modeling and Dynamic Programming Applied to Batch Cooling Crystallization

In this article, we demonstrate a model-based approach for controlling the average size of crystals produced by batch cooling crystallization. The method is distinguished most notably in the modeling strategy. Rather than developing a crystallization model within the population-balance framework, as is usually done, we apply a machine-learning technique to identify an empirical model from measurement data. The model is low-dimensional and can therefore be discretized and used with dynamic programming to obtain optimal control policies for producing crystals of targeted average sizes in prespecified batch run times. Experimental results are reported that demonstrate the use of the identified policies to produce crystals of the desired average sizes in the specified run times.
The Return of the King: How Cleveland Reunited With LeBron James After a Parasocial Breakup

This study examined the experiences of Northeast Ohio residents when LeBron James announced he was leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2010 and then returned in 2014, through the lens of parasocial ...
Score-Aging Calibration for Speaker Verification

The gradual changes that occur in the human voice due to aging create challenges for speaker verification. This study presents an approach to calibrating the output scores of a speaker verification system using the time interval between comparison samples as additional information. Several functions are proposed for the incorporation of this time information, which is viewed as aging information, in a conventional linear score calibration transformation. Experiments are presented on data with short-term aging intervals ranging between 2 months and 3 years, and long-term aging intervals of up to 30 years. The aging calibration proposal is shown to offset the decreased discrimination and calibration performance for both short- and long-term intervals, and to extrapolate well to unseen aging intervals. Relative reductions in $C_{\ell \ell {\rm r}}$ (cost of log-likelihood ratio) of 1–4% and 10–43% are obtained at short- and long-term intervals, respectively. Assuming that a system has knowledge of the time interval between samples under comparison, this approach represents a straightforward means of compensating for the detrimental impact of aging on speaker verification performance.
Pomalidomide Induces Mir-125b with Subsequent Downregulation of P53 in CD34+cells Conferring Decreased Apoptosis: A Potential Mechanism of Secondary Primary Malignancies

Abstract Introduction:IMiD® compounds such as lenalidomide (LEN) and pomalidomide (POM) represent a novel class of agents in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Increasing concerns about its potential toxicity on stem cells resulting in an increase of secondary malignancies primarily affecting the myeloid cells have been reported. However, the exact mechanism is unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as important regulators in stem cell development. Therefore, the present study investigated the effect of IMiD® compounds on stem cell renewal/proliferation and the role of miRNAs involved in this process. Methods and Results: When human CD34+ cells were cultured with POM or DMSO under conditions favoring myeloid development, POM significantly increased the percentage of CD34+cells in S phase in cell cycle analysis with concomitant dramatic decrease of apoptotic cells. This resulted in a strong and significant proliferation of CD34+cells as well as induction of colony formation. Systematic screening of miRNAs expression profile by microarray showed that POM significantly enhanced the expression of miR-125b. Upregulation of miR-125b was further confirmed by realtime PCR. Interestingly, recently miR-125b was shown to function as an oncomir by inducing tumorigenesis in myeloid cells by So et al., Blood 2014. In accordance with that we found that overexpression of miR-125b in CD34+ cells exhibited similar effects as POM on CD34+ cells, such as increased cell number in S-phase, decreased cell apoptosis resulting in significant induction of colony formation and the absolute number of hematopoietic progenitors. Bioinformatics prediction models revealed a potential binding site of miR-125b on 3’UTR of P53. Indeed subsequent experiments showed that P53 was downregulated when miR-125b was overexpressed in CD34+cells or when treated with POM. Further analysis of the P53 down stream targets revealed that POM decreased the expression of PUMA and BAK1 all critical for control of cell proliferation and apoptosis. The POM-induced upregulation of mir-125b was independent of the CRBN/IKZF1 induced protein degradation. Conclusion: Based on our results we postulate that POM upregulates the oncomir miR-125b in CD34+cells. Mir-125b controls proliferation and apoptosis by downregulating P53 and genes involved in the P53 pathway including BAK1 and PUMA. Thus, our findings on the effects of POM on the miR-125b/P53 axle provide for the first time a potential mechanism for the development of secondary hematologic malignancies in patients treated with IMiD® compounds. Disclosures Lentzsch: Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy; Bristol Myers Squibb: Consultancy.
The Performance Effects of Pursuing a Diversification Strategy by Newly Founded Nonprofit Organizations

Product diversification is commonly seen as an expansion strategy firms adopt late within their life cycles. In this article, we elucidate the practice of employing a product diversification strate...
A Bonded-Micro-Platform Technology for Modular Merging of RF MEMS and Transistor Circuits

A technology has been demonstrated that uses compression bonding to modularly combine platform-supported jumechanical filters with integrated BiCMOS transistor circuits while attempting to preserve the Q of mounted resonators. In this process, jumechanical devices are first fabricated onto SOI platforms, which are then released (together with devices) and compression bonded onto a transistor circuit wafer, making electrical connections at the bonds. Prior to bonding, while mounted on unreleased platforms, 6 MHz and 40 MHz clamped-clamped beam jumechanical resonators exhibit Q’s of 2,000 and 300, respectively. After release and bonding to the circuit wafer, the Q’s are degraded to 520 and 120, respectively. Poor bonding quality is identified as a likely reason for the observed Q reductions.
Triad of human cellular proteins, IRF2, FAM111A, and RFC3, restrict replication of orthopoxvirus SPI-1 host-range mutants

Viruses and their hosts can reach balanced states of evolution ensuring mutual survival, which makes it difficult to appreciate the underlying dynamics. To uncover hidden interactions, virus mutants that have lost defense genes may be used. Deletion of the gene that encodes serine protease inhibitor 1 (SPI-1) of rabbitpox virus and vaccinia virus, two closely related orthopoxviruses, prevents their efficient replication in human cells, whereas certain other mammalian cells remain fully permissive. Our high-throughput genome-wide siRNA screen identified host factors that prevent reproduction and spread of the mutant viruses in human cells. More than 20,000 genes were interrogated with individual siRNAs and those that prominently increased replication of the SPI-1 deletion mutant were subjected to a secondary screen. The top hits based on the combined data-replication factor C3 (RFC3), FAM111A, and interferon regulatory factor 2 (IRF2)-were confirmed by custom assays. The siRNAs to RFC1, RFC2, RFC4, and RFC5 mRNAs also enhanced spread of the mutant virus, strengthening the biological significance of the RFC complex as a host restriction factor for poxviruses. Whereas association with proliferating cell nuclear antigen and participation in processive genome replication are common features of FAM111A and RFC, IRF2 is a transcriptional regulator. Microarray analysis, quantitative RT-PCR, and immunoblotting revealed that IRF2 regulated the basal level expression of FAM111A, suggesting that the enhancing effect of depleting IRF2 on replication of the SPI-1 mutant was indirect. Thus, the viral SPI-1 protein and the host IRF2, FAM111A, and RFC complex likely form an interaction network that influences the ability of poxviruses to replicate in human cells.
Hierarchical Region Splitting detects iron-oxide labeled neural stem cells in Susceptibility Weighted magnetic resonance imaging

Human neural stem cells are multipotent cells that aid in recovery from hypoxic ischemic injury (HII). The work proposes that an automated and computational method, Hierarchical Region Splitting (HRS) of Susceptibility Weighted Images (SWI) can identify iron oxide labeled human neural stem cells (hNSCs) within the hypoxic-ischemic brain. Using a unilateral carotid artery occlusion model in neonatal rat pups, we implanted hNSCs that were labeled with Feridex (iron-oxide agent). The rats were then non-invasively imaged (1–90 days post implantation) using SWI magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which enhances visualization of hypointensity areas that contain iron-oxide labeled hNSCs. SWI images were further enhanced by creating minimum intensity projections (MIP's) from raw magnitude images that were combined with phase images. SWI, due to its sensitivity to paramagnetic compounds, such as iron oxide, resulted in an 8-fold enhancement of small regions of iron oxide labeled stem cells. HRS analysis allowed for semi-automatic detection of hNSCs from SWI images. We found hNSCs in the striatum and regions adjacent to the lesion that corresponded to histological Prussian blue staining, confirming the presence of hNSCs in the areas identified by HRS. hNSC volumes were increased at 30 days and then plateaued until 90 days post implantation. Phase values (radians) were shown to be increased in MR images containing stem cells at later time points consistent with a reduction in iron oxide as hNSCs replicate and migrate from the implantation site. Quantitative SWI derived hNSC volumes were similar to that previously reported. Our results confirm that HRS in conjunction with the high sensitivity of SWI could be used to monitor iron-labeled hNSCs in a clinically relevant manner.
Abstract 193: Clinico-radiologic Severity of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Predicts Coated-platelet Levels and Associated In-hospital Morbidity

Introduction: Coated-platelets (CP), a subpopulation of activated platelets, can be used as a surrogate marker for systemic thrombogenic propensity. Microthrombosis causes delayed cerebral ischemia...
Towards designing effective data persistence through tradeoff space analysis

Partial system specifications give rise to design spaces: sets of designs that satisfy specified constraints but that can vary in other dimensions, including non-functional properties such as performance. A tradespace is a design space where each design is paired with its relevant corresponding properties. Exploring tradespaces to find high-value designs is hard and time-consuming. The software engineering field provides inadequate support for tradespace exploration. In the context of object relational mapping (ORM), modern model-view-controller frameworks such as Django translate application-specific object models into relational database schemas with guarantees that they satisfy specified functional (data storage) requirements, however, these translators generally do not consider the range of possible schemas or the related performance tradeoffs. We present a novel approach using automated tradespace exploration to find schemas with optimal time and space tradeoffs. The engineer specifies an object model that defines objects and relationships. Our tool set then (1) synthesizes a design space of schemas for the object model, (2) profiles the time and space performance of each schema to generate the corresponding tradespace, and (3) analyzes the tradespace to identify designs on the optimal frontier, thus exposing essential tradeoffs. We achieve scalability of analysis through the use of the Spark MapReduce framework. In a set of experiments, our approach consistently found designs that were dramatically better than those produced by several widely used ORM tools.
Capacitance of an elliptical disk on a semi-infinite dielectric material

Abstract Using an integral transform, the mixed boundary value problem of a conducting, elliptical disk on a dielectric half-space in an electric field is reduced to the solution of an integral equation. An analytical expression of the electric system capacitance is derived, which is a function of the eccentricity of the elliptical disk. The electric charge and electric stress distribute non-uniformly over the surface of the elliptical disk and display local singularities at the edge of the elliptical disk. The square root singularity of the electric field at the edge of the elliptical disk leads to the divergent of the resultant force on the elliptical disk, which is physically unrealistic. There likely exist geometrical constraint and/or field constraint to limit the presence of the square root singularity of the electric field. For any symmetric conductor in an infinite space that consists of air (vacuum) and a semi-infinite dielectric material with symmetric plane being in the interface between the air and the dielectric material, the electric potential in the space is independent of the dielectric constant of the dielectric material.
Reality, Normality, Sexuality: “Authentic” Portrayals of the Freak

This chapter argues that “real-life” portrayals of the freak body attempt to recreate the freak show by allowing viewers to experience the freak body in an uncensored and unmonitored way, enabling them to experience the intimacy of freak bodies by providing access to their daily lives. The chapter looks at TLC’s lineup of body-obsessed reality shows, the documentary Murderball, and the docudrama Push Girls as examples of mediated real-life representations of the freak body. It finds that the mode of presentation is significant in the access it gives the viewer to the freak body, as well as in its contact with freak sexuality.
The Effect of Question Placement on Learning from Textbook Chapters

Retrieval practice enhances learning of short passages, but its effectiveness for authentic educational materials such as textbook chapters is not well established. In the current experiment, students studied a 40-page textbook chapter on biology. Retrieval practice with correct-answer feedback was manipulated within subjects: some questions appeared only after a chapter section, others only after the whole chapter, and yet others at both times. Two groups served as controls: the reread group read the feedback presented in the retrieval practice condition, and the other group simply read the chapter once. Students took a final test two days later. Practicing retrieval resulted in greater recall relative to the two control groups. On the final test, the two single testing conditions produced comparable benefits, but testing twice produced the greatest benefit. Retrieval practice is effective in learning from authentic text material and placement of the initial test does not matter.
An Investigation of Moisture-Induced Interfacial Delamination in Plastic IC Package During Solder Reflow

In this study, the moisture induced delamination behavior of a plastic ball grid array package under the solder reflow process was investigated by the finite element analysis. The entire moisture history of the PBGA package was simulated for preconditioning at moisture sensitivity level 1 and the subsequent exposure to a soldering reflow. A fracture mechanics based analysis was used to investigate the combined effects of temperature, moisture and vapor pressure on the delamination behavior at the die/molding compound and die/die attach interfaces during solder reflow. For determining the total strain energy release rate and total stress intensity factor under a multiphysics environment like reflow, researchers commonly used the principle of superposition to combine the results from individual thermal stress, hygroscopic stress and vapor pressure induced stress analyses. In this study, a new method was proposed to obtain the total strain energy release rate and total stress intensity factor under the multi-physics environment in a single fracture analysis instead of three. Two different methods-virtual crack closure technique (VCCT) and crack tip opening displacement method (CTOD) were employed and compared in studying the variation of strain energy release rates during lead-free solder reflow. The relationship between the strain energy release rate and crack length was also obtained. The developments of the stress intensity factors due to individual effect of thermal mismatch, hygroscopic swelling and vapor pressure were calculated. The mode mixity was also determined under different temperatures and crack length.Copyright © 2017 by ASME
Coadministration of Polymeric Conjugates of Docetaxel and Cyclopamine Synergistically Inhibits Orthotopic Pancreatic Cancer Growth and Metastasis.

The aim of this study was to determine whether co-administration of hedgehog (Hh) pathway inhibitor cyclopamine (CYP) and microtubule stabilizer docetaxel (DTX) as polymer-drug conjugates, methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(2-methyl-2-carboxyl-propylenecarbonate-graft-dodecanol-graft-cyclopamine) (P-CYP) and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(2-methyl-2-carboxyl-propylene carbonate-graft-dodecanol-graft-docetaxel) (P-DTX) could synergistically inhibit orthotopic pancreatic tumor growth in NSG mice. P-DTX and P-CYP were synthesized from mPEG-b-PCC through carbodiimide coupling reaction and characterized by 1H–NMR. The micelles were prepared by film hydration and particle size was measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS). Cytotoxicity, apoptosis and cell cycle analysis of P-DTX and P-CYP were evaluated in MIA PaCa-2 cells. In vivo efficacy of P-DTX and P-CYP were evaluated in NSG mice bearing MIA PaCa-2 cells derived orthotopic pancreatic tumor. P-CYP and P-DTX self-assembled into micelles of <90 nm and their combination therapy efficiently inhibited the proliferation of MIA PaCa-2 cells, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at M-phase more efficiently than P-CYP and P-DTX monotherapies. Furthermore, the combination therapy of P-CYP and P-DTX significantly reduced Hh component expression compared to P-CYP alone as determined by Western blot analysis. Lastly, the combination therapy induced greater inhibition of orthotopic pancreatic tumor growth in NSG mice compared to their monotherapies. Combination of polymer conjugated anticancer drug (P-DTX) with polymer conjugated Hh inhibitor (P-CYP) enhanced pancreatic cancer cell killing, apoptosis as well as in vivo tumor growth inhibition with no obvious toxicities.
Artifacts and Errors Associated with the Ubiquitous Presence of Fluorescent Impurities in Carbon Nanodots

Fluorescent carbon dots have attracted tremendous attention owing to their superlative optical properties which suggest opportunities for replacing conventional fluorescent materials in various application fields. Not surprisingly, the rapid pace of publication has been accompanied by a host of critical issues, errors, controversies, and misconceptions associated with these emergent materials, which present significant barriers to elucidating their true nature, substantially hindering the extensive exploitation of these nanomaterials. Of particular interest are expedient, bottom-up pathways to carbon dots starting from molecular precursors (e.g., citric acid, amino acids, and alkylamines), although such routes are associated with generation of a ubiquity of small molecular weight or oligomeric fluorescent byproducts. A primary obstacle to progress is the inadequacy of purification in reported studies, an omission which gives rise to misconceptions about the nature and characteristics of the carbon dots. I...
The Bipolar Quantum: Wave-Particle Duality

It’s high time that we got on to debunking some misconceptions. Let’s start with the wave-particle duality. If you know anything at all about quantum physics, you probably know that tiny objects have both wave-like and particle-like attributes. Sometimes this fact is stated a little too strongly as follows:
“Reliving my Childhood Dream of being a Pokémon Trainer”: An Exploratory Study of College Student Uses and Gratifications Related to Pokémon Go

ABSTRACTPokemon Go is an interactive mobile game that was launched in July 2016. The current exploratory study recruited college students (n = 278) who currently played, no longer played, or had never played Pokemon Go to understand their lived experiences with this game and determine differences in perceived behavioral outcomes of playing between current and past players. The research team implemented a Uses and Gratifications (U&G) theoretical framework and qualitative research design. Three themes were identified through qualitative content analysis and included: (a) limitations to playing Pokemon Go, (b) motivations for playing Pokemon Go, and (c) social consequences of playing Pokemon Go. Results are discussed in connection with U&G.