cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
n3 and n6 polyunsaturated fatty acids differentially modulate prostaglandin E secretion but not markers of lipogenesis in adipocytes

A dramatic rise in the incidence of obesity in the U.S. has accelerated the search for interventions that may impact this epidemic. One recently recognized target for such intervention is adipose tissue, which secretes a variety of bioactive substances including prostaglandins. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) has been shown to decrease lipolysis in adipocytes, but limited studies have explored alternative mechanisms by which PGE2 might impact obesity, such as adipogenesis or lipogenesis. Studies conducted on ApcMin/+ mice indicated that selective inhibition of the cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 enzyme led to significant reductions in fatty acid synthase (FAS) activity in adipose tissue suggesting lipogenic effects of PGE2. To further investigate whether these lipid mediators directly regulate lipogenesis, we used 3T3-L1 adipocytes to determine the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and celecoxib on PGE2 formation and FAS used as a lipogenic marker. Both arachidonic acid (AA) and EPA dose-dependently increased PGE secretion from adipocytes. AA was expectedly more potent and exhibiting at 150 uM dose a 5-fold increase in PGE2 secretion over EPA. Despite higher secretion of PGE by EPA and AA compared to control, neither PUFA significantly altered FAS activity. By contrast both AA and EPA significantly decreased FAS mRNA levels. Addition of celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, significantly decreased PGE2 secretion (p < 0.05) versus control, and also significantly decreased FAS activity (p < 0.05). Unexpectedly, the combination of exogenous PGE2 and celecoxib further decreased the FAS activity compared to PGE2 alone or untreated controls. In conclusion, EPA-mediated inhibition of AA metabolism did not significantly alter FAS activity while both AA and EPA significantly decreased FAS mRNA expression. COX-2 inhibition significantly decreased PGE2 production resulting in a decrease in FAS activity and expression that was not reversed with the addition of exogenous PGE2, suggesting an additional mechanism that is independent of COX-2.
Synergistic effects of multiple carbon fillers on the rheology of liquid crystal polymer based resins

Adding conductive carbon fillers to insulating thermoplastic resin increases composite electrical and thermal conductivity. Often, as much of a single type of carbon filler is added to achieve the desired conductivity, while still allowing the material to be molded into a bipolar plate for a fuel cell. In this study, varying amounts of three different carbons (carbon black, synthetic graphite particles, and carbon fiber) were added to Vectra A950RX liquid crystal polymer. The rheology of resulting single filler composites was tested. In addition, the rheological properties of composites containing combinations of two different carbon fillers were studied via a factorial design. In all cases, viscosity increased with increasing filler volume fraction for all shear rates. Over the range of shear rates studied, the viscosity followed a shear-thinning power law model. The factorial design results indicated that each of the single fillers and all of the two filler combinations caused a statistically significant increase in composite viscosity at a shear rate of 1,000 s−1. The composites containing carbon black and synthetic graphite caused the largest increase in viscosity. It is possible that the highly branched, high surface area structure of carbon black ‘links’ with the synthetic graphite particles, which results in increased composite viscosity. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Hyaluronan binding assay (HBA) vs. sperm penetration assay (SPA): Can HBA replace the SPA test in male partner screening before in vitro fertilization?

Structured abstract: Objective: To determine if a less expensive, easier, and faster to perform HBA test is clinically equal to the more complicated, technically challenging and expensive SPA test as a reliable indicator of sperm fertilizing capacity. Design: Prospective study. Setting: Andrology laboratory within In Vitro Fertilization Program. Patient(s): Semen samples from 26 infertility couples were analyzed. Both, normal and male factor patients were included. Intervention(s): Male partner screening with the HBA and the SPA tests. Main Outcome Measure(s): Relationship between HBA and SPA test results. Result(s): The data obtained in this study showed no statistically significant relationship between the HBA and SPA results. The mean HBA scores 76.3%, 61.3% and 76.8% were statistically not significantly different as compared to patients with negative ( 8) sperm capacitation index values. Conclusion(s): The HBA is not predictive of the results of the SPA. Hence, if the SPA is a reliable indicator of the fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa then the HBA is not and we do not suggest replacing SPA with HBA. Key Words: Hyaluronan-binding assay, sperm penetration assay, male partner screening
On the dual-Kernel, matric convolution integral in Discrete/Continuous control theory; exact, explicit, closed-form expressions for some simple cases

In the generalized-version of modern, MIMO discrete-time control, known as Discrete/Continuous (D/C) Control Theory, the traditional matric convolution integral B in the traditional, exact, discrete-time state-model: x((k +1)T) = Ax(kT)+Bu(kT) is replaced by a more general convolution-matrix BH that has two independent kernels, which evolve in counterflow directions.
Catalase-Peroxidases of Legionella pneumophila: Cloning of the katA Gene and Studies of KatA Function

Legionella pneumophila, the causative organism of Legionnaires' pneumonia, contains two enzymes with catalatic and peroxidatic activity, KatA and KatB. To address the issue of redundant, overlapping, or discrete in vivo functions of highly homologous catalase-peroxidases, the gene for katA was cloned and its function was studied in L. pneumophila and Escherichia coli and compared with prior studies of katB in this laboratory. katA is induced during exponential growth and is the predominant peroxidase in stationary phase. When katA is inactivated, L. pneumophila is more sensitive to exogenous hydrogen peroxide and less virulent in the THP-1 macrophage cell line, similar to katB. Catalatic-peroxidatic activity with different peroxidatic cosubstrates is comparable for KatA and KatB, but KatA is five times more active towards dianisidine. In contrast with these examples of redundant or overlapping function, stationary-phase survival is decreased by 100- to 10,000-fold when katA is inactivated, while no change from wild type is seen for the katB null. The principal clue for understanding this discrete in vivo function was the demonstration that KatA is periplasmic and KatB is cytosolic. This stationary-phase phenotype suggests that targets sensitive to hydrogen peroxide are present outside the cytosol in stationary phase or that the peroxidatic activity of KatA is critical for stationary-phase redox reactions in the periplasm, perhaps disulfide bond formation. Since starvation-induced stationary phase is a prerequisite to acquisition of virulence by L. pneumophila, further studies on the function and regulation of katA in stationary phase may give insights on the mechanisms of infectivity of this pathogen.
Improved Overall Survival in Prostate Cancer With Increasing Dose

Purpose/Objective(s): Patients treated with radiation therapy for prostate adenocarcinoma (PCA) experience both acute and late genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity. Recent publications indicate a possible association between aspirin use and GI toxicity during radiation therapy for PCA. We sought to assess the effect of daily low-dose aspirin on acute and late GI and GU toxicity associated with radiation therapy for PCA in a large patient population. Materials/Methods: We queried an IRB-monitored, prospectively-acquired database of patients treated for PCA at our affiliated hospitals. For patients treated with definitive radiation therapy for PCA, we measured the association between aspirin use and Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) GI/GU toxicity scores. Patient and treatmentrelated factors, such as age, race, total dose, T stage, hormonal therapy, use of pelvic nodal irradiation, length of time with acute toxicity records, and follow-up time were used as covariates. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using ordinal logistic regression models. Results: Between 1991 and 2013, 972 patients were eligible for analysis. 210 patients were on daily low-dose aspirin during treatment. On multivariate analysis, aspirin use was significantly associated with reduced acute GU toxicity (OR 0.73, 95% CI Z 0.55-0.99, p Z 0.040). There was no statistically significant worsening of acute GI (OR 0.77, 95% CI Z 0.581.03, p Z 0.079) or late GU toxicity (OR 0.93, 95% CI Z 0.69-1.25, p Z 0.632) associated with aspirin use. There was a trend for reduced late GI toxicity in patients taking daily aspirin (OR 0.69, 95% CI Z 0.48-1.01, p Z 0.056). Conclusions: Aspirin use was independently associated with reduced acute GU toxicity in patients undergoing radiation therapy for PCA. Late GU and GI toxicity were not worsened by aspirin use during radiation, and late GI toxicity trended towards improvement with aspirin use. While these results require validation in a prospective study, aspirin use during radiation therapy for PCA should be considered, as low-dose aspirin is a safe, inexpensive medication already separately recommended for many patients planned for radiation therapy. Author Disclosure: J.L. Mikell: None.W.A. Hall: None. D.C. Nickleach: None. N.K. Jegadeesh: None. P.J. Rossi: None. A.B. Jani: None.
Different Spatial Scales of Shape Similarity Representation in Lateral and Ventral LOC

We investigated the relationship between stimulus similarity for a set of parameterized shapes and the spatial scale of neural representation within subregions of the lateral occipital complex (LOC) using a carryover functional magnetic resonance imaging design. In ventral but not lateral LOC, a linear recovery from adaptation proportional to shape dissimilarity was seen. In contrast, a strong correspondence of the distributed neural pattern and stimulus similarity was observed in lateral LOC but not ventral LOC. Further, ventral LOC voxels were found to be broadly tuned and represent all aspects of stimulus similarity, whereas lateral LOC voxels were narrowly tuned and preferentially represented the shape of small features rather than their orientation within the shape. The results, indicating a coarse spatial coding of shape features in lateral LOC and a more focused coding of the entire shape space within ventral LOC, may be related to hierarchical models of object processing.
A Capital Budgeting, Mixed Integer, Temporal Programming Model

A temporal model utilizing mixed integer programming was constructed to evaluate investment alternatives in combination with the present value method of capital budgeting. As such it is a first step beyond conventional linear and integer programming in developing relevant capital decision-making models. The procedure permits the consideration of investment in discontinuous (lumpy) inputs which also are interdependent —thus overcomes some of the principle weaknesses of other capital budgeting procedures. The model was tested with a relatively simple five-year model including land and machinery investment alternatives for a cash grain farm and proved capable of handling both the discontinuities and interrelationships. The possibilities of extending the model to include a greater range of alternatives and more complicated interrelationships such as reinvestment of intermediate cash throwoffs also was explored.
Modeling, control and experimental characterization of microbiorobots

In this paper, we describe how motile microorganisms can be integrated with engineered microstructures to develop a micro-bio-robotic system. SU-8 microstructures blotted with swarmer cells of Serratia Marcescens in a monolayer are propelled by the bacteria in the absence of any environmental stimulus. We call such microstructures with bacteria MicroBioRobots (MBRs) and the uncontrolled motion in the absence of stimuli self actuation. Our paper has two primary contributions. First, we demonstrate the control of MBRs using self actuation and DC electric fields, and develop an experimentally validated mathematical model for the MBRs. This model allows us to use self actuation and electrokinetic actuation to steer the MBR to any position and orientation in a planar micro channel. Second, we combine our experimental setup and a feedback control algorithm to steer robots with micrometer accuracy in two spatial dimensions. We describe the fabrication process for MBRs and show experimental results demonstrating actuation and control.
Phylogenetic and functional biomakers as indicators of bacterial community responses to mixed-waste contamination.

Few studies have demonstrated changes in community structurealong a contaminant plume in terms of phylogenetic, functional, andgeochemical changes, and such studies are essential to understand how amicrobial ecosystem responds to perturbations. Clonal libraries ofmultiple genes (SSU rDNA, nirK, nirS, amoA, pmoA, and dsrAB) wereanalyzed from groundwater samples (n=6) that varied in contaminantlevels, and 107 geochemical parameters were measured. Principalcomponents analyses (PCA) were used to compare the relationships betweenthe sites with respect to the biomarker (n=785 for all sequences)distributions and the geochemical variables. A major portion of thegeochemical variance measured between the samples could be accounted forby tetrachloroethene, 99Tc, NO3, SO4, Al, and Th. The PCA based on thedistribution of unique biomarkers resulted in different groupingscompared to the geochemical analysis, but when the SSU rRNA genelibraries were directly compared (?Cxy values) the sites were clusteredin asimilar fashion compared to geochemical measures. The PCA based uponfunctional gene distributions each predicted different relationshipsbetween the sites, and comparisons of Euclidean distances based upondiversity indices for all functional genes (n=432) grouped the sites byextreme or intermediate contaminant levels. The data suggested that thesites with low and high perturbations were functionally more similar thansites with intermediate conditions, and perhaps captured the overallcommunity structure better than amore » single phylogenetic biomarker.Moreover, even though the background site was phylogenetically andgeochemically distinct from the acidic sites, the extreme conditions ofthe acidic samples might be more analogous to the limiting nutrientconditions of the background site. An understanding of microbialcommunity-level responses within an ecological framework would providebetter insight for restoration strategies at contaminated fieldsites.« less
Stability enhancement through reinforcement learning: Load frequency control case study

A multi-agent based control architecture using reinforcement learning is proposed to enhance power system stability. It consists of a layer of local agents and a global agent that coordinates the behavior of the local agents. Load frequency control is chosen as a case study to demonstrate the viability of the proposed concept. Simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of this controller as an online automatic generation controller (AGC) for a two area system, with and without generation rate constraints (GRC).
Nanometer Scale Coherent Current Modulation via a Nanotip Cathode Array and Emittance Exchange

We present particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations of electron bunches with nm scale longitudinal modulation produced using a compact 2-20 MeV LINAC. The modulation is initially imparted in the transverse dimension of the electron bunch with a nano-patterned photo-emitter in an X-band RF gun with 2 MeV exit energy. The electron bunch passes through a 1 m standing wave X-band LINAC which can raise the beam energy up to 20 MeV. The transverse modulation is exchanged into the longitudinal dimension using a double dog-leg emittance exchange setup wit ha5c ell RF deflector cavity. The modulation pitch can be tuned by adjusting the spacing of the nano-patterned photo-emitter or magnification of the transverse pitch with electron optics. The electron beam parameters are optimized to produce coherent XFEL radiation upon interacting with a laser undulator.
Marburg hemorrhagic fever: Report of a case studied by immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy

The histologic and ultrastructural findings in a fatal human case of Marburg hemorrhagic fever are reported. Marburg virus was isolated from fluids and tissues and was identified in tissues by immunohistochemistry and electron and immunoelectron microscopy. The distribution of viral antigen by light level immunohistochemistry correlated with histologic lesions and also with the ultrastructural localization of virions. The tissue distribution and lesions of Marburg virus in this patient were consistent with the disease described in other human Marburg infections. Immunocytochemistry and ultrastructural examination revealed several previously unreported findings. A striking predilection for viral infection of the pancreatic islet cells was noted. In other tissues, macrophages were the primary cellular target for Marburg virus infection, with hepatocytes, adrenal cortical and medullary cells, and fibroblast-like cells also serving as important sites of viral replication. This case demonstrates the value of transmission electron microscopy as a tool for assisting in the definitive diagnosis of Marburg or Ebola hemorrhagic fever, as well as providing insight into the pathogenesis of these agents.
Lesions of the head and neck in patients with AIDS: CT and MR findings.

The CT and/or MR findings were reviewed in 43 patients with head and neck disease; 27 had AIDS, 14 had AIDS-related complex, and two had positive human immunodeficiency virus serologies. Fourteen patients had infections, 15 had tumors, and 15 had benign lymphoid hyperplasia. Deep cervical infections were caused by bacterial and mycobacterial organisms, including Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare . Bacterial infections were clinically more virulent than they would be in immunocompetent patients. Neoplasms included Kaposi sarcoma, lymphoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Benign lymphoid hyperplasia demonstrated enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes, adenoids, and tonsils. Although there was considerable overlap in the imaging characteristics of the various diseases seen, several distinguishing features were noted. Cellulitis, with infiltration and thickening of the subcutaneous fat, was typical of bacterial infections, but was uncommon with tumors or mycobacterial infections. Lymph nodes with necrotic centers were seen with Kaposi sarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and mycobacterial infection, but not with lymphoma or benign lymphoid hyperplasia. Benign adenoidal enlargement is usually symmetric with a flat anterior border, but bulky lesions indistinguishable from tumor were seen in two patients. It is important for radiologists to be aware of the spectrum of head and neck disease in patients with human immunodeficiency virus. The CT and MR assessment can guide biopsy and assist in planning therapy.
Linkage of Bioaccumulation and Biological Effects to Changes in Pollutant Loads in South San Francisco Bay

The developed world has invested billions of dollars in waste treatment since the 1970s; however, changes in ecological or biological responses are rarely associated with reductions in metal pollutants. Here we present a novel, 23yr time series of environmental change from a San Francisco Bay mudflat located 1 km from the discharge of a suburban domestic sewage treatment plant. Samples of surface sediment, the bioindicator Macoma balthica, and metals loading data were used to establish links between discharge, bioaccumulation, and effects. Mean annual Ag concentrations in M. balthica were 106 pglg in 1978 and 3.67 pglg in 1998. Concentrations of Cu declined from 287pglg in 1980 to a minimum of 24pgIg in 1991. Declining Cu bioaccumulation was strongly correlated with decreasing Cu loads from the plant between 1977 and 1998.Relationships with bioaccumulation and total annual precipitation suggested that inputs from nonpoint sources were most important in controlling Zn bioavailability during the same period. Ecoepidemiological criteria were used to associate failed gamete production in M. balthica to a metals-enriched
STATISTICAL ISSUES IN BIOLOGICS SUBMISSIONS TO THE FDA

A major activity of the Biostatistics Branch in the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) is the review of investigational new drug (IND) proposals and product license applications (PLAs) that are central to the drughiologics approval and licensing process. This paper summarizes the recent experience of members of the branch in the statistical review of lNDs and PLAs, with focus on design and analysis issues that have either expedited or delayed the review of these documents. The paper places emphasis on Phase Ill clinical trials, and includes a list of design and analysis items that a statistician may wish to review in preparing statistical documentation for submission to CBER.
Pharmacokinetics of intravenous and oral amitriptyline and its active metabolite nortriptyline in Greyhound dogs.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the pharmacokinetics of amitriptyline and its active metabolite nortriptyline after intravenous (IV) and oral amitriptyline administration in healthy dogs. Study design Prospective randomized experiment. Animals Five healthy Greyhound dogs (three males and two females) aged 2–4 years and weighing 32.5–39.7 kg. Methods After jugular vein catheterization, dogs were administered a single oral or IV dose of amitriptyline (4 mg kg−1). Blood samples were collected at predetermined time points from baseline (0 hours) to 32 hours after administration and plasma concentrations of amitriptyline and nortriptyline were measured by liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analyses were performed. Results Orally administered amitriptyline was well tolerated, but adverse effects were noted after IV administration. The mean maximum plasma concentration (CMAX) of amitriptyline was 27.4 ng mL−1 at 1 hour and its mean terminal half-life was 4.33 hours following oral amitriptyline. Bioavailability of oral amitriptyline was 6%. The mean CMAX of nortriptyline was 14.4 ng mL−1 at 2.05 hours and its mean terminal half-life was 6.20 hours following oral amitriptyline. Conclusions and clinical relevance Amitriptyline at 4 mg kg−1 administered orally produced low amitriptyline and nortriptyline plasma concentrations. This brings into question whether the currently recommended oral dose of amitriptyline (1–4 mg kg−1) is appropriate in dogs.
Acute effects of a commercially-available pre-workout supplement on markers of training: a double-blind study

Pre-workout supplements containing numerous ingredients claim to increase performance and strength. Product-specific research is important for identifying efficacy of combined ingredients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a proprietary pre-workout dietary supplement containing creatine monohydrate, beta-alanine, L-Tarurine, L-Leucine, and caffeine, on anaerobic power, muscular strength, body composition, and mood states. In a double-blind, randomized, matched-pair design, twenty male subjects (mean ± SD; 22.4 ± 9.5 yrs, 76.9 ± 11.2 kg, 22.7 ± 9.5% body fat), consumed either 30 g of a pre-workout supplement (SUP) or maltodextrin placebo (PLC) 30 minutes before a resistance training workout, after completing baseline testing. Body composition was determined via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Subjects completed 12 vertical jumps for height (VJ) and one repetition maximum (1RM) and repetitions to failure lifts on bench (BPM) and leg press (LPM). Finally, subjects completed a Wingate power test on a cycle ergometer [mean power (WMP) and peak power (WPP)]. After baseline testing, participants completed eight days of supplementation and four split-body resistance-training bouts. Side effect questionnaires were completed daily 30 minutes after consuming the supplement. Subjects completed post-supplement testing on Day 8. Data were analyzed utilizing a 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA [treatment (PLC vs SUP) × time (T1 vs T2)] and ninety-five percent confidence intervals. There were no significant treatment × time interactions (p > 0.05). There were no significant changes in %body fat (%BF; ∆-0.43 ± 0.58; p = 0.920), fat mass (∆-2.45 ± 5.72; p = 0.988), or lean body mass (LBM; 10.9 ± 12.2; p = 0.848). 95% CI demonstrated significant LBM increases for both groups. There was a main effect for time for WPP (∆100.5 ± 42.7W; p = 0.001), BPM (∆8.0 ± 12.9 lbs; p = 0.001), and LPM (∆80.0 ± 28.8 lbs; p = 0.001), with no significant differences between treatments. There was no significant difference in mood states between groups or over time. The proprietary pre-workout blend combined with eight days of training did not significantly (ANOVA) improve body composition or performance. While not significant, greater gains in LPM were demonstrated in the SUP group for lean body mass and lower body strength. Future studies should evaluate more chronic effects of proprietary pre-workout blends on total training volume and performance outcomes.
Social Economics: From Search for Identity to Quest for Roots; or, Social Economics: The First 100 Years (or so)

In her popular Development of Economic Analysis, Ingrid Rima writes early on of the “compatibility” of “emphasis on the state as an instrument to achieve socially optimal results…with what has come to be called social economics”. Subsequently (1978, p. 322; 1986, p. 396), she treats of J.M. Clark's “crucial” contribution to the development (1920s/1930s) of a new type of economics he describes as “social”. Similarly, George F. Rohrlich, in his 1970 introductory essay, “The Challenge of Social Economics”, wrote of “The emerging field of social economics”, and noted that “in the United States the term was used in the 1930s and occasionally thereafter”. More recently (1982), Samuel Cameron singles out Mark A. Lutz's 1980 USE contribution, e.g., for neglecting Charles Devas(op. cit., 1876–1907) “as a contributor to the founding of social economics”, while comparing Devas to “the modern social economist”.
Children's Social and Scholastic Lives in Kindergarten: Related Spheres of Influence?.

Evidence from two studies conducted with kindergarten samples (N = 200, M age = 5.58 years; N = 199, M age = 5.47 years) supported a series of interrelated hypotheses derived from a child × environment model of early school adjustment. The findings obtained were consistent with the following inferences: (1) Entry factors, such as children's cognitive maturity and family backgrounds, directly as well as indirectly influence children's behavior, participation, and achievement in kindergarten; (2) as children enter school, their initial behavioral orientations influence the types of relationships they form with peers and teachers; (3) stressful aspects of children's peer and teacher relationships in the school environment adversely impact classroom participation and achievement; and (4) classroom participation is an important prerequisite for achievement during kindergarten. Collectively, these findings illustrate the need to revise prevailing theories of school adjustment, and the research agendas that evolve from these perspectives, so as to incorporate interpersonal risk factors that operate within the school environment.
Postmodern Utopias and Feminist Fictions by Jennifer A. Wagner-Lawlor

Jennifer A. Wagner-Lawlor’s Postmodern Utopias and Feminist Fictions uses feminist standpoint theory as a way to think through the radical potential of utopian literature produced in the late twent...
Fire, Big Animals, and Interactions

The preceding chapter concentrated on physical factors, especially geology, soils, landform, and hydrology, which create or maintain grassland within the South. In this chapter I consider a range of abiotic and biotic processes and their interactions. These processes include two major positive feedbacks—fire and large herbivores—identified in the general model as reinforcing and accelerating grassland development following a shift to a drier or more seasonal climate. Large grazing and browsing herbivores abounded within North American grasslands, including southern grasslands, for millions of years. That southern grasslands contain a mix of grazing-adapted rhizomatous (sod-forming) grasses and bunchgrasses suggests that megaherbivores influenced the development of these communities. At times the influence of herbivores may have surpassed the role of fire. Megaherbivores had natural predators, which probably exerted top-down control over their populations and affected their evolution of antipredator morphologies and behaviors over long spans of time.
Marx's Critique of Utilitarianism

(1981). Marx's Critique of Utilitarianism. Canadian Journal of Philosophy: Vol. 11, Supplementary Volume 7: Marx and Morality, pp. 193-220.
Entangled photons

Based on the quantum behavior of entangled photon pairs generated via spontaneous parametric down conversion, this paper reviews the concept of effective two-photon wavefunction or biphoton wavepacket and emphasize the very different physics associated with the entangled two-photon system and with its "individual" subsystems. Experimental approaches for Bell state preparation, pumped by continuous wave and ultrashort pulse, and the propagation of biphoton wavepacket in dispersive media are discussed.
Like and like together: Perceived salient similarity in high-quality mentoring relationships

Despite the belief that similarity plays a fundamental role in the development of relationships, research on the role of similarity in mentoring relationships has been inconclusive. Motivated by these inconclusive findings, we leverage insights from theories of identity and positive organizational scholarship to advance an alternative view of similarity, perceived salient similarity, which accounts for multiple identities and the important role that context plays in shaping perceptions. Then, we propose a model that illustrates the role that perceived similarity plays in the development and sustainment of high-quality mentoring relationships, which gives equal weight to both protege and mentor perceptions and outcomes.
MELUS Forum: Charles W. Chesnutt’s “Future American”

At the turn of the last century, Booker T. Washington became white America's favorite black spokesman when he proposed a segregationist solution to the racial problems of this country. In his Atlanta Exposition speech of 1895, he argued for racial accommodation through racial separation, saying: "In all things that are purely social we can be as separate as the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress."1 At about the same time, however, Washington's friend and critic Charles W. Chesnutt, the first black American novelist and short-story writer to be given serious literary attention, was advancing a very different racial theory.2In various articles and speeches, Chesnutt explicitly advocated the revolutionary-and highly unpopular-idea that miscegenation and intermarriage were the answer to racial problems in America and elsewhere. If all people were the same color, he reasoned, race could no longer serve as a basis for human disagreement, and racial conflict, at least, would necessarily disappear. Chesnutt made his most definitive and comprehensive statement on racial amalgamation-a major theme throughout his fiction-in "The Future American," a series of three articles published by the Boston Evening Transcript in the late summer of 1900.3 Although this newspaper generally supported the racial policies of Booker T. Washington, literary editor Joseph Edgar Chamberlin solicited the articles from Chesnutt after recalling a conversation with the novelist about a future, amalgamated American race.4 Once his Transcript series was in print, Chesnutt considered the subject of miscegenation "generally opened up for discussion, and inferentially for literary treatment."5 The appearance of these articles virtually coincided with the publication of his first novel, The House Behind the Cedars (1900), which makes the same racial argument in fictional form. The "Future American" series, then, has both historical and literary importance. It reveals a largely-overlooked side of Chesnutt the social critic and racial crusader, and also sheds new light on Chesnutt the writer. All three Transcript articles are reprinted here in their entirety to make them readily accessible to scholars and to provide a more complete picture of Charles W. Chesnutt.
Impact of contaminated nanoparticles on the non-monotonous change in the concentration of mobile ions in liquid crystals

ABSTRACTThe ionic purity of nanoparticles can affect electrical properties of liquid crystals in very unusual ways. While 100% pure nanoparticles can only decrease the concentration of mobile ions in liquid crystals by means of adsorption/desorption processes, nano-dopants contaminated with ions can lead to the increase, decrease and no change in the concentration of ions. Moreover, these changes can exhibit non-monotonous behaviour as a function of the nanoparticle loading. The level of the liquid crystal contamination or purification, achieved by doping them with nanoparticles, is always limited by the physical quantity called the critical concentration of ions. From applied perspectives, results presented in this paper can be used in the selection of nano-materials, the most suitable for the liquid crystal purification.
X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy of Polytetrafluoroethylene Thin Films Grown By Pulsed Laser Deposition

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films were prepared by laser ablation of bulk PTFE targets using a Nd-YAG laser (4th. harmonic). Both low and high molecular weight PTFE targets were used. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy of the deposited films indicates that under certain deposition conditions it is possible to transfer the material of correct composition from the target onto the substrate. Films ablated with lower laser fluence were fluorine deficient. Fluorine deficiency leads to the formation of CF, CHF, and crosslinked carbon impurities. The background gas in the deposition chamber does not seem to have much effect on the composition. Films deposited with either Ar or CF 4 as the background gas have similar compositions. The oxygen concentration of the films decreases with the increase in the laser fluence. At the highest fluence used, 1.5 J/cm 2 , the O concentration was less than 1% regardless of the molecular weight of the target material.
Symmetry tuning of a near one-dimensional 2-shock platform for code validation at the National Ignition Facility

We introduce a new quasi 1-D implosion experimental platform at the National Ignition Facility designed to validate physics models as well as to study various Inertial Confinement Fusion aspects such as implosion symmetry, convergence, hydrodynamic instabilities, and shock timing. The platform has been developed to maintain shell sphericity throughout the compression phase and produce a round hot core at stagnation. This platform utilizes a 2-shock 1 MJ pulse with 340 TW peak power in a near-vacuum Au Hohlraum and a CH ablator capsule uniformly doped with 1% Si. We have performed several inflight radiography, symmetry capsule, and shock timing experiments in order to tune the symmetry of the capsule to near round throughout several epochs of the implosion. Adjusting the relative powers of the inner and outer cones of beams has allowed us to control the drive at the poles and equator of the capsule, thus providing the mechanism to achieve a spherical capsule convergence. Details and results of the tuning e...
Beyond the Cell: Using Multiscalar Topics to Bring Interdisciplinarity into Undergraduate Cellular Biology Courses

This essay discusses bringing interdisciplinarity into undergraduate cellular biology courses through the use of multiscalar topics.
RESEARCH ON FLOOD FORECAST OPERATION SCHEME WITH DOUBLE INDICATORS FOR ANKANG RESERVOIR

With the improvement of rainfall forecasting level,reservoir forecast operation on rainfall has drawn more and more attention.In this paper,through analyzing the feasibility of flood control operation for Ankang reservoir and taking "total forecast information of cumulative net rain" as main indicator and "reservoir water level" as auxiliary indicator,we set reservoir forecast operation rule with double indicators for Ankang reservoir by "gradually adjusting method",then regulated flood design and actual flood.Results show that water level of reservoir fell in advance below the flood control level,the capacity of the flood control increased,discharge in the peak stage reduced and the highest level in forecast operation was lower than that in normal operation,which improved the flood control ability.At the same time,we selected different initial water level to regulate flood design and actual flood,and chose the more appropriate one and analyzed the risk in forecast and normal operation.Results show that initial water level increased,the risk of forecast also increased but under the normal operation.Thus,we proposed that flood control level could be set at 326 m to realize floodwater resources utilization.
An adjustable single degree-of-freedom system to guide natural walking movement for rehabilitation

Author(s): Tsuge, BY; McCarthy, JM | Abstract: This paper presents a linkage system designed to guide a natural ankle trajectory with the corresponding foot orientation. A six-bar linkage was designed to coordinate the joint angles of an RR chain (R denotes a revolute or hinged joint) that models the leg to achieve the desired ankle trajectory. The design is shown to be adjustable to meet a range of trajectories obtained in an individual's normal gait. Control of the foot position is obtained using a cam-driven parallel chain that has the same input as the six-bar linkage. The design of the linkage was carried out using linkage synthesis theory and optimization methods. The result is a one degree-of-freedom system that guides a natural walking movement of the leg and foot. A solid model of the complete device is presented. The results of this research provide a procedure that focuses on the kinematics and mechanical design of a device named the UCI gait mechanism.
Correlation between polymorphisms of DC-SIGN and SIGNR gene and susceptibility of HIV-1

Objective To explore the correlation of low susceptibility to HIV-1 with gene polymorphism of DC-SIGN and DC-SIGNR. Methods One hundred and sixty normal controls, 267 HIV-1 infected individuals and 37 ES were included in the study. The repeated sequences of DC-SIGN and DC-SINGR were amplificated by PCR and analyzed. Results Genotype 7/7 was the primary genotype of DC-SIGN alleles showed low polymorphism among the three groups. Genotype 7/7 was the primary genotype of DC-SIGNR and more non 7/7 genotypes were identified among the three groups. The analysis of polymorphism information content showed that DC-SIGNR alleles had high polymorphism. The frequency of allele 6 of ES people was lower than that of HIV-1 infected individuals (P0.05) and normal controls (P0.05). Conclusions The present study showed that DC-SIGN alleles had low polymorphism in Chineses and it has little research significance. DC-SIGNR alleles had high polymorphism in Chinese and the low frequency of allele 6 may be correlated with low susceptibility to HIV-1.
Loading flexible manufacturing systems: a heuristic algorithm

Abstract In this study, heuristic algorithms are developed for loading Flexible Manufacturing Systems. The heuristic approach is an efficient way of planning the FMS with multiple nonlinear loading objectives.
Intracellular loss of free alpha chains in beta thalassemia.

THE thalassaemia syndromes are associated with unbalanced synthesis of the globin chains of haemoglobin A (α2β2) (refs. 1–3). In cells of patients with α thalassaemia, there is a relative deficiency of α chain production; as a consequence, β chain tetramers known as haemoglobin H are formed and can be found in considerable quantities in the cells of these patients4. In the cells of patients with β thalassaemia, there is a marked decrease in β chain synthesis3,5,6, while α chain synthesis continues at a normal rate7. This leads to an accumulation of newly synthesized α chains which are not present in haemoglobins A or F, but can be characterized as α chain aggregates, ranging from monomers to tetramers, in the soluble fraction of the cell8,9. In spite of this biosynthetic evidence for the production of large amounts of α chain aggregates in the cells of patients with thalassaemia major (the homozygous condition) and minor (the heterozygous condition), intact α chains have not been reported in the cells of patients with thalassaemia minor, and are present in only small amounts in some cases of thalassaemia major10. One explanation of this is that the cells containing the greatest number of α chains uncombined with β or γ chains are preferentially destroyed in the bone marrow, or by the spleen or liver when they reach the peripheral blood11. On the other hand, the reticulocytes which survive in peripheral blood synthesize more α chains than β or γ chains3,5,6. This suggests the alternative possibility that α chains unassociated with β or γ chains might be selectively degraded by intracellular enzymatic proteolysis. Selective proteolytic digestion of normal globin chains has not been reported to date. Our results reported here, however, indicate that α chains synthesized in the cells of patients with β thalassaemia undergo significant intracellular proteolysis, while those present in non-thalassaemic cells do not.
TOXOPLASMOSIS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH AIDS

Toxoplasmosis remains an important complication of AIDS. Recent advances in both diagnosis and treatment have decreased the immediate mortality. New innovations in prophylaxis will ultimately decrease incidence of this disease.
Model-Based Policy Analysis to Mitigate Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A wide range of modeling methods have been used to inform health policies. In this chapter, we describe three models for understanding the complexities of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a major mental disorder. The models are: (1) a qualitative model describing the social and psychological complexities of PTSD treatment; (2) a system dynamics model of a population of PTSD patients in the military and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); and (3) a Monte Carlo simulation model of PTSD prevalence and clinical demand over time among the OEF/OIF population. These models have two characteristics in common. First, they take systems approaches. In all models, we set a large boundary and look at the whole system, incorporating both military personnel and veterans. Second, the models are informed by a wide range of qualitative and quantitative data. Model I is rooted in qualitative data, and models II and III are calibrated to several data sources. These models are used to analyze the effects of different policy alternatives, such as more screening, more resiliency, and better recruitment procedures, on PTSD prevalence. They also provide analysis of healthcare costs in the military and the VA for each policy. Overall, the developed models offer examples of modeling techniques that incorporate a wide range of data sources and inform policy makers in developing programs for mitigating PTSD, a major premise of policy informatics.
Promoting Early Childhood Development in the Pediatric Medical Home

The pediatric profession has been challenged to rethink the schedule, content, and structure of well-child care. There is a growing recognition of the need to include a focus on promoting healthy social and emotional development in the context of the parent–child relationship to minimize exposure to toxic stress and reduce the later burden of adult disease. Multiple opportunities exist for expanding the range of services delivered in the pediatric medical home and for strengthening community connections to advance the goal of supporting families to promote early childhood development. A range of opportunities for transforming the pediatric role in promoting early childhood development are discussed.
Chapter 39 – Antigen-based facts

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the usefulness of the effect of different enzymes on antigens in antibody identification. Substrate specificity of selected enzymes for peptide and CHO bonds is presented. Usefulness of the effect of enzymes and DTT on antigens in antibody identification is discussed. The chapter presents the reactivity of antigen-positive RBCs after treatment with ficin/papain or DTT. Effect of acid on antigen expression and effect of chloroquine diphosphate on antigen expression are also discussed in the chapter. The chapter discusses antigens with variable expression on different RBCs in the same sample and on RBCs from different donors. The chapter also discusses blood group antigens absent (altered) on selected RBC phenotypes. Low prevalence antigens present in certain ethnic populations are also discussed.
Sapphire Optical Fibers

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of sapphire optical fibers. The use of sapphire fiber as an optical waveguide is driven by its capability of transmitting light radiation at longer wavelengths into the infrared (IR) than glass-based fibers coupled with some of its superior physical and mechanical properties. The two most popular methods employed to grow single-crystal sapphire fiber are laser-heated pedestal growth (LHPG) and the edge-defined film-fed growth (EFG). The EFG method uses a reservoir containing molten source material to continuously supply the growth of a single-crystal sapphire structure. Unlike the LHPG method, the melt in the EFG method is contained in a molybdenum crucible, and the cross-section of the sapphire crystal is determined by the surface configuration of the molybdenum die anchored in the melt. Sapphire is a brittle material, and the flexibility and strength of sapphire fiber decrease at high temperatures. Sapphire is among the hardest of natural minerals and is rated as a 9 on the Mohs scale. Despite this property, because of the brittle nature of sapphire, fiber handling results in surface damage and consequent reduction in strength.
Horizon based orientation estimation for planetary surface navigation

Planetary rovers navigate in extreme environments for which a Global Positioning System (GPS) is unavailable, maps are restricted to relatively low resolution provided by orbital imagery, and compass information is often lacking due to weak or not existent magnetic fields. However, an accurate rover localization is particularly important to achieve the mission success by reaching the science targets, avoiding negative obstacles visible only in orbital maps, and maintaining good communication connections with ground. This paper describes a horizon solution for precise rover orientation estimation. The detected horizon in imagery provided by the on board navigation cameras is matched with the horizon rendered over the existing terrain model. The set of rotation parameters (roll, pitch yaw) that minimize the cost function between the two horizon curves corresponds to the rover estimated pose.
GSG1L regulates the strength of AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission but not AMPA receptor kinetics in hippocampal dentate granule neurons.

GSG1L is a newly identified AMPA receptor (AMPAR) auxiliary subunit and plays a unique role in the regulation of AMPAR trafficking and function in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. However, its ro...