cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neurosecretory activity in rats under conditions of continuous light or darkness.

Cytological study of the posterior pituitary and hypothalamic areas of male and female rats kept under usual laboratory conditions (controls), in continuous light, or in constant darkness for eight weeks revealed differences in ncurosecretory activity. While the paraventricular nuclei seemed to be unaffected by the varied light treatment, the cells of the supraoptic nuclei were largest and appeared to most active in the lighted rats, smallest and least active in the rats housed in darkness. The amount of neurosecretory material in the hypothalamo-hypophysial tract in two areas, namely, in the region ventral to the supraoptic nuclei and in the median eminence, was estimated from serial sections. It was apparent that Gomori-positive substance was most abundant and occurred in larger clumps along the hypothalamo-hypophysial tract in the continuously lighted rats. It was least in amount in the rats kept in darkness. The neurosecretory materialin the posterior lobe was plentiful in the controls, but was reduce...
Search for Evidence of Parity Nonconservation in π + -Meson Production by Polarized Protons

A search was made for evidence of parity nonconservation in ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$-meson production in aluminum. Mesons of mean energy 40 Mev were produced at 92\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} by 209-Mev polarized protons, and the numbers of mesons emitted parallel and antiparallel to the polarization direction were compared. No significant asymmetry was found, indicating that the parity-mixing coefficient ${F}^{2}\ensuremath{\le}2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$.
cGMP-independent mechanism of airway smooth muscle relaxation induced byS-nitrosoglutathione

This study tested the hypothesis that the NO donorS-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) relaxes canine tracheal smooth muscle (CTSM) in part by a cGMP-independent process that involves reversible oxidation o...
PAWE-3D: visualizing power for association with error in case--control genetic studies of complex traits

Summary: A website that plots power and sample size calculations over a range of up to eight parameters (including diagnostic misclassification error parameters) for two commonly used statistical tests of genetic association, the linear trend test and the genotypic test of association. Availability: This method is made available via the website http://linkage.rockefeller.edu/pawe3d/ Contact: pawe3d@linkage.rockefeller.edu
Challenging knowledge hierarchies: working toward sustainable development in Sri Lanka's energy sector

This paper analyzes sustainable development practices within Sri Lanka’s energy sector. It directs attention to how expertise functions in development decision making in ways that can unintentionally inhibit sustainable development. Understanding expertise as merely specialized knowledge clouds its role as a social activity. In practice, expertise is a combination of knowledge and authority, and expert knowledge exists within a hierarchically ordered authority structure of diverse knowledge domains—what is referred to here as “knowledge hierarchies.” Knowledge hierarchies exclude the participation of some relevant knowledge domains, and thereby preclude the possibility of local sustainable development. The Energy Forum of Sri Lanka, a small renewable energy advocacy organization, strives to enable sustainability by going beyond facile calls for greater inclusion to confront the mechanisms of exclusion. The paper documents three of the Energy Forum’s development interventions intended to level out the knowledge hierarchy that inhibits sustainable energy development in Sri Lanka. Drawing insights from the Energy Forum’s approach, the paper argues that experts who wish to contribute to sustainable development must attend to the knowledge hierarchies in which they operate to ensure that their own authority does not exclude other relevant knowledge domains.
Spectral LWIR imaging for remote face detection

We show the utility of hyperspectral (HS) Longwave IR (LWIR) imaging for remote sensing human face detection. A proof of principle experimentation considers a limited but challenging dataset of calibrated LWIR HS data cubes for four skin tone diverse human subjects, standing outdoors at three distinct ranges. An algorithm is developed to capitalize on two spectral features suitable for small sample size targets, using all of the available bands. The algorithm maps the two spectral features—each consisting of sample sizes significantly smaller than the number of frequency bands, as it simultaneously generates two large sets (reference and testing) of independent contrasts in a lower dimensional subspace. The large sample size in the new subspace allows for the development of a strong hypothesis test that functions as a canonical target detector. Results using real HS imagery are encouraging for a specific face detection scenario, where the range is assumed to be known a priori—200, 300, 400ft.
Economic Geography: A Contemporary Introduction – By Neil M. Coe, Philip F. Kelly, and Henry W. C. Yeung

This is not a traditional textbook. Rather it is intended to serve as a resource for first- or second-year students, providing interpretations of contemporary debates and the work of economic geogr...
The origin and distribution of HAPs elements in relation to maceral composition of the A1 lignite bed (Paleocene, Calvert Bluff Formation, Wilcox Group), Calvert mine area, east-central Texas

Abstract The origin and distribution of twelve potentially Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs; As, Be, Cd, Cr, Co, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, and U) identified in the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments were examined in relation to the maceral composition of the A1 bed (Paleocene, Calvert Bluff Formation, Wilcox Group) of the Calvert mine in east-central Texas. The 3.2 m-thick A1 bed was divided into nine incremental channel samples (7 lignite samples and 2 shaley coal samples) on the basis of megascopic characteristics. Results indicate that As, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Sb, and U are strongly correlated with ash yield and are enriched in the shaley coal samples. We infer that these elements are associated with inorganic constituents in the coal bed and may be derived from a penecontemporaneous stream channel located several kilometers southeast of the mining block. Of the HAPs elements studied, Mn and Hg are the most poorly correlated to ash yield. We infer an organic association for Mn; Hg may be associated with pyrite. The rest of the trace elements (Be, Co, and Se) are weakly correlated with ash yield. Further analytical work is necessary to determine the mode of occurrence for these elements. Overall, concentrations of the HAPs elements are generally similar to or less than those reported in previous studies of lignites of the Wilcox Group, east-central region, Texas. Petrographic analysis indicates the following ranges in composition for the seven lignite samples: liptinites (5–8%), huminites (88–95%), and inertinites (trace amounts to 7%). Samples from the middle portion of the A1 bed contain abundant crypto-eugelinite compared to the rest of the samples; this relationship suggests that the degradation of plant material was an important process during the development of the peat mire. With the exception of Hg and Mn, relatively low levels of the HAPs elements studied are found in the samples containing abundant crypto-eugelinite. We infer that the peat-forming environment for this portion of the coal bed was very wet with minimal detrital input. Relatively high concentrations of crypto-humotelinite were found in samples from the top and base of the coal bed. The presence of abundant crypto-humotefinite in this part of the coal bed suggests the accumulation of wood-rich peat under conditions conducive to a high degree of tissue preservation in the peat mire. Although several of the trace elements (Be, Co, Ni, and Sb) exhibit enrichment in these samples, they are not necessarily chemically associated with humotelinite. We infer that these elements, with the exception of Be, are possibly associated with deposition of the roof and floor rock of the coal bed; however, further analytical work would be necessary to confirm this hypothesis. Beryllium may have an organic origin.
Distribution of calcitonin gene-related peptide immunoreactivity in relation to the rat central somatosensory projection.

The distribution of the neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) was studied in relation to the known subcortical somatosensory pathways and contiguous systems in the central nervous system (CNS) of rats by using peroxidase histochemical methods in order to relate zones of immunoreactivity (IR) to cytoarchitecture. CGRP is the most ubiquitous peptide found to date in sensory ganglion cells: principally small and medium-size neurons emitting thin axons inferred to be largely nociceptive in function on the basis of the peripheral distribution of their terminals. Its apparent absence in sympathetic axons provides an especially useful sensory marker. The distribution of CGRP-IR axons displays remarkable selectivity at each level of the CNS. The trigeminal root distributes axons primarily to the pericornual layers (laminae I and II) of spinal V nucleus caudalis and to subnucleus oralis, evading the subnucleus interpolaris and contributing only few axons to principal V. Although there are only a few CGRP-IR somata at each level, heavily labeled axon trajectories can be traced to the nuclei of the solitary tract, the parabrachial nuclei, several sectors of the caudal medial thalamus, and the central nucleus of the amygdala. A sector of labeled neuron somata lies contiguous to each of these axon terminal zones, the largest of which is a thalamic nucleus containing cells of distinctive dendritic architecture extending from the periaqueductal gray across the posterior group nuclei to the peripeduncular nucleus, forming a linear array at the mesodiencephalic junction. The relation of CGRP-IR axonal distribution to spinothalamic, visceral, and gustatory systems is discussed in the context of a specialized „chemosensory” component of the thin-fiber somatosensory system.
Total score or subscales in scoring the acromegaly quality of life questionnaire: using novel confirmatory methods to compare scoring options

Context Impaired quality of life (QoL) is common in patients after long-term remission of acromegaly. The acromegaly QoL (AcroQoL) is a disease-specific QoL questionnaire for patients diagnosed with acromegaly. The summed total score is the most frequently used scoring method of the AcroQoL. However, the total score does not capture all of the aspects of QoL that are outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO). Objective The aim of the present study was to use novel and sophisticated confirmatory methods to identify the optimal number of subscales for the AcroQoL. Design and patients Patients in remission from acromegaly were recruited from the Leiden University Medical Center and were asked to complete the AcroQoL (Dutch version) questionnaire (n=72). Results The three-subscale version of the AcroQoL consisted of subscales reflecting Physical Complaints, Appearance Issues, and Personal Relations Issues related to QoL. Model fit indices (i.e., comparative fit index and root mean square error of approximation) indicated that the three-subscale version represented the data better than the total score and two-subscale models did. A χ(2) difference test indicated that the three-subscale model was a significantly better fit than the total score and two-subscale models were (P Conclusion Model fit and comparison statistics indicate that the three-subscale model is a better scoring method than the total score and two-subscale versions of the AcroQoL are. The three-subscale version also better reflected the WHO's recommendation of using a multidimensional measure of QoL than the total score and two-subscale methods did. Therefore, it is recommended that values from the three-subscales of the AcroQoL be reported in future research.
Statistical sensor fusion analysis of near-IR polarimetric and thermal imagery for the detection of minelike targets

We present an analysis of statistical model based data-level fusion for near-IR polarimetric and thermal data, particularly for the detection of mines and mine-like targets. Typical detection-level data fusion methods, approaches that fuse detections from individual sensors rather than fusing at the level of the raw data, do not account rationally for the relative reliability of different sensors, nor the redundancy often inherent in multiple sensors. Representative examples of such detection-level techniques include logical AND/OR operations on detections from individual sensors and majority vote methods. In this work, we exploit a statistical data model for the detection of mines and mine-like targets to compare and fuse multiple sensor channels. Our purpose is to quantify the amount of knowledge that each polarimetric or thermal channel supplies to the detection process. With this information, we can make reasonable decisions about the usefulness of each channel. We can use this information to improve the detection process, or we can use it to reduce the number of required channels.
Cervicovaginal Levels of Lactoferrin, Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor, and RANTES and the Effects of Coexisting Vaginoses in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-Seronegative Women with a High Risk of Heterosexual Acquisition of HIV Infection

Innate immune factors in mucosal secretions may influence human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) transmission. This study examined the levels of three such factors, genital tract lactoferrin [Lf], secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor [SLPI], and RANTES, in women at risk for acquiring HIV infection, as well as cofactors that may be associated with their presence. Women at high risk for HIV infection meeting established criteria (n = 62) and low-risk controls (n = 33) underwent cervicovaginal lavage (CVL), and the CVL fluid samples were assayed for Lf and SLPI. Subsets of 26 and 10 samples, respectively, were assayed for RANTES. Coexisting sexually transmitted infections and vaginoses were also assessed, and detailed behavioral information was collected. Lf levels were higher in high-risk (mean, 204 ng/ml) versus low-risk (mean, 160 ng/ml, P = 0.007) women, but SLPI levels did not differ, and RANTES levels were higher in only the highest-risk subset. Lf was positively associated only with the presence of leukocytes in the CVL fluid (P < 0.0001). SLPI levels were lower in women with bacterial vaginosis [BV] than in those without BV (P = 0.04). Treatment of BV reduced RANTES levels (P = 0.05). The influence, if any, of these three cofactors on HIV transmission in women cannot be determined from this study. The higher Lf concentrations observed in high-risk women were strongly associated with the presence of leukocytes, suggesting a leukocyte source and consistent with greater genital tract inflammation in the high-risk group. Reduced SLPI levels during BV infection are consistent with an increased risk of HIV infection, which has been associated with BV. However, the increased RANTES levels in a higher-risk subset of high-risk women were reduced after BV treatment.
Brief Exposure to Progesterone During a Critical Neonatal Window Prevents Uterine Gland Formation in Mice

Uterine gland development (adenogenesis) in mice begins on Postnatal Day (PND) 5 and is completed in adulthood. Adenogenesis depends on estrogen receptor 1, and progesterone (P4) inhibits mitogenic effects of estrogen on uterine epithelium. This progestin-induced effect has been used to inhibit uterine gland development; progestin treatment of ewes for 8 wk from birth has produced infertile adults lacking uterine glands. The goals of the present study were to determine if a window of susceptibility to P4-mediated inhibition of uterine gland development exists in mice and whether early P4 treatment abolishes adenogenesis and fertility. Mice were injected daily with P4 (40 μg/g) or vehicle during various postnatal windows. Adenogenesis, cell proliferation, and expression of key morphoregulatory transcripts and proteins were examined in uteri at PNDs 10 and 20. Additionally, adenogenesis was assessed in isolated uterine epithelium. Treatment during PNDs 3-9, 5-9, or 3-7 abolished adenogenesis at PND 10, whereas treatments during PNDs 3-5 and 7-9 did not. Critically, mice treated during PNDs 3-9 lacked glands in adulthood, indicating that adenogenesis did not resume after this treatment. However, glands were present by PND 20 and later following treatment during PNDs 5-9 or 3-7, whereas treatment during PNDs 10-16 produced partial inhibition of adenogenesis at PND 20 and later. Epithelial proliferation at PND 10 was low following P4 treatment (PNDs 3-9) but exceeded that in controls at PND 20, indicating a rebound of epithelial proliferation following treatment. Messenger RNA for Wnt, Fzd, and Hox genes was altered by neonatal P4 treatment. All groups cycled during adulthood. Mice treated with P4 during PNDs 3-9, but not during other developmental windows, showed minimal fertility in adulthood. In summary, brief P4 treatment (7 days) during a critical neonatal window (PNDs 3-9) transiently inhibited epithelial proliferation but totally and permanently blocked adenogenesis and adult fertility. This resulted in permanent loss of uterine glands and, essentially, total infertility during adulthood. The narrow window for inhibition of adenogenesis identified here may have implications for development of this methodology as a contraceptive strategy for animals.
The Role of MicroRNAs and Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 in Proliferative Lupus Nephritis.

Objective To understand the roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in proliferative lupus nephritis (LN). Methods A high-throughput analysis of the miRNA pattern of the kidneys of LN patients and controls was performed by molecular digital detection. Urinary miRNAs were measured by quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Target gene expression in human mesangial cells was evaluated by arrays and qRT-PCR. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in kidney samples from LN patients and in a murine model of lupus. Urinary levels of HER-2, monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Levels of the miRNAs miR-26a and miR-30b were decreased in the kidneys and urine of LN patients. In vitro these miRNAs controlled mesangial cell proliferation, and their expression was regulated by HER-2. HER-2 was overexpressed in lupus-prone NZM2410 mice and in the kidneys of patients with LN, but not in other mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritides. HER-2 was found to be up-regulated by interferon-α and interferon regulatory factor 1. Urinary HER-2 was increased in LN and reflected disease activity, and its levels correlated with those of 2 other recognized LN biomarkers, MCP-1 and VCAM-1. Conclusion The kidney miRNA pattern is broadly altered in LN, which contributes to uncontrolled cell proliferation. Levels of the miRNAs miR-26a and miR-30b are decreased in the kidneys and urine of LN patients, and they directly regulate the cell cycle in mesangial cells. The levels of these miRNAs are controlled by HER-2, which is overexpressed in NZM2410 mice and in the kidneys and urine of LN patients. HER-2, miR-26a, and miR-30b are thus potential LN biomarkers, and blocking HER-2 may be a promising new strategy to decrease cell proliferation and damage in this disease.
Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis Causing Severe Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure Treated With Sequential Whole-Lung Lavage Utilizing Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Case Report and Review

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is characterized by the accumulation of proteinaceous material in the alveoli leading to varying degrees of impairment in gas exchange. Generally, the degree of hypoxemia is mild, and it is rare to have respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. We present a 53-year-old woman with the most severe degree of hypoxemia associated with alveolar proteinosis reported in the English-language adult literature. Her therapy of sequential whole-lung lavage performed while receiving venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in one operative session is the first reported successful use of this approach.
Symbolic dynamics for localization of the subcortical structures during deep brain stimulation surgery for Parkinson´s disease

Symbolic dynamics proved to be adequate for the study of complex systems and to describe dynamic aspects within time series. Microelectrode recordings (MER) obtained during deep brain stimulation surgery for Parkinson's disease can be considered as time series. In this study, symbolic dynamics was applied to MER obtained from subcortical structures: thalamus, zona incerta, subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra. The MER were transformed to symbols sequences, next, words of three symbols are constructed and the occurrences of these words are quantified with entropy measures. The results obtained showed that the entropy measures were able to differentiate statistically the changes in neural activity between the subcortical structures. In conclusion, the application of this type of measures could be used in the process of localization of the subcortical structures and mainly the subthalamic nucleus (STN) for neurostimulation.
Event-Related Brain Potentials, Eye Movements, and Reading

This article compares studies that use event-related brain potential (ERP) and eye movement data to examine changes in reading behavior when a text is read twice. Although the types of information provided by these methodologies are different, both indicate that rereading a text facilitates many aspects of processing. ERPs provide a method for measuring comprehension and memory processes separately, while eye movements provide a continuous record of performance and allow changes in reading behavior to be localized to specific words. The results from these studies are compatible. However, converging evidence is not always found when different paradigms are contrasted, and diverging results can provide important information. To facilitate comparison across experiments, we suggest using a common set of materials for both paradigms. We conclude that comparing the results of research based on more than one paradigm provides a more complete understanding of the processes involved in reading.
In vitro and in vivo interaction of macrophages from vaccinated and non-vaccinated channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) to Edwardsiella ictaluri.

Abstract Macrophages from catfish vaccinated with an Edwardsiella ictaluri vaccine and macrophages from non-vaccinated catfish were used in in vitro and in vivo studies with red-fluorescent E. ictaluri to assess phagocytic ability, reactive oxygen and nitric oxide production and bactericidal activity. In the in vitro experiment, macrophages were harvested from vaccinated and non-vaccinated fish and then exposed to red-fluorescent E. ictaluri . Results of this study showed that E. ictaluri can survive and replicate in macrophages from non-vaccinated catfish (relative percent killing, RPK, from 0.011 to 0.620 and from −0.904 to 0.042 with macrophage:bacteria ratios of 1:20 and 1:100, respectively) even in the presence of reactive oxygen and nitrogen products. Macrophages from vaccinated fish were significantly ( p E. ictaluri (RPK from 0.656 to 0.978 and from 0.011 to 0.620 with macrophage:bacteria ratios of 1:20 and 1:100, respectively) and produced significantly ( p E. ictaluri to allow the interaction between macrophages and other components of the immune system. After 6 h, macrophages were harvested from the fish and seeded in glass chamber slides and bactericidal activity was measured in vitro. Results showed in vivo interaction of other components of the immune system enhanced bactericidal activity of macrophages from vaccinated fish. In another set of experiments, catfish were intraperitoneally injected with fluorescent bacteria opsonized with immune serum or non-opsonized and necropsied in the first 48 h after bacterial challenge to observe localization of E. ictaluri between vaccinated and non-vaccinated catfish. Vaccinated fish were able to control the dispersion of E. ictaluri in the body and red-fluorescent bacteria were observed only in the spleen, anterior and trunk kidney. In non-vaccinated fish E. ictaluri was able to replicate and invade all organs with the exception of the brain. We further determined that macrophages seeded with E. ictaluri could cause infection in non-vaccinated fish upon reinoculation with in vitro infected-macrophages. Overall, the results indicated that macrophages from vaccinated fish are activated and responsible for rapid clearance of infection upon re-exposure to virulent E. ictaluri .
Systems methodology in sociology

This paper considers systems methodology, using computer-oriented mathematical concepts, in terms of two empirical examples from sociology: suicide and the schooling process. We apply to the two ar...
Gargara genistae (F.) (Membracidae) and Dictyonota fuliginosa Costa (Tingidae): New Records of Two Immigrant, Scotch Broom-Feeding Hemipterans in Western North America

Abstract. New distributional records are given for two Palearctic hemipterans established on Scotch broom, Cytisus scoparius (Fabaceae), in the Pacific Northwest. Additional records for the centrotine membracid Gargara genistae (F) include British Columbia (Vancouver Island), Oregon (seven sites in five counties), and Washington (eight sites in six counties). For the tingid Dictyonota fuliginosa Costa, we give new records from British Columbia (lower mainland and Vancouver Island) and Oregon (five counties) subsequent to the recent (2008) updating of its North American distribution.
Mechanism of action of EM 49, membrane-active peptide antibiotic.

EM 49 (recently renamed octapeptin) is a membrane-active peptide antibiotic that has been reported to affect the structure of bacterial membranes (K. S. Rosenthal, P. E. Swanson, and D. R. Storm, Biochemistry 15: 5783–5792, 1976). In this study, it is shown that the effects of EM 49 on bacterial metabolism are similar to those of uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation. EM 49 stimulated bacterial respiration within a narrow concentration range corresponding to minimum inhibitory concentrations and inhibited respiration at concentrations comparable to minimum biocidal concentrations. In addition, the peptide increased membrane proton permeability and lowered the adenosine 5′-triphosphate pool size. Parallel studies done with the related antibiotic polymyxin B demonstrated that the two peptides differed considerably in their effects on bacterial respiration. In contrast to EM 49, polymyxin B did not stimulate respiration at any concentration. It is proposed that the primary action of EM 49 is to disrupt the selective ion permeability of the cytoplasmic membrane, thereby relaxing the membrane potential.
Isolation of circulating tumor cells using photoacoustic flowmetry and two phase flow

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, yet current diagnostic methods are inadequately sensitive. Patients must wait until secondary tumors form before malignancy can be diagnosed and treatment prescribed. Detection of cells that have broken off the original tumor and flow through the blood or lymph system can provide data for diagnosing and monitoring cancer. Our group utilizes the photoacoustic effect to detect metastatic melanoma cells, which contain the pigmented granule melanin. As a rapid laser pulse irradiates melanoma, the melanin undergoes thermo-elastic expansion and ultimately creates a photoacoustic wave. Thus, melanoma patient's blood samples can be enriched, leaving the melanoma in a white blood cell (WBC) suspension. Irradiated melanoma cells produce photoacoustic waves, which are detected with a piezoelectric transducer, while the optically transparent WBCs create no signals. Here we report an isolation scheme utilizing two-phase flow to separate detected melanoma from the suspension. By introducing two immiscible fluids through a t-junction into one flow path, the analytes are compartmentalized. Therefore, the slug in which the melanoma cell is located can be identified and extracted from the system. Two-phase immiscible flow is a label free technique, and could be used for other types of pathological analytes.
Development of a standalone real-time water level measurement system to support safe navigation along Alaska's arctic coasts

The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Ocean Service (NOS) Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (CO-OPS) is responsible for developing and maintaining the National Water Level Observation Network (NWLON) which consists of over 200 long term observatories throughout all U.S. coasts. CO-OPS continually pursues efforts to identify potential improvements to its observatory network. Many recent studies on global climate change have identified a significant increase in Arctic warming rates. Resulting trends of increased sea ice loss have led to Arctic waterways becoming more accessible during summer seasons. As a result, an increase in maritime transport throughout the region is anticipated for the near future. Presently, Artic waters within the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) have very few navigational support products and services. NOAA, recognizing the changing conditions, anticipates a growing, critical need for real-time oceanographic and meteorological observations across the region. In support of long term modernization plans, CO-OPS has been working on the design, development, and testing of a standalone, real-time water level measurement system for use in remote Arctic coastal regions with very limited infrastructure. Two types of system designs have been identified, for short and long term applications. Both design types include a bottom mounted pressure gauge for the primary source of water level measurements. The long-term system design involves a cable run from an offshore bottom mounted pressure gauge to a small, shore station. The short term system design includes a surface buoy with satellite telemetry and acoustic modem; and a bottom unit consisting of a conductivity, temperature, pressure sensor and acoustic modem. The buoy based system is intended for real-time communications during ice-free periods. Details of the short-term version system design will be presented along with results from a recent field trial conducted in the lower Chesapeake Bay region near Virginia Beach, Virginia during 2014–2015. Plans for continuing system development and test will be discussed.
Approaches to the rational design of selective melanocortin receptor antagonists.

Introduction: When establishing the physiological roles of specific receptors in normal and disease states, it is critical to have selective antagonist ligands for each receptor in a receptor system with several subtypes. The melanocortin receptors have five subtypes referred to as the melanocortin 1 receptor, melanocortin 2 receptor, melanocortin 3 receptor, melanocortin 4 receptor and melanocortin 5 receptor, and they are of critical importance for many aspects of human health and disease. Areas covered: This article reviews the current efforts to design selective antagonistic ligands for the five human melanocortin receptors summarizing the currently published orthosteric and allosteric antagonists for each of these receptors. Expert opinion: Though there has been progress, there are still few drugs available that address the many significant biological activities and diseases that are associated with these receptors, which is possibly due to the lack of receptor selectivity that these designed ligands...
Quantitative Assessment of Safety and Security of System Architectures for Cyberphysical Systems Using the NFR Approach

Cyberphysical systems (CPSs) are an integral part of modern societies since most critical infrastructures are controlled by these systems. CPSs incorporate computer-based and network-based technologies for the monitoring and control of physical processes. Two critically important properties of CPSs are safety and security. It is widely accepted that properties such as safety and security should be considered at the system design phase itself, particularly at the architectural level wherein such properties are embedded in the final system. However, safety and security are interrelated, and there seems to be a lack of techniques that consider both of them together. The nonfunctional requirement (NFR) approach is a technique that allows the simultaneous evaluation of both safety and security at the architectural level. In this paper, we apply the NFR approach to quantitatively evaluate the safety and security properties of an example CPS, i.e., an oil pipeline control system. We conclude that the NFR approach provides practical results that can be used by designers and developers to create safe and secure CPSs.
Consumer Decisions in the Metropolitan Family

ONSUMER decision making is one of the central themes of psychological economics. An extremely important aspect of this problem area is the question of wlo within the family usually makes certain decisions. The present paper is concerned with an analysis of husbandwife roles in arriving at some economic decisions which are frequently faced by the metropolitan family. A considerable amount of research has been directed toward an analysis of the distribution of influence among family members. These investigations have ranged from broad studies of the "balance
Determining the Minimal Clinically Important Difference for 6-Minute Walk Distance in Fibromyalgia.

The aim of this study was to estimate the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for 6-min walk distance (6MWD) in patients with fibromyalgia.Data from a recently completed trial that included 187 patients who completed the 6-min walk test, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), and Short-Form 36 (SF36) at 12 and 36 wks were used to examine longitudinal changes in 6MWD. An anchor-based approach that used linear regression analyses was used to determine the MCID for 6MWD, using the total FIQ score (FIQ-Total) and SF36-physical function domain as clinical anchors.The mean (SD) change in 6MWD from baseline to week 36 was 34.4 (65.2) m (P < 0.001). The anchor-based MCIDs for the 6MWD were 156 and 167 m for the FIQ and SF36-physical function domain, respectively. These MCIDs correspond with clinically meaningful improvements in FIQ (14% reduction) and SF36-physical function domain (10-point increase).The MCID for 6MWD in patients with fibromyalgia was 156 to 167 m. These findings provide the first evidence of the change in 6MWD that is perceived by patients to be clinically meaningful. Further research using other MCID calculation methods is needed to refine estimates of the MCID for 6MWD in patients with fibromyalgia.
Phylogenomic analysis supports a recent change in nitrate assimilation in the White-nose Syndrome pathogen, Pseudogymnoascus destructans

Abstract Cave environments are generally nutrient-poor, but can contain patches of limiting nutrients such as nitrogen in association with bats. Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative agent of White-nose Syndrome in bats, is thought to have recently emerged from cave soil saprotrophs. To determine whether changes in nitrate assimilation from a nutrient-limited to nitrate-rich environment could help explain the emergence of P. destructans as a pathogen, we analyzed the evolution of nitrate assimilation clusters in members of the genus. By screening the genomes of 21 members of the Pseudogymnoascus, we identified a very recent duplication of the high affinity nitrate transporter (NRT2) in P. destructans. Analyses of gene phylogeny, secondary structure, and evolutionary rates suggest the NRT2 paralog is functionally divergent, providing P. destructans a higher capacity for nitrate uptake. Such genomic changes may enhance the growth of P. destructans in bat-associated cave environments.
A Phagostimulant Blend for the Asian Citrus Psyllid

Chemical cues that elicit orientation by the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae), are of interest because it is the primary vector of the causal pathogen of citrus greening disease. Non-pesticidal control methods for D. citri remain a high priority for the citrus industry. While searching for semiochemicals that may be involved in orientation to host plants, we previously identified a blend of formic and acetic acids that stimulated substrate probing by D. citri. Here, we applied geometric mixture designs and response surface modeling to identify and optimize a 3-component blend that further increased the number of salivary sheaths produced by D. citri on a wax substrate containing a 3.5:1.6:1 blend of formic acid, acetic acid, and p-cymene, respectively. No evidence was found for remote orientation by D. citri adults through olfaction to the phagostimulant blends. Increased probing in response to the presence of phagostimulants in the wax matrix occurred after contact with the substrate. Yellow wax beads always attracted more D. citri adults and received more probes compared with white wax beads. Yellow beads containing the 3-component blend of phagostimulants were probed by D. citri 2 to 3 times more often compared with yellow beads alone. The phagostimulant effect also was tested by covering wax beads containing the 3-component blend with a plastic film to minimize olfaction or contact chemoreception by antennation. The plastic film did not affect the probing response, thus suggesting that chemosensation was associated with mouthparts and not olfactory receptors. Salivary sheaths produced in wax beads containing the phagostimulant blend were 4.5 times longer than sheaths produced in beads without tastants. This phenomenon might be used to improve a trap, design an attract-and-kill product, or enhance other means of managing D. citri and citrus greening disease.
Efficient distributed algorithm for scheduling workload-aware jobs on multi-clouds

Dynamic distributed algorithm for provisioning of resources has been proposed to support heterogeneous multi-cloud environment. Multi-cloud infrastructure heterogeneity implies the presence of more diverse sets of resources and constraints that aggravate competition among providers. Sigmoidal and logarithmic functions have been used as the utility functions to meet the indicated constraints in the Service Level Agreement (SLA). Spot instances as the elastic tasks can be supported with logarithmic functions while the algorithm always guaranteed sigmoidal functions have the priority over the elastic tasks. The model uses diverse sets of resources scheduled in a multi-clouds environment by the proposed Ranked method in a time window “slice”. The paper proposes multi-dimensional self-optimization problem in distributed autonomic computing systems to maximize the revenue and diminish cost of services in the pooled aggregated resources of multi-cloud environment.
Snca targeted antisense oligonucleotides mediate progression of pathological deposition in alpha synuclein rodent transmission models of Parkinson’s disease (P6.239)

OBJECTIVE: Investigate the effect of alpha synuclein antisense oligonucleotides on the spread and toxicity of a pathological form of alpha synuclein. BACKGROUND: Parkinson’s disease is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease for which there are no approved disease-modifying therapies. Alpha synuclein accumulation is a pathological hallmark of PD. Multiplication of the alpha synuclein gene, SNCA, alone can result in PD. Antisense oligonucleotides designed to target Snca RNA result in reduced production of alpha synuclein and thus have the potential to slow spread of pathology and mediate disease progression. DESIGN/METHODS: Endogenous mouse and rat alpha synuclein transmission pre-formed fibril (PFF) inoculation models were evaluated. These models are based on intrastriatal injection of alpha synuclein fibrillar fibrils (PFFs) that lead to the deposition and aggregation of alpha synuclein, which accumulates and spreads through neural networks over time. Following characterization of timing of fibril deposition in the models both pre (preventive) and post (therapeutic) fibril deposition paradigms were evaluated with central delivery (intracerebroventricular) of Snca targeting antisense oligonucleotides. Following study completion Snca RNA was evaluated by RT-PCR and phosphorylated alpha synuclein pathology was evaluated histologically. RESULTS: Snca targeting antisense oligonucleotides in both species led to Snca RNA target reduction and slowed deposition and spread of a phospho-specific form alpha synuclein. CONCLUSIONS: Antisense oligonucleotides designed against SNCA have the potential to be a disease modifying therapeutic for Parkinson’s disease patients. Disclosure: Dr. Cole has received personal compensation for activities with Isis Pharmaceuticals as an employee. Dr. Paumier has received personal compensation for activities with Isis Pharmaceuticals. Dr. Zhao has received personal compensation for activities with Isis Pharmaceuticals as an employee. Dr. Weihofen has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as an employee. Dr. Kordasiewicz has received personal compensation for activities with Isis Pharmaceuticals as an employee. Dr. Swayze has received personal compensation for activities with Isis Pharmaceuticals as an employee.
An Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse imaging SNR upper bound with numerical validation and 1.5D ARFI transducer design

Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) imaging techniques have utility in a number of clinical applications, such as lesion detection or diagnosis of liver or prostate disease. In modern ultrasound systems possessing high electronic signal to noise (SNR E ) levels, the major limiting factor in ARFI image signal to noise (SNR ARF ) performance is echo decorrelation arising from differential motion across the point spread function. In this paper, we present an analytical model for an upper bound on SNR ARF beginning with previous work describing theoretical echo decorrelation and a lower bound on displacement estimation variance. Using information gained from this analysis, we propose a new optimized 1.5D ARFI transducer array design that increases the ratio of pushing to tracking beam widths, reduces echo decorrelation and increases SNR ARF in comparison with conventional 1D arrays currently used for ARFI imaging. The performance of the 1D conventional and optimized 1.5D ARFI transducers are compared using a FIELD II and finite element model (FEM) numerical simulation framework. Our simulation framework confirms our analytical expression for an upper bound on SNR ARF . Lesion images from our numerical simulations produce a 4.5dB contrast to noise (CNR) improvement with the proposed 1.5D ARFI array.
Prognostication in Patients Receiving Palliative Radiation Therapy

Predicting prognosis in patients with advanced, incurable cancer is one of the most difficult tasks faced by oncologists, and yet it is one of the most vital. Unfortunately, physicians have been shown to have poor accuracy at predicting prognosis. Typical tools that are used for patients with curable cancers are often not applicable in this patient population. This chapter highlights the data regarding the importance of prognostication, physician accuracy, and patient wishes regarding prognosis discussions. It then details factors that can be used to aid in prognosis prediction, such as performance status, clinical symptoms, and laboratory values. Finally, it discusses four prognostic models that incorporate these factors in order to divide patients into prognostic groups that can be used in clinical practice.
Increased odds of metabolic syndrome with consumption of high dietary advanced glycation end products in adolescents

Diabetes & Metabolism - In Press.Proof corrected by the author Available online since jeudi 2 fevrier 2017
Evaluating an iPad Game to Address Overselectivity in Preliterate AAC Users with Minimal Verbal Behavior

Overselectivity is a learning challenge that is largely unaddressed in the assistive technology community. Screening and intervention, done by specialists, is time-intensive and requires substantial training. Little to no treatments are available to the broader population of preliterate, minimally verbal individuals. In this work, we examine the impact of an iPad game based on the tenets of behavioral therapy to mitigate overselectivity. We developed software-based techniques and evaluated the system using established methods from the field of Special Education. We present the results of a deployment in a special education school that demonstrates that an assistive tablet game is a feasible means of addressing overselectivity, and we present generalizable technological features drawn from evidenced-based therapies to consider in future assistive technologies. We suggest that designers of assistive technology systems, particularly those who address physical, cognitive, and behavioral difficulties for preliterate AAC users, should consider overselectivity as a potential co-occurring condition.
Medial Approach for the Resection of Goiters with Suprahyoid, Retropharyngeal, or Substernal Extension

Resection of massive goiters with suprahyoid, retropharyngeal, and substernal extension may not be amenable to standard approaches. This study evaluates a surgical approach allowing resection of massive goiters with minimal substernal and deep neck dissection. Cases of thyroidectomy for goiters with substernal, retropharyngeal, or suprahyoid extension at a single institution from 2006 to 2017 were reviewed. The technique involves initial complete division of the medial thyroid tracheal attachments after identification of the RLN medial-inferiorly or superiorly. Deep components are then delivered into the superficial paratracheal region of the neck. Sixty patients were included, 46 of which had substernal and 14 had only suprahyoid or retropharyngeal extension. Mean substernal extension was 3.7 cm (range 1.5–7.5 cm). The medial approach was successful in identifying the RLN in 70 (83%) of 84 goiter sides (71% medial-inferiorly and 29% superiorly). Standard inferior/lateral approaches were used in 12 (14%) nerves or not found until after goiter removal in 2 (2.5%). No patients required sternotomy or tracheotomy. Complications included postoperative seroma/hematoma (n = 9, 15%) with one re-exploration, transient RLN injury (n = 4, 4% of all lobectomies), transient hypocalcemia (n = 6, 16% of total thyroidectomies), permanent hypocalcemia (n = 2, 5% of total thyroidectomies), and permanent RLN paralysis (n = 1, 1% of all lobectomies). Large suprahyoid, retropharyngeal, and substernal goiters were resected transcervically with low morbidity. Early complete division of Berry’s ligament after medial-inferior RLN identification was achieved in a high proportion of patients, facilitating goiter delivery with minimal mediastinal and deep neck dissection.