cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relationship between High Density Lipoproteins and the Rate of In Vitro Serum Cholesterol Esterification

The rate of in vitro esterification of serum cholesterol and the concentrations of serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured in 18 women and 9 men, 74-95 years of age. Subjects in this age group can have HDL-C levels below accepted limits of normal. The subjects were divided into two groups, one with HDL-C < 40 mg/ dl and the other with HDL-C 40 mg/dl or higher. The rate of in vitro serum cholesterol esterification in the former group was 2.00 n. moles/ml/min, significantly higher (p < 0.02) than 1.62 n.moles/ml/min present in the latter group. There was no correlation between the cholesterol esterification and a protein (s), which can produce an immune gamma globulin that completely inhibits in vitro serum cholesterol esterification. These findings are discussed with reference to the putative relationships between HDL-C and atherosclerosis.
Akt Phosphorylates and Negatively Regulates Apoptosis Signal-Regulating Kinase 1

The Akt family of serine/threonine-directed kinases promotes cellular survival in part by phosphorylating and inhibiting death-inducing proteins. Here we describe a novel functional interaction between Akt and apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase. Akt decreased ASK1 kinase activity stimulated by both oxidative stress and overexpression in 293 cells by phosphorylating a consensus Akt site at serine 83 of ASK1. Activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K)/Akt pathway also inhibited the serum deprivation-induced activity of endogenous ASK1 in L929 cells. An association between Akt and ASK1 was detected in cells by coimmunoprecipitation. Phosphorylation by Akt inhibited ASK1-mediated c-Jun N-terminal kinase and activating transcription factor 2 activities in intact cells. Finally, activation of the PI3-K/Akt pathway reduced apoptosis induced by ASK1 in a manner dependent on phosphorylation of serine 83 of ASK1. These results provide the first direct link between Akt and the family of stress-activated kinases.
A New Piece to Understanding the Intimate Partner Violence Puzzle:What Role Do Genetics Play?

Numerous factors prompt intimate partner violence (IPV). Stuart and colleagues examined whether variations in two theoretically relevant genetic variants predispose some people toward perpetrating psychological aggression, physical aggression, and violence that causes the victim serious physical injury. This commentary discusses the importance of considering how the observed genetic risk factors for IPV may be best understood within the context of their interaction with environmental risk factors. By focusing on gene–environment interactions, future work may help identify not only who is at risk for IPV perpetration but also who may be buffered from it.
An Evaluation of a Theoretical Model Predicting Dieting Behaviors: Tests of Measurement and Structural Invariance across Ethnicity and Gender.

This study evaluated a model linking internalization and dieting behaviors in a sample (n = 499) of Latina/o and White college students. Analyses revealed that the scales were invariant across ethn...
Extended Operation of Stirling Convertors in a Thermal Vacuum Environment

A 110 watt Stirling Radioisotope Generator (SRG110) is being developed for potential use on future NASA exploration missions. The development effort is being performed by Lockheed Martin under contract to the Department of Energy (DOE). Infinia, Corp. supplies the free-piston Stirling power convertors, and NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) provides support to the effort in a range of technologies. This generator features higher efficiency and specific power compared to alternatives. One potential application for the generator would entail significant cruise time in the vacuum of deep space. A test has been initiated at GRC to demonstrate functionality of the Stirling convertors in a thermal vacuum environment. The test article resembles the configuration of the SRG110, however the requirement for low mass was not considered. This test demonstrates the operation of the Stirling convertors in the thermal vacuum environment, simulating deep space, over an extended period of operation. The status of the test as well as the data gathered will be presented in this paper.
Setting and maintaining standards in multiple-choice examinations: guide supplement 37.2 - viewpoint.

One of the central activities of any organization involved in assessment, especially within a criterion-referenced framework, is to set a passing standard which presumably reflects mastery of the d...
Providing information about a flavor to preschoolers: effects on liking and memory for having tasted it

This study sought to determine if providing affectively positive information about a flavor to preschool-aged children during tasting will increase recognition of and liking for the flavor and if the recognition and liking are associated. Forty-six 3- to 6-year-old children tasted 10 flavors: 5 presented with affectively positive information and 5 without. The 10 flavors were then presented again interspersed with 10 distracter flavors. Children reported whether they had tasted the flavor previously and provided hedonic ratings for each flavor. Children's ability to remember having tasted a flavor was greater when the flavor was presented with affectively positive information than without in children throughout the age range of 3-6 years. In children younger than 4.5 years, the provision of information had no effect on hedonic rating, whereas in older children, the provision of information was associated with greater hedonic ratings. We conclude that providing affectively positive information to children about a flavor can increase their ability to recognize the flavor as previously tasted and increases hedonic rating of the flavor in children older than 4.5 years.
Decreasing mean airway pressure as a management strategy for tension pneumatocoeles

A 1.4 kg ex-preterm infant recovering from staphylococcal sepsis/pneumonia developed increasing respiratory distress. Chest X-ray showed large bilateral pneumatocoeles, R>L (figure 1A). Mean airway pressure on continuous positive airway pressure was increased (8 cm H2O) and the baby positioned right-side-up aiming to expand the atelectatic right lung. Subsequent chest X-ray and chest CT showed an enlarging …
Frequency-dependent harmonic-distortion analysis of a linearized cross-coupled CMOS OTA and its application to OTA-C filters

Recent progress of wide-band communication systems demands high-frequency circuits. Conventionally, the linearity of the operational transconductance amplifier and capacitor (OTA-C) has been analyzed using Taylor series expansion. Unfortunately, this approach does not predict the frequency-dependent linearity degradation. Thus, to properly design linearized OTAs, the frequency dependence of these coefficients must be determined. In this paper, we present a frequency-dependent harmonic-distortion analytical method applied to a linear-enhanced OTA. This OTA, which is suitable for high-frequency operation, uses three linearization techniques simultaneously: 1) attenuation through floating-gate MOS transistors; 2) source degeneration; and 3) polynomial cancellation techniques. By using the harmonic-distortion analysis, some properties on the performance of OTA are used to improve the performance of OTA-C based circuits at high frequencies. A 0.5-mum CMOS OTA simulation and experimental results are shown to verify the harmonic-distortion analytical method
A hierarchical pattern representation format for proximity effect correction in E-beam lithography

As the size of a circuit pattern is increased with the feature size reduced, the data size required to represent it grows rapidly. A critical issue in E-beam lithographic systems is the need to efficiently compact the pattern data and also reduce the proximity correction time. A hierarchical representation of circuit pattern, which utilizes the repetition in the layout geometry, is often employed in order to reduce the data size requirement. However, it has a negative implication in proximity effect correction, i.e. lengthening correction time. We have designed a compact data structure format which not only allows maintaining compactness of a hierarchical pattern representation, but also enables efficient searching the hierarchical representation, which is essential in minimizing correction time.
Avoiding “build-to-print” in polymer composites: design and manufacturing decision support at the conceptual stages

Composite component manufacturers are often faced with having to quote and produce products "Built-to-Print". Often, polymer composite component blueprints/drawings/CAD files are designed under insufficient paradigms and mirror features common in metal components. Composites, which are composed of a plastic resin matrix and reinforcing fiber architecture, are not homogeneous materials like metals and are very susceptible to design features and processing technology variations. Composites are often analyzed as materials that provide enhanced strength to weight ratios, ignoring the impact of processing on performance. The focus of our research work in intelligent decision support tools for composites focuses on the conceptual design stages. There are a number of computing tools for analyzing composite structures based on finite element or finite difference methods and others that determine ply draping and lay-up. There are few tools which assist the design engineer at the conceptual phase where many of the critical affordability drivers are established. Our work has focused on the redesign of existing metal assemblies using composites because this activity is more knowledge rich than starting a design from scratch. The replacement of metal assemblies is also the dominant application area for composites and thus is highly leveraged for decision support assistance.
Texture Gradient Effects in Tantalum

The effects of inhomogeneities in texture on the mechanical response of a tantalum plate were investigated. Through-thickness compression samples exhibited an hourglass shape after deformation. The compression tests were modeled using a finite-element approach. A polycrystal plasticity model is embedded at each element of the mesh enabling the simulation to account for the spatial distribution of texture and its evolution. The texture was characterized using spatially specific individual lattice orientation measurements. The orientations were measured using automatic analysis of electron backscatter Kikuchi diffraction patterns. The influence of the spatially nonuniform distribution of texture on the experimental and simulated results is discussed. This work demonstrates the capability of currently available tools for characterizing inhomogeneous microstructures and modeling the effects of variations in texture on mechanical behavior.
Selective tissue uptake of agouti-related protein(82-131) and its modulation by fasting.

The blood concentration of agouti-related protein (AgRP), a protein related to hyperphagia and obesity, is increased in obese human and fasted lean subjects. Because there is no saturable transport system at the blood-brain barrier for circulating AgRP to reach its central nervous system target, uptake of AgRP by peripheral organs might be physiologically meaningful. Using the biologically active fragment AgRP(82–131), we determined the pharmacokinetics of its radioactively labeled tracer after iv bolus injection and compared it with that of the vascular marker albumin. AgRP enters peripheral organs at different influx rates, all of which were higher than into brain and spinal cord. At 10 min after iv injection, the radioactivity recovered in the liver, which had the fastest influx rate for AgRP, represented intact 125I-AgRP. The adrenal gland had a moderately fast uptake (but the highest initial volume of distribution), followed by the heart, lungs, and skeletal muscle. By comparison, epididymal fat, tes...
MEXICAN SPOTTED OWL (STRIX OCCIDENTALIS) POPULATION DYNAMICS: INFLUENCE OF CLIMATIC VARIATION ON SURVIVAL AND REPRODUCTION

Abstract Understanding the mechanisms causing temporal variability in demographic parameters is essential to understanding fluctuations in populations. As part of a long-term demographic study, we evaluated influence of climate on Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida) annual survival and reproduction in two study areas, one in Arizona and one in New Mexico. Spotted Owl survival in New Mexico and reproductive output in both study areas were positively related to total amounts of precipitation from the previous year, previous winter, or monsoon season. For both study areas, temporal process variation in reproductive output (CV[R] = 51.2 and 75.2% for Arizona and New Mexico, respectively) was greater than that for survival (CV[ϕ] = 12.9 and 7.1% for Arizona and New Mexico, respectively). Precipitation from the previous year explained 73% of σ2temporal reproductive output for Arizona owls and precipitation from the previous monsoon explained 42% of σ2temporal in reproductive output for New Mexico ...
Association between accelerometer-determined physical activity and flavonoid-rich fruit and vegetable consumption among a national sample of U.S. adults.

Few population studies have examined the association between accelerometer-assessed physical activity and dietary behavior. Further, no studies have systematically examined the association between accelerometer-assessed physical activity and flavonoid rich fruits and vegetables in a national sample. As a result, the purpose of this study was to examine the association between objectively measured physical activity and consumption of flavonoid rich fruits and vegetables among a national sample of U.S. adults. Data from the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used (N = 2949). Physical activity was measured via accelerometry and fruit and vegetable consumption was measured from the NHANES Food Frequency Questionnaire. After adjustments, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was positively associated (p < 0.05) with apples (β = 0.30), grapes (β = 0.27), strawberries (β = 0.32), oranges (β = 0.35), raw greens (β = 0.19), carrots (β = 0.23), peppers (β = 0.29) and an overall flavonoid index variable (β = 2.34). Future studies employing a longitudinal design are needed to better understand the direction of the observed associations. If future studies do indeed support the possibility that physical activity may help to foster changes in dietary behavior, then this will have strong implications for health behavior interventions, particularly among individuals finding it difficult to change multiple health behaviors concurrently.
Topical lidocaine enhanced by laser pretreatment: a safe and effective method of analgesia for facial rejuvenation.

Background: Injectable forms of anesthesia for nonsurgical facial rejuvenation, although efficacious, are uncomfortable for the patient. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that laser pretreatment at low energies enhances absorption of topical lidocaine. Objectives: The authors assess the safety and efficacy of laser-assisted transdermal delivery of topical anesthetic. Method: Ten patients were split into 2 groups (A and B). All patients received 15 g of BLT (20% benzocaine, 6% lidocaine, and 4% tetracaine triple anesthetic cream) for 20 minutes with no occlusion. Then the cream was removed and the first blood draw taken. Group A patients were pretreated with the full ablative laser and group B patients with a fractional ablative laser to the full face. A further 15 g BLT was applied for another 20 minutes. Group A patients then underwent full ablative laser treatment, and group B received fractionated ablative laser treatment. Blood draws were taken at 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 minutes after the initial topical anesthetic application, and the serum was analyzed for lidocaine and monoethylglycinexylidide (MEGX) levels. Patients were asked to rate the pain felt at intervals during the procedure. Results: No patient required supplemental nerve blocks. Pain scores were equivalent at the end of the first pass for both groups ( P = .436). Group A patients had significantly lower pain scores at the start of the second laser treatment ( P = .045), but pain scores became equivalent by the end ( P = .323). Combined serum lidocaine and MEGX levels were significantly higher in group A patients up to 90 minutes (peak average of 0.61 µg/mL for group A and 0.533 µg/mL for group B; P = .0253), which corresponded to greater initial analgesic effect. Conclusions: Data from this study demonstrate that topical anesthetic for facial rejuvenation can be enhanced with laser pretreatment while maintaining safe blood serum levels. Further studies should examine optimal application amount and time to allow safe multipass facial rejuvenation without the need for invasive nerve blocks. Level of Evidence: 3 ![Graphic][1] [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif
4D phase-space multiplexing for fluorescent microscopy

Phase-space measurements enable characterization of second-order spatial coherence properties and can be used for digital aberration removal or 3D position reconstruction. Previous methods use a scanning aperture to measure the phase space spectrogram, which is slow and light inefficient, while also attenuating information about higher-order correlations. We demonstrate a significant improvement of speed and light throughput by incorporating multiplexing techniques into our phase-space imaging system. The scheme implements 2D coded aperture patterning in the Fourier (pupil) plane of a microscope using a Spatial Light Modulator (SLM), while capturing multiple intensity images in real space. We compare various multiplexing schemes to scanning apertures and show that our phase-space reconstructions are accurate for experimental data with biological samples containing many 3D fluorophores.
EFFECTIVE ORIFICE AREA BY CARDIAC MAGNETIC RESONANCE FOR THE FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT OF BIOPROSTHETIC AORTIC VALVES

Effective orifice area (EOA) is the current practice for prosthetic valve functional evaluation. We hypothesized that phase contrast (PC) methods could be employed to describe the dynamic EOA, and compared to Doppler-derived EOA in patients with bioprosthetic aortic valves. We retrospectively
The Kinetic Energy and Angular Distribution of Sputtered Polyatomic Molecules: Outline and Applications

Kinetic energy and angular distribution measurements give information about the emission mechanism of desorbed particles. For a sputtering mechanism, the energy and angular distribution is usually assumed to be of the form: Φ(E, θ) ∝ E cosθ/(E + U)3 . This expression is valid for sputtered atoms and cannot be immediately applied to the sputtering of molecules, where the energy is shared between internal and external degrees of freedom. A model is presented for the kinetic energy and angular distribution of sputtered polyatomic molecules. The formalism is related to an earlier model for sputtered clusters by Konnen, Tip and De Vries [1]. It is assumed that the individual atoms of a molecule are given an initial momentum according to linear collision cascade properties. If the molecule does not dissociate, it is treated as an entity and carried as such through a planar surface potential barrier. The model shows a continuous transition from a fragmentation dominated behaviour at high kinetic energies to a collision-cascade-like behaviour at low kinetic energies of the sputtered molecules. The model is compared with experimental data on sputtering of Kr2, SiCl and SiF.
Adapted approach to profile genes while reconciling Vegf-a mRNA expression in the developing and injured lung

During lung development and injury, messenger RNA (mRNA) transcript levels of genes fluctuate over both space and time. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) is a highly sensitive, widely used technique to measu...
An Optomechanical Transducer Platform for Evanescent Field Displacement Sensing

We demonstrate an integrated waveguide platform and optomechanical transduction circuit for chip-scale displacement sensing. The waveguide consists of a thin silicon nitride core layer, a thick silicon oxide bottom cladding, and a top air cladding with a large evanescent field at the waveguide surface. Although the structures feature subwavelength (<;λ/4n core ) vertical confinement, they are fabrication tolerant with micrometer-scale lateral features. We demonstrate via simulations and measurements that the waveguides exhibit a low confinement with a maximized evanescent field as well as an effective index only slightly larger than the SiO 2 bottom cladding index. Despite the low confinement, the waveguide platform enables complex photonic circuits. As a demonstration of this technology, we fabricate and characterize an unbalanced Mach-Zehnder interferometer for chip-scale displacement sensing. A micrometer-scale fiber taper interacts with the waveguide's evanescent field and induces a phase shift proportional to displacement, thereby acting as an optomechanical transducer. We analyze the responsivity, displacement limit of detection, and strength of optomechanical coupling for high-resolution sensing. An outlook toward other applications is also given.
Analysis of surveillance data on adult mosquito population density in Baoshan district of Shanghai, China, 2009-2012

Objective To investigate the species composition and seasonality of adult mosquito populations in Baoshan districtof Shanghai, China, and to provide reference data for the prevention and control of mosquitoes and mosquito- borne diseases.MethodsLabor hour method was used to determine mosquito population density. Surveillance data collected at the nationalvector monitoring site in Baoshan district of Shanghai during 2009-2012 were analyzed.ResultsTotally 5041 mosquitoes of 5species were trapped during the four-year study period. Culex pipiens pallens was the predominant species of mosquitos in urbanand rural residential areas(94.6% and 98.8%, respectively), while C. pipiens pallens and C. tritaeniorhynchus accounted for largeproportions of mosquitos in the barn(46.6% and 23.5%, respectively). Average mosquito population density was lowest in theurban residential area, medium in the rural residential area, and highest in the barn(1.81 vs. 6.70 vs. 30.08 counts per laborhour). There were similar annual trends in seasonal fluctuations of mosquito populations, with high density generally in June toSeptember and low density in January to April as well as November to December. The average value of mosquito populationdensity index progressively increased over the four- year period.ConclusionNo significant changes occurred in the speciescomposition and seasonal fluctuations of adult mosquito populations in Baoshan district of Shanghai during 2009-2012. C. pipiens pallens was the predominant species of mosquitoes in urban and rural residential areas, which, together with C. tritaeniorhynchus,dominated the mosquito populations in the barn. It is recommended to carry out mosquito control from May to October in Baoshandistrict of Shanghai.
Aanalysis of food-poisoning related to S.Cholersesuis

To report and analyse the incident of food-poisoning.On July 19,2005,in FanChang County,there happened a very serious food poisoning incident in a local company's canteen,and 91 people were hit accordingly.The major food was salted bean curd named “Chou Dou Fu” in Chinese.The incubation period was 2 to 26 hours.The main symptoms were Abdominal camps(57 persons),Diarrhea(78 persons),Fever(66 persons),Nausa(49 persons),Headache(63 persons)and Dizzy(55 persons).S.Cholersesuis was detected from the processed liquid used for making salted bean curd and the excrement of patients.The initial of 21 patients were all 1:20.After 2 weeks,it was 1:80(6),1:160(4),1:320(6),1:640(5).According to above evidence,the outbreak of food poisoning illustrated by Salmonella Cholersesuis was made sure.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Location and Object Effects in Primary Motor Cortex Neurons during Reach-to-Grasp.

Reaching and grasping typically are considered to be spatially separate processes that proceed concurrently in the arm and the hand, respectively. The proximal representation in the primary motor cortex (M1) controls the arm for reaching, while the distal representation controls the hand for grasping. Many studies of M1 activity therefore have focused either on reaching to various locations without grasping different objects, or else on grasping different objects all at the same location. Here, we recorded M1 neurons in the anterior bank and lip of the central sulcus as monkeys performed more naturalistic movements, reaching toward, grasping, and manipulating four different objects in up to eight different locations. We quantified the extent to which variation in firing rates depended on location, on object, and on their interaction—all as a function of time. Activity proceeded largely in two sequential phases: the first related predominantly to the location to which the upper extremity reached, and the second related to the object about to be grasped. Both phases involved activity distributed widely throughout the sampled territory, spanning both the proximal and the distal upper extremity representation in caudal M1. Our findings indicate that naturalistic reaching and grasping, rather than being spatially segregated processes that proceed concurrently, each are spatially distributed processes controlled by caudal M1 in large part sequentially. Rather than neuromuscular processes separated in space but not time, reaching and grasping are separated more in time than in space. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Reaching and grasping typically are viewed as processes that proceed concurrently in the arm and hand, respectively. The arm region in the primary motor cortex (M1) is assumed to control reaching, while the hand region controls grasping. During naturalistic reach–grasp–manipulate movements, we found, however, that neuron activity proceeds largely in two sequential phases, each spanning both arm and hand representations in M1. The first phase is related predominantly to the reach location, and the second is related to the object about to be grasped. Our findings indicate that reaching and grasping are successive aspects of a single movement. Initially the arm and the hand both are projected toward the object9s location, and later both are shaped to grasp and manipulate.
Cytoplasmic Tail of Tissue Factor(TF): Role in TF Trafficking to Microparticles.

Abstract Introduction: Tissue factor (TF) is a transmembrane protein that is primarily extracellular. It has a 21 amino acid cytoplasmic tail, which is not essential for coagulation but may have a role in signal transduction. We studied the activity of deletion variants of TF, transfected into a pancreatic cancer line (MiaPaCa-2), which lacks TF RNA or protein. Methods: TF variants: lctTF (lacking cytoplasmic tail), sTF(soluble, lacking transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains), wtTF (wild type) were transfected into MiaPaCa-2 cells. Microparticles were prepared from serum-free conditioned media(CM) by ultracentrifugation at 100,000g. Presence of TF antigen was detected by immunoblot using a monoclonal antibody to TF, 10H10. Tissue factor activity (TFA) was assessed by recalcification time. Results: Immunoblot confirmed the presence of TF in the cell lysates of MiaPaCa-2 cells transfected with wtTF or lctTF. In the sTF MiaPaCa-2 cells, TF was not detected in the cell lysates, but was present in CM. TF was present in CM of lctTF-transfected cells, but only trace antigen was observed in CM of wtTF cells. TF was microparticle-associated in the CM collected from lctTF cells, but not in the sTF cells. The TF protein made by sTF cells was not functional in the CM as demonstrated by no difference in TFA as compared to untransfected MiaPaCa-2 cells (>350 sec vs 351 sec). The CM from lctTF MiaPaCa-2 cells shortened clotting time by over 50% (159 sec vs 351 sec), while wtTF MiaPaCa-2 cells did not (349 sec vs 351 sec). The microparticles from lctTF had the most TFA when compared to wtTF or untransfected cells (107 sec vs 194 sec vs 436 sec). In the CM from cells with lctTF, TFA was exclusively in the microparticle section and absent in the supernatant (107 sec vs 440 sec). Conclusions: Wild type TF remains primarily cell associated. In contrast, a higher fraction of the lctTF was released into the CM and remained microparticle associated. TF protein that lacks the transmembrane portion is soluble but not microparticle-associated and does not have procoagulant activity. Lack of the cytoplasmic tail results in increased generation of functional, microparticle-associated TF compared with the wild-type protein. These data suggest the cytoplasmic tail may influence the trafficking of functional TF to the microparticle fraction.
Insights into electrode/electrolyte interfacial processes and the effect of nanostructured cobalt oxides loading on graphene-based hybrids by scanning electrochemical microscopy

Nanostructured cobalt oxide polymorphs (CoO and Co3O4) deposited via electrodeposition allowed optimal loading on supercapacitive graphene nanosheets producing a set of graphene-based hybrids namely, CoO/GO, CoO/ErGO, Co3O4/GO, Co3O4/rGO, and Co3O4/ErGO, as pseudocapacitive electrochemical electrodes. We gained fundamental insights into the complex physicochemical interfacial processes at electrode surfaces and electrode/electrolyte (or solid/liquid) interfaces by scanning electrochemical microscopy operating in the feedback probe approach and imaging modes while monitoring and mapping the redox probe (re)activity behavior. We determined the various experimental descriptors including diffusion coefficient, electron transfer rate, and electroactive site distribution on electrodes. We emphasize the interplay of (1) heterogeneous basal and edge plane active sites, (2) graphene surface functional moieties (conducting/semiconducting), and (3) crystalline spinel cobalt oxides (semiconducting/insulating) coated ...
Physiology and Behavior

This chapter reviews studies of parental response to the infant cry. In this review, the cry is considered as a social signal that mediates developing parent-infant interaction. The studies examine links between the cry as a signal, processing of the cry by caregivers, and consequences of their behavioral response to the cry.
Why Is Video Modeling Not Used in Special Needs Classrooms

A chasm exists between scientific research and applied interventions in special needs classrooms. An example of this chasm is the lack of use of video modeling interventions whose efficacy has been shown in numerous case studies. We surveyed 44 special needs educators across several schools and found that a mere 25% are familiar with using video modeling as an intervention and of those only 2 teachers used it. In contrast, 42.5% of the responders use apps targeting special needs behaviors in their classrooms. The survey results indicate that human factors, such as ease of use, are the main reason for using the apps currently utilized by those teachers. This study informed of the need for applying human factor principles when designing systems implementing interventions in special needs classrooms.
Opportunistic routing in mobile ad hoc delay-tolerant networks (DTNs)

Opportunistic routing protocols have recently emerged as promising routing protocols in delay-tolerant networks. In this chapter, we discuss some of the motivations for opportunistic routing, and identify several key challenges in designing an efficient opportunistic routing protocol. We review several representative opportunistic routing protocols, including the Extremely Opportunistic Routing protocol, the Simple Opportunistic Adaptive Routing protocol, the Resilient Opportunistic Mesh Routing, the Multipath Code Casting, Optimized Overlay-based Opportunistic Routing, and Social-aware Opportunistic Routing protocol, discussing each protocol, its key idea, main assumptions, complexity, advances and disadvantages. We identify open research issues in opportunistic routing. A few new books in this area and activities in standard bodies and research groups will be briefly discussed.
SharP: Towards Programming Extreme-Scale Systems with Hierarchical Heterogeneous Memory

The pre-exascale systems are expected to have a significant amount of hierarchical and heterogeneous on-node memory, and this trend of system architecture in extreme-scale systems is expected to continue into the exascale era. Along with hierarchical-heterogeneous memory, the system typically has a high-performing network and a compute accelerator. This system architecture is not only effective for running traditional High Performance Computing (HPC) applications (Big-Compute), but also running data-intensive HPC applications and Big-Data applications. As a consequence, there is a growing desire to have a single system serve the needs of both Big-Compute and Big-Data applications. Though the system architecture supports the convergence of the Big-Compute and Big-Data, the programming models have yet to evolve to support either hierarchical-heterogeneous memory systems or the convergence. In this work, we propose and develop the programming abstraction called SHARed data-structure centric Programming abstraction (SharP) to address both of these goals, i.e., provide (1) a simple, usable, and portable abstraction for hierarchical-heterogeneous memory and (2) a unified programming abstraction for Big-Compute and Big-Data applications. To evaluate SharP, we implement a Stencil benchmark using SharP, port QMCPack, a petascale-capable application, and adapt Memcached ecosystem, a popular Big-Data framework, to use SharP, and quantify the performance and productivity advantages. Additionally, we demonstrate the simplicity of using SharP on different memories including DRAM, High-bandwidth Memory (HBM), and non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM).
On Lifting to the Commutant

It is shown that the lifting to the commutant problem in dilation theory is a particular case of the general dilation theorem for semigroups without involution. Applications are given to subnormal and contraction homomorphisms.
Low-velocity impact response of 3D-printed lattice structure with foam reinforcement

Abstract This paper presents an experimental study on low-velocity impact response of bi-material structures (BMS). BMS is a structural composite consisting of a 3D-printed lattice structure filled with a reinforcement material. In this study, BMS is made of polylactide (PLA) lattice structure and polyurethane (PU) foam for an enhanced impact resistance. Three different PU foams, including one rigid foam and two flexible foams, are selected for BMS. The impact tests are conducted to compare the impact attenuation, stiffness, toughness, and strength using the measured rate of change of acceleration (known as “jerk”), displacement, energy absorption , and the maximum acceleration, respectively. The results show that flexible foams have more positive effects on the impact properties than the rigid foam. The maximum reduction of jerk is about 9% compared to the baseline structure without foam reinforcement. The maximum displacement is increased by 17%; the maximum energy absorption is increased by 23%. The maximum acceleration remains similar for all samples. In conclusion, a proper selection of foam filling can significantly improve the impact properties.
Regulation of Cl- Activity in Ventricular Muscle: Cl-/HCO-3 Exchange and Na+-dependent Cl- Cotransport

Studies with ion-selective microelectrodes (ISE) have made it clear that Cl- is actively accumulated in heart. Intracellular Cl- activity (ai Cl) in quiescent mammalian Purkinje fibers (1,2) and ventricle (1,3–6) is 10–24 mM, while the expectation for a passive distribution is 4–6 mM. Cl- is also accumulated in frog atrium, ventricle, and sinus venosus (7). The concept of active control of ai Cl receives further support from the modest response of ai Cl to variations in membrane potential (Em) and extracellular K+ ([K+]0) and Cl- ([Cl-]0) concentrations (1–3,6–8).
The Expanded Sample

This chapter presents the Expanded Sample. The Expanded Sample is primarily an extension of Joseph Greenberg's Appendix II, though with additional word order data collected for as many languages as possible. The Expanded Sample presented in the chapter is classified both typologically and genetically. The typological classification of the Expanded Sample divides languages into essentially the same 24 possible types as in Joseph Greenberg's Appendix II, though with V-l (Verb-first) replacing VSO. The genetic classification is based primarily on Ruhlen (1976). Within each of the 24 language types, genetic affiliations of the exemplifying languages are listed in parentheses. The Expanded Sample contains a total of 336 entries. The language families and groups listed in Joseph Greenberg's original sample are retained in the Expanded Sample and these effectively add 1000+ languages to the sample, which increases its numerical significance.
The Borat Problem in Negotiation: Fraud, Assent, and the Behavioral Law and Economics of Standard Form Contracts

Two parties reach an oral agreement. The first then presents a standard form contract, which the second signs without reading, or without reading carefully. When the second party later objects that the first did not perform according to the oral representations, the first party points out that the signed document includes different terms or disclaims prior representations and promises. I call this alltoo-common occurrence the “Borat Problem,” after litigation presenting this fact pattern that followed the 2006 movie of that name.
Successful Treatment of an Adolescent Male With Severe Refractory Evans Syndrome Using Bortezomib-based Therapy

Evans syndrome is defined by bilineal autoimmune cytopenia, typically coombs positive hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment, with rituximab and/or mycophenolate mofetil often used in steroid-refractory cases. However, no treatment methodology has ever evaluated by a randomized clinical trial. We present a 15-year-old boy with Evans syndrome and common variable immunodeficiency who experienced a severe, refractory flare 16 months postsplenectomy. After failing to respond to multiple other agents, he achieved a durable response to a bortezomib-based regimen. Bortezomib may be a reasonable second or third line option, especially before high-morbidity therapies such as splenectomy or stem cell transplantation.
Initial Public Offering Patterns in Closed-End Funds

This paper offers an explanation to the puzzle of the closed-end fund's initial public offering. We show that CEFs belong to a sub-class of investment vehicles (the other members are Real Estate Investment Trusts and Master Limited Partnerships) that has a number of unusual characteristics. For example, buyers pay the IPO costs via IPO overpricing and underwriters provide prolonged aftermarket price support. (The latter is a necessary supplement to the IPO overpricing.) We show that these characteristics are not anti-competitive, neither are they predatory. Rather, they are a by-product of the peculiar features of this sub-class. We derive the no-arbitrage price-support schedule and argue that this type of price management appears to be legal. The predictions of the no-arbitrage price-support schedule guide our empirical analyses of new-entry patterns. We collected comprehensive 1986-2000 IPO data; it shows that new CEFs concentrate in a limited number of narrowly defined asset classes. Within this reference group, there is no irrationality in the new CEF's IPO and post-IPO behavior: new entry will occur when the proposed Fund is expected to trade in the near future at a premium and when existing same-asset Funds trade at a premium. Two groups of researchers (the Lee-Shleifer-Thaler team, and Katherine Hanley-Weiss and her collaborators) pioneered the intense interest of financial economists in the peculiar behavior of CEFs. Their work (as well as that of many others) contributed to our understanding of that complicated asset class. My current work is a direct extension of their previous efforts.
Direct visualization of prostate cancer progression utilizing a bioreactor

939 Currently, most methods available to study the behavior of metastatic tumor cells are indirect or capture only brief periods. Problematic with these assays are an inability to follow the complete metastatic program including extravasation, invasion, establishment and growth of the metastatic mass. As such, we are developing an ex vivo model in which tumor cells can be analyzed while in the environment of a major metastatic target, the liver. In this study we assessed whether prostate cancer metastasis, which is among the leading causes of deaths in American males in the United States, could be recreated in a liver bioreactor and observed in real time. In order to accomplish this we utilized a three dimensional liver perfusion culture (bioreactor), which allows for in situ observation and ensures a relatively homogeneous distribution of flow and mass transfer throughout the system to meet the metabolic demands of the livers cells augmented by an appropriate scaffold which facilitates morphogenesis of primary cells into tissue-like structures. This system, formally named a Micro-fabricated Array Bioreactor, affords for the recreation of an in vivo environment for in vitro observation and provides for an optimal device for the study of physiological events. Hepatocytes and nonparenchymal liver cells were obtained and introduced into the bioreactor utilizing established protocols. After allowing 5 days of observed hepatic tissue morphogenesis, DU-145 human prostate carcinoma cells expressing GFP or RFP were introduced into the bioreactor. In situ observation of the co-culture system was observed by fluorescence microscopy over a 30 day period. The rate of growth of prostate cancer cells was assessed with a custom designed spectofluorometer to measure GFP fluorescent intensity throughout the initial growth of the cancer. Tissue architecture of hepatocytes and prostate cancer cells was directly visualized in real time by 2-photon microscopy along with light microscopy. Fluorescent intensity of co-cultures revealed ongoing cell proliferation of the DU-145 cells, which correlated with a visually observed overgrowth of DU-145 cells by 14 days. DU-145 WT cells failed to grow without hepatocytes or even in a 2-D mixed culture. This tumor mass growth resulted in a decline in hepatocyte tissue structure and function. Also metastasis of overflowing DU-145 cells to adjacent hepatocyte filled channels not containing DU-WT cells was observed during this process by 14 days. Histological examination of the tissue revealed DU-145 WT cells invading the hepatocyte parenchyma by 15 days. Finally, biochemical analysis revealed expression of biomarkers associated with prostate cancer and decrease in albumin and urea by the hepatocytes. Although only preliminary, these experiments provide the basis for the development of and ex vivo model system in which to observe and potentially dissect the dynamic process of tumor invasion and metastasis.
Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity: Clinical and Quantitative Imaging Features in a Large North American Cohort.

Purpose Aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (AP-ROP) is a vision-threatening disease with a significant rate of progression to retinal detachment. The purpose of this study was to characterize AP-ROP quantitatively by demographics, rate of disease progression, and a deep learning-based vascular severity score. Design Retrospective analysis. Participants The Imaging and Informatics in ROP cohort from 8 North American centers, consisting of 947 patients and 5945 clinical eye examinations with fundus images, was used. Pretreatment eyes were categorized by disease severity: none, mild, type 2 or pre-plus, treatment-requiring (TR) without AP-ROP, TR with AP-ROP. Analyses compared TR with AP-ROP and TR without AP-ROP to investigate differences between AP-ROP and other TR disease. Methods A reference standard diagnosis was generated for each eye examination using previously published methods combining 3 independent image-based gradings and 1 ophthalmoscopic grading. All fundus images were analyzed using a previously published deep learning system and were assigned a score from 1 through 9. Main Outcome Measures Birth weight, gestational age, postmenstrual age, and vascular severity score. Results Infants who demonstrated AP-ROP were more premature by birth weight (617 g vs. 679 g; P = 0.01) and gestational age (24.3 weeks vs. 25.0 weeks; P Conclusions Premature infants in North America with AP-ROP are born younger and demonstrate disease earlier than infants with less severe ROP. Disease severity is quantifiable with a deep learning-based score, which correlates with clinically identified categories of disease, including AP-ROP. The rate of progression to peak disease is greatest in eyes that demonstrate AP-ROP compared with other treatment-requiring eyes. Analysis of quantitative characteristics of AP-ROP may help improve diagnosis and treatment of an aggressive, vision-threatening form of ROP.
Progression of Physical Frailty and the Risk of All-Cause Mortality: Is There a Point of No Return?

Objectives To investigate the rate and patterns of accumulation of frailty manifestations in relationship to all-cause mortality and whether there is a point in the progression of frailty beyond which the process becomes irreversible and death becomes imminent (a.k.a. point of no return). Design Longitudinal observational study. Setting Community or a non-nursing home residential care setting. Participants Two thousand five hundred and fifty seven robust older adults identified at baseline in 2011 with follow-up for all-cause mortality between 2011 and 2018. Measurements Frailty was measured by the physical frailty phenotype. Cox models were used to study the relationships of the number of frailty criteria (0-5) at each point in time and its accumulation patterns with all-cause mortality. Markov state-transition models were used to study annual transitions between health states (i.e., frailty, recovery, and death) after becoming frail among those with frailty onset (n = 373). Results There was a nonlinear association between greater number of frailty criteria and increasing risk of mortality, with a notable risk acceleration after having accumulated all five criteria (hazard ratio (HR) = 32.6 vs none, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 15.7-67.5). In addition, the risk of one-year mortality tripled, and the likelihood of recovery (i.e., reverting to be robust or pre-frail) halved among those with five frailty criteria compared to those with three or four criteria. A 50% increase in mortality risk was also associated with frailty onset without (vs with) a prior history of pre-frailty (HR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.20-1.90). Conclusion Both the number and rate of accumulation of frailty criteria were associated with mortality risk. Although there was insufficient evidence to declare a point of no return, having all five-frailty criteria signals the beginning of a transition toward a point of no return. Ongoing monitoring of frailty progression could aid clinical and personal decision-making regarding timing of intervention and eventual transition from curative to palliative care.