cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The making of the perfect MOSFET

Demanding applications like the core dc-dc converter in personal computers is placing great demands on the power semiconductor industry to develop new devices that challenges silicon and packaging technologies to the limit.
Well-conditioned MLFMA formulation for closed PEC targets in the vicinity of a half space

The multilevel fast multipole algorithm (MLFMA) is applied to the problem of scattering from a closed perfect electric conductor (PEC) in the presence of a half space. The combined-field integral equation (CFIE) employs a new electric-field integral equation (EFIE) formulation, robust to a high basis-function sample rate, relative to wavelength. The new EFIE formulation is discussed, as is its implementation in the context of a CFIE MLFMA analysis for closed PEC targets. Several example results are presented, in which comparisons are made to traditional MLFMA formulations.
Mitochondrial import of PKCε is mediated by HSP90: a role in cardioprotection from ischaemia and reperfusion injury

Aims Protein kinase C epsilon (PKCe) is critical for cardiac protection from ischaemia and reperfusion (IR) injury. PKCe substrates that mediate cytoprotection reside in the mitochondria. However, the mechanism enabling mitochondrial translocation and import of PKCe to enable phosphorylation of these substrates is not known. Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a cytoprotective protein chaperone that participates in mitochondrial import of a number of proteins. Here, we investigated the role of HSP90 in mitochondrial import of PKCe. Methods and results Using an ex vivo perfused rat heart model of IR, we found that PKCe translocates from the cytosol to the mitochondrial fraction following IR. Immunogold electron microscopy and mitochondrial fractionation demonstrated that following IR, mitochondrial PKCe is localized within the mitochondria, on the inner mitochondrial membrane. Pharmacological inhibition of HSP90 prevented IR-induced interaction between PKCe and the translocase of the outer membrane (Tom20), reduced mitochondrial import of PKCe, and increased necrotic cell death by ∼70%. Using a rational approach, we designed a 7-amino acid peptide activator of PKCe, derived from an HSP90 homologous sequence located in the C2 domain of PKCe (termed ψeHSP90). Treatment with this peptide (conjugated to the cell permeating TAT protein-derived peptide, TAT47–57) increased PKCe–HSP90 protein–protein interaction, enhanced mitochondrial translocation of PKCe, increased phosphorylation and activity of an intra-mitochondrial PKCe substrate, aldehyde dehydrogenase 2, and reduced cardiac injury in ex vivo and in vivo models of myocardial infarction. Conclusion Our results suggest that HSP90-mediated mitochondrial import of PKCe plays an important role in the protection of the myocardium from IR injury.
Passport Biopsies: Hospital Deportations and Implications for Social Work

In the course of investigating barriers to health care in Arizona for Latino families as part of an MSW diversity class project, I happened upon a singularly daunting impediment to medical care: extralegal hospital deportations or the practice of returning uninsured, seriously injured or ill undocumented patients to their countries of origin. As a social work graduate student looking forward to a professional life centered in health care and immigration, learning of this practice was upsetting. This commentary brings some light to these interventions, which are privatized, lack state or federal policy guidance, and have far-reaching repercussions for undocumented patients and their families in Latino communities on both sides of the U.S. Southwest border. It also raises serious implications for social workers who must navigate institutional demands and clients’ rights when involved. There is a need for research and a heightened ethical awareness regarding the practice and consequences of hospital deportations, particularly when medical social workers and hospital caseworkers are charged with obtaining informed consent and facilitating the patient discharge process.
Prelexical representations and processes in reading: Evidence from acquired dyslexia

We report a detailed and extensive single-case study of an acquired dyslexic patient, L.H.D., who suffered a left-hemisphere lesion as a result of a ruptured aneurysm. We present evidence that L.H.D.’s reading errors stem from a deficit in visual letter identification, and we use her deficit as a basis for exploring a variety of issues concerning prelexical representations and processes in reading. First, building on the work of other researchers, we present evidence that the prelexical reading system includes an allograph level of representation that represents each distinct visual shape of a letter (e.g., a, A, etc., for the letter A). We extend a theory proposed by Caramazza and Hillis [Caramazza, A., & Hillis, A. (1990a). Spatial representation of words in the brain implied by studies of a unilateral neglect patient. Nature, 346, 267–269] to include an allograph level, and we probe the nature of the allograph representations in some detail. Next, we explore the implications of visual similarity effects and letter perseverations in L.H.D.’s reading performance, arguing that these effects shed light on activation dynamics in the prelexical reading system and on the genesis of L.H.D.’s errors. We also probe the processing of letter case in the visual letter identification process, proposing that separate abstract letter identity and case representations are computed. Finally, we present evidence that the allograph level as well as the abstract letter identity level implement a word-based frame of reference.
Resource Use, Costs, and Utility Estimates for Patients with Cystic Fibrosis with Mild Impairment in Lung Function: Analysis of Data Collected Alongside a 48-Week Multicenter Clinical Trial

Abstract Objectives Transport of ions to generate epithelial rehydration (TIGER)-1 was a randomized trial conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of denufosol versus placebo in patients with cystic fibrosis with mild impairment in lung function. The trial met its primary end point at 24 weeks, but a subsequent trial did not show a sustained effect of denufosol at 48 weeks. By using the 48-week data, we characterized resource use, direct medical costs, indirect costs, and utility estimates. Methods Data on medications, outpatient and emergency visits, hospital admissions, tests, procedures, and home nursing were captured on study case report forms. Sources for unit costs included the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, and the Red Book. Health utilities were derived from the Health Utilities Index Mark 2/3. We used multivariable regression to evaluate the impact of baseline covariates on costs. Results Characteristics of the 352 participants at enrollment included mean age of 14.6 years, history of Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization in 45.2%, use of dornase alfa in 77.0%, and long-term use of inhaled antibiotics in 37.2%. Over 48 weeks, 22.4% of participants were hospitalized and, on average, participants missed 7.4 days of school or work. Mean total costs (excluding denufosol) were $39,673 (SD $26,842), of which 85% were attributable to medications. Female sex and P. aeruginosa colonization were independently associated with higher costs. Conclusions Prospective economic data collection alongside a clinical trial allows for robust estimates of cost of illness. The mean annual cost of care for patients with cystic fibrosis with mild impairment in lung function exceeds $43,000 and is driven by medication costs.
Mobile call graphs: beyond power-law and lognormal distributions

We analyze a massive social network, gathered from the records of a large mobile phone operator, with more than a million users and tens of millions of calls. We examine the distributions of the number of phone calls per customer; the total talk minutes per customer; and the distinct number of calling partners per customer. We find that these distributions are skewed, and that they significantly deviate from what would be expected by power-law and lognormal distributions.To analyze our observed distributions (of number of calls, distinct call partners, and total talk time), we propose PowerTrack , a method which fits a lesser known but more suitable distribution, namely the Double Pareto LogNormal (DPLN) distribution, to our data and track its parameters over time. Using PowerTrack , we find that our graph changes over time in a way consistent with a generative process that naturally results in the DPLN distributions we observe. Furthermore, we show that this generative process lends itself to a natural and appealing social wealth interpretation in the context of social networks such as ours. We discuss the application of those results to our model and to forecasting.
Tests on a cell assembly theory of the action of the brain, using a large digital computer

Theories by D.O. Hebb and P.M. Milner on how the brain works were tested by simulating neuron nets on the IBM Type 704 Electronic Calculator. The formation of cell assemblies from an unorganized net of neurons was demonstrated, as well as a plausible mechanism for short-term memory and the phenomena of growth and fractionation of cell assemblies. The cell assemblies do not yet act just as the theory requires, but changes in the theory and the simulation offer promise for further experimentation.
VALUING THE SERVICES OF CONSUMER DURABLES

Although consumer durables are treated as nondurables in most economic accounts, economists have long recognized that they could be treated as capital. If an estimate of the value of the services of consumer durables was available, it could be included in personal consumption expenditures and purchases of the durables treated as a form of investment. Such treatment would give a better picture of changes in a nation's economic welfare over time and make international comparisons more meaningful. This article reviews the economic literature on how the services of consumer durables can be valued. It examines six alternative measures: the (1) user cost; (2) capital recovery; (3) opportunity cost; (4) market rental value; (5) cost of a substitute; and (6) cash-equivalent value measures. The first three are based on the summation of the costs of the inputs used to produce the services, although only the first two are consistent with the principle that the purchase price of a durable equals the discounted present value of its expected future benefits. The fourth and fifth measures are based on the prices of marketed services while the sixth is derived from the consumer's demand function for the good's services. The article also discusses six major issues in implementing these measures: (1) imputing a rate of return to capital; (2) measuring declines in market value (depreciation and capital gains); (3) accounting for operating expenditures; (4) adjusting for capacity utilization; (5) deflating service values; and (6) defining consumer durables.
Statistical Power Analysis for Sample Size Estimation in Information Retrieval Experiments with Users

One critical decision researchers must make when designing laboratory experiments with users is how many participants to study. In interactive information retrieval (IR), the determination of sample size is often based on heuristics and limited by practical constraints such as time and finances. As a result, many studies are underpowered and it is common to see researchers make statements like “With more participants significance might have been detected,” but what does this mean? What does it mean for a study to be underpowered? How does this effect what we are able to discover, how we interpret study results and how we make choices about what to study next? How does one determine an appropriate sample size? What does it even mean for a sample size to be appropriate? This tutorial addressed these uestions by introducing participants to the use of statistical power analysis for sample size estimation in laboratory experiments with users. In discussing this topic, the issues of effect size, Type I and Type II errors and experimental design, including choice of statistical procedures, were also addressed.
State of the art on tribological behavior of polymer matrix composites reinforced with natural fibers in the green materials world

Abstract Natural fiber reinforced polymer composites have emerged as a potential environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to synthetic fiber reinforced composites. Therefore, in the past decade, a number of major industries, such as the automotive, construction and packaging industries, have shown a considerable interest in the progress of new natural fiber reinforced composite materials. The availability of natural fibers and the ease of manufacturing have tempted researchers to study their feasibility of their application as reinforcement and the extent to which they satisfy the required specifications in tribological applications. However, less information concerning the tribological performance of natural fiber reinforced composite material is available in the literature. Hence, the aim of this bibliographic review is to demonstrate the tribological behavior of natural fiber reinforced composites and find a knowledge about their usability for various applications that tribology plays a dominant role. This review presents the reported work on natural fiber reinforced composites with special reference to the type of fibers, matrix polymers, treatment of fibers and test parameters. The results show that composites reinforced with natural fibers have an improvement in tribological properties and their properties are comparable with conventional fibers. In addition, fiber treatment and fiber orientation are two important factors can affect tribological properties where treated fibers and normal oriented fibers exhibit better friction and wear behavior. This review is trying to evaluate the effect of test parameter including normal load and sliding speed on tribological properties, and the results vary based on type of reinforcement. Generally, due to their positive economic and environmental aspects, as well as their good tribological properties, natural composites are showing a good potential for employing in several applications.
A Practical Approach to Affording Review of Commercial Arbitration Awards: Using and Appellate Arbitrator

Arbitration awards are supposed to be final. But that finality is sometimes more of a curse than a benefit because it drives parties away from the arbitration process. In this article I discuss ways to address this concern within the arbitration clause itself. I argue that under the commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association it is possible to craft a clause that permits an appeal on issues of law to a panel composed of arbitrators and I offer a series of practical suggestions. I also discuss the idea within the rules of CPR and JAMS. The article also includes a discussion of the impact of the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Hall v. Matell, 552 U.S. 576 (2008) on the ability of parties to an arbitration clause to include provisions for review by an appellate arbitrator.
The complex stresses and their properties in the isotropic case

This chapter aims to describe and unify the properties of the two functions of the complex variable in terms of which the solution of plane problems may be expressed in the case of isotropic material undergoing infinitesimal elastic deformation. As we are in effect dealing with plane geometry it is more convenient and intuitive to refer to the material as if it were in the form of a thin plate. In so doing there is no loss of generality, for we can proceed from this case of generalized plane stress to the case of plane deformation by a mere change in the value of the elastic constant x.
On l ∞ robust stability and performance with l 2 and l ∞ perturbations ubscrpt> perturbations

In this paper we will consider systems with linear time-invariant perturbations. We will analyze robust performance in the l2 and l∞ settings. The l2 setting gives rise to the familiar case of structured singular values, and a stability criterion is given by the “small μ” theorem. We show that although the necessary and sufficient criterion of robust stability for the l∞ case (l∞ stability with structured l∞-gain bounded perturbations) is the same “small μ” criterion, a system with l2-gain bounded perturbations is never l∞ stable.
Solution Masterbatching Studies

Abstract Hydrosolution masterbatching (HSMB) imparts excellent dispersion and improved pigment-to-polymer adhesion to carbon and oil masterbatches of poly-butadiene, SBR and blends of these rubbers. Tire tests show HSMB stocks to resist wear slightly better than like stocks mixed in a conventional manner. The HSMB process can be used to produce fully compounded vulcanizable tread stocks in which the stock is discharged continuously from a drying extruder. The dispersion and adhesion advantages of HSMB stocks are also noted in complete masterbatches. HSMB oil, black, and polymer masterbatches usually have higher viscosity, tensile strength, hardness, and dynamic modulus but lower resilience and reduced scorch safety, in comparison with conventionally mixed stock. Carbon black dispersion as revealed by light and electron microscope analysis is excellent. Experiments characterizing carbon gel and development of carbon black dispersion on HSMB stocks (vacuum dried), indicate the total effective molecular cont...
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of alcoholic hepatitis: introduction and summary of the symposium

Abstract The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Office of Rare Diseases, National Institutes of Health, sponsored a satellite symposium on “Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Alcoholic Hepatitis” at the 24th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Research Society on Alcoholism, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, June 2001. Alcohol intake is a major cause of hepatitis that may lead to alcoholic cirrhosis—a major cause of death in the United States. In up to one third of heavy drinkers alcoholic hepatitis develops, which is characterized by liver cell death and infiltration of leukocytes in hepatic parenchyma. Although leukocytes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of alcoholic hepatitis, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms by which leukocytes migrate to hepatic parenchyma and initiate tissue injury are not clear. For this symposium, 10 speakers were invited to address the following aspects of the mechanisms of alcoholic hepatitis: role of Kupffer cells in initiating the process of alcoholic hepatitis; types of leukocytes involved in the pathogenesis of alcoholic hepatitis; chemokines that are responsible for the attraction of leukocytes; adhesion molecules that promote the attachment of leukocytes to the endothelial cells and hepatocytes; mechanisms of leukocyte transmigration to hepatic parenchyma; mechanisms by which leukocytes initiate tissue injury; and interactive effects of alcohol and hepatitis viral proteins on liver injury. This article provides an introduction to the problem and a summary of the 10 scientific presentations delivered at the symposium.
Extensive Reduction of Coal by a New Electrochemical Method

IN recent years electrolytic methods have been used in the reduction and structural elucidation of coal1–2. The usefulness of these methods is limited by the fact that the benzene ring (that is, the isolated benzene ring as in benzene or tetralin), which may represent a large portion of the coal structure, has not previously been reduced electrolytically. Work here has shown that reduction of benzene can be achieved by electrolysis in ethylenediamine saturated with lithium chloride3. The same method has now been successfully applied to the reduction of a high-rank coal and has resulted in the addition of 44 hydrogens per 100 carbon atoms. The best electrochemical reduction achieved2 prior to this was carried out in dimethylformamide and amounted to the addition of 14 hydrogens.
Scanning electron microscopy of Acanthamoeba culbertsoni as observed in the subarachnoid space.

Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the pathogenic protozoan, Acanthamoeba culbertsoni , in the leptomeningeal subarachnoid space surrounding the spinal cord of the experimentally inoculated dog. Known to inhabit such areas as moist soils, stagnant waters, and sewage around the world, these protozoans have been identified as etiologic agents in numerous cases of meningoencephalitis. Infection occurs via a nasopharyngeal inoculation, through penetration of the olfactory mucosal epithelium and cribriform plate, into the subarachnoid space, whence it gains access to the central nervous system. Stock preparations of these amebae extracted directly from their culture medium for scanning microscopic study provided an index for their identification within the subarachnoid space and also permitted a heretofore unobserved survey of their pleomorphic surface features. From the observations of others, it had appeared that the ultimate portal of entry into the central nervous system involved some type of cytolytic process; however, this study illustrates an action of simple diapedesis in which the organisms seek a pathway of least resistance; namely, the naturally-occurring pial fenestrations.
Potassium metabolism of liver mitochondria.

SummaryRabbit liver mitochondria contain K which cannot be removed by repeated washings with NaCl solutions at 2°C. This K fraction exchanges with ambient K under appropriate metabolic conditions, indicating a dependence of K metabolism on aerobic oxidation. Orthophosphate depresses the mitochondrial K level. A newly observed poly-phasic action of DNP indicates a specific relationship between mitochondrial ester phosphate and K exchange.
Investigating the effects of solvent on the ultrafast dynamics of a photoreversible ruthenium sulfoxide complex.

The photochromic complex [Ru(bpy)2(pySO)]2+ [pySO is 2-(isopropylsulfinylmethyl)pyridine] undergoes wavelength specific, photoreversible S → O and O → S linkage isomerizations. Irradiation of the ground state S-bonded complex with blue light produces the O-bonded isomer, while irradiation of the O-bonded isomer with green light produces the S-bonded isomer. Furthermore, isomerization time constants are solvent-dependent. Ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy has been employed to investigate the relaxation processes that lead to S → O isomerization in 1,2-dichloroethane, propylene carbonate, and ethylene glycol. The isomerization is most rapid in 1,2-dichloroethane and slowest in ethylene glycol. Photochemical reversion of the O-bonded isomer in propylene carbonate has further been investigated and indicates similar relaxation or isomerization kinetics, though the excited states that lead to isomerization are distinct between the S- and O-bonded isomers.
Absorption of Crystalline Estrogen from Paraffin Nodules in the Rat.

SummaryAn effective and simple method of insuring slow continuous absorption of estrogen in the rat is the incorporation of the crystalline hormone in paraffin (melting point 48°C), which after subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intraperitoneal injection in a liquid state, solidifies locally. As indicated by vaginal smear, the average time required for complete absorption and utilization of 5.0 mg estradiol dipropionate contained in 0.1 cc paraffin, introduced into animals 3 to 5 weeks of age, is 151 ± 5.9 days. In males the position and activity of the testes are comparable indicators of the utilization of the injected estrogenic hormone.
Variation of Influenza Virus and Its Research Status

In March 2013,China's first human infection with the H7N9 avian flu epidemic has brought serious challenges to China's health,animal disease prevention and healthy development of economy. Based on serious harm caused by avian flu,research advances were summarized from 7 aspects of etiology,classification and nomenclature,pathogenicity,variation characteristics,training features,clinical diagnosis,vaccine and drug prevention,so as to provide reference for diagnosis and control of influenza virus.
Treatment of Established Graft-Versus-Host Disease in Dogs by Antithymocyte Serum or Prednisone

Marrow grafts after 1200 R of whole-body irradiation were carried out between pairs of unrelated dogs of different breeds that were incompatible for dog histocompatibility antigens. Three groups of recipients were studied. Recipients in all groups were treated with the immunosuppressive agent methotrexate (MTX), 0.4 mg/kg, on days 1, 3, 6, and 11, and then once weekly until day 102 after grafting. Dogs in group 1 were given MTX only. Thirty of 35 recipients died between 11 and 51 days and five survived more than 102 days. Median survival time was 20 days. Dogs in group 2 were treated with rabbit antidog antithymocyte serum (ATS) when graft-versus-host (GVH) disease became established. Eight of ten recipients died between 19 and 76 days and two survived more than 102 days. Median survival time was 45 days. Dogs in group 3 were treated with daily injections of prednisone when GVH disease became apparent. Seven of nine recipients died between 11 and 34 days and two survived more than 102 days. Median survival time was 24 days. It was concluded that established GVH disease in dogs with histoincompatible marrow grafts can be favorably influenced by ATS with significant ( p p > 0.1).
The treatment of luteal phase defects with pulsatile infusion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

Because pulsatile administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) can initiate normal follicular maturation and corpus luteum function in women with hypothalamic amenorrhea, the authors attempted to treat five women with inadequate and one with short luteal phase with GnRH therapy. Pulsatile administration of GnRH (5 μ g intravenously every 90 minutes) was begun on days 1 to 4 and continued throughout the cycle. Blood levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen, and progesterone were monitored daily throughout the control and treatment cycles. There were 12 GnRH treatment cycles, all of them ovulatory. The length of the induced luteal phases varied from 11 to 17 days in all patients. Mean progesterone levels during GnRH treatment were significantly increased over those of the matched control cycles (control cycle 3.5±0.5ng/ml; treatment cycle 8.2±1.45ng/ml [mean±standard error]). Endometrial biopsies obtained during the luteal phase (days 25 to 27) in five women were in phase during the GnRH treatment cycle, in contrast to the control cycle in which they were two or more days out of phase. One patient achieved pregnancy during the treatment cycle, but aborted spontaneously at 8½ weeks. The data demonstrate that pulsatile GnRH infusion, when initiated in the early follicular phase, can restore normal corpus luteum function in women with luteal phase defects.
Rule-based computerized reminders increased ordering of preventive services in an inpatient setting.

Source Citation Dexter PR, Perkins S, Overhage JM, et al. A computerized reminder system to increase the use of preventive care for hospitalized patients. N Engl J Med. 2001 Sep 27;345:965-70. 11575289
Activation of SAT1 engages polyamine metabolism with p53-mediated ferroptotic responses.

Although p53-mediated cell-cycle arrest, senescence, and apoptosis remain critical barriers to cancer development, the emerging role of p53 in cell metabolism, oxidative responses, and ferroptotic cell death has been a topic of great interest. Nevertheless, it is unclear how p53 orchestrates its activities in multiple metabolic pathways into tumor suppressive effects. Here, we identified the SAT1 (spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1) gene as a transcription target of p53. SAT1 is a rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine catabolism critically involved in the conversion of spermidine and spermine back to putrescine. Surprisingly, we found that activation of SAT1 expression induces lipid peroxidation and sensitizes cells to undergo ferroptosis upon reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced stress, which also leads to suppression of tumor growth in xenograft tumor models. Notably, SAT1 expression is down-regulated in human tumors, and CRISPR-cas9–mediated knockout of SAT1 expression partially abrogates p53-mediated ferroptosis. Moreover, SAT1 induction is correlated with the expression levels of arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15), and SAT1-induced ferroptosis is significantly abrogated in the presence of PD146176, a specific inhibitor of ALOX15. Thus, our findings uncover a metabolic target of p53 involved in ferroptotic cell death and provide insight into the regulation of polyamine metabolism and ferroptosis-mediated tumor suppression.
Synergic roles of amyloid-? and tau oligomers in the development of neurotoxicity involved in Alzheimer?s disease progression

A of misfolded proteins in the neuronal cells results in dysregulation of calcium homeostasis and cellular dysfunction in peripheral and brain tissues. We have shown that the prolonged subcutaneous injection of casein amyloid aggregates, triggers beta amyloid accumulation in the mouse brain. This raises a question how an enrichment of one amyloid in the tissue leads to accumulation of another amyloid? We and others groups have shown that the amyloid oligomer on interaction with Ephrin-B2 receptor (Eph2) results in Eph2 depletion. Eph2 depletion would lead to aberrant NMDA signaling with increase in intracellular calcium [Ca2+]. More detailed in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrate that such up-regulation of calcium results in endoplasmic stress and inhibition of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). PP2A is involved in maintaining the tau hyper phosphoyrlation under control. Importantly, we observe PP2A is expressed abundantly in dendritic spines. Inhibition of PP2A would result in higher tau phosphorylation and decrease spine density. We have been developing specific ligands that would modify the toxic structure of oligomers to prevent Eph2 interactions. A class of novel amyloid-beta oligomer binding compounds are developed that would alter the oligomeric populations of A beta and tau converting them into non-toxic conformers thereby preventing their interaction with Eph2 receptors. These molecules also suppress aberrant NMDA receptor activation along with calcium elevation. We have shown toxic to nontoxic amyloid transitions are possible when oligomeric are interacting with small heat shock protein like alpha-crystalline. Thus, small molecules and small heat shock proteins could rescue the PP2A activity and significantly reduce the tau hyper phosphorylation and associated toxicity. This novel mechanistic pathway would help improve substantial and viable therapeutic intervention against AD.
Site-Specific Soil Properties of the US Climate Reference Network Soil Moisture

The objective of this study was to provide direct measurements of soil properties for 70 of the 114 US Climate Reference Network (USCRN) sites across the continental United States. Soil properties determined from the analysis of soil core samples include the particle size distribution (PSD, consisting of sand, silt, and clay contents), soil texture classifications, bulk density (BD), and the soil moisture content at water potentials of 33 kPa (field capacity, FC) and 1500 kPa (wilting point, WP). Sand, silt, and clay contents of the 70 sites indicated about 10 soil texture classifications as follows: three sites with loamy sand, 15 with sandy loam, two with clay, 11 with silt loam, five with clay loam, 10 with loam, seven with sand, eight with silty clay loam, four with sandy clay, and three with silty clay. The comparison of soil properties among soil depths and pits indicated considerable variability, with the silt, clay, and sand contents varying more with soil depth than with location at individual sites. The silt content tended to decrease with soil depth, clay tended to increase, and sand tended to vary randomly with depth. Regression lines fitted to values of FC and WP between the pits indicated a slope > 0.8, R 2 > 0.88, and RMSE ranging from 2.7 to 4%. Compared with FC and WP, BD was less consistent among the pits, with slope = 0.6, R 2 = 0.4, and RMSE of about 0.2 g cm−3.
NKT cell-mediated enhancement of humoral immunity against Clostridium difficile toxin B (IRC10P.406)

To develop more effective antibody-stimulating vaccines, we must improve our understanding of the mechanisms by which vaccines induce and maintain long-lasting humoral immunity. This is important for the development of new vaccines against emerging pathogens such as C. difficile. It is well-established that Natural Killer T (NKT) cells, activated with the glycolipid, α-galactosylceramide (α-GC) enhance humoral immunity, but the mechanisms by which they do so are poorly understood. Here we show that activated NKT cells enhance the antigen-specific IgG1 response and survival against C. difficile Toxin B (TcdB). We and others have shown that NKT cells may enhance priming of T helper (Th) cells. We therefore hypothesized that T helper and NKT subsets coordinate to enhance the humoral immune response against C. difficile . Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that NKT cell activation with a-GC did not alter numbers of Th or follicular T helper (Tfh) cells, but increased the number of NKTfh cells. ELISPOT assays indicated that the α-GC enhanced secretion of IL-4 and IL-21 is mainly Th-derived. Adoptive transfer experiments show that α-GC did not alter the ability of Th cells to boost antibody production. This suggests that NKT cells may exert direct and indirect effects (via Th cells) on humoral immunity. Understanding the mechanisms by which NKT cells enhance humoral immunity will help in designing strategies to appropriately activate NKT cells and boost vaccine efficacy.
Stakeholder Management and Financial Performance: The Role of Managerial Discretion

We examine the role of managers in controlling the positive impact of stakeholder management (SM) on firm financial performance (FP) in the long term. We develop and test competing hypotheses on wh...
Trends in CEO Compensation and Equity Holdings for S&P 1,500 Firms: 1994-2007

We analyze CEO pay and equity holdings for the S&P 1,500 and broad industry classes. Between 1994 and 2000 real annual compensation doubled, and there was a dramatic shift from salary to option grants. The value and proportion of CEO equity holdings and the price-performance-sensitivity of their portfolios also increased, but, managers held less shares and more options. After the crash of the dot.com bubble at the turn-of-the-century pay fell briefly. But, it then began to trend upward again through 2007. Since 2001 option grants have declined notably, replaced largely by restricted stock grants. In the most recent years CEO option holdings and the price-performance-sensitivity of their equity portfolios have declined to levels far below those in 1994.
Fieldwork and theorizing in intellectual history: A reply to Fritz Ringer

Accompanying the recent resurgence of interest in intellectual history has been a vigorous and increasingly sophisticated discussion of its methods and theoretical underpinnings. Absorbing lessons from philosophy, anthropology, literary criticism, sociology, and other relevant fields, historians such as Quentin Skinner, Hayden White, Dominick LaCapra, James Clifford, and Roger Chartier have become full-fledged participants in the larger cultural debates of our day. It is particularly gratifying to see Fritz Ringer join their number, for he has long been recognized as a master practitioner of the intellectual historian's craft. Those who have been fortunate to study with him, as I did in the midsixties, as well as those who know him solely through his exemplary books, The Decline of the German Mandarins and Education and Society in Modern Europe, can only welcome his intervention.
Morphological and pharmacological basis for pulmonary ventilation in Amphiuma tridactylum: An ultrastructural study

The lung of the giant salamander, Amphiuma tridactylum, is divided into respiratory alveoli by muscular septa that increase the surface area of the lung as well as provide a mechanism for its almost complete collapse during exhalation. The epithelium of the internal surface is of two types: respiratory, composed of a single layer of pneumocytes overlying anastomosing capillaries, and non-respiratory, composed of ciliated cells and mucus-secreting goblet cells. Non-respiratory epithelium covers the apical edges of the septa, whereas the respiratory epithelium lines the alveoli. The smooth muscle of the septa and walls of the lung was studied in preparations of uninflated and acetylcholine-contracted lung. The muscle cells are ultrastructurally similar to other types of smooth muscle but are surrounded by extraordinary amounts of extracellular matrix, containing collagen and elastic fibers and numerous fine fibrils of unknown composition. Smooth muscle in isolated lung strips contracted in a dose-dependent manner when treated with acetylcholine or methacholine; contraction was blocked by atropine. Responses of lung strips to adrenergic agents were limited; only high doses of adrenalin caused slight relaxation of previously contracted muscle. These observations support the hypothesis that contraction of pulmonary smooth muscle is responsible for the ventilatory efficiency of the lung.
Fused deposition modeling 3D printing of boron nitride composites for neutron radiation shielding

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing is an additive manufacturing process capable of rapidly building three-dimensional computer-modeled objects. The technology offers an inexpensive and efficient technique to manufacture customized objects with intricate geometries using a simple printing process. However, FDM is currently restricted in application due to a limited availability of functional materials. Research in the field has focused on incorporating functional characteristics into printable polymers to expand application of FDM technology. In this work, neutron radiation shielding was targeted as an addition to FDM materials. By creating a composite material using a thermoplastic polymer matrix and boron nitride additive, neutron shielding of FDM-printed samples was enhanced from 50% attenuation in polymer specimens to 72% in composite specimens. The enhanced functionality of this new material enables FDM technology to be used in the manufacture of aerospace components, where neutron radiation presents a significant hazard.
Publisher Correction: Engineering and physical sciences in oncology: challenges and opportunities.

The article as originally published incorrectly cited reference 31 in the legend for figure 7. The correct reference should have been reference 132 (Angelo, M. et al. Multiplexed ion beam imaging of human breast tumors. Nat. Med. 20, 436–442 (2014)).
Don't Dismiss the List: The Value of Writing Extraordinary Issues into Ordinary Forms

"Don't Dismiss the List" chronicles the rhetorical moves of Peggy McIntosh, Kate Bornstein, and Jamaica Kincaid in "White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack," Gender Outlaw, and "Girl" respectively. In these works, each writer utilizes a traditional or variant list form to explore the seemingly insurmountable issues of racial, gendered, and cultural identity. At its best, "Don't Dismiss the List" is a successful hybrid, acting as both a rhetorical analysis of these writings and an imitation of them. Just as McIntosh's, Bornstein's, and Kincaid's pieces do, this essay strives for innovation, visual interest, and the full engagement of its readers. "Don't Dismiss the List" is a playful attempt at pedagogy, reaching for new ways to grab listeners' attention and teach them something invaluable - about reading, about writing, about life.
A bimodal microstructure for fatigue resistant metals by molecular dynamics simulations

Abstract We propose a new bimodal microstructure with promising potential for developing fatigue-resistant metals taking advantage of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In the proposed bimodal microstructure, each micrometer-sized grain is separated by a network of ultrafine nanocrystalline structure. Then, MD simulations of low cycle fatigue deformation of the proposed bimodal microstructure were performed. Modeling results suggest that most of the dislocations generated by the repeated plastic deformation (or the low cycle fatigue) are absorbed by the nanocrystalline network. No significant accumulation of dislocations is observed within the micrograins. This work suggests a potential path to achieve high fatigue resistance in metals as compared with their microcrystalline counterparts, which would be useful in nearly every engineering setting.
Fostering mathematical connections in introductory linear algebra through adapted inquiry

Mathematical connections are widely considered an important aspect of learning linear algebra, particularly at the introductory level. One effective strategy for teaching mathematical connections in introductory linear algebra is through inquiry-based learning (IBL). The demands of IBL instruction can make it difficult to implement such strategies in courses in which the instructor faces various constraints. The findings presented here are the product of an action research study in which IBL instructional materials were designed for a large-enrolled introductory linear algebra course with limited class time. This resulted in IBL being presented in a limited capacity alongside traditional lecture in what will be described as adapted inquiry. Specifically, these IBL materials were designed as vehicles through which students could form mathematical connections. This study was conducted with the goal of determining what mathematical connections students appear to be able to exhibit within the context of an adapted inquiry approach to IBL instruction.
A critical appraisal of biomarkers in prostate cancer

A number of urine and blood-based biomarker tests have been described for prostate cancer, although to date there has only been a limited exploration of the methodology behind the validation studies that underpin these tests. In this review, a selection of commercially available urine and blood-based biomarker tests for prostate cancer are described, and the underlying key validation studies for each test are critically appraised using the Standards for Reporting Diagnostic Accuracy (STARD) 2015 statement. The ExoDx Prostate Intelliscore, SelectMDx, Progensa PCA3, Mi-Prostate Score, 4K Score, and Prostate Health Index (PHI) tests were reviewed. Most of the validation studies supporting these tests perform exploratory analyses to determine cut-off values in a post hoc manner, comprise cohorts that are primarily Caucasian, report receiver operating characteristic curves that combine the biomarker’s result with established clinical nomograms and are based on a reference standard (prostate biopsy) that lacks central pathology review. Deficiencies in STARD reporting guidelines include frequent failure to provide a published study protocol, prospective study registration in a registry, a flow diagram, justification for sample size determination, a discussion of adverse events with testing, and information on how missing or indeterminate test results should be managed. Key validation studies that support many commercially available urine and blood-based biomarkers for prostate cancers have deficiencies in transparency based on STARD reporting guidelines, and limitations in methodology must be considered when deciding when these tests should be applied in clinical practice.
Experimental Variation of Magnification Calibration for Localization Microscopy

We study the variation of a localization microscope from temporal and thermal factors, enabling elucidation of the discrepancy between transillumination brightfield and epi-illumination fluorescence of an aperture array for magnification calibration.
Probing transport limitations in thick sintered battery electrodes with neutron imaging

Lithium-ion batteries have received significant research interest due to their advantages in energy and power density, which are important to enabling many devices. One route to further increase energy density is to fabricate thicker electrodes in the battery cell; however, careful consideration must be taken when designing electrodes as to how increasing the thickness impacts the multiscale and multiphase molecular transport processes, which can limit the overall battery operating power. Design of these electrodes necessitates probing the molecular processes when the battery cell undergoes electrochemical charge/discharge. One tool for in situ insights into the cell is neutron imaging, because neutron imaging can provide information of where electrochemical processes occur within the electrodes. In this manuscript, neutron imaging is applied to track the lithiation/delithiation processes within electrodes at different current densities for a full cell with a thick sintered Li4Ti5O12 anode and LiCoO2 cathode. The neutron imaging reveals that the molecular distribution of Li+ during discharge within the electrode is sensitive to the current density, or equivalently discharge rate. An electrochemical model provides additional insights into the limiting processes occurring within the electrodes. In particular, the impact of tortuosity and molecular transport in the liquid phase within the interstitial regions in the electrodes are considered, and the influence of tortuosity was shown to be highly sensitive to the current density. Qualitatively, the experimental results suggest that the electrodes behave consistent with the packed hard sphere approximation of Bruggeman tortuosity scaling, which indicates that the electrodes are largely mechanically intact but also that a design that incorporates tunable tortuosity could improve the performance of these types of electrodes.
Late Presentation of Glycogen Storage Disease Type Ia and Iii in Children with Short Stature and Hepatomegaly

Introduction: Glycogen storage diseases (GSD) classically present in infancy with hypoglycemia, failure to thrive, and hepatomegaly; however their phenotype can vary significantly. We present two children referred for short stature ultimately found to have genetic mutations consistent with GSD Ia and III. Case Reports: Child A: Healthy 5-year-old male referred to pediatric endocrinology for short stature. Parents reported history of tiredness when hungry and intermittent headaches. Height SD was -2.4 (midparental height 10th percentile), with mildly distended abdomen and liver palpable 4 cm below costal margin. Fasting labs demonstrated: glucose …
Ultrahigh-Resolution Fiber-Optic Sensing Based on High-Finesse, Meter-Long Fiber Fabry-Perot Resonators

Ultrahigh-resolution fiber-optic sensing has found a wide range of potential applications. However, the techniques reported so far are all based on highly specialized fiber structures and interrogation lasers, which are not widely available. In this paper, we report the demonstration of ultrahigh strain resolutions using only off-the-shelf commercial components. Our method leverages the high wavelength discrimination of long, high-finesse fiber Fabry-Perot interferometers (FFPI), using two 1 m-long FFPIs, one as the sensor and the other as a frequency reference. By locking the interrogation laser to the reference interferometer, which is co-packaged with the sensor interferometer, large, environment-induced sensing background is removed. This allows the laser to reliably probe the strains applied on the sensor with very high resolutions. A nominal, noise-limited strain resolution of 800 fϵ /√Hz has been achieved within 1–100 Hz. Strain resolution further improves to 75 fϵ /√Hz at 1 kHz, 60 fϵ /√Hz at 2 kHz and 40 fϵ /√Hz at 23 kHz, demonstrating better resolutions than proven techniques such as π -phase-shifted and slow-light fiber Bragg gratings. The work lays out a cost-effective scheme to achieve ultrahigh-resolution fiber-optic sensing.