cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Posttranslational modifications of NF-κB: another layer of regulation for NF-κB signaling pathway

The eukaryotic transcription factor NF-κB regulates a wide range of host genes that control the inflammatory and immune responses, programmed cell death, cell proliferation and differentiation. The activation of NF-κB is tightly controlled both in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus. While the upstream cytoplasmic regulatory events for the activation of NF-κB are well studied, much less is known about the nuclear regulation of NF-κB. Emerging evidence suggests that NF-κB undergoes a variety of posttranslational modifications, and that these modifications play a key role in determining the duration and strength of NF-κB nuclear activity as well as its transcriptional output. Here we summarize the recent advances in our understanding of the posttranslational modifications of NF-κB, the interplay between the various modifications, and the physiological relevance of these modifications.
LAW AND THE INTERPRETIVE TURN IN THE SOCIAL SCIENCES

Legal cases are increasingly used in the social sciences as the raw material for social analysis. While this is entirely laudable as a research strategy, the analytical methods used in the social s...
Anatomy and age of the Lothagam mandible

New anatomical data strengthen the allocation of the Lothagam mandible to the family Hominidae, most similar among known hominids to Australopithecus afarensis. New biostratigraphic analyses of Lothagam Suidae, coupled with data from the Tugen Hills succession, suggest that the Lothagam hominid is older than 5·6 Ma, and is therefore the earliest known member of this taxon.
Life characteristics of carbon-film resistors

THE DEVELOPMENT of carbon-film resistors since World War II has provided the electronics industry with a reasonably priced semiprecision resistor. Considerable effort has been devoted to determining the quality of these resistors, and minimum standards, such as those in Specification MIL-R-10509, have been established.
Enumeration of colored graphs

Abstract Colored graphs are enumerated by an application of Polya's counting theorem. The cycle indices of the appropriate permutation groups are determined by use of a slightly generalized version of Polya's composition theorem. The counting theorem, as well as the product and composition of permutation groups, is reviewed in our notation.
Some epistemological ramifications of the Borel–Kolmogorov paradox

This paper discusses conditional probability $$P(A{\vert }B)$$ , or the probability of A given B. When $$P(B)>0$$ , the ratio formula determines $$P(A {\vert } B)$$ . When $$P(B)=0$$ , the ratio formula breaks down. The Borel–Kolmogorov paradox suggests that conditional probabilities in such cases are indeterminate or ill-posed. To analyze the paradox, I explore the relation between probability and intensionality. I argue that the paradox is a Frege case, similar to those that arise in many probabilistic and non-probabilistic contexts. The paradox vividly illustrates how an agent’s way of representing an entity can rationally influence her credal assignments. I deploy my analysis to defend Kolmogorov’s relativistic treatment of conditional probability.
Should patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia receive hematopoietic stem-cell transplant from an unrelated donor?

Should patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia receive hematopoietic stem-cell transplant from an unrelated donor?
Effects of monetary policy on the twin deficits

Abstract This study uses a three-equation dynamic linear system to show the positive relationship between federal budget deficits and the 5-year Treasury bond rate and between the twin deficits in the U.S. during 1975:01 through 2004:12. An optimal efficient rule equation suggests that a one percentage point increase in bond rate explains a 22% budget deficit variations. A one index point change in nominal exchange rate correlates to a 78% variation in budget deficits. When real exchange rate is adopted in the system, the corresponding percentages become 14 and 86, respectively, showing the fading influence of T-bond rate and the increasing strength of exchange rate.
Crossbar switch matrix for floating-gate programming over large current ranges

A floating-gate, cross-bar switch matrix with a novel programming method is presented. Single-polysilicon floating-gate transistors are used to hold a “bit” state programmed with short-channel pFET devices that demonstrate hot-electorn injection over a large current range. Hot-electron injection modeling in pFETs is contrasted across various channel lengths and bias currents. Circuit design and physical layout are discussed, and characterization data is presented from a matrix fabricated in a 0.5µm, scalable CMOS process available through MOSIS.
A Practical Design of a Simple Retardance Meter

A working design of a simple retardance meter is indicated. The device permits direct, quick, and accurate measurement of the retardance, for example, of an oriented polymeric film which is intended for use as a phase changer plate in the production of elliptically polarized light. The method involves the direct compensation of the sample's retardance using the calibrated retardance of a mica crystal which is variably tilted about one of its two principal planar axes. Several suggestions relating to the optical design, assembly, and calibration of the device are included.
Developing lengths in horizontal two-phase bubbly flow

An air-water two-phase flow facility with a 19.1 mm i.d. test section has been fabricated. Local measurements of pressure drop for two-phase horizontal bubbly flow and single-phase flow downstream of various orifices have been obtained over a range of flow conditions. The wall shear stress developing length is obtained from the pressure drop profile. A developing length correlation is presented in which the relative deviation is 6%. The fully developed vapor volume fraction has also been measured up- and downstream of the orifice. A simple correlation for vapor volume fraction is presented in which the relative deviation is 7%. Photographs of the two-phase flow pattern in the developing region reveal that the flow structure is extremely complex and continuously evolves until approximately fully developed flow conditions are achieved.
Feasibility study of using hybrid collimation for nuclear environmental imaging

This paper presents a feasibility study of a gamma-ray imager using a hybrid collimation (HC) scheme. This detector is based on the use of a multiple pinhole collimator and a position sensitive scintillation detector with Anger logic readout. A pixelated semiconductor detector, located between the collimator and the scintillation detector, is used as a scattering detector. For gamma-rays scattered in the first detector and then stopped in the second detector, an image can be built up based on the joint probability of their passing through the collimator and falling into a broadened conical surface, defined by the detected Compton scattering event. Since these events have a much smaller angular uncertainty, they provide more information per photon compared with using solely the mechanical or electronic collimation. Therefore, the overall image quality can be improved. This feasibility study used a theoretical approach based on analyzing the resolution-variance tradeoff in images reconstructed using maximum a posteriori (MAP) algorithms. The effect of the detector configuration, Doppler broadening, the energy resolution of the scattering detector and mechanical aperture design are studied. The results showed that the combined collimation leads to a significant improvement in image quality at energies below 300 keV. However, due to the mask penetration, the performance of such a detector configuration is worse than a standard Compton camera above this energy.
The effect of fumed silica upon the reaction of iron octoate and polysiloxanes

Silica is a common component in silicone elastomer formulation. Silica is known to have surface hydroxyl groups and the reactions and interactions of these surface groups with various materials have been studied extensively in the past. It is believed that the iron octoate used to combat oxidative embrittlement in silicone elastomer formulations may also react with the surface of silica, specifically fumed silica. Dynamic mechanical spectroscopy (DMS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Electron Scanning for Chemical Analysis (ESCA), and Gel Permeation Chromatogrphy (GPC) were used to study the influence of untreated fumed silica and silica treated with dimethylsiloxane species on the iron octoate reaction. The rate of reaction was studied as a function of loading of silica. From analyzing rates of backbone scission and salt consumption, it is found that the iron octoate reacts preferentially with the surface of untreated fumed silica. Conversely, iron octoate appears to have no preferential reaction with the surface of the treated fumed silica.
Charge Transfer Electron-Exciton Complexes in Insulators and Semiconductors

We have considered the excitation spectrum arising from the coherent electron-exciton pairing in crystals at low temperatures. For the pairing processes, three different types of excitons have been considered: Frenkel excitons (tightly bound), Wannier-Mott excitons (loosely bound) and excitons of the intermediate binding. Expressions for the gap functions and transition temperatures at which metal to nonmetal phase transitions occur have been derived and discussed for each type of pairing. In the electron pairing with the intermediate exciton, the dispersion relations which determine the exciton and the electron-exciton modes are solved numerically and the derived results are graphically presented. The physical picture for the electron-exciton coupled modes is analogous to that for polaritons and magnon-phonon modes in crystals.
Histamine releasing factor/translationally controlled tumor protein: History, functions and clinical implications

Histamine Releasing Factor (HRF) also known as Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) is a ubiquitous, novel protein that has both intracellular and extracellular functions. The purpose of this review is to highlight the background history of the molecule, the clinical implications and focus on the extracellular functions. Specifically the cells and the cytokines that are produced when stimulated by HRF/TCTP will be delineated as well as the signal transduction pathway that HRF/TCTP elicits will be described. Originally it was thought that HRF/TCTP interacted with IgE. Subsequently, cells that do not bind IgE also respond to HRF/TCTP and the interaction with IgE was questioned. Now, very recently, HRF/TCTP or at least its mouse counterpart appears to interact with some, but not all IgE and IgG molecules. HRF/TCTP has been shown to activate multiple human cells including basophils, eosinophils, T cells and B cells. Many of the cells that are activated by HRF/TCTP participate in the allergic response, leading to the conclusion that the extracellular functions of HRF/TCTP could exacerbate the allergic, inflammatory response.
Antarctic marine gravity field from high-density satellite altimetry

High-density (about 2-km profile spacing) Geosat/GM altimetry profiles were obtained for Antarctic waters (6-deg S to 72 deg S) and converted to vertical gravity gradient, using Laplace's equation to directly calculate gravity gradient from vertical deflection grids and Fourier analysis to construct gravity anomalies from two vertical deflection grids. The resultant gravity grids have resolution and accuracy comparable to shipboard gravity profiles. The obtained gravity maps display many interesting and previously uncharted features, such as a propagating rift wake and a large 'leaky transform' along the Pacific-Antarctic Rise.
Nekton assemblage structure in natural and created marsh-edge habitats of the Guadalupe Estuary, Texas, USA

Abstract Natural and created Spartina brackish marsh habitats in the Guadalupe Estuary, adjacent to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Texas, USA were surveyed during spring, summer, and fall 2004 to evaluate the equivalence of nekton assemblages in an old (>30 years) created marsh. During each season, six replicate samples were collected in each marsh type using a 1-m 2 drop sampler. Multivariate analysis revealed significant differences in nekton assemblage structure among marsh type, both within and across seasons. Species richness was significantly higher in the natural marsh in spring and summer but not in fall. Several species that were dominant in the natural marsh but rare or absent in the created marsh had strong correlations with the presence of oyster substrate that was only encountered in natural marsh samples. Although cumulative richness was greater in the natural marsh, eight species were collected only from the created marsh. Shrimp and fish biomass was significantly higher in natural marsh. Analysis of the density, biomass and size structure of three commercially important crustaceans indicated that the created marsh supported similar biomass of some species (white shrimp, blue crab); however, the size structure of some populations was variable among marshes (blue crab, brown shrimp). We conclude that lower substrate complexity (specifically oyster) and soil organic content in the created marsh reduced measures of nekton similarity and recommend that these features be addressed in future restoration efforts.
Luminescence dating without sand lenses: An application of OSL to coarse-grained alluvial fan deposits of the Lost River Range, Idaho, USA

Abstract Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating is increasingly used to estimate the age of fluvial deposits. A significant limitation, however, has been that conventional techniques of sampling and dose rate estimation are suitable only for thick (>60 cm) layers consisting of sand size or finer grains. Application of OSL dating to deposits lacking such layers remains a significant challenge. Alluvial fans along the western front of the Lost River Range in east-central Idaho, USA are one example. Deposits are typically pebble to cobble sheetflood gravels with a sandy matrix but thin to absent sand lenses. As a result, the majority of samples for this project were collected by excavating matrix material from gravelly deposits under light-safe tarps or at night. To examine the contributions of different grain-size fractions to calculated dose-rates, multiple grain-size fractions were analyzed using ICP–MS, high resolution gamma spectrometry and XRF. Dose rates from bulk sediment samples were 0.4–40% (mean of 18%) lower than dose-rate estimates from the sand-size fractions alone, illustrating the importance of representative sampling for dose rate determination. We attribute the difference to the low dose-rate contribution from radio-nuclide poor carbonate pebbles and cobbles that occur disproportionately in clast sizes larger than sand. Where possible, dose rates were based on bulk sediment samples since they integrate the dose-rate contribution from all grain sizes. Equivalent dose distributions showed little evidence for partial bleaching. However, many samples had significant kurtosis and/or overdispersion, possibly due to grain-size related microdosimetry effects, accumulation of pedogenic carbonate or post-depositional sediment mixing. Our OSL age estimates range from 4 to 120 ka, preserve stratigraphic and geomorphic order, and show good agreement with independent ages from tephra correlation and U-series dating of pedogenic carbonate. Furthermore, multiple samples from the same deposit produced ages in good agreement. This study demonstrates that with modified sampling methods and careful consideration of the dose rate, OSL dating can be successfully applied to coarse-grained deposits of climatic and tectonic significance that may be difficult to date by other methods.
Student perspectives on the diversity climate at a U.S. medical school: the need for a broader definition of diversity

Background Medical schools frequently experience challenges related to diversity and inclusiveness. The authors conducted this study to assess, from a student body’s perspective, the climate at one medical school with respect to diversity, inclusiveness and cross-cultural understanding.
Can a mast cell subtype (MCT) play a role in the progression of endometrial cancer through angiogenesis

To the Editors: I read the article by Ribatti et al 1 and have some concerns about the role of the mast cell (MC) in the perplexing neoplastic angiogenesis. Also, we demonstrated the capability of human MC-mediated cytotoxicity against tumors, 2 which is contrary to their conclusion. Contrary to this study, increased MC density has not been associated always with bad or good prognosis in human or mice. 2 MCs were decreased significantly in some endometrial lesions such as atypical hyperplasia, endometrial sarcoma, and carcinoma. 3 Furthermore, there was no significant correlation between MC density and angiogenesis in some mice studies, and in human cancers and diseases (eg, lung cancer and systemic MC diseases). Endothelial cell apoptosis caused by MCs was also demonstrated. Angiogenesis was found to be associated with greater survival in oral squamous carcinoma and was suggested to be related with a better response to chemotherapy in advanced ovarian carcinoma. MC mediators mediate different functions, and the coexistence of both MC types contributes to tissue homeostasis. Because mediators have been shown to influence various aspects of tumor biology, the net effect of MCs in the tumor progression is difficult to evaluate. 2 Chymase induces apoptosis in targets; yet, tryptase is an angiogenic mediator. But, tryptase also was thought to limit tumor growth through fibrosis in advanced ovarian cancer. Additionally, proportional changes in MC subtypes may be modified by the conditions in a tumor stroma. However, no proportional change was detected in hepatocellular carcinomas. Neoplastic angiogenesis is a complex process that includes macrophages, 3 eosinophils, stromal, and endothelial progenitor cells. In this chaos, the net effect of MCs is difficult to define. 2 Angiogenic co-operation
The Syncretic Approach to Natural Beauty: What It Is and What It Isn’t

The theory presented in my book, Natural Beauty, is syncretic in that it denies the exclusivity of any one model of aesthetic appreciation of natural objects and instead insists: (1) that there is a tight, reciprocating connection between talents of perception that we develop in relation to arts and to natural objects; and (2) that the appreciation of natural beauty is intimately connected to the appreciation of other social values, including ethical values. In this paper, I respond to criticisms of my syncretic approach—chiefly that it fails to reconcile objective and subjective elements in aesthetic judgment, that it fails to marshal its many modes of judgment into rational consistency, and that it fails to take proper stock of the role of scientific knowledge in these judgments—offered by Arnold Berleant, Stephanie Ross, and Glenn Parsons.
Review of question and answer session

Prior to the oral presentations at the Skin and Soft Tissue Infections Workshop the audience was polled to assess the participants' knowledge of the epidemiology and aetiology of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) as well as to determine their approach to the treatment of complicated SSTIs (cSSTI). Twenty questions were asked before the presentations and audience members were allowed to answer anonymously using an electronic audience response system. The questions fell into four general categories: aetiology of cSSTI, terminology, epidemiology and treatment. This paper discusses the answers to the questions.
Self-administered Questions and Interviewer–Respondent Familiarity:

We examine the effects of interviewer–respondent familiarity on both response patterns and rates of item nonresponse when self-administered questions (SAQs) are used. We use SAQ data from a survey ...
Help of third-year medical students decreases first-year medical students' negative psychological reactions on the first day of gross anatomy dissection

The assistance of third-year medical students (MS3) may be an easy, inexpensive, educational method to decrease physical and emotional stress among first-year medical students (MS1) on the first day of gross anatomy dissection. In the academic years 2000-2001 and 2001-2002, a questionnaire on the emotional and physical reactions on the first day of dissection was distributed to 84 MS1 at Mayo Medical School (Rochester, MN); 74 (88%) responded. Student perceptions were assessed on a 5-point Likert scale. The 42 second-year medical students (MS2) whose first academic year was 1999-2000 were used as a control group, because they had not had assistance from MS3. MS2 completed the same questionnaire (59% response rate). Data were collected from MS1 on the day of their first gross anatomy dissection. The most frequent reactions were headache, disgust, grief or sadness, and feeling light-headed. Significant differences (alpha < 0.05) were found with use of the chi(2) test to compare the emotional and physical reactions of MS1 and MS2. MS1 had significantly fewer physical reactions (64% vs. 88%), reporting lower levels of anxiety (23% vs. 48%), headache (14% vs. 36%), disgust (9% vs. 20%), feeling light-headed (11% vs. 24%), and reaction to the smell of the cadaver and laboratory (8% vs. 52%). MS1 commented that having MS3 at the dissection table was extremely helpful. They relied less on their peers and felt they learned more efficiently about the dissection techniques and anatomical structures. Using MS3 as assistants is one method to reduce fear and anxiety on the first day of gross anatomy dissection.
The Sexual Discounting Task: HIV risk behavior and the discounting of delayed sexual rewards in cocaine dependence.

Background Cocaine dependence is associated with high rates of sexual risk behavior and HIV infection. However, little is known about the responsible mechanism(s).
Pungent agents from Szechuan peppers excite sensory neurons by inhibiting two-pore potassium channels

Sanshool, the compound responsible for the tingling sensations experienced when consuming Szechuan peppercorns, excites sensory neurons through a unique mechanism, the inhibition of two-pore potassium channels. In traditional folk medicine, Xanthoxylum plants are referred to as 'toothache trees' because their anesthetic or counter-irritant properties render them useful in the treatment of pain. Psychophysical studies have identified hydroxy-α-sanshool as the compound most responsible for the unique tingling and buzzing sensations produced by Szechuan peppercorns or other Xanthoxylum preparations. Although it is generally agreed that sanshool elicits its effects by activating somatosensory neurons, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain a matter of debate. Here we show that hydroxy-α-sanshool excites two types of sensory neurons, including small-diameter unmyelinated cells that respond to capsaicin (but not mustard oil) as well as large-diameter myelinated neurons that express the neurotrophin receptor TrkC. We found that hydroxy-α-sanshool excites neurons through a unique mechanism involving inhibition of pH- and anesthetic-sensitive two-pore potassium channels (KCNK3, KCNK9 and KCNK18), providing a framework for understanding the unique and complex psychophysical sensations associated with the Szechuan pepper experience.
Relating expectations to automatically recovered design patterns

At MITRE we are developing tools to aid analysts in assessing the operational usability and quality of object-oriented code. Our tools statically examine source code, automatically recognize the use of design patterns and relate pattern use to software qualities, coding goals, and system engineering expectations about the source code. Thus, through the use of automated design pattern analysis, we are working to reveal originating software design decisions.
Secure scheme during vertical handoff in integrated heterogeneous wireless systems

An integrated heterogeneous wireless system (IHWS) combines different wireless access technologies together and provides a user with ubiquitous network connectivity. Security in such network is extremely critical for its successful implementation. However, each underlying network in an IHWS has a unique security scheme that cannot be adopted by other networks. Several security algorithms that have been proposed, aim at achieving inter-network security but fail to address mobility and scalability requirements of the network. In this paper, we propose a novel security scheme that addresses the limitations in the existing security protocols for IHWS networks and prove its efficiency through extensive simulations.
Methodologies for designing LDPC codes using protographs and circulants

A method is presented for constructing LDPC codes with excellent performance, simple hardware implementation, low encoder complexity, and which can be concisely documented. The simple code structure is achieved by using a base graph, expanded with circulants. The base graph is chosen by computer search using simulated annealing, driven by density evolution's decoding threshold as determined by the reciprocal channel approximation. To build a full parity check matrix, each edge of the base graph is replaced by a circulant permutation, chosen to maximize loop length by using a Viterbi-like algorithm.
Determination of mitochondrial DNA haplotypes from sting remnants of the honeybee Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera:Apidae)

Africanized honeybees are presently expanding their geographic range within the USA and are considered undesirable due to their substantial defensive behaviour. Africanized honeybees can be differentiated from honeybees of European ancestry using discriminant analysis of morphological characters, based on a minimum of ten intact specimens per colony. In this paper we report a PCR-based method suitable for the identification of African or European mtDNA from sting remnants, such as typically remain on victims following a stinging incident. We experimentally simulated collection and shipment conditions with dried and alcohol preservation of stings, and also report that the method was suitable for sting remnants stored with a victim sample for over one year in alcohol. The determination of mtDNA haplotypes from stinger remnants must be tempered by the constraints inherent in interpretation of mtDNA haplotype data. Such data do not provide any information regarding the genetic contribution of the paternal lineage. However, in geographic areas where baseline information regarding European haplotype frequencies is known, the detection of a different mtDNA haplotype in stingers from a victim, especially when associated with observations of extreme defensive behaviour, would certainly be suggestive of Africanization.
An exact treatment of the achievable closed-loop H 2 performance of sampled-data controllers: from continuous-time to open-loop

Abstract In this paper we investigate the closed-loop performance of a sampled-data control system by utilizing exact discretization techniques. In particular, for an H 2 performance measure we give exact expressions for the closed-loop cost for a given sample interval h . After applying discrete-time LQG synthesis to the sampled-data system, the achievable performance is evaluated for fast sampling near continuous time, h → 0, and slow sampling near open loop, h → ∞. Connections between the continuous-time Riccati equation for the analog control system and the discrete-time Riccati equation for the sampled-data system are investigated. Finally, several numerical examples are given to illustrate the convergence from sampled-data control to continuous-time control and open-loop.
Mitigation of current harmonics for multi-pulse diode front end rectifier systems

Multipulse rectifier system has been shown to be a cost-effective harmonic solution in many industries where IEEE 519 is specified. However, it is susceptible to poor quality of the input source of the power distribution system where the phase unbalance of the source voltage and preexisting low-order harmonic voltages are presented. A small amount of voltage unbalance with preexisting harmonics can create large amount of current harmonics to the input source. Consequently, a stricter preexisting voltage total harmonic distortion condition has to be specified for an 18-pulse rectifier to meet the IEEE 519 current-harmonics requirement. This paper introduces a dc link passive filtering method to solve this problem. It greatly reduces the current harmonics created by the phase unbalance, the fifth-, and the seventh-order voltage harmonics by adding several series LC resonant loops into the dc link. As a result, the proposed 18-pulse rectifier can meet IEEE 519 under several abnormal source voltage conditions of the ac line. Theory analysis, simulation, and experimental result are provided in this paper to verify the effectiveness of this method
Past, present, and future of endobronchial laser photoresection

Laser photoresection of central airway obstruction is a useful tool for an Interventional Pulmonologist (IP). Endobronchial therapy of the malignant airway obstruction is considered as a palliative measure or a bridge therapy to the definite treatment of cancer. Several ablative therapies such as electrocautery, argon plasma coagulation (APC), cryotherapy and laser photoresection exist in the armamentarium of IP to tackle such presentations. Besides Neodymium-Yttrium, Aluminum, Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser, there are several different types of laser that have been used by the pulmonologist with different coagulative and cutting properties. This chapter focuses on the historical perspective, current status, and potentials of lasers in the management of central airway lesions.
Platelet IgG, IgA, IgM, and Albumin: Correlation of Platelet and Plasma Concentrations in Normal Subjects and in Patients With ITP or Dysproteinemia

IgG, IgA, IgM, and albumin are primarily known as plasma proteins. Their presence in platelets is poorly understood. The total platelet content of IgG, IgA, and albumin, measured in solubilized platelets by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent-assay (ELISA) technique, was greater than 90% secreted after stimulation by thrombin, consistent with an alpha-granule location. The platelet concentrations of these proteins correlated with their plasma concentrations in normal subjects and over a wide range of abnormalities in patients with IgG or IgA myeloma or liver cirrhosis. IgM was not detectable in normal platelets but was measurable and related to the plasma IgM concentration in patients with macroglobulinemia. In patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), the platelet concentrations of IgG, IgA, and albumin were all twofold to threefold higher than normal despite normal plasma concentrations. Platelet surface IgG, measured by 125I-monoclonal antibody binding, constituted less than 1% of the total platelet IgG, and it appeared to be a pool distinct from the alpha-granule IgG since its concentration in normal subjects and patients did not correlate with either plasma or total platelet IgG concentrations. These observations are consistent with hypotheses that megakaryocytes incorporate plasma proteins into developing alpha-granules by pinocytosis and that the increased ratio of platelet to plasma of IgG, IgA, and albumin in ITP may reflect a younger average age of these platelets.
Variability in the performance of the spectrogram correlation detector for North-east Pacific blue whale calls

AbstractSpectrogram correlation has been used successfully for automatic detection of baleen whale calls. However, applying this method consistently to long time series can be challenging. To illustrate the potential challenges of the automatic detection process, recordings collected in the Southern California Bight between 2007 and 2012 were used for detection of North-east Pacific blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) B calls. The effects of the following factors were investigated: blue whale B call frequency shift and appropriate kernel modification, seasonal variability in call abundance, analyst variability and noise. Due to intra- and inter-annual changes in the call frequency of blue whale B calls, seasonal and annual adjustments to the call detection kernel were needed. To account for seasonal variability in call production, evaluation of the detector against ground truth data was performed at multiple times during the year. Analyst variability did not affect overall long-term trends in detection, bu...
Trailing the Elusive Carpenter Ant: A Key to Its Control

On any spring day across North America, you may hear radio commercials for pest control companies promising an end to the invasion of “Big Black Ants.” The entomologists among us will recognize this “plague” as the seasonal return of carpenter ants, although the homeowner facing scores of large ants foraging in his home will care little of the taxonomy of Formicidae.
(Im)Perfection: Reading Philippians 3.5–6 in Light of the Number Seven

Although interpreters of Philippians have observed both the number and the progression of items in Phil 3.5–6, previous scholarship on the letter has failed to recognise that this ‘catalogue of boasting’ consists of precisely seven items. As a result, commentators have not attempted to explicate these two verses in light of the ostensible presence and influence of numerical symbolism. This paper offers a fresh reading of Phil 3.5–6 (and surrounding verses) – one that keeps Paul's sevenfold list of his pedigree and performance in Judaism clearly in view. The insights gleaned from the interpretation proffered in this article enable a fuller understanding of this programmatic autobiographical text.
Compliance with gastric cancer guidelines is associated with improved outcomes.

BACKGROUND Limited data are available on the implementation and effectiveness of NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) for Gastric Cancer. PURPOSE We sought to assess rates of compliance with NCCN Guidelines, specifically stage-specific therapy during the initial episode of care, and to determine its impact on outcomes. METHODS The California Cancer Registry was used to identify cases of gastric cancer from 2001 to 2006. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models were used to predict guideline compliance and the adjusted hazard ratio for mortality. Patients with TNM staging or summary stage (SS) were also analyzed separately. RESULTS Compliance with NCCN Guidelines occurred in just 45.5% of patients overall. Patients older than 55 years were less likely to receive guideline-compliant care, and compliance was associated with a median survival of 20 versus 7 months for noncompliant care (P<.001). Compliant care was also associated with a 55% decreased hazard of mortality (P<.001). Further analysis revealed that 50% of patients had complete TNM staging versus an SS, and TNM-staged patients were more likely to receive compliant care (odds ratio, 1.59; P<.001). TNM-staged patients receiving compliant care had a median survival of 25.3 months compared with 15.1 months for compliant SS patients. CONCLUSIONS Compliance with NCCN Guidelines and stage-specific therapy at presentation for the treatment of patients with gastric cancer was poor, which was a significant finding given that compliant care was associated with a 55% reduction in the hazard of death. Additionally, patients with TNM-staged cancer were more likely to receive compliant care, perhaps a result of having received more intensive therapy. Combined with the improved survival among compliant TNM-staged patients, these differences have meaningful implications for health services research.
Physical Properties of Gluten Free Sugar Cookies Containing Teff and Functional Oat Products

Teff-oat composites were developed using gluten free teff flour containing essential amino acids with oat products containing beta-glucan known for lowering blood cholesterol and improving texture. The teff-oat composites were used in sugar cookies for improving nutritional and physical properties. Teff and its composites had higher water holding capacities compared to wheat flour. The pasting properties were not significantly influenced by 20% oat product replacements in teff-oat composites. The pasting viscosities of teff-OBC and teff-WOF 4:1 composites were similar to teff flour, but they were all higher than wheat flour. The elastic properties of teff-OBC (oat bran concentrate) and teff-WOF (whole oat flour) doughs were slightly higher than teff dough. Differences were also found in geometrical and textural properties of the doughs and cookies. Overall, the teff-oat cookies were acceptable in colour, flavour, and texture.
The dynamics of shear disaggregation of red blood cells in a flow channel

Red blood cell (RBC) rouleaux were formed in a flow channel in the presence of 2 g/dl dextran (molecular weight 76,000). The partial separation of RBC rouleau doublets adhering to the floor of the flow channel in response to small oscillatory shear stresses was observed experimentally. Theoretical analyses on displacement and drag force were performed to determine whether the motion of the cell involves membrane rotation (i.e., rolling) or sliding. From the experimental data and the results of theoretical analyses, it is concluded that, under the conditions of the experiments, the RBCs in a doublet separate from each other by rolling, rather than sliding of the sheared cell.
Searching for the Quark-Gluon Plasma via Kaon Production at the AGS

The overarching goal of our current research is to determine whether anything unusual happens in an Au + Au collision at 10 A.GeV. Of the many possibilities, two are compelling: 1) Do we form a baryon-rich Quark-Gluon-Plasma (QGP)? 2) Are the properties of hadrons, their masses, cross-sections changed in a dense nuclear medium? Before answering these questions, we need a solid understanding of the reaction dynamics, the roles played by multiple scattering, excited resonances and the balance between absorption and initial production of particles. This foundation is necessary because any signatures of new physics will be sitting in the dominant environment of hadronic rescattering.
Transitional Justice and Development Aid to Fragile and Conflict-Affected States: Risks and Reforms

Transitional justice initiatives are expensive. As such, whether they consist of war crimes trials, truth commissions, or rule of law projects, post-conflict justice programs have to garner considerable financial resources from donors in order to succeed. Development aid is a major source of funding for transitional justice. But what determines whether development donors will invest in transitional justice, among the many kinds of programs they could support? This paper examines transitional justice as one aspect of development aid. It identifies factors that affect whether and how development donors fund transitional justice initiatives and explores the potential ramifications of recent reforms to aid for fragile and conflict-affected states. There are many obstacles to supporting post-conflict justice programs, including the controversial nature of transitional justice, the fact that justice has traditionally been tangential to development donors’ core missions and goals, the need to cooperate with peacekeeping forces where they are exercising authority, and the inherent difficulties of working in the fragile and conflict-affected states where such programs are often needed. In spite of these difficulties, security and human welfare concerns impel donors to provide assistance to fragile and conflict-affected states, and there is a growing recognition of the importance of justice, including transitional justice, to the recovery of such states. In addition, two recent reforms have the potential to create space for more justice-oriented work by development donors. The New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States emphasizes the importance of justice and other state-building components as a prerequisite for security and economic growth, while the United Nations' Global Focal Point initiative establishes an institutional framework for joint development and peacekeeping work.This is a draft version of a paper commissioned by the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ), as part of its “Justice in Context” research project. A revised version will be published in a forthcoming ICTJ edited volume.
Transitioning young adults from paediatric to adult care and the HIV care continuum in Atlanta, Georgia, USA: a retrospective cohort study

Introduction : The transition from paediatric to adult HIV care is a particularly high-risk time for disengagement among young adults; however, empirical data are lacking. Methods : We reviewed medical records of 72 youth seen in both the paediatric and the adult clinics of the Grady Infectious Disease Program in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, from 2004 to 2014. We abstracted clinical data on linkage, retention and virologic suppression from the last two years in the paediatric clinic through the first two years in the adult clinic. Results : Of patients with at least one visit scheduled in adult clinic, 97% were eventually seen by an adult provider (median time between last paediatric and first adult clinic visit = 10 months, interquartile range 2–18 months). Half of the patients were enrolled in paediatric care immediately prior to transition, while the other half experienced a gap in paediatric care and re-enrolled in the clinic as adults. A total of 89% of patients were retained (at least two visits at least three months apart) in the first year and 56% in the second year after transition. Patients who were seen in adult clinic within three months of their last paediatric visit were more likely to be virologically suppressed after transition than those who took longer (Relative risk (RR): 1.76; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07–2.9; p = 0.03). Patients with virologic suppression (HIV-1 RNA below the level of detection of the assay) at the last paediatric visit were also more likely to be suppressed at the most recent adult visit (RR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.34–3.9; p = 0.002). Conclusions : Retention rates once in adult care, though high initially, declined significantly by the second year after transition. Pre-transition viral suppression and shorter linkage time between paediatric and adult clinic were associated with better outcomes post-transition. Optimizing transition will require intensive transition support for patients who are not virologically controlled, as well as support for youth beyond the first year in the adult setting. Keywords adolescent; transition; HIV; care engagement; continuum; engagement; youth (Published: 1 September 2017) Hussen SA et al. Journal of the International AIDS Society 2017, 20 :21848 http://www.jiasociety.org/index.php/jias/article/view/21848 | http://dx.doi.org/10.7448/IAS.20.1.21848
EFFECTORS OF THE RATE OF DEOXYHEMOGLOBIN S POLYMERIZATION

The effect of physiological parameters, such as pH, oxygen concentration, protein concentration, non-gelling hemoglobins, and the erythrocyte membrane, on the kinetics of polymerization of deoxyhemoglobin S has been studied by measurement of transverse water proton relaxation times. The rate profile is characterized by a delay time, followed by a pseudo-first order polymerization process. The rate of deoxyhemoglobin S polymerization is increased by lowering the pH, increasing the percentage of deoxygenation, increasing the hemoglobin S concentration and the presence of the erythrocyte membrane. These studies permit a kinetic distinction between the homozygous S/S and heterozygous A/S hemoglobin states.
Staging HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer: Validation of AJCC-8 in a surgical cohort.

Abstract Importance The American Joint Committee on Cancer, 8th edition (AJCC-8) contains a new staging system for human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Our study aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of the AJCC-8 relative to the AJCC 7th edition (AJCC-7). Materials and methods A retrospective chart review was performed on a multi-institutional, prospectively collected dataset from two tertiary referral centers. All patients had HPV+ OPSCC treated primarily with surgery. The prognostic value of AJCC-7 and AJCC-8 were compared for 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DFS). Results AJCC-8 pathological staging effectively risk stratified patients, creating a Cox model with a better fit (lower Akaike’s Information Criterion, p Conclusions and relevance The new AJCC-8 staging system represents a significant improvement over AJCC-7 for risk stratification into groups that predict overall survival and disease-specific survival of surgically treated HPV+ OPSCC patients. The AJCC- 8 pathologic staging system was not significantly better than the AJCC-8 clinical staging system for overall survival, however, the pathologic staging system was better than the clinical for disease free survival.
A finiteness result for circulant core complex Hadamard matrices

Abstract We show that for every prime number p there exist finitely many circulant core complex Hadamard matrices of size p + 1 . The proof uses a ‘derivative at infinity’ argument to reduce the problem to Tao's uncertainty principle for cyclic groups of prime order (see [13] ).
Exploring crisis communication in the internal context of an organization: Examining moderated and mediated effects of employee-organization relationships on crisis outcomes

Abstract This study seeks to foster a greater understanding of effective crisis communication from the internal context of organizations. The present research conducted an online experimental study of 640 full-time employees in the United States. Results through OLS multiple regression and path analysis indicated 1) employee-organization relationships (EOR) and timing strategy of self-disclosure (stealing thunder) were positively associated with the positive internal reputation and employees’ supportive behavioral intentions, 2) the positive effects of EOR on the employees’ supportive behaviors appeared differently according to whether or not stealing-thunder was used, and 3) the effects of EOR and message strategy (accommodative response) on the positive internal reputation were varied when the negative emotions (anger and anxiety) intervened.
Relationship between workload and throwing injury in varsity baseball players.

Abstract Objectives In this study we describe the first analysis of the relationship between acute-to-chronic valgus workload ratio (ACVR) and injury in baseball. Design Observational study. Setting Competitive, team sport. Participants Eighteen, elite male baseball players (aged 17.0 ± 0.7 year, height 185 ± 5.7 cm, and mass 85.2 ± 7.6 kg) competing at the varsity level participated in this six-month study. Each player wore the motusTHROW™ sleeve and sensor during pre-season training and the entire 2017 regular season. Main outcome measures ACVR and injury. Results Overall there were a total of ten injuries recorded throughout the 2017 season amongst those wearing the sleeves, including six throwing-related injuries. Over 159 days of throwing, a total of 171,703 throws, and 1307 exposures were captured with the motusTHROW™ sensors. Five of the six throwing-related injuries occurred when athletes had an ACVR greater than 1.27, which marks the 75th percentile across all observations. Results from logistic regression suggested that ACVR was significantly related to injury occurrence (p This resulted in an odds ratio of 15.2 and a risk ratio of 14.9, meaning that ACVR ratios above 1.27 were 14.9 times more likely to result in injury than ACVR ratios below 1.27. Conclusions Logistic regression reveals a significant relationship between ACVR and injury occurrence such that high ACVRs may increase injury risk.