cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
WE-E-ValB-02: Functional Imaging for Radiotherapy Guidance - Quantitative Biological Imaging and the Oncologic Target

Purpose: Biological imaging modalities are reviewed for their quantitative applications, contributions, and limitations in radiation treatment. Concepts are presented for biologically‐matched dose distributions. Method and Materials: Quantitative use and assessment of anatomical and biological oncologyimages shows promise for identification and evaluation of targets for radiation treatment. Biological images, combined with anatomical images, contain digital information on the spatial distribution and intensity level of biological character representative for both cancerous and normal tissues. Quantitative aspects of “bioanatomic” images, for instance, from FDG PET‐CT or MR spectroscopy, enable software processing and manipulation for target localization and delineation, assessment during treatment phase, and post‐treatment evaluation. IMRT provides a method for selective targeting based on biology. Results: Bioanatomic imaging modalities include FDG PET, non‐FDG PET‐CT, MR spectroscopy, diffusion‐weighted MR, MR perfusion, functional MR, magnetoencephalography(MEG), and others. Each modality/technique has finite spatial resolution, contrast (signal‐noise‐ratio), range of voxel intensity values, and sensitivity/specificity. Limitations for quantitative uses include spatial resolution, and “calibration” for validation of voxel intensities and image interpretation. Image digital file formats may be a challenge for certain images. Research opportunities include biology, physics, and imaging science work, and image‐based clinical trials that combine bioanatomic images with advanced dose delivery. Conclusion: Contributions and limitations for quantitative uses of bioanatomical images in radiation treatment are reviewed, including digital characteristics of biological images. Potential benefits include a better understanding of tumor and normal tissue biology and treatment response, and radiation targeting that matches biological conditions. Educational Objectives 1. Review characteristics of digital images and the task of image interpretation. 2. Review signal origins relevant to tumor biology for selected imaging modalities. 3. Describe the use of threshold parameters for biological radiation target delineation. 4. Discuss concepts for biologically‐matched radiationdose distributions. 5. List research opportunities for basic science and image‐based clinical trials. Conflict of Interest: Research sponsored in part by Varian Medical Systems and GE Healthcare.
One Size Fits All? Explaining U.S.-born and Immigrant Women's Employment across 12 Ethnic Groups

Leading explanations for ethnic disparities in U.S. women's employment derive largely from research on men. Although recent case studies of newer immigrant groups suggest that these explanations may be less applicable than previously believed, no study to date has assessed this question systematically. Using 2000 Census data, this study tests the relative merit of existing explanations for women in 12 ethnic groups. To this end, we disaggregate Hispanic, Asian and Middle Eastern women by country of origin and examine patterns by nativity. The results show that human capital and nativity are important for all groups, but these factors explain the employment gap with whites for Hispanic women much more than for Asian and Middle Eastern women, especially immigrants. Additionally, standard models are more useful for understanding variations in employment among Middle Eastern, Japanese and Hispanic women than for explaining differences among whites and other Asian subgroups. These findings indicate the need for newer concepts and measures to capture the increasing heterogeneity in U.S. ethnic women's employment patterns. We conclude by suggesting possible avenues for future research that expand on models of men's employment to include factors unique to women.
Selective disruption of the DNA polymerase III α–β complex by the umuD gene products

DNA polymerase III (DNA pol III) efficiently replicates the Escherichia coli genome, but it cannot bypass DNA damage. Instead, translesion synthesis (TLS) DNA polymerases are employed to replicate past damaged DNA; however, the exchange of replicative for TLS polymerases is not understood. The umuD gene products, which are up-regulated during the SOS response, were previously shown to bind to the α, β and e subunits of DNA pol III. Full-length UmuD inhibits DNA replication and prevents mutagenic TLS, while the cleaved form UmuD' facilitates mutagenesis. We show that α possesses two UmuD binding sites: at the N-terminus (residues 1-280) and the C-terminus (residues 956-975). The C-terminal site favors UmuD over UmuD'. We also find that UmuD, but not UmuD', disrupts the α-β complex. We propose that the interaction between α and UmuD contributes to the transition between replicative and TLS polymerases by removing α from the β clamp.
Clinical evaluation of a novel LMA with a color-coded pressure gauge

Abstract Background Unintended hyperinflation of the cuff of a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) may be associated with increased airway morbidity and postoperative pain. While the manufacturers recommend a cuff pressure of ≤60 cmH2O, in usual clinical practice, there is no method used to determine the intracuff pressure. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the accuracy of a newly designed LMA with a built in pressure gauge intended to alert the clinician to elevated intracuff pressures. The pressure gauge has a color code system intended to reflect the intracuff pressure with green being 40–60 cmH2O. Methods There was no change dictated in clinical practice for these patients. Per our usual practice, the LMA was removed from the package and inserted with the cuff partially inflated. Additional air was added to the cuff using a syringe as needed to ensure a seal during positive pressure ventilation to a peak inflating pressure (peak ventilating pressure) of 20–25 cmH2O. The clinicians placing the LMA did not use the pressure gauge for clinical feedback during cuff inflation. Immediately after LMA placement, the pressure in the cuff of the LMA was measured using a hand held manometer by an independent reviewer not part of the patient's anesthetic management. The color indicated on the pressure gauge (yellow, green or red) was recorded prior to pressure sampling. Additional data collected included the patient's demographic data (age, weight, and gender), the size of the LMA, and whether air was added to the cuff. Results The study cohort included 100 children, ranging in age from 3 months to 19 years and in weight from 5.4 to 80.1 kg. One patient was excluded due to malfunction of the pressure gauge and pilot balloon of the LMA. The intracuff pressure as measured by manometer correlated appropriately with the color coding of the pressure gauge in 94 of the 99 (95%) of the LMA's tested. Conclusions Given the potential association of excessive intracuff pressures with postoperative sore throat and the inability to ensure acceptable intracuff pressures using clinical judgment, this new LMA may allow a simple means of achieving this goal without the use of costly devices (manometers) in every operating room. In 95% of the LMA's tested, the color reading correlated appropriately with the intracuff pressure.
Trends in the use of postoperative radiotherapy for resected non–small-cell lung cancer

Purpose: A 1998 meta-analysis of postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) for non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) found that PORT did not improve outcomes. Yet practice guidelines differ in their recommendations with regard to PORT use. We examine temporal trends in PORT use before and after the 1998 meta-analysis. Methods and Materials: Using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program, we identified 22,953 patients with Stage I, II, or IIIA NSCLC who had resection between 1992 and 2002 in the United States and characterized each patient according to nodal status (N0, N1, or N2 disease). We measured use of PORT by calendar year. We examined the association between clinical and demographic characteristics and receipt of PORT using logistic regression. Results: For N0, N1, and N2 NSCLC, PORT use has declined. The proportion of patients with N0 disease receiving PORT declined from 8% in 1992 to 4% in 2002. For patients with N1 disease, PORT use declined from 51% in 1992 to 19% in 2002; and for patients with N2 disease, PORT use declined from 65% in 1992 to 37% in 2002. Conclusion: In the context of uncertainty about what constitutes optimal adjuvant treatment for resected NSCLC, PORT use has substantially declined.
Rapid growth of deep-sea benthic foraminifera

Although benthic foraminifera are important components of the marine benthos and are widely used in paleoceanography for reconstructing deep- and bottom-water conditions, relatively little is known about their growth rates in the deep sea. Here we present data for two species, Buliminella tenuata and Nonionella stella , from a coastal upwelling region that show abundance changes reflecting rapid growth of these taxa over a three month interval. Rapid growth indicates that the chemical composition of the calcareous foraminiferal test, which is used extensively in paleoceanography, may reflect environmental conditions over a relatively short interval (i.e., months). This observation suggests that it will be possible to reconstruct seasonal environmental conditions in certain areas of the oceans such as coastal upwelling regions.
Generative Programming Approach for Building Pervasive Computing Applications

In this paper we present a generative programming approach for building context-aware applications. In this approach, a context-aware application is programmed using high-level specification constructs provided in our programming framework. The runtime environment of the application is generated from this specification by a middleware. We demonstrate the utility of this approach by presenting an example case-study.
DNA polymerase X from African swine fever virus: Quantitative analysis of the enzyme-ssDNA interactions and the functional structure of the complex

Interactions of polymerase X from African swine fever virus with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) have been studied, using quantitative fluorescence titration and analytical ultracentrifugation techniques. Experiments were performed with a fluorescent etheno-derivative of ssDNA oligomers. Studies of unmodified ssDNA oligomers were carried out using the competition titration method. The total site-size of the pol X-ssDNA complex is 16(+/-1) nucleotide residues. The large total ssDNA-binding site has a complex heterogeneous structure. It contains the proper ssDNA-binding site that encompasses only 7(+/-1) residues. As the length of the ssDNA increases, the enzyme engages an additional binding area in interactions with the DNA, at a distance of approximately 7-8 nucleotides from the proper site, which is located asymmetrically within the polymerase molecule. As a result, the net ion release accompanying the interactions with the DNA, increases from approximately 1 for the proper DNA-binding site to approximately 6 for the total DNA-binding site. Unlike in the case of the mammalian polymerase beta that belongs to the same polymerase X family, the DNA-binding areas within the total DNA-binding site of pol X are not autonomous. Consequently, the enzyme does not form different binding modes with different numbers of occluded nucleotide residues, although the interacting areas are structurally separated. The statistical thermodynamic model that accounts for the engagement of the proper and the total DNA-binding site in interactions with the DNA provides an excellent description of the binding process. Pol X binds the ssDNA without detectable cooperativity and with very modest base specificity.
Sizing up the Threat: The Envisioned Physical Formidability of Terrorists Tracks Their Leaders' Failures and Successes.

Victory in modern intergroup conflict derives from complex factors, including weaponry, economic resources, tactical outcomes, and leadership. We hypothesize that the mind summarizes such factors into simple metaphorical representations of physical size and strength, concrete dimensions that have determined the outcome of combat throughout both ontogenetic and phylogenetic experience. This model predicts that in the aftermath of tactical victories (e.g., killing an enemy leader), members of defeated groups will be conceptualized as less physically formidable. Conversely, reminders that groups possess effective leadership should lead their members to be envisioned as more physically formidable. Consonant with these predictions, in both an opportunistic study conducted immediately after Osama bin Laden’s death was announced (Study 1) and a follow-up experiment conducted approximately a year later (Study 2), Americans for whom the killing was salient estimated a purported Islamic terrorist to be physically smaller/weaker. In Studies 3 and 4, primes of victorious terrorist leaders led to inflated estimates of terrorists’ physical attributes. These findings elucidate how the mind represents contemporary military power, and may help to explain how even largely symbolic victories can influence reasoning about campaigns of coalitional aggression.
CdtA, CdtB, and CdtC Form a Tripartite Complex That Is Required for Cytolethal Distending Toxin Activity

Campylobacter jejuni encodes a cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) that causes cells to arrest in the G2/M transition phase of the cell cycle. Highly related toxins are also produced by other important bacterial pathogens. CDT activity requires the function of three genes: cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC. Recent studies have established that CdtB is the active subunit of CDT, exerting its effect as a nuclease that damages the DNA and triggers cell cycle arrest. Microinjection of CdtB into target cells led to G2/M arrest and cytoplasmic distention, in a manner indistinguishable from that caused by CDT treatment. Despite this progress, nothing is known about the composition of the CDT holotoxin or the function of CdtA and CdtC. We show here that, when applied individually, purified CdtA, CdtB, or CdtC does not exhibit toxic activity. In contrast, CdtA, CdtB, and CdtC when combined, interact with one another to form an active tripartite holotoxin that exhibits full cellular toxicity. CdtA has a domain that shares similarity with the B chain of ricin-related toxins. We therefore proposed that CDT is a tripartite toxin composed of CdtB as the enzymatically active subunit and of CdtA and CdtC as the heterodimeric B subunit required for the delivery of CdtB.
Measurements of Local Density in Artificial and Natural Hailstones

Abstract Local density measurements were performed in the internal structure of hailstones by means of photometric observations on x-ray micrographs of thin slices. Comparison with the results of measurements performed by the same technique on ice artificially grown by accretion shows that dry growth near the net limit or dry growth wetted in a final stage is probably the most common condition of growth in natural hailstones. The technique is also suggested as a method for obtaining accurate quantitative data an air bubble size and concentrations which are needed in relating structure to growth conditions,. As a cross check, measurements of the total density by the usual immersion technique were also performed on hailstones from the same hail-fall as those examined by the x-ray absorption technique.
Work In Progress - academic and student affairs collaboration to enhance student success in engineering and applied sciences

A First-Year Engineering Experience (FYEE) program was implemented at Western Michigan University (WMU) in 2005, and it has improved retention rates of engineering and applied sciences students above historic rates. To build on current success, faculty and administrators from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences and Residence Life staff embarked on a collaborative process to help firsttime first-year students grow their life skills and academic habits, and make connection with the WMU faculty and staff and among themselves. Student development programs that connect the cognitive and the affective domains have the potential to further improve the success of FYEE. Preliminary results indicate academic and student affairs collaboration has begun to take hold at WMU.
Extending the indexing vocabulary of case based reasoning with task specific features

One of the central issues in case-based reasoning is the choice of an indexical vocabulary that allows for efficient retrieval of experiential knowledge from memory. The authors propose a new indexical vocabulary based on features of abstract problem types. The rationale for such a vocabulary was supported by empirical data gathered in the domain of alloantibody identification, and by the interpretation of this data in terms of the computational complexity of abductive reasoning. A case-based reasoning model of abduction is proposed that integrates both a domain and a problem type specific indexical vocabulary. The advantages of this model in terms of memory retrieval, case adaptation and problem solving are discussed. >
Offshore Use of the Self-Potential METHOD*

An offshore self-potential array, towed behind a small boat, has recorded anomalies of up to −300 mV. These anomalies were related to conductive onshore deposits, and appear to be caused by offshore extensions of the deposits. Along with locating onshore deposits and their offshore extensions, the system may be useful for locating offshore deposits with no onshore extension. The background noise level of the system typically is a few tenths of a millivolt, allowing reliable recording of one millivolt gradient anomalies under average sea conditions.
Examination of the Role of Detection Systems in Quantitation and Image Quality in PET

Future improvement in PET will likely be the result of the development of devices to circumvent limitations on resolution imposed by one crystal/photomultiplier (PMT) detector systems. Three types of systems are in some stage of development: (1) multiple crystals coupled to multiple PMTs in such a manner that simple digital logic codes identify crystals of interaction, (2) single or multiple crystals coupled to multiple PMTs in such a manner that analog logic systems identify crystals of interaction, and (3) small solid-state photosensors which either identify crystals of interaction with timing by the PMT or completely replace the PMT. The value of the various types of detectors must be considered in terms of the type of measurement that is to be performed. Factors that must be considered are the distribution of the radioisotope in the field-of-view, the amount of activity that may be injected because of dose considerations and the size of the structures to be imaged.
Molecular analysis of the Methoprene-tolerant gene region of Drosophila melanogaster.

Adult functions of juvenile hormone (JH) have been described for Drosophila melanogaster and other dipteran insects, but preadult function for this hormone remains largely unknown in this order of insects. We have identified a mutation of Drosophila, Methoprene-tolerant (Met), which appears to alter JH reception during late larval development. The molecular cloning of Met will be a step toward understanding this gene and possibly identifying a preadult role(s) for JH. Molecular cloning was initiated using the technique of transposon-tagging with a transposable P element. P-element insertional alleles of Met were generated, and genomic libraries were constructed from two of these alleles. From these libraries P-element-bearing clones were isolated that in situ hybridized to the cytogenetic region where Met had been previously localized by genetic methods. Two of the alleles were shown to have complete P-elements inserted in similar, but not identical, locations in the predicted cytogenetic region where Met is located. A late-larval cDNA library was screened to identify transcriptional units in this region, and clones were recovered with homology to a DNA fragment abutting the P-element insertion site. These clones may represent Met cDNA molecules. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Physically Based Simulation of Radar Rainfall Data Using a SpaceTime Rainfall Model

Abstract A scheme for simulating radar-estimated rainfall fields is described. The scheme uses a two-dimensional stochastic spacetime model of rainfall events and a parameterization of drop-size distribution. Based on the statistically generated drop-size distribution, radar observables, namely, radar reflectivity and differential reflectivity, are calculated. The simulated measurable variables are corrupted with random measurement error to account for radar measurement process. Subsequently, radar observables are used in rainfall estimation. Generated fields of the simulated rainfall and the corresponding radar observables are presented. Rainfall estimates from radar simulations are also presented. Use of the described radar-data simulator is envisioned in those applications where the effects of radar rainfall errors are of interest.
Smooth Transition ARCH Models: Estimation, Testing and Forecasting

In this paper, we suggest an extension of the ARCH model, the smooth-transition autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (STARCH) model. STARCH models endogenously allow for time-varying shifts in the parameters of the conditional variance equation. The most general form of the model that we consider is a double smooth-transition model, the STAR-STARCH model, which permits not only the conditional variance, but also the mean, to be a function of a smooth-transition term. The threshold ARCH model and the standard ARCH model are special cases of our STARCH model. We also develop Lagrange multiplier tests of the hypothesis that the smooth-transition term in the conditional variance is zero. We apply our STARCH model to excess Treasury bill returns. We find some evidence of a smooth transition in excess returns, but in contrast to previous studies, we find almost no evidence of volatility persistence once we allow for smooth transitions in the conditional variance. Thus, the apparent persistence in the conditional variance reported by many researchers could be a mere statistical artifact. We conduct in-sample tests comparing STARCH models to nested competitors; these suggest that STARCH models hold promise for improved predictions. Finally, we describe further extensions of the STARCH model and suggest issues in finance to which they might profitably be applied.
Feasible area coverage of a hurricane using micro-aerial vehicles

We investigate the impact of the dominant flow in a hurricane on the motion of simulated micro-aerial vehicles (MAVs). Although hurricane wind speeds may be several times larger than MAV flight speeds, the vertical wind speeds are much lower and updrafts have a much smaller spacial extent. This means that MAVs in a hurricane will have much greater control over their altitude than their horizontal motion. Based on this observation, a 2D restricted Lagrangian coherent structures analysis reveals that a hurricane has a natural region of 2D attraction at the eyewall in the hurricane boundary layer. A simple control scheme is developed to take advantage of this feature and perform area and volume coverage of the hurricane eye and eyewall region for data collection using MAVs.
Imidacloprid-Enhanced Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) Susceptibility to the Entomopathogen Metarhizium anisopliae

The effects of imidacloprid and the entomopathogen Metarhizium anisopliae (Metsch.) Sorokin on the eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar), were evaluated in a 4 × 3 factorial experiment in both sterile and nonsterile loam soil. Termites were not susceptible to M. anisopliae when assays were conducted in nonsterile soil but were highly susceptible in sterile soil. Termite mortality after 21 d of continuous exposure to 10 4 conidia per gram of soil was zero and 41.6% in nonsterile and sterile soil, respectively. Termites were significantly more susceptible to sterile soil containing 10 7 conidia per gram than to the same soil containing 10 4 conidia per gram. In continuous exposure assays, termites were highly susceptible to imidacloprid-treated (5, 10, and 20 ppm) nonsterile and sterile soil containing no experimentally introduced M. anisopliae, Exposure of termites to imidacloprid enhanced their susceptibility to introduced M. anisopliae in nonsterile and sterile soil. Native entomopathogens recovered from termites exposed to imidacloprid-treated, nonsterile soil (i.e., no introduced M. anisopliae) included Conidiobolus coronatus (Constantin) Batko, Cunninghamella echinulata Thaxter, Fusarium spp., Aspergillus spp., and a naturally occurring strain of M. anisopliae variety majus.
Finding Balance in the Attribution of Liability for the Human Rights Violations of U.N. Peacekeepers

This essay replies to essays by Professor Jordan Paust and Professor Peter Rowe, responding to my article "Translating the Standard of Effective Control into a System of Effective Accountability," which appeared in the print version of volume 51 of the Harvard International Law Journal.
Application of three cost-effective medium for the detection of Enterobacteriaceae

Objective: To further promote the monitoring of Enterobacter sakazakii for each batch of infant formula,accurate,convenient,and low-cost detection method was developed.Methods: three kinds of culture media were combined to isolate E.sakazakii.Enterobacteriaceae and several common intestinal bacteria were cultured in 5 kinds of mediums,their biological characteristics were compared,the three methods(line standard,national standard,this method) were also compared with results of isolation and identification media.Results: Through the combination of eosin-methylene-blue,MacConkey and sorbitol-MacConkey media,the morphological and biological characteristics of different media was also observed.Based on these isolation mediums,Enterobacteriaceae can be distinguished into different genera and different species.Three methods used for isolation and identification of E.sakazakii without significant difference(value U =0.1009,P=0.9080.05).The methods is accurate and low-cost,easily-operated,beneficial to monitoring E.sakazakii of every batch of dairy products.
Protective effect of emodin on lung injury induced by hepatic fibrosis in rats

AIM:To explore the protective effect of emodin on lung injury induced by hepatic fibrosis in rats.METHODS:The hepatic fibrosis rat model was established with multiple pathogenic factors(CCl4,ethanol,high fat,high cholesterol and low choline) and treated with different doses(20 mg / kg and 40 mg / kg) of emodin for 4 weeks.The hepatic index was measured.The biochemical indexes,endotoxin,homocysteine,albumin,aspartate aminotransferase,alanine aminotransferase,total bilirubin,total cholesterol and triglyceride,and hepatic fibrosis indexes,hyaluronic acid,laminin,collagen IV and procollagen Ⅲ,were detected.The histopathological changes of the liver were observed.The pulmonary index was determined.The histopathological changes of the lungs were observed.The levels of tumor necrosis factor α(TNF-α),malondialdehyde(MDA),nitric oxide(NO) and peroxynitrite(ONOO-) in the lung tissues were analyzed.RESULTS:The rat hepatic fibrosis model was successfully established.In model group,lung edema and inflammation occurred,and the pulmonary index and the levels of TNF-α,MDA,NO and ONOO-in the lung tissues were increased significantly.In emodin treatment groups,the pulmonary indexes were lower than that in model group.The pathological injury of the lung tissues was alleviated.The levels of TNF-α,MDA,NO and ONOO-in the lung tissues were decreased.CONCLUSION:Emodin has a protective effect on lung injury induced by hepatic fibrosis in rats.
Imaging CNS receptors: the dopaminergic system.

The dopaminergic system has been a major focus of recent studies because of its important role in diverse neurologic and psychiatric disorders, including tardive dyskinesia, parkinsonism, and schizophrenia. Positron emission tomography has enabled us to move from decades of in vitro investigation of receptor pathophysiology into a new era of in vivo human studies.
The Markov-Modulated Single Server Queue

We consider a single server queueing system whose customers belong to certain types indexed by j ∈ e (a countable space), the switching mechanism between different types of customers being governed by a Markov chain J = {J n , n ≥ 0} with the state space e. Customers of each type have their own interarrival time and service time distributions determined by the state of J at the epoch of arrival. We assume that J is irreducible and persistent nonnull. The queue discipline is first come, first served.
Transforming the Clinical Experience for Associate Degree Nursing Students

Effective clinical nursing education is critical to prepare nursing students for their practice-based profession. However, there is a lack of consensus in the literature about the preferred model of the clinical experience. In order improve the clinical experience for nursing students, Mount Sinai Queens and LaGuardia Community College collaborated to transform the clinical experience by developing the five roles of the student nurse. These roles included clinician, leader, educator, researcher, and communicator.
Air curtain development: an energy harvesting solution for hinged doors

The paper proposes a fully mechanical air curtain system that will be powered solely by harvested energy from common hinged doors. The average person uses this type of door several times a day with an almost unconscious amount of applied force and effort. This leads to a high potential of energy to be harvested in doorways that see high traffic and frequent operation7 . Frequently opened door entry ways have always been regarded as a major element that causes significant energy loss and contaminated air conditions in buildings6 . Private companies, particularly those with warehouses, have introduced commercial electrical air curtains to block the open entrances from invading cold air11. This project intends to introduce an original design of air curtain which operates fans only when the door opens and closes, by directly converting door motion to fan rotation without any electronic motor or power cable. The air stream created by this device will prevent the transfer of outside air and contaminants. Research will be conducted to determine the most efficient method of harvesting energy from door use, and the prototyping process will be conducted to meet the required performance of current air curtain models.
Erratum to "Meprin Metalloprotease Deficiency Associated with Higher Mortality Rates and More Severe Diabetic Kidney Injury in Mice with STZ-Induced Type 1 Diabetes".

Meprins are membrane-bound and secreted metalloproteinases consisting of α and/or β subunits that are highly expressed in kidney epithelial cells and are differentially expressed in podocytes and leukocytes (macrophages and monocytes). Several studies have implicated meprins in the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) and fibrosis-associated kidney disease. However, the mechanisms by which meprins modulate DN are not understood. To delineate the role of meprins in DN, we subjected meprin αβ knockout (αβKO) mice and their wild-type (WT) counterparts to streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes. The 18-week survival rates were significantly lower for diabetic meprin αβKO mice when compared to those for their WT counterparts. There were significant decreases in mRNA and protein levels for both meprin α and β in diabetic WT kidneys. Furthermore, the blood urea nitrogen levels and urine albumin/creatinine ratios increased in diabetic meprin αβKO but not in diabetic WT mice, indicating that meprins may be protective against diabetic kidney injury. The brush border membrane levels of villin, a meprin target, significantly decreased in diabetic WT but not in diabetic meprin αβKO kidneys. In contrast, isoform-specific increases in cytosolic levels of the catalytic subunit of PKA, another meprin target, were demonstrated for both WT and meprin αβKO kidneys.
Full-Field Micromechanics of Precipitated Shape Memory Alloys

A full-field micromechanics approach is developed to predict the effective thermomechanical response of precipitation-hardened near-equiatomic Ni-rich NiTi alloys on the basis of composition and heat treatment. The microscale-informed model takes into account the structural effects of the precipitates (precipitate volume fraction, elastic properties, and coherency stresses due to the lattice mismatch between the precipitates and the matrix) on the reversible martensitic transformation under load as well as the chemical effects resulting from the Ni depletion of the matrix during precipitate growth. The post-aging thermomechanical response is predicted based on finite element simulations on representative microstructures, using the response of the solutionized material and time–temperature–martensitic transformation temperature maps. The predictions are compared with experiments for materials of different initial compositions and heat treatments and reasonably good agreement is demonstrated. The proposed methodology can be in principle extended to predict the post-aging thermomechanical response of other shape memory alloy systems as well.
Building Caseworker Resilience through Engagement with Children, Families, and Peers:

Research on challenges in child welfare work can overshadow important strengths and resilience in its workforce. This study presents an analysis of child welfare workers' continued engagement in their work despite high levels of stress, relentless worker turnover, and poor organizational climates. It uses a parallel process, mixed method design to conduct an exploratory study of factors that keep workers engaged in their child welfare jobs. Findings include distinct storylines that center on outcomes for children, change and growth in families, and emotional and pragmatic support from coworkers. Results suggest that efforts to deepen the resilience of frontline caseworkers can build on the strengths they themselves express: their commitment to children and families and their support of each other.
Understanding ‘Problem of Fit’ between Institutions and Environment: Lessons from the Rhine River Basin

Environmental governance is inherently a political process. It is a relatively unique political process because biogeophysical systems of environment are essentially non-human actors in the social ecological system which is composed of both human and biogeophysical systems. Human actions are constrained by the rules of biogeophysical system in addition to human created rules. In order to analyze institutions-environment interaction, we need to conceptually treat biogeophysical systems of environment as an actor rather than a factor in environmental governance. Political process in governance of environment is about crafting institutions (governing rules and strategies) to address both human problems and environmental problems simultaneously. Empirical and theoretical understanding of environmental degradation caused by human actions can be addressed by examining whether human institutions fit biogeophysical systems of environment. Based on the empirical findings from the governance processes of the Rhine pollution cleanup regime, this paper argues that there are two parts in the problem of fit as a whole. The first part is that human institutions have to fit human systems (cultural, economic, political, and social contexts). The second part is that human institutions have to fit biogeophysical systems they address. The paper further asserts that if institutions fit human systems within which they operate, it is more likely to fit biogeophysical systems they address.
Creating the Perfect Illusion: What will it take to Create Life-Like Virtual Reality Headsets?

As Virtual Reality (VR) Head Mounted Displays (HMD) push the boundaries of technology, in this paper, we try and answer the question, "What would it take to make the visual experience of a VR-HMD Life-Like, i.e., indistinguishable from physical reality?" Based on the limits of human perception, we first try and establish the specifications for a Life-Like HMD. We then examine crucial technological trends and speculate on the feasibility of Life-Like VR headsets in the near future. Our study indicates that while display technology will be capable of Life-Like VR, rendering computation is likely to be the key bottleneck. Life-Like VR solutions will likely involve frames rendered on a separate machine and then transmitted to the HMD. Can we transmit Life-Like VR frames wirelessly to the HMD and make the HMD cable-free? We find that current wireless and compression technology may not be sufficient to accommodate the bandwidth and latency requirements. We outline research directions towards achieving Life-Like VR.
Updates in fetal spina bifida repair.

Purpose of review To examine updates in fetal spina bifida surgical repair, as well as promising results emerging from translational medicine. Recent findings Although the Management of Myelomeningocele Study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health helped establish the neonatal benefits of prenatal spina bifida repair via uterine hysterotomy, also known as 'open' fetal surgery, fetoscopic approaches may yield better maternal and obstetric outcomes. Summary Spina bifida is a severe congenital malformation associated with significant neonatal and childhood morbidity and mortality. Although 'open' fetal spina bifida repair has become the standard prenatal surgical approach due to proven neonatal benefit, this approach is associated with significant maternal and obstetric risks. Recent developments from multidisciplinary clinical and translational research have highlighted the potential for novel fetoscopic surgical approaches to decrease maternal morbidity and reduce obstetric risks. Moreover, novel stem cell therapies coupled with in-utero medical approaches targeting the pathophysiological pathways associated with spina bifida are likely to make additional significant impact.
Myocellular Responses to Concurrent Flywheel Training during 70 Days of Bed Rest.

PURPOSE This investigation evaluated myocellular responses to an integrated resistance and aerobic training program during 70 d of bed rest. METHODS Training was 6 d·wk on a small-footprint gravity-independent flywheel resistance and aerobic device; 3 d of maximal flywheel supine quadriceps and calf exercises with continuous rowing separated by 4 to 6 h, and 3 d of interval rowing. Vastus lateralis (VL) and soleus (SOL) muscle biopsies were obtained from eight healthy males (age, 28 ± 4 yr; BMI, 25 ± 3 kg·m; V˙O2max, 42 ± 6 mL·kg·min) before and after 6° head-down tilt bed rest. Vastus lateralis and SOL myosin heavy chain (MHC) I and IIa single muscle fiber size and functional characteristics, as well as overall fiber type distribution, capillarization, and metabolic enzyme activities were evaluated. RESULTS In the VL, MHC I size and power (absolute and normalized) were preserved. The MHC IIa fibers hypertrophied (+6%, P < 0.05) without a change in absolute power, so normalized power declined (-7%, P < 0.05). In the SOL, MHC I fibers atrophied (-9%) and absolute power declined (-17%) (P < 0.05), whereas normalized power was maintained. Size, absolute power, and normalized power were protected in the less-abundant MHC IIa fibers. Reduced MHC coexpressing hybrid fibers, generally indicative of an exercise training effect, was apparent in the VL, whereas fiber type was maintained in the SOL. Capillarization and metabolic enzymes were generally preserved or increased in VL and SOL. CONCLUSIONS The integrated resistance and aerobic training protocol on a device maintains several key myocellular characteristics during prolonged unloading, but further refinement of the exercise approach to fully protect the SOL is warranted.
Twenty Years after Smith v. Van Gorkom: An Essay on the Limits of Civil Liability of Corporate Directors and the Role of Shareholder Inspection Rights

With director monetary liability for lack of care (appropriately, in the author's view) fading or disappearing altogether since Smith v. Van Gorkom, litigation invoking the duty of care seems increasingly unlikely to serve as a vehicle for public scrutiny of, and reputational sanctions for, director conduct that is substandard but does not involve self-interest or lack of good faith. It is therefore increasingly important to examine when information obtained through the exercise of stockholder inspection rights can be made public. A recent case involving the Walt Disney Company - but not the well-known litigation involving Michael Ovitz' termination compensation - addresses the issue of confidential treatment of such information. Prompted by the Court of Chancery's treatment of the issue, this Article proposes that the courts review and balance a number of factors - the subject matter of the information, the level of public interest in the information, the motives of the stockholder in seeking the information and (perhaps) ultimately seeking to make it public, and the context in which the information was generated - to determine whether information afforded pursuant to stockholder inspection rights should remain confidential.
On triangular paperfolding patterns

Abstract We introduce patterns on a triangular grid generated by paperfolding operations. We show that in case these patterns are defined using a periodic sequence of foldings, they can also be generated using substitution rules and compute eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the corresponding matrices. We also prove that densities of all basic triangles are equal in these patterns.
Fibroblast growth factor 23 and phosphate homeostasis.

Purpose of reviewThe current review highlights recent advances in the area of renal tubular phosphate transport and its regulation by fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), a potent regulator of phosphate homeostasis.Recent findingsRecent studies demonstrate that FGF23 binds to both membrane and solub
A note on Khovanov–Rozansky sl2-homology and ordinary Khovanov homology

In this paper we present an explicit isomorphism between Khovanov–Rozansky sl2-homology and ordinary Khovanov homology. This result was originally claimed in Khovanov and Rozansky's paper [Matrix factorizations and link homology, Fund. Math.199(1) (2008) 1–91, MR 2391017 (2010a:57011)], though the proof was never presented. The main missing detail is providing a coherent choice of signs when identifying variables in the sl2-homology. Along with the behavior of the signs and local orientations in the sl2-homology, both theories behave differently when we try to extend their definitions to virtual links, which seemed to suggest that the sl2-homology may instead correspond to a different variant of Khovanov homology. In this paper we describe both theories and prove that they are in fact isomorphic by showing that a coherent choice of signs can be made. In doing so we emphasize the interpretation of the sl2-complex as a cube of resolutions.
The Effects of Sacrifice Motivation on Stress and Team Affect

Research on sacrifice in the context of teamwork has been limited, and what does exist suggests that sacrifice is beneficial for team functioning. However, not all sacrifice is created equal. This ...
Justice Story Cuts the Gordian Knot of Hung Jury Instructions

Abstract: Constitutional law grows more complex over time. The complexity is due, in large part, to the rule of stare decisis. When faced with precedents that it does not wish to follow, the Court usually distinguishes the case before it. Thus, the constitutional landscape is littered with cases that do not fit well together. Navigating past these shoals is often difficult for courts following the Supreme Court's lead. One example is the law governing instructions that a trial judge can give a deadlocked jury in a criminal case. The right to a jury trial entails the right to have the jury reach a verdict without pressure from the judge, but giving voice to that principle has resulted in a bewildering array of approved instructions. This article argues that the law of 1824, manifested in Justice Story's opinion in United States v. Perez, was superior to today's morass. In 1824, judges had virtually uncontrolled discretion to decide when to declare a hung jury. We argue for a return to 1824 with one twist: that judges give deadlocked juries the instruction: "Please continue to deliberate." This simple change will result in fewer hung juries and far fewer appeals about whether the instructions were too coercive.
Association of Post-discharge Service Types and Timing with 30-Day Readmissions, Length of Stay, and Costs

Although early follow-up after discharge from an index admission (IA) has been postulated to reduce 30-day readmission, some researchers have questioned its efficacy, which may depend upon the likelihood of readmission at a given time and the health conditions contributing to readmissions. To investigate the relationship between post-discharge services utilization of different types and at different timepoints and unplanned 30-day readmission, length of stay (LOS), and inpatient costs. The study sample included 583,199 all-cause IAs among 2014 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries that met IA inclusion criteria. The outcomes were probability of 30-day readmission, average readmission LOS per IA discharge, and average readmission inpatient cost per IA discharge. The primary independent variables were 7 post-discharge health services (institutional outpatient, primary care physician, specialist, non-physician provider, emergency department (ED), home health care, skilled nursing facility) utilized within 7 days, 14 days, and 30 days of IA discharge. To examine the association with post-discharge services utilization, we employed multivariable logistic regressions for 30-day readmissions and two-part models for LOS and inpatient costs. Among all IA discharges, the probability of unplanned 30-day readmission was 0.1176, the average readmission LOS per discharge was 0.67 days, and the average inpatient cost per discharge was $5648. Institutional outpatient, home health care, and primary care physician visits at all timepoints were associated with decreased readmission and resource utilization. Conversely, 7-day and 14-day specialist visits were positively associated with all three outcomes, while 30-day visits were negatively associated. ED visits were strongly associated with increases in all three outcomes at all timepoints. Post-discharge services of different types and at different timepoints have varying impacts on 30-day readmission, LOS, and costs. These impacts should be considered when coordinating post-discharge follow-up, and their drivers should be further explored to reduce readmission throughout the health care system.