cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Carotid endarterectomy for nonhemispheric cerebral symptoms: Patient selection with ocular pneumoplethysmography

Abstract Carotid endarterectomy fails to ameliorate nonhemispheric cerebral symptoms in an unacceptably high proportion of patients, specifically those patients with minor, hemodynamically insignificant carotid lesions. Ocular pneumoplethysmography (OPG) has been shown to accurately predict the hemodynamic significance of carotid lesions, but its use has not been applied to the subset of patients with nonhemispheric symptoms. Preoperative OPG studies were obtained in 43 patients with nonhemispheric symptoms. Postoperatively, 72% of patients with OPG suggestive of hemodynamically significant carotid lesions were relieved of symptoms. By contrast, only 32% of patients with normal OPG were asymptomatic after carotid surgery (p
SOME MODELS FOR SUCCESSIVE DISCRIMINATION LEARNING AND TRANSFER

A variety of models dealing with two-choice successive discrimination learning are considered. The basic approach involves assuming that an organism selects a subset of the stimulation available, a stimulus element, as a basis for a response, and then a choice response is made. This selection process, when added to stimulus sampling theory, yields a class of models, of which a subset can account for the acquisition of successive discrimination, stimulus generalization or transfer, and can be extended to multidimensional discriminations.
Harnessing ISA diversity: design of a heterogeneous-ISA chip multiprocessor

Heterogeneous multicore architectures have the potential for high performance and energy efficiency. These architectures may be composed of small power-efficient cores, large high-performance cores, and/or specialized cores that accelerate the performance of a particular class of computation. Architects have explored multiple dimensions of heterogeneity, both in terms of micro-architecture and specialization. While early work constrained the cores to share a single ISA, this work shows that allowing heterogeneous ISAs further extends the effectiveness of such architecturesThis work exploits the diversity offered by three modern ISAs: Thumb, x86-64, and Alpha. This architecture has the potential to outperform the best single-ISA heterogeneous architecture by as much as 21%, with 23% energy savings and a reduction of 32% in Energy Delay Product.
Continuity with respect to initial data and absolute-continuity approach to the first-order regularity of nonlinear diffusions on noncompact manifolds

We study the dependence on initial data for solutions of diffusion equations with globally non-Lipschitz coefficients on noncompact manifolds. Though the metric distance may not be everywhere twice differentiable, we show that, under certain monotonicity conditions on the coefficients and curvature of the manifold, there are estimates exponential in time for the continuity of a diffusion process with respect to initial data. These estimates are combined with methods of the theory of absolutely continuous functions to achieve the first-order regularity of solutions with respect to initial data. The suggested approach neither appeals to the local stopping time arguments, nor applies the exponential mappings on the tangent space, nor uses imbeddings of a manifold to linear spaces of higher dimensions.
The case for application-specific benchmarking

Most performance analysis today uses either microbenchmarks or standard macrobenchmarks (e.g. SPEC, LADDIS, the Andrew benchmark). However, the results of such benchmarks provide little information to indicate how well a particular system will handle a particular application. Such results are, at best, useless and, at worst, misleading. In this paper we argue for an application-directed approach to benchmarking, using performance metrics that reflect the expected behavior of a particular application across a range of hardware or software platforms. We present three different approaches to application-specific measurement, one using vectors that characterize both the underlying system and an application, one using trace-driven techniques, and a hybrid approach. We argue that such techniques should become the new standard.
Genome-wide functional analysis of human 5' untranslated region introns.

Background: Approximately 35% of human genes contain introns within the 5’ untranslated region (UTR). Introns in 5’UTRs differ from those in coding regions and 3’UTRs with respect to nucleotide composition, length distribution and density. Despite their presumed impact on gene regulation, the evolution and possible functions of 5’UTR introns remain largely unexplored. Results: We performed a genome-scale computational analysis of 5’UTR introns in humans. We discovered that the most highly expressed genes tended to have short 5’UTR introns rather than having long 5’UTR introns or lacking 5’UTR introns entirely. Although we found no correlation in 5’UTR intron presence or length with variance in expression across tissues, which might have indicated a broad role in expression-regulation, we observed an uneven distribution of 5’UTR introns amongst genes in specific functional categories. In particular, genes with regulatory roles were surprisingly enriched in having 5’UTR introns. Finally, we analyzed the evolution of 5’UTR introns in non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases (NRTK), and identified a conserved DNA motif enriched within the 5’UTR introns of human NRTKs. Conclusions: Our results suggest that human 5’UTR introns enhance the expression of some genes in a lengthdependent manner. While many 5’UTR introns are likely to be evolving neutrally, their relationship with gene expression and overrepresentation among regulatory genes, taken together, suggest that complex evolutionary forces are acting on this distinct class of introns.
Albert Hoyt Taylor [Scanning the Past]

Presents a short biography of A. Hoyt Taylor and discusses his work in the fields of concealed radio receiving systems, radar, radio wave propagation and antennas.
Mediation and Foreign Policy

Although mediation of international conflicts plays an important role in international relations, the theoretical study of mediation is not well integrated into studies of international politics. Analyses of international mediation often treat it as an autonomous activity that is impacted by politics but is not part of politics. This chapter offers a different approach, presenting mediation from a political perspective, which views it as part of foreign policy . The term foreign policy is used here in the sense of a purposive strategic behavior, a “behavior motivated by a conscious calculation of advantages” (Schelling 1963:4). This premise is obviously a simplifying, but useful one, because it provides us with a framework for understanding, comparing, and evaluating state behavior. The discussion that follows focuses only on a segment of the broad field of international mediation, examining only one actor in the drama—states performing the role of mediator. It calls attention to domestic and foreign policy considerations that shape the mediating state's behavior, and suggests directions for research into the subject. I start with a few comments about a common approach to the study of mediation and then present an alternative approach that views mediation as part of foreign policy. Given this political framework, I discuss three issues that seem to reflect interesting links between domestic and international concerns: (1) the perception of mediation as possessing a moral dimension, (2) the domestic and international influences shaping mediators' strategies, and (3) criteria for evaluating mediation. Mediation theory initially developed with reference to conflicts within states—such as arise within families, within communities, in labor relations, or between business firms. Much of the literature on mediation is written with reference to a prescriptive framework on how third parties need to act to induce disputants to abandon their confrontational behavior toward each other. Theoretical work in …
Internal structures of the Galilean satellites

New models for the interiors of Io, Ganymede, and Callisto are proposed. The model of Io consists of a thin, high-rigidity outer layer separated from a solid interior by a thin, molten or partially molten shell. The modulus of rigidity of the outer layer must be at least 100 times larger than that of the underlying partially molten shell. These layers have thicknesses of order 100 km or less. The near-surface partially molten layer was most likely produced early in Io's history as a consequence of accretional heating; enhanced tidal heating in the outer rigid layer has kept the underlying region partially molten to the present day. The model of Ganymede consists of an ice outer layer, a shell of undifferentiated, primordial ice-silicate mixture, and a rock core. Accretional heating is responsible for melting the ice in the outer layers of Ganymede's initially homogeneous ice-silicate interior. Most of the rock in this outer layer accumulates in a shell on top of Ganymede's early cold and rigid central region; the water in the outer layer quickly refreezes. Heating of the undifferentiated region by the decay of radioactive elements in the silicate fraction would gradually warm it and reduce its viscosity. The rock layer would become gravitationally unstable and sink through the undifferentiated materials to form a rock core. Callisto's heavily cratered surface strongly suggests that relatively little, if any, ice-rock differentiation has occured in its interior.
Mie scattering by three polydispersions

Review of the results of aerosol scattering calculations using models representative of the atmospheric aerosol for three laser wavelengths and two kinds of materials. These calculations show that measurements of scattering and polarization parameters can help significantly in characterizing the earth's aerosol.
NURSES WORKING THE NIGHT SHIFT: IMPACT ON HOME, FAMILY AND SOCIAL LIFE

Objective: To gain an understanding of the experience of registered nurses working the night shift, the impact on life outside of work, and ways of coping with home, family, and social stressors. A review of literature indicted that physiological and social difficulties from night shift work include problems with sleep, diet, menstrual cycles, stress/anxiety, weight gain, workplace errors and driving accidents. Also reported was less time for leisure, domestic responsibilities, child care, friends and family. Studies have been conducted internationally wherein workplace and cultural differences may affect global applicability. Interventions and anticipatory guidance are lacking. Further research was needed to better understand the effects on personal life and ways of coping. Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological method was utilized. Registered nurses (N = 21) were interviewed. Results: Identified themes included issues that affected family life, child care, and relationships with spouse/significant other, friends and extended family. Recommendations for self-care, coping, and suggestions for novice night shift nurses were offered. Conclusions: Twenty-one informants described the consequences of working the night shift and listed strategies used to contend with the stress it generates in their homes, families, and social lives. Nurses entering night shift employment would benefit from a program of anticipatory guidance. Knowledge concerning this topic raises awareness for improvements in nursing school curricula, institutional policy and staff satisfaction. Nursing remediation may involve scheduling flexibility, planned rest periods in comfortable staff lounges, healthy workplace nutritional offerings, exercise options, childcare services, peer support groups and in-service programs.
Actomyosin, Collagen, and Succinate Dehydrogenase Determinations in Opossum Esophageal Muscles

The contractile activities of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), esophageal body smooth muscle (SM), and esophageal body striated muscle (ST) of the opossum differ in their dependence on oxygen. One possible explanation for this difference in oxygen dependence is that the muscles differ in their oxidative capacities. The purpose of this study was to estimate the oxidative. capacity of these muscles by measuring the activity of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH). Since the muscles are structurally as well as functionally distinct, we also determined the amount of actin, myosin, collagen, and total protein in the tissues. LES contained less total protein and more collagen than SM and ST. The actin contents per unit of total protein of all three tissues were similar. The myosin contents and the actin: myosin ratios, however, were significantly different among all three muscles. The interpretation of the values of the SDH activity depended on the manner in which the data were expressed. When SDH activity was expressed relative to the tissue content of myosin, the values were different among all three muscles. These findings support the hypothesis that there is biochemical variability in these three esophageal muscles that may account in, part for their differences in contractile behavior.
Joint optimization of frame type selection and bit allocation for MPEG video encoders

In this paper, we present an algorithm for joint optimisation of motion compensation structure and bit allocation for motion compensated video coders. In this scheme, the motion compensation structure is optimized in the sense that the distortion is minimized under a bit budget constraint. At the same time, the quantisation for each frame in the group of pictures (GOP) is also optimized in an operational rate distortion sense. >
Approach and Avoidance Behavior in Interpersonal Relationships

Social relationships are intricately tied to health and well-being and people are motivated to form and maintain interpersonal bonds. While it is clear that social relationships can be highly rewarding, it is equally clear that social relationships or the lack thereof can be the source of much distress. In this article a conceptualization of social motivation that reflects the basic necessity for people to simultaneously manage approaching the incentives and avoiding the threats in social relationships is presented. We then review evidence that the strength of approach and avoidance social motives and goals is strongly linked to social outcomes through several behavioral, cognitive, and affective processes.
Metabolic Disruption in Drosophila Bang-Sensitive Seizure Mutants

We examined a number of Drosophila mutants with increased susceptibility to seizures following mechanical or electrical stimulation to better understand the underlying factors that predispose neurons to aberrant activity. Several mutations in this class have been molecularly identified and suggest metabolic disruption as a possible source for increased seizure susceptibility. We mapped the bang-sensitive seizure mutation knockdown (kdn) to cytological position 5F3 and identified citrate synthase as the affected gene. These results further support a role for mitochondrial metabolism in controlling neuronal activity and seizure susceptibility. Biochemical analysis in bang-sensitive mutants revealed reductions in ATP levels consistent with disruption of mitochondrial energy production in these mutants. Electrophysiological analysis of mutants affecting mitochondrial proteins revealed an increased likelihood for a specific pattern of seizure activity. Our data implicate cellular metabolism in regulating seizure susceptibility and suggest that differential sensitivity of neuronal subtypes to metabolic changes underlies distinct types of seizure activity.
A Novel Ganged DAC Solution for Multi-Site Testing

Testing of two current steering DACs for wireless communication devices with one digitizer in a single test to reduce test time and minimize the tester resources requirement is proposed. In addition, a new method to test the amplitude mismatch and phase mismatch between the two DACs is further developed on this proposed testing approach. The test results are presented and their applicability for production test is also discussed in this paper.
Markovian Arrival Processes

Marked point processes (MPP's) play an important role in stochastic modeling. A special class of MPP's is the Markovian Arrival Process (MAP). In this section we will review the concepts, including the history of MAP both in continuous time and in discrete time. Keywords: marked point processes; probabilistic modeling; fundamental rate; stochastic modeling; deterministic models; Markovian arrivals; index of dispersion; correlation
Reduced heart rate multiscale entropy predicts death in critical illness: A study of physiologic complexity in 285 trauma patients

Abstract Purpose We have shown previously that reduced integer heart rate variability (HRVi) predicts death in trauma patients. We hypothesized that heart rate multiscale entropy (MSE), a potential measurement of physiologic complexity, would predict death more robustly than HRVi. Materials and Methods Two hundred eighty-five patients had heart rate data meeting completeness and density criteria (>12 hours, ≥0.4 Hz) available in the first 24 hours after admission. Missing data points were interpolated, and a publicly available algorithm (MSE of Costa et al; Phys Rev E Stat Nonlin Soft Matter Phys . 2005;71[2 Pt 1]) was applied (www.physionet.org, m = 2, r = 0.15). Integer heart rate variability was computed using methods described previously (percentage of 5-minute intervals having heart rate SD between 0.3 and 0.6). Sample entropy was compared between survivors and nonsurvivors at each scale factor using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Logistic regression was used to assess risk of death based on HRVi, MSE, and/or covariates (age, sex, injury severity). Results Decreased HRVi and MSE each predicted hospital mortality (median day of death, 3; mean, 7.1). Multiscale entropy–based risk stratification (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] = 0.76, scale 15) was superior to HRVi (AUC = 0.70), but this difference in AUC was not statistically significant. Multiscale entropy stratified patients by mortality at every scale factor ( P Conclusions Multiscale entropy and HRVi measured within the first 24 hours each identify trauma patients at increased risk of subsequent hospital death.
Particle decay in false vacuum

We revisit the problem of decay of a metastable vacuum induced by the presence of a particle. For the bosons of the ``master field'' the problem is solved in any number of dimensions in terms of the spontaneous decay rate of the false vacuum, while for a fermion we find a closed expression for the decay rate in ($1+1$) dimensions. It is shown that in the ($1+1$) dimensional case an infrared problem of one-loop correction to the decay rate of a boson is resolved due to a cancellation between soft modes of the field. We also find the boson decay rate in the ``sine-Gordon staircase'' model in the limits of strong and weak coupling.
A high torque to weight ratio robot actuator

A light-weight, high-torque actuator with accurate torque control capability is described. The actuator uses a small hydrostatic transmission to achieve the advantage of large gear reduction from a high speed DC motor, and retains accurate joint torque sensing and control capabilities with no backlash. A disadvantage of the actuator is that is introduces extra dynamics which must be accounted for in robot control systems. It is shown that state feedback enables closed loop control of joint torque, with full back drivability, through an effective gear ratio of 485: 1 for the experimental system. The actuator can therefore be used for both position control and output force control, which is essential for modern robot control algorithms. A mathematical model of the system is presented in this paper along with experimental results
Extended disease resistance emerging from the faecal nest of a subterranean termite

Social insects nesting in soil environments are in constant contact with entomopathogens but have evolved a range of defence mechanisms, resulting in both individual and social immunity that reduce the chance for epizootics in the colony, as in the case of subterranean termites. Coptotermes formosanus uses its faeces as building material for its nest structure that result into a ‘carton material’, and here, we report that the faecal nest supports the growth of Actinobacteria which provide another level of protection to the social group against entomopathogens. A Streptomyces species with in vivo antimicrobial activity against fungal entomopathogens was isolated from the nest material of multiple termite colonies. Termite groups were exposed to Metarhizium anisopliae, a fungal entomopathogen, during their foraging activity and the presence of Streptomyces within the nest structure provided a significant survival benefit to the termites. Therefore, this report describes a non-nutritional exosymbiosis in a termite, in the form of a defensive mutualism which has emerged from the use of faecal material in the nesting structure of Coptotermes. The association with an Actinobacteria community in the termite faecal material provides an extended disease resistance to the termite group as another level of defence, in addition to their individual and social immunity.
Studies on Pogonophora. Fine structure of the tentacles

The structure of the tentacle in two species of Pogonophora (of the genera Nereilinum and Oligobrachia) has been investigated by light- and electron-microscopy. The fine structure of the pinnules, epidermal cells and mucous cells is described. The surface membrane of the epidermal cells and the pinnules forms an elaborate system of microvilli which traverse the cuticle and often extend up to the surface particles.
Identification of critical functional determinants of kainate receptor modulation by auxiliary protein Neto2

Key points Kainate receptors (KARs) are ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) that modulate synaptic transmission and intrinsic neuronal excitability. KARs associate with the auxiliary proteins neuropilin- and tolloid-like 1 and 2 (Neto1 and Neto2), which act as allosteric modulators of receptor function impacting all biophysical properties of these receptors studied to date. M3–S2 linkers play a critical role in KAR gating; we found that individual residues in these linkers bidirectionally influence Neto2 modulation of KAR desensitization in an agonist specific manner. We also identify the D1 dimer interface as a novel site of Neto2 modulation and functionally correlate the actions of Neto2 modulation of desensitization with modulation of cation sensitivity. We identify these domains as determinants of Neto2 modulation. Thus, our work contributes to the understanding of auxiliary subunit modulation of KAR function and could aid the development of KAR-specific modulators to alter receptor function. Abstract Kainate receptors (KARs) are important modulators of synaptic transmission and intrinsic neuronal excitability in the CNS. Their activity is shaped by the auxiliary proteins Neto1 and Neto2, which impact KAR gating in a receptor subunit- and Neto isoform-specific manner. The structural basis for Neto modulation of KAR gating is unknown. Here we identify the M3–S2 gating linker as a critical determinant contributing to Neto2 modulation of KARs. M3–S2 linkers control both the valence and magnitude of Neto2 modulation of homomeric GluK2 receptors. Furthermore, a single mutation in this domain abolishes Neto2 modulation of heteromeric receptor desensitization. Additionally, we found that cation sensitivity of KAR gating is altered by Neto2 association, suggesting that stability of the D1 dimer interface in the ligand-binding domain (LBD) is an important determinant of Neto2 actions. Moreover, modulation of cation sensitivity was eliminated by mutations in the M3–S2 linkers, thereby correlating the action of Neto2 at these structurally discrete sites on receptor subunits. These results demonstrate that the KAR M3–S2 linkers and LBD dimer interface are critical determinants for Neto2 modulation of receptor function and identify these domains as potential sites of action for the targeted development of KAR-specific modulators that alter the function of auxiliary proteins in native receptors.
Drift-diffusion model for reach-through avalanche photodiodes

A 1-D drift-diffusion model is developed for reach-through avalanche photodiodes. Based on this model an equivalent circuit is suggested for these devices. The equivalent circuit is suitable for simulating the device in circuit simulation packages such as PSpice. The model is validated by simulating an actual reach-through silicon avalanche photodiode in the steady state and the transient conditions. Some of the simulation results are compared to the manufacturer data by estimating the device parameters. This model is also used to investigate the effect of the device microstructure on its performance. For a certain operating bias voltage and wavelength, it is found that the multiplication width has a critical value for defining the device stability. The absorption width defines the wavelength for peak responsivity, which suggests a structure enhancement for IR detection. Also the effect of varying the doping concentration is studied.
Eigenvalues and Mode Shapes for the Complete Rotor Dynamic-Wake Model

In this paper, the three-dimensional helicopter rotor inflow mode shapes have been studied based on eigen-analysis of the Peters-Morillo dynamic-inflow model. The inflow velocity mode shapes with node lines are presented for various skew angles. The eigenvalues are highly coupled⎯especially for higher skew angles⎯and the mode-shapes change dramatically for different angles. The variation of natural frequencies⎯for axial flow⎯with different harmonic numbers is also shown in the tables for the both Peters-He and the Peters-Morillo dynamic inflow models. An easy way to estimate the value of eigenvalues for the Peter-He inflow model is established. Nomenclature n m a : cosine induced inflow expansion coefficients n m b : sine induced inflow expansion coefficients
Sample preparation protocol for bottom-up proteomic analysis of the secretome of the islets of Langerhans

We evaluate a set of protocols for preparation of the secretome from murine islets of Langerhans for bottom-up proteomic analysis. Of the protocols evaluated, a filter-aided sample preparation based approach using sodium dodecyl sulfate as a detergent to solubilize proteins generated the most protein identifications. A total of 362 protein groups (average of 3.7 peptides/protein) were identified from the secretome using the SDS-FASP protocol; a combination of data from three protocols generated 413 protein group identifications. As expected, the identified proteins included insulin 1 and 2, somatostatin, and glucagon, the four main secreted components from islets. STRING network analysis classified the other proteins as being associated with extracellular exosomes, membrane-bounded vesicles, vesicles, and the extracellular region.
Unintended, but still blameworthy: the roles of awareness, desire, and anger in negligence, restitution, and punishment.

ABSTRACTTwo experiments (Experiment 1 N = 149, Experiment 2 N = 141) investigated how two mental states that underlie how perceivers reason about intentional action (awareness of action and desire for an outcome) influence blame and punishment for unintended (i.e., negligent) harms, and the role of anger in this process. Specifically, this research explores how the presence of awareness (of risk in acting, or simply of acting) and/or desire in an acting agent's mental states influences perceptions of negligence, judgements that the acting agent owes restitution to a victim, and the desire to punish the agent, mediated by anger. In both experiments, awareness and desire led to increased anger at the agent and increased perception of negligence. Anger mediated the effect of awareness and desire on negligence rather than negligence mediating the effect of mental states on anger. Anger also mediated punishment, and negligence mediated the effects of anger on restitution. We discuss how perceivers consider men...
Russian Ecclesiastical Censorship during the Reign of Tsar Nicholas I

Nicholas I founded his reign (1825-1855) upon the tripartite slogan, "Orthodoxy, Autocracy, and Nationality," and these interrelated concepts became the guide for the official ideology.1 But neither the meaning of the words themselves nor their use in practical political action was self-evident. For Nicholas, cen sorship became the means of defining the terms and establishing their parameters. Thus, during the thirty years of his rule, Nicholas and his favorites worked to create a system of censor ship which could be used both to explain and to amplify the official ideology. Both secular and ecclesiastical censorship mir rored the attitudes of Nicholas, becoming bureaucratic and centralized, negative and punitive. Step by step, Nicholas came to dominate Russian ecclesiastical censorship and decreed an age of caution and conformity within official religious circles. The changes made in the character of religious censorship assured Nicholas of an obedient prop for his regime. But the church suffered dearly in this relationship, losing the power to publish its own books and, therefore, to interpret its own faith. Russian censorship, in the legal sense of the term, began with Peter the Great and concentrated primarily upon religious works, with the intention to revive such literature through "positive" guidance.2 In 1799, Tsar Paul tightened ecclesiastical censorship and placed it in the hands of the "Moscow ecclesiastical censor."3
Interface roughness, Localization and Radiative Efficiency in InGaN/GaN light emitters

Quantum wells based in InGaN and GaN have been actively studied over the past several years for light emission. It has been seen that in spite of substrate mismatch related dislocation densities of ~ 107–108 cm−2, one can have reasonable quantum efficiencies in these quantum w ells. In this paper, w ewill explore ho wcarrier localization influences radiative efficiency in InGaN/GaN quantum wells. Analysis is done about the relative effects of in terface roughness and effect of potential modification owing to alloy fluctuation in InGaN. This is necessary as InGaN has a large miscibility gap.
Opportunistic Spectrum Access

We discuss the key components of the current de facto spectrum sharing architecture, opportunistic spectrum access, including spectrum sensing, spectrum access, and spectrum handoff. We then discuss the challenges for the opportunistic spectrum access architecture. Next, we introduce a geo-location based spectrum access approach that is designed for the TV bands. We discuss the TV band availability for secondary access, and present the framework of accessing idle TV bands.
Rittersporn, Gábor T. Anguish, Anger, and Folkways in Soviet Russia

At its heart, Gabor T. Rittersporn's Anguish, Anger, and Folkways in Soviet Russia examines the nexus of the Stalinist state and society, reinvigorating this foundational concern, typically associa...
Localization of protein disulfide isomerase to the external surface of the platelet plasma membrane.

Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) is an enzyme that catalyzes the formation as well as the isomerization of disulfide bonds. In this study, antibodies against PDI were used to show PDI antigen on the platelet surface by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy and by flow cytometry. The platelets were not activated, as evidenced by the absence of staining by an antibody against P-selectin. Permeabilized platelets showed little cytosolic PDI by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy, suggesting that the majority of platelet PDI is localized to the platelet surface. PDI activity against “scrambled” RNase was shown with intact platelets. The activity was inhibited by inhibitors of PDI and by an antibody against PDI. Other blood cells showed little PDI. Platelet surface PDI may play a role in the various physiological and pathophysiologic processes in which platelets are involved.
Transitional Memoirs: Reading Using a Queer Cultural Capital Model

Pennell provides a unit plan for high school English teachers centered on two memoirs written by transgender teens: Some Assembly Required and Rethinking Normal. Using a queer cultural capital model, students will read the memoirs and analyze moments of strength exemplified by Andrews and Hill as they transition during high school. By reading these memoirs as a pair, students are prevented from thinking that there is only one way to be transgender. The unit plan includes definitions of the forms of queer cultural capital, examples from each text, and a unit assessment.
Late Complications Following Elective Primary Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: Who, When, and How?

Abstract Background Improved pain management and early mobilization protocols have increased interest in the feasibility of short stay ( 24 hours postoperatively, and to validate this model against another consecutive series of patients. Methods We prospectively evaluated a consecutive series of 802 patients who underwent elective primary THA and TKA over a 9-month period. The mean age was 62.3 years. Demographic, surgical, and postoperative readmission data were entered into an arthroplasty database. Results Of the 802 patients, 382 experienced a complication postoperatively. Of these, 152 (19%) required active management. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified cirrhosis (odds ratio [OR], 5.89; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-33.07; P = .044), congestive heart failure (OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.50-6.44; P = .002), and chronic kidney disease (OR, 3.85; 95% CI, 2.21-6.71; P Conclusion With improved pain management and mobilization protocols, there is increasing interest in short stay and outpatient THA and TKA. Patients with cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or chronic kidney disease should be excluded from early discharge total joint arthroplasty protocols.
A novel approach for targeted delivery to motoneurons using cholera toxin-B modified protocells.

Abstract Background Trophic interactions between muscle fibers and motoneurons at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) play a critical role in determining motor function throughout development, ageing, injury, or disease. Treatment of neuromuscular disorders is hindered by the inability to selectively target motoneurons with pharmacological and genetic interventions. New method We describe a novel delivery system to motoneurons using mesoporous silica nanoparticles encapsulated within a lipid bilayer (protocells) and modified with the atoxic subunit B of the cholera toxin (CTB) that binds to gangliosides present on neuronal membranes. Results CTB modified protocells showed significantly greater motoneuron uptake compared to unmodified protocells after 24 h of treatment (60% vs. 15%, respectively). CTB-protocells showed specific uptake by motoneurons compared to muscle cells and demonstrated cargo release of a surrogate drug. Protocells showed a lack of cytotoxicity and unimpaired cellular proliferation. In isolated diaphragm muscle-phrenic nerve preparations, preferential axon terminal uptake of CTB-modified protocells was observed compared to uptake in surrounding muscle tissue. A larger proportion of axon terminals displayed uptake following treatment with CTB-protocells compared to unmodified protocells (40% vs. 6%, respectively). Comparison with existing method(s) Current motoneuron targeting strategies lack the functionality to load and deliver multiple cargos. CTB-protocells capitalizes on the advantages of liposomes and mesoporous silica nanoparticles allowing a large loading capacity and cargo release. The ability of CTB-protocells to target motoneurons at the NMJ confers a great advantage over existing methods. Conclusions CTB-protocells constitute a viable targeted motoneuron delivery system for drugs and genes facilitating various therapies for neuromuscular diseases.
H − T phase diagram of URu 2 Si 2 in high magnetic fields

We have studied the ultrasonic velocity and ac susceptibility of ${\mathrm{URu}}_{2}{\mathrm{Si}}_{2}$ in magnetic fields up to 45 T. The resulting phase diagram reveals new phase boundaries that place strong constraints on theories of hidden order for this material. Furthermore, a significant difference between the constructed $H\ensuremath{-}T$ phase diagram and that extracted from earlier pulsed field measurements is explained in terms of a large magnetocaloric effect. An offshoot of this analysis is that care should be taken in interpreting pulsed field measurements.
Probing the Flexibility of the Catalytic Nucleophile in the Lyase Catalytic Pocket of Human DNA Polymerase β with Unnatural Lysine Analogues

DNA polymerase β (Pol β) is a key enzyme in mammalian base excision repair (BER), contributing stepwise 5′-deoxyribose phosphate (dRP) lyase and “gap-filling” DNA polymerase activities. The lyase reaction is believed to occur via a β-elimination reaction following the formation of a Schiff base between the dRP group at the pre-incised apurinic/apyrimidinic site and the e-amino group of Lys72. To probe the steric constraints on the formation and subsequent resolution of the putative Schiff base intermediate within the lyase catalytic pocket, Lys72 was replaced with each of several nonproteinogenic lysine analogues. The modified Pol β enzymes were produced by coupled in vitro transcription and translation from a modified DNA template containing a TAG codon at the position corresponding to Lys72. In the presence of a misacylated tRNACUA transcript, suppression of the UAG codon in the transcribed mRNA led to elaboration of full length Pol β having a lysine analogue at position 72. Replacement of the primary n...
Integration of Recycled Industrial Wastes into Pavement Design and Construction for a Sustainable Future

Transportation Infrastructure has remained a key element for the economic and social development. Especially in developing countries, the demand for new roads and maintenance of existing roads is very high as they depend on the overall economic development. These calls for transforming the methods the roads are being constructed. Recent studies have shed light on the concept of making transportation system greener and more sustainable, which can be a fast track to achievie the goals of saving the planet from further generations. One of the effective ways of addressing this issue is by substituting or replacing pavements layers by sustainable alternate materials. Promising alternate materials have been investigated in road construction-specifically using recycled wastes. The purpose of this study is to analyze the environmental significances of alternate materials such as recycled tires, recycled glass and waste plastics in road construction and delineate their economic and environmental importance. This is addressed by comparing various parameters such as global warming potential, carbon footprint, cost, and other environmental impact factors. The results of this investigation showed that the use of these materials in pavement construction has substantial environmental and economic benefits. These results will assist in developing revised pavement design and construction methods that are more efficient and economically feasible.
Building community online and on the trail: communication, coordination, and trust among mountain bikers

ABSTRACTThe affordances of new information and communication technologies (ICTs) have altered the ways that communities emerge, interact, and organize, creating possibilities for new forms of interaction. Using a case study of the mountain biking community, this paper examines the impact of ICTs on community bonds and boundaries. Based on 60 intensive interviews in North America, survey results from 2363 mountain bikers around the world, and email exchanges with an addition 98 of the survey respondents, the findings suggest several ways that online and in-person communication intersect to blur the distinction between strong and weak ties, make the boundaries of the community more porous, and accelerate the development of trust between members.
Preserving Large Farming Landscapes: The Case of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Preserving large farming landscapes is one of the main goals of farmland preservation programs. Other goals include protecting highly productive soils, maintaining and enhancing the local farming economy, and promoting locally produced fresh food. Farmland preservation programs take time, however, because of the hefty funding require­ments and the detailed process of preserving farmland through the acquisition of conservation easements by purchase or donation. The standard measures of dollars spent and farmland acres preserved do not give an accurate picture of the spatial outcomes of preservation and preservation effectiveness. Three other measures better reflect the spatial effectiveness of farmland preservation: acreage and percentage of preserved farm parcels located in agricultural zones, number and acreage of preserved farm parcels in large contiguous blocks, and number and acreage of preserved farm parcels along growth boundaries. Scattered pre­served farms and preserved farms not located in agricultural zones are likely to face more nonfarm development nearby as well as problems with non­farm neighbors. The farmland preservation effort in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, provides an important case study of the pattern of farmland preservation over time. Other counties and land trusts can employ geographic information systems (GIS) methods in this study to monitor and evalu­ate the progress of their farmland preservation efforts.
Analyzing tax incentives for producing renewable energy by biomass cofiring

This article examines the impacts of governmental incentives for coal-fired power plants to generate renewable energy via biomass cofiring technology. The most common incentive is the Production Ta...
Consciência Icônica: o sentimento material do significado

Neste ensaio seminal, Jeffrey Alexander apresenta algumas das bases de sua virada iconica. O giro analitico proposto se fundamenta em uma compreensao da materialidade como portadora de conteudo estetico e moral, o que e sintetizado na nocao de consciencia iconica: o processo em que um observador vincula a superficie estetica de uma materialidade a uma determinada estrutura moral de valores sociais.
THE RESTING POTENTIAL

The resting potential of the nerve cell is because of the differences of ionic concentration, which are maintained on the two sides of the membrane by metabolic processes. If undisturbed, the system remains in a steady state, but it is not in thermodynamic equilibrium. When a molecule is dissociated into ions in a solution, and the latter is divided by a semipermeable membrane into two compartments with unequal ionic concentrations, then an electric potential difference exists between the compartments. This chapter discusses how a relationship between potential and concentration differences at equilibrium can be derived. It discusses the exchange of ions across a membrane as a more accurate derivation of the resting potential must take into account that several species are involved in ion exchange across the membranes and as it must include the different permeabilities of the membrane to the various ions.
Patterns of repeated anal cytology results among HIV-positive and HIV-negative men who have sex with men.

Abstract Background Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for anal cancer. In cervical cancer screening, patterns of repeated cytology results are used to identify low- and high-risk women, but little is known about these patterns for anal cytology among MSM. Methods We analyzed Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) data for MSM who were offered anal cytology testing annually (HIV-positive) or every 2 years (HIV-negative) for 4 years. Results Following an initial negative (normal) cytology, the frequency of a second negative cytology was lower among HIV-positive MSM with CD4 ≥ 500 (74%) or CD4 Conclusions More than one-third of HIV-positive MSM have consistently negative anal cytology over three years. Following abnormal anal cytology, a repeated cytology is commonly negative in HIV-negative or immunocompetent HIV-positive men, while persistent cytological abnormality is more likely among HIV-positive men with CD4
Alienation and Social Work Practice

The idea of alienation and the development of alienation in society are examined. Concepts from alienation theory that illumine human functioning are presented along with ways they can be useful bo...
Low-dose aspirin is associated with reduced spontaneous preterm birth in nulliparous women.

Background Preterm birth is one of the leading causes of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Clinical data suggest that low-dose aspirin may decrease the rate of overall preterm birth, but investigators have speculated that this is likely due to a decrease in medically indicated preterm birth through its effect on the incidence of preeclampsia and other placental disease. We hypothesized that low-dose aspirin may also have an impact on the mechanism of spontaneous preterm labor. Objective Our objective was to determine whether low-dose aspirin reduces the rate of spontaneous preterm birth in nulliparous women without medical comorbidities. Study Design This is a secondary analysis of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of low-dose aspirin for the prevention of preeclampsia in healthy, low-risk, nulliparous women. Low-risk women were defined by the absence of hypertension, renal disease, diabetes, other endocrine disorders, seizures, heart disease, or collagen vascular disease. Our study was limited to singleton, nonanomalous gestations. Women were eligible if they had prior pregnancy terminations but not prior spontaneous pregnancy loss Results Of 2543 included women, 1262 (49.6%) received low-dose aspirin and 1281 (50.4%) placebo. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups, except for marital status. The rate of spontaneous preterm birth Conclusion Low-dose aspirin is associated with a substantial decrease in spontaneous preterm birth