cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Role of Na+ and K+ in the Stimulation by Thyrotropin of Phospholipid Turnover in Bovine Thyroid Slices

The role of Na+ and K+ ions in the thyrotropin (TSH) stimulation of phosphatide turnover of bovine thyroid was studied by measuring the incorporation of 32PO4 into the phospholipids of thyroid slices incubated in a minimal medium consisting of 24 mM Tris-Cl buffer plus sucrose. In the absence of Na+ and K+ the baseline incorporation of 32P into the lipids was diminished but this appeared secondary to the measured decrease of the specific activity of ((γ-(32P) ATP which is a phospholipid precursor. The fall of the ATP specific activity is presumably due to a decrease of the activity of the Na+/K+-sensitive ATPase and the associated decrease of ATP turnover. Despite the lower baseline values, TSH stimulation of 32P incorporation into the phosphatides was not inhibited i n Na+ and K+ free medium. Furthermore, 0.05 mM ouabain did not inhibit the TSH effect. These results demonstrate that the TSH effect has no absolute requirement for Na+ and K+ and is independent of the Na+/K+-sensitive ATPase. (Endocrinology...
A Dual-loop Digital Controller for Switching DC-DC converters

This paper presents a dual-loop digital control approach for switching DC-DC converters. With an additional nonlinear control loop, the effect of inherent time delay of linear digital control loop on load transient response can be eliminated. Load transient response can be improved with reduced overshoot, undershoot and settling time. Simulation results based on a synchronous buck converter are shown to validate the proposed dual-loop digital control approach.
Spx-RNA Polymerase Interaction and Global Transcriptional Control during Oxidative Stress

Spx is a unique RNA polymerase (RNAP)-binding protein that is highly conserved among low-G+C-content gram-positive bacteria and certain members of the Mollicutes . In the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus subtilis , its primary target is the C-terminal domain (CTD) of the RNAP α subunit (αCTD) ([43
Synaptic trafficking of glutamate receptors by MAGUK scaffolding proteins

Synaptic transmission underlies every aspect of brain function. Excitatory synapses, which release the neurotransmitter glutamate, are the most numerous type of synapse in the brain. The trafficking of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA)-type glutamate receptors to and from these synapses controls the strength of excitatory synaptic transmission. However, the underlying mechanisms controlling this trafficking have remained elusive. Recent studies, drawing from advances in molecular biology and electrophysiology techniques, have established an essential role for a family of synaptic scaffolding molecules, known as membrane associate guanylate kinases (MAGUKs), in this trafficking process. These studies highlight the remarkable orchestration of AMPA-type glutamate receptor synaptic trafficking by multiple MAGUKs at different synapses within the same neuron and at different developmental stages.
Opening the "Black Box" of Climate Change Science: Actor-Network Theory and Rhetorical Practice in Scientific Controversies

In this essay, Joseph Barton's controversial congressional investigation of the well-known “hockey-stick” study of climate change, produced by Michael Mann, Raymond Bradley, and Malcolm Hughes, is analyzed though the critical lens of actor-network theory. Turning to the works of Bruno Latour, Michel Callon, and John Law, this essay illustrates how the hockey-stick node of this rhetorical climate change actor-network was successfully defended by invoking the entire actor-network as an inventional resource. Suggestions for improving environmental communication and the theoretical linkages between rhetorical criticism, rhetoric of science, and actor-network theory are discussed.
Low-lying states of the six-dimensional fractional superstring.

The {ital K}=4 fractional superstring Fock space is constructed in terms of {bold Z}{sub 4} parafermions and free bosons. The bosonization of the {bold Z}{sub 4} parafermion theory and the generalized commutation relations satisfied by the modes of various parafermion fields are reviewed. In this preliminary analysis, we describe a Fock space which is simply a tensor product of {bold Z}{sub 4} parafermion and free boson Fock spaces. It is larger than the Lorentz-covariant Fock space indicated by the fractional superstring partition function. We derive the form of the fractional superconformal algebra that may be used as the constraint algebra for the physical states of the fractional superstring. Issues concerning the associativity, modings, and braiding properties of the fractional superconformal algebra are also discussed. The use of the constraint algebra to obtain physical state conditions on the spectrum is illustrated by an application to the massless fermions and bosons of the {ital K}=4 fractional superstring. However, we fail to generalize these considerations to the massive states. This means that the appropriate constraint algebra on the fractional superstring Fock space remains to be found. Some possible ways of doing this are discussed.
Thermal Studies of an Organic Nanometallic based on a Nonconjugated Conductive Polymer, Poly(ß-pinene)

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) has been used to measure the thermal properties of the nonconjugated conductive polymer, poly(s-pinene) before and after doping with iodine. The measurements have been made over the temperature range of −50°C to 110°C. The glass transition temperature of undoped poly(s-pinene) has been determined to be about 77°C. The specific heat increased by about 16% upon doping, from about 2.03 J/g-°C in the undoped state to about 2.35 J/g-°C in the doped state. The observed increase in specific heat capacity upon doping, along with the reported electrical, linear optical and exceptionally large nonlinear optical characteristics in the doped state, have been attributed to the nanometallic-like structures formed in this polymer upon doping.
Adherence to postoperative surveillance guidelines after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair among Medicare beneficiaries.

Objective After endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), the Society for Vascular Surgery recommends a computed tomography (CT) scan ≤30 days, followed by annual imaging. We sought to describe long-term adherence to surveillance guidelines among United States Medicare beneficiaries and determine patient and hospital factors associated with incomplete surveillance. Methods We analyzed fee-for-service Medicare claims for patients receiving EVAR from 2002 to 2005 and collected all relevant postoperative imaging through 2011. Additional data included patient comorbidities and demographics, yearly hospital volume of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, and Medicaid eligibility. Allowing a grace period of 3 months, complete surveillance was defined as at least one CT or ultrasound assessment every 15 months after EVAR. Incomplete surveillance was categorized as gaps for intervals >15 months between consecutive images as or lost to follow-up if >15 months elapsed after the last imaging. Results Our cohort comprised 9695 patients. Median follow-up duration was 6.1 years. A CT scan ≤30 days of EVAR was performed in 3085 (31.8%) patients and ≤60 days in 60.8%. The median time to the postoperative CT was 38 days (interquartile range, 25-98 days). Complete surveillance was observed in 4169 patients (43.0%). For this group, the mean follow-up time was shorter than for those with incomplete surveillance (3.4 ± 2.74 vs 6.5 ± 2.1 years; P P P P Conclusions Postoperative imaging after EVAR is highly variable, and less than half of patients meet current surveillance guidelines. Additional studies are necessary to determine if variability in postoperative surveillance affects long-term outcomes.
Residual stresses and cracking in brittle solids bonded with a thin ductile layer

Abstract Residual stresses that exist between two brittle materials bonded by a thin ductile layer are calculated. In particular, the stresses at and near the interface are examined as well as the plastic zone profile. The stress intensity factors associated with interface cracks are then computed and used to address problems of cracking and bond strength. The analysis reveals the relative influence of thermal expansion mismatch, yield strength, bond thickness and interface fracture resistance.
Percutaneous balloon occlusion of the inferior vena cava as an adjunct for treating ruptured type IV thoracoabdominal aneurysm and aortocaval fistula

Spontaneous aortocaval fistulas are rare and thoracoabdominal aneurysms eroding into the inferior vena cava are rarer still. We describe a patient who presented to our hospital with a fistula between a Type IV thoracoabdominal aneurysm and the inferior vena cava. Expanding endovascular capabilities of vascular surgeons enabled us to insert proximal and distal occluding balloon catheters into the vena cava which greatly minimized blood loss.
Expected values for pedometer-determined physical activity in older populations

The purpose of this review is to update expected values for pedometer-determined physical activity in free-living healthy older populations. A search of the literature published since 2001 began with a keyword (pedometer, "step counter," "step activity monitor" or "accelerometer AND steps/day") search of PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), SportDiscus, and PsychInfo. An iterative process was then undertaken to abstract and verify studies of pedometer-determined physical activity (captured in terms of steps taken; distance only was not accepted) in free-living adult populations described as ≥ 50 years of age (studies that included samples which spanned this threshold were not included unless they provided at least some appropriately age-stratified data) and not specifically recruited based on any chronic disease or disability. We identified 28 studies representing at least 1,343 males and 3,098 females ranging in age from 50–94 years. Eighteen (or 64%) of the studies clearly identified using a Yamax pedometer model. Monitoring frames ranged from 3 days to 1 year; the modal length of time was 7 days (17 studies, or 61%). Mean pedometer-determined physical activity ranged from 2,015 steps/day to 8,938 steps/day. In those studies reporting such data, consistent patterns emerged: males generally took more steps/day than similarly aged females, steps/day decreased across study-specific age groupings, and BMI-defined normal weight individuals took more steps/day than overweight/obese older adults. The range of 2,000–9,000 steps/day likely reflects the true variability of physical activity behaviors in older populations. More explicit patterns, for example sex- and age-specific relationships, remain to be informed by future research endeavors.
The Yeast Two-Hybrid System: A Tool for Mapping Protein–Protein Interactions

Virtually all processes in living cells are dependent on protein-protein interactions (PPIs). Understanding PPI networks is thus essential for molecular biology and disease research. One powerful genetic system for mapping PPIs both at a small scale and in a high-throughput manner is the yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) screen. In Y2H screening, PPIs are detected through the activation of reporter genes responding to a reconstituted transcription factor. In this introduction, we describe library- and array-based Y2H methods and explain their basic theory. We also include the rationale behind different Y2H approaches and strategies for optimizing results.
Dynamics of formation of symmetrical patterns by chemotactic bacteria

Motile cells of Escherichia coli aggregate to form stable patterns of remarkable regularity when grown from a single point on certain substrates. Central to this self-organization is chemotaxis, the motion of bacteria along gradients of a chemical attractant that the cells themselves excrete. Here we show how these complex patterns develop. The long-range spatial order arises from interactions between two multicellular aggregate structures: a 'swarm ring' that expands radially, and focal aggregates that have lower mobility. Patterning occurs through alternating domination by these two sources of excreted attractant (which we identify here as aspartate). The pattern geometries vary in a systematic way, depending on how long an aggregate remains active; this depends, in turn, on the initial concentration of substrate (here, succinate).
A new method for measuring the particle size distribution of aerosols

A new method (electronic cascade impaction) of measuring the particle size distribution of aerosols is presented, and an instrument we call an electronic cascade impactor (ECI) which uses the method is described. Aerosol particles are charged in a unipolar charger and enter a multistage cascade impactor. Each collection stage and the final filter is isolated electrically from other parts of the impactor and connected to an electrometer detector. Particles deposit on the collection stages according to their aerodynamic diameters, and from the associated electrical current the deposition rate onto each stage and the particle size distribution can be determined. Calibration data for the ECI are presented. The ECI has been used to study atmospheric aerosol dynamics in real time, and typical data are given. The ECI has proven to be relialbe in several hundred hours of laboratory and field use and other versions employing the same general method should prove useful in a wide variety of measurement situations.
Musical Ritual in Mexico City: From the Aztec to NAFTA

1. IntroductionPart I. The Mexica: 1325-15212. Tenochtitlan: 1325-1521 3. Mesoamerican ResonancePart II. New Spain: 1521-1821 4. Colonial Mexico: 1521-1821 5. Colonial ResonancePart III. The New Nation: 1821-1910 6. The First Century of Independence: 1821-1910 7. Nineteenth-Century ResonancePart IV. The Revolution: 1910-1921 8. Revolutionary Mexico: 1910-1921 9. Revolutionary ResonancePart V. Modern Mexico: 1921-1968 10. Bolero and Danzon during the Postrevolutionary Era 11. Bolero and Danzon Today 12. Classical Nationalism during the Postrevolutionary Era 13. Classical Nationalism Today 14. Ranchera during the Postrevolutionary Era and at Mid-Century 15. Ranchera TodayPart VI. Contemporary Mexico: 1968-200216. Popular Music Today 17. Conclusion
Oligomerization and Oxide Formation in Bismuth Aryloxides: Synthesis, Characterization, and Structures of [NaBi(OC(6)F(5))(4)(THF)](infinity) and Na(4)Bi(2)(m(6)-O)(OC(6)F(5))(8)(THF)(4).

The reaction of [Bi(OR(f))(3).C(7)H(8)](2) (R(f) = C(6)F(5)) with sodium pentafluorophenolate leads to two new mixed-metal aryloxide complexes depending upon stoichiometry. Using 1 equiv of NaOR(f) per bismuth atom, a polymeric chain with the formula [NaBi(OC(6)F(5))(4)(THF)](infinity), 1, was isolated. If 2 equiv of NaOR(f) is used, the heterometallic oxo/aryloxide Na(4)Bi(2)(m(6)-O)(OC(6)F(5))(8)(THF)(4), 2, is formed. The mass spectroscopic data confirms the elimination of the bis(pentafluorophenyl) ether, R(f)OR(f), concomitant with oxo-ligand formation. The compounds have been characterized spectroscopically and by single-crystal X-ray diffraction: Compound 1 crystallizes in the chiral monoclinic space group P2(1), with a= 12.324(2) A, b = 10.934(2) A, c = 13.334(3) A, beta = 91.19(3) degrees, V = 1796.4(6) A(3), and Z = 2. The polymeric chain in 1 sits about the 2-fold screw axis and is the source of chirality for the compound. Compound 2 crystallizes in the triclinic space group Po, with a = 14.059(3) A, b = 14.060(3) A, c = 11.531(2) A, alpha = 108.47(3) degrees, beta = 102.78(3) degrees, gamma = 108.61(3) degrees, V=1912.6(7) A(3), and Z = 1 and shows occupational disorder of the sodium and bismuth atom positions. Variable-temperature (19)F-NMR studies show dynamic behavior of these bismuth aryloxide complexes in solution.
Statins and nitric oxide reduce C-reactive protein production while inflammatory conditions persist.

Abstract C-reactive protein (CRP) is made in liver and its serum concentration increases in inflammation. Measurement of serum CRP is recommended for use as an indicator of inflammation and predictor of atherosclerosis. Cholesterol-lowering drugs statins also lower CRP. To evaluate statin-mediated CRP reduction and to reassess clinical usefulness of CRP, we investigated regulation of CRP gene expression. Here, we show that pravastatin and simvastatin prevent the induction of CRP expression in human hepatoma Hep3B cells exposed to proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β⋅ The nitric oxide (NO) donor, sodium nitroprusside, also prevented the induction of CRP expression while the CRP inducers IL-6 and IL-1β were present with the cells. The effect of NO on CRP expression was at the level of transcription. These findings suggest that the decrease in CRP level in vivo after statin-treatment does not necessarily reflect absence of inflammation, and that NO-releasing drugs have the potential to reduce serum CRP levels. Thus, the measurement of serum CRP levels alone in individuals on statin/NO-therapy is not as useful as was imagined.
Oxidative Modification of Nuclear Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Phosphatase 1 Is Involved in Transforming Growth Factor β1-induced Expression of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 in Fibroblasts

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) stimulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in various cell types, which mediates many of the effects of TGF-β. The molecular mechanisms whereby TGF-β increases ROS production and ROS modulate the signaling processes of TGF-β, however, remain poorly defined. In this study, we show that TGF-β1 stimulates NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) expression and ROS generation in the nucleus of murine embryo fibroblasts (NIH3T3 cells). This is associated with an increase in protein thiol modification and inactivation of MAPK phosphatase 1 (MKP-1), a nuclear phosphatase. Furthermore, knockdown of MKP-1 using small interfering RNA enhances TGF-β1-induced phosphorylation of JNK and p38 as well as the expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), a TGF-β-responsive gene involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Knockdown of Nox4 with Nox4 small interfering RNA, on the other hand, reduces TGF-β1-stimulated ROS production, p38 phosphorylation, and PAI-1 expression. TGF-β also increased the nuclear level of Nox4 protein as well as PAI-1 expression in human lung fibroblasts (CCL-210 cells), suggesting that TGF-β may induce PAI-1 expression by a similar mechanism in human lung fibroblasts. In summary, in this study we have identified nuclear MAPK phosphatase MKP-1 as a novel molecular target of ROS in TGF-β signaling pathways. Our data suggest that increased generation of ROS by Nox4 mediates TGF-β1-induced PAI-1 gene expression at least in part through oxidative modification and inhibition of MKP-1 leading to a sustained activation of JNK and p38 MAPKs.
Cholesterol crystal uptake and metabolism by P388D1 macrophages

Cholesterol monohydrate crystals are frequently detected in intermediate and advanced atherosclerotic lesions. Little is known regarding mobilization of this molecular form of cholesterol into metabolically active pools. To study a potential mechanism for mobilization of crystalline cholesterol, we examined its uptake by a mouse macrophage cell line (P388D1). Crystals were overlayered on a P388D1 cell monolayer maintained in a serum-free medium. Following incubation, the monolayer was washed, and the cells were harvested and analyzed for crystal internalization. By transmission electron microscopy, crystals were found intracellularly surrounded by a bilayer membrane. Analyses of the cellular cholesterol ester content by gas-liquid chromatography and esterification of [14C]cholesterol indicated the conversion of crystalline cholesterol to cholesterol esters. This pathway for solubilization of cholesterol crystals by macrophages could play an important role in the regression of atherosclerotic lesions.
Cognitive predictors of life skill intervention outcomes for adults with mental illness at risk for homelessness.

OBJECTIVE. We investigated the effectiveness of a life skills intervention for people with mental illness who have been homeless. METHOD. In this longitudinal outcomes study, we used Situated Learning Theory (Lave & Wenger, 1991) to provide group and individual sessions to 38 participants from two housing programs after completing baseline Allen Cognitive Level Screen�2000 (ACLS�2000; Allen Conferences, 2000) and Practical Skills Tests (PSTs). Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects regression models. RESULTS. The PST scores of participants with higher ACLS�2000 scores significantly increased over time (food management, p = .021; money management, p = .039; safe community participation, p = .02). Participants with lower ACLS�2000 scores demonstrated an even greater change over time. CONCLUSION. Most participants, including those with lower ACLS�2000 scores, improved and retained life skills knowledge over time, challenging the premise that people with mental illness should be excluded from mixed-level group interventions.
Estimation of tire–road friction coefficient and its application in chassis control systems

Knowledge of tire–road friction conditions is indispensable for many vehicle control systems. In particular, friction information can be used to enhance the performance of wheel slip control systems, for example, knowledge of the current maximum coefficient of friction would allow an anti-lock brake system (ABS) controller to start braking with the optimal brake pressure, meaning the early cycles of operation are more efficient, resulting in shorter stopping distances. Also, from a passive safety perspective, it may be useful to present the driver with friction information so they can adjust their driving style to the road conditions. Hence, it is highly desirable to estimate friction using existing onboard vehicle sensor information. Many approaches for estimating tire–road friction estimation have been proposed in the literature with different sensor requirements and relative excitation levels. This paper aims at estimating the tire–road friction coefficient by using a well-defined model of the tire beh...
Combining motion planning and optimization for flexible robot manipulation

Robots that operate in natural human environments must be capable of handling uncertain dynamics and underspecified goals. Current solutions for robot motion planning are split between graph-search methods, such as RRT and PRM which offer solutions to high-dimensional problems, and Reinforcement Learning methods, which relieve the need to specify explicit goals and action dynamics. This paper addresses the gap between these methods by presenting a task-space probabilistic planner which solves general manipulation tasks posed as optimization criteria. Our approach is validated in simulation and on a 7-DOF robot arm that executes several tabletop manipulation tasks. First, this paper formalizes the problem of planning in underspecified domains. It then describes the algorithms necessary for applying this approach to planar manipulation tasks. Finally it validates the algorithms on a series of sample tasks that have distinct objectives, multiple objects with different shapes/dynamics, and even obstacles that interfere with object motion.
Design of dielectric-covered resonant slots in a rectangular waveguide

A summary is given of the effects of a dielectric cover upon the resonant frequency, the resonant conductance of a longitudinal shunt slot, and the power coupled out of a waveguide by a pair of near circularly polarized crossed slots. Typical data curves are presented which illustrate these changes due to variations in the dielectric constant and thickness of the cover. A simple modification of Stevenson's free-space theory for resonant slots radiating into a homogeneous dielectric half-space is used in conjunction with the plane-wave reflection coefficient to predict bounds on the conductance and power variations for dielectric thicknesses greater than about one-quarter wavelength. The accuracy of this simple theory in predicting measurements on dielectric-covered slots is similar to the accuracy of Stevenson's free-space theory within about 9 percent for the shunt slots and about 15 percent for the cross slots.
Implementation of NGA-West2 Ground Motion Models in the 2014 U.S. National Seismic Hazard Maps

The U.S. National Seismic Hazard Maps (NSHMs) have been an important component of seismic design regulations in the United States for the past several decades. These maps present earthquake ground ...
Sialidase expression in activated human T lymphocytes influences production of IFN‐γ

Sialidases influence cellular activity by removing terminal sialic acid from glycoproteins and glycolipids. Four genetically distinct sialidases (Neu1-4) have been identified in mammalian cells. In this study, we demonstrate that only lysosomal Neu1 and plasma membrane-associated Neu3 are detected in freshly isolated and activated human T lymphocytes. Activation of lymphocytes by expo- sure to anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 IgG resulted in a ninefold increase in Neu1-specific activity after growth of cells in culture for 5 days. In contrast, the activity of Neu3 changed minimally in activated lymphocytes. The increase in Neu1 enzyme activity correlated with increased synthesis of Neu1-spe- cific mRNA. Neu1 was present on the surface of freshly isolated and activated CD4 and CD8 T lym- phocytes, as determined by staining intact cells with anti-Neu1 IgG and analysis by flow cytometry and by Western blot analysis of biotin-labeled cell surface proteins. Cell surface Neu1 was found tightly associated with a subunit of protective pro- tein/cathepsin A (PPCA). Compared with freshly isolated lymphocytes, activated cells expressed more surface binding sites for galactose-recogniz- ing lectins Erythrina cristagalli (ECA) and Arachis hypogaea. Growth of cells in the presence of sialidase inhibitors 2,3-dehydro-2-deoxy-N- acetylneuraminic acid or 4-guanidino-2-deoxy- 2,3-dehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid resulted in a smaller increase in number of ECA-binding sites and a greater amount of cell surface sialic acid in activated cells. Inhibition of sialidase activity also resulted in reduced expression of IFN- in acti- vated cells. The down-regulation of IFN- oc- curred at the transcriptional level. Thus, sialidase activity in activated T lymphocytes contributes to the hyposialylation of specific cell surface glyco- conjugates and to the production of IFN-. J. Leu- koc. Biol. 81: 284-296; 2007.
GrooveNet: A Hybrid Simulator for Vehicle-to-Vehicle Networks

Vehicular networks are being developed for efficient broadcast of safety alerts, real-time traffic congestion probing and for distribution of on-road multimedia content. In order to investigate vehicular networking protocols and evaluate the effects of incremental deployment it is essential to have a topology-aware simulation and test-bed infrastructure. While several traffic simulators have been developed under the Intelligent Transport System initiative, their primary motivation has been to model and forecast vehicle traffic flow and congestion from a queuing perspective. GrooveNet is a hybrid simulator which enables communication between simulated vehicles, real vehicles and between real and simulated vehicles. By modeling inter-vehicular communication within a real street map-based topography it facilitates protocol design and also in-vehicle deployment. GrooveNet?s modular architecture incorporates mobility, trip and message broadcast models over a variety of link and physical layer communication models. It is easy to run simulations of thousands of vehicles in any US city and to add new models for networking, security, applications and vehicle interaction. GrooveNet supports multiple network interfaces, GPS and events triggered from the vehicle?s on-board computer. Through simulation, we are able to study the message latency, and coverage under various traffic conditions. On-road tests over 400 miles lend insight to required market penetration.
Maternal depletion of CTCF reveals multiple functions during oocyte and preimplantation embryo development

CTCF is a multifunctional nuclear factor involved in epigenetic regulation. Despite recent advances that include the systematic discovery of CTCF-binding sites throughout the mammalian genome, the in vivo roles of CTCF in adult tissues and during embryonic development are largely unknown. Using transgenic RNAi, we depleted maternal stores of CTCF from growing mouse oocytes, and identified hundreds of misregulated genes. Moreover, our analysis suggests that CTCF predominantly activates or derepresses transcription in oocytes. CTCF depletion causes meiotic defects in the egg, and mitotic defects in the embryo that are accompanied by defects in zygotic gene expression, and culminate in apoptosis. Maternal pronuclear transfer and CTCF mRNA microinjection experiments indicate that CTCF is a mammalian maternal effect gene, and that persistent transcriptional defects rather than persistent chromosomal defects perturb early embryonic development. This is the first study detailing a global and essential role for CTCF in mouse oocytes and preimplantation embryos.
Working Abroad and Expatriate Adjustment: Three Disciplinary Lenses for Exploring the Psychological Transition Cycle of International Employees

Millions of people are working abroad in countries other than their native ones. Among the largest group are those relocated for temporary assignments by their employers. Expatriate employees go through a psychological transition cycle as they prepare to leave their home country, arrive, adapt, and work in the host country, depart, return and re-adjust to their home country. Three social science disciplines, psychology, intercultural communications studies, and international management, have examined this progression of cultural transitions, recommended coping solutions and advanced our understanding of the process of working abroad. These literatures on expatriate adjustment are summarized in this article. An interdisciplinary approach is suggested which would pose research questions aimed at pragmatic solutions to the transition crises experienced by international employees.
MILAN: A Model Based Integrated Simulation Framework for Design of Embedded Systems

We present MILAN, a model based extensible framework that facilitates rapid, multigranular performance evaluation of a large class of embedded systems, by seamlessly integrating different widely used simulators in to a unified environment. MILAN provides a formal paradigm for specification of structural and behavioral aspects of embedded systems, an integrated model-based approach, and a unified software environment for system design and simulation. This paper provides an overview of MILAN, discusses the Model Integrated Computing philosophy, and illustrates the high-level modeling concepts being developed in the MILAN project for embedded systems design and evaluation.
Comparative peptide mapping and isoelectric focusing of isolated subunits from chick embryo brain tubulin.

— The α- and β-subunits of chick embryo brain tubulin have been isolated under denaturing conditions and compared with respect to their molecular weight, amino acid composition, tryptic peptide maps, amide content and isoelectric focusing properties. An 8 M-Urea-containing polyacrylamide gel system with varying acrylamide concentrations was used for calculation of the retardation coefficients (KR) of the tubulin subunits. A molecular weight of 53,000 was estimated for each subunit by comparison to KR values for standard proteins. Amide contents of approx 41% of the carboxyl groups of α-tubulin and 48% of the carboxyl groups of β-tubulin were calculated using the average PI value, the pKintrinsic for the ionizable side chains of the amino acids and the amino acid composition of each subunit. Comparative peptide maps of trypsin digested α- and β-tubulin demonstrated 16 peptides unique to each subunit and 23 peptides which comigrate. Both subunits give rise to multiple species on electrofocusing gels. The average isoelectric points for the α- and β-subunits are 5.4 and 5.2, respectively.
JOB SATISFACTION OF THE HIGHLY EDUCATED: THE ROLE OF GENDER, ACADEMIC TENURE, AND EARNINGS

The determinants of job satisfaction are estimated for PhD-level scientists in the United States across academic and nonacademic sectors. In initial estimates, female scientists report lower job satisfaction than males in academia but higher job satisfaction than males in the nonacademic sector. While academic scientists with tenure have substantially greater job satisfaction than nonacademic scientists, we show that the magnitude of this influence varies by gender. After correcting for the lower evaluation placed by females both on earnings and on tenure, female academic scientists actually match nonacademic scientists in reporting greater job satisfaction than men.
TLR2-dependent modulation of dendritic cells by LT-IIa-B5, a novel mucosal adjuvant derived from a type II heat-labile enterotoxin.

A host of human pathogens invades the body at mucosal surfaces. Yet, strong, protective mucosal immune responses directed against those pathogens routinely cannot be induced without the use of adjuvants. Although the strongest mucosal adjuvants are members of the family of HLTs, the inherent toxicities of HLT holotoxins preclude their clinical use. Herein, it is shown that LT-IIa-B5 enhances mucosal immune responses by modulating activities of DCs. i.n. immunization of mice with OVA in the presence of LT-IIa-B5 recruited DCs to the NALT and significantly increased uptake of OVA by those DCs. Furthermore, LT-IIa-B5 increased expression of CCR7 by DCs, which mediated enhanced migration of the cells from the NALT to the draining CLNs. LT-IIa-B5 also enhanced maturation of DCs, as revealed by increased surface expression of CD40, CD80, and CD86. Ag-specific CD4+ T cell proliferation was augmented in the CLNs of mice that had received i.n. LT-IIa-B5. Finally, when used as an i.n. adjuvant, LT-IIa-B5 dramatically increased the levels of OVA-specific salivary IgA and OVA-specific serum IgG. Strikingly, each of the activities induced by LT-IIa-B5 was strictly TLR2-dependent. The data strongly suggest that the immunomodulatory properties of LT-IIa-B5 depend on the productive modulation of mucosal DCs. Notably, this is the first report for any HLT to demonstrate in vivo the elicitation of strong, TLR2-dependent modulatory effects on DCs with respect to adjuvanticity.
Plant Secondary Metabolites as Potential Anticancer Agents and Cancer Chemopreventives

A. Douglas KinghornProgram for Collaborative Research in the Pharmaceutical Sciences and Department of MedicinalChemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 SouthWood Street, Chicago, IL 60612, U.S.ATel.: (312) 996-0914, Fax: (312) 996-7107, E-mail: kinghorn@uic.eduThere is considerable interest in the screening of plant and other natural product extracts in moderndrug discovery programs, since structurally novel chemotypes with potent and selective biological ac-tivity may be obtained [1-4]. A consideration of biological activity in addition to the isolation andstructure elucidation stages in a phytochemical investigation may add a great deal to the overall scien-tific significance of the work. Phytochemists may gain considerable information by using panels ofsimple bioassays and/or more specialized in vitro bioassays to follow each step of a purification proce-dure [3]. In the following paragraphs, recent examples of bioactive compounds obtained in the author’slaboratory in projects directed towards the search for novel anticancer agents and cancer chemopre-ventives from higher plants will be presented.In the United States in 1999, it is estimated that over 1.2 million persons will be diagnosed with in-vasive forms of cancer, and over 1,500 people will die as a result of cancer each day [5]. Among manyrecent advances in cancer chemotherapy, plant natural products have played an important role in con-tributing to the arsenal of the approximately 60 cancer chemotherapeutic drugs on the market. For in-stance, in the United States, there are now four structural classes of plant anticancer agents available,constituted by the Catharanthus (Vinca) alkaloids (vinblastine, vincristine, vinorelbine), the epipodo-phyllotoxins (etoposide, etoposide phosphate, teniposide), the taxanes (paclitaxel and docetaxel), andthe camptothecin derivatives (irinotecan and topotecan) [6]. Several other plant-derived compoundsare currently in preclinical and clinical trials [6,7].As part of a National Cooperative Natural Products Drug Discovery Group (NCNPDDG) researchproject funded by the United States National Cancer Institute (1995-2000), our collaborative team atthe College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago (Chicago, Illinois), and Research TriangleInstitute (Research Triangle Park, North Carolina), and Bristol-Myers Squibb (Princeton, New Jersey)is evaluating about 400 plant samples per year, with the aim of discovering and evaluating novel plant-derived anticancer agents. During the funding period 1990-1995, the industrial partner was GlaxoWellcome Medicines Research Centre (Sevenage, U.K.), and past progress made in the project hasbeen reviewed [8]. Since 1995, the primary plant samples have been collected in the Dominican Re-public, Peru, and Indonesia. Plant recollections have taken place mainly in Thailand and Zimbabwe in
Quantifying Landscape Ruggedness for Animal Habitat Analysis: A Case Study Using Bighorn Sheep in the Mojave Desert

Terrain ruggedness is often an important variable in wildlife habitat models. Most methods used to quantify ruggedness are indices derived from measures of slope and, as a result, are strongly correlated with slope. Using a Geographic Information System, we developed a vector ruggedness measure (VRM) of terrain based on a geomorphological method for measuring vector dispersion that is less correlated with slope. We examined the relationship of VRM to slope and to 2 commonly used indices of ruggedness in 3 physiographically different mountain ranges within the Mojave Desert of the southwestern United States. We used VRM, slope, distance to water, and springtime bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) adult female locations to model sheep habitat in the 3 ranges. Using logistic regression, we determined that the importance of ruggedness in habitat selection remained consistent across mountain ranges, whereas the relative importance of slope varied according to the characteristic physiography of each range. Our results indicate that the VRM quantifies local variation in terrain more independently of slope than other methods tested, and that VRM and slope distinguish 2 different components of bighorn sheep habitat.
Combined treatment effects of radiation and immunotherapy: studies in an autochthonous prostate cancer model.

Purpose To optimize the combination of ionizing radiation and cellular immunotherapy using a preclinical autochthonous model of prostate cancer. Methods and Materials Transgenic mice expressing a model antigen under a prostate-specific promoter were treated using a platform that integrates cone-beam CT imaging with 3-dimensional conformal therapy. Using this technology we investigated the immunologic and therapeutic effects of combining ionizing radiation with granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor-secreting cellular immunotherapy for prostate cancer in mice bearing autochthonous prostate tumors. Results The combination of ionizing radiation and immunotherapy resulted in a significant decrease in pathologic tumor grade and gross tumor bulk that was not evident with either single-modality therapy. Furthermore, combinatorial therapy resulted in improved overall survival in a preventive metastasis model and in the setting of established micrometastases. Mechanistically, combined therapy resulted in an increase of the ratio of effector-to-regulatory T cells for both CD4 and CD8 tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Conclusions Our preclinical model establishes a potential role for the use of combined radiation-immunotherapy in locally advanced prostate cancer, which warrants further exploration in a clinical setting.
Globalization and multi-spatial trends in the coverage of protected-area conservation (1980-2000)

Abstract This study is focused on the global expansion of protected-area coverage that occurred during the 1980–2000 period. We examine the multi-scale patterning of four of the basic facets of this expansion: i) estimated increases at the world-regional and country-level scales of total protected-area coverage; ii) transboundary protected areas; iii) conservation corridor projects; and iv) type of conservation management. Geospatial patterning of protectedarea designations is a reflection of the priorities of global conservation organizations and the globalization of post- Cold War political and economic arrangements. Local and national-level factors (political leadership and infrastructure) as well as international relations such as multilateral and bilateral aid combine with these globalization processes to impact the extent, type, and location of protected-area designations. We conclude that the interaction of these factors led to the creation and reinforcement of marked spatial differences (rather th...
Multiple myeloma presenting with unilateral abducens and trigeminal nerve palsies

Petrous apex masses can manifest with neurologic symptoms due to their involvement of various structures, including cranial nerves (CN) V and VI. The differential diagnosis of petrous masses is broad and includes a variety of both non-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions. We report a rare case of multiple myeloma confined to the right petrous apex, presenting with ipsilateral abducens and trigeminal nerve palsies. A 63-year-old woman presented with a 6-8 week history of facial numbness and a 2 week history of diplopia, with examination showing right-sided facial hypoesthesia in the CN V1-V3 region and right-sided lateral rectus palsy. MRI of the brain showed a solitary 2.0 cm lesion confined to the right petrous apex involving the right cavernous internal carotid artery and Meckel's cave. A transnasal biopsy showed a proliferation of plasmacytoid cells, which showed diffuse immunoreactivity with antibodies to CD138 and kappa, consistent with a plasma cell dyscrasia. A bone scan subsequently revealed multiple lytic bone lesions involving the skull, left humerus, bilateral femurs and possibly the L4 vertebral body. Bone marrow biopsy and serum laboratory results confirmed the diagnosis of kappa-type multiple myeloma. Although rare, multiple myeloma may initially present with petrous involvement and associated cranial nerve deficits.
Does resident participation influence otolaryngology–head and neck surgery morbidity and mortality?

Objectives/Hypothesis Patients may perceive resident procedural participation as detrimental to their outcome. Our objective is to investigate whether otolaryngology–head and neck surgery (OHNS) housestaff participation is associated with surgical morbidity and mortality. Study Design Case-control study. Methods OHNS patients were analyzed from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program 2006 to 2013 databases. We compared the incidence of 30-day postoperative morbidity, mortality, readmissions, and reoperations in patients operated on by resident surgeons with attending supervision (AR) with patients operated on by an attending surgeon alone (AO) using cross-tabulations and multivariable regression. Results There were 27,018 cases with primary surgeon data available, with 9,511 AR cases and 17,507 AO cases. Overall, 3.62% of patients experienced at least one postoperative complication. The AR cohort had a higher complication rate of 5.73% than the AO cohort at 2.48% (P < .001). After controlling for all other variables, there was no significant difference in morbidity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.05 [0.89 to 1.24]), mortality (OR = 0.91 [0.49 to 1.70]), readmission (OR = 1.29 [0.92 to 1.81]), or reoperation (OR = 1.28 [0.91 to 1.80]) for AR compared to AO cases. There was no difference between postgraduate year levels for adjusted 30-day morbidity or mortality. Conclusions There is an increased incidence of morbidity, mortality, readmission, and reoperation in OHNS surgical cases with resident participation, which appears related to increased comorbidity with AR patients. After controlling for other variables, resident participation was not associated with an increase in 30-day morbidity, mortality, readmission, or reoperation odds. These data suggest that OHNS resident participation in surgical cases is not associated with poorer short-term outcomes. Level of Evidence 3b Laryngoscope, 2016
Theory and experiment of multi-element airfoils - A comparison

A detailed comparison of computed and measured pressure distributions, velocity profiles, transition onset, and Reynolds shear stresses for multi-element airfoils is presented. It is shown that the transitional k-5 model, which is implemented into CFWD, does a good job of predicting pressure distributions, transition onset, and velocity profiles with the exception of velocities in the slat wake region. Considering the fact that the hot wire used was not fine enough to resolve Reynolds stresses in the boundary layer, comparisons of tubulence stresses varied from good to fair. It is suggested that the effects of unsteadiness be thoroughly evaluated before more complicated transition / turbulence models are used. Further, it is concluded that the present work presents a viable and economical method for calculating IaminarYtransitionaYturbulent flows over complex shapes without user interface.
Mass enhancement versus Stoner enhancement in strongly correlated metallic perovskites: LaNiO 3 and LaCuO 3

Measurements of physical properties, including transport and magnetic properties, specific heat, and thermal conductivity, have been performed on high-quality samples of ${\mathrm{LaNiO}}_{3}$ and ${\mathrm{LaCuO}}_{3}$ synthesized under high pressure. Some measurements, such as thermoelectric power and magnetic susceptibility, have been made under high pressure. The availability of a complete set of data enables a side-by-side comparison between these two narrowband systems. We have demonstrated unambiguously the mass enhancement due to electron-electron correlations in both systems relative to the recent density functional theory results. Correlations in these narrowband systems also enhance the magnetic susceptibility. Ferromagnetic spin fluctuations give rise to a strong Stoner enhancement in the magnetic susceptibility in the quarter-filled ${\mathrm{LaNiO}}_{3}$. Although we are able to tune the bandwidth by either chemical substitutions or by applying hydrostatic pressure on ${\mathrm{LaNiO}}_{3}$, the Stoner enhancement does not lead to the Stoner instability.
Differences in Susceptibility of Certain Sunflower Varieties and Hybrids to the Sunflower Moth

Tests conducted at McGregor, Texas, in 1967 indicated that hybrid sunflowers T 66001 (S-37-388T2 × HA 28), T 64001 (S-37-388T2 × HA 6 & 43), and T 56002 (S-37-388TI × HA 6 & 43) and Russian varieties ‘Armavirec’ and ‘Kubannec’ were damaged less serverely by larvae of the sunflower moth. Homoeosoma electellum (Hulst); than the inbred line HA 6 and varieties ‘Smena,’ ‘Vostok,’ ‘VNIIMK 8931,’ and ‘Peredovik’. Similar tests in 1968 indicated that 2 hybrids, T 56002 and P-21 ms × HA 60, and the variety Armavirec were damaged less severely by sunflower moth larvae than ‘Valley’ (CM90RR × Peredovik), Peredovik, VNIIMK 8931, Smena and ‘Krasnodarets.’ In 1969, P-21 ms × HA 60, Peredovik, and Krasnodarets were less severely damaged than Smena.