cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Na+,K+-ATPase of the photoreceptor: Selective expression of α3 and β2 isoforms

Abstract In photoreceptors, Na + ,K + -ATPase maintains the ion gradients which power the dark current that sustains the response to light. The enzyme is composed of at least two polypeptides: α (the catalytic subunit) and β. Three different isoforms of the α subunit and two isoforms of the β subunit have been identified in rat. In some tissues, the isozymes have been shown to be differentially expressed during development or in response to varying physiological conditions. RNAs prepared from isolated photoreceptors and from whole retina were analyzed on blots that were hybridized with cDNA probes for the α1, α2, α3, β1 and β2 isoforms. The predominant α and β subunit mRNAs present in the photoreceptor preparation were those encoding the α3 and β2 isoforms, accounting for 85% of the total α signal and 79% of the total β signal, respectively. Proportions of each mRNA were similar in retina, but very different from those observed in two control tissues, brain and kidney. To confirm that the α-subunit mRNA species detected were translated, membranes prepared from isolated photoreceptors and whole retina were examined by immunoblotting. The antibodies detected a pattern of α isoform distribution in these tissues and in kidney and brain controls that agreed remarkably well with the pattern of mRNA expression in the same tissues. Moreover, the α3 isoform was detectable in the inner segment plasma membrane of the photoreceptor by electron microscopic immunocytochemistry. These results indicate that α3 and β2 are the predominant isoforms of Na + , K + -ATPase expressed in photoreceptors and retina.
A computer vision system to detect 3-D rectangular solids

We present a computer vision system to detect 3D rectangular objects. We first describe the method to detect rectangular solids in real video/images in arbitrary orientations, positions, distances from the camera and lighting. The method works by detecting junctions and adjacent edges of rectangular solids. If a rough reference image of the background is available, that can also be used. We have tested our system on several hundreds of real images and video sequences. In particular, we evaluated the system performance by plotting receiver operating characteristic carves (probability of detection versus probability of false alarm). These curves were plotted for results on 500 images and video sequences acquired an a scene with rich background structure; that is, the scene had a large number of background lines and rectangles. In such an environment, we achieved 93% detection at a 13% false alarm rate. Potential applications of this system include detection of packing boxes, trailers of trucks and rectangular buildings. This system could be used for video indexing or for video surveillance in a security monitoring system.
Quantum optical temporal phase estimation by homodyne phase-locked loops

Using classical estimation techniques, we design homodyne phase-locked loops for optical temporal phase and instantaneous frequency measurements at the quantum limit.
Preclinical and Clinical Evaluation of Intraductally Administered Agents in Early Breast Cancer

Most breast cancers originate in the epithelial cells lining the breast ducts. Intraductal administration of cancer therapeutics would lead to high drug exposure to ductal cells and eliminate preinvasive neoplasms while limiting systemic exposure. We performed preclinical studies in N-methyl-N'-nitrosourea-treated rats to compare the effects of 5-fluorouracil, carboplatin, nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel, and methotrexate to the previously reported efficacy of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) on treatment of early and established mammary tumors. Protection from tumor growth was observed with all five agents, with extensive epithelial destruction present only in PLD-treated rats. Concurrently, we initiated a clinical trial to establish the feasibility, safety, and maximum tolerated dose of intraductal PLD. In each eligible woman awaiting mastectomy, we visualized one ductal system and administered dextrose or PLD using a dose-escalation schema (2 to 10 mg). Intraductal administration was successful in 15 of 17 women with no serious adverse events. Our preclinical studies suggest that several agents are candidates for intraductal therapy. Our clinical trial supports the feasibility of intraductal administration of agents in the outpatient setting. If successful, administration of agents directly into the ductal system may allow for "breast-sparing mastectomy" in select women.
Drugs, Data, Race and Reaction: A Field Report

My foray into public scholarship began in 2003, when attorneys from Seattle’s Racial Disparity Project asked me to conduct research on Seattle drug markets and drug arrests. Prior to this time, my research focused on the politics of crime, law and punishment, mostly at the national level. Although I wrote about controversial political and institutional dynamics, I remained at some remove from my subject matter, as well as from affected and concerned publics. My collaboration with the Racial Disparity Project, however, fundamentally altered my work—and my perspective on the academic mission. Seattle’s Racial Disparity Project is housed in The Defender Association, one of several non-profit agencies in King County, Washington that provide legal representation to indigent criminal defendants. It has also received funding from the Justice Department, the Open Society Institute, the Racial Justice Collaborative, the JEHT Foundation, and others to conduct research and advocacy on issues that disproportionately affect Seattle’s communities of color. On the basis of discussions with organizations working in such communities, judges, and others, attorneys from the Racial Disparity Project identified the drug war as a key issue. When I was approached in 2003, the Racial Disparity Project was looking for a researcher to identify the racial and ethnic composition of those arrested for delivering illegal drugs in Seattle and compare this information with the best available data regarding those who engage in this behavior. Although I had written about drug markets and drug policy from a national perspective, I had not had the opportunity (or inclination) to delve into the dynamics surrounding local drug markets or the policing thereof. I was intrigued by the prospect, despite its obvious challenges, and agreed to conduct the requested research on behalf of the Racial Disparity Project. I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into.
Debugging run-time errors

The usual way of locating logical errors is to use a break-and-inspect-style debugging tool. The programmer uses the debugger to search for a small part of the program's execution that does not proceed as expected. Existing debuggers enable the programmer to make this search, but do not assist in the search. Techniques are presented for assisting the programmer in the error diagnosis process. A debugging tool incorporating these techniques assists the programmer in directing the course of the diagnosis, in determining which variables need to be examined at any breakpoint, in deciding whether the variables examined have the correct values, and in detecting the use of pointers to storage locations which have been previously released. >
Dietary Carbohydrate Source and Energy Intake Influence the Expression of Pancreatic α-Amylase in Lambs

In ruminants, pancreatic alpha-amylase is the primary enzyme responsible for the initial hydrolysis of alpha-linked glucose in the small intestinal lumen. The objective of this experiment was to examine the effects of altered dietary starch and energy supply on the expression of pancreatic alpha-amylase mRNA, protein and activity in lambs. Wether lambs (n = 24; 28 +/- 0.5 kg body weight) were fed low or high starch diets at 1.2 or 1.8 x net energy of maintenance for at least 28 d before tissue collection. Lambs fed the high energy/high starch diet tended to have more pancreatic alpha-amylase protein (54.5 kDa; P: = 0.08) and had greater activity (P: = 0.03), but alpha-amylase mRNA (1.6 kb) tended to be lower (P: = 0.17). Additionally, rumen fluid total short-chain fatty acid concentration was greater (P: = 0.04) and plasma glucose concentration tended to be greater (P: = 0.07) in lambs fed the high energy/high starch diet. However, pancreatic trypsinogen protein (25. 5 kDa) and jejunal maltase activity were not influenced by dietary treatment, suggesting that different regulatory systems are involved in regulating the tissue protein or activity levels of these two enzymes compared with alpha-amylase. These data suggest that dietary regulation of pancreatic alpha-amylase expression in ruminants is complex and probably regulated by transcriptional and post-transcriptional events.
The Cell-in-Series Method: A Technique for Accelerated Electrode Degradation in Redox Flow Batteries

Here, we demonstrate a novel method to accelerate electrode degradation in redox flow batteries and apply this method to the all-vanadium chemistry. Electrode performance degradation occurred seven times faster than in a typical cycling experiment, enabling rapid evaluation of materials. This method also enables the steady-state study of electrodes. In this manner, it is possible to delineate whether specific operating conditions induce performance degradation; we found that both aggressively charging and discharging result in performance loss. Post-mortem x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the degraded electrodes was used to resolve the effects of state of charge (SoC) and current on the electrode surface chemistry. For the electrode material tested in this work, we found evidence that a loss of oxygen content on the negative electrode cannot explain decreased cell performance. Furthermore, the effects of decreased electrode and membrane performance on capacity fade in a typical cycling battery were decoupled from crossover; electrode and membrane performance decay were responsible for a 22% fade in capacity, while crossover caused a 12% fade.
FACTORS AFFECTING REESTABLISHMENT OF AN ENDANGERED ANNUAL PLANT AT A CALIFORNIA SALT MARSH

We asked whether the reproductive capacity of the endangered Cordylanthus maritimus ssp. maritimus (salt marsh bird’s-beak) at Sweetwater Marsh (San Diego Bay, California) was sufficient to provide a self-sustaining population, as required by a mitigation agreement under the Endangered Species Act. After seeds were sown for three consecutive years (1990–1992) to an upper intertidal marsh where the historical population was last seen in 1987, the number of plants censused rose from ≈5000 in 1992 to ≈14000 in 1995. The transplanted population initiated fewer seed capsules per flower (mean 0.2–0.4 capsules in 1992–1994) than the donor population (up to 0.9 capsules in 1991). Pollen supplementation (hand-pollination) treatments increased the number of capsules by 89% in 1992, and by 52% in 1993. Abundance of pollinators appeared to be less important than the relative abundance of particular genera (i.e., Anthidium and Bombus). However, in areas where pollen supply was sufficient, nitrogen availability seemed ...
Gas-Condensate Well Test Analysis With and Without Relative Permeability Curves

Based on an analytical analysis of the steady-state theory and its application to well test interpretation in gas-condensate reservoirs, two simplified models are proposed when relative permeability curves are not available. They allow the reservoir engineer to have relative permeability curves as functions of bottomhole pressure from constant composition experiments. Step-by-step procedures explained in the paper rely on the suitability of the steady-state assumptions. Comparisons are made using actual field data and discussions on applicability are also presented. One of the methods is applicable when very low capillary number can be assumed, and immiscible relative permeability curves can be used for pressure transient interpretation. This method is recommended to be used in pressure buildup data analysis. The other proposed method is recommended for pressure drawdown data analysis and is based on the assumption that miscible flow regime controls the fluid flow in the near wellbore region. It is concluded that, although it depends on several factors, miscible relative permeability curves are generally good approximation for pressure drawdown data analysis. An additional method is also discussed. It relies on the ability to simulate properly the near-wellbore fluid flow with accurate fluid and flow models. Using output data from a compositional simulator, it was shown that it is possible to numerically model fluid bank impairment, while analytically, it is possible to obtain reservoir properties, usually shadowed in current methods for condensate buildup. The proposed numerical method requires detailed information and can be impractical to apply at early stages of gas-condensate production. On the other hand, the two analytical methods are shown to give good estimates of permeability, mechanical skin factor and reservoir initial pressure at early stages when relative permeability data are not available or are not sufficiently reliable.
On detection and concealment of critical roles in tactical wireless networks

In tactical wireless networks, the one-to-multiple communication model is pervasive due to commanding and control requirements in mission operations. In such networks, the roles of nodes are non-homogeneous; i.e., they are not equally important. This, however, opens a door for an adversary to target important nodes in the network by identifying their roles. In this paper, we investigate an important open question: how to detect and conceal the roles of nodes in tactical wireless networks? Answers to this question are of essential importance to understand how to identify critical roles and prevent them from being the primary targets. We demonstrate via analysis and simulations that it is feasible and even accurate to identify critical roles of nodes by looking at network traffic patterns. To provide countermeasures against role detection, we propose role concealment methods based on proactive network strategies. We use simulations to evaluate the effectiveness and costs of the role concealment methods.
Draft Genome Sequence of Herpetosiphon geysericola GC-42, a Nonphototrophic Member of the Chloroflexi Class Chloroflexia

We report here the draft genome sequence of Herpetosiphon geysericola GC-42, a predatory nonphototrophic member of the class Chloroflexia in the phylum Chloroflexi. This genome provides insight into the evolution of phototrophy and aerobic respiration within the Chloroflexi.
Breathing smarter: A critical look at representations of air quality sensing data across platforms and publics

The advent of digital technologies have caused cities to become increasingly connected with and reliant upon mobile, fixed, and remote sensing networks used toward urban planning, commerce, governance, and civic engagement. As sensor devices and sensor data become more ubiquitous over time in urban environments, it will be even more crucial to be critical of how sensor data are represented and how to design for optimal legibility for its intended audience. Air quality data, though relatively accessible and open for cities suffering from severe air pollution like Shanghai, China, and New Delhi, India, still pose problems with regard to representation. Data interfaces for air quality sensor data seem to assume or overlook public literacy in environmental standards, sensor calibration, sensor network resolution, and baseline technical knowledge about sensor devices. This paper examines how air quality sensor data are collected and given form across various projects. It will look closely at city dashboards, open data portals, and project-based data visualizations as well as analyze how meaning might be constructed from these interfaces. Finally, the paper will suggest a preliminary research agenda for further assessing how sensor data are represented to publics as cities increasingly rely on sensor networks.
Real-time trajectory synthesis for information maximization using Sequential Action Control and least-squares estimation

This paper presents the details and experimental results from an implementation of real-time trajectory generation and parameter estimation of a dynamic model using the Baxter Research Robot from Rethink Robotics. Trajectory generation is based on the maximization of Fisher information in real-time and closed-loop using a form of Sequential Action Control. On-line estimation is performed with a least-squares estimator employing a nonlinear state observer model computed with trep, a dynamics simulation package. Baxter is tasked with estimating the length of a string connected to a load suspended from the gripper with a load cell providing the single source of feedback to the estimator. Several trials are presented with varying initial estimates showing convergence to the actual length within a 6 second time-frame.
The structure of the β-barrel assembly machinery complex

β-Barrel outer membrane proteins (OMPs) are found in the outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria and are essential for nutrient import, signaling, and adhesion. A 200-kilodalton five-component complex called the β-barrel assembly machinery (BAM) complex has been implicated in the biogenesis of OMPs. We report the structure of the BAM complex from Escherichia coli, revealing that binding of BamCDE modulates the conformation of BamA, the central component, which may serve to regulate the BAM complex. The periplasmic domain of BamA was in a closed state that prevents access to the barrel lumen, which indicates substrate OMPs may not be threaded through the barrel during biogenesis. Further, conformational shifts in the barrel domain lead to opening of the exit pore and rearrangement at the lateral gate.
Clonal analysis of vertebrate myogenesis. I. Early developmental events in the chick limb.

Abstract Early developmental events occurring in the prospective muscle tissue region of chick embryo leg buds have been subjected to an in vitro clonal analysis. Colony-forming cells are present at stage 20 (72 hr incubation), but none of the colonies exhibit morphological signs of muscle differentiation. After an additional 8 hr of incubation (stage 21), approximately 10% of the colony-forming cells have acquired the capacity to form multinucleated cells in vitro , and the percentage of clonable myoblasts increases to a level of approximately 60% during the next 3 days of incubation. Clonal analysis of myoblast populations within regions of the developing limb have indicated that, between stages 21 and 27, the dorsal and ventral segments of the myogenic region contain appreciably more clonable muscle cells than the anterior and posterior segments. In addition, during stages 21 and 22 there is a 3-fold difference in muscle-colony-forming cells between the proximal and distal halves of the dorsal-ventral segments, as well as between the proximal and distal halves of the anterior-posterior segments. Thus at least two temporal and regional gradients—proximal to distal and medial to lateral—of clonable myoblast content can be delineated within the developing chick limb. In addition to changes in the proportions of muscle-colony-forming cells, the extent of multinuclearity within individual muscle colonies increases with the developmental age of the embryo from which the clonable myoblasts are derived. The progressive changes in the relative proportions of muscle-colony-forming cells and in clonal morphology are discussed in terms of their possible cell lineage implications.
A skeleton in Poland's closet: The jedwabne massacre

(2001). A skeleton in Poland's closet: The jedwabne massacre. East European Jewish Affairs: Vol. 31, No. 1, pp. 77-94.
Psychologic management of loss of vision

Loss of vision is a social and psychologic handicap as well as a physical one. The patient's initial reactions to blindness may include self-pity, feelings of hopelessness and recrimination, and even suicidal ideation. The ophthalmologist should encourage expression of these feelings. Severe or lasting emotional problems are often associated with previous psychologic problems, previous eye disease, coexisting physical handicaps, middle age, low income, poor education, humility and shyness. Acceptance of one's visual loss is crucial to good adjustment. The ophthalmologist should be understanding and supportive but should help the patient avoid false hope. Every ophthalmologist should be able to provide blind patients with information about local agencies that offer social support and rehabilitation services.
Twenty years of operando IR, X-ray absorption, and Raman spectroscopy: Direct methanol and hydrogen fuel cells

Abstract Mixed metal catalysts in polymer electrolyte fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies were characterized by operando infrared, X-ray absorption and Raman spectroscopy. Windowed direct methanol and hydrogen-air fuel cell assemblies allow for spectral acquisition with controlled potential, temperature and flowing reactant streams to the graphite flow fields. Johnson Matthey Pt and PtRu (1:1), in-house prepared PtRu (1:1 and 3:1), PtRuOs (65:25:10), PtNi (1:1), and a melamine-synthesized FeNC catalyst were studied. The near invariant core structure of phase segregated alloy catalysts over practical fuel cell potentials enable a simultaneous fit of metal component EXAFS to quantitatively characterize core structures: JM PtRu is a face centered cubic lattice with 50% of the Ru in an amorphous phase. Stark tuning of CO ads as a reaction intermediate and as a surface structure probe elucidates potential dependent co-adsorption of Nafion functional groups on Pt. Operando Raman spectroscopic tracking of membrane hydration at a fuel cathode is facilitated by symmetry-based group mode assignments of Nafion IR bands. Fully hydrated Nafion sulfonate groups have C 3V local symmetry. Dehydrated sulfonic acid groups have C 1 local symmetry. C 3V and C 1 IR bands coexist at intermediate states of membrane hydration.
Transformation of [M+2H]2+ Peptide Cations to [M-H]+, [M+H+O]+, and M+• Cations via Ion/Ion Reactions: Reagent Anions Derived from Persulfate

The gas-phase oxidation of doubly protonated peptides is demonstrated here using ion/ion reactions with a suite of reagents derived from persulfate. Intact persulfate anion (HS2O8 –), peroxymonosulfate anion (HSO5 –), and sulfate radical anion (SO4 –•) are all either observed directly upon negative nanoelectrospray ionization (nESI) or easily obtained via beam-type collisional activation of persulfate into the mass spectrometer. Ion/ion reactions between each of these reagents and doubly protonated peptides result in the formation of a long-lived complex. Collisional activation of the complex containing a peroxymonosulfate anion results in oxygen transfer from the reagent to the peptide to generate the [M+H+O]+ species. Activation of the complex containing intact persulfate anion either results in oxygen transfer to generate the [M+H+O]+ species or abstraction of two hydrogen atoms and a proton to generate the [M – H]+ species. Activation of the complex containing sulfate radical anion results in abstraction of one hydrogen atom and a proton to form the peptide radical cation, [M]+•. This suite of reagents allows for the facile transformation of the multiply protonated peptides obtained via nESI into a variety of oxidized species capable of providing complementary information about the sequence and structure of the peptide.
Ultrafast Reactions Involving Small Molecules in Solutions

Femtosecond UV experiments on ClO- in water show properties of the transition states, a rapid charge shifting and ensuing solvent reorganization, generation of Cl + O-, and solvent induced vibrational and rotational relaxation.
Implementing Sport for Peace Principles with Elementary School Student Leaders

The purpose of this study was to create a program for elementary school student leaders in the United States (U.S.) that utilized sport and physical activity as teaching tools for developing positive values, social competencies, and sportspersonship related to peaceful living. Participants were male and female students from the Midwest of the U.S. that were 4th and 5th graders. Data was collected both prior to and at the close of the program via a sportspersonship survey and a conflict resolution scale. The trend in the data supported the hypotheses that the “Sport for Peace” program would yield positive outcomes in relation to increasing participants’ use of functional conflict resolution skills, and their respect for the social conventions found in sport, respect for others while engaging in physical activity, and respect and concern for their opponent. The findings support continued efforts in the fields of sport for peace and positive youth development.
Development of a Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm for Strain-Enhanced Quantum Cascade Lasers

An automated design approach using an evolutionary algorithm for the development of quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) is presented. Our algorithmic approach merges computational intelligence techniques with the physics of device structures, representing a design methodology that reduces experimental effort and costs. The algorithm was developed to produce QCLs with a three-well, diagonal-transition active region and a five-well injector region. Specifically, we applied this technique to Al x Ga 1 - x As/In y Ga 1 - y As strained active region designs. The algorithmic approach is a non-dominated sorting method using four aggregate objectives: target wavelength, population inversion via longitudinal-optical (LO) phonon extraction, injector level coupling, and an optical gain metric. Analysis indicates that the most plausible device candidates are a result of the optical gain metric and a total aggregate of all objectives. However, design limitations exist in many of the resulting candidates, indicating need for additional objective criteria and parameter limits to improve the application of this and other evolutionary algorithm methods.
Isolation of mast cells from guinea pig and human conjunctiva

The development of methods to isolate, purify and culture mast cells from different tissues has enabled detailed analyses of their structural and functional properties [1,2]. Comparative studies of mammalian mast cells have revealed subpopulations which are characterized by distinct phenotypes [3,4]. Mast cell subsets differ in the production of inflammatory mediators and in their pattern of activation.
Natural Boundary Conditions for a PDE

This chapter explains natural boundary conditions for a partial differential equation (PDE). Given a partial differential equation it is not always clear what the “correct” boundary conditions are. This is especially true for nonlinear partial differential equations. However, most partial differential equations that arise in mathematical physics have been obtained from a variational principle. Starting with the variational principle, “natural” boundary conditions are generated, these boundary condition are, in a sense, the most appropriate boundary conditions for the original equation if there is no physical reason for imposing other conditions. The variational principle that is most often used is δJ = 0, where δ represents a variation, J is a functional given by J[Φ] = ∫∫ L (Φ, Φ t ,Φ x ) dt dx where L () is a linear or nonlinear functional and Φ( x , t ) is the unknown function to be determined.
Spatial valuation of California marine fisheries as an ecosystem service1

Quantifying spatiotemporal dynamics of ecosystem services is an emerging approach for informing and managing trade-offs among cumulative or competing activities in marine environments. As one proxy for ecosystem services and benefits, we quantified and mapped catch and economic value of California commercial fisheries removals using a 75-year spatially explicit time series. From 1931 to 2005, approximately 88% of the catch was attributed to finfish. However, there has been an increasing reliance of proportional value from invertebrates over the last 25 years. The spatial organization of historical catches suggests species composition varies substantially by depth and latitude, and an evaluation of changes in the spatial distribution of catches in three different time periods suggests that spatial shifts in catch locations have occurred for some taxonomic groups over time. A spatial assessment of historical catches and value benefits marine spatial planning, informs stock assessments, provides a quantifica...
Comparing genetic connectivity among Dungeness crab (Cancer magister) inhabiting Puget Sound and coastal Washington

Understanding connectivity of marine organisms is necessary for determining the appropriate scale of conservation and management strategies. For species that inhabit both the coastal ocean and partially enclosed water bodies (i.e., estuaries or fjords), this information is even more critical since estuaries and fjords are often characterized by hydrological complexities which can limit dispersal potential and promote population subdivision. In this study, genetic connectivity of Dungeness crab Cancer magister in Puget Sound and coastal Washington, USA, was examined to test the hypothesis of genetic structure in partially enclosed versus open environments. Dungeness crab that were sampled at five sites in Puget Sound in 2015 and three sites in coastal Washington in 2014 were genotyped at ten microsatellite loci. We observed similar levels of heterozygosity and allelic richness within Puget Sound and coastal Washington. Pairwise F ST estimates indicated that Hood Canal was significantly differentiated from other Puget Sound sites, except Nisqually, suggesting larval retention within the Hood Canal basin. No evidence for significant genetic differentiation was found among the four remaining Puget Sound sites or among the three coastal sites. Analysis of molecular variance indicated that, in aggregate, Puget Sound sites significantly differed from coastal sites. On a site by site basis, we found evidence for significant differentiation between three sites in Puget Sound and coastal Washington. Based upon the observed patterns of genetic differentiation, our findings did not support our hypothesis of restricted genetic connectivity within Puget Sound, with the exception of Hood Canal. However, our results demonstrate that there is stronger genetic connectivity within Puget Sound and coastal Washington than between these two areas.
Next-Cut: a second generation framework for concurrent engineering

We discuss Next-Cut, a second-generation computational framework for concurrent design and manufacturing. The Next-Cut architecture permits human and computational agents to cooperate in design and manufacturing. The architecture features a central knowledge base that serves both as a shared knowledge base and a medium for information exchange. We review the architecture in Next-Cut, focusing on the central model and the key agents. We then present an example in which the agents interact with each other and with a human designer to prototype or incrementally refine a simple mechanical assembly.
Chronic spinal cord changes in a high-fat diet-fed male rat model of thoracic spinal contusion

Individuals that suffer injury to the spinal cord can result in long-term, debilitating sequelae. Spinal cord-injured patients have increased risk for the development of metabolic disease, which can further hinder the effectiveness of treatments to rehabilitate the cord and improve quality of life. In the present study, we sought to understand the impact of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity on spinal cord injury (SCI) by examining transcriptome changes in the area of the injury and rostral and caudal to site of damage 12 wk after injury. Adult, male Long-Evans rats received either thoracic level contusion of the spinal cord or sham laminectomy and then were allowed to recover on normal rat chow for 4 wk and further on HFD for an additional 8 wk. Spinal cord tissues harvested from the rats were processed for Affymetrix microarray and further transcriptomic analysis. Diverse changes in gene expression were identified in the injured cord in genes such as MMP12, APOC4, GPNMB, and IGF1 and 2. The greatest signaling changes occurred in pathways involved in cholesterol biosynthesis and immune cell trafficking. Together, the cord changes in the chronically obese rat following thoracic SCI reveal further potential targets for therapy. These could be further explored as they overlap with genes involved in metabolic disease.
Complement factor H–related proteins in IgA nephropathy—sometimes a gentle nudge does the trick

Complement activation probably contributes to glomerular inflammation and damage in IgA nephropathy. In this issue, 2 groups report that levels of factor H–related protein 1 are elevated in patients with IgA nephropathy and correlate with disease progression. These studies provide new evidence that the complement cascade is important to the pathogenesis of this disease. These results also suggest that factor H–related protein 1 levels may be useful for identifying those patients at high risk of disease progression.
Combination of acoustic radiation force impulse technique and optical coherence tomography to measure elastic properties of the crystalline lens as a function of intraocular pressure

Elastic properties of the ocular tissues are significantly affected by intraocular pressure (IOP) in the eye. For example, the speed of the elastic wave in the cornea dramatically increases with IOP. In our previous studies using ultrasound shear wave imaging we demonstrated that, for the lens, the increase in IOP does not result significant changes in the wave velocity. Compared with ultrasound imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides advantage in both spatial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. Previously, we developed a combined acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) and OCT approach where the acoustic radiation force is applied to the anterior surface of the crystalline lens, while displacement of the lens surface is measured using phase-sensitive optical coherence tomography (OCT) system. In this study, we utilized a combine ARFI/OCT system to investigate the influence of IOP on the biomechanical properties of porcine crystalline lenses ex vivo.
Grotthuss Transport of Iodide in EMIM/I3 Ionic Crystal.

Highly ionic environments can mediate unusual chemical reactions that would otherwise be considered impossible based on chemical intuition. For example, the formation of a chemical bond between two iodide anions to form a divalent polyiodide anion is seemingly prohibited due to Coulombic repulsion. Using ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, we show that in the 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium (EMIM)/I3 ionic crystal, the reactive formation of divalent and even trivalent polyiodide anions occurs with extremely small energetic barriers, due to the electrostatic field of the ionic lattice. A practical consequence of this anomalous reactivity is that iodide anions are efficiently transported within the crystal through a “Grotthuss-exchange” mechanism involving bond-breaking and forming events. We characterize two distinct transport pathways, involving both I42– and I73– intermediates, with fast transport of iodide resulting from the release of an I– anion on the opposite side of the intermediate species from ...
Educating the Artrepreneur

This chapter begins by asking: What if business remade creativity education on its terms? What would become of art and its education in the wake of creativity-for-business only? This chapter explores these questions in light of the intensifying entrepreneurialization of art and its education. I examine the Partnership for the 21st Century Skills’ push for entrepreneurial literacy through art and creativity education along with the rise of artrepreneurs within contemporary art. I end with a plea for the relative autonomy of art education so that it may not only be a mode of vocationalization, but also a site of struggle and critical creativity.
Creation, curation, and classification: Mario Klingemann and Emily L. Spratt in conversation

Computer-generated art has long challenged traditional notions of the role of the artist and the curator in the creative process. In the age of machine learning these philosophical conceptions require even further consideration.
High-resolution mapping of traffic related air pollution with Google street view cars and incidence of cardiovascular events within neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

Some studies have linked long-term exposure to traffic related air pollutants (TRAP) with adverse cardiovascular health outcomes; however, previous studies have not linked highly variable concentrations of TRAP measured at street-level within neighborhoods to cardiovascular health outcomes. Long-term pollutant concentrations for nitrogen dioxide [NO2], nitric oxide [NO], and black carbon [BC] were obtained by street-level mobile monitoring on 30 m road segments and linked to residential addresses of 41,869 adults living in Oakland during 2010 to 2015. We fit Cox proportional hazard models to estimate the relationship between air pollution exposures and time to first cardiovascular event. Secondary analyses examined effect modification by diabetes and age. Long-term pollutant concentrations [mean, (standard deviation; SD)] for NO2, NO and BC were 9.9 ppb (SD 3.8), 4.9 ppb (SD 3.8), and 0.36 μg/m3 (0.17) respectively. A one SD increase in NO2, NO and BC, was associated with a change in risk of a cardiovascular event of 3% (95% confidence interval [CI] -6% to 12%), 3% (95% CI -5% to 12%), and − 1% (95% CI -8% to 7%), respectively. Among the elderly (≥65 yrs), we found an increased risk of a cardiovascular event of 12% for NO2 (95% CI: 2%, 24%), 12% for NO (95% CI: 3%, 22%), and 7% for BC (95% CI: -3%, 17%) per one SD increase. We found no effect modification by diabetes. Street-level differences in long-term exposure to TRAP were associated with higher risk of cardiovascular events among the elderly, indicating that within-neighborhood differences in TRAP are important to cardiovascular health. Associations among the general population were consistent with results found in previous studies, though not statistically significant.
The structure of the adenovirus capsid. III: Hexon packing determined from electron micrographs of capsid fragments

The orientation and relative positions of all 240 hexons in the icosahedral outer capsid of adenovirus have been determined. Two types of capsid fragments, obtained after selective disruption of the virion, were analyzed using electron microscopy and image-processing techniques. Planar inverted groups-of-nine, arising from the central region of the capsid facet, were minimally stained to reveal the morphology of restricted regions of their component hexons. Images shown to be related by correspondence analysis were averaged and features of the individual hexon molecule, known from an X-ray crystallographic investigation, were used in their interpretation. The study confirms earlier observations that the hexons in the group-of-nine are distributed on a p3 net, shows that the hexons form a close-packed array using the pseudo-hexagonal shape of the hexon base, and provides their relative positions. Twenty interlocking groups-of-nine account for 180 of the 240 hexons present in the viral capsid. The orientation of the remaining 60 peripentonal hexons was obtained from a rotationally averaged image of a quarter-capsid, a novel viral fragment comprising five complete facets. Each peripentonal hexon forms planar asymmetric interactions with two neighbors in an adjacent group-of-nine so that it lies on an extension of the p3 net. The complete facet thus consists of 12 hexons arranged on a planar p3 net, with a shape that permits interlocking of hexons at the capsid edge. The relative positions of the hexons have been determined to within 5 A using the molecular model, and indicate that the pseudo-hexagonal basal regions are close-packed in a manner that maximizes the hexon-hexon contacts. The results confirm the model proposed earlier for the arrangement of hexons within the adenovirus capsid (Burnett, 1985), and show the power of the inter-disciplinary approach.
Multicenter Analysis of Advanced Stage Grade 3A Follicular Lymphoma Outcomes by Frontline Treatment Regimen.

Abstract Background Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma with a wide spectrum of presentation. While grade 1/2 FL is considered low grade and grade 3B FL is approached as an aggressive lymphoma, the management of grade 3A FL remains controversial. Patients and Methods We performed a retrospective, multicenter analysis of patients aged ≥ 18 years with advanced stage 3/4 grade 3A FL diagnosed between January 2006 and July 2016. Patients were stratified by frontline chemotherapy regimen: anthracycline based (ATC), bendamustine (BD), and cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone (CVP). A total of 103 patients were identified from 6 contributing centers: 65 patients received ATC chemotherapy, 30 BD, and 8 CVP. The primary outcome was time to progression (TTP). Secondary outcomes included progression-free survival, overall survival, complete response rates, large cell transformation, and impact of standardized maximum uptake value on positron emission tomography/computed tomography with outcomes. Patient characteristics were similar among the 3 treatment groups. Results For TTP at 24 months from initiation of treatment, 72% of ATC, 79% of BD, and 50% of CVP patients had not experienced disease progression (P = .01). Multivariate analysis demonstrated a TTP benefit for ATC compared to CVP (hazard ratio 3.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.26-8.25; P = .01) but no difference when compared to BD. Similar findings were seen with progression-free survival. While overall survival was similar among the 3 arms, there was a higher risk of large cell transformation following BD and CVP. Last, standardized maximum uptake value on positron emission tomography/computed tomography did not affect TTP when comparing BD- and ATC-treated patients. Conclusion Although ATC was superior to CVP, clinical outcomes (TTP, progression-free survival, and overall survival) were similar compared to BD chemotherapy for patients with grade 3A FL.
Electron-Coupled Double Proton Transfer in the Slr1694 BLUF Photoreceptor: A Multireference Electronic Structure Study

Photoreceptor proteins control vital cellular responses to light. The photocycle of the Slr1694 blue light using flavin photoreceptor is initiated by photoexcitation to a locally excited state within the flavin, followed by electron transfer from Tyr8 to the flavin and a proton relay from Tyr8 to the flavin via an intervening glutamine. Herein, the two-dimensional excited state potential energy surfaces associated with this double proton-transfer reaction are computed using the complete active space self-consistent-field method and multiconfigurational perturbation theory, including the protein and solvent environment with electrostatic embedding. The double proton-transfer reaction was found to be energetically unfavorable in the ground state and locally excited state but energetically favorable in the charge-transfer state corresponding to electron transfer from Tyr8 to the flavin. These results indicate that the proton-coupled electron transfer process is sequential, with electron transfer preceding double proton transfer, and that the double proton-transfer reaction is also sequential, with proton transfer from Tyr8 to Gln50 followed by proton transfer from Gln50 to the flavin. The barrier is lower for the first proton-transfer reaction, and both barriers are significantly influenced by geometrical changes within the active site, particularly the proton donor-acceptor distance as well as the protein environment. These calculations provide insight into the impact of protein reorganization and electrostatics on the excited electronic states prior to and during the double proton-transfer reaction. This interplay between excited states and the environment has implications for other photoreceptor proteins.
Hypocretins (Orexins): Twenty Years of Dissecting Arousal Circuits

Abstract Twenty years ago, the hypocretins/orexins were independently identified by de Lecea et al. and Sakurai et al. as novel neuropeptides expressed exclusively in the lateral hypothalamus (de Lecea et al., 1998; Sakurai et al., 1998). Although neither paper mentioned sleep, an explosion of research over the intervening twenty years has revealed a critical role for Hcrt in promoting arousal and regulating sleep/wake stability. Moreover, the Hcrt system has proven especially amenable to genetically and anatomically targeted manipulations, facilitating rapid and systematic description of the circuit mechanisms mediating arousal. This chapter will review the evidence revealing Hcrt's role in arousal and the insights gained by using the Hcrt system as a foothold to gain access to arousal circuits.
High Temperature Co-pyrolysis Thermal Air Activation Enhances Biochar Adsorption of Herbicides from Surface Water

Abstract Recent interest has arisen in the use of biochar as a low-cost adsorbent for control of organic micropollutants in water. However, compared with activated carbon (AC), biochar adsorption c...
Revisiting the Horse in Blackfoot Culture: Understanding the Development of Nomadic Pastoralism on the North American Plains

The dynamic relationship between horses and nomadic peoples has a long history of study within pastoralist research worldwide. In the Plains of North America, however, the story of the horse is not often considered within these discussions. This article focuses on the story of the Blackfoot people in order to move beyond description of observed impacts of the horse and toward a discussion of what these impacts mean in terms of culture change, continuity, and Indigenous resistance. Recognizing Blackfoot horse culture as a true mode of pastoralism acknowledges the complexity of Indigenous responses to Euroamerican contact while also expanding our understanding of the global development of pastoralism as a lifeway.
Mediation's Dirty Little Secret: Straight Talk About Mediator Manipulation and Deception

The author examines what he calls 'mediation's dirty little secret' - the degree to which mediators themselves routinely and unabashedly engage in manipulation and deception to foster settlements, albeit under the rationale of fostering self-determination. Sophisticated consumers have come to know and expect it. Unsophisticated consumers are not so lucky.
Cross-Predictability of Industry Return in Trade Network: Using LASSO

This study tests the predictability power of returns across economically related industries, using monthly data over 1990–2010 and a machine learning model, the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO). This article presents evidence that LASSO identifies significant predictors of the returns of an individual industry among its interdependent industries. The results indicate cross-predictability of industry return by showing a significant relation between an industry’s returns and the lagged returns of its LASSO-selected trade partners. The study finds that industries that are more central in the input-output network have a greater effect in predicting related industry return. It also computes out of sample (2011–2016) the mean return forecasts of the portfolio of industries based on the predictability effect of the lagged returns of trade partners. The self-financing trading strategy of buying (selling) a high (low) portfolio based on related industry lagged returns yields about 10.44 percent annual excess return (0.83 percent monthly), with an annual Sharpe ratio of about 0.86. The study shows that after controlling for the Fama-French (1993) three factors, the monthly returns from the self-financing trading strategies generate a significant alpha of 0.7 percent monthly over the period 2011–2016. TOPICS:Big data/machine learning, factor-based models, portfolio construction, performance measurement
Some Historical Notes On the Cycloid

(1943). Some Historical Notes On the Cycloid. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 50, No. 5, pp. 309-315.