cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Auction choice for ambiguity-averse sellers facing strategic uncertainty: Comment

Abstract This note demonstrates epsilon equilibria in the first-price auction that achieve lower worst-case expected revenues than the lower bound proposed by Turocy (2008) (Auction choice for ambiguity-averse sellers facing strategic uncertainty, Games Econ. Behav. 62 (2008) 155–179). Additionally, it stresses the importance of a careful specification of the action space to properly characterize expected revenues when bidders systematically deviate from equilibrium play.
The role of ATM and ATR in the cellular response to hypoxia and re-oxygenation

ATM and ATR are stress-response kinases which respond to a variety of insults including ionizing radiation, replication arrest, ultraviolet radiation and hypoxia/re-oxygenation. Hypoxia occupies a unique niche in the study of both ATR- and ATM-mediated checkpoint pathways. Hypoxia is a physiologically significant stress that occurs in virtually all solid tumors and differs from most other stresses in that it does not induce DNA damage. Previous studies have indicated that hypoxia provides a unique way to induce ATR in response to inhibition of DNA replication. During tumor expansion hypoxia is inevitably followed by periods of re-oxygenation which in vitro has been shown to induce significant levels of DNA damage and an ATM response. Therefore both ATR and ATM have a role to play in hypoxia/re-oxygenation.
An Argument in Favor of Mechanized Software Production

A new software engineering methodology called program control structuring is proposed. Its development is justified by the need to offer the designer the capability to improve the productivity and quality of software development in the conditions of a "highly imperfect" environment. Such an environment is shown to involve the use of transient and inexperienced programmers, frequent alterations to the design specifications, and continuous development. The philosophy behind program control structuring is that of minimizing the probability of error in the design and implementation of large programs by means of language-and problem-dependent standardization. The particular standardization approach used by program control structuring is shown to provide 1) a program structure that is simple and flexible, readily understood, easily developed, and inexpensively maintained, and 2) a high-quality and partially mechanizable structure-oriented documentation scheme. Subsequently, it is suggested that many of the standards are mechanizable in the immediate future as a necessary condition for achieving higher productivity and improved program quality. Finally, the mechanization of software production is proposed as a step needed to precede the development of automatic program generation systems.
Immunochemical extraction and automated measurement of plasma creatine kinase MB isoenzyme and creatine kinase MB2 isoform

Measurement of creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and its isoforms CK-MB2 and CK-MB1 are now applied in the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The most common approach for analysis includes RIA, IRMA, and electrophoresis, all of which may be time-consuming. This study examines determination of CK-MB and CK-MB2 by a rapid immunochemical extraction method followed by an automated measurement for both analytes. The automated method was sensitive to 2 U/L, linear to 180 U/L, and gave excellent interassay precision (<10% CV). Interference studies indicated that bilirubin, hemolysis, and lipemia caused analytical problems as did the presence of high activities of other CK isoenzymes, notably CK-MM and CK-BB, requiring dilution of samples prior to analysis. Application of immunochemical extraction gave a reference interval of CK-MB (0–2.5 U/L) and CK-MB2 (0.1–1.4 U/L) for blood donors (20–60 years), peak levels for ruled-out AMI patients of CK-MB (0.5–7.3 U/L) and CK-MB2 (0.3–4.9), peak levels for ruled-in AMI patients of CK-MB (80–174 U/L) and CK-MB2 (80–155 U/L). Coronary artery bypass patients (n = 24) and all trauma patients (n = 14) also demonstrated elevations in CK-MB and CK-MB2, whereas only five of the trauma patients demonstrated increased CK-MB by IRMA. In patients (n = 7) having increased total CK and normal CK-MB by IRMA, the extraction assay for CK-MB and CK-MB2 yielded increased values in all patients. This new approach to CK-MB and CK-MB2 analysis can be performed within 30 minutes of sample receipt. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 11:163–168, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss. Inc.
Characterization of a processive form of the vaccinia virus DNA polymerase.

Abstract We have previously shown that the purified, 116-kDa DNA polymerase encoded by vaccinia virus is inherently distributive, synthesizing only a few nucleotides per template binding event under moderate reaction conditions (W. F. McDonald and P. Traktman,J. Biol. Chem.269, 31190–31197). These properties would be incompatible with efficient DNA replicationin vivoand suggest that the polymerase most probably interacts with accessory proteins that stabilize the template/polymerase interaction. Here we show that a highly processive form of the enzyme is indeed present with cytoplasmic lysates prepared from infected cells, and demonstrate that this form of the enzyme is likely to comprise the DNA polymerase in association with an early viral protein with a native molecular weight of approximately 48K.
DICTIONARY TEXT ENTRIES AS A SOURCE OF KNOWLEDGE FOR SYNTACTIC AND OTHER DISAMBIGUATIONS

Online reference books may be thought of as knowledge bases. We describe here how information in the text of machine-readable dictionary entries can be processed to help determine the proper attachment of prepositional phrases and relative clauses; the resolution of some cases of pronoun reference; and the interpretation of dangling modifiers. This approach also suggests the possibility of bypassing conventioal efforts at hand-coding semantic information, efforts which are time-consuming and usually incomplete.
EARLY EVENTS DURING AVIAN SKIN APPENDAGE REGENERATION : DEPENDENCE ON EPITHELIAL-MESENCHYMAL INTERACTION AND ORDER OF MOLECULAR REAPPEARANCE

Early molecular events during the development and regeneration of skin appendages were studied using cultured chicken skin explants with epithelial-mesenchymal recombination. The explant epithelium was separated from the mesenchyme, rotated 90 degrees or 180 degrees, recombined with the mesenchyme, and cultured. After this procedure, existing feather buds disappeared and new buds were regenerated. The location of the new buds is determined by the original dermal condensations, whereas the orientation is dictated by the original epithelium. The temporal expression of key morphogenetic molecules was examined 3, 6, and 20 h after recombination by whole-mount in situ hybridization and immunostaining. The results showed the following. (i) Placode formation and the expression of wingless-int (Wnt) 7a and Msx-1 in the placode epithelium are mesenchyme dependent. (ii) Hox C6 and neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) expression in the anterior mesenchyme is placode epithelium dependent. (iii) Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2, BMP-4, and fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-4 expression in the original dermal condensations was unaffected by recombination. (iv) Old dermal condensations can induce new placodes with new Wnt 7a, sonic hedgehog (Shh), and Msx-1 and -2 expression. (v) The new placode epithelium can then induce new Hox C6 and NCAM microgradients in the feather bud mesenchyme. (vi) The order of appearance can be classified into four groups in the following order: BMP-2, BMP-4, and FGF-4 (peptide growth factors); Wnt 7a and Shh (Drosophila segment polarity gene homologs); Msx-1 and Msx-2 (Msx class homeobox genes); and then Hox C6 (Hox class homeobox genes) and NCAM (adhesion molecules). These results suggest an order for the molecular cascade during the inductive phase of skin appendage development.
Ammonia and methane chemical ionization mass spectra of acid and carbamate pesticides using direct supercritical fluid injection

The ammonia and methane chemical ionization mass spectra of several carbamate and acid pesticides were obtained utilizing capillary supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) for introduction. These compounds are generally not amenable to gas chromatography and the supercritical fluid method allows low-temperature separations (using carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide as mobile phases) with highly selective chemical ionization mass spectrometric detection for analysis. Ionization with ammonia produces primarily ammonium adduct ions, [M + 18]+, and protonated molecules, [M + 1]+, for all compounds. More energetic methane chemical ionization produces spectra containing fragment ions characteristic of the pesticide structure. All compounds were analysed under similar chromatographic conditions, with optimization for individual compounds minimized, and detection limits were in the picogram range. Analysis time for all compounds was under five minutes and no mobile phase interferences or thermal degradation was noted.
Principles of Adjunctive Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is becoming increasingly available to the practicing veterinarian. It is important that veterinarians be familiar with mechanisms and biologic effects of radiation used as a therapeutic modality in the treatment of cancer. It is also important that the veterinarian understand oncologic decision making and indications for various modalities including radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy. Surgery and radiation therapy can be particularly complementary in combined therapy to achieve a functional and cosmetic result. This review introduces basic radiation therapy concepts, particularly regarding combination of radiation and surgery in the treatment of cancer in animals.
The Effect of Slack resources on Innovation: The Moderating Roles of CEO Tenure and Compensation

This study draws on a number of theories such as upper echelons theory; resources based view; Penrose’s theory of firm growth to argue and show that both financial and human slack are an essential component of organizations research and development (R&D) strategy. This study also suggests that both CEO tenure and compensation moderate the slack-innovation relationship. We test our hypothesis using a sample that included all publicly traded U.S. firms between the years of 1993 and 2011.
Older widowers and postdeath encounters: a qualitative investigation.

This study examined older widowers' descriptions and interpretations of their postdeath encounters, including sense of presence experiences and sensory experiences (e.g., saw the deceased, heard the deceased's voice). Six older widowers who had reported at least one postdeath encounter were interviewed. Their responses were interpreted within a constructivist perspective. Each widower's explanation of the encounters generally matched his individual religious/spiritual worldview. The participants used both internal (e.g., “My mind was tricking me”) and external (e.g., a sign from heaven) sources to explain their postdeath encounters. The author presents implications for future research.
Symptom clusters in patients presenting to the emergency department with possible acute coronary syndrome differ by sex, age, and discharge diagnosis

Abstract Objectives To identify classes of individuals presenting to the ED for suspected ACS who shared similar symptoms and clinical characteristics. Background Describing symptom clusters in undiagnosed patients with suspected ACS is a novel and clinically relevant approach, reflecting real-world emergency department evaluation procedures. Methods Symptoms were measured using a validated 13-item symptom checklist. Latent class analysis was used to describe symptom clusters. Results The sample of 874 was 37% female with a mean age of 59.9 years. Four symptom classes were identified: Heavy Symptom Burden (Class 1), Chest Symptoms and Shortness of Breath (Class 2), Chest Symptoms Only (Class 3), and Weary (Class 4). Patients with ACS were more likely to cluster in Classes 2 and 3. Women and younger patients were more likely to group in Class 1. Conclusions Further research is needed to determine the value of symptom clusters in the ED triage and management of suspected ACS.
Gallbladder function before and after fundoplication

No study has reported an association between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or its therapies and gallbladder function. We compared pre- and postoperative gallbladder function in patients undergoing fundoplication to determine the following: (1) whether patients with chronic GERD have preexisting gallbladder motor dysfunction; (2) whether medical or surgical therapy alters gallbladder function; and (3) whether division of the hepatic branch of the anterior vagus nerve is detrimental to gallbladder motility. Nineteen patients with documented GERD consented to a preoperative cholecystokinin-stimulated technetium hepatobiliary (CCK-HIDA) scan to quantify the gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF). All patients underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. One month after fundoplication, 12 patients completed a repeat CCK-HIDA scan for determination of GBEF, with comparison to the preoperative GBEF. Among patients with preoperative GERD, 11 (58%) of 19 met the scintigraphic criteria for gallbladder dysfunction (GBEF <35%), which is a ratio comparable to that in patients undergoing a CCK-HIDA scan for presumed biliary dyskinesia during the same time period (31 [60%] of 53;P=NS, chi square test) and exceeds the rate of abnormal GBEF reported in healthy volunteers (3%). Six of seven patients with a low preoperative GBEF who underwent repeat evaluation postoperatively had normalization of the GBEF (P=0.05, paired t-test). In the 12 patients who underwent postoperative CCK-HIDA scanning, there was no association between preservation or division of the hepatic branch of the anterior vagus nerve and postoperative gallbladder dysfunction (P=NS, chi-square test). Unexpectedly, 58% of patients with GERD demonstrated gallbladder motor dysfunction prior to fundoplication, with improvement to normal occurring in most of those studied postoperatively. These data support controlled trials to determine the effect of chronic GERD and antisecretory therapy on gallbladder and global gastrointestinal smooth muscle function. Preservation of the hepatic branch of the anterior vagus nerve during fundoplication offered no clear benefit with regard to early postoperative gallbladder function.
Stratify or adjust? Dealing with multiple populations when evaluating rare variants

The unrelated individuals sample from Genetic Analysis Workshop 17 consists of a small number of subjects from eight population samples and genetic data composed mostly of rare variants. We compare two simple approaches to collapsing rare variants within genes for their utility in identifying genes that affect phenotype. We also compare results from stratified analyses to those from a pooled analysis that uses ethnicity as a covariate. We found that the two collapsing approaches were similarly effective in identifying genes that contain causative variants in these data. However, including population as a covariate was not an effective substitute for analyzing the subpopulations separately when only one subpopulation contained a rare variant linked to the phenotype.
Overproduction of corticotropin-releasing factor in transgenic mice: a genetic model of anxiogenic behavior

Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is released in response to various stressors and regulates adrenocorticotropin secretion and glucocorticoid production. In addition to its endocrine functions, CRF acts as a neuromodulator in extra-hypothalamic systems and has been shown to play a role in behavioral responses to stress. CRF overproduction has been implicated in affective disorders such as depression and anorexia nervosa. A transgenic mouse model of CRF overproduction has been developed in order to examine the endocrine and behavioral effects of chronic CRF excess. CRF transgenic animals exhibit endocrine abnormalities involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis such as elevated plasma levels of ACTH and glucocorticoids. The present series of experiments tested the hypothesis that chronic overproduction of CRF throughout the life-span of these animals may lead to an anxiogenic behavioral state. CRF transgenic mice and normal littermate controls were tested by measuring locomotor activity in a novel environment and through the use of an elevated plus-maze as indices of anxiety. CRF transgenic animals exhibited an increase in anxiogenic behavior, an effect known to occur following central administration of CRF in mice and rats. Injection of the CRF antagonist alpha-helical CRF 9-41 into the lateral cerebral ventricles reversed the anxiogenic state observed in the CRF transgenics. This finding supports the possibility that central CRF overproduction may mediate the anxiogenic behavior exhibited in this animal model. Thus, CRF transgenic mice represent a genetic model of CRF overproduction that provides a valuable tool for investigating the long-term effects of CRF excess and dysregulation in the CNS.
Superior Capacity Retention Sn–Ni–Fe–C Composite Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Sn-Ni-Fe-C composite anodes have been synthesized by a mechanochemical reaction of Sn with Ni-C and Fe-C composites and characterized. The Sn-Ni-Fe-C composite consisting of nanostructured Sn 4 Ni 3 , Sn 2 Fe, and SnFe along with carbon exhibits excellent capacity retention with a capacity of over 400 mAh/g. X-ray diffraction characterization of the electrodes reveals that while Sn 2 Fe decomposes completely during the lithiation process, both Sn 4 Ni 3 and SnFe decompose only partially. The enhanced capacity retention of Sn-Ni-Fe-C compared to that of Sn is attributed to the buffering effect provided by Sn 4 Ni 3 and SnFe and their effectiveness in suppressing the Sn grain growth during cycling.
One perspective on the future of Six-Sigma

Six-Sigma has maintained momentum for over ten years now, longer than many pundits expected. However, the key question remains: how long will Six-Sigma remain front-page news? The answer is that it will remain front-page news as long as it delivers front-page results. A second, and related question is: how might the initiative morph and evolve in order to remain relevant going forward? This paper suggests that several emerging trends will continue, such as migration to financial services and healthcare, standardisation of Design for Six-Sigma (DFSS), and further globalisation. Longer term, a key challenge appears to be integration into normal operations, rather than managing Six-Sigma as a separate initiative. Eventually, Six-Sigma needs to become part of an organisation's overall quality or business improvement system.
Cultural implications of death and loss from AIDS among women in South Africa.

Over 1.8 million people have died of AIDS in South Africa, and it continues to be a death sentence for many women. The purpose of this study was to examine the broader context of death and loss from HIV/AIDS and to identify the cultural factors that influenced existing beliefs and attitudes. The participants included 110 women recruited from 3 communities in South Africa. Focus group methodology was used to explore their perceptions surrounding death and loss from HIV/AIDS. Using the PEN-3 cultural model, our findings revealed that there were positive perceptions related to how women cope and respond to death and loss from HIV/AIDS. Findings also revealed existential responses and negative perceptions that strongly influence how women make sense of increasing death and loss from HIV/AIDS. In the advent of rising death and loss from HIV/AIDS, particularly among women, interventions aimed at reducing negative perceptions while increasing positive and existential perceptions are needed. These interventions s...
Uniaxial compression experiments on lead zirconate titanate 95/5-2Nb ceramic: Evidence for an orientation-dependent, “maximum compressive stress” criterion for onset of the ferroelectric to antiferroelectric polymorphic transformation

Some time ago we presented evidence that, under nonhydrostatic loading, the F{sub R1} {r_arrow} A{sub O} polymorphic transformation of unpoled PZT 95/5-2Nb (PNZT) ceramic began when the maximum compressive stress equaled the hydro-static pressure at which the transformation otherwise took place. Recently we showed that this simple criterion did not apply to nonhydrostatically compressed, poled ceramic. However, unpoled ceramic is isotropic, whereas poled ceramic has a preferred crystallographic orientation and is mechanically anisotropic. If we further assume that the transformation depends not only on the magnitude of the compressive stress, but also its orientation relative to some feature(s) of PNZT's crystallography, then these disparate results can be qualitatively resolved. It has long been known that this transformation can be triggered in uniaxial compression. Our modified hypothesis makes two predictions for transformation of unpoled polycrystals under uniaxial stress: (i) the transformation should begin when the maximum compressive stress, {sigma}{sub 1}, equals the hydrostatic pressure for transformation, and (ii) a steadily increasing axial stress should be required to drive the transformation.
VX-166: a novel potent small molecule caspase inhibitor as a potential therapy for sepsis

Prevention of lymphocyte apoptosis by caspase inhibition has been proposed as a novel treatment approach in sepsis. However, it has not been clearly demonstrated that caspase inhibitors improve survival in sepsis models when dosed post-insult. Also, there are concerns that caspase inhibitors might suppress the immune response. Here we characterize VX-166, a broad caspase inhibitor, as a novel potential treatment for sepsis. VX-166 was studied in a number of enzymatic and cellular assays. The compound was then tested in a murine model of endotoxic shock (lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 20 mg/kg IV) and a 10 d rat model of polymicrobial sepsis by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP). VX-166 showed potent anti-apoptotic activity in vitro and inhibited the release of interleukin (IL)-1beta and IL-18. In the LPS model, VX-166 administered 0, 4, 8 and 12 h post-LPS significantly improved survival in a dose-dependent fashion (P < 0.0028). In the CLP model, VX-166 continuously administered by mini-osmotic pump significantly improved survival when dosed 3 h after insult, (40% to 92%, P = 0.009). When dosed 8 h post-CLP, VX-166 improved survival from 40% to 66% (P = 0.19). Mode of action studies in the CLP model confirmed that VX-166 significantly inhibited thymic atrophy and lymphocyte apoptosis as determined by flow cytometry (P < 0.01). VX-166 reduced plasma endotoxin levels (P < 0.05), suggesting an improved clearance of bacteria from the bloodstream. Release of IL-1beta in vivo or T-cell activation in vitro were moderately affected. Our studies enhance the case for the use of caspase inhibitors in sepsis. VX-166 itself has promise as a therapy for the treatment of sepsis in man.
How delivery mode and feeding can shape the bacterial community in the infant gut.

See related research article by Azad and colleagues on page [385][1] and at [www.cmaj.ca/lookup/doi/10.1503/cmaj.121189][2] In Canada, 27% of newborns are delivered surgically, compared with 18% in 1990. This rising trend is global: according to recent surveys, the proportion born by cesarean
Multi-scale variability in soil aggregate stability: Implications for understanding and predicting semi-arid grassland degradation

Increased soil loss and redistribution are commonly associated with changes in soil structure, yet variability in soil structure in arid ecosystems has been little studied. Soil aggregate stability is a key indicator of soil structure and is correlated with erodibility and water infiltration capacity. In 2000, we compared soil aggregate stability of a complex of Simona (Loamy, mixed, thermic, shallow Typic Paleorthids) and Harrisburg (Coarseloamy, mixed, thermic, Typic Paleorthids) soils in a Chihuahuan Desert grassland. We examined soil stability at plant and landscape scales by assessing percentage aggregate stability at four sites in two cover classes (plant vs. interspace) located within each of three grass cover and land disturbance classes. To increase measurement sensitivity to changes in soil structure and identify potential early warning indicators for monitoring, we used two different methods for quantifying wet aggregate stability: a laboratory method using a 0.25 mm sieve and a field method using a 1.5 mm sieve. As expected, soil aggregate stability was significantly higher under grass plants than in plant interspaces (44.2 vs. 38.4 for the lab test and 4.4 vs. 3.3 for the field test; Pb0.01). The field test showed higher stability in plots with higher grass cover throughout the top 10 mm soil layer, while disturbance level only affected stability at the soil surface. The laboratory test was insensitive to differences in grass cover and disturbance.
Adults with autism living at home or in non-family settings: positive and negative aspects of residential status

Background Very little is known about the context of caregiving by parents of adults with autism or about the perceived impacts of continued patterns of co-residence vs. out-of-family living. In the present study, maternal assessments of residential status, involvement with adult children living in a non-family setting, and the impacts on mothers of their residential arrangements were examined. Methods Mothers from  families of adults (aged  years and older) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) completed questionnaires as part of a longitudinal study on family caregiving. Mothers completed open-ended questions regarding the positive and negative aspects of their child’s residential arrangement. Mothers also completed scaled questions regarding their satisfaction with their child’s residential arrangement, the different ways in which people’s lives change after a relative moves from the home, and the frequency of contact with their son or
Modification of picornavirus genomic RNA using ‘click’ chemistry shows that unlinking of the VPg peptide is dispensable for translation and replication of the incoming viral RNA

Picornaviruses constitute a large group of viruses comprising medically and economically important pathogens such as poliovirus, coxsackievirus, rhinovirus, enterovirus 71 and foot-and-mouth disease virus. A unique characteristic of these viruses is the use of a viral peptide (VPg) as primer for viral RNA synthesis. As a consequence, all newly formed viral RNA molecules possess a covalently linked VPg peptide. It is known that VPg is enzymatically released from the incoming viral RNA by a host protein, called TDP2, but it is still unclear whether the release of VPg is necessary to initiate RNA translation. To study the possible requirement of VPg release for RNA translation, we developed a novel method to modify the genomic viral RNA with VPg linked via a ‘non-cleavable’ bond. We coupled an azide-modified VPg peptide to an RNA primer harboring a cyclooctyne [bicyclo[6.1.0]nonyne (BCN)] by a copper-free ‘click’ reaction, leading to a VPg-triazole-RNA construct that was ‘non-cleavable’ by TDP2. We successfully ligated the VPg-RNA complex to the viral genomic RNA, directed by base pairing. We show that the lack of VPg unlinkase does not influence RNA translation or replication. Thus, the release of the VPg from the incoming viral RNA is not a prerequisite for RNA translation or replication.
Behavioral modeling for high-level synthesis of analog and mixed-signal systems from VHDL-AMS

High-level synthesis is highly demanded for managing the complexity of analog and mixed-signal system designs. However, synthesis methods are currently in their infancy. The absence of a high-level specification notation is an important limitation for the development of efficient synthesis methods. This paper presents a behavioral model and a VHDL-AMS subset for high-level synthesis of analog and mixed-signal systems. The model (named aBlox) offers a composition semantics for functionality description and an orthogonal declarative mechanism for expressing the performance requirements of a system. The model was developed after analyzing a large number of systems for telecommunication, signal processing, control engineering, and analog computing. The model expresses the meaning of: 1) analog and digital data; 2) continuous and event-driven functionality (behavior); 3) analog performance attributes; and 4) analog-digital interactions. The aBlox model serves as a foundation for defining a semantically sound VHDL-AMS subset for synthesis. Also, the VHDL-AMS subset is identified so that its constructs can be mapped to architectures of circuits. We introduce several restrictions to the VHDL-AMS instructions, such that their semantics match that of the aBlox model. To motivate the usefulness of the model and the VHDL-AMS subset, we present a case study that uses VHDL-AMS inputs.
A population-based study of risk of epilepsy after hospitalization for traumatic brain injury.

Purpose This study was undertaken to determine the risk of developing posttraumatic epilepsy (PTE) within 3 years after discharge among a population-based sample of older adolescents and adults hospitalized with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in South Carolina. It also identifies characteristics related to development of PTE within this population. Methods A stratified random sample of persons aged 15 and older with TBI was selected from the South Carolina nonfederal hospital discharge dataset for four consecutive years. Medical records of recruits were reviewed, and they participated in up to three yearly follow-up telephone interviews. Results The cumulative incidence of PTE in the first 3 years after discharge, after adjusting for loss to follow-up, was 4.4 per 100 persons over 3 years for hospitalized mild TBI, 7.6 for moderate, and 13.6 for severe. Those with severe TBI, posttraumatic seizures prior to discharge, and a history of depression were most at risk for PTE. This higher risk group also included persons with three or more chronic medical conditions at discharge. Discussion These results raise the possibility that although some of the characteristics related to development of PTE are nonmodifiable, other factors, such as depression, might be altered with intervention. Further research into factors associated with developing PTE could lead to risk-reducing treatments.
A spatial light modulator for terahertz radiation

We characterize the operation of a 4×4 electrically-driven terahertz metamaterial spatial modulator, and demonstrate high modulation uniformly at each pixel with minimal cross-talk. This modulator will enable high-speed terahertz imaging in a single-pixel imaging system.
Combined BRAF and MEK inhibition in BRAF(V600E) mutant melanoma: a synergistic and potentially safe combination partner with immunotherapy.

The combination of immune checkpoint blockade using PD-1 and or CTLA-4 inhibition with BRAF inhibition for BRAF V600 mutant advanced melanoma is a potentially attractive option given the substantial anti-tumor activity of these two treatment modalities. However, initial clinical trials indicated that combined inhibition of CTLA-4 and BRAF may be associated with intolerable toxicity. MEK inhibition, when added to BRAF inhibition, enhances the inhibitory effect on MAPK pathway signaling in BRAF mutant cells while limiting paradoxical activation of the MAPK pathway in BRAF wild type cells, leading to enhanced clinical efficacy and possibly toxicity of combined BRAF/MEK inhibition compared to BRAF inhibition alone. This provides a rationale for the addition of MEK inhibition in a combined BRAF-directed immunotherapy approach. However, MEK inhibition had been associated with decreased T cell function in vitro . Expanding on previous studies in an adoptive transfer model with TCR transgenic T cells (pmel) recognizing the melanoma differentiation antigen (MDA) gp100 endogenously expressed on syngeneic BRAF V600E mutant SM1 melanoma, Hu-Liewskovan perform systematic analyses of T cell frequencies and functionality, immune cell subtypes in the tumor microenvironment, and gene expression signatures. The studies show that the addition of MEK inhibition to combined BRAF inhibition and two different immunotherapy modalities [adoptive T cell transfer (ACT) and PD-1 inhibition] does not impede T cell function in vivo , has favorable effects on immune suppressive cells, and provides superior tumor control. These data support the investigation of combined BRAF/MEK inhibition with immunotherapy in patients with advanced melanoma.
Enhanced Intestinal Absorption of Peptides by Complexation of the Partially Denatured Peptide

Protein synthesized within a living cell must be transported across biological membranes to reach their target site. This transport is accomplished through the use of a class of carrier, termed chaperones, and involves binding of the protein, which is in an intermediate state, to the carrier. Using this natural model as a conceptual starting point, evidence is presented that, in a fully aqueous solution, certain small molecular weight compounds can be added to proteins which will significantly enhance membrane penetration of the protein. Using iodinated human growth hormone, in isolated tissue and perfusion studies of the rabbit intestine, small molecular weight compounds, termed proteinoids, cause a five-fold increase in the permeability coefficient. Evidence is presented that this is a passive absorption process with no demonstrable changes in the absorbing membrane.
Differences in Problems Paying Medical Bills between African Americans and Whites from 2007 and 2009: the Underlying Role of Health Status

Objectives Although the proportion of people reporting problems paying medical bills has declined in the aftermath of the Great Recession, it is unclear if this decline has been caused by self-rationing of care, particularly among disadvantaged groups. We examined African American-White differences in problems paying medical bills prevalence along with factors which may account for observed differences.
Abstract 5503: Panaxynol, a potential treatment for colitis, selectively targets pro-inflammatory macrophages for DNA damage and apoptosis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that has been associated with a high risk for colorectal cancer. Since available conventional treatments provide mostly modest relief and are paired with a high risk of side effects, complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) can offer a safe and effective option for the treatment of IBD. Earlier studies in our lab have shown that American Ginseng can suppress colitis and also prevent colitis-associated colon cancer in mice. During the process of isolating active ingredients from this plant, Panaxynol was identified as a key component. Panaxynol has been shown to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, but it has not been studied in macrophage-driven autoimmunity models. Here, we study the effects of Panaxynol on macrophages and other cell lines in an attempt to understand its mechanism of action. We show that Panaxynol induces DNA damage and apoptosis in macrophages in a dose-dependent manner using phosphorylated γ-H2AX detection and TUNEL assays, respectively. Importantly, DNA damage and apoptosis were induced in other cell types (e.g. epithelial cells and fibroblasts) only when using higher doses of Panaxynol (>50μM). Co-culture experiments confirm that Panaxynol selectively targets macrophages in the presence of colon cancer cells. To explore mechanisms, we asked whether Panaxynol inhibits the STAT1 pathway. Results showing an inhibition of STAT1 phosphorylation are consistent with the hypothesis. We plan to extend these studies to an in vivo mouse model of DSS-induced colitis in order to understand the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of Panaxynol. Positive outcomes from this study can potentially serve as a model for the treatment of colitis and other autoimmune diseases (at least partly) associated with macrophage dysfunction. Citation Format: Anusha Chaparala, Deepak Poudyal, Xiangli Cui, Bin Li, Erin E. Witalison, Taixing Cui, Lorne J. Hofseth. Panaxynol, a potential treatment for colitis, selectively targets pro-inflammatory macrophages for DNA damage and apoptosis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 5503. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-5503
Evidence of significance of graph energy interlinks in topological form of the power grid

Graph energy is the form of energy often used in a simple system of physics, typically expressed with the potential energy in springs and the kinetic energy of interlinked moving particles. In this paper, we present a study to show a new piece of evidence of the significance of graph energy interlinks in topology of the power grid, which is formed under the specific reliability principles of power system engineering. Particularly, based on the comparisons of the graphs, generated with a modified graph energy based layout method, to the physical layouts of three real power grids, it is found that the generated graphs are highly consistent with the actual layouts. The result is an important piece of evidence, showing that the graph energy interlinks play an important role in the topology formation of the power grid.
Nitric Oxide-Releasing Quaternary Ammonium-Modified Poly(amidoamine) Dendrimers as Dual Action Antibacterial Agents

Herein we describe the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO)-releasing quaternary ammonium (QA)-functionalized generation 1 (G1) and generation 4 (G4) poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers. Dendrimers were modified with QA moieties of different alkyl chain lengths (i.e., methyl, butyl, octyl, dodecyl) via a ring-opening reaction. The resultant secondary amines were then modified with N-diazeniumdiolate NO donors to yield NO-releasing QA-modified PAMAM dendrimers capable of spontaneous NO release (payloads of ∼0.75 μmol/mg over 4 h). The bactericidal efficacy of individual (i.e., non-NO-releasing) and dual action (i.e., NO-releasing) QA-modified PAMAM dendrimers was evaluated against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Bactericidal activity was found to be dependent on dendrimer generation, QA alkyl chain length, and bacterial Gram class for both systems. Shorter alkyl chains (i.e., methylQA, butylQA) demonstrated increased bactericidal activity against P. aerugino...
The Battle of Valle Giulia: Oral History and the Art of Dialogue. By Alessandro Portelli. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1997. 354 pp. Hardbound $49.95; Softbound $19.95.

(1999). The Battle of Valle Giulia: Oral History and the Art of Dialogue. By Alessandro Portelli. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1997. 354 pp. Hardbound $49.95; Softbound $19.95. The Oral History Review: Vol. 26, No. 1, pp. 127-129.
Combining Psychodrama and Process Group Psychotherapy

Psychodrama group work differs from process group psychotherapy in salient ways, one being the structure of the sessions. Both modalities use group members to support each other, but in psychodrama, the group focuses on a situation of one of the members that is then enacted experientially; in process group psychotherapy, the group follows the verbal interchanges among the members. This article describes each of the two orientations and presents examples of the addition of a process group session to close a psychodrama workshop, on one hand, and presents examples of the insertion of sociometry and psychodrama techniques into process group sessions, on the other. Drawing from both orientations gives the therapist access to a wider repertoire of techniques than either orientation offers alone, and the overall effectiveness of the therapist familiar with both approaches is enhanced by the increased spontaneity and enriched understanding achieved from working with both modalities.
Sperm-immunobead binding decreases with in vitro incubation

Objective To characterize the stability of the sperm-immunobead association over time. Design Prospective evaluation of sperm-immunobead binding, using direct and indirect assays. Setting Male Infertility Clinic, University of California, Davis, Davis, California. Patients Eleven men with sperm surface antibodies and 25 men with serum antisperm antibodies volunteered. Main Outcome Measures Repeated assessment of sperm-immunobead binding over time. Results Serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G decreased a mean of 42.6% over 30minutes, and serum IgA decreased a mean of 22.7% over 30minutes. Semen-derived IgG binding fell a mean of 59.9% and semen-derived IgA fell a mean of 27.0% over 25 to 40minutes. Conclusions Sperm-immunobead coincubation results in a decrease in the number of sperm bound to immunobeads.
Trustworthy data from untrusted servers

Outsourcing a database system (e.g., into a cloud architecture) is an attractive option for reducing the complexity and cost of data management. While this model holds great promise, it raises a number of security and privacy concerns, including concerns about the fidelity of the outsourced database. Since the data owner and clients do not have direct control over the database, there is great reluctance to trust the outsourcing server. In particular, there is a need to establish the authenticity and integrity of an outsourced database. Earlier work on this problem is limited to the situation where there are no updates to the database at the server i.e., either the database is static, or the updates are determined at the data owner's site. This is an unreasonable assumption for a truly outsourced database, as would be expected in a cloud database. We propose the problem of ensuring authenticity and integrity of an outsourced database in the presence of transactional updates that run directly on the outsourced database. We develop the first solutions to this problem and show how it is possible to assure the data owner about the fidelity of transaction processing at an outsourced server. We implement our solution in a prototype system built using Postgres with no modifications to the database internals. We also provide an empirical evaluation of the proposed solutions and establish their feasibility.
A horizontally polarized beam-steerable antenna for sub-millimeter-wave polarimetrie imaging and collision avoidance radars

This paper presents the design, fabrication and evaluation of a novel horizontally-polarized frequency scanning large phased array antenna with high gain and very small form-factor. This antenna is intended for integration with a dual-polarized sub-millimeterwave radar for imaging and navigation applications. The concept is based on a travelling-wave structure composed of 440 cavity-backed patch antenna elements. The array generates a very narrow beam (∼2.5° HPBW) with ±25° steering capability. A prototype of the waveguide-fed slot-coupled patch array antenna is fabricated at 240 GHz using multi-layer silicon micromachining and is characterized using a near-field measurement setup at Y-band (i.e. 220–325 GHz). Measurement results, radiation pattern, HPBW, scan range, and gain, agree extremely well the design parameters. A minimum gain of 27 dBi over the desired scan range, and HPBW of less than 3° and 10° in azimuth and elevation planes, respectively, are measured.
Bariatric Surgery Improves Peripheral Nerve Function and Intraepidermal Nerve Fiber Density in Obese Patients without Symptomatic Neuropathy (P1.144)

BOBJECTIVE: Determine the prevalence of subclinical distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP) in bariatric surgery candidates and assess the impact of surgery on peripheral nerve structure and function. BACKGROUND: Evolving data link obesity to DSP. Prior studies suggest obese patients often have subclinical neuropathy, and that lifestyle interventions enhance nerve regeneration and improve DSP symptoms. We hypothesize Roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYBGP) will reduce ectopic lipid deposition, inflammation and lipid peroxidation resulting in improved nerve function and epidermal regeneration. DESIGN/METHODS: 11 RYGP candidates without clinical evidence of DSP underwent presurgical neuropathy evaluation including the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI), Utah Early Neuropathy Score (UENS), distal leg and thigh skin biopsies for intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) assessment, and a capsaicin axotomy regeneration experiment to measure axonal regenerative capacity. The regeneration assay was repeated beginning 9 months post RYBGP. RESULTS: 12 months after RYGP there was significant improvement in waist circumference (137 +/- 10 to 110 +/-15 cm, p<0.000). Distal leg IENFD improved from 8.0 +/- 4.9 to 9.73 +/- 7.2 fibers/mm (mean improvement 1.73 +/- 5.7 fibers/mm). Knee IENFD increased from 11.9 +/- 3.8 fibers/mm to 13.1 +/- 7.7 fibers/mm.. The percentage of baseline thigh IENFD recovered after one month of post capsaicin axotomy regeneration was 68[percnt] preoperatively and 76[percnt] after RYGP. The time that a 128 hertz vibratory stimulus was perceived at the great toe increased from 11.3 +/- 5.9 to 14.6 +/- 4.1 seconds. Improvements were also observed in the MNSI (4.8 +/- 3.7 to 3.0 +/- 4.0) and UENS (2.83 +/- 3.0 to 1.83 +/- 3.2). These trends were not statistically significant for this small sample. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the positive impact of weight loss associated with bariatric surgery on clinical measures of peripheral nerve function and epidermal innervation, and suggest an improvement in peripheral nerve regenerative capacity. Disclosure: Dr. Smith has received personal compensation for activities with CSL Behring, Grifols, and Allergan. Dr. Smith has received research support from NIH, the ADA, and Impeto. Dr. Smith has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for NeuroLear Dr. Graham has nothing to disclose. Dr. Volckmann has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hauer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Aperghis has nothing to disclose. Dr. Solis has nothing to disclose. Dr. Singleton has nothing to disclose.
The Mind and the Book: A Long Look at Psychoanalytic Literary Criticism

This immense field can be summarized by recognizing that the psychoanalytic critic must address one or more of three minds: the author's, the reader's, or a mind derived from the text. The critic can then address them from any theoretical point of view. The future of psychoanalytic criticism, and indeed of psychoanalysis, lies in integrating the discoveries of brain and cognitive science with those of psychoanalysis. In the present, psychoanalytic critics need to recognize that their function is to delight and enlighten. Hence, no more pathography, no more id-analysis, no more symbol-mongering, no more jargon. Only that way, will psychoanalytic critics keep open psychoanalysis' royal road into the human possibilities offered by great literature.
The Social Significance of Modern Trademarks: Authorizing the Appropriation of Marks as Source Identifiers for Expressive Works

Appropriating others' trademarks as source identifiers for expressive works has become prevalent in the 21st century. This paper explores those appropriations and offers arguments in their defense, specifically in regards to liability under the federal dilution statute.