cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Excitement and Rewards of Research With Our Discovery of Some of the Biological Effects of Nitric Oxide

The rewards of biomedical research can be very exciting and remarkable. The feeling of having done an experiment for the first time and only you know the results that will have an important effect on your research and perhaps broader applications is exhilarating. I suspect that it is not common for scientists to see their fundamental research develop during their research career into such broad clinical application for numerous diseases. While much of our work and experiments were well planned, many of our important observations came from luck or serendipitous events—undoubtedly, a common phenomenon in biomedical research. I will recount some of these experiments here. A more detailed review can be found elsewhere.1,2 I spent my early years as a trainee working with cAMP and adenylyl cyclase. As a result of this experience, after the discovery of cGMP in rat urine in the mid-1960s, I and others thought that cGMP might also be a second messenger to mediate the effects of some hormones and drugs. We transferred much of our work from cAMP to cGMP. Our earliest experiments with guanylyl cyclase in the early 1970s suggested that there were at least two isoforms of the enzyme, soluble and particulate forms, with different kinetic properties.3,4 This was of interest since adenylyl cyclase was exclusively particulate.5 The possibility of soluble and particulate isoforms of guanylyl cyclase suggested that different classes of hormones might regulate these different enzymes to produce separate pools of cGMP that may have different physiological effects. This was indeed the case from our later work with different activators of each isoform as discussed below. We ultimately demonstrated there were different isoforms with purification, cloning, and expression some years later. However, we initially took a shortcut and added various inhibitors of nucleotidases, phosphatases, and phosphodiesterases to soluble …
Synergistic Effects of the SAPK/JNK and the Proteasome Pathway on Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) Accumulation in Alexander Disease

Protein aggregates in astrocytes that contain glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), small heat shock proteins, and ubiquitinated proteins are termed Rosenthal fibers and characterize Alexander disease, a leukodystrophy caused by heterozygous mutations in GFAP. The mechanisms responsible for the massive accumulation of GFAP in Alexander disease remain unclear. In this study, we show that overexpression of both wild type and R239C mutant human GFAP led to cytoplasmic inclusions. GFAP accumulation also led to a decrease of proteasome activity and an activation of the MLK2-JNK pathway. In turn, the expression of activated mixed lineage kinases (MLKs) induced JNK activation and increased GFAP accumulation, whereas blocking the JNK pathway decreased GFAP accumulation. Activated MLK also inhibited proteasome function. A direct inhibition of proteasome function pharmacologically further activated JNK. Our data suggest a synergistic interplay between the proteasome and the SAPK/JNK pathway in the context of GFAP accumulation. Feedback interactions among GFAP accumulation, SAPK/JNK activation, and proteasomal hypofunction cooperate to produce further protein accumulation and cellular stress responses.
Activation and peripheral expansion of murine T-cell receptor γδ intraepithelial lymphocytes

Abstract Background & Aims: The intestinal epithelial compartment is populated by CD8 + αβ and γδ intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs), which monitor the integrity of the epithelial barrier. αβ IELs are activated by peptide antigens presented by class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, but it is unclear how γδ IELs are activated. Methods: G8 T-cell receptor (TCR) γδ transgenic (Tg) mice (specific for the class I MHC alloantigen, T22/10 b ) were crossed to class I MHC–deficient β 2 -microglobulin–knockout (β 2 m°) mice, and Tg + IELs were examined for relative yields and surface and functional phenotype. Results: Evidence for class I MHC–induced activation of Tg + IELs was supported by the detection of 4-fold greater numbers of Tg + IELs in G8 × β 2 m + mice that proliferated at 15-fold higher levels than IELs from G8 × β 2 m° mice. However, expression of CD69, production of cytokine (interleukin 2 and interferon gamma), and detection of cytolytic function for IELs in G8 × β 2 m° mice suggested that class I MHC was not required for γδ IEL development or maturation. Conclusions: These results suggest that CD8 + TCR γδ IELs do not require class I MHC for development but support the notion that antigens presented by class I MHC molecules are involved in the peripheral expansion and differentiation of this subset. GASTROENTEROLOGY 1999;116:327-334
Nasal symmetry after primary cleft lip repair: comparison between Delaire cheilorhinoplasty and modified rotation-advancement.

Abstract Purpose: Periosteal musculoaponeurotic (PMAS) reconstruction is a key objective in primary repair of the cleft lip. The reconstructed muscles provide a sound framework and stimulus for development of the nasolabial region. In this study two primary cleft lip repair techniques were retrospectively studied to determine if one [Delaire (Del)] which involves PMAS repair around the cleft results in more nasolabial symmetry than a technique that does not fully address the musculature [modified Rotation-Advancement, (mR-A)]. Patients and Methods: Four- and 5-year-old children with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate were recalled for study (n = 33 children; Del group, 16; mR-A group, 17). Clinical and photographic records were obtained and anthropometric analyses determined for comparison between groups. Results: In the mR-A group, noses had more asymmetrical tips, were shorter, projected less, and tended to be flatter or wider. Nasal indices tended to support these findings. Nasal height was similar for the mR-A and Del groups. When comparing cleft versus noncleft sides, alar width and length and nostril length were significantly different for both cleft groups. Conclusions: It appears from this study that reconstruction of the PMAS of the nasolabial region during primary cleft lip repair may positively influence growth and development of the nose in unilateral cleft lip and palate patients.
Urine drug screens: Considerations for the psychiatric pharmacist

Abstract Introduction: Proper psychiatric evaluation of patients necessitates that the clinician be vigilant in ruling out secondary causes of symptoms, such as substance-induced symptoms. Immunoassay-type urine drug screens (UDSs) offer clinicians rapid drug screen results, ease of use, and inexpensive cost. Unfortunately, these screens are not without their limitations. This review aims to outline the nuances and limitations of immunoassay UDSs and to provide the clinician with information that facilitates more accurate interpretation of UDS results. Specifically, false positive results associated with psychiatric medications and the availability and methods for acquisition of commercialized UDS masking agents will be reviewed. Methods: A literature review was conducted to identify false positive UDSs associated with psychiatric medications. References for each article identified were also reviewed. Additionally, a Google® search was conducted to identify commercially available preparations used to mask...
A Cohesive Zone Model to Predict Dynamic Tearing of Rubber

ABSTRACT: Tire failures, such as tread separation and sidewall zipper fracture, occur when internal flaws (cracks) nucleate and grow to a critical size as result of fatigue or cyclic loading. Sudde...
Community as the Material Basis of Citizenship: Community Politics in the Context of the Market Economy

"Can a community organize around its interest in the face of a market economy and its demands?" This is the question that haunts attempts to conceptualize de Toqueville's observation that "democracy depends on the community organizations through which people can participate in public affairs." In this presentation I will provide an historical and political analysis of the community organizational infrastructure of San Antonio in order to trace how the community has or has not coped with the market forces that tend to undermine community participation in its own governance. In the process I will problematize the concept of citizenship in the context of community.
Sedimentology of the Lower Cretaceous reservoirs of the Sea Lion Field, North Falkland Basin

The Sea Lion Field in the North Falkland Basin was discovered in 2010 by Well 14/10-2, which tested oil from Lower Cretaceous sands of the Sea Lion fan complex. Appraisal of the field involved the drilling of a further eight wells from which an extensive wireline-log data set and 455 m of core were acquired. This unique data set has allowed detailed study of the reservoir sedimentology and has significantly benefited reservoir characterization. The reservoirs are interpreted to be deposited in a deep-water lacustrine basin as base-of-slope to basin-floor fans fed by canyons or channel-feeder systems from the east. Deposition is considered to have been affected both by turbidity currents and by liquefied sediment gravity flows, such that reservoir facies are dominated by those associated with high- and low-density turbidites, mass-flow deposits, and, to a lesser extent, hybrid-event beds. In the absence of significant chronostratigraphic control, the description of the first-order reservoir architecture is primarily driven by seismic interpretation, whilst the core affords significant control of the internal architecture of individual fans. Several lines of evidence point towards the Sea Lion sands being derived from a coexisting, shallow-water system on the eastern margin of the basin. Palaeogeographical reconstruction links this shoreface system to a large, contemporaneous, southerly-prograding delta via wave reworking and longshore drift of delta-front sands. Evolution of this delta has played a significant role in the timing, positioning and emplacement of fans along the eastern margin of the North Falkland Basin. The overall impact of the core data set has been to improve confidence in the reservoir characterization and spatial distribution of facies within the reservoir model, and to narrow significantly the range of uncertainty, which has direct implications for field development planning.
The Nature and Role of Entrepreneurship in Markets: Implications for Policy

This paper introduces the reader to the role of entrepreneurship in market process theory, as developed in the work of Israel Kirzner. It provides a short overview of the main issues and offers policy suggestions.Policy makers and others often associate entrepreneurship with the creation of new businesses. While this is an accurate description of one of the many outcomes of entrepreneurial activity, entrepreneurship encompasses far more than business start-ups. It derives from the creative power of the human mind and consists of the discovery of profitable ideas that enable market actors to exploit new, socially beneficial gains from trade. As such, entrepreneurship is the driving force of the market, and it makes progress and sustained prosperity possible.Economists emphasize that the market is a resource allocation mechanism. However, they often fail to explain how this allocation occurs because they fail to mention the role of entrepreneurial activity in trade. Resource allocation is the result of entrepreneurial discovery for potential gains from trade. In this sense, entrepreneurship, rather than resources and their allocations, matters more to individual wellbeing and to prosperity.In the social context, profit drives the entrepreneurial discovery of previously overlooked opportunities for trade and thereby signals a more desirable way to organize society's resources. In order to foster socially-beneficial entrepreneurial activity, policymakers must pay attention to the quality of institutions (especially as they impact profits). Institutions that enable individuals to bet on the future and to reap the gains they have discovered will foster entrepreneurial discovery and, as a result, will create a dynamic and prosperous society.
Infrared Absorption in n-Type Germanium

Theory of absorption by free carriers is given taking into account the effects of scattering by impurities and by lattice vibrations. Experimental results are reported for $n$-type germanium samples of various carrier and impurity concentrations. The measurements were made in the temperature range between 78\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K and 450\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, covering a wavelength region from 5 to 38 microns. At the high-temperature end, the absorption is proportional to the carrier concentration, lattice scattering being the dominant effect. At 78\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, the absorption per unit carrier concentration consists of a constant part and a part proportional to the impurity concentration. The absorption increases with wavelength more rapidly at the low temperature. The frequency and temperature dependences of absorption in the various samples are in good agreement with the theory. Quantitative agreement can be obtained by using an effective mass ${m}^{*}≂0.1m$.
Carbohydrates of the Gonadotropic Hormones

SummaryA qualitative as well as a quantitative study has been made of the hexose present in the gonadotropic hormones of the pituitary gland, pregnant mare serum and human pregnancy urine. The hormones obtained from the pituitary gland contain mannose and hexosamine in equimolar proportions. The gonadotropins of pregnant mare serum and human pregnancy urine appear to contain galactose rather than mannose. In these preparations the molar ratio of hexose to hexosamine is 2:1.
A Legal Butterfly Effect: Unexpected Twists and Turns of the Law in Costa Rica’s Payment for Ecosystem Services Program

Costa Rica’s Payment for Ecosystem Services program (PES) is one of the most studied exercises of its kind but closer examination of the program’s legal framework and governance is still lacking. The PES did not occur on a vacuum; laws and policies outside the boundaries of the PES’ regulations shape the way it evolved and functions. The supervisory checks and balances of the forestry regency system, the public funds laws that reduced the program’s flexibility, and the administrative simplification process across the Costa Rican government are all examples of policies outside the PES that strongly influence its functioning. Foreign policies also shaped the PES. For example, the World Bank-sponsored structural changes of the Costa Rican economy during the 1980’s helped shift the rationale from forest subsidies to payments for ecosystem services. In addition, a closer look at the PES on the ground provides interesting opportunities to reflect on the effects of this legal framework. For example, the way violations to forest laws occur and are dealt with by judges and PES officials most likely had an effect on the Costa Rican forest cover, which is missed in studies focused on the additionality of the program. Ultimately, however, people implement the PES and this paper suggests an interesting dynamic between two types of bureaucrats at the program, the ‘technicians’ and the ‘lawyers’. The ‘lawyers’ seem to have displaced the ‘technicians’ in a process of ‘rendering legal’ nature, which has conflicting implications for the PES effectiveness. All these dynamics may suggest a legal ‘butterfly effect’ that policy-makers ought to be aware of when designing and implementing environmental institutions and mechanisms.
Series Communication in Control System of Grain Dryer

The monitor control system is composed by computer and PLC. The state parameters of dryer are monitored in real time by computer using series communication. This paper introduces the achievement of series communication between industrial control computer and OMRON CPM1A using the Active X component- MSComm in control system of grain dryer. The communication protocol and program method is depicted detail. The application of this series communication in grain dryer control system is introduced.
How does the presence of another isotopic species affect the ratio of the forward to backward emission fluxes in a slab geometry

Abstract Emission from a mixture of two isotope species in slab geometry is examined for slab thickness that is a multiple of half-wavelength of the resonant radiation. The forward and backward outgoing fluxes for different detuning between the two isotope species resonance frequencies are computed. The values of the initial population giving equal forward and backward fluxes or making the ratio of these two quantities an extremum are obtained. The characteristic temporal features of the field intensities and of their spectral distributions at the previous critical values are calculated.
Endoscopes, guidewires and accessories

Abstract Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is increasingly used as a therapeutic endoscopic technique for managing a range of pancreatic and biliary diseases. Efficacy and safety of ERCP depend on a variety of factors, including an organized and functional ERCP unit. A variety of ancillary devices or accessories and an endoscope are required for therapeutic ERCP. The most commonly used endoscope is the duodenoscope; however, patients with altered anatomy require specialized endoscopes, such as balloon-assisted enteroscopes. Cannulation of the desired duct is key to accomplish successful ERCP. A variety of devices, such as papillotome and cannulation catheters, are available to assist deep cannulation of the desired duct. Therapeutic ERCP requires the availability of a number of stone extraction devices, including stone extraction balloons, baskets, and lithotripsy baskets. Drainage devices such as biliary and pancreatic stents are essential for therapeutic ERCP in treating patients with benign or malignant biliary diseases. Tissue sampling and stricture dilation devices are also available to diagnose and treat biliary obstruction. Recently, single-operator direct visualization of biliary and pancreatic duct has become feasible with new digital cholangioscope. Emerging techniques such as intraductal ultrasound and confocal laser endomicroscopy enable ultrasonic and in vivo histologic assessment of biliary tract via ERCP. Other important issues, including the use of CO2, fluoroscopy, and radiographic contrast media, as well as the role Food and Drug Administration, are discussed.
An FPGA wave union TDC for time-of-flight applications

An 18-channel time-of-flight (TOF) grade time-to-digit converter (TDC) has been implemented in a low cost FPGA device. The TDC has the following unique features. (1) The time recording structures of the TDC is based on the “wave union TDC” we developed in our previous work. A leading edge of the input hit launches a bit pattern, or wave union into the delay chain-register array structure which yields two usable measurements. The two measurements effectively sub-divide timing bins for each other especially the “ultra-wide bins” caused by the FPGA logic array block (LAB) structure and improves measurement precision both in terms of maximum bin width and RMS resolution. A coarser measurement on input signal trailing edge is also provided for time-over-threshold (TOT) applications. (2) The TDC supports advanced timing reference distribution schemes that are superior to conventional common start/stop schemes. The TDC has 16 regular measurement channels plus two channels for timing reference. The timing reference is established with multiple measurements rather than single shot common start/stop. An advanced scheme, the mean-timing approach even eliminates needs of high quality timing distribution media. (3) The ASIC-like encapsulation of the FPGA TDC significantly shorten the learning curve for potential users while maintain certain flexibility for various applications. Necessary digital post-processing functions including semi-continuous automatic calibration, data buffer, data link jam prevention logic etc. are integrated into the firmware to provide a turn-key solution for users.
Nausea and Vomiting Associated with Abdominal Wall Pain

Chronic abdominal wall pain may be a direct or an indirect cause of persistent or intermittent nausea and vomiting. Despite diagnostic efforts by gastroenterologists, including complex imaging, causes of such pain may remain elusive. Diagnostic nerve blocks may help in establishing definitive cases of abdominal wall pain. Treatment is intended to reduce or eliminate chronic abdominal pain and control the associated nausea and vomiting. Proposed treatment algorithms include medications, trigger point injections, nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and neuromodulation. Nausea and vomiting associated with chronic use of medications, particularly opiates, need to be recognized and differentiated from other causes like the pain itself, anxiety, and comorbid organic disorders.
Quantitative Systems Biology Studies Reveal a Nested Relay Mechanism for TGF-Beta Signaling

Cells need to reliably sense and transmit information about extracellular stimuli, and cancer cells typically have dysregulated signal transduction. In this talk I will discuss TGF-β induced expression of transcription factor Snail1, and the latter regulates many processes such as the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. A widely assumed mechanism states that TGF-β leads to phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 (pSmad2/3), which enter the nucleus and activate Snail1 expression. However, both our quantitative measurements and thorough parameter space analysis show that the mechanism does not hold. Instead we proposed and confirmed a novel nested relay mechanism that a relay from pSmad2/3 to Gli1 initializes and maintains Snail1 expression, while another relay from active to inhibitory phosphorylation of GSK3 smoothens the pSmad2/3-Gli1 transition. Our model analysis suggests that the network motif allows a cell to respond differentially to different strength and duration of TGF-β. To characterize this motif, we generated cells labeled with fluorescence protein reporters using the CRISPR technique, and are performing live cell imaging studies. This work demonstrates the importance of integrated and iterative computational and quantitative experimental studies on elucidating the regulatory mechanism of a complex biological process.
UAH Version 6 global satellite temperature products: Methodology and results

Version 6 of the UAH MSU/AMSU global satellite temperature dataset represents an extensive revision of the procedures employed in previous versions of the UAH datasets. The two most significant results from an end-user perspective are (1) a decrease in the global-average lower tropospheric temperature (LT) trend from +0.14°C decade−1 to +0.11°C decade−1 (Jan. 1979 through Dec. 2015); and (2) the geographic distribution of the LT trends, including higher spatial resolution, owing to a new method for computing LT. We describe the major changes in processing strategy, including a new method for monthly gridpoint averaging which uses all of the footprint data yet eliminates the need for limb correction; a new multi-channel (rather than multi-angle) method for computing the lower tropospheric (LT) temperature product which requires an additional tropopause (TP) channel to be used; and a new empirical method for diurnal drift correction. We show results for LT, the midtroposphere (MT, from MSU2/AMSU5), and lower stratosphere (LS, from MSU4/AMSU9). A 0.03°C decade−1 reduction in the global LT trend from the Version 5.6 product is partly due to lesser sensitivity of the new LT to land surface skin temperature (est. 0.01°C decade−1), with the remainder of the reduction (0.02°C decade−1) due to the new diurnal drift adjustment, the more robust method of LT calculation, and other changes in processing procedures.
Growth and fecundity of fertile Miscanthus × giganteus ("PowerCane") compared to feral and ornamental Miscanthus sinensis in a common garden experiment: Implications for invasion.

Perennial grasses are promising candidates for bioenergy crops, but species that can escape cultivation and establish self-sustaining naturalized populations (feral) may have the potential to become invasive. Fertile Miscanthus × giganteus, known as “PowerCane,” is a new potential biofuel crop. Its parent species are ornamental, non-native Miscanthus species that establish feral populations and are sometimes invasive in the USA. As a first step toward assessing the potential for “PowerCane” to become invasive, we documented its growth and fecundity relative to one of its parent species (Miscanthus sinensis) in competition with native and invasive grasses in common garden experiments located in Columbus, Ohio and Ames, Iowa, within the targeted range of biofuel cultivation. We conducted a 2-year experiment to compare growth and reproduction among three Miscanthus biotypes—”PowerCane,” ornamental M. sinensis, and feral M. sinensis—at two locations. Single Miscanthus plants were subjected to competition with a native grass (Panicum virgatum), a weedy grass (Bromus inermis), or no competition. Response variables were aboveground biomass, number of shoots, basal area, and seed set. In Iowa, all Miscanthus plants died after the first winter, which was unusually cold, so no further results are reported from the Iowa site. In Ohio, we found significant differences among biotypes in growth and fecundity, as well as significant effects of competition. Interactions between these treatments were not significant. “PowerCane” performed as well or better than ornamental or feral M. sinensis in vegetative traits, but had much lower seed production, perhaps due to pollen limitation. In general, ornamental M. sinensis performed somewhat better than feral M. sinensis. Our findings suggest that feral populations of “PowerCane” could become established adjacent to biofuel production areas. Fertile Miscanthus × giganteus should be studied further to assess its potential to spread via seed production in large, sexually compatible populations.
Develando una perspectiva bíblica de la sabiduría

“Develando una perspectiva biblica de la sabiduria”- El presente ensayo se concentra en entender algunas dimensiones del paradigma de sabiduria biblica. Ser sabio implica que el individuo, en mayor o menor grado, sea capaz de manejar las circunstancias para desarrollar un bienestar personal y grupal. Su adquisicion no parece estar ligada a caracteristicas personales; mas bien son procesos de identificacion con la cosmovision biblica que modela el accionar diario. Para ejemplificar estos conceptos, se hace una comparacion entre Daniel y Sanson como un continuo de mayor a menor sabiduria. Una conclusion general cierra el analisis.
Seeing is Believing: A Client-Centric Specification of Database Isolation

This paper introduces the first state-based formalization of isolation guarantees. Our approach is premised on a simple observation: applications view storage systems as black-boxes that transition through a series of states, a subset of which are observed by applications. Defining isolation guarantees in terms of these states frees definitions from implementation-specific assumptions. It makes immediately clear what anomalies, if any, applications can expect to observe, thus bridging the gap that exists today between how isolation guarantees are defined and how they are perceived. The clarity that results from definitions based on client-observable states brings forth several benefits. First, it allows us to easily compare the guarantees of distinct, but semantically close, isolation guarantees. We find that several well-known guarantees, previously thought to be distinct, are in fact equivalent, and that many previously incomparable flavors of snapshot isolation can be organized in a clean hierarchy. Second, freeing definitions from implementation-specific artefacts can suggest more efficient implementations of the same isolation guarantee. We show how a client-centric implementation of parallel snapshot isolation can be more resilient to slowdown cascades, a common phenomenon in large-scale datacenters.
Vision-based motion capture system for tracking crawling motions of infants

This work is part of an ongoing effort to explore a new mode of intervention for children at risk of cerebral palsy. The intervention uses an autonomous mobile robot that recognizes crawling like movements to respond to the infant. We propose a new system to capture crawling motions of infants. Our methodology involves placing planar marker patterns on the body and tracking them using cameras. A single camera can be used to track the markers in 3D. Such markers are generally used in augmented reality (AR) applications but are relatively unheard of for motion capture. In this paper, we present the system design and some preliminary test results. The test results indicate that it is possible to detect displacement typical of crawling with markers as small as 27 mm on a side.
Delivering Solutions and Clinical Benefits for Diseases with Small and Intermediate-Size Patient Populations

Complementary skill sets, talent, capabilities, resources, infrastructure, and knowledge available in academic and pharmaceutical organizations have all greatly contributed to the delivery of novel medicines, innovative solutions, and clinical benefits to patients with major and more common diseases (defined as diseases with large patient populations). In sharp contrast, patients with less common diseases (defined as diseases with small and intermediate-size patient populations, including autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and celiac disease) have not profited to the same extent. The lack of industry involvement in less common diseases and the absence of critical resources and R&D capabilities in academia have severely hampered progress in this area. Here, the reasons for these greatly different outcomes are analyzed. Strategies that reduce risk, cost, and timelines are proposed to advance novel concepts, implement innovative solutions, and deliver clinical benefits for diseases with small and intermediate-size patient populations.
Infrastructure projects and rural politics in northern Kenya: the use of divergent expertise to negotiate the terms of land deals for transport infrastructure

In 2012, construction began on the Lamu Port–South Sudan–Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor in northern Kenya. Once complete, LAPSSET will connect Kenya, South Sudan and Ethiopia with a new tran...
Ludvig Holberg (1684–1754): learning and literature in the Nordic enlightenment, edited by Knud Haakonssen and Sebastian Olden-Jørgensen

Ludvig Holberg is best known in eighteenth-century studies for his utopian novel Nicolai Klimii iter subterraneum (1741), which was translated into at least half a dozen languages (Niels Klim in En...
Neural dysfunction and retinopathy in persons with type 1 diabetes.

Objective To determine associations of microvascular and neuropathic complications of diabetes cross-sectionally and longitudinally in persons with long-term type 1 diabetes (T1D). Research design and methods Persons receiving care for T1D in South Central Wisconsin were identified in 1979-1980 and examined approximately every 5 years. Associations between neuropathic and microvascular complications were examined at most prior visits, when information on several neuropathic complications was collected. Temporal relationships were examined by modeling incidence between examinations across the visits. Results Adjusting for duration of diabetes, glycated hemoglobin, and systolic blood pressure, the following were cross-sectionally associated with prevalent PDR (proliferative diabetic retinopathy): the presence of sensory neuropathy (SN) as reported at each Wisconsin Epidemiologic Study of Diabetic Retinopathy (WESDR) examination (odds ratio (OR) = 2.76, confidence interval (CI) = 1.71, 4.48) and the heartrate variability measures RMSD (square root of the mean of squared differences of successive RR intervals) (OR = 0.24, CI = 0.16, 0.37) and SDNN (standard deviation of successive RR intervals) (OR = 0.26, CI = 0.17, 0.39). Findings were similar for prevalent ME (macular edema) as assessed from spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The presence of PDR (OR = 2.13, CI = 1.63, 2.78) and ME (OR = 2.36, CI = 1.66, 3.34) were both significantly associated with incident WESDR SN. WESDR SN was associated with incident PDR (OR = 1.53, CI = 1.09, 2.15) but not incident ME (OR = 1.31, CI = 0.92, 1.87). Conclusions Sensory neuropathy and heartrate variability were significantly associated with prevalent PDR and ME in people with long-term T1D. PDR and ME were significantly associated with incident sensory neuropathy, and sensory neuropathy was significantly associated with incident PDR. Studies using earliest detectable markers of microvascular and neurologic abnormalities are needed to determine which of the two systems 'fails' first. Such information might suggest a temporal sequence of diabetes complications.
An Improved Diagonal Loading Algorithm

Traditional adaptive beamforming methods undergo serious performance degradation in the presence of mismatches between the assumed array response and the true array response. In this paper, we propose an algorithm which belongs to the class of diagonal loading approach, but the diagonal loading factor is computed fully automatically from the array observation vectors without the need of specifying any user parameters. Moreover, in order to decrease the computational cost, we adopt the gradient descent method to update weight vector. Some simulation results are presented to compare the performance of the proposed algorithm with sample matrix inversion (SMI) algorithm and loaded SMI (LSMI) algorithm.
Die wahre Machina: „Das Höchste ist das Ziel!“

Stille wahre Kinder beobachten lachelnd die Welt von einem sicheren Platz aus, sie werden auf einem Arm gehalten. Sie blicken warm um sich. Sie saugen alles ein. Sie wirken strahlend offen, aber nicht sehr lebhaft. Wahre Kinder eben, die wenig „Lebensgeist“ mitbringen. Manche sitzen spater „stundenlang“ auf ihrer Decke, in ihrem Stuhlchen und schauen, sitzen auf einem Schos, schauen, erkennen – viele haben einen ganz klaren Blick.
Molecular Genetics of Testicular Germ Cell Tumor

The term “germ cell tumor” encompasses both male and female tumors that arise from germ cells with subtypes differentiated based on chromosomal changes and imprinting status. While five subtypes of germ cell tumors are described (Oosterhuis and Looijenga 2005) only three arise in the male testis – pediatric germ cell tumors (generally yolk sac), adolescent and adult testicular germ cell tumors, and spermatocytic seminoma. Of those, the most frequent are testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT), which are the most common cancer in men aged 20–40 (Ries et al. 2007). The incidence of TGCT in the United States has steadily risen from 3.2 in 100,000 in 1973 to 5.3 per 100,000 in 2004 (54%) (Ries et al. 2007), mainly limited to the white population. However, TGCT is still relatively rare, accounting for only 2% of male malignancies. In 2007, it is estimated that 7,920 men will be diagnosed with TGCT in the United States (Ries et al. 2007). TGCT has been described as “a model for a curable neoplasm,” since most patients will be cured and become long-term survivors.
The induction of atherosclerotic plaque-like mounds in cultures of aortic smooth muscle cells.

Smooth muscle cells harvested from the tunica media of piglet aortae were maintained in continuous culture for 10 months. When grown in the presence of 95% air and 5% CO2 they maintained a mature morphology as evaluated ultrastructurally. As these populations became confluent, the cells became oriented parallel to each other. When grown in the presence of 4% O2, 91% N2, and 5% CO2, this polarized pattern was disrupted. Focal areas of lipid accumulation were observed, succeeded by mound formation at these sites. The mound stained positive with PAS, aldehyde fuchsin, and oil red O. They were surrounded by 2—4 layers of intact cells. The centers of the mounds were composed of extracellular material and cell debris.
TORSADES DE POINTES WITH PSEUDO-T WAVE ALTERNANS DURING ROCILETINIB THERAPY: NOVEL MANIFESTATION OF A RARE SIDE EFFECT

Rociletinib is a new third generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment for non-small cell lung cancer. Known side effects include hyperglycemia and QT prolongation. We describe the first case of rociletinib associated macroscopic pseudo-T wave alternans with
Comparison between grapevine tissue temperature and air temperature.

Abstract Tissue temperature rather than ambient air temperature determines the rate of the processes that affect plant growth and development at molecular and cellular scales. Therefore, the use of air temperature to represent the temperature at which these processes occur within a plant organ implies a critical, yet poorly tested, assumption for most eco-physiological studies. The goal of this study was to determine whether the temperature of the tissues of field-grown grapevines differs significantly from the air temperature measured at a standard weather station. Thermocouples and infrared thermometers were used to measure the temperature of xylem at different heights in the west and east sides of the trunk of the vines, compound buds, and leaf surface in a vineyard between 2015 and 2017. The temperature of these tissues was compared with the air temperature measured at a standard weather station located at a distance of 410 m from the vineyard. Significant differences (p
Cytokinesis: The Mechanism of Formation of the Contractile Ring in Animal Cell Division

When an animal cell divides itself in two, it accomplishes this by the active contraction of a belt-like ring of cytoplasmic actin and myosin, usually encircling its equator. That much has been established with certainty (Schroeder, 1973; Mabuchi, 1986). On the other hand, no one yet understands the mechanisms responsible for creating these contractile rings and positioning them in the correct locations. The purpose of this paper is to review the different possible mechanisms for contractile ring formation, together with the available evidence supporting and opposing each of the alternative theories. Four main questions arise about this phenomenon. Three of these questions concern the signals that are believed to control the locations where the rings will form: first, where do these signals come from; second, what is the chemical or physical nature of the signals; and, third, what local effects do the signals produce at the cell surface? In particular, is the proximate effect of these signals to weaken cortical contractility, or to strengthen it? The fourth question is whether the actin and myosin are polymerized directly at the site of ring formation, as opposed to being collected together from pre-existing fibers that had been parts of other regions of the cell cortex. As we will see, these questions are interrelated, with the answers to any one of them having implications for each of the others.
Erratum: Mediterranean versus Western Diet Effects on Caloric Intake, Obesity, Metabolism, and Hepatosteatosis in Nonhuman Primates.

Objective This study aimed to determine the effects of humanlike Western and Mediterranean diets on caloric intake, obesity, metabolism, and hepatosteatosis in an established nonhuman primate model of obesity, cardiometabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Methods A 38-month, randomized, preclinical, nonhuman primate primary prevention trial of 38 socially housed, middle-aged adult females was conducted. The monkeys were characterized during a 7-month baseline phase while consuming chow and then randomized to either Western or Mediterranean diets; the groups were balanced on baseline characteristics. Western and Mediterranean diets were formulated to closely reflect human diets, matched on macronutrient content, with protein and fat derived largely from animal sources in the Western diet and plant sources in the Mediterranean diet. Food consumption, activity levels, energy expenditure, body composition, carbohydrate metabolism, and hepatosteatosis were measured during baseline and treatment phases. Results The Western diet increased caloric intake for the first 6 months and body fat, activity, energy expenditure, insulin resistance, and hepatosteatosis after 2.5 years, whereas the Mediterranean diet reduced triglyceride levels. Conclusions This is the first report of differential caloric intake and obesity with long-term consumption of a Western versus Mediterranean diet under controlled experimental conditions and the first experimental evidence that a Mediterranean diet protects against hepatosteatosis compared with a Western diet.
Pediatric stroke: unique implications of the immature brain on injury and recovery

Pediatric stroke causes significant morbidity for children resulting in lifelong neurological disability. Although hyperacute recanalization therapies are available for pediatric patients, most patients are ineligible for these treatments. Therefore the mainstay for pediatric stroke treatment relies on rehabilitation to improve outcomes. Little is known about the ideal rehabilitation therapies for pediatric patients with stroke and the unique interplay between the developing brain and our models of stroke recovery. In this review, we first discuss the consequences of pediatric stroke. Second, we examine the scientific evidence that exists between the mechanisms of recovery and how they are different in the pediatric developing brain. Finally, we evaluate potential interventions that could improve outcomes.
Giant magnetoresistance scanning of magnetic self-sensing composites

Fiber-reinforced composite materials possess excellent strength-to-weight ratios, making them especially useful in industries like aerospace where weight is critical. However, the brittle nature of fiber-reinforced composites allows damage to propagate quickly. Additionally, damage to composite materials is typically difficult to detect. This combination of damage sensitivity and challenging damage detection can lead to conservative designs that are heavier and costlier than necessary. In this study, a technique for characterizing damage in a unique self-sensing composite material is described. This is accomplished using magnetic particles autonomically formed in-situ to highlight internal damage. A scanner based on GMR sensors is used to measure the location and size of damage, with an accuracy of up to 91% when compared to C-scan. This non-contact method provides several benefits, including requiring only one side of access to the material, good scanning speeds, and low cost. Here, the performance of this scanning system is characterized in detail. The NDE effectiveness is investigated with studies of scan resolution, scan accuracy, minimum detectable size, maximum detectable depth, and the effect of flaw orientation and particle concentration. Additionally, the spatial resolution and correlation of the response to the actual damage size compared to C-scan ultrasound will be discussed.
Recognition-induced forgetting is caused by episodic, not semantic, memory retrieval tasks

Recognition-induced forgetting is a within-category forgetting effect that results from accessing memory representations. Advantages of this paradigm include the possibility of testing the memory of young children using visual objects before they can read, the testing of multiple types of stimuli, and use with animal models. Yet it is unknown whether just episodic memory tasks (Have you seen this before?) or also semantic memory tasks (Is this bigger than a loaf of bread?) will lead to this forgetting effect. This distinction will be critical in establishing a model of recognition-induced forgetting. Here, we implemented a design in which both these tasks were used in the same experiment to determine which was leading to recognition-induced forgetting. We found that episodic memory tasks, but not semantic memory tasks, created within-category forgetting. These results show that the difference-of-Gaussian forgetting function of recognition-induced forgetting is triggered by episodic memory tasks and is not driven by the same underlying memory signal as semantic memory.
Frequency of Burnout Among Palliative Care Physicians Participating in a Continuing Medical Education Course.

Abstract Context Palliative care (PC) physicians are vulnerable for burnout given the nature of practice. The burnout frequency may be variable and reported between 24% and 38% across different countries. Objective The main objective of our study was to determine the frequency of burnout among PC physicians participating in PC continuing medical education course. Methods A survey including the Maslach Burnout Inventory—General along with 41 custom questions were administered to determine the frequency of burnout among physicians attending the 2018 Hospice and Palliative Medicine Board review course. Results Of 110 physicians, 91 (83%) completed the survey. The median age was 48 years with 65% being females, 81% married, 46% in community practice, 38% in practice for 6–15 years. PC was practiced ≥50% of the time by 62%, and 76% were doing clinical work. About 73 (80%) reported that PC is appreciated at their work, 58 (64%) reported insurance to be a burden, and 58 (64%) reported that the electronic medical record was a burden. About 82 (90%) felt optimistic about continuing PC in future. Maslach Burnout Inventory results suggest that 35 (38%) participants reported at least one symptom of burnout. Only being single/separated showed trend toward significance with burnout (P = 0.056). Conclusion Burnout among PC physicians who attended a board review course was 38%. Being single/separated showed trend toward association with burnout. Physicians who choose to attend continuing medical education may have unique motivating characteristics allowing them to better cope with stress and avoid burnout.
Vulnerability to helpless behavior is regulated by the circadian clock component CRYPTOCHROME in the mouse nucleus accumbens

The nucleus accumbens (NAc), a central component of the midbrain dopamine reward circuit, exhibits disturbed circadian rhythms in the postmortem brains of depressed patients. We hypothesized that normal mood regulation requires proper circadian timing in the NAc, and that mood disorders are associated with dysfunctions of the NAc cellular circadian clock. In mice exhibiting stress-induced depression-like behavior (helplessness), we found altered circadian clock function and high nighttime expression of the core circadian clock component CRYPTOCHROME (CRY) in the NAc. In the NAc of helpless mice, we found that higher expression of CRY is associated with decreased activation of dopamine 1 receptor-expressing medium spiny neurons (D1R-MSNs). Furthermore, D1R-MSN-specific CRY-knockdown in the NAc reduced susceptibility to stress-induced helplessness and increased NAc neuronal activation at night. Finally, we show that CRY inhibits D1R-induced G protein activation, likely by interacting with the Gs protein. Altered circadian rhythms and CRY expression were also observed in human fibroblasts from major depressive disorder patients. Our data reveal a causal role for CRY in regulating the midbrain dopamine reward system, and provide a mechanistic link between the NAc circadian clock and vulnerability to depression.
Impact of Circuit Parameters on Input Impedance of 433.92MHz ISM Band RF Rectifiers

RF energy harvesters are popular energy source for Internet of Things (IoT) cloud edge devices and also as core circuit of IoT wake-up radio sub-system. Design methodology to estimate input impedance of multi-stage classical Dickson RF rectifiers based on computer transient simulation is proposed. The impact of various design component parameters on rectifiers’ input impedance based on TSMC 0.35μm CMOS technologies is discussed subsequently. The data provided in this paper can guide circuit designer to gauge the non-linearity behavior of input impedance, before designing the corresponding impedance matching network for the RF rectifier under different conditions to ensure maximum output voltage and power conversion efficiency.