cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ccr2 deletion dissociates cavity size and tau pathology after mild traumatic brain injury

Millions of people experience traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a result of falls, car accidents, sports injury, and blast. TBI has been associated with the development of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). In the initial hours and days, the pathology of TBI comprises neuronal injury, breakdown of the blood–brain barrier, and inflammation. At the cellular level, the inflammatory reaction consists of responses by brain-resident microglia, astrocytes, and vascular elements as well as infiltration of peripheral cells. After TBI, signaling by chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) to the chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 (CCR2) is a key regulator of brain infiltration by monocytes. We utilized mice with one or both copies of Ccr2 disrupted by red fluorescent protein (RFP, Ccr2 RFP/+ and Ccr2 RFP/RFP ). We subjected these mice to the mild lateral fluid percussion model of TBI and examined several pathological outcomes 3 days later in order to determine the effects of altered monocyte entry into the brain. Ccr2 deletion reduced monocyte infiltration, diminished lesion cavity volume, and lessened axonal damage after mild TBI, but the microglial reaction to the lesion was not affected. We further examined phosphorylation of the microtubule-associated protein tau, which aggregates in brains of people with TBI, AD, and CTE. Surprisingly, Ccr2 deletion was associated with increased tau mislocalization to the cell body in the cortex and hippocampus by tissue staining and increased levels of phosphorylated tau in the hippocampus by Western blot. Disruption of CCR2 enhanced tau pathology and reduced cavity volume in the context of TBI. The data reveal a complex role for CCR2+ monocytes in TBI, as monitored by cavity volume, axonal damage, and tau phosphorylation.
Comparisons of Performances and Liquid Water Distributions Within Bio-Inspired and Single-Serpentine PEM Fuel Cell Channels

Flow field design in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells is a major area of research for performance improvement. Bio-inspired flow field designs are a relatively recent development in fuel cell technology evolution. These novel designs have potential for performance improvements by effective distribution of reactant gases with better water management capabilities. This work investigates the performance and water distribution in a bio-inspired flow field design, formulated using Murray’s law and mimicking a typical leaf venation pattern, in comparison to a conventional single serpentine design. Experiments were conducted using a transparent fuel cell with copper as the conductive channel and current collector. The results indicated the superior performance of the bio-inspired design with a 30% increase in peak power density in comparison to the single serpentine design. Additionally, the flow regimes based on two-phase flows in micro channels were identified and their effects on fuel cell stability were determined.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
The Reinvention of Mexico: Nationalism and the Left: The PRD

During the Salinas era, the left also searched for a new legitimizing formula, and the emergence of a democratic left posing a significant challenge to the PRI was accompanied by a restatement of the struggle against inequality of political liberalism and the nation-building discourse underlying revolutionary nationalism. Yet discourses on the left, and in particular those of the main left-wing party in this period, the PRD, reveal how difficult this search was. The writing and comments of left-wing intellectuals in party documents and publications such as Coyuntura and Motivos , as well as in the mainstream press such as the magazines Proceso and Nexos , reveal how the PRD's own composition as a fragile coalition between revolutionary nationalism and socialism was responsible for a lack of ideological unity, hampering the development of a coherent formula of national citizenship. While left-wing intellectuals coincided with the analysis of salinismo to the extent that they identified a conflict between the individual and social realms, that is, between the modernity offered by individualism and the Mexican national idea, the PRD failed to establish its social-democratic credentials and remained wedded to a strong, interventionist state and a limited private realm in this period. Its vision was of a statist political economy and the preference of many perredistas was for an integral, corporate democracy founded upon a social pact that substituted that of revolutionary nationalism. The PRD's vision of a broad social pact mediated by a powerful state envisaged a return to notions of nationality based upon a limited individualism.
Acupuncture-like transcutaneous nerve stimulation therapy success after 5 years post-radiation-induced xerostomia: a case report

Background Success with acupuncture-like transcutaneous nerve stimulation (ALTENS) in the treatment of radiation-induced xerostomia has not been reported after an extended time. Methods We report a case of successful ALTENS therapy 5 years after radiation treatment. Results The patient discontinued treatments in a second course due to complete resolution of symptoms. Conclusion This case report demonstrates a potential for offering ALTENS to those long suffering from radiation-induced xerostomia.
Double-wheel graphs are graceful

We present the first polynomial time construction procedure for generating graceful double-wheel graphs. A graph is graceful if its vertices can be labeled with distinct integer values from {0;..., e}, where e is the number of edges, such that each edge has a unique value corresponding to the absolute difference of its endpoints. Graceful graphs have a range of practical application domains, including in radio astronomy, X-ray crystallography, cryptography, and experimental design. Various families of graphs have been proven to be graceful, while others have only been conjectured to be. In particular, it has been conjectured that so-called double-wheel graphs are graceful. A double-wheel graph consists of two cycles of N nodes connected to a common hub. We prove this conjecture by providing the first construction for graceful double-wheel graphs, for any N > 3, using a framework that combines streamlined constraint reasoning with insights from human computation. We also use this framework to provide a polynomial time construction for diagonally ordered magic squares.
Short Paper: A Method for Discovering Functional Relationships Between Air Handling Units and Variable-Air-Volume Boxes From Sensor Data

In Building Automation Systems contextual information about sensors is frequently missing or hard-coded in the control code. Retrieving this data is time consuming and error-prone, but necessary to write any type of control application. Automating metadata acquisition is a new and active area of research. Methods to infer metadata from sensor labels or from recorded data have been previously proposed. However, these methods are ineffective in uncovering the association between HVAC components. In fact, measured variables (pressures, temperatures, flows, valve positions) have slow and attenuated responses to changes in input variables, thus impairing the efficacy of correlation methods. In addition, sensor readings are frequently constrained between physical limits and kept around setpoints by nested control loops. For this reason, pure statistical methods fail to capture the differences between sensor streams and are unable to classify them. In this article, we propose a new method for discovering functional relationships between Air Handling Units and Variable-Air-Volume Boxes from sensor data. The method utilizes perturbations of subsystem variables, while guaranteeing that the building zones remain within comfort boundaries. When applied to an existing building, our proposed method reveals correct associations in ~80% of the cases, and outperforms other methods.
Fusion Method for Solubility and Dissolution Rate Enhancement of Ibuprofen Using Block Copolymer Poloxamer 407

Aim of current research was to prepare ibuprofen-poloxamer 407 binary mixtures using fusion method and characterize them for their physicochemical and performance properties. Binary mixtures of ibuprofen and poloxamer were prepared in three different ratios (1:0.25, 1:0.5, and 1:0.75, respectively) using a water-jacketed high shear mixer. In vitro dissolution and saturation solubility studies were carried out for the drug, physical mixtures, and formulations for all ratios in de-ionized water, 0.1 N HCl (pH = 1.2), and phosphate buffer (pH = 7.2). Thermal and physical characterization of samples was done using modulated differential scanning calorimetry (mDSC), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Flow properties were evaluated using a powder rheometer. Maximum solubility enhancement was seen in acidic media for fused formulations where the ratio 1:0.75 had 18-fold increase. In vitro dissolution studies showed dissolution rate enhancement for physical mixtures and the formulations in all three media. The most pronounced effect was seen for formulation (1:0.75) in acidic media where the cumulative drug release was 58.27% while for drug, it was 3.67%. Model independent statistical methods and ANOVA based methods were used to check the significance of difference in the dissolution profiles. Thermograms from mDSC showed a characteristic peak for all formulations with Tpeak of around 45°C which suggested formation of a eutectic mixture. XRD data displayed that crystalline nature of ibuprofen was intact in the formulations. This work shows the effect of eutectic formation and micellar solubilization between ibuprofen and poloxamer at the given ratios on its solubility and dissolution rate enhancement.
Antioxidant Control of Rancidity Development in Ground Turkey Meat

Abstract Refrigerated raw ground turkey meat using natural proportions (2:1 breast:thigh) undergoes oxidative randicity rapidly. Various antioxidants were used in different combinations to delay rancidity development and increase shelflife. The antioxidants used were butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and silicone. The percentages of each antioxidant added to the ground meat were based on the fat content. A .01% level was used for BHA and BHT and 1 ppm was used for silicone. Standard plate counts were also studied to determine when the stored meat became unacceptable due to microbiological growth. The ground meat was stored at 4 C up to 14 days. The 2-thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values indicated that the combinations of BHA + BHT and BHA + BHT + silicone retarded development of oxidative rancidity to a greater extent than addition of silicone alone when compared to the control. Microbiological spoilage was assumed to take place after approximately eight days of refrigerated storage when counts reached 107 numbers. However, the sensory panel members rated the ground turkey meat containing BHA + BHT and BHA + BHT + silicone acceptable through 10 days of storage.
Change in Toxicity of Rotenone in Solution and Suspension

Rotenone has been found to decompose at various rates when allowed to stand in solution in certain solvents, the decomposition being evidenced by development of a yellow color and in some cases by separation of certain of the yellow decomposition materials in crystalline form. This change is accompanied by a loss in toxicity to insects as shown by entomological tests made with aqueous suspensions prepared from these solutions. The loss in toxicity occurs most rapidly in pyridine, less rapidly in acetone containing tannic acid and is imperceptible in both acetone and alcohol. The yellow decomposition products separating from pyridine solutions were found to have much less insecticidal activity than pure rotenone. The aqueous suspensions prepared from acetone and alcohol solutions of rotenone showed only a slight loss in toxicity on standing. Dry rotenone shows no decomposition or loss in toxicity.
Simulation of development and survival of Aedes vexans (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae and pupae

A process-based, rate-summation model was developed to predict changes in daily age distribution and mortality of larvae and pupae of Aedes vexans (Meigen), a mosquito common in floodwater habitats. Predicted age distributions based on observed water temperatures were shown to match field populations closely. Predicted rates of survival to adult emergence were not significantly different from those observed in the field in most cases; however, field estimates had high variances. Model analysis showed that a 2°C change in average water temperature produced small changes (= 1 d) in predicted development time to adult emergence at temperatures >20°C, but larger changes (up to 10 d) at lower water temperatures. Predicted survival also decreased markedly at lower temperatures.
Synthesis of Benstonite at Room Temperature

Benstonite; MgCaoBae(COr)'", has been synthesized at room temperature by mixing a solution containing 12.5 ml of 0.2 molar MgClz, 12.5 ml of 0.2 molar BaCl", and 5.0 ml of 0.1 molar CaCl: with 25 ml of 0.5 molar sodium carbonate solution and allowing the precipitate to age in contact with the remaining solution for two weeks.
Landscapes of thermal inequity: disproportionate exposure to urban heat in the three largest US cities

Heat waves are the most significant cause of mortality in the US compared to other natural hazards. Prior studies have found increased heat exposure for individuals of lower socioeconomic status in several US cities, but few comparative analyses of the social distribution of urban heat have been conducted. To address this gap, our paper examines and compares the environmental justice consequences of urban heat risk in the three largest US cities: New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Risk to urban heat is estimated on the basis of three characteristics of the urban thermal landscape: land surface temperature, vegetation abundance, and structural density of the built urban environment. These variables are combined to develop an urban heat risk index, which is then statistically compared with social vulnerability indicators representing socioeconomic status, age, disability, race/ethnicity, and linguistic isolation. The results indicate a consistent and significant statistical association between lower socioeconomic and minority status and greater urban heat risk, in all three cities. Our findings support a growing body of environmental justice literature that indicates the presence of a landscape of thermal inequity in US cities and underscores the need to conduct comparative analyses of social inequities in exposure to urban heat.
Analysis on physical examination results of radiation workers in Baoji City in 2013

[Objective] To explore the influence of ionizing radiation on radiation workers engaged in different occupations,provide scientific basis for carrying out the prevention and control measures.[Methods]According to the types of occupation, 244 radiation workers(including 108 workers in the radiological diagnosis and treatment group, 84 workers in the industrial X-ray flaw detection group, and 52 workers in the high voltage test group) in the Baoji City received the physical examination in 2013, and the results of chromosome, routine blood test and ultrasonography were statistically analyzed.[Results]The rate of chromosome aberration in the high voltage test group was the highest(13.5%). In the routine blood test, the rate of leukocyte disorder in the high voltage test group was the highest(11.5%), followed by the abnormal rate of blood platelet in the industrial X-ray flaw detection group(8.3%). As for the ultrasonography, most of abnormal results were observed in liver, followed by the gallbladder,and the abnormal rate of liver in the radiological diagnosis and treatment group, industrial X-ray flaw detection group and high voltage test group was respectively 13.9%, 34.5% and 26.9%.[Conclusion]Long-term low-dose ionizing radiation will damage the health of the radiation workers, and cause different influence on the radiation workers engaged in different occupations. The related departments should further strengthen the protection work.
Determination of Crystallinity of Synthetic Molecular Sieve by μ Value Method of X-ray Diffraction

The μ value method of the quantitative phase analysis by X-ray diffraction is presented. The method is used to determine the samples when no standard or reference samples can be found. In this method, the crystallinity determined is only related to the diffraction intensity of the samples and the mass absorption coefficients of the phases. The least square regressive analysis is also adopted to decrease the test deviation.
Arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries, with special reference to left ventricular function

Between June 1984 and September 1987, 48 patients underwent Lecompte’s modification of the arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries, including transposition with intact ventricular septum with preparatory pulmonary artery banding (n = 18), with patent ductus arteriosus (n = 11), with dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (n = 4), and transposition with ventricular septal defect (n = 15). Ages ranged from 12 days to 36 months (mean 8 months) and weights ranged from 2.7 to 12.8 kg (mean 5.7 kg). Two deaths occurred, yielding an operative mortality rate of 4.2%. Preparatory pulmonary artery banding resulted in an increase to 65 ± 5 mm Hg in the left ventricular afterload. Linear regression of the optimum circumference of the band (Y, millimeters) against left ventricular end-diastolic volume (X, milliliters) yielded the following formula: Y = 0.23X + 19.7 (r = 0.885, p
States and Firms in Political Theory and International Relations Theory

The relationship between states and firms is an important object of inquiry in both political theory and international relations theory. Yet analyses of this central nexus are dramatically different in the two realms. In this chapter I examine the treatment of firms and states in both political theory and international relations theory, focusing on two major theories which typify the two areas. The first, Realist international relations theory, essentially operates without a theory of the state. Yet its foremost practitioners claim that state power, even hegemonic state power, was an absolutely necessary prerequisite for the flourishing of multinational corporations in the postwar period. The second, the theory of the structural dependence1 of the state on capital, provides the best account of the sources of state preferences in a capitalist economy. But it does not consider the effects of a state’s existing within an international system of states. As a result, it misses a major source of capital’s power and a major reason states are dependent on capital. An analysis of the shortcomings of these two theories will allow us to understand better the complicated interactions among states and firms in a capitalist world economy.
Exploring J-DISC: Some Preliminary Analyses

J-DISC, a specialized digital library for information about jazz recording sessions that includes rich structured and searchable metadata, has the potential for supporting a wide range of studies on jazz, especially the musicological work of those interested in the social network aspects of jazz creation and production. This paper provides an overview of the entire J-DISC dataset. It also presents some exemplar analyses across this dataset to better illustrate the kinds of uses that musicologists could make of this collection. Our illustrative analyses include both informetric and network analyses of the entire J-DISC data which comprises data on 2,711 unique recording sessions associated with 3,744 distinct artists including such influential jazz figures as Dizzy Gillespie, Don Byas, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and Kenny Dorham, etc. Our analyses also show that around 60% of the recording sessions included in J-DISC were recorded in New York City, Englewood Cliffs (NJ), Los Angeles (CA) and Paris during the year of 1923 to 2011. Furthermore, our analyses of the J-DISC data show the top venues captured in the J-DISC data include Rudy Van Gelder Studio, Birdland and Reeves Sound Studios. The potential research uses of the J-DISC data in both the DL (Digital Libraries) and MIR (Music Information Retrieval) domains are also briefly discussed.
Effects of guitar accompaniment style within patient preferred live music on mood and pain with hospitalized patients on a solid organ transplant unit: A three group randomized pilot study

Abstract While music therapy in the form of patient preferred live music (PPLM) can positively impact self-reported mood and pain for solid organ transplant patients, there is a lack of research examining how instrumental accompaniment within PPLM might affect these variables. The purpose of this randomized pilot study was to determine the effect of guitar accompaniment style within PPLM on mood and pain with hospitalized patients on a solid organ transplant unit. In this pre- and posttest single-session study, participants ( N = 29) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: PPLM with simple accompaniment, PPLM with complex accompaniment, or a wait-list control group. Results indicated significant between-group differences in posttest measures of relaxed/anxious, cheerful/depressed, and well-coordinated/clumsy. Bonferroni adjustments for multiple comparisons indicated significant differences between control and both complex ( p = 0.049) and simple ( p = 0.003) accompaniment groups for relaxed/anxious as well as control and simple accompaniment groups for cheerful/depressed ( p = 0.015) and well-coordinated/clumsy ( p = 0.044). Participants in both simple and complex accompaniment conditions consistently had more favorable mood means than participants in the control group. Implications for curricula and clinical practice, limitations, and suggestions for future research are provided.
Is home sharing driving up rents? Evidence from Airbnb in Boston

Abstract The growth of the sharing economy has received increasing attention from economists. Some researchers have examined how these new business models shape market mechanisms and, in the case of home sharing, economists have examined how the sharing economy affects the hotel industry. There is currently limited evidence on whether home sharing affects the housing market, despite the obvious overlap between these two markets. As a result, policy makers grappling with the effects of the rapid growth of home sharing have inadequate information on which to make reasoned policy decisions. In this paper, we add to the small but growing body of knowledge on how the sharing economy is shaping the housing market by focusing on the short-term effects of the growth of Airbnb in Boston neighborhoods on the rental market, relying on individual rental listings. We examine whether the increasing presence of Airbnb raises asking rents and whether the change in rents may be driven by a decline in the supply of housing offered for rent. We show that a one standard deviation increase in Airbnb listings is associated with an increase in asking rents of 0.4%.
Erickson’s identity theory and the importance of ethnic exploration for transnational adoptees

In an effort to promote their child’s ethnic identity development, parents of transnational adoptees regularly engage in cultural exploration activities with their children. This practice is aligne...
Benefits of Scenario Planning Applied to Energy Development

Abstract Scenario planning was first used effectively by Royal Dutch Shell approximately 40 years ago. The company recognized that efforts to predict exactly the future are unlikely to be very successful. The premise of scenario planning is that organizations look at possible future trends and project several possible futures (or scenarios). The intent is to project enough such scenarios, even unlikely ones, that they “bracket” possible futures. This enables one to assess the ability of their policy, process, or design to perform positively within any of the scenarios and thus represent a truly robust choice. This paper briefly describes some examples of use of scenario planning within the energy sector, as well as some unusual factors that may influence the outcomes.
Administrative support to satellite credit programs at California State University, Chico

The paper describes the background to, and development of, the instructional television service at the California State University, Chico, USA. The continuing education program at CSU, Chico, offers 25 courses each semester by satellite delivery. The paper describes the electronic delivery system, the MSc and BSc degrees in Computer Science, and the administrative support for, and coordination of, the program.
β Cell Aging Markers Have Heterogeneous Distribution and Are Induced by Insulin Resistance.

We hypothesized that the known heterogeneity of pancreatic β cells was due to subpopulations of β cells at different stages of their life cycle with different functional capacities and that further changes occur with metabolic stress and aging. We identified new markers of aging in β cells, including IGF1R. In β cells IGF1R expression correlated with age, dysfunction, and expression of known age markers p16ink4a, p53BP1, and senescence-associated β-galactosidase. The new markers showed striking heterogeneity both within and between islets in both mouse and human pancreas. Acute induction of insulin resistance with an insulin receptor antagonist or chronic ER stress resulted in increased expression of aging markers, providing insight into how metabolic stress might accelerate dysfunction and decline of β cells. These novel findings about β cell and islet heterogeneity, and how they change with age, open up an entirely new set of questions about the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes.
Improving accuracy of RNA-based diagnosis and prognosis of oral cancer by using noninvasive methods

Abstract RNA-based diagnosis and prognosis of squamous cell carcinoma has been slow to come to the clinic. Improvements in RNA measurement, statistical evaluation, and sample preservation, along with increased sample numbers, have not made these methods reproducible enough to be used clinically. We propose that, in the case of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, a chief source of variability is sample dissection, which leads to variable amounts of stroma mixed in with tumor epithelium. This heterogeneity of the samples, which requires great care to avoid, makes it difficult to see changes in RNA levels specific to tumor cells. An evaluation of the data suggests that, paradoxically, brush biopsy samples of oral lesions may provide a more reproducible method than surgical acquisition of samples for miRNA measurement. The evidence also indicates that body fluid samples can show similar changes in miRNAs with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) as those seen in tumor brush biopsy samples – suggesting much of the miRNA in these samples is coming from the same source: tumor epithelium. We conclude that brush biopsy or body fluid samples may be superior to surgical samples in allowing miRNA-based diagnosis and prognosis of OSCC in that they feature a rapid method to obtain homogeneous tumor cells and/or RNA.
Transoral endoscopic head and neck surgery (eHNS) for minor salivary gland tumors of the oropharynx

Transoral endoscopic head and neck surgery (eHNS), including transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) and transoral robotic surgery (TORS), provides access to subsites in the head and neck that have traditionally been difficult to approach. Minor salivary gland tumors, while relatively uncommon, are frequently malignant and can occur at sites in the oropharynx accessible by transoral eHNS. Presented here is the largest review to date of patients with minor salivary gland tumors of the oropharynx managed with transoral eHNS as primary or salvage therapy. A retrospective chart review was performed, including data from 20 patients with minor salivary gland tumors of the oropharynx managed with transoral eHNS at 2 tertiary, academic medical centers. Details of tumor pathology, margin analysis, adjuvant therapy, and an assessment of oncologic outcome were included. The base of tongue was the most common tumor site (75%). Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) accounted for most cases (35%), and negative margins were obtained in most (95%) through an endoscopic-only approach. Overall, 50% of patients received post-operative radiation therapy. Postoperative complications were limited, with one patient (5%) returning to the OR for control of post-operative oropharyngeal bleeding. On average follow-up of 36 months, 90% of patients were alive with no evidence of recurrence. In this experience, transoral eHNS provided a safe and consistent surgical approach to management of minor salivary gland malignancies, with low complication rates and good locoregional control. Thus, transoral eHNS may play a valuable role in the multi-disciplinary management of these malignancies. None/not applicable
Progress in targeting the BCL-2 family of proteins

The network of protein-protein interactions among the BCL-2 protein family plays a critical role in regulating cellular commitment to mitochondrial apoptosis. Anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins are considered promising targets for drug discovery and exciting clinical progress has stimulated intense investigations in the broader family. Here, we discuss recent developments in small molecules targeting anti-apoptotic proteins and alternative approaches to targeting BCL-2 family interactions. These studies advance our understanding of the role of BCL-2 family proteins in physiology and disease, providing unique tools for dissecting these functions. The BCL-2 family of proteins is a prime example of targeting protein-protein interactions and further chemical biology approaches will increase opportunities for novel targeted therapies in cancer, autoimmune and aging-associated diseases.
Abstract WP107: Molecular Disorganization of Axons Adjacent to Human Cortical Microinfarcts

Introduction: Ischemic brain lesions are pathologic hallmarks commonly associated with cognitive and cerebrovascular diseases. In particular, cortical microinfarcts are described as microscopically identified wedge shaped ischemic lesions such as cavitations with few remaining macrophages and fibrillary gliosis. These microscopic lesions are observed with high resolution magnetic resonance imaging in aging brains and in patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD). Recent studies have suggested that strategically located microinfarcts strongly correlate with cognitive deficits, which can contribute to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) as well as other forms of dementia. Hypothesis: We have recently shown that there is altered axonal molecular organization in white matter areas adjacent to white matter lacunar and microinfarcts. In this study, we hypothesized that similar changes were present in nodal, paranodal, and axon initial segments adjacent to human cortical microinfarcts. Methods: Paraffin-embedded sections of autopsy brain tissue from five patients (post mortem interval range= 4 to 45 h) with cortical microinfarcts reported in their clinical neuropathological examination were immunofluorescently labeled for nodal and paranodal markers including beta-IV spectrin, ankyrin-G, and contactin-associated protein (caspr). High magnification images were generated using confocal microscopy. Results: Cases ranged in age from 73 to 93 years old. Comorbid neuropathologic diagnoses included AD (n=3) and mixed dementia (n=2). Adjacent to cortical microinfarcts, we observed significant elongation of paranodal segments and shortened axon initial segments adjacent to cortical microinfarcts. In adjacent cortical regions without microinfarcts, paranodal segments were less frequently abnormal and axon initial segment length appeared normal. Conclusions: These data indicate that the molecular organization of axons adjacent to human cortical microinfarcts is abnormal providing support for a microinfarct penumbral injury that worsens the effect of these tiny strokes.
Calcium influx through TRPV4 channels modulates the adherens contacts between retinal microvascular endothelial cells

The identity of microvascular endothelial (MVE) mechanosensors that sense blood flow in response to mechanical and chemical stimuli and regulate vascular permeability in the retina is unknown. Taking advantage of immunohistochemistry, calcium imaging, electrophysiology, impedance measurements and vascular permeability assays, we show that the transient receptor potential isoform 4 (TRPV4) plays a major role in Ca2+/cation signalling, cytoskeletal remodelling and barrier function in retinal microvasculature in vitro and in vivo. Human retinal MVECs (HrMVECs) predominantly expressed Trpv1 and Trpv4 transcripts, and TRPV4 was broadly localized to the plasma membrane of cultured cells and intact blood vessels in the inner retina. Treatment with the selective TRPV4 agonist GSK1016790A (GSK101) activated a nonselective cation current, robustly elevated [Ca2+]i and reversibly increased the permeability of MVEC monolayers. This was associated with disrupted organization of endothelial F-actin, downregulated expression of occludin and remodelling of adherens contacts consisting of vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) and β−catenin. In vivo, GSK101 increased the permeability of retinal blood vessels in wild type, but not in TRPV4 knockout mice. Agonist-evoked effects on barrier permeability and cytoskeletal reorganization were antagonized by the selective TRPV4 blocker HC 067047. Human choroidal endothelial cells (CECs) showed lower TRPV4 mRNA/protein levels and less pronounced agonist-evoked calcium signals compared to MVECs. These findings demonstrate a major role for TRPV4 in Ca2+ homeostasis and barrier function in the human retinal microvascular endothelial barrier and suggest TRPV4 may differentially contribute to the inner vis a vis outer blood-retinal barrier function. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
Impairment of protein degradation and proteasome function in hereditary neuropathies

In several neurodegenerative diseases in which misfolded proteins accumulate there is impairment of the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). We tested if a similar disruption of proteostasis occurs in hereditary peripheral neuropathies. In sciatic nerves from mouse models of two human neuropathies, Myelin Protein Zero mutation (S63del) and increased copy number (P0 overexpression), polyubiquitinated proteins accumulated, and the overall rates of protein degradation were decreased. 26S proteasomes affinity-purified from sciatic nerves of S63del mice were defective in degradation of peptides and a ubiquitinated protein, unlike proteasomes from P0 overexpression, which appeared normal. Nevertheless, cellular levels of 26S proteasomes were increased in both, through the proteolytic-activation of the transcription factor Nrf1, as occurs in response to proteasome inhibitors. In S63del, increased amounts of the deubiquitinating enzymes USP14, UCH37, and USP5 were associated with proteasomes, the first time this has been reported in a human disease model. Inhibitors of USP14 increased the rate of protein degradation in S63del sciatic nerves and unexpectedly increased the phosphorylation of eIF2α by Perk. Thus, proteasome content, composition and activity are altered in these diseases and USP14 inhibitors have therapeutic potential in S63del neuropathy.
Case for Integrating Computational Thinking and Science in a Low-Resource Setting

There is a growing need to use computers to formulate problems and their solutions across domains. It has thus become imperative that students across the globe be able to work with computing to express themselves. However, teaching computer science in a traditional way may not be possible in all settings. We studied a method to integrate computational thinking, the ability to express problems and their solutions to a computing device, into an existing science classroom with the goal of deepening learning in both science and computational thinking in a low-resource setting in Nepal. In this note, we present findings from the study. The proposed curricular method acknowledges local differences and presents a way to adapt to those differences through adaptable multiple layers of activities and representational variability. We hope that interested educators and development practitioners would try our method in classrooms.
General Angle Division

The transition to the general angle division implies a transition from solid to linear geometry. This is explicitly mentioned by Pappus. Some linear problems will arise from generalizing a plane or solid problem, and this is the case for the angle division. The connection to problems of the second, and even the first kind remains transparent; in fact, Props. 37/38 is an analogue to IV, 10/11. Pappus makes no attempt to single out, via diorismos, which of the general cases would become solid or plane. The introductory sentence to Props. 35–38 even suggests that Pappus thought the character of a problem is sufficiently established when an analysis leads to conic sections: the problem is then taken to be solid in general. Again, this has consequences for the evaluation of analysis as a technique to determine the appropriate level of a problem/theorem in 42–44. Apparently, it is limited in power and application, and regularly only used “after the fact,” i.e., to subject existing arguments to critical evaluation.
Pilot information presentation on the flight deck: an application of synthetic speech and visual digital displays

Integration of synthetic speech for Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) communicative purposes is in its infancy. Integration of synthetic speech on the flight deck has the potential to improve air traffic control (ATC) and pilot communications through a multimodal presentation of critical information. In a synthesized speech system, digital-data traffic from ATC is converted into a synthetic, or computer-generated, voice for presentation to the pilot. Parameters to implement a synthetic speech system on the flight deck, as a means of optimizing communications between ATC and pilots, are under study at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in conjunction with the FAA- Human Factors Research and Engineering Group for NextGen (AJP-61) and John A. Volpe National Transportation Center.
CLINICAL PARADOXES FROM TYPOLOGIES OF DEPRESSION

Clinical classification of depression into the endogenous-reactive dichotomy was the basis for the initial assertion that tricyclic antidepressants were most effective in endogenous depression. Clinical classification was further refined by typifying depressions as anxious, hostile and retarded, the latter being analogous to endogenous depression and also responsive to tricyclics. In general, clinical studies have been unable to distinguish efficacy of tricyclics, amitriptyline being superior to desipramine and inferior to imipramine, but only on rare occasions. The pharmacologic basis for the use of antidepressants has been their action on blocking the amine pump, the assumption being that endogenous depressions were associated with low levels of neurotransmission, either in the noradrenergic or serotonergic systems or both. The demonstration that tertiary amine tricyclics preferentially blocked uptake of serotonin while secondary amines blocked uptake of norepinephrine provided a possible basis for choice of drug, if one could classify the transmitter disorder by measurements of urinary or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metabolites. These techniques of classification leave much to be desired. The amine hypothesis has been questioned. Depressed patients may have either low or high levels of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) in CSF, indicating both increased as well as decreased noradrenergic activity. Patients with low MHPG levels were alleged to respond specifically to imipramine while high MHPG levels augured a good response to amitriptyline. Thus, not only are there differences in presumed action between tertiary and secondary amine tricyclics but even between the two major tertiary amine drugs. The fact that iprindole, which does not block the amine pump and doxepin, which has only a weak effect, are considered effective antidepressants also questions the amine hypothesis. Finally, both amitriptyline and imipramine treatment further reduced metabolites of serotonin in CSF in depressed patients. Thus, choice of antidepressant based either on some possible specific disorder of neurotransmitter function or on some postulated difference in effect of drugs on neurotransmitters is not easy for the clinician to reconcile. If some depressions are responsive to lithium therapy matters become more confusing, as one would expect lithium to be effective only with increased neurotransmission. Depressions which are lithium responsive are more likely variants of manic-depressive disorders rather than true endogenous depressions, but definite proof is lacking. The relative ineffectiveness of levodopa in depression suggests dopamine is of minor importance. Thus, biochemical classification of depressive reactions has created more questions for clinicians than it has answered. But knowing the questions may lead to better answers.
The Center on Violence Against Women and Children at Rutgers University

The mission of the Center on Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) at the Rutgers University School of Social Work is to strive to eliminate physical, sexual, and other forms of violence again...
Human endogenous retrovirus-K (HML-2): a comprehensive review.

AbstractThe human genome contains a large number of retroviral elements acquired over the process of evolution, some of which are specific to primates. However, as many of these are defective or si...
A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Distress Tolerance Treatment for Weight Concern in Smoking Cessation Among Women.

Introduction The majority of women who smoke cigarettes report that concern about weight gain is a barrier to quitting. We developed an intervention incorporating distress tolerance, appetite awareness, and mindful eating skills to target concerns about post-cessation weight gain and emotional eating (DT-W). In the current study, we conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial of DT-W versus a smoking health education (HE) intervention. Methods Participants (N = 69 adult female, weight-concerned smokers) were recruited in cohorts of 4-11. Cohorts were randomized to DT-W or HE. DT-W and HE were matched on format (single individual session followed by eight group sessions), inclusion of cognitive behavioral therapy for smoking cessation (CBT) content, and pharmacotherapy (nicotine patches). Follow-up assessments occurred at 1-, 3-, and 6-months post-treatment. Results The recruitment goal was met; 61 of the 69 participants attended at least one group session. There were no significant differences between DT-W and HE in the number of group sessions attended (DT-W adjusted M = 5.09, HE adjusted M = 5.03, p = .92), ratings of treatment effectiveness or usefulness of skills, or retention at 6-month follow-up (79% in DT-W vs. 78% in HE) (ps > .05), but comprehension ratings were lower in DT-W than in HE (p = .02). Conclusions Overall, these results suggest that the study procedures and interventions were feasible and acceptable, but changes to the DT-W intervention content to improve comprehension should be considered prior to conducting a fully powered trial. Implications A distress tolerance-based treatment targeting fear of weight gain after smoking cessation and post-cessation emotional eating was feasible and acceptable relative to a smoking HE comparison condition, but changes should be considered before conducting a larger trial. Continued innovation in treatment development for weight-concerned smokers is needed.
Methylisothiazolinone in children’s nail polish

Isothiazolinones, preservatives including methylisothiazolinone (MI), methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI), benzisothiazolinone (BIT), and octylisothiazolinone (OIT), are notorious contact allergens. Pediatric dermatologists are familiar with these preservatives in personal care products, homemade slime recipes, and wet wipes. We present a novel source of MI declared in nail polish marketed to children.
6 – Orthosteric Drug Antagonism

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the blockade of agonist-induced response through interaction with receptors. Antagonism can be classified operationally, in terms of the effects of antagonists on agonist dose-response curves, and mechanistically, in terms of the molecular effects of the antagonist on the receptor protein. When both the agonist and antagonist compete for a common binding site, the antagonism is termed competitive. The antagonism is quantified by measuring the ratio of equiactive concentrations of agonist measured in the presence of and absence of the antagonist. The model of simple competitive antagonism predicts that the slope of the Schild regression should be unity. It is found that if the slope of the regression is not unity or if the regression is not linear, then the complete data set cannot be used to estimate the antagonist potency. The model of simple competitive antagonism predicts parallel shifts of agonist dose-response curves with no diminution of maxima. It is found that the kinetics of offset of the antagonist from the receptor can dictate whether surmountable or insurmountable antagonism is observed.
Neutron-Capture Element Abundances in Planetary Nebulae

Nebular spectroscopy is a valuable tool for assessing the production of heavy elements by slow neutron(n)-capture nucleosynthesis (the s-process). Several transitions of n-capture elements have been identified in planetary nebulae (PNe) in the last few years, with the aid of sensitive high-resolution near-infrared spectrometers. Combined with optical spectroscopy, the newly discovered near-infrared lines enable more accurate abundance determinations than previously possible, and provide access to elements that had not previously been studied in PNe or their progenitors. Neutron-capture elements have also been detected in PNe in the Sagittarius Dwarf galaxy and in the Magellanic Clouds. In this brief review, I discuss developments in observational studies of s-process enrichments in PNe, with an emphasis on the last five years, and note some open questions and preliminary trends.
Inventory of insectivorous bats on Mount Makiling, Philippines using echolocation call signatures and a new tunnel trap

The call signatures of sixteen Philippine insectivorous bat species are described, and used to inventory bats on Mount Makiling, Luzon. I compare these acoustic diversity data to those collected with mist nets, and a newly designed tunnel trap. The Rhinolophidae used calls with unique constant frequency components. Most vespertilionid calls could be identified to species based on call shape and minimum frequency, with the exception of those used by Pipistrellus spp. and Miniopterus schreibersii. The tunnel trap, mist nets, and the Anabat II detector recorded 22 species, including eight new records for Mount Makiling. Eighteen percent of the species were captured in mist nets, 68% were trapped, and 77% were detected acoustically. Twenty species were recorded either acoustically or with the trap. Two species were recorded exclusively with mist-nets, three with the tunnel trap, and four were only detected with the bat detector. Generally, bats possessing low intensity calls were not detected acoustically or captured in mist nets, but were captured in the tunnel trap. The tunnel trap captured most species flying below the canopy and the bat detector was effective for inventorying those flying above.
Standing Firmly by the Flag: Nebraska Territory and the Civil War, 1861–1867

Review of: "Standing Firmly by the Flag: Nebraska Territory and the Civil War, 1861–1867," by James E. Potter.