cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The social implications of embryo cryopreservation

Objective To summarize the existing literature regarding the social implications of embryo cryopreservation and outline areas in need of further study. Result(s) The potential social impact of oocyte cryopreservation has not been investigated. Embryo cryopreservation has been increasingly used to improve the cost-effectiveness of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and expand the options available to infertile couples, yet its widespread adoption has occurred more rapidly than our ability to study the social consequences for the couples and health professionals involved. For maintaining cryopreserved embryos, the existing literature is fragmented and incompletely explores the effects on an infertile couple's psychosocial health and personal relationships, their family planning strategies, or their preferences for the disposition of the embryos. Managing unclaimed embryos continues to create challenges for assisted reproduction professionals. Conclusion(s) We currently lack a thorough understanding of the numerous social implications of cryopreservation. Major areas for future research include the impact of stored embryos on couples' fertility intentions and psychosocial health, factors that affect couples' decisions about embryo disposition, strategies to minimize unclaimed embryos, and the consequences of oocyte/ovarian cryopreservation.
Megakaryocyte polyploidization is associated with decreased expression of polo‐like kinase (PLK)

Summary. Background: During differentiation, megakaryocytes (MK), the bone marrow precursors of circulating blood platelets, undergo polyploidization, repeated rounds of DNA replication without cell division. Mature normal MK may contain a DNA content of up to 128N, in contrast to normal diploid (2N) cells. The extent of polyploidy may influence the number of platelets produced by the MK. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating polyploidization could identify events involved in controlling both cell division and thrombopoiesis. Objective: We investigated the expression of several proteins involved in mitosis in cultured mouse MK, and tested the effect of expression on polyploidization. Methods: Western blot and immunofluorescent analyses were used to assess expression of cell cycle proteins in cultured MK. Populations of polyploidizing MK were separated on the basis of DNA content by flow cytometry. The gene encoding mouse polo-like kinase 1 (PLK-1) was introduced into MK by retroviral transduction, and its effects measured by flow cytometry. Results: Polyploid mouse MK expressed lower levels of two proteins, p55CDC and PLK-1, whose activity is necessary for cell cycle progression and completion of mitosis. Comparison of sorted 2N/4N and polyploid MK indicated that PLK-1 expression was absent in polyploid MK, while expression of other cell cycle proteins was similar in both populations. Forced expression of PLK-1 during MK differentiation was associated with decreased polyploidization. Conclusion: These experiments suggest that PLK-1 is an important regulator of polyploidization in differentiating MK.
Age at onset and long-term metabolic control affect height in type-1 diabetes mellitus.

Reduced height as a consequence of type-I-diabetes mellitus in childhood has been reported in many studies. However, it is still debated whether good metabolic control can normalize the growth rate. A total of 436 children (204 boys, 232 girls, mean age at diagnosis of diabetes 8.2±0.2 years) were followed at our outpatient diabetes centre. Z-scores for height were evaluated in relation to duration of diabetes, age at onset and long-term metabolic control. At diagnosis, height in children with diabetes was significantly above the reference population (+0.43± 0.09). Standardized height decreased during the subsequent course of diabetes. This likely represents a delay of growth, as the final height (chronological age >18 years, n = 144) was +0.27 ± 0.09. Growth reduction was more pronounced in patients diagnosed before the onset of puberty and final height in patients with a prepubertal onset of diabetes was significantly lower (+0.10 ± 0.13) compared to patients with a pubertal/postpubertal onset (+0.52 ± 0.14). Among patients with a prepubertal onset, the subgroup with “poor” metabolic control (long-term median HbA1c >7%) lost significantly more height compared to patients with “good” metabolic control.
Quantitation of sulfhydryl groups on erythrocytes in polycythemia vera.

The number of sulfhydryl groups on the surface of intact erythrocytes from patients with polycythemia vera is significantly less (34%) than those from control subjects. Sulfhydryl groups were measured indirectly by reversibly blocking-SH groups with the thiol reagent, 6,6′-dithiodinicotinic acid, which forms stable mixed disulfides on the surface of erythrocytes. Glutathione was used to break the disulfides and release thione into the supernatant. Thione was then quantitated spectrophotometrically.
An Update on Pruritus Associated With CKD

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease is increasing worldwide. Despite improvements in dialysis methods, including the development of novel biocompatible membranes and ultrapure dialysate, CKD-associated pruritus remains a common and significant public health issue. Not only does this distressing symptom profoundly impact on quality of life and sleep, recent evidence showed that pruritus also was associated with poor patient outcome. Nonetheless, nephrologists and other health care professionals often fail to recognize and adequately address the pruritus associated with CKD. The pathophysiological mechanism of CKD-associated pruritus is poorly defined, and, as a result, the development of specific therapies has proved to be a challenge. The purpose of this review is to highlight the importance of this neglected topic by providing an overview of recent epidemiological studies, outcomes data, proposed pathophysiological mechanisms, and emerging treatment options.
Online pathfinders: Toward an experience‐centered model

Purpose – Looks at the pathfinder approach to library instruction, which was developed in the 1960s by Patricia Knapp. Knapp's system focused, not on the simple provision of answers to questions, but on the teaching of the effective use of the library and its resources– in other words, on the finding of one's “way” in the library. Design/methodology/approach – A traditional theoretical model for the creation and evaluation of pathfinders (subject research guides) can be identified through study of the literature. This model, expressed in the design criteria of consistency, selectivity, transparency and accessibility, sprang from an impulse to serve the inexperienced user by emulating or facilitating the user's search process. Findings – A gap in this model can be detected, in the form of a missing multi‐dimensional picture of the user and the user's experience of the information service via the pathfinder. In an attempt to fill the gap, literature examining information behavior, the search process, the design of user‐centered services, and the information retrieval interaction is discussed. Originality/value – An experience‐centered model for online research guide design and evaluation is derived from the findings.
Determination of copper at surface-modified electrodes: Effects of competitive binding and electrode size

Abstract Electrodes modified with electropolymerized films of [Ru(v-bpy)3]2+ into which Xylenol orange, Eriochrome cyanine R, Nitroso R salt or Bathocuproine sulfonate were incorporated by ion exchange can be used to determine copper in solution with high sensitivity, excellent linearity and a dynamic range of over two orders of magnitude. The presence of iron, cobalt, nickel, chloride or bromide does not alter the response measurably. Oxalate anions produce a steady increase in the current measured at the potential for oxidation of the copper complexes. The presence of phosphate anions in the preconcentration solution also gives rise to an enhanced signal. The use of modified microelectrodes (75 μm diameter) or ultramicroelectrodes (5 μm diameter) results in an enhancement in the sensitivity, although a saturation response is obtained for copperconcentrations above 6 × 10−6M. Ultramicroelectrodes modified with Bathocuproine sulfonate could be used in multiple determinations with good reproducibility (±9%) and without the need for remodification of the electrode surface.
Endovascular thoracic aortic aneurysm repair: evaluating the utility of intravascular ultrasound measurements.

Purpose To compare intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and computed tomography (CT) measurements of aortic diameter for the determination of stent-graft sizes used in thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR). Methods A retrospective review was conducted of 71 IVUS measurements performed in 33 patients (17 men; mean age 69 years) undergoing endovascular repair for thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). For comparison, an inanimate model of the aortic arch and the great vessels was created; 5 independent operators took multiple blinded IVUS measurements. Measurement accuracy is presented as the mean and coefficient of variance in percent. Results In 47 (66%) of the 71 clinical measurements, IVUS yielded a value that was larger than the CT scan measurement; in 8 (11%), the difference was at least 5 mm. In the model, CT centerline measurements were accurate within a mean 0.3 mm (0.6%) of the actual diameter; IVUS measurements were accurate within a mean 1.4 mm (2.8%). Centerline IVUS measurements increased the accuracy to within 0.8 mm (1.8%) of the actual diameter. Conclusion IVUS measurements of the thoracic aorta were larger than CT measurements 66% of the time. However, there are 2 concerns with IVUS: off-center measurements distort the image and tangential measurements on a curve do not reflect a true centerline diameter. Thus, off-center IVUS measurements or those taken in the tortuous portion of the aorta may not be as accurate as centerline CT measurements.
The TCR Cβ FG Loop Regulates αβ T Cell Development

The TCRβ chain constant domain contains an unusually elongated, solvent-exposed FG loop. This structural element forms one component of an αβ TCR cavity against which CD3eγ may abut to facilitate Ag-specific signaling. Consistent with this notion, in the present study we show that N15αβ TCR transfectants expressing a FG loop-deleted chain (βΔFG) stimulate less tyrosine protein phosphorylation than those bearing a wild-type β-chain (βwt) upon TCR cross-linking. Furthermore, coimmunoprecipitation studies suggest a weakened association between the CD3eγ heterodimer and the β-chain in TCR complexes containing the βΔFG variant. To further investigate the biologic role of the Cβ FG loop in development, we competitively reconstituted the thymus of Ly5 congenic or RAG-2−/− mice using bone marrow cells from βwt or βΔFG transgenic C57BL/6 (B6) mice. Both βwt and βΔFG precursor cells generate thymocytes representative of all maturational stages. However, βΔFG-expressing thymocytes dominate during subsequent development, resulting in an excess of βΔFG-expressing peripheral T cells with reduced proliferative and cytokine production abilities upon TCR stimulation. Collectively, our results show that the unique Cβ FG loop appendage primarily controls αβ T cell development through selection processes.
In-hospital and long-term results of stent deployment compared with balloon angioplasty for treatment of narrowing at the saphenous vein graft distal anastomosis site.

Disease at the distal anastomosis site of saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) has been successfully treated with balloon angioplasty, with a lower restenosis rate than at sites of the aortoostial or proximal portion of the SVG. The role of stents for these lesions has not been well defined. To compare the in-hospital and long-term outcome of patients who underwent treatment at this site by either balloon angioplasty or tubular stent implantation, we studied 182 consecutive patients who underwent balloon angioplasty and 77 patients who underwent stenting between January 1994 and August 1997. Baseline clinical characteristics for both groups were similar. Angiographically, SVG stenoses treated with stents were older, longer in lesion length, and more restenotic. The in-hospital outcome was similar for both groups, with 98% procedural success rates and 1% major ischemic complications. Long-term follow-up was obtained for 93% of the patients, for an average of 17 ± 14 months. The mortality rates were similar for patients who underwent balloon angioplasty and stenting (11.6% vs 13%, p = NS). The Q-wave myocardial infarction rates were also similar (1% vs 0%, p = NS). There was a trend toward a higher rate of target lesion revascularization in the balloon angioplasty group (25% vs 14%, p = 0.058). We conclude that percutaneous revascularization of the SVG distal anastomosis site by either balloon angioplasty or stenting can be performed with a high rate of procedural success and favorable in-hospital and long-term outcomes. Stent deployment may further improve the long-term outcome of these patients by reducing the need for repeat revascularization.
Improving Genetic Algorithm Efficiency with an Artificial Neural Network for Optimization of Low Reynolds Number Airfoils

In this paper, we employ a genetic algorithm (GA) for shape optimization of low Reynolds number airfoils for generating maximum lift for Micro-Air-Vehicle (MAV) applications. The computational efficiency of GA is significantly enhanced with an artificial neural network (ANN). The commercially available software FLUENT is used for calculation of the flow field. It is shown that the combined GA/ANN optimization technique is capable of accurately and efficiently finding globally optimal airfoils.
Rambo II: rapidly reconfigurable atomic memory for dynamic networks

This paper presents a new algorithm implementing reconfigurable atomic read/write memory for highly dynamic environments. The original RAMBO algorithm, recently developed by Lynch and Shvartsman [15, 16], guarantees atomicity for arbitrary patterns of asynchrony, message loss, and node crashes. RAMBO II implements a different approach to establishing new configurations: instead of operating sequentially, the new algorithm reconfigures aggressively, transferring information from old configurations to new configurations in parallel. This improvement substantially reduces the time to establish a new configuration and to remove obsolete configurations. This, in turn, substantially increases fault tolerance and reduces the latency of read/write operations when the network is unstable or reconfiguration is bursty. This paper presents RAMBO II ,a correctness proof, and a conditional analysis of its performance. Preliminary empirical studies illustrate the advantages of the new algorithm.
SpiderRadio: A Cognitive Radio Implementation Using IEEE 802.11 Components

In this paper, we present SpiderRadio, a software defined cognitive radio (CR) prototype for dynamic spectrum access (DSA) networking. The medium access control (MAC) layer of SpiderRadio is implemented in software on top of commodity IEEE 802.11a/b/g hardware. However, the proposed architecture and implementation are applicable to other spectrum bands as well. We also present a dynamic spectrum sensing methodology for primary incumbent detection. The proposed method is based on observing the PHY errors, received signal strength and statistical model building. For coordination among radio nodes, synchronization and fast channel switching, we present new communication protocols, design extended management frame structure and modify the hardware abstraction layer. Several fundamental tradeoffs (e.g., complexity versus network performance) to be considered during a dynamic spectrum access radio network prototype implementation are also discussed in detail. To demonstrate the practical capabilities of the proposed SpiderRadio prototype, we also present various testbed experimental measurement results.
2‐Undecanone, a constituent of the glandular trichomes of Lycopersicon hirsutum f. glabratum: Effects on Heliothis zea and Manduca sexta growth and survival

The effects of 2-undecanone, a compound found in the glandular trichomes of the wild tomato, Lycopersicon hirsutum f. glabratum C. H. Mull, PI 134417, on the larvae of Heliothis zea (Boddie) and Manduca sexta (L.) were studied by rearing the larvae on artificial diets containing this chemical. 2-Undecanone increased larval mortality of H. zea in the first 48 h when combined with 2-tridecanone, but not alone, and caused deformity and mortality of H. zea pupae both alone and in combination with 2-tridecanone. 2-Undecanone had no effect on M. sexta larvae or pupae. Potential implications of these findings for insect pest management are discussed. RESUME 2-Undecanone, un element dans les extremites des poils glandulaires de Lycopersicon hirsutum f. glabratum: Effets sur la croissance et la survivance de Heliothis zea et Manduca sexta. Le 2-undecanone est une methyle cetone qui se trouve avec le 2-tridecanone dans les extremites des poils glandulaires des feuilles de la tomate sauvage: Lycopersicon hirsutum f. glabratum C. H. Mull, PI 134417. Notre etude entreprendait a rechercher le rile du 2-undecanone dans la resistance de cette plante a Heliothis zea et Manduca sexta. Les produits chimiques synthetiques s'etaient incorpores en diete artificielle sur laquelle les insectes ont eleves. Le 2-undecanone a cause peu de mortalite des larves de H. zea sauf quand il soit combine avec le 2-tridecanone, dans quel cas on trouve, dans les premiers 48 heures, une augmentation de mortalite, en comparaison au 2-tridecanone seul. Aussi le 2-undecanone a cause les difformites des nymphes de H. zea et la mortalite dans I'etage de nymphe, toutes les deux seul et en combinaison avec le 2-tridecanone. En contrast, le 2-undecanone n'a pas produit un effet sur les larves ou nymphes de M. sexta. L'elevage selective des lignes de tomates de niveau plus eleve de 2-undecanone pourrait utile pour la lutte contre le H. zea, En combinaison avec des niveaux eleves du 2-tridecanone, c'est possible de reduire les populations nuisibles des larves. II peut aussi reduire le nombre des lepidopteres adultes produit dans la recolte de tomate. Toutefois, il ne serait pas probablement de valeur dans la lutte contre le M. sexta.
On the proof of correctness of a calendar program

A formal specification is given for a simple calendar program, and the derivation and proof of correctness of the program are sketched. The specification is easy to understand, and its correctness is manifest to humans.
Pension Decisions in a Changing Economy Gender, Structure, and Choice

Objectives. As responsibility for financial security in retirement becomes more individualized, understanding the distribution and determinants of savings behavior grows in importance. Employed men and women often gain access to their pension assets when they change jobs. In this study gender differences in pre-retirement access to and disposition of accumulated pension assets are examined. Methods. The authors used data from the Health and Retirement Study to model pension participation, disposition of pension assets, and use of cash settlements derived from a pension plan in a previous job. Logit models provided estimates of gender differences in access to pensions and the preservation of pension funds for retirement. Results. Women were less likely to have participated in employer-sponsored pension plans; more likely to cash out accumulated pension assets when they changed jobs; and, when job changes occurred at relatively young ages, equally likely to spend the settlement. However, by their late 40s, women were more likely to save the settlement, a net gender difference that increased with age at which the settlement was received. Discussion. The structure of employment compensation continues to place women at a disadvantage. Gender differences in earnings and fringe benefits not only affect current financial status, but also cast a shadow over future financial security. Although the gender gap in pension coverage has been reduced, women with pensions have access to lower benefits and less in accumulated assets. As these continuing deficits are addressed, enhancing women's tendency to save pension assets for retirement can help them build financial security.
An object oriented library to manage the collection of Schittkowski test problems for nonlinear optimization

This paper describes a C++ library that allows handling these test problems in an object-oriented manner without replacing the original Fortran code. The class includes wrappers for evaluating the functions defining each problem, in addition to methods that allow the user to query whether certain features are present in a given test problem. This makes it possible to classify and select subsets of the problems according to criteria specific for the code being tested.
Analysis of disfluent repetitions in spontaneous speech recognition

In this paper, we investigate the effect of disfluent repetitions in spontaneous speech recognition. We characterize the repetition errors in an automatic speech recognition framework using repetition word error rate (RWER). The problem is addressed by both building classifiers based on acoustic-prosodic features and a multiword model for modeling repetitions. We also analyze the repetition word error rate for different acoustic and language models in the Fisher conversational speech corpus. The classifier approach is not promising on recognizer output and generates a high degree of false alarms. The multiword approach to modeling the most frequent function word repetitions results in an absolute RWER reduction of 1.26% and a significant absolute WER reduction of 2.0% on already well trained acoustic and language models. This corresponds to a relative RWER improvement of 75.9%.
SmartNav: A rule-free fuzzy approach to rover navigation

This paper introduces the basic concepts of the SmartNav rule-free fuzzy approach to safe rover navigation through hazardous natural terrain. This novel “rule-free” approach reduces the complexity in rover navigation where many alternative paths must be evaluated and compared. The SmartNav rover navigation architecture integrates goal attainment with both local and regional hazard avoidance. Goal and safety preference factors differentiate between preferred and unpreferred terrain sectors. The goal-preference factor is used to make sector evaluation based on the sector orientation relative to the designated goal position. The safety-preference factors are used to make sector evaluations on the basis of the sector local and regional hazards. These sector evaluations are blended to find the effective preference factor for each sector. The preference factors of all sectors are then compared to choose the heading command for the rover. The rover speed command is also computed based on the goal distance and safety-preference factor of the chosen sector. The above navigation steps are continuously repeated throughout the rover motion. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the basic concepts introduced in this paper, and tests on a commercial rover are planned. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Need for Breast Cancer Screening in Women Undergoing Elective Breast Surgery: An Assessment of Risk and Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Young Women

Background: Given the 11% lifetime risk of breast cancer and increasing popularity of elective breast surgery, the role of preoperative screening begs further investigation. There are currently no guidelines that indicate which women younger than 40 years of age should be screened preoperatively. Objectives: A meta-analysis of studies regarding the odds ratio (OR) and relative risk ratio for breast cancer risk factors in women younger than 40 was completed. Methods: Of a total of 240 results in the PubMed database for articles referencing breast cancer risk factors in young women, eight were selected for review. A total of 5381 patients were included in the studies in this meta-analysis; 26 risk factors were identified. A meta-analysis was performed to determine the OR of each specific risk factor, with a 95% confidence interval. Results: The most significant risk factors were having a sister with breast cancer (OR, 11.66), having a first-degree relative with breast cancer (OR, 2.66), having a mother with breast cancer (OR, 2.31), never having breastfed (OR, 1.77), and having undergone a breast biopsy (OR, 1.66). From these data, the authors developed a clinical questionnaire to estimate the risk of breast cancer in young women. In addition, an algorithm was developed for preoperative breast cancer screening for women of all ages undergoing elective breast procedures. Conclusions: For women younger than 40, the preoperative risk assessment involves two steps. First, the possibility of existing breast cancer should be evaluated with a preoperative screening survey. Second, the patient’s risk for future development of cancer should be assessed, with a focus on genetic mutations. Women older than 40 years of age should be stratified to receive either a preoperative mammogram or MRI. The clinical questionnaire and preoperative screening algorithm provide an evidence-based guideline on which to base the discussion with patients regarding preoperative breast cancer screening.
Background Stress Inventory: Developing a Measure of Understudied Stress.

Background stress is an understudied source of stress that involves both ambient stress and daily hassles upon which new stressors are superimposed. To date, an accurate measure of the background stress construct has not been available. We developed the Background Stress Inventory, a 25-item self-report measure that asks respondents to indicate how distressed they have felt over the past month and the majority of the past year across five domains: financial, occupation, environment, health and social. Seven hundred seventy-two participants completed the paper-and-pencil measure; the sample was randomly split into two separate subsamples for analyses. Exploratory factor analysis suggested five factors corresponding to these domains, and confirmatory factor analysis showed acceptable global fit (X2(255) = 456.47, comparative fit index = 0.94, root mean square error of approximation = 0.045). Cronbach's alpha (0.89) indicated good internal reliability. Construct validity analyses showed significant positive relationships with measures of perceived stressfulness (r = 0.62) and daily hassles (0.41), p's < 0.01. Depressive symptoms (0.62) and basal blood pressure (0.21) were both significantly associated with background stress, p's < 0.01. The importance of the proposed measure is reflected in the limited research base on the impact of background stress. Systematic investigation of this measure will provide insight into this understudied form of chronic stress and its potential influence on both psychological and physical endpoints. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recent Developments and Future Directions of Alloimmunization to Transfused Blood Products

Monitoring and managing alloimmunization are among the primary functions of the clinical transfusion medicine laboratory. However, despite hundreds of different blood group antigens that vary from person to person, only a minority of transfusion recipients become alloimmunized. Currently, there are no tests that predict which patients will become alloimmunized. Moreover, there are no therapeutic interventions to prevent alloimmunization (outside of RhD immune globulin) besides phenotypic matching. Understanding the biologic factors that regulate alloimmunization may allow the generation of clinical tests with predictive capabilities and provide a rational basis for developing therapeutic interventions. This article summarizes recent advances in understanding alloimmunization, with a focus of identifying future directions in laboratory testing and management of transfusion. In addition to analyzing humoral alloimmunization, potential extensions of transfusion medicine to sequelae of cellular immunization are explored.
Changes in riparian plant communities due to a canal barrier traversing ephemeral stream channels in the Sonoran Desert

The Central Arizona Project (CAP) is a large canal system that traverses hundreds of ephemeral stream channels in the Sonoran Desert. This longitudinal barrier alters flow during runoff events, causing water to pond behind the canal's wall. We asked: How has riparian vegetation of the ephemeral streams changed over the course of 35 years in response to canal construction? We compared field data (vegetation volume, woody plant stem density and size, and herbaceous cover) collected in distinct zones located upstream and downstream of the canal to unaltered controls. By ponding water and inducing sedimentation of fine particles, the canal has created areas that support dense vegetation. The wettest zone has the greatest vegetation volume and plant height, and supports densities of Prosopis velutina that are six times greater than in the control zone. Larrea tridentata and other desert shrubs are displaced to the border of the wettest zone, but have greater height and stem diameter than typically occur in the desert owing to increased frequency of soil wetting in the canal-associated anthropogenic-floodplain. This research aids in understanding the impacts of canal barriers on desert riparian vegetation, and can be used to predict future outcomes of proposed canals in desert environments.
What Does This Retina Examination Show

A 50-year-old man was evaluated for a 5-month history of blurry vision. He had been diagnosed with the metabolic syndrome many years previously but has not seen his physician in years. He reported no current use of medications. On examination, he had a body mass index of 30.6 and a blood pressure of 160/102 mmHg. A dilated examination of the retina is shown in the Figure. Quiz at jama.com Figure. Left, Fundus photograph of the right eye. Right, Fundus photograph of the left eye.
Exploring empowerment within the Gullah Geechee cultural heritage corridor: implications for heritage tourism development in the Lowcountry

While scholarship on the Gullah Geechee (GG) people has been extensive, little research has examined heritage tourism's potential to empower or disempower the GG. In an attempt to shed light on this, the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor (GGCHC) was chosen as a case-study site because of its 2006 designation by Congress to protect and promote the unique attributes of the GG's cultural heritage. Qualitative interviews were conducted to unearth how heritage tourism was psychologically, socially, politically and economically empowering or disempowering the GG. The interviews described heritage tourism as having both the potential to be a positive force for good, as well as destructive. Specific positive examples of empowerment discussed were increased pride in being GG, tourism providing opportunities for community members to come together around certain initiatives such as the Sweetgrass Basket Festival, tourism being a ‘carrot’ to clear heirs’ property issues, and the many economic opportunities as...
Impact of Race on Interstate Highway Planning: A Mixed Methods Examination of Interstate Road Alignments

A study through quantitative case selection of interstate highway road alignments throughout the United States as they relate to the racial composition of the tracts in 1960 with additional qualitative studying of areas with abnormal distribution of road placement.
A Simplified Process for the Manufacture of Imagabalin Hydrochloride (PD-0332334), an α2δ-Ligand for the Treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder

The development of a highly efficient two-step process for the manufacture of the α2δ-ligand imagabalin hydrochloride 1 is described in 50% overall yield from (R)-3-methylhexanoic acid 2. Key aspec...
Abstract 4743: Exosomes in motion: Visualizing cancer metastasis via the Synaptotagmin C2B domain

Exosomes play pivotal roles in intercellular communication and cancer progression. Recent findings have shown exosomes to incite proangiogenesis and prepare lymph nodes as remote niches for accumulation and migration of melanoma cells. Exosomes present a highly curved morphology with a size range of ∼30-100 nm that is distinct from other lipid vesicles. Furthermore, exosomes have the potential as a general metastasis biomarker since their increased secretion in the peripheral blood has been correlated with cancer metastasis. Since aqueous suspensions of exosomes cannot be seen by conventional optical methods, we hypothesized that a molecular probe that binds to exosomes could be a novel tool for detecting these vesicles. We aim to develop a minimally-invasive diagnostic tool to detect and measure secreted exosomes as biomarkers of cancer metastasis that may help clinicians and patients decide on an appropriate therapeutic action. Taking a cue from nature and using solid phase ‘Click’ chemistry as a technique for peptide modification, we created a fluorophore-tagged cyclic peptide based on the membrane penetrating C2B domain of Synaptotagmin I. We investigated the peptide-lipid interactions using synthetic liposomes as preliminary models of exosomes through a combination of spectroscopic techniques. We found that the peptide probe was selective for highly curved liposomes (d 100 nm). We tested blood plasma samples from rat models to find out if our preliminary findings would translate to the detection of exosomes. Our results showed that blood plasma treated with the peptide probe showed fluorescence intensity that was remarkably higher than the untreated peptide, which indicated binding to exosomes. Furthermore, we used a real time nanoparticle tracking analysis system to visualize the exosomes in a dynamic and physiologically-relevant medium. The peptide-treated exosomes were detected as fast-moving, fluorescent particles even in the complex matrix of blood plasma. This technique provided us with a platform to study the size distribution and concentration of exosomes in blood plasma. We have created a peptide probe that selectively binds to exosomes from an animal model. The investigation of the exosome binding property of this probe on clinically relevant samples is ongoing. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4743. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4743
Simulation of the Dynamic and Static Characteristics of Water Hydraulic Piloted Relief Valve

Combined with the physical and chemical characteristics of raw water and the typical structure of two stage relief valve,the key technical problems existing in this type of valve when using raw water instead of mineral oil were analyzed.A novel water hydraulic piloted relief valve with two-stage throttle was designed.To solve its key technical problems,new structures were adopted in this relief valve,such as setting a fixed damper at the inlet and using a two-stage throttle in the main valve to reduce cavitation erosion,adding a assembled seal at the piston of the main valve to prevent leakage and wire drawing.The static characteristics of the novel relief valve were analyzed.The simulation model of the dynamic characteristics for the relief valve was established on AMESim,influence of some parameters on the dynamic characteristics of the relief valve was invesigated.
Pore Water Physicochemical Constraints on the Endangered Clubshell Mussel, Pleurobema clava

Freshwater mussels are in decline worldwide, but it remains challenging to link specific stressors to mussel declines. The clubshell mussel (Pleurobema clava) is a federally endangered species that spends most of its life completely buried beneath stream sediments. We tested the hypothesis that clubshell’s decline stems, in part, from low pore water dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations and toxic ammonia (NH3) levels, resulting from sedimentation of interstitial pore spaces. We measured pore water DO, NH3, interstitial sedimentation rates, and sediment organic matter content in the Tippecanoe River (Indiana, USA) at sites that spanned a range of clubshell populations, including two sites devoid of clubshell. We found little evidence for pore water NH3 stress, but pore water DO generally declined with clubshell population and dipped below stress thresholds more frequently at non-clubshell sites than at sites with clubshell. In addition, interstitial sedimentation rates generally increased as clubshell popul...
Application of improved TOPSIS in the optimal selection of gas field exploitation schemes

Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution(TOPSIS) is introduced.Improved Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution can be used for optimizing gas field exploitation schemes.It considers not only the effect of exploitation,advanced nature of technology,rationality of economy,and so on,but also introduces best solution,which provides scientific theory foundation for decision-making,the problem that how to identify strengths and weaknesses when two solutions have same closeness to the best solution is resolved.
A model for the hierarchical structure of the human epidermal cornified cell envelope.

The epidermal cornified cell envelope (CE) is a 15 nm thick layer of highly insoluble protein that is assembled on the intracellular surface of the cell membrane during terminal differentiation, and comprises about 10% of the mass of the cornified dead layers of the tissue. The CE consists of a complex amalgam of several known proteins that are crosslinked by isodipeptide bonds formed by the action of transglutaminases, but little is known about their order of accretion during CE assembly, or how they are crosslinked. In this paper, CEs purified from human foreskin epidermis were examined by immunogold electron microscopy before and after digestion with proteases.The mass fractions of the proteins remaining in CE remnants during digestion were estimated from the amino acid compositions by mathematical modelling. Together, the data support a new model for the complex hierachical structure of the CE. The cytoplasmic surface of intact purified CEs consists of filaggrin, loricrin, SPRs and keratin intermediate filaments. The bulk of the CE consists of a mixture of loricrin (75%) and SPRs (5%). Following removal of most of these, the novel protein elafin is exposed, which contributes about 6% of CE mass. The protein material on the inner CE 'core' adjacent or attached to the lipid envelope consists of cystatin alpha (5%), involucrin (2%), keratin filaments (3%) and possibly other as yet unidentified protein(s)(2-5%). This model supports but considerably extends an earlier extant hypotheis for CE structure, and thus provides the basis for further detailed biochemical and ultra-structural studies.
Functional scene element recognition for video scene analysis

We present a method to detect and recognize functional scene elements in video scenes. A functional scene element is a location or object that is primarily defined by its specific function or purpose, rather than its appearance or shape. Our method combines techniques from video scene analysis with functional recognition to decompose a video scene into its functional elements such as parking spots, building entrances, roads and sidewalks. Existing techniques for functional object recognition in video [2,3] are designed for high-resolution video with little clutter and constrained situations, while our approach is designed for real-world video surveillance scenes where there are many movers, and detection and tracking can be poor because of low resolution and frame rates. Video scene analysis methods are focused on motion pattern learning and anomaly detection [4][8][11][12][13][14], whereas we take a recognition approach and develop motion pattern models for specific functional categories. The movements of objects such as vehicles and pedestrians are exploited to detect and classify functional scene elements in an online process that probabilistically accumulates evidence over many tracks to compensate for noisy and partial observations. Results are shown on simulated and real data of complex, busy scenes containing multiple instances of different functional objects. The detected elements are then used to demonstrate that building activity profiles can be extracted and used to distinguish different types of buildings.
PATTERNS OF ICE ACCUMULATION AND FOREST DISTURBANCE DURING TWO ICE STORMS IN SOUTHWESTERN VIRGINIA

Major ice storms deposit heavy loads of freezing rain on trees, causing catastrophic forest disturbance in eastern North America. During 1994, two ice storms struck southwestern Virginia within a three-week period. Heavy ice deposition occurred during each storm when warm, moist air was advected over a shallow subfreezing layer at the surface. Cold-air damming helped trap the cold surface air, as is typical for ice storms in parts of the Appalachians and Piedmont. Heaviest forest damage occurred on mountain slopes facing south and east. Ice damage in these topographic positions removed approximately 30% to 60% of total basal area and created large canopy openings. Several processes may have contributed to topographic variations in ice accretion, including orographic effects on rainfall and influences of wind on twig surface and raindrop thermodynamics. [Key words: ice storms, freezing rain, forest disturbance, Virginia, Appalachian Mountains.]
Palladium dendron encapsulated nanoparticles grown from MCM-41 and SBA-15

The synthesis and characterization of palladium nanoparticles templated in melamine-based dendrons grown from ordered mesoporous silica (OMS) are reported. The metal complexation and reduction are monitored by UV-vis spectroscopy which shows that the palladium loading can be varied from 1 wt% to 3 wt%. The STEM images show the formation of uniformly sized palladium particles approximately 2 nanometers in size within the OMS pores. In contrast to prior work with dendrimers in solution where G4 or higher generation moieties were needed here it is shown that highly uniform nanoparticles can be formed in small dendron fragments, i.e. G2. The accessibility of both the metal sites and dendron ligand sites was demonstrated by catalytic probe reactions and CO2 uptake experiments. The TOF values for the Heck reaction vary from 160 to 239 mmol iodobenzene consumed per mmol Pd demonstrating that the encapsulated palladium particles are catalytically active. The initial rate for the nitroaldol (Henry) reaction decreases from 14.9 to 7.3 mmol aldehyde consumed per g catalyst per h but nonetheless shows that the amine sites are catalytically active in the palladium-containing samples. Carbon dioxide uptake measurements showed minimal perturbations to the CO2 uptake after palladium particle formation. These hybrid materials have potential uses in reactions where both the organic and metal center can be used sequentially such as cascade reactions.
Low Anterior Resection

Low anterior resection is performed for diseases of the sigmoid colon: high- and mid-rectal lesions down to 6 cm from the anal verge. This chapter describes indications, essential steps, variations, and complications of this procedure. It provides a detailed template operative note for the procedure.
Self-Actuating 3D Printed Packaging for Deployable Antennas

In this paper we demonstrate the ability to use low-cost 3D printers to manufacture an ambulatory antenna at Ka bands with shape memory polymers to be used in an origami array. A focus on the manufacturing process and limitations is discussed. The antenna is metalized on the 3D printed dielectric substrate (polylactic acid) using direct print additive manufacturing to deposit a single part silver epoxy paste using a 152.4 µm syringe needle. After folding the substrate in a space saving state, a 60 °C heat source returns the shape memory polymer back to its printed permanently stored state. This demonstrates the possibilities of integrating shape memory polymers into packaging for the first time, while enabling future applications with heatsinks, origami meta-materials, and additional reactive and compact structures.
Sex work and adult prostitution: From entry to exit

Sex work, better known as prostitution, has been viewed throughout American history as a moral, legal, and social problem as early as the temperance movement of the 1880s. Since 1910, pimps, customers, and women who sold sex could be punished under the Mann Act (Conant, 1996), thus solidifying sex work as a social and moral evil in the USA (Farley, 2004; Till & Gurin, 1992). This and other anti-prostitution laws drove prostitution underground, and arguably made conditions worse for persons who sell sex—particularly poor and vulnerable communities of color (Musheno & Seeley, 1986; Sanders, O’Neill, & Pitcher, 2009). Today, prostitution costs major metropolitan cities upwards of $6–9 million annually to criminalize buyers and sellers (Allard & Herbon, 2003; Ward, 2012).ABSTRACTSex work and adult prostitution are complex social problems addressed by the U.S. criminal justice system. Given the rise of sex trafficking and internet-facilitated sexual exchanges, there has been increased attention on sex work and how to best address it. The existence of varied sexual markets can lead to policy approaches that do not fully address its complexity, often harming the most vulnerable women who engage in prostitution. This chapter defines several types of commercial sex, describes adult prostitution from entry to exit, and presents an analysis of three intervention approaches designed to help women exit prostitution.
Structural Transformation of Birnessite by Fulvic Acid under Anoxic Conditions.

The structure and Mn(III) concentration of birnessite dictate its reactivity and can be changed by birnessite partial reduction, but effects of pH and reductant/birnessite ratios on the changes by reduction remain unclear. We found that the two factors strongly affect the structure of birnessite (δ-MnO2) and its Mn(III) content during its reduction by fulvic acid (FA) at pH 4–8 and FA/solid mass ratios of 0.01–10 under anoxic conditions over 600 h. During the reduction, the structure of δ-MnO2 is increasingly accumulated with both Mn(III) and Mn(II) but much more with Mn(III) at pH 8, whereas the accumulated Mn is mainly Mn(II) with little Mn(III) at pH 4 and 6. Mn(III) accumulation, either in layers or over vacancies, is stronger at higher FA/solid ratios. At FA/solid ratios ≥1 and pH 6 and 8, additional hausmannite and MnOOH phases form. The altered birnessite favorably adsorbs FA because of the structural accumulation of Mn(II, III). Like during microbially mediated oxidative precipitation of birnessit...
An innate circuit for object craving.

Using a series of functional manipulation and in vivo recording tools, Park et al. identify a pathway from medial preoptic CaMKIIα-expressing neurons to the ventral periaqueductal gray that mediates object craving and prey hunting.