cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring on sleep in healthy, normotensive men and women.

OBJECTIVES To determine the effect of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) on sleep quality among healthy adults and to explore possible effect modification by demographics. METHODS We examined data from 192 relatively healthy young (median age: 31; 33% men, 18% with clinic BP >130/80 mmHg) participants in an observational study of sleep and arterial stiffness. Demographic/health questionnaires were completed. A wrist-based accelerometer assessed sleep for seven nights, and sleep duration, wakefulness after sleep onset (WASO), fragmentation (physical restlessness), midpoint, and efficiency were estimated. ABPM was conducted for one 36-h period, including one actigraphy night. RESULTS Within-subject comparisons indicated that WASO and fragmentation were higher, midpoint was later, and efficiency was lower on the ABPM night (Ps < 0.001-0.038). Neither age nor sex moderated these associations. Among older adults, a later midpoint and worse fragmentation were observed with ABPM (Ps = 0.002-0.010). There was also a main effect of sex: men demonstrated shorter sleep duration, greater WASO and fragmentation, and less efficiency than women (Ps = 0.002-0.046). With ABPM, women had worse fragmentation and a later midpoint (Ps = 0.002-0.049); for men, WASO and fragmentation were worse (Ps = 0.003-0.023). Importantly, this study does not address whether the effect of wearing ABPM on sleep in turn affects BP during sleep. CONCLUSIONS ABPM appears to modestly disturb actigraphy-assessed sleep among healthy adults. Researchers and clinicians should consider the downstream effects of performing ABPM and whether these effects are more pronounced in those who typically experience sleep disturbance.
Characterization and complete genome sequence of Privateer, a highly prolate Proteus mirabilis podophage

The Gram-negative bacterium Proteus mirabilis causes a large proportion of catheter-associated urinary tract infections, which are among the world's most common nosocomial infections. Here, we characterize P. mirabilis bacteriophage Privateer, a prolate podophage of the C3 morphotype isolated from Texas wastewater treatment plant activated sludge. Basic characterization assays demonstrated Privateer has a latent period of ~40 min and average burst size around 140. In the 90.7 kb Privateer genome, 43 functions were assigned for the 144 predicted protein-coding genes. Genes encoding DNA replication proteins, DNA modification proteins, four tRNAs, lysis proteins, and structural proteins were identified. Cesium-gradient purified Privateer particles analyzed via LC-MS/MS verified the presence of several predicted structural proteins, including a longer, minor capsid protein apparently produced by translational frameshift. Comparative analysis demonstrated Privateer shares 83% nucleotide similarity with Cronobacter phage vB_CsaP_009, but low nucleotide similarity with other known phages. Predicted structural proteins in Privateer appear to have evolutionary relationships with other prolate podophages, in particular the Kuraviruses.
Design and Characterization of ALD-Based Overcoats for Supported Metal Nanoparticle Catalysts

Supported metal nanoparticle (SMN) catalysts are enormously crucial for many catalytic applications. However, catalyst deactivation, caused by sintering and coke formation, is a ubiquitous problem ...
Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibition as Monotherapy or in Combination With Chemotherapy in Metastatic ROS1-Rearranged Lung Cancers.

Abstract Introduction ROS1 fusions are oncogenic drivers in 1% to 3% of NSCLCs. The activity of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy (chemotherapy with ICI [chemo-ICI]) in these tumors and their immunophenotype have not been systematically described. Methods In this multi-institutional retrospective study, tumor programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and tumor mutational burden (TMB) were evaluated in patients with ROS1-rearranged NSCLC. Time-to-treatment discontinuation (TTD) and objective response rate (ORR) (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors [RECIST] version 1.1) were calculated for patients treated with ICI or chemo-ICI in the metastatic setting. Results A total of 184 patients were identified. Among 146 assessable cases, PD-L1 expression was less than 1% in 60 (41%), 1% to 49% in 35 (24%), and greater than or equal to 50% in 51 tumors (35%). Of 100 (92%) TMB-assessable tumors, 92 had less than 10 mutations per megabase. TMB was significantly lower for ROS1-rearranged tumors (n = 97) compared with tumors with EGFR (n = 1250) or KRAS alterations (n = 1653) and all other NSCLC tumors (n = 2753) evaluated with Memorial Sloan Kettering-Integrated Mutation Profiling of Actionable Cancer Targets (median TMB = 2.6 versus 3.5, 7.0, and 6.1 mutations per megabase, p Conclusions Most ROS1-rearranged NSCLCs have low PD-L1 expression and TMB. The activity of ICI in these tumors is modest. In contrast, chemo-ICI can achieve meaningful activity.
Quantifying particle-scale 3D granular dynamics during rapid compaction from time-resolved in situ 2D x-ray images

Understanding the particle-scale dynamics of granular materials during rapid compaction and flow is of fundamental importance for manufacturing, planetary science, geology, and defense applications. Time-resolved 2D radiography and static 3D x-ray tomography are powerful in situ tools for studying particle-scale dynamics but provide detail only in 2D or with significant time-scale limitations, respectively. Here, we introduce a new method that uses 2D in situ x-ray imaging for determining time-resolved 3D particle-scale dynamics in rapidly compressed granular materials. The method employs initial particle packing structures obtained from x-ray tomography, a 2D x-ray image generation algorithm, and an optimization algorithm. We first describe and validate the method using finite element simulations. We then apply the technique to x-ray phase-contrast images obtained during rapid compaction of granular materials with varying particle morphology and sample thickness. The depth-resolved particle-scale dynamics reveal complex velocity and porosity fields evolving heterogeneously along and perpendicular to the compaction direction. We characterize these features, their fluctuations near the compaction front, and the compaction front thickness. Our technique can be applied to understanding granular dynamics during rapid compaction events, and rearrangements during slower, but non-quasi-static, flows.
When Performance Trumps Gender Bias: Joint Versus Separate Evaluation

We examine a new intervention to overcome gender biases in hiring, promotion, and job assignments: an “evaluation nudge,” in which people are evaluated jointly rather than separately regarding their future performance. Evaluators are more likely to focus on individual performance in joint than in separate evaluation and on group stereotypes in separate than in joint evaluation, making joint evaluation the money-maximizing evaluation procedure. Our findings are compatible with a behavioral model of information processing and with the System 1/System 2 distinction in behavioral decision research where people have two distinct modes of thinking that are activated under certain conditions.
Analysis of Stresses in Metal Sheathed Thermocouples in High-Temperature Flows

Flight and ground test applications for in-flow and near-wall flow temperature sensing demand robust and accurate sensing, making thermocouple sensors attractive. Even for these extremely well-deve...
An Imaging Biomarker of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes to Risk-Stratify Patients with HPV-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer.

BACKGROUND HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPCSCC) has excellent control rates compared to non-virally associated OPSCC. Multiple trials are actively testing whether de-escalation of treatment intensity for these patients can maintain oncologic equipoise while reducing treatment related toxicity. We have developed OP-TIL, a biomarker that characterizes the spatial interplay between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and surrounding cells in histology images. Herein, we sought to test whether OP-TIL can segregate stage I HPV-associated OPSCC patients into low-risk and high-risk groups and aid in patient selection for de-escalation clinical trials. METHODS Association between OP-TIL and patient outcome was explored on whole slide HE 5-year DFS= 88.4%) and high-risk (2-year DFS = 82.5%; 5-year DFS = 74.2%) groups (hazard ratio = 2.56, 95% confidence interval = 1.52-4.32, P < .001), even after adjusting for age, smoking status, T and N-classification, and treatment modality on multivariate analysis for DFS (hazard ratio = 2.27, 95% confidence interval = 1.32-3.94, P = .003). CONCLUSIONS OP-TIL can identify stage I HPV-associated OPSCC patients likely to be poor candidates for treatment de-escalation. Following validation on previously completed multi-institutional clinical trials, OP-TIL has the potential to be a biomarker, beyond clinical stage and HPV status, that can be used clinically to optimize patient selection for de-escalation.
GPCR kinase-6 inhibits neutrophil infiltration but mediates bacterial killing during lung bacterial infection (145.5)

GPCR kinases (GRKs) are serine/threonine kinases known to be critical players in desensitization of GPCRs. Recent studies have implicated GRKs in a number of different physiological and pathophysiological processes including biased signaling from GPCRs as well as signaling from receptors other than non-GPCRs. In this study we examined the role of GRK6 (one of the seven GRKs) in E. Coli-induced lung infection and inflammation model using wild type and GRK6 deficient mice. Intra-tracheal instillation of E. Coli led to enhanced infiltration of neutrophils into lung tissue of GRK6 deficient mice compared to wild type mice. Enhanced neutrophil infiltration was associated with enhanced IL-17 expression in the GRK6 deficient lung following infection. Interestingly, even though there was increased neutrophil infiltration, the bacterial persistence and the subsequent mortality were significantly higher in the GRK6 deficient mice. Intriguingly our studies also reveal that GRK6 deficient neutrophils are inefficient ...
Routing table maintenance in mobile ad hoc networks

Due to the mobility of the nodes, finding routes in a wireless mobile ad hoc network is quite a challenging task, and takes up a lot of system resources such as bandwidth and battery power. Although it would be wise to take full advantage of the already discovered paths, many algorithms simply discard the paths if their topology has changed. To overcome this shortcoming, we have proposed a routing table maintenance algorithm that responds to the changes in network topology promptly, and adjusts the paths so that their lifetimes could be maximized..
When Faith Meets History: The Influence of Religion on Transitional Justice

Over the past couple of decades, a historically unusual concatenation of societies – Germany, Rwanda, Guatemala, South Africa, and so many others – has confronted the injustices of their past, ranging from systematic authoritarian suppressions to the mass atrocities of communal conflict. Words and images persist: defiant dictators in the docket at the trial of the century (of which the last century featured many), relatives facing the killers of their kin at truth commissions, debates over reparations, and typically a surrounding clamor of charges and countercharges: victors' justice, no justice, stunted justice, retributive justice, perverted justice, restorative justice, injustice. Occasionally, the clamor has yielded a long awaited just verdict, a head of state's healing speech, or a genuine expression of repentance and forgiveness, moments where “hope and history rhyme,” in the words of Irish poet Seamus Heaney. In these diverse scenes, one often descries miters, beards, clerical robes, pectoral crosses, or clusters of women chanting prayers. In the politics of transitional justice, religion is often, though not always, involved. Journalists and chroniclers sometimes have made much of this involvement, but not usually scholars, few of whom have sought to chart it systematically (exceptions are Graybill, 2001; Vinjamuri and Boesenecker, forthcoming). To be sure, theologians have written about the ethics of transitions, many of them urging reconciliation and forgiveness (de Gruchy, 2003; Schreiter, 1998; Volf, 1996).
The Fraying Fabric of Freedom: Crisis and Criminal Law in Struggles for Democracy and Freedom of Expression

The democratic ideal is one of the strongest justifications for robust protection of freedom of expression in America. In its English and early American origins, freedom of expression was anti-hierarchical. Far-flung commentary on the management of public affairs reinforces the conception of government officials as agents or trustees with a fiduciary duty to “the people.” Yet the democratic function of free speech is being eclipsed by a “market” for speech, in which wealth is increasingly concentrated in fewer hands, and speech in the most crucial political media of television and radio belongs predominantly to those who buy it. (The Internet, for now, remains an exception.) A historical review of struggles for free expression demonstrates the original anti-hierarchical nature of freedom of expression, which technological advances initially galvanized. Earlier Supreme Court cases contain eloquent tributes to the values of free expression, the importance of diverse information from multiple perspectives, and of avenues for expression for the less wealthy. These ideals are being challenged by the modern reality of ever more concentrated economic power and Supreme Court decisions that further empower the powerful. Davis v. FEC, Citizens United v. FEC, and Arizona Free Enterprise Club’s Freedom Club PAC v. Bennett are landmarks of our new Gilded Age Court. In short, great combinations of power (including private combinations) can threaten practical democracy and freedom of expression. All levels of government have abridged civil liberties, but the view that government power is oppressive and private or corporate power is benign has served to undermine freedom of expression for the non-wealthy. The anti-hierarchical purpose historically served by freedom of expression is fraying under a sustained and multi-pronged assault.
Retinoids induce cellular senescence in breast cancer cells by RAR-β dependent and independent pathways: Potential clinical implications (Review)

Most studies on cellular senescence (CS) have been performed in vitro by employing cytotoxic agents, irradiation, chromatin and telomerase modulators or by activating certain oncogenes. All these approaches usually lead to DNA damage, gene instability and/or chromatin alterations that primarily affect p53-p21 signaling. Little is known on whether retinoids and rexinoids, which are cell differentiation agents, can also induce CS in vitro and in vivo, and which molecular mechanisms are involved in promoting the senescent phenotype. We reviewed the recent publications on CS induced by retinoids and rexinoids in ER+ and ER- breast cancer cell lines and in corresponding animal models of mammary carcinogenesis which simulate those of human breast cancer. The role of retinoic acid receptors β2 and 5 (RARβ2 and RARβ5) and of receptor independent genes involved in mediating the senescence program of retinoids and rexinoids in ER+ and ER- breast cancer cells is discussed. Potential strategists for clinical implication of CS as biomarker of prognosis and of response to treatment with retinoids, rexinoids and with other cell differentiation and antitumor agents are outlined.
Electrolyte and acid/base changes in dogs undergoing autologous blood transfusion via a cell salvage device

This study reports electrolyte and acid/base disturbances observed in clinical cases receiving autologous transfusion of blood processed by a cell salvage device. The records of 12 client-owned dogs that received an autologous transfusion via a cell salvage device with pre- and post-autologous transfusion blood work available were reviewed. Blood work from the 12 case dogs was compared to blood work from 12 control dogs with similar diseases. Control dogs received similar surgical treatment and were administered a similar volume per kg of packed red blood cells as case dogs, but did not undergo autologous transfusion. Case dogs that received autologous transfusion via a cell salvage device were significantly more likely to experience a decrease in ionized calcium and magnesium levels post-transfusion than were control dogs. Calcium and magnesium levels should be closely monitored during and after autologous transfusion. Calcium and/or magnesium supplementation may be required.
Privacy-preserving participatory sensing

The proliferation of mobile devices such as smartphones has enabled participatory sensing systems that collect data from users through their mobile devices and infer useful information from the data. However, users have concerns regarding possible privacy leakage from their data and lack incentives to contribute their data. To effectively motivate users to participate, both privacy and incentive issues need to be addressed. In this article, we address how to simultaneously protect privacy and provide incentives for participatory sensing. We review previous approaches, discuss their limitations, and propose new approaches for two types of participatory sensing systems.
In Search of Kazakhness: The Televisual Landscape and Screening of Nation in Kazakhstan

This article examines how the nation is presented and staged on the small screen in Kazakhstan. Television is a mirror in which the nation can project itself as an “imagined community.” However, the Kazakhstan authorities waited a long time before investing in the small screen. As the country feels more pressure from Russia and younger generations seek a greater sense of Kazakh identity, the authorities seem decided to invest into soft power tools that reinforce Kazakhstani/Kazakh cultural autonomy. After a brief overview of the Kazakhstani televisual landscape and its recent evolutions in ownership, language, and audience ratings, I examine documentary films as a reflection of official historiography, and then decrypt the broadcast “Signs. Legends of the Steppe,” which encapsulates the new genre I name patriotic entertainment.
Individual minds and the social order

While Durkheim's concept of group mind is rhetorically offensive to conventional empiricism, there are many familiar examples in the social science literature of purposes, norms, etc. that are not the property of individuals but of a collective praxis. The concept of group mind, properly conceived in terms of collective praxis, provides a useful antidote to the individualizing tendencies of subjectivist sociology, and by revealing the connection between “structures” and “meanings” can help heal the rift between subjectivism and objectivism.
Intangible capital, market share and corporate strategy

This paper theoretically and empirically identifies the determinants of firm profitability and market share for twelve broadly defined US manufacturing industry groups. The effects of advertising, research and development, and diversification on profitability and market share are econometrically tested for each industry group, and corporate strategy implications of the results are considered. One major result of the analysis is that research and development (R&D) tends to be much more effective as a means of enhancing firm profitability than advertising, and research and development spending decisions are more closely related to the profitability of R&D than advertising decisions are related to the profitability of advertising.
Characterizing the impacts of vertical transport and photochemical ozone production on an exceedance area

Abstract Offshore and inland vertical profiles of ozone (O 3 ) were measured from an aircraft during 16 flights from January 2012 to January 2013 over the northern San Joaquin Valley (SJV) and over the Pacific Ocean. Analysis of in situ measurements presents an assessment of the seasonality and magnitude of net O 3 production and transport within the lower troposphere above the SJV. During the high O 3 season (May–October), the Dobson Unit sum of O 3 in the 0–2 km above sea level (km.a.s.l.) layer above the SJV exceeds that above the offshore profile by up to 20.5%, implying net O 3 production over the SJV or vertical transport from above. During extreme events (e.g. Stratosphere-to-troposphere transport) vertical features (areas of enhanced or depleted O 3 or water vapor) are observed in the offshore and SJV profiles at different altitudes, demonstrating the scale of vertical mixing during transport. Correlation analysis between offshore O 3 profiles and O 3 surface sites in the SJV lends further support the hypothesis of vertical mixing. Correlation analysis indicates that O 3 mixing ratios at surface sites in the northern and middle SJV show significant correlations to the 1.5–2 km.a.s.l. offshore altitude range. Southern SJV O 3 surface sites show a shift towards maximum correlations at increased time-offsets, and O 3 surface sites at elevated altitudes show significant correlations with higher offshore altitudes (2.5–4 km.a.s.l.).
White House Budget Proposal Favorable Overall for Federal Science Agencies

President Barack Obama's proposed federal budget of $3.8 trillion for fiscal year (FY) 2013, released on 13 February, provides an overall favorable funding picture for federal science agencies in a tight economic environment. However, there are also a number of proposed decreases, including a sharp cut to NASA's Planetary Science account. Overall, the budget proposal includes $140.8 billion for the federal investment in research and development, a 1.4% increase above the FY 2012 enacted level. Funding for federal basic and applied research would be $64 billion, 3.3% above FY 2012 enacted levels. Funding for defense research and development (RD nondefense R&D would increase 5% to $64.9 billion.
Problem Formulation in Planning and Design

This paper deals with the role of problem formulation in planning and design, including: a the importance of problem formulation to planning and design; b problematic, physiological, psychological and environmental factors that can affect the formulation process; and c problem formulation heuristics. Two types of formulation heuristics are identified-problem reduction and problem expansion. Because the latter type has received little empirical research, an initial study of a problem expansion heuristic Problem-Purpose Expansion was conducted. Experimentation showed that Problem-Purpose Expansion may have a positive effect on idea generation, particularly for individuals working on problems that fall outside their area of expertise. Exhorting the importance of problem formulation, a second treatment studied in these experiments, produced little measurable effect on idea generation.
Steroid 17,20-lyase from testis microsomes: participation of NADPH cytochrome c reductase.

Abstract The enzymic activity of testis microsomes which mediates cleavage of the 2-carbon side chain from the 17-position of 21-carbon steroids is a mixed-function oxidase and recent reports have suggested that cytochrome P -450 is a participant in this reaction. The studies reported in this communication were intended to demonstrate that the flavoprotein, NADPH cytochrome c reductase, is also a participant in the reaction. The cleavage activity (referred to here as 17,20-lyase) from rat testis microsomes was shown to be inhibited by a number of agents which are electron acceptors for NADPH cytochrome c reductase. This finding indicates that the lyase activity is inhibited by diversion of electron flow and, more specifically, that the point of interruption is at the reductase. Cytochrome c , itself, is a noncompetitive inhibitor of lyase activity when NADPH is substrate. Lyase and reductase activity were diminished to an equal extent by heating a microsomal suspension. An antibody to cytochrome e reductase was prepared after purification of the reductase from rat liver. This antibody caused a parallel and equal reduction of activity of the lyase and reductase. These data show that the reductase and lyase activities are closely linked and suggest that the reductase functions as an electron carrier for the reduction of P -450.
Angiotensin II-mediated renal vasoconstriction amenable to α1-adrenoceptor blockade

Abstract Renal adrenergic interactions of intravenously and intrarenal arterially administered angiotensin II were studied in the anesthetized rabbit. Systemic arterial blood pressure and left renal blood flow were monitored. Bolus doses of angiotensin II, 50 and 100 ng/kg given intravenously, caused an immediate reduction in renal blood flow followed by a more sustained vasoconstrictor response. Prazosin, 5 μg/kg/min, infused intrarenal arterially, decreased both components of the reduced renal blood flow, suggesting adrenergic contribution to the response. Renal denervation reduced significantly the immediate response to angiotensin II without affecting the sustained response; administration of prazosin after denervation caused a further decrease in the response. Left adrenalectomy had no significant effect on the angiotensin II-induced renal blood flow response, ruling out the possible contribution of adrenal catecholamine release via the adrenal rete. In animals that had undergone renal denervation and left adrenalectomy, the renal blood flow response to intrarenal arterial injection of subpressor doses of angiotensin II (5 and 10 ng/kg) was reduced by the infusion of prazosin. It is concluded that angiotensin II-induced renal vasoconstriction is contributed to by adrenergic actions dependent in part on intact renal nerves, but also by a component not requiring an intact nerve supply.
WHO Air Quality Guidelines: Moving Indoors

& Resisting the temptation succumbed to by previous committees to stop at the stage of proposing standard exposure-response functions when faced with pollutants without clear thresholds, the AQG expert group stated the new AQGs in terms of actual concentration levels that provide clear guidance to policy; & Accommodating the challenge posed by creating “global” AQGs in the face of large differences in current pollution levels around the world, the new AQGs incorporate a tiered set of guidelines in the form of “interim targets” that enable countries to set a structured pace of control efforts over time to eventually reach the AQGs themselves.
Insulators and Boundaries: Versatile Regulatory Elements in the Eukaryotic Genome

Insulators mark the boundaries of chromatin domains by limiting the range of action of enhancers and silencers. Although the properties of insulators have been well studied, their role in vivo has largely been a subject of speculation. Recent results make it possible to ascribe specific and essential functions to the insulators ofDrosophila, yeast, and vertebrates. In some cases, insulator activity can be modulated by nearby regulatory elements, bound cofactors, or covalent modification of the DNA. Not simply passive barriers, insulators are active participants in eukaryotic gene regulation.
Reversal of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis in Plutella xylostella

Abstract Continued success of the most widely used biopesticide, Bacillus thuringiensis, is threatened by development of resistance in pests. Experiments with Plutella xylostella (diamondback moth), the first insect with field populations resistant to B. thuringiensis, revealed factors that promote reversal of resistance. In strains of P. xylostella with 25- to 2800-fold resistance to B. thuringiensis compared with unselected strains, reversal of resistance occurred when exposure to B. thuringiensis was stopped for many generations. Reversal of resistance was associated with restoration of binding of B. thuringiensis toxin CryIA(c) to brush-border membrane vesicles and with increased biotic fitness. Compared with susceptible colonies, revertant colonies had a higher proportion of extremely resistant individuals. Revertant colonies responded rapidly to reselection for resistance. Understanding reversal of resistance will help to design strategies for extending the usefulness of this environmentally benign insecticide.
Calculation of Component Mode Synthesis Matrices From Measured Frequency Response Functions, Part 1: Theory

This paper presents a new method to calculate the so-called Craig-Bampton component mode synthesis (CMS) matrices from measured frequency response functions. The procedure is based on a modified residual flexibility method, from which the Craig-Bampton CMS matrices are recovered. Experimental implementation of the method requires estimating the modal parameters corresponding to the measured free boundary modes and the Maclaurin series expansion coefficients corresponding to the omitted modes. Theoretical developments are presented in the present paper, Part 1. The performance of the new method is then demonstrated in Part 2 (Morgan et al., 1998) by comparison of experiment and analysis for a simple two-beam system.
The Chemistry of Soft Rubber Vulcanization - III. Comparison of Vulcanized Rubber with Unmilled Crude Rubber Reclaims, and Unvulcanized Stocks Containing Stiffeners or Gas Black

Abstract IN PART I (1) of this series it was pointed out that the measurement of vulcanization is complicated by the use of unmilled rubber (e. g., latex stocks), stiffeners, gas black, and reclaims. Therefore limitations in compounding were accepted and a standard method of processing was adopted. These limitations were accepted in recognition of the fact that compounds containing these materials show some properties akin to those of vulcanized rubber. For example, some crude rubbers have stress-strain characteristics almost identical with those of certain types of vulcanizate. Uncured gas black stocks likewise show some of the characteristics of vulcanized rubber, and the reenforcing action of gas black is sometimes spoken of as a sort of vulcanization (2). Such limitations are desirable only if it can be shown that the phenomena excluded are different from those being studied. The experiments reported in this paper show how the tough, hard, crude rubbers can be differentiated from vulcanized rubber and...
Drug-metal interactions: spectroscopic studies of copper hydantoin complexes.

Abstract The preparation and spectral properties of copper(II) complexes of two hydantoins are reported. Complexes of the general formula Cu(hyd)2(py)2, where hyd = phenytoin or nirvanol; and py = pyridine were prepared and characterized by infrared and ESR. Spectral data show that the copper atom is bound to the nitrogen atom of the hydantoin anion and to the nitrogen atom of the pyridine molecule to form 2:2:1 hydantoin:pyridine:copper complexes. The ESR data indicate that both complexes have tetragonal symmetry (g11 > g⊥ > ge) with the unpaired electron in the dx2 − y2 orbital.
Abstract 3976: PD-1 blockade combined with TEGVAX (TLR agonists-enhanced GVAX) can induce regression of established palpable tumors.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Background: Cell-based vaccines have been developed for several types of tumors, but these vaccines have two critical shortcomings that weaken their clinical efficacy. The first of which is a limited capability to activate antigen presenting cells. Second, they fail to address critical immune checkpoint molecules that dampen the subsequent T-cell response against the established tumor. In order to optimize the activation of antigen presenting cells capable of marshaling both an innate and adaptive immune response against the tumor, we formulated a GM-CSF secreting tumor cell vaccine with multiple TLR agonists. To address the immune checkpoint signaling pathway, we combined our formulated vaccine with a blocking αPD-1 antibody in two mouse models of established tumor - one with melanoma and the other with tongue cancer. Methods: To optimize in vivo efficacy of anti-tumor T-cell response, we engineered TEGVAX, a GM-CSF secreting cell-based tumor vaccine formulated with GLA (TLR4 agonist) and R848 (TLR7/8 agonists), molecules that are amenable for clinical translation. We then combined TEGVAX with αPD-1 blocking antibody (G4 clone) in the murine B16 melanoma and SCCFVII tongue cancer model. Furthermore, we studied immunological parameters that correlated with in vivo anti-tumor response. Results: In both B16 and SCCFVII treatment models, TEGVAX demonstrated statistically significantly (p<0.01) enhanced anti-tumor responses in comparison to the parental cell vaccine in vivo. For tumor bearing mice treated with TEGVAX, these potent anti-tumor responses were correlated with a statistically significant increase in CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells that secrete IFNγ in the tumor microenvironment. TEGVAX treated mice also had significantly higher levels of tumor antigen p15E-specific cell mediated killing in vivo. Blockade of the PD-1 immune checkpoint pathway further augmented the therapeutic potential of TEGVAX and induced the regression of established B16 and SCCFVII tumors. Conclusion: When combined with αPD-1 antibody, TEGVAX was able to induce regression of established B16 and SCCFVII tumors. Our results with these combinatorial immunotherapeutic strategies provide preclinical evidence to support the translation of these reagents for HNSCC or melanoma patients that are refractory to standard treatment modalities. Citation Format: Ian-James Malm, Juan Fu, Drew Pardoll, Young J. Kim. PD-1 blockade combined with TEGVAX (TLR agonists-enhanced GVAX) can induce regression of established palpable tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3976. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-3976
Neurotensin agonists block the prepulse inhibition deficits produced by a 5-HT2A and an α1 agonist

Neurotensin (NT) agonists have been proposed as potential antipsychotics based exclusively upon their ability to inhibit dopamine-2 (D2) receptor transmission. Several other pharmacological mechanisms have been implicated in enhancing the antipsychotic profile produced by D2 inhibition alone. These include inhibition of 5-HT2A and α1-adrenoceptors. Recently, we reported that systemic administration of the neurotensin agonist PD149163 blocks deficits in prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle reflex produced by the 5-HT2A receptor agonist DOI. This suggested that NT agonists could inhibit 5-HT2A modulation of neurotransmission. To determine if other peripherally administered NT agonists shared this effect, we examined the effects of NT69L, another NT agonist, on DOI-induced PPI deficits. In addition, to determine if NT agonists also inhibit α1-adrenoceptor neurotransmission, we examined the effects of PD149163 and NT69L on PPI deficits induced by the α1-adrenoceptor agonist, cirazoline. In the NT69L/DOI study, rats received subcutaneous (SC) injections of NT69L (0, 0.1, 1, or 2 mg/kg) followed 30 min later by SC saline or DOI (0.5 mg/kg). In the NT agonist/cirazoline studies, animals received SC injections of either PD149163 (0, 0.01, 0.1, or 1 mg/kg) or NT69L (0, 0.01, 0.1, or 1 mg/kg) followed 30 min later by SC saline or cirazoline (0.7 mg/kg). Animals were tested in startle chambers 20 min later. In all three experiments the PPI disruption produced by DOI and cirazoline was blocked by the NT agonists. These findings provide strong evidence that NT agonists inhibit 5-HT2A and α1-adrenoceptor modulation of neurotransmission, pharmacological effects that, in conjunction with their known inhibition of dopamine transmission, strengthen the antipsychotic potential of NT agonists.
When is stabilization expansionary? Evidence from high inflation

Countries which stabilize from high inflation – here defined as an annual rate above 40% – usually have output expansions in the first and subsequent years of stabilization. These expansions occur in both exchange-rate-based and money-based stabilizations. The paper reaches these conclusions after examining a sample of all 28 episodes in the international data that meet a pre-defined criterion for stabilization from high inflation. The results do not change with alternative growth and stabilization definitions. The paper documents similar expansionary stabilizations in historical data and in the recent experience of the former Communist economies. Expansionary stabilizations may be an indirect confirmation of recent theories of political economy that predict that stabilization will not occur until the gains are very large. —William Easterly
Inpatient Falls: Defining the Problem and Identifying Possible Solutions. Part II Application of Quality Improvement Principles to Hospital Falls

In this 2 part series, analysis of the risk stratification tools that are available and definition of the scope of the problem and potential solutions through a review of the literature is presented. A systematic review was used to identify articles for risk stratification and interventions. Three risk stratification systems are discussed, STRATIFY, Morse Fall Scale, and the Hendrich Fall Risk Model (HFRM). Of these scoring systems, the HFRM is the easiest to use and score. Predominantly, multifactorial interventions are used to prevent patient falls. Education and rehabilitation are common themes in studies with statistically significant results. The second article presents a guide to implementing a quality improvement project around hospital falls. A 10-step approach to Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles is described. Specific examples of problems and analysis are easily applicable to any institution. Furthermore, the sustainability of interventions and targeting new areas for improvement are discussed. Although specific to falls in the hospitalized patient, the goal is to present a stepwise approach that is broadly applicable to other areas requiring quality improvement.
Fluorometric assay for xanthine oxidase.

Abstract It has been shown that the fluorometric assay for xanthine oxidase, in which 2-amino-4-hydroxypteridine (AHP) is oxidized to a fluorescent product, is not valid when applied to fresh extracts of rat liver. The reaction rate is not proportional to the amount of enzyme preparation in the range of substrate and tissue concentration recommended by the originators of the method. First-order kinetics with respect to enzyme concentration is achieved by a combination of overnight dialysis of the supernatant fraction of rat liver homogenates and increasing the substrate concentration. Neither gel filtration nor preincubation of liver preparations was as effective as dialysis. Pretreatment with activated charcoal (Norit A) gave variable results and did not permit assay over as wide a range of enzyme concentration as did dialysis. It is concluded that the quantitativeness of the assay is considerably improved, if not completely validated, by dialysis of crude tissue extracts together with increasing the concentration of AHP in the assay reaction mixture. Within these limitations the fluorometric assay is the most advantageous of methods for determining xanthine oxidase in such preparations or when the concentration of the enzyme is very low.
C60—amine adducts at the air—water interface: A new class of Langmuir monolayers

Abstract A new class of Langmuir monolayers consisting of amine derivatives of the C 60 fullerene is presented. X-ray and neutron reflectivity measurements and surface pressure—molecular area isotherms of spread films of the fullerene—dodecylamine (C 60 -[NH 2 (CH 2 ) 2 CH 11 ] 5 ) and of the fullerene—propylamine (C 60 -[NH 2 (CH 2 ) 2 CH 3 ] 12 ) adducts indicate that despite the lack of distinct amphiphilic character, these materials form homogeneous monomolecular layers at air—water interfaces.
Quantum field, interference, and entanglement effects in nonlinear optical spectroscopy

Experimental observables in quantum systems may be represented by Liouville space pathways which describe the evolving density matrix. The pathways of coupled degrees of freedom may become entangled leading to interesting interference effects. We demonstrate and classify signatures of these quantum effects in optical measurements which involve both classical and quantum modes of the radiation field. Generalized response functions recast in terms of superoperators are used to provide a compact unified description of a broad range of measurements. We discuss interferences of quantum pathways of matter related to the entanglement of excitons in chromophore aggregates, and how they can be manipulated by interactions with quantum optical fields.
Colgajo sensible basado en perforantes de la arteria sural lateral

The calf region is a potential source for relatively thin cutaneous flaps, even in obese individuals. This can be an especially valuable option if the defect...
Design and fabrication of new soft magnetic materials

A review is given below selecting representative cases in which new soft magnetic materials are fabricated. Examples include bulk amorphous soft magnets, consolidated amorphous ribbon and powder-based magnets and magnetic wires, showing how controllable processes enable us to design new soft magnetic materials. These materials find applications in power electronics, high field magnets, sensors and electronic devices.
Synthesis of RNA complementary to rabbit globin mRNA by Qβ replicase

Abstract RNA, complementary to rabbit globin messenger RNA, is synthesized by Qβ replicase in a reaction primed by either oligo(rU) or oligo(dT). The radioactive product is in a double-stranded hybrid form with its mRNA template following synthesis. The reaction generates nearly full-length copies of the mRNA, and a series of discrete length partial transcripts. In addition, non-specific RNA between 90–140 nucleotides in length is produced.
Radionuclide evaluation in childhood injuries.

Radionuclide techniques serve an important role in evaluating childhood injuries. Frequently, they can be employed as the initial and definitive examination. At times they represent the only modality that will detect specific injuries such as in the skeletal system. Familiarity with the advantages and limitations of tracer techniques will insure appropriate management of childhood injuries.
Nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopy of a protein active-site mimic

For many years, Mossbauer spectroscopy has been applied to measure recoilless absorption of x-ray photons by nuclei. Recently, synchrotron radiation sources have enabled the observation of weaker features separated from the recoilless resonance by the energy of vibrational quanta. This enables a form of vibrational spectroscopy with a unique sensitivity to the probe nucleus. Biological applications are particularly promising, because it is possible to selectively probe vibrations of a single atom at the active site of a complex biomolecule, while avoiding interference from the vibrations of thousands of other atoms. In contrast with traditional site-selective vibrational spectroscopies, nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopy (NRVS) is not hampered by solvent interference and faces selection rule limitations only if the probe nucleus lies on a symmetry element. Here, we formulate a mathematical language appropriate for understanding NRVS measurements on molecular systems and apply it to analyse NRVS data recorded on ferrous nitrosyl tetraphenylporphyrin, Fe(TPP)(NO). This compound mimics the haem group found at the active site of many proteins involved in the biological usage of oxygen and nitric oxide. Measurements on such model compounds provide a baseline for evaluating the extent to which vibrations are localized at the active site of a protein, with the goal of elucidating the mechanisms of biological processes, such as intersite communication in allosteric proteins.
Lung assist device technology with physiologic blood flow developed on a tissue engineered scaffold platform

There is no technology available to support failing lung function for patients outside the hospital. An implantable lung assist device would augment lung function as a bridge to transplant or possible destination therapy. Utilizing biomimetic design principles, a microfluidic vascular network was developed for blood inflow from the pulmonary artery and blood return to the left atrium. Computational fluid dynamics analysis was used to optimize blood flow within the vascular network. A micro milled variable depth mold with 3D features was created to achieve both physiologic blood flow and shear stress. Gas exchange occurs across a thin silicone membrane between the vascular network and adjacent alveolar chamber with flowing oxygen. The device had a surface area of 23.1 cm2 and respiratory membrane thickness of 8.7 ± 1.2 μm. Carbon dioxide transfer within the device was 156 ml min−1m−2 and the oxygen transfer was 34 ml min−1m−2. A lung assist device based on tissue engineering architecture achieves gas exchange comparable to hollow fiber oxygenators yet does so while maintaining physiologic blood flow. This device may be scaled up to create an implantable ambulatory lung assist device.
The rotating target neutron source II facility: Operational summary☆

Abstract The Rotating Target Neutron Source II facility (RTNS-II) operated for over nine years. Its purpose was to provide high intensities of 14 MeV neutrons for materials studies in the fusion energy program. For the period from 1982–1987, the facility was supported by both the USA (Department of Energy) and Japan (Ministry of Education, Culture and Science). RTNS-II contains two accelerator-based neutron sources which use the T(d, n) 4 He reaction. In this paper we will summarize the operational history of RTNS-II. Typical operating parameters are given. In addition, a brief description of the experimental program is presented. The current status and future options for the facility are discussed.
Exploring Collaboration, Its Antecedents, and Perceived Outcomes in Service Partnerships of Community-Based Organizations in South Florida

This article examines the temporal sequence of inter-organizational collaboration by investigating what factors contribute to collaboration and which collaboration practices influence collaborative outcomes in service partnerships formed by community-based organizations (CBOs) in South Florida. The article uses structural equation modeling to test the service partnership model. Findings indicate that development of service partnerships are mostly affected by environmental factors related to solving social problems (p < 0.001) which accounts for 37% of variance in inter-organizational collaboration. In addition, cognitive and resource reciprocity, indicators used to measure inter-organizational collaboration, had statistically significant influence (p < 0.001) on perceived collaboration outcomes. These findings shed light on how CBOs transfer theirs social mission in collaborative actions to alleviate social problems. Implications of this study can help service partnerships in identifying best practices an...
Error Estimates for Reduced Order POD Models of Navier-Stokes Equations

Reduced order modeling for the purpose of constructing a low dimensional model from high dimensional or infinite dimensional model has important applications in science and engineering such as fast model evaluations and optimization/control. A popular method for constructing reduced-order model is based on finding a suitable low dimensional basis by proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) and forming a model by Galerkin projection of the infinite dimensional model onto the basis. In this paper, we will discuss error estimates for Galerkin proper orthogonal decomposition method for an unsteady nonlinear coupled partial differential equations arising in viscous incompressible flows. A specific finite element in space and finite difference in time discretization scheme will be discussed.Copyright © 2008 by ASME