cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization, fate, and function of hamster cortical granule components.

Little is known about the compo- sition and function of mammalian cortical granules. In this study, lectins were used as tools to: (1) estimate the number and molecular weight of glycoconjugates in hamster cortical granules and show what sugars are associated with each glycoconjugate; (2) identify cortical granule components that remain associated with the oolemma, cortical granule envelope, and/or zona pellucida of fertilized oocytes and preimplantation embryos; and (3) examine the role of cortical granule glycoconjugates in preimplantation embryogenesis. Microscopic examination of unfertilized oocytes re- vealed that the lectins PNA, DBA, WGA, RCA120, Con A, and LCA bound to hamster cortical granules. Moreover, LCA and Con A labeled the zona pellucida, cortical granule envelope, and plasma membrane of fertilized and artificially activated oocytes and two and eight cell embryos. Lectin blots of unfertilized oocytes had at least 12 glycoconjugates that were recognized by one or more lectins. Nine of these glycoconjugates are found in the cortical granule envelope and/or are associated with the zona pellucida and plasma membrane following fertilization. In vivo functional studies showed that the binding of Con A to one or more mannosylated cortical granule components in- hibited blastomere cleavage in two-cell embryos. Our data show that hamster cortical granules contain ap- proximately 12 glycoconjugates of which nine remain associated extracellularly with the fertilized oocyte after the cortical reaction and that one or more play a role in regulating cleavage divisions. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 58:223-235, 2001. fl 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Epitaxial stabilization of orthorhombic cuprous oxide films on MgO(110)

Continuous epitaxial films of cuprous oxide (Cu2O) have been formed by the thermal oxidation of 1.5-μm-thick Cu metal films deposited on MgO(110) substrates. These films melted at 1118 °C in air, in agreement with equilibrium phase diagrams. Upon cooling from the liquid, a highly crystalline, epitaxial, 2.5-μm-thick Cu2O film was formed. X-ray diffraction spectroscopy revealed that the Cu2O film crystal structure was orthorhombically distorted from the bulk cubic crystal structure. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy showed that the film is coherent, and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy showed that interdiffusion is limited to the interface. These results suggest that a new epitaxially stabilized phase of Cu2O has been formed.
Low-loss microwave ferrite phase shifters with superconducting circuits

Microwave devices comprising magnetized ferrite in contact with superconductor circuits designed to eliminate magnetic field invasion of the superconductor have demonstrated phase shift without significant conduction losses. The device structures are adaptable to low- or high-T/sub c/ superconductors. A non-optimized design of a ferrite phase shifter that employs a niobium meanderline has produced over 1000 deg of differential phase shift with a figure of merit exceeding 1000 deg/dB at X band. >
Supply chain scheduling: Just-in-time environment

We study the benefits of coordinated decision making in a supply chain consisting of a manufacturer, a distributor, and several retailers. The distributor bundles finished goods produced by the manufacturer and delivers them to the retailers to meet their demands. The distributor is responsible for managing finished goods inventory. An optimal production schedule of the manufacturer, if imposed on the distributor, may result in an increased in- ventory holding cost for the distributor. On the other hand, an optimal distribution schedule of the distributor, if imposed on the manufacturer, may result in an increased production cost for the manufacturer. In this paper we develop mathematical models for individual op- timization goals of the two partners and compare the results of these models with the results obtained for a joint optimization model at the system level. We investigate the computational complexities of these scheduling problems. The experimental results indicate that substan- tial cost savings can be achieved at the system level by joint optimization. We also study conflict and cooperation issues in the supply chain. The cost of conflict of a supply chain partner is a measure of the amount by which the unconstrained optimal cost increases when a decision is to be made under the scheduling constraint imposed by the other partner. We quantify these conflicts and show that the cost of conflicts are significant. We also show that a cooperative decision will generate a positive surplus in the system which can be shared by the two partners to make cooperation and coordination strategy more attractive.
Using sound to extract meaning from complex data

In analyzing abstract data sets, it is useful to represent them in several alternative formats, each format bringing out different aspects of the data. While most work in data mapping has focused on visual representations, it has been found that sonic representations can also be effective aids in interpreting complex data, especially when sonification is used in conjunction with visualization. The authors have developed prototypes for several high-level sonification tools that can be applied to a wide variety of data. While they used programmable multi- processor digital signal processing hardware to develop and experiment with these prototypes, each of these tools could be implemented as special-purpose hardware or software for use by scientists in specific applications. The prototype tools include: Mapper (maps data to various sonic parameters), Comparator (feeds a different mapping into each speaker channel), Sonic Histogram (maps the magnitude of each category onto the amplitude of its associated sound), Shifter (shifts signals into the audible range), Marker (a sonic alarm that marks a specific condition). These tools were tested by using them to generate data-driven sound tracks for video animations generated from the same data. The resulting videos provide an increased data bandwidth and an increased sense of virtual reality to the viewer.
Architectural support for the advanced virtual enterprise

Requirements for enterprise integration infrastructure have matured in the past decade, and now form the core of an ambitious vision of fluid enterprises. We describe the new agenda; the key technical challenges; and the concurrent required innovations in business practice. The leading technical approaches for this agenda are briefly reviewed and some observations on relevant market forces are made.
Tidally driven export of dissolved organic carbon, total mercury, and methylmercury from a mangrove-dominated estuary.

The flux of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from mangrove swamps accounts for 10% of the global terrestrial flux of DOC to coastal oceans. Recent findings of high concentrations of mercury (Hg) and methylmercury (MeHg) in mangroves, in conjunction with the common co-occurrence of DOC and Hg species, have raised concerns that mercury fluxes may also be large. We used a novel approach to estimate export of DOC, Hg, and MeHg to coastal waters from a mangrove- dominated estuary in Everglades National Park (Florida, USA). Using in situ measurements of fluorescent dissolved organic matter as a proxy for DOC, filtered total Hg, and filtered MeHg, we estimated the DOC yield to be 180 (±12.6) g C m −2 yr −1 , which is in the range of previously reported values. Although Hg and MeHg yields from tidal mangrove swamps have not been previously measured, our estimated yields of Hg species (28 ± 4.5 μg total Hg m −2 yr −1 and 3.1 ± 0.4 μg methyl Hg m −2 yr −1 ) were five times greater than is typically reported for terrestrial wetlands. These results indicate that in addition to the well documented contributions of DOC, tidally driven export from mangroves represents a significant potential source of Hg and MeHg to nearby coastal waters.
A Cooperative Control Structure for UAV~s Executing a Cooperative Ground Moving Target Engagement (CGMTE) Scenario

This paper presents a cooperative control structure appropriate for cooperative tasks requiring a high degree of tightly coupled coordinated action by multiple dynamic vehicles. The method is based on the formation of a cooperative control Lyapunov function (CCLF). The CCLF is a positive definite function involving the states of the cooperating vehicles and provides a metric of the team's performance useful for higher level assignment algorithms. Low level control laws are obtained by separating the CCLF into multiple agent control functions (ACFs). Forcing the time derivative of the ACFs to be negative definite gives rise to individual control laws for each agent and assures decrement of the CCLF and therefore convergence of the team. The cooperative ground moving target engagement (CGMTE) scenario is utilized as a case study. Simulation results are shown
Seagrass Habitat Characterization in Estuarine Waters of the Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve Using Underwater Videographic Imaging Techniques

Abstract A benthic habitat assessment study conducted in the Barnegat Bay-Little Egg Harbor Estuary from June to November 2006 reveals that boat-based videographic imaging is comparable to in situ diver observations for determining the occurrence and percent cover of seagrasses in actively growing beds. A Seaviewer Sea Drop camera and recorder unit deployed along 12 transects in the estuary generated 331 images of seagrass habitat during the study period. A comparison of video still images with data derived from diver observations indicates consistent results in terms of the presence/absence and percent cover of seagrass on the estuarine floor throughout the seagrass growing season. Plots of the percent cover of seagrass recorded by the camera system vs. in situ diver observations reveal a high correlation for the June–July, August–September, and October–November sampling periods (R2 = 0.936, 0823, and 0.894, respectively) as well as for the entire June–November sampling period (R2 = 0.888). A kappa stati...
Diasporic dialogues: The role of gender, language, and revision in the neo-slave narrative

In this article I examine the creation of neo-slave narratives, or fictional texts written in the 20 th and 21 st centuries, yet set during an imagined period of American slavery or indentured servitude. In these novels the authors, usually African-descended, depict slavery and/or plantation life, generally, to privilege the experiences of the slave. The process of actively writing against traditional plantation narratives of the 18 th and 19 th centuries can liberate slave histories and allows silenced actors to speak. However, in this paper, I argue that there is a danger of further marginalization when History is the platform for creative expression. I examine two novels whose authors employ the use of satire to discuss slave experience and by doing so, I explore how the images of Black slave and servant women can be either devalued or empowered depending on authorial representation and intent.
Probing Two-Electron Dynamics of an Atom

Coherent short-pulse laser excitation has been used to control the approximate energy and relative proximity of two valence electrons within the same alkaline-earth atom, thereby providing insight into the dynamical evolution of a three-body Coulomb system. Our time-domain experiments enable direct experimental study of the electron dynamics at the classical limit of a two-electron atom. As an example, we look at the mechanism of autoionization for one two-electron configuration class and find that the doubly excited atom decays through a single violent electron-electron collision rather than a gradual exchange of energy between the electrons.
Nitrogen sustainability and beef-cattle feedyards: I. Introduction and influence of pen surface conditions and diet 123

ABSTRACT Greater public awareness of the potential effects of agriculture on the environment calls for beef production systems that are sustainable with regard to the environment, society, and the economy. Reactive nitrogen (N) from feedyards could negatively influence air and water quality in the event of volatilization of ammonia (NH 3 ) and nitrous oxide (N 2 O), and leaching and runoff of nitrate (NO 3 −) or other forms of organic and inorganic N. Sustainable N management challenges producers to better understand the dynamics of feedyard N and consider the long-term implications of management practices. The concept of N balance is key when considering the role of N in feedyards. Efforts to improve the sustainability of feedyard operations revolve around managing the components of the N balance so that N is used efficiently and losses are minimized. The objectives of this review were to examine the critical components of the feedyard N balance, provide a comprehensive analysis of the state of the science of each component, and identify ways to minimize the negative effects of N that detract from sustainability. In this work, we reviewed the current literature to assess the effect of beef-cattle feedyards on the environment, evaluated methods to mitigate losses of N from feedyards, and identified knowledge gaps and areas requiring further research. Two key factors addressed were feedyard manure management and cattle diet. Nitrogen-balance studies showed that only about 15% of the N flow through a feedyard remains in animal tissue (average of 25 g per animal per day). Most N (44%) was lost to the atmosphere or as runoff, whereas only 41% was removed with harvested manure. Dietary concentration and ruminal degradability of dietary protein were the primary factors affecting the quantity and route of excretion (urine vs. feces) of N by beef cattle, where excretion of urinary N increased with N intake and with increased dietary ruminally degradable protein. Further research is warranted to improve understanding regarding the effects of diet composition on N transformations and fate on feedyards.
Introduction: On the Imperative, Challenges, and Prospects of Decolonizing Comparative Methodologies

To reflect on coloniality is not to study the history of colonialism from the safety of a “postcolonial” present. Rather, it requires one to interrogate ongoing legacies of colonialism, not only in...
Salt Concentration Differences Alter Membrane Resistance in Reverse Electrodialysis Stacks

Membrane ionic resistance is usually measured by immersing the membrane in a salt solution at a single, fixed concentration. While salt concentration is known to affect membrane resistance when the same concentration is used on both sides of the membrane, little is known about membrane resistance when the membrane is placed between solutions of different concentrations, such as in a reverse electrodialysis (RED) stack. Ionic resistance measurements obtained using Selemion CMV and AMV that separated sodium chloride and ammonium bicarbonate solutions of different concentrations were greater than those measured using only the high-concentration solution. Measured RED stack resistances showed good agreement with resistances calculated using an equivalent series resistance model, where the membranes accounted for 46% of the total stack resistance. The high area resistance of the membranes separating different salt concentration solutions has implications for modeling and optimizing membranes used in RED systems.
QUANTITATIVE GENETICS, DEVELOPMENT, AND PHYSIOLOGICAL ADAPTATION IN HOST STRAINS OF FALL ARMYWORM.

Two genetically differentiated host strains of fall armyworm were reared on their own and each other's host plants, rice and corn, to determine whether they were physiologically adapted to their natural hosts and whether they exhibited genetically based differences in development. Larval host had a greater impact on development in the rice strain than in the corn strain, indicating that physiology could have facilitated specialization in one strain but not the other. Consequently, behavioral mechanisms are also likely to be important in the maintenance of host specificity. Comparisons between strains indicated significant differences in one trait, the rate at which larvae gained weight. Because this character had consistently high heritabilities, genetic differentiation in development is indicated. An analysis of genotype-by-environment interactions within each strain detected significant interactions for three of five traits, suggesting that genotypic performance on one host was not indicative of performance on the other. Each strain thus exhibited genetic variation that would facilitate host-associated divergence and adaptation if coupled with a mechanism that reduced gene flow between hosts. Finally, significant genetic correlations between several characters were detected when strains were reared on their natural hosts but not when they were reared on nonnatural hosts. Apparently, feeding on novel hosts caused developmental uncoupling of characters. Release from genetic constraints could provide a mechanism for physiological adjustments to newly occupied habitats.
Social Rejection Improves the Detection of Ambiguous Smiles

This study investigated whether social rejection induced by two different paradigms facilitated the discrimination between genuine and ambiguous smiles and among different kinds of ambiguous smiles.The results indicated that,relative to included participants,excluded participants were less likely to judge as"happy"any blended expression with non-happy eyes except the neutral eyes,and that when the eyes showed threat,excluded participants'performance were better.These results suggested that social rejection could improve the detection of ambiguous smiles but was effective only for specific kinds of ambiguous smiles.
An International Solution for a Domestic Problem: The Demand for Migrant Care Workers

Why does the welfare state influence migration policy? Recent empirical work has shown that states with less generous welfare state policies and more women in the workforce admit greater numbers of migrant women willing to work as care providers, and favor legal routes for the general admission of migrant care providers (Gastineau-Grimes 2012). In this study, I select two states characterized by ‘less generous’ care policies and ‘open’ migration policy to identify and explain the mechanisms that prompt the creation of legislation that targets domestic care workers as a solution for care needs. Canada and Australia are both liberal welfare states with similar spending on childcare policies. Likewise, both states are among the top immigrant-receiving countries and have ‘seemingly’ open migration policies for women, evident from the high percentages of migrant women employed as domestic care workers in each country. Even so, Canada has a specific policy for women willing to work as domestic care workers, while Australia does not have an explicit, recognized policy. I use process tracing to consider the domestic socioeconomic conditions, normative frames for childcare policy, and relevant domestic/international actors that explain why some states carve out a formal niche for migrant women to work as care providers, and others do not. In Canada, the women’s movement did not consistently associate childcare policy with women’s equality and/or economic benefits for the state. Because a national childcare policy was not available across all the provinces, unaffordable and inaccessible care opened a door for migrant women to provide care for children while Canadian women worked in formal employment. Working women gained more options for equality in the workplace, but at the same time became dependent on a problematic policy that included a live-in requirement and little protections for migrant care-givers. In Australia, the women’s movement was more successful in consistently tying childcare policy to both women’s equality and to the economy, which overshadowed the need for legislation to specifically target migrant childcare workers until recently. The cases show that women’s movements in different countries invoke different frames to push for childcare provisions based on public perceptions, government support, and the economic landscape. The implications are dramatic for the citizenship rights of migrant women.
Indians, Race, and Criminal Jurisdiction in Indian Country

With the possible exception of the Indian Major Crimes Act, the classification of “Indian” for the purposes of the ICCA and the Duro Fix is not “racial” even if it includes non-enrolled people of Indian ancestry with significant connections to tribal communities. Furthermore, although the first prong of the Rogers test should be eliminated on policy grounds, the holding of the Zepeda court that the first prong could be satisfied by proof of blood quantum from any Indian tribe, recognized or not, is highly suspicious, seems to be arbitrary, and boosts the argument that the classification of “Indian” in such cases is a racial classification. Acknowledging the problems plaguing current law enforcement on Indian reservations, this article has endorsed a position which would allow Indian tribes to determine the meaning of “Indian” for the purpose of the Duro fix. The Article also argued that the universe of “Indians” for the purpose of federal jurisdiction should be limited to enrolled tribal members and those eligible for such membership unless the relevant tribe has enacted precise standards delineating who is an Indian for the purpose of federal jurisdiction on its reservation.
Integrative Food Grade Expression System for Lactic Acid Bacteria

Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM is a probiotic microbe with the ability to survive passage to the -gastrointestinal tract, interact intimately with the host and induce immune responses. The genome of NCFM has been determined and the bacterium is genetically accessible. Therefore, L. acidophilus has excellent potential for use as a vaccine delivery vehicle to express antigens at mucosal surfaces. Plasmids, commonly used to carry antigen encoding genes, are inherently unstable and require constant selection by antibiotics, which can be problematic for in vivo studies and clinical trials. Chromosomal expression of gene cassettes encoding antigens offers enhanced genetic stability by eliminating requirements for marker selection. This work illustrates the integration and inducible expression of the reporter gene gusA3, -encoding a β-glucuronidase (GusA3), in the L. acidophilus chromosome. A previously described upp-counterselectable gene replacement system was used to direct insertion of the gusA3 gene into an intergenic chromosomal location downstream of lacZ (LBA1462), encoding a β-galactosidase. The transcriptional activity of integrated gusA3 was evaluated by GUS activity assays using 4-methyl-umbelliferyl-β-D: -glucuronide (MUG) and was determined to be one to two orders of magnitude higher than the GusA3-negative parent, NCK1909. The successful chromosomal integration and expression of GusA3 demonstrate the potential of this method for higher levels of inducible gene expression in L. acidophilus.
Phase II trial of radiotherapy (RT) with concurrent cisplatin (C) plus panitumumab (pmAb) for patients (pts) with high-risk, resected head and neck cancer (HNC).

6090 Background: Treatment intensification for human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative HNC is an active area of investigation. Targeting the epidermal growth-factor receptor pathway using the monoclonal antibody pmAb with C chemoradiation was investigated in high-risk resected, primarily HPV- HNC patients. Methods: Eligible were pts with ECOG performance status 0-1 with pathologic stage III or IVA squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, larynx, or hypopharynx, without gross residual tumor and with high-risk factors (margins <1mm, extracapsular spread (ECS), perineural/angiolymphatic invasion, or 2 or more positive lymph nodes). Postoperative treatment started within 7 weeks of surgery, consisting of standard RT (60-66 Gy, once daily fractions in 6-7 weeks) concurrent with weekly pmAb 2.5 mg/kg IV and weekly C 30 mg/m2IV. Carboplatin (AUC 1.5 weekly) substitution was allowed for certain C-associated toxicities. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Results: Of 46 pts accrued, 2 did not ...
GERIATRIC COLORECTAL SURGERY CO-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM: IMPACT ON PATIENT OUTCOMES

In elderly surgical patients, multiple comorbidities and diminished reserve lead to increased post-operative complications and higher cost. We developed a Geriatric Surgery Co-management (GSC) program, as an innovative partnership between geriatrics and colorectal surgery, to improve patient care for elderly colorectal surgery patients in the post-operative setting. This retrospective study analyzed colorectal surgery patients aged 70 or older admitted to a community hospital before GSC program implementation. Historical control (HC) was compared to patients admitted after implementation of the GSC program. GSC patients received a post-operative comprehensive geriatric assessment, identification of risk factors for and prevention of geriatric syndromes, management of comorbidities and optimization of pain management. The data was collected via National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and chart review. The HC (n=104) and GSC (n=44) groups were comparable at baseline. The most common type of surgery was colectomy in both groups (59% of all cases). The mean length of stay (LOS) was 5% shorter (-0.6 days) in GSC (p-value= 0.74); more pronounced in older and sicker patients: 15% shorter (-1.5 days) in patients ≥80 years old, 22% shorter (-1.7 days) in patients with Charlson comorbidity index ≥ 3 (p-values=0.47 and 0.25, respectively). Postoperative cardiac arrhythmia was markedly diminished from 12/104 (11%) in HC compared to 0/44 (0%) in GSC (p-value=0.02). The mean total hospital charge was $9,500 (18%) less per patient in GSC (p-value=0.1). Our results suggest that a multidisciplinary approach to postoperative care for geriatric colorectal surgery could decrease LOS, improve patient outcomes while decreasing hospital costs.
Establishment and Characterization of an Acute Model of Ocular Hypertension by Laser-Induced Occlusion of Episcleral Veins

Author(s): Zhang, Liwei; Li, Guangyu; Shi, Meng; Liu, Hsin-Hua; Ge, Shaokui; Ou, Yvonne; Flanagan, John G; Chen, Lu | Abstract: PurposeThis study was designed to develop and characterize a laser-induced model of acute intraocular hypertension that permits the study of the anterior segment of the eye.MethodsCD1 mice aged 5 and 8 weeks were examined for elevation of IOP induced by laser photocoagulation. We compared between occlusion of episcleral veins alone and when combined with 270° limbal vessel occlusion. Anterior chamber angle, corneal thickness, and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness were evaluated by anterior- and posterior-segment optical coherence tomography (OCT). Additionally, at day 7 post-procedure, the anterior segment was evaluated for inflammatory cellular presentation by histologic analysis and OCT, and limbal vessels and whole-mount retina were immunostained for CD31 and Brn3a, respectively. Brn3a-positive retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) were quantified with ImageJ software.ResultsAfter single or combined laser treatment in mice aged 5 or 8 weeks, IOP was significantly elevated for 5 to 6 days before returning to the baseline by day 7 post-procedure. Anterior segment assessment indicated less synechiae in the anterior chamber angle and better preserved limbal vessels with single versus combined laser treatment. Corneal thickness was significantly increased after single or combined treatment. No inflammatory cells were detected in the anterior chamber. The thickness of the RNFL and the density of RGCs were both significantly reduced after single or combined treatment.ConclusionsLaser photocoagulation of episcleral veins alone in CD1 mice aged 5 to 8 weeks may be used to induce ocular hypertension resulting in RNFL thinning and ganglion cell loss. This model permits the study of the anterior as well as the posterior segment of the eye.
Self Psychology and the Modern Dance Choreographer

Theory and research methodology of self psychology are integrated with the experiences of modern dance choreographers to investigate the importance of creativity, art making, and aesthetics in mental health and our everyday lives. Empathy, as aesthetically based, is explored to understand the capacity of the arts to unite us in our humanity. Connections between aesthetic development, creativity, and infant patterns of learning are drawn. The influence of sensual and exploration/assertion motivational systems upon the contemporary choreographer are highlighted, leading to an understanding of the selfobject function of sensation and movement for the dance artist. Through an examination of the moment to moment ritualized experiences of studio work, the creative process in making dances is discussed. Ultimately understanding creativity and aesthetically based empathy inform our delineation of mental health and the need for aesthetic experience in everyday life.
The physical mechanism investigation of off-state drain bias TDDB and its implication in advance HK/MG FinFETs

This work presents a systematic study of the off-state drain bias time dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) mechanism, especially for the short channel transistors in advanced FinFET technologies. The sub-threshold leakage current was found to play a key role in determining the off-state drain bias TDDB degradation. Short channel transistors show higher electric field (E-Field) near the drain side due to increase in sub-threshold leakage current and hence, the breakdown lifetime is seen to scale with decrease in channel length. Moreover, with additional process optimizations, such as source/drain proximity push, the sub-threshold leakage current increases which results in worse off-state TDDB and shorter lifetime during practical circuit stress conditions. Also, impact of body bias on sub-threshold current is also studied in this work.
Medication consultation and split treatment during psychotherapy.

In split treatment a patient simultaneously sees both a psychotherapist and a pharmacotherapist. Research indicates that medication and psychotherapy have additive value when used together in the treatment of depression and probably in other disorders as well. However, little is known about the presumably common technique of separate therapists administering these treatments. Complex interpersonal issues arise, reflecting both ideological and transferential attitudes toward medication as well as the intricacies of triangular relationships. Establishing a threeway therapeutic alliance, awareness of competitive countertransference feelings, and recognition of covert issues other than medication in the request for consultation are examples of areas where special attention can help the treatment succeed.
Injectable synthetic extracellular matrices for tissue engineering and repair.

The development of novel biointeractive hydrogels for tissue engineering1, 2, 3, tissue repair, and release of drugs4 and growth factors5 has attracted considerable attention over the past decade. Our attention has focused on hydrogels based on the extracellular matrix (ECM), a heterogeneous collection of covalent and noncovalent molecular interactions comprised primary of proteins and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)6. In the ECM, covalent interactions connect chondroitin sulfate (CS), heparan sulfate (HS) and other sulfated GAGs to core proteins forming proteoglycans (PGs). Noncovalent interactions include binding of link modules of PGs to hyaluronan (HA), electrostatic associations with ions, hydration of the polysaccharide chains, and triple helix formation to generate collagen fibrils.
Treatment of Fatigue in Parkinson’s Disease

Fatigue is a common, under-recognized, and poorly treated symptom in Parkinson’s disease. Not much is understood about its pathophysiology and specific treatment is still lacking. Several fatigue scales exist, but the lack of a validated definition of fatigue makes it difficult to study. Here, we present two cases of fatigue in PD patients and discuss its prevalence, diagnosis, and management.
Effect of minor manufacturing changes on stability of compositionally equivalent PLGA microspheres.

Abstract The physicochemical properties and drug release characteristics of Q1/Q2 equivalent microspheres are sensitive to minor manufacturing changes, which may alter their stability under different storage-conditions. This may be undesirable due to the presence of a substantial amount of drug in microsphere products. Hence, the objective of the present work was to investigate the impact of minor manufacturing changes on the stability of Q1/Q2 equivalent microspheres under various storage conditions. Two Q1/Q2 equivalent risperidone microsphere formulations prepared with minor manufacturing changes (solvent system etc.) showed differences in their physicochemical properties (size, morphology, porosity etc.), drug release characteristics and hence, storage stability. Overall, both formulations were stable under long-term storage conditions (4 °C/ambient humidity). However, under the intermediate storage conditions (25 °C/ambient humidity), only formulation 1 was stable while formulation 2 showed significant polymer degradation, particle aggregation and alteration in the drug release characteristics. Lastly, under accelerated storage conditions (40 °C/ambient humidity vs 75% RH), the extent of polymer degradation, morphological changes and alteration of drug release characteristics of formulation 2 was significantly higher compared to that of formulation 1. Thus, minor manufacturing changes have the potential to significantly alter the storage stability and, hence, the quality and performance of complex drug products such as microspheres.
Interference effect and significance of neonatal rat's lung fibroblast cells interfered by transforming growth factor β1 small interfering RNA

Objective To investigate the effect of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) small interfering RNA (siRNA) interference in transfecting neonatal rat's lung fibroblasts in vitro, and explore the best dose and maintenance time of TGF-β1 siRNA interference. Methods Neonatal rot' s lung fibroblasts cells were interfered with chemosynthesised TGF-β1 siRNA, effective siRNA was selected with real-time quantitative PCR,and then adenovirus vector for TGF-β1 siRNA was constructed to transfect neonatal rat' s lung fibroblasts. TGF-β1 mRNA expression was analyzed after transfection in vitro with real-time quantitative PCR to determine the best dose and maintenance time of TGF-β1siRNA interference. Results (1) After chemosynthesised siRNA interference for 24 h with 20 pmol, the second, third and forth siRNA all had different effect, and inhibition efficiency of the third siRNA was more than 70%. (2) TGF-β1 siRNA adenovirus vector was used to transfect neonatal rat's lung fibroblasts with 20 μl and 50 μl for 24 h, and then the inhibition effect was observed and compared with negative control group with 20 μl and blank group. The inhibition effect was obvious at 20 μl and 50 μl. The inhibition effect was observed with 20 μl for 24,48,72 h respectively, it showed that transfection for 24 h had strong inhibition effect, and inhibition effect of transfeotion increased more and more obviously for 48 h and 72 h. Conclusions The inhibition effect of TGF-β1 expression was obvious with TGF-β1 siRNA adenovirus vector in transfecting neonatal rat's lung fibroblast cells in vitro. Key words: RNA, small interfering; Fibroblasts; Transforming growth factor beta; Transfection; Lung
Rainfall Variability in Equatorial and Southern Africa: Relationships with Sea Surface Temperatures along the Southwestern Coast of Africa

Abstract This article presents the results of an analysis of sea surface temperature (SST) fluctuations in the upwelling region along the Benguela coat and its relationship to rainfall variability both along the coast and throughout equatorial and southern Africa. The analysis incorporates compositing and time series analysis. Coastal rainfall is markedly enhanced during warm-water years and suppressed during cold-water years. The effects are strongest in March and April; at some stations, March totals of 50 mm in cold-water years contrast with 200 to 400 mm in March of warm-water years. Spectral analysis shows the variability of SSTs to be more pronounced on time scales of 5 to 6 years, and strong relationships with rainfall throughout equatorial and southern Africa are evident on this time scale. In coastal regions there may be some degree of direct local forcing of rainfall anomalies via SST anomalies, but the temporal and geographical patterns of the relationships suggest that in general, both SSTs an...
Chronic Idiopathic Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction.

Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO) is a rare, potentially debilitating gastrointestinal (GI) condition characterized by symptoms of intestinal obstruction with the absence of anatomic lesions. In this report, we present a case of an 86-year-old female who presented with severe abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting for two weeks prior to presentation. Imaging studies revealed severe gastric distension with a lack of anatomic lesions. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIIP). The purpose of this case report is to raise awareness of this condition in the medical literature and discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic workup, and treatment options of this disorder.
LIGHTNING TALK: Scholarly Digital Storytelling: Authentic Learning In The Classroom And Beyond

Session LOCATION: George's (3rd Floor of the Johnson Center) In scholarly digital storytelling, students produce digital stories based on academic research. Interviews with students and faculty from 22 different institutions across five countries focused on the ways in which participation in scholarly digital storytelling influences studentsâ academic research, scholarly communication, and digital skills.Preliminary results indicate significant impact on student engagement, motivation, skills, and application of those skills beyond the classroom. Faculty similarly report authentic learning, student engagement, and skill development as well as their own learning and engagement in the teaching process. Scholarly digital storytelling is flexible and can be integrated into many learning environments, from mini-assignments to full-semester projects.
Chapter 7 – Nonnutrients and Bioactives

A significant percentage of the foods and beverages we consume do not provide energy or specific nutrients. Indigestible carbohydrates add bulk to fecal content, support the growth of microbiota in the intestinal tract, and speed the removal of metabolites and potentially harmful xenobiotics. Many naturally occurring plant chemicals (phytochemicals) are drawing interest because some have very desirable hedonic or health properties and often are now available in purified or synthetic form, very much like medications.
The Photochemistry of Small van der Waals Molecules as Studied by Laser Spectroscopy in Supersonic Free Jets

We have used a seeded supersonic free jet expansion to prepare van der Waals molecules consisting of one or more rare gas atoms weakly bound to a seed molecule (the substrate) by attractive van der Waals forces. The electronic spectrum of these van der Waals molecules appears as a satellite to the electronic spectrum of the uncomplexed substrate molecule, and we have used laser induced fluorescence spectroscopy to study both the structure and photochemistry of these molecules.1
Pentafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl (SF5) perfluoroalkyl iodides-synthesis and reaction with ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene ☆: Crystal structure of SF5(CF2)4CH2CH2I

Abstract A series of reactions between SF5CF2CF2I and SF5(CF2)4I with F2CCF2 was carried out in an effort to find the most effective methods for chain-extension. Also, for the first time, SF5(CF2)8I and SF5(CF2)10I have been prepared and isolated. The reaction conditions for the addition of H2CCH2 were also investigated. A determination of the crystal structure of the SF5(CF2)4CH2CH2I has been carried out: the crystal system is monoclinic, with space group P2(1)/n and a=23.465(5) A; b=6.0971(12) A; c=44.892(9) A; α=90°; β=99.38(3)°; γ=90°; Z=20.
Role of Acetate in Sporogenesis of Bacillus cereus

Abstract Nakata, H. M. (Washington State University, Pullman). Role of acetate in sporogenesis of Bacillus cereus. J. Bacteriol. 91:784–788. 1966.—The distribution of radioactivity associated initially with acetate-2-C14 was followed during sporogenesis of Bacillus cereus strain T. This was accomplished by replacing cells committed to sporulation into a chemically defined sporulation medium. It was observed that 65 to 70% of the initial radioactivity was incorporated into poly-β-hydroxybutyrate, whereas 20 to 25% was found in other cellular constituents. Virtually no radioactivity was lost as C14O2 during the first 5 to 6 hr after replacement. Then, a gradual evolution of C14O2 coincident with poly-β-hydroxybutyrate degradation, was observed until about the ninth hour. By this time, the polymer was essentially depleted, and the first spore structures were observed in stained preparations. The total amount of radioactivity lost as C14O2 was 20 to 25%. The major portion of products derived from poly-β-hydroxybutyrate was incorporated into the spores. As much as 17% of the radioactivity associated with the spores was found in dipicolinic acid. More than 50% was located in spore proteins, 20 to 25% in the hot 5% trichloroacetic acid-soluble fraction, 4 to 5% in the lipid fraction, and 15 to 20% in the cold 5% trichloroacetic acid-soluble fraction. These data, accounting for 70 to 75% of the initial radioactivity, confirmed the hypothesis that the major role of acetate, and subsequently of poly-β-hydroxybutyrate, in sporulation of B. cereus T is to provide carbon precursors and energy for sporogenesis.
An Imaging Survey of the Galactic H-Alpha Emission with Arcminute Resolution

We are presently carrying out a northern hemisphere survey of the Galactic Hα emission. Our instrument, the Virginia Tech Spectral Line Imaging Camera (SLIC) utilizes a fast objective lens (f/1.2) with a cryogenically-cooled TK 512 × 512 CCD. A filter wheel in front of the lens allows us to select interference filters, including a narrowband Hα filter and a broader bandpass continuum filter in a line free part of the spectrum. The fast optics in combination with the low noise CCD result in sub-Rayleigh sensitivity at confusion limited levels. (1 Rayleigh = 106/4π photons cm-2 s-1 sr-1.) This corresponds to an emission measure sensitivity of ≈ 1 pc cm-6. Parameters of our system are given in Table 1.
City Commission Election Districts: (Geographic) Rationality and Reality in a Florida Context

The establishment and maintenance of election or representation districts within counties and cities has its supporters and its detractors. Citizens, elected city and county comn1issioners or council members, scholars, and political operatives have been discussing the pros and cons of local government election or representation districts since the founding of the country. Whether called wards, parishes, or city council or commission districts, they exist across the nation at the local government level. Historically, local government districts, such as wards and even counties, were core building blocks for state and federal election districts. With the growth of computing technology, especially the widespread adoption of geographic information systems (GIS), along with court support for the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and its amendments, the former political unit hierarchical structure is no longer the operative model.
Myasthenic patients' IgG causes redistribution of acetylcholine receptors: freeze-fracture studies

Immunoglobulin from patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) accelerates the degradation of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) of skeletal muscle by a mechanism dependent on receptor cross-linking. However, the intermediate steps between cross-linking and endocytosis and degradation are not known. We have used freeze-fracture electron microscopy to study the effects of myasthenic immunoglobulin on the distribution of AChRs in the surface membranes of cultured rat skeletal muscle. Large, angular intramembrane particles were identified as AChRs. These particles were present in three configurations: distributed individually; in “hot spots”; and in clusters of two to 60 particles. Large depressions (greater than 100 nm in diameter) were thought to be endocytotic pits; they occurred preferentially in hot spots, and approximately half of the depressions were closely associated with clusters of AChRs. In control myotubes, hot spots contained a high density of AChR particles that were evenly, rather than randomly, distributed. Exposure to myasthenic patients' IgG induced clustering of the particles within such hot spots. In non-hot spot regions, control myotubes had mainly individually distributed AChRs, while clusters were seen only rarely. The addition of myasthenic IgG caused a rapid increase, followed by a gradual decrease, in the incidence of individual clusters as well as an increase in cluster size. This redistribution of particles was dependent on cross-linking by the myasthenic anti-AChR antibodies. Monovalent Fab fragments of myasthenic IgG had no effect on the distribution of AChR particles. However, addition of a second “piggyback” antibody to cross-link Fab- AChR complexes caused a redistribution of AChR particles like that due to the original myasthenic IgG. These findings indicate that cross- linking of AChRs by divalent antibody causes clustering of AChR particles, which may play an important role in their accelerated endocytosis and degradation.
Optimal dynamic auctions

We consider a dynamic auction problem motivated by the traditional single-leg, multi-period revenue management problem. A seller with C units to sell faces potential buyers with unit demand who arrive and depart over the course of T time periods. The time at which a buyer arrives, her value for a unit as well as the time by which she must make the purchase are private information. In this environment, we derive the revenue maximizing Bayesian incentive compatible selling mechanism.
Explosive Vapour Detection Using Micromechanical Sensors

MEMS-based microcantilever platforms have been used to develop extremely sensitive explosive vapour sensors. Two unique approaches of detecting of explosive vapours are demonstrated. In the first approach a cantilever beam coated with a selective layer undergoes bending and resonance frequency variation due to explosive vapour adsorption. The resonance frequency variation is due to mass loading while adsorption-induced cantilever bending is due to a differential stress due molecular adsorption. In the second approach that does not utilize selective coatings for speciation, detection is achieved by deflagration of adsorbed explosive molecules. Deflagration of adsorbed explosive molecules causes the cantilever to bend due to released heat while its resonance frequency decreases due to mass unloading.