cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
FlashDOM: interacting with flash content from the document object model

Assistive technologies are often only adapted to emerging web technologies after they are common enough to generate demand for relevant assistive technology. This paper proposes a general approach to speed up and simplify the process of making assistive technologies compatible with innovation on the web by providing hooks to the browser's standard Document Object Model that expose the capabilities of a new technology.In this paper, we will illustrate the utility of this model by applying it to Adobe Flash content, which, despite years of attempts to produce more accessible content, remains woefully inaccessible.We show how this approach enables screen readers that would normally not have permission to read Flash content to access this content, and how it can enable interactivity with Flash content in a modern browser.
Effect of Hot Cutting and Related Factors in Commercial Broiler Processing on Tenderness

Abstract Cutting before chilling and aging significantly increased shear resistance values of breast and thigh muscles compared to cutting after chilling. Values were 30% higher in the hot-cut birds. Taste panel ratings of tenderness agreed with shear data. Superimposed variations in slaughter technique, tray packing technique, and freezing had negligible effects. The much greater shear values for all plant processed birds compared to laboratory processed birds can probably be attributed to differences in picking procedures.
A Constitutional Court for China Within the Chinese Communist Party: Scientific Development and the Institutional Role of the CCP

One of the great current debates in Chinese constitutional law is the role of constitutional review within the Chinese legal-political system. This paper looks at the recent work of Chinese constitutional scholars to analyze the thrust of that debate. It suggests that this modern scholarship rightly focuses on the institutionalization and bureaucratization of politics as a hallmark of the scientific development of rule of law notions within China’s political system. This bureaucratization and institutionalization has important ramifications for institutionalizing constitutional interpretation as a viable legitimating tool within this developing Chinese constitutionalism. However, the paper criticizes the current approaches because they tend to focus on state institutions, principally the National People’s Congress, as the place from where the constitutional interpretation function ought to be exercised - whether implemented in the form of a court or some other collective. The paper proposes a different focus. Reading modern Chinese constitutionalism holistically supports the idea that the constitutional interpretation function ought to be exercised from the highest level of political authority in China. The Chinese Constitutional framework provides an important insight, one that is worth emphasizing - under the Chinese Constitutional system, the CCP is and ought to be recognized as the authoritative institutional interpreter of the constitution and the constitutional order over which it presides and under which it is bound. The highest institutional body within the Chinese constitutional system is the Chinese Communist Party rather than the state institutions, like the NPC, that have been the object of the current debate. As the institutional embodiment of the highest political authority in the nation, the CCP may be best suited for the role of authoritative interpreter of the constitution. An institutionalization of that function in the form of a constitutional court or similar collective organization within the CCP may thus represent the most appropriate way of further legitimating constitutionalism within the Chinese legal order.
0.83- and 1.3-micron microwave (2-18 GHz) fiber-optic links using directly modulated laser sources

Loss and noise characteristics of 0.83- mu m and 1.3- mu m directly modulated laser fiber-optic links were measured from 2 to 19 GHz. The 1.3- mu m system exhibited lower loss (46 dB at 18 GHz) and noise figure (64 dB at 18 GHz) than the 0.83- mu m version for frequencies above 10 GHz. Deleterious feedback-induced effects were observed in the 0.83- mu m link, including sporadic 45-dB radiofrequency signal dropouts. >
Adsorption of sulfur dioxide on hematite and goethite particle surfaces

The adsorption of sulfur dioxide (SO2) on iron oxide particle surfaces at 296 K has been investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). A custom-designed XPS ultra-high vacuum chamber was coupled to an environmental reaction chamber so that the effects of adsorbed water and molecular oxygen on the reaction of SO2 with iron oxide surfaces could be followed at atmospherically relevant pressures. In the absence of H2O and O2, exposure of hematite (α-Fe2O3) and goethite (α-FeOOH) to SO2 resulted predominantly in the formation of adsorbed sulfite (SO32−), although evidence for adsorbed sulfate (SO42−) was also found. At saturation, the coverage of adsorbed sulfur species was the same on both α-Fe2O3 and α-FeOOH as determined from the S2p : Fe2p ratio. Equivalent saturation coverages and product ratios of sulfite to sulfate were observed on these oxide surfaces in the presence of water vapor at pressures between 6 and 18 Torr, corresponding to 28 to 85% relative humidity (RH), suggesting that water had no effect on the adsorption of SO2. In contrast, molecular oxygen substantially influenced the interactions of SO2 with iron oxide surfaces, albeit to a much larger extent on α-Fe2O3 relative to α-FeOOH. For α-Fe2O3, adsorption of SO2 in the presence of molecular oxygen resulted in the quantitative formation of SO42− with no detectable SO32−. Furthermore, molecular oxygen significantly enhanced the extent of SO2 uptake on α-Fe2O3, as indicated by the greater than two-fold increase in the S2p : Fe2p ratio. Although SO2 uptake is still enhanced on α-Fe2O3 in the presence of molecular oxygen and water, the enhancement factor decreases with increasing RH. In the case of α-FeOOH, there is an increase in the amount of SO42− in the presence of molecular oxygen, however, the predominant surface species remained SO32− and there is no enhancement in SO2 uptake as measured by the S2p : Fe2p ratio. A mechanism involving molecular oxygen activation on oxygen vacancy sites is proposed as a possible explanation for the non-photochemical oxidation of sulfur dioxide on iron oxide surfaces. The concentration of these sites depends on the exact environmental conditions of RH.
The impact of polarization on infrared sea-surface temperature sensing

One of the most strongly polarized natural infrared sources is the sea surface, yet polarization is rarely considered in infrared radiometric sea-surface temperature sensing. For an off-nadir incidence angle, sea-surface emission is vertically polarized, and reflected atmospheric radiance is horizontally polarized. The net degree of polarization is determined by the relative magnitudes of reflected and surface-emitted radiances, which actually tend to offset one another because of their orthogonal orientations. The significance of partially polarized radiances on radiometric sea-surface temperature measurements is determined primarily by the viewing angle and the inherent polarization sensitivity of the radiometer. This paper discusses several ways that polarization can affect infrared radiometric measurements of sea-surface temperature. A specific example is shown, wherein the polarization sensitivity of a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer results in small errors that are significant for high-accuracy radiometry.
Angiotensin-(1–7) inhibits growth of cardiac myocytes through activation of the mas receptor

Peptide hormones such as ANG II and endothelin contribute to cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction by stimulating myocyte hypertrophy and myofibroblast proliferation. In contrast, angioten...
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci from the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Ascomycota: Hypocreales)

Beauveria bassiana, an entomogenous fungus used for the biological control of pest insects, comprises a globally-distributed species complex of regionally endemic lineages. In order to study the population genetics of B. bassiana, detail species boundaries, conduct ecological studies of natural populations and track fates of experimentally-released strains, sensitive genetic markers are required. We describe the isolation and characterization of eight microsatellite loci that amplify successfully from strains representative of the phylogenetic diversity in the B. bassiana complex.
Teaching about Africa: A Review of Middle/Secondary Textbooks and Supplemental Materials

(1995). Teaching about Africa: A Review of Middle/Secondary Textbooks and Supplemental Materials. The Social Studies: Vol. 86, No. 6, pp. 253-259.
Toward objective quantification of perfusion-weighted computed tomography in subarachnoid hemorrhage: Quantification of symmetry and automated delineation of vascular territories

Rationale and Objectives. Perfusion-weighted computed tomography (CTP) is a relatively recent innovation that estimates a value for cerebral blood flow (CBF) using a series of axial head CT images tracking the time course of a signal from an intravenous contrast bolus. Materials and Methods. CTP images were obtained using a standard imaging protocol and were analyzed using commercially available software. A novel computer-based method was used for objective quantification of side-to-side asymmetries of CBF values calculated from CTP images. Results. Our method corrects for the inherent variability of the CTP methodology seen in the subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patient population to potentially aid in the diagnosis of cerebral vasospasm (CVS). This method analyzes and quantifies side-to-side asymmetry of CBF and presents relative differences in a construct termed a Relative Difference Map (RDM). To further automate this process, we have developed a unique methodology that enables a computer to delineate vascular territories within a brain image, regardless of the size and shape of the brain. Conclusions. While both the quantification of image symmetry using RDMs and the automated assignment of vascular territories were initially designed for the analysis of CTP images, it is likely that they will be useful in a variety of applications.
Differential expression of a malate synthase gene during the preinfection stage of symbiosis in the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria bicolor.

Summary • The ectomycorrhiza is a symbiotic organ formed between a filamentous fungus and a plant root, mainly tree roots. Root colonization involves significant shifts in gene expression resulting in metabolic and structural changes in the fungus, including growth toward the plant root, penetration and establishment of the symbiotic organ. • The preinfection stage of the association is crucial as changes that occur throughout mycorrhiza formation are set in motion. Using an in vitro system for identifying preinfection stage symbiosis-regulated genes from the Laccaria bicolor–Pinus resinosa interaction we have identified a malate synthase from L. bicolor (Lb-MS). • The glyoxylate pathway, of which malate synthase is an enzyme, acts as a tricarboxylic acid pathway bypass generating four-carbon compounds for biosynthesis. While it is anticipated that malate synthase would be a part of the genetic and metabolic machinery of any fungus, Lb-MS is of interest because it is symbiosis regulated. • Lb-MS is regulated through interaction between the fungus and the host, by glucose and by the presence of other carbon sources in the medium. Its proposed role in the symbiosis is in the utilization of two carbon compounds formed from catabolic processes in early interaction facilitating hyphal net growth.
Design and Manufacturing Functionally Gradient Material Objects With an Off the Shelf Three-Dimensional Printer: Challenges and Solutions

This paper presents the challenges and solutions encountered while designing and then printing functionally gradient material (FGM) objects using an off the shelf fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer. The printer, Big Builder Dual-Feed Extruder from 3dprinter4u, Noordwijkerhout, The Netherlands, has the unique design of extruding two different filaments out of one nozzle. By controlling the rate at which the two filaments are pulled into the melt chamber, FGM objects can be printed. Software challenges associated with process planning required to print an FGM object are solved by showing a method for printing a discretized gradient and by designing an open-loop control mechanism for the extruder motors. A design method is proposed that models an object using a level-set function (LSF) with a material gradient. Instead of merely identifying the boundaries of the object, the level set also models the material gradient within the object. This representation method along with a genetic algorithm finds an optimal design for an FGM cantilever beam that is then printed on the FDM printer. The model and genetic algorithm are also used to solve a standard topology optimization problem. The results are compared to a similar FGM topology optimization method in the literature. All the codes for this paper are made open source to facilitate future research.
Integrating extension and research activities: An exploratory study

The exploratory study reported here examined Extension-research integration activities. Focus group interviews with Extension and research faculty (N=17) revealed several themes, which included: current status of integration activities, perceptions of the roles of Extension and research, barriers to integration, and opportunities for integration. Time, funding, administration-related communication challenges, need for clarification regarding respective roles of collaborators, and lack of incentives and structural support were viewed as barriers. Utilizing faculty joint appointments, networking, involving graduate students in Extension and research activities, and serving on graduate student committees were strategies suggested. Based on the findings, a framework for integration is proposed.
Cell-Permeable Esterase-Activated Ca(II)-Sensitive MRI Contrast Agent.

Calcium [Ca(II)] is a fundamental transducer of electrical activity in the central nervous system (CNS). Influx of Ca(II) into the cytosol is responsible for action potential initiation and propagation, and initiates interneuronal communication via release of neurotransmitters and activation of gene expression. Despite the importance of Ca(II) in physiology, it remains a challenge to visualize Ca(II) flux in the central nervous system (CNS) in vivo. To address these challenges, we have developed a new generation, Ca(II)-activated MRI contrast agent that utilizes ethyl esters to increase cell labeling and prevent extracellular divalent Ca(II) binding. Following labeling, the ethyl esters can be cleaved, thus allowing the agent to bind Ca(II), increasing relaxivity and resulting in enhanced positive MR image contrast. The ability of this probe to discriminate between extra- and intracellular Ca(II) may allow for spatiotemporal in vivo imaging of Ca(II) flux during seizures or ischemia where large Ca(II) flu...
Selenium Metabolism in Plants

Selenium (Se) is an essential nutrient for many organisms, but also toxic at higher levels. While certain algae require Se to make selenoproteins, no such requirement has been shown for higher plants. Still, plants readily take up and assimilate Se using sulfur (S) transporters and biochemical pathways, and can also volatilize methylated Se. Some plants can even hyperaccumulate Se to levels around 1% of plant dry weight, in the form of methyl-selenocysteine, probably as a defense mechanism. Plants may be used both to provide dietary Se in areas of Se deficiency, and to clean up Se pollution from seleniferous areas. These applications benefit from better insight into the genetic and biochemical mechanisms that control plant Se tolerance and accumulation. Here we give a review of plant Se metabolism, and present new insights into plant Se tolerance and hyperaccumulation mechanisms. Moreover, we summarize research on the ecological aspects of plant Se accumulation.
EFFECTS OF MISCLASSIFICATIONS ON STATISTICAL INFERENCES IN EPIDEMIOLOGY

Misclassification errors caused by imperfect sensitivity (U) and specificity (V) can affect statistical inferences in epidemiology. Such errors can lead to biases and increased standard errors in estimates of rates. Furthermore, low U and V can have a catastrophic effect on the power of a test to detect a change in rate, and, if U and V change even slightly as the rate changes, the effect on power may be dramatic.
Barriers to access and utilization of eating disorder treatment among women

Anorexia, bulimia, and other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED) are psychiatric disorders recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5). One difference of eating disorders compared to other psychiatric disorders is the physical effects of the disease. Although anorexia is easier to physically detect than bulimia and OSFED, many women remain undiagnosed and untreated. Even if an eating disorder is recognized by the individual, barriers to clinical diagnosis and treatment persist. This study examines the barriers to treatment among women with anorexia, bulimia, and OSFED using Andersen's Behavioral Model. The physical, psychological, and personality trait differences among the eating disorder subgroups may affect treatment utilization and access.
High Affinity Mannotetraose as an Alternative to Dextran in ConA Based Fluorescent Affinity Glucose Assay Due to Improved FRET Efficiency.

Diabetes mellitus affects millions of people worldwide and requires that individuals tightly self-regulate their blood glucose levels to minimize the associated secondary complications. Continuous monitoring devices potentially offer patients a long-term means to tightly monitor their glucose levels. In recent years, fluorescent affinity sensors based on lectins (e.g., Concanavalin A (ConA)) have been implemented in such devices. Traditionally, these sensors pair the lectin with a multivalent ligand, like dextran, in order to develop a competitive binding assay that changes its fluorescent properties in response to the surrounding glucose concentrations. This work introduces a new type of fluorescent ligand for FRET-based assays in an attempt to improve the sensitivity of such assays. This ligand is rationally designed to present a core trimannose structure and a donor fluorophore in close proximity to one another. This design decreases the distance between the FRET donor and the FRET acceptors on ConA to...
Raising a big tent: Internal party composition and leadership selectorate expansion

The trend amongst many parties toward the inclusion of rank-and-file members in the leadership selection process has often been attributed to opposition status and electoral defeat. However, these explanations are typical events for parties and hardly seem sufficient for party elites to willingly cede their authority over the selection of party leaders. This paper proposes that the electoral regionalization of the party contributes to the decision to expand the leadership selectorate. In the event a party is defeated to an extent in which their support is reduced to its regional base, this situation necessitates the bringing in of new voices to avoid further marginalization. This paper finds that regionalization plays a significant role in the decision of parties to expand leadership selectorates and that the role of opposition status and electoral setbacks have been overstated.
Numerical and Experimental Tests of a Supersonic Inlet with Pylon Set and Fuel Injection through Pylons

A pylon set is proposed for installation in a rectangular or axisymmetric supersonic inlet near the cowl front edge. This idea of a scramjet with pylon set was first introduced in the article by M. Gilinsky and I.M. Blankson (Ref. 1). There are several advantages of this novel approach. First, the proposed pylon set does not increase the drag of an inlet, but, on the contrary, reduces it (unlike the traditional single pylon application before the combustion chamber where additional drag is introduced by that pylon). Second, the efficiency of fuel-oxidizer mixing can be greatly improved by placing fuel injectors on the lateral and back sides of pylons this creates several mixing layers which allows for better air/fuel mixing at a smaller distance. The first stage of this research effort was devoted to the investigation of aerodynamic characteristics of pylons installed in the rectangular supersonic inlet without fuel injection. NASA VULCAN CFD code was employed for numerical simulations of the telescope inlet with 4 pylons and experimental tests of the model of this inlet were conducted at the NASA LaRC Mach 4 Blowdown Facility in September October of 2004. The set of four pylons was installed and connected to the two-component force balance. Static pressure taps were placed on the centerbody and on the cowl along the inlet centerline. Both theoretical and experimental results turned out to be in a very good agreement (Ref. 2). The system of injectors was proposed to be placed near the back edge of pylons (Ref. 3). Specifically, in this paper, we investigate a telescope inlet with three pylons and Helium injection laterally from the rear of the pylons at the free stream Mach number, M∞ = 6. We present partial results of the second stage of this project which involves numerical simulations and preparation to the experimental tests of the physical model of a telescope inlet with pylons and fuel injection through the pylons. The goal of the ongoing project is to verify and validate obtained CFD results and to confirm the mixing efficiency of a scramjet with such inlet.
Core level shifts in the 3 d transition metals and tin

We present estimates of various contributions to the free-atom-metal binding-energy shifts, $\ensuremath{\Delta}{E}_{B}$, for the $2s$ and $2p$ core levels of the iron series elements and, for comparison, the $3{d}_{\frac{5}{2}}$ level of Sn. Our results indicate that the sharp break in the experimental $\ensuremath{\Delta}{E}_{B}$ values occurring between Ni and Cu is due to variation in differences of $d$-electron count, i.e., $d$ configuration, between atom and metal. Ley et al. who neglected the $d$-configuration differences, attributed the break in $\ensuremath{\Delta}{E}_{B}$ to a change in extra-atomic screening. Through free-atom calculations we find extra-atomic screening energies of 6-8 eV for Ti through Zn, with no break between Ni and Cu, and \ensuremath{\sim} 10 eV for Sn. In conjunction with charge-renormalization and dipole-term estimates, these results suggest that intra-atomic screening of core holes in metals is an important factor influencing free-atom-metal binding-energy shifts.
Ethnic differences in inter‐ and intra‐situational blood pressure variation: Comparisons among African‐American, Hispanic‐American, Asian‐American, and European‐American women

Objectives The purpose of this study was to compare the daily inter- and intra-situational ambulatory blood pressure (BP) variation by ethnicity in women. Methods The African-American (N = 82; Age = 39.7 + 8.9), Hispanic-American (N = 25; age = 37.5 + 9.4), Asian-American (N = 22; Age = 35.2 + 8.6), and European-American (N = 122; Age = 37.2+ 9.4) women in this study all worked in similar positions at two major medical centers in NYC. Each wore an ambulatory monitor during the course of one mid-week workday. Proportional BP changes from work or home to sleep, intra-situational BP variation (standard deviation [SD]) and mean situational BP levels were compared among the groups using ANOVA models. Results African-American and Asian-American women had significantly smaller proportional work-sleep systolic changes than either European- (P < 0.05) or Hispanic-American (P < 0.05) women, but the Asian-American women's changes tended to be smallest. The variability (SD) of diastolic BP at work was significantly greater among African- and Hispanic-American women compared to Asian- and European-American women (all P < 0.05). African-American women had greater sleep variability than European-American women (P < 0.05). Asian-American women had the highest level of sleep diastolic pressure (all comparisons P < 0.05). Conclusions African-American and Asian-American women have an attenuated proportional BP decline from waking environments to sleep compared to European-American and Hispanic-American women. Asian-American nocturnal BP may be elevated relative to all other groups. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:932–935, 2016. © 2016Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nitric oxide decreases lung liquid production via guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate

We studied the role of cGMP in nitric oxide (NO)-induced changes in lung liquid production (J v ) in chronically instrumented fetal sheep. Forty-five studies were done in whichJ v was measured by a...
Ecocultural patterns of family engagement among low-income Latino families of preschool children

For the 5 million low-income Latino children in the United States who are disproportionately impacted by the numerous risk factors associated with poverty, it is essential to identify proximal protective factors that mitigate these risks and bolster the academic and social skills that are foundational to a successful transition into formal schooling. Using ecocultural theory as a lens to guide this work, the present study: (a) described patterns of culture-contextualized family engagement among a low-income, Latino sample, and (b) examined relations between these patterns, family demographic factors, and children's language and social skills in preschool. Across Spanish and English language subsamples, we found evidence that there is heterogeneity in patterns of family engagement within and across language groups, such that different forms of family engagement defined the high engagement profiles in particular. We also found that demographic factors (such as child gender, family structure, and parental education and employment) predicted these patterns differentially across language groups, and that these patterns related to children's social and language skills in meaningful ways. Findings provide directions for future research, theory, and practice with this heterogeneous cultural group. (PsycINFO Database Record
Determining organohalides in animal fats using gel permeation chromatographic cleanup: repeatability study.

Evaluation of a previously published gel permeation chromatographic (GPC) procedure was undertaken to determine whether it can be used for additional organochlorine pesticides. After repeatability studies of many pesticides, the following compounds were approved for inclusion in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Domestic Residue Monitoring Program: coumaphos-S, stirophos, chlorpyrifos, ronnel, carbophenothion, chlorfenvinphos, phosalone, kepone, captan, linuron, and endosulfan I and II. Recoveries ranged from 54% for captan to 123% for ronnel. Ranges of CVs varied from 0-9.5% for carbophenothion to 7.1-47.7% for kepone. Although the minimum acceptable recovery of 50% was attained for all 12 pesticides, the anticipated CV of 20% was waived to include chlorpyrifos, endosulfan I and II, and kepone. For a multiresidue procedure involving approximately 40 compounds, these results were within the acceptable criteria.
NEW CREATION: CENTRAL JEWISH TEXTS

As indicated in the introductory comments, the interpretation of Paul's new-creation motif has been intimately connected with the Jewish context of the pre-Christian Paul, and this is a more than reasonable starting point. The primary concern here is to determine what (if any) Jewish antecedents might have exerted a formative influence on the apostle's conception of new creation. I have already provided a rationale for the selection of primary sources to be examined in part I, and more comment on this subject will be offered at the beginning of each section. While an adequate treatment of this theme requires a full analysis of a very select group of extra-biblical texts, close attention to the footnotes will reveal a broadly researched argument, with ample corroboration from the literature of the period. Following a survey of this theme in the prophetic literature of the Hebrew Bible (chapter 2), I will look closely at the book of Jubilees (chapter 3) and Joseph and Aseneth (chapter 4). These sources provide evidence for a variety of applications of new-creation imagery in the literature and thought-world of first-century BC/AD Judaism, and each of these uses may be regarded as potentially influential on Paul the apostle. While it would be wrong to limit Paul to only these interpretive options, effectively disallowing his own creative intellect, it would be equally imprudent to examine Paul's letters in a historical vacuum. Original thinkers occasionally part company with their contemporaries, yet sometimes the better part of originality is a fresh reformulation of primitive faith.
Photovoltaic Frequency–Watt Curve Design for Frequency Regulation and Fast Contingency Reserves

When renewable energy resources are installed in electricity grids, they typically increase generation variability and displace thermal generator control action and inertia. Grid operators combat these emerging challenges with advanced distributed energy resource (DER) functions to support frequency and provide voltage regulation and protection mechanisms. This paper focuses on providing frequency reserves using autonomous IEC TR 61850-90-7 pointwise frequency–watt (FW) functions that adjust DER active power as a function of measured grid frequency. The importance of incorporating FW functions into a fleet of photovoltaic (PV) systems is demonstrated in simulation. Effects of FW curve design, including curtailment, deadband, and droop, were analyzed against performance metrics using Latin hypercube sampling for 20%, 70%, and 120% PV penetration scenarios on the Hawaiian island of Lanai. Finally, to understand the financial implications of FW functions to utilities, a performance function was defined based on monetary costs attributable to curtailed PV production, load shedding, and generator wear. An optimization wrapper was then created to find the best FW function curve for each penetration level. It was found that in all cases, the utility would save money by implementing appropriate FW functions.
Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Applications

An important aspect of application using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is the mass spectrometer. The advantages of sector field instruments (ICP-SFMS) are their high resolution that resolves polyatomic ions that interfere with analyte ions and much higher signal response, resulting in a 10-fold improvement in limits of detection (LODs).
Novel Link between PI 3′ Kinase/p38 Map Kinase Pathway in Dasatinib (BMS354825) Mediated Effect in BCR-ABL Expressing Cells.

Background: Dasatinib (BMS354825), a dual Src/Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor, exhibits potent antileukemic effects in vitro and in vivo. Despite the well-established role of BMS354825 in the treatment of imatinib-resistant chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), the molecular mechanisms that result in generation of antileukemic responses remain unknown. Methods: BCR/ABL (wild type and those carrying mutations: E255K, H396P, Y253F, M351T and T315I) expressing murine BAF3 cell lines were exposed to varying concentrations of BMS354825 for variable times to evaluate for effect on phosphorylation/activation of p38 MAP Kinase and PI3′ Kinase pathway in presence or absence of pharmacologic inhibitors of p38 MAP Kinase and mTOR respectively. Results: In the present study we provide evidence that BMS354825 induces phosphorylation of the p38 MAP Kinase, and activation of its kinase domain, in BCR-ABL expressing cell lines except for those carrying T315I mutation. We also identify the kinases MapKapK-2 which is upregulated in response to BMS354825 as shown by increased phosphorylation of hsp27. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of p38 MAP Kinase by SB203580 reverses the growth inhibitory effects of BMS354825 on primary leukemic CFU-GM progenitors from patients with CML (see figure). Moreover, SB203580 leads to impairment of the BMS354825 mediated antiproliferative effects in both wild type and mutated CML lines except for those carrying T315I. On the other hand, BMS354825 leads to dephosphorylation of p70S6 Kinase and its downstream effector pathway including down regulation of ribosomal S6. We also report that the pharmacological inhibition of mTOR by Rapamycin augments the growth inhibitory effects of BMS354825 on primary leukemic CFU-GM progenitors from CML patients (see figure). Furthermore, pharmacologic inhibition of p38 MAP Kinase by SB203580 led to reversal of the BMS354825 mediated dephosphorylation of p70 S6 Kinase demonstrating that it maybe downstream of p38 MAP Kinase activation. Altogether, our data establish that activation of the p38 MAP Kinase signaling cascade plays an important role in the generation of the effects of BMS354825 on BCR-ABL expressing cells. Conclusion: 1. We have identified a novel crosstalk mechanism between the p38 MAPK and the PI3′ Kinase pathway which is unique to the effect of BMS354825 in CML. 2. p38 MAP Kinase pathway may play an important role in developing of resistance to BMS354825 in CML. 3. mTOR inhibition may augment effect of BMS354825 in CML and its role in combination with BMS354825 should be explored in resistant disease. ![Figure][1] Figure [1]: pending:yes
PLASMA PROTEIN METABOLISM—ELECTROPHORETIC STUDIES : CHRONIC DEPLETION OF CIRCULATING PROTEINS DURING LOW PROTEIN FEEDING

The findings on electrophoretic analysis of plasma proteins during many weeks of low protein feeding in dogs accord in general with those of chemical analysis as concerns the alterations in plasma albumin and globulin concentrations. Long continued restriction of dietary protein results in decreased albumin levels while plasma globulin concentrations remain essentially normal. The degree of depletion of electrophoretic albumin is, however, considerably greater than that of chemical albumin. When large amounts of protein are fed to such depleted dogs complete restoration of normal plasma albumin concentrations requires several weeks. During these weeks large quantities of nitrogen are retained, presumably as tissue protein reserves. Prompt production of plasma globulin is apparent during such periods. These relationships are more clearly shown in electrophoretic than in chemical analyses and are more conspicuous when only moderate protein intakes are fed. These data may indicate that plasma globulins and certain tissue proteins, in contrast to plasma albumin, enjoy prior demands on the total available pool of body protein materials under emergency conditions. Total electrophoretic globulin areas are increased during depletion. Such increases result largely from elevated alpha globulin peaks and are not disclosed by chemical analysis. They are found to be associated with elevated plasma lipid levels which occur in these depleted dogs. These experiments suggest that in potency tests for dietary protein materials, factors other than the quality of fed protein may influence the relative production of plasma albumin and globulin.
The cost of transportation`s oil dependence

Transportation is critical to the world`s oil dependence problem because of the large share of world oil it consumes and because of its intense dependence on oil. This paper will focus on the economic costs of transportation`s oil dependence.
Sexual Assault and Identity Disruption: A Sociological Approach to Posttraumatic Stress:

Violence against women and mental illness are two of the most pressing issues in higher education. Despite decades of research, it is not entirely clear how subjective perceptions of victimization ...
Factors Associated With Having a Physician, Nurse Practitioner, or Physician Assistant as Primary Care Provider for Veterans With Diabetes Mellitus.

Expanded use of nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) is a potential solution to workforce issues, but little is known about how NPs and PAs can best be used. Our study examines ...
The Paradoxical Engagement of Contemporary Art with Activism and Protest

As the contemporary art scene expands outwards with the financial intervention of the corporate sector, the underground cultural activities, experimental communities, and anti-establishment art spaces resist the systematization of the corporate logic. With what has been described as a “social turn of art,” we witness a shift in art’s engagement with politics, from igniting critical awakening in society to creating communal and egalitarian relations in the public spaces. Hence, the social, political, as well as aesthetic viability of these practices are often questioned. The tension between political activism and artistic representation still persists in the century-old paradox: aestheticization of politics that leads to spectacularization of art to make political ideologies attractive, and politicization of aesthetics that strips art of its autonomy, thus its power to operate as a creative process. Both views place art and politics in two different spheres that intersect and interact in desirable but dysfunctional ways. This article discusses that art is not trapped in the paradox between the aestheticization of politics and politicization of aesthetics; it finds its radical meaning and function in this position.
Microbial communities in placentas from term normal pregnancy exhibit spatially variable profiles

The placenta is the principal organ nurturing the fetus during pregnancy and was traditionally considered to be sterile. Recent work has suggested that the placenta harbours microbial communities, however the location and possible function of these microbes remain to be confirmed and elucidated. Here, we employed genomic DNA sequencing of multiple variable (V) regions of the bacterial 16S ribosomal gene, to interrogate microbial profiles in term pregnancies, from the basal plate, which is in direct contact with maternal uterine, endothelial, and immune cells; placental villi, which are bathed in maternal blood, and fetal membranes, which encapsulate the amniotic cavity. QIIME, R package “Phyloseq” analysis was used to assess alpha and beta diversity and absolute abundance of the 16S rRNA gene per location. We demonstrate that (1) microbiota exhibit spatially distinct profiles depending on the location within the placenta and (2) “semi-composite” 16S profiles using multiple V regions validated by quantitative PCR analysis confirmed that distinct bacterial taxa dominate in different placental niches. Finally, profiles are not altered by mode of delivery. Together these findings suggest that there is niche-specificity to the placental microbiota and placental microbiome studies should consider regional differences, which may affect maternal, fetal, and/or neonatal health and physiology.
Reference intervals of citrated-native whole blood thromboelastography in premature neonates.

Abstract Background Bleeding due to acquired coagulation disorders is a common complication in premature neonates. In this clinical setting, standard coagulation laboratory tests might be unsuitable to investigate the hemostatic function as they reflect the concentration of pro-coagulant proteins but not of anti-coagulant proteins. Thromboelastography (TEG), providing a more complete assessment of hemostasis, may be able to overcome some of these limitations. Unfortunately, experience on the use of TEG in premature neonates is very limited and, in particular in this population, reference ranges of TEG parameters have not been yet evaluated. Aims To evaluate TEG in preterm neonates, and to assess their reference ranges. Methods One hundred and eighteen preterm neonates were analyzed for TEG in a retrospective cohort study. Double-sided 95% reference intervals were calculated using a bootstrap method after Box-Cox transformation. TEG parameters were compared between early-preterm and moderate-/late-preterm neonates and between bleeding and non-bleeding preterm neonates. Results Comparing early-preterm with moderate-/late-preterm neonates, TEG parameters were not statistically different, except for fibrinolysis which was significantly higher in early preterm neonates. Platelet count significantly correlated with α angle and MA parameters. Bleeding and non-bleeding neonates had similar TEG values. Conclusions These results reinforce the concept that in stable preterm neonates, in spite of lower concentration of pro- and anti-coagulants proteins, the hemostasis is normally balanced and well functioning.
A Nonlinear Interactions Approximation Model for LES

A new approach to LES modelling based on direct approximation of the nonlinear terms in the filtered Navier-Stokes equations is presented. The proposed Nonlinear Interactions Approximation (NIA) model uses graded filters and de-convolution to parameterize the local interactions across the LES cutoff and an eddy viscosity term to parameterize the distant interactions. A dynamic procedure is used to determine the unknown eddy viscosity coefficient, rendering the model free of adjustable parameters. The proposed NIA model has been applied to LES of turbulent channel flow at Re τ ≈ 210 and Re τ ≈ 570. The results show that NIA significantly improves the prediction of turbulent flows compared to standard existing models such as the dynamic Smagorinsky or the dynamic mixed models.
Global History and the History of Consumption: Congruence and Divergence

Over the past quarter of a century, a new sub-discipline in academic history departments known as ‘world history’ has emerged at the edges of economic history and in tandem with the rise of the International Political Economy (IPE) subfield in political science. The point of overlap in the research agendas of world historians, economic history and IPE has opened up some of the strongest connections between the historical profession and other social science disciplines in many a year. A key element of the shared research agenda is the documentation of the timing, direction and volume of commodity flows of both raw materials and manufactured goods around the globe. The study of the early modern ‘consumer revolution’ is a sine qua non for the rise of world history.
Starting Where the Client is: An Empirical Investigation:

If client concerns are to be respected in the therapeutic process, therapists must develop an empathetic sense of the client's priorities as revealed in the interview. How well a therapist “hears” ...
Survey of Localization: are Noninteracting Electrons Fully Understood?

The theory of localization of noninteracting electrons in a random potential is surveyed. The older perturbative approaches from the strong localization and weak scattering limit, the nonlinear sigma model, the self-consistent method, and scaling theory are summarized. The connection between spectral properties and localization is mentioned. The extent to which real and numerical experiment can confirm or conflict with the theory is discussed.
APPLICATIONS – TRANSPORTATION | Buses: ICE/Battery Hybrids

Hybridelectric bus powertrain technology employs more than one energy source to propel the bus. In most cases, the system includes an internal combustion engine (ICE), battery energy storage, and at least one electric motor. It allows the bus to capture and reuse part of the vehicle braking energy, which is generally dissipated through friction brakes as heat in conventional drive system. Other benefits may include engine downsizing, operation of the engine in a high-efficiency zone, and use of ‘plug-in’ power for part of the activity cycle. This article introduces the main components of hybrid-electric buses and common hybrid-electric architectures. Studies of hybrid-electric bus efficiency, environmental impact, and economic performance are reviewed, and worldwide deployment of the technology is discussed.
Bayesian Disease Mapping: Hierarchical Modeling in Spatial Epidemiology, Second Edition

Since the publication of the first edition, many new Bayesian tools and methods have been developed for space-time data analysis, the predictive modeling of health outcomes, and other spatial biostatistical areas. Exploring these new developments, Bayesian Disease Mapping: Hierarchical Modeling in Spatial Epidemiology, Second Edition provides an up
Neural dynamics of selective attention deficits in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder.

Objective To identify the neural markers of attention dysfunction in patients with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). Methods Sixty participants, including 40 HIV-infected adults (half with HAND) and 20 demographically matched controls performed a visual selective attention task while undergoing high-density magnetoencephalography. Neuronal activity related to selective attention processing was quantified and compared across the 3 groups, and correlated with neuropsychological measures of attention and executive function. Spontaneous neural activity was also extracted from these attention-related cortical areas and examined with respect to HAND status. Results HIV-infected participants with and without HAND exhibited behavioral selective attention deficits on the magnetoencephalography task, as indicated by an increased flanker effect. Neuronal measures of flanker interference activity in the alpha and theta range revealed differential dynamics in attention-related brain areas across the 3 groups, especially in those with HAND. In addition, theta range flanker interference activity in the left inferior frontal and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with executive function and attention composite scores, respectively. Progressively stronger spontaneous alpha and theta activity was also found in unimpaired HIV-infected and HAND participants relative to controls across brain regions implicated in different components of attention processing. Conclusions Behavioral and neuronal metrics of selective attention performance distinguish participants with HAND from controls and unimpaired HIV-infected participants. These metrics, along with measures of local spontaneous neural activity, may hold promise as early markers of cognitive decline in participants with HIV infection and be useful prognostic indicators for HAND.
Demographics and Clinical Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with a Planned or Unplanned Hybrid Graft.

The purpose of this study was to report the demographics and clinical outcomes of patients at our institution following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with a planned or unplanned hybrid autograft–allograft. At a minimum 2-year follow-up, patients at our institution who had undergone primary ACLR with a planned (P) or unplanned (U) hybrid graft using fresh-frozen allografts were contacted to complete a survey containing the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Subjective International Knee Documentation Committee score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, and visual analog scale for activity level. Demographics were compared between groups. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and a revision rate were reported for each group. Mean follow-up among all patients was 3.3 years. Revision rate at follow-up was 0.8 and 6.3% in the P and U groups, respectively (p = 0.03). Among patients reached for follow-up (90 P, 30 U), a lower proportion of males was found in the unplanned hybrid graft group (P: 52%, U: 23%, p