cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
P41 Hydrogen sulfide: Endogenous production and regulatory role in ocular tissues

Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), a colorless gas characterized by its pungent odor, has been portrayed for decades as a toxic pollutant. Evidence of endogenous production of H 2 S in mammalian tissues, and its potential biological role stimulated our interest in the pharmacological significance of this gaseous molecule in ocular tissues. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that H 2 S is endogenously produced in mammalian ocular tissues, and may produce pharmacological effects in retinal pigment epithelial cells. Methods Endogenous levels of H 2 S were measured in bovine ocular tissues, using a well established colorimetric assay. In addition, basal level of H 2 S in bovine retina was examined in response to the H 2 S substrate, l -cysteine as well as the H 2 S biosynthetic enzymes inhibitors, propargylglycine (PAG) and aminooxyacetic acid (AOA); or activator, S-adenosyl- l -methionine (SAM). Using a H 2 S-releasing compound, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), we also determined the effects of H 2 S on cyclic AMP (cAMP) production in rat retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE-J) by Enzyme Immuno Assay. The observed effect of H 2 S on cAMP was studied in the presence or absence of forskolin, an adenylate cyclase activator; glibenclamide, an ATP-sensitive potassium channel (K ATP ) antagonist; or flubiprofen and indomethacin, which are cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors. Results H 2 S is endogenously produced in ocular tissues with highest level detected in cornea (19 ± 2.85 nmoles/mg protein) and retina (17 ± 2.1 nmoles/mg protein). Interestingly, the inhibitors of cystathionine γ -lyase (CSE) and cystathionine β -synthase (CBS) (1 mM PAG and 1 mM AOA, respectively) significantly decreased H 2 S production in the bovine retina by 56.8 and 42%. On the other hand, activator of CBS (SAM, 100 μ M), and H 2 S substrate ( l -cysteine, 10–300 μM) increased ( p 2 S in bovine retina. In RPE-J cells, NaHS (1 nM–100 μM) produced a concentration-dependent increase ( p p ATP channel antagonist, glibenclamide (100 μM) inhibited the NaHS-induced increase of cAMP production in RPE-J cells. Conclusions Our results indicate that H 2 S is endogenously produced in various tissues in the bovine eye. Endogenous level of H 2 S is increased in the presence of l -cysteine or SAM, and decreased by PAG or AOA, inhibitors of enzymes that synthesize H 2 S in neural retina. Moreover, H 2 S can increase cAMP production in RPE-J cells, and removal of the apparent inhibitory effect of prostaglandins unmasks an excitatory effect of H 2 S on cAMP production. In addition to the adenylyl cylcase pathway, K ATP channels are involved in mediating the observed effects of H 2 S on cAMP production. The fact that H 2 S is endogenously produced in ocular tissues and exhibits a regulatory role in cyclic nucleotide production in retina, supports a physiological and/or pharmacological role for this gaseous molecule in the eye.
Effect of a bonding agent on in vitro biochemical activities of remineralizing resin-based calcium phosphate cements.

Abstract Objectives To test whether fluoride in a resin-based Ca–PO 4 ion releasing cement or coating with an acidic bonding agent for improved adhesion compromised the cement remineralization potential. Methods Cements were formulated without fluoride (Cement A) or with fluoride (Cement B). The treatment groups were A = Cement A; A2 = Cement A + bonding agent; B = Cement B; B2 = Cement B + bonding agent. The calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ion release in saliva-like solution (SLS) was determined from hardened cement disks without or with a coating of bonding agent. For the remineralization, two cavities were prepared in dentin of extracted human molars and demineralized. One cavity received composite resin (control); the other received treatment A, A2, B or B2. After 6 week incubation in SLS, 180 μm cross-sections were cut. The percentage remineralization was determined by transverse microradiography comparing the dentin mineral density under the cement to that under the control. Results The percentage of remineralization (mean ± S.D.) was A (39 ± 14) = B (37 ± 18), A2 (23 ± 13), B2 (14 ± 7). Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Holm-Sidak test showed a significant effect from the presence of bonding agent ( p p > 0.05). The ion solution concentrations of all groups showed undersaturation with respect to dicalcium phosphate dihydrate and calcium fluoride and supersaturation for fluorapatite and hydroxyapatite suggesting a positive remineralization potential. Significance Compared to the control all treatments resulted in mineral increase. The remineralization was negatively affected by the presence of the bonding agent.
A mortality kinetics approach to characterizing the fractionated wxposure-mortality response relationship of radon progeny

Abstract The utility of mortality kinetics analysis in evaluating mortality data from fractionated exposure studies was demonstrated using radon-progeny induced extra mortality as an example. Gompertz (log-hazard) functions were used to characterize the mortality of male SPF Wistar rats exposed to radon progeny at 100 WL and 1000 WL for total exposures ranging from 20 to 10 240 WLM. There was an upward parallel displacement of the Gompertz functions following the period of radon exposure. The shape of the Gompertz functions for the exposed animals was consistent with a Gompertz model of toxicity resulting from short-term exposure, resulting in non-repaired injury that summates with natural (aging) injury. The parallel upward displacements (ess) of the Gompertz functions showed an unexpected non-monotonic pattern for rats exposed at 1000 WL. The parallel upward displacements showed a sharp upward increase from 320 to 640 WLM, fell at 1280 WLM, and thereafter increased linearly to 10 240 WLM. These data suggest that the radon progeny exposure-mortality response is non-linear. In contrast, there was no significant parallel upward displacement of the Gompertz functions for rats exposed at 100 WL for total exposures of 20–1280 WLM, but a large displacement began at 2560 WLM total exposure.
DISSOLVED FREE AMINO ACIDS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA COASTAL WATER1

The dissolved free amino acids (DFAA) in seawater samples from an inshore area near a large submarine sewage outfall and from an inshore area relatively remote from any major outfall were compared. At both sites, surface waters contained DFAA levels of about 115 µg/liter (ca. 1 µmole/liter), about twice the value found in surface samples from other parts of the world. Bottom waters contained more DFAA than surface waters at both sites, with significantly more (290 µg or ca. 2.4 µmoles/liter) near an outfall than away from one (170 µg or ca. 1.6 µmoles/liter). Interstitial waters near the outfall contained about 350 µg or ca. 3.0 µmoles DFAA/liter. The composition of the DFAA in all samples was similar to that obtained by other workers elsewhere.
Preparation and characterization of Y1-xPrxBa2Cu3O7-δ single crystals

Abstract We present a reliable method for growing single crystals of Y 1− x Pr x Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ high- T c superconductors in ZrO 2 crucibles. This method results in crystals with greatly improved superconducting properties compared to crystals grown with the previously reported methods which use Al 2 O 3 crucibles. We describe techniques for crystal growth in both Al 2 O 3 and ZrO 2 crucibles using an excess of BaCo 3 and CuO as the flux. The crystals were characterized by means of DC magnetic-susceptibility measurements, electrical-resistivity measurements, and electron microprobe analysis. The effects of Al contamination on the conditions for crystal growth and on the superconducting properties of the crystals are found to be quite significant.
Sleep scheduling of wireless sensor networks using hard-core point processes

In this paper, we examine a randomly deployed sensor network and propose a probabilistic sleep-scheduling scheme to conserve energy while maintaining a desired level of coverage by using coordination among sensors. To introduce coordination among neighboring sensors, we use a hard-core point process from stochastic geometry, which is an inhibition process and does not allow more than one sensor to be on in a given circular region. As compared to existing schemes, the hard-core point process allows coordination between sensors with little communication overhead. We analyze the proposed scheme and derive an expression for the event detection probability. We also perform Monte Carlo simulations and compare the event detection probability to a random switching scheme for a Poisson process of same intensity in order to confirm that the proposed scheme improves the detection probability.
Reproducibility of Weaning Parameters: A Need for Standardization

Although weaning parameters can accurately predict weaning outcome, variability of the measurements of these parameters has not been closely examined. In the current study, we examined the reproducibility of these parameters using a standardized technique. Before the weaning trial, maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax), minute ventilation (VE), respiratory frequency (f), tidal volume (VT), rapid shallow breathing index (f/VT), and vital capacity (VC) were obtained on three trials over a period of 15 min. The results of these parameters over three measurements were compared. There were no statistical differences in the values of PImax, VE, f, VT, and f/VT over three trials (p = 0.45, p = 0.37, p = 0.69, p = 0.64, p = 0.1, respectively). The VC was the only parameter that showed statistical differences among three trials (p < 0.05). For the group, respiratory frequency had the lowest coefficient of variation (COV = SD/mean x 100 percent) at 6.7 percent while the VC had the highest COV at 19.6 percent. We concluded that most weaning parameters of breathing pattern can be measured reliably with bedside instruments using a standard technique.
Interferometer Experiment on Nimbus 3: Preliminary Results

A Michelson interferometer spectrometer carried aboard the Nimbus 3 satellite, launched 14 April 1969, measured the spectrum between 400 and 2000 wave numbers with a resolution of 5 wave numbers. High-quality spectra have been obtained on a global scale, and preliminary results indicate that the absorption bands of carbon dioxide, water vapor, and ozone can be used to obtain vertical distributions of temperature, water vapor, and ozone.
Patient-centering approaches for the surgical oncologist: Palliative care, patient navigation, and distress screening

Surgeons can more effectively meet the public's increased expectation of patient-centered care by directing attention to pain, non-pain symptoms, including depression and anxiety, in addition to the patient's personal preferences, resources, and support needs. Patient navigation and palliative care, both pioneered by surgeons, provide complementary frameworks for the screening, assessment and intervention needed to achieve enhanced patient outcomes including adherence to care, improved quality of life and patient satisfaction. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 110:621–628. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mothers' and Fathers' Reports of Stress in Families of Infants With and Without Single-Suture Craniosynostosis

Objective: To compare relative levels of stress reported by mothers and fathers in families containing infants with and without single-suture craniosynostosis. Design: Case-control study. Participants: Mothers and fathers of 246 infants with recently diagnosed single-suture craniosynostosis and 253 frequency-matched control infants completed the Parenting Stress Index just prior to their infant's cranioplastic surgery. Family demographic information and mothers' ratings of the severity of their child's single-suture craniosynostosis were obtained. Results: Average Parent Domain scores for parents of infants with single-suture craniosynostosis differed little from those reported by parents of control infants; however, Child Domain scores among parents of infants with single-suture craniosynostosis were higher on some subscales, primarily related to unexpected infant health and appearance issues. In both groups, fathers reported higher Child Domain stress than mothers, and mothers reported higher Parent Dom...
The m D b M Problem of Dirac Gauginos and its Solutions

We examine the eective low-energy theory of the adjoint sector of Dirac gaugino models and its UV completions, and identify the main source of tuning. A holomorphic scalar adjoint mass square (the \bM term") is generated at the same order (1-loop) as the Dirac gaugino mass (the \mD term"), leading to the problematic relation bM 16 2 m 2 , somewhat analogous to the B problem of gauge mediation. We identify the leading operators of the low-energy eective theory contributing to the adjoint sector, and evaluate them in various UV completions, conrming the existence of this problem. We suggest a solution by introducing messenger mixing and tuning the relevant parameters. We also present a novel dynamical model for Dirac gauginos based on a strongly coupled SUSY QCD theory, where the additional adjoint M is identied with a conned
Bayesian Value-at-Risk and the Capital Charge Puzzle

This paper presents a general Bayesian estimator for Value-at-Risk and applies it in analyzing bank VaR time-series. The estimator optimally incorporates estimation risk into VaR by integrating over the posterior of each unknown variables. It is shown that Bayesian VaR estimates are uniformly larger in magnitude (more conservative) than usual "plug-in" estimates, which ignore parameter uncertainty. An unusual finding of empirical VaR analysis is that commercial banks' appear to consistently overstate their VaR level ("the Capital Charge puzzle"). Using a sample of 5 international banks' daily VaR and trading revenue, I test whether parameter uncertainty reconciles the apparent overstatement using Bayesian VaR.
Magnetic sensing technology for molecular analyses

Magnetic biosensors, based on nanomaterials and miniature electronics, have emerged as a powerful diagnostic platform. Benefiting from the inherently negligible magnetic background of biological objects, magnetic detection is highly selective even in complex biological media. The sensing thus requires minimal sample purification and yet achieves a high signal-to-background contrast. Moreover, magnetic sensors are also well-suited for miniaturization to match the size of biological targets, which enables sensitive detection of rare cells and small amounts of molecular markers. We herein summarize recent advances in magnetic sensing technologies, with an emphasis on clinical applications in point-of-care settings. Key components of sensors, including magnetic nanomaterials, labeling strategies and magnetometry, are reviewed.
Telomerase Activity in the Normal and Neoplastic Rat Mammary Gland

The 1-methyl-1-nitrosourea-induced rat mammary tumor model system is well studied, reproducible, and widely used. We have investigated whether these tumors possess higher telomerase activity than normal mammary tissue. Using the telomeric repeat amplification protocol assay, we found significantly higher telomerase activity in 36 mammary carcinomas than in 72 mammary glands of virgin rats. The level of telomerase activity in virgin rats was unaffected by strain, age, stage of the estrous cycle, or ovariectomy. However, mammary glands obtained from pregnant rats exhibited telomerase activity comparable to that found in the tumors, possibly reflecting the high epithelial content of these tissues. Indeed, isolated epithelial cells from virgin and pregnant mammary glands and from carcinomas had similar telomerase activities. Thus, telomerase activity is constitutive in the rat mammary epithelium and is not a unique characteristic of malignant transformation in this tissue. These results underscore the importance of attributing biochemical properties to specific cell types in a tissue, a situation not paralleled in the interpretation of data from in vitro models.
THE FLAGELLAR APPARATUS OF CHILOMONAS PARAMECIUM (CRYPTOPHYCEAE) AND ITS COMPARISON WITH CERTAIN ZOOFLAGELLATES1

The major components of the internal flagellar apparatus of Chilomonas paramecium Ehr. are two large microtubular roots and a striated root paralleled by three microtubules. The two microtubular roots overlap at the basal bodies. One microtubular root follows a curved path in the anterior of the cell, and the other extends straight to the posterior passing through a groove in the nucleus. The striated root extends laterally from the basal bodies. Except that it is smaller, the posteriorly directed root bears a strong resemblance to the axostyle of oxymonads. The overall arrangement and structure of the flagellar roots is similar to the pelta, axostyle and costa of trichomonads and the pelta and axostyle of oxymonads, groups of mitochondrion-less, largely parasitic or symbiotic protozoans. An affinity between cryptomonads and oxymonads or trichomonads would have many phylogenetic implications, some of which are discussed.
Evaluation of Dynamic Profiling Methodologies for Optimization of Sensor Networks

To reduce the complexity associated with application-specific tuning of sensor-based systems, dynamic profiling enables an accurate view of the application behavior, such that the network can be reoptimized at runtime in response to changing application behavior or environmental conditions. However, dynamic profiling must be able to accurately capture application behavior without incurring significant runtime overheads. We present several profiling methods for dynamically monitoring sensor-based platforms and analyze the associated network traffic, energy, and code impacts.
Mortality factors affecting Agrilus auroguttatus Schaeffer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) eggs in the native and invaded ranges.

An absence of diverse and coevolved natural enemies may explain the high levels of oak mortality caused by an invasive wood boring beetle, Agrilus auroguttatus Schaeffer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), in California (CA). A field study was conducted to test the enemy release hypothesis for a single guild of natural enemies by comparing mortality factors affecting A. auroguttatus sentinel eggs deployed in both native (southern Arizona [AZ]) and introduced ranges (southern CA). The percentage of eggs attacked by natural enemies did not differ between sites, which does not support the enemy release hypothesis for this life stage. Although the predominant cause of mortality to sentinel eggs deployed in CA and AZ was due to factors other than natural enemy activity, chewed, missing, and parasitized eggs contributed to as much as 16% and 24% of sentinel egg mortality in CA and AZ, respectively. In addition, the first known egg parasitoid of A. auroguttatus was collected during this study from a single egg deployed in AZ, and was identified as Trichogramma sp. using molecular techniques. This parasitoid is a generalist, and therefore not suitable for use in a classical biological control program against A. auroguttatus in CA. A continuation of this study is needed across a larger number of field sites and over a longer period of time to optimize the potential detection of host specific egg parasitoids for potential introduction into CA as part of a future classical biological control program, and to better quantify natural enemy impacts on A. auroguttatus eggs.
S‐Benzimidazolyl Glycosides as a Platform for Oligosaccharide Synthesis by an Active–Latent Strategy

The involvement of complex carbohydrates in a wide variety of disease-related cellular processes has given this class of natural compounds tremendous diagnostic and therapeutic potential.[1] While scientists have been able to successfully isolate certain classes of natural carbohydrates, the availability of pure natural isolates is still inadequate to address the challenges offered by modern glycosciences. As a consequence, chemical glycosylation has become a viable means to obtain both natural complex carbohydrates and nonnatural analogues thereof.[2–4] Unfortunately, chemical synthesis of oligosaccharides of even moderate complexity still remains a considerable challenge, and many more complex structures are not available at all. As such, the development of efficient strategies for oligosaccharide and glycoconjugate synthesis stands out as a demanding area of research.[5]
Dual FET active patch elements for spatial power combiners

A novel dual-FET active patch antenna element and arrays for quasi-optical power combining are described. The circuit uses two FET's that symmetrically load a split patch antenna. The configuration of the devices decreases H-plane cross-polarization dramatically. The power combining was achieved by injection locking through mutual coupling. An equivalent isotropic radiation power of 0.88 W for a 2-element dual-FET patch antenna array has been obtained. For a 2/spl times/2 array, an equivalent isotropic radiated power of 2.99 W was achieved. The circuit is planar and amenable to monolithic circuits. >
Numerical Simulations of the Genesis of Hurricane Diana (1984). Part II: Sensitivity of Track and Intensity Prediction

Abstract The authors examine numerous simulations that probe the dynamics governing the intensification and track of Tropical Cyclone Diana (1984) simulated in Part I. The development process is fundamentally dependent on a preexisting upper-tropospheric trough–ridge couplet. This couplet focuses mesoscale vertical motion that, in turn, produces lower-tropospheric potential vorticity (PV) anomalies, which form the seed for the tropical storm. Removal of this trough–ridge couplet from the initial conditions eliminates cyclogenesis. The simulated rate of development of Diana in the prehurricane phase depends principally on choices of cumulus parameterization, boundary layer treatment, sea surface temperature, and grid spacing. Simulations with cumulus schemes that allow more grid-scale precipitation on the 9-km grid exhibit unrealistic grid-scale overturning and slower intensification, primarily due to production of cyclonic vorticity anomalies at large radii. Use of an innermost nest with 3-km grid spacing...
Pressures at the residual limb-prosthesis interface

The pressures at the surface of the residual lower limb during ambulation are affected by the prosthesis fit and by the material choices in the prosthesis. This study is concerned with the design and application of a data acquisition system for use in studying the pressures in the below-knee amputee during ambulation. The goal was to develop a system that could be easily used with a number of patients and not interfere with the normal fit of the prosthesis. Data was collected from 10 patients, and demonstrated that the measurement system is capable of obtaining data using the patient's own prosthesis. The system has potential for use in the improvement of material choice and prosthetic fit to reduce discomfort and tissue damage. >
Phosphinidene complexes M(CO)5-PR: A density functional study on structures and electronic states.

Density functional studies have been carried out for the equilibrium structures of the phosphinidene transition-metal complexes M(CO)5−PR, with M = Cr, Mo, and W and R = H, Ph, OH, and NH2. The free phosphinidenes P−R have triplet ground states, but their M(CO)5 complexes prefer singlet states because of the substantial stabilization of the unoccupied phosphorus pπ acceptor orbital. This follows from calculations based on the local density approximation, including nonlocal corrections for correlation and exchange self-consistently. The M(CO)5−PR bond is investigated using a bond energy analysis in terms of electrostatic interaction, Pauli repulsion, and orbital interaction. A symmetry decomposition scheme affords a quantitative estimate of the σ and π bond strengths, which gives an interpretation of the donor−acceptor complexes within the Dewar−Chatt−Duncanson model. It is shown that the investigated ligands are strong π-acceptors and even stronger σ-donors. In the case of unsubstituted PH complexes, the ...
The Influence of Uranyl Hydrolysis and Multiple Site-Binding Reactions on Adsorption of U(VI) to Montmorillonite

Adsorption of uranyl to SWy- 1 montmorillonite was evaluated experimentally and results were modeled to identify likely surface complexation reactions responsible for removal ofuranyl from solution. Uranyl was contacted with SWy- 1 montmorillonite in a NaC104 electrolyte solution at three ionic strengths (I = 0.001, 0.01, 0.1), at pH 4 to 8.5, in a N2~) atmosphere. At low ionic strength, adsorption decreased from 95% at pH 4 to 75% at pH 6.8. At higher ionic strength, adsorption increased with pH from initial values less than 75%; adsorption edges for all ionic strengths coalesced above a pH of 7. A site-binding model was applied that treated SWy-1 as an aggregate of fixed-charge sites and edge sites analogous to gibbsite and silica. The concentration of fixed-charge sites was estimated as the cation exchange capacity, and non-preference exchange was assumed in calculating the contribution of fixed-charge sites to total uranyl adsorption. The concentration of edge sites was estimated by image analysis of transmission electron photomicrographs. Adsorption constants for uranyl binding to gibbsite and silica were determined by fitting to experimental data, and these adsorption constants were then used to simulate SWy-1 adsorption results. The best simulations were obtained with an ionization model in which A1OH2 + was the dominant aluminol surface species throughout the experimental range in pH. The pH-dependent aqueous speciation of uranyl was an important factor determining the magnitude of uranyl adsorption. At low ionic strength and low pH, adsorption by fixed-charge sites was predominant. The decrease in adsorption with increasing pH was caused by the formation of monovalent aqueous uranyl species, which were weakly bound to fixed-charge sites. At higher ionic strengths, competition with Na + decreased the adsorption of UOz 2+ to fixed-charge sites. At higher pH, the most significant adsorption reactions were the binding of UP22+ to A1OH and of(UO2)3(OH)5 + tO SiOH edge sites. Near-saturation of A1OH sites by UOz 1+ allowed significant contributions of SiOH sites to uranyl adsorption.
Course of proptosis in patients with Graves' disease after endoscopic orbital decompression.

Aim: To evaluate the results of follow-up and postoperative course of proptosis in patients with Graves' disease who underwent combined transconjunctival and transnasal endoscopic orbital decompression. Methods: Charts of patients with Graves' disease who underwent orbital decompression using combined transconjunctival and transnasal endoscopic technique were reviewed. The surgical technique involved preservation of the strut of bone between the lamina papyracea of the ethmoid and floor of the orbit of the maxilla. Data pertaining to patient demographics, previous treatments for orbital manifestations of Graves' disease, and preoperative and postoperative otolaryngologic and ophthalmologic examination findings were obtained. Postoperative course of reduction in proptosis was evaluated based on Hertel exophthalmometry measurements obtained in four intervals: 1) 0 to 1 month, 2) 1 month to 3 months, 3) 3 to 6 months, 4) 6 to 12 months. Results: Twenty-eight orbital decompressions were performed on 15 patients. All patients were unresponsive to corticosteroids and orbital irradiation. Ten orbits exhibited preoperative and postoperative visual acuity of 20/20. Vision improved in nine orbits and did not change in six orbits. Proptosis was reduced in 25 orbits. Postoperative course of reduction in proptosis varied within year 1, with the smallest proptosis measurements documented between 6 and 12 months. Conclusions: Combined transconjunctival and transnasal endoscopic orbital decompression with preservation of the strut resulted in regression of proptosis, marked reduction in postoperative diplopia development, and improvement of visual acuity in patients with Graves' disease. Course of reduction in proptosis varied within postoperative 1 year, with the biggest reduction occurring between 6 and 12 months.
Delayed reinforcement of operant behavior

The experimental analysis of delay of reinforcement is considered from the perspective of three questions that seem basic not only to understanding delay of reinforcement, but, also, by implication, the contributions of temporal relations between events to operant behavior. The first question is whether effects of the temporal relation between responses and reinforcers can be isolated from other features of the environment that often accompany delays, such as stimuli or changes in the temporal distribution or rate of reinforcement. The second question is that of the effects of delays on operant behavior. Beyond the common denominator of a temporal separation between reinforcers and the responses that produce them, delay of reinforcement procedures differ from one another along several dimensions, making delay effects circumstance dependent. The final question is one of interpreting delay of reinforcement effects. It centers on the role of the response-reinforcer temporal relation in the context of other, concurrently operating behavioral processes.
Causes of cracks in SMD and type specific remedies

Packages used with surface mount devices (SMDs) have the unique reliability problem of package cracks produced by soldering stress. Package cracks are classified into three distinct modes, depending on the location of origin and direction of spread. In type I, the crack originates on one edge of the die pad and spreads to the bottom side of the package. In type II, the crack originates on one edge of the die pad and spreads to the top surface of the package. In type III, the crack spreads from an edge of the chip to the top surface of the package. To remedy this cracking problem, it is necessary to determine the type of cracking that may occur, and take a countermeasure specific to each type. The authors investigated possible causes for each type of package crack, and techniques for crackproof package design optimized for individual crack types were developed. The following three techniques for anticrack package design, or a combination of two or more, have proved effective: (1) molding compound with improved resistance to soldering heat, (2) polyimide coating on the back side of the die pad, and (3) improved lead frame design. >
Proteasome-mediated CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein δ (C/EBPδ) degradation is ubiquitin-independent

C/EBPdelta (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein delta) is a member of the C/EBP family of nuclear proteins that function in the control of cell growth, survival, differentiation and apoptosis. We previously demonstrated that C/EBPdelta gene transcription is highly induced in G(0) growth-arrested mammary epithelial cells but the C/EBPdelta protein exhibits a t(1/2) of only approximately 120 min. The goal of the present study was to investigate the role of C/EBPdelta modification by ubiquitin and C/EBPdelta proteasome-mediated degradation. Structural and mutational analyses demonstrate that an intact leucine zipper is required for C/EBPdelta ubiquitination; however, the leucine zipper does not provide lysine residues for ubiquitin conjugation. C/EBPdelta ubiquitination is not required for proteasome-mediated C/EBPdelta degradation and the presence of ubiquitin does not increase C/EBPdelta degradation by the proteasome. Instead, the leucine zipper stabilizes the C/EBPdelta protein by forming homodimers that are poor substrates for proteasome degradation. To investigate the cellular conditions associated with C/EBPdelta ubiquitination we treated G(0) growth-arrested mammary epithelial cells with DNA-damage- and oxidative-stress-inducing agents and found that C/EBPdelta ubiquitination is induced in response to H2O2. However, C/EBPdelta protein stability is not influenced by H2O2 treatment. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that proteasome-mediated protein degradation of C/EBPdelta is ubiquitin-independent.
On the Internal Border: Colonial Difference, the Cold War, and the Locations of "Underdevelopment"

In 1962, the recently established Peace Corps announced plans for an intensive field training initiative that would acclimate the agency's burgeoning multitude of volunteers to the conditions of poverty in “underdeveloped” countries and immerse them in “foreign” cultures ostensibly similar to where they would be later stationed. This training was designed to be “as realistic as possible, to give volunteers a ‘feel’ of the situation they will face.” With this purpose in mind, the Second Annual Report of the Peace Corps recounted, “Trainees bound for social work in Colombian city slums were given on-the-job training in New York City's Spanish Harlem…. New Mexican Indian reservations and Spanish-speaking villages make realistic workshops for community development trainees. Puerto Rico provides experience in living in a Latin American environment. The Island of Hawaii, with its multiracial population, remote valleys and varied rural economy, performs a similar function for volunteers headed for Southeast Asia.”1 Local communities throughout the United States were chosen for their apparent similarities to locations abroad such that they might serve as a staging ground for President John F. Kennedy's vaunted Cold War diplomatic venture.
Characteristic Changes in Cell Surface Glycosylation Accompany Intestinal Epithelial Cell (IEC) Differentiation: High Mannose Structures Dominate the Cell Surface Glycome of Undifferentiated Enterocytes

Changes in cell surface glycosylation occur during the development and differentiation of cells and have been widely correlated with the progression of several diseases. Because of their structural diversity and sensitivity to intra- and extracellular conditions, glycans are an indispensable tool for analyzing cellular transformations. Glycans present on the surface of intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) mediate interactions with billions of native microorganisms, which continuously populate the mammalian gut. A distinct feature of IECs is that they differentiate as they migrate upwards from the crypt base to the villus tip. In this study, nano-LC/ESI QTOF MS profiling was used to characterize the changes in glycosylation that correspond to Caco-2 cell differentiation. As Caco-2 cells differentiate to form a brush border membrane, a decrease in high mannose type glycans and a concurrent increase in fucosylated and sialylated complex/hybrid type glycans were observed. At day 21, when cells appear to be completely differentiated, remodeling of the cell surface glycome ceases. Differential expression of glycans during IEC maturation appears to play a key functional role in regulating the membrane-associated hydrolases and contributes to the mucosal surface innate defense mechanisms. Developing methodologies to rapidly identify changes in IEC surface glycans may lead to a rapid screening approach for a variety of disease states affecting the GI tract.
Determinants of polydipsia: III. Withholding food on a free-reinforcement schedule

Two rats were given food every 90 sec. Both developed polydipsia. When the empty pellet dispenser operated every 90 sec., drinking gradually declined, remained below normal in a succeeding reinforcement session, and recovered to normal the next day.
Mite Species on Strawberry in Southern California

While conducting experiments on biological control of the twospotted spider mite. Tetranychus urticae Koch, on strawberry in Orange County (Oatman 1965. Oatman and McMurtry 1966. Oatman et al. 1967, 1968), specimens of the various mites present on the leaves Were kept for identification. Most of the material was collected in 1964, 1965, and 1966 from summer plantings of either ‘Shasta’ or ‘Torrey’ varieties. The strawberries were planted in late August and harvested from March through June of the following year before being diseed under prior to replanting in August. Although the soil is usually fumigated with a mixture of methyl bromide and chloropicrin prior to planting, the 1964–65 and 1965–66 plantings were not.
Elastic strains in heteroepitaxial ZnSe1−xTex on InGaAs/InP (001)

Here we report on the elastic strains in ZnSe1−xTex (x 0.6) and tensile (x<0.4) layers. However, for the layers with composition in the range 0.4<x<0.6, the growth temperature strains exceed the values predicted by the MB theory. Apparently, low-mismatch layers experience a kinetic barrier to relaxation. The overall behavior can be fit by the relaxation model of Dodson and Tsao [B.W. Dodson and J.Y. Tsao, Appl. Phys. Lett. 51, 1325 (1987)] using the values Cμ2=80 s−1 and γ0=10−9.
A sufficient condition for key-privacy.

The notion of key privacy for encryption schemes was defined formally by Bellare, Boldyreva, Desai and Pointcheval in Asiacrypt 2001. This notion seems useful in settings where anonymity is important. In this short note we describe a (very simple) sufficient condition for key privacy. In a nutshell, a scheme that provides data privacy is guaranteed to provide also key privacy if the distribution of a random encryption of a random message is independent of the public key that is used for the encryption.
Disordered Weight Management Behaviors, Nonprescription Steroid Use, and Weight Perception in Transgender Youth

Abstract Purpose Disordered weight management behaviors are prevalent among youth; recent case reports suggested that these behaviors might also be common in transgender youth. We studied associations of gender identity with disordered weight management behaviors, nonprescription steroid use, and weight perception among transgender and cisgender (nontransgender) high-school students in Massachusetts. Methods Data were analyzed from the 2013 Massachusetts Youth Health Survey, an anonymous survey in a random sample of Massachusetts public high schools. Respondents were divided into three groups: transgender (n = 67), cisgender male (n = 1,117), and cisgender female (n = 1,289). Fisher's exact tests and multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine unhealthy weight management behaviors in the past 30 days: fasting >24 hours, vomiting, diet pill use, and laxative use; nonprescription steroid use; and self-perceived weight status. Analyses controlled for age, race/ethnicity, and body mass index. Results Compared with cisgender males, transgender adolescents had higher odds of fasting >24 hours (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.9, confidence interval [CI] = 1.1–7.8), using diet pills (AOR = 8.9, 95% CI = 2.3–35.2) and taking laxatives (AOR = 7.2, 95% CI = 1.4–38.4). Transgender youth had higher odds of lifetime use of steroids without a prescription than male cisgender respondents (AOR = 26.6, 95% CI = 3.5–200.1). Compared with cisgender females, transgender respondents had higher odds of perceiving themselves as healthy weight/underweight when they were overweight/obese (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.5–4.1). Conclusions Transgender youth disproportionately self-reported unsafe weight management behaviors and nonprescription steroid use compared with cisgender youth. Clinicians should be aware of this increased risk among transgender youth. Research is needed to further understand these disparities and to inform future interventions.
Xunzi on Music

Similar to the situation in ancient Greece, ancient Chinese thinkers carried on a lively philosophical debate about music. The discussions of music in the Xunzi, especially chapter 20 of the text, constitute a high point in that debate, and they remain philosophically interesting in their own right, even today. Here we provide an overview of Xunzi’s ideas about music and their relations to some of the surrounding historical context, and end by presenting a few issues for further reflection, based on comparisons with the views of Allan Bloom, Roger Scruton, and other contemporary thinkers who have theorized about the effects and importance of music.
AUTOMATION IN THE DAIRY LABORATORY

Recent developments in dairy laboratory instrumentation are reviewed. Microbiological, physical-chemical, and mastitis testing instrumentation, potentially valuable in providing milk payment and quality information, are receiving regulatory approva1. The economics associated with some of these devices suggest the need for development of third party, central milk and food testing laboratories.
Complications Following Outpatient Total Joint Arthroplasty: An Analysis of a National Database.

Abstract Background As outpatient total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasties (TKA) increase in popularity, concerns exist about the safety of discharging patients home the same day. The purpose of this study is to determine the complications associated with outpatient total joint arthroplasty (TJA) and to identify high-risk patients who should be excluded from these protocols. Methods We queried the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database for all patients who underwent primary TKA or THA from 2011 to 2014. Demographic variables, medical comorbidities, and 30-day complication, readmission, and reoperation rates were compared between outpatient and traditional inpatient procedures. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was then performed to identify independent risk factors of poor short-term outcomes. Results Of the total 169,406 patients who underwent TJA, 1220 were outpatient (0.7%). The outpatient and inpatient groups had an overall complication rate of 8% and 16%, respectively. Patients aged more than 70 years, those with malnutrition, cardiac history, smoking history, or diabetes mellitus are at higher risk for readmission and complications after THA and TKA (all P P = .395) or reoperation (OR 1.168, 95% CI 0.374-3.651, P = .789), and was a negative independent risk factor for complications (OR 0.459, 95% CI 0.371-0.567, P Conclusion With the resources available in a hospital setting, outpatient TJA may be a safe option, but only in select, healthier patients. Care should be taken to extrapolate these results to an outpatient facility, where complications may be more difficult to manage.
Religion and the Ethics of Tax Evasion

Religion is another variable that has an influence on ethical beliefs and attitude toward paying taxes. The World Values surveys collected data on this variable. The results are reported below.
A new microscope for the kidney: mathematics.

The discovery of the microscope in the late 17th century revealed otherwise invisible processes, and revolutionized biology. Years later, mathematics has the potential to do the same. We will highlight recent studies that utilize computational modeling techniques to investigate kidney function.
Deubiquitinating enzymes Ubp2 and Ubp15 regulate endocytosis by limiting ubiquitination and degradation of ARTs

Endocytic down-regulation of cell-surface proteins is a fundamental cellular process for cell survival and adaptation to environmental stimuli. Ubiquitination of cargo proteins serves as the sorting signal for downstream trafficking and relies on the arrestin-related trafficking adaptor (ART)-Rsp5 ubiquitin ligase adaptor network in yeast. Hence proper regulation of the abundance and activity of these ligase-adaptor complexes is critical for main-tenance of optimal plasma membrane protein composition. Here we report that the stability of ARTs is regulated by the deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) Ubp2 and Ubp15. By counteracting the E3 ubiquitin ligase Rsp5, Ubp2 and Ubp15 prevent hyperubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of ARTs. Specifically, we show that loss of both Ubp2 and Ubp15 results in a defect in Hxt6 endocytosis associated with Art4 instability. Our results uncover a novel function for DUBs in the endocytic pathway by which Ubp2 and Ubp15 positively regulate the ART-Rsp5 network.
Surgical reconstruction of the ossicular chain with custom 3D printed ossicular prosthesis

Conductive hearing loss due to ossicular abnormalities occurs from many causes, including trauma, infection, cholesteatoma, surgery and congenital anomalies. Surgical reconstruction of the ossicular chain is a well-established procedure for repair of ossicular defects, but is still plagued by high failure rates. Underlying disease and proper sizing of prostheses are two challenges that lead to component failure. Three-dimensional (3D) printing has been used successfully to solve a number of medical prosthesis problems. Custom 3D printing an individualized ossicular prosthesis would be a potential solution for the wide range of anatomic variation encountered in the pathological middle ear, and could decrease the rate of post-operative prosthesis displacement by increasing the likelihood of a proper fit, in addition to decreasing surgical time. In this study, the incus was removed from three formalin-fixed cadaveric human temporal bones with no macro- or microscopic evidence of pathology. Imaging of the cadaveric bone was obtained using a standard temporal bone CT protocol. A custom prosthesis for each cadaveric human temporal bone was designed using the Mimics Innovation Suite software (Materialise, Belgium) and fabricated on a Form2 3D printer (FormLabs, Somerville, Massachusetts). Four surgeons then performed insertion of each prosthesis into each middle ear, blinded to the bone from and for which each was designed. The surgeons were asked to match each prosthesis to its correct parent bone. Each prosthesis had unique measurements. Each of the four surgeons was able to correctly match the prosthesis model to its intended temporal bone. The chances of this occurring randomly are 1:1296. A custom 3D printed ossicular prosthesis is a viable solution for conductive hearing loss due to ossicular chain defects. Commercially available CT scanners can detect significant anatomic differences in normal human middle ear ossicles. These differences can be accurately represented with current 3D printing technology and, more significantly, surgeons can detect these differences.
A Multilingual Sketch-Based Sudoku Game with Real-Time Recognition

Sudoku is one of the most popular puzzles of all time: easy to understand but still very challenging, Sudoku continues to captivate players all over the world through newspapers, puzzle books, and digital devices. The application introduced in this work is a multilingual, sketch-based version of the Sudoku game. Sketch input renders more flexibility to users and increases usability. Multilingual support paired with sketching allows the game to serve as an educational tool for those learning a new language, with the current implementation supporting Chinese and Hindi. The recognition algorithm proposed in this work, based on the Hausdorff metric, easily enables extending the application to support other languages. Preliminary results indicate an overall accuracy of over 93% when recognizing Chinese and Hindi numbers at the same time.