cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Embedded parallel divide-and-conquer video decompression algorithm and architecture for HDTV applications

DCT/IDCT based source coding and decoding techniques are widely accepted in HDTV systems and other MPEG based applications. We propose a new direct 2-D IDCT algorithm based on the parallel divide-and-conquer approach. The algorithm distributes computation by considering one transformed coefficient at a time and doing partial computation and updating as every coefficient arrives. A novel parallel and fully pipelined architecture with an effective processing time of one cycle per pixel for an N/spl times/N size block is designed to implement the algorithm. An unique feature of the architecture is that it integrates inverse-shuffling, inverse-quantization, inverse-source-coding and motion-compensation into a single compact data-path. The entire block of pixel values are sampled in a single cycle for post processing after decompression. We use only (N/2(N/2+1))/2 multipliers and N/sup 2/ adders. The configuration of the adders is such that motion compensation is realized in a single cycle following decompression. >
Identification of pathogen genomic variants through an integrated pipeline

Background Whole-genome sequencing represents a powerful experimental tool for pathogen research. We present methods for the analysis of small eukaryotic genomes, including a streamlined system (called Platypus) for finding single nucleotide and copy number variants as well as recombination events.
Magnetic properties of deuteric hematite in young lava flows from Iceland

Seventy samples from six unaltered lava flows from Iceland allow study of magnetic properties of deuteric hematite. Our data indicate that the directions of the titanohematite and titanomagnetite components are identical for all samples for which both components could be determined. This result verifies the assumption that the direction of hematite due to deuteric oxidation should parallel that of titanomagnetite because magnetization occurs at the same time. The unblocking temperatures of titanohematite are between 610°–650°C and are consistent with its composition (0.027<×< 0.032). The titanohematite intensity and the ratio of the titanohematite intensity to that of titanomagnetite increase with deuteric oxidation.
The use of kinematic redundancy in reducing impact and contact effects in manipulation

The problem of reducing the potentially damaging effects caused by interaction of robotic manipulators with their environment is considered. The emphasis is on reducing the magnitude of impulsive forces created at the instant of contact, the effects of which are transmitted throughout the system. A model for impact dynamics for manipulator systems is introduced and used to analyze the effects of these impulsive forces. In particular, for the case of redundant manipulators, it is shown how the redundancy can be used to configure the mechanisms so as to reduce the resulting impulsive contact forces, thus utilizing redundancy to aid in environmental interaction. >
IFN-γ Acts Directly on Activated CD4+ T Cells during Mycobacterial Infection to Promote Apoptosis by Inducing Components of the Intracellular Apoptosis Machinery and by Inducing Extracellular Proapoptotic Signals

Despite many studies, the regulation of CD4+ T cell apoptosis during the shutdown of immune responses is not fully understood. We have investigated the molecular mechanisms of IFN-γ in regulating apoptosis of CD4+ T cells during bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) infection of mice. Our data provide new insight into the regulation of CD4+ T cell apoptosis by IFN-γ. As CD4+ T cells responded to BCG infection, there was a coordinated increase in IFN-γ production by effector CD4+ T cells and a coordinated IFN-γ-dependent up-regulation of many diverse apoptosis-pathway genes in effector CD4+ T cells. Unexpectedly, IFN-γ up-regulated transcripts and protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax, Bim, Bid, Apaf-1, and caspase-9 in activated CD4+ T cells—components of the apoptosis machinery that are involved in promoting mitochondrial damage-mediated apoptosis. Wild-type, but not IFN-γ knockout, CD4+ T cells underwent apoptosis that was associated with damaged mitochondrial membranes. IFN-γ also up-regulated expression of cell-extrinsic signals of apoptosis, including TRAIL, DR5, and TNFR1. Cell-extrinsic apoptosis signals from TNF-α, TRAIL, and NO were capable of damaging the mitochondrial membranes in activated CD4+ T cells. Moreover, activated CD4+ T cells from BCG-infected DR5, TNFR1, and inducible NO synthase knockout mice had impaired caspase-9 activity, suggesting impaired mitochondria-pathway apoptosis. We propose that IFN-γ promotes apoptosis of CD4+ T cells during BCG infection as follows: 1) by sensitizing CD4+ T cells to apoptosis by inducing intracellular apoptosis molecules and 2) by inducing cell-extrinsic apoptosis signals that kill CD4+ effector T cells.
Expression of RNA Tumor Viruses at Translation and Transcription Lebels

RNA tumor viruses have been studied extensively in the last 15 years. Some of these viruses cause well-defined neoplasms, and a detailed study of viral infection may elucidate the process involved in malignant transformation. In addition, other RNA tumor viruses are transmitted as normal host cell genes and can be expressed during normal development and differentiation of the animal. Therefore these viruses also provide an interesting model system for studying the regulation and expression of normal cellular genes. Much of the regulation of expression for both exogenous and endogenous RNA tumor viruses occurs at the level of virus-specific protein and RNA synthesis, which is the subject of this review.
Comparative Evaluation of Dam-Breach Models

The mathematical models for breach erosion of earth dams, discussed in the preceding chapter, have varying degrees of completeness, mathematical sophistication and hydrodynamic rigor (Singh, et al., 1988b, Singh, 1990). In the last thirty years or so, especially since the Cristofano model in 1965, considerable progress has been made in modeling dam breaching and consequent flood forecasting. Much work, however, remains to be done to further improve dam breach modeling technology. Here we pause and attempt to examine where we have been, where we are and where we ought to be going.
Technology, Gaming, and Social Networking

We review recent data and theory about technology adoption and acceptance by older adults, focusing on information and communications technology (ICT), digital gaming, and social networking sites. Representative data in developed countries indicate that older adult cohorts lag in ICT use, including Internet use, despite apparent benefits that some products may provide. The lag is particularly noticeable in digital gaming and social networking. Theories of technology acceptance and adoption suggest that this lag may be attributable to cost–benefit factors such as perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Other factors that may differentially affect older cohorts are concerns about privacy loss as well as cognitive, perceptual and psychomotor costs. The accelerating digital provision of services may disadvantage non-participating seniors. Those who design ICT products and their training and support packages could benefit from improved theories of ICT adoption and supporting tools to produce usable and useful products for seniors.
Cognitive Processes Are Central in Compassion Meditation

In responding to our recent paper in TiCS [1], Engen and Singer raise important issues related to the constructive family of meditation practice, arguing against the central role of reappraisal and perspective taking and proposing instead that motivational and affective states are the main mechanisms in compassion-based meditations, and more broadly in the constructive family [2]. Although we agree that motivation and affect have an important role in compassion meditation, we disagree with the broader conclusions they draw.
Proactive and reactive criminal thinking, psychological inertia, and the crime continuity conundrum

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether proactive criminal thinking, reactive criminal thinking, or both are responsible for crime continuity by way of psychological inertia. It was hypothesized that reactive but not proactive criminal thinking would account for psychological inertia, the process by which certain cognitive variables link past crime to future crime. Methods Self-report data from 673 (322 male, 351 female) mid- to late adolescent members of the Offending, Crime, and Justice Survey (OCJS) were organized into four waves of a fixed-sample panel design. Results A path analysis revealed that while reactive criminal thinking successfully mediated the prior offending–future offending relationship, proactive criminal thinking did not. As predicted, the reason why proactive criminal thinking failed to mediate crime continuity was that prior offending did not correlate significantly with subsequent proactive criminal thinking. Conclusions These results suggest that reactive but not proactive criminal thinking is a vital link in the series of cognitive events that give rise to crime continuity. The reason for this is that while reactive criminal thinking was both predicted by and predictive of offending, proactive criminal was only predictive of offending and therefore not a good candidate for psychological inertia.
Partner Victimization Violence and Relationship Changes in Young Men and Women

Exposure to physical and psychological intimate partner violence, victimization (IPV) at age 18 has several consequences for relationships at age 23 among a diverse community-based sample of young people, transitioning to adulthood in Chicago (N = 276). We find exposure to physical IPV increases the likelihood of being single and not involved in relationships in the transition to adulthood among young women. Furthermore, we find evidence of both continuity and change in intimate violence exposure over the early life course. Young men who were exposed to physical and psychological violence at age 18 are likely to be involved in violent relationships compared with nonviolent relationships in young adulthood. However, some young women and men transition out of violent relationships by young adulthood, supporting patterns of change. Our findings of both relationship dissolution among women and relationship continuity in terms of further violence exposure among men warrant further policy consideration.
Bacterial Degradation of Chlorinated Biphenyls

Chlorinated biphenyls are widely used in industry and agriculture. These compounds are known to cause teratogenic effects and are widely distributed in the environment. Bacterial strains degrading chlorinated biphenyls were isolated by enrichment and direct screening procedures from activated sewage and polychlorinated biphenyl- (PCB) contaminated soils. The PCB-degrading bacteria were tentatively identified as Pseudomonas, Aeromonas, Achromobacter, Alcaligenes, Enterobacter, Bacillus, and gram-positive pleomorphic rods. These PCB-degrading bacterial strains were resistant to several antibiotics including newer β-lactam antibiotics (imipenem, moxalactam, cephoxitin, cefizoxine, and aztreonam). The electrophoretic pattern of plasmid DNAs from these strains showed presence of plasmids (molecular weight ranging 2 to >40 Mdal). Thin layer Chromatographic analysis of the water-soluble metabolites of 4-chlorobiphenyl by resting cell suspension of Pseudomonas putida (strain 83) and gram-positive bacteria (strain OBS23) showed different metabolites of Rf value: 0.71, 0.78, 0.83, 0.14, 0.18, 0.37, 0.53, 0.60, and 0.69, respectively. The gas Chromatographic analysis and ultraviolet absorption spectrum of water-soluble metabolites of 2,3- and 4-chlorinated biphenyls showed accumulation of benzoic acid and 2,3- and 4-chlorobenzoic acid, respectively. Our results demonstrate that PCB can be degraded by pure culture of bacteria and further suggest a preliminary evidence of reductive dehalogenation of chlorobiphenyls with P. putida strain 83.
Making the Road While Walking It: A Conversation With Richard Simpson

Richard Simpson is professor of special education at the University of Kansas (KU). Dr. Simpson’s duties at KU have included roles of staff psychologist, teaching associate, assistant professor, pr...
Generalized Elliptic Genus and Cobordism Class of Nonspin Real Grassmannians

We prove that Witten's generalized elliptic genusis rigid under certain group actions and constant(identically zero) on the real Grassmanniansℝr4ℝ2m+5, m ≥ 1, for appropriate vectorbundles.
Envisioning inclusive futures: Technology-based assistive sensory and action substitution

Abstract Mobile devices, tablets, smart phones, and now wearable technologies have changed our world, including how we perceive and interact with others and our environment. This change has potential for both positive and negative outcomes, especially for people with sensory, cognitive, and physical impairments. This work looks at some possible eventualities, with a focus on how these technologies may change the future for people with disabilities.
A Gendered Model of the Peasant Household: Time poverty and Farm Production in Rural Mozambique

ABSTRACTUsing insights from a case study on the allocation of labor in subsistence households in Mozambique, this study develops a conceptual framework for examining linkages between time poverty and farm production. An unexpected event such as a health crisis increases the demand for labor provided by women, thus making them more time poor. The model and numerical simulations show that a deterioration in a woman's time constraint will have an adverse effect on agricultural output of the household. This occurs because most women respond to an increase in household work by reducing their work hours on the farm and by reducing their leisure time. The latter outcome is expected to have a negative effect on women's physical and mental health, which will then cause a decline in their productivity on the farm.
Theatre, Community, and Development: The Performance Activism of the Castillo Theatre

The Castillo Theatre’s three decades of making theatre as part of an ongoing politically progressive community-building project in New York City is a new concept/practice of political theatre. Its radical statement is located not primarily in what’s presented onstage, but with those who make the theatre collaboratively, approaching social change activism performatively rather than ideologically.
Fractional 0---1 programming: applications and algorithms

We consider a class of nonlinear integer optimization problems commonly known as fractional 0---1 programming problems (also, often referred to as hyperbolic 0---1 programming problems), where the objective is to optimize the sum of ratios of affine functions subject to a set of linear constraints. Such problems arise in diverse applications across different fields, and have been the subject of study in a number of papers during the past few decades. In this survey we overview the literature on fractional 0---1 programs including their applications, related computational complexity issues and solution methods including exact, approximation and heuristic algorithms.
Very narrow spectral width 1.65μm tunable high-power laser

We developed fiber coupled, narrow line, tunable, highly reliable, compact and robust laser source at 1651nm. The developed laser source exhibits a narrow spectral width ~2MHz at >400mW of CW output power in a single mode fiber. Tuning range >1nm was demonstrated.
Prolactin: An Immunomodulator in Health and Disease

Various lines of evidence show that prolactin (PRL) is an immunomodulator in health and disease. Cells of the immune system express PRL receptors and respond to the cognate ligand. Also, PRL itself is produced by several immune cells, indicating that in addition to its classic endocrine effects, it may also act via paracrine/autocrine pathways. PRL stimulates B and T lymphocyte proliferation, and its excess is associated with the appearance or recrudescence of various systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases, as demonstrated by experimental studies performed in mice, and by human case reports and case control studies. Very recently, dopamine agonists have been demonstrated to be efficacious in the treatment of some autoimmune disorders, placing PRL-mediated interactions as potential therapeutic targets for treating autoimmunity.
Impact of Relative Humidity during Spin-Deposition of Metal Oxide Thin Films from Aqueous Solution Precursors

Relative humidity during the spin-processing of thin film solution precursors is often not controlled or measured, and its effect on film thickness is generally unappreciated. Herein, we report that the relative humidity during spin-processing has a marked impact on the film thickness of amorphous metal oxide (aluminum oxide and lanthanum zirconium oxide) and hafnium oxide-sulfate (HafSOx) thin films deposited from aqueous precursors. In the humidity range studied [20–95% relative humidity (RH)], film thicknesses varied by a factor of nearly 3, and this effect is independent of the metal precursor identity. Our data suggest that film thickness depends linearly on evaporation rate (100 – RH) for all systems studied, suggesting this effect is predominantly due to the unique characteristics of water as a solvent. In situ X-ray reflectivity studies of HafSOx films deposited under different humidities reveal that, while the thickness varies significantly with humidity, the density of the as-deposited films is ...
Arterial Pressure and the Rate of Elimination of Crystalloid Fluid

Excretion of crystalloid fluid is slow during general anesthesia. The distribution and elimination of buffered Ringer's solution were analyzed to determine whether the rate of elimination correlates with a hemodynamic factor, consciousness, patient posture, or the type of general anesthesia. Data were derived from 4 separately published studies in which 30 volunteers and 48 anesthetized patients had received 0.833 (1 series 0.667) mL/kg/min of lactated or acetated Ringer's solution over 30 minutes. Frequent measurements of the blood hemoglobin and mean urinary excretion were used as input in a kinetic analysis according to a 2-volume model and covariates, using microconstants and mixed-effects modeling software.The results show that rate of elimination of crystalloid fluid decreased with the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and patient age, but was unaffected by consciousness and inhalational or intravenous anesthesia. The elimination rate constant was 6.5 (95% confidence interval, 5.2-7.9) × 10 × (MAP/mean MAP) × (Age/mean Age). The mean MAP for the 2108 data points was 81.3 mm Hg and the mean age was 40 years. The central fluid space that was expanded by infused fluid (Vc, plasma volume) increased with body weight but decreased with general anesthesia and with reductions of MAP.Simulations revealed a more than 10-fold difference in the excreted fluid volume after a theoretical 30-minute infusion, depending on whether the MAP was 50 or 100 mm Hg.In conclusion, the rate of elimination of crystalloid fluid decreased in proportion to MAP but was independent of general anesthesia and moderate-sized surgery.
Evaluative Selection in Multimerit Situations

When an object of evaluation exhibits various distinct modes of merit, combining these separate aspects into one overall result becomes a vexing problem in value theory and economics. The paper argues that there can be no one-size-fits-all mode of resolution here. Different approaches are available and the particular sort of context at issue has the final say in deciding which way to go.
Flow cytometric analysis of platelets.

Background and Objectives: Despite recent progress in our understanding of platelet function in vitro, there remains a remarkable paucity of methods to study platelet function in vivo. Materials and Methods: We have developed novel three color whole blood flow cytometric methods for tracking of infused platelets and measurement of their function in vivo. Results: These methods were used to demonstrate that circulating P-selectin-positive (degranulated) platelets rapidly lose surface P-selectin to the plasma pool, but continue to circulate and function. Conclusions: 1) These studies strongly suggest that the measurement of platelet surface P-selectin in platelet concentrates stored in the blood bank should not be used as a predictor of platelet survival or function in vivo. 2) The described methods provide the means to answer many previously difficult to address questions about in vivo platelet function in transfusion medicine.
Presence Without Identification: Vicarious Photography and Postcolonial Figuration in Belarus

This article explores photographic works produced by key members of the Minsk School of Photography before and after the collapse of the USSR in the 1980s and 1990s. Mostly reworking found images f...
Refugees in the United States of America from a Victimological Perspective

The first definition of refugee in the US was in the Refugee Act of 1953: as people who lack “the essentials of life” (Immigration 2011). The current primary definition is “any person who is outside any country of such person’s nationality or, in the case of a person having no nationality, is outside any country in which such person last habitually resided, and who is unable or unwilling to return to, and is unable or unwilling to avail himself or herself of the protection of, that country because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion” (US Code, Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) ACT 101, 2013). The first real refugees to the land that became the United States of America were the Pilgrims in 1620; the most recent are Syrians whose numbers increased since their civil war started in 2011. Between 1975 and 2016, roughly three million refugees entered the US. The standards used by the US, Canada, and Mexico derive from the United Nations 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees. Today, the US refugee resettlement program is the largest in the world; it admits roughly two thirds of all persons who apply for resettlement. In my opinion, the broad challenges of the resettlement period must include all injuries as significant to a refugee’s total experiences, not only the hardships of resettlement but also the victimizations prior to their arrival: injuries at the home country and during their escape journey (see Hawilo, The consequences of untreated trauma: Syrian refugee children in Lebanon, 2017; Center for Substance Abuse Treatment-US, Trauma-informed care in behavioral health services, 2014).
Development and Characterization of Monoclonal Antibodies Directed against the Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell

The retinal pigment epithelium consists of a unicellular layer of neuroepithelial cells that are essential for the maintenance of normal function of the neural retina. In order to evaluate more critically this cell in health and disease, we prepared monoclonal antibodies against human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Balb/c mice were immunized with human RPE cells. Spleen cells were fused with myeloma cells and resultant hybridomas were selected for antibody production. Supernatants were assayed by immunoperoxidase on frozen sections of human eye tissues. Two hybrids were cloned and ascites were generated in mice. These IgG antibodies react only with RPE cells and show no cross-reactivity with other cells in the eye or with human brain, kidney, skin, salivary glands, lymphocytes or monocytes. These antibodies recognize cell surface molecules that are highly conserved since they can be found in man, monkey, rat, cow, chicken and frog. SDS gel electrophoresis and immunoblot analysis showed that one of the antibodies reacted with a 42,000 MW polypeptide. Evaluation of the developing rat retina revealed that the epitopes are not detected at birth, are weakly present at day 6 and are highly recognized by day 9. These immunoglobulins will allow us to evaluate RPE cells in disease (proliferation, migration) and to probe the bioregulatory functions (phagocytosis, vitamin A transport) of these cells.
ADJUNCTIVE TRANSFER FACTOR IN OSTEOGENIC SARCOMA: II. METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS OF THE IMMUNOLOGICAL STUDIES

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the analysis of results of experiments conducted to study adjunctive transfer factor (TF) in osteogenic sarcoma. Cryopreservation methods were used by the team in the laboratories to provide serial cell-mediated immunity (CMI) testing in patients with osteogenic sarcoma and in addition, evaluate potential transfer factor donors for maximum antitumor activity. Preservative free sodium heparin was used in all experiments at 50 units/ml and samples were collected as far removed from medication or chemotherapy as possible. It was reported that cryopreservation of cells-separated and purified tumor cells and lymphocytes were frozen in the manner described by Ryan and Smith. The results prove that the usefulness and availability of cryopreserved human lymphocytes and early passage, primary osteogenic sarcoma cells serve as excellent study models for the serial evaluation of tumor patients during adjunctive chemo-immunotherapy. They also suggest that the adjunctive use of surgery, early immunotherapy and COMPADRI II chemotherapy may provide a workable protocol for maximizing the effectiveness of all parameters that can aid host defense mechanisms in tumor eradication and eventual cure.
Metabolic approaches to the treatment of autism spectrum disorders.

Although the exact prevalence of metabolic abnormalities in autism spectrum disorders is unknown, several metabolic defects have been associated with autistic symptoms. These include phenylketonuria, histidinemia, adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency, dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency, 5'-nucleotidase superactivity, and phosphoribosylpyrophosphate synthetase deficiency. When the metabolic consequences of an enzyme defect are well defined (e.g., phenylketonuria, 5'-nucleotidase superactivity), treatment with diet, drugs, or nutritional supplements may bring about a dramatic reduction in autistic symptoms. This review evaluates evidence for metabolic etiologies in autism spectrum disorders, as well as for the efficacy of dietary and vitamin treatments. The relationship between gastrointestinal abnormalities and autism spectrum disorders is also considered.
Transferencia y marcación

This article discusses the application of the markedness hypothesis from Universal Grammar (UG) theory to give a psycholinguistic explanation of the controversial phenomenon of LI transference in second language adquisition in adult learners. The first part of the article presents a definition of transference in terms of the markedness hypothesis as part of the model of parameter setting in second language adquisition in turn part of Chomsky's theory of Government and Binding or principles and parameters. The second part discusses the results of a study carried out with native speakers of Spaiiish learning Portuguese as a foreing language which supports the markedness hypothesis.
Speech Application Language Tags

Enabling users to speak and listen to a computer will greatly enhance users' ability to access computers at any time from nearly any place. Speech Application Language Tags (SALT) is a small number of XML elements that may be embedded into host programming languages to speech-enable applications. SALT may be used to develop telephony (speech input and output only) applications and multimodal applications (speech input and output, as well as keyboard and mouse input and display output). SALT and the host programming language provide control structures not available in VoiceXML, the current standard language for developing speech applications.
VCAM-1+ macrophages usher hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell to vascular niche “hotspots”

In mammals, evidence suggests that hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) arise in the aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM) region (1), migrate to the liver (2) and then to the bone marrow (BM) where definitive hematopoiesis is established shortly after birth and remains sustained during the rest of the mammal’s life.
A Paradigm for Teaching Math and Computer Science Concepts in K-12 Learning Environment by Integrating Coding, Animation, Dance, Music and Art

A paradigm for teaching math and computer science concepts in K-12 education integrating coding, animation, dance, music and art is presented. This teaching paradigm introduces an effective learning tool to teach math and computer science concepts to K-12 students as well as increase the interest of K-12 students in STEM classes and their interest to pursue a career in STEM fields. We taught a “MathDance&Music” program to seventh grade students using the Scratch 2.0 creative learning environment. Students were given assessments before and after the MathDance&Music program. The assessment results show that the MathDance&Music program improved students’ ability in math and computer science significantly as well as increased students’ interest in STEM classes and interest in pursuing a career in STEM. Students who repeated the MathDance motions and coded the music for the dance did better on the math and computer science test in the assessment with statistically significant p-value than those students who did not repeat the MathDance motions and did not code the music for the MathDance.
RESURRECTED RECORDS: “NEW” REPTILE OCCURRENCE RECORDS FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY, INDIANA

Current and historic records of species occurrences in particular localities enable researchers to monitor changes in species distribution and abundance. While current fauna can be documented with sufficient effort, missing historical records represent data that can never again be obtained. It is with this importance in mind that we report for the first time records of eight reptile species in Montgomery County, Indiana, USA, that were documented in 1964, though no vouchered specimens persist. These species include: Sternotherus odoratus, Terrapene carolina carolina, Chrysemys picta marginata, Apalone spinifera spinifera, Thamnophis sauritus sauritus, Storeria dekayi wrightorum, Lampropeltis calligaster, Lampropeltis triangulum. We also provide a list of the 23 currently documented reptile species that occur (or have occurred recently) in Montgomery County.
New zebrafish model for monitoring proximal tubule physiology in genetic and acquired renal Fanconi syndromes

Inherited and acquired disorders that affect proximal tubule endocytosis and lysosomal processing manifest with improper loss of solutes and proteins. The zebrafish pronephros is conserved with humans and is used to model numerous renal conditions, but has few quantitative measures for proximal tubule function. Here, Chen et al. developed a high-throughput assay to quantify proteinuria and lysosomal processing in transgenic zebrafish by labeling vitamin D protein, allowing for precise reporting of proximal tubule function.
Nuclear matrix as an anchor for protein kinase CK2 nuclear signalling.

Nuclear matrix (NM) is not only the structural basis for nuclear shape but also is intimately involved in nuclear functional activities. Among the modulatory factors that may affect these diverse activities are the signals that may influence the state or composition of the NM proteins. One such mechanism for altering the functional activity of at least some NM proteins may be the extent of their phosphorylation. Protein kinase CK2 appears to associate with NM and to phosphorylate a number of NM-associated proteins. Chromatin- and NM-associated CK2 is rapidly modulated by mitogenic signals. We propose that NM serves as a physiological anchor for nuclear signalling of protein kinase CK2 which may influence functions of NM such as transcription of active genes and growth. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.11
Richard Dickerson, Molecular Clocks, and Rates of Protein Evolution

Proteins approximately behave as molecular clocks, accumulating amino acid replacements at a more or less constant rate. Nonetheless, each protein displays a characteristic rate of evolution: whereas some proteins remain largely unaltered over large periods of time, others can rapidly accumulate amino acid replacements. An article by Richard Dickerson, published in the first issue of the Journal of Molecular Evolution (J Mol Evol 1:26-45, 1971), described the first analysis in which the rates of evolution of many proteins were compared, and the differences were interpreted in the light of their function. When comparing the sequences of fibrinopeptides, hemoglobin, and cytochrome c of different species, he observed a linear relationship between the number of amino acid replacements and divergence time. Remarkably, fibrinopeptides had evolved fast, cytochrome c had evolved slowly, and hemoglobin exhibited an intermediate rate of evolution. As the Journal of Molecular Evolution celebrates its 50th anniversary, I highlight this landmark article and reflect on its impact on the field of Molecular Evolution.
Mineralized paper scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.

Mineralized polymer scaffolds have proven to be effective biomaterials for inducing osteoinductivity in bone tissue engineering. Sequential mineralization is a promising technique for depositing minerals in three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds. Paper, which is made of cellulose fibers, can be used as a tissue scaffold due to its highly porous structure and flexibility, as well as its excellent ability to wick fluids and support the growth of bone cells. In this study, paper-based, mineralized scaffolds were fabricated using sequential mineralization. We conducted experiments with two groups of scaffolds based on different incubation times in the mineralization solutions (30 min and 24 h). Ten cycles of mineralization were performed for each group. We found that the mineral content increased as the cycle number increased and that the 24-h group scaffolds consistently had more mineralization than did the 30-min group scaffolds when measured at the same cycle number. A quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was performed for two osteogenic differentiation markers of the preosteoblasts that were grown on the mineralized paper scaffolds. The gene expression results for bone-specific markers revealed that the mineralized scaffolds were osteoinductive. Subcutaneous implantation of the scaffolds in rats demonstrated favorable biocompatibility, high vascularization, and non-immunogenicity in vivo. The overall results suggest that the sequentially mineralized paper scaffolds are promising materials for use in bone tissue engineering.
Design characteristics of a microgrid controller for an uninterruptible power supply with a photovoltaic generator

A good microgrid controller must guarantee: voltage regulation, islanding control and a safe reconnection during grid-connected and islanded modes. Also, to provide an uninterrupted power supply maintain the power quality during its operation the controller needs to act over the generators and power switches of said microgrid. The objective of this paper is the determination of these actions for a particular microgrid. For this reason, the operation of a single-phase photovoltaic generator with battery is analyzed and the control actions required for an efficient management are proposed. Said actions are evaluated with a simulation that composes the generator with its internal power and control circuits in a microgrid environment. The simulation model is implemented in MATLAB Simulink.
The MLR COMPASS-like complex is required to regulate triglyceride depletion and stress response in the Drosophila fat body

MLR COMPASS-like complexes are highly conserved histone modifiers and enhancer regulators recruited by multiple transcription factors during differentiation and development, including lineage-determining factors, nuclear receptors, and developmental signaling pathway effectors. While the essential functions of MLR complexes during differentiation-associated transcriptional reprogramming has been well-explored, roles that these complexes play during reprogramming events in terminally differentiated cells remain understudied. We determined that the Drosophila MLR complex is required in fat body adipocytes for proper regulation of the triglyceride depletion rate during non-feeding periods, including metamorphosis and adult starvation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the complex plays a critical role in controlling stress-related reprogramming in these cells, suggesting that the metabolic phenotypes are indirect effects of dysregulated stress transcription. Furthermore, our evidence suggests that the complex interacts with Foxo and Relish (Nf-{kappa}b) pathways and is required for proper expression of their targets. This investigation further elucidates the necessary functions of MLR complexes in regulating transcriptional reprogramming in terminally differentiated cells as well as suggests novel binding partners. Apparent roles for these complexes in the proper regulation of stress-induced transcription implies new mechanisms involved in cancer and other human diseases associated with MLR subunit mutation.
Estimation of Electromechanical Modes of Oscillation in the Eastern Interconnection from Ambient PMU Data

A power system's inter-area electromechanical modes of oscillation determine if the system is small-signal stable. Mode meters are tools that estimate the modes based on ambient synchrophasor measurements, allowing continuous monitoring of the system's stability margin. This paper reports on the application of mode meter algorithms to 21 months of synchrophasor measurements from the United States Eastern Interconnection (EI). Estimates for three modes were updated every minute, providing a much more comprehensive set of results than previous studies based on disturbance recordings. The detailed signal designs and mode meter configurations provided in this paper can be used to accelerate mode meter deployments in the El. Analysis of the mode estimates reveal for the first time how seasonal load changes and system reconfiguration impact the El system's dynamics.
Public Perceptions of Dangerous Places: Sources of Variability in Evaluating Criminogenic Environments

Using an experimental design within a large national survey, the current study examines the impact of the physical location, its surrounding area, and situational elements in photos of urban landscapes on public perceptions of dangerous places. Both multivariate regression and conjunctive analyses indicate that these ratings are strongly influenced by nature of the location (e.g., alleys, streets, parking garages, residential areas), the level of disorder in its surrounding area, and, especially, the presence of a firearm in these urban landscapes. The gender and race of individuals within the urban settings had no significant impact on these ratings. The results of this study are discussed in terms of their implications for future research on perceptions of dangerous places, the individual and situational cues underlying these perceptions, and understanding the contextual variability in public reactions to crime and incidents of police use of force.
Case report of a coronary artery-right ventricular fistula following repeat endomyocardial biopsies in a heart transplant patient.

Background Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) remains the gold standard for cellular rejection surveillance in heart transplant recipients. Coronary artery fistula formation is a rare late and potentially catastrophic complication of repeated endomyocardial biopsies, without contemporary evidence on incidence or management. Case summary A 47-year-old male was found to have a fistula between his right ventricle and his left anterior descending artery on an angiogram that was performed as a part of regular screening of coronary allograft vasculopathy. Given the low shunt fraction, asymptomatic nature, and lack of guidelines on definitive management, the patient is undergoing conservative management with regular surveillance. Discussion Coronary artery fistulas were once thought to be rare complications of repeated EMB, but the true prevalence is likely to be higher than previously believed. Ideal treatment and monitoring is unknown given the relative rarity of the condition.
Attributing Blame in Human-Robot Teams with Robots of Differing Appearance

As automation becomes increasingly common in daily life the importance of understanding how we interact with automated systems increases, especially attribution of blame for accidents involving a h...
Industry disputes administration report on oil and gas leasing

Despite the Obama administration's efforts to make millions of acres of public lands available for oil and gas development, most of the acreage onshore and offshore of the contiguous United States remains idle, according to “Oil and gas lease utilization, onshore and offshore,” a 15 May report issued by the Department of the Interior (DOI). The report, which is being disputed by industry representatives, notes that 72% of the nearly 36 million leased offshore acres currently are inactive and that 50.6% of onshore leased acres (about 20.8 million acres) also are idle. “As part of the Obama administration's all-of- the-above energy strategy, we continue to make millions of acres of public lands available for safe and responsible domestic energy production on public lands and in federal waters,” said DOI secretary Ken Salazar. “These lands and waters belong to the American people, and they expect those energy supplies to be developed in a timely and responsible manner and with a fair return to taxpayers. We will continue to encourage companies to diligently bring production online quickly and safely on public lands already under lease.”
Encyclopedia of Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity

Genocide has been with us since the beginning of history and is a key feature to the study of world history at nearly every level. The most widely-studied and catastrophic examples are, however, historically close to the present day: the Nazi Holocaust, "ethnic cleansing" in Bosnia, tribal warfare in Rwanda and more. The Encyclopedia spans the globe to explain the issues behind crimes against humanity and human rights issues as they relate to individual countries and the world at large. It traces the history of events that qualify as genocide and crimes against humanity, profiles perpetrators and heroes, and explains international laws and law proceedings aimed at ending genocide and crimes against humanity. It also delves into depictions and manifestations of the phenomenon, such as propaganda, sociological and philosophical explanations, literature and film.
Beaches and Dunes of Developed Coasts: The developed coastal landscape: temporal and spatial characteristics

Introduction Human-altered coasts vary greatly in appearance, from landscapes where human impact is significant but barely perceptible (Figure 1.1) to landscapes where cultural features visually dominate the landscape (Figure 1.2). No one would deny the prominent role that humans play in altering the coastal landscape (Walker 1984). The more difficult tasks involve identifying: (1) how human-altered landforms may be defined; (2) whether humans are or should be the dominant agent in landscape evolution; and (3) whether human needs or actions should determine the characteristics and values of the resulting landforms. These broad issues can be separated into several areas of investigation (Table 1.1) that are examined in detail. It is assumed here that the landforms of interest (beaches and dunes) and the habitats within them are desirable for both their natural and human values, and that it is better to have these landforms than not to have them. Human actions are then evaluated in terms of loss, gain or conversion of these landforms. This chapter addresses the first two areas of investigation identified in Table 1.1 by providing a historical perspective on the human forces that drive coastal development and the processes and stages of alteration from natural shorelines to artifacts in attempts to maximize human values. The focus is on long-term and large-scale transformations of landscapes within which individual landforms are altered. The most obtrusive human modifications are highlighted, along with some of the economic and social reasons for the conversion. Evolution at the scale of individual landforms and at shorter temporal scales are evaluated in greater detail in subsequent chapters.
Bronchiolitis and rheumatoid arthritis.

An association between rheumatoid arthritis and bronchiolitis with symptomatic progressive airway obstruction has been previously reported. Abnormal sensitivity to airway inflammation has been postulated; however, there have been no reported cases of bronchiolitis and significant immunofluorescence findings on lung biopsy. We report here a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, acute bronchiolitis without obstructive airway disease, and linear deposition of immunoglobulin G in alveolar walls.
Rapid Detection of Bacteria in Drinking Water

A heterotrophic plate count (HPC) is a measure of the total number of heterotrophic bacteria in a water sample. It does not indicate whether the bacteria are harmful or harmless to humans, but serves as an indicator of the cleanliness of the raw water and treatment processes. The most sensitive test uses the R2A agar and an incubation time of 7 days. Other media and shorter incubation times lead to lower counts. Whichever test is used, an incubation of 2–7 days makes the test clearly useless for operational decisions and intervention. Intentional or accidental contamination of a water supply must be determinable in minutes.
From Pragmatism to Politics: A Qualitative Study of Abortion Providers

Twenty-eight years after the United State Supreme Court issued its landmark Roe v. Wade, the struggle continues to ensure that all women have the full range of reproductive choices, including abortion. While the struggle can be addressed through its political, religious, and medical dimensions, it also can be examined through the perspectives of those who actually provide abortions. This paper examines the perspectives of physician abortion providers to understand more fully their motivations, the quality of their personal and professional lives, their views on the future of abortion services, and their recommendations for undergraduate and residency medical education. Such questions are often best answered through qualitative inquiry, particularly when the subject at hand has had little interpretive scrutiny, lacks theoretical understandings, and remains in general an under-investigated phenomenon. Because abortion providers and the work they do fit those criteria, a qualitative study of physician providers in Ohio was undertaken. This paper is divided into the following sections: a literature review of abortion services in the United States, methods, interview data and discussion, and last, recommendations and conclusions.
Acute fall in glomerular filtration rate with renin–angiotensin system inhibition: a biomeasure of therapeutic success?

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) acutely declines with the introduction of renin–angiotensin system inhibition. This response is functional, not anatomical, and varies with volume status. The reduction in GFR with renin–angiotensin system inhibition may serve as a biomeasure of future therapeutic benefit.