cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chromatographic analysis of sagebrush monoterpenes in blood plasma.

An analytical method is required for the analysis of monoterpenes in animal plasma to support a pharmacokinetic study. Monoterpenes common to sagebrush are extracted from sheep plasma by employing solid-phase extraction (SPE), followed by analysis of the extracts by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. The analytes are quantitated versus an external standard and by comparison with a surrogate standard added to the sample prior to extraction. In addition to comparing the two quantitative methods, the storage stability of the analytes in plasma and SPE columns is evaluated. Both methods employed for quantitation yield precision suitable for pharmacokinetic studies. However, determination of monoterpenes residues versus external standards produces improved accuracy as compared with use of the surrogate standard. Some analyte loss is observed from plasma samples stored for five weeks at ‐12°C. However, storage of extracts on the SPE columns affords excellent stability.
Doppler echocardiography: applications, limitations and future directions

On the basis of principles that are similar to (but differ slightly from) those that underlie M mode and two dimensional techniques, pulsed Doppler echocardiography permits evaluation of intracardiac blood flow noninvasively. This technique is helpful in the diagnosis and management of patients with valvular and congenital heart disease, and in some circumstances provides information not available from M mode or two dimensional imaging. Despite several notable limitations, pulsed Doppler echocardiography is a useful diagnostic technique whose clinical application is likely to increase as future technologic improvements occur.
Genes Influencing Resistance to Coccidioides immitis and the Interleukin-10 Response Map to Chromosomes 4 and 6 in Mice

Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection that is endemic in the southwestern United States. Infection is more severe in blacks and Filipinos, which suggests that there is a genetic basis for susceptibility to this infection in humans. We found that there is also a difference in resistance to Coccidioides immitis infection among inbred mouse strains: B6 mice are susceptible, while DBA/2 mice are resistant (T. N. Kirkland and J. Fierer, Infect. Immun. 40:912–916, 1983). In this paper we report the results of our efforts to map the genes responsible for resistance to this infection in mice. Mice were infected by intraperitoneal inoculation, and 15 days later the numbers of viable fungi in their lungs and spleens were enumerated. We also determined the amounts of interleukin-10 mRNA made in the infected lungs. These three phenotypes were mapped as quantitative traits by using the 26 available lines of recombinant inbred mice derived from a cross between B6 and DBA/2 mice. The best associations were those between the regions near the Lv locus on chromosome 4 and the Tnfr1 locus on chromosome 6. We then infected backcross mice [(B6 × DBA/2) × B6] and confirmed these associations; 14 of 16 (87%) mice that were heterozygous at both Lv and Tnfr1 were resistant to infection, whereas only 4 of 16 (25%) mice that were homozygous B6 at both loci were resistant. These are the first genetic loci to be associated with susceptibility to C. immitis, but there may be additional genes involved in murine resistance to this infection.
The Effects of Corruption Control and Political Stability on the Environmental Kuznets Curve of Deforestation-Induced Carbon Dioxide Emissions

This article formulates a structural empirical model that measures the short run and long run effect of economic growth, political stability and corruption control on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from deforestation. Income has a negative effect on forest cover in the short run but it does not have any long run effect. In contrast, political stability and corruption have relatively smaller effects on forest cover in the short run but they have lingering long run effects. We derive a U-shaped forest-income curve where political stability and corruption control do not significantly affect the income turning point but both variables shift the curve up or down. The resulting CO2 emission-income curve is downward sloping and is based on changes in the levels of variables affecting forest cover. Increased political stability flattens the CO2 emissions-income curve leading to smaller changes of CO2 emissions per unit change in income.
Biomarkers of Exocrine Pancreatic Injury in 2 Rat Acute Pancreatitis Models

Consistent, sensitive biomarkers of exocrine pancreatic injury (EPIJ) in animal models and humans have historically represented a poorly met need for investigators and clinicians. Experimental design: Sprague-Dawley CD/International Genetic Standard system (IGS) rats were administered cerulein or cyanohydroxybutene (CHB) to induce EPIJ. Serum samples were taken at time points between 1- and 168-hr postinjection (PI), and rats were sacrificed between 24- and 168-hr PI. Method: We investigated a series of serum-based biomarkers including amylase, lipase, pancreas-enriched microRNAs (miRs) and inflammation biomarkers compared with concurrent hematology and pancreatic histology. Results and Conclusion: Microscopic EPIJ was not associated with consistent changes in hematology or inflammation biomarkers. Increased severity scores for EPIJ correlated with increased amylase and lipase values, although severity of EPIJ did not always correlate with the magnitude of enzyme increases. Microscopic EPIJ was most sever...
Operating system scheduling for efficient online self-test in robust systems

Very thorough online self-test is essential for overcoming major reliability challenges such as early-life failures and transistor aging in advanced technologies. This paper demonstrates the need for operating system (OS) support to efficiently orchestrate online self-test in future robust systems. Experimental data from an actual dual quad-core system demonstrate that, without software support, online self-test can significantly degrade performance of soft real-time and computation-intensive applications (by up to 190%), and can result in perceptible delays for interactive applications. To mitigate these problems, we develop OS scheduling techniques that are aware of online self-test, and schedule/migrate tasks in multi-core systems by taking into account the unavailability of one or more cores undergoing online self-test. These techniques eliminate any performance degradation and perceptible delays in soft real-time and interactive applications (otherwise introduced by online self-test), and significantly reduce the impact of online self-test on the performance of computation-intensive applications. Our techniques require minor modifications to existing OS schedulers, thereby enabling practical and efficient online self-test in real systems.
Predicting hot-press wheat tortilla quality using flour, dough and gluten properties

A cost-effective, faster and efficient way of screening wheat samples suitable for tortilla production is needed. This research aimed to develop prediction models for tortilla quality (diameter, specific volume, color and texture parameters) using grain, flour and dough properties of 16 wheat flours. Another set of 18 samples was used to validate the models. The prediction models were developed using stepwise multiple regression. Dough rheological tests had higher correlations with tortilla quality than grain and flour chemical tests. Mixograph mixing time and dough resistance to extension (from extensibility test using a texture analyzer) were correlated best with tortilla quality, particularly tortilla diameter (r ¼� 0.87 and � 0.86 respectively, P<0.01). Insoluble polymeric proteins (IPP) and gluten index were significantly correlated with tortilla diameter (r ¼� 0.70 and � 0.67 respectively, P<0.01) and specific volume (r ¼� 0.73, P<0.01). Tortilla diameter was the quality parameter best explained
Hospice Decision Making: Diagnosis Makes a Difference

Purpose This study explored the process of decision making about hospice enrollment and identified factors that influence the timing of that decision. Methods This study employed an exploratory, descriptive, cross-sectional design and was conducted using qualitative methods. In-depth in-person semistructured interviews were conducted with 36 hospice patients and 55 caregivers after 2 weeks of hospice care. The study was guided by Janis and Mann's conflict theory model (CTM) of decision making. Qualitative data analysis involved a directed content analysis using concepts from the CTM. Results A model of hospice enrollment decision making is presented. Concepts from the CTM (appraisal, surveying and weighing the alternatives, deliberations, adherence) were used as an organizing framework to illustrate the dynamics. Distinct differences were found by diagnosis (cancer vs. other chronic illness, e.g., heart and lung diseases) during the pre-encounter phase or before the hospice referral but no differences emerged during the post-encounter phase. Implications Differences in decision making by diagnosis suggest the need for research about effective means for tailored communication in end-of-life decision making by type of illness. Recognition that decision making about hospice admission varies is important for clinicians who aim to provide person-centered and family-focused care.
A comparison of 30-day complications following plate fixation versus intramedullary nailing of closed extra-articular tibia fractures.

Abstract Background and purpose Tibial shaft fractures are often treated by intramedullary nailing (IMN) or plate fixation. Our purpose was to compare the 30-day complication rates between IMN and plate fixation of extra-articular tibial fractures. Materials and methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected patient demographics, comorbidities, and 30 day complications of isolated closed extra-articular tibial shaft fractures from 2006 to 2012 using the American College of Surgeon's National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database. A 1:2 propensity-matched dataset was created to control for differences in preoperative demographics and comorbidities across the plate fixation and IMN groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess differences in complications between the groups and the independent effects of plate fixation or IMN on complications. Results A total of 771 patients were identified with 234 (30.4%) in the plate fixation and 537 (69.6%) in the IMN group. We found no statistical difference in rates of wound complications, medical complications, reoperation, or mortality in our propensity matched analyses. Plate fixation was found to be independently associated with a lower risk of postoperative blood transfusion compared to IMN (odds ratio 0.326, p = 0.032). Plate fixation was not independently associated with any other examined complications. Conclusions We found no difference in 30-day postoperative complications between plate fixation and intramedullary nailing of isolated extra-articular tibia fractures with the exception of decreased postoperative transfusion requirements with plate fixation. We conclude that both procedures offer a similar short-term complication profile.
Initial Experiments on the Control of a Two-Link Manipulator with a Very Flexible Forearm

Understanding how to control the flexibility in mechanical manipulator allows us to increase their performance and to reliably design and control larger, lighter, and more power-efficient manipulators. To date, a number of papers and some experiments have addressed the control of single-link flexible manipulators. In order to understand fully and to control a larger, more useful class of manipulators, we need to extend our knowledge further to the two-link configuration. To this end, this paper addresses the dynamics and control of a two-link manipulator with a very flexible forearm. Further, to verify the theoretical developments, an experimental planar two-link flexible manipulator system has been constructed. A nonlinear model of the experimental manipulator is developed using an assumed-modes description for the deflections in the forearm link. The design of an initial collocated proportional-plus-derivative controller is presented and implemented on the experimental manipulator. For a step command of 10° in each joint, the simulation and experimental responses are found to be in excellent agreement.
Amy Finkelstein: 2012 John Bates Clark Medalist

Amy Finkelstein is the 2012 recipient of the John Bates Clark Medal from the American Economic Association. The core concerns of Amy's research program have been insurance markets and health care. She has addressed whether asymmetric information leads to inefficiencies in insurance markets, how large social insurance programs affect healthcare markets, and the determinants of innovation incentives in health care. We describe a number of Amy's key research contributions, with particular emphasis on those identified by the Honors and Awards Committee of the American Economic Association in her Clark Medal citation, as well as her broader contributions to the field of economics.
High-Throughput, High-Resolution Echelle Deep-UV Raman Spectrometer:

We constructed an ultrahigh-throughput, high-resolution ultraviolet (UV) Raman spectrograph that utilizes a high-efficiency filter-stage monochromator and a high-dispersion Echelle spectrograph. The spectrograph utilizes a total of six mirrors and two gratings, with an overall efficiency at 229 nm of ;18%. The limiting resolution of our spectrometer is 0.6 cm � 1 full width half-maximum (FWHM), as measured for 229 nm Rayleigh scattering. Use of a 1 mm‐wide entrance slit gives rise to an approximately 10 cm � 1 FWHM resolution at 229 nm. The ultrahigh spectrograph throughput enables ultrahigh signal-to-noise ratio, deep UV Raman spectra that allow us to monitor ,1% changes in peptide bond composition. The throughput is measured to be 35-fold greater than conventional deep UV Raman spectrometers. Index Headings: UV Raman spectrometer; Echelle; High-throughput; High-resolution; Biomolecules; Peptide; Protein.
Perceptions of forestry alternatives in the US Pacific Northwest: Information effects and acceptability distribution analysis $

Conflicts over timber harvesting and clearcutting versus wildlife conservation have instigated alternative silvicultural systems in the US Pacific Northwest. Major forest treatments can be the most controversial element of such systems. A public survey explored the social acceptability of 19 forest treatments that varied by forest age, level of green-tree retention, pattern of retention, and level of down wood. The survey presented respondents with photos of the treatments, explanatory narratives, and resource outputs related to human and wildlife needs. Respondents rated treatments for scenic beauty, service to human needs, service to wildlife needs, and overall acceptability. Acceptability distribution patterns were analysed for all forest treatments. These showed broad, passionate opposition to clearcutting, conflict over the acceptability of not managing forests, conflict over old growth harvests, conflict with some passionate opposition to 15% retention harvests, and unconflicted acceptance of young forest thinnings and 40% retention harvests. Modelling of these responses found that socially acceptable forestry attends to scenic beauty and serves wildlife needs, while also serving human needs but not at a high cost to these first two values.
Enhancement of Coupled Multichannel Images Using Sparsity Constraints

We consider the problem of joint enhancement of multichannel images with pixel based constraints on the multichannel data. Previous work by Cetin and Karl introduced nonquadratic regularization methods for SAR image enhancement using sparsity enforcing penalty terms. We formulate an optimization problem that jointly enhances complex-valued multichannel images while preserving the cross-channel information, which we include as constraints tying the multichannel images together. We pose this problem as a joint optimization problem with constraints. We first reformulate it as an equivalent (unconstrained) dual problem and develop a numerically-efficient method for solving it. We develop the Dual Descent method, which has low complexity, for solving the joint optimization problem. The algorithm is applied to both an interferometric synthetic aperture radar (IFSAR) problem, in which the relative phase between two complex-valued images indicate height, and to a synthetic multimodal medical image example.
Recovery of sparse signals from amplitude-limited sample sets

Motivated by the compelling application of interference mitigation at wideband receivers in wireless communication and sensing systems, we consider the recovery of a frequency-sparse signal from samples of small magnitude. The standard l1-norm minimization results in an inadequate signal-dependent recovery performance, and hence we introduce three techniques to improve the quality of recovery. The performance of each of these three techniques is characterized through numerical simulations, from which we conclude that each of the proposed techniques show the promise of substantially improving recovery performance.
Logistic Support Analysis—Lessons to be Learned

For years in Navy system/equipment acquisitions, a program requirement that has been particularly troublesome to program managers (PMs), integrated logistic support managers (ILSMs), and logistic element managers (LEMs) is logistic support analysis (LSA). Performance of the tasks to satisfy this LSA requirement has dismayed many logistics engineers and analysts as well. Unfortunately, what has caused such consternation in the past is still present and shall negatively impact LSA requirements in the future unless some reformation occurs. A few of the main problems encountered when involved with an LSA are: the analysis is started too late; the effort is complex and diverse; the LSA military standards contain ambiguities, vague descriptions, and other deficiencies; and the LSA process allows many possible approaches leading to results with numerous possible interpretations. In many cases, expensive LSA processes produce data that is neither timely nor of great use. The result of an inefficient LSA is usually a bandaided end item in the field, one without adequate and cost-effective support. This paper addresses LSA-related problems, evidenced through research and personal experience, and recommends solutions to enhance the LSA process. This paper also stresses conducting the appropriate amount of analysis (through tailoring) to derive the ideal supportability system—one of sufficient performance that maximizes life cycle affordability.
Pseudotumor cerebri and optic nerve sheath decompression.

Abstract Objective To determine the efficacy and safety of optic nerve sheath decompression in a large population of patients with pseudotumor cerebri with visual loss despite medical treatment and to suggest a treatment algorithm on the basis of these data. Design Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series. Participants One hundred fifty-eight eyes in 86 patients with pseudotumor cerebri. Intervention Optic nerve sheath decompression. Main outcome measures Visual acuity, visual fields, and surgical complications. Results After optic nerve sheath decompression for pseudotumor cerebri, visual acuity stabilized or improved in 148 of 158 (94%) eyes, and visual fields stabilized or improved in 71 of 81 (88%) eyes. Surgical complications, most of which were transient and benign, were seen in 39 of 86 patients. Only one eye in one patient had permanent severe visual loss secondary to an operative complication. Conclusions In patients with pseudotumor cerebri with progressive visual loss despite maximum medical therapy, optic nerve sheath decompression is a safe and effective means of stabilizing visual acuity and the visual fields of those tested.
Vegetation on Gunnison’s Prairie Dog Colonies in Southwestern Colorado

Abstract Prairie dogs ( Cynomys spp.) have been labeled keystone species because of the role they play as disturbance creators and ecosystem engineers in the western grasslands of North America. Most studies have concentrated on the black-tailed species ( C. ludovicianus ); however, other species of prairie dogs may have different effects on their ecosystems. We measured plant cover and biomass, canopy height, and plant nitrogen concentration on and off 6 Gunnison’s prairie dog ( C. gunnisoni ) towns and 6 paired areas off prairie dog towns in southern Colorado. Multivariate analysis of variance and analysis of variance showed no significant differences ( P > 0.05) in vegetation cover or biomass on and off of Gunnison’s prairie dog towns, contrary to what has been found for black-tailed prairie dog towns. No significant differences were found in canopy height ( P > 0.05); however, this may be due to already short vegetation (5–7 cm). Only 1 of 4 focal plants showed a significant difference in nitrogen concentration. No significant differences were found in species diversity on and off prairie dog towns; however, because of drought, these results are inconclusive. This study found few vegetation differences on and off Gunnison’s prairie dog towns. Furthermore, those differences were more subtle than those reported on black-tailed prairie dog towns. While the mechanisms for differences in vegetation on and off Gunnison’s prairie dog towns may be similar to those on black-tailed prairie dog towns, the magnitude of these differences may be different.
Sealants, Waterproofings and Coatings for Concrete

Concrete, particularly when exposed to moisture, represents a harsh environment for sealants, waterproofings and coatings. This is a result of its high alkalinity, the fact that it can form an osmotic cell with semipermeable membranes, its weak powdery surface and its tendency to crack when curing. This paper discusses how the chemical and physical nature of concrete is the source of these problems. It also discussed some of the materials that industry has developed to meet these requirements and the test methods that have are employed to predict behavior under these conditions.
Experimenting with Identity: Islam, Nationalism and Ethnicity

This paper presents the results of experiments that test the effects of religious and national identities on behavior across ethnic lines. In the study, 360 subjects in two Indonesian provinces were subtly and randomly exposed to visual cues for nationalism, Islam or a neutral control and then completed behavioral-economic tasks with monetary payoffs. I find that priming for Islam strongly raised generosity among Muslim subjects, reflecting Islamic norms of selflessness and sharing. Priming for national identity, while raising generosity, elicited ethnic \textit{differentiation} rather than the ethnic cohesion often touted in nationalist rhetoric. I argue that the results reveal different ethnic status-hierarchies embedded in the two identity frameworks: groups that are underprivileged in the national setting are strongly favored in an Islamic one.
Tardis: Time Traveling Coherence Algorithm for Distributed Shared Memory

A new memory coherence protocol, Tardis, is proposed. Tardis uses timestamp counters representing logical time as well as physical time to order memory operations and enforce sequential consistency in any type of shared memory system. Tardis is unique in that as compared to the widely-adopted directory coherence protocol, and its variants, it completely avoids multicasting and only requires O(log N) storage per cache block for an N-core system rather than O(N) sharer information. Tardis is simpler and easier to reason about, yet achieves similar performance to directory protocols on a wide range of benchmarks run on 16, 64 and 256 cores.
Processing Core/Alloy/Shell Nanoparticles: Tunable Optical Properties and Evidence for Self-Limiting Alloy Growth

The postsynthetic processing of nanomaterials may allow researchers to reach specific properties, morphologies, or phase regimes that are not accessible by simple synthesis alone. Here, we take advantage of atomic interdiffusion at nanoparticle interfaces to fabricate core/alloy and core/alloy/shell nanoparticles. Modest temperature changes were found to have profound effects for the interfacial alloying of the confined nanosystem. The alloy formation and subsequent interdiffusion allowed us to tailor nanoparticle composition and ultrastructure, as well as surface plasmon response. This processing step, which involves the layer-by-layer formation of a core/alloy/shell morphology, utilizes hydrothermal annealing provided by automated microwave irradiation to control solute deposition, as well as alloy thickness. As a proof-of-principle system, we employed a Au/AuxAg1–x/Ag nanosystem, due, in large part, to its miscible phase diagram and rich plasmonic behavior. Nanostructure morphology was characterized by...
Celerity-Amplitude Relations for Solitary Waves on Vertically Falling Films

Experimental data relating the amplitude and celerity of solitary waves on vertically falling and naturally excited films are presented over a wide of range of fluid properties and flow rates (2 < ...
Aerodynamic aspects of helicopter maneuvers; numerical studies using LES

Numerical investigations of helicopter blade-vortex mechanism of interaction are performed using large eddy simulation (LES). The simulations were performed for a Reynolds number, Re = 1.3 x 10 6 , based on the chord, c, of the airfoil (NACA0012). Computations are carried out for two different types of blade -vortex interactions, concerning single and respectively two vortices blade interaction. It was observed that for single vortex-blade interaction, the blade-vortex interaction becomes less significant with the increase of vertical miss distance . Larger amplitudes of aerodynamic coefficients were observed for the case of two vortices-blade interaction when compared with the single vortex blade interactions.
Determination of the quality and stability of the hydroxycamptothecin sustained-released tablets

OBJECTIVE To investigate the quality and stability of hydroxycamptothecin(HCPT) sustained-released tablets(SRT).METHODS Evaluating the SRT quality via determination of weight variation,content uniformity and release homogeneity;after exposure to air,high temperature,high humidity or light,determination of the SRT stability.RESULTS The weight variation of prepared SRT consistent with regulation,content was 20%,release homogeneity was good;the influencing factor test showed the SRT need to preserve under drying and protect from light.CONCLUSION The HCPT SRT is stable in 30 ℃ 、relative humidity 25% and away from light.
Ulysses, by Jove

Of particular interest to many participants at the meeting in May of the American Geophysical Union, held in Montreal, Canada, were the early reports on the encounter of the ESA-NASA Ulysses spacecraft with Jupiter, including surprises in the charged particle flows within the Jovian magnetic environment.
Use of recombinant human erythropoietin in allogeneic bone marrow transplant donor/recipient pairs

In an attempt to reduce or eliminate homologous red blood cell transfusion requirements during allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT), we instituted a novel program whereby recombinant human erythropoietin was administered to pairs of BMT donors and recipients. Eleven recipients and their HLA-matched donors were enrolled. Donors treated with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) were phlebotomized a median of 6 U (range, 4 to 11 U) of blood over a 5-week period. This donor-derived blood was available to the BMT donor or recipient as needed. Transplant recipients were also treated with rHuEPO post-BMT to hasten erythropoiesis. Five of 11 BMT recipients underwent transplant receiving only donor-derived red blood cell transfusion, compared with 0 of 11 concomitant control recipients (P = .04). In addition, the time to absolute reticulocyte count > or = 10(4)/microL was statistically shorter in the rHuEPO-treated recipient group. This study serves as a paradigm for hematopoietic growth factor use in allogeneic BMT to decrease or eliminate homologous transfusion exposures and to possibly hasten hematopoietic engraftment.
Malignant solitary fibrous tumor of the orbit: Spectrum of histologic features.

Abstract Purpose Primary malignant solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) of the orbit is a rare spindle cell neoplasm that requires excisional biopsy for histopathological diagnosis. We present a clinical case using contemporary immunohistochemical stains, report on the latest World Health Organization classification, and provide a review of the literature. Observations Report of a single case of a 65 year old male who presented with right-sided proptosis, limited adduction, ptosis, lateral globe displacement, and cheek festooning. Neuroimaging revealed a 2.2 cm, extraconal heterogeneous mass that diffusely enhanced. En-bloc tumor resection confirmed SFT malignancy based upon nuclear atypia, hypercellularity, and increased mitotic activity (13 mitotic figures/10 high powered fields). Ki-67 showed 2% nuclear staining in the benign tumor and 10–15% staining in the malignant counterpart. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed diffuse Stat6 positivity, CD 34 positivity with partial lack of staining within the malignant portion, S-100 positivity in the malignant portion, and overall negativity for CAM 5.2, desmin, actin, CD 31, and CD 117. Conclusions and importance Immunoprofiling is helpful to making the diagnosis of malignant solitary fibrous tumor of the orbit. Complete tumor resection continues to be the preferred treatment. The behavior of extrathoracic SFT is unpredictable, and patients with SFT in all locations require careful, long-term follow-up.
Evaluation of the mutagenic effects of myosmine using the HPRT gene mutation assay

AACR Annual Meeting-- Apr 12-16, 2008; San Diego, CA 4315 Alkylating mutagens found in tobacco such as tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNA) are able to form DNA adducts by methylation and/or pyridyloxobutylation. The tobacco alkaloid myosmine, which is wide spread in human diets, also gives rise to pyridyloxobutyl DNA adducts. In contrast to TSNA requiring metabolic activation, myosmine can be easily activated by nitrosation and peroxidation. The resulting adducts can induce DNA damage if not repaired by DNA repair machinery as shown in human lymphocytes, nasal mucosa and human cell lines using the comet assay. The direct reversal DNA repair protein, encoded by the polymorphic O6-Methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) gene removes these adducts from the DNA. Three coding single nucleotide polymorphisms (cSNPs) in the MGMT gene are believed to affect MGMT function, and these, in turn, could alter the repair of such adducts. Using a modified cloning HPRT gene mutation assay, one of the most widely used somatic cell mutation assays, we determined the mutant frequency in human lymphocytes treated in vitro with myosmine. These lymphocytes were all MGMT wild-type lymphocytes with none of the three known variants. Dose-response experiments demonstrated a strong antiproliferative effect of 1 and 5 mM myosmine after 24 h of incubation. After incubation with 1 mM for 4 hours, viability slightly decreased by 3% (p < 0.05) but proliferation and cloning efficiency were not affected. Analysis of 14 samples after exposure to myosmine (1 mM for 4 hours) resulted in a 56% increase in mutant frequency from 0.73±0.58 x 10-6 in control to 1.14±0.89 x 10-6 in myosmine-treated lymphocytes (p < 0.05). These preliminary data confirm the mutagenicity of myosmine to human lymphocytes under the tested experimental conditions. Further studies with MGMT polymorphic lymphocytes conferring impaired repair capacity, and taking into account the dependence of myosmine activation on pH and nitrosative stress, are warranted.
The arborization bypass: Sequential intracranial-intracranial bypasses for an unruptured fusiform MCA aneurysm.

Abstract Revascularization techniques are being featured more prominently as endovascular treatments continue to select out complex cerebrovascular pathologies for open surgical management. The current healthcare environment requires decreased hospital stays and improved clinical outcomes despite the growing complexity of open surgical cases. Recent efforts to reduce operative room time and decrease risk for bypass surgery have focused on avoiding graft harvest and maintaining the entire bypass intracranial. The presented technique features an arborization bypass to serially anastomose the middle cerebral artery vessels allowing for proximal trapping of a complex aneurysm without graft harvest. The arborization technique has several advantages to traditional techniques and serves to supplement the revascularization surgeon’s armamentarium.
Transgenic Overexpression of Steroid Sulfatase Alleviates Cholestasis.

Abstract Background and Aim Sulfotransferase (SULT)-mediated sulfation and steroid sulfatase (STS)-mediated desulfation represent two critical mechanisms that regulate the chemical and functional homeostasis of endogenous and exogenous molecules. STS catalyzes the hydrolysis of steroid sulfates to form hydroxysteroids. Oxygenated cholesterol derivative oxysterols are known to be endogenous ligands of the liver X receptor (LXR), a nuclear receptor with anti-cholestasis activity, whereas the sulfated oxysterols antagonize LXR signaling. The conversion of sulfated oxysterols to their non-sulfated counterparts is catalyzed by STS. The aim of this study is to determine whether STS can alleviate cholestasis by increasing the activity of LXR. Methods Liver-specific STS transgenic mice were created and subject to the lithocholic acid (LCA)-induced model of cholestasis. Results Transgenic overexpression of STS in the liver promoted bile acid elimination and alleviated LCA-induced cholestasis. The protective effect of the STS transgene was associated with the activation of LXR and induction of LXR target genes, likely because of the increased conversion of the antagonistic oxysterol sulfates to the agonistic oxysterols. Conclusions STS has a novel function in controlling the homeostasis of bile acids by regulating endogenous LXR ligands.
A Review of Taylor Mac's 24-Decade History of Popular Music Marathon

This review considers Taylor Mac's 24-Decade History of Popular Music Marathon which took place at St. Ann's Warehouse in Brooklyn, New York from October 8 to October 9, 2016. Using Jacques Derrida's theory of "l'avenir," best translated as the "unexpected visitor" I analyze a variety of the components found in the performance including, queer dramaturgy, song selection, choreography, audience participation and costumes. My critical review examines the concert which pulled liberally from the American songbook, using popular music from 1776 to 2016 in an attempt to collectively exorcise the specters of the patriarchy and exonerate the oppressed in what Mac deemed a “radical faerie ritual.”
Sex hormones and brain volumes in a longitudinal study of middle-aged men in the CARDIA study.

Introduction Several findings suggest that testosterone (T) is neuroprotective and that declining T levels during aging are associated with cognitive and brain pathologies; however, little is known on T and brain health in middle-age. We examined the relationships of total T, bioavailable T, and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels with total and regional gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) volumes in middle-aged men. We also evaluated the association of sex hormone levels with cognitive function. Methods Analysis included 267 community-dwelling men participating in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) substudy. Total T, bioavailable T, and SHBG levels were measured at three times from the 2nd to 4th decade of life; brain volumes were measured at the ages of 42–56. Associations were estimated using linear regression models, adjusted for several potential confounders. Results Higher SHBG levels were associated with greater total WM volume (+3.15 cm3 [95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.01, 6.28] per one standard deviation higher SHBG). Higher SHBG levels were associated with lower total and regional GM volumes overall and significantly with smaller parietal GM volume (−0.96 cm3 [95%CI = −1.71, −0.21]). T levels were not related to brain volumes. Neither T nor SHBG levels were associated with cognitive function. Conclusion Results suggest a role for SHBG in structural brain outcomes in men and emphasize the value of investigating SHBG levels as modulators of sex hormone and metabolic pathways regulating brain and behavioral characteristics in men.
W-band circular polarized series fed single plane beamsteering array antenna with 4-bit phase shifter for cubesat applications

A 16 × 32 series fed right-hand circular polarized (RHCP) phased array antenna is investigated at 85.4 GHz on a single layer substrate. The broadside patterns show co- and cross-polarization separation of around 18 dB and peak RHCP gain of 30 dBic. A 4-bit phase shifter is also designed in Cadence Virtuoso. The phase shifter states are applied in the simulation of 16 × 32 array to show the beamsteering of +/− 30° in one plane of the series fed array.
Test of a Natural Enemy Hypothesis on Plant Provenance: Spider Abundance in Native and Exotic Ornamental Landscapes

Abstract There is heightened interest in the effects that the provenance of plants in the landscape has on animals inhabiting them. This topic is of great interest for designers of urban ornamental landscapes, which tend to be mosaics of native and exotic plants. Although there is a substantial body of research on insect herbivores, less attention has been paid to arthropod natural enemies. Many commonly grown exotic woody plants were missing from eastern North America for millions of years prior to the arrival of Europeans. Due to the lack of a recent co-evolutionary history with these exotic plants, native natural enemies may be less well able to use the resources provided by them—architectural features and nutritional supplements—than they will those of native plants. Hence, natural enemies will be less numerous and diverse in landscapes dominated by exotic plants. To test this hypothesis, we designed a replicated experiment comprising 0.08-hectare plots planted to congeneric pairs of 16 genera of wood...
Metrics and outcomes of conservation education: a quarter century of lessons learned

We conducted a systematic literature review to analyze evaluations of conservation education programs on a global scale in order to better understand (1) temporal and spatial trends in conservation...
STILL NOT SOLVED: THE PERSISTENT PROBLEM OF IT STRATEGIC PLANNING

The disaffection of information technology managers with IT strategy development and planning goes back a long way. The research that identifies this dissatisfaction is examined briefly. The technology strategy and planning problem is shown to be multi-faceted, with several possible causes that may be operating simultaneously in a particular company. A major ingredient of the problem is the alignment/linkage of IT planning and plans, and the business plans. For IT planners to achieve the desired linkage requires that the planners possess a deep understanding of their company’s business planning. Similarly, business managers must possess solid knowledge of their company’s IT planning. Using Kiviat Diagrams, business planning approaches are shown to be bewildering in their variety. This variety indicates that IT planning managers must find it difficult to decipher business planning in general and the nature of their company’s business planning in particular. Nine approaches to plan alignment and linkage are explored, each with respect to its possible value for linking IT planning and plans to business planning and plans. The development of a Theory of Plan Linkages is proposed. Several sources of the problem are suggested, and several IT management approaches to IT planning are explored briefly. It is unlikely that any single set of IT planning activities can deal satisfactorily with the problem for most companies. Efforts are proposed for developing best practices for IT planning. Steps are proposed for use by IT planners to improve their companies’ IT strategy development processes. Areas that merit further academic research are explored.
A Possible Mechanism by Which Dietary Fat Can Alter Tumorigenesis: Lipid Modulation of Macrophage Function

Numerous expiremental and epidemiological studies hace provided evidence linking dietary fat with increased risk for breast cancer. Some epidemiological studies have reported a positive correlation between breast cancer and dietary fat intake1 while a few have reported that no correlation existed.2–5 In contrast, studies with animal models of mammary tumorigenesis are more consistent. In general, the studies in rodents showed that high levels of dietary fat to an increased incidence of spontaneous or carcinogen-induced breast tumors as compared to animals fed a moderate or low level of dietary fat.6 In addition, rodents fed saturated fats.7–8 Not only has dietary fat been linked to altered primary tumor growth, but it also appears to influence the process of metastasis.9 Since linoleic acid (18:2n-6) was the most abundant fatty acid found in many of the polyunsaturated vegetable oils numerous investigators hae suggested that it may be pivotal in the promotion of mammary tumorigenesis. The role of linoleic acid in increasing carcinogen-induced mammary tumor incidence10 as well as metastasis11 has been previously demonstrated.
The role of lipids in blood coagulation.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the role of lipids in blood coagulation. When a venipuncture is performed on a normal subject and the blood is placed in a glass test tube, it remains fluid for a few minutes, but then a solid mass is seen. The tube can then be completely inverted without loss of its contents. The biochemical and physiological events leading to the formation of this gelatinous mass, or blood clot, have been the subject of intensive research for many years. Lipids play an essential role in both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of prothrombin activation. They enter the coagulation sequence after it has been initiated by surface contact and other protein interactions. There is no evidence that they initiate the coagulation process. The lipid is normally derived from the blood platelet where it probably exists as lipoprotein. It exerts a surface catalytic action on the plasma coagulation proteins with which it may bind in the presence of calcium. The resulting complex could contain platelet liproprotein or its lipid moiety alone and may mediate prothrombin activation.
The effect of pregnancy on visceral growth and energy use in beef heifers.

Beef heifers (24 mo; 378 +/- 32 kg of BW; 22 pregnant, PR; 17 nonpregnant, NP) were grouped in common pens and fed corn silage- and hay-based diets formulated to provide an ADG of 0.45 kg in NP heifers. Both PR and NP heifers were slaughtered on d 40, 120, 200, and 270 of the study. Intestinal and hepatic tissues were analyzed for protein, DNA, RNA (mg/g of fresh tissue), and in vitro oxygen use. Jejunal samples were analyzed for cellular proliferation via immunohistochemical analysis. For ileum, DNA, which provides an estimate of cell number per unit of tissue, revealed an interaction (P = 0.06) between pregnancy and slaughter day; both PR and NP decreased with time, but NP increased on d 270 (P = 0.09). Cell number in the ileum was reduced at d 200 and 270 in the PR heifers (P 0.10) by pregnancy or day. Energy use (kcal/d) of duodenum and jejunum, calculated from in vitro oxygen consumption, increased linearly (P < 0.02) with time for both PR and NP. Pregnant and NP ileal energy use increased linearly (P < 0.01), but ileal energy use by PR was less throughout gestation (P = 0.07) than ileal energy use by NP. Cellular proliferation in the crypt region of the jejunum was decreased on d 120 and 200 (P < 0.02). These data indicate that the small intestine and liver of PR heifers may conserve energy expenditure compared with NP heifers. Energy conservation can partially be explained by differences in growth and cell proliferation and by energy use of the liver and small intestine.
MICROVASCULAR COMPLICATIONS: Retinopathy and Nephropathy

Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic nephropathy extract an enormous toll on patients with diabetes and an enormous burden on the health care system. With aggressive control of glycemia and blood pressure, coupled with aggressive use of laser photocoagulation and treatment of microalbuminuria, these problems can largely be eliminated. In the future, specific interventions may emerge that will allow interdiction of the pathophysiologic processes that lead to initiation and progression of these microvascular complications. The challenge for the primary care physician and diabetologist is to attain excellent glycemic control and aggressive control of blood pressure, while assuring that every patient has appropriate dilated fundus examinations at least annually, preferably by an ophthalmologist or retinal specialist, and regular screening for microalbuminuria. With such medical management, appropriate intervention can occur to reduce the risk of blindness and renal failure and to lessen the burden from diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy.
Heavy Ion Reaction Mechanisms

Here we wish to report on some recent work in Heavy-ion scattering involving Vanderbilt University. The studies concern quasi-elastic experiments and their reaction mechanism interpretations. Specifically, we present a striking new example of backangle resonant behavior for the odd mass system 19F + 12C. At the opposite extreme of backward rising cross sections we discuss exponentially falling rainbow scattering data and the effects of inelastic coupling on the extraction of optical model parameters.
3D trapping of thermally generated microbubbles

Nonlinear absorption of laser radiation focused on a volume of a highly absorbing thermal medium creates a temperature difference and induces a refractive index change inside the medium. It has been shown that gas bubbles can be generated by increasing the focused laser power due to thermal blooming. In our previous work, all possible forces acting on a microbubble which is confined within a horizontally oriented thin glass container have been incorporated in the force model. The thermo-capillary force is the dominant attractive force, while the optical force is repulsive. It is experimentally shown that the microbubble can thus be trapped by a focused laser beam and they can be manipulated by steering the laser beam. In this work, the 2D trapping is extended to 3D by generating a microbubble inside a vertical thick glass cuvette. A 514.5 &#119899;&#119898;, Ar-ion laser beam, tightly focused using a microscope objective, is used to generate and trap the microbubble. Once again, the force model is developed: unlike the 2D case, there are no contributions from surface tension and friction.