cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transient hypoxia differentially decreases GRK2 protein levels in CHO cells stably expressing the m1 mAChR.

G protein-coupled kinase 2 (GRK2) has a key role in regulating signaling activities of a variety of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Several recent studies have directly implicated GRK2 phosphorylation in desensitization of GPCRs. In addition, binding by G(betagamma) or phosphorylation by PKC or c-Src [corrected] has been shown to activate or enhance GRK2 activity, respectively. Conversely, the calcium binding protein calmodulin or the serine/threonine kinase ERK has been implicated in inhibiting GRK2 activity. However, with the exception of a recent report indicating that activation of beta2-adrenergic receptor results in the ubiquitination and rapid degradation of GRK2, very little is known about cellular mechanisms that alter the protein levels of GRK2 [corrected]. Here, we report a novel serendipitous observation regarding alteration of GRK2 [corrected] protein levels. Exposure of CHO cells stably expressing the m1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) to transient hypoxia caused near ablation of the GRK2 protein. In contrast, GRK2 protein levels remained unchanged in the parental CHO cells or in CHO cells stably expressing the m2 mAChR when exposed to transient hypoxia. The present study reports a novel observation that is unveiled by transient hypoxia in which GRK2 protein levels are altered by cellular mechanisms involving the m1 mAChR.
Reliability and robustness assessment of diagnostic systems from warranty data

Diagnostic systems are software-intensive built-in-test systems, which detect, isolate and indicate the failures of prime systems. The use of diagnostic systems reduces the losses due to the failures of prime systems and facilitates the subsequent correct repairs. Therefore, they have found extensive applications in industry. Without loss of generality, this paper utilizes the on-board diagnostic systems of automobiles as an illustrative example. A failed diagnostic system generates /spl alpha/ or /spl beta/. /spl alpha/ error incurs unnecessary warranty costs to manufacturers, while /spl beta/ error causes potential losses to customers. Therefore, the reliability and robustness of diagnostic systems are important to both manufacturers and customers. This paper presents a method for assessing the reliability and robustness of the diagnostic systems by using warranty data. We present the definitions of robustness and reliability of the diagnostic systems, and the formulae for estimating /spl alpha/, /spl beta/ and reliability. To utilize warranty data for assessment, we describe the two-dimensional (time-in-service and mileage) warranty censoring mechanism, model the reliability function of the prime systems, and devise warranty data mining strategies. The impact of /spl alpha/ error on warranty cost is evaluated. Fault tree analyses for /spl alpha/ and /spl beta/ errors are performed to identify the ways for reliability and robustness improvement. The method is applied to assess the reliability and robustness of an automobile on-board diagnostic system.
X-ray depth profiling of iron oxide thin films

A nominally γ-Fe2O3 thin film (oxidized from an Fe3O4 film) has been structurally depth profiled using x-ray scattering in a grazing incidence, asymmetric Bragg geometry. By varying the grazing incidence angle, the x-ray penetration depth is varied from tens of Angstroms to several thousand Angstroms, slightly larger than the film thickness. At small incidence angles a diffraction pattern characteristic of α-Fe2O3 is observed, while at larger angles the pattern is predominantly from γ-Fe2O3, showing that there is a surface layer of α-Fe2O3. These results are quantified and the thickness of the α phase found to be 90 A. The presence of the α phase explains a nonferromagnetic layer observed previously. These data together with magnetic and chemical data suggest that the nonferromagnetic layer forms during oxidation of the Fe3O4 film due to outward diffusion of Fe ions and their subsequent oxidation to form α-Fe2O3
The Logic of Clan Politics: Evidence from the Central Asian Trajectories

This article argues that clans, informal organizations based on kin and fictive kin ties, are political actors that have a profound impact on the nature of posttransitional regimes and the potential for regime durability. The article first develops the concept of “clan” conceptually. It then develops several propositions about clan politics and explores them empirically in the context of the post-Soviet Central Asian cases. These cases suggest the limits of the prevailing transitions and institutionalist approaches; these theories cannot explain regime transition in the Central Asian cases because they focus on the formal level and ignore the crucial informal actors—clans—and the informal politics that shape these cases. The distinct mode of transition, new regime institutions, and leadership and elite ideologies evident at the formal level have a very short-term effect; withinfiveyears, these cases converge toward a pattern of informal, clan-based politics. By contrast, this article draws upon the insights of the early literature on political development as well as the state-society literature to develop an alternative framework for explaining the dynamic between clans and the regime. Clan networks and clan deals penetrate and transform the formal regime in several ways—by clan-based appointments and patronage, by stripping state assets to feed one's clan network, and by crowding out other mechanisms of representation. As they undermine formal institutions, clans create an informal regime best understood as “clan politics.”
Positive density-dependent reproduction regulated by local kinship and size in an understorey tropical tree.

� Background and Aims Global pollinator declines and continued habitat fragmentation highlight the critical need to understand reproduction and gene flow across plant populations. Plant size, conspecific density and local kinship (i.e. neighbourhood genetic relatedness) have been proposed as important mechanisms influencing the reproductive success of flowering plants, but have rarely been simultaneously investigated. � Methods We conducted this study on a continuous population of the understorey tree Miconia affinis in the Forest Dynamics Plot on Barro Colorado Island in central Panama. We used spatial, reproductive and population genetic data to investigate the effects of tree size, conspecific neighbourhood density and local kinship on maternal and paternal reproductive success. We used a Bayesian framework to simultaneously model the effects of our explanatory variables on the mean and variance of maternal viable seed set and siring success. � Key Results Our results reveal that large trees had lower proportions of viable seeds in their fruits but sired more seeds. We documented differential effects of neighbourhood density and local kinship on both maternal and paternal reproductive components. Trees in more dense neighbourhoods produced on average more viable seeds, although this positive density effect was influenced by variance-inflation with increasing local kinship. Neighbourhood density did not have significant effects on siring success. � Conclusions This study is one of the first to reveal an interaction among tree size, conspecific density and local kinship as critical factors differentially influencing maternal and paternal reproductive success. We show that both maternal and paternal reproductive success should be evaluated to determine the population-level and individual traits most essential for plant reproduction. In addition to conserving large trees, we suggest the inclusion of small trees and the conservation of dense patches with low kinship as potential strategies for strengthening the reproductive status of tropical trees.
Fatigue failure of welded tubular joints

The fatigue of welded tubular joints, as found in offshore structures, is explored by developing a qualitative model. This model considers the influence exerted on the initiation and growth of fatigue cracks by secondary effects of the joints fabrication and behavior. The model is then used, along with basic concepts from fracture mechanics, to develop an analytical model for the prediction of fatigue failure. The behavior of the tubular joint undergoing fatigue is divided into three phases: primary phase—no noticeable effect from fatigue; transition phase—decaying behavior; and secondary phase—distinctly new behavior. Fatigue failure is then defined as a distinct change in the joint’s load transfer characteristics (the end of the transition phase). Experimental data is presented to support both this definition and the theoretical prediction of failure.
Working with the Preferred Defense Structure of the Recovering Alcoholic

Despite the increasing concentration of effort upon rehabilitation of alcoholic drinkers, a systematic and specific theory of alcoholism ther­apy remains to be formulated. Alcoholism therapy today seems largely a grab bag of tricks, slogans, techniques, assumptions, and ideological stances derived from common sense, implicit theories of personality, and formal theories of behavior developed for other purposes. Although seemingly reasonable, these generalizations of therapeutic principles are proving unreasonable and, in many cases, detrimental to the progress of the alcoholic client.
Implementing an Electronic Reserve System in an Academic Branch Library

The Rodgers Science and Engineering Library which serves students, faculty and researchers in the fields of science, engineering and nursing at the University of Alabama abandoned centralized scanning of electronic reserve materials and moved to branch library scanning in 2003. This article is about how the Library handled the transition in terms of management issues such as planning, executing, training, supervising, monitoring quality and promoting the remote service to faculty and students.
ASSOCIATION OF LEFT ATRIAL FUNCTION AND STRUCTURE WITH ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC MARKERS OF ATRIAL AND ATRIOVENTRICULAR CONDUCTION ABNORMALITIES IN THE MULTI-ETHNIC STUDY OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS (MESA)

Electrocardiographic (ECG) markers of atrial and atrioventricular (AV) conduction abnormalities have been associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes. Examining the relationship between these ECG markers with left atrial (LA) structure and function could shed light on the potential mechanism of
Continuity, adaptation and resistance: the cultural contexts of the manufacture, distribution and use of African American pottery in eighteenth-century Charleston, South Carolina

Analysis of eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century earthenware sherds found on the site of the Heyward-Washington House in Charleston, South Carolina has provided important clues concerning the manufacture, trade and use of a poorly understood tradition of African American pottery. These hand built, low-fired earthenwares, which archaeologists call colono wares, are abundant on archaeological sites, but they are virtually unknown in the historical record. Analyses included neutron activation analysis, xeroradiography, and petrographic analysis in addition to visual inspection. These data suggested that colono wares were transported to Charleston from rural plantations, where their manufacture was part of a widespread, informal cottage industry. The manufacture and use of this pottery appears to reflect the development of African American culture as a creole culture which drew upon a wide variety of traditions, reinventing and recombining these elements in ways designed to cope with the rigors of slavery.
Molecular Response and Imaging-Based Combination Strategies for Optimal PDT

Optical imaging is an increasingly useful tool in biomedical studies, in the investigations of cell biology mechanisms and in the detection and diagnosis of disease. An overview of studies from different laboratories will be presented.
Abstract 4735: Examining known diabetes risk variants for association with prostate cancer in a multiethnic population

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Epidemiologic studies have found evidence of an inverse association between diabetes status and prostate cancer risk. Recently genome-wide association studies of these two diseases have identified a single risk allele at the HNF1B locus that is associated with both diseases along with two risk loci (JAZF1 and THADA) that have been associated with both diseases through distinct unlinked variants. We, as part of the Population Architecture using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) Study, explored the hypothesis that common genetic variation may explain, in part, the inverse association between type II diabetes and prostate cancer, by examining known diabetes risk variants for their association with prostate cancer. Our study consists of men from a prostate cancer case-control set of 2,707 cases and 2,438 controls from five racial-ethnic groups (African American, European American, Latino, Japanese American, and Native Hawaiian) of the Multiethnic Cohort. The allelic discrimination assay was used to genotype 21 diabetes risk variants from 18 loci identified by genome-wide association studies. Unconditional logistic regression was used to examine these alleles for association with prostate cancer risk. In ethnic-pooled analysis, we did not find evidence of an association with prostate cancer for the diabetes risk alleles in either of the two loci previously associated with prostate cancer (JAZF1, [rs864745][1], OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.92-1.10; THADA, rs7578597, OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.97-1.27). An allele (rs7961581) in the TSPAN8 locus, which has been shown to be positively associated with diabetes risk had a protective association with prostate cancer at a nominally statistically significant level (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.80-0.97, p=7.8×10-3). Except for the risk allele at HNF1B (allele G of rs4430796), which we previously reported to be associated inversely with prostate cancer, we found no evidence of an association with prostate cancer for the diabetes risk loci at JAZF1 and THADA despite other independent alleles at these loci being associated with prostate cancer. In summary, we found an association between the TSPAN8 allele and prostate cancer risk that needs to be replicated in larger populations. Resequencing and fine-mapping studies to identify causal alleles in large association studies will be important in exploring the role of common risk variants in the inverse association between diabetes and prostate cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4735. [1]: /lookup/external-ref?link_type=GEN&access_num=rs864745&atom=%2Fcanres%2F70%2F8_Supplement%2F4735.atom
Essay Review: Sociobiology: Twenty-Five Years Later *

Once again, in the mid-1970s, the nature-nurture debate came to the fore. As it had so many times before, biological reductionism and genetic determinism became the focus of rancorous debates, discussions and diatribes within both academia and popular culture. In the past, the controversy over the genetic influences on social behavior was at the center of important public policy and political debates. In the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, Social Darwinists and eugenicists separately spearheaded movements that sought to integrate the genetic basis for human social behavior into popular thought, while also seeking to influence public policy.1 Until the emergence of Nazi eugenic ideology, and the indescribable human suffering it wrought throughout Europe, proponents of deterministic theories dominated the nature-nurture discourse. Opposition to the horrors of Nazism, and revolutionary changes in evolutionary and population biology caused a shift in which "naturalism and biological reductionism were generally viewed with suspicion.-2 From the 1940s until the late 1960s, with some exceptions, a
MR of extramedullary hematopoiesis causing cord compression in beta-thalassemia.

The authors detail the MR findings in a 31-year-old woman with beta-thalassemia intermedia (a posterior epidural mass hyperintense to contiguous hyperplastic marrow, cord compression from T4-T11, expansion of L5 and the sacrum, and widening of the diploic space), and emphasize the need for early diagnosis
The Asset-Liability View in the New Accounting Standards

One of the important changes in the new accounting standards system is the realization of the renewal of accounting belief.And the most significant renewal is realization of the transition from the revenue-expense view to the asset-liability one.This study has introduced the relationships between the asset-liability view and the accounting objectives,the measurement of income and assets.It has pointed out the asset-liability view can avoid increasing assets and profits untruly in the operation of enterprises,and prevent enterprises' short-term behaviors and therefore is helpful to enterprises' sustainable development and investors' continuous investment to realize the enterprises' objectives of value maximization.Meanwhile,this paper has also indicated that any of the accounting principles has advantages and disadvantages.So it's a vital subject about how to use the asset-liability view properly,not only currently but also in the future.
Hyperthyroidism in the Elderly

Hyperthyroidism must be considered whenever there is a change in an older person's physical or mental functioning. Screening tests will hopefully lead to an earlier diagnosis; however, the best way to recognize this problem early is to have a high index of suspicion and familiarity with appropriate thyroid function tests. Symptoms are notable for their atypical presentation, with some elderly presenting in an apathetic state. The most common cause of thryotoxicosis is a toxic nodular gland, and treatment usually requires radioiodine.
Multiply-resistant pneumococcus: therapeutic problems in the management of serious infections.

The control of peniallin-resistant pneumococci has become one of the more serious therapeutic challenges facing clinicians today. The occurrence and geographical coverage of these microorganisms have increased rapidly since they were first recognized in the late 1960s. They have now been reported from every continent, and in some regions can account for over 60% of the pneumococci isolated. An even greater concern is the propensity of penicillin-resistant pneumococci towards resistance to multiple antibiotics, including the cephalosporins and non-beta-lactam drugs. In areas where multiply-resistant strains are common, the therapeutic choices for the treatment of lifethreatening infections may be limited to drugs which are either toxic for the patient or for which we are only begining to gain clinical experience. As the importance of Streptococcus pneumoniae in meningitis continues to increase and multiply-resistant strains become more widespread and entrenched, it is essential that the search for more well-tolerated and effective treatment regimens continues. However, unless the effect of antibiotics on the selection of these resistant pathogens is addressed and a more judicious approach towards drug use is taken; this resistance problem will continue well into the future
Suppression of Cladding-Mode Coupling Loss in Fiber Bragg Grating by Precise Control of Photosensitive Profiles in an Optical Fiber

Under 0.1dB of cladding-mode coupling loss was achieved by precisely controlled photosensitive profile in optical fibers experimentally. The fluctuation of GeO2 profile in photosensitive region was expected 5 to 10 %.
In Vitro and In Vivo Efficacy of Self-Assembling RGD Peptide Amphiphiles for Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel

The objective of this work was to compare the efficacy of self-assembling cyclic and linear RGD peptide amphiphiles as carriers for delivering paclitaxel to αvβ3 integrin overexpressing tumors. Linear (C18-ADA5-RGD) and cyclic (C18-ADA5-cRGDfK) peptide amphiphiles were synthesized and characterized for CMC, aggregation number and micelle stability using fluorescence spectroscopy methods. Size and morphology of micelles was studied using TEM. Fluorescence polarization and confocal microscopy assays were established to compare binding and internalization of micelles. The targeting efficacy was studied in A2058 cells using cytotoxicity assay as well as in vivo in melanoma xenograft mouse model. The linear and cyclic RGD amphiphiles exhibited CMC of 25 and 8 μM, respectively, formed nano-sized spherical micelles and showed competitive binding to αvβ3 integrin protein. FITC-loaded RGD micelles rapidly internalized into A2058 melanoma cells. Paclitaxel-loaded RGD micelles exhibited higher cytotoxicity compared with free drug in A2058 cells in vitro as well as in vivo. Cyclic RGD micelles exhibited better targeting efficacy but were less effective compared to linear RGD micelles as drug delivery vehicle due to lower drug solubilization capacity and lesser kinetic stability. Results from the study proved the effectiveness of self-assembling low molecular weight RGD amphiphiles as carriers for targeted delivery of paclitaxel.
Mode-Coupling Theory and Simulations of a Running Sandpile Model

We calculated the response functions and its power spectrum for the total energy dissipation in the ”running” sandpile model proposed by Hwa and Kardar, using a mode-coupling theory and utilizing the renormalization group recursion relations for the renormalized parameters of the theory. For the total energy response function we find significant difference with the results of Hwa and Kardar obtained using heuristic arguments. Simulations of the ”running” sandpile model yield results in agreement with our mode-coupling theory predictions.
Actuator Selection for the Control of Multi-Frequency Noise in Aircraft Interiors

In this paper we study the selection of actuator locations for a constrained multi-frequency active noise control optimization problem. Data regarding the effectiveness of each actuator is gathered from the fuselage of a DC-9 aircraft. A constraint is placed limiting the force that can be applied to each actuator. Tabu search is used to select locations for the actuators and a quadratically constrained complex least squares problem must be solved to determine the control forces for the selected actuators.
Marginal Zn Deficiency Affects Pup Brain Microtubule Assembly in Rats

Zinc has been shown to bind to tubulin (Hesketh, 1983; Eagle et al., 1983) and to have a stimulatory effect on tubulin assembly in vitro (Haskins et al., 1980; Hesketh, 1982). There is evidence which supports a physiological role of Zn on microtubule (Mct) formation. High concentrations of Zn have been found to be associated with Mct obtained from sea urchin spermatozoa and in the mitotic apparatus from sea urchin eggs (Morisawa & Mohri, 1972). Hesketh (1981) has reported that tubulin polymerization in brain supernatants from severely Zn deficient (< 1 ug Zn/g diet) pigs and rats was slower than in controls.
Minocycline-Induced Hyperpigmentation in a Patient Treated with Erlotinib for Non-Small Cell Lung Adenocarcinoma.

Introduction: While epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors have improved progression-free survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), one of the most common adverse effects is papulopustular skin eruption, which is frequently severe enough to be treated with oral minocycline or doxycycline. Case: We present a case of an 87-year-old man who developed a severe papulopustular skin eruption secondary to erlotinib therapy for NSCLC. Control of the eruption with 100 mg of minocycline twice daily for 8 months eventually led to blue-gray skin hyperpigmentation. After 30 months, this side effect was recognized as minocycline drug deposition, which was confirmed with skin biopsy. Discussion: Compliance with EGFR inhibitor therapy in NSCLC is often challenging due to common side effects, most notably cutaneous skin eruptions. Treatment of cutaneous toxicities is important to preserve patient compliance with targeted cancer therapy. Use of minocycline to treat the most common cutaneous side effect (papulopustular eruption) can in turn cause blue-black skin, eye, or tooth discoloration that can nullify its benefits, resulting in suboptimal patient adherence to cancer therapy. Although this adverse effect is well known in dermatology literature as a risk when using minocycline to treat acne, rosacea, or blistering disorders, it is less well documented in oncology literature. We present this case to highlight the need for greater consideration of unique patient characteristics in selecting an oral antibiotic as a treatment modality for EGFR inhibitor skin toxicities.
Polarization Changes Induced in the Pyramidal Cell and Other Neural Elements by Externally Applied Fields

The externally imposed currents of electroanesthesia and electrosleep produce polarization changes in the neuronal elements of the tissue through which they are conducted. These polarization levels are probably responsible for many of the effects induced by electroanesthesia. Field induced polarization levels have been recorded in the soma of mammalian neurons (1), but the general polarization patterns expected in cells due to such fields are not directly measurable due to the small size and complexity of the neuronal structure. Thus a pyramidal cell prototype was developed to determine the externally induced polarization throughout the neuron structure — axon, dendrite, and soma.
Ultrawide Band Gap β-Ga2O3 Nanomechanical Resonators with Spatially Visualized Multimode Motion.

Beta gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3) is an emerging ultra-wide bandgap (4.5 eV-4.9 eV) semiconductor with attractive properties for future power electronics, optoelectronics, and sensors for detecting gases and ultraviolet radiation. β-Ga2O3 thin films made by various methods are being actively studied toward such devices. Here, we report on the experimental demonstration of single-crystal β-Ga2O3 nanomechanical resonators using β-Ga2O3 nanoflakes grown via low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD). By investigating β-Ga2O3 circular drumhead structures, we demonstrate multimode nanoresonators up to the 6th mode in high and very high frequency (HF / VHF) bands, and spatial visualization of the multimode motion. These measurements reveal a Young’s modulus of EY = 261 GPa and anisotropic biaxial built-in tension of 37.5 MPa and 107.5 MPa. We find that thermal annealing can considerably improve the resonance characteristics, including ~40% upshift in frequency and ~90% enhancement in quality (Q) factor. This stu...
Investment in Human Capital and Labor Mobility: Evidence from a Shock to Property Rights

We study the effect of a change in property rights on employee behavior in the industry for financial advice. Our identification comes from staggered firm-level entry into the Protocol for Broker Recruiting. The agreement waived non-solicitation clauses for advisor transitions among member firms, effectively transferring ownership of client relationships from the firm to the advisor. After the shock, advisors appear to take better care of client relationships by investing in client-facing industry licenses, shifting to fee-based advising, and garnering fewer customer complaints. Our findings support property rights-based investment theories of the firm and document offsetting costs to restricting labor mobility.
Modelling, simulation and control of textile dyeing

Abstract: A significant amount of work has been carried out to elucidate the dynamics of dye transfer, sorption and diffusion in a dyeing cycle. Several studies have demonstrated that a large number of factors influence the outcome of the process. The rate and direction of liquor flow affect the amount and uniformity of dye distribution within a yarn package. In order to characterise dye behaviour and the outcome of the dyeing process and specify the role of various controllable parameters such as temperature, pH, and flow on the levelness of ensuing dyeings, a comprehensive analysis of models relating this dye behaviour in a dye bath to the outcome of the properties of dyeing is given. Sorption and diffusion is discussed and the role of flow in the characterisation of the dyeing properties is explained. Fluid flow was modelled and simulated based on mathematical models that employ Darcy's law but also take into account Navier–Stokes and Brinkman's equations. The developed models allow for a specification of the flow rate, porous media geometry, porosity, fluid viscosity and temperature in specified domains. The results of simulation illustrate the fluid velocity profile and distribution through the spindle tube as well as the yarn assembly in a wide range of package permeabilities and are used to examine the accuracy of various models.
Magnetic Properties of Liquid 3He below 3 m°K

Features observed along the 3He melting curve in compressional cooling experiments have suggested that at least one and perhaps two phase changes take place in either the solid and/or the liquid 3He within the cell at temperatures below 3 m°K.1 In experiments in which the cell pressure was recorded as a function of time during periods in which the rate of compression dV/dt was held constant, two unexpected features were reproducibly obtained on the resulting pressurization curve which were labeled the A and B transitions, respectively, by Osheroff et al. The A transition is characterized by a sudden decrease in the rate of cell pressurization dP/dt upon cooling by roughly a factor of two in magnitude, all within a pressure interval of less than 3 × 10−4 atm. A nearly equal but opposite change in dP/dt is observed upon warming at precisely the same pressure. The pressure at which the A transition occurs in zero magnetic field is 1.70 × 10−1 atm above the cell pressure at 7 m°K, and P(A) is lowered by the application of magnetic fields by an amount roughly equal to −6.7 × 10−5 H 2 atm/kG2. The pressure P(A) corresponds to a temperature of about 2.7 m°K obtained by extrapolating the shifted melting curve of Johnson et al.1,2 The B transition is characterized by a sudden drop in cell pressure by about 3 × 10−4 atm upon cooling and by a brief hesitation in the cell pressure as it decreases upon warming (B’ transition). The pressure P(B’) is reproducibly 1.89 × 10−1 atm above the cell pressure at 7 m°K in zero magnetic field, and is shifted to higher pressures by the application of magnetic fields by an amount given roughly by ΔP = +2.02 × 10−3 H 2 atm/kG2.
Membrane Fusion Induced by the HIV env Glycoprotein: Purification of CD4 for Reconstitution Studies

Membrane fusion is the union of two bilayers resulting in a redistribution of aqueous contents and bilayer components. Fusion is a critical event in biological systems, being a required step during intracellular trafficking, cellular endocytosis and exocytosis, zygote formation, cellular attack (e.g., enveloped virus fusion) and several specialized processes. Despite progress in understanding membrane fusion regulation in a variety of biological systems, the mechanism of the fusion event itself remains unclear. Most model membranes are stable and do not fuse without an external trigger. Biological membrane fusion requires a specific mediator, which is presumed to be a protein.
Cytokine Induction During Methionine Enkephalin and AZT Therapy for Murine Retrovirus Infection

Methionine enkephalin (MENK) was first described as an immunomodulatory substance in 1979 (1). Since then numerous studies have indicated that this opioid peptide is capable of up-regulating or down-regulating various immune parameters, depending on the dose and timing of its administration (reviewed in 2-4). Based on this premise, we investigated the ability of MENK to affect progression of disease caused by a murine retrovirus as a model for human retrovirus infections. MENK was tested for direct antiviral activity or immunomodulatory activity, alone and in combination with the reverse transcriptase inhibitor azidothymidine (AZT). Our initial studies indicated that MENK had no direct antiviral activity in mice when administered alone, intraperitoneally, at 3 days after infection with the Friend leukemia virus (FLV). By contrast, mice treated with MENK plus AZT (administered per os) demonstrated increased survival compared to mice that received AZT alone or no drug treatment (5). It was not clear from these studies whether or not the effects of MENK were due to direct anti-viral activity or the result of immune enhancement.
An Explorative Study on the Virtual World: Investigating the Avatar Gender and Avatar Age Differences in their Social Interactions for Help-Seeking

This study investigates avatars’ gender and age differences in their help-seeking interactions in virtual worlds. Specifically, we conducted data collections from two popular help-supporting regions from Second Life, and performed two levels of analyses. We first examined the existence of the overall gender and age differences, and then compared and tested the detailed differences by creating three types of interaction networks based on avatar gender and avatar age, respectively. Overall, we found that the interaction networks of the same gender tended to be more centralized than the interaction networks with mixed genders. In addition, the interaction networks of the same age group tended to be more centralized than the interaction networks with mixed ages. We also found that old-aged avatars had significantly higher values than young-aged avatars in all measurement dimensions, indicating that old-aged avatars played more important roles in help-seeking interactions.
Speaking Out on "breastfeeding" Terminology: Recommendations for Gender-Inclusive Language in Research and Reporting

The term "breastfeeding" has recently been critiqued for its ambiguity, as it has come to mean both (1) feeding an infant at the breast and (2) feeding expressed human milk to an infant. In addition, "breastfeeding" is nearly always associated with mothers and women, yet there are individuals who feed their infants human milk and do not identify as such. By using gendered language when conducting and publishing lactation-related research, we risk both alienating an already marginalized population and inhibiting our ability to gather valid, high-quality surveillance data. For example, of 15 U.S. surveys measuring breastfeeding rates, practices, and public opinions, 33% only sampled mothers, and another 33% made assumptions regarding the gender or sex identity of the person giving birth or breastfeeding. In addition, a review of 20 scholarly journals that publish lactation-related research found that only one requires specific language for breastfeeding in their instructions for authors. In response, I recommend several additions to recently proposed terms that describe human milk feeding and associated behaviors. Acceptance and consistent usage of these linguistically inclusive or nongendered terms by researchers will further enhance the quality of future data collection and research dissemination through the representation of all individuals choosing to provide human milk to their infants.
208 Pb( 16 O, 15 O) 209 Pb reaction

The neutron levels in $^{209}\mathrm{Pb}$ have been studied with the $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$($^{16}\mathrm{O}$,$^{15}\mathrm{O}$) reaction at a bombarding energy of 139 MeV. Spectroscopic factors ($S$) have been deduced using a finite-range distorted-wave Born approximation (DWBA) with recoil. The $2{g}_{\frac{9}{2}}$, $1{i}_{\frac{11}{2}}$, $2{g}_{\frac{7}{2}}$, and $3{d}_{\frac{3}{2}}$ levels are found to have $S\ensuremath{\gtrsim}0.9$ while $S\ensuremath{\approx}0.7$ for the $1{j}_{\frac{15}{2}}$ level at 1.4 MeV excitation. Evidence is found for other $1{j}_{\frac{15}{2}}$ fragments being at 3.05 MeV and \ensuremath{\sim} 3.8 MeV with $S\ensuremath{\approx}0.08 \mathrm{and} 0.26$, respectively, which would place the centroid of the $1{j}_{\frac{15}{2}}$ level at ${E}_{x}\ensuremath{\approx}2.2$ MeV. DWBA predicts a shift in the maxima of the angular distributions as a function of $Q$ value which is not observed experimentally. A comparison with the proton transfer reaction $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$($^{16}\mathrm{O}$,$^{15}\mathrm{N}$)$^{209}\mathrm{Bi}$ has been used to deduce the geometrical parameters of a neutron shell-model potential appropriate for nuclei with $A\ensuremath{\gtrsim}200$. The parameters of this Woods-Saxon potential are: ${V}_{R}=\ensuremath{-}50.5$ MeV ${r}_{R}=1.19$ fm, ${a}_{R}=0.75$ fm, ${V}_{\mathrm{so}}=\ensuremath{-}5.5$ MeV, ${r}_{\mathrm{so}}=1.01$ fm, and ${a}_{\mathrm{so}}=0.75$ fm.
High-throughput additive manufacturing and characterization of refractory high entropy alloys

Abstract Refractory High Entropy Alloys (RHEAs) and Refractory Complex Concentrated Alloys (RCCAs) are high-temperature structural alloys ideally suited for use in harsh environments. While these alloys have shown promising structural properties at high temperatures that exceed the practical limits of conventional alloys, such as Ni-based superalloys, exploration of the complex phase-space of these materials remains a significant challenge. We report on a high-throughput alloy processing and characterization methodology, leveraging laser-based metal additive manufacturing (AM) and mechanical testing techniques, to enable rapid exploration of RHEAs/RCCAs. We utilized in situ alloying and compositional grading, unique to AM processing, to rapidly-produce RHEAs/RCCAs using readily available and inexpensive commercial elemental powders. We demonstrate this approach with the MoNbTaW alloy system, as a model material known for having exceptionally high strength at elevated temperature when processed using conventional methods (e.g., casting). Microstructure analysis, chemical composition, and strain rate dependent hardness of AM-processed material are presented and discussed in the context of understanding the structure-properties relationships of RHEAs/RCCAs.
Increased Risk of Subsequent Meningioma Among Women with Malignant Breast Cancer.

Objective Despite the increasing evidence of the association between breast cancer and meningioma in women, the relationship between these tumors remains improperly examined. In this study, we aim to identify the sociodemographic and clinicopathologic features of women with breast cancer associated with a higher risk of developing a meningioma. Methods The SEER (Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results) database (18 registries) was used to identify women with breast cancer as their first neoplasm. The risk of subsequent meningioma was reported as the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) and was analyzed by sociodemographic and clinicopathologic subgroups. Results are given as SIR (95% confidence interval [CI]). Results A total of 564,516 women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2004 and 2016 were included for analysis. A 26% increased risk of meningioma development (SIR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.19–1.33; P Conclusions Our study corroborated the known association between these tumors and found a 26% risk of meningioma development in women with breast cancer, with younger patients and those with a more aggressive disease having a higher than expected risk.
Particle size effects in metallic microparticle impact-bonding

Abstract In cold spray processing of metals, the critical velocity for particle bonding is dependent on both intrinsic material properties, such as density and (spall) strength, and extrinsic process parameters, such as the powder particle size. In this work, we specifically isolate and investigate particle size effects on the critical velocity for bonding through laser-induced single particle impact experiments and finite element simulations. We also present a predictive framework to correlate particle size and critical velocity. We show that an increase in particle size leads to an increase in the temperature of the jet formed at the interface of the particle and the substrate. This increased temperature locally decreases the spall strength of the material which, in turn, decreases the critical velocity for larger particles.
Multisite randomized efficacy trial of educational materials for young children with incarcerated parents

Although children with incarcerated parents exhibit more behavior problems, health concerns, and academic difficulties than their peers, few interventions or resources are available to support affected children. This randomized, controlled, multisite efficacy trial evaluated Sesame Street’s "Little Children, Big Challenges: Incarceration" initiative with children aged 3 to 8 years with a jailed father. Seventy-one diverse children and their caregivers were randomized to an educational outreach group (n = 32) or wait list control group (n = 39). Researchers observed children during jail visits and interviewed caregivers by phone 2 and 4 weeks later. The effects of the intervention on children’s behavior and emotions occurring during a jail visit depended on what children had been told about the father’s incarceration. Children who were told honest, developmentally appropriate explanations showed less negative affect at entry, an increase in negative affect when the intervention was administered, and a decrease in negative affect during the visit. Intervention group children who were told distortions, nothing, or explanations that were not developmentally appropriate showed more negative affect initially, and their negative affect remained relatively stable during their time in the jail. In addition, children who were told the simple, honest truth about the parent’s incarceration (a recommendation in the educational materials) exhibited more positive affect during the visit, with a medium effect size. Caregivers in the educational outreach group reported more positive change in how they talked to children about the incarceration over time compared to the control group.
Current Trends and Critical Care Considerations for the Management of Single Ventricle Neonates

The diagnostic capabilities, palliative procedures, and critical care therapies for neonates with single ventricle heart disease have rapidly evolved. We aimed to review current trends for intensivists and cardiologists caring for this population. Enhanced diagnostics and 3-dimensional modeling can be instrumental in planning care pathways for these neonates. Additionally, the ability to palliate many of these patients with catheter-based therapies rather than traditional surgical approaches has allowed for reduced morbidity. There are significant improvements in the understanding of how critical care therapies affect survival and neurodevelopmental outcomes in this population. Despite advancements in the understanding of longer-term outcomes in this population, much remains to be discovered about how initial palliation, critical care strategies, surgical techniques, and extracorporeal support can be optimized for the most favorable neurodevelopmental outcomes, survival, and quality of life. This will be the major focus of future research through larger collaboratives.
Beta2 glycoprotein I-derived therapeutic peptides induce sFlt-1 secretion to reduce melanoma vascularity and growth

Melanoma, a form of skin cancer, is one of the most common cancers in young men and women. Tumors require angiogenesis to provide oxygen and nutrients for growth. Pro-angiogenic molecules such as VEGF and anti-angiogenic molecules such as sFlt-1 control angiogenesis. In addition, the serum protein, Beta2 Glycoprotein I (β2-GPI) induces or inhibits angiogenesis depending on conformation and concentration. β2-GPI binds to proteins and negatively charged phospholipids on hypoxic endothelial cells present in the tumor microenvironment. We hypothesized that peptides derived from the binding domain of β2-GPI would regulate angiogenesis and melanoma growth. In vitro analyses determined the peptides reduced endothelial cell migration and sFlt-1 secretion. In a syngeneic, immunocompetent mouse melanoma model, β2-GPI-derived peptides also reduced melanoma growth in a dose-dependent response with increased sFlt-1 and attenuated vascular markers compared to negative controls. Importantly, administration of peptide with sFlt-1 antibody resulted in tumor growth. These data demonstrate the therapeutic potential of novel β2-GPI-derived peptides to attenuate tumor growth and endothelial migration is sFlt-1 dependent.
On the Projection of Polarimetric Variables Observed by a Planar Phased-Array Radar at X-Band

We present the characteristics of dual-polarized weather radar variables as observed by a planar phased-array radar (PPAR) operating at X-band. The characteristics are governed by the projection of the polarizations radiated by the array into the canonical spherical coordinates defining the measurement geometry of ground-based weather radars. The direction-dependent gain and phase of the radiating elements, the orientation of the radiated polarizations, and the mechanical tilting of the array all contribute to the projection, which results in biased observations compared with those of a mechanically scanned weather radar employing a reflector antenna. We decompose the projection into components that can be separated and customized for various PPAR configurations, including consideration of possible cross-polarized radiation by the elements and the effect of a wet radome covering the array face. These are represented by matrices whose product comprises the total projection. We apply this methodology to an X-band PPAR using in-place measurements of precipitation to obtain the properties of the radiation pattern. We then obtain the resulting biases of common weather radar polarimetric variables. We show that the biases can be represented as a product of the intrinsic variables with projection- and target-dependent corrections. The projection-dependent corrections depend only upon elements of the projection matrix, while the target-dependent corrections also depend upon the intrinsic differential reflectivity and copolar or cross-polar correlation coefficients. We find that the projection-dependent corrections are sufficient to achieve acceptable bias over most of the scan range.
Supermassive Binaries and Extragalactic Jets

Some quasars show Doppler shifted broad emission line peaks. I give new statistics of the occurrence of these peaks and show that, while the most spectacular cases are in quasars with strong radio jets inclined to the line of sight, they are also almost as common in radio-quiet quasars. Theories of the origin of the peaks are reviewed and it is argued that the displaced peaks are most likely produced by the supermassive binary model. The separations of the peaks in the 3C 390.3-type objects are consistent with orientation-dependent "unified models" of quasar activity. If the supermassive binary model is correct, all members of "the jet set" (astrophysical objects showing jets) could be binaries.
A Crocheted Model Activity for Teaching Embryonic Lateral Folding to Medical Students.

Knowledge of embryology is foundational for understanding normal anatomy and birth defects, yet, embryology is a notoriously difficult subject for medical students. Embryonic lateral folding in particular is one of the most challenging concepts in embryology. Highly effective teaching methods that promote active engagement with dynamic, three-dimensional models may be helpful for teaching this content. The aim of this study was to determine whether a hands-on modeling activity utilizing premade crocheted pieces constructed from durable, inexpensive yarn helped medical students enrolled in a pre-matriculation course to understand embryonic lateral folding. Change in knowledge was assessed using a pre-post design. Students also completed subjective evaluations regarding their satisfaction with the activity. Quiz scores in means (±SD) increased from 62.7 (±24.1) % before the activity to 77.0 (±17.1) % after the activity (P = 0.0495, two-tailed paired t test; d = 0.68). Generally, students reported that the activity was helpful and enjoyable, and the model pieces were easy to manipulate. These promising results suggest that hands-on activities with dynamic, three-dimensional models constitute an effective method for teaching embryology.