cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Knockout of dihydrofolate reductase in mice induces hypertension and abdominal aortic aneurysm via mitochondrial dysfunction

Hypertension and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are severe cardiovascular diseases with incompletely defined molecular mechanisms. In the current study we generated dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) knockout mice for the first time to examine its potential contribution to the development of hypertension and AAA, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms. Whereas the homozygote knockout mice were embryonically lethal, the heterozygote knockout mice had global reduction in DHFR protein expression and activity. Angiotensin II infusion into these animals resulted in substantially exaggerated elevation in blood pressure and development of AAA, which was accompanied by excessive eNOS uncoupling activity (featured by significantly impaired tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide bioavailability), vascular remodeling (MMP2 activation, medial elastin breakdown and adventitial fibrosis) and inflammation (macrophage infiltration). Importantly, scavenging of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species with Mito-Tempo in vivo completely abrogated development of hypertension and AAA in DHFR knockout mice, indicating a novel role of mitochondria in mediating hypertension and AAA downstream of DHFR deficiency-dependent eNOS uncoupling. These data for the first time demonstrate that targeting DHFR-deficiency driven mitochondrial dysfunction may represent an innovative therapeutic option for the treatment of AAA and hypertension.
Optical transportation and accumulation of microparticles by self-accelerating cusp beams

Most of the self--accelerating beams have monotonous single-channel bending structures, which greatly limit their applications in many fields such as microscopic imaging and particle manipulation. In this paper, the self-accelerating cusp beams with variable numbers of multichannel bending structures are generated to demonstrate the optical transportation and accumulation of micrometer polystyrene particles. The transportation velocity and optical force profiles of the microparticles moving along the bending channels of cusp beams are analyzed. Parallel particle transportation and particle accumulation manipulation from all the bending channels are further demonstrated. These results will inspire a lot of promising applications for self-accelerating beams especially in three-dimensional optical micromanipulation.
Mobility and Literature, An Analysis of the Selected Works of Don DeLillo

This article seeks to envision a new outlook toward mobility by paying greater attention to how mobility is represented and positioned in Don DeLillo’s narrative works. Through close readings of The Names and Americana , I argue that shifts in the narration—from the first-person to the third-person or from the omniscient narrative to interior monologue—correspond to mobilities of people, information, and culture. I conclude that DeLillo employs literature as a medium to indicate the interconnectivity of textual interactions (transfictionality) in relation to the mobilization of people, culture, and information.
Generalized Co-clustering Analysis via Regularized Alternating Least Squares

Biclustering is an important exploratory analysis tool that simultaneously clusters rows (e.g., samples) and columns (e.g., variables) of a data matrix. Checkerboard-like biclusters reveal intrinsic associations between rows and columns. However, most existing methods rely on Gaussian assumptions and only apply to matrix data. In practice, non-Gaussian and/or multi-way tensor data are frequently encountered. A new CO-clustering method via Regularized Alternating Least Squares (CORALS) is proposed, which generalizes biclustering to non-Gaussian data and multi-way tensor arrays. Non-Gaussian data are modeled with single-parameter exponential family distributions and co-clusters are identified in the natural parameter space via sparse CANDECOMP/PARAFAC tensor decomposition. A regularized alternating (iteratively reweighted) least squares algorithm is devised for model fitting and a deflation procedure is exploited to automatically determine the number of co-clusters. Comprehensive simulation studies and three real data examples demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed method. The data and code are publicly available.
Independent and joint cross-sectional associations of statin and metformin use with mammographic breast density.

Well-tolerated and commonly used medications are increasingly assessed for reducing breast cancer risk. These include metformin and statins, both linked to reduced hormone availability and cell proliferation or growth and sometimes prescribed concurrently. We investigated independent and joint associations of these medications with mammographic breast density (MBD), a useful biomarker for the effect of chemopreventive agents on breast cancer risk. Using data from a cross-sectional study of 770 women (78% Hispanic, aged 40–61 years, in a mammography cohort with high cardiometabolic burden), we examined the association of self-reported “ever” use of statins and metformin with MBD measured via clinical Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) density classifications (relative risk regression) and continuous semi-automated percent and size of dense area (Cumulus) (linear regression), adjusted for age, body mass index, education, race, menopausal status, age at first birth, and insulin use. We observed high statin (27%), metformin (13%), and combination (9%) use, and most participants were overweight/obese (83%) and parous (87%). Statin use was associated with a lower likelihood of high density BI-RADS (RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.45 to 0.80), percent dense area (PD) (β = − 6.56, 95% CI = − 9.05 to − 4.06), and dense area (DA) (β = − 9.05, 95% CI = − 14.89 to − 3.22). Metformin use was associated with lower PD and higher non-dense area (NDA), but associations were attenuated by co-medication with statins. Compared to non-use of either medication, statin use alone or with metformin were associated with lower PD and DA (e.g., β = − 6.86, 95% CI: − 9.67, − 4.05 and β = − 7.07, 95% CI: − 10.97, − 3.17, respectively, for PD) and higher NDA (β = 25.05, 95% CI: 14.06, 36.03; β = 29.76, 95% CI: 14.55, 44.96, respectively). Statin use was consistently associated with lower MBD, measured both through clinical radiologist assessment and continuous relative and absolute measures, including dense area. Metformin use was associated with lower PD and higher NDA, but this may be driven by co-medication with statins. These results support that statins may lower MBD but need confirmation with prospective and clinical data to distinguish the results of medication use from that of disease.
Anharmonic decay of high-frequency LA modes in quasi-isotropic III-nitrides.

We report for the first time an estimation of the spontaneous decay rates at room temperature in a selection of nitride-based nanostructures that are quasi-isotropic. We numerically calculate the phonon distribution functions and the decay rates and find that the decay channel LA \rightarrow TA + TA dominates over the decay channel LA \rightarrow LA + TA, which confirms Klemens' prediction [1] that LA phonons will primarily split into two doubly degenerate TA phonons through a greater variety of decay channels compared to the decay of LA into two modes, one belonging to the longitudinal acoustic and the other to the transverse acoustic branch.
‘It’s OK to feel’: The emotionality norm and its evolution in U.S. print journalism:

Between the 1960s and the 1990s journalists in U.S. newspapers created, constructed, and advanced emotionality as a new occupational norm in American print journalism, challenging some aspects of t...
The Role of GPR in Community-Driven Compliance Archaeology with Tribal and Non-tribal Communities in Central California

For tribes whose preservation values and mitigation strategies for managing cultural heritage are built on an ethic of avoidance and minimal disturbance, geophysical technologies can be key components of the research design. These technologies, most notably ground-penetrating radar, have been used with great success in identifying and evaluating the depth, extent, and composition of some of those resources for heritage research and management purposes, easing tensions when working with sensitive ancestral places. Additionally, research in archaeological geophysics has shifted from feature finding in order to excavate targets of interest to the recognition that geophysical survey can provide data and interpretations for whole sites and landscapes complementary to or beyond that of excavation, especially regarding the intactness and sensitivity of cultural heritage sites. This use of geophysics as a primary method for research rather than a precursor to archaeological research has empowered tribes with another tool to advocate for low-impact investigation of ancestral sites and landscapes that position tribes as pro-science. Geophysical technologies provide scientifically rigorous yet minimally impactful strategies for investigating heritage while satisfying the requirements of academic and compliance archaeology in ways that can also be culturally appropriate for a much broader spectrum of tribal cultural heritage under consideration.
Reconceptualising the notion of finding information: How undergraduate students construct information as they read-to-write in an academic writing class

Abstract This paper seeks to problematise the concept of finding information in EAP (English for Academic Purposes) writing programs. Drawing on the experiences of a group of female Emirati undergraduate students in an academic writing class in the United Arab Emirates, the paper argues that the act of finding information is not straightforward or universal, but is a social construction. Through the theoretical lens of activity theory (Engestrom, 1987; Leont'ev, 1981/2009), the paper presents the view that information is constructed as a goal oriented, socially situated activity mediated by physical and symbolic artefacts. The present study examined the types of mediating artefacts students used as they constructed information and the tensions and contradictions they experienced as they did so. Data collected via screen capture recordings, student reflections and interviews suggested that students constructed information by drawing on Discourses of being proficient Internet users, local Discourses of truth and the norms and assumptions underpinning the academic writing class they were enrolled in. The findings of the study are significant in shaping the reading-to-write processes and practices of EAP writing pedagogy.
Deep Reinforcement Learning With Graph Representation for Vehicle Repositioning

On-demand ride services, e.g., taxi companies, ridesourcing/transportation network companies (TNCs), play a vital role in nowadays transportation modes. The relocation/repositioning of idle vehicles is an important operational problem for service providers. With the recent success of deep learning, a large and growing body of literature emerged on learning-based transportation problems, including the relocation problem. In this work, we study the idle vehicle relocation problem to achieve better drivers' profits and customers' satisfaction. In detail, we formulate the learning problem on real-world road networks while recent repositioning works under a deep reinforcement learning scheme formulate the environment as grids. Meanwhile, a graph formulation enables learning with Graph Neural Network (GNN), which shows promising results in recent transportation studies. We empirically show that preserving the road network structure and learning the data representation with GNN contribute to improving the repositioning decision policy. Our simulation experiments are conducted on two real-world datasets, in New York City and Austin, respectively. The results show our formulation's advantages in terms of reductions of order rejection rates and passenger waiting time, and increasing of vehicle occupancy rates and driver revenues.
Modulation of Voltage‐Gated Ion Channels by Sialylation

Control and modulation of electrical signaling is vital to normal physiology, particularly in neurons, cardiac myocytes, and skeletal muscle. The orchestrated activities of variable sets of ion channels and transporters, including voltage-gated ion channels (VGICs), are responsible for initiation, conduction, and termination of the action potential (AP) in excitable cells. Slight changes in VGIC activity can lead to severe pathologies including arrhythmias, epilepsies, and paralyses, while normal excitability depends on the precise tuning of the AP waveform. VGICs are heavily posttranslationally modified, with upward of 30% of the mature channel mass consisting of N- and O-glycans. These glycans are terminated typically by negatively charged sialic acid residues that modulate voltage-dependent channel gating directly. The data indicate that sialic acids alter VGIC activity in isoform-specific manners, dependent in part, on the number/location of channel sialic acids attached to the pore-forming alpha and/or auxiliary subunits that often act through saturating electrostatic mechanisms. Additionally, cell-specific regulation of sialylation can affect VGIC gating distinctly. Thus, channel sialylation is likely regulated through two mechanisms that together contribute to a dynamic spectrum of possible gating motifs: a subunit-specific mechanism and regulated (aberrant) changes in the ability of the cell to glycosylate. Recent studies showed that neuronal and cardiac excitability is modulated through regulated changes in voltage-gated Na(+) channel sialylation, suggesting that both mechanisms of differential VGIC sialylation contribute to electrical signaling in the brain and heart. Together, the data provide insight into an important and novel paradigm involved in the control and modulation of electrical signaling.
Purification and Characterization of Protease So, a Cytoplasmic Serine Protease in Escherichia coli

Abstract A new cytoplasmic endoprotease, named protease So, was purified to homogeneity from Escherichia coli by conventional procedures with casein as the substrate. Its molecular weight was 140,000 when determined by gel filtration on Sephadex G-200 and 77,000 when estimated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Thus, it appears to be composed of two identical subunits. Protease So had an isoelectric point of 6.4 and a Km of 1.4 μM for casein. In addition to casein, it hydrolyzed globin, glucagon, and denatured bovine serum albumin to acid-soluble peptides but did not degrade insulin, native bovine serum albumin, or the “auto α” fragment of β-galactosidase. A variety of commonly used peptide substrates for endoproteases were not hydrolyzed by protease So. It had a broad pH optimum of 6.5 to 8.0. This enzyme is a serine protease, since it was inhibited by diisopropyl fluorophosphate and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride. Although it was not inhibited by chelating agents, divalent cations (e.g., Mg2+) stabilized its activity. Protease So was sensitive to inhibition by N-tosyl-l-phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone but not by N-tosyl-l-lysine chloromethyl ketone. Neither ATP nor 5′-diphosphate-guanosine-3′-diphosphate affected the rate of casein hydrolysis. Protease So was distinct from the other soluble endoproteases in E. coli (including proteases Do, Re, Mi, Fa, La, Ci, and Pi) in its physical and chemical properties and also differed from the membrane-associated proteases, protease IV and V, and from two amino acid esterases, originally named protease I and II. The physiological function of protease So is presently unknown.
The role of environmental, virological and vector interactions in dictating biological transmission of arthropod-borne viruses by mosquitoes.

Abstract Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) are transmitted between vertebrate hosts and arthropod vectors. An inherently complex interaction among virus, vector, and the environment determines successful transmission of the virus. Once believed to be “flying syringes,” recent advances in the field have demonstrated that mosquito genetics, microbiota, salivary components, and mosquito innate immune responses all play important roles in modulating arbovirus transmissibility. The literature on the interaction among virus, mosquito, and environment has expanded dramatically in the preceding decade and the utilization of next-generation sequencing and transgenic vector methodologies assuredly will increase the pace of knowledge acquisition in this field. This chapter outlines the interplay among the three factors in both direct physical and biochemical manners as well as indirectly through superinfection barriers and altered induction of innate immune responses in mosquito vectors. The culmination of the aforementioned interactions and the arms race between the mosquito innate immune response and the capacity of arboviruses to antagonize such a response ultimately results in the subjugation of mosquito cells for viral replication and subsequent transmission.
Concurrent Validity of the Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale in VA Outpatients.

Objective The purpose of this report is to investigate the concurrent validity of the Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale (DVPRS) with other validated self-report measures in U.S. veterans. Design This correlational study was conducted using two samples of outpatients at the Washington, DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center who completed self-report measures relevant to pain conditions, including pain disability, quality of life, and mental health. Study 1 and 2 consisted of n = 204 and n = 13 participants, respectively. Methods Bivariate Spearman correlations were calculated to examine the correlation among total scores and subscale scores for each scale of interest. Multiple linear regressions were also computed in Study 1. Results In Study 1, the DVPRS interference scale (DVPRS-II) was significantly correlated with the Pain Disability Questionnaire (PDQ) (ρ = 0.69, P < 0.001) and the Veterans RAND 36-item Health Survey physical and mental component scales (ρ = −0.37, P < 0.001; ρ = −0.46, P < 0.001, respectively). When controlling for sex, age, and other self-report measures, the relationship between the DVPRS-II and PDQ remained significant. In Study 2, pain interference on the DVPRS and Brief Pain Inventory were highly correlated (ρ = 0.90, P < 0.001); however, the intensity scale of each measure was also highly associated with the interference summary scores. Conclusions These findings provide preliminary evidence for the concurrent validity of the DVPRS as a brief, multidimensional measure of pain interference that make it a practical tool for use in primary care settings to assess the impact of pain on daily functioning and monitor chronic pain over time.
Lactobacillus acidophilus attenuates downregulation of DRA function and expression in inflammatory models.

Probiotics, including Lactobacilli, are commensal bacteria that have been used in clinical trials and experimental models for the prevention and treatment of diarrheal disorders. Our previous studi...
Conformational analysis of phosphacyclohexanes

Abstract The phosphorus analogue of piperidine (phosphacyclohexane, II) has been prepared and characterized by NMR. The proton on phosphorus appears as a broad triplet of triplets (Jaa = 12·0 Hz; Jae = 2·5). These couplings require the proton to be axial. No evidence for the presence of an equatorial isomer was obtained. The spectrum of phosphacyclohexane 1-sulfide (III) leads to similar conclusions. For phosphacyclohexane methiodide (IV), however, no conclusions could be reached concerning the location of the proton on phosphorus because of second-order spectral complications. Double-irradiation experiments on IV have showed that 1J31PH and 2J31PCH3, are opposite in sign. The axial conformational preference for the proton on phosphorus in II and III is discussed in relation to other systems.
Making Sense of the Current Expansion of the U.S. Economy: A Long Wave Approach and a Critique:

Abstract Despite the impressive rebounding of the U.S. economy from the long contraction of the 1970s, a number of radical political economists seem to be dismissive, oblivious, or in denial of this significant turnaround. To the extent that they reluctantly acknowledge the recovery, they immediately add that the recovery represents no long-wave expansion, and that it merely represents a “transitory” upswing along the long downswing of the 1970s (Brenner 1998, Moseley 1999, O'Hara 2000, as well as most of the proponents of the SSA thesis) What do we make of the glaring gap between the reality of the current expansion of the U.S. economy and the perceptions of these economists of that expansion? Our search for answer(s) to this question leads us to the conclusion that these radical economists are gravely misreading the expansion; that such misreading stems, among other reasons, from serious theoretical and methodological weaknesses; and that significant policy and/or political implications can follow from such dubious assessments and judgments.
Relationship between platelet count and bleeding risk in thrombocytopenic patients

Platelets are lost from circulation by 2 mechanisms: senescence and random loss. Approximately 7.1 x 10(3) platelets/microL/d are postulated to be randomly used in maintaining vascular integrity. Thus, in clinically stable patients, major bleeding is unusual unless the platelet count is </=5 x 10(3)/microL. Risk factors for bleeding at higher platelet counts are disseminated intravascular coagulation with contributory clotting factor deficiencies, structural lesions with loss of vascular integrity, and refractoriness to platelet transfusions. Several large studies have documented the safety of lowering the prophylactic platelet transfusion trigger from the previously used 20 x 10(3)/microL to 10 x 10(3)/microL. A few studies have even suggested that a 5 x 10(3)/microL trigger is acceptable. Based on these results, the next step of giving just therapeutic platelet transfusions is being evaluated. In a large retrospective study, the most significant predictor of bleeding was not the patient's platelet count but a history of bleeding in the prior 5 days. These data suggest that attention should be focused on providing aggressive platelet therapy for active bleeding rather than transfusing platelets prophylactically. Therapeutic platelet transfusions have been documented to control bleeding, and mortality rates are not increased when comparing patients receiving therapeutic to that seen in patients receiving prophylactic platelet transfusions.
Physical properties of gutta-percha when subjected to heat and vertical condensation

Abstract Vertical condensation of warm gutta-percha is a relatively new technique in the endodontic therapeutic regimen. The physical properties of gutta-percha when used in this manner have been evaluated. Part I is concerned with the determination of the distance to which the mass of gutta-percha will conduct heat ahead of heat application and vertical condensation. Part II deals with the evaluation of volume stability of gutta-percha when used in a repeated sequence of heating and vertically condensing the material. Results showed that the temperatures recorded vary from a 12.5° C. increase in the gutta-percha in the body of the preparation to a 4.0° C. increase at the apex at the time condensation is completed. The volume of gutta-percha recovered from the preparations was significantly greater than the volume of the preparations.
Letter by Kessler Regarding Article, “Effect of Short Call Admissions on Length of Stay and Quality of Care for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure”

To the Editor: I read with interest the article by Schuberth and colleagues1 on short call admissions. However, in my opinion, the authors failed to embrace the total system dynamics and variables of early daytime …
Human immunodeficiency virus disease: Changing patterns of intraocular inflammation

Purpose To evaluate and put into perspective five articles in this issue of the American Journal OF OPHTHALMOLOGY that discuss ocular inflammatory disorders in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. Methods We drew upon recent observations concerning the effect of HIV disease on the immune system in an attempt to understand the current reports describing intraocular inflammation. Results Intraocular inflammation appears to be dependent on several factors, including specific antigenic stimuli and the state of the host immune system. During dynamic changes in these factors, conditions may arise that favor inflammatory reactions. Use of antiretroviral therapies is one mechanism that can effect these dynamics. Conclusions As the immune system equilibrates at one extreme or the other (depletion or reconstitution), conditions favoring inflammation appear to dissipate. Restoration of immune function by the use of combination antiretroviral therapy, including protease inhibitors, may lead to additional cases of transient intraocular inflammation in the future.
CHILDREN'S SOCIAL DESIRABILITY RESPONSE TENDENCIES AND WECHSLER COMPREHENSION AND PICTURE ARRANGEMENT PERFORMANCE

The Children's Social Desirability Scale (3) consists of items representing behaviors and attitudes which are either culturally sanctioned and approved but occur infrequently, or are culturally disapproved but occur frequently. Approval-motivation has been inferred from the degree to which an individual endorses questionnaire items describing himself on a conrinuum of social desirability as opposed to their manifest concent. While high approval-motivation has been shown to be related to conformity to perceived social-situational demands (4. 5), Brannigan, Duchnowski, and Nyce (2) have suggested that for young children this response tendency may also reflect heightened sensitivity and competence in social situations. To test this hypothesis 109 boys and 113 girls from the first, third and fifth grades of a public elementary school were administered the Children's Social Desirability Scale in rheir homerooms and individually administered the WISC Comprehens~on and Picture Arrangement subtests. The WISC subtests have been characterized as verbal and nonverbal measures of "social" competence respectively ( 1 ). Separate product-moment cor
Aerosol Charger Using Sinusoidally Driven Ion Current from a Corona Discharge

Construction and testing of an aerosol charger capable of charging initially neutral 0.913–μm diameter plastic spheres to 200 elementary charge units in 20 ms is described. The charger utilizes a continuous corona discharge from fine wires located in cylindrical cavities in opposite walls of a rectangular aerosol flow channel of dimensions 1.00 × 5.56 × 2.54 cm. A 3000-Hz AC voltage with maximum amplitude of 10 kV is applied across the 1.00-cm channel gap to produce an ion current which reverses direction with the cycling of the electric field. Aerosol particles moving through the channel are impacted by unipolar ions from first one side and then the other. Lateral motion of charged particles is oscillatory at the frequency of the applied electric field. This serves to minimize loss of charged particles due to wall deposition. A method for calculating the acquired particle charge based on field charging theory is presented. Particle charge levels calculated are in satisfactory agreement with measured part...
Aquaporin-3-dependent cell migration and proliferation during corneal re-epithelialization.

Purpose To determine a role for the water- and glycerol-transporting protein aquaporin-3 (AQP3) in mammalian corneal epithelium, where it is expressed but has no known function. Methods Corneal epithelial water and glycerol permeabilities were measured in living wild-type and AQP3-null mice using calcein fluorescence-quenching and 14C-glycerol-uptake assays, respectively. After removal of the corneal epithelium by scraping, re-epithelialization was followed by fluorescein staining. The contribution of AQP3-facilitated cell migration to corneal re-epithelialization was assessed using an organ culture model, in which initial resurfacing results from epithelial cell migration, as shown by BrdU analysis and 5-fluorouracil insensitivity, and by scratch wound assay using primary cultures of corneal epithelial cells from wild-type versus AQP3-null mice. Involvement of AQP3 in epithelial cell proliferation was investigated by morphometric and BrdU analysis of histologic sections, and by measurement of [3H]thymidine uptake in primary cultures of corneal epithelial cells. Results AQP3 deficiency did not alter corneal epithelial thickness, morphology, or glycerol content, though both water and glycerol permeabilities were reduced. Time to corneal re-epithelialization in vivo was significantly delayed in AQP3-null mice compared to wild-type mice. Delays were also found in organ and primary cultures, demonstrating a distinct defect in cell migration arising from AQP3 deletion. Delayed restoration of full-thickness epithelia of AQP3-null mice over days after scraping suggested a separate defect in epithelial cell proliferation, which was confirmed by reduction in proliferating BrdU-positive cells in AQP3-deficient mice during healing, and by reduced proliferation in primary cultures of corneal epithelial cells from AQP3-null mice. Conclusions The significant impairment in corneal re-epithelialization in AQP3-deficient mice results from distinct defects in corneal epithelial cell migration and proliferation. The results provide evidence for involvement of an aquaporin in cell proliferation and suggest AQP3 induction as a possible therapy to accelerate the resurfacing of corneal defects.
Using the Conversation Argument Coding Scheme to Examine Interpersonal Conflict: Insights and Challenges

This article reviews research that has used the conversation argument coding scheme (CACS) (Canary, 1992; Seibold, McPhee, Poole, Tanita, & Canary, 1981) to examine conflict interaction between romantic partners and friends. By reviewing this body of literature, one can see the impact of examining relational partners instead of strangers, of investigating dyads rather than groups, and the importance of examining interaction rather than predicting outcomes of arguments based on each relational partner's individual characteristics. This literature also connects argument sequences and structure to relational variables such as relational satisfaction and control mutuality. Three suggested areas for further development of this research include the following topics: family conflict, interpersonal conflict that occurs over mediated channels, and serial arguments in interpersonal relationships.
Development of a 3 T-10” Bore MgB2 Magnet at GE

Abstract MgB 2 may be the future superconducting wire material for industrial magnets due to its higher operation temperature and potentially lower cost. Application of pre-reacted MgB 2 wire to a medium scale magnet has been started at GE with NIH support. Several test coils made with wet winding processes showed unexpected remnant voltage, even though the pre-reacted wire's short sample tests had passed the criteria of 1 μV/cm. Investigations revealed that the wire's non-uniformity and defects over the long length were the root cause of the remnant voltage. A coil with refined wire of good lengthwise uniformity showed no remnant voltage. Along with the coil development, superconducting joints between two MgB 2 pre-reacted multi-filamentary wires have been tried. The joints so far have showed up to half of the designed Ic. The magnet will be cooled by a cryo-cooler through closed loop cooling circuits containing either helium or hydrogen.
School leadership stability, principal moves, and departures: Evidence from Missouri

Purpose: The objective of this study is to investigate and characterize principals’ backgrounds, individual and school level factors associated with leadership stability, and principal career paths and exit behaviors in Missouri. Method: In this study, the authors construct two data sets of practicing school principals in the state of Missouri: (a) one consisting of approximately 2,700 school principals across grade levels for each year from 1999 to 2006, and (b) one consisting of three cohorts of principals who were new to a given school in 1999, 2000, and 2001. With the first data set, the authors construct “stability” ratios identifying the amount of time a principal spent in any given school as a percentage of the total time that principal was in the data set. With the second data set, the authors create indicators of the time period at which a cohort member (a) left the principalship altogether (in Missouri), (b) made a first move to another school, or (c) made a second move to another school. Using ...
A Nonparametric Procedure to Detect Jumps in Regression Surfaces

This article proposes a local smoothing procedure for detecting jump location curves of regression surfaces. This procedure simplifies the computation of some existing jump detectors in the statistical literature. It also generalizes the Sobel edge detector in the image processing literature such that more observations can be used to smooth away random noise in the data. The problem to evaluate the performance of jump detectors is discussed and a new measurement of jump detection performance is suggested.
Stereochemical correlation of (-)-averantin

Natural (-)-averantin has been degraded to afford a sample of (S)-(+)-2-hydroxyheptanoic acid. The absolute configuration of averantin is therefore, S in accord with recent biogenetic proposals for aflatoxin B1
Indirect method for the determination of water using headspace gas chromatography

Abstract This research investigated an analytical method for the quantitative determination of water using headspace gas chromatography (HSGC) and the reaction of calcium carbide and water to produce acetylene. Samples containing water were transferred to a dry vial containing calcium carbide, after which the vial was sealed. The acetylene which formed inside of the vial was then measured by HSGC and used to calculate the original concentration of water in the sample. The investigation indicates that the method is a viable alternative for the determination of water in various organic solvents, for concentration ranging from 60 to 400 ppm (μl −1 .
Combining protein micro-phase separation and protein–polysaccharide segregative phase separation to produce gel structures

Abstract The ability of protein micro-phase separation and protein–polysaccharide segregative phase separation to generate a range of gel structures and textures was evaluated. Whey protein isolate/κ-carrageenan mixed gels were prepared with 13% (w/v) whey protein isolate, 0–0.6% (w/w) κ-carrageenan and 50, 100 or 250 mM NaCl. The microstructure of gels, determined by confocal laser scanning microscopy, varied from homogenous to protein continuous, bicontinuous, coarse stranded or κ-carrageenan continuous, depending on the κ-carrageenan concentration. Microstructure also varied from stranded to particulate (micro-phase separated) depending on the salt concentration. The rheological behavior of mixed gels corresponded to the shift in the continuous phase from protein to κ-carrageenan. At small concentrations of κ-carrageenan, where carrageenan-rich droplets were dispersed in a continuous protein-rich matrix, gel strength (fracture stress) and firmness (G′) increased due to increased local concentration of proteins caused by phase separation. At higher κ-carrageenan concentrations, gels were substantially less firm, weaker and less deformable (fracture strain). The change in the continuous phase from protein continuous to carrageenan continuous explained the major change in mechanical properties and water-holding properties. The shift in microstructure occurred at lower concentrations of κ-carrageenan when whey proteins were under micro-phase separation conditions. The results demonstrated how the combined mechanisms of ion-induced micro-phase separation of proteins and protein–polysaccharide phase separation and inversion can be used to alter gel structure and texture.
Role of Toll-Like Receptor-4 in Lung Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Background Toll-like receptor-4 has been implicated in modulating ischemia-reperfusion injury in cardiac, hepatic, renal, and cerebral models. However, its role in lung ischemia-reperfusion injury is unknown. We hypothesize that toll-like receptor-4 has a key role in initiating the inflammatory cascade in lung ischemia-reperfusion injury. Methods We used toll-like receptor-4 specific short interference RNA to achieve toll-like receptor-4 knockdown in rats prior to undergoing ischemia and reperfusion. Lungs were explanted and studied for protein expression and markers of lung injury. Additional animals were evaluated for cellular uptake of toll-like receptor-4 short interference RNA. Toll-like receptor-4 short interference RNA localized to the alveolar macrophage. Results In animals pretreated with toll-like receptor-4 short interference RNA, toll-like receptor-4 expression and mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation were suppressed. Markers of lung injury including permeability index, myeloperoxidase content, and bronchoalveolar lavage inflammatory cell counts were all reduced with toll-like receptor-4 knockdown. Conclusions Toll-like receptor-4 is critical in the development of lung ischemia-reperfusion injury and its activation in the alveolar macrophage may be the initiating step.
Corrosion behavior of 2205 duplex stainless steel

The corrosion of 2205 duplex stainless steel was compared with that of AISI type 316L stainless steel. The 2205 stainless steel is a potential orthodontic bracket material with low nickel content (4 to 6 wt%), whereas the 316L stainless steel (nickel content: 10 to 14 wt%) is a currently used bracket material. Both stainless steels were subjected to electrochemical and immersion (crevice) corrosion tests in 37 degrees C, 0.9 wt% sodium chloride solution. Electrochemical testing indicates that 2205 has a longer passivation range than 316L. The corrosion rate of 2205 was 0.416 MPY (milli-inch per year), whereas 316L exhibited 0.647 MPY. When 2205 was coupled to 316L with equal surface area ratio, the corrosion rate of 2205 reduced to 0.260 MPY, indicating that 316L stainless steel behaved like a sacrificial anode. When 316L is coupled with NiTi, TMA, or stainless steel arch wire and was subjected to the immersion corrosion test, it was found that 316L suffered from crevice corrosion. On the other hand, 2205 stainless steel did not show any localized crevice corrosion, although the surface of 2205 was covered with corrosion products, formed when coupled to NiTi and stainless steel wires. This study indicates that considering corrosion resistance, 2205 duplex stainless steel is an improved alternative to 316L for orthodontic bracket fabrication when used in conjunction with titanium, its alloys, or stainless steel arch wires.
Numerical modeling and experimental evaluation of a time domain UWB technique for soil void detection

A growing percentage of waste and storm water conveyance systems are approaching or exceeded their design life, suffering from accelerated deterioration and subsequently increased rates of failure. Discontinuities in the pipe wall may lead to the formation of voids in the soil embedment surrounding it via the transportation of fine soil particles by infiltrating ground water. This paper describes a method that utilizes ultra wideband (UWB) time domain principles to detect the presence and location of soil voids in early stages of formation, thus preventing a catastrophic collapse of the pipe and/or a structure above it (e.g., road surface). A three dimensional numerical model simulating the propagation of UWB pulses within a buried pipeline was developed. The results from the numerical model were validated using experimental measurements performed utilizing a full scale test bed. It is shown that a UWB based sensory system is capable of detecting even minor voids around non-ferrous buried pipes.
LOCAL TV NEWS, CONTENT, AND THE BOTTOM LINE

This study compares the nature of local stories that were presented on television newscasts across 17 television markets in the United States. It is an extension of the localism research that was c...
Activation and up-regulation of spinal cord nitric oxide receptor, soluble guanylate cyclase, after formalin injection into the rat hind paw

Abstract Nitric oxide synthase is expressed abundantly in the spinal cord, and nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to play important roles in the central mechanism of inflammatory hyperalgesia. However, the expression and function of the NO receptor, soluble guanylate cyclase, is not fully understood in this processing at the spinal cord level. In the present study, we report that the soluble guanylate cyclase α1 subunit but not the β1 subunit was expressed in rat spinal cord, particularly in the dorsal horn. We showed that intrathecal administration of a selective inhibitor of soluble guanylate cyclase, 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one, produced a significant anti-nociception demonstrated by the decrease in the number of flinches and shakes in the formalin-induced inflammatory pain model. This was accompanied by a marked reduction in formalin-induced c-fos expression in the spinal cord. During formalin-induced long-lasting inflammation, we found that the expression of the α1 subunit of soluble guanylate cyclase was dramatically increased in the lumbar spinal cord on the second and fourth days after formalin injection into the dorsal side of a hind paw. Intraperitoneal pretreatment with an N-methyl- D -aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, dizocilpine maleate (MK-801), and a neuronal NO synthase inhibitor, 7-nitroindazole, not only significantly blocked formalin-induced secondary thermal hyperalgesia but also suppressed formalin-produced increase in the α1 subunit of soluble guanylate cyclase in the spinal cord. The present results indicate that peripheral inflammation not only initially activates but also later up-regulates soluble guanylate cyclase expression via the NMDA receptor–NO signaling pathway, suggesting that soluble guanylate cyclase might be involved in the central mechanism of formalin-induced inflammatory hyperalgesia in the spinal cord.
Outcomes of Off-Pump Minimally Invasive Exchange of the HeartMate II (HMII) Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)

s S127 monitoring. Simple dipstick urinalysis (UA) for urine hemoglobin (U-Hb) overcomes this limitation. This study correlated U-Hb and plasma LDH levels and evaluated performance of UA for detection of significant hemolysis in CF-LVAD pts. Methods: U-Hb and plasma LDH were measured concurrently 910 times in 198 CF-LVAD pts. Statistics were computed to determine accuracy of UA in detecting LDH ≥ 600 with a positive result being any detected Hb. Readings with concurrent active cardiac, lung, brain, bone or liver injury or bacteremia were excluded from the analysis as these conditions may raise LDH. U-Hb was categorized into absent, trace-mild and moderate-severe. Mean plasma LDH levels are presented with and without exclusion of readings with concurrent hematuria, missing urine RBC data, or UA readings suggestive of urinary tract infection (UTI), as these conditions can be associated with false positive U-Hb readings. Results: A positive U-Hb had a sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value for detection of plasma LDH≥ 600 of 84%, 64%, 38% and 94%, respectively. Of note, among 159 false positive tests, 71 (45%) had UA readings suggestive of UTI that may call for additional work-up irrespective of U-Hb results. Mean LDH was 350/517/877 and 375/594/1260 for absent/ trace-mild/moderate-severe U-Hb before and after excluding measures associated with false positive U-Hb readings, respectively (all p’s < 0.0001) (Fig). Conclusion: Plasma LDH is significantly associated with U-Hb levels. Absence of U-Hb efficiently excludes significant hemolysis in CF-LVAD pts. U-Hb monitoring may enable more intense surveillance and earlier diagnosis of device thrombosis as it can be performed by pts at home.
Racial Variation in Self-Labeled Child Abuse and Associated Internalizing Symptoms Among Adolescents Who Are High Risk

One thousand and ten Non-Hispanic White, African American, Hispanic, and Asian Pacific Islander youth who were high risk and receiving public sector services were interviewed regarding history of child emotional and physical abuse and current internalizing symptoms. The study examined whether race moderated the association between adolescents' reports of specific parent behaviors and their self-labeling as victims of abuse. The study also examined whether reports of parental behaviors or self-labeled abuse better predicted internalizing symptoms, and whether these associations differed by race. When reporting punitive parent behavior, Non-Hispanic White youth were more likely to describe themselves as abused compared to Asian Pacific Islanders. Reported punitive parental behaviors accounted for more variance in internalizing symptoms than did self-labeled abuse. Reports of parent behaviors were more strongly related to concurrent internalizing symptoms among ethnic minority youth than among Non-Hispanic White youth. Results are discussed in the context of cultural competence in identification of child abuse.
The secondary market and the international debt problem

Abstract The objective of this study is to analyze the new secondary market of developing country debt. We provide a brief description of the market: participants, instruments and purposes. An analysis of prices in the secondary market follows. We are especially concerned about the recent plunge in secondary market prices and whether it reflects “fundamentals”, such as movements in debt to export ratios and suspensions of interest payments, or simply the illiquidity of the market. We find that both sets of factors are involved and, as a result, conclude that prices on the secondary market are probably below their long-run equilibrium values. In the next section, we review the risks inherent in using the secondary market for debt from a developing country point of view and discuss the market's near-term potential growth. We conclude with some general remarks about the role of the secondary market in resolving the international debt problem, that is, in restoring capital flows to developing countries.