cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assay of Megakaryocytopoiesis in thrombocytopenic rats.

Summary. Rats were given exchange transfusions with different volumes of platelet-poor blood, injected 24 hr later with tritiated thymidine, and killed after another 24 or 36 hr. Autoradiograms of bone marrow smears were made and the labelling index of megakaryocytes was determined. The labelling index was proportional to the degree of thrombocytopenia induced by exchange transfusion. The results therefore demonstrate that the number of circulating platelets exerts a rather delicate control over megakaryocytopoiesis. In addition, the potential of this procedure for studying megakaryocytopoiesis, its regulation, and its abnormalities is indicated.
Bias-corrected variance estimation and hypothesis testing for spatial point and marked point processes using subsampling.

Summary We introduce novel regression extrapolation based methods to correct the often large bias in subsampling variance estimation as well as hypothesis testing for spatial point and marked point processes. For variance estimation, our proposed estimators are linear combinations of the usual subsampling variance estimator based on subblock sizes in a continuous interval. We show that they can achieve better rates in mean squared error than the usual subsampling variance estimator. In particular, for n×n observation windows, the optimal rate of n−2 can be achieved if the data have a finite dependence range. For hypothesis testing, we apply the proposed regression extrapolation directly to the test statistics based on different subblock sizes, and therefore avoid the need to conduct bias correction for each element in the covariance matrix used to set up the test statistics. We assess the numerical performance of the proposed methods through simulation, and apply them to analyze a tropical forest data set.
Prime-Time Television Program Ownership in a Post-Fin/Syn World

The expiration of the financial interest and syndication rules in 1995 ushered in a decade of television conglomeration in the United States. The elimination the rules fueled joint studio and network control and resulted in high concentration in prime-time program ownership. From 2004–05 through 2007–08, six corporations held a financial interest in between 89.4% and 94.7% of prime-time programs with attributable ownership on the debut broadcast schedules. Over the same seasons, the six corporations held an interest in between 87.0% and 93.9% of the scripted series and mini-series on prominent general entertainment premium and basic cable services.
Tritrichomonas muris in the Hamster: Pseudocysts and the Infection of Newborn

Female golden hamsters, either in the last week of pregnancy or in the first weeks of nursing, excreted in their feces variable numbers of pseudocysts of Tritrichomonas muris. Pseudocysts examined by electron microscopy had internalization of the 3 anterior flagella and the undulating membrane with its recurrent flagellum. The undulating membrane and the associated marginal lamellae were characteristic of T. muris. Pseudocysts gradually become motile after 2 or more hours of incubation in medium. The "excysted" trophozoites were identified ultrastructurally as T. muris. Newborn hamsters were not infected with T. muris at 3 days of age, but by the 7th day essentially all were found to have infected ceca, concomitant with cecal enlargement and the appearance of adult-type feces.
Renal glutaminase and carbonic anhydrase activities in potassium-deficient rats.

SummaryKidney glutaminase and carbonic anhydrase activities were determined in intact and adrenalectomized rats maintained on normal and potassium-deficient diets, with and without simultaneous administration of DCA. The changes of enzyme activity could not be related to plasma or muscle electrolytes. The activities of the 2 enzymes were found unaltered in adrenalectomized rats. Experimental conditions resulting in increased glutaminase activity in adrenalectomized rats had the same effect to a greater degree in intact rats. Kidney carbonic anhydrase activity failed to increase in adrenalectomized rats under circumstances which in intact rats led to increased activity.
Extremal problems for independent set enumeration

The study of the number of independent sets in a graph has a rich history. Recently, Kahn proved that disjoint unions of $K_{r,r}$'s have the maximum number of independent sets amongst $r$-regular bipartite graphs. Zhao extended this to all $r$-regular graphs. If we instead restrict the class of graphs to those on a fixed number of vertices and edges, then the Kruskal-Katona theorem implies that the graph with the maximum number of independent sets is the lex graph, where edges form an initial segment of the lexicographic ordering. In this paper, we study three related questions. Firstly, we prove that the lex graph has the maximum number of weighted independent sets for any appropriate weighting. Secondly, we solve the problem of maximizing the number of independents sets in graphs with specified independence number or clique number. Finally, for $m\leq n$, we find the graphs with the minimum number of independent sets for graphs with $n$ vertices and $m$ edges.
Cancer survivor rehabilitation and recovery: Protocol for the Veterans Cancer Rehabilitation Study (Vet-CaRes)

Cancer survivors are a rapidly growing and aging population in the U.S., but there are many challenges associated with the survivorship experience such as functional disabilities and psychosocial distress. When viewed next to the general population, Veterans are especially at risk for these challenges as they are older and have a high incidence of co-morbid conditions. While the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has called for further cancer survivorship research to address these challenges, we still know little about this experience from the perspective of aging Veterans.
Coupling of giant resonances to soft E1 and E2 modes in 8B

The dynamic coupling between giant resonance states and “soft” low-energy excitation modes in weakly-bound nuclei is investigated. A coupled-channels calculation is reported for the reaction 8 B + Pb → p + 7 Be + Pb at 83 MeV/nucleon. It is shown that the low-energy response is only marginally modified by transitions to the isovector giant dipole and isoscalar giant quadrupole resonances.  2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Perennial rhizomatous grasses as bioenergy feedstock in SWAT: parameter development and model improvement

The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is increasingly used to quantify hydrologic and water quality impacts of bioenergy production, but crop-growth parameters for candidate perennial rhizomatous grasses (PRG) Miscanthus 9 giganteus and upland ecotypes of Panicum virgatum (switchgrass) are limited by the availability of field data. Crop-growth parameter ranges and suggested values were developed in this study using agronomic and weather data collected at the Purdue University Water Quality Field Station in northwestern Indiana. During the process of parameterization, the comparison of measured data with conceptual representation of PRG growth in the model led to three changes in the SWAT 2009 code: the harvest algorithm was modified to maintain belowground biomass over winter, plant respiration was extended via modified-DLAI to better reflect maturity and leaf senescence, and nutrient uptake algorithms were revised to respond to temperature, water, and nutrient stress. Parameter values and changes to the model resulted in simulated biomass yield and leaf area index consistent with reported values for the region. Code changes in the SWAT model improved nutrient storage during dormancy period and nitrogen and phosphorus uptake by both switchgrass and Miscanthus.
Superpave Field Implementation: Florida's Early Experience

Over the past 10 to 15 years, Interstate pavements in northern Florida have experienced a significant number of failures, primarily due to rutting. It was believed that the present fine-graded, 50-blow Marshall-designed mixes were inadequate to withstand current loading conditions. The newly developed Superpave system represented an opportunity to address several of Florida's asphalt pavement problems. Thus, the Florida Department of Transportation made a concerted effort to implement Superpave technology in 1996. During this period, eight projects were changed from the traditional Marshall mix designs to Superpave. Although the new procedure offers potential for improved pavement performance, there has been very little experience nationally with its field application. Florida's early experiences with the field implementation of Superpave are documented.
Interspecific transfer of Wolbachia into the mosquito disease vector Aedes albopictus

Intracellular Wolbachia bacteria are obligate, maternally inherited endosymbionts found frequently in insects and other invertebrates. The evolutionary success of Wolbachia is due in part to an ability to manipulate reproduction. In mosquitoes and many other insects, Wolbachia causes a form of sterility known as cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI). Wolbachia-induced CI has attracted interest as a potential agent for affecting medically important disease vectors. However, application of the approach has been restricted by an absence of appropriate, naturally occurring Wolbachia infections. Here, we report the interspecific transfer of Wolbachia infection into a medically important mosquito. Using embryonic microinjection, Wolbachia is transferred from Drosophila simulans into the invasive pest and disease vector: Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito). The resulting infection is stably maintained and displays a unique pattern of bidirectional CI in crosses with naturally infected mosquitoes. Laboratory population cage experiments examine a strategy in which releases of Wolbachia-infected males are used to suppress mosquito egg hatch. We discuss the results in relation to developing appropriate Wolbachia-infected mosquito strains for population replacement and population suppression strategies.
Distinct Cysteine Residues in Keap1 Are Required for Keap1-Dependent Ubiquitination of Nrf2 and for Stabilization of Nrf2 by Chemopreventive Agents and Oxidative Stress

A common feature of diverse chemopreventive agents is the ability to activate expression of a genetic program that protects cells from reactive chemical species that, if left unchecked, would cause mutagenic DNA damage. The bZIP transcription factor Nrf2 has emerged as a key regulator of this cancer-preventive genetic program. Nrf2 is normally sequestered in the cytoplasm by a protein known as Keap1. Chemopreventive agents allow Nrf2 to escape from Keap1-mediated repression, although the molecular mechanism(s) responsible for activation of Nrf2 is not understood. In this report, we demonstrate that Keap1 does not passively sequester Nrf2 in the cytoplasm but actively targets Nrf2 for ubiquitination and degradation by the proteosome under basal culture conditions. We have identified two critical cysteine residues in Keap1, C273 and C288, that are required for Keap1-dependent ubiquitination of Nrf2. Both sulforaphane, a chemopreventive isothiocyanate, and oxidative stress enable Nrf2 to escape Keap1-dependent degradation, leading to stabilization of Nrf2, increased nuclear localization of Nrf2, and activation of Nrf2-dependent cancer-protective genes. We have identified a third cysteine residue in Keap1, C151, that is uniquely required for inhibition of Keap1-dependent degradation of Nrf2 by sulforaphane and oxidative stress. This cysteine residue is also required for a novel posttranslational modification to Keap1 that is induced by oxidative stress. We propose that Keap1 is a component of a novel E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that is specifically targeted for inhibition by both chemopreventive agents and oxidative stress.
Green synthesis of robust, biocompatible silver nanoparticles using garlic extract

This paper details a facile approach for the synthesis of stable and monodisperse silver nanoparticles performed at ambient/low temperature, where Allium sativum (garlic) extract functions as the silver salt reducing agent during nanoparticle synthesis as well as the postsynthesis stabilizing ligands. Varying the synthesis conditions provides control of particle size, size-distribution, and kinetics of particle formation. Infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray chemical analysis, and high-performance liquid chromatography indicated that allicin and other carbohydrates in the garlic extract are the primary nanoparticle stabilizing moieties. The synthesized silver nanoparticles also demonstrate potential for biomedical applications, owing to (1) enhanced stability in biological media, (2) resistance to oxidation by the addition of H2O2, (3) ease and scalability of synthesis, and (4) lack of harsh chemicals required for synthesis. Cytotoxicity assays indicated no decrease in cellular proliferation for vascular smooth muscle cells and 3T3 fibroblasts at a concentration of 25 µg/mL, confirming that silver nanoparticles synthesized with garlic extract are potential candidates for future experimentation and implementation in the biomedical field.
Transient sensitivity computation for transistor level analysis and tuning

This paper presents a general method for computing transient sensitivities using both the direct and adjoint methods in event driven controlled explicit simulation algorithms that employ piecewise linear device models. This transient sensitivity capability is intended to be used in a simulation environment for transistor level analysis and tuning. Results demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed techniques. Examples are also presented to illustrate how the transient sensitivity capability is used in timing characterization and circuit tuning.
Quantitative analysis of the effect of phosphoinositide interactions on the function of Dbl family proteins.

Abstract Normally, Rho GTPases are activated by the removal of bound GDP and the concomitant loading of GTP catalyzed by members of the Dbl family of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). This family of GEFs invariantly contain a Dbl homology (DH) domain adjacent to a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, and while the DH domain usually is sufficient to catalyze nucleotide exchange, possible roles for the conserved PH domain remain ambiguous. Here we demonstrate that the conserved PH domains of three distinct Dbl family proteins, intersectin, Dbs, and Tiam1, selectively bind lipid vesicles only when phosphoinositides are present. While the PH domains of intersectin and Dbs promiscuously bind several multiphosphorylated phosphoinositides, Tiam1 selectively interacts with phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (K D ∼5–10 μm). In addition, and in contrast to recent reports, catalysis of nucleotide exchange on nonprenylated Rac1 provided by various extended portions of Tiam1 is not influenced by (a) soluble phosphoinositide head groups, (b) dibutyl versions of phosphoinositides, or (c) lipid vesicles containing phosphoinositides. Likewise, GEF activity afforded by DH/PH fragments of intersectin and Dbs are also not altered by phosphoinositide interactions. These results strongly suggest that unless all relevant components are localized to a lipid membrane surface, Dbl family GEFs generally are not intrinsically modulated by binding phosphoinositides.
The Cultural Foundations of Nations: Hierarchy, Covenant, and Republic – By Anthony D. Smith

This author has written numerous works essential to the study of nations and nationalism, introducing the idea that modern nations have roots in pre‐existing ethnic identities, or ethnies. He can j...
Rule discovery in phonological acquisition

Menn has suggested that most early phonological rules have the effect of reducing the variety of the child's phonetic output forms. This proposal is compatible with the Interactionist–Discovery (I–D) theory of phonological acquisition. This paper presents one child's unique phonological rule which increases output variety and yet still yields a mismatch with the adult form. Evidence is presented which indicates that the rule was a stable and productive part of the child's phonology and that it was both phonetically and phonologically motivated. It is argued that an addition to the early strategies described by Menn is needed to account, specifically, for the discovery of this unique rule and, generally, for later stages of phonological development.
Ultra-broadband, high-gain, polarization-independent optical parametric amplification in type-II quasi-phase-matched AlGaAs waveguides

We discuss a dispersion-managed non-birefringent type-II quasi-phase-matched (QPM) aluminum-gallium-arsenide (AlGaAs) waveguide, achieving 22.4 dB gain with plusmn0.5 dB uniformity across 334 nm-band centered at 1550 nm with 17 mW pump power.
The Communist‐Led World Peace Council and the Western Peace Movements: The Fetters of Bipolarity and Some Attempts to Break Them in the Fifties and Early Sixties1

Drawing widely on archive material, including previously inaccessible German Peace Council documents, the paper examines links between Western pacifists and the World Peace Council (WPC), initiated by communist parties in Eastern Europe, from the WPC's foundation until the mid-1960s, when discussion about European security and detente began. From the angle of an East German peace historian and activist, the author describes contradictions in the WPC as it sought to become a broad world movement while being instrumentalized increasingly to serve foreign policy in the Soviet Union and nominally socialist countries. In both East and West bloc, prejudices simmered despite attempts at concerted action. Divided Germany was a pivot which crystallized many tensions. This is illustrated by the 1961 Peace March, due to pass through Berlin just as the Wall went up.
Hard to access the information in the healthcare system? I See! - an innovative touch-screen information board for pediatric hospitals

Confusion, frustration and anxiety are caused by the ineffective communication in healthcare system. Patients and family members usually have a hard time to acquire necessary information in hospitals. The healthcare literacy, a wide range of patient-age population, and the text-only teaching sheets are important factors to block the communication. Therefore, the proposed work presents an innovative information board that is designed specifically for current pediatric healthcare environment to deliver messages more effectively through a fun and interactive approach. The I See! System carries four goals: Inform, Set expectation, Educate and Ease Anxiety (I.S.E.E). The innovative I See! System achieves these goals through categories, such as introduction video clip, interactive games, key words section and parents' place. Using different sections in the module, patients and families can engage more effectively in medical procedures. The distinguishing features in I See! module are Age-Adaptable, Audio-Visual, Multi-Lingual, Multi-Sensory, Interactive and Procedural. In addition, this module is a mobile, touch-screen and web-based appliance to prepare patients and families well to take the examinations in hospitals. Lastly, this work also discusses how the information in healthcare system could be delivered to patients and families more efficiently.
The Dichotomous Distribution of Gastrinomas

• Our experience with 47 sporadic gastrinomas suggests that no less than 85% of these tumors are located to the right of the superior mesenteric artery. This finding is unexpected because approximately 75% of insulinomas and glucagonomas are located to the left of the superior mesenteric artery. All of our extrapancreatic gastrinomas have been located to the right. These observations prompted us to determine if other extrapancreatic gastrinomas were also predominantly located to the right side. We searched the world's literature and found 10 cases of ovarian gastrinomas and one case of a renal gastrinoma. Nine of these remote extrapancreatic gastrinomas were located on the right side. This distribution of remote extrapancreatic gastrinomas is similar to our experience with peripancreatic gastrinomas. This unexpected right-sided preponderance of both remote and peripancreatic gastrinomas suggests a common origin for both. ( Arch Surg . 1990;125:1584-1587)
Spitefulness and moral values

The relationship between spitefulness and an individual’s sense of morality or lack thereof has been neglected in studies of personality. It seems probable that individuals with higher levels of spitefulness exhibit fewer moral concerns relative to those with lower levels of spite. To examine associations between spitefulness and moral concerns, 436 community participants completed self-report measures concerning their spitefulness, basic personality dimensions, and moral concerns. Spitefulness was negatively associated with individualizing values (i.e., sensitivity to harm and fairness) such that spiteful individuals were less concerned about issues related to avoiding harm or injustice to others when making moral judgments. However, spitefulness was not simply associated with a general reduction in moral concerns as it was not significantly associated with binding values (i.e., concerns about ingroup loyalty, authority, and purity).
Effects of probe contact pressure on in vivo optical spectroscopy

The short- and long-term effects of probe contact pressure on in vivo diffuse reflectance and fluorescence spectroscopy were investigated using an animal model. Elevation in probe contact pressure induced major profile alterations in the diffuse reflectance spectra between 400 and 650 nm, and led to significant intensity increases in the fluorescence spectra. The pressure threshold that was required to induce statistically significant spectral alterations was dependent upon the type of tissue. The observed spectral alterations may be attributed to decreases in local blood volume, blood oxygenation, and tissue metabolism, resulting from high probe contact pressure.
Inhibition of human sperm respiration by 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide and protection by mesna and WR-1065

Objective To determine the effect of 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (4OOH-CP) on the respiration of human sperm, and investigate the protective properties of mesna and WR-1065. Setting SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY. Patient(s) Men (n = 12) visited the Andrology Department for fertility evaluation. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Sperm respiration. Result(s) Immediate decline in the rate of respiration was observed when 4OOH-CP was added to washed sperm or semen. The inhibition was concentration dependent. The respiration was less affected when 4OOH-CP was added to semen, suggesting the presence of protective factors in the seminal plasma. Excess of mesna or WR-1065 ameliorated the effect of 4OOH-CP. Mesna was the more potent of the two compounds. 4OOH-CP also inhibited the respiration of mitochondria from beef heart. Conclusion(s) These findings emphasize the adverse effects of alkylating agents on sperm function. The results also provide a framework for thiol drug administration with high-dose alkylating agents to protect male fertility. The protective capacity of seminal plasma deserves further testing.
Force systems from an ideal arch--large deflection considerations

A sophisticated mathematical simulation is presented which allows for the consideration of large activations in orthodontic appliances and their effect upon the resulting force systems which are delivered to teeth. Effects of bracket/wire interaction are studied using this new tool. Previous studies of force systems from an ideal arch were redone with the new analysis in which the wire was either rigidly restrained or free to slide. The restraint of the wire produced large mesio-distal forces and increased the magnitude of the moments on each bracket. If the wire is free to slide, both large deflection and small deflection solutions give similar results. The relative force system M1/M2 fundamentally held true with large deflections and restraint; however, some differences were noted. The significance of allowing wire to slide in the bracket is discussed.
The Impact of Staging Conditions on Residential Real Estate Demand

This study is the first to examine the widely debated merits of staging a home for sale. We find that both homeowners and real estate agents believe staging conditions (furnishings and wall color) will significantly impact homeowners’ willingness to pay for a property. Our results show that homeowners rationally do not significantly differ in their valuations based on staging conditions. However, staging conditions do influence the process, as we find a neutral wall color and good furnishings do significantly influence a buyer’s perceived livability and overall opinion of the home. While these are a necessary condition for purchase, staging is not enough to result in a higher selling price.
Fostering Social Movements with Social Media

Social movements are activities in which groups of individuals or organizations try to implement or reverse social or political change or reform. The creation of a community of people who share a movement’s objectives is central to its success. It requires a means of communication through which the movement’s proponents can discuss and refine their objectives, share stories of personal grievances, build organizations, and design and implement strategy and tactics. Media are traditionally among the most important means of communication for building such communities. Social media are a relatively new form media whose power to foster social movements first became obvious during the Arab Spring of 2011. The purpose of this research is to address how social media can best be used to advance the goals of social movement proponents. Eight recent social movements that have used social media to various degrees are analyzed resulting in a model that attempts to answer this question.
Structures of E. coli σS-transcription initiation complexes provide new insights into polymerase mechanism

In bacteria, multiple σ factors compete to associate with the RNA polymerase (RNAP) core enzyme to form a holoenzyme that is required for promoter recognition. During transcription initiation RNAP remains associated with the upstream promoter DNA via sequence-specific interactions between the σ factor and the promoter DNA while moving downstream for RNA synthesis. As RNA polymerase repetitively adds nucleotides to the 3′-end of the RNA, a pyrophosphate ion is generated after each nucleotide incorporation. It is currently unknown how the release of pyrophosphate affects transcription. Here we report the crystal structures of E . coli transcription initiation complexes (TICs) containing the stress-responsive σ S factor, a de novo synthesized RNA oligonucleotide, and a complete transcription bubble (σ S -TIC) at about 3.9-A resolution. The structures show the 3D topology of the σ S factor and how it recognizes the promoter DNA, including likely specific interactions with the template-strand residues of the −10 element. In addition, σ S -TIC structures display a highly stressed pretranslocated initiation complex that traps a pyrophosphate at the active site that remains closed. The position of the pyrophosphate and the unusual phosphodiester linkage between the two terminal RNA residues suggest an unfinished nucleotide-addition reaction that is likely at equilibrium between nucleotide addition and pyrophosphorolysis. Although these σ S -TIC crystals are enzymatically active, they are slow in nucleotide addition, as suggested by an NTP soaking experiment. Pyrophosphate release completes the nucleotide addition reaction and is associated with extensive conformational changes around the secondary channel but causes neither active site opening nor transcript translocation.
Detection of fabry hemizygotes and heterozygotes by the assay of specific α-galactosldase-a in single hair roots

Fabry’s disease is an X-linked recessive disorder caused by a deficiency of lysosomal enzyme α-galactosidasc-A that results in accumulation of excess trihexosylceramide in blood vessels throughout the body which leads to corneal dystrophy, skin lesions, diffuse cardiovascular disease and renal failure. Genetic counselling requires the unequivocal identification of heterozygotes, but this is not practicable with certainty from measurement of the enzyme activity in leucocytes nor cultured skin fibroblasts. However, it has been possible to detect heterozygotes in several X-linked genetic disorders by using hair roots in which the many thousands of cells are derived from possibly single or just a few primordial cells. Therefore, and according to the Lyon hypothesis, it may be expected that a hair root would show either full normal enzyme activity, or virtually absent-mutant-activity. We have adapted our ultra-micro assay system already in use in this laboratory for detection of Hunter Syndrome heterozygotes, to the identification of Fabry carriers. The technique involves the fluorogenic assay of u -galactosidase-A (α-galactosidasc-B activity representing about 40% of the total α-galactosidase activity was inhibited by incubation in 75 nmol/l GalNAc) and the simultaneous assay (radiolabelled substrate GM 1 ganglioside) of a control enzyme activity on each of 30 50 individual hair roots. Three related hemizygotes and an unrelated fourth adult (but symptomless) hemizygote had hair root enzyme α-galactosidase-A to control enzyme ratios of virtually zero. Five female relatives of the group of three hemizygotes were studied; about 50%, of hair roots from 2 of these females showed reduced or zero activity compared to normal control subjects and their other 3 female relatives.
Fertility in rabbit as affected by the dilution of semen and the number of spermatozoa.

SummaryFemale rabbits were inseminated with semen diluted with Krebs solution at rates of 1/1000 up to 1/5000 and 0.2 cc of suspension were used. The number of spermatozoa effective for partial fertility was 16,000, and for maximum fertility was around 90,000. The group percentage of fertility resulting from vaginal insemination was slightly higher than from uterine insemination (50% vs 40%); this difference was not of statistical significance.When semen samples were diluted from 1:100 up to 1:12800, the motility of the spermatozoa decreased significantly as the rates of dilution increased and the average motility shown in Krebs solution and the maximal dilution that would support motility was significantly higher than in 0.9% sodium chloride solution.When females were inseminated with a small number of spermatozoa (20,000) suspended in different volumes of Krebs solution, the average percentages of fertility were higher in the smaller volumes. The motility of the spermatozoa, however, appeared to have a ...
Experimental and Computational Studies of Choline Chloride-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents

Choline-chloride based deep eutectic solvents (DES) have been used for several different applications (e.g., solubility, electrochemistry, and purifications) due to their relative inexpensive and readily available nature. In this work, three choline chloride-based DESs are simulated using molecular dynamics to study the hydrogen bonding interactions of the system. Three hydrogen bond donors (HBD) are studied in order to determine the changes in the hydrogen bonding interactions when the HBD is different in the DES. One dicarboxylic acid and two polyols (with different number of OH groups) were chosen as the HBDs of interest. First, the simulations are validated by comparing simulated and experimental thermodynamic and transport properties, when possible. Then, for maline (choline chloride/malonic acid), the more anomalous system studied here, molecular simulations complement results obtained from an FTIR spectroscopic study in order to further understand this unique system. Good agreement with experimenta...
Dimac: A New Delivery System for Silver Sulfadiazine

Wound care for burn victims is painful and tedious, but necessary to avoid the ever-present problem of infection. In an effort to circumvent daily dressing changes while ensuring optimal wound protection, DIMAC, a new drug delivery system for the commonly used topical antimicrobial silver sulfadlazine, has been developed. When incorporated into the delivery system, silver sulfadiazine is released in a sustained fashion. The results of an evaluation of the safety and efficacy of DIMAC in the treatment of full-and partial-thickness burn wounds are described here. DIMAC, left In place for up to 4 days, appears to be as effective as twice-daily cleansing and application of silver sulfadiazine cream.
Vision-Aided Navigation for a Free-Flying Unmanned Robotic System to Support Interplanetary Bodies Prospecting and Characterization Missions

This paper investigates vision-aided navigation strategies for an autonomous free-flying robotic vehicle designed to explore interplanetary bodies, such as moons or asteroids, for the purposes of In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU). ISRU has the potential to facilitate planetary exploration by drawing needed resources, such as water, from the local environment. The realization of ISRU requires the development of advanced unmanned space systems integrated with sample-capture devices and guidance, navigation, and control systems capable of supporting autonomous exploration of challenging environments such as craters and lava tubes. Navigation on interplanetary bodies is challenging due to the unavailability of traditional navigation sesnors such as GPS and magnetometers. This paper focuses on the use of one or more vision sensors to augment an onboard inertial measurement unit, which is composed of accelerometers and rate gyros, in order to provide vision-aided navigation solutions for the free-flyer robotic system. In this study, a vision-aided navigation strategy is considered that entails using object detection and tracking algorithms to identify known landmarks in the scene, which provides information that can be used to estimate the position of the vehicle within the environment. Vision-aided navigation filters are developed for a stereo implementation of landmark detection and tracking, and the algorithms are implemented on video obtained from flights of a quadrotor UAV at the Hazard Field at the NASA Kennedy Space Center.
Productivity Growth in Construction

AbstractMeasuring productivity growth in construction has been a classic challenge, largely because reliable output deflators are scarce. This paper reports first results from a Bureau of Labor Sta...
A special scheme to protect n-qubit maximally-entangled states against decoherence

We show how an n-qubit maximally entangled state can be protected against deco-herence by pairing each qubit with another one so that each pair undergoes collective decoherence.
Integrating the Relational Matrix: Attachment Style, Differentiation of Self, Triangulation, and Experiential Avoidance

In light of the recent call for greater efforts toward integration in psychotherapy theory, research, and practice (Gaete and Gaete in J Psychother Integr 25(2):158–174, 2015; Ziv-Beiman in J Psychother Integr 24(3):251–257, 2014), this study aimed to evaluate the relationships among attachment style, differentiation of self (DoS), triangulation, and experiential avoidance in an integrated model. Although attachment theory (Bowlby in Attachment and loss. Attachment, vol 1. Basic Books, New York, 1969; Cassidy and Shaver in Handbook of attachment: Theory, research, and clinical applications, 3rd edn. Guilford Press, New York, 2010) typically views relationships in terms of dyads, Bowen theory and other systemic theories focus on human relationships in terms of triangles, indicating that attachment theory may be overlooking the role of a second parent in psychological well-being. Furthermore, links between attachment theory and DoS (Kerr and Bowen in Family evaluation. W. W. Norton and Company, New York, 1988) may be characterized by the avoidance of painful private experience, termed experiential avoidance. A sample of 167 U.S. students enrolled at an urban Midwestern University filled out electronic surveys containing a demographic questionnaire and the Differentiation of Self Inventory-Short Form, the Triangular Relationship Inventory, the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale, and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire—II (AAQ-II). We found that experiential avoidance partially mediated the relationships between avoidant attachment and emotional cut-off, as well as between anxious attachment and I-position. In addition, both anxious and avoidant attachment were associated with higher levels of triangulation and fully mediated the relationship between triangulation and DoS, suggesting that dyadic relationship patterns originate in triadic family processes and eventually effect DoS. Overall, these results connect the dyadic parent–child relationship, the central construct of attachment theory, to the triadic field of Bowen and other systemic theories.
Enabling Deep Voltage Scaling in Delay Sensitive L1 Caches

Voltage scaling is one of the most effective techniques for providing power savings on a chip-wide basis. However, reducing supply voltage in the presence of process variation introduces significant reliability challenges for large SRAM arrays. In this work, we demonstrate that the emergence of SRAM failures in delay sensitive L1 caches presents significant impediments to voltage scaling. We show that increases in the L1 cache latency would have a detrimental impact on a processor's performance and power consumption at aggressively scaled voltages. We propose techniques for L1 instruction/data caches to enable deep voltage scaling without compromising the L1 cache latency. For the data cache, we employ fault-free windows to adaptively hold the likely accessed data using the fault-free words within each cache line. For the instruction cache, we avoid the addresses that map to defective words by relocating basic blocks. During high voltage operation, both L1 caches have full capability to support high-performance. During low voltage operation, our schemes reduce Vccmin below 400mV. Compared to a conventional cache with a Vccmin of 760mV, we reduce the energy per instruction by 64%.
Reference Values for the Scalene Interval Width During Varying Degrees of Glenohumeral Abduction Using Ultrasonography

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to establish reference values for the width of the interval between the anterior and middle scalene muscles using ultrasonography during varying degrees of glenohumeral joint (GH) abduction. Reliability and body mass index (BMI) data were also assessed. Methods Interscalene triangles of asymptomatic participants were scanned bilaterally in the transverse plane. Images were obtained at 0°, 90°, and 150° of GH abduction with the participant seated. Width measurements were taken between the anterior and middle scalene muscle borders by bisecting the C6 nerve root as it passed superficial to the posterior tubercle of the C7 transverse process. Intra- and interexaminer reliability and BMI correlation were studied. Statistical significance was defined as P ≤ .05. Results Images of 42 scalene intervals were included from 21 participants (11 female). Mean participant age was 25.3 ± 3.9 years; mean BMI was 25.4 ± 2.7 kg/m 2 . Scalene interval measurements at 0°, 90°, and 150° of GH abduction were 4.5 ± 0.5 mm, 4.6 ± 0.5 mm, and 4.4 ± 0.7 mm, respectively, without a significant difference ( P = .07). Intraexaminer reliability was excellent (0°: intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.82; 90°: ICC=0.89; 150°: ICC=0.90). Interexaminer reliability was good to excellent (0°: ICC=0.59; 90°: ICC=0.85; 150°: ICC=0.89). Body mass index was positively correlated only at 0° of GH abduction. Conclusions This study establishes previously unreported reference ultrasonography values for the width of the scalene interval. Intraexaminer reliability was excellent at all glenohumeral positions, and interexaminer reliability was determined to be good to excellent. Body mass index was positively correlated only at 0° of GH abduction.
Cognitive deficits associated with a high‐fat diet and insulin resistance are potentiated by overexpression of ecto‐nucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase‐1

There is growing evidence that over consumption of high-fat foods and insulin resistance may alter hippocampal-dependent cognitive function. To study the individual contributions of diet and peripheral insulin resistance to learning and memory, we used a transgenic mouse line that overexpresses ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase-1 in adipocytes, which inhibits the insulin receptor. Here, we demonstrate that a model of peripheral insulin resistance exacerbates high-fat diet induced deficits in performance on the Morris Water Maze task. This finding was then reviewed in the context of the greater literature to explore potential mechanisms including triglyceride storage, adiponectin, lipid composition, insulin signaling, oxidative stress, and hippocampal signaling. Together, these findings further our understanding of the complex relationship among peripheral insulin resistance, diet and memory.
Preparing the next generation of instructional designers: a cross-institution faculty collaboration

The ability of novice instructional designers to become skilled problem-solvers, who select and apply appropriate instructional design (ID) models in their work environments, are key competencies generally sought after in introductory ID courses. Yet, the proliferation of ID models, coupled with varied philosophies and practices about how ID is taught may pose challenges for ID educators seeking to prepare the next generation of leaders in the field. With little empirical research or documented best practices, ID educators are left to their own judgment about to how to navigate the practical challenges that can arise in the pursuit of their teaching goals. This paper shares insights on how ID educators across institutions teach introductory ID under varied conditions, and how ID educators can support each other in addressing challenges faced by those teaching introductory ID and seeking to improve their own practice. Using action research methods, we engaged in cross-institutional collaboration, sharing teaching approaches, philosophies, modes of delivery, instructional strategies, resources, models, and products of instructional design with each other as a means to understand and improve our own teaching practices. We also developed a model for cross-institutional faculty collaboration that is immersive, cyclical, and theory-based, and provides a guide for other ID educators to collectively engage in the work of supporting each other in the common goal of preparing the next generation of instructional design leaders.
Microsoft Brings Personal Computing Home

Software for home computers can offer virtually unlimited educational and entertainment capabilities — allowing arm hair sports fans to become experts at their favorite game; families to learn together using interactive instruction, simulation games and talking books; and empowering home-office workers to run then-businesses with the finesse of a Fortune 500 corporation. Industry analysts agree that in North America as well as in other countries, the home market is the fastest-growing segment of the PC industry.
Ovarian Changes During the Climacteric

The main known functions of the human ovary are the cyclic release of oocytes and the elaboration of steroid hormones. These two functions are closely interrelated during a reproductive life span that may last up to four decades. During this period, cyclic and repetitive changes in estrogen and progesterone secretion are integrated with follicle maturation, ovulation, corpus luteum formation and regression. Cessation of reproductive life is characterized by a decline in ga-metogenic and steroidogenic functions. This decline is gradual and thus ovarian aging represents the conclusion of a chain of events that begins in childhood and terminates with death. This chapter will consider these events from a structural point of view. Greater emphasis will be placed on those morphologic changes that characterize the human ovary between cessation of reproduction and senescence.
The Biology of Muscle Transplantation

After a long history of unsuccessful attempts, the free grafting of entire mammahan muscles has been accomphshed in both the research laboratory (Bosova, 1962; Studitsky, 1963, 1977; Carlson, 1978) and in clinical practice (Thompson, 1971). Although working completely independently of one another, Thompson and Studitsky devised similar grafting techniques. After considerable experience with various regeneration models, Studitsky (1963) elaborated the concept of the “plastic state”, a condition to which mammalian muscle must be reduced in order for massive amounts of regeneration to occur. Treatments leading to the plastic state are denervation or slicing trauma prior to whole muscle grafting, or mincing a fresh muscle into small (one mm3) fragments. According to Studitsky, the plastic state facilitates regeneration, which he considered to be the basis for the success of muscle grafts.
Amino Acid Composition and Biological Value of Cereal Germs

Cereal germs, rich in protein, fat, vitamins, minerals and fiber, are well known for their nutritional contributions to foods and feeds. They are readily available in large quantities as a by-product of the huge yearly crop of cereals.
Predicting synergism in binary mixtures of surfactants

Chemicals in the environment continue to cause concern. One method of decreasing the environmental impact of surfactants is to design new molecules that are more efficient and effective in their interfacial activity. New types of surfactants with two hydrophilic and two or three hydrophobic groups in the molecule, called gemini surfactants, exhibit these characteristics. When properly designed, they can be as much as three orders of magnitude more efficient in reducing the surface tension of aqueous solutions than comparable conventional surfactants. A second method is to use mixtures of known surfactants that exhibit synergism in their interfacial properties. This paper will discuss the second method.
Timing Of RVAD Insertion and The Associated Outcomes in CF-LVAD Patients

Study Right ventricular assist devices (RVAD) are commonly used for severe right heart failure (RHF) after continuous flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) insertion. However, the timing of RVAD insertion and the associated outcomes in CF-LVAD patients remains unclear. This study evaluates the effect of timing of RVAD insertion on long-term outcomes of CF-LVAD patients. Methods We performed a retrospective review CF-LVAD implantations from Jan 2001 through Mar 2017 at our center. From this, we culled out patients who received an RVAD and divided this cohort into early insertion (≤24 hours after CF-LVAD placement) and delayed insertion (>24 hours and ≤30days after CF-LVAD placement) groups. We compared early and late outcomes in the two groups. Results Within the CF-LVAD placement cohort (n=692), 61 (8.82%) patients required RVAD for severe RHF, with 35 (57.4%) patients in the early insertion group and 26 (42.6%) in the delayed insertion group. The majority of patients received temporary-type RVADs (CentriMag=42, TandemHeart=3) while some received durable-type RVADs (HeartWare=5, HeartMateII=1, Abiomed5000=4, Jarvik2000=1, Thoratec PVAD=3, Biomedicus=1). The mean duration of RVAD support was 48.8 days. In the early group, 17 (48.6%) patients were successfully weaned vs. 10 (38.5%) in the delayed group (p=NS). Overall differences between the early and late group have been summarized in Table 1 . Thirty-day mortality was similar for early 19 (54.3%) vs. delayed group 15 (57.7%) (p=NS) (Figure 1). There was no significant difference between the two groups in successfully bridging to transplantation. The 12-month overall survival rate in early placement patients was 16.7% and 26.9% in the delayed placement patients (p=NS) (Figure 1). Conclusions In this cohort of patients, no significant differences were found between the early and delayed groups in length of stay or 30-day readmission rates. There is no effect of timing of RVAD insertion on long-term outcomes of CF-LVAD patients. Prospective randomized trials can be designed to answer this equipoise effectively.