cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The location of untranscribed DNA sequences within ras genes essential for eliciting plant growth suppression.

Three heterologous ras DNA-coding sequences and their deletion derivatives were introduced into plant cells to investigate the role of the ras-coding sequences, especially conserved regions, in eliciting growth inhibition. All three ras-coding sequences caused a similar inhibition of plant cell growth, and it was the conserved coding regions which were responsible for this inhibitory effect. The 493 bp conserved region within the v-Ha-ras-coding sequence was studied further, and was shown to be responsible for the inhibitory effect. This region is conserved (over 44%) among the three ras genes studied and encodes a catalytic region of the Ras protein. Small deletions at either the 5′ or 3′ end of this 493 bp sequence could abolish or dramatically reduce the inhibitory effect. A 36 bp region at the 5′ end of the 493 bp region was found to be highly conserved between v-Ha-ras and eight different plant ras or ras-related genes based upon analysis of published sequences. Small deletions affecting this highly conserved 36 bp region completely abolished the inhibitory effect, while deletion of a similar number of base pairs in adjacent regions did not. These results indicate that plant growth inhibition by ras DNA requires small regions at both ends of the 493 bp conserved region.
Brillouin light scattering from polymer gels

This paper is devoted to the theory of laser light scattering from polymer gels. The principal purpose of the inquiry is the structure of the Brillouin peaks that arise from the damped sound modes that are supported by the polymer network–fluid system. Our analysis includes coupling between sound waves in the fluid and elastic waves in the polymer network that is present even in the absence of any dissipative mechanisms. Explicit expressions are given for the eigenmodes of the gel in the presence of viscous damping and strong friction between the fluid motion and the polymer network. A comparison is made between the theory and available experimental evidence. The main point is that the shift and width of the Brillouin light scattering peaks (and by analogy sound attenuation) may usefully be employed to study both the static and dynamical properties of polymer gels.
Mannosyltransferase activities in membranes from various yeast strains

In the yeast Golgi compartments, at least five, and potentially several additional mannosyltransferases are involved in elongating to 'mannan' the core Man8GlcNAc2 oligosaccharide trimmed from Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 in the endoplasmic reticulum. Structural studies on oligosaccharides from alg3 mutant yeast, which lack the four upper arm mannoses donated by Man-P-Dol (where Dol is dolichol), verified that the new alpha 1,6-branch in endo H-resistant mannan in this strain is efficiently initiated in vivo on the alpha 1,3-linked core residue of the lipid-oligosaccharide form of Man5GlcNAc2 (Verostek et al., J. Biol. Chem., 266, 5547-5551, 1991). This Man5GlcNAcGlcNAc[3H]ol isomer (where GlcNAc[3H]ol is N-acetylglucosamin [1-3H] itol) was found to be an excellent acceptor for a number of GDP-Man-dependent Golgi mannosyltransferases in detergent-solubilized yeast membrane preparations: an alpha 1,3-mannosyltransferase (Mnn1p), an alpha 1,6-mannosyltransferase (Och1p) and two alpha 1,2-mannosyltransferases (Mnt1p/Kre2p,?) whose products were readily identified by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The Man6GlcNAcGlcNAc[3H]ol isomers formed were easily defined by alpha 1,2-mannosidase sensitivity and either Bio-Gel P-4 gel filtration or AX-5 high-performance liquid chromatography. In general, mannosyltransferases present in detergent-solubilized microsomes from most yeast strains mimicked the array of sugar linkages observed on their respective glycoproteins. However, in the case of the Saccharomyces pmr1 mutant, an alpha 1,3-mannosyltransferase was active in microsomal extracts, but the alpha 1,3-Man epitope could not be identified on Western blots of cellular glycoproteins using sugar linkage-specific antibodies or lectins. The in vitro transferase assay is simple, rapid and accurate, and in the case of pmr1 suggests that in vivo either invertase is misrouted during secretion or the alpha 1,3-mannosyltransferase is mistargeted after its synthesis in this mutant.
Axisymmetric instability in a non-circular tokamak: experiment and theory

The stability of dee, inverse-dee and square-cross-section plasmas to axisymmetric modes has been investigated experimentally in Tokapole II, a tokamak with a four-null poloidal divertor. Experimental results are closely compared with predictions of two numerical stability codes: the PEST code (ideal MHD, linear stability) adapted to tokapole geometry and a code which follows the non-linear evolution of shapes similar to tokapole equilibria. Experimentally, there exists an optimal initial vertical position for the plasma for which both dees will experience a small oscillation with the restoring force provided by non-linear passive feedback. Slight vertical displacement of the initial position causes, however, both dees to be unstable to a non-rigid vertical motion. The central-magnetic-axis displacement grows exponentially with a growth time ~103 poloidal Alfven times or on the order of the plasma L/R time. Contrarily, the square is always vertically stable. Experimental poloidal flux plots are produced directly from internal-magnetic-probe measurements. The PEST code, ignoring passive feedback, predicts all equilibria to be vertically unstable with the square having the slowest growth. With passive feedback, all are stable. Thus experiment and code agree that the square is the most stable shape, but experiment indicates that passive feedback is partially defeated by finite resistivity. In both code and experiment, square-like equilibria exhibit a relatively harmless horizontal instability.
Reciprocal recombination in prophage lambda

Well-separated prophage markers in an E. coli λ/F′ (λ) partial diploid recombine reciprocally.
The uniqueness of the cubic lattice graph

Abstract A cubic lattice graph is defined as a graph G, whose vertices are the ordered triplets on n symbols, such that two vertices are adjacent if and only if they have two coordinates in common. Laskar characterized these graphs for n>7 by means of five conditions. In this paper the same characterization is shown to hold for all n except for n=4, where the existence of exactly one exceptional case is demonstrated.
e: The Master of All

The time has come to end our stroll through the Garden ofe-den, even though we have yet to taste many of its most succulent fruits, such as exponential splines [62]. However, I would like to conclude my p-e-an toe in a lighter vein.
Differential effects of exercise on aortic mitochondria.

Routine exercise is widely recognized as cardioprotective. Exercise induces a variety of effects within the cardiovasculature, including decreased mitochondrial damage and improved aerobic capacity...
Extracardiac Progenitor Cells Repopulate Most Major Cell Types in the Transplanted Human Heart

Background— Extracardiac progenitor cells are capable of repopulating cardiomyocytes at very low levels in the human heart after injury. Here, we explored the extent of endothelial, smooth muscle, and Schwann cell chimerism in patients with sex-mismatched (female-to-male) heart transplants. Methods and Results— Autopsy specimens from 5 patients and endomyocardial biopsies from 7 patients were used for this study. Endothelial, vascular smooth muscle, and Schwann cells were stained with antibodies against CD31 or Ulex europaeus lectin, smooth muscle α-actin, and S-100, respectively, and the Y chromosome was identified with in situ hybridization. Biopsy specimens from 1, 4, 6, and 12 months and 5 and 10 years after heart transplantation were evaluated. Y-positive cells were counted by conventional bright-field microscopy and confirmed by confocal microscopy. Endothelial cells showed the highest degree of chimerism, averaging 24.3±8.2% from extracardiac sources. Schwann cells showed the next highest chimerism, averaging 11.2±2.1%; vascular smooth muscle cells averaged 3.4±1.8%. All 3 cell types showed substantially higher chimerism than we previously observed for cardiomyocytes (0.04±0.05%). Endothelial chimerism was much higher in the microcirculation than in larger vessels. Analysis of serial endomyocardial biopsies revealed that high levels of endothelial chimerism occurred as early as 1 month after transplantation (22±6.6%) with no significant increases even up to 10 years after cardiac transplantation. Conclusions— Extracardiac progenitor cells are capable of repopulating most major cell types in the heart, but they do so with varying frequency. The signals for endothelial progenitor recruitment occur early and could relate to injury during allograft harvest or transplantation. The high degree of endothelial chimerism may have immune implications such as for myocardial rejection or graft vasculopathy.
Rate changes in cell replication and protein synthesis in the periodontal ligament incident to tooth movement.

A 11 banded orthodontic appliances accomplish their purposes by delivering forces to the periodontium through the banded teeth. The introduction of these forces alters the pre-existing biologic steady state and initiates changes which result in movement of the teeth toward new locations at which they would again be in mechanical equilibrium with the forces impinging upon them. To thoughtful investigators, it was early apparent that profoundly important biologic processes intermediate between the first cause (mechanical load) and the final effect (tooth movement). As F. Noyesl stated in 1942, “It seems axiomatic. . . that mechanical forces applied to the teeth are not used to produce mechanical movement but are used as biological stimuli to set up vital reactions in the tissues.” For this reason, the exact pattern of biologic responses which follows the delivery of a force to a tooth is a prime theoretical concern of the practicing clinical orthodontist. Indeed, the investigation of the manner in which mechanical forces delivered to teeth are translated into biologic instructions to alter the anatomy of the periodontium continues to be one of the most intriguing and compelling tasks in orthodontics. Since the time of Schleiden and Schwann, and particularly since the work
The Dynamic Flow of Nursing and Society: A United Kingdom Perspective:

Society and the definition of health are dynamically fluid. The skill for nursing is to be involved in this process of growth. The process of change provokes one into examining issues from various perspectives. It requires reflection, questioning, and dialogue to develop solutions. Could the developments launched in the United Kingdom (specific focus England) advance intentional care to the fore? Can the deeper ontological root of nursing be brought into the human development of becoming whole? In this column, the author seeks to examine some of these questions.
Spatial Variability of “Did You Feel It?” Intensity Data: Insights into Sampling Biases in Historical Earthquake Intensity Distributions

Recent parallel development of improved quantitative methods to analyze intensity distributions for historical earthquakes and of web‐based systems for collecting intensity data for modern earthquakes provides an opportunity to reconsider not only important individual historical earthquakes but also the overall characterization of intensity distributions for historical events. The focus of this study is a comparison between intensity distributions of historical earthquakes with those from modern earthquakes for which intensities have been determined by the U.S. Geological Survey “Did You Feel It?” (DYFI) website (see [Data and Resources][1]). As an example of a historical earthquake, I focus initially on the 1843 Marked Tree, Arkansas, event. Its magnitude has been previously estimated as 6.0–6.2. I first reevaluate the macroseismic effects of this earthquake, assigning intensities using a traditional approach, and estimate a preferred magnitude of 5.4. Modified Mercalli intensity (MMI) values for the Marked Tree earthquake are higher, on average, than those from the 2011 M w 5.8 Mineral, Virginia, earthquake for distances ≤500 km but comparable or lower on average at larger distances, with a smaller overall felt extent. Intensity distributions for other moderate historical earthquakes reveal similar discrepancies; the discrepancy is also even more pronounced using earlier published intensities for the 1843 earthquake. I discuss several hypotheses to explain the discrepancies, including the possibility that intensity values associated with historical earthquakes are commonly inflated due to reporting/sampling biases. A detailed consideration of the DYFI intensity distribution for the Mineral earthquake illustrates how reporting and sampling biases can account for historical earthquake intensity biases as high as two intensity units and for the qualitative difference in intensity distance decays for modern versus historical events. Thus, intensity maps for historical earthquakes tend to imply more widespread damage patterns than are revealed by intensity distributions of modern earthquakes of comparable magnitude. However, intensity accounts of historical earthquakes often include fragmentary accounts suggesting long‐period shaking effects that will likely not be captured fully in historical intensity distributions. Online Material: Archival accounts for the 4 January 1843 Marked Tree, Arkansas, and 8 October 1857 Southern Illinois earthquakes. [1]: #sec-9
System reliability prediction prioritization strategy

A procedure is presented to prioritize system reliability prediction activities once a preliminary reliability prediction has been determined. Time and budgetary constraints impose limitations on the extent of analyses and testing needed to determine component reliability estimates. Therefore, it becomes necessary to allocate limited resources in accordance with their system-level impact. The variance of the system reliability estimate is decomposed so that the effect of individual components within the system can be compared and ranked. The reliability prediction prioritization index (RPPI) is defined to allow a comparison of components and to provide a relative ranking of components that can be used to separate the components into two priority groups. The separation is based on whether a decrease of the component reliability estimate variance meaningfully decreases the system reliability estimate variance. The procedure is demonstrated on an automatic train control example.
Inducing an anergic state in mast cells and basophils without secretion.

Background IgE-mediated secretion from mast cells or basophils depends on the activity of both spleen tyrosine kinase (syk) and phosphatidyl inositol 3′ kinase (PI3K), but several specific downregulatory pathways (eg, loss of syk expression) do not. Objective We tested whether stimulation with antigen in the presence of a syk inhibitor (NVP-QAB205) would ablate secretion while simultaneously allowing anergy. Methods The anergic or desensitized state in human basophils, cultured-derived mast cells, and in situ stimulated airway mast cells (in organ baths) was assessed after stimulation with antigen in the presence of syk inhibitor. Results Antigen caused 35 ± 7% and 62 ± 10% histamine release from basophils and mast cells, respectively, and it caused an 87 ± 5% histamine/leukotriene D 4 –dependent contraction of human isolated bronchi. All of these responses were blocked >95% by the syk inhibitor. Rechallenging the preparations with antigen, after first washing out the syk inhibitor and antigen, revealed that near complete anergy (92% to 100%) occurred in each case. A similar result was found when using a PI3K inhibitor, LY294002, in studies of basophils. Conclusion Although the syk inhibitor nearly abolished the antigen-induced secretion from mast cells and basophils, it had little effect on the pathways involved in anergy. These results suggest that syk and PI3K are not involved in downregulation leading to anergy.
Co-Evolution of Entrepreneurial Careers, Institutional Rules and Competitive Dynamics in American Film, 1895-1920

An historical case analysis of the American film industry is undertaken to gain a better understanding of the co-evolutionary processes of entrepreneurial careers, institutional rules and competitive dynamics in emerging industries. The study compares technology and content-focused periods, which were driven by entrepreneurs with different career histories and characterized by distinct institutional rules and competitive dynamics. Archival data and historical analysis is used to trace how entrepreneurial careers, firm capabilities, institutional rules, and competitive dynamics co-evolved. A co-evolutionary perspective is integrated with insights from institutional and resource-based theories to explain how the American film industry emerged, set an initial trajectory with specific institutional rules and competitive dynamics, and then changed.
Conflict Resolution among Peaceful Societies: The Culture of Peacefulness:

The literature about 24 peaceful peoples was examined to determine if their ways of conflict resolution differ from the approaches to conflict found in other, more violent, societies. While the strategies for managing conflicts employed by these peoples are comparable to those used in many other small-scale societies, their worldviews of peacefulness and the structures they use to reinforce those world-views do distinguish them from other societies. Several common notions about conflict and conflict resolution that are asserted by Western scholars can be questioned in light of the success of these societies in peacefully resolving conflicts: namely, that violent conflict is inevitable in all societies; that punishment and armed force prevent internal and external violence; that political structures are necessary to prevent conflicts; and that conflict should be viewed as positive and necessary. The contrary evidence is that over half of the peaceful societies have no recorded violence; they rarely punish other adults (except for the threat of ostracism); they handle conflicts with outside societies in the same peaceful ways that they approach internal conflicts; they do not look to outside governments when they have internal disputes; and they have a highly negative view of conflict.
Dissecting an Allosteric Switch in Caspase-7 Using Chemical and Mutational Probes

Apoptotic caspases, such as caspase-7, are stored as inactive protease zymogens, and when activated, lead to a fate-determining switch to induce cell death. We previously discovered small molecule thiol-containing inhibitors that when tethered revealed an allosteric site and trapped a conformation similar to the zymogen form of the enzyme. We noted three structural transitions that the compounds induced: (i) breaking of an interaction between Tyr-223 and Arg-187 in the allosteric site, which prevents proper ordering of the catalytic cysteine; (ii) pinning the L2′ loop over the allosteric site, which blocks critical interactions for proper ordering of the substrate-binding groove; and (iii) a hinge-like rotation at Gly-188 positioned after the catalytic Cys-186 and Arg-187. Here we report a systematic mutational analysis of these regions to dissect their functional importance to mediate the allosteric transition induced by these compounds. Mutating the hinge Gly-188 to the restrictive proline causes a massive ∼6000-fold reduction in catalytic efficiency. Mutations in the Arg-187–Tyr-223 couple have a far less dramatic effect (3–20-fold reductions). Interestingly, although the allosteric couple mutants still allow binding and allosteric inhibition, they partially relieve the mutual exclusivity of binding between inhibitors at the active and allosteric sites. These data highlight a small set of residues critical for mediating the transition from active to inactive zymogen-like states.
A computer controlled energy conversion laboratory for electrical engineering students

A computer-controlled energy-conversion laboratory for undergraduate and graduate-conversion courses is presented. The laboratory utilizes data acquisition, an electronic controller, and finite elements for analysis. The finite-element method was used to develop computerized analysis method by which students would be able to compare theoretical results with laboratory data. The purpose is to improve the power machines laboratory from merely a hands-on exercise to an in-depth analytical experience in which the student is able to compare laboratory results with theoretical expectations. This approach may be used in studying and analyzing transformers, induction machines, synchronous machines, and DC machines. An example is given to illustrate this technique. >
The Haptoglobin genotype predicts cardio-renal mortality in type 1 diabetes

Abstract Aims The Haptoglobin ( HP ) 2-2 genotype increases cardiovascular diabetes complication incidence. In type 1 diabetes, HP 2-2 also predicts declining kidney function and end-stage renal disease. We investigated whether HP 2-2 predisposes to cardio-renal mortality, while considering other causes of death as competing risks. Methods Individuals with type 1 diabetes and HP data available (n=486; mean baseline age, 27 and duration, 19years) were selected for study. Vital status was assessed as of 8/31/2014. The underlying cause of death was determined and classified based on standardized procedures. Results During 25years of follow-up, 79 (16.3%) cardio-renal deaths and 43 (8.8%) deaths related to other causes occurred. Although total mortality did not differ by HP (25.4% with HP 1 versus 24.6% with HP 2-2, p=0.84), a greater proportion of HP 2-2 carriers exhibited a cardio-renal death (19.0 versus 14.2, p=0.05). In time-to-event analyses, HP 2-2 was associated with a statistically significant increase of the sub-distribution hazard ratio for cardio-renal mortality (HR=1.64, p=0.03), although this effect was somewhat attenuated after multivariable adjustment (HR=1.58, p=0.05). Conclusions Our results suggest that in addition to predicting the incidence of cardio-renal complications, HP 2-2 also increases susceptibility for cardio-renal mortality in type 1 diabetes. These findings require validation in other cohorts.
Brain stem as a target site for the metabolic side effects of olanzapine

Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is widely prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder despite causing undesirable metabolic side effects. A variety of mechanisms and brain sites have been proposed as contributors to the side effects; however, the role of the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve (DMV), which plays a crucial role in the regulation of subdiaphragmatic organs and thus governs energy and glucose homeostasis, is largely unknown. Identifying the effect of olanzapine on the excitability of DMV neurons in both sexes is thus crucial to understanding possible underlying mechanisms. Whole cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings were conducted in stomach- and liver-related DMV neurons identified with retrograde viral tracers and in random DMV neurons. The effect of olanzapine on the neuronal excitability of DMV neurons both in male and female mice was established. Our data demonstrate that olanzapine hyperpolarizes the DMV neurons in both sexes and this effect is reversible. The hyperpolarization is associated with decreased firing rate and input resistance. Olanzapine also decreases the excitability of a subset of stomach- and liver-related DMV neurons. Our study demonstrates that olanzapine has a powerful effect on DMV neurons in both sexes, indicating its ability to reduce vagal output to the subdiaphragmatic organs, which likely contributes to the metabolic side effects observed in both humans and experimental models. These findings suggest that the metabolic side effects of olanzapine may partially originate in the DMV.
A Structural Role for Dihydropteroyl Hexaglutamate in the Tail Baseplate of Various Bacteriophages

A novel non-metabolic role is proposed for dihydropteroyl hexa-glutamate as a critical link binding together sub-structures of the tail of Escherichia coli bacteriophage T4. Six molecules of this folate compound have been found to be components of the complex tail baseplate of the phage particle. The baseplate is assembled using a total of at least 18 viral gene products in a series of reactions in which six wedge-like elements (each 0.7 × 106 daltons) bind symmetrically around a central tail plug (1.55 × 106 daltons) to form a flat hexagonal structure. It appears likely that the pteridine portion of the folate binds to a site on a viral-induced dihydro-folate reductase molecule, a wedge component, while the glutamate residues of the folate bind to a viral-induced thymidylate synthase molecule, a central plug component. Additionally, it appears that the folyl glutamate residues play a role in forming a flexible bond between the proximal end of the phage long tail fiber and the baseplate.
Urethral Denervation Testing

This test relies on Cannon’s hypothesis that a denervated organ becomes hypersensitive to its neurotransmitter. Since the urethra is primarily an alpha-adrenergic organ, its denervation should produce a hypersensitivity to alpha-adrenergic stimulants. This hypersensitivity should be reflected in a higher urethral pressure in the urethral closure pressure profile after administration of the drug compared to the baseline urethral pressure. The drug used in testing is ethylphenylephrine in a usual dosage of 4 mg IV. Urethral closure pressure profiles are obtained before and after its administration for comparison. An increase of 15 cmH20 is considered positive and evidence of denervation of the urethra.
The Impact of Diseases on Cacao Production: A Global Overview

Cacao (Theobroma cacao), one of the most important tropical crops, is responsible for a multibillion-dollar confectionary trade. It originated in the neotropics, but most production now occurs outside its native range. Diseases are significant constraints in commercial production and reduce yields by a conservative total of 20 %, or a projected 1.3 million tons of beans in 2012. As it was moved outside the neotropics, cacao was released from its two primary American enemies, Moniliophthora roreri (cause of frosty pod) and M. perniciosa (witches’ broom). The diseases they cause would devastate production in West Africa and Asia if they were reunited with their cacao host. Diverse pathogens impact production in other areas. Newly encountered pathogens in West Africa (Cacao swollen shoot virus and Phytophthora megakarya) and Asia [Ceratobasidium (aka Oncobasidium) theobromae] are serious problems in those areas, as are other fungi and stramenopiles with wider geographic distributions. The ranges of the major pathogens and the impacts and losses that result from the diseases they cause are considered below. The potential impacts of the geographically restricted problems are assessed to evaluate the vulnerability of this crop. In a worst-case scenario, global production would be impossible in the presence of all of the major pathogens.
State of the research environment - 2013

This report describes the condition of the research environment at Sandia National Laboratories and outlines key environment improvement activities undertaken by the Office of the Chief Technology Officer and the Sandia Research Leadership Team during fiscal year 2013. The report also outlines Lab-level objectives related to the research environment for fiscal year 2014.
Sudden death in epilepsy, surgery, and seizure outcomes: The interface between heart and brain

A significant body of literature suggests that sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) has a cardiac mechanism. Although a correlation has been established between freedom from seizures and reduced SUDEP risk, the exact relationship between seizure outcomes following epilepsy surgery and SUDEP is still being studied. Emerging evidence suggests that seizure outcomes following epilepsy surgery and risk for SUDEP may both be governed by a common underlying biologic process linked to cardiac changes and autonomic dysregulation.
Use And Misuse Of Medications In The Treatment Of Dizziness

ABSTRACT This review discusses the pharmacological treatment of dizziness, focusing particularly on the vertigo subtype of dizziness. Classes of medications useful in the treatment of vertigo include anticholinergics, antihistamines, benzodiazepines, calcium channel blockers, and dopamine blockers. These medications often have multiple actions. They may modify the intensity of symptoms (eg, vestibular suppressants) or they may affect the underlying disease process (eg, calcium channel blockers in the case of vestibular migraine). Most of these agents, particularly those that are sedating, also have a potential to modulate the rate of compensation for damage. This consideration has become more relevant in recent years, as vestibular rehabilitation physical therapy is now often recommended in an attempt to improve compensation. Accordingly, therapy of vertigo is optimized when the prescriber has detailed knowledge of the pharmacology of medications being administered as well as the precise actions being sought.
Suppression of lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage nitric oxide and cytokine production in vitro by a novel lipopolysaccharide antagonist.

Background. Many of the physiologic derangements resulting in septic shock are caused by inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines produced in response to bacterial endotoxin or, more specifically, lipopolysaccharide. The recent development of a novel class of lipopolysaccharide antagonists offers the opportunity to block this response selectively. In this article we investigated the ability of one of these antagonists, B464 (Eisai), to block lipopolysaccharide-induced release of macrophage NO and cytokines
The Role of Integrins in Osteosarcoma

Integrins are cell adhesion molecules that link the extracellular matrix to the cytoskeleton and play a critical role in diverse cellular processes including gene transcription, signal transduction, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis.Integrinsare centralto cancer biology and have been implicated in the pathogenesis and metastasis of osteosarcoma (OS). Increased αvβ3 integrin expression is directly correlated to the metastatic potential of multiple human OS cell lines. Additionally, αvβ3 integrin interaction with FPRL-1 and TIMP-1 enhances both chemotactic and anti-apoptotic ability in OS cells. Likewise, β1 integrins enhance OS tumorinvasiveness and metastasis by mediating cellular migration in response to chemokine stimulation. In summary, integrins hold potential as novel therapeutic targets due to their critical role in regulating cellular adhesion to bone matrix and consequently OS pathogenesis. Although integrins have been thoroughly studied in pre-clinical settings, pharmacological inhibition of integrins has not been successfully translated to clinical practice and is still under evaluation to elucidate its safety and efficacy in human patients.
An investigation into a circuit based supply chain analyzer for FPGAs

FPGAs are used in many long-life systems that serve mission-critical needs. The supply chain and life-cycle management of these devices have long relied on ensuring adequate controls are in place. In this paper, a technique is presented that provides measurement vectors by determining both characteristics of the supply properties of the FPGA and characteristics of aging of the FPGA. Asynchronous ring oscillators are placed throughout the FPGA, and the measurement of these oscillators is compared to other chips both within a manufacturing lot and between other manufacturing lots. Through these non-invasive measurements, the “health history” of the FPGA can be evaluated and utilized in supply chain decisions before and during system operation.
Drawing More Lines: Response to Depraetere and Salkie

It is now widely recognized that there is a middle ground between being literal and fully explicit in meaning something and merely implicating it. In this case what the speaker means is, unlike implicature, an enrichment of the semantic content of the uttered sentence. The hearer needs to recognize that this semantic content includes only part of what the speaker could mean, either because it falls short of comprising a proposition or because the proposition it does comprise is not specific enough to be what the speaker could plausibly be supposed to mean. The speaker intends to communicate, depending on the case, either a completion or an expansion of the semantic content. Depraetere & Salkie propose a novel conception of this distinction, on which disambiguation counts as a case of completion and resolving semantic underspecification counts as expansion (free pragmatic enrichment). Although their approach makes sense from the standpoint of the hearer’s task of figuring out what a speaker means, I will suggest that the completion/expansion distinction as well as several important subordinate distinctions should be understood more abstractly, as different relations between what the speaker means and the semantic content of the uttered sentence.
Acute Zonal Cone Photoreceptor Outer Segment Loss.

Importance The diagnostic path presented narrows down the cause of acute vision loss to the cone photoreceptor outer segment and will refocus the search for the cause of similar currently idiopathic conditions. Objective To describe the structural and functional associations found in a patient with acute zonal occult photoreceptor loss. Design, Setting, and Participants A case report of an adolescent boy with acute visual field loss despite a normal fundus examination performed at a university teaching hospital. Main Outcomes and Measures Results of a complete ophthalmic examination, full-field flash electroretinography (ERG) and multifocal ERG, light-adapted achromatic and 2-color dark-adapted perimetry, and microperimetry. Imaging was performed with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), near-infrared (NIR) and short-wavelength (SW) fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and NIR reflectance (REF). Results The patient was evaluated within a week of the onset of a scotoma in the nasal field of his left eye. Visual acuity was 20/20 OU, and color vision was normal in both eyes. Results of the fundus examination and of SW-FAF and NIR-FAF imaging were normal in both eyes, whereas NIR-REF imaging showed a region of hyporeflectance temporal to the fovea that corresponded with a dense relative scotoma noted on light-adapted static perimetry in the left eye. Loss in the photoreceptor outer segment detected by SD-OCT co-localized with an area of dense cone dysfunction detected on light-adapted perimetry and multifocal ERG but with near-normal rod-mediated vision according to results of 2-color dark-adapted perimetry. Full-field flash ERG findings were normal in both eyes. The outer nuclear layer and inner retinal thicknesses were normal. Conclusions and Relevance Localized, isolated cone dysfunction may represent the earliest photoreceptor abnormality or a distinct entity within the acute zonal occult outer retinopathy complex. Acute zonal occult outer retinopathy should be considered in patients with acute vision loss and abnormalities on NIR-REF imaging, especially if multimodal imaging supports an intact retinal pigment epithelium and inner retina but an abnormal photoreceptor outer segment.
On the Existence of Uller's Waves*

Abstract A reexamination of a general theory of wave propagation proposed by Uller is carried out. The conclusion is reached that his hypothesis has not been placed on a firm physical foundation and cannot be considered valid in interpreting seismic data.
Generation of inner ear organoids containing functional hair cells from human pluripotent stem cells

The derivation of human inner ear tissue from pluripotent stem cells would enable in vitro screening of drug candidates for the treatment of hearing and balance dysfunction and may provide a source of cells for cell-based therapies of the inner ear. Here we report a method for differentiating human pluripotent stem cells to inner ear organoids that harbor functional hair cells. Using a three-dimensional culture system, we modulate TGF, BMP, FGF, and WNT signaling to generate multiple otic-vesicle-like structures from a single stem-cell aggregate. Over 2 months, the vesicles develop into inner ear organoids with sensory epithelia that are innervated by sensory neurons. Additionally, using CRISPR-Cas9, we generate an ATOH1-2A-eGFP cell line to detect hair cell induction and demonstrate that derived hair cells exhibit electrophysiological properties similar to those of native sensory hair cells. Our culture system should facilitate the study of human inner ear development and research on therapies for diseases of the inner ear.
Web-based recruiting’s impact on organizational image and familiarity: too much of a good thing?

AbstractLittle is known about the efficacy of many of the newer forms of online recruitment. Using a quasi-experimental design, we tested the impact of individual exposure to corporate recruitment websites and Facebook on perceptions of organizational familiarity and organizational image over time. Most interestingly, we found evidence of a curvilinear or non-linear relationship between frequency of exposure to organizational communications and perceptions of organizational familiarity across time. Implications of our findings for HR theory and practice are discussed.
Healthy targets? World Bank projects and targeted health programmes and policies in Costa Rica, Argentina, and Peru, 1980–2005

Despite its central role in diffusing neoliberal policies and its status as an important external funder of health, the World Bank’s effect on health policies in developing countries has been littl...
Gynecologic Etiologies of Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy

This chapter discusses diagnosis and management of gynecologic causes of abdominal pain in pregnancy. Causes can range from benign to malignant to ones requiring immediate surgical attention. Most masses diagnosed in pregnancy are found incidentally on routine obstetrical ultrasound and remain asymptomatic throughout gestation. However, when they become symptomatic, high clinical suspicion may be life-saving.
Bodies in Dialogue: Arriving at Thresholds of Dialogic Connections

As a place where identities are constructed and shared, dialogue is one such interpersonal context ripe with potential to transform our understandings of Self and Other. Much research pertaining to...
Ecological Footprint Budgeting: Environmental Analysis of the Generic American Car

Author(s): Zhang, Teresa | Abstract: This paper presents a method of environmental assessment that incorporates the strengths of ecological footprint and process based life cycle analysis. Like ecological footprint, product ecological footprint delineates between sustainable and unsustainable consumption. The ecological footprint of individual products allows consumers to budget their consumption within this limit. The resolution of product ecological footprint can be scaled, like life cycle analysis, to compare one feature, process, or product against another. This study calculates the product ecological footprint of the generic American automobile using industry life cycle inventory, US statistical data, and data on global ecological capacity. It considers CO2 emissions, mining impacts, and land directly occupied as the major contributors of land use. The conversion of these impact categories to hectares of ecological services was performed using a top down approach, based on global supply. The sources were chosen to produce a lower-bound estimate rather than the true ecological footprint.Based on this study, the average car owner in the US expends at least 50% (0.8 hectares) of their ecological budget on driving alone. The footprint of a car is dominated fuel efficiency. The actual footprint may range from 30% to over 100% of one's ecological budget, corresponding to fuel efficiencies between 55 mpg and 12 mpg. The ecological footprint of the average automobile is more than 800 times the area it occupies physically. The metric of land communicates environmental impact in an immediate and tangible manner. Land accurately represents the importance of ecological services over resources alone. It is one of few metrics that can compare dissimilar products and processes. Accordingly, product ecological footprint enables consumers to formulate and follow a personal ecological budget. The results of this study are designed to be meaningful to consumers and producers in hopes of provoking societal changes that will push industry towards sustainable design and manufacturing.
The JAK/STAT signaling cascades of multiple cytokines are dysregulated during West Nile virus infection.

The neurotropic arthropod-borne flavivirus West Nile virus (WNV) is responsible for sporadic outbreaks of fever and encephalitis in infected humans, with an almost global distribution of circulating strains. During WNV infection in mammals Interferon-α/β (IFN-α/β) drives signaling through JAK/STAT pathways to enhance the expression of antiviral genes with an overall protective effect against WNV infection. However, WNV strains have been demonstrated to be able to antagonize IFN-α/β signaling within infected cells, interrupting this JAK/STAT cascade and promoting viral replication. We hypothesized that JAK/STAT signaling downstream of multiple cytokines would be broadly inhibited in WNV infected cells as a consequence of viral replication. To assess the degree of cytokine signaling in infected cells, A549 and PMA-differentiated THP-1 cells were infected with WNV for 24 hr prior to acute course treatment with various cytokines. We reveal that STAT3 and STAT5 phosphorylation, in addition to STAT1 and STAT2, is blocked in WNV-infected cells in response to IFN-β. Remarkably, JAK/STAT signaling cascades downstream of IFN-γ, IFN-λ3, IL-4, and IL-6 are also similarly dysregulated upon WNV infection, suggesting that global JAK/STAT signaling may be inhibited independent of the identity of the cytokine receptor. The breadth and mechanisms of the WNV-imposed JAK/STAT signaling blockade will be presented.
Childhood Obesity: Influential Factors and Interventions.

Abstract The prevalence of childhood obesity in the United States has gained national attention. Almost 18% of US children are obese and in the past 30 years, the rate of obesity in children has doubled. A recent research study analyzed data from 10,700 children born in the U.S. in 2001 and followed for 6 years. The new study examined racial disparities in childhood obesity and found that rates of overweight and obesity differed significantly, ranging from 29% (whites) to 44% (Hispanics) for boys and 30% (Asians) to 49% (American Indians) for girls. The strongest contributor to childhood obesity was rapid infant weight gain through age 9 months. Socioeconomic status was also an important factor. Recommendations are made concerning how healthcare providers can discuss weight and nutrition with children and families. Additional resources for healthcare providers concerning obesity are discussed.
On thresholds and environmental curve tensiometers

This paper considers distinctions between lognormal and mixture models. Emphasis is placed on two component mixtures where the lower valued subpopulation has a large mixing parameter. The density of this sort of mixture can be easily mistaken for a lognormal density. In order to compare such a mixture to a lognormal it is demonstrated that Galton's two parameter logmodel and Pearson's five parameternormal mixture are special, or limiting, cases of the same general mixture model. Consideration is given to the lognormal threshold parameter in order to devise a tool that can help distinguish mixtures from lognormals. Based on the threshold parameter, piloted procedures can help measure whether or not a curve is friable, in the sense that a brittle curve is better represented as a mixture than as a skewed lognormal. It is also shown that generalizations of Galton's product risk model can be represented interms of the threshold parameter τ Based on τ a tool called a curve tensiometer was designed to be applied as a graphical friability check in the ecological context of Fisher's classic Iris data and in the environmental context of a Santa Monica Bay fish consumption study.
Evaluation of Tropical Cyclone Forecasts in the Next Generation Global Prediction System

AbstractA new global model using the GFDL nonhydrostatic Finite-Volume Cubed-Sphere Dynamical Core (FV3) coupled to physical parameterizations from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction...
The Effects of Dairy Intake on Insulin Resistance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) has increased in the US over the last several years. The consumption of low-fat dairy foods has been linked with decreasing the risk of DM but studies have yet to show a clear correlation. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of dairy intake on homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), waist circumference, and body weight. In MEDLINE and Embase, we identified and reviewed 49 relevant RCTs: 30 had appropriate data format for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Using the Review Manager 5 software, we calculated the pooled standardized mean differences comparing dairy dietary interventions to control for our outcomes of interest. For HOMA-IR (794 individuals), we found a mean difference of −1.21 (95% CI −1.74 to −0.67; p-value < 0.00001; I2 = 92%). For waist circumference (1348 individuals), the mean difference was −1.09 cm (95% CI 1.68 to −0.58; p-value < 0.00001; I2 = 94%). For body weight (2362 individuals), the dairy intake intervention group weighed 0.42 kg less than control (p-value < 0.00001; I2 = 92%). Our findings suggest that dairy intake, especially low-fat dairy products, has a beneficial effect on HOMA-IR, waist circumference, and body weight. This could impact dietary recommendations to reduce DM risk.
Symptom Severity in Youths with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Associated with Normalizing Effects of Treatment on fMRI Response during a Stop Signal Task

Abstract Inhibitory control deficits represent one of many core cognitive deficits in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Neuroimaging studies suggest that individuals with ADHD exhibit atypical engagement of neural systems during response inhibition, but the exact nature of this phenotype is obscured by mixed findings. We tested whether drug-free youths with ADHD (n=30, ages 7-14 years, 10 female) exhibited atypical neural correlates of response inhibition, as measured with a stop signal task and fMRI, compared to matched controls. We next investigated medication effects and whether there was a relationship between symptom severity and medication effects on the fMRI-evaluated signal. Finally, we tested for a significant difference between effects of monotherapy and combined pharmacological treatment. Patients showed significantly slower stop signal response time and lower percent inhibition, but no significant differences in the neural correlates of response inhibition relative to controls. However, patients showed significantly elevated signal in frontostriatal regions during responses. Prefrontal signal in patients was positively associated with reaction time variability in patients, and change (medicated – drug free) in the prefrontal signal was significantly associated with symptom scores, such that patients with elevated symptoms had greater BOLD signal reduction following treatment. Medication significantly improved go response time median and variability as well as stop signal reaction time, but there were no significant effects of medication or treatment type on BOLD signal. These findings challenge the notion of frontostriatal hypoactivation during response inhibition as a biomarker for ADHD and suggest that symptom severity may be associated with response to medication.