cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of HETEs in human whole blood by chiral UHPLC-ECAPCI/HRMS

The biosynthesis of eicosanoids occurs enzymatically via lipoxygenases, cyclooxygenases, and cytochrome P450, or through nonenzymatic free radical reactions. The enzymatic routes are highly enantiospecific. Chiral separation and high-sensitivity detection methods are required to differentiate and quantify enantioselective HETEs in complex biological fluids. We report here a targeted chiral lipidomics analysis of human blood using ultra-HPLC-electron capture (EC) atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/high-resolution MS. Monitoring the high-resolution ions formed by the fragmentation of pentafluorobenzyl derivatives of oxidized lipids during the dissociative EC, followed by in-trap fragmentation, increased sensitivity by an order of magnitude when compared with the unit resolution MS. The 12(S)-HETE, 12(S)-hydroxy-(5Z,8E,10E)-heptadecatrienoic acid [12(S)-HHT], and 15(S)-HETE were the major hydroxylated nonesterified chiral lipids in serum. Stimulation of whole blood with zymosan and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) resulted in stimulus- and time-dependent effects. An acute exposure to zymosan induced ∼80% of the chiral plasma lipids, including 12(S)-HHT, 5(S)-HETE, 15(R)-HETE, and 15(S)-HETE, while a maximum response to LPS was achieved after a long-term stimulation. The reported method allows for a rapid quantification with high sensitivity and specificity of enantiospecific responses to in vitro stimulation or coagulation of human blood.
Why don't people lie? Negative affect intensity and preferences for honesty in budgetary reporting

Abstract Budgets are instrumental in management control systems but are prone to gaming behavior that creates slack and limits the effectiveness of budgets. Research suggests, however, that subordinates have preferences for adhering to a social norm of honesty that limits slack in their budgetary reporting. As such, an increased understanding of subordinates’ preferences for honesty can improve participative budgeting systems. We develop and test theory that increases our understanding of the drivers of preferences for honesty. We test the theory that preferences for honesty originate from an individual’s desire to avoid negative affect from violating social norms. Further, individuals systematically differ in the intensity with which they experience their negative affective reactions. Those with higher levels of this intensity (negative affect intensity, NAI), experience more negative affect and disutility from violating a norm of honesty. Thus, NAI is predictive of subordinates’ preference for honesty. Experimental results support our theory. Budgetary slack is constrained by preferences for honesty and NAI increases preferences for honesty. As such, preferences for honesty are a stronger informal control for subordinates with higher NAI. We discuss the implications of our theory for contract design and job assignment.
Nutritional Factors in Human Cancers

A variety of external factors interacting with genetic susceptibility influence the carcinogenesis process. External factors including oxidative compounds, electrophilic agents, and chronic infections may enhance genetic damage. In addition, various hormonal factors which influence growth and differentiation are critically important in the carcinogenic process. Diet and nutrition can influence these processes directly in the gastrointestinal tract by providing bioactive compounds to specific tissues via the circulatory system, or by modulating hormone levels. Differences in certain dietary patterns among populations explain a substantial proportion of cancers of the colon, prostate and breast. These malignancies are largely influenced by a combination of factors related to diet and nutrition. Their causes are multifactorial and complex, but a major influence is the widespread availability of energy-dense, highly processed and refined foods that are also deplete in fiber. These dietary patterns in combination with physical inactivity contribute to obesity and metabolic consequences such as increased levels of IGF-1, insulin, estrogen, and possibly testosterone. These hormones tend to promote cellular growth. For prostate cancer, epidemiologic studies consistently show a positive association with high consumption of milk, dairy products, and meats. These dietary factors tend to decrease 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D, a cell differentiator, and low levels of this hormone may enhance prostate carcinogenesis. While the nutritional modulation of growth-enhancing and differentiating hormones is likely to contribute to the high prevalence of breast, colorectal, prostate, and several other cancers in the Western world, these cancers are relatively rare in less economically developed countries, where malignancies of the upper gastrointestinal tract are quite common The major causes of upper gastrointestinal tract cancers are likely related to various food practices or preservation methods other than refrigeration, which increase mucosal exposure to irritants or carcinogens.
In-home supportive services for individuals with cerebral palsy in California

INTRODUCTION Individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) may require personal assistance services for optimal functioning. The primary goal of this project is to determine if differences in health services exist between individuals with CP with family versus non-family member paid personal assistance providers. The secondary goal is to describe the population of children and non-elderly adults with CP receiving in-home supportive services (IHSS) and determine their health care costs compared to other IHSS recipients. METHODS Administrative data from the California Departments of Health and Human Services, Social Services and Developmental Services were linked and de-identified to provide information about individuals receiving IHSS in California in 2005. Recipients with CP were characterized and compared by age. Then to determine the factors associated with hospital use and emergency room (ER) use for IHSS recipients with CP adjusted odds were calculated. Monthly expenditures were calculated from claims data. RESULTS 2.3% of all IHSS recipients in 2005 had CP of which 46% were children. 59% of recipients with CP have a parent as their paid provider. The presence of other medical diagnoses was the only factor associated with increased adjusted odds of hospital and ER use for both child-aged and non-elderly adult recipients with CP. Functional limitations and provider type were not associated with increased odds of health care utilization. Monthly health care expenditures for recipients with CP were ∼$1000 higher than for other IHSS recipients. CONCLUSIONS Having a parent as the IHSS provider was not associated with difference in health service utilization. This finding supports the policy of allowing parents to be paid providers.
ON THE ROLE OF RECOMBINATION AND TOPOISOMERASE IN PRIMARY AND SECONDARY INITIATION OF T4 DNA REPLICATION

ABSTRACT We have shown that initiation of primary and of secondary replication forks of phage T4 requires some different functions. Primary initiation occurs in the absence both of recombination functions and of topoisomerase activity, while secondary intiation is largely dependent on both functions. In addition, we have shown that the preferred sites for primary initiation are different from initiation sites used later in the infection. We discuss these and other results within the framework of a model in which primary initiation from specific origin sequences is independent of recombination while secondary initiation requires formation of recombinational intermediates and is facilitated by topoisomerase activities.
Basics of the Finite-Difference Method

Let u = f(x) be a continuous and differentiable function to a sufficient order in the interval [a, b].
Kallikrein-kinin system in infectious diseases.

Infectious disease including those caused by viruses, rickettsia, fungi, parasites and bacteria are known to be associated with hemostatic disorders1 including disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). This paper will concentrate on the pathogenesis of the coagulation abnormalities in particular changes in surface mediated events of plasma proteolysis. Most of the work that will be discussed will concern our studies on gram-negative septicemia since this is the most dramatic of the infectious disorders, and on typhoid fever in which controlled observations have been made. A new approach to therapy using a genetically engineered protease inhibitor will be illustrated in an animal model.
Abstract IA01: SWI/SNF (BAF) complex mutations in cancer: Mechanisms and vulnerabilities

Data emerging over the last several years implicate SWI/SNF (BAF) chromatin remodeling complexes as a major tumor suppressor as frequent inactivating mutations in at least nine different SWI/SNF subunits, collectively identified in 20% of all cancers. These include recurrent mutations of ARID1A (BAF250a) in ovarian, endometrioid, bladder, stomach, colorectal and pancreatic cancers and neuroblastoma; of the BRG1 (SMARCA4) subunit in medulloblastomas and non-small cell lung cancers; of the PBRM1 (BAF180) subunit in renal carcinomas; of the ARID2 subunit in hepatocellular, lung, and pancreas carcinomas as well as melanomas; and of the BRD7 subunit in breast cancers. The SWI/SNF complex includes both core and lineage-specific subunits and utilizes the energy of ATP to modulate chromatin structure and regulate transcription. My laboratory began studying the SWI/SNF complex when SNF5 (SMARCB1/INI1/BAF47) became the first SWI/SNF subunit linked to tumor suppression over fifteen years ago when it was found to be biallelically inactivated in nearly all cases of a highly aggressive type of pediatric cancer called malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT). Despite the extremely aggressive and lethal nature of MRT, we have shown that these cancers are diploid and have remarkably simple genomes. We now study the complex using mouse models, cell lines, and primary human tumor samples. Insights into the normal function of SWI/SNF complexes, the mechanisms by which mutation of the complexes drive cancer formation, and potential therapeutic vulnerabilities created by mutation of the complex will be presented, including our recent efforts that identify a central role for SWI/SNF complexes in enhancer regulation. Citation Format: Charles W. M. Roberts. SWI/SNF (BAF) complex mutations in cancer: Mechanisms and vulnerabilities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Conference on Advances in Sarcomas: From Basic Science to Clinical Translation; May 16-19, 2017; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2018;24(2_Suppl):Abstract nr IA01.
Increasing Solar Photovoltaic Penetration Using Thermal Energy Storage

Thermal energy storage (TES) is a mature technology, deployed throughout the world, particularly in the southern United States. Through modeling and simulation of Arizona State University's system, it has been determined that TES is a cost-effective way to increase solar photovoltaic (PV) penetration. This novel management method enables significant increases in PV, while alleviating many of the problems associated with traditional TES management schemes. This research includes a study of feasibility of the proposed management scheme.
Practical aspects of actigraphy and approaches in clinical and research domains

Actigraphy involves acquisition of data using a movement sensor worn continuously on the nondominant wrist, typically for a week or more. Computer-based algorithms estimate sleep episodes by analysis of continuous minutes of no to low movement, or spans of time when movement is relatively low compared with movements during presumed ambulatory wakefulness. Inherent advantages of actigraphy over polysomnography include its noninvasive nature, cost-effectiveness, lesser burden on patients/research participants, and ability to collect data over multiple days/nights, thereby allowing examination of sleep-wake patterning. Therefore, actigraphy is emerging as a common method to objectively assess sleep parameters providing estimates of sleep duration and continuity. Modes of actigraphy data collection, scoring algorithms, sleep quality/disturbance measures, validation studies, and clinical and research applications are discussed.
Mechanisms of adhesion G protein–coupled receptor activation

Adhesion G protein–coupled receptors (AGPCRs) are a thirty-three-member subfamily of Class B GPCRs that control a wide array of physiological processes and are implicated in disease. AGPCRs uniquely contain large, self-proteolyzing extracellular regions that range from hundreds to thousands of residues in length. AGPCR autoproteolysis occurs within the extracellular GPCR autoproteolysis-inducing (GAIN) domain that is proximal to the N terminus of the G protein–coupling seven-transmembrane–spanning bundle. GAIN domain–mediated self-cleavage is constitutive and produces two-fragment holoreceptors that remain bound at the cell surface. It has been of recent interest to understand how AGPCRs are activated in relation to their two-fragment topologies. Dissociation of the AGPCR fragments stimulates G protein signaling through the action of the tethered-peptide agonist stalk that is occluded within the GAIN domain in the holoreceptor form. AGPCRs can also signal independently of fragment dissociation, and a few receptors possess GAIN domains incapable of self-proteolysis. This has resulted in complex theories as to how these receptors are activated in vivo, complicating pharmacological advances. Currently, there is no existing structure of an activated AGPCR to support any of the theories. Further confounding AGPCR research is that many of the receptors remain orphans and lack identified activating ligands. In this review, we provide a detailed layout of the current theorized modes of AGPCR activation with discussion of potential parallels to mechanisms used by other GPCR classes. We provide a classification means for the ligands that have been identified and discuss how these ligands may activate AGPCRs in physiological contexts.
Revisiting transform and partitioning tools for post VVC codec

Transform and partitioning represent core components of the video coding architectures. Compared with HEVC, VVC is characterized by higher number of transform types, additional transform level (LFNST) and more flexible partitioning via the binary tree and ternary tree. This flexibility in transform and partitioning provides about 2% and 10% coding gain. Nevertheless, the current design is not ultimately optimized for the highest coding gain, but rather for the compromise with the design complexity. That is, the potential of combining higher transform and partitioning diversity is higher than the current state in VVC. This can be demonstrated by utilizing some early transform and partitioning proposals in the context of VVC development, which were not adopted due to the complexity concerns. In this paper, we revisit these designs targeting the maximum bitrate saving. This is to establish a new state of the art anchor for the post VVC development.
Resisting the Influence of Neoliberalism on Millennial Faculty through Critical Communication Pedagogy and Critical Mentoring

Because the millennial generation has had great influence on society, scholars, educators, and corporations are interested in what defines this highly-educated and self-absorbed generation. They want to know more about the ways in which millennials’ lives have been shaped — from childhood to adulthood. In this chapter, I will argue that the greatest influence on the lives of millennials is the inimical influence of neoliberalism. I will demonstrate the ways in which parents of millennials raise their children to internalize a “me first” attitude — the same attitude embraced by the free market. I will then argue that neoliberally driven education further inculcates free-market principles which are devoid of critical thought and concern for marginalized people. Finally, I will discuss how millennials who enter the realm of higher education as faculty can resist the neoliberal pressure of the university through critical faculty mentoring.
The $\mathbb F_p$-Selberg integral of type $A_n$

We prove an $\mathbb F_p$-Selberg integral formula of type $A_n$, in which the $\mathbb F_p$-Selberg integral is an element of the finite field $\mathbb F_p$ with odd prime number $p$ of elements. The formula is motivated by analogy between multidimensional hypergeometric solutions of the KZ equations and polynomial solutions of the same equations reduced modulo $p$. For the type $A_1$ the formula was proved in a previous paper by the authors.
Frontal Asymmetry in an approach–avoidance conflict paradigm

The frontal cortex appears to be asymmetrically related to approach motivation, avoidance motivation, and motivational conflict. Much past work has investigated approach and avoidance motivation, but little work has investigated frontal asymmetry in the face of motivational conflict in part because of the inherent conflict between avoidance motivation and motivational conflict. The current study sought to disentangle the existing confound between avoidance motivation and motivational conflict. In the study, participants selected the likelihood of viewing negative (vs. positive) images for zero reward points (avoidance only condition), or negative (vs. positive) images for the chance to win reward points (approach-avoidance conflict conditions). Participants exhibited greater relative right frontal asymmetry while making percent likelihood selections in the approach-avoidance conflict conditions relative to the avoidance only conditions. Additionally, participants exhibited greater relative right frontal asymmetry while viewing disgust images during trials with the greatest approach-avoidance conflict relative to trials with the lowest approach-avoidance conflict. Together, these results suggest that motivational conflict, and not avoidance motivation, is associated with greater relative right frontal activity.
Eco-evolutionary dynamics of autotomy

The act of deliberately removing a body part–called autotomy–is a behavior that has appeared frequently across the tree of life. Though there are many possible functions for this behavior, it is often thought of first as a mechanism to escape predation. In a predator–prey interaction, autotomy can therefore confer significant benefits to the prey–particularly, the benefit of not being eaten–but it may also incur significant costs, including the energy expenditure required to regrow the body part and any additional consequences of losing the body part in the first place. In addition, the presence of autotomy may affect how predators choose to approach prey. Here, we put these costs and benefits into a game theory framework and analyze the evolutionary, ecological, and eco-evolutionary dynamics of autotomy, considering both predator and prey strategies. We also apply our model to an empirical example using existing data from porcelain crabs. We find a wide range of effects of autotomy on the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of the predators and prey, including the possibility that the prey become locked into performing autotomy by the predators and the possibility that autotomy can rescue predator–prey coexistence.
Multiple RNA regulatory pathways coordinate the activity and expression pattern of a conserved germline RNA-binding protein

RNA regulation is essential to successful reproduction. Messenger RNAs delivered from parent to progeny govern early embryonic development. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are the key effectors of this process, controlling the translation and stability of parental transcripts to control cell fate specification events prior to zygotic gene activation. The KH-domain RBP MEX-3 is conserved from nematode to human. It was first discovered in Caenorhabditis elegans, where it is essential for anterior cell fate and embryo viability. Here, we show that mex-3 mRNA is itself regulated by several RBPs to define its unique germline spatiotemporal expression pattern. We also show that both poly(A) tail length control and translational regulation contribute to this expression pattern. Though the 3′UTR is sufficient to establish the germline expression pattern, we show that it is not essential for reproduction. An allelic series of 3′UTR deletion variants identifies repressing regions of the UTR and show that the expression pattern is not precisely coupled to reproductive health. Together, our results define the pathways that govern the spatiotemporal regulation of this highly conserved germline RBP and suggest that redundant mechanisms control MEX-3 function when RNA regulation is compromised.
International Evidence on the Persistence and Pricing of the Cash Components of Earnings

Dechow et al. (2008) decompose cash flow of earnings into three components and find different persistence of these components in the U.S. Using both pooled and single-country regressions, I confirm that the relative persistence of cash components of earnings found in Dechow et al. (2008) also applies to international firms. Furthermore, all three cash components are more persistent in common law countries than in code law countries. In addition, for international companies, although the market overestimates the persistence of change in retained cash and cash distributed to debt holders, it underestimates the persistence of cash distributed to equity holders. The mispricing of cash components is generally more severe in countries with a common law tradition than in countries with a code law tradition.
SPHINGOLIPID-INDUCED ACTIVATION OF THE VOLUME-SENSITIVE Cl− CURRENT IS MEDIATED BY MITOCHONDRIAL REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES

S Frank J. Rauuci Jr., Clive M. Baumgarten. Sphingosine- 1-Phosphate Regulates Volume-sensitve Chloride Current in Ventricular Myocytes by Means of ROS. Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth Univerisity, Richmond VA, USA. Biophysical Society Annual Meeting, 2010. Wu Deng, Frank J. Raucci Jr., Lia Baki, Clive M. Baumgarten. Regulation of Volume-sensitive Chloride Currentin Cardiac HL-1 Myocytes. Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA, USA. Biophysocal Society Annual Meeting., 2010. 120 Baumgarten CM, Deng W, Raucci Jr FJ. Reactive oygen species produced by NADPH oxidase and mitochopndria regulate volume-sensitive Cl channels: A common theme for multiple pathways. International Joint Symposium: Physiology of Anion Transport and Cell Volume Regulation (PAT-CVR 2009), 40 NIPS International Symposium. Osaka, Japan Aug. 3-6, 2009. Frank J. Raucci Jr., Clive M. Baumgarten. Ceramide Actives ICl,swell in Rabbit Ventricular Myocytes via Mitochondrial ROS Production. Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA. Abstract, Biophysical Society Annual Meeting, 2009. Frank J. Raucci Jr. , Clive M. Baumgarten. Ceramide Activates ICl,swell in Rabbit Ventricular Myocytes. Medical College of Virginia at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA. Abstract, American Physician Scientist Association Annual Meeting, 2008. R. B. Duran, P. Anderson, J. Long, J., Zhang, I. Koeper, W. Knoll, C. Williams, F. Raucci, K. Fang, H.M. Keizer. Ion Channels Embedded in Synthetic Bilayers: Sensing their Stochastic Ion Translocation. University of Florida, FL ,USA. Abstract, Materials Research Society Fall Meeting, 2004. Frank J. Raucci , Kun Fang, Jun Zhang, Randolph S. Duran, Joanna R. Long. Stability and Functional Studies of a Voltage-Gated Peptide Ion Channel in Synthetic Lipid Monolayers and Bilayers., University of Florida, Gainseville, FL, USA. Abstract, Biophysical Society Annual Meeting, 2004.
GTP Hydrolysis is Not Required for Post-translational Protein Insertion by a Chloroplast Signal Recognition Particle

Light harvesting chlorophyll binding proteins (LHCPs) are a family of nuclear encoded chloroplast thylakoid proteins that are synthesized in the cytosol, imported into the chloroplast stroma, and s...
Pro-angiogenic Properties of the Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells

Recognition of the functional link between neurogenesis and vascularization has led to development of the concept of a “vascular niche”, which is important for maintaining neural stem cell function under both physiological and pathological conditions. These coupled processes working together regulate neurovascular development, maintain homeostasis in the adult brain, and also support structural and functional restoration following injury. Neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) are localized to the neurogenic areas, which are stem cell niches found in close proximity to blood vessels, suggesting that there is a functional interaction between these neural progenitors and blood vessel-forming endothelial cells (ECs). Neurogenesis and vasculogenesis are both regulated through reciprocal signaling mechanisms between endothelial cells and neural progenitors. Reciprocal interaction between ECs and NSPCs reflects the pro-neurogenic properties of the ECs as well as the pro-angiogenic features of NSPCs. This functional cross-talk between NSPCs and brain ECs is a complex process involving gene activation and the upregulation of specific cell signaling pathways. Here we discuss the mechanisms of the NSPC/EC interaction with a particular emphasis on the angiogenesis-supporting functions of NSPCs. We specifically address the role of signaling molecules, such as VEGF, HIF-1α, and the small molecules called microRNAs, which are responsible for mediating the vasculotrophic properties of NSPCs.
Behavior of the Long-Lived Synthetic Elements and Their Natural Analogs in Food Chains

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the behavior of the long-lived synthetic elements and their natural analogs in food chains. Potentially important sources of long-lived radionuclides for uptake into food chains are fallout from nuclear weapons detonations, effluent releases of radionuclides to air and water from nuclear facilities, the resuspension of particulate soil in contaminated areas, accidental spillage, and leakage of radioactive waste from repositories. Deposition onto plant and soil surfaces may occur through irrigation, dry deposition of dust, or wet deposition of snow and rainfall. The potential for entry of long-lived nuclides into food chains from shallow or deep buried nuclear wastes is less well understood as prediction of geologic stability on a millennium scale may be required. Food sources can contribute both biochemically incorporated and surficially deposited material. Contamination of plant and animal surfaces may occur as a result of wind, water, or mechanical resuspension of soil and sediment. Inhalation of aerially resuspended contaminants may also be an important pathway.
Experimenting with Electronic Commerce on the PalmPilot

This paper describes our experience with implementing an electronic payment system for the PalmPilot. Although Palm OS lacks support for many desired security features, we are able to build a system suitable for small payments. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a PDA to make secure payments as opposed to using a smartcard or a desktop PC. In addition, we describe the engineering of PDA-PayWord, our implementation of a commerce protocol that takes advantage of both elliptic curve and RSA public key cryptography to support payments efficiently on PDAs with limited processing capability.
Dimensions and Levels of Trust: Implications for Commitment to a Relationship

Previous research has found that trust is positively related to commitment in buyer-seller relationships. However, the validity of this finding is questionable because trust has been operationalized in many different ways. For example, prior research has not distinguished among levels of trust (interpersonal or organizational trust) and dimensions or motives of trust (credibility or benevolence). In this study, we distinguish among the levels and dimensions of trust. The results indicate that trust in a sales representative (interpersonal credibility) is more strongly related to commitment than trust in an organization (organizational credibility). In contrast, trust based on organizational benevolence is a stronger predictor of commitment than interpersonal benevolence.
Establishing Business Rules for Inter-Enterprise Electronic Commerce

Conventional mechanisms for electronic commerce provide strong means for securing transfer of funds, and for ensuring such things as authenticity and non-repudiation. But they generally do not attempt to regulate the activities of the participants in an e-commerce transaction, treating them, implicitly, as autonomous agents. This is adequate for most cases of client-to-vendor commerce, but is quite unsatisfactory for inter-enterprise electronic commerce. The participants in this kind of e-commerce are not autonomous agents, since their commercial activities are subject to the business rules of their respective enterprises, and to the preexisting agreements and contracts between the enterprises involved. These policies are likely to be independently developed, and may be quite heterogeneous. Yet, they have to interoperate, and be brought to bear in regulating each e-commerce transaction. This paper presents a mechanism that allows such interoperation between policies, and thus provides for inter-enterprise electronic commerce.
APB dragging in Ni3Al deformed at intermediate temperature

Abstract In a Ni3Al alloy deformed at 650°C, evidence is provided for glide of KearWilsdorflocks on a {111} plane, accompanied by dragging of antiphase boundaries.
Modeling and Simulation for PVDF-based Pyroelectric Energy Harvester

Energy harvesting technology allows the capturing of unused ambient energy such as solar, wind, thermal, strain and kinetic, energy of gas and liquid flows which is then converted into another form of usable energy. This paper focuses on the thermal-electrical energy harvesting based on pyroelectric effect. Pyroelectric materials generate a voltage, when subjected temperature variation. The pyroelectric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) films were fabricated and characterized for pyroelectric and dielectric parameters. Using the foregoing parameters, the energy-harvesting capacity has been theoretically explored by capturing thermal energy available in the environment of Huntsville (pavement), Saudi Arabia (ambient) and MARS (ambient). The predicted maximum cumulative voltage by the end of a 300 hours cycle is approximately 0.13, 0.7 and 7.7 volts for Huntsville and Saudi Arabia and MARS, respectively for the PVDF based 10 cm2 pyro-elements. The results indicate that the electrical energy harvesting via pyroelectricity holds promise for powering autonomous low-duty electric devices. Furthermore, the mathematical modeling and numerical simulations can be helpful in designing of pyroelectric micro-power generators.
The postsynaptic NMDA-receptor--PSD-95 signaling complex in excitatory synapses of the brain.

Excitatory synapses of the brain use as neurotransmitter the amino acid glutamate, which is released in packets from the presynaptic terminal. The postsynaptic membrane is specialized for the reception of glutamate signals and the transduction of these signals into the postsynaptic cell. Containing
Rheology and the microphase separation transition in styrene-isoprene block copolymers

We have used dynamic oscillatory measurements to locate the temperature of the microphase separation transition (T MST ) for a series of nearly monodisperse styrene-isoprene diblock (SI) and triblock (SIS) copolymers, all containing 13 wt % styrene and ranging in molecular weight from 48K to 149K. The microphase-separated morphology in all cases is a disordered (liquidlike) arrangement of polystyrene spheres in a polyisoprene matrix, as determined by SAXS. Values of T MST were obtained from isochronal plots of the storage modulus versus temperature. The marked change in slope at the MST demonstrates that even materials with a disordered microdomain structure can experience significant property changes when the MST is traversed
Teaching Robotics Software With the Open Hardware Mobile Manipulator

The open hardware mobile manipulator (OHMM) is a new open platform with a unique combination of features for teaching robotics software and algorithms. On-board low- and high-level processors support real-time embedded programming and motor control, as well as higher-level coding with contemporary libraries. Full hardware designs and software source codes are available under free licenses enabling the community to adapt and update the design as the field (and available hardware) evolves. Digital manufacturing (3-D printing and laser cutting) methods, now available as low-cost Internet services, enable OHMM to be easily modified and to be built from scratch for a competitive price. Five hands-on curriculum modules are presented that use OHMM to teach robotics software and algorithms at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and results are presented based on student performance and feedback.
Seasonal trends in depressive symptoms in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Adolescents with type 1 diabetes reported more clinically significant depressive symptoms in the spring/summer months (22% in April–September) than in the fall/winter months (11% in October–March) (χ2 = 5.67, p = .018). This seasonal pattern was stronger in low-income adolescents than in adolescents from higher-income families.
The effects of chlorhexidine treatment on the electrokinetic characteristics of enamel and cell adhesion to human enamel in vitro.

Abstract Particles prepared from human enamel carry a net negative surface charge as measured by particle electrophoresis. Treatment of enamel particles with 2 percent chlorhexidine gluconate resulted in a loss of net surface negativity, indicating adsorption of chlorhexidine to their surfaces. The reduction in net surface negativity of the particles occurred in physiologic solutions at 37 °C, in the presence and absence of serum for at least 24 hr after exposure to chlorhexidine. In vitro experiments showed that treatment of tooth slices with 2 per cent chlorhexidine inhibited the adhesion of Ehrlich ascites cells to enamel and dentine. This inhibition could be partly overcome by repeated washing of tooth slices, and/or adding untreated tooth tissues to the same culture. Studies of the toxicity of chlorhexidine on Ehrlich ascites cells showed inhibition of division with increasing doses from 30 μg/ml, in cultures containing 8.7 × 10 5 cells/ml. The inhibition of cell adhesion to tooth surfaces as related to the in-vivo situation after chlorhexidine treatment was discussed.
Contribution to polar albedo from a mesospheric aerosol layer

An examination is made of the impact of a layer of particulate matter, assumed to be ice crystals, on the albedo of the polar region. The model is time dependent, includes the growth of the layer, and incorporates the diffuse nature of radiation reflected from the surface and atmosphere. Although the magnitude of the effect is about an order of magnitude less than previous results, the impact is one of heating instead of cooling. It is also shown that ignoring the diffuse nature of the radiation reflected from the underlying earth-atmosphere system, as has been done in many previous simple models, can result in overestimation of the climatological impact of aerosols in sign and magnitude by a factor of up to 4-6.
Activation of phosphofructokinase by divalent anions.

Abstract Pig liver phosphofructokinase is activated by SO42−, S2O32−, SO32−, and MoO42− in a way similar to activation by Pi. These ions can all be thought of as phosphate analogs and presumably bind to the same site on the enzyme. PPi is not an activator. Monovalent anions inactivate the enzyme with a relative efficiency that approximates the Hofmeister series. The apparent affinities of the activating anions for the enzyme increase with decreasing ionic size. Strict tetrahedral geometry is not required for activation, since SO32− is an activator. ClO3−, which has the same size and shape as SO32−, is not an activator, indicating that two negative charges are required for activation.
111 ECHOGRAPHIC SIGNIFICANCE OF THE AORTIC ROOT MOTION IN CHILDREN

During ventricular systole the aortic root (Ao) moves anteriorly and inferiorly. There is no study available to detect a possible relationship between the Ao anterior motion and left ventricular contractile state (LVC) by echocardiography (E). Thus, we studied 100 normal children with body surface area ranging from 0.7 to 1.2 by E to compare the anterior Ao motion (AoA) with shortening fraction (SF) of the LV and the systolic thickening amplitude of the posterior LV wall (LVWA). Standard E were obtained of the Ao and LV from the 3rd and 4th left intercostal space on strip chart recordings. AoA was measured as the vertical distance in millimeters between end-diastole and end-systole for the posterior wall. Also vertical LVWA was measured in millimeters at the point of maximum systolic excursion. SF was calculated by previously described methods. Our results for the mean and 1 standard deviation were as follows: The r value was <0.4 for the comparison between (a) and (b) as well as (a) and (c). From this we feel that although Ao anterior motion occurs during LV systole, it is not directly related to LVC by E.
DELETION OF A HIGHLY MOTIONAL RESIDUE AFFECTS FORMATION OF THE MICHAELIS COMPLEX FOR ESCHERICHIA COLI DIHYDROFOLATE REDUCTASE

Analysis of the dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) complex with folate by two-dimensional heteronuclear (1H-15N) nuclear magnetic relaxation revealed that isolated residues exhibit diverse backbone fluctuations on the nanosecond to picosecond time scale [Epstein, D. M., Benkovic, S. J., and Wright, P. E. (1995) Biochemistry 34, 11037-11048]. These dynamical features may be significant in forming the Michaelis complex. Of these residues, glycine 121 displays large-amplitude backbone motions on the nanosecond time scale. This amino acid, strictly conserved for prokaryotic DHFRs, is located at the center of the betaF-betaG loop. To investigate the catalytic importance of this residue, we report the effects of Gly121 deletion and glycine insertion into the modified betaF-betaG loop. Relative to wild type, deletion of Gly121 dramatically decreases the rate of hydride transfer 550-fold and the strength of cofactor binding 20-fold for NADPH and 7-fold for NADP+. Furthermore, DeltaG121 DHFR requires conformational changes dependent on the initial binary complex to attain the Michaelis complex poised for hydride transfer. Surprisingly, the insertion mutants displayed a significant decrease in both substrate and cofactor binding. The introduction of glycine into the modified betaF-betaG loop, however, generally eliminated conformational changes required by DeltaG121 DHFR to attain the Michaelis complex. Taken together, these results suggest that the catalytic role for the betaF-betaG loop includes formation of liganded complexes and proper orientation of substrate and cofactor. Through a transient interaction with the Met20 loop, alterations of the betaF-betaG loop can orchestrate proximal and distal effects on binding and catalysis that implicate a variety of enzyme conformations participating in the catalytic cycle.
Predicting the need for laser treatment in retinopathy of prematurity using computer-assisted quantitative vascular analysis

Purpose To investigate whether parameters of retinal vascular dilation and/or tortuosity calculated by ROPtool software can help to predict, prior to diagnosis of plus disease, whether laser will be needed for treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods Video indirect ophthalmoscopy recordings were obtained during routine ROP examinations. One posterior pole still image of one eye was selected from each examination for each infant. ROPtool was used to calculate vessel dilation, tortuosity, and the sum of adjusted indices (SAI, combining dilation and tortuosity) for each image. The following values were calculated for each vessel characteristic: maximum value from any one vessel across all examinations, largest increase per week in maximum value, highest mean value of all vessels from any one examination, and largest increase per week in mean value. These parameters were compared between infants who eventually received laser and those who did not. Results Medians for maximum tortuosity indices were, for the eventual laser group (n = 28), 8.92 tortuosity units and, for the no laser group (n = 56), 6.87 ( P P P = 0.003). Conclusions ROPtool analysis of tortuosity parameters from indirect ophthalmoscopy images can help predict need for laser in ROP.
Metabolic learning and memory formation by the brain influence systemic metabolic homeostasis

Metabolic homeostasis is regulated by the brain, but whether this regulation involves learning and memory of metabolic information remains unexplored. Here we use a calorie-based, taste-independent learning/memory paradigm to show that Drosophila form metabolic memories that help in balancing food choice with caloric intake; however, this metabolic learning or memory is lost under chronic high-calorie feeding. We show that loss of individual learning/memory-regulating genes causes a metabolic learning defect, leading to elevated trehalose and lipid levels. Importantly, this function of metabolic learning requires not only the mushroom body but also the hypothalamus-like pars intercerebralis, while NF-κB activation in the pars intercerebralis mimics chronic overnutrition in that it causes metabolic learning impairment and disorders. Finally, we evaluate this concept of metabolic learning/memory in mice, suggesting that the hypothalamus is involved in a form of nutritional learning and memory, which is critical for determining resistance or susceptibility to obesity. In conclusion, our data indicate that the brain, and potentially the hypothalamus, direct metabolic learning and the formation of memories, which contribute to the control of systemic metabolic homeostasis.
Projections of PreBötzinger Complex Neurons in Adult Rats

The preBotzinger Complex (preBotC) contains neural microcircuitry essential for normal respiratory rhythm generation in rodents. A subpopulation of preBotC neurons expresses somatostatin, a neuropeptide with a modulatory action on breathing. Acute silencing of a subpopulation of preBotC neurons transfected by a virus driving protein expression under the somatostatin promoter results in persistent apnea in awake adult rats. Given the profound effect of silencing these neurons, their projections are of interest. We used an adeno-associated virus to overexpress enhanced green fluorescent protein driven by the somatostatin promoter in preBotC neurons to label their axons and terminal fields. These neurons send brainstem projections to: 1) contralateral preBotC; 2) ipsi- and contralateral Botzinger Complex; 3) ventral respiratory column caudal to preBotC; 4) parafacial respiratory group / retrotrapezoid nucleus; 5) parahypoglossal nucleus/nucleus of the solitary tract; 6) parabrachial/Kolliker-Fuse nuclei; and 7) periaqueductal gray. We did not find major projections to either cerebellum or spinal cord. We conclude that there are widespread projections from preBotC somatostatin-expressing neurons specifically targeted to brainstem regions implicated in control of breathing, and provide a network basis for the profound effects and the essential role of the preBotC in breathing.
The role of the Mediterranean region in the development of sedimentary geology: a historical overview

The Mediterranean region, source of so much knowledge in the world, is the site of major advances in sedimentary geology. In addition to its economic and cultural richness, the geological and geographic diversity of the region, plus its active geological processes, have long stimulated indigenous scholars, along with attracting talented outsiders such as Steno, Lyell, Walther, Kuenen and Bagnold. Since classical Hellenic times, debates about the origin of fossils and the changing positions of sea-level served as catalysts for studies of sediments, sedimentary rocks and ancient life. The presence of geologically young and easily interpreted marine shell beds in many Mediterranean coastal areas adjacent to their modern analogues was a particular stimulus for progress in sedimentary geology, for example, the very advanced stratigraphic ideas of Leonardo da Vinci, expressed solely in his unpublished notebooks. Impeding progress was the geological complexity of facies, faunas and structure in the circum-Mediterranean Alpine belts. Once the secrets of these were unlocked, however, the Mediterranean region became the source of major discoveries about syn-sedimentary tectonics, carbonate platforms, pelagic and anoxic sediments, turbidites, evaporites, aeolian processes, cyclostratigraphy, magnetic stratigraphy and impact events. In many of these Mediterranean discoveries, the critical element is the occurrence of extensive Mesozoic-Cenozoic pelagic successions whose precise age dating was made possible by pioneering biostratgraphic studies using microfossils.
Serum adenosine deaminase in normals and in a patient with adenosine deaminase deficient-severe combined immunodeficiency

Abstract We have found 50% of normal adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity in the serum from a child with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and genetic complete absence of ADA activity in other tissues (including erythrocytes, mononuclear and cultured cells). We, therefore, investigated properties of normal serum ADA and found that normal serum ADA activity is composed of two ADA isozymes with differing properties. Approximately 25–50% of normal serum ADA activity has properties similar to those of the major ADA isozymes (Ada 1 and ADA 1+CP ) which are lacking in children with ADA deficient SCID. The remainder of serum ADA reflects activity of an isozyme with a molecular mass of approximately 100000 dalton. This isozyme has markedly different kinetic properties from those of the major ADA isozymes involved in genetic ADA deficiency. These include a markedly higher K m for adenosine (2800 μmol/1), a markedly lower ability to deaminate deoxyadenosine than adenosine and a relative insensitivity to inhibition by erythro -9(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl) adenine (EHNA), an inhibitor of the common ADA isozyme(s) (ADA 1 and ADA 1 + CP ). The properties of this serum ADA isozyme are similar to those of the minor (~2%) ADA isozyme (ADA 2 ), present in similar amounts in tissues of ADA deficient patients and normals. These findings suggest that the 50% of normal ADA activity observed in serum of an ADA deficient child reflects activity of the 100000-dalton isozyme.
Model for rotor tip vortex-airframe interaction. I - Theory

The flowfield generated by a helicopter in flight is extemely complex, and it has been recognized that interactions among components can significantly affect helicopter performance. In the present work a simplified model for the interaction of a rotor tip vortex with the helicopter fuselage is developed. The tip vortex is idealized as a single three-dimensional vortex tube, and the fuselage is moleded as an infinite circular cylinder
Determination of volume fraction in multiphase systems using incomplete pole figures

The determination of the volume fraction of a second phase in a multiphase sample by X-ray diffraction becomes more difficult if the diffracting planes have a preferred orien-tation. Lopata and Kula have described a method of treating this problem using complete pole figures for each of the phases. With some samples, it is not always possible or con-venient to obtain data over the full hemisphere. Equations and an example are given which require X-ray data over a limited range of approximately 0 to 75 deg. This can be ob-tained by reflection without a specially cut sample or transmission data. A series of Legendre polynomials are fitted to data collected while spinning the sample about its nor-mal. An extrapolation is made possible by introducing two conditions on the end points which must be satisfied if the extrapolation functions are to be valid.