cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
"High-resolution" mini-two-dimensional gel electrophoresis automatically run and stained in less than 6 h with small, ready-to-use slab gels.

Although two-dimensional (2-D) gel electrophoresis is one of the most powerful techniques for analyzing protein mixtures, its application in routine clinical laboratories is currently limited, because it is time-consuming, complex, and relatively expensive. Here we describe a method for automatically running and staining "high-resolution" mini 2-D electrophoresis gels in less than 6 h, by using "ready-to-use" slab gels and a PhastSystem electrophoresis apparatus. We present 2-D gel electrophoretograms of 25 nL of plasma, as well as their automatic computer analysis. For comparison, a conventional 2-D gel electrophoresis profile of 200 nL of a plasma sample is shown. The technique is easy to perform, highly sensitive, rapid, and potentially useful in semi-routine clinical chemistry laboratories.
X-ray spectroscopic studies of bonding in transition metal germanides

Abstract The electronic structure of transition metal germanides has been studied by X-ray spectroscopy. The germanides were the M 1.67 Ge, MGe and MGe 2 compounds, where M was Ni, Co, Fe, Mn. The changes in distribution of the 3 d -4 s -4 p bonding electrons for both the metal and germanium were investigated by measurement of the K β 5 X-ray spectrum intensity and shape. The intensities of the K β 5 spectra of Fe, Co, and Ni increased in the germanides. This indicates increased overlap of the metal 3 d -4 p electrons. The intensities of the germanium K β 5 and the manganese K β 5 spectra decreased in the germanides. The K β 5 intensities have been correlated with regard to specific molecular orbitals involving the symmetry of the covalent metal-germanium bonds in the compounds.
Activation of the DNA Damage Checkpoint in Mutants Defective in DNA Replication Initiation

In the fission yeast, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, blocks to DNA replication elongation trigger the intra-S phase checkpoint that leads to the activation of the Cds1 kinase. Cds1 is required to both prevent premature entry into mitosis and to stabilize paused replication forks. Interestingly, although Cds1 is essential to maintain the viability of mutants defective in DNA replication elongation, mutants defective in DNA replication initiation require the Chk1 kinase. This suggests that defects in DNA replication initiation can lead to activation of the DNA damage checkpoint independent of the intra-S phase checkpoint. This might result from reduced origin firing that leads to an increase in replication fork stalling or replication fork collapse that activates the G2 DNA damage checkpoint. We refer to the Chk1-dependent, Cds1-independent phenotype as the rid phenotype (for replication initiation defective). Chk1 is active in rid mutants, and rid mutant viability is dependent on the DNA damage checkpoint, and surprisingly Mrc1, a protein required for activation of Cds1. Mutations in Mrc1 that prevent activation of Cds1 have no effect on its ability to support rid mutant viability, suggesting that Mrc1 has a checkpoint-independent role in maintaining the viability of mutants defective in DNA replication initiation.
Family Outcomes of Early Intervention: Families’ Perceptions of Need, Services, and Outcomes

Relationships between parent ratings of Part C/early intervention (EI) services and family outcomes for families of young children with disabilities were examined—specifically, the early childhood outcomes (ECO)–recommended family outcomes and family quality of life (FQOL). Measures included the Early Childhood Services Survey, the ECO Center Family Outcomes Survey, and the Beach Center Family Quality of Life Scale. Findings support a logic-model relationship between parent ratings of Part C/EI services, ECO-recommended family outcomes, and FQOL. Parent ratings of Part C/EI services were found to predict immediate family outcomes as measured by ECO-recommended family outcomes, and ECO-recommended family outcomes, in turn, predicted the broader outcome of enhanced FQOL. Implications for EI practice and evaluation are discussed.
Employment and insurance in survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma and their siblings: a questionnaire study

Using a questionnaire study, we compared the employment and insurance of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors versus their siblings. A total of 511 survivors and 224 siblings completed questionnaires. HL survivors were more likely to report job denial, difficulty obtaining insurance due to medical history, and difficulty changing jobs due to fear of losing insurance. On multivariable analysis, male gender, income and scarring of the head and neck were associated with job denial. Male gender and impairment interfering with a job were associated with difficulty obtaining health insurance. Survivors with >4 physician visits in 2 years, <10years from diagnosis, or with permanent hair loss from treatment were more likely to report inability to change jobs due to fear of losing insurance. Compared to their siblings, HL survivors may face greater challenges in obtaining employment and insurance. Late effects from treatment, including permanent cosmetic changes, may contribute to these differences.
Smart-antenna system for mobile communication networks .Part 2. Beamforming and network throughput

Part 1 of this paper provided an overview of smart-antenna systems, and presented a planar array as a design example. In addition, Part 1 discussed the potential of smart antennas with regard to providing increased capacity in wireless communication networks. Part 2 introduces the signal-processing aspects of the antenna array. In particular, it describes the utility of direction-of-arrival algorithms in array-antenna systems, and gives an overview of the signal-processing algorithms that are used to adapt the antenna radiation pattern. The adaptive-algorithm descriptions are accompanied by simulation results obtained for a specific network topology. In particular, the antenna system is simulated assuming a mobile network topology that is continuously changing. Basic results presented are the dependence of the overall network throughput on the design of the adaptive-antenna system, and on the properties of the adaptive-beamforming algorithms and associated antenna patterns.
The condensation of trimethylolphenol

The intermolecular condensation reactions of 2,4,6-trimethylolphenol (TMP) have been studied. The rate of disappearance of TMP from aqueous solutions at 40°C was measured over a range of pH 2–11. Concentrations of TMP were determined by HPLC. Major products, separated on the chromatograph and identified by PMR, were the o,p- and p,p-dimers and a trimer. Reaction kinetics were second order in TMP concentration at low pH. At high pH kinetics were first order in total TMP concentration, contrary to the findings of earlier investigators. The reaction rate varied with pH in a complex manner. The variation is explained by separate acid-catalyzed and base-catalyzed mechanisms. A kinetic model is proposed in which the rate constants are independent of pH.
Bilateral posterior subcapsular cataracts associated with long-term intranasal steroid use

The use of systemic steroids has been established as a risk factor for the development of posterior subcapsular cataracts. In recent decades, the use of nasal topical steroids has increased in an effort to decrease systemic side effects. Current evidence of an association between nasal steroid use and cataract formation is contradictory. We present a case of rapid-onset bilateral posterior subcapsular cataracts in a young healthy patient with a history of long-term nasal steroid use.
Environmental Effects Upon Reproduction of a Mushroom-infesting Cecid Fly, Mycophila speyeri (Barnes) (Diptera: Ceciodomyiidae)

Mycophila speyeri Barnes is presently the most important mushroom-infesting cecid fly in Pennsylvania. Larval paedogenesis is the main means of reproduction (used by this species). Adult cecid fiies and sexual reproduction arc rarely observed in mushroom growing houses. The higher temperatures of spawn-run (70 ° to 75 °F.) are very favorable to paedogenetic reproduction of M . speyeri . Under these conditions, a generation is completed in about one week and about ten daughter-larvae per mother-larva are produced. The quantity of malt in the culture medium, the age of the spawn, and strain differences in spawn also play roles in the length of a generation and the number of young produced by a mother-larva. The lower temperatures (55 ° to 60 °F.), normal during mushroom cropping, approximately triple the time required to complete a generation. Prevention of cecid infestations during the spawn-run and sanitation to prevent spread, once larvae are present, are important considerations in the control of M . speyeri . Adult cecid flies occur only when populations become crowded on old growing media.
Biosynthesis of an Unusual Phospholipid, N--Acyl-Phosphatidylethanolamine in Cotton Cotyledons

N--Acyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (NAPE)was first described from plants by Bomstein [1]. Further work on its occurrence and biosynthesis were discontinued when a similarly behaving compound was found to be an artifact of the extraction procedures and identified as N-methyl-phosphatidylethanolamine [2]. In 1991, however, Chapman and Trelease [3] noted a spot on thin-layer chromatograms of radiolabeled phospholipids from cotton cotyledons which was tentatively identified as NAPE In light of these results, we chose to examine the occurrence, structure and origin of the putative NAPE in more detail.
We are stronger together: reflective testimonios of female scholars of color in a research and writing collective

In this paper, five female scholars of color utilize the method of testimonio (testimony) to document their individual lived experiences as members of a three-year long research and writing collective. This collective served as a space of liberation from the dominant discourses and practices the women were experiencing in the academy. Each testimonio presents themes related to: shared struggles, friendship, trust and vulnerability, a sense of give and take, and their commitment to each other and the group. It is hoped these reflective testimonios (testimonies) contribute to the existing literature citing the benefits of such collaborations among female scholars and also encourages and guides other female academicians to develop their own research and writing collectives.
The Measurement of Attitudes toward Current Political and Economic Problems among Junior and Senior High School Pupils

(1933). The Measurement of Attitudes toward Current Political and Economic Problems among Junior and Senior High School Pupils. The Journal of Experimental Education: Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 65-92.
Immediate Consequences of Acute Kidney Injury: The Impact of Traditional and Nontraditional Complications on Mortality in Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) that requires renal replacement therapy is associated with a mortality rate that exceeds 50% in the intensive care unit, which is greater than other serious illnesses such as acute lung injury and myocardial infarction. Much information is now available regarding the complications of AKI that contribute to mortality and may be usefully categorized as "traditional" and "nontraditional". Traditional complications are the long-recognized complications of AKI such as hyperkalemia, acidosis, and volume overload, which may be typically corrected with renal replacement therapy. "Nontraditional" complications include complications such as sepsis, lung injury, and heart failure that may arise due to the effects of AKI on inflammatory cytokines, immune function, and cell death pathways such as apoptosis. In this review, we discuss both traditional and nontraditional complications of AKI with a focus on factors that contribute to mortality, considering both pathophysiology and potential remedies. Because AKI is the most common inpatient consult to nephrologists, it is essential to be aware of the complications of AKI that contribute to mortality to devise appropriate treatment strategies to prevent and manage AKI complications with the ultimate goal of reducing the unacceptably high mortality rate of AKI.
Individualism, Societalism, Worldliness Universalism: Thematizing Theoretical Sociology of Religion

This paper starts with a discussion of the relationship between new developments in the sociology of religion and the appearance of religion as a topic in recent general sociological theory. Arguing that in the works of the classical sociologists religion was always connected to central features of societies, overlaps between Weber and Durkheim are discussed with reference to the relationship between religious commitment, trans-societal commitment and the viability of national societies. Morality, rationality, individualism and internationalism are attended to. Such themes of classical sociology are then related to similar concerns in the work, inter alia, of Rousseau, Kant, Hegel, Comte, Marx, and Tocqueville. After a re-assessment of the convergence between Weber and Durkheim modern sociological interest in religion is discussed with particular reference to sub-societal, societal and trans-societal commitments. The overall exercise involves an attempt to give thematic body both to the sociology of religion as a special area of study and to general-theoretical concern with such matters as religion, identity and legitimation.
The resolution of seismic instruments used in treaty verification research

abstract The resolution of the seismic sensors discussed in this paper is limited either by the self-noise of the system or the ambient ground noise at the observing site. The resolution limits of a particular system are frequency dependent. A major objective of the designer is to insure that seismic sensors are available which will be limited in resolution only by the ambient background noise at the quietest sites over the frequency band of interest in treaty verification research. This paper presents a review of the data currently available on the limiting resolution of the most advanced instruments used in this research program.
Blackford: A duall processor chipset for servers and workstatiions

This article consists of a collection of slides from the author's conference presentation on Intel's Blackford, a dual processor chipset for servers and workstations. Some of the specific topics discussed include: overview of the Bensley platform; the Blackford North Bridge microarchitectural features; and performance testing and output results.
An Intraday Liquidity Market

The planned introduction of RTGS systems in Europe is likely to raise a series of policy issues concerning the provision of intraday liquidity. The current operation of the principal large-value net payment systems allows for the creation of large volumes on intraday credit amongst its members. Having previously introduced a number of interim measures to restrict the scale of the credit risks created by the functioning of the system — for instance, limits on credit exposures in CHAPS were introduced in 1992 and similar restrictions operate in CHIPS — central banks thought it necessary to move to a settlement system that eliminated credit risk. Under the proposed RTGS systems, any payment instruction must first be notified to the central bank and will be allowed to proceed only if the paying bank has sufficient funds in its RTGS settlement account held at the central bank. This is, indeed, the case for the new RTGS system in the UK which replaced CHAPS in April 1996.
Energy Efficient Context based Forwarding Strategy in Named Data Networking of Things

Named Data Networking (NDN) of Things has gathered interest among the Internet-of-Things (IoT) research community due to its hassle-free deployment and configurability. This approach to interconnecting devices provides the network with additional information about the data transported, which can be used for improved efficiency. This is one of the targets for mass IoT or Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications modes of 5G. In this paper, we propose a context based forwarding strategy that makes forwarding decisions based on the tolerance to inaccuracies in data defined for the application requesting it. We also propose a modification to the hierarchical naming scheme by appending the name of the application generating the interest. In addition to faster context based forwarding, this modification simplifies the naming as it is easier to understand the context under which the interest was generated, even with generic names. We demonstrate an improvement in energy efficiency of the system using the proposed technique compared to an IP based implementation. In addition, the proposed technique offers a platform to implement application level access control and Quality-of-Service (QoS) support.
An image encryption algorithm based on compound homogeneous hyper-chaotic system

Compound hyper-chaotic system is a chaotic system that combines two or more hyper-chaotic systems. In this paper, we propose a 2-dimensional compound homogeneous hyper-chaotic system (CHHCS) and local binary pattern (LBP)-based image encryption algorithm, which includes the CHHCS-based permutation operation and the LBP-based diffusion operation. Firstly, we employ a new CHHCS and prove the good hyper-chaotic behaviors, and we use CHHCS to permutate the plain image twice to obtain good permutation effect. Then, every permutated pixel is diffused with dynamic LBP operation, which means even the same permutated pixel will be encrypted to different cipher value. Finally, we provide some theoretical analyses and simulations to confirm the security and the validity of the proposed algorithm.
STUDIES ON SOME DIOECIOUS CESTODES

Publisher Summary This chapter presents some studies on some dioecious cestodes. The dioecious cestodes are worms in which the male reproductive system is in one strobila and the female system is in another strobila. Besides a nervous system, an excretory system and a muscular system are presents which are similar in both sexes, and the male and female strobilas both have a cirrus sac that appears to be morphologically identical in each strobila. In a study discussed in the chapter, Gyrocoelia pagollae was collected from scores of Wilson Plovers. In each case, when adult worms were present, there was one male and one female. The rostella of individual strobilas are attached close together. When the intestine is opened, the female strobila is looped back and forth so that the worm actually extends a very short length of the intestine. The male strobila is in direct physical contact with the female.
ATGL Promotes Autophagy/Lipophagy via SIRT1 to Control Hepatic Lipid Droplet Catabolism

Hepatic lipid droplet (LD) catabolism is thought to occur via cytosolic lipases such as adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) or through autophagy of LDs, a process known as lipophagy. We tested the potential interplay between these metabolic processes and its effects on hepatic lipid metabolism. We show that hepatic ATGL is both necessary and sufficient to induce both autophagy and lipophagy. Moreover, lipophagy is required for ATGL to promote LD catabolism and the subsequent oxidation of hydrolyzed fatty acids (FAs). Following previous work showing that ATGL promotes sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activity, studies in liver-specific SIRT1-/- mice and in primary hepatocytes reveal that SIRT1 is required for ATGL-mediated induction of autophagy and lipophagy. Taken together, these studies show that ATGL-mediated signaling via SIRT1 promotes autophagy/lipophagy as a primary means to control hepatic LD catabolism and FA oxidation.
Gas transfer velocities in small forested ponds

Inland waters actively exchange gases with the atmosphere, and the gas exchange rate informs system biogeochemistry, ecology, and global carbon budgets. Gas exchange in medium- to large-sized lakes is largely regulated by wind; yet less is known about processes regulating gas transfer in small ponds where wind speeds are low. In this study, we determined the gas transfer velocity, k600, in four small (<250 m2) ponds by using a propane (C3H8) gas injection. When estimated across 12 h periods, the average k600 ranged from 0.19 to 0.72 m d−1 across the ponds. We also estimated k600 at 2 to 3 h intervals during the day and evaluated the relationship with environmental conditions. The average daytime k600 ranged from 0.33 to 1.83 m d−1 across the ponds and was best predicted by wind speed and air or air-water temperature; however, the explanatory power was weak (R2 < 0.27) with high variability within and among ponds. To compare our results to larger water bodies, we compiled direct measurements of k600 from 67 ponds and lakes worldwide. Our k600 estimates were within the range of estimates for other small ponds, and variability in k600 increased with lake size. However, the majority of studies were conducted on medium-sized lakes (0.01 to 1 km2), leaving small ponds and large lakes understudied. Overall, this study adds four small ponds to the existing body of research on gas transfer velocities from inland waters and highlights uncertainty in k600, with implications for calculating metabolism and carbon emissions in inland waters.
Managing Successful NPD Relationships: An Abstract

A growing body of literature notes the relevance of seller-buyer relationships for new product development (NPD) success in technology-based, industrial settings (Lin et al. 2010). For example, product co-development relationships can alert sellers to desirable product characteristics and potential market opportunities (Fang 2008). Similarly, relationships that revolve around buyer education can reduce buyers’ perceived risk of adoption and hasten the diffusion process (Athaide and Klink 2009). However, involving potential buyers in the NPD process can also pose several challenges. They may reveal technology- and product-related information to potential competitors, thus reducing the time for competitive offerings to enter the marketplace. Also, buyer demands for joint patent or exclusivity rights may delay or even preclude offering the innovation to the larger marketplace. Not surprisingly, ineffective relationship management during NPD is an important contributor to the high failure rate of technology-based, industrial innovations (Nesse and Skjelnes 1994).
Methods to lower the resistivity of ruthenium interconnects at 7 nm node and beyond

36 nm pitch dual damascene interconnects are patterned and filled with ruthenium. Different adhesion layers are used to form the Ru interconnects. Ru line resistivity is measured by the temperature coefficient of resistivity method, and the area verified by TEM. Ru line resistivity is found to depend on the adhesion layer. The adhesion layers with higher intrinsic resistivities reduced the Ru line resistivity. A ∼10% Ru resistivity reduction can be achieved with ALD TaN or TiN adhesion layers or oxidized TaN, relative to PVD TaN. Grain boundary scattering may play an additional role, as demonstrated by different aspect ratio samples. The lowest Ru resistivity in these interconnects is 15 µΩ-cm, at a cross-sectional area of 300 nm2. Ru damascene metallization is extendible to features with critical dimension around 10 nm. Ru may match Cu line resistance for line dimensions below ∼17 nm.
Expectations of Educational Success as a Mediator Between Racial Discrimination and College GPA

Racial discrimination experiences continue to be an issue for African American college students. Such experiences can lead to African American students having lower expectations to academically succeed, leading to lower academic performance. The study has three hypotheses. First, greater perceptions of racial discrimination will be related to lower expectations for educational success. Second, higher expectations for educational success will be predictive of higher academic performance. Third, greater perceptions of racial discrimination will predict lower academic performance through the negative effect of racial discrimination on expectations for educational success. The findings supported all three hypotheses. Racial discrimination significantly predicted expectations for educational success. Expectations for educational success significantly predicted academic performance. Racial discrimination had a significant indirect effect on academic performance via expectations for educational success.
Graves, gifts, and the bereaved consumer: a restorative perspective of gift exchange

ABSTRACTWhen a gifting relationship is disrupted by death, why might a living consumer continue to invest in it? Consumer spending on deceased loved ones does not end with the funeral. Given the embodying power of a physical gravesite, this article examines the practice of gift giving to the deceased in the context of American cemeteries. We employ a longitudinal approach, in which 180 cemetery gravesites were photographed. The photographic data are coupled with a netnography of grief and bereavement communities. Findings support a restorative perspective of gift exchange. Bereaved consumers utilize restorative giving as a mechanism to cope with loss and maintain relationships with deceased loved ones. We outline five categories of gifts given to the deceased and present a framework of restorative giving practices. Implications are discussed in terms of identity development, symbolic communication, and reciprocity in gift giving, as deceased consumers continue to be recipients of tangible goods.
Abstract 17205: Exercise Echocardiography Predicts Major Clinical Events in Patients With Significant Asymptomatic Mitral Regurgitation

Introduction: Significant mitral regurgitation (MR) often results in progressive cardiac dysfunction that frequently requires surgical intervention. This study aims to assess the prognostic value of exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) in the evaluation of asymptomatic patients with significant MR. Methods: 295 patients with predominantly organic, moderate-to-severe and severe MR underwent ESE. Baseline characteristics at the time of the stress test, exercise variables and echocardiographic parameters are shown in Table 1. We have evaluated the incidence of and identified risk factors for death and the following major clinical events (MCEs): atrial fibrillation (afib), pulmonary hypertension (pHTN), heart failure (HF), and stroke/TIA. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to identify demographic, echocardiographic and exercise parameters associated with MCEs. Results: Patients were followed for a median of 4.2 years (IQR 5.5) and 50% of them experienced at least one MCE. In this cohort, 23% of the patients underwent mitral valve surgery during the follow-up period. Longer exercise time was associated with a lower risk of HF/death (hazard ratio 0.88, 95% CI [0.81, 0.96]), as well as stroke/death (0.77 [0.71, 0.85]). A higher biplane ejection fraction (EF) also was associated with a lower risk of HF/death (0.95 [0.93, 0.98]). A higher baseline right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) was associated with a higher risk of pHTN/death (1.1 [1.0, 1.1]), while left atrial volume index (LAVI) greater than or equal to 48 mL/m 2 was associated with a higher risk of afib/death (2.4, [1.4, 4.1]). Conclusions: In asymptomatic patients with significant organic MR, there is a high incidence of heart valve disease-related MCEs. Higher LAVI, higher RVSP, and lower EF were associated with worse outcomes and could inform the process of earlier surgical referral.
Assessing Reflection Assignments for Public Affairs Courses: Implications for Educating Reflective Practitioners

Instructors of public affairs courses often ask students to reflect on their experiences in written assignments. The objective is to have students use this reflection to help inform their understanding of course content. In this article, the author reviews his experiences using an assessment tool to evaluate reflection assignments in the context of teaching public affairs courses, draws references to experiential learning theories, and explores implications for educating reflective practitioners.
Abstract 27: Regulating Rac1 signaling proteins influences migratory and protrusive behaviors of metastatic breast cancer cells in aligned, 3D collagen and collagen-like matrices

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, with one out of every eight women being diagnosed in their lifetime. Our lab has previously shown that aligned collagen promotes tumor progression to metastatic disease, and predicts poor prognosis for breast cancer patients. Aligned collagen increases the persistence of cellular migration by limiting the number of protrusions from the cell body. The regulation of Rac1 and Rho proteins are important for cell motility through formation of lamelliepodia. Deregulation of these proteins and those upstream of Rac1, can result in cancer cell migration, invasion and metastases. Understanding how these proteins are regulated in different 3D collagen tumor microenvironments is important for determining phenotypes of invasive breast cancers. Inhibition of cell motility through the Rac1 pathway may limit cancer cell migration and prevent metastatic disease. While many studies have investigated cell migration in 2D, little is known regarding the cellular mechanisms that regulate both breast cancer cell migration and protrusive events in 3D aligned collagen. In vitro models will be used to recapitulate 3D aligned, and random collagen environments and assess the mechanisms of cell migration and protrusion dynamics by live-cell, time-lapse microscopy. Previous work from our group determined that MDA-MB-231 cells seeded into collagen environments had fewer protrusions, which localized in the directions of collagen alignment, when migrating along aligned fibers compared to MDA-MB-231 cells in the random collagen matrices. Preliminary data demonstrates that signaling proteins upstream of Rac1 such as, small GTPases, DOCK180 and FilGAP, dictate cellular protrusions and migratory persistence. MDA-MB-231 cell lines with doxycycline-induced knock-down Rac1 GTPase activating protein (GAP), FilGAP, and guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF), DOCK180, demonstrate that the regulation of Rac1 activity through these specific proteins plays a role in breast cancer cell migration and protrusion dynamics in an aligned collagen environment. Understanding the regulation of breast cancer cell migration in aligned and random 3D collagen environments will enhance the current understanding of progression to metastatic disease on a cellular level. Citation Format: Rachel Van Doorn, Joseph Szulczewski, Suzanne Ponik. Regulating Rac1 signaling proteins influences migratory and protrusive behaviors of metastatic breast cancer cells in aligned, 3D collagen and collagen-like matrices [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 27.
Gene-Based and Viral-Based Therapies

Disappointing results in the treatment of aggressive central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms such as glioblastoma multiforme have fueled a search for novel treatment modalities. New drugs and new radiation modalities have and are being tested. Biological materials have also been explored as potential anticancer agents. Such biological materials include immunotoxins, engineered cells that release diffusible anticancer factors, proteins, stem cells, immune- or vaccine-based modalities, and gene-based and virus-based therapies. The latter type of experimental treatment is the subject of this chapter.
Thermal Image Description and Measurement

The optimum use of a thermal imaging source requires a knowledge of the irradiance distribution within the region of maximum beam convergence. In the case of a pulsed source, this requirement is even more severe, since there is no opportunity to reposition the sample during exposure in order to find the ideal geometry. Thermal damage studies nearly always employ sources which have rapid shutter systems producing pulses of variable length, and one of the major problems is that of characterizing and measuring the “image volume” within which experiments are to be carried out. It is desirable to know in advance the irradiance distribution which will impinge upon the sample surface, and also to know how this will be altered if damage is sustained and a part of the sample is vaporized.
Effects of Materiality, Risk, and Ethical Perceptions on Fraudulent Reporting by Financial Executives

This paper examines fraudulent financial reporting within the context of Jones' (1991) ethical decision making model. It was hypothesized that quantitative materiality would influence judgments of the ethical acceptability of fraud, and that both materiality and financial risk would affect the likelihood of committing fraud. The results, based on a study of CPAs employed as senior executives, provide partial support for the hypotheses. Contrary to expectations, quantitative materiality did not influence ethical judgments. ANCOVA results based on participants' estimates of the likelihood that a "typical CPA" would manipulate reported results indicated that both materiality and risk significantly influenced the likelihood of fraud, but that the perceived morality of the action did not. In contrast, results based on participants' self-reported behavior indicated that materiality and the perceived morality of the action would influence the likelihood of fraud, but that financial risk would not. Regardless of the measure used for the likelihood of fraud, the results indicate that financial executives continue to be influenced by quantitative materiality when misstatements are clearly material on qualitative grounds.
Reaffirmation of cosmological oscillations in the scale factor from the Pantheon compilation of 1048 Type Ia supernovae

We observe damped temporal oscillations in the scale factor at a dominant frequency of ~ 7 cycles/Hubble-time in the Pantheon Compilation of 1048 type Ia supernovae (SNe). The residual oscillations observed in the Pantheon data closely matches and reaffirms our initial observation of oscillations from earlier SNe data (primarily SNLS3, 2011) at 2-sigma confidence. The nearly identical shapes in amplitude, frequency, phase and damping constant makes it highly likely the signal is real. Furthermore, 2/3 of the Pantheon SNe cover different portions of the sky compared with SNLS3 strengthening this conclusion. Our model describing the oscillation, presented in an earlier paper, is a simple scalar field harmonic oscillator coupled to the LCDM Friedmann eqn, but carried into the present epoch. The scalar field energy density plays the role of the dark matter energy density in LCDM cosmology, fits well as an average, and closely matches the present dark matter density parameter, suggesting the oscillation play a role in the dark matter sector. Temporal oscillations in the scale factor and its derivative, as described in the present work, would also induce temporal oscillations of the Hubble parameter.
(N-acyl-N-alkyl)glycyl borolysine analogs: A new class of potent thrombin inhibitors

Abstract In this report the structure-activity relationships of a series of novel (N-acyl-N-alkyl)glycyl borolysine thrombin inhibitors are described. This work culminates in the discovery of (N-3-phenylpropanoyl-N-phenethyl)glycyl borolysine (12j), a potent, orally active inhibitor with a binding conformation in which the N-phenethyl group occupies the aryl binding pocket of thrombin.
Fabrication and diffraction efficiency of a 160-nm period x-ray reflection grating produced using thermally activated selective topography equilibration

We have fabricated a blazed X-ray reflection grating with a period of 160 nm using thermally activated selective topography equilibration (TASTE). The grating was tested for diffraction efficiency using the soft X-ray reflectometer at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's Advanced Light Source. Preliminary results show total absolute diffraction efficiency ≥ 40% at lower energies, with maximum single order diffraction efficiency ranging from 20-40%. Total diffraction efficiency was ≥ 30% across the entire measured band pass of 180 eV to 1300 eV.
Bruise detection and visibility under alternate light during the first three days post-trauma.

Abstract Introduction Cutaneous bruises are often hard to detect particularly on individuals with a darker complexion. Researchers and federal agencies have recommended the use of alternate light to aide in the assessment of subtle injury. However, studies are limited in their evaluation of wavelength performance during the first few days of bruise healing. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine whether an alternate light source (ALS) improves detection of bruises when compared to normal light typical of clinical practice during the first three days following induction. Methods A sample of eight healthy adults between 22 and 36 years of age with diverse skin color were recruited for this study. One bruise was induced on each participant by dropping a 4-oz (113g) steel ball through a 5-ft (1.5 m) vertical pipe onto the anterior surface of the forearm. Using the ALS, bruises were assessed under 14 different combinations of ultraviolet and short narrowband visible wavelengths and filters along with overhead fluorescent “examination” lighting. Participants were examined 3 to 4 times per day at approximately 4-h intervals for three consecutive days post induction. Results Repeated bruise assessments on 8 subjects resulted in 59 bruise assessments and 885 total observations under the different wavelengths and filters combinations. A bruise was detectable in 46 (78%) of the assessments, with bruise ages ranging from 30 min to 57 h. Twenty (34%) bruises not detectable under normal light were visible with ASL. Multilevel modeling revealed a strong association between time and detection for shorter wavelengths, such as 365 nm (ultraviolet) and 450 nm. Conclusion The results of our study suggest alternate light is more likely to detect faint bruises than normal lighting during the first three days post injury. However, more research is needed to determine which wavelengths and filter combinations are most effective during that time frame.
Trophic ecology of the Gopher Rockfish (Sebastes carnatus): providing baseline information for monitoring marine protected areas

Gopher Rockfish diets will differ inside vs. outside of marine protected areas (MPAs) due to higher Gopher Rockfish densities inside MPAs.
Notch Signaling in Thyroid Cancer.

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system with a steadily rising incidence. The term “thyroid cancer” encompasses a spectrum of subtypes, namely papillary thyroid cancer, follicular thyroid cancer, anaplastic thyroid cancer, and medullary thyroid cancer. Each subtype differs histopathologically and in degrees of cellular differentiation, which may be in part due to signaling of the Notch pathway. The Notch pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signal transduction mechanism that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, stem cell maintenance, embryonic and adult development, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis. Its role in cancer biology is controversial, as it has been shown to play both an oncogenic and tumor-suppressive role in many different types of cancers. This discordance holds true for each subtype of thyroid cancer, indicating that Notch signaling is likely cell type and context dependent. Whether oncogenic or not, Notch signaling has proven to be significantly involved in the tumorigenesis of thyroid cancer and has thus earned interest as a therapeutic target. Advancement in the understanding of Notch signaling in thyroid cancer holds great promise for the development of novel treatment strategies to benefit patients.
Broadly Neutralizing Synthetic Cannabinoid Vaccines

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) constitute a significant portion of psychoactive substances forming a major public health risk. Due to the wide variety of SCs, broadly neutralizing antibodies generated by active immunization present an intriguing pathway to combat cannabinoid use disorder. Here, we probed hapten design for antibody affinity and cross reactivity against two classes of SCs. Of the 10 haptens screened, 3 vaccine groups revealed submicromolar IC50, each targeting 5-6 compounds in our panel of 22 drugs. Moreover, SCs were successfully sequestered when administered by vaping or intraperitoneal injection, which was confirmed within animal models by observing locomotion, body temperature, and pharmacokinetics. We also discovered synergistic effects to simultaneously blunt two drug classes through an admixture vaccine approach. Collectively, our study provides a comprehensive foundation for the development of vaccines against SCs.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Soluble N-Doped Rubicenes via Ruthenium-Catalyzed Transfer Hydrogenative Benzannulation.

Ruthenium-catalyzed butadiene-mediated benzannulation enabled the first synthesis of 3,10-(di-tert-butyl)rubicene and its N-doped derivatives as well as preliminary studies on their photophysical properties. Unlike the parent rubicene and 3,10-(di-tert-butyl)rubicene, which adopt classical herringbone-type packing motifs in the solid state, the N-doped congener 7 b displayed columnar packing with an alternating co-facial arrangement of aromatic and heteroaromatic substructures.
Endovascular thrombectomy time metrics in the era of COVID-19: observations from the Society of Vascular and Interventional Neurology Multicenter Collaboration.

BACKGROUND: Unprecedented workflow shifts during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have contributed to delays in acute care delivery, but whether it adversely affected endovascular thrombectomy metrics in acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) is unknown. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of observational data from 14 comprehensive stroke centers in nine US states with acute LVO. EVT metrics were compared between March to July 2019 against March to July 2020 (primary analysis), and between state-specific pre-peak and peak COVID-19 months (secondary analysis), with multivariable adjustment. RESULTS: Of the 1364 patients included in the primary analysis (51% female, median NIHSS 14 [IQR 7-21], and 74% of whom underwent EVT), there was no difference in the primary outcome of door-to-puncture (DTP) time between the 2019 control period and the COVID-19 period (median 71 vs 67 min, P=0.10). After adjustment for variables associated with faster DTP, and clustering by site, there remained a trend toward shorter DTP during the pandemic (sadj=-73.2, 95% CI -153.8-7.4, Pp=0.07). There was no difference in DTP times according to local COVID-19 peaks vs pre-peak months in unadjusted or adjusted multivariable regression (sadj=-3.85, 95% CI -36.9-29.2, P=0.80). In this final multivariable model (secondary analysis), faster DTP times were significantly associated with transfer from an outside institution (sadj=-46.44, 95% CI -62.8 to - -30.0, P<0.01) and higher NIHSS (sadj=-2.15, 95% CI -4.2to - -0.1, P=0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In this multi-center study, there was no delay in EVT among patients treated for intracranial occlusion during the COVID-19 era compared with the pre-COVID era.
Electrosurgery in Dermatology

Abstract Electrosurgery applies high frequency alternating electrical currents to generate heat, thereby creating tissue damage required for cutting, hemostasis, or destruction. Electrosurgery can be delivered in a variety of different ways and can be tailored to achieve the desired clinical effect. Having a command of the underlying principles of electrosurgery will help dermatologic surgeons use the appropriate form of electrosurgery to safely achieve the desired results. We reviewed basic principles of electrosurgery, described the various techniques and devices, and delineated associated risks of electrosurgery for specific patient populations and providers. All modalities of electrosurgery present a risk of electromagnetic interference, which can negatively affect patients with implanted devices, such as pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, and deep brain stimulators. In particular, electrosurgery may create a smoke plume containing a number of volatile organic compounds potentially noxious; however, the risk of such exposure remains unknown.
Robust DfT Techniques for Built-in Fault Detection in Operational Amplifiers with High Coverage

An operational amplifier (op amp) is a fundamental block used extensively both as a stand-alone device and as a major block embedded in an SoC. To fully characterize an op amp, sophisticated analog and digital testing is required, which is expensive. Fault detection techniques have proved to reduce package cost and test cost by detecting faulty devices early in the test sequence. In this paper, a simple Design for Test (DfT) technique called intentional offset injection is proposed to detect various faults in the op amp. As our proposed method is completely digital, pure digital circuitry can be used, thereby avoiding expensive analog testing. The op amp can be tested with the proposed fault detection method during wafer probe test right after the continuity tests and the faulty devices could be discarded, thereby circumventing time-consuming analog testing. Additionally, our detection scheme can be used for power-on selftest after deployment and for online health monitoring during normal operation. We show that the proposed detection method can provide high fault coverage of 95% with modest area requirements. In this work, we also introduce a detector called digital window comparator which is used to monitor faults in the biasing circuit as well as in the Widlar current reference providing increased fault coverage.
From the Personal to the Global: Engaging with and Enacting DisCrit Theory Across Multiple Spaces

This article serves as the introduction to a special edition of the Journal of Race, Ethnicity, and Education (REE) dedicated to Disability Critical Race Theory (DisCrit). We begin by sharing the s...
Cal'MAM'ity at the Endoplasmic Reticulum-Mitochondrial Interface: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Neurodegeneration and Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders.

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a multifunctional organelle and serves as the primary site for intracellular calcium storage, lipid biogenesis, protein synthesis, and quality control. Mitochondria are responsible for producing the majority of cellular energy required for cell survival and function and are integral for many metabolic and signaling processes. Mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAMs) are direct contact sites between the ER and mitochondria that serve as platforms to coordinate fundamental cellular processes such as mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics, calcium and lipid homeostasis, autophagy, apoptosis, inflammation and intracellular stress responses. Given the importance of MAM-mediated mechanisms in regulating cellular fate and function, MAMs are now known as key molecular and cellular hubs underlying disease pathology. Notably, neuronal cells are uniquely susceptible to mitochondrial dysfunction and intracellular stress, which highlights the importance of MAMs as potential targets to manipulate MAM-associated mechanisms. However, whether altered MAM communication and connectivity are causative agents or compensatory mechanisms in disease development and progression remains elusive. Regardless, exploration is warranted to determine if MAMs are therapeutically targetable to combat neurodegeneration. Here, we review key MAM interactions and proteins both in vitro and in vivo models of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We further discuss implications of MAMs in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), as MAMs have not yet been explored in this neuropathology. These perspectives specifically focus on mitochondrial dysfunction, calcium dysregulation and ER stress as notable MAM-mediated mechanisms underlying HAND pathology. Finally, we discuss potential targets to manipulate MAM function as a therapeutic intervention against neurodegeneration. Future investigations are warranted to better understand the interplay and therapeutic application of MAMs in glia dysfunction and neurotoxicity.