cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biochemical detection of Aβ isoforms: implications for pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease

Prior to the identification of the various abnormal proteins deposited as fibrillar aggregates in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain, there was tremendous controversy over the importance of the various lesions with respect to primacy in the pathology of AD. Nevertheless, based on analogy to systemic amyloidosis, many investigators believed that the amyloid deposits in AD played a causal role and that characterization of these deposits would hold the key to understanding this complex disease. Indeed, in retrospect, it was the initial biochemical purifications of the approximately 4 kDa amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta) from amyloid deposits in the mid 1980s that launched a new era of AD research (Glenner and Wong, Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 122 (1984) 1121-1135; Wong et al., Proc. Natl. Acad Sci. USA 82 (1985) 8729 8732; and Masters et al., Proc. Natl. Acad Sci. USA 82 (1985) 4245-4249). Subsequent studies of the biology of Abeta together with genetic studies of AD have all supported the hypothesis that altered Abeta metabolism leading to aggregation plays a causal role in AD. Although there remains controversy as to whether Abeta deposited as classic amyloid or a smaller, aggregated, form causes AD, the relevance of studying the amyloid deposits has certainly been proven. Despite the significant advances in our understanding of the role of Abeta in AD pathogenesis, many important aspects of Abeta biology remain a mystery. This review will highlight those aspects of Abeta biology that have led to our increased understanding of the pathogenesis of AD as well as areas which warrant additional study.
Representing Spatial Relationships in Posterior Parietal Cortex: Single Neurons Code Object-Referenced Position

The brain computes spatial relationships as necessary to achieve behavioral goals. Loss of this spatial cognitive ability after damage to posterior parietal cortex may contribute to constructional apraxia, a syndrome in which a patient's ability to reproduce spatial relationships between the parts of an object is disrupted. To explore neural correlates of object-relative spatial representation, we recorded neural activity in parietal area 7a of monkeys performing an object construction task. We found that neurons were activated as a function of the spatial relationship between a task-critical coordinate and a reference object. Individual neurons exhibited an object-relative spatial preference, such that different neural populations were activated when the spatial coordinate was located to the left or right of the reference object. In each case, the representation was robust to translation of the reference object, and neurons maintained their object-relative preference when the position of the object varied relative to the angle of gaze and viewer-centered frames of reference. This provides evidence that the activity of a subpopulation of parietal neurons active in the construction task represented relative position as referenced to an object and not absolute position with respect to the viewer.
A spatially nonlocal model for polymer-penetrant diffusion

Diffusion of a penetrant in a polymer entanglement network cannot be described by Fick's Law alone; rather, one must incorporate other nonlocal effects. In contrast to previous viscoelastic models which have modeled these effects through hereditary integrals in time, a new model is presented exploiting the disparate lengths of the polymer in the glassy (dry) and rubbery (saturated) states. This model leads to a partial integrodifferential equation which is nonlocal in space. The system is recast as a moving boundary-value problem between sets of coupled partial differential equations. Using singular perturbation techniques, sorption in a semi-infinite polymer is studied on several time scales with varying exposed interface conditions. Though some of the results match with those from viscoelastic models, new physically relevant behaviors also appear. These include the formation of stopping fronts and overshoot in the pseudostress.
The benefits and costs of deposit feeding in the polychaete Abarenicola pacifica

A mass-balance approach was used to assess the relative importance of benefit and cost terms in a model of the energy budget of Abarenicola paczjica, a subsurface deposit-feeding polychaete. Some model terms (sediment consumption rate, organic matter consumption rate, growth rate, standard metabolic rate) were measured directly. Other terms (absorption efficiency, mechanical cost of feeding, specific dynamic action) were obtained by simultaneous solution of model equations. Despite high rates of sediment processing (up to 280 times ash-free dry body weight per day), the mechanical cost of deposit feeding was insignificantly low. Growth rate increased linearly over a 50-fold range in organic matter consumption rate; this relationship was unaffected by sediment consumption rate. The model that provided the best fit to the experimental data contained a nearly constant absorption efficiency, a term for specific dynamic action (“cost of growth”) that increased linearly with intake rate of organic matter, and no mechanical cost of feeding. Models based on optimal foraging theory thus require modifications in order to describe more realistically the feeding behavior of microphagous animals.
In Situ Monitoring of Structural Changes in Boron Carbide Under Electric Fields

In situ monitoring of the transformation of B4C under electric field using Raman spectroscopy is reported. Application of electric fields up to 5000 V/cm leads to local segregation of carbon, indicated by the appearance of Raman D and G peaks. At low electric fields (o3000 V/cm) the segregated carbon is amorphous, while at higher fields aromatic sp 2 clustering is observed. Electrical measurements as a function of temperature are used to complement the Raman measurements. The results demonstrate that it is possible to induce transformations in boron carbide using electric fields that are comparable with those obtained under shock and nanoindentation.
The small regulatory RNA FasX enhances group A Streptococcus virulence and inhibits pilus expression via serotype‐specific targets

Bacterial pathogens commonly show intra-species variation in virulence factor expression and often this correlates with pathogenic potential. The group A Streptococcus (GAS) produces a small regulatory RNA (sRNA), FasX, which regulates the expression of pili and the thrombolytic agent streptokinase. As GAS serotypes are polymorphic regarding (a) FasX abundance, (b) the fibronectin, collagen, T-antigen (FCT) region of the genome, which contains the pilus genes (nine different FCT-types), and (c) the streptokinase-encoding gene (ska) sequence (two different alleles), we sought to test whether FasX regulates pilus and streptokinase expression in a serotype-specific manner. Parental, fasX mutant and complemented derivatives of serotype M1 (ska-2, FCT-2), M2 (ska-1, FCT-6), M6 (ska-2, FCT-1) and M28 (ska-1, FCT-4) isolates were compared. While FasX reduced pilus expression in each serotype, the molecular basis differed, as FasX bound, and inhibited the translation of, different FCT-region mRNAs. FasX enhanced streptokinase expression in each serotype, although the degree of regulation varied. Finally, we established that the regulation afforded by FasX enhances GAS virulence, assessed by a model of bacteremia using human plasminogen-expressing mice. Our data are the first to identify and characterize serotype-specific regulation by an sRNA in GAS, and to show an sRNA directly contributes to GAS virulence.
On the one- and one-half-dimensional relativistic Vlasov-Fokker-Planck-Maxwell system

In this paper, we study the relativistic Vlasov-Fokker-Planck-Maxwell system in one space variable and two momentum variables. This non-linear system of equations consists of a transport equation for the phase space distribution function combined with Maxwell's equations for the electric and magnetic fields. It is important in modelling distribution of charged particles in the kinetic theory of plasma. We prove the existence of a classical solution when the initial density decays fast enough with respect to the momentum variables. The solution which shares this same decay condition along with its first derivatives in the momentum variables is unique.
KpnBI is the prototype of a new family (IE) of bacterial type I restriction-modification system

KpnBI is a restriction-modification (R-M) system recognized in the GM236 strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Here, the KpnBI modification genes were cloned into a plasmid using a modification expression screening method. The modification genes that consist of both hsdM (2631 bp) and hsdS (1344 bp) genes were identified on an 8.2 kb EcoRI chromosomal fragment. These two genes overlap by one base and share the same promoter located upstream of the hsdM gene. Using recently developed plasmid R-M tests and a computer program RM Search, the DNA recognition sequence for the KpnBI enzymes was identified as a new 8 nt sequence containing one degenerate base with a 6 nt spacer, CAAANNNNNNRTCA. From Dam methylation and HindIII sensitivity tests, the methylation loci were predicted to be the italicized third adenine in the 5′ specific region and the adenine opposite the italicized thymine in the 3′ specific region. Combined with previous sequence data for hsdR, we concluded that the KpnBI system is a typical type I R-M system. The deduced amino acid sequences of the three subunits of the KpnBI system show only limited homologies (25 to 33% identity) at best, to the four previously categorized type I families (IA, IB, IC, and ID). Furthermore, their identity scores to other uncharacterized putative genome type I sequences were 53% at maximum. Therefore, we propose that KpnBI is the prototype of a new ‘type IE’ family.
Mechanisms of sensitized photochemical cis-trans-isomerization in solution.

Abstract— The mechanisms of sensitized cis-trans-isomerization of olefins and polyenes are discussed. Three general mechanisms which embrace a range of interactions between the sensitizer and olefin or polyene are considered: radiationless electronic excitation transfer, chemical addition-elimination, and energy transfer to non-spectroscopic states.
Standard of Cretaceous System

A preliminary report on this subject was read before the Pacific Section of the Association on October 16, 1941. The present paper incorporates slight revisions based on suggestions from several colleagues, notably Gayle Scott, Hans E. Thalmann, and John B. Reeside, Jr., and his associates. The standard of the Cretaceous system represents a composite time-rock column--a total or complete sequence of strata between the Jurassic and the Cenozoic. This standard has been built up by fitting together continuous sections which are especially well exposed in several areas in Europe. The system is subdivided into series, stages and zones. These divisions are based on paleontologic evidence, with no regard to thicknesses of strata and their lithologic character. Particular attention is drawn to the early work of d'Orbigny in setting up the stages of the entire Cretaceous system. A detailed analysis of a zone clarifies the meaning of this time-stratigraphic term. A study of the boundaries between the underlying Jurassic and the overlying Cenozoic leads to the conclusion that the l west Cretaceous stage is the Berriasian and the highest is the Danian.
Simultaneous measurement of the spin parameters P and C NN in pp elastic scattering at 2, 3, 4, and 6 Gev/ c

Using the polarized-beam facility at Argonne National Laboratory and a polarized proton target, simultaneous measurements of the spin parameter $P$ and the spin correlation term ${C}_{\mathrm{NN}}$ were made. Data were obtained and analyzed at beam momenta of 2, 3, 4, and 6 GeV/c in the momentum-transfer-squared interval $0.1\ensuremath{\le}|t|\ensuremath{\le}2.8$ ${(\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c})}^{2}$. A preliminary phase-shift analysis of the 2- and 3-GeV/c data is discussed and a comparison with predictions of a particular Regge-pole model at all four energies is made.
Tetrahedral Mesh Modeling of Density Data for Anatomical Atlases and Intensity-Based Registration

In this paper, we present the first phase of our effort to build a bone density atlas. We adopted a tetrahedral mesh structure to represent anatomical structures. We propose an efficient and automatic algorithm to construct the tetrahedral mesh from contours in CT images corresponding to the outer bone surfaces and boundaries between compact bone, spongy bone, and medullary cavity. We approximate bone density variations by means of continuous density functions in each tetrahedron of the mesh. Currently, our density functions are second degree polynomial functions expressed in terms of barycentric coordinates associated with each tetrahedron. We apply our density model to efficiently generate Digitally Reconstructed Radiographs. These results are immediately applicable as means of speeding up 2D-3D and 3D-3D intensity based registration and will be incorporated into our future work on construction of atlases and deformable intensity-based registration.
Does the kindling model of epilepsy contribute to our understanding of multiple chemical sensitivity

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a phenomenon whereby individuals report an increased sensitivity to low levels of chemicals in the environment. Kindling is a model of synaptic plasticity whereby repeated low-level electrical stimulation to a number of brain sites leads to permanent increases in seizure susceptibility. Stimulation that is initially subthreshold for subclinical seizure provocation comes, over time, to elicit full-blown motor seizures. Kindling can also be induced by chemical stimulation, and repeated exposures to some pesticides have been shown to induce signs of behavioral seizure, facilitate subsequent electrical kindling, and induce subclinical electrographic signs of hyperexcitability in the amygdala. Many of the symptoms of MCS suggest that CNS limbic pathways involved in anxiety are altered in individuals reporting MCS. Limbic structures are among the most susceptible to kindling-induced seizures, and persistent cognitive and emotional sequelae have been associated with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) in humans and kindling in animals. Thus, a number of parallels exist between kindling and MCS phenomena, leading to initial speculations that MCS may occur via a kindling-like mechanism. However, kindling requires the activation of electrographic seizure discharge and has thus been primarily examined as a model for TLE. Events leading to the initial evocation of a subclinical electrographic seizure have been much less well studied. It is perhaps these events that may serve as a more appropriate model for the enhanced chemical responsiveness characteristic of MCS. Alternatively, kindling may be useful as a tool to selectively increase sensitivity in subcomponents of the neural fear circuit to address questions relating the role of anxiety in the development and expression of MCS.
Direct tendon attachment and healing to porous tantalum: an experimental animal study.

Background: The ability to directly attach soft-tissue to metal would have broad clinical application. Previous attempts to obtain normal tendon-to-bone attachment strength have been unsuccessful. In the present study, we hypothesized that when the initial interface mechanical environment is carefully controlled, a highly porous form of tantalum metal would allow the ingrowth of tendon tissue with clinically relevant tendon-to-implant fixation strength approaching that of an intact tendon-to-bone insertion. Methods: Supraspinatus tendons from forty skeletally mature dogs were reattached to the greater tuberosity between two custom-designed porous tantalum washers. Clinical function as judged on the basis of gait analysis, reattachment fixation strength and stiffness, and tendon function as seen through muscle volume were evaluated preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at three, six, and twelve weeks after surgery. Qualitative and quantitative histomorphologic evaluation was performed at three, six, and twelve weeks after surgery. Results: Gait analysis with use of force-plate measurements demonstrated return to a normal gait pattern by three weeks after surgery. Tendon-implant strength as a percentage of normal, contralateral controls increased significantly, from 39% at the time of surgery to 67% at three weeks, 99% at six weeks, and 140% at twelve weeks (p < 0.0014). The stiffness of the construct also increased and approached that of normal tendon, measuring 47% at the time of surgery, 62% at three weeks, 94% at six weeks, and 130% at twelve weeks (p < 0.0299). Supraspinatus muscle volume initially decreased by 33% but recovered to 92% of normal by twelve weeks (p < 0.01). Histomorphologic evaluation showed Sharpey-like fibers inserting onto the surface of the porous tantalum. Quantitative histomorphometric analysis revealed a time-dependent increase in the density of the collagen tissue filling the metal voids below the implant surface of first the bottom washer and then the top washer. Conclusions: Robust biologic ingrowth of tendon into a porous tantalum implant surface can be achieved under conditions of secure initial mechanical fixation. The strength and stiffness of the tendon-implant construct reached normal levels by six to twelve weeks in this animal model. Clinical Relevance: Our results demonstrate the potential utility of highly porous metals in general and this specific form of porous tantalum in particular as a biomaterial for soft-tissue reconstruction. The ability to achieve healing of tendon and possibly other soft tissues directly to metallic devices should offer opportunities for the development of novel and potentially more physiologic orthopaedic implants.
A wavelength-ratiometric fluoride-sensitive probe based on the quinolinium nucleus and boronic acid moiety.

We report a new water-soluble fluorescent probe sensitive to aqueous fluoride. The probe shows spectral shifts and intensity changes in the presence of fluoride, in a wavelength ratiometric and colorimetric manner, enabling the detection of fluoride concentrations at visible wavelengths, in the concentration range ≈1–300 mM. The probes response is based on the ability of the boronic acid group to interact with fluoride, changing from the neutral form of the boronic acid group [R–B(OH)2] to the anionic trifluoro form [R–B–F 3], which is an electron donating group. The presence of an electron-deficient quaternary heterocyclic nitrogen center and a strong electron donating amino group in the 6-position, on the quinolinium backbone, provides for the spectral responses observed upon fluoride binding to the boronic acid group. Interestingly, the presence of the amino group on the 6-position of the quinolinium backbone suppresses the response of the boronic acid containing fluorophore towards monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose, which are present in biological fluids and food stuffs, potentially allowing for the predominant fluoride sensitivity. In addition to physiological sugars, we discuss the response of aqueous halides as potential interferents, or indeed analytes to be sensed, and show that the new probe responds well to aqueous fluoride in the presence of a high background of other species, such as in a biological cocktail of 50 mM glucose, 50 mM aqueous Cl − and 5 mM fructose.
Theory of frequency scanning of antennas

This paper presents the theory of 180\deg scanning for a linear array and Tchebycheff array by frequency variation and discusses the relationships between the linear array theory and the \omega-\beta diagram of periodic structures. Each element is excited by a slow-wave structure which is either nondispersive or dispersive. At a center frequency, the spacing is an integral multiple of guide wavelength M\lambda_{c} . It is shown that this is in fact the - M th space harmonic in the so-called forbidden region, and all the other harmonics are slow. For a given frequency range, the necessary phase velocity and other parameters are determined in order to obtain 180\deg scanning without causing other main beams, and the example is carried out for the X -band frequency range.
Crossveinless and the TGFβ pathway regulate fiber number in the Drosophila adult jump muscle

Skeletal muscles are readily characterized by their location within the body and by the number and composition of their constituent muscle fibers. Here, we characterize a mutation that causes a severe reduction in the number of fibers comprising the tergal depressor of the trochanter muscle (TDT, or jump muscle), which functions in the escape response of the Drosophila adult. The wild-type TDT comprises over 20 large muscle fibers and four small fibers. In crossveinless ( cv ) mutants, the number of large fibers is reduced by 50%, and the number of small fibers is also occasionally reduced. This reduction in fiber number arises from a reduction in the number of founder cells contributing to the TDT at the early pupal stage. Given the role of cv in TGFβ signaling, we determined whether this pathway directly impacts TDT development. Indeed, gain- and loss-of-function manipulations in the TGFβ pathway resulted in dramatic increases and decreases, respectively, in TDT fiber number. By identifying the origins of the TDT muscle, from founder cells specified in the mesothoracic leg imaginal disc, we also demonstrate that the TGFβ pathway directly impacts the specification of founder cells for the jump muscle. Our studies define a new role for the TGFβ pathway in the control of specific skeletal muscle characteristics.
Freedom Schooling: Reconceptualizing Asian American Studies for Our Communities

"The educational system today is designed for failure."I hear this statement often these days. I hear it often, and I say it myself. I hear it from K-12 activist teachers as they confront mandates for standardized testing and orders to "teach to the test." I hear it from college teachers who work with first-generation college students as they cope with stringent new policies limiting those who can come to the university and those who can stay. Yet, behind this indictment of the educational system is neither cynicism nor passivity. Based on a critique of today's educational system, activists are crafting a new paradigm. Currently, this paradigm exists only in its broadest outlines. We call this paradigm Freedom Schooling.
Singular continuous spectrum under rank one perturbations and localization for random hamiltonians

We consider a selfadjoint operator, A, and a selfadjoint rank-one projection, P, onto a vector, φ, which is cyclic for A. In terms of the spectral measure dμAφ, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for A + λ P to have empty singular continuous spectrum or to have only point spectrum for a.e. λ. We apply these results to questions of localization in the one- and multi-dimensional Anderson models.
Two-dimensional and Doppler ultrasound evaluation of femoral arteries in infants after cardiac catheterization.

In conclusion, femoral artery obstruction occurs frequently (32%) in infants <1 year old undergoing cardiac catheterization. Two-dimensional and Doppler ultrasound examination of the femoral arteries is useful for identifying femoral arterial obstruction.
Anharmonic bend-stretch interaction force constants in bent triatomic molecules

Abstract The anharmonicity in the bending mode of a symmetric bent triatomic molecule is modeled by a simple double-minimum potential and, by assuming a dependence of the force constants of this potential on the symmetric stretching co-ordinate, a model is developed for the anharmonic bend-stretch interaction force constants. In this way the 19-parameter quartic force field of the bent XY 2 molecule may be represented by a 9-parameter model. The parameters in the proposed potential function have been adjusted to the experimental spectroscopic data for SO 2 and NO 2 .
Automated External Defibrillators and Emergency Planning for Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Vermont High Schools: A Rural State's Perspective.

Background:Sudden cardiac death (SCD) events are tragic. Secondary prevention of SCD depends on availability of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). High school athletes represent a high-risk group for SCD, and current efforts aim to place AEDs in all high schools.Hypothesis:The prevalence of AEDs and emergency planning for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in Vermont high schools is similar to other states. Understanding specific needs and limitations in rural states may prevent SCD in rural high schools.Study Design:Cross-sectional survey.Methods:A survey was distributed to all 74 Vermont high school athletic directors. Outcome measures included AED prevalence, AED location, individuals trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED utilization, funding methods for AED attainment, and the establishment of an emergency action plan (EAP) for response to SCA.Results:All schools (100%, 74 of 74) completed the survey. Of those, 60 (81%) schools have at least 1 AED on school premises, with the most com...
Early holocene openlands in southern New England.

The pre-historical vegetation structure in temperate forest regions is much debated among European and North American ecologists and conservationists. Frans Vera's recent hypothesis that large mammals created mosaics of forest and openland vegetation in both regions throughout the Holocene has been particularly controversial and has provoked new approaches to conservation management. Thirty years earlier, American paleoecologists Herb Wright and Margaret Davis debated whether abundant ragweed pollen at Rogers Lake, Connecticut at 9500 yr BP signified local forest openings or long-distance transport of pollen from Midwestern prairies. Using new pollen records from Harvard Forest and the North American Pollen Database, we address this question and offer insights to the openland discussion. Ragweed and other forbs exceed 3.5% at five sites in a restricted area of southern New England between 10 100 and 7700 yr BP. Strong evidence suggests this pollen originated from the landscapes surrounding these sites (supporting Davis), as ragweed pollen percentages do not increase with longitude from New England to the Midwest. Ragweed pollen percentages are also unrelated to basin size and therefore unrelated to the proportion of extraregional pollen in New England. High forbs values were associated with increases in oak, decreases in white pine, and relatively high charcoal values. Modern pollen records with similar forb and tree percentages occur along the Prairie Peninsula region of the Upper Midwest. However, the closest analogue to the southern New England early Holocene assemblages comes from Massachusetts' Walden Pond in the early 18th century. These results and the affiliation of ragweed for open, disturbed habitats suggest that oak-pine forests with large openings persisted for over 2000 years due to dry conditions and perhaps increased fire frequency. This conclusion is corroborated by independent lake level and climate reconstructions. Because these early Holocene openlands have no detectable analogue in New England for the past 7000 years before European settlement, we suggest that all important openlands today are almost exclusively a legacy of Colonial agriculture and should be managed accordingly. Nonetheless, our results may have implications for forest dynamics accompanying projected climate change to more arid conditions in New England over the next century.
Digiscoping Vouchers for Diet Studies in Bill-load Holding Birds

We conducted an observer-based diet study of Caspian Terns (Sterna caspia) incorporating digiscoping to collect digital photographic vouchers of fish. Observer-based diet studies pose several probl ...
A Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor, Dinaciclib, Impairs Homologous Recombination and Sensitizes Multiple Myeloma Cells to PARP Inhibition

PARP1/2 are required for single-strand break repair, and their inhibition causes DNA replication fork collapse and double-strand break (DSB) formation. These DSBs are primarily repaired via homologous recombination (HR), a high-fidelity repair pathway. Should HR be deficient, DSBs may be repaired via error-prone nonhomologous end-joining mechanisms, or may persist, ultimately resulting in cell death. The combined disruption of PARP and HR activities thus produces synthetic lethality. Multiple myeloma cells are characterized by chromosomal instability and pervasive DNA damage, implicating aberrant DNA repair. Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK), upstream modulators of HR, are dysregulated in multiple myeloma. Here, we show that a CDK inhibitor, dinaciclib, impairs HR repair and sensitizes multiple myeloma cells to the PARP1/2 inhibitor ABT-888. Dinaciclib abolishes ABT-888-induced BRCA1 and RAD51 foci and potentiates DNA damage, indicated by increased γH2AX foci. Dinaciclib treatment reduces expression of HR repair genes, including Rad51, and blocks BRCA1 phosphorylation, a modification required for HR repair, thus inhibiting HR repair of chromosome DSBs. Cotreatment with dinaciclib and ABT-888 in vitro resulted in synthetic lethality of multiple myeloma cells, but not normal CD19(+) B cells, and slowed growth of multiple myeloma xenografts in SCID mice almost two-fold. These findings support combining dinaciclib with PARP inhibitors for multiple myeloma therapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(2); 241-50. ©2015 AACR.
Dynamic parameter estimation and optimization for batch distillation

Abstract This work reviews a well-known methodology for batch distillation modeling, estimation, and optimization but adds a new case study with experimental validation. Use of nonlinear statistics and a sensitivity analysis provides valuable insight for model validation and optimization verification for batch columns. The application is a simple, batch column with a binary methanol–ethanol mixture. Dynamic parameter estimation with an l1-norm error, nonlinear confidence intervals, ranking of observable parameters, and efficient sensitivity analysis are used to refine the model and find the best parameter estimates for dynamic optimization implementation. The statistical and sensitivity analyses indicated there are only a subset of parameters that are observable. For the batch column, the optimized production rate increases by 14% while maintaining product purity requirements.
Electrochemical Characterization of Orthorhombic NaXMnO2 for Alkali Metal Polymer Batteries

Electrochemical potential spectroscopy (ECPS) has been used successfully to observe and explain ordering transitions in orthorhombic Na{sub x}MnO{sub 2} as it is discharged in a sodium/polymer cell. Features can be assigned on the basis of sequential filling of sites in the small and then the large tunnels of the structure as the reduction progresses. Intercalation of lithium into Na{sub x}MnO{sub 2} may be less straightforward than that of sodium, and is worthy of investigation by ECPS. Li/Na{sub x}MnO{sub 2} cells have a greater discharge capacity than Na/Na{sub x}MnO{sub 2} cells, suggesting that more than four lithiums per large tunnel can be inserted. (It is also possible, but less likely that more than one lithium can be placed inside the small tunnels.) This implies that the sites for lithium occupancy might be somewhat different than that for sodium. Further investigation into the properties of orthorhombic Na{sub x}MnO{sub 2} and its utility as a positive electrode for rechargeable sodium and lithium cells is presently underway in this laboratory.
MEASURING PHENOTYPIC SELECTION ON AN ADAPTATION: LAMELLAE OF DAMSELFLIES EXPERIENCING DRAGONFLY PREDATION

Previous studies suggest that the evolution of increased caudal lamellae size to increase swimming speed was an adaptation of Enallagma damselflies for coexisting with large, predatory dragonflies in fishless lakes. To test whether dragonfly predation still exerts selection pressures for increased lamellae size, I performed a field experiment in which I manipulated the abilities of dragonfly larvae to inflict mortality on Enallagma boreale larvae and compared differences in lamellae size and shape between treatments. In cages where dragonflies were free to forage on damselflies, surviving E. boreale larvae had lamellae that were larger in lateral surface area, and that were wider relative to their length, as compared with larvae recovered from treatments in which dragonflies were not permitted to forage on damselflies. Selection differentials of about 0.25 phenotypic standard deviation units were measured for both of these characters. These results indicate that dragonfly predation still exerts significant selection pressures on damselfly antipredator adaptations. The results of this study are discussed in the context of studies of adaptation.
Overwhelming Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection in a patient with asplenia.

Patients with asplenia are prone to overwhelming infections due to encapsulated organisms. We report a 62-year-old man presenting with fever and weakness. His medical history was significant for splenectomy and owning a dog as pet. The patient on examination had evidence of animal bite and scratch marks on his lower extremity and developed dry gangrene of multiple digits of his upper extremity soon after admission. The patient9s initial blood cultures were positive for Gram-negative rods, but no organism was identified. Capnocytophaga canimorsus was the suspected organism and the patient9s antibiotics were tailored accordingly, with good clinical recovery. The patient’ blood cultures finally grew C canimorsus on day 20 for which the patient had already been treated with prior clinical judgement. Physicians should be aware of this organism in the setting of sepsis in patients with asplenia and use appropriate antibiotics until further results are obtained.
Stochastic optimal allocation of reactive power banks for system loss minimization

In this paper, the problem of power losses minimization is carried out with the aim of attaining minimum power losses in an electrical power system. The current industry practice is to locally install reactive power compensation systems. Using capacitor banks, it can help to maintain bus voltages and power factors as well as reduce the power cable losses, and it can help to meet any future load increase. Currently, due to huge uncertainties affecting some relevant input variables, their accurate evolution forecasting is almost an unfeasible task, with the result that expansion plans frequently are subject to continuous reviews and modifications. In addition, probabilistic analysis, specifically with the application of the Monte Carlo method, is exploited for assessing the attributes of different capacitor banks. Finally, exhaustive numerical results on a real sub-transmission system demonstrate that the proposed formulation and approach are effective. Comparisons of different control techniques are shown, and conclusions are derived.
Editorial: In a Time of Global Upheaval- Humanistic Management Thinking Needed More than Ever.

In very uncertain times, we are happy to announce the publication of the second volume of the Humanistic Management Journal. While it is sometimes easy to despair and question the value of our collective work, we can benefit from knowing that despite historical hiccups good and valid ideas are stronger than emotional and political fads. Our journal was established in a time when the failures and cracks of the pervasive “economistic” view of the world have become very evident. It is our hope that the basic values of freedom and dignity can be part of organizing theory and practice much more fundamentally than they had been in the past (Pirson, 2016).
China and the South China Sea Arbitration: Geopolitics Versus International Law

ABSTRACTThis article analyzes China’s geopolitical maneuvers in the wake of the International Arbitral Court ruling over the South China Sea territorial disputes brought up by the Philippines. It finds that while the Philippines won the case in the sphere of international law, China won the geopolitical battle not only because the court does not have effective enforcement mechanisms but also because the international community lacked the will to induce significant compliance given China’s forceful rejection as a great power.
Crossed wires: 3D genome misfolding in human disease

Mammalian genomes are folded into unique topological structures that undergo precise spatiotemporal restructuring during healthy development. Here, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of how the genome folds inside the 3D nucleus and how these folding patterns are miswired during the onset and progression of mammalian disease states. We discuss potential mechanisms underlying the link among genome misfolding, genome dysregulation, and aberrant cellular phenotypes. We also discuss cases in which the endogenous 3D genome configurations in healthy cells might be particularly susceptible to mutation or translocation. Together, these data support an emerging model in which genome folding and misfolding is critically linked to the onset and progression of a broad range of human diseases.
ABIN1 Determines Severity of Glomerulonephritis via Activation of Intrinsic Glomerular Inflammation.

Transcription factor NF-κB regulates expression of numerous genes that control inflammation and is activated in glomerular cells in glomerulonephritis (GN). We previously identified genetic variants for a NF-κB regulatory, ubiquitin-binding protein ABIN1 as risk factors for GN in systemic autoimmunity. The goal was to define glomerular inflammatory events controlled by ABIN1 function in GN. Nephrotoxic serum nephritis was induced in wild-type (WT) and ubiquitin-binding deficient ABIN1[D485N] mice, and renal pathophysiology and glomerular inflammatory phenotypes were assessed. Proteinuria was also measured in ABIN1[D485N] mice transplanted with WT mouse bone marrow. Inflammatory activation of ABIN1[D472N] (D485N homolog) cultured human-derived podocytes, and interaction with primary human neutrophils were also assessed. Disruption of ABIN1 function exacerbated proteinuria, podocyte injury, glomerular NF-κB activity, glomerular expression of inflammatory mediators, and glomerular recruitment and retention of neutrophils in antibody-mediated nephritis. Transplantation of WT bone marrow did not prevent the increased proteinuria in ABIN1[D845N] mice. Tumor necrosis factor–stimulated enhanced expression and secretion of NF-κB–targeted proinflammatory mediators in ABIN1[D472N] cultured podocytes compared with WT cells. Supernatants from ABIN1[D472N] podocytes accelerated chemotaxis of human neutrophils, and ABIN1[D472N] podocytes displayed a greater susceptibility to injurious morphologic findings induced by neutrophil granule contents. These studies define a novel role for ABIN1 dysfunction and NF-κB in mediating GN through proinflammatory activation of podocytes.
Personality Measurement and Design in Human-Robot Interaction: A Systematic and Critical Review:

This work aims to summarize research methods for measuring personality in human-robot interaction. A systematic review was performed, resulting in 35 studies that were categorized by whether they a...
Establishing a Framework for the Spatial Identification of Effective Impervious Areas in Gauged Basins: Review and Case Study

AbstractEffective impervious area (EIA) is defined as the subset of the total impervious area (TIA) often hydrologically connected to stream networks via stormwater infrastructure. Its importance i...
A model-based Bayesian framework for sound source enumeration and direction of arrival estimation using a coprime microphone array.

Coprime microphone arrays use sparse sensing to achieve greater degrees of freedom, while the coprimality of the microphone subarrays help resolve grating lobe ambiguities. The result is a narrow beam at frequencies higher than the spatial Nyquist limit allows, with residual side lobes arising from aliasing. These side lobes can be mitigated when observing broadband sources, as shown by Bush and Xiang [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 138, 447–456 (2015)]. Peak positions may indicate directions of arrival in this case; however, one must first ask how many sources are present. In answering this question, this work employs a model describing scenes with potentially multiple concurrent sound sources. Bayesian inference is used to first select which model the data prefer from competing models before estimating model parameters, including the particular source locations. The model is a linear combination of Laplace distribution functions (one per sound source). The likelihood function is explored by a Markov Chain Monte Carlo method called nested sampling in order to evaluate Bayesian evidence for each model. These values increase monotonically with model complexity; however, diminished returns are penalized via an implementation of Occam's razor.
Cohort Groups in Educational Administration: Promises and Challenges:

To create a more supportive and collegial learning environment, many educational administration preparation programs are using cohort groups of students. This article traces the development of coho...
PET radioimmunodetection of neuroblastoma: Optimizing pharmacokinetics through antibody engineering

1556 Objectives To identify the optimal antibody format for PET detection of neuroblastoma. Methods Whole IgG ch14.18 (150 kDa) and its ΔCH2 (120 kDa) and scFv-Fc (100 kDa) derivatives were conjugated to pba-DOTA and labeled with 64Cu. The labeled radioimmunoconjugate (RIC) (50 μg, 100-250 μCi each) was injected into mice bearing M21 tumors. MicroPET images were collected at 1, 24 and 48 hours post-injection, followed by a biodistribution study. Results MicroPET imaging and the biodistribution study demonstrated that these bivalent RICs localized to the tumor. Blood clearance for the smaller molecules was more rapid: ch14.18 (n = 5) 5.9 ±1.4 %ID/g; ΔCH2 (n = 3) 1.5 ±0.3 %ID/g; scFv-Fc (n = 5) 3.9 ±0.8 %ID/g (Ab and scFv-Fc vs ΔCH2 P 0.05). The normal tissue distribution of the molecules also varied. Liver uptake for the intact antibody was 7.4 ±3.0 %ID/g, but for ΔCH2: 12.9 ±1.9 %ID/g; and scFv-Fc 9.9 ±0.8 %ID/g. Kidney uptake followed a different pattern, with low intact antibody and ΔCH2 uptake (3.7 ±1.2 %ID/g and 3.7 ±0.4 %ID/g respectively) but higher scFv-Fc uptake (7.6 ±1.2 %ID/g, all data 48 hours p.i.). Conclusions Blood levels of the whole antibody and scFv-Fc molecules were probably maintained through recycling by the FcRn molecule binding to intact Fc regions. More rapid clearance from non-target tissues, reducing exposure to the radionuclide, suggests that the Cu-64-labeled ▵CH2 molecule would be a better format for clinical detection of neuroblastoma lesions. Research Support National Institutes of Health Grants 5K08CA093554 and 5R01CA094338.
Tandem representations of spectral envelope and modulation frequency features for ASR.

We present a feature extraction technique for automatic speech recognition that uses Tandem representation of short-term spectral envelope and modulation frequency features. These features, derived from sub-band temporal envelopes of speech estimated using frequency domain linear prediction, are combined at the phoneme posterior level. Tandem representations derived from these phoneme posteriors are used along with HMM based ASR systems for both small and large vocabulary continuous speech recognition (LVCSR) tasks. For a small vocabulary continuous digit task on the OGI Digits database, the proposed features reduce the word error rate (WER) by 13 % relative to other feature extraction techniques. We obtain a relative reduction of about 14 % in WER for an LVCSR task using the NIST RT05 evaluation data. For phoneme recognition tasks on the TIMIT database these features provide a relative improvement of 13% compared to other techniques.
Obesity is not a risk factor for significant adverse outcomes after cardiac surgery.

Background Obese patients undergoing cardiac surgery are often thought to have prohibitive perioperative risk despite the lack of sufficient data to support this assumption. Methods and Results To assess the significance of obesity as a risk factor in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, we analyzed data from 2299 patients undergoing procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass from January 1, 1991, to December 31, 1993. Obesity was defined by use of the body mass index, defined as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Potential adverse outcomes analyzed included operative mortality, deep sternal wound infection, superficial sternal wound infection, infection at the saphenous vein harvest site, stroke, renal failure, adult respiratory distress syndrome, prolonged mechanical ventilation, pneumonia, sepsis, atrial arrhythmias, pulmonary embolism, need for early reexploration for bleeding, and ventricular arrhythmias. To control for the confounding effects of other risk factors, we performed a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Potential covariates considered in the logistic model included age, sex, race, history of reoperation, congestive heart failure, prior myocardial infarction, renal failure, diabetes, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or stroke, and cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp time. Twenty-five percent of patients (567/2299) were classified as obese. The results of the multivariate regression demonstrated that obesity was a risk factor only for superficial sternal wound infection (P<.001 ; odds ratio, 2.3), leg infections (P=.005 ; odds ratio, 1.8), and atrial dysrhythmias (P=.04 ; odds ratio, 1.2). Notably, obesity did not predispose toward increased pulmonary complications or deep sternal wound infection (P=.65). Conclusions With the exception of superficial wound complications and atrial dysrhythmias, obesity is not a significant multivariate risk factor for adverse outcomes. The results indicate that obese patients may safely undergo cardiac surgery with due attention to technical considerations designed to minimize wound complications.