cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanism for Biphasic Rel A· NF-κB1 Nuclear Translocation in Tumor Necrosis Factor α-stimulated Hepatocytes

The proinflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha), is a potent activator of angiotensinogen gene transcription in hepatocytes by activation of latent nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) DNA binding activity. In this study, we examine the kinetics of TNFalpha-activated translocation of the 65-kDa (Rel A) and 50-kDa (NF-kappaB1) NF-kappaB subunits mediated by inhibitor (IkappaB) proteolysis in HepG2 hepatoblastoma cells. HepG2 cells express the IkappaB members IkappaBalpha, IkappaBbeta, and IkappaBgamma. In response to TNFalpha, Rel A.NF-kappaB1 translocation and DNA binding activity follows a biphasic profile, with an "early" induction (15-30 min), followed by a nadir to control levels at 60 min, and a "late" induction (>120 min). The early phase of Rel A.NF-kappaB1 translocation depends on simultaneous proteolysis of both IkappaBalpha and IkappaBbeta isoforms; IkappaBgamma is inert to TNFalpha treatment. The 60-min nadir is due to a rapid IkappaBalpha resynthesis that reassociates with Rel A and completely inhibits its DNA binding activity; the 60-min nadir is not observed when IkappaBalpha resynthesis is prevented by cycloheximide treatment. By contrast, selective inhibition of IkappaBbeta proteolysis by pretreatment of HepG2 cells with the peptide aldehyde N-acetyl-Leu-Leu-norleucinal completely blocks the late phase of Rel A.NF-kappaB1 translocation. These studies indicate the presence of inducible and constitutive cytoplasmic NF-kappaB pools in hepatocytes. TNFalpha induces a coordinated proteolysis and resynthesis of IkappaB isoforms to produce dynamic changes in NF-kappaB nuclear abundance.
Single crystal and powder diffraction studies of curium-248 trichloride, 248CmCl3

Abstract A single crystal of 248 CmCl 3 has been grown from the melt and studied by X-ray diffraction. The UCl 3 -type hexagonal unit cell has (at 23°C) dimensions of a o = 7·3743(11) and c o = 4·1850(7) A, where the standard errors are given in parentheses. Structural parameters including anisotropic thermal motion have been refined by the method of least-squares. A radius of 0·971 (3) A was derived for the six-coordinated Cm 3+ ion. Powder diffraction studies on three 248 CmCl 3 samples have shown the apparent absence of radiation-induced expansion in the previous 244 CmCl 3 studies. The melting point of 248 CmCl 3 was determined to be 695 ± 10°C.
Performance analysis of a multi-node packet radio meteor burst communication network

The performance analysis of a multi-node meteor burst (MB) packet network has been presented. The intermittent nature of the MB channel is realized by breakdown environment created by random service interruptions on a waiting line process. A star type network is considered where different nodes send the data to a central node. A multiple access protocol has been devised by which the central node uses a probe and a busy tone to utilize the channel availabilities efficiently. As in the point to point case, Gaver's (1962) results for first and second moments of message completion time in a queuing system which experiences preemptive resume interruptions have been employed to compute the average packet delay. Also, the Markov chain approach is used for the evaluation of packet delay, throughput and the probability of blocking in the network. Finally, a simulation has been performed to validate the numerical results. >
PDE4B mediates local feedback regulation of β1-adrenergic cAMP signaling in a sarcolemmal compartment of cardiac myocytes

Multiple cAMP phosphodiesterase (PDE) isoforms play divergent roles in cardiac homeostasis but the molecular basis for their non-redundant function remains poorly understood. Here, we report a novel role for the PDE4B isoform in β-adrenergic (βAR) signaling in the heart. Genetic ablation of PDE4B disrupted βAR-induced cAMP transients, as measured by FRET sensors, at the sarcolemma but not in the bulk cytosol of cardiomyocytes. This effect was further restricted to a subsarcolemmal compartment because PDE4B regulates β1AR-, but not β2AR- or PGE2-induced responses. The spatially restricted function of PDE4B was confirmed by its selective effects on PKA-mediated phosphorylation patterns. PDE4B limited the PKA-mediated phosphorylation of key players in excitation–contraction coupling that reside in the sarcolemmal compartment, including L-type Ca2+ channels and ryanodine receptors, but not phosphorylation of distal cytosolic proteins. β1AR- but not β2AR-ligation induced PKA-dependent activation of PDE4B and interruption of this negative feedback with PKA inhibitors increased sarcolemmal cAMP. Thus, PDE4B mediates a crucial PKA-dependent feedback that controls β1AR-dependent cAMP signals in a restricted subsarcolemmal domain. Disruption of this feedback augments local cAMP/PKA signals, leading to an increased intracellular Ca2+ level and contraction rate.
Modeling medical prognosis: survival analysis techniques

Medical prognosis has played an increasing role in health care. Reliable prognostic models that are based on survival analysis techniques have been recently applied to a variety of domains, with varying degrees of success. In this article, we review some methods commonly used to model time-oriented data, such as Kaplan-Meier curves, Cox proportional hazards, and logistic regression, and discuss their applications in medical prognosis. Nonlinear, nonparametric models such as neural networks have increasingly been used for building prognostic models. We review their use in several medical domains and discuss different implementation strategies. Advantages and disadvantages of these methods are outlined, as well as pointers to pertinent literature.
What happens to sexually abused children identified by child protective services

Fifty-eight sexually abused children who had received child protective services were followed up on average a little under three years after initial identification. About half of the cases were still receiving child welfare services. Close to half of the children were out of their homes at follow-up, and those who had been placed had spent on average more than three years in placement. Family composition change, other than removal of the child, had occurred in more than half of the victim's families. There were substantiated re-referrals for child maltreatment on approximately one fourth of the cases. These findings are examined in terms of what constitutes good child welfare practice.
Smart antenna system analysis, integration and performance for mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs)

This paper focuses on the interaction and integration of several critical components of a mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) using smart antenna systems. A MANET is a wireless network where the communicating nodes are mobile and the network topology is continuously changing. One of the central motivations for this work comes from the observed dependence of the overall network throughput on the design of the adaptive antenna system and its underlying signal processing algorithms. In fact, a major objective of this work is to study and document the overall efficiency of the network in terms of the antenna pattern and the length of the training sequence used by the beamforming algorithms. This study also considers in sufficient detail problems dealing with the choice of direction of arrival algorithm and the performance of the adaptive beamformer in the presence of antenna coupling effects. Furthermore, the paper presents strategies and algorithms to combat the effects of fading channels on the overall system.
Maternal Smoking during Pregnancy and Children's Cognitive and Physical Development: A Causal Risk Factor?

There remains considerable debate regarding the effects of maternal smoking during pregnancy on children's growth and development. Evidence that exposure to maternal smoking during pregnancy is associated with numerous adverse outcomes is contradicted by research suggesting that these associations are spurious. The authors investigated the relation between maternal smoking during pregnancy and 14 developmental outcomes of children from birth through age 7 years, using data from the Collaborative Perinatal Project (1959-1974; n = 52,919). In addition to adjusting for potential confounders measured contemporaneously with maternal smoking, the authors fitted conditional fixed-effects models among siblings that controlled for unmeasured confounders. Results from the conditional analyses indicated a birth weight difference of -85.63 g associated with smoking of >or=20 cigarettes daily during pregnancy (95% confidence interval: -131.91, -39.34) and 2.73 times' higher odds of being overweight at age 7 years (95% confidence interval: 1.30, 5.71). However, the associations between maternal smoking and 12 other outcomes studied (including Apgar score, intelligence, academic achievement, conduct problems, and asthma) were entirely eliminated after adjustment for measured and unmeasured confounders. The authors conclude that the hypothesized effects of maternal smoking during pregnancy on these outcomes either are not present or are not distinguishable from a broader range of familial factors associated with maternal smoking.
Seasonal Variability in the Equatorial Pacific

Abstract Five to nine years of observations from the Tropical Atmosphere Ocean array in the tropical Pacific are used to document the seasonal cycle of surface winds, zonal currents, SST, thermocline depth, and dynamic height. Along the equator, the normally westward surface zonal current reverses direction in late boreal spring and early summer. This seasonal variation in the zonal surface current propagates westward, as do seasonal variations in the Equatorial Undercurrent and zonal surface winds at the equator. At 5°N and 5°S, the seasonal variations in the 20°C isotherm and dynamic height also propagate westward. Conversely at the equator in the eastern and central Pacific, the variations in 20°C isotherm depth and dynamic height propagate eastward. These seasonal variations are interpreted by means of a simple dynamical model based on linear equatorial wave theory. Model results indicate that seasonal variability between 5°N and 5°S is dominated by wind-forced equatorial Kelvin waves and first meridi...
Measurements of Ocean Surface Currents from a Moving Ship Using VHF Radar

Abstract Shore-based, high-frequency (HF) and very high frequency (VHF) radar systems for measuring ocean surface currents have been well detailed in the literature. The use of these systems has been limited to coastal ocean applications since both of the required radar sites must be positioned ashore. The geometric constraints imposed by two shore sites can be relieved by using at least one sea-based system, thus allowing coverage of more coastal areas. A reduction in the number of required sites to one can be achieved by placing the site on a platform that transits between transmit–receive cycles to generate an overlapping field of coverage. Reducing the number of required sites to one increases the ocean area that can be measured. The feasibility of using a single VHF radar system based on a moving ship for both nearshore and deep-water area coverage is the subject of this paper. In December 1993 and July 1994 a nearshore, ship-based dataset was taken off the east coast of Key Biscayne, Florida, with o...
The Possibilities for Pacific Islander Studies in the Continental United States

UCLA's location in Los Angeles situates it within a diasporic Pacific Islander (PI) community comprised mostly of Chamorros, Fijians, Native Hawaiians, Samoans, and Tongans; many of these populations represent the largest communities of these groups outside of Oceania.1 Some have even argued that this population increase makes America's west coast a de facto extension of Oceania.2 Chief among myriad explanations for this diasporic community is economic instability in Pacific homelands. Western colonialism and neocolonialism have created economic conditions that forced Pacific Islanders to migrate.3 Residing in an urban sprawl of low- and working-class neighborhoods, Pacific Islanders deal with many of the same daily realities of other immigrant groups: low socioeconomic levels, low education attainment, and poor health. However, as indigenous peoples, these populations are also uniquely positioned in the diasporic legacy of American imperialism and transnationalism. Consequently, they migrate from militar...
Avoiding patient-prosthesis mismatch is TAVI a new solution?

Conservation of mass is the principle behind the continuity equation ([1–3][1]), used commonly for calculation of aortic valve area (AVA) in native aortic stenosis and prosthetic valves. Utilizing 2-dimensional echocardiographic and Doppler data, this equation is the preferred technique to
Culturally Responsive School Leadership

Culturally responsive school leadership (CRSL) has become important to research on culturally responsive education, reform, and social justice education. This comprehensive review provides a framework for the expanding body of literature that seeks to make not only teaching, but rather the entire school environment, responsive to the schooling needs of minoritized students. Based on the literature, we frame the discussion around clarifying strands—critical self-awareness, CRSL and teacher preparation, CRSL and school environments, and CRSL and community advocacy. We then outline specific CRSL behaviors that center inclusion, equity, advocacy, and social justice in school. Pulling from literature on leadership, social justice, culturally relevant schooling, and students/communities of color, we describe five specific expressions of CRSL found in unique communities. Finally, we reflect on the continued promise and implications of CRSL.
Effects of Different Nitrite Concentrations from a Vegetable Source with and without High Hydrostatic Pressure on the Recovery of Listeria monocytogenes on Ready-to-Eat Restructured Ham

Sodium nitrite exerts an inhibitory effect on the growth of Listeria monocytogenes. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of various nitrite concentrations from a vegetable source with and without high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) on the recovery and growth of L. monocytogenes on ready-to-eat restructured ham. A preconverted celery powder was used as the vegetable source of nitrite. Targeted concentrations of natural nitrite investigated were 0, 50, and 100 mg/kg. HHP treatments evaluated were 400 MPa for 4 min and 600 MPa for 1 or 4 min at 12 ± 2 °C (initial temperature of the pressurization fluid). Viable L. monocytogenes populations were monitored on modified Oxford medium and thin agar layer medium through 98 days of storage at 4 ± 1 °C. Populations on both media did not differ. The HHP treatment at 600 MPa for 4 min resulted in L. monocytogenes populations below the detection limit of our sampling protocols throughout the storage period regardless of the natural nitrite concentration. The combination of HHP at 400 MPa for 4 min or 600 MPa for 1 min with natural nitrite resulted in initial inhibition of viable L. monocytogenes. Ham formulations that did not contain natural nitrite allowed faster growth of L. monocytogenes than did those with nitrite, regardless of whether they were treated with HHP. The results indicate that nitrite from a vegetable source at the concentrations used in this study resulted in slower growth of this microorganism. HHP treatments enhanced the inhibitory effects of natural nitrite on L. monocytogenes growth. Thus, the combination of natural nitrite plus HHP appears to have a synergistic inhibitory effect on L. monocytogenes growth.
Evaluating the Economic and Nutrition Benefits and Program Challenges of EBT Programs at Farmers' Markets

The number of farmers' markets that offer electronic benefit transfer (EBT) as a method of accepting federally issue Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits is on the rise, but the long-term success and sustainability of these programs are in question. To evaluate the success and sustainability of farmers' market EBT programs in Wisconsin, 10 farmers' markets participated in a two-year study to determine who benefits from these programs and how best to fund them. This study found that 99 percent of SNAP beneficiaries increased their fruit and vegetable intake by shopping at the farmers' market; however, farmers' market vendors realized little in increased sales. Of the 10 markets involved in the study, nine planned to seek outside funding to continue the program.
An investigation of the TiOx-SiO2/Mo(112) interface

Abstract The interaction of TiO x with SiO 2 /Mo(1 1 2) has been studied using high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, and molecular adsorption. Ti at varying coverages was deposited onto a SiO 2 /Mo(1 1 2) surface followed by oxidation at 600 K and annealing at various temperatures. TiO x disperses and covers the SiO 2 surface after oxidation and annealing below 800 K, whereas TiO x –SiO 2 interfaces undergo significantly restructuring when annealed to temperatures above 1000 K. Upon annealing a TiO x -covered SiO 2 (monolayer)/Mo(1 1 2) surface, SiO 2 diffuses to the surface and is bonded via Si–O–Ti linkages. SiO 2 in this bonding configuration decomposes and desorbs more easily than from a Mo(1 1 2) surface where the binding is via Si–O–Mo linkages. On the other hand, for a TiO x -covered SiO 2 (multilayer)/Mo(1 1 2) surface, TiO x prefers to phase separate into three-dimensional clusters, minimizing the contact area with the SiO 2 substrate. The annealing temperature is a key parameter in defining the properties of TiO x –SiO 2 mixed oxide surfaces.
Collaboration in Local Economic Development: The Case of Toledo

Many American communities place a high priority on retaining and attracting innovative industries. However, in most American metropolitan areas, the responsibility for local economic development is fragmented along jurisdictional and institutional lines. The result of this fragmentation is that local economic development is often chaotic with no one individual, agency, or jurisdiction in control, which may inhibit the effectiveness of local economic development efforts. To address these challenges and more effectively utilize resources, there has been greater emphasis recently on regional collaboration in local economic development. The purpose of this paper is to measure the extent of collaboration among local economic development professionals in the Toledo, Ohio Metropolitan Statistical Area and to identify the extent to which these interactions constitute a social network. We believe that the existence of a strong social network among economic development professionals is critical to overcome some of the negative effects of jurisdictional and institutional fragmentation. While there is a core network of relatively dense collaboration in northwest Ohio, that network does not span the entire metropolitan area. A high level of local interactions occurs, but there are few “global pipelines” outside the region. A potential challenge for economic development in the region is to avoid “lock in”, which will make it more difficult to attract innovative industries or diversify the economy in order to decrease the traditional dependence on the auto industry.
Microsomal Polysubstrate Monooxygenase Activity in Western and Mountain Pine Beetles (Coleoptera: Seolytidae)

On the basis of polysubstrate monooxygenase (PSMO) activities in midgut tissue, we detected no difference in the biochemical breadth of diet of western pine beetles, Dendroctonus brevicomis Le Conte, and mountain pine beetles, D. ponderosae Hopkins. This result suggests that the number of taxa that these insects encounter may not be an accurate indicator of the diversity of toxins to which they are exposed. The biochemical diversity encountered by the host-restricted western pine beetle appears to be as great as that of the less host-restricted mountain pine beetle. PSMO activity of mountain pine beetles in their alternate host was significantly lower than that of mountain pine beetles in their preferred host; toxins in the alternate host may thus inhibit PSMO activity. Such inhibition may explain why, although mountain pine beetles colonize several different taxa throughout their geographic range, they prefer to colonize one taxon in any given locality and they shift to alternate hosts only rarely.
The Efficiency Trap in Process Improvement and the Critical Role of Learning by Doing

This paper considers the problem of sustaining process improvement activities. We focus on the challenges arising when resources are constrained. We develop a system dynamics model of process impro...
Alphaherpesvirus DNA replication in dissociated human trigeminal ganglia

Analysis of the frequency and PCR-quantifiable abundance of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) DNA in multiple biological replicates of cells from dissociated randomly distributed human trigeminal ganglia (TG) of four subjects revealed an increase in both parameters and in both viruses during 5 days of culture, with no further change by 10 days. Dissociated TG provides a platform to analyze initiation of latent virus DNA replication within 5 days of culture.
Research on the Fans Optimal Rotational Speed in Direct Air-cooling System

Take cooling unit of air cooling island as object of study.In order to modulate rotary speed of the fans in direct air-cooling system more effectively and then ensure the economy of power plant,by building mathematical model a comprehensive analysis has been conducted to investigate the influence of some key parametric on the steam turbine power incremental output,including cooling unit steam pressure,rotary speed of the fans,and ambient temperature.The optimal target is maximal differential value which between the steam turbine power incremental output and the fan power consumption.The results indicate the optimal steam pressure in cooling unit and the fans optimal rotational speed in different working conditions,and provides references for economic operation of direct air-cooled power plants.
Learning from the Wizard: Programming Social Interaction through Teleoperated Demonstrations (Extended Abstract)

This paper considers the question of whether robots can be effectively programmed for autonomous social interaction through learning from demonstrations recorded via Wizard-of-Oz teleoperation. We present a novel LfW system for educational play between young children and a robot and results from a randomized experiment comparing a teleoperated robot and a robot with autonomous behavior derived by LfW. Across numerous metrics, the teleoperated robot and the autonomous robot programmed by LfW elicit similar behavior from their human interaction partners. Additionally, when children were asked whether the robot was human-controlled or autonomous, approximately half in each condition thought it was human-controlled.
Multimodality Imaging for Evaluating Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer.

OBJECTIVE. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is becoming the standard of care for patients with locally advanced breast cancer. Conventional imaging modalities used for the assessment of tumor response to n...
Achieving accurate spectrophotometric pH measurements using unpurified meta-cresol purple

Abstract For best accuracy, spectrophotometric characterizations of seawater pH are obtained using a purified pH-sensitive dye—usually meta-cresol purple (mCP) for typical ranges of seawater pH. In recognition of practical limitations, though, a straightforward method is here proposed to improve measurements made using unpurified mCP. The user first determines, for a particular lot of unpurified mCP, the absorbance contribution of indicator impurities at 434 nm (434Aimp). Correction for this contribution is then mathematically applied to the measurements of seawater pH. We tested this approach using six unpurified lots of mCP and, for comparison, purified mCP in a synthetic experimental solution over the pH range 7.25–8.25. The 434Aimp correction yielded substantial improvements in pH accuracy: on the order of 0.005 at low pH (~ 7.25) and 0.01 or more at higher pH (~ 8.25). The pH accuracy achieved by the corrective model was also examined relative to the Global Ocean Acidification Observing Network (GOA-ON) “weather” and “climate” goals for pH measurements (uncertainties of ± 0.02 and ± 0.003, respectively). When previously published algorithms (appropriate for purified mCP) were used, none of the unpurified dyes met the more stringent “climate” goal in waters of pH > 7.6. With the algorithms proposed here (i.e., incorporating the lot-specific 434Aimp correction), three of the six lots came into “climate” compliance over the full experimental pHT range and two additional lots achieved “climate” compliance up to pH ~ 8.0. This protocol offers a simple, user-determined correction to significantly improve the accuracy of pH measurements made with unpurified mCP.
Mechanistic insights into energy conservation by flavin-based electron bifurcation

Structural analysis and spectroscopy elucidate how pairs of electrons are bifurcated in a flavoenzyme by generating an unstable flavin semiquinone, thus coupling exergonic and endergonic oxidation–reduction reactions. The recently realized biochemical phenomenon of energy conservation through electron bifurcation provides biology with an elegant means to maximize utilization of metabolic energy. The mechanism of coordinated coupling of exergonic and endergonic oxidation–reduction reactions by a single enzyme complex has been elucidated through optical and paramagnetic spectroscopic studies revealing unprecedented features. Pairs of electrons are bifurcated over more than 1 volt of electrochemical potential by generating a low-potential, highly energetic, unstable flavin semiquinone and directing electron flow to an iron–sulfur cluster with a highly negative potential to overcome the barrier of the endergonic half reaction. The unprecedented range of thermodynamic driving force that is generated by flavin-based electron bifurcation accounts for unique chemical reactions that are catalyzed by these enzymes.
Globalization and Insider Trading: Evidence from Cross-Border Mergers and Acquisitions

This paper investigates the impact of cross-border M&As on insider trading in target firm stocks and options prior to bid announcements. Using insider trading metrics developed in Acharya and Johnson (2010), we find that the likelihood of insider trading is significantly higher in cross-border deals than in domestic deals in a global sample of M&As from 52 countries announced between 1991 and 2014. The difference remains after we match target firms by industry and firm size and control for the number of advisors and the presence of rumours. The difference is mainly driven by cross-border deals where the acquirer is from a country with high corruption and low social norms as measured by survey results on tolerance for tax avoidance and lying in one’s own interests and where the target is in a country with strict enforcement of insider trading laws. Our evidence suggests that current enforcement of inside trading laws is less effective at deterring inside trading in cross-border deals than domestic deals and calls for closer cooperation among regulators from different countries to maintain market integrity in the era of globalization.
Abstract 212: Inhibition of Protein Phosphatase 2A (PP2A) Leads to Beta-adrenergic Receptor Dysfunction With Cardiac Stress Following Pressure-overload Hypertrophy

Beta-Adrenergic receptors (bARs) play a key role in regulating cardiac function. Loss of surface receptors and desensitization (impaired G-protein coupling) of bARs are hallmarks of a failing heart. Desensitization occurs by phosphorylation of bARs. The bARs are resensitized by protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) mediated dephosphorylation in the endosomes before recycling to the plasma membrane. While mechanisms of desensitization are well understood, little is known about mechanisms regulating resensitization. Our previous work has shown that PI3Kg phosphorylates an endogenous inhibitor of PP2A (I2PP2A) on serine 9 & 93, which then robustly binds to PP2A inhibiting bAR resensitization. Since it is not known whether resensitization is altered in response to cardiac stress or whether altered bAR resensitization contributes to cardiac hypertrophy and failure, we generated transgenic mice with cardiomyocyte specific overexpression of wild type I2PP2A (WT I2PP2A Tg), I2PP2A phospho-mimetic mutants S9, 93D and mutants with constitutively dephosphorylated S9, 93A state. To test whether resensitization is critical in the development of bAR dysfunction during cardiac hypertrophy, WT I2PP2A Tg mice were subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC) for 8 weeks. Echocardiographic analysis post-TAC showed that WT I2PP2A Tg mice had accelerated cardiac dysfunction compared to their littermate controls [HW (mg)/BW(g): Sham: WT - 4.83, WT I2PP2A Tg - 4.82, TAC: WT- 6.47, WT I2PP2A Tg - 7.61; %EF: Sham: WT - 83.53, WT I2PP2A Tg - 74.72, TAC: WT - 70.47, WT I2PP2A Tg - 49.62]. To directly test whether resensitization mechanisms are altered, plasma membranes and endosomes were isolated and in vitro Adenylyl Cyclase activity assessed. Our studies show that compared to littermate controls, WT I2PP2A Tg had altered in vitro adenylyl cyclase activity showing that resensitization mechanisms in the endosomes may in part, contribute to cardiac dysfunction. Mechanistic underpinnings of the resensitization pathways using the I2PP2A S9, 93A and S9, 93D will be presented showing that bAR resensitization a process considered passive is altered in conditions of cardiac stress that in part may contribute to bAR dysfunction leading to cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure.
E.L.F. (EXTREMELY LOW FREQUENCY) PROPAGATION—THEORY AND EXPERIMENT

The mode theory of propagation of electromagnetic waves at extremely low frequencies (e.l.f.) (1.0–3,000 c/s) is treated in this chapter. Starting with the representation of the field as a sum of modes, approximate formulas are presented for the attenuation and phase constants. Certain alternate representations of the individual modes are mentioned. These are used as a basis for describing the physical behavior of the field at large distances from the source, particularly near the antipode of the source. At the shorter distances, where the range is comparable to the wavelength, the spherical-earth mode series is best transformed to a series involving cylindrical wave functions. This latter form is used to evaluate the near field behavior of the various field components.
Introduction to special issue: aging in place

In his recent book Aging in the Right Place, Golant (2015) questioned whether the place we want to stay as long as possible is the right place. Scharlach and Diaz Moore (2016) revisited the questio...
General Linear Models of Individual Differences

In faith or in hope, all humans may be created equal. By nature or by nuture, all individuals are different, different in certain, if not all, characteristic attributes. Individuals may be said to be different physically, mentally, or socially, based on certain specific attributes that are observable or measurable.
Meaning and Scientific Change

In the past decade, a revolution — or at least a rebellion — has occurred in the philosophy of science. Views have been advanced which claim to be radically new not only in their doctrines about science and its evolution and structure, but also in their conceptions of the methods appropriate to solving the problems of the philosophy of science, and even as to what those problems themselves are. It will be the primary purpose of this paper to examine some of the tenets of this revolution, in order to determine what there is in them of permanent value for all people who wish to understand the nature of science.
Abstract 19341: The Role of Mul1, a Mitochondrial Localized E3 Ligase, in the Heart

Background: Mitochondrial (Mito) quality is a key determinant of cardiac health and pathology. Mito quality control is maintained in part through fusion and fission of the Mito network and removal of damaged organelles through mitophagy. However, the molecular underpinnings of maintaining a healthy intracellular Mito pool are unclear. A Mito localized ubiquitin/SUMO E3 ligase, Mul1, has been suggested as a critical regulator of Mito quality control; however, the role of Mul1 in the heart, a Mito-dependent organ, has not yet been characterized. Methods: We used adenovirus-mediated delivery of Mul1 overexpression (Adv-Mul1) and short hairpin RNA Mul1 knockdown (Adv-ShMul1) to neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (CMs) and assessed Mito morphology, function and overall cell survival. Results: Adv-Mul1 localized to the outer Mito membrane, similar to endogenous Mul1. Adv-Mul1 dramatically altered Mito morphology from tubular to punctate, as well as reduced Mito membrane potential (ΔΨm). Electron microscopy demonstrated that Adv-Mul1 induced cristae remodeling, which may explain the loss of respiratory function analyzed by the Seahorse system. In addition, Adv- Mul1 increased mitochondrial calcium levels and cytochrome c release, resulting in increased cell death. Importantly, Mul1 knockdown using Adv-ShMul1 rescued CCCP-induced reduction in Mito ΔΨm, suggesting Mul1 critically regulates Mito quality control in CMs. Adv- Mul1 results in degradation of Mfn2 and Drp1, key regulators of Mito dynamics. In Adv-Mul1 CMs, adenovirus-mediated normalization of Drp1 levels restored Mito ΔΨm and cell death, but not Mito fragmentation, suggesting a requirement of both Mfn2 and Drp1 proteins. To determine if Mul1 functions in part through its post-translational modification of substrates via RING domain, we constructed a RING domain truncated Mul1, which was unable to alter the Mito respiration or induce cell death. This data suggests that Mul1 mediated Mito structural and functional alterations are dependent on its RING domain. Conclusion: Mul1 induces Mito dysfunction and cell death in CMs, which is mediated by its RING domain and downregulation of Drp1. Thus, our work helps characterize a novel regulator of Mito quality control in the heart.
Update: Quantitative Duplex Ultrasound Assessment of Aortic Aneurysms after Endovascular Repair:

Purpose.—To describe the current Stanford duplex protocol for ultrasound scanning of abdominal aortic aneurysms after endovascular repair. This technique has been used for more than 7 years in the ...
Effect of Matrigel Coating on Bone Cell/Hydroxyapatite-coated Implant Interface

ABSTRACT The effect of coating hydroxyapatite (HA) coated rough titanium (Ti) implants with Matrigel (reconstituted basement membrane proteins) was investigated in vitro . Postnatal rat calvarial cells were seeded on tissue culture plates, low crystallinity (30–40% crystalline) HA coated and uncoated rough Ti flats under standard tissue culture conditions for 2, 7 and 14 days. Calcium dissolution was measured for the HA coated surfaces and showed 35–40ppm Ca ions in solution by 14 days. Presence of HA enhanced alkaline phosphatase activity/cell (APA/cell) production as compared to uncoated rough Ti implants without Matrigel coating. In the presence of Matrigel no differences in APA/cell production were seen between HA coated and uncoated rough titanium implants.
Moving Aggressively: S100A4 and Tumor Invasion

Tumor cell invasion and metastasis are complex multi-step cellular ­processes that involve the ability of malignant cells to escape the primary tumor, migrate to distant sites within the body and establish secondary tumors. S100A4, a member of the S100 family of Ca2+-binding proteins, is a prognostic marker in a number of human cancers and has a direct role in promoting metastatic disease. S100A4’s metastasis promoting properties are attributed to diverse biological ­functions including the regulation of apoptosis, cell motility, invasion and angiogenesis. In this chapter we discuss the contribution of tumor and stromal-derived S100A4 in supporting metastatic dissemination and examine the biochemical properties of S100A4 and the S100A4/target protein interactions that may contribute to its function as a metastasis factor.
Constraints on Cation Order in Calcium-rich Sedimentary Dolomite

Most sedimentary Ca-rich dolomite in pre-Holocenerocks is known to exhibit a fine-scale modulation inTEM images, reflecting a domain structure of which onecomponent is a low-symmetry variant of dolomite. Thevarious structural models proposed for thelow-symmetry component involve Ca–Mg order patternsthat are different from that in dolomite. Caution istherefore required for interpretation of X-raydiffraction data, which average over the entirestructure. The average structures of two Ca-richdolomites having a structural modulation are refinedusing single-crystal intensity data. The resultsindicate a poor fit using a dolomite model, which isconsistent with the findings from TEM and electrondiffraction indicating that one component of thedomain structure is different than dolomite. Resultsalso indicate that average model A and B cation siteshave mixed Ca–Mg occupancy, which provides someconstraints on possible models for the low-symmetrydomains.
The Origins of Sexual Identity: A Clinician’s View

It is not possible to be completely objective about a subject as value-laden and emotionally evocative as sexual preference. Instead of indulging in illusions about my dispassionate, critical thinking in this area, I want to make my biases explicit. The perspective of this essay is clinical. It has evolved over a decade of helping men and women with concerns about their sexual preferences. My clinical bias is developmental. It is based on the assumption that all mental and behavioral phenomena involving sexual preferences are products of the child’s integration of biologic, intrapsychic, and social forces. My perspective is also psychodynamic, because I sense that such traditions place more emphasis on the child’s unique integration of inherent capacities, internal processes, and social influences than do strictly sociologic, behavioral, or biologic perspectives.
The construction of the tourist gaze in English textbooks in South Korea: exploring the tensions between internationalisation and nationalisation

This study investigates how larger ideological tensions related to internationalisation and nationalisation are manifested in local education systems, especially in English textbooks. We begin this...
The Current State of Pancreas Transplantation in the USA—A Registry Report

A successful pancreas transplantation is still the only method to provide long-term insulin independence and provide good metabolic control for patients with type I diabetes. Since the first pancreas transplant in 1966, the patient and graft survival after pancreas transplantation improved significantly. The aim of this report was to study the most recent outcome of pancreas transplants. Between 2011 and 2016, 5159 primary deceased donor pancreas transplants in diabetic patients were performed—4342 (84%) SPK, 399 PAK (8%), and 418 (8%) PTA. One-year (3-year) SPK patient survival reached 98% (95%), PAK 97% (93%), and PTA 98% (96%). The most influential risk factor for patient survival in all three categories was a failed graft. In SPK, older recipients and being on dialysis at the time of transplant also carried an increased risk to die. SPK pancreas graft function improved to 90% at 1-year and 83% at 3-year post-transplant; 87% and 74% for PAK; and 84% and 71% for PTA. One-year (3-year) kidney graft function for the simultaneous SPK kidney was 96% (90%). The difference in outcome between SPK and solitary transplants is still significant but the gap is narrowing. A risk factor for pancreas graft failure was especially young recipient age, but a careful donor selection can improve outcome. The majority of recipients received depleting antibodies for induction followed by a maintenance protocol of Tacrolimus in combination with MMF. Steroids were used more often in SPK (70%) compared to solitary pancreas transplants. In summary, outcome after pancreas transplantation has significantly improved due to refinement in immunosuppressive protocols and better donor and recipient selection. It can be successfully performed in patients with labile diabetes and will not only improve the quality of life of the patient but also can be life extending.
Study of Angle & Distance Sensitivities for Presence Sensors in Smart Nanogrids

Smart nanogrid technologies such as smart home and smart shelters are under development in the current power and energy systems. In smart nanogrids, presence sensors play an essential role to detect human-being presence in room to control the operation of power devices like air conditioners automatically, and thus save power usage and electric bills. In this study, we field-tested the performance of X4M300 presence sensor for human-being detection and power device control. This presence sensor has a notable capability to detect living beings according to the movement of their breathing. In principle, this presence sensor is more reliable than PIR detectors, which are used to determine presence by using infrared light. For the presence sensor, the maximum range of detection is 10 meters, which can be adjusted by changing its settings via the Xethru explore software.
Conversion of spent carbon to working carbon using spent FCC catalyst-derived zeolite X

The spent fluidized catalytical cracking catalyst from refinery is used as a raw material for the synthesis of zeolite X by hydrothermal method. The converted zeolite X is characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, BET surface area, infrared spectroscopy and inductive coupled plasma spectroscopy analysis confirming good match to the zeolite made from conventionally used raw materials. The converted zeolite X is further used as a heterogeneous catalyst in synthesis of five-membered cyclic carbonate. The path chosen for the preparation of styrene carbonate is ecofriendly, which not only utilizes the carbon dioxide (CO2) but also replaces the toxic chemical like phosgene. The influence of various parameters like varying amounts of catalyst and temperature was investigated carefully to get optimized conditions for desired product. Product was analyzed by gas chromatography. The recyclability of catalyst was tested and could be used successfully for three cycles without any significant loss in activity.
A review of the mechanisms of mineral-based metabolism in early Earth analog rock-hosted hydrothermal ecosystems.

Prior to the advent of oxygenic photosynthesis ~ 2.8–3.2 Ga, life was dependent on chemical energy captured from oxidation–reduction reactions involving minerals or substrates generated through interaction of water with minerals. Terrestrial hydrothermal environments host abundant and diverse non-photosynthetic communities and a variety of minerals that can sustain microbial metabolism. Minerals and substrates generated through interaction of minerals with water are differentially distributed in hot spring environments which, in turn, shapes the distribution of microbial life and the metabolic processes that support it. Emerging evidence suggests that terrestrial hydrothermal environments may have played a role in supporting the metabolism of the earliest forms of microbial life. It follows that these environments and their microbial inhabitants are increasingly being studied as analogs of early Earth ecosystems. Here we review current understanding of the processes that lead to variation in the availability of minerals or mineral-sourced substrates in terrestrial hydrothermal environments. In addition, we summarize proposed mechanisms of mineral substrate acquisition and metabolism in microbial cells inhabiting terrestrial hydrothermal environments, highlighting the importance of the dynamic interplay between biotic and abiotic reactions in influencing mineral substrate bioavailability. An emphasis is placed on mechanisms involved in the solubilization, acquisition, and metabolism of sulfur- and iron-bearing minerals, since these elements were likely integrated into the metabolism of the earliest anaerobic cells.
Ictogenesis during sEEG evaluation after acute intracranial hemorrhage

We present a unique case of a patient with drug-resistant focal epilepsy undergoing stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) who developed an acute posttraumatic intracranial hemorrhage during monitoring, first detected by changes on sEEG. Our case demonstrates the evolution of electrographic changes at the time of initial hemorrhage to the development of ictal activity. We conducted spectral analysis of the sEEG data to illustrate the transition from an interictal to ictal state. Initially, delta power increased in the region of acute hemorrhage, followed by sustained regional reduction in frequency variability. Our findings provide further information on the development of epileptiform activity in acute hemorrhage.
Arterial Spin Labeling and Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast-enhanced MR Imaging for evaluation of arteriovenous shunting and tumor hypoxia in glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults and carries a dismal prognosis. Significant challenges in the care of patients with GBM include marked vascular heterogeneity and arteriovenous (AV) shunting, which results in tumor hypoxia and inadequate delivery of systemic treatments to reach tumor cells. In this study, we investigated the utility of different MR perfusion techniques to detect and quantify arteriovenous (AV) shunting and tumor hypoxia in patients with GBM. Macrovascular shunting was present in 33% of subjects, with the degree of shunting ranging from (37–60%) using arterial spin labeling perfusion. Among the dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced perfusion curve features, there were a strong negative correlation between hypoxia score, DSC perfusion curve recovery slope (r = −0.72, P = 0.018) and angle (r = −0.73, P = 0.015). The results of this study support the possibility of using arterial spin labeling and pattern analysis of dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced MR Imaging for evaluation of arteriovenous shunting and tumor hypoxia in glioblastoma.
Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacogenomics of Pain Treatment

This chapter reviews the impact of genetic variability of drug-metabolizing enzymes, transporters, receptors, and pathways involved in pain perception on the efficacy and safety of opioid analgesics and other drugs used for acute and chronic pain treatment. Several candidate genes have been identified in the literature, while there is still only limited clinical evidence substantiating the role of genotype testing for these candidate biomarkers in the clinical practice. Further, the pain-perception regulation and modulation are still not fully understood, and thus more detailed knowledge of genetic background for analgesia will be needed prior to the clinical use of the candidate genetic biomarkers.
Modular Isolated Soft-Switching Medium Voltage String Inverter for Large-Scale PV Farm

This paper presents a single-stage modular isolated soft-switching medium voltage string inverter (MVSI) with tri-port configuration to interconnect PV and storage to medium voltage (MV) grid. The modular MVSI provides advanced functionalities such as energy storage elements integration without additional converters, connection to MV grid resulting in lower distribution losses in the PV farm, high-frequency galvanic isolation, independent control of PV, storage and grid power, high modularity and scalability. The topology of the MVSI, operation principle and model-predictive priority-switching (MPPS) control to achieve fast dynamic balancing across stacked modules are discussed. The independent power control is validated in PLECS simulation and the operation of stacked MVSI with MPPS control is verified through Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation. The hardware prototype of 25 kVA MVSI building block is developed. 18 kW experimental results of single building block verifying tri-ports operation and 20 kW experimental results of two modules stacked operation are presented. A clean sinusoidal waveform with negligibly low THD in both tests is obtained. A low dv/dt of < 1kV/us and soft-switching are achieved.