cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prediction of serum IgG1 concentration in holstein calves using serum gamma glutamyltransferase activity

We examined the relationship between serum gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity and serum gamma immunoglobulin G (IgG1) concentration in Holstein calves. Blood samples were collected from calves aged 1 to 3 days. A follow-up sample was obtained from each calf 2, 7, or 15 days after the initial sampling. Serum GGT activity and IgG1 concentration were measured. Regression models were used to predict IgG1 concentration as a function of age and serum GGT activity measured 2, 7, or 15 days later. Serum GGT activity and calf age at the time of the second sample were directly related to serum IgG1 concentration in the initial sample in calves aged 3 to 17 days (r = .54) and in calves aged 3 to 10 days (r = .63). Models were used to estimate the serum GGT activity equivalent to a serum IgG1 concentration of 1,000 mg/dL. One-day-old calves should have serum GGT activities > 200 IU/L. Four-day-old calves should have serum GGT activities > 100 IU/L. One-week-old calves should have serum GGT activities > 75 IU/L. Calves with serum GGT activities < 50 IU/L should be classified as having failure of passive transfer.
New OCS data

Four onshore processing and refining facilities, which are now being planned or a re under construction, will be required to handle new production from outer continental shelf (OCS) oil and natural gas drilling off southern California. The need for new facilities is cited in recent U.S. Geological Survey summary reports on OCS supply and production estimates off the eastern and western coasts. Two of the four California facilities that will handle new production await permit approval. If approved, a gas treatment plant at Las Flores Canyon in Santa Barbara County will have a 30 million cubic foot per day capacity. Completion is scheduled for early 1982. An oil and gas separation and treatment plant proposed for Mandalay Beach in Ventura County is scheduled to be completed in early 1981. It would process 36,000 barrels of oil and 2 million cubic feet of gas per day.
Egoistic versus altruistic concerns in communal relationships

Although communal relationships are seemingly characterized by altruistic concern for others, individuals may differ in their degree of egoistic versus altruistic concerns in communal relationships. In the present research, we developed a measure to assess egoistic versus altruistic concerns underlying a communal relationship orientation. These concerns were empirically distinct and predicted personal and interpersonal functioning. In Study 1, altruistic concerns predicted increased relatedness, empathy, and decreased anger, hostility, and aggression, whereas egoistic concerns predicted decreased relatedness, empathy, and increased anger, hostility, and aggression. In Study 2, altruistic concerns predicted more other-oriented (e.g., community) goals; egoistic concerns predicted more self-oriented (e.g., image) goals and depressive symptoms. Together, these findings highlight the importance of examining distinct concerns underlying a communal relationship orientation.
HMGA1 Levels Influence Mitochondrial Function and Mitochondrial DNA Repair Efficiency

HMGA chromatin proteins, a family of gene regulatory factors found at only low concentrations in normal cells, are almost universally overexpressed in cancer cells. HMGA proteins are located in the nuclei of normal cells except during the late S/G2 phases of the cell cycle, when HMGA1, one of the members of the family, reversibly migrates to the mitochondria, where it binds to mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). In many cancer cells, this controlled shuttling is lost and HMGA1 is found in mitochondria throughout the cell cycle. To investigate the effects of HMGA1 on mitochondria, we employed a genetically engineered line of human MCF-7 cells in which the levels of transgenic HMGA1 protein could be reversibly controlled. “Turn-ON” and “turn-OFF” time course experiments were performed with these cells to either increase or decrease intracellular HMGA1 levels, and various mitochondrial changes were monitored. Results demonstrated that changes in both mtDNA levels and mitochondrial mass inversely paralleled changes in HMGA1 concentrations, strongly implicating HMGA1 in the regulation of these parameters. Additionally, the level of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased and the efficiency of repair of oxidatively damaged mtDNA decreased as consequences of elevated HMGA1 expression. Increased ROS levels and reduced repair efficiency in HMGA1-overexpressing cells likely contribute to the increased occurrence of mutations in mtDNA frequently observed in cancer cells.
Stiffness analysis of a class of parallel mechanisms for micro-positioning applications

Micro-positioning devices are increasingly being made of parallel manipulators due to their superior stiffness characteristics. This paper explores a variant of the classical six degrees-of-freedom Stewart-Gough platforms for use in micro-positioning applications. Stiffness values of both these mechanisms are computed and compared for relative gain in theoretical stiffness achieved. An over-sized version of the platform was built for educational purposes.
Population modeling of the emergence and development of scientific fields

We analyze the temporal evolution of emerging fields within several scientific disciplines in terms of numbers of authors and publications. From bibliographic searches we construct databases of authors, papers, and their dates of publication. We show that the temporal development of each field, while different in detail, is well described by population contagion models, suitably adapted from epidemiology to reflect the dynamics of scientific interaction. Dynamical parameters are estimated and discussed to reflect fundamental characteristics of the field, such as time of apprenticeship and recruitment rate. We also show that fields are characterized by simple scaling laws relating numbers of new publications to new authors, with exponents that reflect increasing or decreasing returns in scientific productivity.
Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Reactive Oxygen Species Unwelcome Twin Visitors to the Cardiovascular and Kidney Disease Tables

Plasma levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine or markers of reactive oxygen species are increased in subjects with risk factors for cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease. We tested the hypothesis that reactive oxygen species generate cellular asymmetric dimethylarginine that together cause endothelial dysfunction that underlies the risk of subsequent disease. Rat preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells transfected with p22(phox) had increased NADPH oxidase activity, enhanced activity and expression of protein arginine methyltransferase, and reduced activity and protein expression of dimethylarginine dimethylaminotransferase and of cationic amino acid transferase 1 resulting in increased cellular levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine. Rats infused with angiotensin II had oxidative stress. The endothelial function of their mesenteric arterioles was changed from vasodilatation to vasoconstriction, accompanied by increased vascular asymmetric dimethylarginine. All of these changes were prevented by Tempol. In vivo silencing of dimethylarginine dimethylaminotransferase 1 increased plasma levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine, whereas silencing of dimethylarginine dimethylaminotransferase 2 impaired endothelial function. We suggest that initiation factors, such as angiotensin II, expressed in blood vessels or tissues of subjects with cardiovascular and kidney disease risk factors generate reactive oxygen species from NADPH oxidase that enhances cellular asymmetric dimethylarginine in an amplification loop. This leads to adverse changes in vascular and organ functions, as a consequence of reduced tissue levels of NO and increased reactive oxygen species. Thus, we conclude that reactive oxygen species and asymmetric dimethylarginine form a tightly coupled amplification system that translates cardiovascular/kidney risk into overt disease.
Adaptive spinning-disk interferometry and the AO-quadrature class of bioCDs

Adaptive two-wave mixing is used to quantify index variations in transparent optical media including the phase variations and fluctuations arising from immobilized protein patterns on spinning disks.
Cardiac and thromboembolic complications and mortality in patients undergoing total hip and total knee arthroplasty

Objective To study 90-day complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Method In a population-based cohort of all Olmsted County residents who underwent a THA or TKA (1994-2008), we assessed 90-day occurrence and predictors of cardiac complications (myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmia or congestive heart failure), thromboembolic complications (deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) and mortality. Results 90-day complication rates after THA and TKA were: cardiac, 6.9% and 6.7%; thromboembolic, 4.0% and 4.9%; and mortality, 0.7% and 0.4%, respectively. In multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analyses, ASA class III–IV (OR 6.1, 95% CI:1.6-22.8) and higher Deyo–Charlson comorbidity score (OR 1.2, 95% CI:1.0-1.4) were significantly associated with odds of 90-day cardiac event post-THA in patients with no known previous cardiac event. In those with known previous cardiac disease, ASA class III–IV (OR 4.4, 95% CI:2.0-9.9), male gender (OR 0.5, 95% CI:0.3-0.9) and history of thromboembolic disease (OR 3.2; 95% CI:1.4-7.0) were significantly associated with odds of cardiac complication 90 days post-THA. No significant predictors of thromboembolism were found in THA patients. In TKA patients with no previous cardiac history, age >65 years (OR 4.1, 95% CI:1.2-14.0) and in TKA patients with known cardiac disease, ASA class III–IV (OR 3.2, 95% CI:1.8-5.7) was significantly associated with odds of 90-day cardiac events. In TKA patients with no previous thromboembolic disease, male gender (OR 0.5, 95% CI:0.2-0.9) and higher Charlson index (OR 1.2, 95% CI:1.1-1.3) and in patients with known thromboembolic disease, higher Charlson index score (OR 1.2, 95% CI:1.1-1.4) was associated with odds of 90-day thromboembolic events. Conclusion Older age, higher comorbidity, higher ASA class and previous history of cardiac/thromboembolic disease were associated with an increased risk.
Boundary phenomena and thermal properties of dusty plasmas measured using stereoscopic particle image velocimetry

Summary form only given. The motion of charged microparticles in dusty (complex) plasmas remains a topic of intense interest to the dusty plasma community. In many experiments, suspended clouds of charged microparticles are observed to have complex internal motion confined within rigid boundaries. Understanding the microparticle dynamics, the thermal properties of the microparticles, and the physics of the particle cloud plasma boundary layer are important, yet unresolved topics. Over the past five years, the Auburn Plasma Sciences Laboratory (PSL) has applied particle image velocimetry (PIV) techniques to make real-time measurements of particle transport in dusty plasmas. In PIV, a pair of laser pulses expanded into a sheet by a cylindrical lens and separated by a time interval dt are used to illuminate the microparticles. A CCD camera oriented perpendicularly to the light sheet and synchronized to the firing of the laser pulses is used to capture the light scattered by the particles. From the displacement of the microparticles between the two images, the two-dimensional motion of the particles in the plane of the light sheet can be reconstructed. In spite of the new insights into microparticle transport and dusty plasma particle dynamics that have been obtained using 2D-PIV techniques, it is clear that information on the third dimension of motion is required to fully understand this complex system. The PSL has recently acquired and installed a stereoscopic PIV (3D-PIV) diagnostic tool for dusty plasma investigations. It employs a synchronized dual-laser, dual-camera system for measuring particle transport in three dimensions. Results will be presented on the use of stereoPIV to characterize perturbed and unperturbed microparticle motion. Additionally, with the availability of three-dimensional velocity vectors, initial attempts to use the PIV data to reconstruct velocity space distribution functions will be discussed.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF A REQUEST-TDMA/CDMA PROTOCOL FOR WIRELESS NETWORKS

This paper proposes a new medium access control (MAC) protocol, called Request-TDMA/CDMA, for supporting multimedia traffic in wireless networks. In this hybrid protocol, CDMA (code division multiple access) is laid over TDMA (time division multiple access), where a time frame has two kinds of slots, namely data slots and control slots. The data slots are used to the user to transmit their data while the control slot holds the information for the next frame's slot allocation. Each data slot in a frame can be simultaneously used by multiple users with the help of uniquely assigned codes. Whenever a user needs to transmit a message, he first sends a request message to the central controller and enters the contention process. The controller takes into consideration the time of generation of a call, the bit rate requirement and the message length while reserving slots for the entire length of the message generated. The user then goes into the transmission phase if he is successful in the contention process, and continues to transmit his data till the entire message is sent. Three scheduling algorithms for the allocation of data slots are proposed and their performance are studied for four classes of traffic. We also analyze our protocol using a two-dimensional Markov chain model, and compute the state transition probabilities and derive the average waiting time for a given system load. By simulation experiments we show that our request-TDMA/CDMA protocol is able to effectively combine the orthogonality of both time and code division multiplexing. Further enhancements are also proposed to decrease the waiting time and increase the average channel utilization.
A cognitive-motivational model of decision satisfaction

Satisfaction is a condition that contributes to the development of intrinsic motivation and a continuing motivation to learn. Research that helps to identify the factors that contribute to learning satisfaction is useful for educators. This paper introduces the Cognitive-Motivational Model of Decision Satisfaction, a model that extends Kruglanski's work on closure and builds on Keller's work on the motivational aspects of instruction and learning. Focusing on decision-making activities in a learning context, this model recognizes the importance of information-processing in judgmental tasks and specifies confidence as a major contributing factor to learning satisfaction. Some potential applications to both classroom and computer-based learning environments are suggested.
Studies of the birefringence and birefringence dispersion of polypeptides and proteins

An apparatus has been constructed which permits the polarimetric observation of streaming solutions of macromolecules. The apparatus is a streaming birefringence device allowing the usual measurements of birefringence parallel to the cylinder axis but which in addition transmits light in the radial direction. Installation of the apparatus between the polarizer and analyzer of a Rudolph polarimeter makes possible the measurement of changes in optical rotation, dichroism and birefringence. The present work is concerned with the latter effect. The systems studied were α-helical polyglutamic acid, paramyosin, and collagen (ichthyocol). The combined measurements of radial and axial birefringence completely determines the refractive index ellipsoid of the streaming fluid. This result in turn permits the testing of the Peterlin-Stuart distribution function for streaming in a Couette device, apart from a proportionality constant. The comparison between theory and experiment is very satisfactory provided the system is reasonably homogeneous with regard to molecular length and is sufficiently dilute. On the other hand, it is concluded that the Peterlin-Stuart optical factor seriously overestimates the “form” birefringence in agreement with recent results and conclusions of Taylor and co-workers. The apparatus permits the study of the dispersion of the birefringence in the radial direction. The dispersion of collagen follows a one-term Sellmeier formula and is dominated by absorption bands in the neighborhood of 2000 A. On the other hand, the dispersion of the α-helical systems is complex and requires a multiterm Sellmeier formula. This contrast between the two kinds of polypeptidc helices is similar to results obtained with other optical techniques and is attributed to the splitting of absorption bands in the α-helix.
Intersectionality’s binding agent

AbstractIn this essay, I explore the structural distinctiveness of class domination as compared with intersecting structures of oppression framed by race, gender, sexuality, or other criteria. Social classes are not simply demographic groupings; they are (actual or potential) agents of history. The dominant class, in a given period, shapes the main contours of social existence in every dimension. Thus, members of all oppressed groups have an interest in unifying with each other—against the dominant class—on a common class basis. I discuss how the current awareness of such a common class interest has been obstructed by state repression, by identity politics, and by the ideology of postmodernism.
Molecular shifts in limb identity underlie development of feathered feet in two domestic avian species

Birds display remarkable diversity in the distribution and morphology of scales and feathers on their feet, yet the genetic and developmental mechanisms governing this diversity remain unknown. Domestic pigeons have striking variation in foot feathering within a single species, providing a tractable model to investigate the molecular basis of skin appendage differences. We found that feathered feet in pigeons result from a partial transformation from hindlimb to forelimb identity mediated by cis-regulatory changes in the genes encoding the hindlimb-specific transcription factor Pitx1 and forelimb-specific transcription factor Tbx5. We also found that ectopic expression of Tbx5 is associated with foot feathers in chickens, suggesting similar molecular pathways underlie phenotypic convergence between these two species. These results show how changes in expression of regional patterning genes can generate localized changes in organ fate and morphology, and provide viable molecular mechanisms for diversity in hindlimb scale and feather distribution.
Pulmonary artery wedge pressure lability in the bovine.

SummaryIn 10 normal calves and 7 calves with brisket disease, injections of small volumes of normal saline into the wedged pulmonary artery catheter were shown to produce transient but significant increases in pulmonary-artery wedge pressure that could be reversed with isoproterenol. Whether this occurred at a pre- or post-capillary site or both could not be determined.The technical assistance of Mr. Don Anton and Filimon Ukradyha, Ph.D. is greatly appreciated.
Up, Up, and Away

(1976). Up, Up, and Away. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 47, No. 5, pp. 46-46.
Increasing Trophic Complexity Influences Aphid Attendance by Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and Predation

Abstract Species that are involved in multitrophic interactions are affected by the trophic levels that are above and below them in both indirect and direct ways. In this experiment, interactions among ants (Formica montana Wheeler; Hymenoptera: Formicidae), aphids (Myzus persicae [Sulzer]; Hemiptera: Aphididae), lepidopteran eggs (Pieris rapae [L.]; Lepidoptera: Pieridae), and lady beetles (Coleomegilla maculata DeGeer; Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) were examined on canola (Brassica napus L.; Brassicales: Brassicaceae) to determine whether aphids mediate interactions between ants and eggs and if aphid-tending ants will protect these species from predation by the lady beetles. The first trial examined how ant attendance affected aphid and egg survival over 72 h when these herbivores were present on their own or in combination. The second trial examined these same interactions when a lady beetle was included in the system. Ants consumed significantly more aphids when this prey was offered alone than when egg...
Development of a rating scale to measure learning in clinical dietetics

Evaluating clinical performance with patients presents special problems not encountered in measuring didactic learning.
Gradient-Modulated PETRA MRI

Image blurring due to off-resonance and fast T 2* signal decay is a common issue in radial ultrashort echo time MRI sequences. One solution is to use a higher readout bandwidth, but this may be impractical for some techniques like pointwise encoding time reduction with radial acquisition (PETRA), which is a hybrid method of zero echo time and single point imaging techniques. Specifically, PETRA has severe specific absorption rate (SAR) and radiofrequency (RF) pulse peak power limitations when using higher bandwidths in human measurements. In this study, we introduce gradient modulation (GM) to PETRA to reduce image blurring artifacts while keeping SAR and RF peak power low. Tolerance of GM-PETRA to image blurring was evaluated in simulations and experiments by comparing with the conventional PETRA technique. We performed inner ear imaging of a healthy subject at 7T. GM-PETRA showed significantly less image blurring due to off-resonance and fast T2* signal decay compared to PETRA. In in vivo imaging, GM-PETRA nicely captured complex structures of the inner ear such as the cochlea and semicircular canals. Gradient modulation can improve the PETRA image quality and mitigate SAR and RF peak power limitations without special hardware modification in clinical scanners.
SU-F-T-543: The Impact of Density Overrides in IMRT and VMAT Planning for Lung Cancer Patients Treated SBRT

Purpose: To evaluate the dosimetric impact of target volume overrides on the quality of IMRT and VMAT lung, SBRT treatment plans. Methods: Ninety one patients previously treated with lung SBRT at our institution were retrospectively studied. IMRT and VMAT plans were created on 5 image sets for each patient: free breathing scans(FB), average scans(AVE), average scan with internal target volume overridden to tumor density(ITVoverride), average scan with planning target volume overridden(PTVoverride), and a hybrid method where the internal target volume was set to tumor density and the set-up margin was set to an intermediate density between lung and tumor(HBoverride). All plans were optimized with the same constraints as the original clinical plan AVE. Dose fractionation scheme included 12Gyx4, 10Gyx4, 8Gyx4, 12Gyx3, and 9Gyx5. EQD2 was computed for various target metrics (mean, D1%, D99%) and normal lung metrics (V5Gy, V20Gy, mean lung dose). Plan quality was investigated via conformity index (CI) and gradient index (GI). Results: The ITVoverride plans achieved the highest mean target EQD2(0.38±0.69Gy over AVE) and the highest D1% hotspot(0.73±1.17Gy over AVE) in comparison to all other plans. PTVoverride and HBoverride also demonstrated higher mean target EQD2 than AVE, but lower hotspots. Compared to AVE, PTVoverride and HBoverride resulted in lower coldspots of −9.95±3.78Gy and −9.91±3.68Gy respectively. All override plans achieved lower lung metrics than the AVE plans, with the largest reductions in PTVoverride (−0.31±0.30Gy for V20Gy, −0.44±0.44Gy for V5Gy, −0.23±0.18Gy for mean lung dose). Comparing FB (largest CI,GI) to PTVoverride (smallest CI,GI), CI and GI improved from 1.05 to 1.00, and 4.81 to 4.48 respectively. The differences in these metrics did not correlate with tumor motion or target volume. Conclusion: Despite the improvements in CI and GI, density overrides in target volumes for 91 lung SBRT patients showed limited dosimetric advantages over clinical plans on the average CT.
Seed Selection by Desert Rodents: Implications for Enhancing Seedling Establishment of Indian Ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides)

Abstract. Seeds of many plant species are dispersed by seed-caching rodents that place groups of seeds in superficially buried scatterhoard caches. A case in point is Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides), an important forage plant on arid western rangelands for which seedling recruitment comes largely from scatterhoards made by desert heteromyid rodents. A “diversionary seeding” strategy has been attempted for enhancing Indian ricegrass seedling recruitment by deploying commercially available seeds on the soil surface to divert rodents from recovering scatterhoards of Indian ricegrass seeds. The probability of such a passive restoration approach succeeding is likely affected by the relative desirability to rodents of Indian ricegrass seeds versus diversionary seeds. We conducted laboratory experiments to test preferences of Merriam's kangaroo rat (Dipodomys merriami), a primary dispersal agent of Indian ricegrass seeds, for Indian ricegrass seeds versus seeds of 5 diversionary seed candidates. Indian...
COMMENTS ON THE POSSIBLE ROLES OF BICARBONATE AND CHLORIDE IONS IN PHOTOSYSTEM II

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the comments on the possible roles of bicarbonate and chloride ions in photosystem II (PSII). It reviews the role of two anions, HCO3– and Cl–, in photosystem II. HCO3– appears to function on the electron acceptor side, whereas Cl– functions on the electron donor side of PSII. A nuclear magnetic resonanace technique has been used for the first time to learn more about the Cl binding to the thylakoid membrane and its relationship to the molecular mechanism of O2 evolution. The major function of HCO3 is to change the conformation of the QB or a nearby protein to allow the efficient exchange of with a plastoquinone molecule. On the other hand, the major function of Cl is to stabilize the positive charges on the electron donor water side of PSII, possibly via a reversible binding to the Mn-containing oxygen evolving enzyme.
Effects of excipients and curing process on the abuse deterrent properties of directly compressed tablets

The objective of the present investigation was to understand the effects of excipients and curing process on the abuse deterrent properties (ADP) of Polyox™ based directly compressible abuse deterrent tablet formulations (ADFs). The excipients investigated were lactose (monohydrate or anhydrous), microcrystalline cellulose and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. The ADPs studied were tablet crush resistance or hardness, particle size distribution following mechanical manipulation, drug extraction in water and alcohol, syringeability and injectability. Other non-ADPs such as surface morphology and tablet dissolution were also studied. It was found that presence of 50% or more of water soluble or swellable excipient in the ADF tablets significantly affected the tablet hardness, particle size distribution following mechanical manipulation and drug extraction while small amount (5%) of excipients had either minimal or no effect on ADPs of these tablets. Addition of high molecular weight HPMC (K 100M) affected syringeability and injectability of ADF. Curing process was found to affect ADPs (hardness, particle size distribution, drug extraction and syringeability and injectability) when compared with uncured tablet. In conclusion, addition of large amount of excipients, especially water soluble ones in Polyox™ based ADF tablets increase the risk of abuse by various routes of administration.
Effect of the Split-Ring Resonator Width on the Microwave Microplasma Properties

In this paper, a microstrip split-ring resonator microwave-induced plasma source was developed and the effect of the resonator strip width on the microplasma properties was studied. The end-goal of this paper is to implement the resonator into an in-space micropropulsion system. We thus need to understand the behavior of the microplasma to optimize the thruster performance. A range of resonators with widths from 1.5 to 6 mm were designed to generate a microplasma in argon. Simulations of the electric fields were performed to determine the peak gap electric field. Single Langmuir probe measurements were taken at a pressure of 1 torr to obtain the plasma density and electron temperature. The microwave power was varied from 4.7 to 11.34 W (37–41 dBm). The simulations showed that with an increase in the microstrip width, the maximum electric field strength is obtained for the 3-mm-wide resonator. The electron temperature is also the highest for the 3-mm-wide resonator sitting at ~5.6 eV with 11.34 W of power. However, the maximum plasma density was obtained for the 1.5-mm resonator, $\sim 1.6\times 10^{17}/\text{m}^{3}$ . There is an indirect relationship between the resonator electric field and the resulting microplasma properties. A theoretical analysis of a resonator-based miniature ion engine showed similar performance to the existing miniature ion engines.
Equilibrium and out-of-equilibrium mechanics of living mammalian cytoplasm

Abstract Living cells are intrinsically non-equilibrium systems. They are driven out of equilibrium by the activity of the molecular motors and other enzymatic processes. This activity along with the ever present thermal agitation results in intracellular fluctuations inside the cytoplasm. In analogy to Brownian motion, the material property of the cytoplasm also influences the characteristics of these fluctuations. In this paper, through a combination of experimentation and theoretical analysis, we show that intracellular fluctuations are indeed due to non-thermal forces at relatively long time-scales, however, are dominated solely by thermal forces at relatively short time-scales. Thus, the cytoplasm of living mammalian cells behaves as an equilibrium material at short time-scales. The mean square displacement of these intracellular fluctuations scales inversely with the cytoplasmic shear modulus in this short time-scale equilibrium regime, and is inversely proportional to the square of the cytoplasmic shear modulus in the long time-scale out-of-equilibrium regime. Furthermore, we deploy passive microrheology based on these fluctuations to extract the mechanical property of the cytoplasm at the high-frequency regime. We show that the cytoplasm of living mammalian cells is a weak elastic gel in this regime; this is in an excellent agreement with an independent micromechanical measurement using optical tweezers.
Documenting livelihood trajectories in the context of development interventions in northern Burkina Faso

The northern Central Plateau of Burkina Faso has been the site of extensive development assistance since the 1980s. Thousands of hectares of degraded land have been rehabilitated through investments in Soil and Water Conservation (SWC) techniques. Comprehensive assessments of these projects have documented their beneficial impacts. This study extends these insights to consider the effects of SWC on livelihood sustainability by comparing recent household-level indicators with studies conducted twenty years earlier. Comparing quantitative data from two different points in time allows researchers to identify 'livelihood trajectories', or the general direction of either improvement or decline. The results show that although SWC investments have improved the natural capital of Mossi households, improvements in other forms of capital have accrued mostly among wealthy households. Key words: Livelihoods, development, Mossi, Burkina Faso
Spectroscopy of Predissociating Molecules

The excited state structure and dynamics of predissociative electronic states of model three and four atom molecules, namely CS2, OCS and NH3, is discussed. Experimental investigations rely on jet cooled absorption spectroscopy. The data is used in conjunction with results of theoretical calculations to model the excited electronic surface and open the way for exploration of reaction dynamics.
Surgical Management of Articular Cartilage in Football Players

The treatment of cartilage defects in football players is challenging. Each patient must be treated on an individual basis to align treatment with his or her expectations. For a symptomatic lesion, multiple non-operative techniques can be employed including physiotherapy, analgesics, bracing, and injections. However, there is low potential for intrinsic healing, and these cartilage injuries can progress to larger lesions and eventual degenerative joint disease. Current main surgical treatment options include arthroscopic lavage with debridement, microfracture, osteochondral autograft transfer, osteochondral allograft transplantation, and autologous chondrocyte implantation. Short-term benefits in both pain relief and symptom improvement have been documented following chondroplasty. However, chondroplasty has never been shown to alter the natural history of arthritis progression. If cartilage repair/regeneration techniques are sought, all concomitant pathology including malalignment, ligamentous insufficiency, and meniscal pathology should be treated prior to or simultaneously with the cartilage intervention. Osteochondral autograft transfer offers the fastest recovery and highest rate of return to sport for football players and is ideal for defects less than 3 cm2 in size. For larger lesions, osteochondral allograft transplantation and autologous chondrocyte implantation have shown good outcomes in highly competitive athletes. New scaffold techniques and cell-based therapies offer a promising future in cartilage repair. However, these techniques have not yet been validated in high-demand football players.
KrackCover: A Wireless Security Framework for Covering KRACK Attacks

This paper proposes KrackCover, a wireless security framework that assists in the detection of a KRACK attack with suggestions to enhance the privacy of end-users. Within KrackCover, Wi-Fi end users get an alert with suggestions when a KRACK attack is launched. Furthermore, we conduct real-world experiments by collecting data in open Wi-Fi environments including coffee shops and public libraries. Moreover, our experimental data analysis shows the applicability and effectiveness of KrackCover in the wild.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Extraction from Botanical Material and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Amplification

In this experiment, DNA typing methods are used to identify Schedule I drug Cannabis sativa (marijuana). In the first step, the DNA will be extracted from the plant tissue using a commercially available kit (e.g. Terra PCR Direct Polymerase Mix, DNeasy Plant Mini Kit, or Extract-N-Amp Kit). Primers specific to Cannabis sativa within the intergenic spacer between the trn L 3′ exon and trn F gene in the chloroplast only will yield a 197-base pair PCR product in the presence of Cannabis sativa . Real-time (or standard) PCR will be conducted using extracted Cannabis sativa DNA, the single locus PCR primers, and Bio-Rad’s iQ SYBR Green Supermix employing SYBR Green I. The reaction mix will be pipetted to a 96-well plate and amplifed using a Bio-Rad iQ5 or similar instrument. Evaluation of the melting temperature using a melt curve and first derivative plot will be used to qualitatively determine the production of the correct amplicon. At the completion of the PCR experiment, the plate may be frozen until the next laboratory session in which 2% agarose gels of the PCR products will be run to confirm the length of the amplicon with an appropriate low molecular weight DNA ladder. Only the marijuana plant sample should yield the expected band produced from the PCR reaction on an agarose gel (as compared to Arabadopsis, Brassica, Zea, and other plants).
On the equilibration timescales of isolated trace phases in mantle peridotites: Implications for the interpretation of grain-scale isotope heterogeneity in peridotitic sulfides

Abstract Geochemical studies of mid-ocean-ridge basalts (MORB) and mantle peridotites (e.g., abyssal peridotites) provide independent constraints on the composition and evolution of the convecting mantle. Recent studies have revealed systematic differences in the radiogenic isotope compositions of MORB and abyssal peridotites that call into question the complementary nature of these two windows to the upper mantle. The origin of these differences is fundamental to our understanding of MORB petrogenesis and the composition and depletion history of the upper mantle. The use of isotope variations in basalts to probe the composition and evolution of the mantle is predicated on the assumption of local (i.e., grain-scale) isotopic equilibrium during mantle melting. However, several studies have reported Os- and Pb-isotope disequilibrium in distinct populations of peridotite-derived sulfides, with sulfides included within silicate grains typically possessing more “depleted” isotopic compositions than interstitial sulfides. In principle, grain-scale isotopic heterogeneity could reflect variable radiogenic ingrowth in ancient sulfides with variable parent/daughter ratios, or partial re-equilibration of low-Re/Os and U/Pb sulfides with more radiogenic silicate phases along grain boundaries during mantle melting. This would require that sulfides fail to maintain isotopic equilibrium with neighboring phases over geologically long (∼ Ga) time scales. The preservation of Os-isotope disequilibrium in peridotites has been ascribed in several studies to the armoring effect of low-[Os] silicates, which limits diffusive exchange between isolated Os-rich sulfides. This raises the prospect that peridotite-derived melts may not inherit the Os- (or Pb-) isotope composition of their source, which could account for the recently documented systematic differences in the Os- and Pb-isotope compositions of MORB and mantle peridotites. Although the preservation of isotopic heterogeneity in mantle sulfides is commonly ascribed to the above “armoring effect”, the diffusive equilibration timescale of spatially separated sulfides in mantle peridotites has not previously been rigorously estimated. This study examines the parameters that control this equilibration timescale (average sulfide size and spacing, Os and Pb diffusivity in armoring silicate minerals, and element partitioning between silicate and sulfide phases). Equilibration timescale estimates using available constraints on these parameters reveal that most mantle sulfides are expected to isotopically re-equilibrate with neighboring sulfides in less than a few 10 s of Myr at convecting mantle temperatures. Maintenance of isotopic disequilibrium over the ∼ Ga timescales suggested by observed intra-sample Os- and Pb-isotope heterogeneity requires very large sulfides (>100 μm) separated by several mm or diffusion rates (D
A personal retrospective on the mechanisms of antigen processing

My intention here is to describe the history of the molecular aspects of the antigen processing field from a personal perspective, beginning with the early identification of the species that we now know as MHC class I and MHC class II molecules, to the recognition that their stable surface expression and detection by T cells depends on peptide association, and to the unraveling of the biochemical and cell biological mechanisms that regulate peptide binding. One goal is to highlight the role that serendipity or, more colloquially, pure blind luck can play in advancing the research enterprise when it is combined with an appropriately receptive mind. This is not intended to be an overarching review, and because of my own work I focus primarily on studies of the human MHC. This means that I neglect the work of many other individuals who made advances in other species, particularly those who produced the many knockout mouse strains used to demonstrate the importance of the antigen processing machinery for initiating immune responses. I apologize in advance to colleagues around the globe whose contributions I deal with inadequately for these reasons, and to those whose foundational work is now firmly established in text books and therefore not cited. So many individuals have worked to advance the field that giving all of them the credit they deserve is almost impossible. I have attempted, while focusing on work from my own laboratory, to point out contemporaneous or sometimes earlier advances made by others. Much of the success of my own laboratory came because we simultaneously worked on both the MHC class I and class II systems and used the findings in one area to inform the other, but mainly it depended on the extraordinary group of students and fellows who have worked on these projects over the years. To those who worked in other areas who are not mentioned here, rest assured that I appreciate your efforts just as much.
Design Consideration of 433.92MHz ISM Band RF Rectifier for Wireless IoT Cloud Application

RF energy harvesters are gaining popularity as an energy source for Internet of Things cloud edge devices and also as core circuit of IoT wake-up radio sub-system. The impact of design component parameters on output voltage and power conversion efficiency of multi-stage RF rectifiers is presented. Performance of classical Dickson and Villard rectifier topologies, using both on-chip integrated circuit technologies and commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) off-chip electronics components are studied. Different performances due to design variables such as circuit architecture, diode forward voltage, diode junction capacitance, and capacitance-per-stage are compared and contrasted. Lastly, a decision tree based on different design priority and requirement is proposed.
Sales Ethics: Are There Gender-Related Differences In the Ranks of Potential Salespeople?

The purpose of this study is to determine if gender affects perceptions of ethical salesforce behavior. The results should be of interest to recruiters and managers of salespeople, to aca-demics with an interest in business ethics, and marketing educators preparing future marketing professionals.
Heritage Knowledge in the Curriculum: Retrieving an African Episteme: edited by Joyce E. King and Ellen E. Swartz, New York, Routledge, 2018, 212 pp., $47.95 (paperback), ISBN: 9780815380436

“Sir, why did you shoot me?” asked the unarmed Black Miami-based behavioral therapist to the white police officer (Rabin 2016). Prior to the officer firing his gun, the therapist, while lying in a ...
Gasdermin D activity in inflammation and host defense

The mechanisms underlying the release of interleukin-1 (IL-1) family cytokines from phagocytes have been the subject of intense investigations for more than 30 years. The absence of an amino-terminal secretion signal from members of this family suggests a previously unknown mechanism of protein secretion that transfers cytosolic IL-1 directly across the plasma membrane into the extracellular space. The pore-forming protein gasdermin D (GSDMD) has emerged as the conduit for IL-1 secretion from the cytosol, serving to induce the release of IL-1 from living (hyperactive) or dead (pyroptotic) cells. In this Review, we discuss the mechanism by which GSDMD pore formation is regulated by the activity of inflammatory caspases, which are commonly associated with inflammasomes. We discuss how GSDMD promotes IL-1 release from hyperactive or pyroptotic cells, with a specific focus on defining how these distinct cell fates associated with GSDMD activity can be regulated. Last, the physiological consequences of GSDMD activity and therapeutic potential of targeting this pore-forming protein are discussed, which highlight the abundance of questions that remain to be answered by the community.
Coupling neutrino oscillations and simulations of core-collapse supernovae

At the present time even the most sophisticated, multidimensional simulations of core-collapse supernovae do not (self-consistently) include neutrino flavor transformation. This physics is missing despite the importance of neutrinos in the core-collapse explosion paradigm. Because of this dependence, any flavor transformation that occurs in the region between the protoneutron star and the shock could result in major effects upon the dynamics of the explosion. We present the first hydrodynamic core-collapse supernova simulation which simultaneously includes flavor transformation of the free-streaming neutrinos in the neutrino transport. These oscillation calculations are dynamically updated and evolve self-consistently alongside the hydrodynamics. Using a $M=20\text{ }\text{ }{M}_{\ensuremath{\bigodot}}$ progenitor, we find that while the oscillations have an effect on the neutrino emission and the heating rates, flavor transformation alone does not lead to a successful explosion of this progenitor in spherical symmetry.
An Open Label, Non Randomized, Propspective Phase IV Clinical Trial Evaluating the Immunogenicity of Branded Enoxaparin Versus Biosimilars In Healthy Volunteers.

Abstract 1086 Biosimilar enoxaparin preparations are in use outside the U.S. Due to compositional variations, their interaction with platelet factor 4 (PF4) differs leading to differential immunogenic responses between branded and biosimilar agents. To compare their immunogenic response, branded enoxaparin (Clexane®, Sanofi-Aventis) and a biosimilar version (Cutenox®, Gland-Pharma) were administered to healthy volunteers (n=110/drug) at a dose of 40 mg SQ for10 days. Blood samples drawn on days 1 and 10 were analyzed for anti-heparin/PF4 antibody (A-HPF4-Ab) titers and subtypes by ELISA (GTI, Brookfield, WI). Treatment with each LMWH resulted in comparable A-HPF4-Ab generation as compared by using the total absorbance for each population (p<0.05). However in the thrombin generation assays clexane group showed a stronger inhibition (45+12% vs 32+9%). None of these antibodies activated platelets as determined by the serotonin release assay. The two groups alos showed comparable AXa and AIIa responses (p<0.05). Antibody subtyping demonstrated different profiles between LMWHs. For IgG (Clexane1=0.15±0.04, Clexane10=0.21±0.06, Cutenox1=0.17±0.04, Cutenox10=0.28±0.10) with a significant time effect (p<0.0001), a significant drug effect (p<0.0001), and a significant time by drug interaction (p=.0009). Post hoc comparisons showed a difference between the drugs at time 0 (p=0.03), a difference between the drugs at time 10 (p<0.0001) and a significant time effect for each drug (p<0.0001). For IgA (Clexane1=0.12±0.02, Clexane10=0.15±0.02, Cutenox1=0.12±0.03, Cutenox10=0.13±0.02) with significant effects for time (p<0.0001), drug (p=0.0078) and for the drug × time interaction (p<0.0001). The post hoc comparisons showed a significant drug effect at time 10 (p<0.0001). There was a significant time effect for Clexane (P<0.0001) but not for Cutenox. For IgM (Clexane1=0.11±0.01, Clexane10=0.13±0.02, Cutenox1=0.11±0.03, Cutenox10=0.13±0.02), there was only a time effect (p<0.0001). The post hoc comparisons showed no difference between drugs at either time, but significant time effects for each drug (p<0.0001). The immunogenic potential of LMWHs varies in terms of ability to generate A-HPF4-Ab, the antibody subtypes generated, and their cross-reactivity with pre-formed A-HPF4-Ab. Such parameters may be useful in defining the bioequivalence of generic LMWHs. Future studies evaluating the immunogenicity of different compounds in patients exposed to biosimilar drugs are warranted. Disclosures: Jeske: PolyMedix, Inc.: Research Funding.