cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Spin-Label Study of Isolated Plasma Membranes and Plasma Membranes of Whole Cells and Protoplasts from Cold-Hardened and Nonhardened Winter Rye

Lipid-lipid and lipid-protein interactions in the plasma membranes of whole cells and protoplasts and an isolated plasma membrane fraction from winter rye (Secale cereale L. cv Puma) have been studied by spin labeling. Spectra were recorded between −40°C and 40°C using the freely diffusing spin-label, 16-doxyl stearic acid, as a midbilayer membrane probe. The probe was reduced by the whole cells and protoplasts and reoxidized by external potassium ferricyanide. The reoxidized probe was assumed to be localized in the plasma membrane. The spectra consisted of the superposition of a narrow and a broad component indicating that both fluid and immobilized lipids were present in the plasma membrane. The two components were separated by digital subtraction of the immobilized component. Temperature profiles of the membranes were developed using the percentage of immobilized lipid present at each temperature and the separation between the outermost hyperfine lines for the fluid lipid component. Lipid immobilization was attributed to lipid-protein interactions, lipid-cell wall interactions, and temperature-induced lipid phase transitions to the gel-state. Temperature profiles were compared for both cold-hardened and nonhardened protoplasts, plasma membranes, and plasma membrane lipids, respectively. Although cold-hardening extended the range of lipid fluidity by 5°C, it had no effect on lipid-protein interactions or activation energies of lipid mobility. Differences were found, however, between the temperature profiles for the different samples, suggesting that alterations in the plasma membrane occurred as a consequence of the isolation methods used.
The time dependent Schrodinger equation revisited I: quantum field and classical Hamilton-Jacobi routes to Schrodinger's wave equation

The time dependent Schrodinger equation is frequently 'derived' by postulating the energy E → i(∂/∂t) and momentum → (/i) operator relations. In the present paper we review the quantum field theoretic route to the Schrodinger wave equation which treats time and space as parameters, not operators. Furthermore, we recall that a classical (nonlinear) wave equation can be derived from the classical action via Hamiltonian-Jacobi theory. By requiring the wave equation to be linear we again arrive at the Schrodinger equation, without postulating operator relations. The underlying philosophy is operational: namely 'a particle is what a particle detector detects.' This leads us to a useful physical picture combining the wave (field) and particle paradigms which points the way to the time-dependent Schrodinger equation.
Staining mitochondria with hematoxylin after formalin-sublimate fixation: a rapid method.

Mitochondria were stained in liver, kidney, pancreas, adrenal and intestinal mucosa of rat and mouse. Tissues 1 mm thick, were fixed in a mixture of saturated aqueous HgCl2, 90 ml; formalin (37-38% HCHO), 10 ml, at room temperature (25°C) for 1 hr. Deparaffinized sections 3-4μ thick were treated with Lugol's iodine (U.S.P.) followed by Na2S2O3 (5%), rinsed in water and the ribonucleic acid removed by any of the following procedures: 0.2 M McIlavaine's buffer, pH 7.0, 2 hr, or 0.2 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.0, 2 hr at 37°C; 0.1% aqueous ribonuclease, 2 hr at 37°C; 5% aqueous trichloracetic acid overnight at 37°C; or 1% KOH at room temperature for 1 hr. After washing in water, sections were treated with a saturated solution of ferric ammonium alum at 37°C for 8-12 hr and colored by Regaud's ripened hematoxylin for 18 hr. They were then differentiated in 1% ferric ammonium alum solution while under microscopic observation.
Rhabdomyoma of the abdominal wall: Resection based upon computerized tomosraohic characteristics

A unique report of an abdominal wall rhabdomyoma is presented. The rarity of this tumor may lead to confusion with a malignant neoplasm. Computerized axial tomography localized the tumor to a specific muscle group and demonstrated absence of invasion into surrounding tissues. Computerized tomography is valuable in the assessment of abdominal wall tumors and provides useful information in planning an operative approach.
A pragmatic assessment of government support for organic agriculture in Ireland

Drawing on a pragmatic approach, this paper provides an analysis of government support for organic farming in Ireland. Varying levels of encouragement and programmes are provided to farmers in their conversion from conventional to organic production, and in their maintenance of organic production. As support policies vary across regions and are linked to European Union legislation, it is challenging to document the many types of support in place. This paper investigates relevant technical, financial, and policy support available to organic farmers in Ireland. As an exploratory study, it develops an assessment of Ireland within eight key categories of organic agricultural support: policy, leadership, technical support, financial support, research, education and information, marketing and promotion, and future outlook. Information and data from the Irish Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (DAFF), the Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority (Teagasc), and other government and semi-governmental agencies were utilized to assess the level of support in each category. This assessment provides key findings which will allow policymakers, organizations and citizens to better understand the current situation and set a path for the future development of organic farming in Ireland.
Activation of Polo-like Kinase 3 by Hypoxic Stresses

Hypoxia/reoxygenation stress induces the activation of specific signaling proteins and activator protein 1 (AP-1) to regulate cell cycle regression and apoptosis. In the present study, we report that hypoxia/reoxygenation stress activates AP-1 by increasing c-Jun phosphorylation and DNA binding activity through activation of Polo-like-kinase 3 (Plk3) resulting in apoptosis. The specific effect of hypoxia/reoxygenation stress on Plk3 activation resulting in c-Jun phosphorylation was the opposite of UV irradiation-induced responses that are meanly independent on activation of the stress-induced JNK signaling pathway in human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells. The effect of hypoxia/reoxygenation stress-induced Plk3 activation on increased c-Jun phosphorylation and apoptosis was also mimicked by exposure of cells to CoCl2. Hypoxia/reoxygenation activated Plk3 in HCE cells to directly phosphorylate c-Jun proteins at phosphorylation sites Ser-63 and Ser-73, and to increase DNA binding activity of c-Jun, detected by EMSA. Further evidence demonstrated that Plk3 and phospho-c-Jun were immunocolocalized in the nuclear compartment of hypoxia/reoxygenation stress-induced cells. Increased Plk3 activity by overexpression of wild-type and dominantly positive Plk3 enhanced the effect of hypoxia/reoxygenation on c-Jun phosphorylation and cell death. In contrast, knocking-down Plk3 mRNA suppressed hypoxia-induced c-Jun phosphorylation. Our results provide a new mechanism indicating that hypoxia/reoxygenation induces Plk3 activation instead of the JNK effect to directly phosphorylate and activate c-Jun, subsequently contributing to apoptosis in HCE cells.
How do transporters couple solute movements

The availability of high-resolution atomic structures for transport proteins provides unprecedented opportunities for understanding their mechanism of action. The details of conformational change can be deduced from these structures, especially when multiple conformations are available. However, the singular ability of transporters to couple the movement of one solute to that of another requires even more information than what is supplied by a crystal structure. This short commentary discusses how recent biochemical and biophysical studies are beginning to reveal how solute coupling is achieved.
Anxiety sensitivity as a moderator of the association between smoking status and anxiety symptoms and bodily vigilance: replication and extension in a young adult sample.

The present investigation evaluated the moderational role of the physical concerns dimension of anxiety sensitivity (fear of anxiety and anxiety-related states) in the relation between smoking status and panic-relevant symptoms in a young adult sample (n = 222; 123 females; Mage = 22.45 years, SD = 8.08). Consistent with prediction, anxiety sensitivity physical concerns moderated the association of smoking status with body vigilance and anxious arousal symptoms, such that greater anxiety sensitivity physical concerns was associated with greater panic symptoms among smokers. The observed effects were evident even after controlling for the variance accounted for by alcohol use problems and gender. Also consistent with prediction, there was no interactive effect apparent for depressive symptoms, providing evidence of explanatory specificity with respect to the anxiety variables examined. Findings are discussed with regard to the role of anxiety sensitivity in the relation between smoking and panic processes.
Nuts, especially walnuts, have both antioxidant quantity and efficacy and exhibit significant potential health benefits

Free and total (after basic hydrolysis) polyphenols in nine types of raw and roasted nuts and two types of peanut butter (54 commercial samples) were analyzed after methanol extraction by a single step Folin-Ciocalteu reagent using catechin as standard. Walnuts had the highest free and total polyphenols in both the combined raw and roasted samples. Total polyphenols in the nuts were significantly higher than free polyphenols. Roasting had little effect on either free or total polyphenols in nuts. Raw and roasted walnuts had the highest total polyphenols. The efficacy of raw and roasted nut antioxidants was assessed by measuring the ability of the free polyphenol nut extracts to inhibit the oxidation of lower density lipoproteins (LDL + VLDL). A nut polyphenol, catechin, was measured after binding of three nut extracts to lower density lipoproteins. Walnut polyphenols had the best efficacy among the nuts and also the highest lipoprotein-bound antioxidant activity. Based on USDA availability data, the per capita total polyphenols was 162 mg from nuts per day in 2008. This corresponds to 19% of the total polyphenols from fruits and vegetables, nuts, grains, oils and spices in the US diet. Nuts provided 158 mg of polyphenols per day to the European Union diet. Nuts are high in polyphenol antioxidants which by binding to lipoproteins would inhibit oxidative processes that lead to atherosclerosis in vivo. In human supplementation studies nuts have been shown to improve the lipid profile, increase endothelial function and reduce inflammation, all without causing weight gain. These qualities make nuts a nutritious healthy snack and food additive.
MicroRNAfold: pre-microRNA secondary structure prediction based on modified NCM model with thermodynamics-based scoring strategy

An accurate prediction of the pre-microRNA secondary structure is important in miRNA informatics. Based on a recently proposed model, nucleotide cyclic motifs (NCM), to predict RNA secondary structure, we propose and implement a Modified NCM (MNCM) model with a physics-based scoring strategy to tackle the problem of pre-microRNA folding. Our microRNAfold is implemented using a global optimal algorithm based on the bottom-up local optimal solutions. Our experimental results show that microRNAfold outperforms the current leading prediction tools in terms of True Negative rate, False Negative rate, Specificity, and Matthews coefficient ratio.
A neural network-based spike discriminator

A software routine to reconstruct individual spike trains from multi-neuron, single-channel extracellular recordings was designed. Using a neural network algorithm that automatically clusters and sorts the spikes, the only user input needed is the threshold level for spike detection and the number of unit types present in the recording. Adaptive features are included in the algorithm to allow for tracking of spike trains during periods of amplitude variation and also to identify noise spikes. The routine will operate on-line during extracellular studies of the cochlear nucleus in cats.
Hardening Web browsers against man-in-the-middle and eavesdropping attacks

Existing Web browsers handle security errors in a manner that often confuses users. In particular, when a user visits a secure site whose certificate the browser cannot verify, the browser typically allows the user to view and install the certificate and connect to the site despite the verification failure. However, few users understand the risk of man-in-the-middle attacks and the principles behind certificate-based authentication. We propose context-sensitive certificate verification (CSCV), whereby the browser interrogates the user about the context in which a certificate verification error occurs. Considering the context, the browser then guides the user in handling and possibly overcoming the security error. We also propose specific password warnings (SPW) when users are about to send passwords in a form vulnerable to eavesdropping. We performed user studies to evaluate CSCV and SPW. Our results suggest that CSCV and SPW can greatly improve Web browsing security and are easy to use even without training. Moreover, CSCV had greater impact than did staged security training.
Phthalyl peroxide as a polymerization initiator

Polymeric phthalyl peroxide was used as an initiator for the polymerization of styrene at 60°C. The peroxide is initially partially insoluble in the monomer, but decomposes and becomes soluble during the course of the polymerization. The intrinsic viscosity of the polymer formed increases with increasing conversion and at about 65–70% conversion becomes higher than would arise from a monoradical-initiated polymerization proceeding at the same rate.
Case Management, Preventive Strategies, and Caregiver Attitudes Among Older Adults in Home Care: Results of The ADHOC Study

(OR 1.31, 95% CI: 1.08 ‐1.59). Similarly, more participants in the case manager groups received influenza vaccination (1083/1539 [70%] versus 1293/2468 [52%], P .001) and had medication reviewed (312/1539 [20%] versus 356/2468 [15%], P .001) compared with those in the no case manager group and these associations were confirmed after adjusting for confounders (OR: vaccination 2.08, 95% CI: 1.81‐2.39; medication review 1.69, 95% CI 1.42‐2.01). Furthermore, the caregivers of subjects in case manager group were less likely to be unable to continue in caring activities (49/1320 [4%] versus 134/2129 [6%], P .01) and less dissatisfied (28/1320 [2%] versus 83/1129 [4%], P .001) compared with those in the no case manager group.
Bacterial Peptidoglycan Induces CD14-dependent Activation of Transcription Factors CREB/ATF and AP-1

Peptidoglycan (PGN), the major cell wall component of Gram-positive bacteria, induces secretion of cytokines in macrophages through CD14, the pattern recognition receptor that binds lipopolysaccharide and other microbial products. To begin to elucidate the mechanisms that regulate the transcription of cytokine genes, we wanted to determine which transcription factors are activated by PGN in mouse RAW264.7 and human THP-1 macrophage cells. Our results demonstrated that: (i) PGN induced phosphorylation of the transcription factors ATF-1 and CREB; (ii) ATF-1 and CREB bound DNA as a dimer and induced transcriptional activation of a CRE reporter plasmid, which was inhibited by dominant negative CREB and ATF-1; (iii) PGN induced phosphorylation of c-Jun, protein synthesis of JunB and c-Fos, and transcriptional activation of the AP-1 reporter plasmid, which was inhibited by dominant negative c-Fos; and (iv) PGN-induced activation of CREB/ATF and AP-1 was mediated through CD14. This is the first study to demonstrate activation of CREB/ATF and AP-1 transcription factors by PGN or by any other component of Gram-positive bacteria.
The Formation of Low Mass Stars: Observations

In this chapter basic observational knowledge relevant to the formation and early evolution of low mass stars is reviewed. Particular emphasis is placed on describing: 1) the significance of the initial stellar mass function, 2) the importance of clusters in the scheme of low mass star formation, 3) the physical natures of embedded young stellar objects of low mass and 4) the critical importance of molecular outflows for the physics of star formation and early stellar evolution.
Total joint Perioperative Surgical Home: an observational financial review

The numbers of people requiring total arthroplasty is expected to increase substantially over the next two decades. However, increasing costs and new payment models in the USA have created a sustainability gap. Ad hoc interventions have reported marginal cost reduction, but it has become clear that sustainability lies only in complete restructuring of care delivery. The Perioperative Surgical Home (PSH) model, a patient-centered and physician-led multidisciplinary system of coordinated care, was implemented at UC Irvine Health in 2012 for patients undergoing primary elective total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA). This observational study examines the costs associated with this initiative. The direct cost of materials and services (excluding professional fees and implants) for a random index sample following the Total Joint-PSH pathway was used to calculate per diem cost. Cost of orthopedic implants was calculated based on audit-verified direct cost data. Operating room and post-anesthesia care unit time-based costs were calculated for each case and analyzed for variation. Benchmark cost data were obtained from literature search. Data are presented as mean ± SD (coefficient of variation) where possible. Total per diem cost was $10,042 ± 1,305 (13%) for TKA and $9,952 ± 1,294 (13%) for THA. Literature-reported benchmark per diem cost was $17,588 for TKA and $16,267 for THA. Implant cost was $7,482 ± 4,050 (54%) for TKA and $9869 ± 1,549 (16%) for THA. Total hospital cost was $17,894 ± 4,270 (24%) for TKA and $20,281 ± 2,057 (10%) for THA. In-room to incision time cost was $1,263 ± 100 (8%) for TKA and $1,341 ± 145 (11%) for THA. Surgery time cost was $1,558 ± 290 (19%) for TKA and $1,930 ± 374 (19%) for THA. Post-anesthesia care unit time cost was $507 ± 187 (36%) for TKA and $557 ± 302 (54%) for THA. Direct hospital costs were driven substantially below USA benchmark levels using the Total Joint-PSH pathway. The incremental benefit of each step in the coordinated care pathway is manifested as a lower average length of stay. We identified excessive variation in the cost of implants and post-anesthesia care.
A multi-modal approach to the management of bypass graft failure

Bypass graft failure is an unsolved problem in the contemporary treatment of peripheral arterial occlusion. Thrombolysis of a failed bypass graft is performed with instillation of plasminogen activators directly into the substance of the thrombus. Thrombolytic techniques can restore the bypass graft to its pre-occlusive state, clearing the inflow and outflow tracts of propagated thrombus and unmasking the causative lesion responsible for graft occlusion. Open surgery, or an endovascular modality, can then be employed to directly address these lesions. Recent randomized trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of a thrombolytic treatment strategy when the graft occlusion is acute, that is, when the patient presents within 2 weeks of the event. The appropriate management of the patient with an acutely occluded bypass graft includes thrombolysis, endovascular modalities and open surgery, employed in conjunction, to improve patient outcome over that observed with an immediate operation alone.
Reproducibility of metabolomic profiles among men and women in 2 large cohort studies.

BACKGROUND: Rigorous studies are necessary to demonstrate suitability of metabolomics platforms to profile metabolites in archived plasma within epidemiologic studies of human disease, for which attenuation of effect estimates due to measurement error is a key concern. METHODS: Using a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry platform, we quantified 257 metabolites from archived plasma to evaluate metabolite interassay reproducibility, reproducibility with delayed processing, and within-person reproducibility over time. Interassay reproducibility was assessed with CVs from 60 duplicate plasma samples donated by participants in the Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study, and 20 QC pool plasma replicates. Metabolite reproducibility over a 24- to 48-h processing delay (n = 48 samples) and within-person reproducibility over 1–2 years (n = 80 samples) were assessed using Spearman and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). RESULTS: CVs were <20% for 92% of metabolites and generally were similar by plasma anticoagulant type (heparin or EDTA) and fasting time. Approximately 75% of metabolites were reproducible over delays in processing of blood samples (Spearman correlation or ICC ≥0.75, comparing immediate and 24-h delayed processing). Carbohydrates and purine/pyrimidine derivatives were most adversely affected by the processing delay. Ninety percent of metabolites were reproducible over 1–2 years within individuals (Spearman correlation or ICC ≥0.4). CONCLUSIONS: For potential use in epidemiologic studies, the majority of plasma metabolites had low CVs and were reproducible over a 24-h processing delay and within individuals over 1–2 years. Certain metabolites, such as carbohydrates and purine/pyrimidine derivatives, may be challenging to evaluate if samples have delayed processing.
Legal Mobilization, Transnational Activism, and Gender Equality in the EU

This article examines how EU rights and laws serve as legal opportunity structures for women’s rights activists in Europe. Further, it examines what effects this transnational activism has on the permanence and inclusion of public interests and gender equality in EU legal and political processes. The analysis examines the legal domain of EU women’s rights over a thirty-year period. Methodologically, the study relies on case law analysis, primary document collections, and interviews with non-governmental organizations and governmental elites at both the EU and the national level. I ask how legal mobilization can serve as a catalyst for institutional change (by influencing litigation and legislative action), and how this effects subsequent EU-level women’s rights mobilization and public inclusion. Resume: Le present article examine comment les droits et les lois de l’UE servent de structures juridiques offrant des possibilites aux militantes des droits de la femme en Europe. De plus, il examine les effets de cet activisme transnational sur la permanence et l’inclusion des domaines d’interet public et de l’egalite entre les sexes dans les processus juridiques et politiques de l’UE. La presente analyse examine le domaine juridique des droits de la femme dans l’UE pendant une periode de trente ans. Sur le plan methodologique, l’etude repose sur des analyses de la jurisprudence, sur des recueils de documents de base, et des entrevues avec des organisations non gouvernementales et des elites gouvernementales, a la fois au niveau national et a celui de l’UE. Je demande comment la mobilisation juridique peut servir de catalyseur pour un changement institutionnel (en influencant les procedures judiciaires et les actes legislatifs) et comment cela touche au niveau de l’UE la mobilisation pour les droits de la femme et l’inclusion publique subsequentes.
The Prepared Mind Neural Activity Prior to Problem Presentation Predicts Subsequent Solution by Sudden Insight

Insight occurs when problem solutions arise suddenly and seem obviously correct, and is associated with an ''Aha!'' experience. Prior theorizing concerning preparation that facilitates insight focused on solvers' problem-specific knowledge. We hypothesized that a dis- tinct type of mental preparation, manifested in a distinct brain state, would facilitate insight problem solving inde- pendently of problem-specific knowledge. Consistent with this hypothesis, neural activity during a preparatory interval before subjects saw verbal problems predicted which problems they would subsequently solve with, versus without, self-reported insight. Specifically, electroenceph- alographic topography and frequency (Experiment 1) and functional magnetic resonance imaging signal (Experi- ment 2) both suggest that mental preparation leading to insight involves heightened activity in medial frontal areas associated with cognitive control and in temporal areas associated with semantic processing. The results for electroencephalographic topography suggest that non- insight preparation, in contrast, involves increased occipital activity consistent with an increase in externally directed visual attention. Thus, general preparatory mechanisms modulate problem-solving strategy.
The Craniofacial Muscles: Arguments for Uniqueness

The craniofacial muscles are small skeletal muscles associated with head and neck structures and involved in a wide array of non-locomotor activities such as mastication, swallowing, breathing, vocalization, facial expression, and even vision and other special senses. These muscles are the new kids in the block, starting with their relatively recent appearance with the evolution of the head and neck in vertebrates and to our growing understanding of their distinctive development programs, functions, and pathologies. For convenience, we can group the craniofacial muscles according to their developmental origin: extraocular muscles, branchiomeric muscles (facial, masticatory, pharyngeal, and laryngeal muscles), and tongue muscles (Noden and Francis-West 2006). There is growing recognition of clinical relevance of the craniofacial muscles in terms of diseases that are specific to them (strabismus, laryngeal dystonias, facial paralysis, and many others), but also their characteristic divergent response to certain systemic neuromuscular disorders (sparing by some muscular dystrophies, targeting by myasthenia gravis, to name a few). These are the basic arguments for the uniqueness of the craniofacial muscles that serve as the central theme for the following chapters.
Experimental study on accuracy and surface quality of TC2 in LS-WEDM multiple cuts

Low-speed wire electrical discharge machining (LS-WEDM) is an effective alternative to manufacture intricate shapes with high accuracy in difficult-to-machine materials like TC2 (Ti–3Al–1.5Mn). This paper aims to study the dimensional accuracy and surface quality of TC2 workpiece machined by LS-WEDM based on multiple cuts including rough and trim cuts. First, an orthogonal experiment L16 (54) is designed to evaluate the main influencing factors on surface roughness and machining time. Second, the optimum parametric settings for multiple cuts are designed, and the experimental work has demonstrated that the acute angle convex corners machined by LS-WEDM are accompanied with bending angles and the bending direction is opposite to the wire electrode movement, but the obtuse angle does not appear this phenomenon. Moreover, the wire deflection model based on the unilateral discharge mechanism is built to improve the machining accuracy. In addition, by comparing with the kerf and the surface microstructure of rough and trim cuts, the kerf consistency is improved obviously; the craters, cracks, voids and spherical droplets are gradually becoming much smaller size; the 3D surface parameters including Sa, Sq, Sy and Sz are greatly decreased. Eventually, the elongated craters and the overlapping convex peaks are discovered on TC2 workpiece surface.
Pott's disease caused by Mycobacterium xenopi.

SIR-I read with interest the recent report and review of cerebral mucormycosis associated with intravenous drug use [1]. The use of intrathecal amphotericin B was not discussed in this article. Because this condition is associated with such high mortality (17 of 25 cases in the literature), I was surprised that the only case out of the 25 in which treatment with intrathecal amphotericin B was used was the one with which I was involved [2]. Of course, it may have been purely coincidental that this patient was one of the eight survivors, and it would be impossible to attribute survival to the use of intrathecal therapy. Patients with cerebral mucor-
Low Temperature Effect on Cigarette Beetle Infestation in Tobacco Hogsheads

Flue-cured tobacco hogsheads, heavily infested with Lasioderma serricorne (F.) were exposed to temperatures of 40, 45, and 48°F. Hogshead interiors were inspected for insects at 4-week intervals as long as living insects remained. Living pupae were nonexistent several weeks before the disappearance of living 4th-instar larvae and adults. Exposures of hogsheads for 12, 20, and 32 weeks at 40, 45, and 48°F, respectively, were required to kill all insects of the natural infestation.
Effect of Ca(2+) on Aß40 fibrillation is characteristically different.

Abstract Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the only one among top ten diseases in USA that cannot be cured, prevented or slowed down. At molecular level the mechanism of onset has been closely associated with mis-folding of Aβ40 and Aβ42 and is well supported by the genetic data for AD. Extensive research efforts have led to identification of factors and metal ions that could manipulate Aβ equilibrium, especially Ca2+. Previously, we reported selectively acceleration of Aβ42 fibril formation by Ca2+ in vitro within physiological concentrations (BBA (2009) 1794:1536). Aβ40 on the other hand did not appear to be significantly affected by Ca2+ addition. In an effort to understand the distinctive behavior of Aβ40, we monitored changes of Aβ40 aggregation by intrinsic tyrosine fluorescence and CD and took different approaches for data processing. Our analysis of CD data indicates a complex effect induced by the addition of 2 mM Ca2+ resulting in an increase in the rate of transformation from monomer to β-sheet rich fibrilar or intermediate species formation in Aβ40. Surprisingly, the kinetics observed by intrinsic fluorescence studies in this article and ThT, SEC or EM studies in our previous report were not able to unravel the existence of this effect in Aβ40.
Relay Placement in Wireless Networks: Minimizing Communication Cost

Given $n$ source nodes and $k$ relay nodes, we model the optimal relay topology problem allowing for simultaneous optimization of the relay node locations and traffic through the network, so that the overall number of packet retransmissions is minimized. We argue that state-of-the-art models and algorithms for relay placement in wireless networks do not reflect salient characteristics of the optimal relays topology and lead to suboptimal solutions. We do not constrain the position of relays to a finite set of discrete points, as the latter may not be feasible in practical networks. In this case, we show that just listing a set of feasible sites for the relays is already at least $APX$ -hard. Exploiting convexity in a special case of the network communication cost function, we give an optimal algorithm for the relay placement problem. However, the algorithm is exponential on the number of nodes in the network. We suggest a practical heuristic algorithm for relay placement: RePlace . We compare RePlace numerically to the optimal algorithm and show that RePlace achieves the optimal or almost optimal solutions. We implement RePlace in the full network stack simulator JiST/SWANS. The relay topologies generated by RePlace eliminate overhead communication cost almost entirely.
Effects of Rearing Density on Return to Creel of Hatchery Catchable Rainbow Trout Stocked in Idaho Lentic Waters

AbstractEvaluating rearing techniques that maximize angler returns to creel of hatchery trout is an essential tool in shaping hatchery management practices and maximizing the public use of hatchery products. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of raceway rearing density on return to creel of catchable-sized (mean TL ≈ 252 mm) hatchery Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. In 2011 and 2012, Idaho Department of Fish and Game reared catchable-sized trout targeting three maximum density indices (0.15, 0.25, and 0.30 lb·ft−3·in−1) at three different state fish hatcheries. Each hatchery stocked fish into the same 11 lakes and reservoirs to evaluate return-to-creel rates by rearing density. Although there was a trend of lower angler catch for fish reared at a higher raceway density, the relationship was not statistically significant. Instead, angler catch was significantly influenced by fish size at stocking and the surface area of the water being stocked, whereby larger fish and smaller waters had ...
On Increasing Our Knowledge of Large-Scale Software Comprehension

Program comprehension is a central task during software maintenance, evolution and reuse. Some estimates put the cost of understanding software at 50% of the maintenance effort. Clearly, understanding how programmers go about comprehending software they have not written is a worthwhile endeavor. It is a prerequisite to developing maintenance guidelines, documentation, and tools that improve on our current processes because they support cognitive processes. A variety of theories and models of program comprehension exist. For a discussion of these see (von Mayrhauser and Vans, 1995a; von Mayrhauser and Vans, 1995b). However, many of them are based on studying novices (e.g. undergraduate students) working with small programs (less than 200 lines of code) without documentation nor platform tools commonly used by professionals. Most of the work centers on issues of general understanding, rather than specific, goal-driven tasks like corrective maintenance, adaptation, enhancement, or code leverage. Thus, it is not clear to which degree these theories and models apply to professional maintenance tasks that routinely occur on large scale software. Recent work (von Mayrhauser and Vans, 1995c; von Mayrhauser and Vans, 1996a; von Mayrhauser and Vans, 1996b) explored these issues through an observational study. Eleven professional programmers were observed on actual maintenance tasks. The objective was theory building through observation. The aim was to cover as wide a variety of tasks, prior exposure to the code, and expertise (in language and application domain) as possible. Table 1 shows the distribution of participants along the three dimensions of subject classification. Task types are general understanding, corrective maintenance, adaptation, enhancement, and code leverage. Prior exposure to code (accumulated knowledge) is ranked on a 6 point scale from “never seen before” to “worked with code for several years”. Expertise is classified by language platform, domain knowledge, or both. Like other observational studies, this one faced three issues in determining the validity of generalizing its results:
Facilitating landform migration by removing shore protection structures: Opportunities and constraints

Abstract Recent studies have identified the need to adapt to climate change by allowing landforms and habitats to migrate landward, although implementation of actual adaptation responses is limited. Removing the barriers that shore protection structures create between coastal and upland habitats can reestablish exchanges of sediment and the ecological functions of the natural ecotone. The potential for removing these structures was evaluated in 12 national parks managed by the U.S. National Park Service. Criteria for removal included condition of structures, influence of natural processes, environmental benefits, public safety, and visitor access and use. We found that 145 structures out of a total of 407 could be removed or allowed to deteriorate. We highlight three adaptation projects that are currently being conducted, two of which involve removing structures. Reasons for not taking a more pro-active approach to removing protection structures include (1) conflicting policy directives; (2) presence of key access roads and critical archaeological and historic sites; (3) lack of data; (4) lack of funds and human resources; (5) reluctance to replace known problems with an unknown set of problems; (6) consideration of visitor desires; and (7) reluctance to allow erosion to occur. Demonstration projects are needed to provide information about adaptation strategies that promote enhancement of ecosystem functions. Projects to remove protection structures are likely to be viewed as successful only if results are specified as a positive product, and the distinction between the concept of loss (erosion of existing landforms and habitats) and the concept of gain (evolution of new landforms and habitats) is made clear.
Modeling Interactions of Web Software

Modeling interactions among software components is becoming increasingly important for analyzing behavior of Web software. This is especially true for the area of Web services where distributed interactions across organizational boundaries are the norm. In this paper, three visual formalisms for modeling interactions: 1) collaboration diagrams, 2) message sequence charts, and 3) conversation protocols where discussed. The author will also discuss the differences and similarities among these representations and identify two problems: realizability and synchronizability
Citizen participation in the governance of community mental health centers.

The article reviews theory undergirding citizen participation in governance and presents several models of governance. A mail survey of 220 community mental health centers revealed that most centers did not meet the participant requirements of Public Law 94-63 for broad representation of the catchment area in governance or the functional requirements for decision-making, nor did boards incorporate other typical approaches to participation. This breakdown in implementation of the law can be interpreted as a twofold problem of organizational adaptation and power redistribution. Policy solutions would need to take both these causes into account. Incremental strategies alone are unlikely to create sufficient impact. Organizational development focused on building new models of governance and direct efforts to mobilize and empower citizens are suggested.
Abstract 282: Pattern of Development of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Induced by Angiotensin In Hypercholesterolemic Mice

Background Understanding the pattern of development of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) may help optimize translational research strategies. Thus we sought mechanistic insight on the pattern of AAA evolution in apolipoprotein E -/- mice. Methods Fifty-nine mice underwent a 4-week pump-mediated infusion of saline (controls; n=13) or 1500 ng/kg/min of AngII (n=46), and AAA development was tracked via in vivo serial ultrasound imaging. We adjusted for hemodynamic covariates in the mixed logistic regression model for AAA occurrence in relation to time. Results The incidence of intact AAA in AngII infused mice was 59% (27/46) of which 55.6% (15/27) were small AAA and 44.4% were large AAA (1.2-1.5 vs. >1.5x baseline diameter, respectively). The incidence of rupture was 22% (10/46). All large aneurysms and most ruptures occurred within the first week of AngII exposure. Subsequent aneurysms were small and evolved in the second week of AngII infusion. The overall effect of time was statistically significant (p Conclusions These are the first formal estimates of the odds of AAA occurrence vis-a-vis time in the context of a consistent pattern of AAA development in this mouse model of AngII-induced AAA. They occur in the first (large AAA) and second (small AAA) weeks of AngII infusion, and the odds of occurrence diminish thereafter. These findings provide guidance for experimental strategies.
Army Engagement with Congress

This chapter discusses what happens when the Army engages with Congress about particular programs. An engagement may involve an Army general officer meeting a member of Congress to discuss a recent funding cut, a phone call between the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and the Secretary of the Army about the import``ance of the Army’s modernization program, or a congressional staff visit to Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey to fire a newly developed rifle. Based on records of Army engagements with Congress over four years, it is evident that the type and frequency of Army officials’ interactions with Congress do not systematically affect budget outcomes. Feedback from staffers and the experience of the Army’s aviation community in securing consistent funding for airborne platforms suggests the quality of congressional engagement is more instrumental than quantity.
Risk of injury higher in older adults with dementia than in those without

Commentary on: Meuleners LB, Hobday MB. A population-based study examining injury in older adults with and without dementia. J Am Geriatr Soc 2017;65:520–5. People with Alzheimer’s disease often develop impairments in executive function, resulting in poor judgement and unsafe behaviours.1 These problems put them at risk of accidents and injuries, particularly in the home environment. Coupled with ageing changes and disease processes, the person with dementia may develop functional decline that can lead to accidents and injuries. A number of interventions have been studied to address these …
A Decade of Induced Slip on the Causative Fault of the 2015 Mw 4.0 Venus Earthquake, Northeast Johnson County, Texas

On 7 May 2015, a MW 4.0 earthquake occurred near Venus, northeast Johnson County, Texas, in an area of the Bend Arch-Fort Worth Basin that reports long-term, high-volume wastewater disposal and that has hosted felt earthquakes since 2009. In the weeks following the MW 4.0 earthquake, we deployed a local seismic network and purchased nearby active-source seismic reflection data to capture additional events, characterize the causative fault, and explore potential links between ongoing industry activity and seismicity. Hypocenter relocations of the resulting local earthquake catalog span ~4-6 km depth and indicate a fault striking ~230°, dipping to the west, consistent with a nodal plane of the MW 4.0 regional moment tensor. Fault plane solutions indicate normal faulting, with B-axes striking parallel to maximum horizontal compressive stress. Seismic reflection data image the reactivated basement fault penetrating the Ordovician disposal layer and Mississippian production layer, but not displacing post-Lower Pennsylvanian units. Template matching at regional seismic stations indicates that low magnitude earthquakes with similar waveforms began in April 2008, with increasing magnitude over time. Pressure data from five saltwater disposal wells within 5 km of the active fault indicate a disposal formation that is 0.9-4.8 MPa above hydrostatic. We suggest that the injection of 28,000,000 m3 of wastewater between 2006 and 2015 at these wells led to an increase in subsurface pore fluid pressure that contributed to inducing this long-lived earthquake sequence. The 2015 MW 4.0 event represents the largest event in the continuing evolution of slip on the causative fault.
The role of suboptimal mitochondrial function in vulnerability to post-traumatic stress disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder remains the most significant psychiatric condition associated with exposure to a traumatic event, though rates of traumatic event exposure far outstrip incidence of PTSD. Mitochondrial dysfunction and suboptimal mitochondrial function have been increasingly implicated in several psychopathologies, and recent genetic studies have similarly suggested a pathogenic role of mitochondria in PTSD. Mitochondria play a central role in several physiologic processes underlying PTSD symptomatology, including abnormal fear learning, brain network activation, synaptic plasticity, steroidogenesis, and inflammation. Here we outline several potential mechanisms by which inherited (genetic) or acquired (environmental) mitochondrial dysfunction or suboptimal mitochondrial function, may contribute to PTSD symptomatology and increase susceptibility to PTSD. The proposed pathogenic role of mitochondria in the pathophysiology of PTSD has important implications for prevention and therapy, as antidepressants commonly prescribed for patients with PTSD have been shown to inhibit mitochondrial function, while alternative therapies shown to improve mitochondrial function may prove more efficacious.
Enhanced Pilot Learning Interface

This paper describes an informational navigation tool to augment airline pilot learning. The device is designed to decrease the amount of time required to navigate aircraft manuals when searching for aircraft operational information, including: (a) Aircraft systems and systems integration, (b) Aircraft performance, (c) Checklist usage and flows, (d) Alerts, and (e) Limitations. Current paper and digital methods are challenging to circumnavigate. As a result, pilots can lose efficiency in time and cognitive development using state of the art methods. To improve learning resources, I have developed the Enhanced Pilot Learning Interface, an Interactive Media for educational applications. Preliminary tests of current professional airline pilots have demonstrated an efficiency increase of 65.5% using the Enhanced Pilot Learning Interface when compared to state of the art methods.
The top 10 reasons children with autism deserve ABA.

We who advocate for applied behavior analysis (ABA) for children with autism spectrum disorders often construct our arguments based on the scientific evidence. However, the audience that most needs to hear this argument, that is, the parents of children, especially very young children, diagnosed with autism, may not be convinced by the science alone. This essay attempts to make the case for the multiple benefits of ABA intervention through the use of humor and anecdotes couched in a “Top Ten List,” and illustrating most points with stories of an engaging child with autism (my son, Ben).
Cervical Polyp Removal

Cervical polyps are pedunculated masses that vary in size from several millimeters to centimeters, are usually found in the endocervical canal, and protrude from the cervical os (Fig. 9-1). Occasionally, polyps protruding from the cervical os are endometrial in origin. Cervical polyps are often single, but they can be multiple. They are usually bright red, spongy in nature, and friable.
Evidence for rapid microscale bacterial redox cycling of iron in circumneutral environments

The potential for microscale bacterial Fe redox cycling was investigated in microcosms containing ferrihydrite-coated sand and a coculture of a lithotrophic Fe(II)-oxidizing bacterium (strain TW2) and a dissimilatory Fe(III)-reducing bacterium (Shewanella alga strain BrY). The Fe(II)-oxidizing organism was isolated from freshwater wetland surface sediments which are characterized by steep gradients of dissolved 02 and high concentrations of dissolved and solid-phase Fe(II) within mm of the sediment-water interface, and which support comparable numbers (10(5)-10(6) mL(-1)) of culturable Fe(II)-oxidizing and Fe(III)-reducing reducing. The coculture systems showed minimal Fe(III) oxide accumulation at the sand-water interface, despite intensive O2 input from the atmosphere and measurable dissolved O2 to a depth of 2 mm below the sand-water interface. In contrast, a distinct layer of oxide precipitates formed in systems containing Fe(IllI)-reducing bacteria alone. Examination of materials from the cocultures by fluorescence in situ hybridization indicated close physical juxtapositioning of Fe(II)-oxidizing and Fe(III)-reducing bacteria in the upper few mm of sand. Our results indicate that Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria have the potential to enhance the coupling of Fe(II) oxidation and Fe(III) reduction at redox interfaces, thereby promoting rapid microscale cycling of Fe.