cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A combinatorial method for tracing objects using semantics of their shape

We present a shape-first approach to finding automobiles and trucks in overhead images and include results from our analysis of an image from the Overhead Imaging Research Dataset [1]. For the OIRDS, our shape-first approach traces candidate vehicle outlines by exploiting knowledge about an overhead image of a vehicle: a vehicle's outline fits into a rectangle, this rectangle is sized to allow vehicles to use local roads, and rectangles from two different vehicles are disjoint. Our shape-first approach can efficiently process high-resolution overhead imaging over wide areas to provide tips and cues for human analysts, or for subsequent automatic processing using machine learning or other analysis based on color, tone, pattern, texture, size, and/or location (shape first). In fact, computationally-intensive complex structural, syntactic, and statistical analysis may be possible when a shape-first work flow sends a list of specific tips and cues down a processing pipeline rather than sending the whole of wide area imaging information. This data flow may fit well when bandwidth is limited between computers delivering ad hoc image exploitation and an imaging sensor. As expected, our early computational experiments find that the shape-first processing stage appears to reliably detect rectangular shapes from vehicles. More intriguing is that our computational experiments with six-inch GSD OIRDS benchmark images show that the shape-first stage can be efficient, and that candidate vehicle locations corresponding to features that do not include vehicles are unlikely to trigger tips and cues. We found that stopping with just the shape-first list of candidate vehicle locations, and then solving a weighted, maximal independent vertex set problem to resolve conflicts among candidate vehicle locations, often correctly traces the vehicles in an OIRDS scene.
Abstract 3262: Mitochondrial haplotype effects on tumor formation and metastasis are both cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous

Increasing data support roles for mitochondrial genomes in complex diseases, including cancer. We hypothesize that primary tumor formation and metastasis can arise from inherited mitochondrial differences. To test directly the role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in mammary cancer tumorigenicity and metastasis, we generated Mitochondrial Nuclear Exchange (MNX) mice. This unique animal model is created by moving the nucleus from an oocyte of one strain into an enucleated oocyte of a different strain. By exchanging the nucleus of mouse strains promoting or inhibiting metastatic efficiency, mtDNA effects can be distinguished from phenotypes which would occur due to nuclear admixing. To determine if a change in the mtDNA background impacts metastasis in a cell autonomous manner, two FVB transgenic mouse strains encoding either Her2 or PyMT oncogenes were crossed with MNX mice with FVB nuclear DNA and mtDNA from either BALB/cJ or C57BL6J strains. The mtDNA were chosen because of higher or lower metastatic efficiency, respectively (PMID9679770, PMID16491073). Latency of mammary tumor formation in MNX mice with C57BL/6 mtDNA is longer for both Her2 and PyMT. Lung metastases are smaller in C57BL6 but larger in BALB/c MNX crosses with the PyMT. Studies measuring metastasis efficiency in the MNX crosses with Her2 are still in progress. To determine whether the mitochondrial haplotype alters tumorigenicity or metastasis in a non-cell autonomous manner, syngeneic tumor cells were injected orthotopically and ectopically (i.v.). Tumor formation and metastasis differ in a tumor and mtDNA-dependent manner. For example, E0771 forms significantly more lung metastases in C57BL/6n:C3H/HeNmt mice compared to controls. To explore underlying mechanisms, metabolic differences were observed in MNX and matched wild type mouse embryonic fibroblasts using the Seahorse bioanalyzer. Conclusion: mtDNA affects mammary cancer development and progression via both genetic and non-cell autonomous mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment. Support: Susan G. Komen for the Cure (SAC11037), Natl Fndn Cancer Res, Steiner Family Fund for Metastasis Research, Kansas Bioscience Authority, CA134981, P30-CA168524 Citation Format: Amanda E. Brinker, Carolyn J. Vivian, Kyle P. Feeley, Scott W. Ballinger, Danny R. Welch. Mitochondrial haplotype effects on tumor formation and metastasis are both cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 3262. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-3262
Interconnect scaling: Challenges and opportunities

Transistor and interconnect pitch scaling has been used successfully for greater than 40 years to drive significant density and performance benefits in integrated circuits. Transistor performance has continued to improve due to pitch scaling combined with other process enhancements. Interconnects represent a much larger portion of the overall delay and cost of integrated circuits today than in the past. This paper reviews the relative comparison of interconnect and transistor scaling and key interconnect scaling challenges, and it highlights the transistor/interconnect co-optimization that is needed to create high performance and high yielding interconnects sufficient for today's ultra-large scale integration (ULSI) needs, and reviews future trends.
Effect of age-related hearing loss on the click-rate-induced facilitation of acoustic reflex thresholds.

AbstractObjective: This investigation was designed to evaluate the effect of age-related hearing loss on the click-rate-induced improvement in the acoustic reflex thresholds. Design: Case–control study. Study sample: Data from five different adults ear-groups (15 ears each) were included in the study: 1. Younger with normal hearing. 2. Older with normal hearing. 3. Older with mild high-frequency loss. 4. Older with moderate high-frequency loss. 5. Older with low- and high-frequency loss. Ipsilateral acoustic reflex thresholds were obtained from the left and/or right ear/s by presenting clicks at the repetition rates of 50, 100, 150, 200 and 300 clicks/s. The rate-induced facilitation (RIF) was calculated by subtracting the lowest acoustic reflex threshold from the highest reflex threshold obtained across the various click-rates. Results: The click-RIF is significantly reduced in older individuals compared to younger adults. There is no significant difference in RIF across the four older adult groups sugge...
Promoting Green Urbanism and Disaster Resilience in the Anthropocene: From Invasive to Community in Kakaako, Oahu

As the most isolated land mass on earth, the Island of Hawaii has become heavily dependent on imports in the current era of globalization. This paper addresses major challenges facing the island chain of Hawaii including the current housing crisis and the disaster risks posed by climate change and invasive trees. This study assesses the viability of using scavenged albizia to promote green urbanism and disaster resilience in Hawaii. Kaka’ako, a commercial and retail district of Honolulu (situated along the southern shores of the island of O’ahu, Hawaii) is used as a case study. Local and practical solutions including green urbanism and technologic innovations such as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) are emphasized. This paper emphasizes local employment and University of Hawaii based technology, thereby minimizing the use of builders from outside the state. Innovative design strategies are herein proposed to overcome this dependency on imports and help the state of Hawaii to achieve long-term resilience and sustainability. Advances in ecological economics and multiple criteria decision analysis yield the following outcomes for the three decision alternatives: Status Quo/Disposal (0.14), Biofuel (0.39) and Manufacturing (0.37).
Defining a temporal order of genetic requirements for development of mycobacterial biofilms

Most mycobacterial species spontaneously form biofilms, inducing unique growth physiologies and reducing drug sensitivity. Biofilm growth progresses through three genetically programmed stages: substratum attachment, intercellular aggregation and architecture maturation. Growth of Mycobacterium smegmatis biofilms requires multiple factors including a chaperonin (GroEL1) and a nucleoid-associated protein (Lsr2), although how their activities are linked remains unclear. Here it is shown that Lsr2 participates in intercellular aggregation, but substratum attachment of Lsr2 mutants is unaffected, thereby genetically distinguishing these developmental stages. Further, a suppressor mutation in a glycopeptidolipid synthesis gene (mps) that results in hyperaggregation of cells and fully restores the form and functions of Δlsr2 mutant biofilms was identified. Suppression by the mps mutation is specific to Δlsr2; it does not rescue the maturation-deficient biofilms of a ΔgroEL1 mutant, thereby differentiating the process of aggregation from maturation. Gene expression analysis supports a stepwise process of maturation, highlighted by temporally separated, transient inductions of iron and nitrogen import genes. Furthermore, GroEL1 activity is required for induction of nitrogen, but not iron, import genes. Together, the findings begin to define molecular checkpoints during development of mycobacterial biofilms.
P105 Single-center experience in routine post-transplant antibody testing of risk-stratified kidney transplant recipients

Aim Preformed (pf) and de novo(dn) donor-specific antibodies (DSA) are associated with antibody mediated rejection (AMR). We previously showed that ∼6% of low-risk renal transplant (tx) patients developed dn DSA at 1 year (y) post-tx (ASHI, 2016). This study extends our findings over 2y post-tx for low-risk, as well as for intermediate- and high-risk groups. Methods Our Tx Center instituted routine post-tx antibody (Ab) testing by bead array in 2014. Frequency of post-tx monitoring was based on perceived risk for AMR due to DSA in a pre-tx sample: low (no DSA ever) at 1y; intermediate (historic pfDSA, flow crossmatch [FCXM] negative) at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (m); high (current pfDSA, FCXM negative) at 2 weeks, 1, 3, 6, and 12 m. All groups with functioning grafts were monitored annually thereafter. Additional testing was performed due to planned or unplanned change in immunosuppression (IS) regimen. Results From May 2014-June 2015, 73 patients received a kidney only tx with HLA immunologic risk as follows: 61 low (84%), 2 intermediate (3%), and 10 high (14%). Of low-risk patients, 54 were tested at 1y post-tx while 30/54 low-risk patients were tested at 2y post-tx (at time of analysis). In addition to 4 previously described patients with dnDSA at 1y post-tx, 3 patients developed dnDSA just beyond the 1y post-tx: 2 were tested due to IS change (decreased due to BK virus infection, another, to non-adherence) while 1 was due to graft dysfunction. On biopsy (bx), both low-risk patients tested for IS change had chronic changes while the patient with acute dysfunction had chronic Ab mediated rejection. Of 2 intermediate-risk patients, 1 developed dnDSA by 1 m post-tx with chronic changes on bx. Finally, 1/10 high-risk patients had increased strength of pfDSA and suffered acute AMR while another developed dnDSA (no increase in pfDSA) following IS change. The patients with dnDSA are being monitored more closely. Conclusions In patients with routine post-tx Ab testing (n = 66), dnDSA was detected in 15% (7 low- 1 intermediate- and 2 high-risk); 1 high-risk patient developed increasing pfDSA. Strikingly, changes in IS (decrease due to infection or non-adherence) led to development of dnDSA. This suggests that routine post-tx DSA testing may be help identify evolving alloresponses and guide management but further analysis is needed.
Early stage mucinous ovarian cancer: A review

Mucinous ovarian carcinomas (MOCs) are an uncommon subset of epithelial neoplasms, both clinically and molecularly distinct from other ovarian cancers. Pathologic diagnosis proves challenging, and metastatic disease from other sites-especially the digestive tract-must be excluded. Fortunately, most patients are diagnosed at an early stage of disease and often present with large, unilateral adnexal masses. Survival for patients with stage IA disease approaches over 90%, and surgery alone is sufficient. Patients with stage IB-II disease should receive adjuvant treatment but the specific regimen is controversial. In the following review, we provide an overview of mucinous ovarian carcinomas, with a particular focus on the treatment of patients with early stage disease.
Energy Price Reform: Lessons for Policymakers

AbstractFollowing the landmark 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, and given concerns about increasing air pollution in many urban areas and historically high fiscal pressures, the need for energy price ...
From Quinlan to Cruzan to Schiavo: What Have We Learned?

Well, what an interesting time for us to gather and consider questions of death and dying in modern culture, with the tragic story of Terri Schiavo still fresh in the minds of most Americans. I plan to talk about the Schiavo case, of course. I also want to spend some time telling you the story of Nancy Cruzan to lay the foundation for our discussion of Schiavo. And I will do my best to leave time at the end for all of us to discuss these important societal questions. Before I start on Cruzan though, I’ve found as a lay person, being a lawyer and not a doctor, that it helps me understand the issues raised in these cases by trying to frame them in some kind of historical context. There are various ways we might accomplish that task, but let’s do it with a couple of quiz questions. Twice I’ve taught a class at the University of Kansas School of Law called Law & Bioethics. So, let’s begin tonight with the exam I gave recently to the law students in Law & Bioethics. This is a twenty-minute essay question, last question on the exam. I know you didn’t read the textbook and that you didn’t attend class where we discussed this issue, but that actually puts you in
Regulating hot and cold

Battery temperature needs to be regulated in operation. Now, a shape memory alloy-based thermal regulator is shown to be able to automatically switch between thermally insulating and conducting states depending on temperature, demonstrating a new paradigm for thermal management of batteries.
Nanofibrils as Building Blocks of Silk Fibers: Critical Review of the Experimental Evidence

Silks have fascinated researchers for decades, featuring outstanding mechanical performance and vast potential as a multifunctional material. Development of synthetic fibers mimicking natural silk is a major goal but has been hindered by insufficient knowledge of the silk structure. Nanoscale fibrils have long been suggested to play a significant role in silk; in this review, we examine prior evidence of nanofibrils in spider and silkworm silks. We found the available data far from conclusive. The volumetric percentage of nanofibrils in silk fibers is totally unclear, and conflicting results have been reported regarding their physical dimensions, morphology, and spatial organization. Some works have proposed an entirely different, globular nanostructure of silk fibers. Hence, many of the structural models were developed based on incomplete evidence. Our review highlights the gaps in knowledge about the nanostructure of silk fibers and can act as a guide for future studies.
λ Repressor: A Model System for Understanding Protein–DNA Interactions and Protein Stability

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the λ repressor and relates this information to the broader problems of macromolecular recognition, the relationship between protein sequence and structure, and prospects for the rational engineering of stability and binding specificity. The biological activities of λ repressor are overviewed. The λ repressor has provided a useful model system for the study of protein–DNA interactions and gene regulation. Studies of repressor have also addressed basic questions about subunit oligomerization, protein folding and stability, and self-processing via proteolytic cleavage. Small amounts of radioactive A repressor were initially isolated from phage-infected cells and shown to bind specifically to operator DNA. Biochemical studies established that repressor was a single polypeptide of about 26 kDa that the dimer was the active DNA-binding species, and that repressor could aggregate to form higher oligomers. It is essential to have more detailed structural information about the N-terminal arm, becausethis plays such a crucial role in recognition of the λ operators. It is important to determine the structure of a complex with nonoperator DNA arid to determine the structure of the C-terminal domain. The chapter also discusses the C-terminal domain, thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of repressor, and recognition of operator DNA.
An Integrated Visible-Light and Radio Frequency Communications System

The architecture, design and implementation of an integrated radio-frequency (RF) and visible-light communication (VLC) system using a commercial RGB floodlight is presented. The system uses VLC-only on the downlink and RF-only on the uplink. The VLC link uses Orthogonal-Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) with positive and negative frequency components of OFDM symbols transmitted through the red and blue channels of the luminaire respectively. Integration of the RF and VLC subsystems occurs just above the physical (PHY) layer making this an attractive system for MAC and higher-layer protocol research. We experimentally demonstrate full-duplex operation of the system with simultaneous throughput of approximately 30Mbps and 39Mbps on the VLC downlink and RF uplink respectively. As such, we expect this work to be helpful to researchers designing hybrid RF-VLC systems as it has a number of desirable properties. These properties include low-level integration of the VLC and RF subsystems, not requiring VLC on the uplink, dual use of the luminaire for VLC and lighting, and relatively high throughput.
Personality in Combination with Alcohol and Drug Use and Psychiatric Disorders to Predict Psychosocial Characteristics and Behaviors of Hepatitis C Patients

The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence of personality disorders and to examine personality as a predictor of psychosocial characteristics and behaviors of HCV patients. HCV patients (n = 259) from three infectious disease and liver clinics who completed Cloninger’s Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI), an inventory for personality traits, were included in the study. Patients with low scale scores in the character dimension of both cooperativeness and self-directedness (low CO/SD) were defined as having a personality disorder. Using low CO/SD in combination with demographic, psychiatric/substance use, and HCV-related variables, linear regression was used to construct separate models of risky behaviors, quality of life, functioning, burden of illness, and social support. The prevalence of low CO/SD was high in this sample of HCV patients. Low CO/SD was an independent predictor of risky behaviors, quality of life, functioning, and social support.
Zainichi Korean Artist Fung Sok Ro in the Diasporic Intersections and Flows

As a Korean artist and activist, Fung Sok Ro, the first generation in his family to be born in Japan, had to negotiate between his family who were directly involved with the Chongryun organization ...
Distinguish between Duplication of Essential Genes and Duplication of Dispensable Genes

When a dispensable gene is duplicated (ancestral dispensability), genetic buffering and duplicate compensation together maintain the gene dispensability, whereas duplicate compensation is the only mechanism when an essential gene is duplicated (ancestral essentiality). To explore the distinct pattern of genetic robustness between these evolutionary scenarios, we formulated a probabilistic model with some biologically reasonable assumptions for analyzing a set of duplicate pairs with three possible states: double-dispensable (DD), semi-dispensable (one dispensable one essential, DE) or double-essential (EE). A computational pipeline is then developed to predict the distribution of three states (DD, DE and EE) conditional of ancestral dispensability or essentiality, respectively. This model was applied to yeast duplicate pairs from a whole-genome duplication, revealing that the process of essentiality of those duplicated from essential genes could be significantly higher than that of those duplicated from dispensable genes. We thus proposed a hypothesis that the process of sub-functionalization may be faster than neo-functionalization. Our analysis may provide some new insights about the role of duplicate compensation on genetic robustness.
A review of flood damage analysis for a building structure and contents

As a natural hazard, flood can cause a significant damage to buildings. Buildings are one of the important components of an economy which are providing the necessary space for human activities. In this regard, any considerable changes to their serviceability affect living condition of people locally, regionally, and even globally. Thus, building damage analysis forms a crucial part of a flood risk analysis. This review paper provides an insight into flood damage analysis for a building structure and contents: past works, current state, and required improvements. The discussed buildings include residential, commercial, and industrial types. The methods are divided into two main categories: (1) using real data and empirical models, and (2) using what-if analysis and analytical models. Differences in damage analysis of a building structure and its contents are explained in a separate section. Flood factors influencing the damage to a building structure and its contents are presented. How a method considers some of those flood factors is described. Limitations and shortcomings of each method alongside their advantages and strength are discussed. Lack of reliable data for both model construction and validation is one of the main issues with the methods in both categories. Inability to convey the uncertainty is the other main issue identified in the literature.
Coastal wetland restoration improves habitat for juvenile sportfish in Tampa Bay, Florida, U.S.A.

Increasing human populations and urban development have led to losses of estuarine habitats for fish and wildlife. Where resource managers are restoring coastal wetlands, in addition to meeting goals related to hydrologic connectivity, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities, efforts are being made to provide habitat that is suitable for juvenile sportfish. An 18‐month study was conducted to compare juvenile sportfish use of natural, restored, and impacted sites along Tampa Bay, Florida, shorelines. Juvenile sportfish densities at restored sites were broadly comparable to natural sites and greater than at impacted sites. However, site‐specific differences in sportfish use did occur within site types. For example, one restored site had significantly higher densities of red drum Sciaenops ocellatus than any other site, while black drum Pogonias cromis were found exclusively at another restored site. To evaluate whether the restored sites are providing suitable habitat for juvenile fish, we assessed growth (estimated from counts of daily rings on otoliths) and condition (determined by lipid analyses) of juvenile common snook Centropomus undecimalis, an archetypal coastal wetland‐dependent species. Growth (0.43–0.56 mm SL/day) and condition (4.6–6.1% lipid of dry weight) exhibited only site‐specific differences and did not vary among natural, restored, and impacted site types. Although mortality rates of juvenile sportfish were not determined, use of a 40‐m seine found that densities of potential piscine predators in these coastal wetlands were relatively low compared to published studies of open estuarine shorelines. The restoration and creation of coastal wetlands in Tampa Bay provides improved habitat for juvenile sportfish.
Atmospheric Monitoring in the 4.5 to 4.9 μm Region using Open-Path Dual-Comb Spectroscopy

Open-path mid-infrared dual-comb spectroscopy is performed over a 2 kmlong link with bandwidth spanning the atmospheric transmission window near 4.7 μm. We quantify mixing ratios for CO, CO 2 , N 2 O, H 2 O, and O 3 . Work of the US Government and not subject to copyright.
Thesis I: Human Systems

This proposal is an example of an integrated GIScience approach to investigating urban social issues. Additionally, the proposal demonstrates that a thesis proposal is just that—a proposal. Whereas some thesis proposals may appear to be nearly completed works, this proposal is an example of a common—but effective—research proposal.
DOENÇAS EXÓTICAS E EMERGENTES EM ANIMAIS DOMÉSTICOS – UMA PLATAFORMA ONLINE EM CONSTRUÇÃO

Doencas exoticas e emergentes sao enfermidades pouco estudadas na graduacao de Medicina Veterinaria, devido a sua baixa ocorrencia. Entretanto, o diagnostico deve ser rapido para evitar a sua disseminacao pelo pais, mitigando, assim, os prejuizos economicos consequentes. Este trabalho tem por objetivo difundir o conhecimento sobre doencas exoticas e emergentes atraves de uma plataforma online. Ate o momento, foram traduzidas 95 doencas, das quais 40 ja estao disponiveis em portugues. Com o trabalho, pretende-se promover o rapido reconhecimento de uma doenca exotica ou emergente, com a instauracao das medidas de emergencia sanitaria antes da disseminacao da enfermidade no territorio nacional.
26.6 A 5-to-6GHz Current-Mode Subharmonic Switching Digital Power Amplifier for Enhancing Power Back-Off Efficiency

Enhancing PA efficiency in the power back-off (PBO) region has become an important design objective due to the high peak-to-average power-ratio (PAPR) modulation in modern communications. Recently, a voltage-mode subharmonic switching (SHS) digital PA architecture has been reported in [1] –[3]. The concept of SHS is to toggle a PA cell at a subharmonic frequency for more efficient PBO operation. However, the dynamic power loss of voltage-mode PAs (e.g., Class-D PAs) increases linearly with the operating frequency [4]. On the other hand, current-mode digital PAs are more suitable for higher carrier frequencies due to their zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) operation to reduce dynamic loss. However, the existing current-mode PA architecture still suffers from poor impedance matching at PBO and conduction loss of the driver, leading to distortion and PBO efficiency degradation. To alleviate those drawbacks, we propose a current-mode SHS PA architecture to reduce conduction loss and minimize output impedance variation, simply by toggling more PA branches at subharmonic frequencies in the PBO region. At the circuit level, we propose a coupled-inductor-based subharmonic trap to achieve the following: 1) derive the optimal load impedance at the carrier frequency (Fc) and high impedance at the subharmonic frequency (Fc/3), 2) reduce the inductor area, 3) achieve common-mode rejection via magnetic field cancellation, 4) avoid voltage reverse biasing of the PA drivers for better reliability, and 5) provide additional attenuation of the subharmonic component caused by the mismatch of phase interleaving [5]. The proof-of-concept prototype achieves 27dBm peak output power at 5.7GHz and 40.1% drain efficiency at 5.4GHz. Due to the current-mode SHS operation, the efficiency peak at -9dB PBO is 29.2% at 5.4GHz, which is a 2× improvement over that of the conventional current-mode digital PA. The real-time SHS operation achieves more than 28% average efficiency with 20/40/80MHz modulation signals.
An Efficient Solid-Phase Extraction-Based Liquid Chromatography Method to Simultaneously Determine Diastereomers α-Tocopherol, Other Tocols, and Retinol Isomers in Infant Formula

The separation and simultaneous quantitation of diastereomers of DL-α-tocopherol, eight tocol forms, and retinols (trans and cis) have been conducted by reversed-phase liquid chromatography followed by solid-phase extraction. A chiral silica stationary phase modified with polysaccharide derivative on the monodisperse macroporous silica gel (Unichiral OD-5H column, 150 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm, NanoMicro Technology Co., Ltd.) was employed for eluting each target compound. Instead of conventional solvent extract, a green and eco-friendly solid-phase extraction column, packing with nonpolar polystyrene divinylbenzene, was optimized in terms of capacity and solvent used in steps. Validation of the method was examined and confirmed to be satisfactory, with excellent linearity regression (r > 0.9999), acceptable accuracy (74.66%∼112.92%), and precision (0.20%∼10.52%) results. Limit of detection ranged from 0.05 mg·kg−1 (retinols) to 0.4 mg·kg−1 (tocols). The method was checked by infant formula reference material SRM 1849a as well, which illustrated good agreement of mass fraction with certified value and enriched the important isomer data.
Abstract 16922: Extremely Elevated Natriuretic Peptide is Associated With Incident Dialysis in Chronic Heart Failure Patients With Acute Kidney Injury

Introduction: NT-proBNP has been widely used as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for both acute and chronic HF. Previous studies suggested that impaired renal function was the major contributor o...
From environmental degradation to the waste economy of postcolonial desire: ecocritical footprints in Touki Bouki and Hyenas

There is a tendency, among Mambety critics, to overemphasize his formal innovations and parodic contents, his virtuosic collages and subtle nods to auteur and genre cinema, at the expense of a sustained engagement with the acute environmental sensibility running through all his films, notably at the start of a film career that is contemporaneous with the Great Sahel Drought of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Impact of ZnSe grain boundary density on few-cycle laser-resistance

Chemical vapor deposited (CVD) Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) window are often used in the high power laser system because of their extremely low (near-/far-)infrared absorption, and large transmission range (0.5um-22um). A good CVD process enables us to achieve the extreme purity needed for high-powered optics: 99.999% purity. Zinc vapor and H2Se gas react to form sheets of ZnSe on graphite susceptors. Different grain-sized polycrystalline ZnSe plates are precisely prepared and tooled to form optical windows or optical gain media. In recent years, in the area of few-cycle laser interaction with optic components, many new phenomena were found and investigated. Electron dynamic calculations were clearer and richer in this time domain[1-2]. Due to the potential applications in NIR few-cycle laser or attosecond laser generation, the single shot and multi-shot laser-induced damage threshold are tested in a multiplate supercontinuum-based few-cycle laser platform (12fs 1030nm centered) in CREOL according to ISO 21254. The damage threshold of different pulse numbers was carefully extracted. Laser-induced damage evolution along with the pulse number and grain boundary density are carefully characterized by SEM, AFM, and confocal Raman spectroscopy. Our experimental results will show the impact of grain boundary density on the laser-induced damage threshold of polycrystalline materials, which is of great value for future ultrashort laser pulse applications.
Simulations of Kindlin-2 PIP Binding Domains Reveal Protonation-Dependent Membrane Binding Modes

Abstract Kindlin-2, a member of the Kindlin family of peripheral membrane proteins, is important for integrin activation and stabilization of epidermal growth factor receptor. It associates with the cytoplasmic face of the plasma membrane via dedicated phosphatidylinositol phosphate binding domains located in the N-terminal F0 and Pleckstrin Homology domains. These domains have binding affinity for phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate and, to a greater degree phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate. The biological significance of the differential binding of these phosphatidylinositol phosphates to Kindlin-2 and the mechanism by which they activate Kindlin-2 are not well understood. Recently, ssNMR identified the predominant protonation states of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate near physiological pH in the presence of anionic lipids. Here, we perform atomistic simulation of the bound state of the Pleckstrin Homology and F0 domains of Kindlin-2 at membranes containing phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate / phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate with differing protonation states. This computational approach demonstrates that these two phosphatidylinositol phosphates differently modulate Kindlin-2 subdomain binding in a protonation state dependent manner. We speculate these variations in binding mode provide a mechanism for intracellular pH and Ca2+ influx to control the membrane binding behavior and activity of Kindlin-2.
Reply to Zofia Stemplowska

Describes the author’s value of choice account of responsibility and examines a response by Stemplowska to an objection to this account, raised by Alex Voorhoeve. Argues that the problem raised by Voorhoeve’s example concerns the way in which risk is taken into account in contractualism rather than the value of choice account of responsibility. Departs from the author’s earlier work in arguing that the risk of harm should sometimes be taken into account on an ex ante rather than an ex post basis.
Water warming garment versus forced air warming system in prevention of intraoperative hypothermia during liver transplantation: a randomized controlled trial [ISRCTN32154832].

The authors compared two strategies for the maintenance of intraoperative normothermia during orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT): the routine forced-air warming system and the newly developed, whole body water garment. In this prospective, randomized and open-labelled study, 24 adult patients were enrolled in one of two intraoperative temperature management groups during OLT. The water-garment group (N = 12) received warming with a body temperature (esophageal) set point of 36.8°C. The forced air-warmer group (N = 12) received routine warming therapy using upper- and lower-body forced-air warming system. Body core temperature (primary outcome) was recorded intraoperatively and during the two hours after surgery in both groups. The mean core temperatures during incision, one hour after incision and during the skin closing were significantly higher (p < 0.05, t test with Bonferroni corrections for the individual tests) in the water warmer group compared to the control group (36.7 ± 0.1, 36.7 ± 0.2, 36.8 ± 0.1 vs 36.1 ± 0.4, 36.1 ± 0.4, 36.07 ± 0.4°C, respectively). Moreover, significantly higher core temperatures were observed in the water warmer group than in the control group during the placement of cold liver allograft (36.75 ± 0.17 vs 36.09 ± 0.38°C, respectively) and during the allograft reperfusion period (36.3 ± 0.26 vs 35.52 ± 0.42°C, respectively). In addition, the core temperatures immediately after admission to the SICU (36.75 ± 0.13 vs 36.22 ± 0.3°C, respectively) and at one hr (36.95 ± 0.13 vs 36.46 ± 0.2°C, respectively) were significantly higher in the water warmer group, compared to the control group, whereas the core temperature did not differ significantly afte two hours in ICU in both groups. The investigated water warming system results in better maintenance of intraoperative normothermia than routine air forced warming applied to upper- and lower body.
Manganese Bath Measurements of η of Pu239

(1962). Manganese Bath Measurements of η of Pu239. Nuclear Science and Engineering: Vol. 14, No. 1, pp. 101-103.
New Ways of Thinking About Cultural Property: A Critical Appraisal of the Antiquities Trade Debates

In debates over the trade in archaeological objects or antiquities, on one end are those who believe that everyone has a shared interest in and claim to the common heritage of humanity, and thus support a vibrant and legal trade in cultural materials. On the other end are those who believe that cultural objects have special significance for specific groups and thus support the efforts of such groups to regulate their trade and seek their repatriation. The aim of this Essay is to critically examine the components of each group’s arguments–their goals, assumptions, and inconsistencies–and try, where possible, to identify what implicit concerns may be driving their current stances in the debate. For it is only when we unpack the individual positions and arguments of the different stakeholders in the antiquities debates that we may move the discussion forward from its current stalemate and develop more nuanced policies, which not only may represent pragmatic solutions, but might better satisfy the many interests involved.
The Agent‐Relative Probability Threshold of Hope

Nearly all contributors to the philosophical analysis of hope agree that if an agent hopes that p, she both desires that p and assigns to p a probability which is greater than zero, but less than one. According to the widely-endorsed Standard Account, these two conditions are also (jointly) sufficient for ‘hoping that’. Ariel Meirav has recently argued, however, that the Standard Account fails to distinguish hoping for a prospect from despairing of it – due to cases where two agents equally desire an outcome and assign to it the same probability, yet one hopes for the outcome while the other despairs of it. I argue, against Meirav, that these putative counterexamples depend crucially on the assumption – previously unquestioned – that the degree of probability necessary for hope is invariant across individuals. If the probability threshold is instead understood as agent-relative, the difficulty disappears. Further, I argue that there is strong independent reason for taking the probability threshold of hope to be agent-relative, based on similarities to the widely-accepted agent-relative probability thresholds of industriousness and risk aversion. And I conclude by noting how the agent-relative modification to the Standard Account is better equipped than is Meirav's positive view to yield intuitive results.
A Different Approach to Monte Carlo Simulations in Systems with Complex Free-Energy Landscapes

We describe a new Monte Carlo algorithm that produces results of high accuracy with reduced simulational effort. In the simplest application of the algorithm, a random walk is performed in energy space, and the resultant density of states is modified continuously to produce a “flat” histogram. This method permits us to directly access the entropy and free energy, is independent of temperature, and is efficient for the study of both first-order and second-order phase transitions as well as complex systems with a rough energy landscape. The method may be extended to random walks in more than one variable.
ζ-Associated Protein of 70 kDa (ZAP-70), but Not Syk, Tyrosine Kinase Can Mediate Apoptosis of T Cells through the Fas/Fas Ligand, Caspase-8 and Caspase-3 Pathways

The TCR zeta-chain-associated protein of 70 kDA (ZAP-70) and Syk tyrosine kinases play critical roles in regulating TCR-mediated signal transduction. They not only share some overlapped functions but also may play unique roles in regulating the function and development of T cells. However, it is not known whether they have different effects on the activation and activation-induced cell death of T cells. To address this question, we generated cDNAs encoding chimeric molecules that a tailless TCR zeta-chain was directly linked to truncated ZAP-70 (Z/ZAP) or Syk (Z/Syk) molecules lacking the two Src homology 2 domains. Transfection of these molecules into zeta-chain-deficient cells restored their TCR expression. In addition, Z/ZAP and Z/Syk transfectants but not control cells demonstrated kinase activities in phosphorylating an exogenous substrate specific for ZAP-70 and Syk kinases. Z/ZAP transfectants activated through TCRs underwent a faster time course of apoptosis and had a greater percentage of apoptotic cells than that of Z/Syk and control cells. Activated Z/ZAP transfectants increased Fas and Fas ligand (FasL) expression 3- and 40-fold, respectively. Blocking of the Fas/FasL interaction could inhibit the apoptosis of Z/ZAP transfectants. In contrast, although activated Z/Syk transfectants could increase FasL expression, their Fas expression actually decreased and the percentage of apoptotic cells did not increase. Further studies of the mechanisms revealed that activation of Z/ZAP but not Z/Syk transfectants resulted in rapid activation of caspase-3 and caspase-8 that could also be inhibited by blocking Fas/FasL interaction. These results demonstrated that ZAP-70 and Syk play distinct roles in T cell activation and activation-induced cell death.
Accuracy of food guide and nutrition label use by caretakers in the STRONG Kids cohort (808.17)

Childhood obesity rates have risen dramatically in recent decades, compelling researchers to analyze the changing environment surrounding this weight gain. Our goal was to assess parent’s knowledge of food guides and nutrition labels. Parents (n=407) of preschoolers (age 3-5) reported that moms and grandparents were primarily responsible for selecting meals. Overweight parents had 1.86-times higher odds of having overweight children (95% CI 1.15-2.99, p=0.01). Parents of children who were overweight (>85th BMI percentile) had a higher average BMI than parents of children who were normal weight (29.6 vs. 26.6 kg/m2; p=0.0001). Parents’ ability to choose healthy foods may be limited by the way nutrition information is presented. On a nutrition fact label, 35% of parents were unable to correctly complete calculations necessary to interpret nutrition facts. Although 56% of parents attained a Bachelor’s degree or higher, only 32.2% could identify the current USDA food guide. Older and less-educated parents wer...
Pyogenic Granuloma of the Sigmoid Colon causing Intussusception in an Infant

Pyogenic granuloma is a benign vascular tumor that may affect the gastrointestinal tract. This report describes a rare case of sigmoid-colon pyogenic granuloma in a 4-month-old boy causing intussusception. Resection and anastomosis were curative. The mother had history of high dose of progesterone exposure during initial weeks of conception for vaginal bleeding. This may point towards etiology of the lesion.
Learning, Prediction and Mediation of Context Uncertainty in Smart Pervasive Environments

The essence of pervasive computing lies in the creation of smart environments saturated with computing and communication capabilities, yet gracefully integrated with human users (inhabitants). Context Awareness is the most salient feature in such an intelligent computing paradigm. Examples of contexts include user mobility and activity among others. This paper reviews our work towards managing context uncertainty in smart pervasive environments. First we discuss a novel game theoretic learning and prediction framework that attempts to minimize the joint location uncertainty of inhabitants in multi-inhabitant smart homes. Next we present an ambiguous context mediation framework for smart home health care application. Finally, we describe an efficient, quality-of-inference aware context determination framework in pervasive care environments. We also present open problems in this area.
Subarctic and Arctic Mountains

The principal high mountains of the subarctic and arctic regions, so far explored by entomologists, include the mountain systems of Fennoscandia, the Kolyma Mountains and the mountains of the Tai Myr Peninsula (75° NL) in North Siberia, the Anadyr Mountains a little to the south of 70° NL (between 170° and 180° EL) west of the Bering Strait (part of the Beringean Region was already discussed in chapter XIII), the mountains ranges of the Alaska-Yukon Territory, parts of British Columbia, Labrador; Mt. Peterman Peak (3353 m above mean sea-level, 73° NL and 30° WL) and Mt. Rigny (2399 m) south of 70° NL on the east coast of Greenland. Mention may also be made of the arctic mountains of the Queen Elizabeth Islands of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago (north of 74° NL to nearly 83° 7′ NL), within 750 kilometres of the North Pole (164). Some of these mountains in the Archipelago attain elevations of 3000 min the east, in the northern Ellesmere Is. and Central Axel Heiberg Is. Some mountains in the Melville Is. are only 900 m above mean sea-level. The extreme northern mountains of northern Scotland, north of the 58th north parallel, are almost on the fringe of the subarctic mountain system. The northern parts of the Ural Mountains are in the subarctic and arctic regions. FREEMAN (381) has recently given a brief historical resume of the entomological explorations in the subarctic and arctic regions of Canada, including Alaska. The same author has also recently discussed the general distributional peculiarities of the subarctic and arctic butterflies.
Quadruplex formation is necessary for stable PNA invasion into duplex DNA of BCL2 promoter region

Guanine-rich sequences are highly abundant in the human genome, especially in regulatory regions. Because guanine-rich sequences have the unique ability to form G-quadruplexes, these structures may play a role in the regulation of gene transcription. In previous studies, we demonstrated that formation of G-quadruplexes could be induced with peptide nucleic acids (PNAs). PNAs designed to bind the C-rich strand upstream of the human BCL2 gene promoted quadruplex formation in the complementary G-rich strand. However, the question whether G-quadruplex formation was essential for PNA invasion remained unanswered. In this study, we compared PNA invasion in the native and mutant, i.e. not forming G-quadruplex, BCL2 sequences and showed that G-quadruplex is required for effective PNA invasion into duplex DNA. This finding provides strong evidence for not only sequence-specific, but also quadruplex specific, gene targeting with PNA probes. In addition, we examined DNA-duplex invasion potential of PNAs of various charges. Using the gel shift assay, chemical probing and dimethyl sulfate (DMS) protection studies, we determined that uncharged zwitterionic PNA has the highest binding specificity while preserving efficient duplex invasion.