cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improved Rodent Maternal Metabolism But Reduced Intrauterine Growth After Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy

Obesity has profound negative consequences on female reproduction as well as on the metabolic health of offspring. Bariatric surgery is the most effective method for sustained weight loss. A critical question is whether bariatric surgery can reverse the deleterious effects of obesity on both female reproduction and subsequent offspring. Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is a bariatric procedure rapidly growing in popularity because it provides weight loss and other metabolic benefits that are comparable to those offered by the more complicated Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Female rats rendered obese on a high-fat diet (HFD) underwent either VSG or sham surgery. Like their male counterparts, females had significant metabolic improvements including reduced adiposity and improved glucose tolerance. After VSG, female rats showed a more normal reproductive cycle. Despite these maternal benefits, the offspring of dams receiving VSG were born smaller and lighter than offspring of control dams that underwent sham surgery. When maintained on an HFD after puberty, these adult offspring had a greater propensity to develop glucose intolerance and increased adiposity than the offspring of lean mothers or obese mothers who underwent sham surgery. These data suggest that weight loss alone by obese mothers is not sufficient to reverse the deleterious effects of an HFD and obesity on their offspring.
Cardiac-related cortical inhibition during a fixed foreperiod reaction time task.

Abstract Lacey and Lacey hyphotesize the presence of cortical inhibitory influences which result from the cardiac events which initiate baroreceptor discharge. The current study provides evidence of cardiac-related cortical inhibitory influences when normal humans are required to attend to environmental input and respond to the information they perceive (fixed foreperiod reaction time task). Averaged EEG waveforms time locked to pulse transit time (PTT) were comprised of slower frequencies than averaged EEG waveforms randomly selected from the same cardiac cycles, and pre-PTT EEG was comprised of slower frequencies than post-PTT EEG in the averaged waveforms. Results of this experiment raise the speculation that cardiovascular events may modulate brain activity with variations in baroreceptor discharge setting constraints on cortical excitability on a beat-to-beat basis.
Adsorption of 1,10-phenanthroline within a dodecanethiol monolayer: an approach to a switchable electrode surface.

A simple method was used to prepare a “switchable” electrode surface by using self-assembled monolayers of dodecanethiol on a gold electrode. The dodecane-modified electrode was electrochemically inactive until the monolayer was soaked in solutions of 1,10-phenanthroline or 2,2‘-bipyridine. The electroactive form of the electrode could be reverted back to the nonelectroactive form by rinsing the electrode. Surface IR results showed that both dodecanethiol and 1,10-phenanthroline exist in the mixed monolayer.
Spatial interference of macroscopic light fields from independent Raman sources

We observed single-shot spatial interference from two independent pulsed-light sources using stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) in the transient, macroscopic-field regime. By measuring the phase distribution of the Stokes field and the fourth-order spatial correlation function, we verified that the Stokes field obeys thermallike statistics in the unsaturated SRS gain regime. This reflects the properties of the underlying quantum noise in the vacuum field and scattering medium. A transition from thermallike to laserlike statistics occurs when the gain becomes saturated.
Setting One's Mind on Action: Planning Out Goal Striving in Advance

Ineffective goal striving may be overcome using a simple self-regulation strategy: preparing goal striving in advance by forming implementation intentions (i.e., making if-then plans). This strategy helps to cope with the classic challenges to goal striving: getting started, staying on track, not overextending oneself, and disengaging from faulty means. Interestingly, these beneficial effects are observed no matter whether hindrances from within (e.g., ego depletion) or outside (e.g., social influence) the person are to be dealt with. In this essay, the processes on which the beneficial effects of implementation intentions are based will be discussed by pointing to relevant research using cognitive task paradigms and assessing brain data. Moreover, recent findings are reported demonstrating that implementation intentions can be used to curb reflexive cognitive, affective, and behavioral responses that interfere with a person’s focal goal pursuit. In closing this essay, a behavior change intervention (i.e., mental contrasting with implementation intentions) is introduced that establishes the prerequisites for implementation intention effects to occur, and research areas in psychology are pointed to that could benefit from conducting implementation intention research.
CAPTURING A PHASE TRANSITION: THE DIELECTRIC CONSTANT OF GaAs FOLLOWING AN INTENSE ULTRASHORT OPTICAL EXCITATION

We have measured the time evolution of the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric constant of GaAs following an intense femtosecond optical excitation. We find, contrary to some previous assumptions, that the linear optical properties of the semiconductor change dramatically on a sub-picosecond time scale. The data show a collapse of the average optical gap, or average bonding anti-bonding energy level separation. The rate of collapse increases with pump fluence. The decrease in the gap indicates a structural transformation from a covalent, tetrahedrally coordinated crystal to a phase with metallic cohesive properties.
Design validation on multiple-core CPU supported low power states using platform based infrared emission microscopy (PIREM) technique

An innovative post-silicon design validation methodology using recognized industry wide IREM imaging techniques in conjunction with full PC platform enablement was developed, and successfully applied to the IA-32 multiple-core (MC) Nehalem® microprocessor family [1]. Conventional structural based “tester” IREM characterization and debug techniques can, for the first time, be extended to the “platform” environment. IREM images can now be examined for design validations by running Windows/Linux® operating systems (OS) with market available benchmark software applications. This approach has been proven to be a faster, and significantly more cost effective, approach for post silicon design validation, power debug on low power Energy Star® states, and realistic customer applications.
Using GI Syndrome Data as an Early Warning Tool for Norovirus Outbreak Activity

Norovirus (NV) infection results in considerable morbidity each year in the United States. The relationship between gastrointestinal (GI) syndrome data and reported NV outbreaks in Virginia was assessed from May 2008- May 2012 with the purpose of developing an early warning tool for NV outbreak activity. GI syndrome visits were highly correlated with NV outbreaks and an increase in GI syndrome visits occurred on average 1.25 weeks prior to the initiation of high NV outbreak activity. The use of syndromic surveillance data as an early warning indicator of NV outbreak activity shows promise as a trigger for public health action.
Characterization and biological roles of oviduct-specific, oestrogen-dependent glycoprotein

During late follicular growth, oestrus, fertilization and early embryonic development, the oviduct, under specific hormonal control, produces fluid and contributes secretory macromolecules that optimize the microenvironment for gamete maturation and transport, fertilization and early cleavage-stage embryonic development. This review describes the state of knowledge concerning the physiological and biochemical characterization of the major oviduct secreted protein, the oviduct-specific, oestrogen-dependent glycoprotein. The identification, localization within the oviduct, binding and association with oocytes, embryos and spermatozoa, hormonal control of gene expression, cloning, gene organization, protein sequences and post-translational modifications of oviduct-specific, oestrogen-dependent glycoprotein are discussed. Identification of biological functions for this glycoprotein, its interactions with spermatozoa, oocytes and embryos and its potential as a paracrine regulator of fertilization and development are also discussed.
The Role of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Reducing Laryngeal Injury During Prolonged Intubation

Methods: Adult subjects were prospectively enrolled and underwent video-recorded transnasal fiberoptic laryngoscopy following extubation in the medical intensive care unit. Variables recorded include: duration of intubation, size of endotracheal tube, and administration of proton pump inhibitor versus H-2 blocker during intubation. The laryngoscopy examinations were blindly reviewed and laryngeal injuries that were documented include: presence of vocal fold immobility, vocal fold granuloma, and laryngeal erythema or ulceration.
Effects of chlorine and pH on efficacy of electrolyzed water for inactivating Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes

The effects of chlorine and pH on the bactericidal activity of electrolyzed (EO) water were examined against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes. The residual chlorine concentration of EO water ranged from 0.1 to 5.0 mg/l, and the pH effect was examined at pH 3.0, 5.0, and 7.0. The bactericidal activity of EO water increased with residual chlorine concentration for both pathogens, and complete inactivation was achieved at residual chlorine levels equal to or higher than 1.0 mg/l. The results showed that both pathogens are very sensitive to chlorine, and residual chlorine level of EO water should be maintained at 1.0 mg/l or higher for practical applications. For each residual chlorine level, bactericidal activity of EO water increased with decreasing pH for both pathogens. However, with sufficient residual chlorine (greater than 2 mg/l), EO water can be applied in a pH range between 2.6 (original pH of EO water) and 7.0 while still achieving complete inactivation of E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes.
Sustained Endothelial Dependent Dilation in Pial Arterioles After Crosslinked Hemoglobin Transfusion

Hemoglobin is known to bind nitric oxide (NO) with high affinity. Plasma-based hemoglobin may provide a more effective sink for NO than red cell-based hemoglobin because of a closer and consistent proximity to the endothelium. Despite the known endothelial tight junctions that exist in cerebral vessels, plasma-based hemoglobin may inhibit NO-derived vasoreactive mechanisms in brain. If so, the response to endothelial and non-endothelial dependent vasodilator substances should be affected. In pentobarbital anesthetized cats, we tested this hypothesis by measuring the pial arteriole blood vessel diameter using a cranial window before and after systemic transfusion of a human crosslinked hemoglobin compound. We then topically applied solutions of endothelial dependent or endothelial independent vasodilators and an NO synthase inhibitor to the surface of the brain within the window and remeasured the arteriole size. Topical acetylcholine (Ach) increased diameter in all arteriole sizes. The corresponding incre...
Immunogenicity of polylysine and polyornithine when complexed to phosphorylated bovine serum albumin

Abstract Rabbit antisera prepared against poly D-lysine-, poly L-lysine- and poly L-ornithine-phosphorylated bovine serum albumin complexes were examined by micro C′ fixation. Four of five antisera to poly D-lysine, one of four antisera to poly L-lysine, and three of four antisera to poly L-ornithine contained C′ fixing antibodies. Each antiserum was specific for its homologous antigen. Poly D-lysine peptides ranging in size from the dimer to octomer were tested for their ability to inhibit the poly D-lysine-anti poly D-lysine system. the pentamer proved to be the most effectvie inhibitor of this immune system.
Tri-polar concentric ring electrode development for Laplacian electroencephalography

Brain activity generates electrical potentials that are spatio-temporal in nature. Electroencephalography (EEG) is the least costly and most widely used noninvasive technique for diagnosing many brain problems. It has high temporal resolution, but lacks high spatial resolution. In an attempt to increase the spatial selectivity, researchers introduced a bipolar electrode configuration utilizing a five-point finite difference method (FPM) and others applied a quasi-bipolar (tri-polar with two elements shorted) concentric electrode configuration. To further increase the spatial resolution, the authors report on a tri-polar concentric electrode configuration for approximating the analytical Laplacian based on a nine-point finite difference method (NPM). For direct comparison, the FPM, quasi-bipolar method (a hybrid NPM), and NPM were calculated over a 400 times 400 mesh with 1/400 spacing using a computer model. A closed-form analytical computer model was also developed to evaluate and compare the properties of concentric bipolar, quasi-bipolar, and tri-polar electrode configurations, and the results were verified with tank experiments. The tri-polar configuration and the NPM were found to have significantly improved accuracy in Laplacian estimation and localization. Movement-related potential (MRP) signals were recorded from the left prefrontal lobes on the scalp of human subjects while they performed fast repetitive movements. Disc, bipolar, quasi-bipolar, and tri-polar electrodes were used. MRP signals were plotted for all four electrode configurations. The signal-to-noise ratio and spatial selectivity of the MRP signals acquired with the tri-polar electrode configuration were significantly better than the other configurations
A New Model of Accelerating Service Innovation with Sensor-Cloud Infrastructure

Cloud computing service is a model of a shared network-delivered service in which users focus only provided services and need not worry about the implementation of the services. The service model and life cycle become changing by cloud computing service. The paper proposes a new type of approach to accelerate the service innovation with Sensor-Cloud Infrastructure which provides IT resources and sensors as cloud computing service. Service provider prepares service templates. Service requesters can get service instances quickly when they require. Service requesters can use service instances themselves or extend service instances for creating new services. This paper describes a service model with the Sensor-Cloud Infrastructure, accounting, service life cycle and service innovation with use case scenarios.
Effects of Institutional Confinement for Delinquency on Levels of Depression and Anxiety among Male Adolescents.

Youths within the juvenile justice system report higher rates of mental illnesses than their peers. This study tested whether institutional confinement increases levels of depression and anxiety among male adolescents. The authors examined heterogeneous trajectories of depression and anxiety from ages 11 to 14 years for 510 male adolescents. Youths who were first placed in custody at age 15 (treatment group) were matched with control boys (no official arrest or reported confinement during adolescence) within each trajectory group using a propensity score (PS) matching procedure. Matches were found for 37 pairs for depression and 34 pairs for anxiety. There were no significant differences between the confined and control groups in levels of depression or anxiety at age 16. More research is needed to identify aspects of the juvenile justice system, which may positively or negatively affect youth’s mental health status.
Validation of a Monte Carlo dose calculation tool for radiotherapy treatment planning

A new EGS4/PRESTA Monte Carlo user code, MCDOSE, has been developed as a routine dose calculation tool for radiotherapy treatment planning. It is suitable for both conventional and intensity modulated radiation therapy. Two important features of MCDOSE are the inclusion of beam modifiers in the patient simulation and the implementation of several variance reduction techniques. Before this tool can be used reliably for clinical dose calculation, it must be properly validated. The validation for beam modifiers has been performed by comparing the dose distributions calculated by MCDOSE and the well-benchmarked EGS4 user codes BEAM and DOSXYZ. Various beam modifiers were simulated. Good agreement in the dose distributions was observed. The differences in electron cutout factors between the results of MCDOSE and measurements were within 2%. The accuracy of MCDOSE with various variance reduction techniques was tested by comparing the dose distributions in different inhomogeneous phantoms with those calculated by DOSXYZ without variance reduction. The agreement was within 1.0%. Our results demonstrate that MCDOSE is accurate and efficient for routine dose calculation in radiotherapy treatment planning, with or without beam modifiers.
Today's Dilemma in Engineering Education

The present wide-scale activity to increase the science content of engineering curricula can, if not skillfully accomplished, result in the teaching of science, and not the engineering of science, to engineers. The changes experienced in the substance of the curricula are sometimes so great that faculties encounter great difficulty in providing worthwhile engineering examples to support their presentations of engineering science.
HISTORICAL CHANGES IN FISH ASSEMBLAGE COMPOSITION FOLLOWING WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN THE MAINSTEM TRINITY RIVER OF TEXAS

The Clean Water Act of 1972 is credited with improving water quality across the USA, although few long-term studies tracking hydrologic, chemical, and biological responses to cleanup efforts exist. The Trinity River of Texas was plagued by poor water quality for more than a century before passage of legislation to reduce point source pollution from the Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex. We tracked changes in components of flow regime; concentrations of ammonia, nitrate, phosphorus, and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD); and fish assemblage composition in three mainstem reaches during a 40-year period (1968–2008) following implementation of a large-scale cleanup initiative. Results suggest little change in flow regime components such as magnitude, timing, and rate of change among the three reaches during 1968–2008. Concentrations of water quality parameters declined through time and with greater distance from DFW, including the lowest concentrations in the reach downstream of a mainstem reservoir (Lake Livingston). Fish assemblage composition shifts correlated with attenuated nutrient and BOD concentrations, and species richness generally increased among all reaches. Native and intolerant fishes consistently increased through time among all three reaches, although lentic and non-native species also increased downstream of Lake Livingston. Our findings suggest a revitalization of the Trinity River fish assemblage associated with reduced nutrient pollution in DFW (even among distant reaches) and also illustrate potential confounding factors such as stream impoundment and continued nutrient deposition that likely preclude complete recovery. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EFFECTS OF THE INSECT GROWTH REGULATOR BAY SIR 8514 ON PEST DIPTERA AND NONTARGET AQUATIC ORGANISMS

Treatment of a pond with a 0.5% sand granule formulation of SIR-8514 yielded a maximum, concentration (4.6 ppb) by 1 day following the application. No residues were detected in the pond sediment and by 28 days posttreatment residues were not found at any depth of the water column. Emergence of pestiferous dipterans was reduced by >99%, and planktonic arthropod populations decreased by >90% following the treatment. Planktonic rotifers and dinoflagellates, and benthic organisms were less severely affected.Bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus Rafinesque) and mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis Baird and Girard) accumulated maximum concentrations (ca. 400 ppb) of SIR-8514 by 2 days posttreatment. No residues in fish were detected by 28 days posttreatment, and no fish mortality was observed.
PHYSIOLOGY OF THE ENTEROCOCCI AS RELATED TO THEIR TAXONOMY

Abstract Deibel, R. H. (American Meat Institute Foundation, Chicago, Ill.), Donald E. Lake, and C. F. Niven, Jr. Physiology of the enterococci as related to their taxonomy. J. Bacteriol. 86:1275–1282. 1963—Studies on a collection of enterococci isolated from diverse sources have confirmed the existence of two distinct species, namely, Streptococcus faecalis and Streptococcus faecium. In contrast with S. faecium, S. faecalis characteristically ferments melezitose, sorbitol, glycerol (anaerobically), citrate, and gluconate; fails to ferment arabinose and melibiose; has strong reducing capacities as demonstrated by prompt reduction of litmus in milk or tetrazolium in an agar medium; initiates growth on an agar medium containing 0.04% potassium tellurite; does not require folic acid for growth; and does not produce strong greening in blood agar. S. liquefaciens and S. zymogenes differ from S. faecalis only in their proteolytic capacities and, therefore, deserve only varietal status. Some S. faecalis and S. faecium strains are proteolytic when tested on agar media. S. durans differs from S. faecium only in its inability to ferment arabinose and mannitol, and the failure of most strains to ferment sucrose. Therefore, it should be considered as a variety of S. faecium. It is recommended that the term “enterococcus” be used only when referring to S. faecalis and S. faecium, and their respective varieties.
Measuring power and temperature from real processors

The modeling of power and thermal behavior of modern processors requires challenging validation approaches, which may be complex and in some cases unreliable. In order to address some of the difficulties associated with the validation of power and thermal models, this document describes an infrared measurement setup that simultaneously captures run-time power consumption and thermal characteristics of a processor. We use infrared cameras with high spatial resolution (10 x 10 mum) and high frame rate (125 Hz) to capture thermal maps. Power measurements are obtained with a multimeter at a sampling rate of 1 K Hz. The synchronized traces can then be used in the validation process of possible thermal and power processor activity models.
Influence of host and parasite genotypes on immunological control of Theileria parasites.

Infections with Theileria parva in the African buffalo are invariably asymptomatic, whereas infections in cattle usually result in clinical disease, the severity of which varies in different populations of cattle. The parasite exhibits antigenic heterogeneity, which in cattle manifests as differences between parasite strains in their cross-protective properties. A series of studies on T cell responses to T. parva in cattle have demonstrated that class I MHC-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), specific for parasitized lymphoblasts, are important mediators of immunity. Cytotoxic T cell responses frequently display parasite strain-restricted specificities which appear to correlate with the capacity of strains to cross-protect. The strain specificity of CTL responses varies in animals immunized with the same parasite strain and is influenced by both host and parasite genotype. Recent studies have provided evidence that there is competition between epitopes for induction of CTL responses, which can result in a bias to strain-specific epitopes. These properties of the CTL response have important implications for vaccination. Thus, in designing a vaccine, it may be possible, by selecting parasite proteins containing appropriate CTL epitopes, to generate CTL responses that protect against a wide range of parasite strains. Although there are no comparable data on CTL responses in the buffalo, it is considered that the features of the immune response described for cattle would be advantageous for survival of parasite populations in the buffalo. Specifically, a bias in the immune responses to strain-specific determinants should favour establishment of infection in buffalo already carrying the parasite and allow fluctuation in the levels of different parasite strains during the course of persistent infection.
Instability of cylindrical shells with single and multiple cracks under axial compression

Abstract Linear eigenvalue buckling analysis was carried out for singly and doubly cracked cylindrical thin shells under axial compression using the finite element method. First, the effect of crack size and orientation on the buckling behavior of an axially loaded shell with a single crack was studied. Then, the buckling behavior of a cylinder with two parallel longitudinal cracks was investigated. Two different buckling shapes with cross-sectional deformation profiles that resemble letters M (symmetric) and N (anti-symmetric) were identified as the first buckling modes of the cylinder. The exchange between these local buckling modes due to variation of crack size and spacing was illustrated. The transition between these two buckling shapes can be used to estimate the ‘maximum interaction distance’ of the cylinder cracks—the separation distance beyond which the two cracks do not interact in affecting the buckling load of the cylindrical shell. The influence of shell thickness and crack length on the maximum interaction distance was quantified for cylinders with two co-centered (i.e., parallel offset) or collinear longitudinal cracks. Additional simulations were carried out for cylinders with multiple symmetrically spaced longitudinal cracks to show how the behavior of single and double cracks can give the buckling load and mode shape of cylinders with multiple cracks.
Analysis of Alloy-Porcelain Compatibility Using a Multi-component Material Strip Equation

An analytical model has been developed to calculate residual stresses and curvature changes due to thermal contraction differences in metal-porcelain strips consisting of any number (n) of component materials. This model was also used to analyze transient and residual stresses due to solidification of a semicircular arch casting. Results obtained from this model were in close agreement with those obtained from finite element calculations for the cases studied.Some experimental evidence exists to suggest that thermal contraction coefficients of certain body porcelains progressively increase with the number of firing cycles. Therefore, a parametric study was conducted to determine the effects of variations in the thermal contraction coefficient of each porcelain layer on residual stresses and gap changes produced in porcelainized semicircular arch specimens. Based on the analytical model developed in this study, we found that calculated residual stresses near interfacial areas of adjacent layers of porcelai...
Tobacco Counter-Marketing And Policy In A University Setting: The Use Of Experiential Learning Projects To Bring About Change

Four million deaths from tobacco-related illness and disease occurred worldwide in 1999 and that number is likely to increase to 10 million by the 2030s. Each year, 430,000 Americans die from such causes. Tobacco use among young people has remained constant, and in some cases, increased even though information regarding the hazards of tobacco consumption has received growing attention over the last decade, The present paper discusses the process and results of an undergraduate experiential learning project designed to 1) educate college students about the hazards of tobacco consumption, 2) prevent or reduce college students’ consumption of tobacco products through counter-marketing efforts, and 3) assess and change current tobacco related policies on campus. The two-semester project incorporated both fall and spring Promotion Management and Health Care Management classes and involved cooperation from the College of Business, the Medical School, and the Office of Student Affairs.
Post-stroke Malnutrition and Dysphagia

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the USA and swallowing problems may affect half or more of stroke patients at some time during the course of their disease. Slightly more than half of stroke patients are malnourished. Pre-existing subclinical swallowing dysfunction may further predispose elderly stroke patients to dysphagia. Early dysphagia assessment is important to minimize aspiration risk and to avoid dehydration and malnutrition that can lead to further complications and impair the recovery process. Stroke patients with suspected dysphagia should be assessed on a timely basis with a clinical examination and appropriate instrumental tests. Recommendations for dietary modifications or specific therapeutic strategies to assure adequate nutritional intake, hydration and oral hygiene should be made in close consultation with a nutritionist.
Analytical and Experimental Methods in Composite Mechanics

A summary of the state-of-the-art in the mechanics of fiber reinforced composite materials is presented. Micromechanics and macromechanics are both examined although particular emphasis is placed on concepts of lamination theory. Application of composite mechanics to the analysis of test methods for characterizing the mechanical properties of fibrous composites is also covered. Equations which represent some of the more important concepts in composite mechanics are summarized. It is shown that the state-of-the-art in the mechanics of composite materials has reached a plateau where it can be used in structural design.
Direct Control-Chart of Substandard Products Control

In this paper, direct Control-Chart of substandard is put forward. In the Control-Chart, the usual way of deciding the control limits according to sample datum has been eliminated and the shortage of small-scale single-piece production datum has been overcome. It doesn’t need sample datum as its basis. Its purpose is not to keep the process stable but to control the occurrence of substandard products, which is more suitable for process quality control of small-scale production. The structure, control rules, statistical principles identifying, capacity, functions, characteristics application of the direct Control-Chart are discussed.
p38 MAP kinase negatively regulates cyclin D1 expression in airway smooth muscle cells

We have demonstrated that platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) stimulates p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase activation in bovine tracheal myocytes, suggesting that p38 is involved in grow...
Fluorography of Polyacrylamide Gels Containing Tritium

Fluorography is the term used for the process of determining radioactivity in gels and other media by a combination of fluorescence and photography. Since most of the radiation of a low energy emitter will largely be absorbed by the gel, in the technique of fluorography a fluor (e.g., PPO) is infiltrated into the gel where it can absorb the radiation and re-emit light that will pass through the gel to the film. The resulting photographic image is analogous to an autoradiograph, but for a low energy beta-emitting isotope like (3)H, the sensitivity of fluorography is many times the sensitivity of autoradiography. The fluorograph may be used directly, as a qualitative picture of the radioactivity on the gel. It may also be used to locate radioactive bands or spots that can then be cut from the original gel for further analysis, or be scanned to give quantitative information about the distribution of radioactivity. Figure 1 shows an example of a gel that was stained with Coomassie blue and then fluorographed. Notice that there is no loss of resolution in the fluorography of thin gels of normal size. Fig. 1. This shows two examples of fluorography of protein bands labeled with (3)H. Basic nuclear proteins were isolated from the slime mold, Physarum polycephalum, pulse-labeled with (3)H-acetate in either S phase or G(2) phase of the naturally synchronous cell cycle. The proteins were analyzed by acrylamide gel electrophoresis in acetic acid, urea, and Triton X-100. After electrophoresis, the gel was stained with Coomassie blue, photographed, and then fluorographed. Individual lanes of the gel image were cut from the photograph (negative) and the fluorograph and then printed side-by-side to give the figure shown. Notice that the stain patterns of the two lanes are practically identical, except for the loading, while the radioactivity patterns show major differences, for example, the absence of label in his-tones H2A and H2B in G2 phase (4).
Sensitive Multi-Species Emissions Monitoring: Infrared Laser-Based Detection of Trace-Level Contaminants

This report summarizes our development of spectroscopic chemical analysis techniques and spectral modeling for trace-gas measurements of highly-regulated low-concentration species present in flue gas emissions from utility coal boilers such as HCl under conditions of high humidity. Detailed spectral modeling of the spectroscopy of HCl and other important combustion and atmospheric species such as H 2 O, CO 2 , N 2 O, NO 2 , SO 2 , and CH 4 demonstrates that IR-laser spectroscopy is a sensitive multi-component analysis strategy. Experimental measurements from techniques based on IR laser spectroscopy are presented that demonstrate sub-ppm sensitivity levels to these species. Photoacoustic infrared spectroscopy is used to detect and quantify HCl at ppm levels with extremely high signal-to-noise even under conditions of high relative humidity. Additionally, cavity ring-down IR spectroscopy is used to achieve an extremely high sensitivity to combustion trace gases in this spectral region; ppm level CH 4 is one demonstrated example. The importance of spectral resolution in the sensitivity of a trace-gas measurement is examined by spectral modeling in the mid- and near-IR, and efforts to improve measurement resolution through novel instrument development are described. While previous project reports focused on benefits and complexities of the dual-etalon more » cavity ring-down infrared spectrometer, here details on steps taken to implement this unique and potentially revolutionary instrument are described. This report also illustrates and critiques the general strategy of IR- laser photodetection of trace gases leading to the conclusion that mid-IR laser spectroscopy techniques provide a promising basis for further instrument development and implementation that will enable cost-effective sensitive detection of multiple key contaminant species simultaneously. « less
Localization of proteolytic activity in muscle protein fractions.

Summary1. An investigation was made to obtain information regarding the presence and localization of proteolytic enzymes in muscle protein fractions from frog leg muscles. 2. Pepsin and cathepsin were localized in the myosin fraction while trypsin was localized in the myosin-free fraction. No proteolytic activity was displayed by the myoalbumin fraction. 3. The myogen content of the frog muscles is considerably lower than that reported for mammals.
Prejudice against Women: A Replication and Extension

Goldberg (1, 2 ) has investigated prejudice by women toward other women in the area of intellectual and professional competency. Using identical articles concerned with six professional fields he manipulated only the sex of the aurhor's name. H e found that college women were more critical and negative toward articles purportedly written by women, regardless of the probability of success for women in the professional field, than they were of the same articles supposedly written by men. While a recent study ( 3 ) replicated Goldberg's findings using a portion of his articles (those in which females have a low probability of success), the present study was designed to extend this line of investigation by re-examining prejudice using Goldberg's ( 2 ) non-sexually stereotypic articles with both college men and women. Ss were 27 male and 31 female freshmen at the University of Connecticut who volunteered as part of their course requirement. Each S was given a booklet which contained 4 articles selected from the professional literamre of 4 occupational fields (art history, education, dietetics, and linguistics). The procedure, articles, nine evaluative questions following each article, and the treatment of the data were identical to Goldberg (1, 2 ) . In contrast to the Goldberg findings (1, 2 ) , the results indicated that college men and women did not rate articles purportedly written by women as less competent than the same articles supposedly written by men. Male-authored articles swayed females' opinions on issues more than female-authored articles (Ms = 7.6121.60 vs 6.90&1.68) but onlv this 1 of 58 possible comparisons reached significance. It is regarded as chance factor. The present authors suggest that the many subtle, but significant changes in feminine emancipation, while far from complete, may be a contributing factor to the present results.
A Smartphone Compatible SONAR Ranging Attachment for 2-D Mapping

The ability to attach external devices to smartphones has revolutionized the role of smartphones by extending their capabilities beyond the limitations of commodity hardware. Developing external attachments that allow smartphones to sense the depth of an area will facilitate the development of new immersive applications and technologies. In this paper, we propose a smartphone compatible SONAR ranging attachment and address the compatibility problem by proposing a hybrid hardware/software modulator that allows a digital sensor to communicate with a smartphone via the 3.5-mm headphone jack, found on most smartphones. We evaluate the proposed sensor using two metrics, accuracy and spatial resolution. We evaluate the accuracy of this system by measuring known distances with the sensor and comparing them. We measure the sensor’s spatial resolution by using ranging information from the SONAR module along with the phone’s gyroscope, accelerometer, and magnetometer to construct a two-dimensional map of a space.
Genetic characteristics of VP1 region of coxsakievirus A16 strains isolated in Huzhou,Zhejiang,2011- 2012

Objective To understand the genetic characteristics of coxsakievirus A16( Cox A16) strains isolated in Huzhou,Zhejiang province during 2011- 2012. Methods Viral nucleic acids were detected from 538 clinical specimens collected from HFMD cases in Huzhou during 2011- 2012 with real-time PCR. Cox A16 RNA positive samples were used for subsequent cell culture. Sequencing and analyses of VP1 encoding gene were performed for 17Cox A16 isolates. Results The results showed that Cox A16 and EV71 were the major pathogens of HFMD epidemic in Huzhou during 2011- 2012. Sequence analysis for VP1 gene of the Cox A16 strains indicated that the viruses 'nucleotides and amino acids sequences shared 89. 5%- 100% and 99. 3%- 100% homology respectively. The nucleotides sequence of the 17 strains showed a high level of identity to the B1 genotype reference strains. Phylogenetic analysis of the VP1 region showed that all the Cox A16 isolates in Huzhou were clustered within the B1a and B1b evolution branch of B1 genotype. Conclusion Like other Cox A16 strains isolated in China,the major circulating strain of Cox A16 in Huzhou during 2011- 2012 belonged to B1 genotype,which could be further classified into Bla and B1b branches.
Abstract P1-01-08: An impending avalanche-breast cancer among women ≥ 90 years of age

INTRODUCTION: Pubmed database shows no study on pathological features of breast carcinoma in extremely old women (≥90 years). The data post 1980s is limited due to the definition of such age limit as "older than 75". This study redefines age extreme in breast pathology to better correlate with current patient demographics, and provides characteristics of breast cancer in this population. Little information exists about the breast cancer in extremely old women. This investigation elucidates the growing number of breast cancer diagnoses in extremely old women (≥90 years) in a single institution in 2000s. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The database of Yale University Department of Pathology was searched for the terms: "breast carcinoma," "age ≥90" for the past 15 years. Clinicopathologic features of the cases that fit the criteria were studied. RESULTS: A total of 135 patients (134 female; 1 male) aged ≥90 years were identified with a diagnosis of infiltrating carcinoma. A surge in breast cancer diagnoses among elderly patients was noted in 2000s compared to the earlier decade. Only 10 cases were diagnosed between 1990 and 1999 (one case/year) compared to 125 cases diagnosed between 2000 and 2015 (8.3 cases/year). Of these 135 patients, 117 had infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC); 16 had infiltrating lobular carcinoma (ILC),1 had pure squamous cell carcinoma. One patient had IDC and ILC ipsilaterally, while another had bilateral IDC. The median age was 92 (range: 90-107), median tumor size was 2.0 cm (range: 0.2-13.0), and the median modified Bloom & Richardson score was 6 (range: 3-9). Among the 117 IDCs, 11 had mucinous, 6 had apocrine, 1 had medullary, 1 had cribriform differentiation. Ductal intraepithelial neoplasia (DCIS) was present in 46% of the cases, while lobular intraepithelial neoplasia (LCIS) was identified in 8% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: Our data shows an increasing number of breast carcinomas diagnosed among patients ≥90 years of age with a morphological distribution similar to other age groups. This increased frequency is particularly notable in the last 15 years compared to 1990s. While increased life expectancy is a factor, better delivery of screening to elderly patients and patient awareness are important additional contributors to this increase. Extremely old women particularly those in good health may potentially benefit from breast cancer screening. As the number of substantially older patients with breast cancer increases, we have to be prepared to manage the disease in this population. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the frequency of breast cancer in extremely old women and the optimal management that would probably have to be individualized to the patients9 health status. Citation Format: Ozerdem U, Tavassoli FA. An impending avalanche-breast cancer among women ≥ 90 years of age. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-01-08.
Sleep deprivation: a mind-body approach

Purpose of review The purpose of this review is to summarize recent advances in our understanding of the impact sleep disturbances have on our health, with particular focus on the brain. The present review considers the influence of sleep disturbance on the neurovascular unit; the role of sleep disturbance in neurodegenerative diseases; and relevant strategies of neuro-immuno-endocrine interactions that likely contribute to the restorative power of sleep. Given the latest discoveries about the brain's waste clearance system and its relationship to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease, this review gives a brief overview on the molecular mechanisms behind sleep loss-related impairments. Recent findings Recent evidence indicates that sleep plays a vital role in neuro-immuno-endocrine homeostasis. Sleep loss has been linked to elevated risks for cognitive and mood disorders, underscored by impaired synaptic transmission. The glymphatic system has been shown to be modulated by sleep and implicated in neurodegenerative disorders. Summary Interactions between sleep quality, the immune system, and neurodegenerative disease are complex and a challenge to distil. These interactions are frequently bidirectional, because of sleep's characterization as an early symptom and as a potential factor contributing to the development and progression of mood and cognitive disorders. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
Corrosion of the Strand - Anchorage System in Post-Tensioned Grouted Assemblies

Commercial ductile iron post-tension anchorage assemblies containing unstressed high strength strand, two types of grout and simulated grout voids were subject to simulated water intrusion events with fresh and salty (0.01N NaCl) water. Galvanic current, strand-anchor conductance and potentials were monitored to identify corrosion location and magnitude. Potentials of the galvanic systems at different locations along the assemblies were recorded. The results from showed that external water intrusion can be a major source of corrosion tendon failure. Conditions for strand steel depassivation can develop even if only modest carbonation of the grout occurs. Fresh water could initiate corrosion if the native chloride content of the grout exceeded a relatively small amount (e.g. 500 ppm). Currently allowable chloride limits may need revision. Galvanic coupling between strand steel and anchorage iron could significantly aggravate corrosion of the strands. Significant corrosion of strands in the void space was observed, especially in a grout that supported high internal relative humidity. Projections of the combined effects of the deterioration mechanisms identified were consistent with the observation of tendon failures in the field after as little as 7 years.
Modeling of a biological material nacre: Waviness stiffness model

Nacre is a tough yet stiff natural composite composed of microscopic mineral polygonal tablets bonded by a tough biopolymer. The high stiffness of nacre is known to be due to its high mineral content. However, the remarkable toughness of nacre is explained by its ability to deform past a yield point and develop large inelastic strain over a large volume around defects and cracks. The high strain is mainly due to sliding and waviness of the tablets. Mimicking nacre's remarkable properties, to date, is still a challenge due in part to fabrication challenges as well as a lack of models that can predict its properties or properties of a bulk material given specific constituent materials and material structure. Previous attempts to create analytical models for nacre include tablet sliding but don't account for the waviness of the tablets. In this work, a mathematical model is proposed to account for the waviness of the tablet. Using this model, a better prediction of the elastic modulus is obtained that agrees with experimental values found in the literature. In addition, the waviness angle can be predicted which is within the recommended range. Having a good representative model aids in designing a bio-mimicked nacre.
Gaussian Process Bandit Optimisation with Multi-fidelity Evaluations

In many scientific and engineering applications, we are tasked with the optimisation of an expensive to evaluate black box function $\func$. Traditional methods for this problem assume just the availability of this single function. However, in many cases, cheap approximations to $\func$ may be obtainable. For example, the expensive real world behaviour of a robot can be approximated by a cheap computer simulation. We can use these approximations to eliminate low function value regions cheaply and use the expensive evaluations of $\func$ in a small but promising region and speedily identify the optimum. We formalise this task as a \emph{multi-fidelity} bandit problem where the target function and its approximations are sampled from a Gaussian process. We develop \mfgpucb, a novel method based on upper confidence bound techniques. In our theoretical analysis we demonstrate that it exhibits precisely the above behaviour, and achieves better regret than strategies which ignore multi-fidelity information. \mfgpucbs outperforms such naive strategies and other multi-fidelity methods on several synthetic and real experiments.