cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microcosm-based Study of the Attenuation of an Acid Mine Drainage-Impacted Site through Biological Sulfate and Iron Reduction

Acid mine drainage is a widespread environmental problem and is characterized by elevated proton, sulfate, and dissolved iron concentrations. To understand the driving forces behind the attenuation of AMD, we compared microcosms using sediment and groundwater collected at Davis Mine, Massachusetts, a site where both generation and attenuation of AMD occur. A shift in key geochemical parameters over time was due to the natural microbial population, which was supported by detailed molecular biology results. The attenuation of AMD was stimulated through amendment with glycerol, with nitrogen and phosphorous, or with algae extract, but not by wood chips, suggesting the addition of different organic electron donors as a bioremediation strategy.
Genetic-based unit commitment algorithm

This paper presents a new unit commitment scheduling algorithm. The proposed algorithm consist of using a genetic algorithm with domain specific mutation operators. The proposed algorithm can easily accommodate any constraint that can be true costed. Robustness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated by comparison to a Lagrangian relaxation unit commitment algorithm on three different electric utilities. Results show the proposed algorithm finds good unit commitment schedules in a reasonable amount of computation time. Included in the appendix is an explanation of the true costing approach.
Advective pore water input of nutrients to the Satilla River Estuary, Georgia, USA

Abstract In situ benthic flux measurements, pore water nutrient profiles, water column nutrient distributions, sediment grain size distributions and side-scan sonar observations suggest that advective transport of pore waters may be a major input pathway of nutrients into the Satilla River Estuary (coastal Georgia, USA). In situ benthic chamber incubations demonstrate the occurrence of highly variable, but occasionally very large sea floor fluxes of silicate, phosphate, and ammonium. Locally occurring benthic microbial mineralization of organic matter, as estimated by S35-sulphate reduction rate measurements, is insufficient to support these large fluxes. We hypothesize that the observed interlayering of permeable, sandy sediments with fine-grained, organic-rich sediments in the estuary provides conduits for advective transport of pore water constituents out of the sediments. Because permeable layers may extend significant distances beneath the salt marsh, the large fluxes observed may be supported by remineralization occurring over large areas adjacent to the estuary. Advective transport may be induced by pressure gradients generated by a variety of processes, including landward recharge by meteoric or rain waters if sand layers extend far enough into the maritime coastal lands. Alternatively, tidal variations across the salt marsh sediment surface may hydraulically pump water through the sediment system. Because these fluxes appear to be concentrated into small layers, this source may be a significant input of nutrients to the estuary even if permeable, sandy layers comprise a very small proportion of the seabed.
SU‐E‐T‐315: In Silico, in Vitro, and in Vivo Quantification of Tungsten and Iodine in Dose Enhanced RT (DERT)

Purpose: To investigate tungstennanoparticles (WNP) and conventional iodine contrast as potential vehicles for dose enhancers (DE) for dose enhanced radiation therapy (DERT). Methods: We systematically evaluated DERT in silico, in vitro, and in vivo by quantifying dose enhancement, cell kill, and tumor control. Because of variations in the K‐edge and toxicity of these different nanoparticles we expect to see differences in their viability and effective dose boosting. We used Na[M3‐W3(O2)(OAc)a] as our WNP, and iohexol as our iodine agent. Monte Carlo(MC) simulations using the EGSncr codes were performed to quantify the macroscopic dose enhancement as a function of DE concentration from both DEs. The DEs were used in 7, 15, and 30 mg/ml concentrations in vitro with AA8 CHO cell lines and were irradiated with varying doses using a 150 kV beam to establish cell survival curves. Balb‐c mice were injected with the same cell lines used in vitro to grow as subcutaneous tumors. The tumors were directly injected with the DE formulations and a series of fluoroscopic x‐ray images were acquired to determine the biological half‐life of the DEs in the tumor. Mouse tumors with and without DE were irradiated with a 150 kVp beam and tumor regrowth delay was measured. Results: MC simulations showed macroscopic dose enhancement varying from 1.8 to 3.8 for iodine and from 1.9 to 4.0 for tungsten when irradiated with a 150 kV beam. The tungsten in vitro study indicated dose enhancement of a factor of 2.2 for a concentration of 30 mg/mL. The biological half‐life of tungsten in the tumor injected with 200 mg/mL was shown to be 20 minutes. Conclusion: Preliminary in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies of tungstennanoparticles and iodine contrast showed the potential for their use in dose enhanced radiation therapy.
Aperture size to therapeutic volume relation for a multielement ultrasound system : determination of applicator adequacy for superficial hyperthermia

Three-dimensional acoustic and thermal models were developed to simulate superficial hyper­ thermia treatments using a new multielement planar ultrasonic system. Typical power density and steady-state temperature distributions are presented. A parametric study was performed to determine the relationship between therapeutic volume (volume at and above 42 °C) and aper­ ture size (number of active elements) . The parameters investigated were: maximum allowable temperature, skin surface temperature, blood perfusion (thermal diffusion length) , acoustic absorption, and frequency. Results showed that this device produces well distributed sound beams with lateral dimensions comparable to the aperture size. These simulated results were in agreement with experimental measurements. The simulated temperature distributions were uni­ form at each depth across the applicator's aperture. The main heating characteristics found were: (1) the therapeutic volume was directly proportional to the aperture size; ( 2) the lateral dimensions of the therapeutic volume were independent of the parameters studied and remained practically constant with depth for several centimeters, with a very rapid increase near the skin surface and a very rapid fall off at depth; and ( 3) therapeutic penetration was strongly depen­ dent on maximum allowable temperature, frequency, and acoustic absorption; and weakly de­ pendent on blood perfusion and skin surface temperature. These heating characteristics are new in commercial systems for superficial hyperthermia. Despite the well-distributed beams, it was found that in order to produce adequate hyperthermia with this device the lateral dimensions of tumors must be smaller that the applicator's active aperture and that thermal depth coverage must be monitored during treatments. Guidelines for aperture selection and thermometry strat­ egies are discussed.
Images of Globalisation in the Mass Media

Increasing flows of goods, capital and labour across various national borders have signalled the ever-increasing integration or ‘globalisation’ of international markets. The impacts of globalisation are complex and multidimensional and have been intensely debated in the academic literature. Likewise, globalisation and its impacts have also gained attention in the mass media. Yet findings on the way globalisation has been portrayed in the mass media are mixed. In this paper, we examine the conceptual evolution and overall progression of tone of globalisation coverage in the Associated Press from 1984 to 2004. We find that AP reporters have weaved a number of key themes in their stories: growth and efficiency, poverty, employment, environment and migration among others. More-over, we find ‘balance’ in reporting to the extent that both sides of an argument are presented in an article. However, in absolute terms reporting is skewed in favour or against a specific issue depending on story narrative employed. Our empirical results go some way to reconciling why news organisations feel they present balanced and objective coverage while proponents and opponents on a specific issue feel that coverage is biased one way or the other.
Signaling Pathways Take Aim at Neurotransmitter Transporters

Neurotransmitter transporters are the target of various pharmacological agents used to treat psychological or cognitive conditions, such as depression and attention-deficit disorder. In addition, some of the effects of stimulant-type drugs of abuse result from inhibition of neurotransmitter transporters. Robinson describes the intersection between neurotransmitter transporters and signaling pathways. Neurotransmitter transporters can be regulated by altering the rate of internalization and insertion into the plasma membrane to control cell surface expression or by altering the activity of the transporters within the membrane. As the mechanisms governing regulation of these transporters become elucidated, new potential therapeutic targets may be revealed, given the many processes affected by the activity of neurotransmitter transporters.
Ethanol metabolism alters major histocompatibility complex class I-restricted antigen presentation in liver cells.

The proteasome is a major enzyme that cleaves proteins for antigen presentation. Cleaved peptides traffic to the cell surface, where they are presented in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I. Recognition of these complexes by cytotoxic T lymphocytes is crucial for elimination of cells bearing “nonself” proteins. Our previous studies revealed that ethanol suppresses proteasome function in ethanol-metabolizing liver cells. We hypothesized that proteasome suppression reduces the hydrolysis of antigenic peptides, thereby decreasing the presentation of the peptide MHC class I complexes on the cell surface. To test this we used the mouse hepatocyte cell line (CYP2E1/ADH-transfected HepB5 cells) or primary mouse hepatocytes, both derived from livers of C57Bl/6 mice, which present the ovalbumin peptide, SIINFEKL, complexed with H2Kb. To induce H2Kb expression, HepB5 cells were treated with interferon gamma (IFNγ) and then exposed to ethanol. In these cells, ethanol metabolism decreased not only proteasome activity, but also hydrolysis of the C-extended peptide, SIINFEKL-TE, and the presentation of SIINFEKL-H2Kb complexes measured after the delivery of SIINFEKL-TE to cytoplasm. The suppressive effects of ethanol were, in part, attributed to ethanol-elicited impairment of IFNγ signaling. However, in primary hepatocytes, even in the absence of IFNγ, we observed a similar decline in proteasome activity and antigen presentation after ethanol exposure. Conclusion: Proteasome function is directly suppressed by ethanol metabolism and indirectly by preventing the activating effects of IFNγ. Ethanol-elicited reduction in proteasome activity contributes to the suppression of SIINFEKL-H2Kb presentation on the surface of liver cells. (HEPATOLOGY 2009.)
Evaluation of inflammatory markers as predictors of hospital stay and unplanned readmission after colorectal surgery.

UNLABELLED Hospital length of stay (LOS) and readmissions continue to be expensive and unexpected events following colorectal surgery (CRS) whether patients follow enhanced recovery pathways or traditional care. Predictors of these adverse events could facilitate identification and optimization of CRS patients. THE AIM OF THE STUDY To examine the impact of white blood cell count (WBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as predictors of delayed recovery or hospital readmission following CRS. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients undergoing laparoscopic or open abdominal colorectal surgery by a single surgeon were managed using standardized enhanced recovery pathways. Those with postoperative day 2 CRP and white blood cell values were evaluated. Outcomes included 30-day hospital readmission rates and postoperative length of hospital stay. RESULTS CRP values were available for 193 patients (86 Male, mean age 58.6 years). Ninety-nine patients had surgery for colon cancer, 23 for Crohn's disease, 19 for ulcerative colitis, 31 for diverticulitis and 18 for other reasons. Twenty patients (10.4%) were readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of surgery. POD2 CRP accurately predicted short length of hospital stay (p 4 days. The mean CRP of the readmission and non-readmission groups was 11.8 and 9.9, respectively (p=0.29). The average POD 2 WBC of the readmission and non-readmission groups was 10.6 and 9 respectively (p=0.01). CONCLUSION A low POD2 CRP level was correlated with a shorter LOS, but it did not predict readmission. Conversely, POD2 WBC, and the difference in WBC from baseline were associated with readmission. These markers may be useful indicators to predict suitability of early discharge in an ERP. Further evaluation in prospective trials is warranted.
Approximating the distribution of an extreme value statistic based on estimated from a generating function

Abstract A method for approximating the terms of a generating function is used to approximate the distribution of an extreme value statistic. The approximation obtained yiels sharper estimates of the exact distribution than that given by the asymptotic distribution and, furthermore, yields a large deviation result.
Children's and Adolescents' Interpersonal Relations: Do Age, Race, and Gender Define Normalcy?

This study investigated age, gender, and race trends in the development of children's and adolescents' interpersonal relations with their mothers, fathers, male peers, female peers, and teachers. A...
Item-Specific and Relational Encoding Effects in Children's Recall and Recognition Memory for Words.

Abstract This study tests the hypothesis that children's deficiency in encoding itemspecific and relational information in episodic events contributes to age differences in recall and recognition. In two experiments, grade school children and college adults were presented with word triplets varying in categorical relatedness. The processing of the item-specific and relational information in the triplets was independently manipulated. Experiment 1 assessed cued recall, and Experiment 2 assessed recognition of both the central target and incidental contextual members of each triplet. The results showed that the processing manipulations had independent and different effects on recall and recognition, on memory for the members of the different kinds of triplets, on the use of the retrieval cues, and on memory for target and incidental words. Developmental differences were found in both recall and recognition, and of both target and incidental words, that varied with triplet type and the processing manipulations and that were attributable to differences in the encoding of item-specific and relational information in the triplets. The discussion contrasts alternative accounts of children's encoding deficiency, and suggests that the distinction between automatic, age-invariant, and strategic age-sensitive encoding processes needs to be redrawn.
Age-related changes in regional cerebral blood flow and behavior in Sprague-Dawley rats

Studies of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) were carried out in male, Sprague-Dawley rats at ages 6, 12 and 24 months. These animals were characterized behaviorally for their ability to learn a complex 14-choice sequential T-maze (i.e., Stone maze) for food reward. Old animals (i.e., 24 month) demonstrated a clear and consistent impairment in maze performance which correlated significantly with decreased cortical blood flow. The results are discussed in relation to cerebral blood flow studies in aging humans and as they relate to the use of rats, the Sprague-Dawley strain in particular, to study brain aging.
A Systematic Review of Side Effects of Nucleoside and Nucleotide Drugs Used for Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B

Although nucleosides and nucleotides have a good safety record for the treatment of hepatitis B, there have been no systematic reviews on this topic. We searched Medline to include studies of the oral antiviral agents for hepatitis B and adverse events, with at least 48 weeks of follow-up from the initiation of treatment with the drug. Important toxicities include nephrotoxicity, myopathy, and resistance. It is often difficult to ascertain whether an adverse effect is from the study drug or the natural progression of the disease. Further safety data are needed for the newer agents and for all agents with regard to patients with decompensated liver disease, renal dysfunction, the elderly, children, and pregnant women.
Using Group-Inquiry To Study Differing Reaction Conditions in the E2 Elimination of Cyclohexyl Halides

In this experiment, students individually conduct one of several variations of an E2 dehydrohalogenation reaction on a cyclohexyl halide substrate for 30 min, which is sufficient only for a partial reaction to occur. The variations examine reaction conditions including different leaving groups, decreased reaction temperature, or reduced base concentration. Analysis of the quenched reaction products by GC or NMR allows students to compute the percent completion of their individual reaction. In a subsequent lab, the student results are compiled and averaged, and statistics are generated. The students perform a collaborative group analysis to draw conclusions as to how the different factors affected the rate of reaction based on percent completion and the impact of any errors observed. The statistical compilation of data from repeated trials for the group analysis demonstrates to students an approach to research that is analogous to real-world research technique.
Energization of charged particle in a time-dependent chaotic magnetic field with an implication of the production of seed particles in solar energetic particle events

Abstract We investigate the acceleration of charged particles in a time-dependent chaotic magnetic field in this work. In earlier works, it has been demonstrated that in an asymmetric wire-loop current systems (WLCSs), the magnetic field is of chaotic in nature. Furthermore, observations also showed that there exist time-varying current loops and current filaments in solar corona. It is therefore natural to conceive that the magnetic field on the solar surface is chaotic and time-dependent. Here, we develop a numerical model to study the acceleration process of charged particles in a time-varying chaotic magnetic field that is generated by an ensemble of 8 WLCSs. We found that the motion of energetic particles in the system is of diffusive in nature and a power law spectrum can quickly develop. The mechanism examined here may serve as an efficient pre-acceleration mechanism that generates the so-called seed particles for diffusive shock acceleration at a coronal mass ejection (CME) driven shock in large solar energetic particle (SEP) events.
Off-Resonant Electronic and Vibrational Molecular Polarizabilities. Time-Dependent Collective-Oscillator Expansion

The nonlinear optical response of molecules is calculated using classical equations of motion for the electronic density matrix coupled to nuclear coordinates. The equations apply to an arbitrary (...
Association of rectal prolapse with colorectal cancer

Background Although screening for colorectal cancer facilitates earlier detection and improves survival, cost-effective screening requires identification of patients at high risk for colorectal cancer. Rectal prolapse has not been clearly linked to colorectal carcinoma. Whether patients with rectal prolapse should be screened for colorectal cancer is therefore unclear. Methods We retrospectively identified 70 consecutive patients treated for rectal prolapse at a community hospital during a period of 16 years and monitored for an average of 4.4±2.7 years and 350 patients of similar age treated for chronic unrelated conditions in the same institution during a similar period. We determined their incidence of colorectal cancer and sought demographic correlates. Results The prevalence of rectosigmoid carcinoma among patients with prolapse was 5.7% during the study. Only 1.4% of the comparative group had colorectal cancer. Thus patients with rectal prolapse exhibited a 4.2-fold (95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 16.0) relative risk for colorectal cancer over the comparative group (p Conclusions To the extent to which these patients represent the population of patients with rectal prolapse, routine initial screening of patients with symptomatic rectal prolapse by use of flexible sigmoidoscopy may be appropriate.
Biomechanical interpretation of the early hominid hip

Abstract A new pelvic fragment from Swartkrans provides the opportunity to analyze the hip joint mechanics of the robust form of early hominid. The function of the lateral support system provided by the abductor muscles of the hip appears to be similar to that of the gracile early hominid from Sterkfontein. The system is well adapted for providing the lateral support necessary for efficient bipedalism. The hip extensor mechanism and hip internal rotatory system also appear to be well adapted for efficient bipedalism in a way very similar to the other early hominids. The conclusion reached is that the robust and gracile forms of South African early hominids were basically similar in their locomotor adaptation and were most likely habitual bipeds.
DETERMINATION OF NIOBIUM IN ROCKS BY AN ISOTOPE DILUTION: SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC METHOD.

Abstract Rocks and minerals are fused with sodium peroxide in the presence of carrierfree 95Nb. The fusion cake is leached with water and the precipitate dissolved in hydrofluoric-sulfuric acid mixture. Niobium is extracted into methyl isobutyl ketone and further purified by ion exchange. The amount of niobium is determined spectrophotometrically with 4-(2-pyridylazo)-resorcinol, and the chemical yield of the separations determined by counting 95Nb. This procedure is faster and less sensitive to interferences than previously proposed methods for determining niobium in rocks.The high purity of the separated niobium makes the method applicable to nearly all matrices.
Approximate techniques of strctural reanalysis

A study is made of two approximate techniques for structural reanalysis. These include Taylor series expansions for response variables in terms of design variables and the reduced-basis method. In addition, modifications to these techniques are proposed to overcome some of their major drawbacks. The modifications include a rational approach to the selection of the reduced-basis vectors and the use of Taylor series approximation in an iterative process. For the reduced basis a normalized set of vectors is chosen which consists of the original analyzed design and the first-order sensitivity analysis vectors. The use of the Taylor series approximation as a first (initial) estimate in an iterative process, can lead to significant improvements in accuracy, even with one iteration cycle. Therefore, the range of applicability of the reanalysis technique can be extended. Numerical examples are presented which demonstrate the gain in accuracy obtained by using the proposed modification techniques, for a wide range of variations in the design variables.
Impact of training and validation sample selection on classification accuracy and accuracy assessment when using reference polygons in object-based classification

Reference polygons are homogenous areas that aim to provide the best available assessment of ground condition that the user can identify. Delineation of such polygons provides a convenient and efficient approach for researchers to identify training and validation data for supervised classification. However, the spatial dependence of training and validation data should be taken into account when the two data sets are obtained from a common set of reference polygons. We investigate the effect on classification accuracy and the accuracy estimates derived from the validation data when training and validation data are obtained from four selection schemes. The four schemes are composed of two sampling designs simple random and systematic and two methods for splitting sample points between training and validation validation points in separate polygons from training points and validation points and training points split within the same polygons. A supervised object-based classification of the study region was repeated 30 times for each selection scheme. The selection scheme did not impact classification accuracy, but estimates of overall OA, user's UA, and producer's PA accuracies produced from the validation data overestimated accuracy for the study region by about 10%. The degree of overestimation was slightly greater when the validation sample points were allowed to be in the same polygons as the training data points. These results suggest that accuracy estimates derived from splitting training and validation within a limited set of reference polygons should be regarded with suspicion. To be fully confident in the validity of the accuracy estimates, additional validation sample points selected from the region outside the reference polygons may be needed to augment the validation sample selected from the reference polygons.
A three-dimensional position-sensitive gamma ray detection system

Abstract For many applications it is necessary to measure the three coordinates of a stopped gamma ray. A method for making such a measurement for a scintillation gamma ray detector is described. Factors affecting the gamma ray detection efficiency are discussed as well as methods to be used in fabricating the detector.
Daily physical activity levels in congestive heart failure

To determine the level of daily physical activity routinely performed by patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and the ability of clinical and laboratory assessments of function to predict peak daily activity levels, 45 patients with CHF were evaluated in the laboratory and during 2 days of usual activity. Subjects performed symptom-limited treadmill exercise tests with respiratory gas analysis and wore a Vitalog activity monitor with continuous measurement of heart rate and body motion. Mean maximal oxygen uptake for this sample was 16.8 ml/kg/min. Peak daily physical activity involved walking on a flat surface (44%), or general activities (housework/yardwork, 42%). Most subjects were asymptomatic (49%) during daily physical activity, 22% noted dyspnea, 16% fatigue and 13% sore muscles/joints. Perceived intensity of peak daily physical activity (mean = 4.19, SD = 2.21) was similar to perceived exertion (mean = 3.73, SD = 1.37) reported at ventilatory threshold measured during treadmill exercise testing. Subjects may control their peak daily physical activity to minimize symptoms experienced. It was further observed that current methods of assessing functional capacity in these patients were inadequate for estimating the peak level of daily activity. In conclusion, daily physical activity levels are low in patients with congestive heart failure and a gap exists between exercise capacity and actual performance of daily physical activity.
Predicting the Condom Assertiveness of Collegiate Females in the United States From the Expanded Health Belief Model

ABSTRACT. Collegiate females in the United States are susceptible to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to their propensity for sexual exploration, multiple sexual partnerships, and inconsistent safe-sex practices. Despite the potential for safe-sex communication to contribute to safer sex, little is known about the predictors of this form of sexual communication. Research on condom assertiveness—the unambiguous messaging that sex without a condom is unacceptable—is especially rare. This study employed the Expanded Health Belief Model (EHBM) in an attempt to understand why some collegiate females are more condom assertive than others. Compared with less condom-assertive females, more condom-assertive females have more faith in the effectiveness of condoms, believe more in their own condom communication skills, perceive that they are more susceptible to STIs, believe there are more relational benefits to being condom assertive, believe their peers are more condom assertive, and intend to be more co...
Statin Use and Functional Decline in Patients With and Without Peripheral Arterial Disease

Objectives We determined whether statin use (vs. non-use) is associated with less annual decline in lower-extremity functioning in patients with and without lower-extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) over three-year follow-up. Background It is unclear whether statin use is associated with less functional decline in patients with PAD. Methods Participants included 332 men and women with an ankle brachial index (ABI) Results Adjusting for age, race, gender, comorbidities, education, health insurance, total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein level, body mass index, pack-years of smoking, leg symptoms, immediately previous year functioning, statin use/non-use, ABI, and change in ABI, the PAD participants using statins had less annual decline in usual-pace walking velocity (0.002 vs. −0.024 m/s/year, p = 0.013), rapid-pace walking velocity (−0.006 vs. −0.042 m/s/year, p = 0.006), 6-min walk performance (−34.5 vs. −57.9 feet/year, p = 0.088), and the summary performance score (−0.152 vs. −0.376, p = 0.067) compared with non-users. These associations were attenuated slightly by additional adjustment for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels. Among non-PAD participants, there were no significant associations between statin use and functional decline. Conclusions The PAD patients on statins have less annual decline in lower-extremity performance than PAD patients who are not taking statins.
Using Data Augmentation to Facilitate Conduct of Phase I–II Clinical Trials with Delayed Outcomes

A practical impediment in adaptive clinical trials is that outcomes must be observed soon enough to apply decision rules to choose treatments for new patients. For example, if outcomes take up to six weeks to evaluate and the accrual rate is one patient per week, on average three new patients will be accrued while waiting to evaluate the outcomes of the previous three patients. The question is how to treat the new patients. This logistical problem persists throughout the trial. Various ad hoc practical solutions are used, none entirely satisfactory. We focus on this problem in phase I-II clinical trials that use binary toxicity and efficacy, defined in terms of event times, to choose doses adaptively for successive cohorts. We propose a general approach to this problem that treats late-onset outcomes as missing data, uses data augmentation to impute missing outcomes from posterior predictive distributions computed from partial follow-up times and complete outcome data, and applies the design's decision rules using the completed data. We illustrate the method with two cancer trials conducted using a phase I-II design based on efficacy-toxicity trade-offs, including a computer stimulation study.
Experimentally derived thermochemical data for pargasite and reinvestigation of its stability with quartz in the system Na 2 O-CaO-MgO-Al 2 O 3 -SiO 2 -H 2 O

The stability of pargasite in the presence of excess quartz has been determined in the range of 0.5–6.0 kbar and 500–950 °C in the system Na2O– CaO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O, using synthetic minerals. The experimental results from this study indicate the presence of two distinct mineral assemblage regions: (1) a high temperature supersolidus region containing tremolitic amphibole+melt+quartz; (b) a low temperature subsolidus region consisting of Al-rich amphibole+plagioclase+enstatite+quartz. Compositional reversals have been determined for the following three equilibria:
The Use of Proxy Chemical Records in Coral Skeletons to Ascertain Past Environmental Conditions in Florida Bay

This paper will discuss the use of chemical proxies in coral skeletons to reconstruct the history of salinity (from the δ18O of the skeleton) and nutrients in the water (from the δ13C) in Florida Bay between 1824 and 1994. Monthly salinity and water temperature data collected since 1989 were used to establish a correlation between salinity, temperature, and the δ18O of the skeleton of the coralSolenastrea bournoni from Lignumvitae Basin in Florida Bay. This relationship explains over 50% of the variance in the δ18O of the skeleton. Assuming that interannual variations in the temperature of the water are small, we have applied this relationship to the δ18O measured in the coral skeleton collected from Lignumvitae Basin which has a record between 1824 and 1993. These data provide a revised estimate of salinity variation in Lignumvitae Basin for the period when historical records for salinity were not available, and show that the highest salinity events occurred in the past 30 yr. Using the relationships between the salinity in Lignumvitate Basin and other basins, obtained using a modern dataset, we are able to estimate ranges in salinity for other portions of Florida Bay. Skeletons of specimens of the coral speciesSiderastrea radians collected from other areas of Florida Bay show similar patterns in the δ18O over the past 10 yr, indicating that corals in most portions of Florida Bay are recording salinity variations in their skeletons and therefore support the idea that salinity variations in different portions of Florida Bay can be related. Fluorescence analysis of the coral from Lignumvitae Basin shows a large change in the magnitude of the 10-yr signal coincident with the construction of the railway, confirming that this event had a significant impact upon Florida Bay. The δ13C of the coral skeletons reveals a long-term history of the oxidation of organic material, fixation of carbon by photosynthesis (algal blooms), and the intrusion of marine water into the bay. Since the construction of the railway from Miami to Key West there has been a long-term decrease in the δ13C of the coral skeleton from Lignumvitae Basin, suggesting the increased oxidation of organic material in this area. This decrease in δ13C appears to have reached a minimum value around 1984 and has increased since this time in the western portions of Florida Bay. The increase may be related to the algal blooms prevalent in the area or alternatively could result from intrusion of more marine water. In the eastern areas, a small increase in the δ18C between 1984 and 1988 was followed by further decline suggesting more oxidation of organic material. We have also attempted to use the concentration of barium in the coral skeleton as a proxy indicator of the nutrient status in Florida Bay.
Tree biomass and net increment in an old aspen forest in New Mexico

Abstract Previous work indicated that net ecosystem production (NEP) was negative in a 90-year-old aspen ( Populus tremuloides Michx.) forest in the Tesuque watershed of northern New Mexico. The loss of nitrogen (N) in streamwater was very low for this forest, which would be surprising if NEP were negative for a substantial period. We remeasured live tree biomass of this case-study forest after an additional 27 years of growth, as a long period with negative NEP would likely demonstrate declining live tree biomass. Contrary to expectation, live tree biomass increased substantially through this period (averaging 1.37 Mg ha −1 yr −1 ). The net increment for this period was relatively high (within 10% of the mean annual increment) well into the second century of stand development in this high-elevation aspen forest. We conclude that the high retention of N was not anomalous given the later increase in live tree biomass, and we expect that NEP had not remained negative for a long period.
Abstract 4837: Short-chain fatty acids induced autophagy serves as an adaptive strategy for retarding mitochondria-mediated apoptotic cell death

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are the major by-products of the bacterial fermentation of undigested dietary fiber in the human large intestine. The role of SCFAs, mostly propionate and butyrate, in colon cancer apoptotic cell death and cell proliferation inhibition has been well studied. Herein we demonstrate that, in addition to apoptotic cell death, propionate and butyrate induce another type of cell death termed “autophagy” in human colon cancer cells. Propionate-treated cells exhibited extensive characteristics of autophagic proteolysis: increased LC3-I to LC3-II conversion and reduced expression of p62/SQSTM1; increased acidic vesicular organelle development as manifested by dramatic increase in punctate GFPLC3, LysoTracker and MDC staining. Propionate-induced autophagy was associated with decreased mTOR activity and enhanced AMP kinase activity, two events known to be linked to autophagy. The elevated AMPKa phosphorylation is believed to have been caused by cellular ATP depletion due to mitochondrial dysfunction involving induction of mitochondrial permeability transition, as evidenced by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and overproduction of reactive oxygen species. In this context, mitochondria biogenesis was initiated to recover cellular energy homeostasis. Importantly, when autophagy was prevented at an early stage by 3-methyladenine, or when autophagic degradation was inhibited at a late stage by Chloroquine, the colon cancer cells became sensitized toward propionate induced apoptosis through activation of caspase 7 and its downstream effector caspase-3. Potentiation of cell death was also observed when autophagy was abolished using shRNA against the autophagic gene ATG5. These observations indicate that propionate-triggered autophagy serves as an adaptive strategy for retarding mitochondria-mediated apoptotic cell death. As SCFAs widely exist in the human large intestine, application of an autophagy inhibitor, such as Chloroquine, is expected to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of SCFAs in inducing tumor cell apoptosis. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4837.
Transient pressure mediated intranuclear delivery of FITC-Dextran into chicken cardiomyocytes by MEMS-based nanothermite reaction actuator

Abstract We have developed a novel, operator-friendly, nanothermite reaction actuator which generates transient pressures comprised of a shock wave superimposed on a broad pressure pulse to facilitate intranuclear molecular transport. The actuator demonstrates the delivery of ∼70 kDa FITC-Dextran into chicken cardiomyocytes with cytoplasmic delivery efficiency greater than 90%, maximum intranuclear delivery efficiency of 84%, and cell survival rates exceeding 95% in minimum operating pressure conditions. Tunable nanothermite reactions enable versatile pressure generating characteristics which can extend the technology to a spectrum of biomedical molecular delivery applications.
Construction of Domain Ontologies: Sourcing the World Wide Web

As the World Wide Web evolves into the Semantic Web, domain ontologies, which represent the concepts of an application domain and their associated relationships, have become increasingly important as surrogates for capturing and representing the semantics of real world applications. Much ontology development remains manual and is both difficult and time-consuming. This research presents a methodology for semi-automatically generating domain ontologies from extracted information on the World Wide Web. The methodology is implemented in a prototype that integrates existing ontology and web organization tools. The prototype is used to develop ontologies for different application domains, and an empirical analysis carried out to demonstrate the feasibility of the research.
Prediction of failure envelopes and stress/strain behaviour of composite laminates

Abstract Failure envelopes for unidirectional composites and multi-layered composite laminates have been predicted by linear laminate theory. The ply-by-ply discount method with parallel spring stiffness reduction model was used in the prediction. The stress/strain behavior of four laminates under uniaxial or biaxial loading were predicted by considering both material non-linearity and progressive matrix cracking. Material non-linearity was considered by using a one-parameter plasticity model for fiber-reinforced composites. Progressive matrix cracking and the corresponding stiffness reduction were predicted by use of a simplified shear-lag analysis and finite element analysis.
Frequency of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Abnormalities in Patients With Migraine

Background.-The frequency of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities in patients with migraine has been reported at 12% to 46%. We examined a series of patients to determine the frequency of MRI abnormalities, and any relationship of frequency with patient age, sex, migraine type, duration of symptoms, and other medical conditions. Methods.-Magnetic resonance imaging findings were reviewed retrospectively with respect to presence of focal white matter hyperintensities in 185 consecutive patients. Patients had been diagnosed with migraine by a neurologist. All images had been interpreted by a neuroradiologist. Clinical information was obtained by chart review. Results.-Sixteen percent had focal white matter abnormalities. Among patients less than 50 years old, and without other medical problems such as hypertension, atherosclerotic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, autoimmune disorder or demyelinating disease, only 6% had white matter abnormalities. Increased frequency of white matter abnormalities was associated with age and medical risk factors, but not with sex, migraine subtype, or duration of migraine symptoms. Conclusion.-The observed frequency of MRI abnormalities in our series is lower than has been previously reported. In many cases, these abnormalities may be unrelated to migraine. When such changes are discovered in a patient with migraine, other etiologies should be considered.
Sliding Mode Control and Elastic Mode Stabilization of a Robotic Arm With Flexible Links

This paper treats the question of control of an elastic robotic arm of two links based on variable structure system (VSS) theory and pole assignment technique for stabilization. A discontinuous joint angle control law, based on VSS theory, is designed which accomplishes asymptotic decoupled joint angle trajectory tracking. In the closed-loop system, the trajectories are attracted toward a chosen hypersurface in the state space and then slide along it. Although, joint angles are controlled using variable structure control (VSC) law, the flexible modes of the links are excited. Using center manifold theory, it is shown that the closed-loop system, including the sliding mode controller, is stable. Based on a linearized model about the terminal state, a stabilizer is designed using pole assignment technique to control the elastic oscillations of the links. A control logic is included which switches the stabilizer at the instant when the joint angle trajectory enters a specified neighborhood of the terminal state. Simulation results are presented to show that in the closed-loop system, accurate joint angle trajectory tracking, and elastic mode stabilization are accomplished in the presence of payload uncertainty.
NF-κB induced by IL-1β inhibits elastin transcription and myofibroblast phenotype

Interleukin (IL)-1β released after lung injury regulates the production of extracellular matrix components. We found that IL-1β treatment reduced the rate of elastin gene transcription by 74% in ne...
When West Writes East: In Search of an Ethic for Cross-Cultural Interviewing

Cross-cultural interviewing can pose challenges for journalists, given potential differences in language, word choice, volume, body posture, and group dynamics. This article explores some of the complexities of cross-cultural interviews with the dual aim of heightening awareness of ethical considerations for journalists who conduct them and of discussing ethical principles that may help in guiding their work. This article attempts to move the discussion of cross-cultural interviews beyond traditional Western ethics. Eastern moral philosophy and ideals of trust and human relations similar to, but predating the work of contemporary Western communitarians are considered. The authors' ethnographic study of MLB's “Nippon Summer”—the influx of Japanese players in 2007—and analysis of articles resulting from press coverage of those players serve as a framework for discussing ethical considerations at play in cross-cultural journalism, when, for example, West writes East.
Vibrational structure of resonance raman spectra

Abstract The intensity distribution of vibrational progressions in resonance Raman spectra is studied on a simple model. Expressions are derived for the dependence of this vibrational structure on the wavelength of the incident light and on temperature.
Deoxyguanosine kinase of neonatal mouse skin tissue

Abstract Deoxyguanosine kinase (ATP: deoxyguanosine 5′-phosphotransferase) activity has been identified in neonatal mouse skin tissue. This activity which has a molecular weight of 44 000 was shown to be highly specific for deoxyguanosine as a substrate. Unique to deoxynucleoside kinases was the observation that this enzyme possessed a pH optimum of 5.2. In dilute solutions catalytic activity is lost, however the enzymatic activity can be stabilized by the addition of 20 μM MgATP or ATP. Kinetic analysis gave an apparent K m for deoxyguanosine of 7 μM. Double-reciprocal plots of activity vs. MgATP concentration produced a broken line with the break occurring at 0.5 mM MgATP. Below this concentration an apparent K m for MgATP of 23 μM was measured; above 0.5 mM MgATP an apparent K m of 625 μM was calculated. Mouse skin deoxyguanosine kinase was strongly inhibited by dGTP, dGDP and UDP. dGTP was a competitive inhibitor of deoxyguanosine with an apparent K i of 1.9 μM. UDP ( K i,app = 3 μM ), dGDP ( K i,app = 0.7 μM ) and dGTP ( K i,app = 0.07 μM ) were competitive inhibitors of MgATP when the concentration of MgATP was greater than 0.5 mM.
The Next Generation of Navigational Technology

With the advent of frameless techniques in the late 1980s, image guidance rapidly became employed for procedures in which precise knowledge of anatomic position is critical to success. Because image guidance places additional demands on standard surgical procedures, adds cost, and prolongs operative time, initial use of this technology could be justified only when the procedure demanded the utmost accuracy. The inception of image guidance and its early development occurred within neurosurgery because of the precision required by that surgical specialty [1]. With the proliferation of endoscopic sinus techniques, otolaryngologists began to embrace these novel devices with the aim of improving the efficacy and safety of sinus procedures. Early studies investigated the technology, demonstrated its accuracy, outlined potential sources for error, and confirmed its utility [2–4]. In a remarkably short time, navigation systems have gone from being a curious novelty to a near-necessity in some complex skull base procedures. Commercially available navigations systems have improved considerably over the past several years, as evidenced by their current widespread use in endoscopic sinonasal surgery. Indeed, this technology has become established as a valuable adjunctive tool for the endoscopic surgeon. Its continued growth seems certain, although the proper role and indications for its application remain undefined.