cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Time series analysis of regional climate model performance

[1] Four regional climate models (RegCM2, MM5/BATS, MM5/SHEELS, and MM5/OSU) were intercompared on a fairly small domain covering a relatively homogenous area in Kansas, United States, including the First International Satellite Land Surface Climatology Project (SLSCP) Field Experiment (FIFE) site. The models were integrated for a 2-year period covering 1987 and 1988. The model results are evaluated against data collected during this time period at the Konza Prairie Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site as well as over the summer observation periods of FIFE. The models all captured the proper qualitative behavior of the interannual variability, though the magnitudes varied considerably between models. They also found it particularly difficult to reproduce observed changes in the variance of surface variables. No model performed consistently better, with each model displaying particular strengths and weaknesses of its own. RegCM2 could be improved by including an ice phase in the cloud microphysics parameterization. MM5/BATS and MM5/SHEELS need revision of the formulation of stability dependence of the surface drag coefficients, including the coupling to the wind field, as well as using a total soil depth more representative of the area. MM5/OSU simulates too much resistance to evapotranspiration and fails to close the energy budget. All of the models overestimate runoff and evapotranspiration during winter, creating a dry anomaly which persists throughout the following summer. Development and verification of parameterizations involved in coupling the land surface and atmospheric components of these models together is at least as important as the development and verification of each component individually.
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase and estrogen.

See article by M.R. Andersen and S. Stender [1] (pages 192–199) in this issue. Andersen and Stender [1] have reported regional variations in endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity in the endothelial cells of the rabbit aorta. This paper adds an interesting new twist to the to link between atherosclerosis and e-NOS activity. The rabbit has been used frequently as a preferred model for studying the effects on cholesterol feeding on endothelial function for nearly fifteen years. In the process, much has been learned about the evolution of the lesions and the specific histological changes observed both during the phase of feeding and following cessation of feeding diets supplemented with cholesterol. There is consensus in three areas: loss of endothelial dependent relaxation (EDR) associated with cholesterol feeding [2,3], the protective effect of l-arginine on EAR [4] and the type and location of lesions formed [5]. The early lesions can be described best as fatty streaks and are located principally in the arch and upper thoracic aorta with relatively few … * Tel.: +1-530-752-4040; fax: +1-530-752-3264
Galls on the marine red alga Prionitis lanceolata (Halymeniaceae): specific induction and subsequent development of an algal–bacterial symbiosis

Gall formation in Prionitis lanceolata is associated with a specific eubacterium (Proteobacteria [alpha subclass], Rhodobacter grouping), which, typical of bacterial symbionts, has not yet been cultivated or isolated in pure culture. This investigation tested the hypothesis that P. lanceolata gall formation was caused by the associated eubacterium using a species-specific rDNA probe (S-S-P.l.sym-0949-a-A-25) to identify and assay for symbiont presence during consecutive laboratory induction trials. Gall induction was quantified and whole-cell in situ hybridization used to determine the relative percentage of symbiotic eubacteria in inoculation homogenates. In situ hybridization of symbionts in sections allowed localization and monitoring of this microbe during gall development. Induction trial results indicate a significant correlation between bacterial symbiont presence and gall initiation (P 5 0.00005). The gall bacterium comprised the majority of the eubacteria hybridized in laboratory induction homogenates (85‐97%), in galls induced in the laboratory and in three algal populations in nature. The evidence presented here demonstrates the causative role of the identified eubacterium in gall induction and formation. This investigation is significant in the application of molecular methods towards understanding the roles of noncultivable marine bacteria in marine algal‐microbe interactions.
Regucalcin and metabolic disorders: osteoporosis and hyperlipidemia are induced in regucalcin transgenic rats

Regucalcin transgenic (TG) rat has been generated to determine the role in metabolic disorders. Regucalcin homozygote male and female rats induce a prominent increase in regucalcin protein in the various tissues. Bone loss has been found to induce in regucalcin TG rats with growing (5 weeks old) and aging (50 weeks old). Osteoclastogenesis has been shown to stimulate in culture with the bone marrow cells obtained from regucalcin TG rats. Exogenous regucalcin stimulates osteoclastogenesis in mouse marrow culture in vitro. Regucalcin has a suppressive effect on the differentiation and mineralization in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells in vitro. The mechanism by which regucalcin TG rat induces bone loss may result from the enhancement of osteoclastic bone resorption and the suppression of osteoblastic bone formation. Moreover, regucalcin TG rat has been found to induce hyperlipidemia with increasing age (14–50 weeks); serum triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, free fatty acid, albumin and calcium concentrations are markedly increased in regucalcin TG male and female rats with increasing age. The decrease in lipid and glycogen contents in liver tissues is induced in regucalcin TG rats. The gene expression of leptin and adiponectin is suppressed in the TG rats. Overexpression of regucalcin has been shown to enhance glucose utilization and lipid production in the cloned rat hepatoma H4-II-E cells in vitro, and insulin resistance is seen in the cells. The expression of glucose transporter 2 mRNA is increased in the transfectants, while it has been shown to suppress insulin receptor and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase mRNA expressions that are involved in insulin signaling. This review proposes that regucalcin relates in osteoporosis and hyperlipidemia, and that the regucalcin TG rat model may be useful in determining the pathophysiologic state and the development of therapeutic tool for osteoporosis and hyperlipidemia.
Materials Engineering by Ameloblasts

Enamel is unique. It is the only epithelial-derived mineralized tissue in mammals and has a distinct micro- and nanostructure with nanofibrous apatite crystals as building blocks. It is synthesized by a highly specialized cell, the ameloblast, which secretes matrix proteins with little homology to any other known amino acid sequence, but which is composed of a primary structure that makes it competent to self-assemble and control apatite crystal growth at the nanometer scale. The end-product of ameloblast activity is a marvel of structural engineering: a material optimized to provide the tooth with maximum biting force, withstanding millions of cycles of loads without catastrophic failure, while also protecting the dental pulp from bacterial attack. This review attempts to bring into context the mechanical behavior of enamel with the developmental process of amelogenesis and structural development, since they are linked to tissue function, and the importance of controlling calcium phosphate mineralization at the nanometer scale. The origins of apatite nanofibers, the development of a stiffness gradient, and the biological processes responsible for the synthesis of a hard and fracture-resistant dental tissue are discussed with reference to the evolution of enamel from a fibrous composite to a complex, tough, and damage-tolerant coating on dentin.
Assessment of learning by the Morris water task and fear conditioning in inbred mouse strains and F1 hybrids: implications of genetic background for single gene mutations and quantitative trait loci analyses

Genetic methods including the creation of transgenic or null mutant models and mapping studies using quantitative trait loci strategies can be used to identify candidate genes in mice that regulate learning processes. Interpretations as to the impact of single gene mutations for polygenic behaviours like learning will depend in part on the genetic background of the animals used for these manipulations. To address the issue of genetic variability, 12 inbred strains and seven different F1 hybrids were tested on multiple behavioural tasks, including two complex learning paradigms: the Morris water task and fear conditioning. Strain differences were found for all variables measured. In the hidden platform version of the Morris task, the albino animals performed poorly while overall the F1 hybrids showed the best selectivity for the trained quadrant as measured in a probe trial. In contrast, almost all genotypes performed well on the contextual fear conditioning task and learned to associate the test context with the pairing of a foot shock and auditory stimulus as demonstrated 24 h after training by increased freezing in the test environment compared to an altered context. Significant genetic correlations were obtained for behavioural measures suggesting that the same genes regulate various aspects of performance on behavioural tasks. Scores from these multiple inbred strains and F1 hybrids provide a baseline level of learning ability for fear conditioning and the Morris water task. The results of the present study confirm the importance of genetic background in the performance of various learning tasks. This variability should be considered when developing new transgenic or null mutant animal models.
The Danish “Miracle” Luck, Pluck, or Stuck?

The 1980s and 1990s saw employment “miracles” in Denmark, Australia, and the Netherlands. This article analyzes the dynamics and substance of Danish policy responses to poor export, employment, and fiscal performance to see whether remediation should be attributed to pluck (intentional, strategic remediation of dysfunctional institutions to make them conform with the external environment), luck (environmental change that makes formerly dysfunctional institutions suddenly functional), or just being stuck (endogenous, not entirely strategic change that leaves institutions in conformity with the environment). It addresses these issues to remedy biases in the literature toward Sweden-as-model, toward pessimism about the welfare state's survivability, and toward privileging intentional action. The analysis finds that stuck (endogenous dynamics) probably explains as much as pluck (strategic choice), suggesting only limited transferability for policy lessons from the miracles.
Evaluation of a practical interlingua for task-oriented dialogue

IF (Interchange Format), the interlingua used by the C-STAR consortium, is a speech-act based interlingua for task-oriented dialogue. IF was designed as a practical interlingua that could strike a balance between expressivity and simplicity. If it is too simple, components of meaning will be lost and coverage of unseen data will be low. On the other hand, if it is too complex, it cannot be used with a high degree of consistency by collaborators on different continents. In this paper, we suggest methods for evaluating the coverage of IF and the consistency with which it was used in the C-STAR consortium.
Local Energy Transfer in Self-Assembled Polyelectrolyte Thin Films Probed by Near-Field Optics

Near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) has been used to investigate spatially localized energy transfer properties of self-assembled polyelectrolyte films consisting of poly(p-phenylene vinylene) (PPV) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) doped with Texas Red dye (TR-PAH). Local differences in energy transfer efficiency highlight the unique multilayer interpenetration properties of thin films constructed using the layer-by-layer (LbL) electrostatic self-assembly technique, as well as the importance of localized probes, to discern local variation that would not be observed using spatially averaged measurements.
A space-time model for electronic scan for phase array weather radar

This paper presents a space-time characterization model for weather system along with a mechanism mapping the model to a scan strategy. A scan strategy with ability to capture more features accurately from the weather system while minimizing the scan time is introduced.
Horizontal Attenuation of Ultraviolet Light by the Lower Atmosphere

The horizontal attenuation of ultraviolet light by the air near the ground was determined as a continuous function of wavelength from 2300 to 4600 A. Measurements were made by means of photographic spectrophotometry on seventy-eight nights during 1949 at Pasadena, California, and also on three nights during 1950 at Washington, D. C. The results are given in the form of a table of attenuation coefficients (km−1) at selected wavelengths and in the form of representative spectral attenuation curves for conditions ranging from fog to exceptionally clear air. Except for weak oxygen absorption bands between 2421 and 2700 A, the attenuation coefficient was found to vary quite smoothly (though differently) with wavelength on all nights. Air pollutants, though frequently present, were not spectroscopically identified except for sulfur dioxide, which was encountered in measurable concentration in Washington. Ozone concentrations could be estimated from a few spectra obtained in exceptionally clear weather.
Alternate Modes of Cognate RNA Recognition by Human PUMILIO Proteins

Summary Human PUMILIO1 (PUM1) and PUMILIO2 (PUM2) are members of the PUMILIO/FBF (PUF) family that regulate specific target mRNAs posttranscriptionally. Recent studies have identified mRNA targets associated with human PUM1 and PUM2. Here, we explore the structural basis of natural target RNA recognition by human PUF proteins through crystal structures of the RNA-binding domains of PUM1 and PUM2 in complex with four cognate RNA sequences, including sequences from p38α and erk2 MAP kinase mRNAs. We observe three distinct modes of RNA binding around the fifth RNA base, two of which are different from the prototypical 1 repeat:1 RNA base binding mode previously identified with model RNA sequences. RNA-binding affinities of PUM1 and PUM2 are not affected dramatically by the different binding modes in vitro. However, these modes of binding create structurally variable recognition surfaces that suggest a mechanism in vivo for recruitment of downstream effector proteins defined by the PUF:RNA complex.
Implementing complex clinical information systems in complex situations II: facilitating user acceptance of clinical information systems

The decision to implement an automated clinical information system is usually predicated upon satisfying the information needs of a specific group, generally administrators. It is clinicians, however, who will bear the burden of any work that this will entail. McCleery has argued that accuracy of source data will be assured only if "...spinoffs (are) developed for clinical staff that may be applied to their direct patient care activities." And, since the information a clinician provides to an automated system will probably wend its way back into activities that may ultimately affect the life of the clinician (e.g., credentialing or budgeting activities), it becomes even more important to develop credible, high quality "spin-offs" that can offset these potentially more pejorative administrative applications. These spin-offs can run the gamut from hard out puts of the automated system, to research using stored data, to educational programs based on analyses of clinical service delivery patterns, trends and research. This paper will discuss various techniques currently in use to facilitate user (i.e., clinician) acceptance of a large, state-wide clinical information system. The system, the state hospitals the methods being used to facilitate accept ance will be reviewed in the following sections.
Paraneoplastic Pemphigus Presenting as a Lichen Planus Pemphigoides—like Eruption

• Background.— Paraneoplastic pemphigus refers to a specific disease entity in which neoplasia is associated with severe mucosal ulceration and polymorphous cutaneous eruptions, sometimes resembling erythema multiforme. Direct immunofluorescence and indirect immunofluorescence on standard substrates are similar to pemphigus vulgaris; however, paraneoplastic pemphigus serum uniquely binds to all epithelia and has distinctive immunoprecipitation characteristics. Observations.— A 63-year-old woman with chronic lymphocytic leukemia developed a severe, mucocutaneous, vesiculobullous eruption with the clinical and histopathologic characteristics of lichen planus pemphigoides evolving into a Stevens-Johnson—like presentation and the immunofluorescence findings of pemphigus vulgaris. Evaluation of her serum confirmed the presence of autoantibodies specific for paraneoplastic pemphigus by indirect immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation criteria. Conclusion.— The spectrum of paraneoplastic pemphigus must now be expanded to include cases that present clinically and histologically as a lichen planus pemphigoides— like eruption. ( Arch Dermatol. 1993;129:866-869)
Traditional or Translational Research for Nursing More PhDs Please

In this column, the authors focus on the need for more PhD-prepared nurses as opposed to nurses receiving the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This would help to to facilitate an understanding between traditional research and translational research. The idea of a need for collaboration between these two terminal degrees is highlighted. To that end, the history and intent of the research doctorate and the practice doctorate are entertained along with a brief description of the traditional and translational research processes.
Role played by purinergic receptors on muscle afferents in evoking the exercise pressor reflex.

The exercise pressor reflex is believed to be evoked, in part, by multiple metabolic stimuli that are generated when blood supply to exercising muscles is inadequate to meet metabolic demand. Recen...
Making Pages That Move: Applications of Dynamic HTML in the Biology Laboratory

We are all familiar with the traditional web page containing static text and images. Load the page into your browser window on Friday and you will see the same page that appeared the previous Monday. In most situations, this is satisfactory and occasional updating by the author to bring material up to date is sufficient to keep the page relevant and useful. There may be times, however, when we want the ability to provide dynamic pages to the user, such that the page can be updated continuously. Such pages may display information that is customized to the needs of the individual user, or information that changes as the user manipulates objects on the page (usually by clicking or dragging the mouse). The technology to do this turns out to have useful applications in the biology laboratory. I would like to present a brief overview of the mechanisms used to produce dynamic pages, and a few examples of applications in the laboratory.
Sliding mode control

The sliding mode control approach is recognised as an efficient tool to design robust controllers for complex high-order nonlinear dynamic plant operating under uncertain conditions. The research in this area was initiated in the former Soviet Union about 40 years ago, and the sliding mode control methodology has subsequently received much more attention from the international control community within the last two decades.
Subdiaphragmatic vagotomy blocks the sleepand fever-promoting effects of interleukin-1β

The mechanism by which peripheral cytokines signal the central nervous system to elicit central manifestations of the acute phase response remains unknown. Recent evidence suggests that cytokines m...
Apholate-Induced Sterility in Bracon hebetor

These investigations extended the study of apholate chemosterilization to Hymenoptera and used the response of Bracon hebetor Say ovarioles to interpret effects in terms of the variety of cell types present in an insect ovary. Three modes of application to adult females were compared: topical, contact with a coated surface, and injection. No reduction in life span occurred, but egg production and hatchability were drastically reduced. Injection was most effective for decreasing fecundity and fertility. Contact application was least effective. Cystocytes in the process of differentiation were the most sensitive of cell types. Second in sensitivity were the undifferentiated oogonia destined to undergo differentiation. Mitosis and endomitosis, the nuclear processes involved in successful differentiation of ovariole contents, are both vulnerable to DNA alkylation.
Derivation of mean-square displacements for protein dynamics from elastic incoherent neutron scattering.

The derivation of mean-square displacements from elastic incoherent neutron scattering (EINS) of proteins is examined, with the aid of experiments on camphor-bound cytochrome P450cam and complementary molecular dynamics simulations. It is shown that a q4 correction to the elastic incoherent structure factor (where q is the scattering vector) can be simply used to reliably estimate from the experiment both the average mean-square atomic displacement, ⟨Δr2⟩ of the nonexchanged hydrogen atoms in the protein and its variance, σ2. The molecular dynamics simulation results are in broad agreement with the experimentally derived ⟨Δr2⟩ and σ2 derived from EINS on instruments at two different energy resolutions, corresponding to dynamics on the ∼100 ps and ∼1 ns time scales. Significant dynamical heterogeneity is found to arise from methyl-group rotations. The easy-to-apply q4 correction extends the information extracted from elastic incoherent neutron scattering experiments and should be of wide applicability.
Capabilities of monocentric objective lenses

Monocentric lenses enable panoramic high-resolution imaging, but have not been fully explored. We present algorithms for systematic optimization of monocentric objectives, and show the tradeoff between lens complexity and focal length, numerical aperture and spectral bandwidth.
The Scholarship, Education and Defense Fund for Racial Equality and the African American Organizing Tradition in the Era of Black Power:

At a time when disillusionment with mainstream institutions and a focus on black power appeared dominant in the struggle for racial equality in the United States, the interracial Scholarship, Educa...
The Phylogeny of the Gall Mites and a New Classification of the Suborder Prostigmata of the Order Acarina

Of all the major groups of the Acarnia it is doubtful if any are more aberrant than the gall mites, and but few show such unity of organization or sameness of habits. Because of this there has been in the past but little evidence upon which to establish any natural affinities between them and any of the other groups, while suggestions as to their origin have been but little more than conjectures.
Ethics and the Emergency Care of the Seriously Ill and Injured Elderly Patient

Ethics in western medicine is governed by four basic principles: nonmaleficence, beneficence, autonomy, and justice. Acutely ill and injured elderly patients often present ethical challenges to the physician as they attempt to balance conflicting ethical priorities. Healthcare decisions in the elderly are made more complex by numerous factors such as advances in surgical care that may lengthen life yet worsen quality of life, allocation of resources, disparities of care, the presence of dementia, and need for surrogate decision makers. Communication is a key factor in providing the best possible care to the acutely ill and injured elderly patient.
A Simplified Scleral Graft Technique for Covering an Exposed Orbital Implant

A simplified method of covering an exposed orbital implant is presented. Donor sclera is placed between Tenon's capsule and the spherical implant without dissecting any tissue planes between the conjunctiva and Tenon's capsule. Technical manipulations and bleeding are thereby minimized. Preplaced absorbable sutures in the periphery of the graft are externalized and tied to the anterior surface of the conjunctiva.
Computing the motion of spinning finned projectiles

The inertia characteristics of symmetrically finned projectiles are shown to be invariant of roll angle. This special property is used to derive despun' equations of motion so avoiding the rapid rates of change associated with the use of body fixed axes. By exploiting the special inertia and aerodynamic characteristics of symmetrically finned spinning projectiles it is possible to reduce the computer solution time required for long down range calculations. By combining the system with the use of quaternions for attitude determination, firings at high elevation can also be accommodated. A speed up by an order of magnitude is observed for the example of a 40mm shell
Error-Statistics, Evidence, and Severity

Several non-Bayesian and non-Likelihood accounts of evidence have been worked out in interesting detail. One such account has been championed by the philosopher Deborah Mayo and the statistician Ari Spanos. Following Popper, it assumes from the outset that to test a hypothesis is to submit it to a severe test. Unlike Popper it relies on the notion of error frequencies central to Neyman-Pearson statistics. Unlike Popper as well, Mayo and Spanos think that global theories like Newtonian mechanics are tested in a piecemeal way, by submitting their component hypotheses to severe tests. We argue that the error-statistical notion of severity is not adequately “severe,” that the emphasis on piecemeal testing procedures is misplaced, and that the Mayo-Spanos account of evidence is mistakenly committed to a “true model” assumption. In a technical Appendix we deflect Mayo’s critique of the multiple-model character of our account of evidence.
Nonlinear photothermal mid-infrared spectroscopy

Mid-infrared photothermal spectroscopy is a pump-probe technique for label-free and non-destructive sample characterization by targeting intrinsic vibrational modes. In this method, the mid-infrared pump beam excites a temperature-induced change in the refractive index of the sample. This laser-induced change in the refractive index is measured by a near-infrared probe laser using lock-in detection. At increased pump powers, emerging nonlinear phenomena not previously demonstrated in other mid-infrared techniques are observed. Nonlinear study of a 6 μm-thick 4-Octyl-4’-Cyanobiphenyl (8CB) liquid crystal sample is conducted by targeting the C=C stretching band at 1606 cm -1 . At high pump powers, nonlinear signal enhancement and multiple pitchfork bifurcations of the spectral features are observed. An explanation of the nonlinear peak splitting is provided by the formation of bubbles in the sample at high pump powers. The discontinuous refractive index across the bubble interface results in a decrease in the forward scatter of the probe beam. This effect can be recorded as a bifurcation of the absorption peak in the photothermal spectrum. These nonlinear effects are not present in direct measurements of the mid-infrared beam. Evolution of the nonlinear photothermal spectrum of 8CB liquid crystal with increasing pump power shows enhancement of the absorption peak at 1606 cm -1 . Multiple pitchfork bifurcations and spectral narrowing of the photothermal spectrum are demonstrated. This novel nonlinear regime presents potential for improved spectral resolution as well as a new regime for sample characterization in mid-infrared photothermal spectroscopy.
Particle Trajectories, Tallies, and Variance Reduction

A source function defines probability distributions of all parameters of all emitted particles. The parameters include phase coordinates and internal degrees of freedom, of which at least the type of particles must be specified. If more than one type of particles is emitted, then a discrete distribution of particle types must be specified. A real source may emit more than one particle at a time, and the number of particles can be random. A launch of several particles at a time can be easily implemented in a Monte Carlo code. However, for most standard problems, such as calculations of dose distributions, such implementation is not necessary, and particles can be simulated one at a time. The final result, because of linearity of the Boltzmann equation, can be rescaled to account for the actual total number of particles of each type emitted by a source. The types of problems where the results cannot be simply scaled by the number of source particles are calculations of fluctuations and correlations of radiation fields, see for example Wang and Vassiliev (2014). In those cases, it may be necessary to simulate a simultaneous launch of several particles. However, such a simulation can be avoided in some cases where special “rescaling” methods have been developed. An example of the “rescaling” methods is provided later by Eq. (6.3) in Chap. 6 An additional complication for problems concerning fluctuations and correlations is that correlations between particles emitted by the source, if they are present, need to be accounted for.
Formación parental para mejorar las técnicas del lenguaje narrativo de sus hijos con discapacidad intelectual

Resumen El presente estudio analizo la utilizacion de la formacion parental y la intervencion del lenguaje narrativo realizada por los padres, para incrementar la comprension y la produccion del lenguaje narrativo en ninos con discapacidad intelectual. Catorce ninos con discapacidad intelectual, y sus padres, tomaron parte en el estudio. Los padres participaron en un taller en vivo para aprender los metodos de intervencion del lenguaje narrativo, y recibieron un paquete de materiales y dos libros preseleccionados. Tras la sesion, completaron la formacion en casa con sus hijos durante un periodo de ocho semanas. A los ninos se les realizaron pruebas previas y finales, sobre tecnicas del lenguaje narrativo. Durante el estudio, los padres enviaron un informe semanal al investigador principal, y completaron una encuesta a la conclusion de la intervencion. Los padres reportaron resultados positivos en cuanto a mejora del conocimiento sobre tecnicas del lenguaje narrativo, y fueron capaces de incorporar los materiales suministrados y las tecnicas aprendidas para incrementar la comprension y la produccion de lenguaje por parte de sus hijos.
Engineering Remotely Triggered Liposomes to Target Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) continues to present a challenge in the clinic, as there is still no approved targeted therapy. TNBC is the worst sub-type of breast cancer in terms of prognosis and exhibits a deficiency in estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) receptors. One possible option for the treatment of TNBC is chemotherapy. The issue with many chemotherapy drugs is that their effectiveness is diminished due to poor water solubility, and the method of administration directly or with a co-solvent intravenously can lead to an increase in toxicity. The issues of drug solubility can be avoided by using liposomes as a drug delivery carrier. Liposomes are engineered, biological nanoconstructs that possess the ability to encapsulate both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs and have been clinically approved to treat cancer. Specific targeting of cancer cell receptors through the use of ligands conjugated to the surface of drug-loaded liposomes could lessen damage to normal, healthy tissue. This study focuses on polyethylene glycol (PEG)-coated, folate conjugated, benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD)-loaded liposomes for treatment via photodynamic therapy (PDT). The folate receptor is over expressed on TNBC cells so these liposomes are targeted for greater uptake into cancer cells. PDT involves remotely irradiating light at 690 nm to trigger BPD, a hydrophobic photosensitive drug, to form reactive oxygen species that cause tumor cell death. BPD also displays a fluorescence signal when excited by light making it possible to image the fluorescence prior to PDT and for theranostics. In this study, free BPD, non-targeted and folate-targeted PEGylated BPD-loaded liposomes were introduced to a metastatic breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) in vitro. The liposomes were reproducibly synthesized and characterized for size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, stability, and BPD release kinetics. Folate competition tests, fluorescence confocal imaging, and MTT assay were used to observe and quantify targeting effectiveness. The toxicity of BPD before and after PDT in monolayer and 3D in vitro cultures with TNBC cells was observed. This study may contribute to a novel nanoparticle-mediated approach to target TNBC using PDT.
Simulation to Meet Curricular Needs in Ethics

Abstract Nurse educators must respond to several challenges, including a lack of opportunities for on-site clinical education, and large volumes of emerging information. Simulation of clinical experiences is one of the more promising innovative strategies being incorporated into educational programs to expand learning. A challenging situation on the topic of grief and loss for pre-licensure baccalaureate students was introduced using trained Standardized Patients. This case raised ethical concerns for the students related to actions by the nursing staff caring for the patient, and was used to encourage exploration of students' feelings and values related to an ethical concern, pregnancy termination.
Liberated Threads: Black Women, Style, and the Global Politics of Soul / The Birth of Cool: Style Narratives of the African Diaspora

Two scholars, Tanisha C. Ford from the United States and Carol Tulloch from Britain, have given us thoughtful, important works that explore fashion and style of the African diaspora from the late n...
Interactions of cytochromec with phospholipid membranes : Reactivity of cytochromec bound to phospholipid liquid crystals.

Cytochromec can be bound to mixed cardiolipin-lecithin liquid crystals so that it cannot be removed by repeated washings with solutions of high ionic strength. The oxidized and reduced spectra of this cytochromec show no detectable differences from those for soluble cytochromec. Unlike soluble cytochromec, however, some 90% of the bound cytochromec is not reduced by ascorbate, and it is only slowly reduced by dithionite. The addition of redox dyes causes complete and immediate reduction in the presence of ascorbate or dithionite. It is suggested that this is because the dyes possess some degree of lipid solubility and are able to penetrate the phospholipid membrane barriers separating cytochromec from the bulk solution. The addition of detergents, such as Triton X-100, also promotes reduction of the bound cytochromec by ascorbate. A small change in the standard potential from, 273 mV for soluble cytochromec to 225 mV for the bound cytochromec was found. The bound cytochromec reacts readily with potassium cyanide to form the normal cyanide-ferricytochromec complex, differing in the rate of formation from soluble cytochromec only at alkaline pH values. The relationship of these findings to work on the membrane-bound cytochromec in mitochondria and submitochondrial particles is discussed.
Applying Full Spectrum Analysis to a Raman Spectroscopic Assessment of Fracture Toughness of Human Cortical Bone.

A decline in the inherent quality of bone tissue is a †Equal contributorscontributor to the age-related increase in fracture risk. Although this is well-known, the important biochemical factors of ...
Effects of interlocking on interlayer adhesion and strength of structures in 3D printing of concrete

Abstract 3D printing of concrete uses computer controlled layering of cementitious material to fabricate structures. The paper presented here investigates the effect of interlocking on bond strength between layers of Contour Crafted structure using experimental approaches. A concrete mixture which is compatible with the existing extrusion system is used and different interlock configurations are tested. The results show that bonding strengths is sensitive to interlocking and it can be increased by an average of 26% as shown by splitting test.
Improving Team Performance Through Simulation-Based Learning

American health care is facing an epidemic of medical errors. A major cause of these errors is poor teamwork. Crisis resource management (CRM) is a set of teamwork principles derived from the airline industry. Medical simulation is an educational tool that affords health care providers a means of improving teamwork by learning and practicing CRM. This article (1) discusses the case for teaching team training, (2) reviews the principles of medical simulation as they pertain to team training, (3) provides practical guidelines for using medical simulation in otolaryngology education, (4) discusses current evidence for the efficacy of medical simulation.
Influence of Fiber Type on Palatability Attributes of Beef Round

Differences in fiber diameter, method of metabolism, and glycogen content that arise between muscle fiber types can have a significant effect on a number of sensory traits that affect palatability. The vastus intermedius was the only muscle of the round with a high percentage of type I myosin heavy chain isoform. Within the muscles of the round we observed that a high percentage of type I myosin heavy chain is associated less intact troponin-t. Increased sensory juiciness was correlated with a greater proportion of type I muscle fibers. By identifying the fiber type of the muscles of the round we can better understand how fiber type influences the sensory characteristics of those muscles. With additional understanding comes the potential to predict those characteristics and produce a product that is juicier by manipulating the fiber type of those muscles.
Ecosystem Structure of Tidal Saline Marshes

Abstract Salt marshes are among the most valuable and productive ecosystems in the world, occurring as coastal features that often fringe shorelines and which often dominate vegetated areas of estuarine environments. Salt marshes vary from small and discrete to broad and expansive marshes and are typically located in sheltered, low-energy shoreline areas forming the interface between marine and terrestrial environments. The largest concentrations of tidal marshes are found along the South Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America followed by China. The distribution of plant species is determined by the physical, chemical, and biological environment, with flooding and salinity as the primary variables influencing distribution. Salt marshes are generally replaced by mangrove swamps in coastal regions of the tropics and subtropics. Benthic algae occur on the sediments below and adjacent to the emergent vegetation of tidal saline marshes, as well as on the culms of the emergent vegetation (epiphytic algae). Tidal saline marshes are important habitat for organism use, including spawning, feeding, migration, and nursery (growth and refuge), among other important uses. The importance for a wide range of nekton species is well-documented. Very few species of snakes, turtles, and crocodilians can be considered common residents of tidal saline marshes; however, large number of amphibian and reptile species are occasional visitors but prefer brackish and fresh marshes. Typically, saline marsh avifauna is dominated, at least numerically, by large numbers of Anseriformes (waterfowl), Ciconiiformes (long-legged wading birds), and Charadriiformes (shorebirds, gulls, and terns). In addition, Passeriformes (songbirds) feed and breed in saline marshes. The total number of mammalian species, whose habitat primarily consists of tidal marshes, has been estimated to range from 13 to 26, with rodents predominant. Of these, only the salt marsh harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris) is restricted to coastal marshes. A full understanding of salt marsh ecosystems and their ecological structure is critical, given the global distribution of these productive ecosystems, their unique dynamics, and susceptibility to anthropogenic stresses.
The Importance of Communication

The role of a developer is never simple or easy. The constant evolution in terms of best practice, newer and better frameworks appearing all of the time, and all this is moving at such a rapid pace that it makes Moore's Law look slow in comparison.
Randomized algorithms of maximum likelihood estimation with spatial autoregressive models for large-scale networks

The spatial autoregressive (SAR) model is a classical model in spatial econometrics and has become an important tool in network analysis. However, with large-scale networks, existing methods of likelihood-based inference for the SAR model become computationally infeasible. We here investigate maximum likelihood estimation for the SAR model with partially observed responses from large-scale networks. By taking advantage of recent developments in randomized numerical linear algebra, we derive efficient algorithms to estimate the spatial autocorrelation parameter in the SAR model. Compelling experimental results from extensive simulation and real data examples demonstrate empirically that the estimator obtained by our method, called the randomized maximum likelihood estimator, outperforms the state of the art by giving smaller bias and standard error, especially for large-scale problems with moderate spatial autocorrelation. The theoretical properties of the estimator are explored, and consistency results are established.
RIPK1 can mediate apoptosis in addition to necroptosis during embryonic development.

RIPK1 has emerged as a key effector in programmed necrosis or necroptosis. This function of RIPK1 is mediated by its protein serine/threonine kinase activity and through the downstream kinase RIPK3. Deletion of RIPK1 prevents embryonic lethality in mice lacking FADD, a signaling adaptor protein required for activation of Caspase 8 in extrinsic apoptotic pathways. This indicates that FADD-mediated apoptosis inhibits RIPK1-dependent necroptosis to ensure successful embryogenesis. However, the molecular mechanism for this critical regulation remains unclear. In the current study, a novel mouse model has been generated, by disrupting a potential caspase cleavage site at aspartic residue (D)324 in RIPK1. Interestingly, replacing D324 with alanine (A) in RIPK1 results in midgestation lethality, similar to the embryonic defect in FADD−/− mice but in stark contrast to the normal embryogenesis of RIPK1−/− null mutant mice. Surprisingly, disrupting the downstream RIPK3 alone is insufficient to rescue RIPK1D324A/D324A mice from embryonic lethality, unless FADD is deleted simultaneously. Further analyses reveal a paradoxical role for RIPK1 in promoting caspase activation and apoptosis in embryos, a novel mechanism previously unappreciated.
Theories of Acquired Immunity

The Latin words “immunitas” and “immunis” have their origin in the legal concept of an exemption: initially, in ancient Rome, they were described as the exemption of an individual from service or duty, and later in the Middle Ages, the exemption of the Church and its properties and personnel from civil control. This chapter describes the theories of acquired immunity, it has as minimal prerequisites: the concept of an etiologic agent, a concept of transmission of agent, an understanding of the specificity and general reproducibility of a disease, and some concept of host–parasite interaction. The chapter also explains a distension theory: iatrophysics. The new physical sciences had important implications for contemporary medical thought, and affected the manner in which diseases were viewed and their therapies formulated. Two new schools of medicine arose as a result of the scientific advances, each vying to apply its theories and its therapeutic regimens to the diseased patient. In addition, some of the depletion theories are also explained, such as Cotton Mather: 1724, Thomas Fuller: 1730, the innate seed, and James Kirkpatrick: 1754.
Pre-clinical anti-tumor activity of Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase inhibitor in Hodgkin's Lymphoma cellular and subcutaneous tumor model

Abstract Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) is a member of the TEC family and plays a central role in B-cell signaling, activation, proliferation and differentiation. Here we evaluated the impact of BTK inhibitor Ibrutinib on a panel of HL models in vitro and in vivo. Ibrutinib suppressed viability and induced apoptosis in 4 HL cell lines in a dose and time dependent manner. Molecular analysis showed induction of both apoptotic and autophagy markers. Ibrutinib treatment resulted in suppression of BTK and other downstream targets including PI3K, mTOR and RICTOR. Ibrutinib given at 50 mg/kg p.o daily for three weeks caused statistically significant inhibition of HL cell line derived subcutaneous xenografts (p
Differential Regulation of ANP and BNP in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: Deficiency of ANP

Abstract Objectives This study investigated the differential regulation of circulating atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and tested the hypothesis that a relative deficiency of ANP exists in a subgroup of patients with ADHF. Background The endocrine heart releases the cardiac hormones ANP and BNP, which play a key role in cardiovascular (CV), renal, and metabolic homeostasis. In heart failure (HF), both plasma ANP and BNP are increased as a compensatory homeostatic response to myocardial overload. Methods ANP and BNP concentrations were measured in a small group of patients with ADHF (n = 112). To support this study’s goal, a total of 129 healthy subjects were prospectively recruited to establish contemporary normal values for ANP and BNP. Plasma 3′,5′cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), ejection fraction (EF), and body mass index (BMI) were measured in these subjects. Results In cases of ADHF, 74% of patients showed elevated ANP and BNP. Importantly, 26% of patients were characterized as having normal ANP (21% of this subgroup had normal ANP and elevated BNP). Cyclic GMP was lowest in the ADHF group with normal levels of ANP (p Conclusions Among a subgroup of patients hospitalized with ADHF, the presence of an ANP deficiency is consistent with a differential regulation of ANP and BNP and suggests the existence of a potentially compromised compensatory cardiac endocrine response. These findings have implications for the pathophysiology, diagnostics, and therapeutics of human HF.
Inversion of downhole electrical measurements for proppant mapping using very fast simulated annealing

ABSTRACTProppant mapping is critical for optimizing fracture treatment design and improving wells’ productivity. An electrode-based resistivity tool concept was developed earlier for proppant mappi...