cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distinct Functions of Erythropoietin and Stem Cell Factor Are Linked to Activation of p70S6/mTOR Kinase Signaling Pathway in Primary Erythroid Progenitors.

Abstract Erythropoietin (Epo) and stem cell factor (SCF) guide erythroid cell maturation by exerting their effects at various stages of differentiation. Distinct and overlapping functions of these two growth factors have been well characterized. However, signaling pathways responsible for the antiapoptotic function of Epo and the proliferative function of SCF has not been fully characterized. Especially activation of common upstream signaling elements PI3-kinase, Akt kinase and phosphorylation/inactivation of forkhead transcription factors by both Epo and SCF bring about distinct functional outcomes have not been understood. In the present study we examined the activation of p70S6/mTOR pathway by Epo and SCF in CD34-derived primary erythroid progenitors. Our results provide evidence for activation of p70S6 kinase and mTOR by SCF but not by Epo or IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor-1). We also show that only SCF phosphorylates protein translational regulatory proteins, 4E-BP1 and S6 ribosomal protein suggesting its involvement in promoting protein translation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that inhibition of mTOR by rapamycin results in reduction in erythroid cell proliferation and colony-formation under steady state culture conditions demonstrating the involvement of downstream signaling elements in the PI3/Akt kinase pathway in cell proliferation apart from its antiapoptotic signal. The reduction of both BFU-E and CFU-GM colony formation indicated that rapamycin also affects early hematopoietic cells. Examination of a parallel pathway involving signaling element Mnk1 showed that both Mnk1 and its downstream target eIF4E are not phosphorylated in response to SCF or Epo. However, these protein were constitutively phosphorylated in primary erythroid progenitors. Interestingly, we also found that during the proliferative phase of erythroid differentiation mTOR is mostly detected in the cytoplasmic fraction of the cells whereas during terminal phase of differentiation mTOR is detected in the nuclear fraction. These results suggest that mTOR may have additional functions associated with chromatin remodeling in erythroid progenitors, which occur prior to enucleation. Taken together, our data provide a mechanism for how distinct functions of Epo and SCF are accomplished through selective use of a common signaling pathway explaining in part how functional diversity is acheived.
A Rapid Test for the Diagnosis of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Using SELDI-TOF-Mass Spectrometry.

Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), a life-threatening microangiopathic thrombotic disorder, requires immediate diagnosis and plasma exchange therapy. Development of TTP is related to functional deficiency of a metalloprotease, ADAMTS13, that leads to accumulation of ultra large von Willebrand factor (vWF) and subsequent platelet thrombosis. Currently no clinical test is available for a rapid detection of functional ADAMTS13 activity. In this study, a recombinant vWF peptide containing the ADAMTS13 cleavage site and a 6 X Histidine tag was used as a substrate for ADAMTS13. ADAMTS13 cleaved the substrate in a dose-dependent manner, generating a ~7739 Dalton peptide containing a 6 X Histidine tag. This cleaved peptide, bound to an IMAC/Nickel ProteinChip, was quantified using Surface Enhanced Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS). The assay is capable of quantifying ADAMTS13 activity as low as 2.5 % in plasma within 3–4 hours. When the cleaved peptide was quantified as a ratio of an internal control peptide, the test displayed excellent reproducibility, with an average inter-assay CV of < 33 %. Further validation of the test in healthy donors (n=39) revealed normal ADAMTS13 activity with a mean of 92.5% + 16.6. Sixteen patients with idiopathic TTP displayed mean ADAMTS13 activity of 1.73% + 3.62 at presentation, prior to any therapy. Further utility of this novel method includes functional determination of ADAMTS13 antibody titers in cases of acquired TTP. In summary, we have devised a novel SELDI-TOF-MS assay that offers a rapid, cost-effective, and functionally relevant test for timely diagnosis and management of TTP patients.
Results of the East Carolina Breast Center phase II trial of neoadjuvant metronomic chemotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer (NCT00542191).

e11550 Background: Triple negative (ER negative, PR negative and HER 2 negative) breast cancers (TNBC) lack effective targeted therapy. We sought to determine the benefit of metronomic neoadjuvant ...
World-Class Concurrent Engineering

World-class concurrent engineering is the modern way to develop new products. It features basic concurrent engineering (improved process and teamwork), enhanced quality function deployment (enhanced QFD), and quality engineering using robust design (Taguchi methods). This replaces the many dysfunctions, some of which are elegant, of traditional practice. The result is much better functionality, lower costs, and shorter development time.
An 8-element common-mode-coupled 106 GHz fundamental oscillator with −111 dBc/Hz phase noise at 1 MHz offset

Phase noise reduces in a coupled array of oscillators at an ideal rate of 3N dB for 2N oscillators. Concept of “common-mode coupling” is introduced as a robust technique in reducing phase noise in mm-wave frequencies. A 106 GHz 8-element common-mode coupled Colpitts oscillator is implemented in a 130 nm SiGe HBT BiCMOS technology with a measured phase noise of −111 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset while consuming 90 mW. The core differential Colpitts oscillator uses a resonant biasing scheme to reduce phase noise. The improvement of phase noise compared to the stand-alone oscillator is 9 dB showing the effectiveness of the proposed coupling scheme.
A Novel Weak Estimator For Dynamic Systems

In this paper, we propose a novel approach for classifying incoming continuous data under a non-stationary environment. A class of estimators termed stochastic learning weak estimators has been generalized to include continuous time sampling and countable state categories. The method is founded on non-stationary Markov chain techniques and is useful in diverse applications, such as consumer behavior analysis, e-mail spam classification, or understanding drug effectiveness. In terms of tracking the true state probabilities, these weak estimators consistently outperform traditional competitors such as maximum likelihood estimates. Only one user defined parameter is necessary and the method is free of subjective “moving window” type algorithms. We have conducted extensive simulations and real data analyses for classification purposes.
The Secondary Emotional, Social, and Family Problems Found with Children and Adolescents with Learning Disabilities

Learning disabilities are life disabilities and usually life-long disabilities, interfering with all aspects of the child’s or adolescent’s life during each developmental stage. Frequently, these individuals develop secondary emotional, social, and family problems. Because it is these problems that usually result in a referral to a mental health profession, it is critical that professionals clarify if the emotional, social, and family problems are causing the academic difficulties or if the academic difficulties are causing the emotional, social, and family problems. Each conclusion results in different intervention and treatment approaches.
Changing Election Methods: How Does Mandated Vote-By-Mail Affect Individual Registrants?

Abstract What would happen if voting by mail became compulsory? Laws allowing no excuse absentee voting are on the books in twenty-nine states. Enhanced voting options appear to be popular among voters; in the 2008 presidential election more than one-third of the electorate voted early, and in California's May 2009 statewide election a record 62.19% of voters cast their ballots by mail. These participation rates are notable, but in all but two states casting a ballot by mail is optional. As such, voters chose to cast their ballot by mail, thus the participation data are based on self-selected behavior. What would happen to registrants when they have no choice and are required to cast their ballot by mail? We answer that question in this article. In this study we exploit a natural quasi-experiment in California to test how the utilization of mail-only balloting affects the turnout of registrants. We analyzed the behavior of 97,381 individual voters across four elections from 2006 to 2008 and found that whe...
Scheduling of Flexible Assembly Systems

Flexible assembly systems differ in a number of ways from the job shops considered in the previous chapter. In a job shop, eac h job has its own identity and may be different from all other jobs. In a flexible assembly system, there are typically a limited number of different product types and the system has to produce a given quantity of each product type. So two units of the same product type are identical.
A Prospective Analysis of Motor and Cognitive Skill Retention in Novice Learners of Point of Care Ultrasound

Objectives:To identify the time at which point of care ultrasound static image recognition and image acquisition skills decay in novice learners.Setting:The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.Subjects:Twenty-four subjects (23 first-year medical students and one first-year physician assistant s
Research records for Chaired finance positions

We examine the research records for chaired finance professors at all the Carnegie Rank 1 and 2 Universities in the U.S. Chaired finance professors at Carnegie Rank 1 universities have a median of ...
Cervical adenocarcinoma: integration of HPV status, pattern of invasion, morphology and molecular markers into classification

Cervical adenocarcinoma is a heterogenous group of tumours with various aetiologies, molecular drivers, morphologies, response to treatment and prognosis. It has become evident that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection does not drive all adenocarcinomas, and appropriate classification is critical for patient management, especially in the era of the HPV vaccine and HPV-only screening. Identified as one of the most important developments in gynaecological pathology during the past 50 years, the separation of cervical adenocarcinomas into HPV-associated (HPVA) and HPV-independent has resulted in a transformation of the classification system for cervical adenocarcinomas. HPVA has been traditionally subclassified by morphology, such as usual type (UEA), mucinous and villoglandular, etc. However, it has become evident that cell type-based histomorphological classification is not clinically meaningful, and the newly proposed International Endocervical Adenocarcinoma Criteria and Classification (IECC) is a necessary and relevant break from this prior system. Non-HPV-associated adenocarcinomas can be divided by their distinct morphology and molecular genomics with very different responses to standard therapies and potential for future targeted therapies. These include gastric-type, clear-cell, mesonephric and endometrioid adenocarcinomas. So-called 'serous' carcinomas of the cervix probably represent morphological variants of UEA or drop metastases from uterine or adnexal serous carcinomas, and the existence of true cervical serous carcinomas is in question. This review will discuss the advances since WHO 2014, and how HPV status, pattern of invasion as described by Silva and colleagues, histological features and molecular markers can be used to refine diagnosis and prognostication for patients with cervical adenocarcinoma.
Community police academies: Assessing the effect of education on public perceptions of police:

Citizens often have misconceptions about law enforcement. This misinformation may contribute to distrust and heightened concerns about force and misconduct. Agencies attempt to address this by prom...
Uncovering modeling features of viral replication dynamics from high-throughput single-cell virology experiments

Abstract Viruses experience selective pressure on the timing and order of events during infection to maximize the number of viable offspring they produce. Additionally, they may experience variability in cellular environments encountered, as individual eukaryotic cells can display variation in gene expression among cells. This leads to a dynamic phenotypic landscape that viruses must face to produce offspring. To examine replication dynamics displayed by viruses faced with this variable landscape, we have developed a method for fitting a stochastic mechanistic model of viral infection to growth data from high-throughput single-cell poliovirus infection experiments. The model’s mechanistic parameters provide estimates of several aspects associated with the virus’s intracellular dynamics. We examine distributions of parameter estimates and assess their variability to gain insight into the root causes of variability in viral growth dynamics. We also fit our model to experiments performed under various drug treatments and examine which parameters differ under these conditions. We find that parameters associated with translation and early stage viral replication processes are essential for the model to capture experimentally observed dynamics. In aggregate, our results suggest that differences in viral growth data generated under different treatments can largely be captured by steps that occur early in the replication process. Author Summary Understanding the intercellular processes associated with virus replication is essential for controlling viral diseases. Single-cell infection experiments with poliovirus have shown that viral growth differs among individual cells in terms of both the total amount of virus produced and the rate of viral production. To better understand the source of this variation we here develop a modeling protocol that simulates viral growth and we then fit our model to data from high-throughput single-cell experiments. Our modeling approach is based on generating time course simulations of populations of single-cell infections. We aggregate metrics from our simulated populations such that we can describe our simulated viral growth in terms of several distributions. Using the corresponding distributions calculated from experimental data we minimize the difference between our simulated and experimental data to estimate parameters of our simulation model. Each parameter corresponds to a specific aspect of the intercellular viral replication process. By examining our estimates of these parameters, we find that steps that occur early in the viral replication process are essential for our model to capture the variability observed in experimental data.
Virtual Classroom Observation: Bringing the Classroom Experience to Pre-Service Candidates

This paper presents a case study of how two teacher educators responded to the disparities and challenges of field experience opportunities for undergraduate teacher candidates. The purpose of the ...
One-stage revision is as effective as two-stage revision for chronic culture-negative periprosthetic joint infection after total hip and knee arthroplasty.

Aims Removal of infected components and culture-directed antibiotics are important for the successful treatment of chronic periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, as many as 27% of chronic P...
Practical assessment of different saw types for field amputation: A cadaver-based study.

Abstract Introduction Field amputation can be life-saving for entrapped patients requiring surgical extrication. Under these austere conditions, the procedure must be performed as rapidly as possible with limited equipment, often in a confined space, while minimizing provider risk. The aim of this study was to determine the ideal saw, and optimal approach, through bone or joint, for a field amputation. Methods This was a prospective cadaver-based study. Four saws (Gigli, manual pruning, electric oscillating and electric reciprocating) were tested in human cadavers. Each saw was used to transect four separate long bones (humerus, ulna/radius, femur and tibia/fibula), previously exposed at a standardized location. The time required for each saw to cut through the bone, the number of attempts required to seat the saw when transecting the bone, slippage, quality of proximal bone cut and extent of body fluid splatter as well as the physical space required by each device during the amputation were recorded. Additionally, the most effective saw in the through bone assessment was compared to limb amputation using scalpel and scissors for a through joint amputation at the elbow, wrist, knee and ankle. Univariate analysis was used to compare the outcomes between the different saws. Results The fastest saw for the through bone amputation was the reciprocating followed by oscillating (2.1 [1.4–3.7] seconds vs 3.0 [1.6–4.9] seconds). The manual pruning (58.8 [25–121] seconds) was the slowest (p = 0.007). Overall, the oscillating saw was superior or equivalent to the other devices in number of attempts (1), slippage (0), quality of bone cut (100% good) and physical space requirements (4500 cm3), and was the second fastest. In comparison, a through joint amputation (125.0 [50–147] seconds for scalpel and scissor; 125.5 [86–217] seconds for the oscillating saw) was significantly slower than through bone with the Gigli (p = 0.029), the oscillating (p = 0.029) and the reciprocal saw (p = 0.029). Conclusions The speed, precision, safety, space required, as well as the adjustable blade of the oscillating saw make it ideal for a field amputation. A Gigli saw is an excellent backup for when electrical tools cannot be used. Through bone amputation is faster than a through joint amputation.
Efficient localized surface plasmon source enabled by resonant inelastic electron tunneling

Electrically-driven localized surface plasmon (LSP) sources is an important component for future plasmonic devices in various fields like on-chip communication and sensing. One major challenge is to incorporate small footprint, high modulation speed, and high energy efficiency into one practical system. We experimentally demonstrate a resonant inelastic electron tunneling (RIET) based LSP source working at visible and near-infrared frequencies with exceptionally high quantum efficiency. We believe this new LSP source will open up various new opportunities in plasmonic applications.
Gluconeogenesis in Rabbit Liver I. PYRUVATE-DERIVED DICARBOXYLIC ACIDS AND PHOSPHOENOLPYRUVATE FORMATION IN RABBIT LIVER

Abstract Rabbit liver mitochondria incubated in a basic medium containing pyruvate, bicarbonate, MgSO4, and Pi synthesize and liberate to the medium malate, citrate, and also aspartate (provided NH4+ is included in the medium). Only a minor amount of P-enolpyruvate is formed and liberated under these same conditions. Substrate utilization and especially metabolite production are dependent on exogenous Pi and also quite dependent on exogenous bicarbonate. Exogenous ATP inhibits substrate utilization and especially inhibits total metabolite formation. Mitochondria from 48-hour fasted rabbits or from fed alloxan diabetic rabbits as contrasted to those from normal fed rabbits appear to use more pyruvate and to synthesize significantly greater amounts of P-enolpyruvate and malate. The amounts of P-enolpyruvate formed, although larger, are still extremely small and considered insufficient to satisfy the rabbit's requirements for glucose. Cytosol prepared from livers of normal fed rabbits contain a measurable amount of P-enolpyruvate carboxykinase; cytosol from livers of fasted or alloxan diabetic rabbits contain substantially greater quantities this enzyme. Refeeding of fasted rabbits diminishes the cytosolic content of carboxykinase to near normal levels. Distribution studies with cytochrome oxidase and citrate synthetase as marker enzymes confirm the in vivo existence of P-enolpyruvate carboxykinase in rabbit liver cytosol. Cytosolic malate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, and fumarate dehydratase activities, generally speaking, respond very little to alterations in nutritional states which substantially affect cytosolic carboxykinase. These data support the concept that cytosolic P-enolpyruvate carboxykinase can contribute significantly to gluconeogenesis in this species.
Algorithms for Normal Curves and Surfaces

We derive several algorithms for curves and surfaces represented using normal coordinates. The normal coordinate representation is a very succinct representation of curves and surfaces. For embedded curves, for example, its size is logarithmically smaller than a representation by edge intersections in a triangulation. Consequently, fast algorithms for normal representations can be exponentially faster than algorithms working on the edge intersection representation. Normal representations have been essential in establishing bounds on the complexity of recognizing the unknot [Hak61, HLP99, AHT02], and string graphs [SS?02]. In this paper we present efficient algorithms for counting the number of connected components of curves and surfaces, deciding whether two curves are isotopic, and computing the algebraic intersection numbers of two curves. Our main tool are equations over monoids, also known as word equations.
N-methyl-D-aspartate induces a rapid, reversible, and calcium-dependent intracellular acidosis in cultured fetal rat hippocampal neurons

The ability of NMDA to alter intracellular pH (pHi) was studied in fetal rat hippocampal neurons and glia using the pH-sensitive fluorescent indicator 2′,7′-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and-6)- carboxyfluorescein (BCECF). Brief exposure (60 sec) of hippocampal neurons to NMDA (2.5–250 microM) results in a rapid, and in most cells reversible, reduction in pHi, with full recovery to baseline pHi values taking several minutes following removal of NMDA. In contrast, little or no change in pHi was observed in glial cells exposed to these same concentrations of NMDA. The NMDA-induced acidification of neurons was concentration and time dependent, with an EC50 of 39 microM and Emax (delta pH) of -0.53. More prolonged exposure to NMDA (> or = 10 min) resulted in a more prolonged reduction in pHi values over the ensuing 20 min observation period. The intracellular acidification resulting from NMDA exposure of hippocampal neurons was blocked by the NMDA receptor antagonist 3-((+/-)-2-carboxypiperazin-4-yl)-propyl-1- phosphonic acid (CPP). Moreover, removal of extracellular Ca2+ eliminated both the selective NMDA-induced elevation in [Ca2+]i and the reduction in pHi, indicating that Ca2+ influx may be required for the decrease in pHi induced by NMDA receptor activation. Finally, the NMDA- induced reduction in pHi was not significantly attenuated when extracellular [H+] was decreased by increasing extracellular pH to 8.0. The latter suggests that an intracellular source of H+ is responsible for the NMDA-induced reduction in neuronal pHi. The reduction in neuronal pHi induced by NMDA receptor activation may mediate some of the physiological and (or) pathophysiological actions of glutamate.
Comparison of Germination Rates among Commercial Food Plot Mixes

Germination of forage legumes can often be affected by many different environmental factors which impact the establishment of food plots for wildlife. To ascertain the variability in performance among commercial products, we tested the germination rates of three popular wildlife seed mix blends: Perfect Plot (Biologic), Rack Force (Evolved Harvest), and Bird and Buck Whitetail and Gamebird mix (Star Seed). Ten 1-gram random samples of each seed mix were tested in complete darkness at a constant 25° C for 25 days. Germinated seeds were identified by species, removed from the Petri-dishes, and counted individually every 24 hours. Observed germination rates were compared to expected rates for each plant type: alfalfa (Medicago spp.), clover (Trifolium spp.), chicory (Cichorium spp.), rapeseed (Brassica spp.), and grasses (Poaceca spp.). Seeds of the Bird and Buck mix had the highest overall germination rate at 79%, only 0.6% lower than the expected seed mix germination. Perfect Plot and Rack Force seeds exhi...
Conditions for unambiguous source location using polarization diverse arrays

As array processing becomes more mature, interest has grown in the use of polarization diverse arrays for both direction finding (DF) and signal copy. However, little has been written on the maximum number of source bearings which can be unambiguously estimated with a polarization diverse array of N antennas. This paper gives necessary conditions for the number of antennas needed to unambiguously estimate a given number of polarized sources, which may also have multipath components, for typical polarizations. In addition, the results of testing a six channel co-located polarization HF array are presented. The signal environments consisted of both correlated and uncorrelated signals. The results of these tests are compared to the theoretical bounds. >
Immunization for hepatitis B infection: interest, information, and initiative?

Concerns and confusion have risen over the recent recommendations for universal immunization to prevent infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) published by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 1 and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 2 Both of these recommendations, collaboratively developed, recommend universal immunization of infants against HBV as well as the continued previous strategies of screening all pregnant women for HBsAg positivity and immunizing all high-risk groups. The AAP further recommends that all adolescents be immunized in recognition of the increased risk and rate of acquiring HBV in this age group.
Phase structure of electrospun poly(trimethylene terephthalate) composite nanofibers containing carbon nanotubes

Nanofibrous composite mats were prepared by electrospinning of poly(trimethylene terephthalate), PTT, with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PTT/MWCNT). Tri- fluoroacetic acid (TFA) and methylene chloride (MC) with volume ratio of 50/50 is a good solvent for PTT and was used as the electrospining solution. Scanning electron microscopy was used to investigate the morphology of electrospun (ES) nanofibers with 0, 0.2, 1.0, or 2.0 wt% of MWCNTs. Crystal structure of the ES mats was deter- mined from wide angle X-ray diffraction. Thermal prop- erties were investigated using heat capacity measurements from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) using the three-runs method for baseline correction, heat flow amplitude calibration, and sample heat capacity determi- nation. A model comprising three phases, a mobile amor- phous fraction (MAF), rigid amorphous fraction (RAF), and crystalline fraction (C), is appropriate for ES PTT/ MWCNT fibers. The phase fractions, Wi (for i = RAF, MAF or C) were determined by DSC. Crystallinity decreases very slightly with the amount of MWCNT. At the same time, a large increase in RAF was observed: WRAF of PTT fiber with 2% MWCNT is twice that of neat PTT fiber. The addition of MWCNTs enhanced the PTT chain alignment and increased RAF as a result. Changes of vibrational band absorbance at 1358 and 1385 cm -1 , cor- responding to characteristic groups, were obtained with infrared spectroscopy. The increased absorbance at 1358 cm -1 and decreased absorbance at 1385 cm -1 , with the addition of MWCNTs, strongly supports the three- phase model for ES PTT/MWCNT nanocomposites.
Growth regulator-free plant regeneration and habituated cell suspensions from carrot protoplasts

Abstract Protoplasts of carrot (Daucus carota L.), isolated from an embryogenic cell suspension growing in the presence of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), divided in culture without exogenous growth regulators, and calli, embryos and plants were obtained on such growth regulator-free medium. Protoplast derived microcalli, when cultured in a growth regulator-free medium while agitated, gave vigorously growing cell suspensions, thus showing full habituation. Whereas standard experimental conditions (removal of 2,4-D and drastic reduction of cell titer) lead to embryonic regeneration of plants in the original protoplast donor cell line (growing in the presence of 2,4-D) the habituated cell suspension culture (growing without 2,4-D), upon titer reduction, produced primarily globular embryos. These embryos did not mature and, consequently, no plants were regenerated from the habituated cell suspension. Subculture of the cell line in an indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-containing medium did not reestablish the cell line's potential to regenerate complete plants via embryogenesis under standard experimental conditions. Protoplasts reisolated from the IAA-adapted line did not have the ability to divide on growth regulator-free medium. The data indicate that habituation can be induced (rather than selected) in large numbers of individual cells, and that the habituated state does not necessarily interfere with the expression of the protoplast's totipotency.
Adaptations of sodium balance to low pH in a sunfish (Enneacanthus obesus) from naturally acidic waters

Net sodium flux (Jnet), sodium influx (Jin), and sodium efflux (Jout) were measured in two sunfish,Enneacanthus obesus (acid-tolerant) andLepomis gibbosus (less acid-tolerant), during 24 h exposure to soft water of pH's 4.0 and 3.5.E. obesus exhibited a mild transitory disturbance at both pH's caused by inhibitedJin and slightly stimulatedJout. Body and plasma ion concentrations ofE. obesus were measured weekly during exposures for 5 weeks to acidified artificial soft water (ASW). Body sodium concentration declined 30% during 2 weeks exposure to pH 3.5 but no further during the next three weeks. Exposure to pH 4.0 had no effect on body sodium concentration during the entire 5 weeks. Plasma sodium concentration declined 15% over a 3 week period at pH 3.5; there was no further change in the next two weeks. Plasma potassium concentrations, which were measured after 4 and 5 weeks at pH's 5.8 and 3.5 in ASW, were not significantly different. In a separate two week long experiment, plasma sodium concentration ofE. obesus in ASW was correlated with pH between pH's 3.5 and 7.5. This effect was mainly due to increases above pretreatment levels at pH 4.5 and above. Increased ambient sodium and calcium concentrations had no effect on body sodium concentration ofE. obesus at pH 5.8, but mitigated the effects of exposure to pH 3.5. Increased calcium concentrations up to 25 μM at pH 3.5 increased body sodium concentration, but higher concentrations had no additional effect. Body potassium concentration and body water concentration ofE. obesus were linearly related to body sodium concentration under a wide variety of external conditions. This suggests the presence of a mechanism by whichE. obesus regulates plasma sodium levels and body fluid compartments in response to sodium loss. In contrast toE. obesus, L. gibbosus showed larger sodium losses at low pH resulting from greater acceleration ofJout; those exposed at pH 3.5 died in less than 12 h.L. gibbosus also had reduced body and plasma sodium concentrations at pH 4.5 and below; those at pH 4.0 were the lowest. Body potassium concentration ofL. gibbosus was reduced in those fish exposed to pH 4.0 and below, but body water was increased. Thus there are striking differences in the ability to regulate ion and water balance at low pH between an acid-tolerant specialist (E. obesus) and a less acid-tolerant generalist (L. gibbosus).
Motivators for participation in a whole-genome sequencing study: implications for translational genomics research.

The promise of personalized medicine depends on the ability to integrate genetic sequencing information into disease risk assessment for individuals. As genomic sequencing technology enters the realm of clinical care, its scale necessitates answers to key social and behavioral research questions about the complexities of understanding, communicating, and ultimately using sequence information to improve health. Our study captured the motivations and expectations of research participants who consented to participate in a research protocol, ClinSeq, which offers to return a subset of the data generated through high-throughput sequencing. We present findings from an exploratory study of 322 participants, most of whom identified themselves as white, non-Hispanic, and coming from higher socio-economic groups. Participants aged 45–65 years answered open-ended questions about the reasons they consented to ClinSeq and about what they anticipated would come of genomic sequencing. Two main reasons for participating were as follows: a conviction to altruism in promoting research, and a desire to learn more about genetic factors that contribute to one's own health risk. Overall, participants expected genomic research to help improve understanding of disease causes and treatments. Our findings offer a first glimpse into the motivations and expectations of individuals seeking their own genomic information, and provide initial insights into the value these early adopters of technology place on information generated by high-throughput sequencing studies.
Bubbly pipe flow study via refractive index matching

A phase-Doppler light-scattering method is used to measure, nonintrusively, liquid and bubble velocities and bubble size in vertical-upwards, dispersed, bubbly pipe flow. Bubble size measurements are also obtained with a video imaging technique. Optical distortion is eliminated, by using pipe material with index of refraction equal to that of water at room temperature, in combination with an index-of-refraction-matching box. Pure-liquid velocity and turbulence intensity test-measurements performed with the incorporation of this technique compare very well with existing data in pipe flow. Measurements of bubble velocity and size at two locations along the pipe are presented with emphasis on the near wall region. The experiments have been carried out at a Reynolds number of 12086 and a volumetric flow ratio of 2.7%. Bubble velocity fluctuation properties were found to be almost uniform in the core region. Bubble mean velocity was constant within one average bubble diameter from the wall and axial velocity f...
Archaeological implications of Late-Holocene channel changes on the middle Gila River, Arizona

Archival and stratigraphic data from the middle Gila River, Arizona, provide insight into Late Holocene floods and channel changes that affected the Hohokam, prehistoric agriculturalists who practiced canal irrigation 2,000-500 BP. The relationship between floods and channel changes during the past 300 years is characterized by an increased frequency of wide, braided channel conditions during episodes of increased large flood frequency. Ten radiocarbon ages from overbank deposits from the middle Gila River flood plain indicate that the frequency of large floods was relatively low 4,000-1,000 BP (carbon-14 years) but increased after 1,000 BP, a pattern supported by palaeoflood slackwater sites in the upper Gila River watershed. This suggests that channel instability (shifts between narrow, single-channel and wide, braided planforms) increased after 1,000 BP. The latter part of the 4,000-1,000 BP period of relative channel stability corresponds in time with the development of Hohokam irrigation agriculture and expansion of canal systems, whereas increased fluvial dynamics beginning 1,000 BP correlate (in time) to changes in settlement patterns during the Sedentary-Classic period transition. Higher large flood frequency may be responsible for the consolidation of canal systems and relocation of villages along the middle Gila River after 1,000 BP and during the Classic period. Increased flooding and concomitant channel changes alone, however, do not adequately explain the collapse of the Hohokam pattern.
'Hybrid' synapses formed by foreign innervation of parasympathetic neurons: A model for selectivity during competitive reinnervation

Abstract Selectivity of synapse formation after nerve regeneration was tested in the parasympathetic cardiac ganglion of frogs (Rana pipiens). First, we tested the ability of somatic motor axons to establish synaptic connections with denervated ganglion cells by implanting the hypoglossus nerve into the vagotomized heart. After several weeks, stimulation of the implanted hypoglossus mediated a parasympathetic-like inhibition of the heart rate, and synaptic responses produced by hypoglossal stimulation were recorded intracellularly in ganglion cells. Light and electron microscopy indicated that implanted hypoglossal nerve terminals contacted parasympathetic ganglion cells only on their axons and not on the cell body (where most vagal synapses are found in control animals). Second, we tested whether regenerating vagal preganglionic axons would complete with foreign (hypoglossal) terminals for innervation of cardiac ganglion cells. We allowed the vagus nerve to regenerate in animals in which the implanted hypoglossus had established functional contacts with the cardiac ganglion. Vagal axons were able to reinnervate the heart and reestablish synaptic connections on the cell bodies of ganglion cells. Furthermore, functional transmission at the foriegn (hypoglossal) terminals disappeared concomitant with vagal reinnervation.
FORMATION OF KETONE BODIES FROM LONG-CHAIN FATTY ACIDS IN RUMEN EPITHELIUM AND LIVER FROM KETOTIC SHEEP.

Abstract The metabolism of palmitate, stearate, oleate, and linoleate, major constituents of ruminant depot fats, was compared in rumen epithelium and liver tissue from both normal and ketotic sheep to study the role of these fatty acids in ruminant ketosis. Endogenous acetoacetate was readily produced by liver and rumen tissues from normal non-pregnant ewes, while significantly greater quantities were produced by tissues from ketotic pregnant ewes. The unsaturated long-chain fatty acids, oleate and linoleate, were associated with higher levels of ketone body formation than were the saturated acids while both groups of fatty acids caused higher levels of ketone body formation with rumen epithelium than with liver. Heretofore the rumen wall has not been recognized as a site of ketone body formation from long-chain fatty acids. It appears that the capacity of rumen epithelium to produce ketone bodies from the fatty acids found in depot fats is a factor in the high susceptibility of ruminants to spontaneous ketosis.
Developments in crystal growth from high-temperature solutions☆

Abstract With the technological advances in the past 12 years, and with the high quality of flux-grown crystals and layers, this crystal-growth technique has become increasingly important. The technological parameters which have to be optimized to achieve large structurally perfect crystals, of high purity and free of striations, are: choice of solvent, growth temperature and its control, temperature gradient at and along the growth interface, supersaturation, and hydrodynamics. Top-seeded solution growth and the accelerated crucible rotation technique are the most widely applied techniques for growth of large high-quality crystals.
Hemodynamic directed CPR improves short-term survival from asphyxia-associated cardiac arrest.

Aim Adequate coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is essential for establishing return of spontaneous circulation. The objective of this study was to compare short-term survival using a hemodynamic directed resuscitation strategy versus an absolute depth-guided approach in a porcine model of asphyxia-associated cardiac arrest. We hypothesized that a hemodynamic directed approach would improve short-term survival compared to depth-guided care.
Streamflow response to seasonal snow cover mass changes over large Siberian watersheds

[1] We used remotely sensed weekly snow water equivalent (SWE) data (1988–2000) to investigate streamflow response to seasonal snow cover change in the large Siberian watersheds (the Ob, Yenisei, and Lena basins). We quantified the seasonal cycles and variations of snow cover mass and river streamflow and identified a clear correspondence of river discharge to seasonal snow cover mass change. We also examined and compared the weekly mean streamflow with the weekly basin SWE for the study period. The results revealed a strong relation between the streamflow and snow cover mass change during the spring melt season over the large Siberian watersheds. This relationship provides a practical procedure of using remotely sensed snow cover information for snowmelt runoff estimation over the large northern watersheds. Analyses of extreme (high/low) SWE cases (years) and the associated streamflow conditions indicate an association of high (low) flood peak with high (low) maximum SWE in the Ob and Yenisei basins. Comparative analyses of weekly basin SWE data versus snow cover extent (SCE), peak snowmelt floods, and climatic variables (temperature and winter precipitation) indicate consistency among basin SWE, SCE, and temperature but incompatibility between basin SWE and winter precipitation, particularly for the Lena watershed. The inconsistency suggests uncertainties in determination of basin winter snowfall amounts and limitations in applications of the SWE retrieval algorithm over large watersheds/regions with very different physical characteristics. Overall, the results of this study clearly demonstrate that the weekly SWE data/products derived from microwave remote sensing technology are useful in understanding seasonal streamflow changes in the arctic regions.
A fault model for the 1989 Kilauea South Flank Earthquake from leveling and seismic data

The geometry of the fault that ruptured during the M6.1 south flank earthquake on Kilauea volcano in 1989 is determined from leveling data. The elastic dislocation, in a homogeneous elastic half-space, that best fits the data is found using a nonlinear inversion procedure. The best fitting model is a gently dipping thrust fault that lies at 4 km depth. This is significantly shallower than the 9 km hypocentral depth determined from the local seismic network. Two-dimensional finite-element calculations indicate that at least part of this discrepancy can be attributed to the focusing of the surface deformation by the upper few kilometers of compliant, low-density lavas. We conclude that it is important to include realistic elastic structure to estimate source geometry from geodetic data.
Frequency Multiplication with Nonlinear Capacitors-A Circuit Analysis

This paper presents a circuit analysis of frequency multipliers employing nonlinear capacitors. The analysis applies to the case of a multiplier of any order using semiconductor nonlinear capacitors, and specifies impedance levels, power capabilities, and efficiency in terms of the characteristics of the nonlinear element and the associated linear network. From the formulas derived it is possible to specify the optimum nonlinear characteristic for a given circuit and harmonic number, and to calculate the conditions for maximum efficiency. The procedure is also applicable to frequency dividers, and to frequency multipliers employing nonlinear induct ance.
Physical Activity Program Delivery by Professionals versus Volunteers: the TEAM Randomized Trial

Objective Older adults have low rates of physical activity participation, but respond positively to telephone-mediated support programs. Programs are often limited by reliance on professional staff. This study tested telephone-based physical activity advice delivered by professional staff versus trained volunteer peer mentors. Design A 12-month, randomized, controlled clinical trial was executed from 2003-2008. Twelve volunteer peer mentors and 181 initially inactive adults ages 50 years and older were recruited from the San Francisco Bay Area. Participants were randomized to: (1) telephone-based physical activity advice delivered by professional staff, (2) telephone-based physical activity advice delivered by trained volunteer peers, or (3) an attention-control arm of staff-delivered telephone support for nutrition. Main outcome measures Moderate-intensity or more vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was assessed at baseline, 6, and 12 months with the Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors (CHAMPS) Questionnaire, with accelerometry validation (Actigraph) in a randomly selected subsample. Treatment fidelity was examined through analysis of quantity and quality of intervention delivery. Results At 6 and 12 months, both physical activity arms significantly increased MVPA relative to the control arm. Both physical activity arms were comparable in quantity of intervention delivery, but peers demonstrated more versatility and comprehensiveness in quality of intervention content. Conclusions This study demonstrates that trained peer volunteers can effectively promote physical activity increases through telephone-based advice. The results support a program delivery model with good dissemination potential for a variety of community settings.
Overexpression of Wild-Type PKD2 Leads to Increased Proliferation and Invasion of BON Endocrine Cells

Carcinoid tumors are rare neuroendocrine tumors with a predilection for the gastrointestinal tract. Protein kinase D (PKD), a novel serine/threonine protein kinase, has been implicated in the regulation of transport processes in certain cell types. We have reported an important role for PKD in stimulated peptide secretion from a human (BON) carcinoid cell line; however, the role of PKD isoforms, including PKD2, in the proliferation and invasion of carcinoid tumors remains unclear. In the present study, we found that overexpression of PKD2 by stable transfection of BON cells with PKD2-wild type (PKD2WT) significantly increased proliferation and invasion compared to cells transfected with PKD2-kinase dead (PKD2KD) or pcDNA3 (control). Similarly, inhibition of PKD2 activity with small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly decreased proliferation and invasion compared to cells transfected with non-targeting control (NTC) siRNA. These data support an important role for PKD2 in carcinoid tumor progression. Targeted inhibition of the PKD family may prove to be a novel treatment option for patients with carcinoid tumors.
Supersymmetric quantum mechanics and solitons of the sine-Gordon and nonlinear Schrödinger equations.

We present a case demonstrating the connection between supersymmetric quantum mechanics (SUSYQM), reflectionless scattering, and soliton solutions of integrable partial differential equations. We show that the members of a class of reflectionless Hamiltonians, namely, Akulin's Hamiltonians, are connected via supersymmetric chains to a potential-free Hamiltonian, explaining their reflectionless nature. While the reflectionless property in question has been mentioned in the literature for over two decades, the enabling algebraic mechanism was previously unknown. Our results indicate that the multisoliton solutions of the sine-Gordon and nonlinear Schroedinger equations can be systematically generated via the supersymmetric chains connecting Akulin's Hamiltonians. Our findings also explain a well-known but little-understood effect in laser physics: when a two-level atom, initially in the ground state, is subjected to a laser pulse of the form V(t)=(n({h_bar}/2{pi})/{tau})/cosh(t/{tau}), with n being an integer and {tau} being the pulse duration, it remains in the ground state after the pulse has been applied, for any choice of the laser detuning.
Confidentiality Challenges and Good Clinical Practices in Human Subjects Research: Striking a Balance

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) has been fully implemented in clinical practice and research settings. Although subject confidentiality has always been a concern, clinical researchers must now take extra care to attend to the mandates of privacy while also minding good clinical practice guidelines. Unanticipated conflicts may arise as a result of these dual priorities. This article presents two examples of potential challenges to confidentiality with comment from the bioethical perspective.