cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-13 Receptor α Chain: A Novel Tumor-associated Transmembrane Protein in Primary Explants of Human Malignant Gliomas

Human malignant glioma cell lines express high levels of interleukin-13 receptor (IL-13R). However, the subunit structure of this receptor in primary brain tumor cells is not known. Herein, we examined the subunit composition of IL-13R by analyzing the expression of four different putative subunits of IL-13R complex in 25 primary explants of malignant brain tumors. Reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) of RNA from these tumor cells, normal astrocytes, and normal brain tissue showed that transcripts of IL-13R α chain were present in greater abundance in malignant glioma cells compared with normal astrocytes or normal brain tissues. The transcripts for two other chains ( e.g., IL-13Rα′ and IL-4Rβ), on the other hand, yielded similar PCR positivity in brain tumors as well as in normal samples, whereas transcripts for γc chain were absent in all brain tumor cells and normal tissues. The specificity of RT-PCR products for these genes was confirmed by oligo liquid hybridization analysis using a radiolabeled sequence-specific internal probe. Indirect immunofluorescence studies for different receptor chains confirmed the RT-PCR results and demonstrated a striking difference in the level of expression of IL-13Rα protein between normal astrocytes and malignant astrocytoma cells. These studies establish the IL-13Rα subunit as a novel tumor-specific protein that may be useful as a tumor marker, a target for cytotoxin/immunotoxin, or alternatively, a tumor-associated antigen for active, specific immunotherapy.
Integration, processing and performance of low power thermally tunable CMOS-SOI WDM resonators

Ring waveguide resonating structures with high quality factors represent a key component in silicon photonic links. We demonstrate experimentally and validate numerically spectral tuning with a high efficiency of photonic ring structures when manufactured in a commercial 130 nm SOI CMOS technology with localized removal of back-side substrate using silicon micromachining methods. A comprehensive analysis is reported on the thermal tuning efficiency of tunable ring devices as a function of the ring’s size, type of thermal tuner and amount of back- and front-side post-CMOS micromachining. We further propose a path to maintain a high tuning efficiency of photonic devices with partially or completely removed SOI silicon substrate upon their hybridization to electronic driver chips. Such a platform opens up additional options for increased on-chip system functionality and dense integration in 3-D.
Symbolic analysis-a tool for teaching undergraduate circuit theory

In this paper, we discuss ways in which traditional courses in circuit theory can benefit by having students learn and apply symbolic analysis methods. Examples of applications are given, and currently available software is discussed.
Improving the spelling performance of students with disabilities

The present study examined the effects of an error correction strategy on the spelling accuracy of students with emotional and/or learning disabilities. The strategy, which asked students to spell a word, view a correct model, and then correct their errors, was compared to a traditional strategy that asked students to write words three times each while viewing a correct model. Results showed that students learned more words in the error correction condition than in the traditional condition. The error correction treatment was shown to be an effective strategy that reduced the number of repetitive spelling practice trials, and was preferred by students.
Fast Mass Transport Through Carbon Nanotube Membranes

The May 19, 2006 issue of Science included a paper by Holt et al. on "Fast Mass Transport Through Sub-2-Nanometer Carbon Nanotubes". The paper was also featured on the cover, showing methane molecules translating inside a carbon nanotube (CNT). The authors explained how they prepared 2-6-mum thin membranes consisting of double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWNTs) all aligned perpendicular to the apparent membrane surface. These tubes are open at both ends and the space between the tubes is filled with dense Si(3)N(4). Pure gas and water fluxes were measured at room temperature with the application of a small pressure difference. Interpretation of the results led to the conclusion that the membranes showed much higher fluxes than what was estimated from Knudsen gas diffusion and Poiseuille viscous flow models. The membranes have a straight-channel morphology with a narrow pore-size distribution and exceptionally smooth pore walls. The unusual geometry and surface properties make it difficult to compare the membrane's properties with common membranes but there is no question that the mass transport in the aligned DWNTs is fast indeed. To appreciate how fast, we will consider their transport properties starting from the perspective of "conventional" porous membrane technology. Recent molecular dynamics simulations suggest that none of the classic models for gas (Knudsen) and water (Poiseuille) permeation work in a meaningful way for these nanotube membranes, and new models are needed.
Resveratrol content in strawberry fruit is affected by preharvest conditions.

This study investigated the occurrence of resveratrol in Fragaria × ananassa Duchesne and the effect of preharvest conditions on resveratrol content. Both cis- and trans-resveratrol were detected in strawberry achenes (seeds) and pulp (receptacle tissue). Resveratrol was found to be higher in achenes than in fruit pulp. The levels of resveratrol were affected by genotype variations, fruit maturation, cultural practices, and environmental conditions. High growing temperature (25 and 30 °C) or enriched CO 2 in the atmosphere significantly enhanced resveratrol content of strawberries. Advancing maturation also increased resveratrol content. The mature pulp and achenes contained higher amounts of resveratrol than the immature fruit. Adding compost as a soil supplement or preharvest application of methyl jasmonate (MJ) also significantly enhanced the level of resveratrol in strawberry fruit. Among the plants grown in hill plasticulture, fruits of ‘Ovation (B28)’, ‘Mohawwk’, ‘Earliglow’, and ‘B35’ had higher am...
Measuring the impact of science

This paper addresses the issue of how science-technology interaction can be measured in the knowledge-driven economy. More specifically, it compares the patent citation indicator to other patent or publication-based measures using data on a small European economy. In particular, patent citation patterns is compared at the country level to researcher patents. Comparing the two indicators suggests different patterns of science-technology linkage. An analysis of revealed technology contributions of academic inventors and a survey-based analysis of technological collaboration and knowledge transfer points to a possible explanation. Finally, the chapter illustrates that academic inventions form a better basis for cross-country comparisons of inventive academic activity than do university (-owned) patents.
Child psychiatry limited. A conservative viewpoint.

I t is well known that when professional specialties have reached a certain stage of development, they can afford to take stock of themselves, to record the pattern of existing trends, and to make testable predictions which in their usual turn may help to shape the future. Child psychiatry has arrived at such a stage of comparative luxury, and the literature contains a number of examples of this process. At the risk of redundancy the author hopes to justify the addition of yet another paper to this list; its more precise purpose is the elaboration of a viewpoint which is not exactly in the mainstream of professional thinking (though it has its proponents), yet is sufficiently close to it as to have some chance to influence future trends. The conservative viewpoint serves to correct tangential excursions which may, at first blush, seem attractive to the profession. However, they carry with them implications that raise serious difficulties and might eventually force the profession into untenable positions. “Progress” as a linear phenomenon may be an advance into a richer and more rewarding situation, or it may become a move out on a limb which can snap off at any time. We have some difficulty in seeing clearly either our direction or the broad context in which we operate, i.e., societal factors beyond our control.
Anthropology, Shamanism, and Alternate Ways of Knowing–Being in the World: One Anthropologist's Journey of Discovery and Transformation

SUMMARY From over 20 years of working with shamans and their apprentices in northern Peru and the United States, this article describes my own journey from scientist and skeptic to humanist and adept. It tells of the fundamental shift in consciousness I experienced as a result of a specific instance in which the veil between the seen and unseen worlds temporarily lifted, allowing me to engage with Spirit in new ways. It presents, as a result of this shift, the struggles I have faced in redefining my own relationship to my work as an anthropologist. Finally, it suggests some of the advantages to our discipline that can come from thinking outside the paradigmatic box that has, for much too long, kept us disengaged from the world in which we live.
Analysis of a window-constrained scheduler for real-time and best-effort packet streams

Describes how dynamic window-constrained scheduling (DWCS) can guarantee real-time service to packets from multiple streams with different performance objectives. We show that: (1) DWCS can guarantee that no more than x packets miss their deadlines for every y consecutive packets requiring service, as long as the minimum aggregate bandwidth requirement of all real-time packet streams does not exceed the available bandwidth; (2) using DWCS, the delay of service to real-time packer streams is bounded even when the scheduler is overloaded; (3) DWCS can ensure that the delay bound of any given stream is independent of other streams; and (4) a fast response time for best-effort packet streams, in the presence of real-time packet streams, is possible. Furthermore, if a feasible schedule exists, each stream is guaranteed a minimum fraction of available bandwidth over a finite window of time.
Sexual partner accumulation from adolescence through early adulthood: the role of family, peer, and school social norms.

Abstract Purpose An early age of sexual initiation and sexual activity with multiple partners are risk factors for an array of detrimental outcomes. Drawing on social norms theory, this study assessed the role of subjective and descriptive social norms from parents, peers, and schoolmates on trajectories of sexual partner accumulation from early adolescence through early adulthood. Methods Data were drawn from the in-home survey sample of Add Health, following 14,797 youth from adolescence through early adulthood. Social norms data were drawn from youth, parent, schoolmate, and school administrator reports. Multi-level growth models assess how parent, peer, and school social norms predicted initial levels and growth in sexual partner accumulation. Results Parent and peer approval of youth sexual behavior, as well as lower perceived negative repercussions of pregnancy, predicted greater initial levels and greater growth over time in the accumulation of sexual partners. Similarly, youth attending schools with a greater proportion of sexually experienced schoolmates reported higher initial levels of sexual partners. In contrast, greater parental warnings regarding negative consequences of sex predicted heightened sexual partner accumulation. Some moderation by youth gender and age emerged as well. Conclusions Results highlight the role of both subjective and descriptive social norms, suggesting the importance of understanding and seeking to influence the social beliefs and expectations of youth and their families.
A Visual Approach to Parameter Selection of Density-Based Noise Removal for Effective Data Clustering

Traditional visual data mining relies on visualization techniques to disclose implicit information and relationship among data through utilizing human capability of pattern recognition. As an important step in data clustering, noise removal is a challenging topic as domain-specific noise is not well defined and cannot be removed by generic process of data cleaning. This paper addresses two conjugated and reciprocal issues in the use of visualization in noise removal׃ choosing appropriate visualization techniques based on data removing methods, and designing processing algorithms that suit visualization. The goal is a synthesis of visualization techniques and data mining methods to enhance the overall performance while reducing the subjective factor in visual mining procedure. A visual data cleaning approach called CLEAN is proposed to assist spatial data clustering in four important aspects׃ removal of domain-specific noise, visualization of data quality, selection of algorithm parameters, and measurement of noise removing methods on parameter sensitiveness. Experiments show that the visualization models in CLEAN
Secukinumab for treating plaque psoriasis.

Introduction: Plaque psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can result in significant physical, psychological and quality of life impairments. Until recently, biologic treatment for psoriasis was limited to tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors and an interleukin (IL)-12/23 p40 subunit inhibitor. Newly developed biologics targeting the pro-inflammatory IL-17A cytokine have shown success in providing higher levels of clinical efficacy in patients with psoriasis. Secukinumab, a member of this novel class of IL-17 inhibitors, is the latest biologic to receive US FDA approval for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.Areas covered: This comprehensive review will cover the pharmacology, efficacy, safety and future role of secukinumab and other IL-17 blockers in the treatment of plaque psoriasis.Expert opinion: While biologics have revolutionized patient care for chronic plaque psoriasis, they are associated with loss of response over time. When treatment failure occurs with existing biolo...
Molding challenges of LOC packages with large devices

This paper presents the manufacturing challenges that were met for plastic encapsulation of lead on chip (LOG) products with large device-to-package area ratios. A new methodology for optimizing product and process performance has been used to eliminate the injection problems which were encountered with these packages. The influence of pellet preheat time and clamping force on the voids and on the knit-lines has been clearly demonstrated in a screening study. The injection speeds have been optimized to completely eliminate the emergence of the defects in a subsequent focusing study.
Toward Practical Non-Contact Optical Strain Sensing Using Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

Progress is reported in an emerging non-contact strain sensing technology based on optical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). In this strain-sensing smart skin (“S4”) method, nanotubes are dilutely embedded in a thin polymer film applied to a substrate of interest. Subsequent strain in the substrate is transferred to the nanotubes, causing systematic spectral shifts in their characteristic short-wave infrared fluorescence peaks. A small diode laser excites a spot on the coated surface, and the resulting emission is captured and spectrally analyzed to deduce local strain. To advance performance of the method, we prepare S4 films with structurally selected SWCNTs. These give less congested emission spectra that can be analyzed precisely. However, quenching interactions with the polymer host reduce SWCNT emission intensity by an order of magnitude. The instrumentation that captures SWCNT fluorescence has been made lighter and smaller for hand-held use or mounting onto a positioning mechanism that makes efficient automated strain scans of laboratory test specimens. Statistical analysis of large S4 data sets exposes uncertainties in measurements at single positions plus spatial variations in deduced baseline strain levels. Future refinements to S4 film formulation and processing should provide improved strain sensing performance suitable for industrial application. © The Author(s) 2016. Published by ECS. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives 4.0 License (CC BY-NC-ND, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/), which permits non-commercial reuse, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is not changed in any way and is properly cited. For permission for commercial reuse, please email: oa@electrochem.org. [DOI: 10.1149/2.0031608jss] All rights reserved.
A System Level Approach to the Design of an Industrial Ecosystem

Industrial ecology is a nascent concept in which systems of industries work together to reduce their net negative environmental impact. The work in this paper represents an initial step towards the advancement of industrial ecology through quantitative analysis. A system dynamics model of an existing industrial ecosystem is developed in STELLA ® and used to represent the system level behavior. A design tool, the Robust Concept Exploration Method (RCEM), that has been used previously for more traditional design problems, e.g., engine design and airplane design, is successfully applied to the system level design of an industrial ecosystem. The results in this paper are intended to provide support for decision makers in complex industrial ecosystems and, more importantly, to increase the knowledge about designing industrial ecosystems. As the concept of industrial ecology progresses, the analysis of ecosystems will become more complex, increasing the need for design at the system level to be addressed with tools such as the RCEM.
Clinical pharmacology of the new penicillins. II. Effect of drugs which interfere with binding to serum proteins.

A series of compounds were found to be effective in vitro inhibitors of serum protein binding of penicillins G, V, ancillin, nafcillin, oxacillin, cloxacillin, and dicloxacillin when used at a molar concentration of 1 x 10−3 versus the penicillins at 1 x 10−4 M. Three of these compounds, sulfamethoxypyridazine, sulfaethylthiadiazole, and acetylsalicylic acid were employed in volunteer studies to determine their effect on serum concentrations and binding of the various penicillin analogues in vivo. it was possible to reduce serum binding of the penicillins in man by this approach with all of the penicillin analogues studied, including the very highly bound drug, dicloxacillin. When effective, binding inhibitors tended to lower concentrations in serum of total penicillin and in almost all instances significantly increased the concentrations of unbound antibiotic. Sulfonamides interfered with the oral absorption of oxacillin. The limitations of this approach to current therapy with penicillins are presented together with a brief description of the features of a desirable new penicillin analogue.
Osteosynthesis in Forearm Transplantation Using a Novel Ulnar-Shortening Osteotomy System for Simultaneous Both Bone Fixation

Introduction: Osteosynthesis in forearm-level allotransplantation is technically challenging. Achieving adequate cortical contact simultaneously between the radius and ulna proves difficult due to differing bone morphology of donor and recipient. In addition, the large area of dissection around the osteotomy sites and use of immunosuppressants further deters osseous healing, making nonunion a significant risk. Methods: Seven distal forearm transplants were performed on cadavers using the Newclip Technics ulnar-shortening osteotomy system for both the radius and ulna. The donor bones were plated after placing two transverse 0.062 K-wires distally for DRUJ stabilization. The osteotomy cut-guides were screwed to the plates and oblique osteotomies were performed. Matching recipient osteotomies were performed using the same cut-guide system. The donor and recipient were then brought together and any discrepancies in length corrected. The osteosynthesis site is then compressed and an interfragmentary lag screw...
Citizenship, Achievement, and Accountability

What Charles Glenn called “the myth of the common school” has produced a flawed cultural narrative about uniform schools: that only traditional public schools can produce democratic citizens and provide equal opportunity for all students. Berner examines international and domestic research that challenge this received narrative. She suggests that the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD’s) Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) exams and the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA)’s international civic surveys indicate that uniform systems have no inherent academic or civic advantage. She also analyzes school sector research, drawing on the work of James Coleman and Anthony Bryk, and the Center for Research on Educational Outcomes (CREDO), to argue that the distinctive missions and stronger academics often associated with private and charter schools can benefit students and narrow the achievement gaps.
Spinal Hemangioblastomas in Von Hippel Lindau Disease

von Hippel Lindau disease (VHL) is an autosomal dominant hereditary disease in which the CNS and retinal hemangioblastomas, renal cell carcinoma, pheocromocytoma, abdominal cystic masses e.g. in the kidney, liver, pancreas, and epididymal cysts may develop. VHL disease manifests itself by 65 years of age. The annual incidence is 1/36,000 live births. In the brain its manifestations are in the cerebellum, brain stem, spinal cord and suprasellar hemangioblastomas and endolymphatic sac tumors.
Sentiment analysis and topic extraction of the twitter network of #prayforparis

Social media includes a copious amount of sentiment-embodied sentences. Sentiment is described as "a personal belief or judgment that is not founded on proof or certainty," which may depict the emotional state of the user, such as happy, glad, terrified, miserable, or the author's viewpoint on a topic. In social science, emotions and sentiment make up a significant part of social life and are interconnected with social relationships. When experiencing emotions, people want to reveal those emotions to other people. This study seeks to validate whether the Emotional Contagion social theory holds true in microblogging data. This theory implies that related people tend to have more similar sentiments or opinions. Motivated by this sociological observation, the study explores the sentiment-semantics of the Twitter network of #prayforparis through sentiment analysis and topic extraction. Social Network Analysis was conducted using NodeXL to investigate the research questions. The study implemented R for conducting sentiment analysis and generating word clouds with the collected data. The study also conducted content analysis of tweets through topic extraction by applying the most recent version of SAS Enterprise Miner (13.2). In conclusion, the results confirmed the Emotional Contagion Theory in the Twitter network of #prayforparis.
Electronic Control of Stereochemistry in Carbon-Carbon Bond Formation at Metal Centers

Product distribution in catalytic reactions can often be rationalized in terms of steric effects of the ligands. The relative thermodynamic stabilities of intermediates can be associated with steric factors and subsequently correlated with the stereochemistry of products. For example, the effect of phosphine bulk has traditionally been important in explanations of the isomer ratio in modified oxo processes.1 The steric bulk of substituents in optically active phosphines is also often attributed a role in determining optical yield in catalytic asymmetric syntheses.2 It is inevitably difficult to completely dissect the interactions into effects arising from steric interactions and those arising from electronic interactions. Nevertheless, a situation will be illustrated in which the direction of attack of an incoming nucleophile upon a coordinated olefinic moiety is controlled primarily by electronic factors. In this system the asymmetry arises from differences between a carbonyl and nitrosyl ligand; yet the difference is sufficient to produce stereospecific reactions.
The TCR takes some immune responsibility

In this issue of Immunity , Van Braeckel-Budimir et al. (2017) reveal that the pathogenic response of mice to a Plasmodium berghei infection is dominated by a Vβ8.1 T cell response. Mice lacking Vβ8.1 T cells fail to mount a pathogenic response, thus showing that the TCR locus can be an Immune response ( Ir ) gene.
Damascene-patterned optical anisotropy in integrated photonics

We propose, simulate and experimentally demonstrate a method for realizing spatially-mapped birefringence onto integrated photonic devices and circuits. The fabrication method is based on applying a damascene-like process to dielectric film stacks to form anisotropic optical waveguides. An integrated polarizing beam-splitter (PBS) is realized with unprecedented performance: a record 0.52 octaves of fractional bandwidth (116 THz), maximum on-chip insertion loss of 1.4 ± 0.8 dB, and a minimum extinction ratio of 16 ± 3 dB, pushing it into the realm of wideband spectroscopy and imaging applications. Additionally, photonic structures such as polarization-selective beam-taps and polarization-selective microring resonators are demonstrated.
In Vitro Efficacy of Free and Nanoparticle Formulations of Gallium(III) meso-Tetraphenylporphyrine against Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium abscessus and Gallium Biodistribution in Mice

The nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) pathogens, M. avium complex (MAC) and M. abscessus, can result in severe pulmonary infections. Current antibiotics confront significant challenges for treatment of these NTM infections due to emerging multidrug-resistance. Thus, development of new antibiotics targeted against these agents is needed. We examined the inhibitory activities of Ga(NO3)3, GaCl3, gallium meso-tetraphenylporphyrine (GaTP), and gallium nanoparticles (GaNP) against intra- and extracellular M. avium and M. abscessus. GaTP, an analogue of natural heme, inhibited growth of both M. avium and M. abscessus with MICs in Fe-free 7H9 media of 0.5 and 2 μg/mL, respectively. GaTP was more active than Ga(NO3)3 and GaCl3. Ga(NO3)3 and GaCl3 were not as active in Fe-rich media compared to Fe-free media. However, GaTP was much less impacted by exogenous Fe, with MICs against M. avium and M. abscessus of 2 and 4 μg/mL, respectively, in 7H9 OADC media (Fe rich). Confocal microscopy showed that GaNP penetrates ...
A GTPase-activating protein–binding protein (G3BP1)/antiviral protein relay conveys arteriosclerotic Wnt signals in aortic smooth muscle cells

In aortic vascular smooth muscle (VSM), the canonical Wnt receptor LRP6 inhibits protein arginine (Arg) methylation, a new component of noncanonical Wnt signaling that stimulates nuclear factor of activated T cells (viz. NFATc4). To better understand how methylation mediates these actions, MS was performed on VSM cell extracts from control and LRP6-deficient mice. LRP6-dependent Arg methylation was regulated on >500 proteins; only 21 exhibited increased monomethylation (MMA) with concomitant reductions in dimethylation. G3BP1, a known regulator of arteriosclerosis, exhibited a >30-fold increase in MMA in its C-terminal domain. Co-transfection studies confirm that G3BP1 (G3BP is Ras-GAP SH3 domain–binding protein) methylation is inhibited by LRP6 and that G3BP1 stimulates NFATc4 transcription. NFATc4 association with VSM osteopontin (OPN) and alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) chromatin was increased with LRP6 deficiency and reduced with G3BP1 deficiency. G3BP1 activation of NFATc4 mapped to G3BP1 domains supporting interactions with RIG-I (retinoic acid inducible gene I), a stimulus for mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS) that drives cardiovascular calcification in humans when mutated in Singleton-Merten syndrome (SGMRT2). Gain-of-function SGMRT2/RIG-I mutants increased G3BP1 methylation and synergized with osteogenic transcription factors (Runx2 and NFATc4). A chemical antagonist of G3BP, C108 (C108 is 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, 2-[1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)ethylidene]hydrazide CAS 15533-09-2), down-regulated RIG-I–stimulated G3BP1 methylation, Wnt/NFAT signaling, VSM TNAP activity, and calcification. G3BP1 deficiency reduced RIG-I protein levels and VSM osteogenic programs. Like G3BP1 and RIG-I deficiency, MAVS deficiency reduced VSM osteogenic signals, including TNAP activity and Wnt5-dependent nuclear NFATc4 levels. Aortic calcium accumulation is decreased in MAVS-deficient LDLR−/− mice fed arteriosclerotic diets. The G3BP1/RIG-I/MAVS relay is a component of Wnt signaling. Targeting this relay may help mitigate arteriosclerosis.
Computational and experimental forensics characterization of weapons-grade plutonium produced in a thermal neutron environment

Abstract The growing nuclear threat has amplified the need for developing diverse and accurate nuclear forensics analysis techniques to strengthen nuclear security measures. The work presented here is part of a research effort focused on developing a methodology for reactor-type discrimination of weapons-grade plutonium. To verify the developed methodology, natural UO2 fuel samples were irradiated in a thermal neutron spectrum at the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) and produced approximately 20 μg of weapons-grade plutonium test material. Radiation transport simulations of common thermal reactor types that can produce weapons-grade plutonium were performed, and the results are presented here. These simulations were needed to verify whether the plutonium produced in the natural UO2 fuel samples during the experimental irradiation at MURR was a suitable representative to plutonium produced in common thermal reactor types. Also presented are comparisons of fission product and plutonium concentrations obtained from computational simulations of the experimental irradiation at MURR to the nondestructive and destructive measurements of the irradiated natural UO2 fuel samples. Gamma spectroscopy measurements of radioactive fission products were mostly within 10%, mass spectroscopy measurements of the total plutonium mass were within 4%, and mass spectroscopy measurements of stable fission products were mostly within 5%.
Comparative analysis of single-stranded DNA donors to generate conditional null mouse alleles.

The International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium is generating null allele mice for every protein-coding gene in the genome and characterizing these mice to identify gene–phenotype associations. While CRISPR/Cas9-mediated null allele production in mice is highly efficient, generation of conditional alleles has proven to be more difficult. To test the feasibility of using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to generate conditional knockout mice for this large-scale resource, we employed Cas9-initiated homology-driven repair (HDR) with short and long single stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs and lssDNAs). Using pairs of single guide RNAs and short ssODNs to introduce loxP sites around a critical exon or exons, we obtained putative conditional allele founder mice, harboring both loxP sites, for 23 out of 30 targeted genes. LoxP sites integrated in cis in at least one mouse for 18 of 23 genes. However, loxP sites were mutagenized in 4 of the 18 in cis lines. HDR efficiency correlated with Cas9 cutting efficiency but was minimally influenced by ssODN homology arm symmetry. By contrast, using pairs of guides and single lssDNAs to introduce loxP-flanked exons, conditional allele founders were generated for all four genes targeted, although one founder was found to harbor undesired mutations within the lssDNA sequence interval. Importantly, when employing either ssODNs or lssDNAs, random integration events were detected. Our studies demonstrate that Cas9-mediated HDR with pairs of ssODNs can generate conditional null alleles at many loci, but reveal inefficiencies when applied at scale. In contrast, lssDNAs are amenable to high-throughput production of conditional alleles when they can be employed. Regardless of the single-stranded donor utilized, it is essential to screen for sequence errors at sites of HDR and random insertion of donor sequences into the genome.
Dry Deposition of Trace Elements

This chapter reviews current knowledge of dry deposition of trace elements from the atmosphere. The process of dry deposition is presented through descriptions of physical processes and mathematical relations. Semi-empirical models are discussed and compared. Dry deposition field sampling programs, representing a variety of locations and measurement techniques, are described. The results show wide variations in dry deposition velocities, with crustal elements having greater values than enriched elements. Only rough agreement between field data and model predictions is obtained, due to weaknesses in both models and measurement techniques.
Dual state/rainfall correction via soil moisture assimilation for improved streamflow simulation: Evaluation of a large-scale implementation with SMAP satellite data

Abstract. Soil moisture (SM) measurements contain information about both pre-storm hydrologic states and within-storm rainfall estimates, both are essential for accurate streamflow simulation. In this study, an existing dual state/rainfall correction system is extended and implemented in a large basin with a semi-distributed land surface model. The latest Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite surface SM retrievals are assimilated to simultaneously correct antecedent SM states in the model and rainfall estimates from the latest Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission. While the GPM rainfall is corrected slightly to moderately, especially for larger events, the correction is smaller than that reported in past studies because of the improved baseline quality of the new GPM satellite product. The streamflow is corrected slightly to moderately via dual correction across 8 Arkansas-Red sub-basins. The correction is larger at sub-basins with poorer GPM rainfall and poorer open-loop streamflow simulations. Overall, although the dual data assimilation scheme is able to nudge streamflow simulations in the correct direction, it corrects only a relatively small portion of the total streamflow error. Systematic modeling error accounts for a larger portion of the overall streamflow error, which is uncorrectable by standard data assimilation techniques. These findings suggest that we may be reaching a point of diminishing returns for applying data assimilation approaches to correct random errors in streamflow simulations. More substantial streamflow correction would rely on future research efforts aimed at reducing the systematic error and developing higher-quality satellite rainfall products.
Semantic Processing: Statistical Approaches

The development of methods for representing meaning is a critical aspect of cognitive modeling and applications that must extract meaning from text input. The ability to derive meaning is the key to any approach that needs to use or evaluate knowledge. With the advent of more powerful computing and the availability of on-line texts and machine-readable dictionaries, novel techniques have been developed that can automatically derive semantic representations. These techniques capture effects of regularities inherent in language to learn about semantic relationships among words. The techniques operate on large corpora, permitting automatic development of lexicons on large samples of language. The techniques can be incorporated into methods for cognitive modeling on a wide range of psychological phenomena such as language acquisition, discourse processing, categorization, and memory. In addition, the techniques can be used in applied settings, in which a computer can derive semantic knowledge representations from text. These settings include information retrieval, natural language processing, and discourse analysis.
Secreted Metabolite Production in Perfusion Plant Cell Cultures

Operation of a novel bioreactor that allows continuous perfusion cultivation of plant cell suspensions is described in this paper. This external-loop, air-lift bioreactor has an internal settling zone for cell separation. The settling zone is created by inserting a baffle plate into the upper portion of the downcomer. Using this bioreactor, an Anchusa officinalis suspension culture was cultivated to a cell density of 27.2 g DW L−1 in 14 days at a perfusion rate of 0.123 day−1. The maximum total extracellular protein concentration attained was 1.11 g L−1. Complete cell retention was achieved throughout the culture during which the maximum packed cell volume (PCV) exceeded 80%. In comparison, the maximum cell density and extracellular protein concentration in the batch culture were 12.6 g DW L−1 and 0.47 g L−1, respectively. A very high acid phosphatase activity was observed in the spent medium of both batch and perfusion cultures. After 14 days of cultivation, the acid phosphatase activity in the batch and the perfusion cultures exceeded 2000 and 4000 units L−1, respectively. The potential application of this perfusion bioreactor in culturing cyanobacteria and other photosynthetic microorganisms for hydrogen production is also discussed.
Sweet Bones: Diabetes Effects on Bone

Abstract Diabetes is due primarily to insulin deficiency (type 1 diabetes, T1D) and/or insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes, T2D). Bone mineral density (BMD) is lower in persons with T1D, whereas higher in persons with T2D and obesity. Diabetes affects bone microarchitecture, leading to increased cortical porosity, lower trabecular number, and greater trabecular spacing. Diabetes also affects tissue material properties, in part, due to advanced glycation end product accumulation. Fracture risk is higher for persons with diabetes than healthy peers. Fracture likelihood depends on age of diabetes onset, disease duration, age, glycemic control, and presence of diabetes-related complications. BMD underestimates fracture risk. Although trabecular bone score improves fracture risk prediction in T2D, data are inadequate in T1D. Medications for blood sugar control that negatively affect bone (e.g., thiazolidinediones) should be avoided in persons with diabetes and increased fracture risk.
Leading eigenvalues of adjacency matrices of star-like graphs with fixed numbers of vertices and edges

AbstractFor a sequence of adjacency matrices, describing the unfolding of a network from the graph of a star, through graphs of a broom, to the graph of a link with constant vertices and edges, we ...
Vascular flow on doppler sonography may not be a valid characteristic to distinguish colloid nodules from papillary thyroid carcinoma even when accounting for nodular size.

Background: The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that there is no significant difference in vascular flow patterns between cytopathologically-proven colloid nodules and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) even when adjusting for nodule size. Methods: Doppler vascular flow patterns in 200 colloid nodules and 166 nodules with PTC were retrospective reviewed independently by 2 neuroradiologists blinded to the cytopathological results. Absence of vascular flow, perinodular and/or intranodular flow, and diffuse vascular flow were recorded. The vascular flow patterns were compared without (Fisher exact test) and with (Kruskal-Wallis test) an adjustment for nodular size. Using the most common flow pattern as the reference group, multiple logistic regression was used to compare the flow patterns. Sample skewness was calculated to determine degree of symmetry of the size distribution for each vascular flow category. Results: No significant difference was found in the tested vascular flow patterns between colloid nodules and PTC both without and with an adjustment for nodular size (P>0.05). Intranodular flow only was the largest group (n=111/366) and used as the reference for multiple logistic regression. No significant difference was noted between the vascular flow patterns (P>0.05). Sample skewness showed that nodules were generally smaller in size with outliers of larger size on the opposite end of the spectrum. Conclusions: Independent of nodule size the absence or presence of vascular flow is not significantly different between colloid nodules and PTC. Therefore, vascular flow may not be useful in distinguishing between colloid nodules and PTC.
Vitiligo: Challenging Cultural Assumptions and Shaping Identity

Vitiligo is a skin condition where pigmentation stops developing, leaving people with white spots on their bodies. Vitiligo is likely caused by gene mutation and is hereditary, but it can happen to anyone. From a medical standpoint, it is a physically harmless condition but it has vast socio-cultural impact. This study was conducted at the Annual World Vitiligo Conference in Detroit, Michigan and on the internet (Instagram and Facebook), through participant-observation at the event, textual analysis of blog posts, and interviews online and in-person, respectively. Through these methods, three discourses emerged: 1) Feeling outcast, 2) Vitiligo as beautiful, and 3) Solidarity. I documented the way cultural assumptions about conditions and disabilities shape the identity of those who have it. These interviews suggest that vitiligo is as much a cultural condition as it is a medical condition. Although more research is needed, people living with vitiligo stated that greater representation of individuals with the condition is needed in the media and pop culture to enlighten the public about vitiligo and improve the day to day interactions of individuals with the condition.
Body mass index and attitudes towards health behaviors among women with endometrial cancer before and after treatment.

Introduction Some experts have argued that obesity-related malignancies such as endometrial cancer are a “teachable moment” that lead to meaningful changes in health behaviors. It is unclear if endometrial cancer survivors lose weight following treatment. Our goal with this investigation was to evaluate post-treatment changes in body mass index (BMI) and attitudes towards health behaviors in endometrial cancer survivors. Methods Incident endometrial cancer cases undergoing surgery between 2009–2015 were identified in the Marketscan Commercial database and linked with BMI data and health behavior questionnaires from the Marketscan Health Risk Assessment database. Patients were excluded for insufficient BMI data. Standard statistical methods, including the two-sample Wilcoxon rank sum test, χ2 test, and McNemar’s test, were used. Results 655 patients with a median age of 54 (IQR 49-58) were identified and analyzed. Median duration of follow-up was 595 days (IQR 360–1091). Mean pre- and post-treatment BMI was 35.5 kg/m2 (median 35.0; IQR 27.0–42.3) and 35.6 kg/m2 (median 34.3; IQR 28.0–42.0), respectively. Median BMI change in the entire cohort was 0 kg/m2 (IQR −1.0 to 2.0). Weight gain (n=302; 46.1%) or no change in weight (n=106; 16.2%) was seen in most patients. Among the 302 patients who gained weight, the mean pre-treatment BMI was 34.0 kg/m2 and mean increase was 2.8 kg/m2 (median 2.0; IQR 1.0–3.4). Among the 247 cases who lost weight, the mean pre-treatment BMI was 38.6 kg/m2 and mean decrease was 3.2 kg/m2 (median 2.0; IQR 1.0–4.0). No pre- to post-treatment differences were observed in health behavior questionnaires regarding intention to better manage their diet, exercise more, or lose weight. Discussion Most endometrial cancer survivors gain weight or maintain the same weight following treatment. No post-treatment changes in attitudes regarding weight-related behaviors were observed. The systematic delivery of evidence-based weight loss interventions should be a priority for survivors of endometrial cancer.
Clinically Significant Incidental Findings on the Unenhanced CT Portion of Pediatric FDG PET/CT Studies: Frequency in 410 cases.

1783 Objectives In FDG PET/CT, the unenhanced CT portion, performed for attenuation correction and lesion localization, provides additional independent diagnostic information not apparent on PET alone. The objective of this study was to evaluate the incremental added value and frequency of potentially clinically significant incidental findings from the unenhanced CT portion of PET/CT studies in the pediatric population Methods From 2000 to 2015 at a single institution, 22,133 PET/CT exams were obtained. Of those exams, 410 pediatric cases were referred for clinical evaluation of known or suspected cancer. Unenhanced CT studies were retrospectively read without knowledge of findings from the PET portion of the PET/CT study. Findings from the unenhanced CT were considered clinically significant if they were not detected or explained by PET findings and were considered, after examination of all available clinical data, to require additional work-up. Most of these findings were worth mentioning in the impression of the report and few cases needed immediate action to alert the ordering physician Results Unenhanced CT revealed incidental findings in 77/410 cases (18.3%) that were non-FDG avid. Of the 77 cases, 41(53%) were considered clinically significant and required further workup. Furthermore, of those 41 cases, 17(41%) required an immediate call to alert the ordering physician. Examples of such cases include 7 with undescended testicles, 6 with a moderate pleural effusion, 1 with bowel obstruction, 1 with moderate pneumothorax, 1 with moderate ascites and 1 with pectus excavatum Conclusions Clinically significant findings from the unenhanced CT portion of the PET/CT in the pediatric population are relatively frequent (18.3%). When present, such findings could be serious enough to warrant major alterations in clinical management in at least 17/410 (4%). Thus, we believe careful evaluation of the CT portion of the study needs to be interpreted with special attention to the lesions that PET alone can fail to detect
Making managers in the U.S. military: the case of the Army Management School, 1945-1970

Under pressure to cut costs after World War II, leaders in the U.S. Department of Defense recruited managers from private industry to help them run the Cold War national security state. Management ...
Peptide-Based PROTAC: The Predator of Pathological Proteins

Qu et al. (2020) demonstrate a peptide-induced targeted degradation of the alpha-synuclein protein, a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. Using a modular three-component design, the target-protein-specific, cell-permeable peptide disposed of alpha-synuclein via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway rather than the standard autophagy-lysosome pathway.
A Machine Vision Based Monitoring System for the LCD Panel Cutting Wheel Degradation

Abstract In Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel cutting, in-line monitoring of tool wear is important to maintain the dimension precision of finished products and to avoid possible damages to the workpiece. However, limited by the space for camera installation and the miniature structure of the tool itself, monitoring the wear of LCD panel cutting wheel is not a simple task. In this research, we proposed a machine-vision based instrumentation system and a systematic methodology for cutting wheel degradation monitoring. The proposed method describes the degradation of cutting wheel by estimating the tooth height of the cutting wheel blade based on the partially observed random samples. A series of methods are proposed to improve the reliability of the results. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated based on the field data that is collected from three maintenance cycles. The validation results demonstrate consistent degradation trend of the cutting wheel over production cycles.