cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive ocean prediction and analysis system based on the tangent linear and adjoint of a regional ocean model

The regional ocean modelling system (ROMS) is a new generation ocean general circulation model that is rapidly gaining favour in the ocean modelling community. The tangent linear and adjoint versions of ROMS have recently been developed, and a new suite of tools that utilize these models for a variety of applications are now available to the ocean modelling community. In this paper we will describe the tangent linear and adjoint components of ROMS, and present examples from the tools that are currently available to ROMS users. In particular we will consider the finite time eigenmodes and the adjoint finite time eigenmodes of the tangent linear propagator, the singular vectors of the propagator, and its forcing singular vectors and stochastic optimals. The pseudospectra of the tangent linear resolvent matrix are also considered. Examples of each type of calculation will be presented for a time evolving double gyre ocean circulation in a rectangular ocean basin. � 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Analysis of a probe-metallic sleeve feed system for a rectangular waveguide

The author considers the problem of how to tune a probe in a rectangular waveguide. The tuning will be accomplished by surrounding the rectangular waveguide probe with a metallic sleeve. This problem is treated by a method-of-moments formulation generalized to include the presence of the metallic sleeve currents. The normalized input impedance that results from the antenna system under consideration when metallic sleeves of different dimension and position are placed in the rectangular waveguide is shown. The numerical results obtained suggest that a metallic sleeve can be used to tune the input impedance of a probe-fed rectangular waveguide. >
Strengthening of Class Fibers: 11, Ion Exchange *

Soda-alumina-silica glass fibers were ion-exchanged in potassium nitrate at 400°C; their strength was measured before and after exchange. The potassium concentration distribution and the optical retardation were also measured. The results for unetched fibers are consistent with the premise that the kinetics of exchange are controlled by diffusion with D⋍×10−11 cm2/s) and with the predictions of thermal stress analysis with a dilation coefficient of 2.8×10−4 (wt fraction potassium)−1. The existence of a broad maximum in the plot of strengthening of unetched fibers vs time may be explained by the existence of Griffith flaws about 2 μm deep in the unexchanged glass. A deleterious effect from ion exchange was noted with etched fibers, in which even a short (½ h) exchange caused significant weakening.
On the use of deuterated phospholipids for infrared spectroscopic studies of monomolecular films: a thermodynamic analysis of single and binary component phospholipid monolayers.

Abstract A thermodynamic study of monolayer mixing behavior was performed using binary lipid mixtures of DPPC+DOPG (7:1 mol:mol) as well as a mixture containing the phosphocholine acyl chain perdeuterated analog of DPPC, DPPC-d 62 (i.e. 7:1 mol:mol DPPC-d 62 +DOPG). An analysis was performed on these isotherms that calculated the Helmholtz excess free energy of mixing to determine potential thermodynamic differences in the fully protiated DPPC:DOPG monolayer versus the identical monolayer substituted with acyl chain perdeuterated DPPC (i.e. DPPC-d 62 ). The main conclusions of this study are that: (1) the temperature-dependent thermodynamic phase behavior of DPPC-d 62 differs substantially from that of DPPC, and these differences appear magnified when these molecules are studied as monomolecular films at the A/W interface as opposed to bulk phase systems; and (2) the calculated excess free energy of mixing values, Δ F xs (A), for the deuterium-containing 7:1 DPPC-d 62 :DOPG binary monolayer film show a type of near-ideal mixing behavior above 20°C that is consistent with the ‘squeezing-out’ of the DOPG component in the binary mixture containing the DPPC-d 62 component. This type of behavior does not occur in the graph of the excess free energy of mixing for the fully protiated 7:1 DPPC:DOPG binary monolayer film. The use of acyl chain perdeuterated DPPC (i.e. DPPC-d 62 ) in binary monomolecular mixtures with other phospholipids produces a real and measurable difference on the thermodynamic properties of the monolayer when compared to the case of the fully protiated monomolecular film. In particular, the presence of DPPC-d 62 in a 7:1 mol:mol DPPC-d 62 :DOPG binary monomolecular film may over-state the fluid nature of the monolayer at any given temperature, thereby leading to an over-estimate of the amount of material potentially ‘squeezed out’ of the monomolecular film. These results have implications for a commonly used IR spectroscopic method that relies on the incorporation of deuterium-labeled phospholipids into monolayers for vibrational spectroscopic analysis of individual components in a multicomponent monomolecular film.
BUCKLING OF THIN LAMINATED ORTHOTROPIC COMPOSITE RINGs/LONG CYLINDERS UNDER EXTERNAL PRESSURE

The buckling of isotropic rings under external pressure has attracted the interest of researchers since late 1950s. The formula for critical fluid buckling pressure of thin rings is very well known. This formula was directly extended to account for homogeneous orthotropic rings as well. The buckling of orthotropic cylindrical shells was also a subject of interest since the 1960s. However, the formulations developed, to date, require numerical solutions to obtain the critical pressure. In this work, a generalized closed form analytical formula for the buckling of thin orthotropic multi-angle laminated rings/long cylinders is developed. Standard energy based formulation is used to express the kinematics and equilibrium equations. Classical lamination theory is implemented to introduce the constitutive equations of thin shells. These equations are statically condensed, in terms of the ring's boundary conditions, to produce effective axial, coupling and flexural rigidities for the cases of rings and long cylinders. The critical buckling pressure may be calculated by hand using the derived equation in terms of these effective elastic rigidities. Comparisons are made with some existing results. Parametric studies are conducted to compare the present results with those of the buckling equations implemented by design standards. Various fiber orientations and stacking sequences are considered.
A novel dual-diameter ureteroscope working channel: Impact on irrigant flow

Abstract Objectives To compare irrigant flow characteristics through standard working channels (3.6F to 4.5F) and a dual-diameter working channel. Irrigant flow is critical for adequate visualization during endoscopic procedures. Methods Working channels were created out of 80 cm of light wall polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tubing (inner diameter 3.6F, 4.0F, and 4.5F) with a male Luer connector attached to one end by epoxy resin. The dual-diameter working channel was created with a 70-cm segment of PTFE (4.5F inner diameter, 0.059 in.) and a 10-cm segment of PTFE (3.6F inner diameter, 0.047 in.) with a male Luer connector attached to the free end of the 4.5F tubing. Stone basket shafts (100 cm in length, outer diameter 1.9F, 2.4F, and 3.0F) were created out of unmodified polyimide tubing with a 0.018-in.-diameter nitinol mandrel epoxy core for stability. Irrigant flow was measured at 100 mm Hg pressure for 1 minute with an empty channel and with stone basket shafts in the channel. Results The flow rates were significantly greater with the dual-diameter working channel than with the standard flexible ureteroscope (3.6F) working channel using an empty channel (79.2 versus 44.1 mL/min, P = 0.0001), 1.9F basket (35.9 versus 10.0 mL/min, P = 0.003), 2.4F basket (20.7 versus 4.3 mL/min, P = 0.002), and 3.0F basket (6.0 versus 0.7 mL/min, P = 0.0002) sheath. Conclusions A dual-diameter working channel may optimize irrigant flow characteristics for flexible ureteroscopes while maintaining a small distal tip diameter.
Stakes Matter: Student Motivation and the Validity of Student Assessments for Teacher Evaluation.

In 2011, Indiana lawmakers established a system to evaluate teachers using existing standardized assessments as an indicator of student learning. In this study we examined one component of Indiana's evaluation system to determine whether student knowledge of the test's consequences is predictive of test performance. Using an experimental design, we found that the type of consequences associated with an administered reading assessment were associated with achievement differences. In particular, comparisons among group means show that when students were told that either their grades or their teacher's employment status were at stake, achievement was statistically significantly higher than when students were told that there were low proximal consequences associated with the test. Given the current policy climate in the United States of using student assessments for policy formation, teacher evaluations, and state and national rankings, our findings point to the need to clearly inform students about the conse...
Bayesian prediction of an epidemic curve

An epidemic curve is a graph in which the number of new cases of an outbreak disease is plotted against time. Epidemic curves are ordinarily constructed after the disease outbreak is over. However, a good estimate of the epidemic curve early in an outbreak would be invaluable to health care officials. Currently, techniques for predicting the severity of an outbreak are very limited. As far as predicting the number of future cases, ordinarily epidemiologists simply make an educated guess as to how many people might become affected. We develop a model for estimating an epidemic curve early in an outbreak, and we show results of experiments testing its accuracy.
The preclinical discovery of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis drugs

Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is characterized by the progressive loss of cells in the brain and spinal cord that leads to debilitation and death in 3 – 5 years. Only one therapeutic drug, riluzole, has been approved for ALS and this drug improves survival by 2 – 3 months. The need for new therapeutics that can postpone or slow the progression of the motor deficits and prolong survival is still a strong unmet medical need. Areas covered: Although there are a number of drugs currently in clinical trials for ALS, this review provides an overview of the most promising biological targets and preclinical strategies that are currently being developed and deployed. The list of targets for ALS was compiled from a variety of websites including individual companies that have ALS programs and include those from the author's experience. Expert opinion: Progress is being made in the identification of possible new therapeutics for ALS with recent efforts in...
A survey of China

China's role in the world economy is an increasing source of attention or concern, depending upon one's perspective. Current evidence indicates that China will continue to be an engine of growth for Southeast Asian economies, drawing in large volumes of imports across a range of inputs. In the near term the United States will remain a major destination for Chinese exports of finished products, although imports of high-tech goods from the U.S. are increasing, with foreign invested enterprises (FIEs) in the manufacturing sector the main producers. While China's comparative advantage in low labor costs will persist, other factors will increase in importance, making the business environment more competitive. Specifically, structural changes in the economy, gradual movement up the production value chain, and government policy to increase human capital, develop the interior of the - country, and decrease corruption, will increase growth in the domestic economy. Finally, the financial sector shows increasing flexibility, which lowers exposure to external shocks as fiscal and monetary policy become more effective and the country moves closer to a market economy.
Evolution of a Two-Dimensional Band Structure at a Self-Assembling Interface†

Two-photon photoemission is used to investigate the interfacial band structure of the methanethiolate/Ag(111) interface. Two adsorbate-induced electronic states are observed: one occupied, the other an unoccupied excited state. The initially occupied and unoccupied electronic states have effective masses of -2me and 0.5me, respectively. At a low coverage of thiolate molecules, the unoccupied state is measured to be nondispersive. At intermediate coverages both nondispersive and dispersive unoccupied electronic states are observed. This coverage dependent evolution can be interpreted as a phase transition from a less dense to a more dense layer configuration.
Scalable certificate revocation list distribution in vehicular ad hoc networks

In this paper, the primary objective is to discuss the details of scalable methods for distributing certificate revocation lists and other large files using vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications while taking advantage of the multi-channel operations in IEEE 1609.4. We also discuss the results from a simulation study using the ns-3 network simulator to closely replicate the WAVE environment discussed in the IEEE 802.11p and 1609 draft standards. Realistic vehicle traces were used in the simulation study. The results show that the methods developed in this research scale very well for increasing vehicle densities.
Antipsychotic Treatment Among Youth in Foster Care

OBJECTIVE: Despite national concerns over high rates of antipsychotic medication use among youth in foster care, concomitant antipsychotic use has not been examined. In this study, concomitant antipsychotic use among Medicaid-enrolled youth in foster care was compared with disabled or low-income Medicaid-enrolled youth. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The sample included 16 969 youths younger than 20 years who were continuously enrolled in a Mid-Atlantic state Medicaid program and had ≥1 claim with a psychiatric diagnosis and ≥1 antipsychotic claim in 2003. Antipsychotic treatment was characterized by days of any use and concomitant use with ≥2 overlapping antipsychotics for >30 days. Medicaid program categories were foster care, disabled (Supplemental Security Income), and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Multicategory involvement for youths in foster care was classified as foster care/Supplemental Security Income, foster care/TANF, and foster care/adoption. We used multivariate analyses, adjusting for demographics, psychiatric comorbidities, and other psychotropic use, to assess associations between Medicaid program category and concomitant antipsychotic use. RESULTS: Average antipsychotic use ranged from 222 ± 110 days in foster care to only 135 ± 101 days in TANF ( P < .001). Concomitant use for ≥180 days was 19% in foster care only and 24% in foster care/adoption compared with <15% in the other categories. Conduct disorder and antidepressant or mood-stabilizer use was associated with a higher likelihood of concomitant antipsychotic use ( P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: Additional study is needed to assess the clinical rationale, safety, and outcomes of concomitant antipsychotic use and to inform statewide policies for monitoring and oversight of antipsychotic use among youths in the foster care system.
Systemic Hypertension and Hypertensive Retinopathy Following PPA Overdose in a Dog

A 4 yr old spayed female Labrador retriever was examined 4 hr after ingesting an overdose of phenylpropanolamine (PPA). Clinical signs included anxiety, piloerection, mucosal ulceration, cardiac arrhythmia, mydriasis, and hyphema. Clinicopathologic abnormalities included elevated creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), proteinuria, and pigmenturia. Ventricular tachycardia and severe systemic hypertension were documented. Hyphema and retinal detachment were documented oculus uterque (OU). Phenoxybenzamine, sotalol, and esmolol resolved the ventricular tachycardia, and blood pressure was controlled with nitroprusside. All clinicopathologic and cardiac abnormalities resolved within 7 days, and ocular changes resolved within 1 mo. Monitoring of blood pressure and rapid pharmacologic intervention were successful in controlling hypertension secondary to PPA overdose and minimizing retinal damage.
Preemptible atomic regions for real-time Java

We present a new concurrency control abstraction for real-time systems called preemptible atomic regions (PARs). PARs a transactional mechanism that improves upon lock-based mutual exclusion in several ways. First, and foremost, PARs provide strong correctness guarantees. Any sequence of operations declared atomic will not suffer interference from other threads, even in the presence of programmer errors. In spite of this, PARs can be preempted by high priority tasks; this is essential to the minimization of blocking times. We have implemented PARs in a uniprocessor real-time Java virtual machine and evaluated their utility on a number of programs. The results suggest that programs that use PARs, depending on their semantics, can run faster and experience less jitter than those that use locks
The Hand as a Target Organ: In Child Abuse

The authors reviewed the abuse reports submitted by the staff of The Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, to determine the incidence and types of injuries inflicted to children's hands. The authors did not study hand injuries in children who were not reported as physically abused. The authors examined two time periods to ascertain changes injury severity. Of the 631 abuse reports submitted from 1980 to 1982, there were 52 injuries (8.2%) involving the hands. From July 1987 to July 1988 there were 42 hand injuries (13.4%) among 313 reports. In the 94 total cases, 19 (2%) children sustained injury to the hand only, including eight with burns, two with bruises, two with human bites, two with erythema, two with fractures, and one with a laceration. Children with burns to the hand alone were significantly younger than those with other types of injuries. Of the 94 children with hand and other injuries, 18 (20%) required hospital admission. Of the 19 with injuries to the hand only, five required hospital admission. A variety of instruments were used to injure these children. The hand is a delicate organ, and it is frequently the primary or incidental target of child abuse. Familiarity with the patterns and types of hand injury suffered in child abuse is essential for early recognition, reporting, and child protection.
Differential gene expression in metastasizing cells shed from kidney tumors.

We developed a novel orthotopic mouse tumor model of renal cell carcinoma to collect and characterize cells spontaneously shed from SN12C (renal cell carcinoma) and SN12L1 (high metastatic variant of SN12C) tumors grown in kidneys of severe combined immunodeficient mice. Viability of the shed cell population was greater for SN12L1 tumors (25%) compared with SN12C tumors (11%, P < 0.05). Gene array analysis of 23 genes involved in metastasis showed that CD44, α3 integrin, and caveolin were down-regulated in the shed tumor cells compared with their primary counterparts, and blocking α3 integrin or CD44 function inhibited attachment and migration of both cell lines. These results suggest that cohesion of the cells within the primary tumor mediated by CD44 and α3 integrins hinders metastasis and that shedding is a passive process not necessarily mediated by cell migration in these tumors. Furthermore, resistance to apoptosis may enhance metastasis in the higher metastatic tumor.
Critical Risk Factors in Project Delivery Method Selection for Highway Projects

Selecting an appropriate project delivery method is a complex decision-making process due to risks and uncertainties. At the time of the decision, the owner and stakeholders often have little information and the project plans are not detailed enough to make a judgment about the project with certainty of outcomes. This paper examines 39 risk factors related to the project delivery selection process. These risk factors were identified through completed cost and schedule risk analysis on more than $100 million of highway projects. A questionnaire was developed to collect the data a cross section of three delivery methods, including design-bid-build, designbuild, and construction manager/general contractor. Experts with an average of 25 years of related experience were invited to participate in the survey. The results indicate that the four risk factors that have most influence to all three delivery methods are: unexpected utility encounter; third-party delays during construction; geotechnical investigation; and delays in reviewing and obtaining environmental approvals. The research identified five other risk factors that have varying impacts on project delivery selection constructability of design; delivery schedule; railroad agreements; obtaining other agency approvals; and scope definition. This study also discusses the pertinent findings and rationale behind the critical risk factors.
Peering deeply inside the branch

The actin-related protein 2/3 (Arp2/3) story has captivated the cytoskeleton community for over a decade. Not only does this complex nucleate new actin filaments, but it also anchors them into a dendritic meshwork that is used in many cellular contexts such as lamellipodial protrusion, endosome rocketing, and the movement of pathogens. One key piece of this puzzle that has been missing is a detailed structure of the Arp2/3-actin branch. Using electron tomography and computational docking, Rouiller et al. (Rouiller, I., X.-P. Xu, K.J. Amann, C. Egile, S. Nickell, D. Nicastro, R. Li, T.D. Pollard, N. Volkmann, and D. Hanein. 2008. J. Cell Biol. 180:887-895) present an elegant and intriguing structure of the Arp2/3 complex-mediated actin branch.
Association of IS5 with divergent tandem blaCMY-2 genes in clinical isolates of Escherichia coli

OBJECTIVE To characterize a unique tandem bla(CMY-2) gene arrangement found in two non-identical clinical strains of Escherichia coli. METHODS Both plasmid and chromosomal DNA were evaluated using PFGE, restriction digest analysis, plasmid profiling and Southern hybridization. bla(CMY-2) gene expression and gene copy number were evaluated by real-time PCR. Susceptibilities to selected β-lactam antibiotics were determined by agar dilution. RESULTS A tandem arrangement for bla(CMY-2) was identified in both isolates and was the only arrangement for bla(CMY-2) observed. These isolates had distinct PFGE and plasmid profiles. Each strain exhibited 2-fold higher bla(CMY-2) mRNA expression and up to 8-fold lower β-lactam susceptibility compared with a strain with a single copy of bla(CMY-2). CONCLUSION This is the first report of IS5 being associated with tandem bla(CMY-2). IS5 has previously been associated with antibiotic resistance through tandem gene amplification. The unique tandem arrangement provides a mechanism for increased bla(CMY-2) expression.
The Semantics of Change as Revealed Through an Examination of Financial Accounting Standards Amendments

Financial accounting standards (FASs) are frequently changed by formal amendment. Frequent amendment imposes costs upon the users of these standards. Research into amendments and the amendment process is strikingly absent. A better understanding of what is amended and how often such amendments occur may facilitate a reduction in the frequency of such amendments enabling a corresponding reduction in the associated costs. This study examines a sample of 567 amendments to FASs. Classical information retrieval techniques are applied to establish whether meaningfully related clusters of amendments can be identified. Identified clusters are compared to a descriptive taxonomy of change (FAS amendments) proposed by Fisher (2004) to determine whether the clusters fit within the framework of the taxonomy, thereby lending it support. The results demonstrate the ability of classical information retrieval techniques to identify significant clusters of amendments and extend the applicability of the techniques into the ...
Isolation and Characterization of phyC Mutants in Arabidopsis Reveals Complex Crosstalk between Phytochrome Signaling Pathways

Studies with mutants in four members of the five-membered Arabidopsis phytochrome (phy) family (phyA, phyB, phyD, and phyE) have revealed differential photosensory and/or physiological functions among them, but identification of a phyC mutant has proven elusive. We now report the isolation of multiple phyC mutant alleles using reverse-genetics strategies. Molecular analysis shows that these mutants have undetectable levels of phyC protein, suggesting that they are null for the photoreceptor. phyC mutant seedlings were indistinguishable from wild-type seedlings under constant far-red light (FRc), and phyC deficiency had no effect in the phyA mutant background under FRc, suggesting that phyC does not participate in the control of seedling deetiolation under FRc. However, when grown under constant red light (Rc), phyC seedlings exhibited a partial loss of sensitivity, observable as longer hypocotyls and smaller cotyledons than those seen in the wild type. Although less severe, this phenotype resembles the effect of phyB mutations on photoresponsiveness, indicating that both photoreceptors function in regulating seedling deetiolation in response to Rc. On the other hand, phyB phyC double mutants did not show any apparent decrease in sensitivity to Rc compared with phyB seedlings, indicating that the phyC mutation in the phyB-deficient background does not have an additive effect. These results suggest that phyB is necessary for phyC function. This functional dependence correlates with constitutively lower levels of phyC observed in the phyB mutant compared with the wild type, a decrease that seems to be regulated post-transcriptionally. phyC mutants flowered early when grown in short-day photoperiods, indicating that phyC plays a role in the perception of daylength. phyB phyC double mutant plants flowered similarly to phyB plants, indicating that in the phyB background, phyC deficiency does not further accelerate flowering. Under long-day photoperiods, phyA phyC double mutant plants flowered later than phyA plants, suggesting that phyC is able to promote flowering in the absence of phyA. Together, these results suggest that phyC is involved in photomorphogenesis throughout the life cycle of the plant, with a photosensory specificity similar to that of phyB/D/E and with a complex pattern of differential crosstalk with phyA and phyB in the photoregulation of multiple developmental processes.
Effects of small thundercloud electrostatic fields on the ionospheric density profile

Small electrostatic fields of values not strong enough to activate electron impact ionization, attachment, and detachment processes can be established in the upper atmosphere by underlying thunderstorms. This paper investigates their effects on the ionospheric densities by using a simplified ion chemistry model. The modeling results indicate that under the steady state condition, the nighttime electron density profile can be reduced by up to ∼40% or enhanced by a factor of up to ∼6 because of the variation of the three-body electron attachment rate constant with the electric field.
Bounds on the throughput in frequency-hop packet radio networks with convolutional coding

Lower bounds are developed for the throughput of a slotted, asynchronous frequency-hop packet radio network in which convolutional coding and Viterbi decoding are used for error control. The methods used for bounding the packet error probability for convolutional encoding and Viterbi decoding do not require prior knowledge of the complete transfer function for the code generator. These methods are applied to the problem of bounding the throughput in a frequency-hop radio network. For the results presented, the channel is a multiple-access channel with no other noise or interference, and it is assumed that perfect side information is available to erase symbols that have been hit. >
The luminosity index as a distance indicator and the structure of the Virgo cluster.

The large scatter (σ ≈ 1.0 mag) in the magnitude — luminosity index correlation (RSA scale) presented by Sandage, Binggeli and Tammann in support of their claim that the luminosity index is unsuitable as a distance indicator is shown to be the result of a variety of systematic and accidental errors and to confusion between the Virgo cluster proper (the S-cloud) and adjacent, but unrelated clouds at different distances. Two tests are presented which confirm the small scatter (σ ≈ 0.4 mag) of the corrected magnitude-luminosity index correlation (RC2 system) in the Virgo S cloud and in the Hercules supercluster.
Decreased prorenin processing develops before autonomic dysfunction in type 1 diabetes.

It is well documented that diabetic patients with chronic complications have decreased renin secretion and elevations in the renin precursor prorenin. It is uncertain, however, whether the abnormal processing of prorenin is reflective of microvascular disease, hypertension, or autonomic neuropathy. Dechaux et al. (Transplant Proc. 18:1598–1599, 1986) observed abnormalities in prorenin processing in uncomplicated diabetes and suggested that it was the result of subclinical autonomic neuropathy. To test this hypothesis, we measured renin, prorenin, and autonomic function in early type 1 diabetes at a time when there is little or no microvascular disease or hypervolemia. Thirty-seven patients (10 males, 27 females) enrolled 2–22 months after diagnosis in a longitudinal study in which renin, prorenin, and autonomic function were measured annually for 3 years. Forty-one age-matched control subjects were also studied. PRA in the diabetic patients at the time of the second and third evaluations was 1.71 ± 0.24 n...
Insulin-like Growth Factor-2 (IGF-2) Activates Estrogen Receptor-α and -β via the IGF-1 and the Insulin Receptors in Breast Cancer Cells

The estrogen receptor (ER) is a primary target for breast cancer (BC) treatment. As BC progresses to estrogen-independent growth, the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) and the ER interact in synergistic cross-talk mechanisms, which result in enhanced activation of both receptors' signaling cascades. Insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2) is critical in BC progression and its actions are mediated by the IGF-1R. Our previous studies showed that IGF-2 regulates survival genes that protect the mitochondria and promote chemoresistance. In this study, we analyzed BC cells by subcellular fractionation, Western-Blot, qRT-PCR, and siRNA analysis. Our results demonstrate that IGF-2 activates ER-α and ER-β, and modulates their translocation to the nucleus, membrane organelles, and the mitochondria. IGF-2 actions are mediated by the IGF-1R and the insulin receptor. This novel mechanism of IGF-2 synergistic cross-talk signaling with ER-α and ER-β can promote estrogen-independent BC progression and provide n...
Role of Cellular Adhesion in Rheumatoid Synovitis

The basis for rheumatoid synovitis is a cellular immune response in the sublining tissue of the rheumatoid synovial membrane (RSM). As a consequence of this reaction, cytokines and growth factors are released which mediate a nonspecific amplification of the initial inflammatory focus, proliferation of the synovial tissue, and immunoglobulin and rheumatoid factor synthesis.
Reputation systems for open collaboration

Algorithmic-based user incentives ensure the trustworthiness of evaluations of Wikipedia entries and Google Maps business information.
FORMATION OF A TOXIC METABOLITE FROM GENTAMICIN BY A HEPATIC CYTOSOLIC FRACTION

We have demonstrated recently that incubation of the aminoglycoside gentamicin with an hepatic post-mitochondrial fraction produces a compound toxic to sensory cells from the inner ear in short-term culture; in contrast, the parent aminoglycoside was non-toxic in vitro (Huang MY and Schacht J, Biochem Pharmacol 40: R11-R14, 1990). In the present study, we investigated the subcellular distribution of the enzymatic activity and the nature of the metabolite. Isolated outer hair cells from the guinea pig cochlea were used to assay for cytotoxicity. The enzyme(s) responsible for this novel reaction of aminoglycosides was exclusively localized to the cytosolic fraction of guinea pig liver. No activity was detected in nuclear, lysosomal/mitochondrial or microsomal preparations. Furthermore, the toxin-forming enzymatic activity was associated with the high molecular weight fraction of the cytosol and did not require low molecular weight components. Filtration of the toxin through molecular weight cut-off membranes showed a molecular size of approximately 500. This evidence is consistent with the toxin being a gentamicin derivative.
The emerging phylogenetic pattern of parthenogenesis in snakes

Parthenogenesis occurs across a variety of vertebrate taxa. Within squamate reptiles (lizards and snakes), a group for which the largest number of cases has been documented, both obligate and facultative types of parthenogenesis exists, although the obligate form in snakes appears to be restricted to a single basal species of blind snake, Indotyphlops braminus. By contrast, a number of snake species that otherwise reproduce sexually have been found capable of facultative parthenogenesis. Because the original documentation of this phenomenon was restricted to subjects held in captivity and isolated from males, facultative parthenogenesis was attributed as a captive syndrome. However, its recent discovery in nature shifts the paradigm and identifies this form of reproduction as a potentially important feature of vertebrate evolution. In light of the growing number of documented cases of parthenogenesis, it is now possible to review the phylogenetic distribution in snakes and thus identify subtle variations and commonalities that may exist through the characterization of its emerging properties. Based on our findings, we propose partitioning facultative parthenogenesis in snakes into two categories, type A and type B, based on the sex of the progeny produced, their viability, sex chromosome morphology, and ploidy, as well as their phylogenetic position. Furthermore, we introduce a hypothesis (directionality of heterogamety hypothesis) to explain the production of female-only parthenogens in basal alethinophidian snakes and male-only parthenogens in caenophidian (advanced) snakes. © 2015 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2015, 00, 000–000. ADDITIONAL KEYWORDS: automixis ‐ facultative and obligate parthenogenesis ‐ Serpentes ‐ sex chromosomes morphology ‐ sex determination ‐ squamates.
Comparative recovery of 1972-1973 influenza virus isolates in embryonated eggs and primary rhesus monkey kidney cell cultures after one freeze-thaw cycle.

In contrast to Asian influenza virus strains (H2N2), recently isolated strains (H3N2) produced rapid and vigorous cytopathic effects (CPE) in primary rhesus monkey kidney cells (RMK): only 8 of 196 (4%) isolates were detected by hemadsorption when CPE were not apparent. The host sensitivity of these strains was compared by simultaneously inoculating thawed specimens (known to contain influenza virus from results of initial inoculation in RMK cultures) into viable embryonated eggs and primary RMK cultures. Of 96 specimens (allantoic cavity and RMK), only 36 (38%) isolates were recovered; 23 (14 from RMK, 9 from eggs) were isolated in only one culture system. Of 93 specimens (amniotic sac and RMK), 36 (39%) were recovered; 26 isolates were detected only in eggs. One freeze-thaw cycle decreased the recovery rate of influenza virus more than 60%. Maximal detection of this virus requires both embryonated eggs and RMK cell cultures.
Ending Polarization: The Good News About the Culture Wars

The cultural politics of the 2004 presidential election launched many Americans into a long-term funk. Some blue-staters now perceive themselves destined for defeat in a battle to define America’s moral orthodoxy. But the Bush campaign’s use of gay marriage and other symbolic issues to mobilize its base also demoralized a great many others — red, blue, and purple — who see democracy as the form of government best suited to enabling people of diverse cultural persuasions to unite in pursuit of their common interests.Our goal is to restore their morale. We reject the proposition that any significant fraction of the U.S. electorate is bent on imposing its partisan moral vision on the remainder. On the contrary, the vast majority of American citizens want mundane things out of politics — economic comfort and physical security.The rub is that it is very difficult for citizens to figure out which policies, supported by which candidates, will deliver those basic goods. Lacking the time and experience to become public-policy experts, they must turn to others for guidance. And often, the people they choose to trust are those who share (or appear to share) their broad cultural outlook. Politicians and other policy advocates recognize this, and the way they signal their trustworthiness is by broadcasting their positions on symbolic issues.Culture matters, then, not because Americans are moral zealots intent on ramming their values down one another’s throats. It matters because citizens use cultural affinity as a heuristic, or mental shortcut, for figuring out which politicians and policies are most likely to put food on their tables.
PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF A DIRECTIONAL MICRO- RETARDING POTENTIAL ANALYZER FOR HIGH-DENSITY PLUMES

A low transparency microchannel plate has been coupled with a single-orifice Retarding Potential Analyzer (RPA) to produce a viable ion energy measurement device to be operated in the high-density plasma plume of a Pulsed Plasma Thruster (PPT) and other high-powered electric propulsion devices. An RPA sensor consists of several variably biased electrodes, allowing ions with sufficient energy access to a collection plate. Single-orifice RPAs have previously been designed for Hall thruster plume characterization, with particle number densities of approximately 1x10 16 m -3 . The relatively high particle number densities (larger than 1x10 18 m -3 ) inherent of PPTs or other high-power thrusters introduce various RPA sizing issues and transient phenomena, specifically electrode aperture spacing, orifice diameter, and RAM pressure build up. This paper addresses these design issues and presents results from an unstructured 3D particle in cell (PIC) simulation developed for the DµRPA channel flow.
Fungous Infections in Children

The discovery of effective antifungal agents (griseofulvin, amphotericin B, tolnaftate) has greatly simplified treatment of the superficial mycoses commonly seen in children. This presentation is limited to information which may be of use to the practicing physician. The importance of identification of the causative organism is emphasized. The infections considered include tinea capitis, tinea circinata, tinea pedis and candidiasis.
Analysis of family financial burden of hepatitis B patients in Lishui

Objective To better understand the family economic burden of hepatitis B patients.Methods A total of 179 families which taken as study unit were selected by multiple stage random sampling method and a questionnaire was completed by each family.The financial burden including direct and indirect burden caused by patient was estimated and the index of disability adjusted life years(DALYs) of hepatitis B was calculated which included years of life lost(YLLs) and years lived with disability(YLDs).Results 50.28% of the total families surveyed in the study were from rural areas.The investigation showed that the average annual economic loss of each family from previous year was estimated to be 39 364 Yuan with 32 587 Yuan of direct cost which accounted for 82.78% of the total cost,while outpatient and inpatient costs were considered to be the major direct burden for the family.Outpatient treatment was common with 95.53% Hepatitis B patients treated in the previous year,whereas only 33% were hospitalized with average inpatient cost of 32 598 Yuan.Indirect economic burden was mainly caused by YLD.Conclusions Hepatitis B is a debilitating illness resulting in significant cost to the whole family which is in a serious direct and indirect financial burden.
Etiology and Management of Early and Late Peritransplant Infections

Abstract Subfascial peritransplant infection is a life-threatening complication of renal transplantation with multiple etiologies, early or late onset, and subtle or catastrophic presentation. Thirteen such deep space infections were encountered in 160 consecutive transplants followed for up to 4 years. Difficult management decisions were required frequently. Three patients presented with acute peritonitis. In each instancethe source of infection was obscure until abdominal exploration revealed transperitoneal rupture of an infected peritransplant fluid collection. Gray scale ultrasonography and ultrasound guided needle aspiration of fluid collections proved valuable in the clarification of often confusing clinical situations. The transplant was left in situ, with good function and complete wound healing in5 cases. Transplant nephrectomy was required in 8 patients. Three patients died despite transplant nephrectomy and discontinuation of immunosuppression.
Prior Consistent Statements: The Dangers of Misinterpreting Recently Amended Fre 801(D)(1)(B)*

Federal Rule of Evidence 801(d)(1)(B) has long provided that prior statements consistent with the testimony of a witness who is subject to cross-examination may be introduced and used as substantive evidence when offered “to rebut an express or implied charge that the declarant recently fabricated it or acted from a recent improper influence or motive in so testifying.” At the end of 2014, the rule was amended also to allow prior consistent statements to be introduced as substantive evidence when offered “to rehabilitate the declarant’s credibility as a witness when attacked on another ground.”
Paired High-Content Analysis of Prostate Cancer Cells in Bone Marrow and Blood Characterizes Increased Androgen Receptor Expression in Tumor Cell Clusters.

Purpose: Recent studies demonstrate that prostate cancer clones from different metastatic sites are dynamically represented in the blood of patients over time, suggesting that the paired evaluation of tumor cells in circulation and bone marrow, the primary target for prostate cancer metastasis, may provide complementary information.Experimental Design: We adapted our single-cell high-content liquid biopsy platform to bone marrow aspirates (BMA) to concurrently identify and characterize prostate cancer cells in patients' blood and bone and thus discern features associated to tumorigenicity and dynamics of metastatic progression.Results: The incidence of tumor cells in BMAs increased as the disease advanced: 0% in biochemically recurrent (n = 52), 26% in newly diagnosed metastatic hormone-naive (n = 26), and 39% in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC; n = 63) patients, and their number was often higher than in paired blood. Tumor cell detection in metastatic patients' BMAs was concordant but 45% more sensitive than using traditional histopathologic interpretation of core bone marrow biopsies. Tumor cell clusters were more prevalent and bigger in BMAs than in blood, expressed higher levels of the androgen receptor protein per tumor cell, and were prognostic in mCRPC. Moreover, the patterns of genomic copy number variation in single tumor cells in paired blood and BMAs showed significant inter- and intrapatient heterogeneity.Conclusions: Paired analysis of single prostate cancer cells in blood and bone shows promise for clinical application and provides complementary information. The high prevalence and prognostic significance of tumor cell clusters, particularly in BMAs, suggest that these structures are key mediators of prostate cancer's metastatic progression. Clin Cancer Res; 23(7); 1722-32. ©2016 AACR.
Advanced Battery Management & diagnostic system for smart grid infrastructure

This paper presents the design and implementation of an advanced Battery Management System (BMS). The basic concept is to divide each series battery array into sub-arrays where each battery is individually monitored and managed. The proposed BMS continuously monitors the voltage, current, and energy of each battery. Based on these measurements, the BMS can calculate individual State of Charge (SoC) levels and C-rates. Furthermore, the system has the capability to isolate each individual battery to apply different charging profiles and advanced diagnostics to detect and correct problems. Pulsed charging is deployed using different duty cycles for SoC balancing. The isolated battery is bypassed to maintain uninterrupted supply to the load despite reduced series array voltage. A unidirectional DC-DC boost converter maintains a constant output voltage level to the load regardless of the number of batteries connected until the problem is corrected. A hardware implementation of the proposed BMS is explained in detail. The performance of the system is tested experimentally under different loading conditions including heavy pulsed loads.
Cr incorporated phase transformation in Y 2 O 3 under ion irradiation

Under irradiation, chemical species can redistribute in ways not expected from equilibrium behavior. In oxide-dispersed ferritic alloys, the phenomenon of irradiation-induced Cr redistribution at the metal/oxide interfaces has drawn recent attention. Here, the thermal and irradiation stability of the FeCr/Y2O3 interface has been systematically studied. Trilayer thin films of 90 nm Fe - 20 at.% Cr (1st layer)/100 nm Y2O3 (2nd layer)/135 nm Fe - 20 at.% Cr (3rd layer) were deposited on MgO substrates at 500 °C. After irradiation, Cr diffuses towards and enriches the FeCr/Y2O3 interface. Further, correlated with Cr redistributed into the oxide, an amorphous layer is generated at the interface. In the Y2O3 layer, the original cubic phase is observed to transform to the monoclinic phase after irradiation. Meanwhile, nanosized voids, with relatively larger size at interfaces, are also observed in the oxide layer. First-principles calculations reveal that Cr substitution of Y interstitials in Y2O3 containing excess Y interstitials is favored and the irradiation-induced monoclinic phase enhances this process. Our findings provide new insights that may aid in the development of irradiation resistant oxide-dispersed ferritic alloys.
Foreigners as Liberators: Education and Cultural Diversity in Plato's Menexenus

Though recent scholarship challenges the traditional interpretation of Plato as anti-democratic, his antipathy to cultural diversity is still generally assumed. The Menexenus appears to offer some of the most striking evidence of Platonic xenophobia, as it features Socrates delivering a mock funeral oration that glorifies Athens’ exclusion of foreigners. Yet when readers play along with Socrates’ exhortation to imagine the oration through the voice of its alleged author Aspasia, Pericles’ foreign mistress, the oration becomes ironic or dissonant. Through this, Plato shows that foreigners can act as gadflies, liberating citizens from the intellectual hubris that occasions democracy's fall into tyranny. In reminding readers of Socrates’ death, the dialogue warns, however, that fear of education may prevent democratic citizens from appreciating the role of cultural diversity in cultivating the virtue of Socratic wisdom.
Opening the black box: developer friendly way to see under OpenCL driver's hood

OpenCL spec is quite complex and ambiguous in some cases. This forces Compute Drivers to do things that may not be expected. Up until now application developer had a limited set of information's about what may be happening under the hood. Revealing those mysteries often involved deep profiling sessions and dedicated tool usage.This poster gives some examples about spec ambiguity for WriteBuffer calls and explain details around Intel Extension that helps to understand spec corner cases a bit more.