cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extra-tropical origin of equatorial Pacific cold bias in climate models with links to cloud albedo

General circulation models frequently suffer from a substantial cold bias in equatorial Pacific sea surface temperatures (SSTs). For instance, the majority of the climate models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) have this particular problem (17 out of the 26 models evaluated in the present study). Here, we investigate the extent to which these equatorial cold biases are related to mean climate biases generated in the extra-tropics and then communicated to the equator via the oceanic subtropical cells (STCs). With an evident relationship across the CMIP5 models between equatorial SSTs and upper ocean temperatures in the extra-tropical subduction regions, our analysis suggests that cold SST biases within the extra-tropical Pacific indeed translate into a cold equatorial bias via the STCs. An assessment of the relationship between these extra-tropical SST biases and local surface heat flux components indicates a link to biases in the simulated shortwave fluxes. Further sensitivity studies with a climate model (CESM) in which extra-tropical cloud albedo is systematically varied illustrate the influence of cloud albedo perturbations, not only directly above the oceanic subduction regions but across the extra-tropics, on the equatorial bias. The CESM experiments reveal a quadratic relationship between extra-tropical Pacific albedo and the root-mean-square-error in equatorial SSTs—a relationship with which the CMIP5 models generally agree. Thus, our study suggests that one way to improve the equatorial cold bias in the models is to improve the representation of subtropical and mid-latitude cloud albedo.
Catalyst Residence Time Distributions in Riser Reactors for Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis. Part 2: Pilot-Scale Simulations and Operational Parameter Study

Using the validated simulation model developed in part one of this study for biomass catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP), we assess the functional utility of using this validated model to assist in the development of CFP processes in fluidized catalytic cracking (FCC) reactors to a commercially viable state. Specifically, we examine the effects of mass flow rates, boundary conditions (BCs), pyrolysis vapor molecular weight variation, and the impact of the chemical cracking kinetics on the catalyst residence times. The factors that had the largest impact on the catalyst residence time included the feed stock molecular weight and the degree of chemical cracking as controlled by the catalyst activity. Because FCC reactors have primarily been developed and utilized for petroleum cracking, we perform a comparison analysis of CFP with petroleum and show that the operating regimes are fundamentally different.
Response of breast cancer cell lines to aminoflavone (NSC 686288) is associated with histone H2AX phosphorylation and estrogen receptor expression

555 Aminoflavone (AF; 5-amino-2,3-fluorophenyl)-6,8-difluoro-7-methyl-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one; NSC 686288) is a novel anticancer agent which has entered early clinical trials sponsored by the US-National Cancer Institute. AF has shown exquisite sensitivity toward a limited number of human tumor cell lines including lung, ovarian, renal, and breast carcinomas. AF is a ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Its activity has been linked to the presence of cytoplasmic AhR, translocation of the AhR:AF complex to the nucleus followed by induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 and DNA damage caused by metabolites. The latter is exemplified by the occurrence of gamma-histone 2AX (H2AX) phosphorylation consistent with induction of DNA single-strand breaks and DNA-protein cross-links. In this study, we examined determinants of AF response in a panel of molecularly well defined breast cell lines, they include: MCF-7 (estrogen receptor positive, ER+), T47D (ER+), MCF-7/HER2-18 (ER+), MDA-MB-231 (ER-), and MCF10A (ER-). Antiproliferative effects were measured by MTT assay, and concentrations that inhibit cell growth to 50 % of control (IC50) were established for each cell line. The response to AF was compared to ER status, AhR localization, and gamma-H2AX foci formation in a time and concentration dependent manner by dual immunofluorescence labeling. We found that AF potently inhibited the growth of ER+ breast cancer cell lines at nanomolar concentrations (mean IC50s: MCF-7 = 18 nM; MCF-7/HER2-18 = 20 nM; T47D = 14 nM), whereas the ER- breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 (IC50 = 25 μM) and the immortalized ER- breast cell line MCF10A (IC50 = 3 μM) were several log-fold less sensitive. In cell lines that were exquisitely sensitive to AF, AhR expression was found to be more cytoplasmic than nuclear. In contrast, the cell lines resistant to AF showed a predominantly nuclear AhR localization. Gamma-H2AX foci occurred between 6 to 24 hours only in AF responsive ER+ breast cancer cells treated at their respective IC50s, but not in the ER- cell lines. Interestingly, MCF-7/HER2-18 (IC50 = 20 nM, IC100 = 375 nM), which is a HER2/neu receptor overexpressing Herceptin and tamoxifen resistant subclone of MCF-7 (IC50 4-OH-tamoxifen >1μM), retained its sensitivity to AF if compared to the parental MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 18 nM, IC100 = 300 nM). These observations suggest that AF, unlike other antineoplastic agents, requires a specific activation to cause DNA damage and that AhR and its cross talk with ER are determinates of this specific response. AF activity in Herceptin and tamoxifen resistant MCF-7 cells indicates that AF might provide a new treatment strategy for hormone-refractory ER positive breast cancers and that this hypothesis should be tested in a larger sample cohort and in vivo models.
CREA: Defining Future Multiplatform Interaction on TV Shows through a User Experience Study

Television programs use to involve a passive role by the viewer. The aim of the project described in this article is about changing the roll of the viewer to become a participant. To achieve this goal it is necessary to define a type of application that does not yet exist. The way to get information on how to create a positive user experience of an interactive television game show concept has been to involve users on the product concept definition phase.Applying user experience exploration techniques centered on users needs and desires the main factors that would affect the user in case of developing this concept have been obtained. Using a qualitative strategic design method is possible to achieve well-defined and subtle information regarding the motivations and desirable game mechanics for the future users.
The Influence of Founder Collaborations on Venture Knowledge Quality

We seek to understand how prior collaborative relationships of venture founders can persistently influence their firms’ knowledge development. We examine if the subsequent innovative output of such...
Integrating Structural Determinants Into MPH Training of Health Promotion Professionals.

The authors discuss the need to incorporate socioeconomic factors into masters programs for health promotion. They mention the curricula and the inclusion of behavioral and social science departments, the teaching methods to broaden skills and knowledge, and the Health Impact Pyramid which makes socioeconomic factors its base.
Modular System for High-Speed 24-Bit Data Acquisition of Triaxial MEMS Accelerometers for Structural Health Monitoring Research

A hardware system has been developed to obtain data from multiple MEMS triaxial accelerometers for structural health monitoring research. The system can be easily configured for a single accelerometer or up to as many as 120 triaxial accelerometers with 24-bit data sampled up to a 2 kHz rate simultaneously. The system is modular where each module consists of an electrical board that supports up to eight accelerometers. Each module powers the accelerometers, conditions the analog output from the accelerometers, and performs analog-to-digital conversion. In addition, the module has an FPGA that timestamps and packetizes the digital data. The data from each module is transmitted to a host computer using serial communication through a USB virtual COM port. A LabVIEW application on a host computer logs and processes the data, although any software that can perform serial communication and data parsing, e.g. MATLAB, can be utilized. In the case of a single module with eight accelerometers, a single laptop computer can be used for both electrical power and user interaction making an ideal setup for measurements in the field.
Neuroinflammatory Signaling Upregulation in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive, neurodestructive process of the human neocortex, characterized by the deterioration of memory and higher cognitive function. A progressive and irreversible brain disorder, AD is characterized by three major pathogenic episodes involving (a) an aberrant processing and deposition of β-amyloid precursor protein (βAPP) to form neurotoxic beta-amyloid (βA) peptides and an aggregated insoluble polymer of βA that forms the senile plaque, (b) the establishment of intraneuronal neuritic tau pathology yielding widespread deposits of agyrophilic neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) and (c) the initiation and proliferation of a brain-specific inflammatory response. These three seemingly disperse attributes of AD etiopathogenesis are linked by the fact that proinflammatory microglia, reactive astrocytes and their associated cytokines and chemokines are associated with the biology of the microtubule associated protein tau, βA speciation and aggregation. Missense mutations in the presenilin genes PS1 and PS2, implicated in early onset familial AD, cause abnormal βAPP processing with resultant overproduction of βA42 and related neurotoxic peptides. Specific βA fragments such as βA42 can further potentiate proinflammatory mechanisms. Expression of the inducible oxidoreductase cyclooxygenase-2 and cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) are strongly activated during cerebral ischemia and trauma, epilepsy and AD, indicating the induction of proinflammatory gene pathways as a response to brain injury. Neurotoxic metals such as aluminum and zinc, both implicated in AD etiopathogenesis, and arachidonic acid, a major metabolite of brain cPLA2 activity, each polymerize hyperphosphorylated tau to form NFT-like bundles. Further, epidemiological and longitudinal studies have identified a reduced risk for AD in patients (<70 yrs) previously treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for non-CNS afflictions that include arthritis. This review will focus on the interrelationships between the mechanisms of PS1, PS2 and βAPP gene expression, tau and βA deposition and the induction, regulation and proliferation in AD of the neuroinflammatory response. Novel therapeutic interventions in AD are discussed.
Soybean Weed Competition Study

This ongoing project is designed to study the effects of delaying post-applied Roundup Ultra weed control in Roundup Ready soybeans. Discussion about conducting this project began in 1996 before most producers were growing these soybeans. However, the Southeast Iowa Agricultural Research Association (S.E.I.A.R.A.) board of directors saw the value of this technology as a research tool because, for the first time, there was a herbicide able to kill weeds at most growth stages. Consequently, research could be conducted to see the effects of delayed weed control without having to physically remove large weeds that could not be controlled with other herbicides. This meant that this project could be conducted much more easily and cheaply.
Laser-Induced Fluorescence of Singly Ionized Iodine

Easily stored as a solid, iodine is a being considered as a replacement for xenon propellant in electric propulsion systems for spacecraft. One challenge in assessing the performance of iodine-base...
Diversity and Design: Understanding Hidden Consequences

Technical communication scholarship is in the midst of a social justice movement with scholars interrogating considerations of race in technical professional communication (TCP) (Haas, 2012), revea...
Iatrogenic spleen injury during minimally invasive left colonic flexure mobilization: the quest for evidence-based results.

Introduction To assess the frequency, risk factors and outcomes of iatrogenic spleen injury during minimally invasive colo-rectal surgery with a particular focus on the routine splenic flexure mobilization tehcnique. Evidence acquisition Exclusion criteria: 1) topic not pertinent to the main topic of the review; 2) all case reports, editorials, conference highlights were excluded. After a title and abstract first selection and a final full-text analysis has been performed. The results of the selected articles are presented. Evidence synthesis The iatrogenic splenic injury rate during colorectal surgery is 0.96%. The iatrogenic injuries cause around 20% of all splenectomy. Ligaments over-traction is the most frequent mechanism of damage. The routine splenic flexure mobilization is a matter of scientific debate. Risk factors - open surgery, male sex, peripheral vascular disease, malignant neoplasia, diverticulitis, emergency surgery and teaching-hospital status. There is a risk difference according to the procedure: transverse colectomy has the highest risk, followed by left colectomy and total colectomy. Conclusions The routine mobilization of the left colonic flexure is a debated topic. However, according to some authors (including our experience), this procedure is not a risk factor and it may be advantageous: 1) it does not excessively prolong the total operative time; 2) better surgical skills development; 3) the tension-related ischemia is avoided; 4) wider oncological dissection. Technical accuracy with cautious dissection/visualization can reduce the rate of iatrogenic splenic damage. Laparoscopy decreases the rate of splenic injury by almost 3.5 times. Robotic surgery may have the potential to further reduce this complication, but more data are needed on the topic.
Triptolide Induces Apoptosis In Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells by Inhibition of the Oncoprotein MDM2

Abstract 4934 Triptolide, a nature product derived from the Chinese plant Tripterygium wilfordii , is reported to exhibit antitumor effects in a broad range of cancers. Recent studies indicate that the antitumor activity of triptolide is associated with its biological action to inhibit expression of many oncoproteins and anti-apoptotic or survival factors that were expressed in the cancer cells. Herein, we demonstrate that triptolide induces apoptosis in a subgroup of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells that overexpress MDM2 oncoprotein by inhibiting the MDM2 expression. In pediatric ALL, overexpression of MDM2 by leukemic cells is typically associated with a wild-type (wt) p53 phenotype and resistance to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs such as doxorubicin. In the present study, we evaluated the role of triptolide in regulating MDM2 and in inducing apoptosis, as compared to doxorubicin, using ALL lines and primary ALL samples. In contrast to doxorubicin, which induced p53 activation and a subsequent upregulation of MDM2, triptolide strongly induced persistent inhibition of MDM2 followed by a steady-state activation of p53, which resulted in potent apoptosis of the MDM2-overexpressing ALL cells tested, even if they were doxorubicin-resistant. We discovered that triptolide's inhibition of MDM2 in ALL cells occurred at the post-transcriptional level through inhibition of mRNA synthesis. Because p53 function is inhibited by MDM2 in chemoresistant/MDM2-overexpressing ALL cells, potent killing of these cells by triptolide suggests that this naturally-derived agent may be a novel therapeutic for refractory ALL. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Collaborative caregiving of parents who have an infant with congenital heart disease.

Purpose Describe collaborative caregiving of the parents of an infant with congenital heart disease (CHD) with partner, health-care clinicians, and substitute caregivers (SC). Design and methods In a national online survey, 53 mothers and 12 fathers described collaborative caregiving for infants after CHD intervention with respect to facets of Bowlby's concept of the internal working model of caregiving. Parents identified concern for 24 everyday common problems or goals (i.e., issues; 10 for partner, 9 for clinician, 5 for SC), rated issue importance and difficulty, indicated an intention for seeking and using help (help use), and identified help source. Results All survey items were a concern to at least 11 parents. Most prominently, all five of the SC items were identified by at least 44% of the parents as a concern. Everyday, common problems and goals were generally reported to be more important than difficult. Two items identified as partner issues, "Talking about life change" and "Handling stress," were a concern for about 50% of parents and identified by at least 74% as very important and 72% as moderately to greatly difficult. Help use was highest for SC items followed by items related to the partner. The partner was most frequently identified as a help source. Practice implications Nurses are in a position to assess and support parent collaboration within partner, clinician, and SC relationships for everyday problems and goals. The survey questions, with further development and testing, could be used for clinician assessment and tailoring of intervention to support parents' collaborative caregiving for infants with CHD.
Perceived versus actual autism knowledge in the general population

Abstract Background In recent years, there has been a growing interest in assessing the general public’s knowledge and awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). A variety of methods have been used to measure participants’ ASD knowledge, including self-report of ASD knowledge and objective assessment of ASD knowledge. The goals of the current study are twofold: (1) To determine whether there is a relationship between participants’ self-reported, perceived ASD knowledge and objectively-measured, actual ASD knowledge and (2) to examine the degree to which participants are aware of and can accurately monitor their own ASD knowledge. Method Participants in the general population completed a subjective, self-report questionnaire on their perceived knowledge of ASD and an objective assessment measuring their actual knowledge of ASD. After completing the objective assessment, they estimated their raw score and percentile performance on the assessment. Results Participants’ perceived knowledge of ASD was not related to their actual knowledge of ASD. Participants least knowledgeable about ASD overestimated their performance, and participants most knowledgeable about ASD underestimated their performance. Conclusions These results suggest that perceived and actual ASD knowledge are theoretically distinct constructs, such that self-reported ASD knowledge cannot serve as a proxy variable for actual ASD knowledge. Furthermore, individuals with low ASD knowledge are often not aware of their own ignorance, such that it is unlikely that they will independently seek additional knowledge or training in this area.
The Affordable Care Act at 10 Years - Its Coverage and Access Provisions.

Affordable Care Act at 10 Years The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law 10 years ago. This first of two Health Policy Reports reviewing the challenges and successes of the law focuses on ...
The Role of RIPK1 and RIPK3 in Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular diseases, including peripheral arterial and venous disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke, are the number one cause of death worldwide annually. In the last 20 years, the role of necroptosis, a newly identified form of regulated necrotic cell death, in cardiovascular disease has come to light. Specifically, the damaging role of two kinase proteins pivotal in the necroptosis pathway, Receptor Interacting Protein Kinase 1 (RIPK1) and Receptor Interacting Protein Kinase 3 (RIPK3), in cardiovascular disease has become a subject of great interest and importance. In this review, we provide an overview of the current evidence supporting a pathologic role of RIPK1 and RIPK3 in cardiovascular disease. Moreover, we highlight the evidence behind the efficacy of targeted RIPK1 and RIPK3 inhibitors in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Assessment of Electrical equipment status in distribution network based on multi-source data fusion

In order to adapt to the lean maintenance and operation and maintenance requirements of the distribution network, and to improve the utilization of distribution network data, a method for identifying the operating status of distribution network equipment based on multi-source data fusion is proposed. First, the status identification and evaluation requirements of the network and equipment in the operation of the distribution network are analyzed. Then the multi-source data fusion principal is introduced, and the multi-source information sources of the distribution network equipment is explained. An identification method for the state of distribution network equipment based on association rules and entropy weight method fuzzy analysis is proposed, and the evaluation and identification process is given. Finally, the transformer equipment is taken as an example to verify the equipment status identification method proposed in this paper, and demonstrate the effectiveness of this method.
Peripheral glia diversity

Recent years have seen an evolving appreciation for the role of glial cells in the nervous system. As we move away from the typical neurocentric view of neuroscience, the complexity and variability of central nervous system glia is emerging, far beyond the three main subtypes: astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia. Yet the diversity of the glia found in the peripheral nervous system remains rarely discussed. In this review, we discuss the developmental origin, morphology, and function of the different populations of glia found in the peripheral nervous system, including: myelinating Schwann cells, Remak Schwann cells, repair Schwann cells, satellite glia, boundary cap-derived glia, perineurial glia, terminal Schwann cells, glia found in the skin, olfactory ensheathing cells, and enteric glia. The morphological and functional heterogeneity of glia found in the periphery reflects the diverse roles the nervous system performs throughout the body. Further, it highlights a complexity that should be appreciated and considered when it comes to a complete understanding of the peripheral nervous system in health and disease.
Development and Validation of Biosafety Climate Scale for Biological and Biomedical Science Laboratories in the United States

Introduction: Industry-specific safety climate scales that measure safety status have been published, however, nothing specific to biological laboratories has ever been established. Objective: This...
Untersuchungen über Zucker-Eiweiß-Komplexe (Glykoproteine) in Weizenmehlen

1. Zucker-Eiweis-Komplexe mit unterschiedlichem Zucker:Eiweis-Ver-haltnis sind aus wasrigen Extrakten verschiedener Weizenmehle durch saulenchromatographische Fraktionierung an Dowex 50 × 8 and DEAE-Sephadex isoliert worden. 2. Die Zucker-Eiweis-Komplexe, deren Viscositat im Oswald-Viscosimeter ermittelt wurde, beeinflussen die rheologischen Eigenschaften der Weizenmehlteige (Kneteigenschaften and Dehnungseigenschaften). 3. Die Aminosaurezusammensetzung der Eiweis-Komponente der Zucker-Eiweis-Komplexe ist ahnlich der des Gliadins, wobei gewisse Unterschiede in den aus den Weizenmehlen isolierten Substanzen festgestellt wurden. 4. Die Zusammensetzung der Zucker-Komponente der Zucker-Eiweis-Komplexe ist abhangig vom chromatographischen Verfahren. Wahrend sich im wasrigen Mehlextrakt nach Hydrolyse Maltose, Glucose, Lavulose, Arabinose and xylose dunnschichtchromatographisch nachweisen lassen, besteht die Zucker-Komponente der am Kationenaustauscher gewonnenen Substanzen nur aus Arabinose and Lavulose and der an DEAE-Sephadex isolierten aus Arabinose. 5. Die Zucker-Eiweis-Komplexe enthielten nach Hydrolyse keine Kaffee- und Ferulasaure, dagegen andere bisher noch nicht identifizierte phenolische Verbindungen.
Oxidized LDL and Fructosamine Associated with Severity of Coronary Artery Atherosclerosis in Insulin Resistant Pigs Fed a High Fat/High NaCl Diet

Background Insulin-resistant subjects develop more severe and diffuse coronary artery atherosclerosis than insulin-sensitive controls but the mechanisms that mediate this atherosclerosis phenotype are unknown. Research Objective To determine the metabolic parameters that associate with the severity of coronary atherosclerosis in insulin resistant pigs fed a high fat/high NaCl diet. Key Methods The primary endpoint was severity of coronary atherosclerosis in adult pigs (Sus scrofa, n = 37) fed a high fat diet that also contained high NaCl (56% above recommended levels) for 1 year. Principal Findings Twenty pigs developed severe and diffuse distal coronary artery atherosclerosis (i.e., severe = intimal area as a percent medial area > 200% in at least 2 coronary artery cross sections and diffuse distal = intimal area as a percent medial area ≥ 150% over 3 sections separated by 2 cm in the distal half of the coronary artery). The other 17 pigs had substantially less coronary artery atherosclerosis. All 37 pigs had blood pressure in a range that would be considered hypertensive in humans and developed elevations in total and LDL and HDL cholesterol, weight gain, increased backfat, and increased insulin resistance (Bergman Si) without overt diabetes. Insulin resistance was not associated with atherosclerosis severity. Five additional pigs fed regular pig chow also developed increased insulin resistance but essentially no change in the other variables and little to no detectible coronary atherosclerosis. Most importantly, the 20 high fat/high NaCl diet -fed pigs with severe and diffuse distal coronary artery atherosclerosis had substantially greater increases (p< 0.05) in oxidized LDL (oxLDL) and fructosamine consistent with increased protein glycation. Conclusion In pigs fed a high fat/high NaCl diet, glycated proteins are induced in the absence of overt diabetes and this degree of increase is associated with the development of severe and diffuse distal coronary artery atherosclerosis.
Fracture Toughness Enhancements in Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Ceramic Matrix Composites

Determine whether benefits may be derived from the addition of nanotubes to ceramic matrix composites for the high temperature /structural applications that are of interest to NASA. These include - coating, fuel sell, "smart" engine components, sensors, piezoelectrics, etc.
Optical polarimetry of x-ray selected BL Lacs 1989

We report on a program to measure and monitor the optical polarizations of 36 x-ray selected BL Lacs. Many of these objects have not been measured previously for optical polarization. Some of these objects are substantially more polarized at B than I, suggestive of dilution of the synchrotron source by a stellar component, but it does not appear that stellar dilution alone can account for the generally lower P (< 10%) of the x-ray BL Lacs compared to radio selected BL Lacs (< 30%). While the optical polarized flux is correlated with 6 cm radio flux, it is not as strongly correlated with x-ray flux.
Farhang Rajaee, Islamism and modernism: the changing discourse in Iran

There is little need to reiterate the centrality of Iran’s position in contemporary geopolitics, much less its role in the evolution of Islamic political discourse over the last few decades. It is with enthusiasm then that Farhang Rajaee’s timely contribution offers to explain the complex intellectual and political forces that have helped determine the course of the country’s evolution over the last century. Especially helpful is the text’s special aim at analyzing the ‘origin, formation, development, and fate of the Islamic movement in Iran’ (p. 2). As a succinct introduction and useful primer for those unfamiliar with Iran’s discursive terrain, this text is strengthened by the author’s many first hand insights garnered from years of experience as a faculty member at the University of Tehran as well as his service in various governmental capacities. Rajaee’s text unfolds chronologically across four chapters in addition to a lengthy introduction and substantive conclusion. Each chapter is divided between a front section which narrates the social and political contexts of the period and a second section that introduces the ‘voices’ that represent the ‘dominant or epoch-making trends in their times’ (p. 23). Chapter one, ‘The First Generation: The Politics of Revival’ covers the period between the 1920s–1960s. It explains how the 1921 military coup led by Reza Khan Pahlavi ‘disrupted’ Iran’s path towards modernization and its goals of constitutionalism and social equality by reverting to the paradigm of strong man politics and patronage. The chapter reviews the nationalist movement spearheaded by Mohammad Mosaddeq (d. 1967), his subsequent ousting (1953), and the Western backed Cont Islam (2010) 4:263–265 DOI 10.1007/s11562-009-0094-y
Disorders of Calcium Metabolism

1. Three organ systems are involved in the transport of calcium into the extracellular fluid: gastrointestinal, renal, and bone.
"How Does She Have Time for Kids and Congress?" Views on Gender and Media Coverage from House Offices

Abstract According to previous studies, women political leaders often are cast by the media as focused narrowly on matters of significance to their gender, and as being less weighty players in government than their male counterparts. This research explores the degree to which the press offices of women members of Congress perceive this to be the case, and the degree to which women representatives' communication efforts contribute to this pattern of coverage. Interviews with press secretaries to House members reveal that press secretaries find the media to be less fair in their treatment of women members, and that they believe women members are subject to sex role stereotyping. Contrary to the media's depiction, however, Congressional press secretaries and House member Web sites reveal that women members portray themselves, and seek to be portrayed, as having diverse interests and significant influence in Washington. Thus, it appears that the media, rather than the members and their staffers, are responsib...
A self-adjusting expandable GPS collar for male elk

It is a challenge to use collars on male cervids because their neck size can increase substantially during the rut and also because of growth as the animal matures. We describe how to build a self-adjusting expandable collar for yearling or adult male Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus elaphus) to which very high frequency transmitters and global positioning system (GPS) units can be attached. We evaluated performance and durability of 35 expandable collars placed on male elk from 2009 through 2011 within the Starkey Experimental Forest and Range enclosure, Northeast Oregon, USA. Twenty-four (69%) collars remained on elk throughout our sampling period for GPS fixes from March or April to 1 November each year. Eight (23%) collars broke before 1 November and 3 (9%) collars were removed when males were harvested by hunters. Six of 8 collars that broke before 1 November came off during the rut. Mean date these collars broke was 19 September (SE = 7.1 days, 95% CI = 1 Sept. to 7 Oct.). Excluding 1 collar still being worn by a male elk and those collars either recovered when males were harvested by hunters (3) or removed from adult males on the winter feed ground (7), mean number of days collars stayed on was 279 (SE = 25.5, 95% CI = 225.8–331.3 days). No deaths or injuries were attributed to the collars. Because these collars can break, especially during the rut, we recommend sample sizes of males be increased ≥25% to compensate for collars that may come off during that period. Collars are not recommended for multi-year studies of male elk without substantial modifications to our design and further testing. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
High Q film bulk acoustic resonator from 2.4 to 5.1 GHz

This paper describes a high Q, free-standing, narrow beam supported FBAR (film bulk acoustic-wave resonator) fabricated with silicon micromachining. The resonator is composed of Metal/ZnO/Metal/Si/sub x/N/sub y/ composite layers, which are suspended by narrow Si/sub x/N/sub y//Metal beams to minimize energy leakage to the substrate. The highest Q (quality) factors we have obtained with this new structure are 1,587 and 769 at 2.7 and 5.1 GHz, respectively. Moreover, for a monolithic integration of FBAR with an integrated circuit (IC), we have developed a simple, low cost, low temperature, fully IC-compatible post CMOS process that is based on XeF/sub 2/ dry-release with silicon as a sacrificial layer.
Effect of norgestrel on development of mouse pre-embryos

Abstract The effect of synthetic progestins found in oral contraceptives has potential implications for developing embryos in women who receive oral contraceptives during early pregnancy. We assessed the effect of the progestin norgestrel on the developing pre-embryo. B3C6F1 mice were given 5 IU PMSG followed by 5 IU hCG 48h later. Studies were performed on pre-embryos recovered and pooled at both 24h (Group A) and 48h (Group B) post hCG. At each time period, they were randomly assigned to control or norgestrel (4.0 ng/ml) treatment. In a third study, pre-embryos collected 24h post hCG were cultured in the absence or presence of 8.0, 80.0, or 800 ng/ml norgestrel. Cultures were performed in Ham's F-10 media with 10% fetal calf serum at 37 °C in an atmosphere of 5% CO2, 5% O2 and 90% N2 with 15–30 embryos per 1 ml of culture fluid. At 24h, 48h and 72h post recovery, cultures were viewed, the appearance of embryos noted, and number of blastomeres recorded. Compared to control groups, analysis demonstrated no significant difference in the rate of development of control and norgestrel pre-embryos in any group at any time period (24h, 48h, or 72h post recovery). We conclude that norgestrel at the dose tested has no acute adverse morphological effects on development of mouse pre-embryos. This observation has potential clinical implications with regard to inadvertent use of norgestrel-containing oral contraceptives during early days of pregnancy, as well as consideration of the mechanism of action of norgestrel-containing “morning after” pills.
Effect on Insects of treating Seed Corn with certain Fungicides.

During the past four years hundreds of farmers in the corn belt have been using certain fungicidal treatments for seed corn. Some of the companies making these fungicides have claimed that they would act as insecticides. The results of a series of tests extending over several years indicate that such is not the case.
BIOLOGICALLY-INSPIRED CHEMICALLY-DIRECTED SELF-ASSEMBLY OF SEMICONDUCTOR QUANTUM-DOT-BASED SYSTEMS: PHONON-HOLE SCATTERING IN DNA BOUND TO DNA-QUANTUM-DOT COMPLEXES

This paper focuses on: (a) the concept and use of chemically-directed assembly to integrate nanoscale quantum dots at densities above 1017 cm-3 with biomolecular interconnecting structures; and (b) the phenomena of phonon absorption and emission from holes propagating in DNA molecules that are bond on one terminus to semiconductor quantum dots.
Heparin: Molecular weight and degradation studies

Abstract 1. 1. Previously published molecular weights of heparin determined by sedimentation have been found to be incorrect and are probably too low by about 16%. By means of equilibrium sedimentation, the study of molecular weight heterogeneity and the determination both Z- and weight-average molecular weights was made. Heparin was found to be quite heterogeneous with an average ratio of Z-average to weight-average molecular weight of about 1.8. 2. 2. Studies of the physical and chemical properties of heparin degraded by acid hydrolysis so that about half the anticoagulant activity is removed, lead to the conclusion that in the initial phases of this hydrolysis the formation of internal esters may occur. 3. 3. Similar studies performed on a heparin sample submitted to periodate oxidation to a degree of degradation similar to that of the hydrolysis degradation, reveal that more drastic changes occur in this process. These changes involve: the loss of N; oxidative cleavage; and the reduction of molecular weight.
The role of biomethylation in toxicity and carcinogenicity of arsenic: a research update.

Recent research of the metabolism and biological effects of arsenic has profoundly changed our understanding of the role of metabolism in modulation of toxicity and carcinogenicity of this metalloi...
Residual Stress and Raman Spectra of Laser Deposited Highly Tetrahedral-Coordinated Amorphous Carbon Films

We are studying carbon thin films by using a pulsed excimer laser to ablate pyrolytic graphite targets to form highly tetrahedral coordinated amorphous carbon (at-C) films. These films have been grown on room temperature p-type Si (100) substrates without the intentional incorporation of hydrogen. In order to understand and optimize the growth of at-C films, parametric studies of the growth parameters have been performed. We have also introduced various background gases (H 2 , N 2 and A r ) and varied the background gas pressure during deposition. The residual compressive stress levels in the films have been measured and correlated to changes in the Raman spectra of the at-C band near 1565 cm −1 . The residual compressive stress falls with gas pressure, indicating a decreasing atomic sp 3 -bonded carbon fraction. We find that reactive gases such as hydrogen and nitrogen significantly alter the Raman spectra at higher pressures. These effects are due to a combination of chemical incorporation of nitrogen and hydrogen into the film as well as collisional cooling of the ablation plume. In contrast, films grown in non-reactive Ar background gases show much less dramatic changes in the Raman spectra at similar pressures.
Lack of a Fusion Requirement for Development of Bone Marrow-Derived Epithelia

Analysis of developmental plasticity of bone marrow–derived cells (BMDCs) is complicated by the possibility of cell-cell fusion. Here we demonstrate that epithelial cells can develop from BMDCs without cell-cell fusion. We use the Cre/lox system together with β-galactosidase and enhanced green fluorescent protein expression in transgenic mice to identify epithelial cells in the lung, liver, and skin that develop from BMDCs without cell fusion.
Real time processor for array speckle interferometry

The authors are constructing a real-time processor to acquire image frames, perform array flat-fielding, execute a 64*64 element 2-D complex FFT (fast Fourier transform) and average the power spectrum, all within the 25 ms coherence time for speckles at near-IR (infrared) wavelength. The processor will be a compact unit controlled by a PC with real-time display and data storage capability. This will provide the ability to optimize observations and obtain results on the telescope rather than waiting several weeks before the data can be analyzed and viewed with offline methods. The image acquisition and processing, design criteria, and processor architecture are described. >
Properties of Hadronic Amplitudes in an Absorptive Model

Hadronic two-body amplitudes involve two components. The imaginary part of the non-diffractive component $R$ is dominated by the most peripheral impact parameters ($b\ensuremath{\sim}r$). The imaginary part of the diffractive component $P$ has substantial contributions from all impact parameters $b\ensuremath{\lesssim}r$. We study the energy dependence of the $b$ representations of both components as well as various possible forms for the corresponding real parts. We show that the following three assumptions are mutually inconsistent: (i) $\mathrm{Im}R(s,t)$ is always dominated by $b\ensuremath{\sim}r$ terms; (ii) $\mathrm{Im}R(s,t)$ shrinks indefinitely as $s\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}$; (iii) $r$ approaches a constant as $s\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}$. We define three classes of models obtained by abandoning, one at a time, these three assumptions. We discuss the complex-$J$-plane structure as well as the asymptotic phase of the $R$ amplitude for each of these classes and propose various experimental ways of distinguishing between the models. A detailed analysis of $\mathrm{Re}R$ indicates that, while in certain cases it reaches its asymptotic phase at relatively low energies, in other cases the asymptotic phase is approached very slowly and it has no resemblance to the observed phase at present energies.
Numerical classification for taxonomic problems

Abstract A new procedure for numerical classification has been developed to aid in biological classification problems, particularly at the infraspecific level or lower. The numerical classification concepts that form the basis of this procedure are identified with biological taxonomic concepts. This numerical procedure appears to be consistent with the classification methods employed by most taxonomists.
Hip fracture discrimination study: QUS of the radius and the calcaneum.

Abstract As an emerging alternative to current radiation-based bone densitometry techniques, there is a growing interest in the use of quantitative ultrasound (QUS) measurements for the noninvasive assessment of fracture risk in the management of osteoporosis. However, there are also a multiplicity of technologically different QUS devices available on the market and, so far, no study has compared heel and radius QUS device for the discrimination of subjects with hip fractures. Our study evaluated the ability of three QUS devices (one calcaneal gel-coupled system, one calcaneal water-coupled system, and one radius system) to discriminate osteoporotic from controls subjects, using the same population. We also checked if the combination of two different skeletal sites (i.e., calcaneum and radius) improve the discriminatory ability of the QUS devices. Forty-five women aged 79.1 ± 7.1 yr with hip fractures within the last 4 d were used as the hip-fracture group and compared to 40 healthy controls from 65–87 yr. In addition, 47 young controls, aged 20–40 yr, were used as reference population to express some of the results as T-scores. QUS measurements were performed with the Hologic Sahara, Ge-Lunar Achilles+, and Sunlight Omnisense devices according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Adjusted odds ratio results showed that a decrease in Omnisense SOS of 1 standard deviation (SD) was associated with a significant increase in fracture risk (OR adj. = 2.83) comparable with Sahara BUA (OR adj. = 2.42) and Achilles BUA (OR adj. = 3.29). However, given the large overlap between the 95% intervals of each odds ratio, no significant difference was found between the devices. Similarly, comparison between the areas under ROC curves did not show any significant difference between all the parameters. Considering the parameters provided per default by each QUS device, the Sahara, Achilles, and Omnisense devices classified correctly 70, 67.5, and 62.5% of the subjects, respectively. Although the OR of the combination of radius and calcaneum is improved (3.62 to 4.74) compared with either one of the single skeletal site, the large confidence intervals do not allow to claim a significant difference. The three QUS technologies tested against hip fractures seem to show the same discriminatory ability. However, there is some differences in the definition of the diagnostic threshold underlying the nonusability of the World Health Organization (WHO) osteoporosis definition. Finally, the combination of several site using two different devices is not clinically relevant. Potential interest could be seen in combining several sites using the same device, supposing that such device would measure differently active bone.
The World is Open for a Reason: Make that 30 Reasons!

The educational world has become filled with millions of pieces of free and open content. The momentum for open education quickly accelerated in the early part of this decade when MIT announced its OpenCourseWare initiative and dozens of other colleges and universities around the world joined in the cause. These open educational resources have made a huge impact on the educational possibilities of young learners as well as retirees looking to build upon their past educational experiences. Curtis J. Bonk offers 30 reasons why there is so much excitement for open education today.
Planar cell polarity breaks bilateral symmetry by controlling ciliary positioning

Defining the three body axes is a central event of vertebrate morphogenesis. Establishment of left-right (L-R) asymmetry in development follows the determination of dorsal-ventral and anterior-posterior (A-P) body axes, although the molecular mechanism underlying precise L-R symmetry breaking in reference to the other two axes is still poorly understood. Here, by removing both Vangl1 and Vangl2, the two mouse homologues of a Drosophila core planar cell polarity (PCP) gene Van Gogh (Vang), we reveal a previously unrecognized function of PCP in the initial breaking of lateral symmetry. The leftward nodal flow across the posterior notochord (PNC) has been identified as the earliest event in the de novo formation of L-R asymmetry. We show that PCP is essential in interpreting the A-P patterning information and linking it to L-R asymmetry. In the absence of Vangl1 and Vangl2, cilia are positioned randomly around the centre of the PNC cells and nodal flow is turbulent, which results in disrupted L-R asymmetry. PCP in mouse, unlike what has been implicated in other vertebrate species, is not required for ciliogenesis, cilium motility, Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signalling or apical docking of basal bodies in ciliated tracheal epithelial cells. Our data suggest that PCP acts earlier than the unidirectional nodal flow during bilateral symmetry breaking in vertebrates and provide insight into the functional mechanism of PCP in organizing the vertebrate tissues in development.
The impact of patient race on clinical decisions related to prescribing HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): assumptions about sexual risk compensation and implications for access.

Antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has received increasing recognition as a viable prescription-based intervention for people at risk for HIV acquisition. However, little is known about racial biases affecting healthcare providers’ willingness to prescribe PrEP. This investigation sought to explore medical students’ stereotypes about sexual risk compensation among Black versus White men who have sex with men seeking PrEP, and the impact of such stereotypes on willingness to prescribe PrEP. An online survey presented participants (n = 102) with a clinical vignette of a PrEP-seeking, HIV-negative man with an HIV-positive male partner. Patient race was systematically manipulated. Participants reported predictions about patient sexual risk compensation, willingness to prescribe PrEP, and other clinical judgments. Bootstrapping analyses revealed that the Black patient was rated as more likely than the White patient to engage in increased unprotected sex if prescribed PrEP, which, in turn, was associated with reduced willingness to prescribe PrEP to the patient.
Self-starting optical phase conjugation in dyed nematic liquid crystals with a stimulated thermal-scattering effect.

We have observed a stimulated thermal-scattering-mediated self-starting phase-conjugation effect in dye-doped nematic liquid crystal. The buildup time was observed to be in the millisecond range for an input laser power of the order of 0.4 W. Because of the broadband birefringence of nematic liquid crystals, it is expected that the effect could be realized over the spectral regime from the visible to the infrared.