cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Expression of mutant TDP-43 induces neuronal dysfunction in transgenic mice

Background Abnormal distribution, modification and aggregation of transactivation response DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) are the hallmarks of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, especially frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin-positive inclusions (FTLD-U) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Researchers have identified 44 mutations in the TARDBP gene that encode TDP-43 as causative for cases of sporadic and familial ALS http://www.molgen.ua.ac.be/FTDMutations/. Certain mutant forms of TDP-43, such as M337V, are associated with increased low molecular weight (LMW) fragments compared to wild-type (WT) TDP-43 and cause neuronal apoptosis and developmental delay in chick embryos. Such findings support a direct link between altered TDP-43 function and neurodegeneration.
Effect of annealing conditions on the physio-chemical properties of spin-coated As_2Se_3 chalcogenide glass films

Thin film selenide glasses have emerged as an important material for integrated photonics due to its high refractive index, mid-IR transparency and high non-linear optical indices. We prepared high-quality As2Se3 glass films using spin coating from ethylenediamine solutions. The physio-chemical properties of the films are characterized as a function of annealing conditions. Compared to bulk glasses, as-deposited films possess a distinctively different network structure due to presence of Se-Se homo-polar bonds and residual solvent. Annealing partially recovers the As-Se3 pyramid structure and brings the film refractive indices close to the bulk value. Optical loss in the films measured at 1550 nm wavelength is 9 dB/cm, which was attributed to N-H bond absorption from residual solvent.
Spectrographic determination of microgram quantities of tellurium in biologic materials.

Abstract A spectographic method for the determination of microgram amounts of tellurium in biological materials is described. The residues of wet-ashed samples are converted to the chloride form for excitation. Waterproofed electrodes containing the internal standard (thallium), the sample, and 5 mg of spectroscopic buffer are capped with boiler caps. Each electrode is excited as anode in a 10-ampere 220-volt direct-current arc. The intensity ratio of the tellurium 2385.8-A line to the thallium 2379.7-A line (the internal standard line) is calculated. Replicate determinations of tellurium in standard samples prepared from a liver ash matrix gave a detection limit of 0.1 μg of tellurium per 2 mg of tissue ash. Repeated analysis of liver ash standards yielded an overall relative standard deviation of 10.6%. The method is particularly valuable for the analysis of small body organs containing submicrogram quantities of tellurium.
Temporary spontaneous thrombosis of a splenic artery pseudoaneurysm in chronic pancreatitis during intravenous octreotide administration

Splenic artery pseudoaneurysm is a well-known and potentially life-threatening complication of pancreatitis for which immediate endovascular or surgical treatment is indicated. An unusual case of spontaneous thrombosis of a splenic artery pseudoaneurysm with associated partial splenic infarction was encountered in the setting of chronic pancreatitis during intravenous octreotide administration, with recanalization 9 months later.
Structural Dynamics of the Myosin Relay Helix Resolved by DEER and Time-Resolved FRET

We have used DEER (double electron-electron resonance) and TR-FRET (time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer) to study conformational changes within the myosin II relay helix. Major structural changes during the myosin II ATPase cycle take place in the force-generating domain. Crystal structures show that the converter domain, the relay helix, and SH1 helix have different conformations in the proposed pre- and post- powerstroke structural states of myosin. This dramatic structural change is detected in solution studies by intrinsic fluorescence [1, 2] and EPR of a spin label attached to SH1 [3]. In the present study, we focus on the relay helix as a crucial structural element involved in coupling between the force-generating domain and the nucleotide-binding pocket. Cysteine mutations were introduced into a Cys-lite construct of Dictyostelium discoideum (Dicty) myosin in the lower 50k domain (either D515C or A639C) and the C-terminal end of the relay helix (K498C). These constructs were selectively modified with either MSL/MSL or IAEDANS/DABCYL pairs, and the distance between probes was measured in different myosin conformations trapped with nucleotides or nucleotide analogs Two conformations of the relay helix (with distinct probe-to-probe distances, presumably corresponding to the “straight” and “bent“ states of the relay helix) were resolved. Observed distances were in good agreement with existing crystal structures, but at least two distinct structural states were present in certain biochemical states (e.g, with bound ADP.BeF3, ADP.Vi, ADP.AlF4). The mole fraction of the “bent” conformation was higher with post-hydrolysis analogs (ADP.Vi, ADP.AlF4) bound at the active site. Our results reveal structural rearrangements within a single subdomain of myosin and provide insights into the coupling between ATP binding and changes in the force-generating region.
Ion Induced Quasicrystalline Transformation in the Al-Cr-Er System

The Aluminum-rich end of the Al-Cr-Er ternary system was investigated in an effort to find new quasicrystalline alloys. Composition, dose dependence and substrate temperatures during ion irradiation were varied. A quasicrystal alloy with the Al-Cr intensity pattern was found at low Er content. Another phase was observed that did not index to any known equilibrium structure. This new phase has d spacings and diffraction line intensities which are similar to those of the Al-Li-Cu quasicrystalline phase.
Inadequacy of manual cleaning for reprocessing single-use, triple-lumen sphinctertomes: Simulated-use testing comparing manual with automated cleaning methods***★

Abstract Background And Aims: Despite widespread reuse of single-use sphinctertomes, publications regarding the adequacy of reprocessing are conflicting and the cautery wire channel is seldom evaluated. Our objective was to use thickened artificial test soil containing microorganisms to perform simulated-use tests combined with in-situ and destructive testing to evaluate cleaning efficacy and ethylene oxide sterilization of single-use triple lumen sphinctertomes. Methods: New triple-lumen sphinctertomes were soiled with thickened artificial test soil containing 6 log 10 per milliliter of Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus stearothermophilus by inoculation through the distal end and dried for 1 hour, 24 hours, or 7 days before cleaning. The efficacy of manual cleaning was compared with that of automated cleaning with the Medisafe SI-Auto narrow-lumen cleaner. After cleaning, Bradford's reagent was injected into the channels as a direct method of detecting residual protein. Destructive testing was done to determine the levels of residual protein, carbohydrate, hemoglobin, endotoxin, and viable bacteria in the cleaned device. Destructive sterility testing of the devices also was performed after ethylene oxide sterilization. Results: Both in-situ and destructive testing demonstrated that manual cleaning and automated washers connected via the luer ports did not remove soil or organisms from the cautery wire channel. Only retro-flushing in the SI-Auto provided adequate cleaning of all 3 channels. If reprocessing was delayed for more than 24 hours, retro-flush cleaning was no longer effective. Ethylene oxide sterilization failure was detected only for devices held for 7 days before cleaning and sterilization. In-use testing showed that patient secretions gained access to the cautery wire channel. Conclusions: Only retro-flushing done within 24 hours of use provided adequate cleaning for multi-lumen, single-use sphinctertomes. Our data validate the efficacy of reprocessing sphinctertomes once with SI-Auto retro-flush cleaning followed by 2 hours of ethylene oxide sterilization. (Am J Infect Control 2003;31:193-207.)
Infrared and Raman Spectra of Isotopically Substituted Tetranitriplatinate(II) Salts

Abstract The report by James and Nolan1 of the vibrational spectra of the tetranitroplatinate (II) ion in the solid state complements our study of the solid state vibrational spectra of a series of Group IA tetranitroplatinate (II) salts.2 Here we report the comparative infrared and low frequency Raman spectra of nitrogen-14 and nitrogen-15 potassium and cesium tetranitro-platinate(II) salts.
Structural Determinants in Human DNA Polymerase γ Account for Mitochondrial Toxicity from Nucleoside Analogs

Although antiviral nucleoside analog therapy successfully delays progression of HIV infection to AIDS, these drugs cause unwelcome side-effects by inducing mitochondrial toxicity. We and others have demonstrated that the mitochondrial polymerase, DNA polymerase γ (pol γ), participates in mitochondrial toxicity by incorporating these chain-terminating antiviral nucleotide analogs into DNA. Here, we explore the role of three highly conserved amino acid residues in the active site of human pol γ that modulate selection of nucleotide analogs as substrates for incorporation. Sequence alignments, crystal structures and mutagenesis studies of family A DNA polymerases led us to change Tyr951 and Tyr955 in polymerase motif B to Phe and Ala, and Glu895 in polymerase motif A was changed to Ala. The mutant polymerases were tested for their ability to incorporate natural nucleotides and the five antiviral nucleoside analogs currently approved for antiviral therapy: AZT, ddC, D4T, 3TC and carbovir. Steady-state kinetic analysis of the pol γ derivatives with the normal and antiviral nucleotides demonstrated that Tyr951 is largely responsible for the ability of pol γ to incorporate dideoxynucleotides and D4T-MP. Mutation of Tyr951 to Phe renders the enzyme resistant to dideoxynucleotides and D4T-TP without compromising the activity of the polymerase. Alteration of Glu895 and Tyr955 to Ala had the largest effect on overall polymerase activity with normal nucleotides, producing dramatic increases in Km(dNTP) and large decreases in kcat. Mutation of Tyr955 in pol γ causes the degenerative disease progressive external ophthalmoplegia in humans, and we show that this residue partially accounts for the ability of pol γ to incorporate D4T-MP and carbovir. Alteration of Glu895 to Ala slightly increased discrimination against dideoxynucleotides and D4T-TP. The mechanisms by which pol γ selects certain nucleotide analogs are discussed.
Possible adverse effect of phenoxybenzamine therapy in a patient with progressive systemic sclerosis.

A 52-year-old male was observed with the recent development of progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS). The most prominent symptoms of the PSS were circulatory, with pain in the digits, severe Raynaud's phenomenon and associated atrophic changes and ulcerations of the fingertips. Therapy with phenoxybenzamine was instituted in an attempt to improve digital blood flow. Rapid development of dry gangrene of several digits was observed over the following month. A possible association between phenoxybenzamine therapy and decreased digital circulation is discussed.
Conditions that influence the accuracy of anthropometric parameter estimation for human body segments using shape-from-silhouette

Anthropometric parameters are fundamental for a wide variety of applications in biomechanics, anthropology, medicine and sports. Recent technological advancements provide methods for constructing 3D surfaces directly. Of these new technologies, visual hull construction may be the most cost-effective yet sufficiently accurate method. However, the conditions influencing the accuracy of anthropometric measurements based on visual hull reconstruction are unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the conditions that influence the accuracy of 3D shape-from-silhouette reconstruction of body segments dependent on number of cameras, camera resolution and object contours. The results demonstrate that the visual hulls lacked accuracy in concave regions and narrow spaces, but setups with a high number of cameras reconstructed a human form with an average accuracy of 1.0 mm. In general, setups with less than 8 cameras yielded largely inaccurate visual hull constructions, while setups with 16 and more cameras provided good volume estimations. Body segment volumes were obtained with an average error of 10% at a 640x480 resolution using 8 cameras. Changes in resolution did not significantly affect the average error. However, substantial decreases in error were observed with increasing number of cameras (33.3% using 4 cameras; 10.5% using 8 cameras; 4.1% using 16 cameras; 1.2% using 64 cameras).
RFID in mixed-model automotive assembly operations: Process and quality cost savings

This research shows how to characterize the potential operational benefits of RFID in a complex automotive assembly system. Both process savings and quality (rework) savings are included in the presented model and it is demonstrated that process savings and quality cost savings are strongly interdependent. Indeed, a trade-off exists in which the decision maker has to decide whether to allocate time savings afforded by RFID to process time savings, or to allocate those time savings to potential quality cost savings. It is shown how this allocation decision can be solved such that the maximum expected cost savings are achieved. From the structural properties of this optimal solution, it is concluded that an RFID implementation will tend to yield the most benefit in a fast-paced complex assembly environment where: (i) total assembly times are substantial; (ii) tact times are low; (iii) there is little to no worker idle time; and (iv) rework is present and costly. How to evaluate the impact of an RFID impleme...
Using Geographic Information Systems and the Internet to Support Problem-based Learning

This article describes an activity that integrates geographic information systems (GIS) and Internet technology to support problem-based learning (PBL) in geography and closely related disciplines. First, the article discusses the theoretical context of PBL and reviews notable PBL projects involving GIS and the Internet. Next, the article outlines step-by-step procedures for implementing the activity. In conclusion, the article recommends strategies for creating conducive, technology-rich environments for PBL in undergraduate geography courses, modules, and classrooms.
Oceanic uptake and the global atmospheric acetone budget

[1] In this study, direct measurements of the air/sea flux of acetone were made over the North Pacific Ocean. The results demonstrate that the net flux of acetone is into, rather than out of the oceans. The extrapolated global ocean uptake of 48 Tg yr−1 requires a major revision of the atmospheric acetone budget. This result is consistent with a recent reevaluation of acetone photodissociation quantum yields.
Metabolizable Energy Nomenclature for Poultry Feedstuffs

Abstract The use of the terms “apparent metabolizable energy” (AME) and “true metabolizable energy” (TME) is confusing and misleading. In proposing the “true” energy system, Harris (1966) confused the conceptual definition of metabolizable energy (ME) (Fraps, 1946) with the experimental techniques and resulting formulae for estimating its value. Metabolizable energy is the feed energy available to the bird for anabolic and catabolic processes. Experimental techniques for estimating ME should obviously correct for endogenous energy loss when it is large enough to influence the results. The ME method of Hill et al. (1960) does this by comparing test and reference diets. The TME method of Sibbald (1976) does this by comparison of fed and fasted birds. Both systems estimate the energy missing from a feedstuff after it passes through chickens: thus, there is no conceptual difference. The differences center on the validity of the corrections, e.g. reference diet for ME and fasted bird for the TME. The nomenclature ME should be used for both systems of estimation with subscripts indicating the method when desired. The use of the word “true” in describing any experimental assay is inappropriate and misleading. Although true can indicate “corrected for error”, it also has other meanings (e.g., “the quality of being accurate”, “without deviation”, and “in accordance with fact or reality”). We propose a nomenclature to facilitate recognition of the strengths and weaknesses of the various assays and to express for what sources of error a given assay has been corrected.
New techniques of low level environmental radiation monitoring at JLab

We present the first long-term environmental radiation monitoring results obtained using the technique of pulse mode readout for the industry-standard Reuter-Stokes RSS-1013 argon-filled high pressure ionization chambers (HPIC). With novel designs for the front-end electronics readout and customized signal processing algorithms, we are capable of detecting individual events of gas ionization in the HPIC, caused by interactions of gammas and charged particles in the gas. The technique provides enough spectroscopic information to distinguish between several different types of environmental and man-made radiation. The technique also achieves a high degree of sensitivity and stability of the data, allowing long-term environmental radiation monitoring with unprecedented precision.
The Potential Effects of Meta-Analysis On Special Education Practice

A recent development is the use of meta-analysis to integrate research in the special education literature. The usefulness of research integration, in general, is limited by the field's weak empirical orientation and by the skewed distribution of published findings. Nonetheless, the authors regard meta-analysis as an improvement over traditional methods of research integration. Advantages are increased objectivity, freedom from arbitrary levels of statistical significance, and potential to relate an array of independent variables to effect size. Disadvantages include questionable reliability of ratings, nonequivalence of effect sizes, and limited range of effect sizes. The authors believe that most of the problems can be rectified and advocate the cautious application of meta-analysis. However, they question the impact it can have on a largely nonempirically oriented field.
Genetic polymorphisms in steroid metabolism genes and risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)

RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME (RDS) KRISTI BOROWSKI, JEFFREY MURRAY, JOHN DAGLE University of Iowa, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iowa City, Iowa, University of Iowa, Pediatrics, Iowa City, Iowa, University of Iowa, Neonatal Transport, Iowa City, Iowa OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine if genetic variability in the glucocorticoid metabolism pathway in either infants or mothers alters the risk of neonatal RDS. STUDY DESIGN: Families were enrolled into the prematurity project at the University of Iowa following IRB approval and samples were collected 2/01 until the present. Infants diagnosed with RDS and their parents were included in this study. Using a candidate gene approach, 5 genes in the glucocorticoid metabolism pathway were analyzed using tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)-NR3C1, HSD11B1, HSD11B2, CYP3A4 and SERPINA6. RESULTS: Genotyping was performed using TaqMan assays from Applied Biosystems. 104 affected neonates were analyzed including 65 triad and 39 diads. The results were anlyzed with a transmission disequilibrium test (FBAT). FBAT was performed for all SNPs as shown in the table. To look at maternal affect, a Fisher’s exact test was perfromed for all SNPs using the mothers as cases and the fathers as controls. Only SERPINA6 rs3748320 was signifant with a p value of 0.039. CONCLUSION: Both NR3C1 and HSD11B1 had boderline significant SNPs before correcting for multiple comparisons in analysis of the neonates with RDS. Further analysis including a larger sample size with larger number of family triads is needed to confirm a role of these or other genes in RDS. A well matched control group of mothers is also needed to determine any maternal role in RDS. Once a larger sample size has been obtained subgroup analysis for other associations, including maternal diabetes, corticosteroids and cesarean section can be performed.
Preliminary study of an integral harmonic analysis magnetic field measurement system for long SSC magnets

The author describes the research and development required to design and build a prototype system capable of making integrated magnetic multipole measurements of warm and cryogenic 50-mm-bore SSC (Superconducting Super Collider) dipole and quadrupole magnets utilizing a warm probe in a warm finger. The author's experience and some preliminary studies indicate that it is highly unlikely that a 16-m-long probe can be fabricated that will have a twist below several milliradians at any temperature. Consequently, the author describes a segmented 16-m-long probe, for which he intends to calibrate the phase of each segment to within 0.1 mrad. The data for all segments will be acquired simultaneously, and integrated data will be generated from the vector sums of the individual segments. The calibration techniques and instrumentation required to implement this system are described. The duration of an integral measurement at one current is less than 10 s, which is three orders of magnitude shorter than that required by the mole technique presently being used. >
MES-2, A MATERNAL PROTEIN ESSENTIAL FOR VIABILITY OF THE GERMLINE IN CAENORHABDITIS ELEGANS, IS HOMOLOGOUS TO A DROSOPHILA POLYCOMB GROUP PROTEIN

A unique and essential feature of germ cells is their immortality. In Caenorhabditis elegans, germline immortality requires the maternal contribution from four genes, mes-2, mes-3, mes-4 and mes-6. We report here that mes-2 encodes a protein similar to the Drosophila Polycomb group protein, Enhancer of zeste, and in the accompanying paper that mes-6 encodes another Polycomb group protein. The Polycomb group is responsible for maintaining proper patterns of expression of the homeotic and other genes in Drosophila. It is thought that Polycomb group proteins form heteromeric complexes and control gene expression by altering chromatin conformation of target genes. As predicted from its similarity to a Polycomb group protein, MES-2 localizes to nuclei. MES-2 is found in germline nuclei in larval and adult worms and in all nuclei in early embryos. By the end of embryogenesis, MES-2 is detected primarily in the two primordial germ cells. The correct distribution of MES-2 requires the wild-type functions of mes-3 and mes-6. We hypothesize that mes-2 encodes a maternal regulator of gene expression in the early germline; its function is essential for normal early development and viability of germ cells.
3D ultrasonic image feature localization based on magnetic scanhead tracking: in vitro calibration and validation

The basis of a three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound imaging system was constructed from a commercially available magnetometer-based position and orientation measurement (POM) device, a standard B-Mode ultrasound instrument and a personal computer. To evaluate the system's performance, a novel method was devised using an iterative, least-squares technique to simultaneously determine the system's calibration parameters and measure its precision in locating points in three-dimensional space. When tested separately, the POM system located single points with a root mean squared (RMS) uncertainty of from 1.4 mm to 3.2 mm over the 610 mm working radius of the system. When combined with the ultrasound instrument, the RMS uncertainty in locating point targets varied from 2.1 mm to 3.5 mm. These results establish the lower limits of variability to be expected from this system when locating fiducial anatomical landmarks for repeated examinations of the same region of the body, and when making numerical 3D reconstructions from multiple planar images.
Vaginolysin Drives Epithelial Ultrastructural Responses to Gardnerella vaginalis

Gardnerella vaginalis, the bacterial species most frequently isolated from women with bacterial vaginosis (BV), produces a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (CDC), vaginolysin (VLY). At sublytic concentrations, CDCs may initiate complex signaling cascades crucial to target cell survival. Using live-cell imaging, we observed the rapid formation of large membrane blebs in human vaginal and cervical epithelial cells (VK2 and HeLa cells) exposed to recombinant VLY toxin and to cell-free supernatants from growing liquid cultures of G. vaginalis. Binding of VLY to its human-specific receptor (hCD59) is required for bleb formation, as antibody inhibition of either toxin or hCD59 abrogates this response, and transfection of nonhuman cells (CHO-K1) with hCD59 renders them susceptible to toxin-induced membrane blebbing. Disruption of the pore formation process (by exposure to pore-deficient toxoids or pretreatment of cells with methyl-β-cyclodextrin) or osmotic protection of target cells inhibits VLY-induced membrane blebbing. These results indicate that the formation of functional pores drives the observed ultrastructural rearrangements. Rapid bleb formation may represent a conserved response of epithelial cells to sublytic quantities of pore-forming toxins, and VLY-induced epithelial cell membrane blebbing in the vaginal mucosa may play a role in the pathogenesis of BV.
The Long Road to Radio Studies

For most of the medium's existence there has been an insufficient effort by academics and scholars to assess and acknowledge radio's role in American culture. Barbara D. Savage, author of Broadcast...
Risk of Prolapse Recurrence after Native Tissue Anterior Vaginal Suspension Procedure with Intermediate to Long-Term Followup

Purpose: We report our experience with recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse after native tissue repair for stage 2 anterior prolapse.Materials and Methods: We reviewed a prospectively maintained, institutional review board approved database of women with symptomatic stage 2 anterior prolapse who underwent vaginal repair with anterior vaginal wall suspension between 1996 and 2014. Women with concurrent pelvic organ prolapse repair or hysterectomy or without 1 year followup were excluded from analysis. Failure was defined as stage 2 or greater prolapse recurrence on examination or reoperation for symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse. Outcome measures included validated questionnaires (Urogenital Distress Inventory-short form, quality of life), physical examination, standing voiding cystourethrogram at 6 months postoperatively, further surgery for pelvic organ prolapse in other compartments or for secondary stress urinary incontinence or fecal incontinence, and complications.Results: A total of 121 women met the...
2-[N-(2,4-Difluoro­phen­yl)carbamo­yl]-3,4,5,6-tetra­fluoro­benzoic acid

The title compound, C14H5F6NO3, was synthesized by condensation of tetra­fluoro­phthalic anhydride and 2,4-difluoro­aniline. It was then recrystallized from hexane to give a nonmerohedral twin with two crystallographically unique mol­ecules in the asymmetric unit. The refined twin fraction is 0.460 (3). Torsional differences between the aryl rings and the central amide group account for the presence of two unique mol­ecules. The compound packs as double tapes formed by O—H⋯O and N—H⋯O hydrogen-bonding inter­actions between each unique mol­ecule and its symmetry equivalents.
Quantum Dots Stabilized By Genetically Engineered Proteins

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) exhibit unique optical and electronic properties due to their physical size and the semi-conductor material from which they are made [1,2]. While the isolated properties of these nanoparticles offer a number of potential applications, such as bioimaging, their future use in novel electronic devices will require large arrays of known order. The assembling of these arrays is non-trivial and requires a monodisperse sample of quantum dots in order to facilitate the self-assembling process [3,4]. We propose first to validate the concept of using natural and/or recombined (genetic engineered) proteins to build stable, water soluble QD-protein conjugates [5]. Eventually, strategies to design these structures with highly controlled patterns will emerge.
Development of a Targeted Multi-Disorder High-Throughput Sequencing Assay for the Effective Identification of Disease-Causing Variants

Background While next generation sequencing (NGS) is a useful tool for the identification of genetic variants to aid diagnosis and support therapy decision, high sequencing costs have limited its application within routine clinical care, especially in economically depressed areas. To investigate the utility of a multi-disease NGS based genetic test, we designed a custom sequencing assay targeting over thirty disease-associated areas including cardiac disorders, intellectual disabilities, hearing loss, collagenopathies, muscular dystrophy, Ashkenazi Jewish genetic disorders, and complex Mendelian disorders. We focused on these specific areas based on the interest of our collaborative clinical team, suggesting these diseases being the ones in need for the development of a sequencing-screening assay.
SPIROPHYTON IN ALLUVIAL-TIDAL FACIES OF THE CATSKILL DELTAIC COMPLEX: POSSIBLE BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF ICHNOFOSSIL DISTRIBUTION

The trace fossil Spirophyton occurs in rocks of the alluvial-tidal facies of the Devonian Tully clastic correlatives in east-central New York. It is absent from nearshore and offshore deposits in the Tully equivalents, although the similar form Zoophycos is abundant in these facies and Spi- rophyton is found in offshore siltstones of the underlying Hamilton Group. In areas other than New York Spirophyton occurs in nearshore and offshore facies. The fact that Spirophyton is found only in alluvial-tidal siltstones and very fine grained sandstones of the Tully clastic correlatives and is absent from equivalent rock types in nearshore and offshore facies suggests that energy and substrate conditions did not entirely determine the distribution of the Spirophyton producer. Kitchell (1979) and Kitchell and Clark (1979) suggested that the distribution of deep-sea traces may be controlled by ecological factors such as competition and predation, and the same may have been true for the Devonian Spirophyton. Facts consistent with the interpretation of its producer as a r-selected opportunist competitively excluded from more benign deeper water environments include: 1, it is absent from its normal facies where the similar Zoophycos is abundant and it occurs profusely locally in the marginal marine facies where Zoophycos is absent; 2, it is restricted to rocks which, by analogy with the present, were deposited in harsh unpredictable environments which favor r-selected species; and 3, the pattern of its occurrences and its densities fit previously delineated characteristics of opportunistic fossil species.
Benchmark Calculations of the ESADA Single-Region Mixed-Oxide Critical Experiments

In 1967, a series of critical experiments were conducted at the Westinghouse Reactor Evaluation Center under the joint sponsorship of the Empire State Atomic Development Associates (ESADA) and West...
Divergent Reactivity in Amine- and Phosphine-Catalyzed C–C Bond-Forming Reactions of Allenoates with 2,2,2-Trifluoroacetophenones

A divergent reactivity pattern of allenoates with 2,2,2-trifluoroacetophenones under Lewis base catalysis is reported. Whereas phosphine catalysis leads to a [3 + 2]-cycloaddition to form dihydrofu...
Caution to Native American Institutional Review Boards About Scientism and Censorship

Native American Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) promote the health and welfare of tribes by reviewing protocols for research studies that focus on their tribes. The benefits of approved protocols should not be overstated lest good studies disappoint because they do not satisfy unachievable expectations. IRBs also should avoid the temptation to censor the outcomes of those studies. Science relies on candor and clarity about results and methods to move forward.
Can Rousseau’s Life Be Reconciled with His Principles? The Fundamental Alternatives

What does the self-absorbed figure of Rousseau’s autobiographies have to do with the noble idealism of the theoretical writings? Was moral and political virtue his genuine ideal, or was carefree solitude ultimately superior? These questions of deeper intent partly hinge on the question of hypocrisy — whether he acknowledged genuine gaps between his principles and practice, and if so, how he overcame or accounted for them. This study frames some of the leading paradigms of Rousseau interpretation in these terms, with some (beginning with Kant and Ernst Cassirer) finding his intentions fundamentally moralistic, and others (beginning with Leo Strauss) finding them fundamentally subversive. We find each approach indispensable in some respects yet limited in others, pointing the way to a new paradigm of reconciling Rousseau’s life with his principles, thereby shedding light on his fundamental intentions over the course of his writings.
Chronic mononucleosis--it almost never happens.

PreviewThe majority of US residents have been exposed to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and probably have antibodies directed against EBV antigens. Dr Jacobson argues that neither this serologic finding nor the vague and various symptoms described by patients are adequate to support the diagnosis of chronic mononucleosis. He emphasizes the lack of evidence for assigning a viral cause to this illness and suggests considering a psychobiologic disorder.
Measurement of Difference in Decay Rate for 7Be in Li and 7Be in Ta

The difference in decay rate for 7Be in Ta and 7Be in Li was measured and found to be (6.43 ± 0.76) x 10-4 wk-1, making the relative difference in decay rate ∆λ/λ = (0.71 ± 0.09)%. The probability ...
Migration and proliferation of cultured neural crest cells in W mutant neural crest chimeras

Chimeric mice, generated by aggregating preimplantation embryos, have been instrumental in the study of the development of coat color patterns in mammals. This approach, however, does not allow for direct experimental manipulation of the neural crest cells, which are the precursors of melanoblasts. We have devised a system that allows assessment of the developmental potential and migration of neural crest cells in vivo following their experimental manipulation in vitro. Cultured C57Bl/6 neural crest cells were microinjected in utero into neurulating Balb/c or W embryos and shown to contribute efficiently to pigmentation in the host animal. The resulting neural crest chimeras showed, however, different coat pigmentation patterns depending on the genotype of the host embryo. Whereas Balb/c neural crest chimeras showed very limited donor cell pigment contribution, restricted largely to the head, W mutant chimeras displayed extensive pigmentation throughout, often exceeding 50% of the coat. In contrast to Balb/c chimeras, where the donor melanoblasts appeared to have migrated primarily in the characteristic dorsoventral direction, in W mutants the injected cells appeared to migrate in the longitudinal as well as the dorsoventral direction, as if the cells were spreading through an empty space. This is consistent with the absence of a functional endogenous melanoblast population in W mutants, in contrast to Balb/c mice, which contain a full complement of melanocytes. Our results suggest that the W mutation disturbs migration and/or proliferation of endogenous melanoblasts. In order to obtain information on clonal size and extent of intermingling of donor cells, two genetically marked neural crest cell populations were mixed and coinjected into W embryos. In half of the tricolored chimeras, no co-localization of donor crest cells was observed, while, in the other half, a fine intermingling of donor-derived colors had occurred. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that pigmented areas in the chimeras can be derived from extensive proliferation of a few donor clones, which were able to colonize large territories in the host embryo. We have also analyzed the development of pigmentation in neural crest cultures in vitro, and found that neural tubes explanted from embryos carrying wt or weak W alleles produced pigmented melanocytes while more severe W genotypes were associated with deficient pigment formation in vitro.
EXTINCTION OF INOCERAMID BIVALVES IN MAASTRICHTIAN STRATA OF THE BAY OF BISCAY REGION OF FRANCE AND SPAIN

Maastrichtian strata of the Zumaya-Algorta Formation of southwestern France and northeastern Spain record a major pulse of extinction among inoceramid bivalves well before the Cretaceous–Tertiary (K–T) boundary. Inoceramids are the most abundant macrofossils preserved in the study sections; at least six species of Inoceramus [I. (Endocostea) aff. I. (En.) balticus Giers, I. (En.) pteroides Giers, I. (Platyceramus) aff. I. (Pl.) cycloides Wegner, I. (Trochoceramus) nahorianensis Kociubynskij, I. (Tr.) morgani Sornay, and I.(?) goldfussianus d'Orbigny] are common to abundant in lower Maastrichtian strata. However, all six species disappear over a few tens of meters of section near the base of the upper Maastrichtian, as defined by the first appearance of the planktonic foraminifer Abathomphalus mayaroensis. Tenuipteria argentea (Conrad), which has not been recovered from the lower Maastrichtian portions of the sections, occurs at low abundances through the upper Maastrichtian, disappearing within 10 cm of the K–T boundary. The mid-Maastrichtian extinction interval among inoceramids occurs within the upper Globotruncana gansseri to lower Abathomphalus mayaroensis planktonic foraminiferal zone, in nannofossil zone 24 to 25A, in the Anapachydiscus fresvillensis ammonite zone, in magnetochron 31N, and near the base of a change in slope of the seawater strontium curve, all as recognized by previous studies in one or more of the study sections. Whereas the new data presented here are not global in extent, the observed distribution of inoceramids may be the local manifestation of global oceanic changes during the mid-Maastrichtian.
Time Series Models as Difference Equations

INTRODUCTION The material in this appendix is aimed at readers interested in the mathematical underpinnings of time series models. As with any statistical method, one can estimate time series models without such foundational knowledge. But the material here is critical for any reader who is interested in going beyond applying existing “off the shelf” models and conducting research in time series methodology. Many social theories are formulated in terms of changes in time. We conceptualize social processes as mixes of time functions. In so doing, we use terms such as trend and cycle. A trend usually is a function of the form α × t where α is a constant and t is a time counter, a series of natural numbers that represents successive time points. When α is positive (negative), the trend is steadily increasing (decreasing). The time function sin α t could be used to represent asocial cycle, as could a positive constant times a negative integer raised to the time counter: α(−1) t . In addition, we argue that social processes experience sequences of random shocks and make assumptions about the distributions from which these shocks are drawn. For instance, we often assume that processes repeatedly experience a shock, ∈ t , drawn independently across time from a normal distribution with mean zero and unit variance. Social processes presumably are a combination of these trends, cycles, and shocks.
Cannabinoids and the Neural Actions of Alcohol

Ethanol and preparations of cannabis sativa (cannabinoid drugs) are among the most widely used and abused psychoactive substances. Research over the last few decades has revealed that cannabinoid drugs produce most of their effects via actions on receptors that are normally activated by endogenous lipid metabolites (endocannabinoids) that have juxtracrine signaling actions and act as neuromodulators. Investigation of ethanol interactions with cannabinoid drugs has been ongoing for some time. In this chapter, we summarize and critique the available information about these interactions when drugs are administered acutely, and we also discuss evidence for cross-tolerance between ethanol and cannabinoid drugs when given repeatedly. In addition, we discuss areas in which more information is needed about drug interactions. For example, relatively little is known about the effects of combined ethanol and cannabinoid drug exposure on learning and memory. There is now considerable interest in ethanol effects on brain endocannabinoid signaling, stimulated by the finding that ethanol consumption is decreased by blockade or genetic knockout of the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1, the major endocannabinoid-activated receptor in the brain). In this context, we summarize findings regarding effects of acute and chronic ethanol actions on the molecules involved in endocannabinoid signaling. We also review the fast-growing literature exploring how ethanol consumption and other ethanol-related behaviors are altered by manipulation of endocannabinoid signaling. Finally, we review the existing literature on genetic polymorphisms and haplotypes in endocannabinoid-related proteins, and their association with alcohol-related phenotypes. There is clear evidence for multiple effects of ethanol on the endocannabinoid system, and it also clear that altering endocannabinoid signaling affects a variety of alcohol-related behaviors. Thus there is interest in targeting this system for treatment of alcohol use disorders. This effort may be aided by identification of genetically encoded differences in endocannabinoid-related proteins that increase the likelihood of a person developing an alcohol use disorder, but this line of research is still at an early stage. It is our hope that this chapter will stimulate additional investigation of ethanol–cannabinoid interactions that will result in useful advances in the understanding and treatment of alcohol abuse and alcoholism.
Experimental study of bubbly flow using image processing techniques

Abstract This paper presents an experimental study of bubbly flows at relatively high void fractions using an advanced image processing method. Bubble overlapping is a common problem in such flows and the past studies often treat the overlapping bubbles as a whole, which introduces considerable measurement uncertainties. In this study, a hybrid method combining intersection point detection and watershed segmentation is used to separate the overlapping bubbles. In order to reconstruct bubbles from separated segments, a systematic procedure is developed which can preserve more features captured in the raw image compared to the simple ellipse fitting method. The distributions of void fraction, interfacial area concentration, number density and velocity are obtained from the extracted bubble information. High-speed images of air-water bubbly flows are acquired and processed for eight test runs conducted in a 30 mm × 10 mm rectangular channel. The developed image processing scheme can effectively separate overlapping bubbles and the results compare well with the measurements by the gas flow meter and double-sensor conductivity probe. The development of flows in transverse and mainstream directions are analyzed and compared with the prediction made by the one-dimensional interfacial area transport equation (IATE) and the bubble number density transport equation.
Measuring Substance Use Among System-Involved IPV Survivors A Research Note

This research note presents findings from a qualitative study exploring female, system-involved intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors’ perspectives on substance use disclosure in the context of...
Abstract 121: Relationship of Vitamin D Level with Cardiovascular Fitness: Does Demography Matter?

Background: Recent studies have suggested association of vitamin D with cardiovascular events. The relationship of vitamin D deficiency with cardiovascular fitness level (CVF) has not been studied ...
A symmetric address translation approach for a network layer moving target defense to secure power grid networks

This paper will suggest a robust method for a network layer Moving Target Defense (MTD) using symmetric packet scheduling rules. The MTD is implemented and tested on a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) network testbed. This method is shown to be efficient while providing security benefits to the issues faced by the static nature of SCADA networks. The proposed method is an automated tool that may provide defense in depth when be used in conjunction with other MTDs and traditional security devices.
Design issues for converting websites to mobile sites and apps: A case study

Using mobile devices to access websites has been on the increase in recent years. It has been a challenging task for designers to develop websites that conform to mobile device environment. To address these issues, we reviewed related literature on the development of websites, mobile sites, and mobile apps. We came up with a taxonomy of the major factors that affect the conversion of a website into a mobile site or mobile app. Based on our taxonomy, we used two websites as case studies, addressing design issues during conversion and recommending appropriate GUI components to be used not only in the content of the original website but also in both mobile sites and mobile apps.
Dropout Approaches for LSTM Based Speech Recognition Systems

In this paper we examine dropout approaches in a Long Short Term Memory (LSTM) based automatic speech recognition (ASR) system trained with the Connectionist Temporal Classification (CTC) loss function. In particular, using an Eesen based LSTM-CTC speech recognition system, we present dropout implementations that result in significant improvements in speech recognizer performance on Librispeech and GALE Arabic datasets, with 24.64% and 13.75% relative reduction in word error rates (WER) from their respective baselines.
Proprioceptive impairments in high fall risk older adults: the effect of mechanical calf vibration on postural balance

Impairments in proprioceptive mechanism with aging has been observed and associated with fall risk. The purpose of the current study was to assess proprioceptive deficits among high fall risk individuals in comparison with healthy participants, when postural performance was disturbed using low-frequency mechanical gastrocnemius vibratory stimulation. Three groups of participants were recruited: healthy young (n = 10; age = 23 ± 2 years), healthy elders (n = 10; age = 73 ± 3 years), and high fall risk elders (n = 10; age = 84 ± 9 years). Eyes-open and eyes-closed upright standing balance performance was measured with no vibration, and 30 and 40 Hz vibration of both calves. Vibration-induced changes in balance behaviors, compared to baseline (no vibratory stimulation) were compared between three groups using multivariable repeated measures analysis of variance models. Overall, similar results were observed for two vibration frequencies. However, changes in body sway due to vibration were more obvious within the eyes-closed condition, and in the medial–lateral direction. Within the eyes-closed condition high fall risk participants showed 83% less vibration-induced change in medial–lateral body sway, and 58% less sway velocity, when compared to healthy participants (p < 0.001; effect size = 0.45–0.64). The observed differences in vibration effects on balance performance may be explained by reduced sensitivity in peripheral nervous system among older adults with impaired balance.