cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma

Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (ChRCC) makes up approximately 5% of all cases of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) [1]. First described in 1985, this rare subtype of RCC was originally thought to arise from the intercalated cells of the collecting ducts. This disease is challenging to diagnose, and on biopsy, this malignancy can share histologic similarities with benign oncocytomas using conventional evaluation or even be misclassified as the more common clear-cell RCC [2–4]. Therefore, careful histologic attention is needed to appropriately capture these cases. Histologically, two variants of ChRCC are recognized: classic ChRCC and an eosinophilic variant [5]. The classic type is more common and is characterized by large cells with pale “chromophobe” cytoplasm and a perinuclear halo or clearing. On the other hand, the tumor cells in the eosinophilic variant display a dense eosinophilic cytoplasm and perinuclear halos (Fig. 4.1).
Paying It Forward or Giving Back? Women’s Sharing Networks in Siberia:

Subsistence food sharing in Ust’-Avam (Taimyr Region, Russian Federation) is analyzed in light of Arctic research on sharing and current debate. Cultural traditions such as food sharing practices a...
Detector characterization for quantitative spectral radiography of uranium powder samples

Abstract The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is responsible for verifying the mass of elemental uranium in various forms (powders, pellets, scrap) as part of inspections at nuclear fuel fabrication facilities. Current methods require in-field dissolution chemistry, which is time consuming and imposes operational challenges. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is developing a prototype spectral x-ray radiography (SpecX) nondestructive assay system for noninvasive material mass quantification of uranium-bearing powders. The SpecX system uses a custom material estimation algorithm, which requires a high-fidelity pixel-by-pixel detector response model for accurate quantification. We performed a detailed characterization and built a model of a High-Energy X-ray Imaging Technology (HEXITEC) CdTe pixelated spectral detector. Here we present the detector characterization which led to that model, including a determination of the pixel-wise energy calibration, the detection efficiency, the detector uniformity, the detector stability, and a comparison of methods to remove charge-shared events.
Microtopography Alters Hydrology, Phenol Oxidase Activity and Nutrient Availability in Organic Soils of a Coastal Freshwater Forested Wetland

Hummock-hollow microtopography is a unique feature of wetland ecosystems, but our understanding of its effects on soil carbon and nutrient cycling is limited. We investigated effects of microtopography on hydrology, phenol oxidase activity (POX) and nutrient availability in a freshwater forested wetland of coastal North Carolina. Water table depth (WTD) was measured from September 2012 to August 2013. Ion exchange probes were used to measure nutrient concentrations prior to soil sample collection in August 2013. WTD fluctuated seasonally with maximum and minimum WTD resulting in 92% (September 2012) to 8% (June 2013) of the site in flooded and non-flooded conditions, respectively. Hummocks had greater POX activity (12 ± 2.8 μmol g−1 h−1) compared to hollows (4 ± 0.7 μmol g−1 h−1) and greater concentrations of potassium and sulfur, but lower concentrations of calcium, iron, zinc, boron, and lead. POX was negatively correlated with soil water content. Higher enzyme activity in hummocks likely drives greater rates of carbon and nutrient cycling compared to hollows, consistent with observations that hummocks are hotspots for CO2 fluxes. Microtopography altered site-level hydrologic conditions, phenol oxidase activity and nutrient availability with important implications for understanding carbon and nutrient cycling in forested wetlands and response to changes in hydrology.
Ultrasonic Based Proximity Detection for Handsets

A novel approach for proximity detection on mobile handsets which does not require any additional transducers is presented. The method is based on transmitting a chirp and processing the received signal by applying Least Mean Square (LMS), where the desired signal is the transmitted chirp. The envelope of three signals (estimated filter taps, estimated output and error signal) are characterized with a set of 12 features which are used to classify a given frame into one of two classes: proximity active or proximity inactive. The classifier employed is based on Support Vector Machine (SVM) with linear kernel. The results show that over 13 minutes of recorded data, the accuracy achieved is 95.28% using 10-fold cross-validation. Furthermore, the feature importance analysis performed on the database indicates that the most relevant feature is based on the estimated filter taps.
A highly active and stable bimetallic Ni-Mo2C catalyst for a partial oxidation of jet fuel

Abstract Mo2C is an attractive catalyst for fuel reforming reactions because it possesses both a high activity and a high coking resistance. However, Mo2C catalysts cannot guarantee sufficient long-term stability during fuel reforming reactions that operate at a high fuel flow rate due to their phase instability. The present investigation is focused on improving the phase stability and the performance of Mo2C by addition of Ni for the partial oxidation (POX) of jet fuel. Mo2C and Ni-Mo2C were first prepared from CH4/H2 carburization of synthesized MoO3 and NiMoO4, respectively. To investigate the catalytic activity of carburized catalysts for the POX of jet fuel, tests were conducted at 750 °C and 1 atm, with a weight-hourly-space-velocity (WHSV) of 42 h−1 and O2/C ratio of 0.6. The Mo2C sample without Ni shows a performance similar to that of a blank run (in the absence of catalyst) with 70% conversion, 12% H2 yield, and 53% CO yield. The poor performance of Mo2C is due to its partial phase transformation into the MoO2 phase at the high WHSV. For Ni-Mo2C, the catalyst exhibits excellent stability over the 24 h test period with carbon conversion of 90% and H2 and CO yields of 56 and 63%, respectively. There were no indications of bulk oxidation or surface coking. Temperature-programmed reaction and isotopic exchange experiments showed that Ni-Mo2C follows the “catalytic oxidation and re-carburization cycle.” In this cycle, molecular oxygen is activated over the Mo2C surface, and the activated oxygen species react with lattice carbons from Mo2C to produce both CO and carbon vacancies. Hydrocarbons are decomposed into H2 and surface carbons over the metallic Ni sites. To sustain the catalytic cycle, the Mo2C1-x phase (i.e., non-stoichiometric Mo2C with carbon vacancies) is re-carburized by the surface carbons deposited on the metallic Ni sites. Finally, our results also showed that NiMoO4 can be rapidly carburized in-situ to form a high performance Ni-Mo2C catalyst under a flowing mixture of n-dodecane and air.
thornado-hydro: towards discontinuous Galerkin methods for supernova hydrodynamics

The toolkit for high-order neutrino-radiation hydrodynamics (thornado) is being developed for simulations of core-collapse supernovae (CCSNe) and related problems. Current capabilities in thornado include solvers for the Euler equations — in non-relativistic and special relativistic limits — and the two-moment model of neutrino transport. The spatial discretization in thornado is based on the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method, which is receiving increased attention from the computational astrophysics community. In this paper, we provide an overview of the numerical methods for the Euler equations in thornado, and present some encouraging preliminary numerical results from a set of basic tests in one and two spatial dimensions.
Do Social Determinants Define "Too Sick" to Transplant in Patients With End-stage Liver Disease?

BACKGROUND Delisting for being "too sick" to be transplanted is subjective. Previous work has demonstrated that the mortality of patients delisted for "too sick" is unexpectedly low. Transplant centers use their best clinical judgment for determining "too sick," but it is unclear how social determinants influence decisions to delist for "too sick." We hypothesized that social determinants and Donor Service Area (DSA) characteristics may be associated with determination of "too sick" to transplant. METHODS Data were obtained from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients for adults listed and removed from the liver transplant waitlist from 2002 to 2017. Patients were included if delisted for "too sick." Our primary outcome was Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score at waitlist removal for "too sick." Regression assessed the association between social determinants and MELD at removal for "too sick." RESULTS We included 5250 delisted for "too sick" at 127 centers, in 53 DSAs, over 16 years. The mean MELD at delisting for "too sick" was 25.8 (SD ± 11.2). On adjusted analysis, social determinants including age, race, sex, and education predicted the MELD at delisting for "too sick" (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS There is variation in delisting MELD for "too sick" score across DSA and time. While social determinants at the patient and system level are associated with delisting practices, the interplay of these variables warrants additional research. In addition, center outcome reports should include waitlist removal rate for "too sick" and waitlist death ratios, so waitlist management practice at individual centers can be monitored.
Classification of Tobaccos with Analytical Data of Nitrogen containing Compounds in Their Headspace Volatiles

In order to examine the relationship between tobacco aroma and the nitrogen-containing compounds in the tobacco headspace volatiles, the volatiles of flue-cured, Burley and Turkish tobaccos collected with Tenax GC were analyzed by a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame thermionic detector. Of the 21 compounds identified in the chromatogram, 2,5-dimethylpyridine, 2,4-dimethylpyridine, pyrrole and N-methylpyrrole have not been previously reported as present in the tobacco headspace volatiles. By principal component analysis and stepwise discriminant analysis, three principal components and discriminant functions with four peaks were obtained. The results of these statistical analyses classified the samples into each variety respectively.
Mill’s Ethic of Human Growth: Criticism and Evaluation

I believe that Mill’s growth ethic provides powerful ideas for promoting human excellence and progress. Without question, growth, for individuals and groups, is a desirable goal. Mill’s conception of growth, by definition, called for positive changes that would bring desirable consequences. He was correct in observing that the potential for human betterment exists, and that we have it in our power to improve things. He recognized that we must attend to development at many levels, ranging from character formation to institutional reform. He was also correct in noting that positive change and progress are not inevitable. Therefore, growth is something we must consciously navigate toward, and we must be vigilant against complacency, stagnation, and regression. Moving forward, onward, or upward is certainly better than the alternatives. Mill is to be commended for advocating cultivation and improvement and making it a top priority.
Impacts of invasive earthworms and deer on native ferns in forests of northeastern North America

Forest understory plants in eastern North America experience heavy white-tailed deer browse and impacts associated with invasive species, including of non-native earthworms. Deer and earthworms are well-recognized ecosystem engineers due to their ability to alter understory plant dynamics. We examined interactive effects of earthworms and deer on four woodland ferns (Adiantum pedatum, Polystichum acrostichoides, Dryopteris marginalis, and Dennstaedtia punctilobula) using field and common garden experiments. In the field we planted ferns into fenced and deer-accessible plots in areas with and without earthworms. In a common garden, we assessed both fern responses to different earthworms and fern effects on earthworm survival and biomass. Venue was important in determining experimental outcomes. In the field, A. pedatum and P. acrostichoides showed higher survival and P. acrostichoides grew taller or produced more fronds in worm-invaded areas. Deer presence/absence was not a significant explanatory variable. In the common garden, earthworms had no discernible effect on ferns, but fern species identity varied in its effect on earthworm survival and leaf litter decomposition. Our findings indicate that, contrary to many other understory species, common ferns benefit or are unaffected by earthworms. That we obtained different and even contradictory results in different venues should encourage investigators to validate common garden findings in the field.
Overcoming American exceptionalism and media antipathy via the digital pitch: soccer, attitudinal change, and video game play

This study explored if the FIFA video game influenced attitudes about and affinity for soccer. In the US soccer has been construed as a foreign sport played by immigrants and has suffered from medi...
Variability in fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) occurrence in the Bering Strait and southern Chukchi Sea in relation to environmental factors

Abstract Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) are common summer visitors to the Pacific Arctic, migrating through the Bering Strait and into the southern Chukchi Sea to feed on seasonally-abundant prey. The abundance and distribution of fin whales in the Chukchi Sea varies from year-to-year, possibly reflecting fluctuating environmental conditions. We hypothesized that fin whale calls were most likely to be detected in years and at sites where productive water masses were present, indicated by low temperatures and high salinities, and where strong northward water and wind velocities, resulting in increased prey advection, were prevalent. Using acoustic recordings from three moored hydrophones in the Bering Strait region from 2009–2015, we identified fin whale calls during the open-water season (July–November) and investigated potential environmental drivers of interannual variability in fin whale presence. We examined near-surface and near-bottom temperatures (T) and salinities (S), wind and water velocities through the strait, water mass presence as estimated using published T/S boundaries, and satellite-derived sea surface temperatures and sea-ice concentrations. Our results show significant interannual variability in the acoustic presence of fin whales with the greatest detections of calls in years with contrasting environmental conditions (2012 and 2015). Colder temperatures, lower salinities, slower water velocities, and weak southward winds prevailed in 2012 while warmer temperatures, higher salinities, faster water velocities, and moderate southward winds prevailed in 2015. Most detections (96%) were recorded at the mooring site nearest the confluence of the nutrient-rich Anadyr and Bering Shelf water masses, ~35 km north of Bering Strait, indicating that productive water masses may influence the occurrence of fin whales. The disparity in environmental conditions between 2012 and 2015 suggests there may be multiple combinations of environmental factors or other unexamined variables that draw fin whales into the Pacific Arctic.
Pocket Depth Determination with an Ultrasonographic Periodontal Probe

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, affects millions of people. The current method of detecting periodontal pocket depth is painful, invasive, and inaccurate. As an alternative to manual probing, the ultrasonographic periodontal probe is being developed to use ultrasound echo waveforms to measure periodontal pocket depth, which is the main measure of periodontal disease. Wavelet transforms and pattern classification techniques are used in artificial intelligence routines that can automatically detect pocket depth. The main pattern classification technique used here, called a binary classification algorithm, compares test objects with only two possible pocket depth measurements at a time and relies on dimensionality reduction for the final determination. The method correctly identifies up to 90% of the ultrasonographic probe measurements within the manual probe’s tolerance.
Planning and Implementing a Practice/Academic Partnership during COVID-19

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing programs were challenged to continue educating students at practice sites, and educational institutions limited or eliminated face-to-face education. The purpose of this article is to report on a university and community college nursing program and an academic medical center that implemented an academic-practice partnership with the goal of creating opportunities to continue clinical experiences for nursing students during the pandemic. Principles and implementation of this successful partnership provide direction for other nursing programs and practice settings that may continue to have challenges in returning students to clinical and keeping them in clinical as the pandemic continues.
Survey of Iowa beef veterinarians on Johne's disease in cow-calf operations

Johne's disease has historically been considered a disease of dairy cattle with little impact on beef herds in the United States. Over the past several years, a substantial increase in the number ofJohne's positive submissions from Midwestern beef operations has been observed at the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, suggesting an increase in the prevalence of disease in the cow-calf industry. Thus, there is an urgent need to better understand the current knowledge ofbeefveterinarians related to Johne's disease and assess the impact of the disease in the cow-calf industry.
Approaching Reionization: The Evolution of the Lyα Forest from z = 4 to z = 6

We analyze the Lyα forest properties of a sample of 15 high-redshift quasars lying between z = 4.42 and z = 5.75, using high signal-to-noise spectra obtained with the Echellette Spectrograph and Imager on the Keck II 10 m telescope. The distribution of transmissions in the Lyα region in this redshift range is shown to be consistent with that found in lambda cold dark matter simulations with a smoothly evolving ionization rate as a function of redshift. The extrapolation of the ionizing flux to z = 6.05 lies a factor of 2 higher than a 2 σ upper limit placed by Cen & McDonald at this redshift, based on the Becker et al. spectra of the z = 6.28 quasar SDSS 1030+0524. However, the data are also consistent with models in which there is substantial variation of the ionization parameter about the mean value, and in this case, dark gaps such as those seen by Becker et al. become much more likely. We conclude that further data are needed before we can be sure that we have seen the epoch of reionization. We also summarize the damped Lyα systems (DLAs) seen in these quasar lines of sight and measure their metallicities and kinematic properties. We argue that the mean DLA metallicity has dropped substantially by z = 5, compared with its value at z < 4.
What Did We Accomplish in Fighting Radical Species in Human Health

Maintaining the physiological level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in the body is highly important in the fight against radical species in the context of human health [...]
Using Language Models to Pre-train Features for Optimizing Information Technology Operations Management Tasks

Information Technology (IT) Operations management is a vexing problem for most companies that rely on IT systems for mission-critical business applications. While IT operators are increasingly leveraging analytical tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI), the volume, the variety and the complexity of data generated in the IT Operations domain poses significant challenges in managing the applications. In this work, we present an approach to leveraging language models to pre-train features for optimizing IT Operations management tasks such as anomaly prediction from logs. Specifically, using log-based anomaly prediction as the task, we show that the machine learning models built using language models (embeddings) trained with IT Operations domain data as features outperform those AI models built using language models with general-purpose data as features. Furthermore, we present our empirical results outlining the influence of factors such as the type of language models, the type of input data, and the diversity of input data, on the prediction accuracy of our log anomaly prediction model when language models trained from IT Operations domain data are used as features. We also present the run-time inference performance of log anomaly prediction models built using language models as features in an IT Operations production environment.
Abstract 1297: Synthesis and structural analysis on an ionic diphenyltin complex as a potential anticancer agent

Triorganotins are popular among chemists due to their potential biological properties against bacteria, fungi, and cancer cell lines. However, they have limited applications due to their poor water solubility. We hypothesize that solubility can be improved when the complex exhibits partial ionic characteristics. Therefore, it is our research goal to synthesize triphenyltin complexes that possess ionic characteristics. Syntheses of the ionic triphenyltin complex involved the reaction of a diprotic carboxylic acid, with triphenyltin chloride in the presence of di-isopropylamine. However, a tin-carbon cleavage reaction was observed, as IR/NMR spectroscopy and X-ray Crystallography studies showed that an ionic diphenyltin complex was successfully obtained in the reaction. The ionic complex consists of a diphenyltin anionic moiety, two oxalate ligands are observed coordinating to the tin atom in the bidentate mode, and two diisopropylammonium as the counterions. The anionic diphenyltin moieties has a distorted octohedral geometry with two carbons and two oxygens atom occupying the equatorial positions and two oxygen atoms occupying the axial positions. The ionic complex is essentially a 1-D polymer chain through an extensive hydrogen-bonding network between the oxalate groups (OCO) and the N atom from the ammonium cations. Compared to the similar reaction with triphenyltin hydroxide, which resulted in ionic triphenyltin complexes, cleavage of one phenyl group was observed for the first time in the reaction with triphenyltin chloride. Future studies will be focused on the mechanistic studies on the Sn-C cleavage. Citation Format: Jade Witter, Xueqing Song, Tajera Henry, William Li. Synthesis and structural analysis on an ionic diphenyltin complex as a potential anticancer agent [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 1297.
Assessment of superior vena cava flow and cardiac output in different patterns of patent ductus arteriosus shunt.

BACKGROUND Despite the widespread use of superior vena cava (SVC) flow as a marker of systemic blood flow from the upper body, no previous studies have systematically evaluated the correlation between SVC flow and other echocardiography measures of systemic blood flow in the context of different patterns of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) shunt direction METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of preterm infants (< 30 weeks, < 21 days of life) who underwent comprehensive targeted neonatal echocardiography (TnECHO) was performed. Patients were categorized as follows: (i) Hemodynamically significant left-to-right shunt; (ii): Bidirectional shunt; (iii) No PDA or insignificant shunt. SVC flow, as measured by two distinct methods, was compared to left and right ventricular outputs (LVO and RVO). Intra- and inter-observer reliability testing was performed RESULTS: In total, 45 patients were included (15 in each group) with a median [IQR] weight of 720 [539, 917] grams at the time of assessment. SVC dimensions and flow measurements were not different between the groups, although patients with left-to-right shunt had higher LVO/RVO ratio. SVC flow, as estimated using the modified method, had a strong correlation with LVO (r = .63, p = 0.012) and RVO (r = .635, p = 0.011) in patients with no PDA. Inter- and intra-observer reliability were both stronger for LVO and RVO when compared to SVC flow measurements CONCLUSION: SVC flow was comparable across all three groups irrespective of higher LVO and LVO/RVO ratio in patients with left-to-right shunts. This may reflect poor measurement reliability or compensation for left-to-right ductal shunt by increased LVO to maintain systemic perfusion.
Governance continuity and administration efficiency

This article examines the effects of governance continuity on public administration efficiency with China’s provincial level data. Unlike governors in some other countries, governors in China were appointed by the central government and had more flexible service term. Using a fixed effects model, this article found that the longer of governance continuity of a governor, the higher level of administration efficiency of the province. Further examinations showed that previous same-province political experiences of governors and whether they were serving in their home provinces had little effects on administration efficiency. Moreover, this article also found that governance continuity increased administration efficiency mainly by increasing public service.
Obstetrical Outcomes Among Asherman's Syndrome Patients: Comparing Classification Systems and Developing a Novel Calculator

Study Objective To compare the March Classification and ASRM Classification of Asherman's Syndrome as predictors of pregnancy and live birth, and to develop an obstetrical outcomes calculator. Design Cross-sectional observational study. Setting Outpatient minimally invasive gynecological surgery (MIGS) clinic Patients or Participants Asherman's Syndrome patients (n=127). Interventions Office hysteroscopic lysis of adhesions (LOA). Measurements and Main Results Patients were classified as “mild,” “moderate,” or “severe,” following both the March and ASRM classifications. Inconsistencies between March and ASRM classifications were found in 37.8% of patients. Model fit was assessed using Akaike information criterion (AIC), where lower AIC indicated better fit. Based on multivariable logistic regression analyses and controlling for confounding, the March Classification model was a stronger predictor of both pregnancy (AIC: 117.6 vs. 178.6) and live birth (AIC: 178.6 vs 178.9) following office hysteroscopic LOA than the ASRM Classification model. To address these discrepancies, patient medical history and obstetric/gynecologic history, presumed etiology, and cavity involvement were used to develop new models for pregnancy (AIC: 112.1) and live birth (AIC: 173.0). Using the estimates from the logistic regression, an Asherman's Syndrome obstetrical outcomes calculator was created to predict the probability of pregnancy and live birth following office hysteroscopic LOA. Conclusion First, this study underscores discrepancies between the March and ASRM classification systems regarding association with obstetrical outcomes; because of such inconsistency, these classification systems may have limited predictive ability and, thus, limited clinical utility. This study then offers a novel model for predicting obstetrical outcomes among Asherman's Syndrome patients who have undergone office hysteroscopic LOA, and we present it as a proof-of-concept calculator. This calculator has promising potential as a clinical tool. Limitations and areas to build upon include larger sample size and accounting for potential confounders.
Handbook of State Government Administration

Part 1 Factors affecting the context of state government administration: introduction and overview of state government administration management consequences of the 1960-1990 modernization of state government state administration andintergovernmental interdependency - coping with turbulent environments the impact of political cultures on state government administration. Part 2 Basic state government management practices: governors as chief administrators and managers theindependent political executive in state governance budgeting in state government - control and management developments in state government human resources administration strategic planning in state government - a key to strategic management theadministration of innovations in state government administrative/management productivity in state government policy research in state government measuring results in state government. Part 3 Administration policies of state government: theadministration of state economic development policy administration of state government rural development policy the administration of state economic development - decision making amid uncertainty the administration of developmental disabilities instate government administrative and management issues in state human service programmes state administration of welfare policies administering rapid growth entitlements - the case of Medicaid the management of state corrections policy -consequences ofgetting tough on crime administration of state environmental policies administration and management of public works in state government. Part 4 Concluding assessment: state government capacity challenges for the new century.
Molecular genetic approaches to mechanisms of senescence.

Aging research is entering its vernal epoch. The convergence of powerful techniques and advanced concepts now enables scientists to pose incisive questions at both the cellular and molecular levels. Nonetheless, the intrinsic complexity of biological aging coupled with the diversity of animal systems and their component cells tempers our zeal to discover cause and effect.
Intermediate Length Scale Effects in Lyapunov Exponent Estimation

Algorithms for estimating Lyapunov exponents from experimental data monitor the divergence of nearby phase space orbits. These algorithms rely on the assumption that the dynamics on intermediate length scales are “close” to the dynamics on infinitesimal length scales. We have studied two one-dimensional maps in which intermediate length scale dynamics may result in inaccurate exponent estimates. This effect is found to be small enough so that the exponent estimates are still good characterizations of the systems. Similar effects are likely to be present whenever a finite quantity of data is used for Lyapunov exponent estimation.
Gynecologic cancer in children

Abstract Our experience with gynecologic cancer in children has been reviewed. These cases are extremely rare, but when they do occur they can represent difficult management problems. Three representative cases have been presented to call attention to these difficult decisions.
Cellular electrophysiology: XV. Effects of methyl-β-D-thiogalactopyranoside and phenethyl alcohol on induced and repressed β-galactosidase systems

The coulokinetic technique, a method by which the capacity factor (coutombic output) of a biological system to perform electrical work is measured, has been applied to further investigations on β-galactosidase induced and repressed Escherichia coli systems. The results indicate that methyl-β-D-thiogalactopyranoside (TMG), in addition to its known action as an inducer of the β-galactosidase operon, is a metabolic inhibitor for the metabolism of glucose, galactose and lactose. Inhibition of galactose metabolism by TMG is significantly less in bacteria grown in the presence of lactose (coli-L), an inducer of β-galactosidase, than in those cells grown on glucose which represses β-galactosidase formation. One explanation for the relatively slight inhibition of galactose metabolism in coli-L is that as galactose causes a rapid rate of efflux of TMG from the bacterial cell, the TMG remains For too short a period within the cell to compete with the metabolism of galactose which proceeds at a rapid rate because of the presence, in high concentrations, of the necessary enzymes, i.e. galactokinase etc., for its metabolism. In Instances where enzyme induction is not required for metabolism, e.g. glucose when metabolized by glucose-grown E. coli. phenethyl alcohol enhances the coulombic output. The reason for this observation is the increase in cell membrane porosity attributable to the presence of the phenethyl alcohol. Since the Induction of the β-galactosidase operon is required for the metabolism of lactose by glucose-grown E. coli, a completely suppressed coulombic output is obtained in the presence of phenetbyl alcohol.
Curved reflection symmetry detection with self-validation

We propose a novel, self-validating approach for detecting curved reflection symmetry patterns from real, unsegmented images. Our method benefits from the observation that any curved symmetry pattern can be approximated by a sequence of piecewise rigid reflection patterns. Pairs of symmetric feature points are first detected (including both inliers and outliers) and treated as 'particles'. Multiple-hypothesis sampling and pruning are used to sample a smooth path going through inlier particles to recover the curved reflection axis. Our approach generates an explicit supporting region of the curved reflection symmetry, which is further used for intermediate self-validation, making the detection process more robust than prior state-of-the-art algorithms. Experimental results on 200+ images demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed approach.
Studies on the microsomal formation of arylating metabolites of acetaminophen and phenacetin.

A chemically reactive metabolite of phenacetin is formed by a cytochrome P-450 in hamster liver microsomes by a mechanism that is different from the generation of the chemically reactive metabolite from acetaminophen. The V max of covalent binding of phenacetin exceeds that of acetaminophen, showing that phenacetin is not first deethylated to acetaminophen, which is then activated. Previous treatment with 3-methylcholanthrene increases the V max of covalent binding for acetaminophen but decreases the V max of covalent binding for phenacetin, even though it increases the V max of deethylation of phenacetin to acetaminophen. Previous treatment with phenobarbital increases the V max of covalent binding for phenacetin without increasing the same parameter for acetaminophen. Addition of sodium fluoride (0.1 M) increases the rate of covalent binding for acetaminophen but decreases it for phenacetin. When covalent binding is prevented by trapping the reactive metabolites with glutathione during incubations carried out under 18O2 atmospheres, reductive cleavage by Raney nickel of the glutathione conjugates formed from either phenacetin or acetaminophen yields acetaminophen; however, the acetaminophen from the phenacetin-glutathione incubations contains about 50% 18O in position 4, whereas the acetaminophen from the acetaminophen-glutathione incubations contains virtually no 18O. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that acetaminophen is converted to N -hydroxyacetaminophen, which dehydrates to yield the arylating species, acetimidoquinone, whereas the reactive species from phenacetin arises by epoxidation.
Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials in oil and gas production: A silent killer

This paper reviews the literature that identifies Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) in oil and gas production. It further explains how processes associated with the recovery of oil and gas enhances NORM'S concentration and also develops Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (TENORM). It redefines TENORM from technical and scientific perspectives and explains how spectral gamma ray logging technology helps to prove the presence of NORM as an indication of oil and gas presence. This article provides a better understanding of TENORM waste disposal practices that poses serious health and environmental risks. It makes a strong argument for the importance of TENORM risk assessment and management through process safety approaches. Finally, it identifies the knowledge and technical gaps related to TENORM in oil and gas production, which require further studies and research.
M3 muscarinic receptors on rat colonocytes are coupled to particulate guanylate cyclase activation

Abstract The ability of muscarinic receptor antagonists to compete with (−)-[3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate ([3H]QNB) binding was compared with their ability to block carbachol-mediated stimulation of particulate guanylate cyclase activity in rat colonocytes. The binding of [3H]QNB to membranes was inhibited by antagonists with the following rank order of potencies (inhibitory constants, nM): atropine (2.5) ≈ 4- diphenylacetoxy -N- methylpiperidine iodide (4- DAMP ) [4.6] ⪢ pirenzepine (121) > methoctramine (385) . 4-DAMP ( IC 50 = ∼ 10 nM ) was also more potent in blocking carbachol-induced stimulation of guanylate cyclase activity than either pirenzepine ( IC 50 = ∼ 700 nM ) or methoctramine ( IC 50 = ∼ 1500 nM ).
Diagnostic characteristics of a clinical screening tool in combination with measuring bedside lactate level in emergency department patients with suspected sepsis

Background Early identification of sepsis and initiation of aggressive treatment saves lives. However, the diagnosis of sepsis may be delayed in patients without overt deterioration. Clinical screening tools and lactate levels may help identify sepsis patients at risk for adverse outcomes. Objectives The objective was to determine the diagnostic characteristics of a clinical screening tool in combination with measuring early bedside point-of-care (POC) lactate levels in emergency department (ED) patients with suspected sepsis. Methods This was a prospective, observational study set at a suburban academic ED with an annual census of 90,000. A convenience sample of adult ED patients with suspected infection were screened with a sepsis screening tool for the presence of at least one of the following: temperature greater than 38°C or less than 36°C, heart rate greater than 90 beats/min, respiratory rate greater than 20 breaths/min, or altered mental status. Patients meeting criteria had bedside POC lactate testing following triage, which was immediately reported to the treating physician if ≥2.0 mmol/L. Demographic and clinical information, including lactate levels, ED interventions, and final diagnosis, were recorded. Outcomes included presence or absence of sepsis using the American College of Chest Physicians/Society of Critical Care Medicine consensus conference definitions and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, use of vasopressors, and mortality. Diagnostic test characteristics were calculated using 2-by-2 tables with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The association between bedside lactate and ICU admissions, use of vasopressors, and mortality was determined using logistic regression. Results A total of 258 patients were screened for sepsis. Their mean (± standard deviation [SD]) age was 64 (±19) years; 46% were female, and 82% were white. Lactate levels were 2.0 mmol/L or greater in 80 (31%) patients. Patients were confirmed to meet sepsis criteria in 208 patients (81%). The diagnostic characteristics for sepsis of the combined clinical screening tool and bedside lactates were sensitivity 34% (95% CI = 28% to 41%), specificity 82% (95% CI = 69% to 90%), positive predictive value 89% (95% CI = 80% to 94%), and negative predictive value 23% (95% CI = 17% to 30%). Bedside lactate levels were associated with sepsis severity (p < 0.001), ICU admission (odds ratio [OR] = 2.01; 95% CI = 1.53 to 2.63), and need for vasopressors (OR = 1.54; 95% CI = 1.13 to 2.12). Conclusions Use of a clinical screening tool in combination with early bedside POC lactates has moderate to good specificity but low sensitivity in adult ED patients with suspected sepsis. Elevated bedside lactate levels are associated with poor outcomes.
On the Reality of the Suggested Planet in the ν Octantis System

The aim of this study is to explore an enigmatic finding about the ? Octantis binary system that indicates the possible existence of a Jupiter-type planet even though the planet seems to be located outside the zone of orbital stability. We perform a detailed analysis of orbital stability based on previous studies that carefully considers the ? Octantis system parameters including their observationally deduced uncertainties. In our analysis, we confront the probability distribution of the parameter space of the system with the requirements of planetary orbital stability. Our results indicate that the suggested planet, if in a prograde orbit with respect to the motion of the binary components, is virtually impossible. However, the estimated probability of existence for a planet in a retrograde orbit is nearly 60%, an estimate that encapsulates the probability distribution of the mass ratio of the stellar components. This estimate increases if a relatively low stellar mass ratio (within the error bars) is assumed. The principal possibility of a planet in a retrograde orbit is also consistent with long-term orbital stability simulations pursued as part of our study. Thus, the existence of the suggested planet in the ? Octantis system constitutes a realistic possibility.
Price To Be Paid for Two-Metal Catalysis: Magnesium Ions That Accelerate Chemistry Unavoidably Limit Product Release from a Protein Kinase

Incorporation of divalent metal ions into an active site is a fundamental catalytic tool used by diverse enzymes. Divalent cations are used by protein kinases to both stabilize ATP binding and accelerate chemistry. Kinetic analysis establishes that Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) requires simultaneous binding of two Mg2+ ions for catalysis of phosphoryl transfer. This tool, however, comes with a price: the rate-acceleration effects are opposed by an unavoidable rate-limiting consequence of the use of two Mg2+ ions by CDK2. The essential metal ions stabilize ADP product binding and limit the overall rate of the reaction. We demonstrate that product release is rate limiting for activated CDK2 and evaluate the effects of the two catalytically essential Mg2+ ions on the stability of the ADP product within the active site. We present two new crystal structures of CDK2 bound to ADP showing how the phosphate groups can be coordinated by either one or two Mg2+ ions, with the occupancy of one site in a weaker equ...
An investigation of the microtubule protein in the mature oocytes of Urechis caupo.

Abstract The properties of Urechis caupo microtubule protein in mature eggs was investigated and found to be similar to that of other organisms with respect to molecular weight and colchicine-binding parameters. Selective extraction from microtubule-rich organelles and vinblastine precipitation were used to identify and purify this protein, and two distinct subunits of 54 000 and 59 000 molecular weight were resolved on SDS-polyacrylamide gels. The germinal vesicle was shown to contain little of the colchicine-binding activity of the mature egg. Minimum and maximum estimates of the percentage of microtubule protein to total mature egg protein gave values of 0.8 % and 5 %, respectively. It was concluded that a considerable pool of this protein exists in the eggs of Urechis caupo .
Root Response of Tolerant and Intolerant Soybean Cultivars to Soybean Cyst Nematode

Tolerance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN), Ichinohe, has been identified in soybean [ (L.) Merr.] and has potential as a management strategy to limit SCN yield suppression. Little information is available on the growth and morphology of roots of tolerant soybean cultivars parasitized by SCN. This study was conducted to compare root and vegetative responses of a moderately tolerant soybean, ‘Wright’, with an intolerant soybean, ‘Bragg’, to parasitism by SCN. In 1986, Bragg and Wright soybean was grown in the University of Georgia rhizotron in rooting medium infested with SCN Race 3 at initial population densities (P) of 0,1000, or 10 000 eggs/L. Measurements were made of soybean root growth and development, vegetative and reproductive growth stage, leaf number, flower and pod numbers, and nematode activity (development and infection). Number of growing roots on Bragg at P 10 000 was suppressed throughout the season, whereas root growth of Wright was stimulated by the presence of SCN. Although not statistically significant, root lengths followed these same trends. Seed yield of Bragg was progressively suppressed as P increased, in contrast to that of Wright which was suppressed at P 1000, but was not suppressed further at P 10 000. Vegetative development of Bragg was suppressed at P 10 000 compared to P 0 from 18 and 39 d after planting (DAP), respectively, in contrast to Wright which was unaffected. Reproductive development of Bragg at P 10 000 was also suppressed between 79 and 133 DAP. The stimulation of root development of Wright in the presence of SCN was probably critical to maintenance of vegetative and reproductive development.
THE MOLIERE APPROXIMATION FOR WAVE PROPAGATION IN TURBULENT MEDIA

Some of the advantages and limitations of Moliere’s high-energy solution of the Schrodinger scattering equation are discussed in connection with the study of wave propagation in a turbulent medium. Certain inconsistencies in the conventional Born and Rytov methods are shown to be closely related to an unwarranted extension of the Moliere solution to higher order in the stationary-phase approximation. The error associated with the extended solution is shown to increase as the penetration distance decreases; its estimated magnitude may be restricted to be relatively small by adoption of a lower range limit for the validity of the Born–Rytov approximation. This restriction, when combined with the standard upper limit associated with the first-order refractive-index approximation, defines a range interval, bounded from above and below, outside of which the Born–Rytov approximation is inconsistent. For optical propagation in the atmosphere, the lower limit exceeds the upper limit, and the Born–Rytov approximation is nowhere consistent.
Choroidal osteoma after intraocular inflammation.

A 12-year-old girl had had blurred vision and pain behind her left eye for three months. An examination disclosed focal choroiditis and optic nerve edema. Her visual acuity was 20/30. Two similar previous episodes had been diagnosed as scleritis and uveitis and the patient was still on a regimen of 5 mg of prednisone per day and eyedrops containing prednisolone and phenylephrine. A pink choroidal mass superotemporal to the optic disk was negative for calcium by computed tomography and ultrasonography. The corticosteroids were discontinued. Three months later, the patient's visual acuity had improved to 20/20 but the choroidal lesion was slightly larger and two new lesions had appeared, one just above the optic disk and the other superotemporal to the macula. Three years later the two new lesions had coalesced to form one lesion with vascular channels on its surface. Although a choroidal osteoma was suspected, computed tomography and ultrasonography were still negative for calcium. Five years after the initial examination, computed tomography showed a thin ring of calcium within the choroid at the location of the mass. Ultrasonography also confirmed the presence of calcium.