cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Do contemporary imaging and biopsy techniques reliably identify unilateral prostate cancer? Implications for hemiablation patient selection.

BACKGROUND Hemiablation is a less morbid treatment alternative for appropriately selected patients with unilateral prostate cancer (PCa). However, to the authors' knowledge, traditional diagnostic techniques inadequately identify appropriate candidates. In the current study, the authors quantified the accuracy for identifying hemiablation candidates using contemporary diagnostic techniques, including multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and MRI-fusion with complete systematic template biopsy. METHODS A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing MRI and MRI-fusion prostate biopsy, including full systematic template biopsy, prior to radical prostatectomy in a single tertiary academic institution between June 2010 and February 2018 was performed. Hemiablation candidates had unilateral intermediate-risk PCa (Gleason score [GS] of 3+4 or 4+3, clinical T classification ≤T2, and prostate-specific antigen level <20 ng/dL) on MRI-fusion biopsy and 2) no contralateral highly or very highly suspicious Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI-RADSv2) MRI lesions. Hemiablation candidates were inappropriately selected if pathologists identified contralateral GS ≥3+4 or high-risk ipsilateral PCa on prostatectomy. The authors tested a range of hemiablation inclusion criteria and performed multivariable analysis of preoperative predictors of undetected contralateral disease. RESULTS Of 665 patients, 92 met primary hemiablation criteria. Of these 92 patients, 44 (48%) were incorrectly identified due to ipsilateral GS ≥3+4 tumors crossing the midline (21 patients), undetected distinct contralateral GS ≥3+4 tumors (20 patients), and/or ipsilateral high-risk PCa (3 patients) on prostatectomy. The rate of undetected contralateral disease ranged from 41% to 48% depending on inclusion criteria. On multivariable analysis, men with anterior index tumors were found to be 2.4 times more likely to harbor undetected contralateral GS ≥3+4 PCa compared with men with posterior lesions (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Clinicians and patients must weigh the risk of inadequate oncologic treatment against the functional benefits of hemiablation. Further investigation into methods for improving patient selection for hemiablation is necessary.
A systematic review of measures for psychological well-being in physical activity studies and identification of critical issues.

Abstract Background The health benefits of physical activity (PA) have been well documented in the literature. The relationship between PA and psychological well-being (PWB) has received increasing attention. Aim This study aimed to systematically review the measurement of PWB in PA studies and examine the major findings of these studies. Methods We conducted a systematic search in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and SportDiscus for articles published from their inception to October 2018 to identify empirical studies that investigated the relationship between PA and PWB. For each study meeting the inclusion criteria, we identified its measure for PWB and reviewed its main findings. Results The literature search identified 53 studies examining the relationship between PA and PWB and 48 measurement scales for assessing various domains of PWB. The measurement scales were further classified as measures of hedonic well-being (n = 11), eudaimonic well-being (n = 10), mental ill-being (n = 18), or multifaceted well-being (n = 9). Twenty-seven out of 29 observational studies and nineteen out of 24 intervention studies found favorable associations between PA and at least one domain of PWB. Conclusions Although the findings in the empirical studies generally support a positive relationship between PA and PWB, the specific psychological domains measured in these studies vary considerably. In addition, the definition of PWB in these studies is incomplete and unclear. Future studies are suggested to choose measurement scales based on a clear and theoretically based definition of PWB and focus more on hedonic well-being and eudaimonic well-being.
Evaluation and Predictors of Fluid Resuscitation in Patients With Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock.

Objectives Rapid fluid resuscitation has become standard in sepsis care, despite "low-quality" evidence and absence of guidelines for populations "at risk" for volume overload. Our objectives include as follows: 1) identify predictors of reaching a 30 mL/kg crystalloid bolus within 3 hours of sepsis onset (30by3); 2) assess the impact of 30by3 and fluid dosing on clinical outcomes; 3) examine differences in perceived "at-risk" volume-sensitive populations, including end-stage renal disease, heart failure, obesity, advanced age, or with documentation of volume "overload" by bedside examination. Design Retrospective cohort study. All outcome analyses controlled for sex, end-stage renal disease, heart failure, sepsis severity (severe sepsis vs septic shock), obesity, Mortality in Emergency Department Sepsis score, and time to antibiotics. Setting Urban, tertiary care center between January 1, 2014, and May 31, 2017. Patients Emergency Department treated adults (age ≥18 yr; n = 1,032) with severe sepsis or septic shock. Interventions Administration of IV fluids by bolus. Measurements and main results In total, 509 patients received 30by3 (49.3%). Overall mortality was 17.1% (n = 176), with 20.4% mortality in the shock group. Patients who were elderly (odds ratio, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.46-0.83), male (odds ratio, 0.66; CI, 0.49-0.87), obese (odds ratio, 0.18; CI, 0.13-0.25), or with end-stage renal disease (odds ratio, 0.23; CI, 0.13-0.40), heart failure (odds ratio, 0.42; CI, 0.29-0.60), or documented volume "overload" (odds ratio, 0.30; CI, 0.20-0.45) were less likely to achieve 30by3. Failure to meet 30by3 had increased odds of mortality (odds ratio, 1.52; CI, 1.03-2.24), delayed hypotension (odds ratio, 1.42; CI, 1.02-1.99), and increased ICU stay (~2 d) (β = 2.0; CI, 0.5-3.6), without differential effects for "at-risk" groups. Higher fluid volumes administered by 3 hours correlated with decreased mortality, with a plateau effect between 35 and 45 mL/kg (p Conclusions Failure to reach 30by3 was associated with increased odds of in-hospital mortality, irrespective of comorbidities. Predictors of inadequate resuscitation can be identified, potentially leading to interventions to improve survival. These findings are retrospective and require future validation.
A Case for Domain-Specific Curiosity in Mathematics

Epistemic curiosity is a desire for knowledge accompanied by positive emotions, increased arousal, and exploratory behavior (Grossnickle, Educational Psychology Review, 28(1), 23–60, 2016). Although curiosity has typically been characterized as a domain-general construct, domain-general conceptualizations do not acknowledge systematic changes in an individuals’ development (e.g., domain knowledge) as they advance within a domain. Moreover, a domain-general conceptualization of curiosity stands in direct contrast to research on interest, given that interest is typically described as domain-specific (e.g., interest for mathematics). Without a domain-specific conceptualization of curiosity as it relates to development within academic domains, comparisons between curiosity and interest will remain muddled. In the present theoretical review, we put forward a conceptualization of curiosity as domain-specific and examine how the components of curiosity develop within one academic domain: mathematics. In doing so, we juxtapose conceptualizations of epistemic curiosity with literature related to the development of other epistemic factors (i.e., knowledge, epistemic beliefs) in mathematics. Specifically, we build on the knowledge gap theories of epistemic curiosity (Litman, Personality and Individual Differences, 48(4), 397–410, 2010; Loewenstein, Psychological Bulletin, 116(1), 75–98, 1994) to consider developmental shifts in (a) knowledge gaps, (b) heightened arousal, and (c) exploratory behaviors within the domain of mathematics. Understanding the domain-specific and developmental nature of curiosity is critical for distinguishing curiosity from interest and for supporting motivation within mathematics classrooms.
Loss of L3MBTL1, a Candidate 20q12 Tumor Suppressor Gene, Leads to DNA Damage.

Abstract 1974 Poster Board I-997 The L3MBTL1 gene is located on the long arm of chromosome 20 (q12), a region commonly lost in several myeloid malignancies, including myeloproliferative diseases (MPD), myeloprodysplastic disorders (MDS), and acute myeloid leukemias (AML). MDS and AML frequently have complex cytogenetic profiles, and are thought to arise due to accumulation of several cooperating mutations. We have previously reported that L3MBTL1 is highly expressed in human hematopoietic progenitor cells. L3MBTL1 is a homolog of Drosophila polycomb L3MBTL tumor suppressor protein. Thus, L3MBTL1 is a candidate gene in 20q12 myeloid disorders. We have depleted L3MBTL1 by RNAi in several human cell lines, and find that loss of L3MBTL1 leads to a decrease of cells in the S phase of the cell cycle and accumulation in G2/M phase. Cells with depleted L3MBTL1 have an increase of spontaneous DNA breaks, as evidenced by accumulation of γH2A.X foci and comet assay. The presence of DNA breaks leads to activation of DNA damage response, as the L3MBTL1 knockdown cells have increased levels of phosphoChk1 (Ser317 and Ser345), phosphoChk2 (Thr68), phosphoATM (Ser1981), p21 and p53. The DNA damage in the L3MBTL1-depleted cells activates DNA repair machinery, as shown by the increase in Rad51 levels. We propose that the spontaneous DNA damage caused by depletion of L3MBTL1 could contribute to the development of 20q12 myeloid malignancies. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Brain Bromine Levels Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropathology

Background Bromine is a naturally occurring element that is widely present in the human environment in various chemical forms primarily as flame retardants, pesticides, and water treatments. Objective In this exploratory study, we investigated the association of brain bromine concentrations on Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology, cerebral infarcts, and Lewy bodies. Methods The study was conducted in 215 deceased participants of the Memory and Aging Project, a clinical-pathologic cohort study. Brain bromine levels were measured using instrumental neutron activation analysis. Multiple brain regions were assessed for diffuse and neuritic plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, cerebral macro-and microinfarcts, and Lewy bodies. Standardized measures of AD pathology (Braak, CERAD, NIA-Reagan, global AD pathology) were computed. Results In linear regression models, the higher brain bromine levels were associated with more AD neuropathology (Braak (p trend = 0.01); CERAD (p trend = 0.02); NIA-Reagan (p trend = 0.02). Conclusion Bromine accumulation in the brain is associated with higher level of AD neuropathology. The potential deleterious effects of this element on AD need further exploration.
University Science and Technology Parks: A U.S. Perspective

The prospect for the future growth and prosperity of university science and technology parks (STPs) in the United States is questionable. Evidence is presented in this chapter that might lead one to conclude that if STPs are to remain viable, they must reidentify themselves especially in the eyes of their stakeholders. Absent that, critical resources might not be forthcoming to deal with current infrastructure issues as well as their ability to attract new tenants in to the park.
Molecular Mechanism of Nucleotide Excision Repair in Mammalian Cells

Nucleotide excision repair is the major pathway for removal of damaged or abnormal nucleotides generated by both physical and chemical agents. Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), an hereditary disease characterized by extreme sensitivity to sunlight and a predisposition to skin cancer due to defective nucleotide excision repair, can be caused by mutations in any one of seven genes, XPA through XPG. The basal excision repair reaction, which is functionally conserved from bacteria to man, can be conceptualized as occurring in five steps: (1) damage recognition, (2) dual incisions of the damaged strand, (3) release of the damage-containing oligomer to generate a gapped duplex molecule, (4) resynthesis of DNA (repair patch) using the undamaged strand as template, and (5) ligation of the newly synthesized DNA to regenerate an intact molecule. Excision and resynthesis are accomplished by six proteins in E. coli, but 25 polypeptides are required in human cells. In man the initial damage recognition is accomplished by the cooperative action of XPA and RPA. Transcription factor TFIIH, a multisubunit complex which contains both the XPB and XPD helicases, and XPC are recruited to the damage site and form a stable preincision complex with XPA and RPA. This complex first recruits the XPG nuclease which incises DNA 6±3 phosphodiester bonds 3’ to the damage and then the XPF•ERCC1 complex which incises DNA 20±5 bonds 5’ to the damage. As a result of these dual incisions, the damage is released in 24–32 nucleotide long oligomers. Resynthesis is performed by polymerases δ and e, and ligation completes the basal excision reaction.
Neuropsychological outcomes after pediatric epilepsy surgery: Role of electrical stimulation language mapping

Abstract Purpose We studied the association between electrical stimulation mapping (ESM) with a visual naming task and post-operative neuropsychological outcomes after pediatric epilepsy surgery. Methods Children who underwent epilepsy surgery, having pre- and 1-year post-surgery neuropsychological evaluation (NPE) available, were included. NPE scores were transformed using principal components (PC) analysis. The relationship between post-surgical PC scores, adjusted for pre-surgery PC scores, and ESM was analyzed. Clinical variables influencing this relationship were also sought. Results One hundred and four children (89 patients >5 years-old, and 15 patients 3−5 years-old) were included. Among children >5 years-of-age, a significant effect of language ESM was observed on all 3 post-surgery PC scores adjusted for respective pre-surgery PC scores. Specifically, only 30 % patients who underwent language ESM had a decrease in PC1 scores ≥1-year after epilepsy surgery, compared to 68 % those who did not undergo language ESM (p = 0.001). Seizure outcomes, age at the time of surgery, predominant seizure type, and family history of epilepsy were other significant determinants of post-surgical PC scores including a change in PC scores from pre-surgery baseline. Combinations of pre-surgical variables were able to predict post-surgical PC scores with high specificity. In children aged 3−5 years, no significant effect of language ESM was seen on post-surgery PC scores adjusted for respective pre-surgery PC scores. Conclusions Speech/language ESM should be performed more widely in patients >5 years-of-age undergoing epilepsy surgery. Also, more efficient brain mapping techniques and language paradigms are needed for younger children.
High-Performance Titanium Oxynitride Thin Films for Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation

TiNxOy (TiNO) thin films with superior electrochemical properties have been synthesized in situ using a pulsed laser deposition method and a varied oxygen partial pressure from 5 to 25 mTorr. The e...
From Evaluated Outputs to Values-Embedded Practices: The Power of Focusing on Process in Scholarly Communication

See RECORDING. Currently, academia values what it can count: number of articles written, number of citations made, number of theses directed; number of euros or dollars received; in other words, it values what it can easily measure, and uses those numbers as a proxy for individual distinction within a competitive prestige economy. What if the individuals that make up the academic enterprise decided to focus on what we value, or purport to value (be that public scholarship, community engagement; openness and access; diversity, equity, and inclusion) instead? The HuMetricsHSS initiative promotes and supports one such alternative: a values-based, process-oriented approach to evaluative decision making in the academy, with a focus on the humanities and social sciences. Learn more about the history of the project, our current work, and our future plans in this talk.
Challenges and Unexpected Affordances of Physical Computing Going Remote

Engaging in physical computing activities involving both hardware and software provides a hands-on introduction to computer science. The move to remote learning for primary and secondary schools during the 2020-2021 school year due to COVID-19 made implementing physical computing activities especially challenging. However, it is important that these activities are not simply eliminated from the curriculum. This paper explores how a unit centered around students investigating how programmable sensors that can support data-driven scientific inquiry was collaboratively adapted for remote instruction. A case study of one teacher’s experience implementing the unit with a group of middle school students (ages 11 to 14) in her STEM elective class examines how her students could still engage in computational thinking practices around data and programming. The discussion includes both the challenges and unexpected affordances of engaging in physical computing activities remotely that emerged from her implementation.
Airways Smooth Muscle Cell Growth and Proliferation

Asthma, a chronic disease characterized by airway hyperreactivity, is an extraordinarily common cause of pulmonary impairment. Despite considerable research effort, asthma mortality rates continue to rise and the primary defects that underlie airway hyperreactivity remain unknown although an intrinsic abnormality of airways smooth muscle has been postulated [1–4].
Toward rational design of stable, supported metal catalysts for aqueous-phase processing: Insights from the hydrogenation of levulinic acid

Abstract Aqueous-phase hydrogenation of levulinic acid (4-oxopentanoic acid) and 2-pentanone was considered to probe the activity and stability of supported Ru catalysts during ketone hydrogenation in water. Selected supports include activated carbon, amorphous SiO 2 , γ-Al 2 O 3 , and TiO 2 . For both probe molecules, intrinsic hydrogenation activity was independent of support identity and Ru particle size. Moreover, the presence of a secondary functional group in levulinic acid (i.e., a carboxyl group) and the resulting dissociated protons do not appear to perturb the activity of Ru sites in water. LA hydrogenation thus appears kinetically equivalent to that of 2-pentanone, and both occur with an average turnover frequency of 0.11 s −1 under our experimental conditions (323 K, 24 bar H 2 , 0.5 M LA/2-Pentanone). Supported Ru clusters were susceptible to both irreversible and reversible modes of deactivation. The former was attributed to particle sintering, which is accelerated in bulk water relative to gas phases. The extent of particle growth is relatively insensitive to solution pH and depends primarily on the nature of the support, decreasing in the order SiO 2 > C ≈ TiO 2 > γ-Al 2 O 3 . Reversible activity losses are also support-dependent; however, the underlying cause could not be identified conclusively. Its extent correlates with the dominant surface charge of the support under experimental conditions. As such, trends in reversible and irreversible deactivation both appear to be governed by the bulk electronegativity of the support.
JWST Mirror Technology Development

Since the initial Design Studies leading to JWST, Mirror Technology was identified as a (if not the) critical capability necessary to enable the next generation of large aperture space telescopes required to achieve the science goals of imaging the earliest galaxies and proto-galaxies after the big bang. Specific telescope architectures were explored via three independent design concept studies conducted during the summer of 1996. Achieving the desired science objectives required a never before demonstrated space telescope capability, one with an 8 meter class primary mirror that is diffraction limited at 2 micrometers and operating in deep space at temperatures well below 70K. Beryllium was identified in the NASA "Yardstick" design as the preferred material because of its ability to provide stable optical performance in the anticipated thermal environment as well as its excellent specific stiffness. Because of launch vehicle constraints, two very significant architectural constraints were placed upon the telescope: segmentation and areal density. Each of these directly resulted in specific technology capability requirements. First, because the maximum launch vehicle payload fairing diameter is approximately 4.5 meters, the only way to launch an 8 meter class mirror is to segment it, fold it and deploy it on orbit - resulting in actuation and control requirements. Second, because of launch vehicle mass limits, the primary mirror allocation was only 1000 kg - resulting in a maximum areal density specification of 20 kilograms per square meter.
Pressure broadening and laser-induced spectral line shapes

Publisher Summary Doppler broadening is due to the higher frequencies of radiation absorbed or emitted by an atom moving toward an observer than by one moving away. The random component of velocity in the direction of the observer found in an equilibrium gas thus leads to broadening and a Gaussian line shape. Pressure broadening is due to collisions of the active atom with perturbing atoms, molecules, or heavy ions. Stark broadening is due to fluctuating electric fields due mainly to electrons in plasma. The line shape function is normalized to unity and can be regarded as a probability distribution. An important point is that if two broadening mechanisms are independent, the line shape resulting from the operation of both mechanisms is simply the convolution of the two line shapes resulting from each mechanism separately. Whereas quantum mechanical line shapes are most easily expressed and calculated in the frequency domain, classical path formulas are more readily obtained in the time domain. They result from solutions of the time dependent Schrodinger equation using a trajectory which is a classical path on a potential energy surface.
Identification of fast and slow firing types of motoneurons in the same pool.

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the evidence that a pool is not homogeneous but rather consists of more than one species of motoneuron, with properties that are not entirely dependent on size. The demonstration of size-independent qualities in motoneurons depends upon the use of a new technique for measuring the size of motoneurons with a quantitative precision of 1–2% under ideal experimental conditions. In experiment, the total monosynaptic output of the plantaris pool in a decerebrated preparation is measured. Initially, plantaris units within any portion of the 0–100% range of CFLs are compared if they appear to be nearly identical in size. Two contrasting results are obtained. In some cases, the firing rates (FRs) of the two units do not differ by more than 1–2 pulses/second (pps), averaging over a full second. In these pairs, there is no evidence of a difference in rate that is independent of size. In other cases, however, a striking difference in the rates of the two units is apparent, one of them discharging at more than twice the rate of the other. These results suggest that the units under comparison are being sampled randomly from different populations of motoneurons that discharge at widely different rates.
Role of histamine in the sensory motor integration of gill lateral cell cilia in the bivalve mollusc, Crassostrea virginica (1131.1)

Lateral gill cells of Crassostrea virginica are innervated by serotonin and dopamine nerves from their ganglia. Most bivalves have lateral cell cilia that respond to serotonin and dopamine. The motor aspects have been well studied, but not the sensory side. There is limited information about sensory inputs. We found C. virginica can sense and adjust gill cilia beating to the presence of food and a variety of chemical cues including histamine (HIS). HIS does not alter beating when applied to gill, but when applied to mantle rim decreases beating. Detaching the mantle rim or transecting the branchial nerve prevents this. We hypothesize HIS is a sensory neurotransmitter in mantle rim involved in sensory-motor integration of gill lateral cilia. We studied actions of HIS and 3 different classes of HIS receptor antagonists. Cilia beating was measured by stroboscopic microscopy. Adding HIS (10-6 - 10-3 M) to mantle rim decreased cilia beating. H1 antagonist diphenhydramine and H2 antagonist famotidine blocked HI...
Cued passive bearing estimation in distributed sensor data fusion

Active and passive sonar sensors provide complementary information about contacts. In addition to the physical characteristics of a passive array, the bearing resolution estimate can be limited by computational constraints given the necessity to survey the full azimuth for contacts. In a distributed field of sensors, however, it may be advantageous to divert the resources of a given sensor from a coarse resolution detection strategy to a fine resolution tracking of a contact of interest. In particular, the position estimate in the form of a probability density function can be used to cue a horizontal line array to switch from a full- azimuth (surveillance), robust adaptive beamforming (ABF) approach to a more sensitive ABF focused in the region of high contact probability. In this paper, we investigate the degree of bearing estimate refinement available through cued beamforming as a function of contact signal-to-noise ratio, uncertainty in contact position, and ABF sensitivity.
Female-Perpetrated Partner Violence and Aggression: Their Relationship to Gender Identity

Abstract Using data from a convenience sample of 252 women involved in a relationship over the past year and attending a southeastern university, this project examines the relationship between self-endorsed masculine and feminine personality traits and female-perpetrated partner violence that has ever occurred in the relationship. Juvenile delinquency and criminology literature has addressed theoretical explanations for female perpetration. Using this and symbolic interaction as a foundation, it was hypothesized that women who endorse more masculine traits will report higher perpetration of violence. Results demonstrate that the relationships between masculine and feminine traits and psychological abuse and physical assault are more complex than hypothesized.
What Systems Biology Is (Not, Yet)

Systems Biology. Philosophical Foundations. Fred C. Boogerd, Frank J. Bruggeman, Jan-Hendrik S. Hofmeyr, and Hans V. Westerhoff, Eds.. Elsevier, Amsterdam, 2007. 360 pp. $120, £68.99, €99.95. ISBN 9780444520852. An Introduction to Systems Biology. Design Principles of Biological Circuits. By Uri Alon. Chapman and Hall/CRC, Boca Raton, FL, 2006. 317 pp. $54.95, £30.99. ISBN 9781584886426. Mathematical and Computational Biology, vol. 10. Students and faculty from an interdisciplinary graduate class on systems biology review two books that offer a variety of perspectives on the field. Alon provides an analytical approach, whereas Boogerd et al. focus on philosophical aspects.
Uncertainty quantification: methods and examples from probability and fuzzy theories

Uncertainties arise from many sources: random effects, measurement errors, modeling choices, parameter choices, inference processes, application of expertise, decision making, and lack of knowledge, to name a few. Characterizing or estimating these is often a daunting task, involving the gathering and analysis of data, knowledge and information. Often this information is in qualitative form, and often the source is from human experience and cognitive processes. Since uncertainty is a broadly encompassing topic, we provide some definitions to focus the issues and present a philosophy with some guidelines for understanding and handling uncertainties of specific types. As part of that philosophy, we recommend formal expert elicitation and analysis methods for estimating, quantifying and propagating uncertainties through a complex problem. Some examples are presented illustrating some of the aspects in quantifying uncertainties of various types.
Reactive adsorption of CEES on iron oxyhydroxide/(N-)graphite oxide composites under visible light exposure

The interactions of 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) with the surface of iron oxyhydroxide and its composites with graphite oxide and/or aminated graphite oxide were studied under visible light irradiation. Materials exposed to CEES were extensively characterized by FTIR-STR, UV-VIS-NIR, and TA-MS. The gaseous/vaporous reaction products were identified by GC-MS. The compounds deposited on the surface of the materials were analyzed in acetonitrile extracts by NMR and MS-MS. The FTIR results indicated the existence of alcohol groups on the surface of the exhausted samples and the involvement of OH groups in the CEES reactive adsorption. Ethyl vinyl sulfide (EVS) was the only volatile compound detected as a result of the reaction with the surface. Two adsorption sites for either CEES or EVS were identified on the adsorbent surfaces. As a result of CEES reactive adsorption Fe(III) was reduced, which indicates its crucial role in the oxidation of CEES and EVS. On the composites, the detection of disulfides as products of advanced oxidation of CEES suggests the activation of thiyl and oxygen radicals. This indicates that the incorporation of GO and GOU into iron oxyhydroxides strongly increases the oxidation potential of oxyhydroxides and induces the formation of radicals. The main promoters of CEES transformation are proposed to be OH groups and thiyl radicals.
North–south excess of hemispheric sunspot numbers and cosmic ray asymmetric solar modulation

Abstract Timeline of solar activity is reviewed for 1945–2013 with data for yearly north–south excess (NSE) of hemispheric sunspot numbers (SSNs) for six cycles (18–23) and rising phase of cycle 24. There are more sunspots in north hemisphere for 1950–1970 (cycles 18–20) and excess in south hemisphere for 1980–2010 (cycles 21–23). To the best of our knowledge, the physical cause(es) for NSE and change of its sign are not known, highlighting the fact that we do not yet understand how the solar Dynamo works. Others have analyzed NSE data for shorter periods. We study the relationship between NSE and galactic cosmic ray (GCR) asymmetric solar modulation for the space age with high latitude neutron monitor data located in USA and Europe; space age began in October 1963 with in situ measurements of the solar wind parameters at 1 AU. We infer an asymmetric GCR particle density gradient normal to the ecliptic plane exists for 1963–2013 and undergoes significant temporal variations unrelated to Schwabe or Hale cycle. Furthermore, it has no physical relationship with NSE for the period of our analysis, contrary to the result of a prior study for a shorter period.
Effect of 1,2-dimethoxyethane on potato phosphorylase for polysaccharide specificity

Abstract Potato phosphorylase normally utilizes starch as a substrate but will not use glycogen effectively. In the presence of 20% 1,2-dimethoxyethane, this specificity is lost because of marked activation with glycogen and some inhibition with starch. The effect of dimethoxyethane on β-amylase was the same for both starch and glycogen. These was no contaminating enzyme that would make glycogen more “starch-like.” The 20-fold decrease in K m for glycogen, a change in pH profile, and elimination of inhibition by cyclodextrin suggest that dimethoxyethane causes a change in phosphorylase structure.
Peer environment mediates parental history and individual risk in the etiology of cannabis use disorder in boys: a 10-year prospective study.

Previous research has shown that a trait termed neurobehavior disinhibition (ND) measured in childhood predicts substance use disorder by young adulthood. The present investigation extends these findings by determining the degree to which peer environment mediates the association between ND and development of cannabis use disorder (CUD). ND was measured in a sample of 216 boys 10–12 years of age. The peer environment was assessed at age 16. Current CUD was determined at age 22. Paternal and maternal SUD predicted son's ND which, in turn, predicted son's peer environment and, subsequently, son's cannabis use frequency and CUD. Peer environment mediated the association between ND and cannabis use and ND and CUD. Maternal and paternal SUD predicted the peer environment. Parental SUD, son's ND, and son's peer environment predicted CUD at age 22 with 84% accuracy.
A simplified route to the phosphatidylinositol cascade inhibitor --- (-)-1L-1-deoxy-1-fluoro-Myo-inositol

Abstract A two step synthesis of the title compound from the rubber serum by-product, quebrachitol, is reported.
Abortive apoptosis as an initiator of chromosomal translocations

Apoptosis is a well-recognized regulator of a cell populations size and structure. Irreversible stages of apoptosis lead to activation of different enzymatic cascades, changes in cell morphology and DNA fragmentation. However, little is known about nuclear events which accompany the initial stages of apoptosis. These events are connected with introduction of limited amounts of double strand breaks into genomic DNA, some of which may be subsequently rejoined. We hypothesize here that the initial stages of apoptotic DNA fragmentation may be reversible and connected with the initiation of recombinational events and certain chromosomal translocations. The factors influencing apoptosis reversibility and cell survival after delivery of apoptotic stimuli may provide new insights into mechanisms of lymphocyte development and tumorigenesis.
Longitudinal ultrasonic attenuation in type II superconductors: Clean limit

Abstract The attenuation of longitudinal sound in clean type II superconductors, near Hc2, has been calculated using a non-perturbative method. It is shown that at low frequencies the attenuation rate depends strongly on the direction of propagation of the wave, and on impurity concentration.
Digital Computation of Power System Networks Under Faulted Conditions Using Zloop Without Generating Loop Incidence Matrix

This paper makes two novel contributions to power system fault studies: letting the computer choose the loops in the network from basic instructions by use of certain topological relationships and taking care of a loop impedance matrix generation without generating loop incidence matrix.
Paradoxical stimulation of both lipocortin and prostaglandin production in human amnion cells by dexamethasone

Glucocorticoids inhibit prostaglandin biosynthesis by inducing the formation of lipocortins. In human amnion cells dexamethasone elicited a concentration-dependent increase in prostaglandin production and raised intracellular lipocortin 1 concentrations. Dexamethasone could also potentiate the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced stimulation of prostaglandin production. EGF alone or in combination with dexamethasone increased lipocortin 1 formation in amnion cells. Human amnion cells may provide a unique insight into interactions between glucocorticoids, lipocortin and eicosanoid biosynthesis.
Stress Concentration Solution for a 2D Dent in an Internally Pressurized Cylinder

Dent imperfections in internally pressurized shells have a stress concentration effect. In cylindrical shells under internal pressure, such as pipelines, stress concentrations associated with dent imperfections can degrade in-service performance. A new semianalytical solution is developed for the stress concentration distribution present along the two-dimensional circumferential cross section of a cylinder under internal pressure containing a local dent-like imperfection. An equivalent load approach is used. Results are compared against finite-element results. For practical application, the stress concentration factor (SCF) present at the outer surface of the dent center is derived. Parametric studies with this expression show that long dent stress concentrations are primarily influenced by the dent depth-pipe thickness and the dent depth-pipe diameter ratios. Example cases show that SCF values between 10.0 and 20.0 are possible and that even shallow dent SCFs can be above 2.0.
Investigation of allosteric linkages in the regulation of tryptophan synthase: the roles of salt bridges and monovalent cations probed by site-directed mutation, optical spectroscopy, and kinetics.

The tryptophan synthase bienzyme complex is the most extensively documented example of substrate channeling in which the oligomeric unit has been described at near atomic resolution. Transfer of the common metabolite, indole, between the α- and the β-sites occurs by diffusion along a 25-A-long interconnecting tunnel within each αβ-dimeric unit of the α2β2 oligomer. The control of metabolite transfer involves allosteric interactions that trigger the switching of αβ-dimeric units between open and closed conformations and between catalytic states of low and high activity. This allosteric signaling is triggered by covalent transformations at the β-site and ligand binding to the α-site. The signals are transmitted between sites via a scaffolding of structural elements that includes a monovalent cation (MVC) binding site and salt bridging interactions of βLys 167 with βAsp 305 or αAsp 56. Through the combined strategies of site-directed mutations of these amino acid residues and cation substitutions at the MVC ...
COMPARATIVE ULTRASTRUCTURE OF THE VALVES OF SOME CYCLOTELLA SPECIES (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE)1

SUMMARY Cyclotella atomus Hust., C. meneghiniana Kutz., C. comta (Ehr.) Kutz., C. antiqua W. Sm., C. michiganiana Skv., C. ocellata Pant., C. glomerata Bachmann, C. pseudostelligera Hust., and C. stelligera (Cleve et Grun.) V. H., were selected for ultrastructure investigations on the basis of their ready availability. Specimens were examined employing both transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Strutted processes, labiate processes, spines and other special features were surveyed in all species. On the basis of these observations the species of Cyclotella observed seem to be in one of 3 morphological groups, the meneghiniana group, the comta group, and the stelligera group.
The role of the intestinal microbiota in type 1 diabetes

The digestive tract hosts trillions of bacteria that interact with the immune system and can influence the balance between pro-inflammatory and regulatory immune responses. Recent studies suggest that alterations in the composition of the intestinal microbiota may be linked with the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Data from the biobreeding diabetes prone (BBDP) and the LEW1.WR1 models of T1D support the hypothesis that intestinal bacteria may be involved in early disease mechanisms. The data indicate that cross-talk between the gut microbiota and the innate immune system may be involved in islet destruction. Whether a causal link between intestinal microbiota and T1D exists, the identity of the bacteria and the mechanism whereby they promote the disease remain to be examined. A better understanding of the interplay between microbes and innate immune pathways in early disease stages holds promise for the design of immune interventions and disease prevention in genetically susceptible individuals.
Modulation of the cAMP signaling pathway after traumatic brain injury.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) results in both focal and diffuse brain pathologies that are exacerbated by the inflammatory response and progress from hours to days after the initial injury. Using a clinically relevant model of TBI, the parasagittal fluid-percussion brain injury (FPI) model, we found injury-induced impairments in the cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling pathway. Levels of cAMP were depressed in the ipsilateral parietal cortex and hippocampus, as well as activation of its downstream target, protein kinase A, from 15 min to 48 hr after moderate FPI. To determine if preventing hydrolysis of cAMP by administration of a phosphodiesterase (PDE) IV inhibitor would improve outcome after TBI, we treated animals intraperitoneally with rolipram (0.3 or 3.0 mg/kg) 30 min prior to TBI, and then once per day for three days. Rolipram treatment restored cAMP to sham levels and significantly reduced cortical contusion volume and improved neuronal cell survival in the parietal cortex and CA3 region of the hippocampus. Traumatic axonal injury, characterized by β-amyloid precursor protein deposits in the external capsule, was also significantly reduced in rolipram-treated animals. Furthermore, levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), were significantly decreased with rolipram treatment. These results demonstrate that the cAMP-PKA signaling cascade is downregulated after TBI, and that treatment with a PDE IV inhibitor improves histopathological outcome and decreases inflammation after TBI.
Predicting performance on text: Delayed versus immediate predictions and tests

North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota Delayed judgments of learning for word pairs are more accurate than immediate judgments of learning when the memory test is delayed. In the present experiment, I investigated a similar paradigm with text. Participants predicted performance on texts either immediately after reading the texts or after a delay following the reading of other texts, and tests were given either immediately or after a delay. Immediate ratings with an immediate test produced the most accurate predictions, and immediate ratings with a delayed test produced less accurate predictions. Delaying both the ratings and the test did not produce more accurate predictions than immediate predictions and a delayed test. The results for delayed judgments of learning with text were different from those with word pairs.
Initial Experience with Tissue Plasminogen Activator in Two Pediatric Oncology Patients

With the more frequent use of central venous catheters in children for therapeutic interventions such as the administration of chemotherapy and total parenteral nutrition, there has been an increased recognition of thrombotic complications including thrombotic occlusion, deep venous thrombosis, and superior vena cava syndrome. In the symptomatic child, treatment may be warranted to prevent the sequelae of venous thrombosis including embolic phenomena, secondary bacterial infection, as well as post-thrombotic changes in an extremity. One option for treatment is the use of a thrombolytic agent such as tissue plasminogen activator (TPA). The authors present two children who developed thrombotic complications of central venous devices. TPA successfully resolved the clot and reversed the clinical signs and symptoms of venous obstruction. The literature concerning the use of TPA in pediatric patients, its application in such situations, adverse affects, and dosing regimens are presented.
Fluoride modifies adhesion of Streptococcus pyogenes

Streptococcus pyogenes grown in the presence of subinhibitory concentrations of sodium fluoride had a diminished ability, compared to control cells, to adhere to buccal cells, collagen, fibronectin, and laminin. In addition, sodium fluoride was a competitive inhibitor of streptococcal adhesion to collagen and fibronectin, but not laminin. It is suggested that sodium fluoride may be useful in therapy or prophylaxis in infections involving group A streptococci.
A Generalized Speckle Tracking Algorithm for Ultrasonic Strain Imaging Using Dynamic Programming

This study developed an improved motion estimation algorithm for ultrasonic strain imaging that employs a dynamic programming technique. In this article, we model the motion estimation task as an optimization problem. Since tissue motion under external mechanical stimuli often should be reasonably continuous, a set of cost functions combining correlation and various levels of motion continuity constraint were used to regularize the motion estimation. To solve the optimization problem with a reasonable computational load, a dynamic programming technique that does not require iterations was used to obtain displacement vectors in integer precision. Then, a subsample estimation algorithm was used to calculate local displacements in fractional precision. Two implementation schemes were investigated with in vivo ultrasound echo data sets. We found that the proposed algorithm provides more accurate displacement estimates than our previous algorithm for in vivo clinical data. In particular, the new algorithm is capable of tracking motion in more complex anatomy and increases strain image consistency in a sequence of images. Preliminary results also suggest that a significantly longer sequence of high contrast strain images could be obtained with the new algorithm compared with the previous algorithm. The new algorithm can also tolerate larger motion discontinuities (e.g., cavity in an anthropomorphic uterine phantom).
Growth hormone and adipose differentiation: growth hormone-induced antimitogenic state in 3T3-F442A preadipose cells.

Abstract An additional activity for pituitary growth hormone is described--i.e., the in vitro induction of an antimitogenic state in murine 3T3-F442A preadipocyte fibroblasts. We previously developed a serum-free, hormonally defined medium permissive for the adipose differentiation of 3T3-F442A cells. When 3T3-F442A fibroblasts were maintained in serum-free medium without insulin but with growth hormone (2 nM), typical adipose differentiation did not occur. However, we found that growth hormone induced a state of cellular refractoriness to the mitogenic stimulus of fetal bovine serum as assayed by de novo DNA synthesis. The mitogen refractory condition (i.e., the antimitogenic state) was time-dependent (half maximal at approximately 2.5 days) and growth hormone concentration-dependent (half maximal and maximal at approximately 0.05 and 2.0 nM, respectively). The antimitogenic state was specifically induced by growth hormone and was not mediated by insulin-like growth factor I or prolactin. The growth hormone-induced antimitogenic state was completely reversible. The antimitogenic state was not induced by growth hormone in 3T3-C2 cells, a sister clone of 3T3 cells that exhibits essentially no adipose conversion. The kinetics for growth hormone-dependent commitment to adipose differentiation and induction of the antimitogenic state were similar. We suggest a relationship of growth hormone-induced antimitogenic state and the growth hormone-induced adipose differentiation of 3T3-F442A cells.
PDZ binding of TARPγ-8 controls synaptic transmission but not synaptic plasticity

The reduction in synaptic transmission and plasticity in mice lacking the hippocampus-enriched AMPA receptor (AMPAR) auxiliary subunit TARPγ-8 could be a result of a reduction in AMPAR expression or of the direct action of γ-8. We generated TARPγ-8Δ4 knock-in mice lacking the C-terminal PDZ ligand. We found that synaptic transmission and AMPARs were reduced in the mutant mice, but extrasynaptic AMPAR expression and long-term potentiation (LTP) were unaltered. Our findings suggest that there are distinct TARP-dependent mechanisms for synaptic transmission and LTP.