cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The interface science of interlayer materials and contacts in organic solar cells

Organic solar cells (OPVs) continue to see striking increases in efficiencies, with some research cells exceeding 8% power conversion efficiency, and module efficiencies approaching or exceeding ca. 4%.[1–3] These efficiencies are not yet adequate to create a PV technology which hits the DOE target of $1 per watt (peak), but there is reason for optimism that the low materials costs of this technology will drive it to this goal, provided that both efficiencies and lifetime can be improved. Contact and interlayer materials are a critical feature of OPVs that require significant optimization for both single-junction and for tandem OPV platforms. This paper provides a brief overview of new interlayer materials, how they function, their limitations, and surface and interface science approaches to their optimization.
Anomalous Transport Scaling in the DIII-D Tokamak Matched by Supercomputer Simulation

Gyrokinetic simulation of tokamak transport has evolved sufficiently to allow direct comparison of numerical results with experimental data. It is to be emphasized that only with the simultaneous inclusion of many distinct and complex effects can this comparison realistically be made. Until now, numerical studies of tokamak microturbulence have been restricted to either (a) flux tubes or (b) electrostatic fluctuations. Using a newly developed global electromagnetic solver, we have been able to recover via direct simulation the Bohm-like scaling observed in DIII-D L-mode discharges. We also match, well within experimental uncertainty, the measured energy diffusivities.
Accrual usage to manage earnings toward financial analysts' forecasts

This study examines whether management uses discretionary accounting accruals to move earnings upward toward analysts' earnings forecasts when it appears that earnings before discretionary accruals will fall short of the forecast. An earnings shortfall relative to analysts' forecasts could lead management to fear lower compensation and an increase in the likelihood of job termination. The article finds that firms whose earnings before discretionary accruals are below analysts' forecasts use income-increasing discretionary accruals and do so to a greater extent than do firms whose earnings before discretionary accruals are above analysts' forecasts.
A quantitative analysis of G-actin binding proteins and the G-actin pool in developing chick brain.

The large G-actin pool in individual actively motile cells has been shown to be maintained primarily by the actin sequestering protein thymosin beta four (Tbeta4). It is not clear whether Tbeta4 or an isoform also plays a primary role in neural tissue containing highly motile axonal growth cones. To address this question we have made a definitive analysis of the relative contributions of all the known G-actin sequestering proteins: Tbeta4, Tbeta10, profilin, and phosphorylated (inactive) and unphosphorylated (potentially active) forms of both ADF and cofilin, in relation to the G-actin pool in developing chick brain at embryonic days 13 and 17. From our measurements we estimate the intracellular concentration of G-actin as 30-37 microM and of Tbeta4 as 50-60 microM in an 'average' brain cell in embryonic chick brain. No other beta thymosin isoforms were detected in these brain extracts. The ratio of soluble, unphosphorylated ADF to Tbeta4 is only 1:7 at 13 embryonic days, but increases to 1:4 at 17 days. Profilin and cofilin concentrations are an order of magnitude lower than Tbeta4. Combining the contributions of Tbeta4, unphosphorylated ADF and unphosphorylated cofilin, we estimate a mean G-actin critical concentration of approximately 0.45 microM and approximately 0.2 microM, respectively, in day 13 and day 17 embryonic brain extracts, suggesting a significant developmental decrease. We conclude that (a) Tbeta4 is the major actin sequestering protein in embryonic chick brain and the only beta thymosin isoform present; (b) ADF may play a significant developmental role, as its concentration changes significantly with age; (c) the known G-actin binding proteins can adequately account for the G-actin pool in embryonic chick brain.
A method to minimize edge effects in two‐dimensional discrete Fourier transforms

Fourier transforms are widely used in analysis of two‐dimensional (2-D) earth‐science data, such as gravity and magnetic surveys, topographic models, and remote‐sensing images. For example, manipulations of gridded magnetic or gravity data, such as upward and downward continuation, reduction to the pole, wavelength filters, pseudogravity transformation, and vertical derivatives (Hildenbrand, 1983), are greatly simplified with Fourier transforms, as are certain forward and inverse calculations (Parker, 1973; Parker and Huestis, 1974). Power spectra computed from 2-D Fourier transforms are used to estimate depth to the top and bottom of magnetic sources from gridded magnetic data (Spector and Grant, 1970; Connard et al., 1983) and to estimate lithospheric strength and Moho depth from gridded gravity data (Dorman and Lewis, 1970; Louden and Forsyth, 1982; McNutt, 1983).
Ab Initio Quantum Mechanical Study of the Structures and Energies for the Pseudorotation of 5‘-Dehydroxy Analogues of 2‘-Deoxyribose and Ribose Sugars

We have used ab initio quantum mechanical (QM) methods to determine the potential energy of pseudorotation for 3,4-dihydroxy-5-methyl-2-(1-pyrollyl)tetrahydrofuran and 4-hydroxy-5-methyl-2-(1-pyrollyl)tetrahydrofuran, close analogues of 2‘-deoxyribose and ribose sugars. The pyrrole is a substitute for the naturally occurring nucleic acid bases: adenine, thymine, guanine, cytosine, and uracil. At the highest calculation level (LMP2/cc-pVTZ(-f)//HF/6-31G**) for 2‘-deoxyribose, we find the C2‘-endo conformation is the global minimum. The C3‘-endo conformation is a local minimum 0.6 kcal/mol higher in energy, and an eastern barrier of 1.6 kcal/mol separates the two minima. Pseudorotation energies of ribose are quite complex and are strongly affected by local orientations of the 2‘ and 3‘ hydroxyl groups. When the hydroxyl groups are allowed to assume any conformation, the global minimum remains the C2‘-endo conformation. The eastern barrier increases slightly to 1.8 kcal/mol, and the C3‘-endo local minimum l...
Non-RRKM decomposition of chemically activated radicals: Reaction of fluorine atoms with tetraallyl germanium

Abstract Thermal F atoms react with gaseous (CH 2 CHCH 2 ) 4 Ge to produce CH 2 CHF through dissociation of the (CH 2 CHCH 2 ) 3 -GeCH 2 CHFCH 2 * radical. The rapid decomposition is attributed to non-RRKM behavior with excitation energy largely confined to the CH 2 CHFCH 2 side group. The central atoms mass effect found in linear seven-atom trajectory calculations has not yet appeared in (CH 2 CHCH 2 ) 4 M with the replacement of Sn by Ge.
Modulation by lipoproteins of amphotericin B-induced immunostimulation.

Abstract Previous reports indicate that amphotericin B (AmB) and amphotericin methyl ester (AME) are potent adjuvants and polyclonal B-cell activators, and that most mouse strains can be classified as high or low responders to AmB and AME. In the present study, an inbred strain with very high plasma cholesterol concentration (HC strain) proved to be a low responder. Responses of HC mice to other immune stimuli were normal, suggesting that HC lymphoid cells expressed selectively weak responses to AmB and AME. Plasma levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), and high-density lipoprotein subfraction (HDL 2 ) were very much higher in HC mice than in AKR mice, an AmB-high responder strain. Low responses in vitro to AME were observed with lymphoid cells from HC mice and from AKR → HC bone marrow chimeras, i.e., AmB-high responder strain lymphocytes from a low responder host. However, enhanced AME responses were induced by a 2- or 48-hr preincubation of splenocytes from either HC or AKR mice in medium containing lipoprotein-depleted fetal calf serum. Taken together these studies indicate that plasma lipoproteins can inhibit lymphocyte responses to AME; this seems to account for the low AmB and AME responses of the HC strain. The mechanism of this lipoprotein-induced inhibition remains obscure, but it cannot be accounted for by competitive binding of AmB by lipoproteins.
Occupational Fatalities Involving Hispanic Workers in the Construction Industry

This study examined occupational fatality cases involving Hispanic workers that occurred from 2005 to 2009 in the United States. During this period, approximately 26 percent of all fatalities in the construction industry involved Hispanic workers resulting in significantly greater odds for Hispanic workers of being the victim of an occupational fatality due to falls and contact with objects. These increased odds also occurred across most age groups. Prevention measures presented include focusing efforts on construction industry trades that employ younger Hispanic workers and expose them to fall and contact with objects hazards.
β-Sheet aggregation proposed in sickle cell hemoglobin

Abstract A β-sheet conformation is predicted at the N-terminal of β chains in sickle cell hemoglobin (Hb S) as a result of the β6 Glu → Val mutation. Since Glu is the weakest and Val is the strongest β-sheet former in the predictive method of Chou and Fasman [Biochemistry 13 , 211, 222 (1974)], such a substitution greatly increases the β-sheet potential in the β 1–6 region. The similarity in the concentration and temperature dependence of Hb S gelation to β-sheet formation in polyamino acids suggest that a common aggregation mechanism may be involved. Conditions to cause a β → α trans-formation at the β 1–6 region of Hb S is discussed relative to the treatment of sickle cell disease.
Economic Logistics: The Optimization of Spatial and Sectoral Resource, Production, and Distribution Systems

Introduction: The Task Ahead Some Elements of Saddle-Point Theory (by W. W. Cooper and Sten Thore) The Spatial Dimension The Vertical Dimension The Time Dimension Price Formulations Resource Management by Goal Focusing Rigid Prices and/or Rigid Wages Chance-Constrained Activity Analysis and Chance-Constrained Production and Distribution Systems The Production and Distribution System as an Infinite Game Index
Logistic Regression Analysis in Experimental Bronchial Carcinogenesis

Abstract The technique of logistic regression is shown to be a usable method for testing the significance of associations in the two-sample problem of comparing rates of progression through an ordered series of states as a function of another ordered variable (such as time). The technique is illustrated using an example comparing the development of preneoplastic and neoplastic changes in two groups of mice exposed to a carcinogen and subsequently receiving or not receiving a potential modifier of carcinogenesis.
Determinants of unresectability and outcome of patients with occult colorectal hepatic metastases

Background: Patients chosen for liver resection of colorectal liver metastases are a select group with minimal disease, favorable tumor biology and earlier presentation when compared to unresectable patients. Despite intense preoperative assessments, operative detection of occult unresectable disease is inevitable for a small group of patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate determinants of occult unresectability, and to establish if patients with occult unresectable disease demonstrate survival benefits similar to resected patients, or more similar to patients diagnosed with metastatic disease who were never explored. Methods: A retrospective medical record review was performed on 171 patients with colorectal hepatic metastases who underwent exploration with the intent of performing a curative liver resection. Patient and tumor characteristics, operative findings and survival were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to evaluate determinants of unresectability, and survival was determined by Kaplan‐ Meier analysis. Results: One hundred forty-six patients were completely resected and 25 patients were found to have occult unresectable disease during exploration. Of these 25 patients, 10 had more extensive hepatic disease than expected which precluded resection, while 15 patients had unexpected extrahepatic disease. Of the 15 patients with extrahepatic disease, 7 had otherwise resectable liver metastases. Only bilobar disease was a statistically significant finding associated with occult unresectability on multivariate analysis (P ¼0.05). Resected patients had a median survival of 37 months, while unresected patients had a median survival of 17 months (P <0.005). At 3 and 5 years, the overall survival for resected patients was 52% and 29%. The survival at 3 years for patients with occult unresectable disease was only 5%, with no 5 year survivors. Conclusions: The majority of patients with occult unresectable colorectal hepatic metastases had bilobar disease or extrahepatic spread. Despite the process of patient selection that leads to an attempt for curative resection, patients with occult unresectable disease identified at exploration suffer from poor survival that approximates the outcome of patients never considered for resection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2005;92:64–69. 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Long-range orientational order in two-dimensional liquid crystals

We have shown, using Monte Carlo stimulations, that long-range order exists in the nematic liquid-crystal phase in two dimensions when realistic interparticle potentials are used.
Reproductive Biology of Sceloporus consobrinus (Phrynosomatidae): Male Germ Cell Development and Reproductive Cycle Comparisons within Spiny Lizards

Reproductive cycles of lizards have long been studied in both field and laboratory scenarios. However, comparisons of spermatogenic cycles and germ cell development strategies in different populations across a large geographic range have yet to be explored. The purpose of this study is to A) describe the spermatogenic cycle and germ cell development strategy of a population of Sceloporus consobrinus in southeast Louisiana, B) compare this cycle to a more northern population of this species, and C) compare the reproductive cycles of species within Sceloporus (N = 21). In S. consobrinus from Louisiana, recrudescence begins in the fall (October and November), and the peak of spermatogenesis is reached the following spring/summer (May, June, July). This spermatogenic cycle is similar to that of a more northern population of S. consobrinus from Missouri. Within the genus Sceloporus, there are two seasonal patterns of spermatogenesis: initiation of spermatogenesis in the summer/fall and initiation of spermatogenesis in the spring. In both summer/fall and spring spermatogenic patterns, spermiogenesis occurs in the spring and may continue into the summer. The seasonal timing of recrudescence is an extremely plastic trait that has evolved multiple times throughout the Sceloporus clade. However, there appears to be an association of summer/fall and spring recrudescence with latitude. Tropical populations have a higher frequency of spring recrudescence and temperate populations have a higher frequency of summer/fall recrudescence.
Cranial Accelerometry Can Detect Cerebral Vasospasm Caused by Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

We previously reported the presence of a cranial “bruit” in patients with cerebral vasospasm by signal processing cranial accelerometry signals time locked to the cardiac cycle. This shift to higher frequencies is likely related to the turbulence of blood flow produced by vascular narrowing. We sought to build a more quantitative model to predict cerebral vasospasm then test the accuracy of this technique to detect cerebral vasospasm in a prospective blinded study. Skull accelerometry was performed using an array of 6 highly sensitive accelerometers placed in contact with the scalp. Paired transcranial Doppler (TCD) recordings and accelerometry epochs were obtained in consecutive patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage undergoing TCD recordings for surveillance of cerebral vasospasm. The energy of rectified acceleration measurements within systolic and diastolic bands of the cardiac cycle were measured and correlated with TCD-defined spasm. This model was then tested prospectively in a blinded consecutive sample of subarachnoid hemorrhage patients to determine accuracy of the technique. We developed a model predicting cerebral vasospasm from analysis of 14 unblinded subjects with varying degrees of cerebral vasospasm as detected by TCD. We then recorded from 58 subjects obtaining 125-paired recordings of accelerometry and TCD to test this model in a blinded analysis. Accelerometry detection of any spasm versus non-spasm correlated with TCD-defined vasospasm (P < 0.001). The model was 81 % sensitive for detecting any cerebral vasospasm in patients, while the negative predictive value was 61 %. Highly sensitive skull accelerometry can detect cerebral vasospasm with clinically meaningful accuracy. This tool holds promise in the ICU environment to detect as well as reject cerebral vasospasm as the cause of neurological deficits in subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Capture Efficiency of a Beach Seine for Seven Freshwater Fishes in a North-Temperate Lake

Abstract Daytime seining efficiencies were estimated for shoreline fish populations in Sparkling Lake, a small mesotrophic clear-water lake in northern Wisconsin. Except for rock bass (Ambloplites rupestris), efficiency was related to the typical position of each species in the water column; efficiencies were higher for midwater fishes (cyprinids and yellow perch, Perca flavescens) than for benthic fishes (darters, Etheostoma spp.). Efficiencies for many species might be improved by modifications of seining technique or use of heavier lead lines that would keep the seine closer to the bottom.
A metric type III burst asymmetry relative to simple bipolar active regions

Metric type III solar radio burst positions are compared spatially and temporally to underlying active region geometry. The positions of these radio bursts have an asymmetric location distribution relative to simple bipolar regions. The type III bursts show a tendency to occur nearer the leading active region - an association shown before from type III burst and magnetic field polarity measurements. The type III bursts also generally occur to the left of the outward to inward directed magnetic field. The asymmetry relative to the outward directed magnetic field has a sense that is consistent with a mechanism of type III burst production that involves a pre-existing coronal current system situated between expanding closed and open magnetic field lines.
Effect of anatomic curvature in real-time intraoral thermography.

Abstract Anatomic curvature was simulated by rotating the image of the hard palate by means of a front-surface mirror. An electronic isotherm was superimposed on the relatively cool central portion of the palate prior to rotation. When the isotherm disappeared during rotation, it was electronically reimposed in the same part of the palate at the new angle, indicating the temperature difference in the thermographic picture resulting from simulated curvature. For image rotation angles ranging up to 80 degrees, the greatest temperature difference was 0.75° C. It was concluded that anatomic curvature does not markedly affect the validity of intraoral thermography.
‘Going global’: conceptualization of the ‘other’ and interpretation of cross-cultural experience in an all-white, rural learning environment

Based on an ethnographic case study done in an all-white, rural middle school, this article examines the students’ experience with and interpretation of an international education program implemented with a hope of providing more global/international contents to the curriculum. The study shows that these students interpreted other cultures introduced by the program in relation to their own culture and their own identity formation. The process of local ‘othering’ within the student school community was analogous to that of the students’ collective ‘othering’ of unfamiliar non-US cultures. The idea of US-centrism based on US consumer culture became the main standard against which the ‘otherness’ of different cultures were measured. The findings show how prejudice and stereotyping of global others derive from both the everyday process of differentiation in local home cultures and defense of national culture.
Environment-friendly swine feed formulation to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus excretion

The nutrient composition of swine excreta can be altered by manipulating the composition of the pig's diet Several approaches are reviewed: feeding according to the pig's growth phase, formulation according to the feed's digestible amino acids, use of crystalline amino acids, the ideal protein approach, formulation according to available phosphorus, and the addition ofphytase enzymes. Each has the potential to lower nitrogen or phosphorus excretion levels. Together they can dramatically reduce the nitrogen and phosphorus concentration of swine manure, which could be a major advantage in regions with a high density of swine or for swine operations with limited access to arable land. However, the value of the swine manure would be much less as a fertilizer because these two elements are important plant nutrients.
Effects of intense stratospheric ionisation events

High levels of ionising radiation in the Earth's stratosphere will lead to increased concentrations of nitrogen oxides and decreased concentrations of ozone. Changes in the surface environment will include an increased level of biologically harmful UV radiation, caused by the ozone depletion, and a decreased level of visible solar radiation, due to the presence of major enhancements in the stratospheric concentration of nitrogen dioxide. These changes are studied quantitatively, using the passage of the Solar System through a supernova remnant shell as an example. Some of the potential environmental changes are a substantial global cooling, abnormally dry conditions, a reduction in global photosynthesis and a large increase in the flux of atmospheric fixed nitrogen to the surface of the Earth. Such events might have been the cause of mass extinctions in the distant past.
A quantitative analysis of Liberian colonization from 1820 to 1843 with special reference to mortality.

It is well known that during the eighteenth century and most of the nineteenth century the problem of mortality limited the European presence in West Africa. Disease and death in appalling proportions plagued whites who settled along the coast. Phrases such as ‘the white man's grave’ popularized theories concerning survival in West Africa that were based mainly on race. The belief that black people by virtue of their race would fare better than whites in Africa affected certain historical events. Hence religious groups began to train blacks in the Caribbean for missionary work and then sent them to Africa, while other groups such as the American Colonization Society encouraged black people to emigrate back to Africa. The present study is a quantitative examination of the black population that emigrated to Liberia through the American Colonization Society from 1820 to 1843. Particular attention is given to their mortality experience.Although a total of 4,571 emigrants arrived in Liberia during the 1820 to 1843 period, by the year 1843 only 1,819 emigrants were still living in the settlements. The overwhelming reason for the Liberian population decline, despite constant additions throughout the period, was a high death rate after arrival in Liberia. By examining the various characteristics of the population such as age, sex, place of origin, place of arrival and the like, a clearer picture of mortality in West Africa emerges. A picture which seems to have little relationship to race per se, but rather to the ways in which disease environments in isolated areas affect incoming populations.
Xenon-metmyoglobin equilibrium.

Xe-horse metmyoglobin chemical reaction equilibrium stoichiometry from Xe solubility determination
Canadian-American Trade in Energy Resources

As events since October 1973 have again underscored, security of supply and price of energy resources have enormous strategic and economic implications for any industrialized country. Nevertheless, trade in energy resources between Canada and the United States has not always been closely managed by the central governments that are responsible for national security and economic development. In fact, the energy trade involves a wide variety of actors that continually seek transnational contacts and alliances of opportunity to further their own self-interest almost as if the national border did not exist.
High-resolution observations of the near-surface wind field over an isolated mountain and in a steep river canyon

Abstract. A number of numerical wind flow models have been developed for simulating wind flow at relatively fine spatial resolutions (e.g., ~ 100 m); however, there are very limited observational data available for evaluating these high-resolution models. This study presents high-resolution surface wind data sets collected from an isolated mountain and a steep river canyon. The wind data are presented in terms of four flow regimes: upslope, afternoon, downslope, and a synoptically driven regime. There were notable differences in the data collected from the two terrain types. For example, wind speeds on the isolated mountain increased with distance upslope during upslope flow, but generally decreased with distance upslope at the river canyon site during upslope flow. In a downslope flow, wind speed did not have a consistent trend with position on the isolated mountain, but generally increased with distance upslope at the river canyon site. The highest measured speeds occurred during the passage of frontal systems on the isolated mountain. Mountaintop winds were often twice as high as wind speeds measured on the surrounding plain. The highest speeds measured in the river canyon occurred during late morning hours and were from easterly down-canyon flows, presumably associated with surface pressure gradients induced by formation of a regional thermal trough to the west and high pressure to the east. Under periods of weak synoptic forcing, surface winds tended to be decoupled from large-scale flows, and under periods of strong synoptic forcing, variability in surface winds was sufficiently large due to terrain-induced mechanical effects (speed-up over ridges and decreased speeds on leeward sides of terrain obstacles) that a large-scale mean flow would not be representative of surface winds at most locations on or within the terrain feature. These findings suggest that traditional operational weather model (i.e., with numerical grid resolutions of around 4 km or larger) wind predictions are not likely to be good predictors of local near-surface winds on sub-grid scales in complex terrain. Measurement data can be found at http://www.firemodels.org/index.php/windninja-introduction/windninja-publications .
Impact of electric vehicle infrastructure on the city of Chatsworth distribution system

With the growing penetration of the electric vehicles to our daily life owing to their economic and environmental benefits, there will be both opportunities and challenges to the utilities when adopting plug-in electric vehicles (PEV) to the distribution network. In this paper, a thorough analysis based on real-world project is conducted to evaluate the impact of electric vehicles infrastructure on the grid relating to system load flow, load factor, and voltage stability. Chatsworth distribution system was selected and tested along with different case scenarios utilizing the electrical distribution design (EDD) software to find out the potential impacts to the grid.
Heterologous expression and ATPase activity of mutant versus wild type PfMDR1 protein.

Mutation of the P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) causes resistance to chloroquine (CQ) and other antimalarial drugs. Mutation and/or overexpression of one of the multidrug resistance protein homologues found in this malarial parasite (PfMDR1) may further modify or tailor the degree of multidrug resistance. However, considerable controversy surrounds the precise contribution of PfMDR1, in part because no direct biochemical studies of PfMDR1 have yet been possible. Using codon optimization and other principles, we have designed and constructed a yeast optimized version of the wild type pfmdr1 gene and have successfully overexpressed PfMDR1 protein in P. pastoris yeast. The protein is well expressed in either full length form or as two separate half transporters, is well localized to the yeast plasma membrane and is fully functional as evidenced by ATPase activity measurements. We have also expressed mutants that have previously been hypothesized to influence drug resistance in parasi...
Testing, Estimation in GMM and CUE with Nearly-Weak Identification

In this article, we analyze Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) and Continuous Updating Estimator (CUE) with strong, nearly-weak, and weak identification. We show that with this mixed system, the limits of the estimators are nonstandard. In the subcase of GMM estimator with only nearly-weak instruments, the correlation between the instruments and the first order conditions decline at a slower rate than root T. We find an important difference between the nearly-weak case and the weak case. Inference with point estimates is possible with the Wald, likelihood ratio (LR), and Lagrange multiplier (LM) tests in GMM estimator with only nearly-weak instruments present in the system. The limit is the standard χ2 limit. This is important from an applied perspective, since tests on the weak case do depend on the true value and can only test simple null. We also show this in the more realistic case of mixed type of strong, weak, and nearly-weak instruments, Anderson and Rubin (1949) and Kleibergen (2005) type of test...
[3.3.1]-propellane-2,8-dione

Abstract The title compound was prepared by transannular addition of a carbene to an exocyclic double bond. Rhodium acetate catalyzed decomposition of 2-diazo-6-methylene-1,3-cyclooctanedione gave 1 quantitatively.
Effect of hypolipidemic peroxisome proliferators on unscheduled DNA synthesis in cultured hepatocytes and on mutagenesis in Salmonella.

Abstract The peroxisome proliferators Wy-14,643, BR-931, nafenopin and ciprofibrate were tested in the primary hepatocyte culture-unscheduled DNA synthesis assay and in the Ames Salmonella microsome mutagenicity assay. The amount of unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) in hepatocytes was determined by quantifying the amount of [ 3 H] thymidine incorporated into DNA in the presence of hydroxyurea after isolation of nuclei from hepatocytes treated with the test agent. Wy-14,643 and BR-931 induced unscheduled DNA synthesis in rat hepatocytes, whereas nafenopin and ciprofibrate had no effect. All of the peroxisome proliferators were negative in the Ames Salmonella assay.
John R. Delaney Receives 2012 Athelstan Spilhaus Award: Response

It is humbling and exhilarating to be honored as this year's recipient of the Spilhaus Award. Humbling because Athelstan himself set the standard as a highly productive scientific innovator with a gift for making science not just accessible but engaging to the public at large. Exhilarating because we are all now poised on the threshold of being able to achieve universal scientific engagement with a global audience. Rapidly emerging technologies, global societal problems, shifting international attitudes, and novel social media are converging to power a new paradigm of scientific inquiry and engagement. Scientists are now enabled to operate transparently on a stage of planetary to microscopic scale. The boundaries between research and education begin to blur as this convergence embraces scientific investigation, the arts, the environment, the economy, ethics, energy, health, and entertainment. It is into this complex cultural tapestry that we scientists must weave our stories of struggle and success to engage entire communities in the essential roles that science, technology, and people play.
Molecular Strategies for Fimbrial Expression and Assembly

Fimbriae or pili are long, filamentous, multimeric macromolecules found on the bacterial cell surface. Bacteria express a diverse array of fimbriae or pili that are involved in bacterial adherence and invasion. Fimbriae can be categorized based on their modes of expression and assembly. Type I fimbriae and P pili are distributed peritrichously and translocated to the cell surface by a chaperone/usher pathway. Type 4 pili are located at the pole of the cell and assembled via the type II secretion system. Curli fimbriae are coiled surface structures assembled by an extracellular nucleation/precipitation pathway. Fimbriae of oral Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria have not been well-studied as compared with the fimbriae of enteric pathogens. Oral pathogens, such as Eikenella corrodens, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, possess fimbriae that have been implicated in bacterial adhesion and invasion. These fimbriae are potential virulence factors in oral infectious process...
Communicating with credibility: The gender gap

Abstract By examining their listening, speaking, and nonverbal behavior, men and women can make wiser choices about how to present themselves and their ideas.
Ferrocenedimethanol Transport in Thin Films Consisting of Laponite and Hydrogel

The development of multifunctional materials, which exhibit properties suitable for the development of advanced optical, electrochemical, and other such sensors have been at the forefront of many scientific research. In remaining consistent with this trend, this work presents a methodology for characterizing clay-hydrogel thin films by monitoring the transport of 1,1-ferrocenedimethanol (Fc(MeOH)2) via cyclic voltammetry techniques. Multilayer thin films were prepared by alternate layer deposition of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) hydrogel and laponite clay on regular glass carbon electrode. The ratio of the current intensity at the modified electrode compared with that at the bare electrode was used to provide information about the permeation of the electroactive species through the thin films. The current was also plotted as a function of the various layers to determine how permeation changes with increasing layers. The results procured thus far suggest the possible incorporation of these thin films in sensor development. However, further work, such as the determination of the responsiveness of the thin films to environmental stimuli (temperature, pH, etc.) must be done in order to optimize the technology.
Human neoplastic submandibular intercalated duct cells express an acinar phenotype when cultured on a basement membrane matrix

Abstract Culture of the human neoplastic submandibular gland intercalated duct cell line, HSG, on the basement membrane extract Matrigel induces dramatic morphologic changes and cytodifferentiation. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated an acinar cell phenotype with polarized cells containing a well-developed Golgi apparatus, multiple microvilli-like projections from the apical surfaces into a lumenal-like area, and numerous granule-like organelles. Amylase, an acinar cell marker, was detected by both immunocytochemical and Northern blot analyses. A 50% reduction in [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation by cells cultured on Matrigel, as compared to cells cultured on tissue culture plates, confirmed the differentiated phenotype of the cells. Multiple components of Matrigel appear to contribute to the morphologic differentiation of the HSG cells since antibodies to both laminin and collagen IV, as well as the lamininderived bioactive peptide containing SIKVAV, have potent inhibitory effects on HSG cell organization on Matrigel. Collectively, these data indicate that culture of HSG cells on Matrigel is a useful model to study salivary gland acinar development.
Ten Simple Rules for Experiments' Provenance.

Everyone needs experimental data to understand biology. Exactly how and from what the data were obtained determines an experiment’s results, specifies how it can be reproduced, and conditions our analyses and interpretations. These details of materials, methods, and analyses are the experiment’s provenance.
Searching the Web for Influenza Vaccines: HealthMap Vaccine Finder

Objectives. The goal of the HealthMap Vaccine Finder is to provide a free, comprehensive, online service where users can search for locations that offer immunizations. In this article, we describe the data and systems underlying the HealthMap Vaccine Finder (HVF) and summarize the project’s first year of operations.Methods. We collected data on vaccination services from a variety of providers for 2012–2013. Data are used to populate an online, public, searchable map.Results. In its first year, HVF collected information from 1256 providers representing 46 381 locations. The public Web site received 625 124 visits during the 2012–2013 influenza vaccination season.Conclusions. HVF is a unique tool that connects the public to vaccine providers in their communities. During the 2012–2013 influenza season, HVF experienced significant usage and was able to respond to user feedback with new features.
Outcomes Associated With Delirium in Older Patients in Surgical ICUs

Background We previously noted that older adults admitted to surgical ICUs (SICUs) are at high risk for delirium. In the current study, we describe the association between the presence of delirium and complications in older SICU patients, and describe the association between delirium occurring in the SICU and functional ability and discharge placement for older patients. Methods Secondary analysis of prospective, observational, cohort study. Subjects were 114 consecutive patients ≥ 65 years old admitted to a surgical critical care service. All subjects underwent daily delirium and sedation/agitation screening during hospitalization. Outcomes prospectively recorded included SICU complication development, discharge location, and functional ability (as measured by the Katz activities of daily living instrument). Results Nearly one third of older adults (31.6%) admitted to an SICU had a complication during ICU stay. There was a strong association between SICU delirium and complication occurrence (p = 0.001). Complication occurrence preceded delirium diagnosis for 16 of 20 subjects. Subjects with delirium in the SICU were more likely to be discharged to a place other than home (61.3% vs 20.5%, p Conclusions Delirium in older surgical ICU patients is associated with complications and an increased likelihood of discharge to a place other than home.
Enhancing the Algorithm for Developmental–Behavioral Surveillance and Screening in Children 0 to 5 Years

Objective: To determine if the 2006 American Academy of Pediatrics developmental surveillance and screening algorithm is adequate or if revisions are needed. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to investigate a clinician’s ability to perform developmental—behavioral surveillance in children 0 to 5 years. Results: Even when a broad-band developmental screen is typical, pediatricians should refer when they confidently suspect a delay but be far more suspicious about children who seem asymptomatic. Periodic screening enhances surveillance by improving early detection and early intervention (EI) eligibility rates. Nevertheless, children with concerning screens are not consistently referred and interlinked to EI. Once referred, approximately half are deemed EI-ineligible, even though they typically perform well below average and have numerous, predictive academic and psychosocial risk factors. Meanwhile, clinicians struggle with tracking at-risk children. Conclusion: Revisions are needed t...
Cytogeographic Distribution and Genome Size Variation in Prairie Cordgrass (Spartina pectinata Bosc ex Link)

Prairie cordgrass plants (Spartina pectinata Bosc ex Link) were examined from 61 locations representing the geographic distribution of prairie cordgrass in the U.S. Using flow cytometry, the genome size of 183 individual plants of prairie cordgrass was determined, and the chromosome counts were obtained. Three distinct ploidy levels were observed: tetraploid ( $$ \overline x = {1}.{56} {\text{pg}},{2}n = {4} \times = {4}0 $$ ), hexaploid ( $$ \overline x { = 2}.{33} {\text{pg}},{2}n = {6} \times = {6}0 $$ ), and octoploid ( $$ \overline {\text{x}} { = 3}.0{6} {\text{pg}},{2}n = {8} \times { = 8}0 $$ ). In the sampled areas, the tetraploid populations extended from the East North Central to the New England regions of the U.S., while the octoploid cytotypes were mostly distributed in the West North Central regions. Populations of the tetraploids and octoploids were found in close proximity in the West North Central (Iowa and Kansas) and the West South Central (Oklahoma) regions. The hexaploid cytotype was found in one mixed population (4x + 6x) occurring in Illinois. No statistically significant intraploidy genome size variation was found in the tetraploid populations, while significant intraploidy genome size variation was found in the octoploid populations. This study precisely defined the geographic distribution of cytotypes in prairie cordgrass throughout the different regions of the U.S. These results provide critical genome size and ploidy distribution information needed to design efficient breeding schemes for high yielding cultivars of prairie cordgrass with local adaption.
Development of a Markerless Knockout Method for Actinobacillus succinogenes

Actinobacillus succinogenes is one of the best natural succinate-producing organisms, but it still needs engineering to further increase succinate yield and productivity. In this study, we developed a markerless knockout method for A. succinogenes using natural transformation or electroporation. The Escherichia coli isocitrate dehydrogenase gene with flanking flippase recognition target sites was used as the positive selection marker, making use of A. succinogenes's auxotrophy for glutamate to select for growth on isocitrate. The Saccharomyces cerevisiae flippase recombinase (Flp) was used to remove the selection marker, allowing its reuse. Finally, the plasmid expressing flp was cured using acridine orange. We demonstrate that at least two consecutive deletions can be introduced into the same strain using this approach, that no more than a total of 1 kb of DNA is needed on each side of the selection cassette to protect from exonuclease activity during transformation, and that no more than 200 bp of homologous DNA is needed on each side for efficient recombination. We also demonstrate that electroporation can be used as an alternative transformation method to obtain knockout mutants and that an enriched defined medium can be used for direct selection of knockout mutants on agar plates with high efficiency. Single-knockout mutants of the fumarate reductase and of the pyruvate formate lyase-encoding genes were obtained using this knockout strategy. Double-knockout mutants were also obtained by deleting the citrate lyase-, β-galactosidase-, and aconitase-encoding genes in the pyruvate formate lyase knockout mutant strain.
Determination of linear and nonlinear elastic parameters from laser experiments with surface acoustic wave pulses

Abstract Time resolved laser techniques enabled the study of the nonlinear evolution of surface acoustic wave (SAW) pulses of very high-amplitudes with acoustic Mach numbers of approximately 0.01. In such waves even shock fronts can be formed during their propagation. Changes of the shape of intense SAW pulses provide information on the nonlinear acoustic parameters and the nonlinear elastic constants of the material. Measurements in polycrystalline stainless steel have shown that a compression of the nonlinear SAW pulse takes place in this metal material yielding a positive parameter of the local nonlinearity. The changes of the SAW pulse shape were calculated using a nonlinear evolution equation and the nonlinear acoustic parameters were determined by fitting the evolution equation to the experimental data. The attenuation of SAWs was determined by measuring low amplitude pulses. In addition, the velocities of longitudinal and shear waves were obtained by registering the precursors of bulk waves at the surface.
Interferon-α–inducible proteins are novel autoantigens in murine lupus

Objective To investigate the spectrum of B cell autoimmunity in the recently described anti-CD1–autoreactive T cell receptor (TCR)–transgenic murine lupus-like (CD1 lupus-like) model. Methods Lethally irradiated BALB/c/nu/nu mice were injected intravenously with donor BALB/c bone marrow and spleen cells expressing TCRα and TCRβ transgenes that recognize CD1d. Sera from adoptive host animals that developed lupus (i.e., CD1 lupus mice) were collected at serial time points and analyzed by Western blotting and immunoprecipitation, using protein extracts prepared from NIH3T3 mouse fibroblasts and EL-4 lymphocytes, respectively. Sera obtained from older animals in several models of spontaneous lupus (NZB/NZW, MRL++, and MRL/lpr mice), unmanipulated BALB/c/nu/nu mice, and normal BALB/c mice were used as controls. Results Analyses demonstrated that the prominent targets of autoantibodies in the CD1 lupus-like model are interferon-α (IFNα)–inducible antigens. Biochemical and serologic characterizations identified one antigen as belonging to the interferon-inducible 202 (Ifi202) subfamily of proteins within the Ifi200 family, and a second antigen as a member of the 70-kd heat-shock protein family. Autoantibodies directed against these antigens were rapidly produced at an early stage of disease. Anti-p50 autoantibodies were present in sera from 7 (78%) of 9 CD1 lupus mice that developed severe kidney disease. Conclusion IFNα-inducible proteins represent a novel class of autoantigens in murine lupus, and the findings suggest additional roles for IFNα in this disease. Since Ifi202 autoantigens are encoded by the murine non–major histocompatibility complex lupus-susceptibility gene locus Ifi202, these data provide a link between recent advances in lupus genetics and the formation of autoantibodies.
Alfred Russel Wallace, Geographer

Among the great explorers and thinkers who advanced geography in the nineteenth century and helped it evolve into the subject that exists today is a man who is not always connected with the field, Alfred Russel Wallace (1823‐1913). Most commonly recognized as ‘the other man’ in the history of the discovery of the principle of natural selection, Wallace’s commitment to the study of landscape and its physical, biological, and human elements was lifelong, and resulted in a wide range of contributions to biogeography, physical geography, human geography, and ethnography. In this year of the double anniversaries of Charles Darwin’s birth and the publication of On the Origin of Species, a short review of Wallace’s contributions is offered in an effort to characterize Wallace as ‘a geographer who happened to be interested in evolution’.
Evaluating the efficacy and safety of a progestin- and estrogen-releasing ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer contraceptive vaginal ring

Introduction: Multiple studies confirm the safety and efficacy of the combined ethinyl estradiol (EE) and etonogestrel contraceptive vaginal ring (NuvaRing®). Advantages of continuous drug delivery through the vagina compared to oral administration include stable levels of contraceptive steroids without the need for daily drug administration. Although the combined contraceptive vaginal ring (CCVR) avoids the problem of missed pills, clinical data do not support greater efficacy. Vaginal administration avoids first-pass hepatic effects; however, EE is a potent inducer of hepatic globulins regardless of the route of administration. Consequently, thromboembolic risk during CCVR use is similar to that with combined oral contraceptives. Some epidemiologic and database studies suggest that the risk of thromboembolism is increased among users of the CCVR compared to levonorgestrel-containing combined pills.Areas covered: This review examined the available literature for level 1 and level 2 evidence of the CCVR a...