cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conditional simulation of geologically averaged block permeabilities

Abstract Currently available hardware and software for flow simulation can handle up to hundreds of thousands of blocks, or more comfortably tens of thousands of blocks. This limits the discretization of the reservoir model to an extremely coarse grid, say 200 × 200 × 25 for 10 6 blocks. Such a coarse grid cannot represent the structural and petrophysical variability at the resolution provided to geologists by well logs and outcrops. Thus there is no alternative to averaging the impact of all small-scale, within-block, heterogeneities into block ‘pseudos’ or average values. The flow simulator will account for geological description only through those pseudos, hence detailed modelling of geological heterogeneity should not go beyond the information that block pseudos can carry, at least for flow simulation purposes. It is suggested that the present drive in outcrop sampling be clearly redirected at evaluating ‘geopseudos’, i.e. at evaluating how small-scale variability (both structural and petrophysical) of typical depositional units averages out into large blocks' effective transmissivities and relative permeabilities. Outcrop data would allow the building of generic, high-resolution, numerical models of the geo-variability within a typical depositional unit: this is where geology intervenes. Then, this numerical model would be input into a generic flow simulator, single or multiphase, yielding genetic block averages, for blocks of various sizes and geometries: this is where the reservoir engineer intervenes. Next, the spatial statistics of these block averages (histograms, variograms, …) would be inferred: this is where the geostatistician intervenes. Last comes the problem of filling-in the actual reservoir volume with simulated block averages specific to each depositional unit. Because each reservoir is unique, random drawing of block average values from the previously inferred generic distributions would not be enough. The placement of block average values in the specific reservoir volume must be made conditional on local data whether well log, seismic or production-derived. This non-trivial task of ‘conditional simulation’ of block average is the challenge of both the reservoir geologist and geostatistician. This paper proposes an avenue of approach that draws from the pioneering works of Steve Begg at BP-Alaska (1992, 1994) and Jaime Gomez-Hernandez at Universidad of Valencia (1990, 1991).
Separation of gaseous mixtures by permeation through polyethylene film

The permeation of polyethylene film by carbon dioxide, ethane, and propane at elevated pressures was investigated. In addition, the separation of mixtues of ethane and propane by permeation was studied. Both hydrocarbon vapors' permeation exhibited pressure dependence, with propane showing the greatest variation over the same range. In the case of the mixture separation study, the achieved degree of separation was lower than would be predicted on the basis of the pure component permeation constants. Moreover, the total flow of vapor through the film was greater than would be expected on the basis of the individual gas flows. This was attributed to an anomalous diffusion phenomenon of ethane in the presence of dissolved propane due to a plasticization of the polymer network.
The Near-Death Experience: Is the Presence Always the Higher Self?:

Interviews with numerous near-death experiences have revealed that some experiencers may encounter a presence while in the dark tunnel. Kenneth Ring has hypothesized that the presence is actually the higher self. The present article provides evidence, albeit tentative, to suggest the presence may not always be the higher self, especially for victims of child and sexual abuse. Three case histories are presented which suggest that under special circumstances, the presence may be a female whose role is to provide comfort for suffering children. This alternative hypothesis is supported by transcendental experiences which occur during meditation, and an archetypal case history is discussed.
The impact of positive goal and resource interdependence on achievement, interaction, and attitudes

Abstract In past research on cooperation, all types of positive interdependence have been assumed to be equivalent. However, this assumption may be unwarranted. The authors compared the effects of positive goal interdependence and resource interdependence on achievement, interaction, and attitudes. Thirty undergraduate students were randomly assigned to groups for the purpose of comparing their response to positive goal interdependence and resource interdependence. The groups were then stratified for sex, minority status, and year in school. The students participated in the study during four 55-min class sessions. Positive goal interdependence resulted in higher achievement and better retention of what was learned, more task-oriented interaction, and more supportive relationships with peers and the instructor than resource interdependence did.
An ultrasensitive method for the determination of morphine and its application in experiments in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract A very sensitive method has been developed to measure nanogram (ng) quantities of morphine in biological fluids. The morphine is extracted from biological fluids and the extract is completely dried in a vacuum evaporator. The extracted morphine is oxidized to pseudomorphine under mildly alkaline conditions. The fluorescence intensity of pseudomorphine is then determined in a filter fluorometer. The method has been used over a wide range of concentrations, and amounts as little as 10 ng can be accurately determined. This method has been used to determine plasma and cerebrospinal fluid levels of morphine in dogs after small i.v. doses of morphine sulfate. It has also been applied in the study of morphine transport by chloroid plexus in vitro .
An early Handel revival in Florence

The vigour that characterized Florentine musical life during the second half of the 18th century owed much to the musical patronage of Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo, who ruled Tuscany from 1765 to 1790. Born in Vienna in 1747, Pietro Leopoldo was trained not only as a sovereign but as a musician, at a court where the patronage of music was a regular part of daily business. He took naturally to the idea that he should attend to the same business in Tuscany, and he assembled in Florence a group of musicians of considerable talent and fame. The singers Giovanni Manzuoli and Ferdinando Tenducci, the violin virtuoso Pietro Nardini and the flautist Niccolo Dotel counted themselves among Pietro Leopoldo's virtuosi di camera, the distinguished composer of music for chamber and church Carl'Antonio Campion served Pietro Leopoldo as maestro di cappella in charge of sacred music; Marchese Eugenio di Ligniville, praised by Leopold Mozart as 'the best contrapuntist in all Italy', directed the performance of secular music at court. The Grand Duke took an active interest in ballet
“Presidents of Color,” Globalization, and Social Inequality

In this era of globalization, social inequality based on racial attributes is increasingly perceived as anachronistic. Moreover, citizens of racially diverse countries have gained a new consciousness, which occasionally translates into electing a president from a racially underrepresented group. However, although members of these racially underrepresented groups have obtained presidential appointments, racism and social inequality persist. This article sheds light on the trans-national discourses of reverse discrimination that result from the election of “presidents of color.” It suggests that while these discourses take different shapes and forms, they aim to minimize the continuities of racialized relations, thereby painting utopian pictures of modern societies. The article also reveals the extent to which these leaders can reduce the social inequalities and racism plaguing their countries. By examining the legacy of Nelson Mandela in South Africa and the presidency of Bolivia’s Evo Morales, this articl...
Physiological responses to high radiant heat exposure

Abstract The physiological responses to four levels of radiant heat (R) in combination with two work loads and three ambient humidity levels were studied on seven clothed young men. The globe temperature (tg) ranged from 40 to 74°C; metabolic work load (M) was either 20 or 50% of maximal aerobic capacity (V02 max); ambient vapor pressure was either 13 or 23 mm Hg; and dry-bulb temperature (tdb) was 38 or 49°C. The criteria for heat strain were the changes in rectal temperature (Tre), mean skin temperature (Tsk), heart rate (HR), and sweating (Sw). Stress was defined by the calculated heat load requiring dissipation (M + R + C = Ereq), the ambient evaporative capacity (Emax), and the skin wettedness (w), defined as the ratio of Ereq/Emax. The progressive increase in R resulted in a concomitant rise of Tre and HR reflecting the physiological strain. Similarly the increase in either M or in the humidity resulted in higher Tre and HR. The changes in R or Emax were best defined by the w, thus w and the physiological responses were highly correlated. For practical application a multiple regression of the increments of HR(ΔHR) on tdb above neutral (25°C) and on tg above tdb was derived as follows: △HR bpm = 0.96(t db − 25° C ) + 0.81(t g − t db ) − 1 It was concluded that the calculated skin wettedness is most suitable in the evaluation of heat stress.
The potential of topoisomerase I inhibitors in the treatment of CNS malignancies: Report of a synergistic effect between topotecan and radiation

Despite innovations in imaging, surgery, and radiation therapy, local failure remains the principle clinical problem in most CNS malignancies. To date, chemotherapy has not made a major impact in the treatment of most adult CNS tumors. The inroads made by chemotherapy in pediatric CNS malignancies suggest that novel drugs, or drug combinations, may improve therapy. Topoisomerase I (Topo I) inhibitors are a relatively new group of chemotherapy drugs with a novel mechanism of action. Drugs in this group currently undergoing clinical trials are the Camptothecin analogues Topotecan, CPT-11, and 9-aminocamptothecin. There is substantial preclinical and some clinical evidence to suggest that these drugs could be useful in the treatment of CNS malignancies. Preclinical studies with the water soluble Topo I inhibitor, Topotecan, demonstrate antineoplastic activity in a variety of CNS malignancies. In addition, Topotecan has good CNS penetration in primates, and recent preliminary phase I and II clinical trials of Topotecan in pediatric and adult CNS malignancies have been promising. In this paper, we describe the unique mechanism of action, antineoplastic activity, and radiosensitizing properties of Topo I inhibitors. We present the first report demonstrating potentiation of radiation lethality by Topotecan in a human glioma (1354) cell line. The dose enhancement ratio was 3.2 at 10% survival. Thus, there is evidence to suggest that Topo I inhibitors may be beneficial in the treatment of CNS neoplasms on the basis of their antineoplastic activity alone, as well as their radiosensitizing effects. Two clinical trials which utilize concurrent Topotecan and radiation in the treatment of pediatric and adult CNS malignancies are discussed.
Inhibition of telomerase activity by oleanane triterpenoid CDDO-Me in pancreatic cancer cells is ROS-dependent

Methyl-2-cyano-3,12-dioxooleana-1,9(11)-dien-28-oate (CDDO-Me) is a synthetic derivative of oleanolic acid, a triterpene, with apoptosis-inducing activity in a wide range of cancer cells. Induction of apoptosis by CDDO-Me is associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibition of telomerase activity. In the present study, we investigated the role of ROS in inhibition of telomerase by CDDO-me. Treatment of MiaPaCa-2 and Panc-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines with CDDO-Me induced the production of hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anions and inhibited the telomerase activity. Pretreatment of cells with N-acetylcycsteine, a general purpose antioxidant or overexpression of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) or superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1) blocked the telomerase inhibitory activity of CDDO-Me. Furthermore, blocking ROS generation also prevented the inhibition of hTERT gene expression, hTERT protein production and expression of a number of hTERT-regulatory proteins by CDDO-Me (e.g., c-Myc, Sp1, NF-κB and p-Akt). Data also showed that Akt plays an important role in the activation of telomerase activity. Together, these data suggest that inhibition of telomerase activity by CDDO-Me is mediated through a ROS-dependent mechanism; however, more work is needed to fully understand the role of ROS in down-regulation of hTERT gene and hTERT-regulatory proteins by CDDO-Me.
Diffusion-influenced reactions

We summarize three of our recent results on diffusion-influenced reactions in solutions. All deal with the concentration dependence of the reaction rate when the reactants must first diffuse together before reaction can occur. When one species (the sink species) is not dilute, the rate cannot be obtained by solution of a pair diffusion equation; the correlations among the sinks for the diffusing species must be accounted for. First, we consider fluorescence quenching when the quenchers are not dilute. For charged quenchers and fluorophores we discuss how the solution dielectric constant and ionic strength can strongly influence the deviations from the linear Stern-Volmer behavior (the dilute sink result) which arise due to the sink correlations. Second, we consider heterogeneous catalysis where a reactive species is adsorbed onto a surface and must surface diffuse to reactive sites (the sinks). We find that surface diffusion can be an important factor contributing to the rate of reaction; especially when surface diffusion is rapid relative to the adsorption/desorption rate. Third, we discuss diffusion influenced reactions with sinks which are long ellipsoids. Dilute long ellipsoids provide a large rate enhancement relative to a spherical sink; we show that this rate enhancement survives when nondilute ellipsoids are considered.
Abnormal pulse wave velocity in bicuspid aortic valve: comparison to trileaflet aortic valve and the impact of aortic regurgitation

Introduction Abnormal aortic stiffness implies an unfavorable prognosis in a variety of aortic diseases, and is considered an emerging biomarker for cardiovascular disease. In bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), aortic stiffness can be elevated as a result of intrinsic aortopathy, as well as geometrical, morphological and functional abnormalities. Aortic regurgitation (AR) is associated with LV dysfunction in approximately 4% of patients per year. It has been found that loss of vascular elasticity in patients with AR hastens the development of symptoms, as typically aortic regurgitation is compensated for by increased systolic volume, which is then further accommodated by compliant arteries.
Carbon-13 spectra: Some effects of radiofrequency amplitude in proton-spin decoupling in proton-spin decoupling

Abstract Formulas pertaining to various Bloch-Siegert effects were tested experimentally, with proton NMR spectra of simple compounds. The formulas were then used to calculate the magnitude of such effects expected for proton-spin decoupled, carbon-13 spectra. The major perturbance of frequencies observed when high-intensity decoupling powers were used was not due to Bloch-Siegert effects, but to heating effects.
Identification of an Extracellular Polysaccharide Network Essential for Cytochrome Anchoring and Biofilm Formation in Geobacter sulfurreducens

Transposon insertions in Geobacter sulfurreducens GSU1501, part of an ATP-dependent exporter within an operon of polysaccharide biosynthesis genes, were previously shown to eliminate insoluble Fe(III) reduction and use of an electrode as an electron acceptor. Replacement of GSU1501 with a kanamycin resistance cassette produced a similarly defective mutant, which could be partially complemented by expression of GSU1500 to GSU1505 in trans. The Δ1501 mutant demonstrated limited cell-cell agglutination, enhanced attachment to negatively charged surfaces, and poor attachment to positively charged poly-d-lysine- or Fe(III)-coated surfaces. Wild-type and mutant cells attached to graphite electrodes, but when electrodes were poised at an oxidizing potential inducing a positive surface charge (+0.24 V versus the standard hydrogen electrode [SHE]), Δ1501 mutant cells detached. Scanning electron microscopy revealed fibrils surrounding wild-type G. sulfurreducens which were absent from the Δ1501 mutant. Similar amounts of type IV pili and pilus-associated cytochromes were detected on both cell types, but shearing released a stable matrix of c-type cytochromes and other proteins bound to polysaccharides. The matrix from the mutant contained 60% less sugar and was nearly devoid of c-type cytochromes such as OmcZ. The addition of wild-type extracellular matrix to Δ1501 cultures restored agglutination and Fe(III) reduction. The polysaccharide binding dye Congo red preferentially bound wild-type cells and extracellular matrix material over mutant cells, and Congo red inhibited agglutination and Fe(III) reduction by wild-type cells. These results demonstrate a crucial role for the xap (extracellular anchoring polysaccharide) locus in metal oxide attachment, cell-cell agglutination, and localization of essential cytochromes beyond the Geobacter outer membrane.
Efficient ternary blend bulk heterojunction solar cells with tunable open-circuit voltage.

To explore the potential of ternary blend bulk heterojunction (BHJ) photovoltaics as a general platform for increasing the attainable performance of organic solar cells, a model system based on poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) as the donor and two soluble fullerene acceptors, phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PC61BM) and indene-C60 bisadduct (ICBA), was examined. In all of the solar cells, the overall ratio of polymer to fullerene was maintained at 1:1, while the composition of the fullerene component (PC61BM:ICBA ratio) was varied. Photovoltaic devices showed high short-circuit current densities (Jsc) and fill factors (FF) (>0.57) at all fullerene ratios, while the open-circuit voltage (Voc) was found to vary from 0.61 to 0.84 V as the fraction of ICBA was increased. These results indicate that the Voc in ternary blend BHJ solar cells is not limited to the smallest Voc of the corresponding binary blend solar cells but can be varied between the extreme Voc values without significant effect on the Jsc or ...
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) source, sediment deposition patterns, and particle geochemistry as factors influencing PAH distribution coefficients in sediments of the Elizabeth River, VA, USA

Abstract Sediments and pore waters from two sites in the urbanized Elizabeth River, Virginia were sampled for levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Pore water PAH concentrations were similar between Sites 1 and 2, despite sediment PAH concentrations being much greater at Site 2. Organic carbon-normalized distribution coefficients (KOC)obs for all PAHs were significantly higher at Site 2 compared to Site 1, but varied ∼2–3 orders of magnitude between the top and bottom of the core in the sediments at Site 1. PAH distribution between sediments and pore waters at Site 1 were most notably related to the bimodal sediment deposition patterns as depicted by X-radiograph depth profiles, and PAH isomer concentration ratios. Sedimentary organic carbon/nitrogen ratios, lignin-phenol concentrations, soot carbon, and particle surface area both before and after organic digestion, were also analyzed in order to assess the role of sediment geochemistry on PAH (KOC)obs. Different factors were determined to control particle surface area at each site, offering insight into explaining observed PAH distribution coefficients. At Site 1, sediment organic matter was inaccessible for digestion and perhaps PAH partitioning as well. Sorption of PAHs to mineral surfaces explains low values for PAH distribution coefficients observed in the deeper sediments in this core. At Site 2, large and invariant (KOC)obs may result from sediments comprised of particles (e.g., woody debris) infused with creosote and coated with organic matter sequestering PAHs within the particle matrix. Our results indicate there is significant heterogeneity in PAH distribution coefficients in estuarine sediments, which may be attributed to sediment deposition patterns, PAH source(s), and sediment geochemistry.
Unique and Redundant Connexin Contributions to Lens Development

Connexin genes encode intercellular channels that help to coordinate development. In mice, the targeted deletion of different connexins produces disparate effects on ocular growth and differentiation in the lens, and the need for multiple channel subunits is poorly understood. Knockout of Cx46 causes a loss of homeostasis and cataracts. Deletion of Cx50 results in reduced ocular growth and cataracts. Targeted replacement of Cx50 with Cx46 by genetic knock-in corrected defects in cellular differentiation and prevented cataracts, but did not restore normal growth. These data show that intrinsic properties of Cx50 were required for cellular growth, whereas nonspecific restoration of communication by Cx46 maintained differentiation.
Cataract Surgery in Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid

The authors report the results of their experience with cataract surgery in 20 patients (26 eyes) with biopsy-proven cicatricial pemphigoid. All patients were on systemic immunosuppression at the time of surgery (dapsone, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, or combinations) and were treated with perioperative oral corticosteroids. Patients were evaluated pre- and postoperatively for conjunctival inflammation, conjunctival cicatrization, degree of keratopathy, and disease stage. No patient progressed in disease stage. Vision improved an average of 3.5 Snellen lines (-3 to +8). Worse outcome was associated with chemotherapy intolerance or the presence of any preoperative conjunctival inflammation. Thirteen patients remained on immunosuppressives for the entire study. Corneal ulcers developed postoperatively in three patients in whom continued immunosuppression was not tolerated. Possible mechanisms for inflammatory exacerbation after surgery are discussed. Results indicate that after successful abolition of all conjunctival inflammation through chemotherapy, cataract surgery may be safely performed in patients with cicatricial pemphigoid.
PRODUCT BRANCHING RATIOS OF THE REACTION OF CO WITH H+ 3 AND H2D+

The reaction of CO with H+ 3 and H2D+ has been studied to investigate thermal rate coefficients and product branching ratios in the temperature range [20, 350] K, by using a direct ab initio molecular dynamics method. In trajectory simulations, the energies and forces are calculated using a scaling all correlation second-order Mller-Plesset perturbation theory (SAC-MP2) method with the correlation consistent polarized valence triplet-zeta basis (cc-pVTZ). Results show that total thermal rate coefficients for both the CO + H+ 3and the CO + H2D+ reactions have a weakly positive temperature dependence. At room temperature, the rate coefficients are predicted to be (1.42 ? 0.03) ? 10?9 cm3 molecule?1 s?1 with a product branching ratio of [HOC+]/[HCO+] = 0.36 ? 0.01 for the CO + H+ 3 reaction, and (1.26 ? 0.03) ? 10?9 cm3 molecule?1 s?1 with the product branching ratios: 0.37 ? 0.01 (([HOC+] + [DOC+])/([HCO+] + [DOC+])), 0.54 ? 0.02 ([DCO+]/[HCO+]), and 0.49 ? 0.02 ([DOC+]/[HOC+]) for CO + H2D+. The product branching ratios have a noticeable temperature dependence as well as a pronounced isotopic effect for the H/DOC+ product channel.
Focused magma supply at the intersection of the Cobb hotspot and the Juan de Fuca ridge

[1] We examine the interplay between the Cobb hotspot and the Juan de Fuca ridge by mapping the base of the crust at their intersection near Axial Volcano. PmP traveltimes from an extensive active source seismic experiment are used in conjunction with prior crustal tomography to map crustal thickness. A cross-section along the ridge axis consists of two distinct trends. In addition to 1–2 km of excess crust, inferred from gravity along a 100 km section of the central ridge, we find a narrow 20–40 km diameter root extending to 11 km directly beneath the volcano. Focused magma flux from the Cobb hotspot (0.3–0.8 m3/s) is inferred to be the cause of both the narrow root, and the large magma reservoir, at Axial. The rapid return to thinner crust, away from the intersection, marks a transition back to ridge-dominated magmatism.
The relationship of electron plasma oscillations to type III radio emissions and low-energy solar electrons

An extensive study of the IMP-6 and IMP-8 plasma and radio wave data has been performed to try to find electron plasma oscillations associated with type III radio noise bursts and low energy solar electrons. This study shows that electron plasma oscillations are seldom observed in association with solar electron events and type III radio bursts at 1.0 AU. In nearly four years of observations only one event was found in which electron plasma oscillations are clearly associated with solar electrons. Numerous cases were found in which no electron plasma oscillations with field strengths greater than 1 μ V/m could be detected even though electrons from the solar flare were clearly detected at the spacecraft. For the one case in which electron plasma oscillations are definitely produced by the electrons ejected by the solar flare, the electric field strength is very small, only about 100 μV/m. This field strength is about a factor of ten smaller than the amplitude of electron plasma oscillations generated by electrons streaming into the solar wind from the bow shock. Electromagnetic radiation, believed to be similar to the type III radio emission, is also observed coming from the region of more intense electron plasma oscillations upstream of the bow shock. Quantitative calculations of the rate of conversion of the plasma oscillation energy to electromagnetic radiation are presented for plasma oscillations excited by both solar electrons and electrons from the bow shock. These calculations show that neither the type III radio emissions nor the radiation from upstream of the bow shock can be adequately explained by a current theory for the coupling of electron plasma oscillations to electromagnetic radiation. Possible ways of resolving these difficulties are discussed.
Activation mechanisms of conventional protein kinase C isoforms are determined by the ligand affinity and conformational flexibility of their C1 domains.

The regulatory domains of conventional and novel protein kinases C (PKC) have two C1 domains (C1A and C1B) that have been identified as the interaction site for diacylglycerol (DAG) and phorbol ester. It has been reported that C1A and C1B domains of individual PKC isoforms play different roles in their membrane binding and activation; however, DAG affinity of individual C1 domains has not been quantitatively determined. In this study, we measured the affinity of isolated C1A and C1B domains of two conventional PKCs, PKCα and PKCγ, for soluble and membrane-incorporated DAG and phorbol ester by isothermal calorimetry and surface plasmon resonance. The C1A and C1B domains of PKCα have opposite affinities for DAG and phorbol ester; i.e. the C1A domain with high affinity for DAG and the C1B domain with high affinity for phorbol ester. In contrast, the C1A and C1b domains of PKCγ have comparably high affinities for both DAG and phorbol ester. Consistent with these results, mutational studies of full-length proteins showed that the C1A domain is critical for the DAG-induced activation of PKCα, whereas both C1A and C1B domains are involved in the DAG-induced activation of PKCγ. Further mutational studies in conjunction with in vitro activity assay and monolayer penetration analysis indicated that, unlike the C1A domain of PKCα, neither the C1A nor the C1B domain of PKCγ is conformationally restricted. Cell studies with enhanced green fluorescent protein-tagged PKCs showed that PKCα did not translocate to the plasma membrane in response to DAG at a basal intracellular calcium concentration due to the inaccessibility of its C1A domain, whereas PKCγ rapidly translocated to the plasma membrane under the same conditions. These data suggest that differential activation mechanisms of PKC isoforms are determined by the DAG affinity and conformational flexibility of their C1 domains.
Type II collagen screening in the human chondrodysplasias.

Abnormalities of type II collagen have been considered strong candidates for causing human chondrody splasias. We have employed peptide mapping to screen for several types of type II collagen abnormalities in cartilage samples from 66 patients with 20 separate disorders. Except for achondrogenesis type II (Langer-Saldino) and spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia (SED) congenita in which abnormalities have been described and diastrophic dysplasia in which the changes were probably secondary, no abnormalities were detected. Within the limitations of the screening technique, the results combined with other data from the literature suggest that abnormalities of this molecule are not common causes of chondrody splasias outside of the achondrogenesis type II-SED congenita family of disorders.
Trafficking of α4* Nicotinic Receptors Revealed by Superecliptic Phluorin EFFECTS OF A β4 AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS-ASSOCIATED MUTATION AND CHRONIC EXPOSURE TO NICOTINE

We employed a pH-sensitive GFP analog, superecliptic phluorin, to observe aspects of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) trafficking to the plasma membrane (PM) in cultured mouse cortical neurons. The experiments exploit differences in the pH among endoplasmic reticulum (ER), trafficking vesicles, and the extracellular solution. The data confirm that few α4β4 nAChRs, but many α4β2 nAChRs, remain in neutral intracellular compartments, mostly the ER. We observed fusion events between nAChR-containing vesicles and PM; these could be quantified in the dendritic processes. We also studied the β4R348C polymorphism, linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This mutation depressed fusion rates of α4β4 receptor-containing vesicles with the PM by ∼2-fold, with only a small decrease in the number of nAChRs per vesicle. The mutation also decreased the number of ER exit sites, showing that the reduced receptor insertion results from a change at an early stage in trafficking. We confirm the previous report that the mutation leads to reduced agonist-induced currents; in the cortical neurons studied, the reduction amounts to 2–3-fold. Therefore, the reduced agonist-induced currents are caused by the reduced number of α4β4-containing vesicles reaching the membrane. Chronic nicotine exposure (0.2 μm) did not alter the PM insertion frequency or trafficking behavior of α4β4-laden vesicles. In contrast, chronic nicotine substantially increased the number of α4β2-containing vesicle fusions at the PM; this stage in α4β2 nAChR up-regulation is presumably downstream from increased ER exit. Superecliptic phluorin provides a tool to monitor trafficking dynamics of nAChRs in disease and addiction.
Tourist information search behavior: cross-cultural comparison of European Union member states.

Abstract This study investigates the influence of national-cultures on the external information search behavior of travelers from the European Union (EU) member states existing at the time the data were collected. Statistical information from EUROBAROMETER 48 is examined. EUROBAROMETER 48 is a Standard Eurobarometer public opinion survey conducted on behalf of the European Commission at least two times a year in all member states of the EU. This document identifies the population of the respective nationality of EU members, aged 15 years and over, residing in each of the member states. Data were collected between 12 October 1997 and 16 November 1997. First, a series of Kruskal–Wallis tests are conducted to examine the impact of national-cultural on the use of information sources. After determining that the national culture significantly influences a traveler's external information search behavior, a correspondence analysis is utilized to examine information search behavior of the residents and nationals of each EU state. This analysis identifies five distinct market segments based on respondents’ information search patterns. Findings suggest national culture is likely to influence a traveler's information search behavior.
Test of a density-dependent interaction using in-plane 28Si(p

We report measurements of in-plane polarization transfer for nine natural-parity isoscalar transitions in the $^{28}\mathrm{Si}$(p\ensuremath{\rightarrow},p${\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$${)}^{28}$Si reaction using a 198.5 MeV polarized proton beam. These measurements test in a new way the validity of an empirical effective NN interaction derived from cross section and analyzing power measurements for similar transitions. The test is successful, demonstrating the need to modify the free NN interaction in the nuclear medium. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Allo attack on amyloidosis

Comment on Schonland et al, page [2578][1] In this issue of Blood , the European Cooperative Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation reports the largest series of allogeneic transplantation in patients with amyloidosis. This technique is feasible, but should remain investigational in
Ion implantation and fatigue crack initiation: Interaction of persistent slip bands with modified surface layers☆

Abstract Ion-mixed surface microalloys on nickel have been found to inhibit the surface emergence of persistent slip band structures (PSBs) during low cycle fatigue (LCF), thus improving crack initiation resistance. The formation of PSBs in the bulk is not greatly affected. This has been demonstrated by experiments on nickel polycrystals modified by ion mixing of NiAl layers using 1 × 10 16 ions cm −2 of 0.5 MeV Kr + ions. When fatigued, these specimens show fewer surface-breaking PSBs compared with unmodified nickel. The existence of subsurface PSBs in ion microalloyed nickel was revealed by etch-restrain experiments. After the surface-modified region was removed by electropolishing, new surface slip offsets, associated with bulk PSBs, were observed immediately after application of an additional 1 2 fatigue cycle. When PSBs do break the surface during LCF of ion microalloyed nickel, the process is promoted by high local cyclic displacements in the surface film, generated by subsurface PSBs.
SU‐E‐T‐572: Beam Characteristics and Treatment Planning Commissioning for a New Proton Therapy Unit

Purpose: A single-room proton system, the Mevion S250, was introduced into the arena of proton radiotherapy by Mevion Medical Systems. The first unit was installed and operates at the S. Lee Kling Proton Therapy Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. The objective of this abstract is to report the system's beam characteristics and Eclipse commissioning. Methods: Commissioning data were acquired for modelling longitudinal fluence, virtual source position, effective source position, source size and Bragg peaks in Eclipse. Stoichiometric CT calibration was generated via ICRU44 human. Spread-out Bragg peaks (SOBP) were measured with Parallel Plate Chamber and profiles with solid state detector for model validation. Heterogeneity effects were measured with bone and lung inserts in the beam line. RT dose was computed in a virtual water phantom, and exported from Eclipse to compare with measurements at various depths and axis. SOBPs were fine-tuned with partial shining correction and entry correction to match measurements. Output factor was measured for each individual field with an ADCL ion chamber in a water tank and fitted to a polynomial function to cross-check the monitor unit verification. Results: Ranges of all 24 options were measured within ±1mm tolerance. Modulations met a ±1mm or ±2% tolerance. SOBP flatness met a ±3% tolerance. Distal fall off (80%-20%) were measured between 6mm and 7mm for all options. Virtual source positions varied between 177cm and 195cm, decreasing with field size and range. SOBP generated by Eclipse agreed with measurements within ±3% in the entry region, and ±1%/±1mm in other regions. Sanity check for output achieved 5% accuracy in 98% of cases. Conclusion: The commissioning of the first Mevions S250 proton therapy system met specifications. The unit has been put in clinical operation since 12/17/2013.
Diurnal cycles of land surface temperatures

Abstract Monthly mean diurnal cycles of temperatures over land, Ts, have been analyzed. Data include a 19-year climatology of station observations of ground and air temperatures, separately for all and clear skies (Tga, Tgc, Taa, Tac, respectively) over 75 sites in Russian, and a 7-year near-global climatology of satellite observations of surface temperature, Tsat, derived from the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP) data with (280 km)2 spatial resolution. Here, we represent diurnal cycles of all Ts in a compressed form using principal component analysis (PCA), and find that two temperature parameters describe the diurnal cycle fairly accurately. The all-sky ground temperature resembles the ISCCP derived Tsat most closely.
POLAR AND EQUATORIAL CORONAL HOLE WINDS AT SOLAR MINIMA: FROM THE HELIOSPHERE TO THE INNER CORONA

Fast solar wind can be accelerated from at least two different sources: polar coronal holes and equatorial coronal holes. Little is known about the relationship between the wind coming from these two different latitudes and whether these two subcategories of fast wind evolve in the same way during the solar cycle. Nineteen years of Ulysses observations, from 1990 to 2009, combined with ACE observations from 1998 to the present provide us with in situ measurements of solar wind properties that span two entire solar cycles. These missions provide an ideal data set to study the properties and evolution of the fast solar wind originating from equatorial and polar holes. In this work, we focus on these two types of fast solar wind during the minima between solar cycles 22 and 23 and 23 and 24. We use data from SWICS, SWOOPS, and VHM/FGM on board Ulysses and SWICS, SWEPAM, and MAG on board ACE to analyze the proton kinetic, thermal, and dynamic characteristics, heavy ion composition, and magnetic field properties of these two fast winds. The comparison shows that: (1) their kinetic, thermal, compositional, and magnetic properties are significantly different at any time during the two minima and (2) they respond differently to the changes in solar activity from cycle 23 to 24. These results indicate that equatorial and polar fast solar wind are two separate subcategories of fast wind. We discuss the implications of these results and relate them to remote-sensing measurements of the properties of polar and equatorial coronal holes carried out in the inner corona during these two solar minima.
Prostatic tumor cell plasticity involves cooperative interactions of distinct phenotypic subpopulations: Role in vasculogenic mimicry

BACKGROUND Tumor cell plasticity represents a significant clinical challenge in that the fate and function of tumor cells can be elusive until a tumor mass is evident. A remarkable example of plasticity is tumor cell vasculogenic mimicry, recently described in aggressive uveal and cutaneous melanoma, in addition to ovarian carcinoma, whereby tumor cells express endothelial-associated genes and form de novo vasculogenic-like networks in three-dimensional (3-D) culture. In the current investigation, we examined whether there is evidence for vasculogenic mimicry in heterogeneous prostatic neoplasms. METHODS Dunning rat and human prostate cancer cell lines (comprised of epithelial- and fibroblastic-like tumor subpopulations) were tested for their ability to express selected endothelial-associated genes, laminin, the α6β1 laminin-binding integrin, and for their potential to form perfusable tubular networks in 3-D culture. Simultaneous morphological analysis of tumor-lined channels in rat and human tumors was also performed. RESULTS Green fluorescent protein labeling of prostatic clonal subpopulations revealed unique cooperative interactions of epithelial- and fibroblastic-like tumor cells in the formation of perfusable vasculogenic-like networks. Furthermore, while these cell lines were shown to express various vascular markers, prostatic tumor cell-lined channels were also detected in vivo in high grade tumors, and occurred in some cases in close proximity to conventional endothelial-lined vasculature. CONCLUSIONS A multidisciplinary approach to assess vasculogenic mimicry by prostatic tumor cells has revealed supportive evidence that it occurs in invasive, heterogeneous prostate cancer cell lines, and circumstantially in aggressive rat and human tumors. These results reflect the plasticity of aggressive prostatic tumor cells and may provide new prognostic markers for clinical diagnosis and new therapeutic intervention strategies. Prostate 50: 189–201, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Diagnostic utility of urine protein-to-creatinine ratio for identifying proteinuria in pregnancy

Objective: To evaluate urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPC) alone and with uric acid and clinical factors to predict or exclude significant proteinuria in preeclampsia evaluations. Methods: Retrospective cohort study patients undergoing evaluation for preeclampsia. Greater than 300 mg of protein in a 24-h collection was the gold standard defining proteinuria against which UPC performance was measured. Bivariable, multivariable, and Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC) analyses were performed. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and likelihood ratios were calculated for multiple cut-points of UPC alone and with uric acid. Results: In a cohort of 356 patients, the area under the curve for UPC in the diagnosis of proteinuria was 0.81. No single cut-point of UPC was diagnostic of preeclampsia. UPC values ≤0.08 or ≥1.19 have useful negative or positive predictive values of 86% and 96%. Uric acid and clinical factors did not improve the detection of significant proteinuria. Conclusion: Extr...
Molecular and morphological methods for identifying plankton: what makes a successful marriage?

Precise identification of species is critical for the study of biogeography of plankton and for applying laboratory culture results to the same organism in situ. Traditionally, identification has been based on knowledge of morphological traits transmitted from generation to generation of planktologists in monographs or at the bench. Despite recent rapid growth of molecular methods, taxonomists have been slow to incorporate molecular information in a formal way into species descriptions. Likewise, molecular biologists have often been less than thorough about making precise identifications of the species they sequence, as the large number of sequences in the public databases that are linked to mis- or unidentified species will attest. Although some have advocated for a new taxonomy built solely on a scaffold of DNA, for the present it seems wise to use a “total evidence” approach in identifying plankton, relying on both molecular and morphological information whenever possible. There is a large body of information on morphology, phenotypic variation, distribution and ecology of many species that is recorded in their formal descriptions, and this would be lost in a DNA-only approach. Without a successful marriage of molecular and morphological methods, it will be more difficult to solve the mystery of cryptic species. For now, we recommend that molecular approaches to identification be developed and extended where possible, that serious effort be committed to ensuring correct identification of species when DNA sequences are published and that new species of plankton should not be named based on morphology alone without supporting molecular information, especially for protists.
On computing reliability-measures of Boolean circuits

Testability and reliability analyses of Boolean circuits require the computation of the following figures of merit: signal probability, detection probability, signal reliability, as well as signal detectability, signal maskability, and signal unreliability of two-rail and weighted self-checking circuits. The authors present a generic algorithm for computing these measures. Special cases of this generic algorithm compare very favourably with known algorithms for computing some of these measures. An asymptotic analysis of this algorithm is presented. This analysis helps one identify a nontrivial class of problem instances because of all these problems are known to be Hash P-hard and a polynomial-time algorithm for these problems might not exist. >
Subcellular Changes in Protein Metabolism and Magnesium Content of the Pancreas in Rats Fed Two Levels of Dietary Protein and Magnesium

Subcellular distribution of magnesium and incorporation of "C-valine into proteins of the pancreas were investigated in rats fed 15 or 30% casein diets with 50 or 1,000 ppm magnesium for 10 days. To permit estimates of enzyme synthesis and secretion, rats in all treatment groups were killed in both the fed and fasted states 5, 45, and 120 minutes after injection of "C-valine. Microsomal, zymogen, and supernatant fractions were further fractionated into acid-soluble (transportable) and acid-pre- cipitable portions. The niitochondrial and the nuclei and debris fractions were analyzed without further fractionation. Decreased specific activities were observed in the proteins of acid-soluble microsomal fractions, the acid-soluble supernatant fraction, and the total niitochondrial fraction of fasted magnesium-deficient rats 2 hours after injection of labeled valine. Magnesium contents of four of the subcellular fractions were not sig nificantly affected by dietary treatment. Only in the microsomal fraction from fasted and refed rats fed the high proteinâ€"highmagnesium diet was the magnesium concentra tion expressed per gram pancreas significantly greater than that in other treatment groups. The difference was not significant when expressed as micrograms magnesium per milligram protein. Magnesium content ( micrograms magnesium per gram pancreas ) of the microsomal, zymogen, and supernatant fractions was generally lower in fasted than in fed rats. Differences in magnesium content and distribution of labeled proteins in fed and fasted animals are discussed in terms of secretion mechanisms. J. Nutr. 104: 1618-1629, 1974.
Relativistic two-photon and two-gluon decay rates of heavy quarkonia.

The decay rates of $c\overline{c}$ and $b\overline{b}$ through two-photon or two-gluon annihilations are obtained by using totally relativistic decay amplitudes and a sophisticated quantum-chromodynamic potential model for heavy quarkonia. Our results for the photonic and gluonic widths of the $^{1}S_{0}$, $^{3}P_{0}$, and the $^{3}P_{2}$ states are in excellent agreement with the available experimental data. The procedures and mathematical techniques used by us for the treatment of the fermion-antifermion bound states are also applicable to other decay processes.
A knowledge-based supervision model for machine tools

The knowledge-based supervision system described is intended to detect cutter damages in milling machines, using x-axis and y-axis displacement signals. The model hierarchically integrates real-time signal processing algorithms in a knowledge-based processing environment where rules and objects coexist. A deeply coupled, numeric/symbolic model is developed. It incorporates physical models and empirical knowledge. It is implemented in a multiprocessor architecture. >