cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract B103: KRASG12D- and BRAFV600E-induced transformation of murine pancreatic epithelial cells requires MEK/ERK-stimulated IGF1R signaling.

Mutation of KRAS is a common initiating event in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Yet, the specific roles of KRAS-stimulated signaling pathways in the transformation of pancreatic ductal epithelial cells (PDECs), putative cells of origin for PDAC, remain unclear. We therefore sought to ascertain the roles of the PI3K/AKT and MEK/ERK signaling cascades in this process. We found that KRAS G12D and an activated form of the downstream effector BRAF, BRAF V600E , enhance PDEC proliferation, and increase survival after exposure to apoptotic stimuli in a manner dependent on MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling. Interestingly, we found that the expression of the insulin-like growth factors IGF1 and IGF2 is induced downstream of the MEK/ERK pathway, and that activation of PI3K/AKT signaling occurs downstream of MEK, and is dependent on the autocrine activation of the IGF receptor IGF1R. Importantly, IGF1R inhibition impairs KRAS G12D - and BRAF V600E -induced survival, whereas ectopic IGF2 expression rescues KRAS G12D - and BRAF V600E -mediated survival downstream of MEK inhibition, but not PI3K inhibition. Consistent with a critical role for IGF1R in pancreatic tumorigenesis, we demonstrate that KRAS G12D - and BRAF V600E -induced tumor formation in an orthotopic model requires IGF1R. Intriguingly, we show that while individual inhibition of MEK or IGF1R does not sensitize PDAC cells to apoptosis, their concomitant inhibition reduces survival after apoptotic challenge. Our findings identify a novel mechanism of PI3K/AKT activation downstream of activated KRAS in pancreatic epithelial cells, illustrate the importance of MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, and IGF1R signaling in pancreatic tumor initiation, and suggest potential therapeutic strategies for this malignancy. Citation Format: Victoria Appleman, Leanne Ahronian, JiuFeng Cai, David Klimstra, Brian Lewis. KRASG12D- and BRAFV600E-induced transformation of murine pancreatic epithelial cells requires MEK/ERK-stimulated IGF1R signaling. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Pancreatic Cancer: Progress and Challenges; Jun 18-21, 2012; Lake Tahoe, NV. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(12 Suppl):Abstract nr B103.
Role of routine monitoring of liver and renal function during treatment of ectopic pregnancies with single-dose methotrexate protocol.

Objective To assess whether or not baseline serum transaminases and creatinine measurements, before administration of methotrexate, identified significant liver or kidney disease, which have the potential to alter the management plan for the treatment of ectopic pregnancies. Design This is a retrospective study of patients treated for ectopic pregnancy. Setting Women's emergency room and reproductive endocrinology office at a teaching hospital over a 3-year period. Patient(s) Women presenting for treatment of ectopic pregnancy. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Assessment of baseline serum transaminases and creatinine measurements before administration of methotrexate to identify significant liver or kidney disease. Result(s) A total of 383 patients were managed for ectopic pregnancy from January 2006 to December 2008. Of these, 320 patients received methotrexate as part of their treatment. No patient was denied treatment with methotrexate secondary to concerns regarding liver or renal function. No complication related to methotrexate administration was documented. A subgroup of 81 patients had pre- and postadministration labs, and no significant difference was noted upon comparing the values. Conclusion(s) Routine measurement of serum aspartate aminotransferase and creatinine levels may not be necessary before instituting a single-dose methotrexate treatment regimen for the management of ectopic pregnancy.
Nuclear magnetic relaxation in b.c.c. V-Mn☆

Abstract The b.c.c. V-Mn alloy system was studied at 4.2 and 1.2°K between pure V and 70% Mn in V, using pulsed NMR. The observed T1 values are interpreted in terms of a two-band electronic structure, and their concentration dependence is well reporduced using a generalized Korringa relation with the previously partitioned Knight shift. The values of T2 in 51V are found to increase nearly linearly with addition of Mn, in agreement with a qualitative understanding of the effects of alloying.
Infrared Study of Weakly Bound Hydrogen Bonds in Crystalline Sodium Sulfanilate Dihydrate

We have studied the infrared spectra of the OH(D) hydrogen bonds from the water and NH(D) bonds from the NH2 group in the title compound as functions of deuterium concentration and temperature. Som...
Temperature gradient driven constituent redistribution in UZr alloys

Abstract Although the phenomenon of constituent redistribution is common in UPuZr alloys irradiated under a wide range of conditions, it has been observed in UZr alloys only at elevated temperatures. Redistribution is relatively rapid and is essentially complete by 5 at% burnup. Experimental observations of constituent redistribution in UZr fuel elements are presented and analyzed. A model based on a thermal diffusion mechanism is proposed, and its computer implementation is described. The model calculations, supported by experimental observation, indicate that the excess enthalpy of solution of the bcc γ-phase controls the redistribution process as an additional driving force. A heat of transport of −50 to −100 kJ/mol in this phase results in the best match between calculation and experimental observations. The model predicts that constituent redistribution will be observed only when a region of the fuel operates at temperatures above 935 K.
A System of Repressor Gradients Spatially Organizes the Boundaries of Bicoid-Dependent Target Genes

The homeodomain (HD) protein Bicoid (Bcd) is thought to function as a gradient morphogen that positions boundaries of target genes via threshold-dependent activation mechanisms. Here, we analyze 66 Bcd-dependent regulatory elements and show that their boundaries are positioned primarily by repressive gradients that antagonize Bcd-mediated activation. A major repressor is the pair-rule protein Runt (Run), which is expressed in an opposing gradient and is necessary and sufficient for limiting Bcd-dependent activation. Evidence is presented that Run functions with the maternal repressor Capicua and the gap protein Kruppel as the principal components of a repression system that correctly orders boundaries throughout the anterior half of the embryo. These results put conceptual limits on the Bcd morphogen hypothesis and demonstrate how the Bcd gradient functions within the gene network that patterns the embryo.
Future focal plane technology challenges for NASA's Origins missions

Recent advances in astronomical research have led to a much-improved understanding of the evolution of the physical Universe. Recent advances in biology and genetics have led to a much-improved understanding of our biological Universe. Scientists now believe that we have the research tools to begin to answer one of man’s two most compelling research questions: "are we alone?" and "how did we get here?" This paper reviews the requirements and challenges we face to engineer and build the large area and very sensitive focal planes for interferometers and innovative single aperture telescopes to detect and characterize Earth-type planets around stars other than our sun.
Dynamic improvements for intelligent Performance Enhancement Proxy

While Performance Enhancement Proxy (PEP) is a promising solution for TCP's performance issues over satellite links, it has a serious constraint in terms of a translation table limit of 500 entries that proved to be detrimental when a large number of TCP sessions need to be maintained between endpoints. We experienced one of these cases in Saudi Aramco where web-based drilling applications were establishing and maintaining large numbers of TCP sessions causing the PEP to hang and resulting in service interruptions, which is very costly in case of drilling rigs. To resolve this issue initially, an innovative idea to set timeouts on the TCP sessions that stay long enough to cause service interruptions was implemented. Since high data network reliability is a critical requirement for oil and gas rigs, this paper discusses the shortcomings of static timeouts and their implications. In addition, it suggests further enhancements for the PEP based on dynamic timeouts and a dynamic translation table size constituting a basis for the next generation intelligent PEP.
Stage-specific transcripts of the Plasmodium falciparum pfmdr 1 gene.

Abstract Genes have been identified in Plasmodium falciparum which belong to the ATP-binding cassette superfamily of transport systems based upon sequence and structural homology. One of these genes, the pfmdr1 gene, is homologous to the mammalian mdr1 gene, which encodes the P-glycoprotein product. Strong phenotypic data suggests the involvement of a P-glycoprotein like molecule in the mediation of drug resistance in P. falciparum . The goal of this work was to characterize the expression of the pfmdr1 messenger RNA: both the stage specific expression and the level of expression in mefloquine sensitive or resistant parasites. We identified two messenger RNAs homologous to this gene, one of 8.5 kb expressed in ring and trophozoite stages, and a second messenger RNA of 7.5 kb expressed only in trophozoites. Previously we had reported an increased expression of messenger RNA for pfmdr1 in a mefloquine-resistant clone. Here we extend this and demonstrate that overexpression of the pfmdr1 gene is consistent with the mefloquine resistance phenotype in a panel of recent isolates from Thailand.
Teaching Severely Retarded Persons to Sign Interactively Through the Use of a Behavioral Script.

The direct and generalized effects of a program for teaching severely mentally retarded individuals to sign interactively with one another in several social play situations was examined. As part of the teaching program, a behavioral script specifying the responses to be made was employed. The results indicated that participants showed an increase in their signing skills in a training play situation, generalized use of these skills in a second play situation, and maintained the trained skills over a two to four month period. Directions for future research are discussed.
A new tool to quantify carbon dioxide emissions from energy use and the impact of energy policies

A new tool to quantify carbon dioxide emissions from energy use was developed to provide a simple and transparent framework to quantify the impact of a single policy or a suite of policies on global carbon dioxide emissions. The model was tested for the period 1996–2009 by comparing with the reported emissions from the International Energy Agency. The resulting projections were within 1%, averaged for the 14-year period of historic (reported values). The tool was then employed to model carbon dioxide emissions for a suite of 495 enacted climate and energy policies under three different economic growth scenarios. Projected 2020 carbon dioxide emissions for business as usual were 42.6 ± 2.1 GtCO2. Due to the impact of the full suite of policies, 2020 emissions fell to 35.2 ± 2.1 GtCO2. Lastly, the emissions of the largest 10 CO2 emitters were compared with their Copenhagen targets to provide context. Considering the transparency of the tool presented herein and its ability to model a single policy or a larg...
Rapid Calculation of Protein pKa Values Using Rosetta

We developed a Rosetta-based Monte Carlo method to calculate the pKa values of protein residues that commonly exhibit variable protonation states (Asp, Glu, Lys, His, and Tyr). We tested the technique by calculating pKa values for 264 residues from 34 proteins. The standard Rosetta score function, which is independent of any environmental conditions, failed to capture pKa shifts. After incorporating a Coulomb electrostatic potential and optimizing the solvation reference energies for pKa calculations, we employed a method that allowed side-chain flexibility and achieved a root mean-square deviation (RMSD) of 0.83 from experimental values (0.68 after discounting 11 predictions with an error over 2 pH units). Additional degrees of side-chain conformational freedom for the proximal residues facilitated the capture of charge-charge interactions in a few cases, resulting in an overall RMSD of 0.85 pH units. The addition of backbone flexibility increased the overall RMSD to 0.93 pH units but improved relative pKa predictions for proximal catalytic residues. The method also captures large pKa shifts of lysine and some glutamate point mutations in staphylococcal nuclease. Thus, a simple and fast method based on the Rosetta score function and limited conformational sampling produces pKa values that will be useful when rapid estimation is essential, such as in docking, design, and folding.
SU-E-I-13: Theoretical Modeling of the Variations of CT Number Distributions for Mobile Targets in Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Imaging

Purpose: To investigate quantitatively variations in CT number distributions of mobile targets in cone‐beam CT (CBCT) imaging. A mathematical model was developed to predict variations in the CT number distributions and their dependence on motion parameters of mobile targets. Materials and Methods: CBCT images were acquired for three targets manufactured from homogenous water‐equivalent gel inserted into a commercial mobile thorax phantom. The phantom moved with controlled cyclic motion patterns in one‐dimension along the superior‐inferior direction to simulate patient respiratory motion. Profiles of the CT number distributions of the static and mobile targets were obtained using CBCT images. Mathematical modeling was developed to predict the variations in CT number distributions and their dependence on the motion parameters of targets moving in one‐dimension using CBCT imaging. Results: The mathematical model of CT number distributions of mobile targets in CBCT reproduced the measured CT number distributions and predicted their dependence on the target size and phantom motion parameters such as speed, amplitude, phase and frequency. The extension of the CT number distribution increased linearly with range of motion in the direction of motion. Motion frequency and phase play important role in spatial and level variations of the CT number distributions. The CT number levels of the mobile targets were smeared over a longer distribution and CT number level dropped in comparison with the distribution of stationary targets. Conclusion: The CT number distributions varied considerably with motion in CBCT. The mathematical model of CT number distribution for mobile targets developed in this work predicted well variations in the measured CT number profiles and their dependence on motion parameters. The CT number distributions spread‐out along the direction of motion and CT number level decreased. This quantitative characterization of motion artifacts on CT number distributions in CBCT may have potential application in diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy.
In vitro metal uptake by recombinant human manganese superoxide dismutase

Metal uptake by the antioxidant defense metalloenzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) is an essential step in the functional maturation of the protein that is just beginning to be investigated in detail. We have extended earlier in vitro studies on metal binding by the dimeric Escherichia coli apo-MnSOD to investigate the mechanism of metal uptake by tetrameric human and Thermus thermophilus apo-MnSODs. Like the E. coli apo-MnSOD, these proteins also bind metal ions in vitro in a thermally activated, pH-sensitive process. However, metal uptake by the tetrameric apo-MnSODs exhibits a number of important differences. In particular, there is no indication of conformational gating requirement for metal binding for these proteins, and the reaction is first-order in metal ion. The high concentration of metal ion that is required to achieve physiologically relevant metallation rates for tetrameric human apo-MnSOD in vitro suggests the possibility that co-translational metal binding or chaperone interactions may be required in vivo.
19F MAS NMR Investigation of Strontium Substitution Sites in Ca2+/Sr2+ Fluorapatite Solid Solutions

The partial replacement of Ca2+ by Sr2+ in the fluorapatite lattice results in additional peaks in the 19F MAS NMR spectra at 9.4 T other than the main resonance of Ca10F2(PO4)6 at 64.0 ppm (from hexafluorobenzene). The assignment of these peaks to specific structural configurations is possible in the sample containing the least strontium, with a composition of Ca8.97Sr1.03F2(PO4)6. The solid-solution character of this sample is established by the observation of spectral spin diffusion between various peaks in the SPARTAN (selective population anti-z and rate of transfer to adjacent nuclei) experiment. Calculations based upon modeling the 19F chemical shift tensor show that this process is facilitated for most crystallites by the close approach of two peaks' resonances during the rotor cycle. A peak and set of spinning sidebands with an isotropic chemical shift of 79.6 ppm is assigned to fluoride ions in the center of a triangle of Ca2Sr ions (the so-called Ca(2) sites occurring as Ca3F in the fluorapatit...
Corporate management of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands lobster fishery

Limited entry and biological quotas were implemented in the lobster fishery of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands in 1991, during a period of declining stock abundance. A companion use-it-or-lose-it permit provision has had the perverse effect of increasing fishing effort during times of declining stocks. Despite its unfavorable short-term prospects, the fishery has the potential to be very lucrative for a small number of boats over the long term. This paper introduces a dramatically different management regime that would create ownership rights in a private management corporation for the current limited-entry permit holders. This corporation would function within a renewable operating contract with the government to protect the public interest in the conservation of the lobster population and its associated ecosystem. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.
High fidelity analysis of vowel acoustic space

Vowel acoustic space is often characterized by polygons, whose vertices are determined by summary statistics such as mean values of the formant frequencies of distinct phonemes. The F1-F2 quadrilateral is the most familiar of these. However, using summary statistics to represent formant-frequency data presents fundamental limitations. These data are inherently lossy—summarizing large amounts of data with single values; mean itself is a non-robust statistic, highly sensitive to outliers; and even robust statistics ignore distributional information within the data, which can vary markedly among different phonemes and age groups. We introduce a new approach characterizing and measuring change in formant spaces statically and developmentally. This approach treats acoustic spaces as point clouds of data, in which no information is abstracted or lost. Within this framework, we measure the spatial overlap of sets of formant data using an approach combining optimization theory and computational statistics. This provides highly sensitive measures of both similarity and extent of temporal change. This novel approach is robust with respect to outliers, noise, and missing values. It also has a strong intuitive and rigorous mathematical foundation and is easily visualized. Finally, it enables detailed examination of individual phonemes and clustering of speakers identifying shared developmental patterns. [Work was supported by NIH grants # R01-DC 006282 & P30-HD03352.]
IMPACT OF PARASITE SYMPATRY ON THE GEOGRAPHIC MOSAIC OF COEVOLUTION

Slave-making ants are specialized social parasites that steal the young from colonies of their host species to augment their slave supply. The degree of parasite-host specialization has been shown to shape the trajectory along which parasites and hosts coevolve and is a prime contributor to the geographic mosaic of coevolution. However, virtually nothing is known about extrinsic influences on parasite-host dynamics, although the simple addition of a competing slave-maker may significantly alter selection pressures. Here we report the effect of two sympatric slave-makers on a single host. We measured temporal and spatial changes in colonies of the primary host Temnothorax curvispinosus that had been placed in field enclosures along with a single colony of either one or both species of the North American slave-making ants Protomognathus americanus and Temnothorax duloticus. Each slave-maker species alone had a negative impact on its hosts, although one slave-maker species more frequently decimated its host assemblage and then went extinct. Nevertheless, the combined effect in mixed-parasite enclosures was, surprisingly, greatly attenuated. Virulent slave-maker growth and prudent slave-maker decay in these shared enclosures, together with field data showing an inverse proportional relationship between the two slave-makers in natural populations, suggest that their checkered distribution is a consequence of direct asymmetrical antagonism between parasites. Thus, our results imply a tripartite coevolutionary arms race, whereby intraguild interactions among social parasites strongly affect the realized selection pressures on hosts and contribute to the geographic mosaic of coevolution.
Floating-point tricks

The author discusses IEEE floating point representation that stores numbers in what amounts to scientific notation. He considers the sign bit, the logarithm function, function approximations, errors and refinements.
Eliminating a health hazard in prosthodontic treatment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract Prosthetic dental treatment of the tuberculous patient presents some special hazards and problems in preventing exposure of dental personnel to infection. Several possible germicides cannot be used because they produce undesirable changes in complex organic dental materials. Immersion of sample impressions heavily seeded with Myco. tuberculosis in 10 per cent formalin solution for 30 minutes has no deleterious effect upon materials and ensures adequate disinfection.
Comparative fate of [14C]trichloroethylene in the root zone of plants from a former solvent disposal site

A comparison of the environmental fate of [{sup 14}]trichloroethylene ([{sup 14}C]TCE) in vegetated and nonvegetated soils from a contaminated field site indicated increased mineralization ({sup 14}CO{sub 2} production) in soils containing vegetation. Mineralization in soils containing Lespedeza cuneata (Dumont), Pinus taeda (L.), Solidago sp. (all collected from a former chlorinated solvent disposal site), and Glycine max, germinated from commercially available seeds, accounted for > 26% of the total recovered radioactivity compared with approximately 15% for nonvegetated soil and < 9% for control (sterile) soil. Uptake of {sup 14}C into plant tissues ranged from 1 to 21% total for leaves (or needles), stems, and roots and appeared to be related to plant species and water use during the experiment. The higher mineralization rates for [{sup 14}C]TCE in the vegetated soils compared with nonvegetated soils indicates that the rhizosphere provides a favorable environment for microbial degradation of organic compounds. Therefore, vegetation may play an important role in enhancing biological remediation of contaminated surface soils in situ.
Growth modifications of Spartina alterniflora Loisel. by the interaction of pH and salinity under controlled conditions

Abstract A greenhouse experiment was conducted to examine the effects of salinity, aeration, and pH on the growth of Spartina alterniflora Loisel. grown in sand-nutrient culture. Aeration had no effect on growth. This result was attributed to high redox potentials in non-aerated sand-nutrient cultures and aeration did little to raise redox potentials further. Significant interactions between pH and salinity were observed. At pH 4 and 8, plant growth was significantly lower than at pH 6. Maximum growth was observed at pH 6 and 15‰ salinity. Of the four salinity levels used (15, 25, 35, and 45‰ with pH 6, the 45‰ level minimized biomass production. At pH 4, plant performance was modified little by salinity when compared to the pH 6 treatments. At pH 8, maximum plant growth performance occurred at 35‰ salinity, but performance differences were small when compared to those at pH 6. Salinity influenced tissue nutrient concentrations. As salinity increased, K, Ca, Mg, Na, and Cl tissue concentrations increased while P concentrations decreased. However, the nature of the response of tissue nutrient concentrations to salinity was strongly dependent on pH. Copper, Zn, Fe, and N tissue concentrations were not significantly different between treatments. Manganese and S levels were significantly different only between pH treatments and no response to salinity was observed. The interactions between pH and salinity observed in this experiment are important in evaluating S. alterniflora response in nutrient culture experiments and salt marsh experiments established in catclay substrata which do not remain saturated throughout the growing season.
Effects of low-dose aspirin in in-vitro fertilization.

Purpose of review—In theory, use of aspirin in IVF is based on its anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and platelet aggregation inhibition properties, which improve blood flow to a woman's implantation site. It is hypothesized that this effect on blood flow will improve success rates. Recent findings—Clinical studies investigating the use of low-dose aspirin (LDA) as an adjuvant therapy to IVF have produced conflicting results. The conflicting results have come as a consequence of the heterogeneous mixture of clinical trials with lack of adequate power. Even after multiple metaanalyses, differing estimates of effect were calculated as to whether aspirin should be used in conjunction with IVF. Summary—Conflicting results leave the question of the effects of LDA in IVF unanswered. More trials are required for analysis to have adequate statistical power and until then the data remain unclear. At this point, there are not enough data to show that aspirin has a beneficial effect on the outcomes of IVF, but absence of effect is not adequate grounds to overturn the current clinical practice for those using LDA in efforts aimed at achieving success with IVF.
Structure, photophysics, and the order-disorder transition to the β phase in poly(9,9-(di-n, n-octyl)fluorene)

X-ray-diffraction, UV-vis absorption, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies have been used to study the well-known order-disorder transition (ODT) to the β phase in poly(9,9- (di-n,n-octyl)fluorene) (PF8) thin-film samples through a combination of time-dependent and temperature-dependent measurements. The ODT is well described by a simple Avrami picture of one-dimensional nucleation and growth but crystallization, on cooling, proceeds only after molecular-level conformational relaxation to the so-called β phase. Rapid thermal quenching is employed for PF8 studies of pure α-phase samples while extended low-temperature annealing is used for improved β-phase formation. Low temperature PL studies reveal sharp Franck-Condon type emission bands and, in the β phase, two distinguishable vibronic subbands with energies of 199 and 158 meV at 25 K. This improved molecular-level structural order leads to a more complete analysis of the higher-order vibronic bands. A net Huang-Rhys coupling parameter of just under 0.7 is typically observed but the relative contributions by the two distinguishable vibronic subbands exhibit an anomalous temperature dependence. The PL studies also identify strongly correlated behavior between the relative β-phase 0-0 PL peak position and peak width. This relationship is modeled under the assumption that emission represents excitons in thermodynamic equilibrium from states at the bottom of a quasi-one-dimensional exciton band. The crystalline phase, as observed in annealed thin-film samples, has scattering peaks which are incompatible with a simple hexagonal packing of the PF8 chains.
The biological therapy of acute and chronic leukemia

With the increasing knowledge of the mechanisms of immune-mediated cytotoxicity, immunotherapeutic strategies are rapidly being incorporated into chemotherapy treatment schemes for acute and chronic leukemias. This includes the use of mAbs, immunotoxins, tumor-specific T cells, and, most recently, vaccines. Much of the new information is derived from bone marrow transplant data, where immune enhancement from IL-2 and donor T-cell infusions are being studied. Trials using humanized mAbs that permit prolonged and repeated dosing will allow better evaluation of the effectiveness of mAb therapy. More sophisticated molecular tests have been developed, allowing the detection of minimal residual disease to a greater degree. It is likely that biological and immunological therapy of leukemia will have its greatest impact here.
Factors controlling the geochemical evolution of fumarolic encrustations, Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, Alaska

Abstract Factor and canonical correlation analysis of geochemical data from eight fossil fumaroles suggest that six major factors controlled the formation and evolution of fumarolic encrustations on the 1912 ash-flow sheet in the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes (VTTS). The six-factor solution model explains a large proportion (low of 74% for Ni to high of 99% for Si) of the individual element data variance. Although the primary fumarolic deposits have been degraded by secondary alteration reactions and up to 75 years of weathering, the relict encrustations still preserve a signature of vapor-phase element transport. This vapor-phase transport probably occurred as halide or oxyhalide species and was significant for As, Sb and Br. At least three, and possibly four, varied temperature leaching events affected the fumarolic deposits. High-temperature gases/liquids heavily altered the ejecta glass and mineral phases adjacent to the fumarolic conduit. As the fumaroles cooled. Fe-rich acidic condensate leached the ejecta and primary fumarolic deposits and resulted in the subsequent precipitation of Fe-hydroxides and/or Fe-oxides. Low- to ambient-temperature leaching and hydration reactions generated abundant hydrated amorphous phases. Up to 87% of the individual element data variance is apparently controlled by the chemistry of the ejecta on which the relict encrustations are found. This matrix chemistry factor illustrates that the primary fumarolic minerals surrounding the active VTTS vents observed by earlier workers have been effectively removed by the dissolution reactions. Element enrichment factors calculated for the VTTS relict encrustations support the statistical factor interpretations. On the average, the relict encrustations are enriched, relative to visibly unaltered matrix protolith, in As, Br, Cr, Sb, Cu, Ni, Pb, Fe, and LOI (an indirect measure of sample H2O content).
The anti‐war rhetoric of Daniel Webster

While rhetorical scholars have ignored Webster's speeches against the war with Mexico, others have mistakenly described him as an imperialist. To remedy the situation, this study examines the evolution of Senator Daniel Webster's attack on the expansionist policy of President Polk. The study demonstrates that his anti‐war public addresses braided genre to achieve their ends. Webster's rhetoric shifted between genre to generate new arguments, to surface past positions, to defend against attacks, and to advance political objectives.
Pt nanoparticles deposited on TiO2 based nanofibers: Electrochemical stability and oxygen reduction activity

Abstract The electrochemical stability of Pt deposited on TiO 2 based nanofibers was compared with commercially available carbon supported Pt. Prior to the Pt deposition the TiO 2 material, which was either undoped or Nb doped, was air calcined. In one case the undoped TiO 2 was also reduced in a hydrogen atmosphere. XRD analysis revealed that the unreduced TiO 2 was present in the anatase phase, irrespective of whether the Nb dopant was present, whereas the rutile phase was formed due to reduction with H 2 . The diameter of the TiO 2 fibers varied from 50 to 100 nm, and the average Pt particle diameter was approximately 5 nm. Pt supported on TiO 2 was more stable than Pt supported on C when subjected to 1000 voltammetric cycles in the range of 0.05–1.3 V vs. RHE. Nb doped TiO 2 showed the highest stability, retaining 60% of the electrochemically active surface area after 1000 cycles compared to the state after 100 cycles, whereas the carbon supported catalyst retained 20% of the active surface area. The commercial catalyst had the highest oxygen reduction activity due to its larger specific area (17.1 m 2 g −1 vs. 5.0 m 2 g −1 for Pt/TiO 2 –Nb, measured after 100 cycles) and the higher support conductivity. The Pt supported on Nb doped or on H 2 reduced TiO 2 was more active than Pt supported on air calcined and otherwise unmodified TiO 2 .
Glucose Toxicity in β-Cells: Type 2 Diabetes, Good Radicals Gone Bad, and the Glutathione Connection

Chronic exposure to hyperglycemia can lead to cellular dysfunction that may become irreversible over time, a process that is termed glucose toxicity. Our perspective about glucose toxicity as it pertains to the pancreatic β-cell is that the characteristic decreases in insulin synthesis and secretion are caused by decreased insulin gene expression. The responsible metabolic lesion appears to involve a posttranscriptional defect in pancreas duodenum homeobox-1 (PDX-1) mRNA maturation. PDX-1 is a critically important transcription factor for the insulin promoter, is absent in glucotoxic islets, and, when transfected into glucotoxic β-cells, improves insulin promoter activity. Because reactive oxygen species are produced via oxidative phosphorylation during anaerobic glycolysis, via the Schiff reaction during glycation, via glucose autoxidation, and via hexosamine metabolism under supraphysiological glucose concentrations, we hypothesize that chronic oxidative stress is an important mechanism for glucose toxicity. Support for this hypothesis is found in the observations that high glucose concentrations increase intraislet peroxide levels, that islets contain very low levels of antioxidant enzyme activities, and that adenoviral overexpression of antioxidant enzymes in vitro in islets, as well as exogenous treatment with antioxidants in vivo in animals, protect the islet from the toxic effects of excessive glucose levels. Clinically, consideration of antioxidants as adjunct therapy in type 2 diabetes is warranted because of the many reports of elevated markers of oxidative stress in patients with this disease, which is characterized by imperfect management of glycemia, consequent chronic hyperglycemia, and relentless deterioration of β-cell function.
Cognition and Hierarchy: Rethinking the Microfoundations of Capabilities' Development

This article identifies gaps in the microfoundations of capabilities research, particularly in work that is based on the framework of evolutionary economics. It argues that such research has focused excessively on the quasi-automatic, routine-based aspects of capability development, and largely neglected the roles played by cognition and organizational hierarchy. By deriving a model of search that jointly considers how routine-based and cognitive logics of action coexist within an organizational hierarchy to affect capability development, this article offers three contributions. First, it delineates the traits of a microfoundational structure for research on capabilities that begins to address these gaps. Second, based on this structure, it highlights previously neglected causal mechanisms that contribute to our understanding of how capabilities develop. The model shows that managers' cognitive representations of their strategic decision problem fundamentally drive organizational search, and therefore the accumulation of capabilities. Furthermore, it shows that the accuracy of the representations a manager chooses might vary according to where she is situated in the organizational hierarchy. This more refined perspective leads to a set of propositions regarding how different hierarchical arrangements influence capability development and organizational performance. Finally, the paper sets an agenda for future research in this area.
Chapter 48 Geology and petroleum potential of the Eurasia Basin

Abstract The Eurasia Basin petroleum province comprises the younger, eastern half of the Arctic Ocean, including the Cenozoic Eurasia Basin and the outboard part of the continental margin of northern Europe. For the USGS petroleum assessment (CARA), it was divided into four assessment units (AUs): the Lena Prodelta AU, consisting of the deep-marine part of the Lena Delta; the Nansen Basin Margin AU, comprising the passive margin sequence of the Eurasian plate; and the Amundsen Basin and Nansen Basin AUs which encompass the abyssal plains north and south of the Gakkel Ridge spreading centre, respectively. The primary petroleum system thought to be present is sourced in c . 50–44 Ma (Early to Middle Eocene) condensed pelagic deposits that could be widespread in the province. Mean estimates of undiscovered, technically recoverable petroleum resources include
Regulation of apoptotic pathways in bovine γ/δ T cells

T lymphocytes bearing gamma/delta TCRs are a major population of T cells in neonatal calves and discrete subsets of gamma/delta T cells display tissue-specific accumulation and responsiveness to infection. To enhance our understanding of the immunobiology of gamma/delta T cells, we characterized the gene expression profile of circulating bovine gamma/delta T cells following stimulation with recombinant human IL-2 and ConA. Statistical analysis of microarray data identified 108 genes with significantly altered expression, including four genes associated with apoptosis. Real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) analysis of 15 genes related to apoptotic pathways showed that both the Fas-mediated and the mitochondrial apoptotic pathways were repressed in circulating bovine gamma/delta T cells in response to mitogen activation, indicating that stimulated peripheral bovine gamma/delta T cells are resistant to activation-induced apoptosis.
Bayesian region merging probability for parametric image models

A novel Bayesian approach to region merging is described. It directly uses statistical image models to determine the probability that the union of two regions is homogeneous, and does not require parameter estimation. This approach is particularly beneficial for cases in which the merging decision is most likely to be incorrect, i.e., when little information is contained in one or both of the regions and when parameter estimates are unreliable. The formulation is applied to the implicit polynomial surface model for range data, and texture models for intensity images. >
Nutritional and physiological consequences of tumour glycolysis

A frequent characteristic of many malignant tumours is an increase in anaerobic glycolysis, that is the conversion of glucose to lactate, when compared to normal tissues. The causes of this intensification involve changes in enzyme and glucose transporter levels, shifts of the isoenzyme patterns in the cancer cells to those similar to foetal tissues and a breakdown in the normal control mechanisms, most notably the Pasteur effect. The host must adapt, with a corresponding increase in gluconeogenesis. This change, along with other adaptations made by the host, eventually results in the syndrome known as cancer cachexia, which is characterized by anorexia and depletion and redistribution of the host energy stores. In some ways many malignant tumours behave much like parasites, drawing upon the host for nutrients such as glucose and returning waste products such as lactate to the host for recycling or disposal. This cycling of glucose and lactate between host and tumour has been the target for a number of proposed and tested treatments, with regard to the possible inhibition of tumour growth and/or possible prevention of some or all of the cachectic effects. Some of these suggested treatments have reached the point of clinical testing and show promise for continued research.
A monoclonal antibody identifies vimentin filaments in sertoli cells and in a subset of epithelial cells in the rat epididymis, urinary bladder, and prostate

AbstractPurpose: We describe a monoclonal antibody (Mab B2) against vimentin filaments in rat Sertoli cells and in a subset of epithelial cells in the rat epididymis, prostate and urinary bladder.Materials and Methods: The immunoreactivity of Mab B2 was examined on cryostat sections and immunoblots and compared with the reactivity of a previously characterized monoclonal antibody against vimentin.Results: While both antibodies recognized vimentin in Sertoli cells, only Mab B2 recognized vimentin in urogenital tract epithelia.Conclusions: Vimentin is expressed in the urogenital tract, and differential reactivities of antibodies may be responsible for conflicting results reported elsewhere for vimentin expression.
Nonmedical factors and the transfer of spine trauma patients initially evaluated at Level III and IV trauma centers.

Abstract Background context The influence of nonmedical factors on the disposition of spine trauma patients, initially seen in less specialized institutions, remains an issue of debate. Purpose To investigate the association of lack of insurance and African-American race with the probability of being transferred to a Level I or II trauma center, after being evaluated in the emergency department (ED) of Level III or IV trauma centers for spine trauma. Study design/setting This was a retrospective cohort study. Patient sample A total of 14,133 patients who were registered in National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) from 2009 to 2011 and initially evaluated in the ED of Level III or IV trauma centers for spine trauma were included. Outcome measures The outcome measures were rates of transfer to a higher level of care trauma center. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study involving spine trauma patients, who were registered in the NTDB between 2009 and 2011. Regression techniques, controlling for clustering at the hospital level, were used to investigate the association of insurance status and race with the possibility of transfer. Results Overall, 4,142 patients (29.31%) were transferred to a higher level of care institution, and 9,738 (70.69%) were admitted to a Level III or IV trauma center. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated an association of uninsured patients with increased possibility of transfer (odds ratio [OR], 1.40; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22–1.61). This persisted after using a mixed effects model to control for clustering at the hospital level (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.37–1.96). African-American race was not associated with the decision to transfer, when using a mixed effects model (OR, 1.15; 95% CI, 0.89–1.48). However, African-Americans with Glasgow Coma Scale greater than 8 (OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.13–1.74) or Injury Severity Score less than 15 (OR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.21–1.96) were associated with a higher likelihood of transfer. Conclusions In summary, lack of insurance was associated with increased possibility of transfer to higher level of care institutions, after evaluation in a Level III or IV trauma center ED for spine trauma. The same was true for African-Americans with milder injuries.
How well do second-year students learn physical diagnosis? Observational study of an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).

Background: Little is known about using the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in physical diagnosis courses. The purpose of this study was to describe student performance on an OSCE in a physical diagnosis course. Methods: Cross-sectional study at Harvard Medical School, 1997–1999, for 489 second-year students. Results: Average total OSCE score was 57% (range 39–75%). Among clinical skills, students scored highest on patient interaction (72%), followed by examination technique (65%), abnormality identification (62%), history-taking (60%), patient presentation (60%), physical examination knowledge (47%), and differential diagnosis (40%) (p < .0001). Among 16 OSCE stations, scores ranged from 70% for arthritis to 29% for calf pain (p < .0001). Teaching sites accounted for larger adjusted differences in station scores, up to 28%, than in skill scores (9%) (p < .0001). Conclusions: Students scored higher on interpersonal and technical skills than on interpretive or integrative skills. Station scores identified specific content that needs improved teaching.
Effects of dietary fat and eggshell cuticle removal on egg water loss and embryo growth in broiler hatching eggs

The effects of dietary fat and eggshell cuticle removal on egg water loss, embryo growth, and hatchability were determined in eggs from broiler breeder hens at different ages. Hens were fed isocaloric diets containing one of three different types and levels of added fat. In addition, eggs were either left intact or washed to remove the eggshell cuticle prior to set. Cuticle removal increased egg water loss between 43 and 62 wk. Cuticle removal increased relative wet embryo weight at Week 52 and relative dry embryo weight at 52 and 62 wk. Furthermore, at 62 wk, diet and day of incubation interacted to affect wet embryo weight, and diet variably affected dry embryo weight. No treatment differences were observed for cumulative hatchability, rate of hatch, and relative yolk sac weight at Day 19 of incubation. It was concluded that cuticle removal and the addition of fat to breeder diets may influence embryonic growth without having any subsequent effects on hatchability.
Interaction of dietary fat and route of carcinogen administration on 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colon tumorigenesis in rats

Since the results of an earlier study indicating no effect of dietary fat on dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colon cancer in rats differed from those of other investigators, the present study was initiated to determine if the modulating effect of fat intake on colon tumorigenesis was dependent on the route of DMH administration. Male weanling Sprague-Dawley rats (160) were fed one of two nutritionally balanced diets containing 5% or 24% corn oil (CO). Following 3 weeks adaptation to their respective diets, 40 rats from each diet group were treated with five doses of DMH (30 mg/kg) by intragastric (i.g.) gavage or subcutaneous (s.c.) injection, over a 3 week period. Rats were sacrificed when they showed clinical signs of colon tumor and surviving animals were killed 51 weeks after the initial DMH treatment. The cumulative probability of death with colon carcinoma did not differ between the dietary or treatment groups. There was no effect of route of administration or dietary fat on total intestinal tumor incidence. The number of rats with colon carcinoma was: 5% CO.IG = 25; 24% CO.IG = 27; 5% CO.SC = 23; 24% CO.SC = 19. Polypoid tumor incidence was significantly higher in the 24% CO.SC group (12/40) compared to the 5% CO.SC group (3/40) (Chi-squared = 5.25; p less than 0.03) while sessile tumor incidence was the inverse. Marginally significant differences in tumor morphology were noted between the IG groups.
Lattices in Filtered (φ, N)-modules

Let p be a prime. We construct and study integral and torsion invariants, such as integral and torsion Weil-Deligne representations, associated to potentially semi-stable representations and tor- sion potentially semi-stable representations respectively. As applications, we prove the compatibility between local Langlands correspondence and Fontaine's construction for Galois representations attached to Hilbert modular forms, and Neron-Ogg-Shafarevich criterion of finite level for potentially semi-stable representations.