cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of hyperpotassemia on the idioventricular pacemaker in complete A-V heart block and comparison with its effect on the heart rate in normal sinus rhythm. An experimental study in dogs.

Abstract Data are presented relative to the effects of varying degrees of hyperpotassemia on the atrial and ventricular rates in the presence of normal sinus rhythm and with complete A-V heart block. In the initial or moderately advanced stages of hyperpotassemia with serum levels up to 9.2 mEq./L. there is only a slight change in the atrial and ventricular rates in the presence of normal sinus rhythm. However, in the presence of complete A-V heart block the ventricular rate shows a decrease of 51 per cent (± 3.61 per cent) from the control rate with serum potassium levels up to 7.75 mEq./L. (± 0.22 mEq./L.). The possible relationship between these elevated serum potassium levels and the occurrence of Stokes-Adams seizures in patients with complete A-V heart block is discussed.
Predicting student knowledge level from domain-independent function and content words

We explored the possibility of predicting the quality of student answers (error-ridden, vague, partially-correct, and correct) to tutor questions by examining their linguistic patterns in 50 tutoring sessions with expert human tutors As an alternative to existing computational linguistic methods that focus on domain-dependent content words (e.g., velocity, RAM, speed) in interpreting a student's response, we focused on function words (e.g., I, you, but) and domain-independent content words (e.g., think, because, guess) Proportional incidence of these word categories in over 6,000 student responses to tutor questions was automatically computed using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC), a computer program for analyzing text Multiple regression analyses indicated that two parameter models consisting of pronouns (e.g., I, they, those) and discrepant terms (e.g., should, could, would) were effective in predicting the conceptual quality of student responses Furthermore, the classification accuracy of discriminant functions derived from the domain-independent LIWC features competed with conventional domain-dependent assessment methods We discuss the possibility of a composite assessment algorithm that focuses on both domain-dependent and domain-independent words for dialogue-based ITSs.
Hibernation in freshwater turtles: softshell turtles (Apalone spinifera) are the most intolerant of anoxia among North American species

Softshell turtles (Apalone spinifera) were submerged at 3 °C in anoxic or normoxic water. Periodically, blood PO2, PCO2, pH, plasma [Cl−], [Na+], [K+], total Ca, total Mg, lactate, glucose, and osmolality were measured; hematocrit and body mass determined; and blood [HCO3 −] calculated. On day 14 of anoxic submergence, five of eight softshell turtles were dead, one died immediately after removal, and the remaining two showed no signs of life other than a heartbeat. After 11 days of submergence in anoxic water, blood pH fell from 7.923 to 7.281 and lactate increased to 62.1 mM. Plasma [HCO3 −] was titrated from 34.57 mM to 4.53 mM. Plasma [Cl−] fell, but [K+] and total Ca and Mg increased. In normoxic submergence, turtles survived over 150 days and no lactate accumulated. A respiratory alkalosis developed (pH-8.195, PCO2-5.49 after 10 days) early and persisted throughout; no other variables changed in normoxic submergence. Softshell turtles are very capable of extrapulmonary extraction of O2, but are an anoxia-intolerant species of turtle forcing them to utilize hibernacula that are unlikely to become hypoxic or anoxic (e.g., large lakes and rivers).
Assessment of building behavior under near-fault pulse-like ground motions through simplified models

Abstract Interstory drift and floor acceleration demands in buildings subjected to near-fault pulse-like ground motions are investigated by means of simplified building and ground motion models. A pulse model proposed by Mavroeidis and Papageorgiou is used to represent near-fault ground motions. Similarly, a continuous model formed by a flexural beam laterally coupled to a shear beam is used as a simplified model of multi-story buildings. Firstly, closed-form solutions for the response of damped single-degree-of-freedom systems subjected to Mavroeidis Papageorgiou (MP) pulses are derived and employed to construct closed-form solutions for the response of the simplified continuous model. This allows the analysis of elastic and near elastic response of buildings, which is important for the assessment of financial losses on non-structural elements. Peak responses of the continuous systems subjected to MP pulses are compared to those of the continuous systems subjected to recorded near-fault pulse-like ground motions. It is found that the proposed closed-form solutions produce very good estimates of peak interstory drift demands as well as their variation along building height. Acceleration demands are found to be more sensitive to the high frequency content of the ground motion, therefore, the results are not as good, but still MP pulses are able to capture the main features of the response when a sufficient number of modes is considered. After several parametric studies it was found that pulse duration is the most critical parameter influencing floor acceleration and interstory drift demands, when near-fault pulse like ground motion occurs; as it can induce large variations on peak and along height acceleration and drift responses.
LGBT Elders and the Criminal Justice System

This chapter explores LGBT elders with histories of incarceration. Due to the paucity of the literature available on this population, this chapter provides new data from a qualitative study of ten formerly incarcerated LGBT elders’ experiences prior to, during, and after release from prison. Consistent with intersectionality theory, a core theme of self and the social mirror emerged from the data that represented LGBT elders’ ongoing coming out process of unearthing their ‘true selves’ despite managing multiple intersectional stigmatized identities, such as being LGBT, elderly, HIV positive, Reverse order, a member of a racial/ethnic minority, and being formerly incarcerated . These exploratory findings further our awareness of an overlooked population of LGBT elders involved in the criminal justice system. The implications for interprofessional and interdisciplinary policy and practice that incorporate suggestions from the formerly incarcerated LGBT elders for systemic reform are presented .
The impacts of recent permafrost thaw on land–atmosphere greenhouse gas exchange

Permafrost thaw and the subsequent mobilization of carbon (C) stored in previously frozen soil organic matter (SOM) have the potential to be a strong positive feedback to climate. As the northern permafrost region experiences as much as a doubling of the rate of warming as the rest of the Earth, the vast amount of C in permafrost soils is vulnerable to thaw, decomposition and release as atmospheric greenhouse gases. Diagnostic and predictive estimates of high-latitude terrestrial C fluxes vary widely among different models depending on how dynamics in permafrost, and the seasonally thawed 'active layer' above it, are represented. Here, we employ a process-based model simulation experiment to assess the net effect of active layer dynamics on this 'permafrost carbon feedback' in recent decades, from 1970 to 2006, over the circumpolar domain of continuous and discontinuous permafrost. Over this time period, the model estimates a mean increase of 6.8 cm in active layer thickness across the domain, which exposes a total of 11.6 Pg C of thawed SOM to decomposition. According to our simulation experiment, mobilization of this previously frozen C results in an estimated cumulative net source of 3.7 Pg C to the atmosphere since 1970 directly tied to active layer dynamics. Enhanced decomposition from the newly exposed SOM accounts for the release of both CO2 (4.0 Pg C) and CH4 (0.03 Pg C), but is partially compensated by CO2 uptake (0.3 Pg C) associated with enhanced net primary production of vegetation. This estimated net C transfer to the atmosphere from permafrost thaw represents a significant factor in the overall ecosystem carbon budget of the Pan-Arctic, and a non-trivial additional contribution on top of the combined fossil fuel emissions from the eight Arctic nations over this time period.
Activation of lignocellulosic biomass by ionic liquid for biorefinery fractionation.

Abstract Fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass is an attractive solution to develop an economically viable biorefinery by providing a saccharide fraction to produce fuels and a lignin stream that can be converted into high value products such as carbon fibers. In this study, the analysis of ionic liquid-activated biomass demonstrates that in addition of decreasing crystallinity, the selected ILs (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate) deacetylate Yellow poplar under mild conditions (dissolution at 60–80 °C), and lower the degradation temperature of each biomass polymeric component, thereby reducing the recalcitrance of biomass. Among the three tested ILs, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate performed the best, providing a strong linear relationship between the level of deacetylation and the rate of enzymatic saccharification for Yellow poplar.
Danger and the Decision to Offend

Humiliation; incarceration; stigma; loss of income, freedom, and respect: most research on offending emphasizes these sanctions. Yet classical theorists recognized other costs including physical harm. We revive this abandoned insight, arguing that danger-the possibility of pain-figures largely in people's decisions to offend. Although modern states typically eschew violence, many victims, vigilantes, and others assault offenders. This violence is typically more certain, swift, and severe than other sanctions, and fear of injury likely deters many potential offenders. Yet the possibility of pain may be irrelevant to individuals who boldly believe in their unassailability. Consistent with our hypotheses, we find that perceptions about danger are significantly associated with involvement in theft, drug selling, and prostitution among homeless youth, and that these effects are independent of perceptions about a crime's excitement, profit, or other returns. Our results suggest that dangers play a key but typically neglected role in the genesis of these crimes. In the late eighteenth century Jeremy Bentham argued that danger plays an important role in the "hedonistic calculus" people use in making decisions. According to Bentham, "danger is nothing but the chance of pain" ([1789] 1996:144), and as Jaeger and his colleagues have noted, "physical harm may be one of the only consequences that (nearly) all social groups and cultures agree is undesirable" (2001:88).l Thus perceptions about the danger of crime, or the potential for pain, should influence people's decisions about whether or not to break the law.
The primacy of top-down effects in shallow benthic ecosystems

Individual scientists, scientific organizations, and government agencies have all concluded that eutrophication is among the most detrimental of all human activities in coastal ecosystems; very large amounts of funding have been earmarked to study the negative consequences of nutrient pollution. Most studies of eutrophication have been conducted long after the numbers and diversity of larger marine consumers were dramatically reduced by centuries of intense harvesting. It is now understood that these once abundant predators played pivotal roles in regulating ecosystem structure and function, and that the widespread overharvesting of large consumers can trigger indirect effects that alter species compositions in ways that are very similar to those reported to result from eutrophication. All of this suggests that we should reevaluate whether the many negative effects attributed to eutrophication are actually a result of nutrient additions or whether they may be the result of the indirect effects of dramatically altered coastal food webs. In this essay, we review experimental assessments of the degree to which changes in consumer abundances have indirectly altered the structure of benthic ecosystems in coastal waters, and on the relative importance of top-down and bottom-up effects on coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows. We find that the evidence clearly indicates that indirect consumer effects are the primary drivers of coastal benthic ecosystem structure and function.
Broughton Island–a reference area for Wisconsin and Holocene chronology and sea level changes on eastern Baffin Island

Broughton Island is 50 km from the eastern margin of the 6,000 km2 Penny Ice Cap. During the early Wisconsin (> 54,000 BP) A younger glacial readvance is delimited by lateral moraines and glacio-marine deposits 14C dated at 24,100±850 BP; sea level was±18 m. During th last Wisconsin the glaciers terminated some distance inland from Broughton Island and sea alevel at 9,850±250BP was +5 m on Broughton Island. The head of Maktak Fiord, which presently contains a majour outlet glacier from the Penny Ice Cap, was deglaciated about 6,000 BP.
Differential effects of right hemisphere injection during the wada procedure on the primary and secondary languages in a bilingual speaker

Abstract A Wada procedure was performed on a bilingual seizure surgery candidate. Immediately after the injection of barbiturate into the right internal carotid artery the patient spontaneously switched from counting in English (the language he indicated that he used most often) to Spanish (the language he learned first). He named in Spanish spontaneously as well. After injection of the left ICA the patient exhibited a global aphasia, with no evidence for differential recovery of language as the aphasia cleared. These observations are discussed in relation to the hypothesis that a language learned later in life may be more likely to be bilaterally represented than the first language learned.
Community Building: Study Abroad and the Small German Program

Study abroad is often treated in terms of individual student outcomes, and has recently been discussed as potentially detrimental to smaller language programs—in that student participation in semester- or year-long programs subtracts from enrollments in upper-level courses. In this article, the promotion of study abroad in a small German program is presented as community-building that can help to enhance and sustain small college programs by strengthening the community of German-speakers and others interested in German on campus and abroad.
Time-dependent measurements at the SNS liquids reflectometer

Abstract The greatly increased flux that will be available at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) should enhance our ability to carry out time-resolved reflectivity measurements. Construction of horizontal- and vertical-surface reflectometers is well underway and the instruments will be commissioned in early 2006. We consider how to utilize the intrinsic wavelength bandwidth of the SNS to perform “snapshot” reflectivity measurements, using the outgassing of a hydrogen-charged Fe/Nb multilayer as a test case. At the expected SNS source flux of 2 MW, we determine that kinetics in our rather favorable test case can be observed with as short as a 1-s time resolution.
Pairing Heterocyclic Cations with closo-Icosahedral Borane and Carborane Anions. II. Benchtop Alternative Synthetic Methodologies for Binary Triazolium and Tetrazolium Salts with Significant Water Solubility

Abstract Two efficient processes for the synthesis of 12 relatively water-soluble binary triazolium and the first tetrazolium borane [B12H12] and carborane [CB11H12] salts by a one-step, open-air metathesis reaction have been developed. First, a combination of exhaustive trituration of the two solid reactant salts with refluxing anhydrous acetonitrile followed by flash filtration through a plug of silica gel afforded excellent recovery for a broad series of otherwise water-soluble heterocyclium salts. Second, an alternative aqueous metathesis, driven to completion by precipitation of silver halides, followed by removal of water, redissolution in acetonitrile, and filtration through a silica-gel plug, also yielded such heterocyclium borane and carborane salts. Mixed 1:1 dication heterocyclium borane salts were first synthesized using this second procedure, and one example showed melting-point depression behavior.
Characterization of serum lipids and lipoproteins of prairie dogs fed a chow diet or cholesterol-supplemented diet

Abstract The objective of this study was to characterize (by chemical, electrophoretic, and immunologic techniques) the serum lipids and lipoproteins of female prairie dogs under the conditions of chow feeding and cholesterol feeding. Results indicate that prairie dogs on chow feeding have a serum lipoprotein pattern and chemical composition similar to a normal, healthy man. Cholesterol feeding of the prairie dogs for 2 weeks resulted in a rapid induction of hyperlipidemia with a lipoprotein pattern and lipid composition resembling a hyper-β-lipoproteinemic pattern of man. In both the chow-fed and cholesterol-fed animals, the hydrated density of the major lipoprotein fractions corresponded with the hydrated density of human lipoprotein fractions. The immunologic studies suggest that the apoproteins of prairie dog low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) may be in someway structurally different from that of canine or man. This study demonstrates that the prairie dog may be a unique, nonhuman model to study the relation of cholesterol diet and hyper-β-lipoproteinemia.
Regge extrapolation to the resonance region

Abstract The structure of dual amplitudes (beta functions) suggests that in non-exotic channels one should add to the usual Regge terms a second term which drops off as exp (− π Im α ( s )) at large s but which is important for s ≲5 GeV 2 . This “dual correction” multiplies the usual Regge imaginary part by an oscillating complex factor. With inclusion of such extra terms, it is possible to match π p amplitudes from phase-shift analyses significantly better than if the terms are omitted. The partial waves of a modified fit using the leading N, Δ , ϱ , f trajectories with a fixed-pole pomeron show much more of the correct resonant structure than do those of an unmodified fit.
Raman scattering study of UBe13

Abstract Raman scattering experiments on single-crystal UBe13 have been performed at temperatures 2≤T≤300 K. We observe Raman-active optical phonos consistent, in number and symmetry, with those allowed by the space and site group symmetries previously determined for UBe13 (space group O6hFm3c). Certain phonon modes are seen to have strongly anomalous behaviour with decreasing temperature. We have, in addition, observed inelastic scattering from magnetic excitations, which we identify as spin fluctuations. The temperature dependence of these excitations is discussed.
Wild Trout Resources and Management in the Southern Appalachian Mountains

Abstract Information acquired through surveys of six state and federal natural resource management agencies was used to obtain current estimates of the wild trout resources of the southern Appalachian Mountains and to review associated management programs. Overall, the southern Appalachians contain some 18,000 km of coldwater streams with the potential for supporting salmonid populations. Wild trout inhabit about 9,660 km of these streams and native brook trout are found in approximately 2,580 km. These substantial and comparatively unique resources are becoming increasingly important from many perspectives as potential threats to their continued existence increase. Current management programs and strategies employed by the agencies surveyed reflect the basic similarity of wild trout resources and management needs throughout the region. A notable amount of variability remains regarding angling regulations and, to a lesser degree, native brook trout management. Such variability is not biologically-based, b...
Electrochemical reduction of decabromodiphenyl ether at carbon and silver cathodes in dimethylformamide and dimethyl sulfoxide

Abstract An investigation of the electrochemical reduction of the flame-retardant, decabromodiphenyl ether (DBDE), at carbon and silver cathodes has been undertaken with the aid of cyclic voltammetry and controlled-potential (bulk) electrolysis in dimethylformamide (DMF) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), each solvent containing 0.10 M tetra-n-butylammonium tetrafluoroborate (TBABF4). Cyclic voltammograms for reduction of DBDE at a glassy carbon electrode exhibit five irreversible and comparably sized cathodic peaks that are associated with a sequence of debromination processes, whereas cyclic voltammograms acquired with a silver cathode show fewer discrete stages of irreversible reduction and are accentuated by one very prominent peak. Bulk electrolyses of DBDE at either a reticulated vitreous carbon or a silver cathode in DMF lead to approximately 20–25% conversion of DBDE to a mixture of diphenyl ether, dibenzofuran, benzene, and phenol, and the remaining products are congeners of dibromodiphenyl ether. When DMSO is employed as solvent for bulk electrolyses, diphenyl ether is formed in approximately 20% yield, and a mixture of congeners ranging from decabromo- to monobromodiphenyl ether is found. Bulk electrolyses of DBDE in DMF–TBABF4 at carbon held at a potential near the cathodic limit indicate that complete debromination can be achieved.
Isolation of the cDNA for erythrocyte integral membrane protein of 28 kilodaltons: member of an ancient channel family.

Abstract CHIP28 is a 28-kDa integral membrane protein with similarities to membrane channels and is found in erythrocytes and renal tubules. A cDNA for CHIP28 was isolated from human fetal liver cDNA template by a three-step polymerase chain reaction (PCR) cloning strategy, starting with degenerate oligonucleotide primers corresponding to the N-terminal amino acid sequence determined from purified CHIP28 protein. Using the third-step PCR product as a probe, we isolated a recombinant from a human bone marrow cDNA library. The combined sequence of the PCR products and bone marrow cDNA contains 38 base pairs of 5' untranslated nucleotide sequence, an 807-bp open reading frame, and approximately 2 kilobases of 3' untranslated sequence containing a polyadenylation signal. This corresponds to the 3.1-kilobase transcript identified by RNA blot-hybridization analysis. Authenticity of the deduced amino acid sequence of the CHIP28 protein C terminus was confirmed by expression and immunoblotting. Analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence suggests that CHIP28 protein contains six bilayer-spanning domains, two exofacial potential N-glycosylation sites, and intracellular N and C termini. Search of the DNA sequence data base revealed a strong homology with the major intrinsic protein of bovine lens, which is the prototype of an ancient but recently recognized family of membrane channels. These proteins are believed to form channels permeable to water and possibly other small molecules. CHIP28 shares homology with all known members of this channel family, and it is speculated that CHIP28 has a similar function.
The half-second expiratory capacity test: a convenient means of evaluating the nature and extent of pulmonary ventilatory insufficiency.

SUMMARY A simple method employing single maximum expiratory efforts is presented as a means of defining the nature and extent of ventilatory insufficiency. The method involves the measurement of the 0.5 sec. expiratory capacity and the total vital capacity. Then by relating the 0.5 sec. expiratory capacity to the total vital capacity as a simple ratio, and expression of the maximum velocity of air flow during expiration, is obtained. The total vital capacity is a measure of maximum pulmonary stroke volume. Thus in a single test expressions of the velocity of pulmonary air flow as well as pulmonary stroke volume are found. If these functions are plotted against each other in a quadrant graphic system which is based on normal values for these two functions, a convenient and precise clinical method for defining the physiological nature of ventilatory insufficiency is obtained. This test is applicable even to the seriously debilitated patient who cannot perform the maximum breathing capacity test. Serial studies by this method provide a convenient and informative method of studying the nature of the change in ventilatory function during the course of the disease or resulting from therapy.
Strange attractors: DAMPs and autophagy link tumor cell death and immunity

Resistance to ‘apoptotic' cell death is one of the major hallmarks of cancer, contributing to tumor development and therapeutic resistance. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are molecules released or exposed by dead, dying, injured, or stressed non-apoptotic cells, with multiple roles in inflammation and immunity. Release of DAMPs not only contributes to tumor growth and progression but also mediates skewing of antitumor immunity during so-called immunogenic tumor cell death (ICD). Autophagy is a lysosome-mediated homeostatic degradation process in which cells digest their own effete organelles and macromolecules to meet bioenergetic needs and enable protein synthesis. For tumor cells, autophagy is a double-edged sword. Autophagy, in balance with apoptosis, can function as a tumor suppressor; autophagy deficiency, associated with alterations in apoptosis, initiates tumorigenesis in many settings. In contrast, autophagy-related stress tolerance generally promotes cell survival, which enables tumor growth and promotes therapeutic resistance. Most anticancer therapies promote DAMP release and enhance autophagy. Autophagy not only regulates DAMP release and degradation, but also is triggered and regulated by DAMPs. This interplay between autophagy and DAMPs, serving as ‘strange attractors' in the dynamic system that emerges in cancer, regulates the effectiveness of antitumor treatment. This interplay also shapes the immune response to dying cells upon ICD, culling the least fit tumor cells and promoting survival of others. Thus, DAMPs and autophagy are suitable emergent targets for cancer therapy, considering their more nuanced role in tumor progression.
Molecular motion underlying activation and inactivation of sodium channels in squid giant axons

Measurements of the changes in birefringence associated with changes in membrane potential were made with internally perfused squid giant axons in low sodium solutions at 0–8°C. The time course of the birefringence changes share many properties of the ‘gating’ (polarization) currents previously studied in this nerve. Both can be demonstrated as an asymmetry in the response to voltage pulses symmetrical about the resting potential which is not present about a hyperpolarized holding potential. Both have a rapid relaxation, which precedes the sodium permeability change. Both exhibit an initial delay or rising phase. Both are reversibly blocked by perfusion with 30mm colchicine; neither are altered by changes on sodium concentrations or 300nm tetrodotoxin. The birefringence response has a decrease in the amplitude of the rapid relaxation associated with the appearance of a slow relaxation. This is similar to the immobilization of fast gating charges which parallels sodium current inactivation.
Conservative management of acoustic neuroma: a meta-analysis and proposed treatment algorithm

Objectives/Hypotheses: Conservative management is a viable treatment alternative for acoustic neuroma. Using previous studies to provide evidence-based support, we have attempted to more clearly define the role of conservative management. Study Design: Retrospective review of literature and patient charts. Methods: Published studies on conservative management of acoustic neuroma were found using a key word search through PubMed in addition to the bibliographies of these selected studies. A spreadsheet was made to tabulate the selection criteria for conservative management, duration and frequency of follow-up, patient demographics, initial tumor size and rate of growth, change in hearing status, and the need for definitive treatment. Results: A total of 21 studies comprising 1,345 patients were included in our meta-analysis. The average length of follow-up these studies was 3.2 years. The average initial tumor size was 11.8 mm (n = 900); 43% of 1,244 acoustic neuromas showed growth, whereas 57% showed either no growth or tumor regression. The average growth rate was 1.9 mm/year in 793 individuals. Hearing loss occurred in 51% of 347 individuals. In 15 studies, 20.0% of 1,001 individuals eventually failed conservative management. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis supports the role of conservative management of acoustic neuromas in properly selected patients on the basis of a slow overall rate of growth and a substantial incidence of no growth. However, the lack of predictive factors, the relatively short duration of follow-up, and the variability of inclusion criteria underscore the need for continued collection of long-term data. An algorithm for acoustic neuroma management is proposed based on initial tumor size, patient age, and hearing status.
Some properties of random walk paths

Abstract For random walk on the d-dimensional integer lattice we consider again the problem of deciding when a set is recurrent, that is visited infinitely often with probability one by the random walk in question. Some special cases are considered, among them the following: for d = 2, what sequences (nj) have the property that with probability one the random walk visits the origin for infinitely many nj. A related problem, which is however not a special case of the recurrence problem, is to decide for what sequences (nj) the states visited by the random walk at times nj are all distinct, with only a finite number of exceptions. This problem is dealt with in the final part of the paper.
The Galileo legend as scientific folklore

The legend of Galileo's persecution by the Roman Catholic Church is treated here as an example of scientific folklore. By examining the various ways in which this legend diverges from scholarly rea...
The value of information for integrated assessment models of climate change

Abstract We estimate the value of information (VOI) for three key parameters of climate integrated assessment models (IAMs): marginal damages at low temperature anomalies, marginal damages at high temperature anomalies, and equilibrium climate sensitivity. Most empirical studies of climate damages have examined temperature anomalies up to 3 °C, while some recent theoretical studies emphasize the risks of “climate catastrophes,” which depend on climate sensitivity and on marginal damages at higher temperature anomalies. We use a new IAM to estimate the VOI for each parameter over a range of assumed levels of study precision based on prior probability distributions calibrated using results from previous studies. We measure the VOI as the maximum fixed fraction of consumption that a social planner would be willing to pay to conduct a new study before setting a carbon tax. Our central results suggest that the VOI is greatest for marginal damages at high temperature anomalies.
Carboxylation and mineralization of m -cresol by a sulfate-reducing bacterial enrichment

An enrichment culture that anaerobically degradedm-cresol under sulfate-reducing conditions was obtained from an anoxic aquifer.m-Cresol removal by the culture was greatest when sulfate or thiosulfate served as electron acceptors; sulfite, nitrate, and CO2 were poor substitutes for sulfate. A14C-labeled carboxylated intermediate was detected when the culture was given14C-labeled bicarbonate and nonlabeledm-cresol or nonlabeled bicarbonate and14C-labeledm-cresol. Metabolism of the carboxylated intermediate yielded14C-acetate, which was eventually converted to14CO2. Trace quantities of methylbenzoic acid were also detected as a putativem-cresol intermediate. The importance of this dehydroxylated intermediate in the anaerobic degradation ofm-cresol is unclear, since an amendment of 2-methylbenzoic acid was not degraded by the culture. The stoichiometry of electron acceptor consumption and carbon mass balances confirm thatm-cresol was mineralized by the culture.
Electroporation of Chlorella vulgaris to enhance biomethane production.

Abstract This research investigated the feasibility of using electroporation (EP) as a pretreatment method for algal biomass used as feedstock for anaerobic digestion. The results showed that pretreating algal biomass with EP significantly improved the soluble COD (SCOD), increasing it to more than 830% at 28 kWh/m 3 treatment intensity (TI). Besides TI, culture conditions also affected the performance of the EP process. On the basis of SCOD, a sample pH of 7.0 and cell concentration of 13.2 g/L were found to be optimal for the EP process. Despite a direct relationship between TI and ionic strength (IS), SCOD decreased with increasing IS. At 35 kWh/m 3 TI, bio-CH 4 production increased by as high as 110%. It was also observed that lower TI levels resulted in high rates of gain per energy input compared to higher degrees of treatment.
Mapping of urothelium in carcinomas of the renal pelvis and ureter. A report of nine cases

Complete histologic mapping of the urothelium was performed in nine surgical nephroureterectomy specimens. In seven patients, the primary lesion was carcinoma of the renal pelvis; in two, carcinoma of the ureter. In all cases, in areas peripheral to obvious carcinomas, there were extensive epithelial abnormalities akin to those previously described in mapping studies of the urinary bladder. The epithelial changes ranged from hyperplasia to flat carcinoma in situ. The latter was observed in four patients and appears to be an unfavorable prognostic sign: one of the four patients died of disease three months after surgery, and two patients developed metachronous carcinomas of the urinary bladder. Only one of these four patients has been free of disease for 21 months. One additional patient with atypical urothelium in the renal pelvis also developed a metachronous bladder cancer. Significant neoplastic abnormalities of the epithelium of the collecting ducts were observed in six of the seven cases of carcinoma of the renal pelvis. The study emphasizes the essential unity of the urothelium as a target organ for neoplastic events.
TEM analysis of Gd5(SixGel−x)4, where x=1/2

Abstract The material Gd 5 (Si x Ge l− x )4, with x =1/2 was investigated using transmission electron microscopy. The material possesses a complex crystallographic structure and undergoes a unique, reversible, transformation at low temperatures and an irreversible high temperature transformation. The high, room and low temperature microstructures of arc-melted and heat treated samples are reported. Direct observation of the transformation with a discussion on the mechanism of the reversible, low temperature, phase transformation is detailed.
The onset of superfluidity in4He films adsorbed in aerogel glass

We have completed a systematic study of the superfluid density of 4 He films adsorbed in 91% porosity aerogel glass. We have concentrated on the low-coverage regime (Tc<200 mK) in an attempt to address recent theoretical work on the onset of superfluidity in dirty boson systems. Our data are not in agreement with the predictions of a scaling theory of the onset transition developed by Fisher et al. 1 We discuss the extent of this disagreement and the limitations of other models of the onset transition.
Nodular localized primary cutaneous amyloidosis: a bullous variant

Summary Primary cutaneous amyloidosis describes a group of disorders in which amyloid is deposited in the skin without evidence of systemic involvement. Nodular localized primary cutaneous amyloidosis (NLPCA) is a rare form of these skin-restricted amyloidoses. We present an unusual case of NLPCA in a 51-year-old man, who had clinical and histopathological evidence of subepidermal bullous formation, a unique feature in NLPCA. The possible pathogenesis of this change is discussed.
Microstructure control for thin film metallization

A strategy was developed for controlling hillock formation in thin metal films by controlling the fiber texture to be of a relatively “weak” orientation. Two-dimensional molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed to determine the parameter dependencies of texturing under ion beam assisted deposition. Simulations showed that even for film orientations that have a lower number of nearest neighbor surface bonds, the reduction in sputtering rate by ion channeling will favor the growth of the grains aligned with their channeling direction in the direction of the ion beam. Higher energies should result in greater sputtering and a higher surface roughness. Confirmatory experiments were performed by growing Al films using ion beam assisted deposition in which the Ne ion beam was normal to the substrate surface. For all energies above 0 eV/atom, the fiber texture contained a (220) component and, at high normalized energies, the fiber texture was heavily (220) dominated. Subsequent annealing at 450°C for 30 min. resulted in hillock formation in the PVD (physical vapor deposition) condition, a reduction in the hillock density by two orders of magnitude in the 120 eV/atom condition and complete elimination of hillocking above 800 eV/atom. Although the surface roughness increased with ion beam energy as modeled by MD, the surface became smoother during annealing. These results show that the fiber texture can be controlled in a thin metal film in such a way as to eliminate hillock formation, that molecular dynamics simulation is a valuable predictive tool for guiding experiments in the development of thin film microstructures and that ion beam assisted deposition is an effective, practical tool for controlling microstructures of thin metal films.
Scene and position specificity in visual memory for objects

This study investigated whether and how visual representations of individual objects are bound in memory to scene context. Participants viewed a series of naturalistic scenes, and memory for the visual form of a target object in each scene was examined in a 2-alternative forced-choice test, with the distractor object either a different object token or the target object rotated in depth. In Experiments 1 and 2, object memory performance was more accurate when the test object alternatives were displayed within the original scene than when they were displayed in isolation, demonstrating object-to-scene binding. Experiment 3 tested the hypothesis that episodic scene representations are formed through the binding of object representations to scene locations. Consistent with this hypothesis, memory performance was more accurate when the test alternatives were displayed within the scene at the same position originally occupied by the target than when they were displayed at a different position.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES OF USING STEERING TORQUE UNDER VARIOUS ROAD CONDITIONS FOR SIDESLIP AND FRICTION ESTIMATION

Abstract Recent work shows that steering torque, a measurement already available in some production vehicles, is a promising source of information for estimating sideslip and friction. By modeling steering torque and lateral force, preliminary studies have demonstrated the ability to estimate friction at half the peak tire force and sideslip angle up to the limits of handling using steering torque and other available measurements. In order to explore the issues and limitations associated with this method, this paper investigates the accuracy of these models during experimental test conditions that include flat and banked roads, road grade, and transient maneuvers. The experimental results demonstrate that the models perform well on flat and banked roads and during transient maneuvers, but a more sophisticated load transfer model is required to capture the effect of road grade.
Challenges in developing and implementing safety risk tolerance criteria

Risk quantification can help in understanding and managing risk. Establishing quantitative risk criteria can be a key component to risk decision-making and many companies use such criteria, either formally or informally. The Center for Chemical Process Safety issued its guidance on developing quantitative safety risk criteria in 2009—Center for Chemical Process Safety Guidelines for Developing Quantitative Safety Risk Tolerance Criteria. This article addresses some of the more common challenges that users may face in developing and implementing safety risk tolerance criteria as they apply the Guidelines. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011
Cultured AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma (AIDS-KS) cells demonstrate impaired bioenergetic adaptation to oxidant challenge: implication for oxidant stress in AIDS-KS pathogenesis.

Despite its recognition as the most prevalent HIV associated cancer, speculation still abounds regarding the pathogenesis of AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma (AIDS-KS). However, it has been established that both cytokines, e.g. IL-6, and HIV-associated products, e.g., Tat, are integral in AIDS-KS cellular proliferation. Further, both experimental and clinical evidence is accumulating to link reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) with both cytokine induction (primarily via nuclear factor-κB [NF-κB] dependent routes) as well as the subsequent cytokine, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) stimulation of HIV replication. Features of AIDS-KS patients, such as retention of phagocytes, presence of sustained immunostimulation, and a frequent history of KS lesions arising at traumatized sites, make oxidant stress a viable clinical factor in AIDS-KS development. Time course nucleotide profile analyses show that AIDS-KS cells have an inherent, statistically significant, biochemical deficit, even prior to oxidant stress, due to (1) a more glycolytic bioenergetic profile, resulting in lower levels of high energy phosphates (impairing capacity for glutathione [GSH] synthesis and DNA repair); (2) lower levels of NADPH (compromising the activities of GSSG reductase and peroxidase function of catalase); and (3) reduced levels of GSH (impeding both GSH peroxidase and GSH-S-transferases). Following exposure to physiologically relevant levels of H2O2 only the human microvascular endothelial cells (a putative AIDS-KS progenitor cell) responded with bioenergetic adaptations that reflected co-ordination of energy generating and cytoprotective pathways, e.g., retention of the cellular energy charge, increased NAD+, and an accentuation of the ATP, NADPH, and total adenine nucleotide differences relative to AIDS-KS cells. Also, some of the AIDS-KS strains retained intracellular GSSG subsequent to oxidant challenge, inviting the formation of deleterious protein mixed disulfides. While the results of our study address some AIDS-KS issues, they also raise an etiological question, i.e., Does the inability to tolerate oxidant stress arise in conjunction with AIDS-KS neoplastic development, or is it pre-existing in the population at risk? Regardless, use of antioxidant therapy (low risk/potentially high benefit) in both the “at risk” population as well as in those individuals with active disease may prove a useful preventative and/or treatment modality. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Graphene Neural Sensors for Next Generation In Vivo Imaging and Optogenetics

Graphene has been studied extensively for their properties in the electrical, mechanical, and optical domains. Graphene"s flexible, transparent, and bio-compatible characteristics expand its boundaries from electrical applications to biological applications. Here, we present graphene neural sensors that allow for next generation in vivo imaging and optogenetics for its transparency over a broad wavelength spectrum and ultra-mechanical flexibility. The neural sensors implanted on the brain surface in rodents verify their unique abilities, including see-through in vivo imaging via fluorescence microscopy and 3D optical coherence tomography, and performance in advanced optogenetic experiments. The study is expected to deliver key information regarding the use of graphene in biological environments, specifically the brain. Subsequently, the study will have a strong impact on a wide spectrum of research areas spanning electrical engineering, neural science, and neural engineering.
Periventricular heterotopia and the genetics of neuronal migration in the cerebral cortex.

In recent years, remarkable contributions to our understanding of how the brain develops have come from the field of genetics. The study of brain development is important, not only to further our understanding of this complex phenomenon, but because gross brain malformations are now recognized to cause significant proportions of cognitive and neurologic disorders. When the cerebral cortex fails to form properly, the result is often severe mental retardation. Even mild dysgenesis of the cortex is frequently associated with epilepsy.
Frequent Mutations in the RPL22 Gene and its Clinical and Functional Implications

Abstract Objective To determine the frequency and spectrum of mutations in RPL22 a gene identified by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) as mutated in endometrioid endometrial cancer, and determine the relationship between RPL22 defects and clinicopathologic features. Methods Direct sequencing of the entire coding region of the RPL22 cDNA and exons 2/4 was performed in tumors with/without microsatellite instability (MSI). RPL22 expression was assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy in the KLE, RL952 and AN3CA cell lines, wildtype, heterozygous and homozygous mutants, respectively. Relationships between RPL22 mutation and clinicopathological features were assessed using Chi-squared analysis and Student's t test. Progression-free survival (PFS) was calculated from the date of diagnosis to the date of recurrence. Results A single nucleotide deletion in an A8 coding repeat was identified in exon 2 of the RPL22 gene in 116/226 (52%) of MSI-high tumors. No mutations were identified in MSI-stable tumors. Only 2% of the tumors expressed a homozygous A deletion. RPL22 mutation was not associated with stage, grade, race and lymphovascular space invasion. Women whose tumors harbored RPL22 mutations were significantly older (67 vs. 63years, p =0.005). There was no difference in PFS between patients with the wildtype and mutant genotypes. Conclusions RPL22 is frequently mutated in MSI-high endometrioid endometrial cancers. The A8 mutation identified was not reported in the whole exome sequences analyzed by the TCGA. The demonstration of frequent mutation in RPL22 may point to a limitation of the exome capture and next generation sequencing analysis methods for some mononucleotide string mutations. Functional assessment of the RPL22 knockdown may be warranted.
Fitting conic sections to “very scattered” data: An iterative refinement of the bookstein algorithm

Abstract An examination of the geometric interpretation of the error-of-fit measure of the Bookstein algorithm for fitting conic sections shows why it may not be entirely satisfoctory when the data are “very scattere” in the sense that the data points are distributed rather widely about an underlying smooth curve. A simple iterative refinement of the Bookstein al;gorithm, similar in spirit to iterative weighted least-squares methods in regression analysis, results in a fitted conic section that approximates the conic that would minimize the sum of squared orthogonal distances of data points from the fitted conic. The usefulness and limitations of the refined algorithm are demonstrated on two different types of “very scattered” data.