cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Hunter Method of Simultaneous Inference and its Recommended Use for Applications Having Large Known Correlation Structures

Abstract The Hunter (H) method of simultaneous estimation of all means is based on a second-order Bonferroni-type inequality and is superior to the Bonferroni (B) method. This method is applicable for cases using a multivariate t distribution with correlation matrix R = (ρ ij ) and is shown to be decidedly superior to the B method when the correlations ρ ij in R are all large (|ρij| > .5). This article presents an example, using data from Draper and Smith (1966), in which the 95 percent Hunter confidence intervals for the model parameters are 20 percent narrower than the corresponding Bonferroni intervals.
Lipoprotein lipase: structure, function and mechanism of action

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) plays a central role in the hydrolysis of circulating triglycerides present in chylomicrons, and very low density lipoproteins. The active form of the enzyme is a non-covalent homodimer which contains multiple functional domains required for normal hydrolytic activity including a catalytic domain, as well as sites involved in co-factor, heparin and lipid binding. Recent studies involving site-directed mutagenesis, the elucidation of the three dimensional crystallographic structure of different lipases, as well as analysis of the molecular defects that result in the expression of the familial chylomicronemia syndrome have provided new insights into the structure-function relationship of LPL. As a result, our understanding of structural domains involved in catalysis, heparin, lipid binding, and enzyme-cofactor interaction as well as the mechanism of action of LPL as an acylglycerol hydrolase has been greatly enhanced.
Terrestrial and in‐stream influences on the spatial variability of nitrate in a forested headwater catchment

[1] A vast majority of monitoring programs designed to assess nutrient fluxes from headwater systems rely upon temporally intensive sampling at a single position within the stream network, essentially measuring the integrated response of the catchment. Missing from such an approach is spatial information related to how nutrient availability varies throughout the network, where freshwater biota live and where biogeochemical processes ultimately shape the downstream water chemistry. Here, we examine the spatial distribution of nitrate (NO3−) concentrations within the Paine Run catchment, a forested headwater catchment in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. Nitrate concentrations throughout the stream network were measured as part of synoptic surveys conducted in 1992–1994, in the aftermath of region-wide gypsy moth defoliation that caused dramatic increases in stream water NO3− concentrations. A follow-up synoptic survey was conducted in 2007, when the stream water NO3− concentrations had returned to predefoliation levels. Common to each of the eight synoptic surveys were observations of multiple-fold declines in NO3− concentration along the main stem of the stream network from the headwaters to the catchment outlet. A portion of this decline was caused by dilution, as water input by tributaries at the lower elevations of the catchment tended to have lower NO3− concentrations. A stream network model was applied to determine the relative contributions of terrestrial versus in-stream processes to the spatial variability of the NO3− concentrations. Model results suggest that even though nitrate removal within the stream network can be substantial, terrestrial factors that determine the NO3− inputs to streams account for the vast majority of the spatial variability in stream water NO3− concentrations.
The stability constants of several copper(II) complexes with aromatic carboxylic acids and their correlation with the Hammett relationship

Abstract The first and second stability constants of seventeen copper(II) complexes with aromatic carboxylic acids have been determined at 25° in a 50 per cent by volume water/dioxane solvent with four of these systems being extended to 30 and 35°. The corresponding thermodynamic values have been calculated. The first stability constants have been fitted to the Hammett equation using σ values obtained from the dissociation constants of the parent acids in this solvent. An inverse relationship is found which can be attributed to either of two possible causes. The first is the formation of strong π-bonds by back-donation of electrons from the copper(II) to the ligand. The second possible cause is the fortuitous cancellation of a direct relationship by some inverse relationship involving the polymerization of the carboxylic acid. In this second case both processes would be governed by a Hammett type relationship but would be dependent upon variations in the σ constants in an opposite manner.
Tool demonstration: The visualizations of code bubbles

Code Bubbles is an integrated development environment that concentrates on the user experience. The environment is very visual and includes a number of different visualizations, both static and dynamic. We will demonstrate the environment and the various visualizations on a realistic scenario based on our current work.
Specific Binding of Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-Bisphosphate to Calcium-dependent Activator Protein for Secretion (CAPS), a Potential Phosphoinositide Effector Protein for Regulated Exocytosis

The calcium-dependent activator protein for secretion (CAPS) is a novel neural/endocrine-specific cytosolic and peripheral membrane protein required for the Ca2+-regulated exocytosis of secretory vesicles. CAPS acts at a stage in exocytosis that follows ATP-dependent priming, which involves the essential synthesis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P2). In the present studies, CAPS is shown to bind liposomes that contain acidic phospholipids and binding was markedly enhanced by inclusion of PtdIns(4,5)P2 but not other phosphoinositides in the absence of Ca2+. PtdIns(4,5)P2, but not other phosphoinositides including PtdIns(3, 4)P2 and PtdIns(3,4,5)P3, altered the susceptibility of CAPS to proteolysis by trypsin and proteinase K, suggesting that phosphoinositide binding promoted a conformational change. Photoaffinity labeling studies with a photoactivatable benzoylcinnimidyl acyl chain derivative of PtdIns(4,5)P2 confirmed the phosphoinositide-binding properties of CAPS and suggested a hydrophobic aspect of the interaction. CAPS, as one of very few characterized proteins with a binding specificity for 4-, 5-phosphorylated inositides over 3-phosphorylated inositides, may function in regulated exocytosis as an effector of PtdIns(4,5)P2.
Nasal argyria (deposition of silver-selenium) in the photographic film industry: histopathology and microanalysis.

Argyria is grayish black discoloration of skin or mucous membrane caused by silver deposition; it may be localized or diffuse. Diffuse argyria occurs as a result of elevated silver levels in blood, whereas localized argyria occurs when there is direct deposition from an external source. Exposure to silver was common in the last century; however, in the present times, argyria is an uncommon entity because of the restrictive use of silver-containing medicines and decreased industrial exposure. Occupational exposure is common among silversmiths [1], mineworkers, photographic film laboratory workers, and individuals involved in the electroplating industry. Cases after prolonged use of silver salts for wound dressing, acupuncture needles, silver earrings [2], eyedrops containing silver, and irrigation of urethral or nasal mucous membranes with silver-containing solutions have been reported. Argyria has also been seen among patients undergoing dental procedures, such as silver amalgam tattooing. 2. Case presentation A 66-year-old man had nasal blockage and intermittent drainage from both nares for many years. The drainage was watery and persistent even after being treated with multiple medications. Nasal examination revealed bilateral bluish black pigmentation of mucosa in the superior-anterior portion of the nasal septum. There was no other area of pigmentation either on the skin or elsewhere. The patient’s history is significant for stroke, myocardial infarction, and hypertension. He worked as a supervisor in the chemical sensitizing paper unit of a photographic film–producing company before retiring in 1992 and was exposed to a large number of chemicals, including silver nitrate. In 2004, a computed tomographic scan of the patient’s paranasal sinuses showed minimal mucosal thickening in the left maxillary sinus. A small biopsy specimen of the pigmented nasal mucosa was taken under local anesthesia and sent for routine histopathologic analysis. Subsequently, analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was also performed.
Slip model for hypersonic viscous flow

shown for the total (or wideband) turbulence as well as for turbulence filtered to follow eddies of size X = 7.5S, 36, and 7.56. The wideband convection speed is slightly higher than the mean flow speed. The filtered correlations have given eddy speeds higher than the mean speed and lower than the mean speed near and away from the wall respectively, the more so as the eddy size increases. Such behavior is qualitatively similar to the lower Mach number case, as shown on Fig. 4; note that for eddy sizes X7.56 the speed is nearly constant at about 900 m/sec or Q.75ue. This latter result is in agreement with data from Ref. 2, which, however, also assigns a nearly equal speed to the total (unfiltered) turbulence, in contrast to our findings as stated above. In summary, certain features of the correlation tensor of the hypersonic turbulent boundary layer seem to depart from the corresponding features of the low-speed boundary layer; in particular, the Mach 9.4 layer studied here decayed faster than expected from low-speed data. The dependence of convection speed on eddy size follows the trend observed in, but is more pronounced than, the low-speed data. What is of concern is the disagreement found between the present data and the hypersonic data of Horstman and Owen, in which the turbulence decay is extremely slow and in which the convection speed of the total, unfiltered turbulence is almost equal to the speed of the large eddies. This may be due to the "transitional" state of the boundary layer of Ref. 2, or even to the small differences in geometry and Mach number between it and the present work. Further experiments at high Mach numbers would therefore seen necessary to shed some light on this issue.
Interface instability and nanostructure patterning

Recent experimental findings show that a flat interface between two dielectric media may lose stability in an electrostatic field. The instability grows over time and leads to morphological patterns with quite uniform feature sizes. An understanding of the phenomenon may lead to novel approaches for nanofabrication. This paper presents a three-dimensional dynamic model to account for the behavior. The coupled viscous flow, diffusion, surface energy and dielectric effect are incorporated into a phase field framework. The semi-implicit Fourier spectral method and the preconditioned biconjugate-gradient method are proposed, which leads to high efficiency and numerical stability. The computational study reveals a complete picture of the self-assembly process, especially the critical nonlinear evolution regime that links the early perturbation and late structure. The simulations unveil rich dynamics and show that the final structure is not solely determined by energetics: the kinetic process can play an important role. Tuning the electric field can produce a variety of patterns.
Preparing for sudden cardiac arrest—the essential role of automated external defibrillators in athletic medicine: a critical review

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in exercising young athletes. Three factors-prompt recognition of SCA, the presence of a trained rescuer to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and access to early defibrillation through on-site automated external defibrillators (AEDs)-are critical to improving survival. Schools, clubs and organisations sponsoring athletic events should have an established emergency response plan for SCA. Essential elements of an emergency response plan include an effective communication system to alert first responders and retrieve the AED, training of anticipated responders in CPR and AED use, access to an AED for early defibrillation, integration of on-site AED programmes with the local emergency medical services system, and practice and review of the response plan. Timely access to AEDs at training and sporting competitions permits effective management of SCA and the prevention of sudden cardiac death in athletes. SCA should be suspected in any collapsed and unresponsive athlete and an AED applied as soon as possible for rhythm analysis and defibrillation if indicated. This article reviews emergency response planning for SCA and highlights recent data that provide a compelling case for the essential role of AEDs in the athletic setting.
Stability of two-dimensional nonlinear discrete systems

A new class of two-dimensional (2-D) nonlinear discrete-time systems is formulated. This class of systems is more general than the well-known bilinear system and is therefore called the "2-D Generalized Bilinear System" (2DGBLS). State-space models of this new system are also formulated. The bounded input bounded output (BIBO) stability of the 2DGBLS is investigated. The difference equation and the state-space models are considered and sufficient conditions are established for stability. Some examples are presented to illustrate the results.
Sensitivity of continental United States atmospheric budgets of oxidized and reduced nitrogen to dry deposition parametrizations

Reactive nitrogen (Nr) is removed by surface fluxes (air–surface exchange) and wet deposition. The chemistry and physics of the atmosphere result in a complicated system in which competing chemical sources and sinks exist and impact that removal. Therefore, uncertainties are best examined with complete regional chemical transport models that simulate these feedbacks. We analysed several uncertainties in regional air quality model resistance analogue representations of air–surface exchange for unidirectional and bi-directional fluxes and their effect on the continental Nr budget. Model sensitivity tests of key parameters in dry deposition formulations showed that uncertainty estimates of continental total nitrogen deposition are surprisingly small, 5 per cent or less, owing to feedbacks in the chemistry and rebalancing among removal pathways. The largest uncertainties (5%) occur with the change from a unidirectional to a bi-directional NH3 formulation followed by uncertainties in bi-directional compensation points (1–4%) and unidirectional aerodynamic resistance (2%). Uncertainties have a greater effect at the local scale. Between unidirectional and bi-directional formulations, single grid cell changes can be up to 50 per cent, whereas 84 per cent of the cells have changes less than 30 per cent. For uncertainties within either formulation, single grid cell change can be up to 20 per cent, but for 90 per cent of the cells changes are less than 10 per cent.
Strain coupling in the PbTiO3 ferroelectric transition

The construction of a first-principles effective Hamiltonian for the perovskite ferroelectric PbTiO 3 yields independent parameters describing separate contributions from quadratic-order lattice instabilities, anharmonic coupling, long-range dipolar interactions and strain. The origin of the large strain effects in PbTi0 3 is identified through analysis of chemical trends in related perovskite compounds. The generation of long-range interactions by integrating out strain is discussed for these systems, and an analogy with long-range dipolar interactions explored. The effects of strain on the finite-temperature PbTiO 3 ferroelectric transition are investigated by solving the effective Hamiltonian using mean field theory and the Monte Carlo simulation. Strain is found to be responsible for the stabilization of the tetragonal phase below T c and for the first order character of the transition. The effects of strain in other perovskite transitions are expected to be similar. Finally, the importance of realistic Hamiltonians for future microscopic simulations of microstructure effects is discussed.
Cloud Computing for Pharmacometrics: Using AWS, NONMEM, PsN, Grid Engine and Sonic

Cloud computing allows pharmacometricians to access advanced hardware, network, and security resources available to expedite analysis and reporting. Cloud-based computing environments are available at a fraction of the time and effort when compared to traditional local datacenter-based solutions. This tutorial explains how to get started with building your own personal cloud computer cluster using Amazon Web Services (AWS), NONMEM, PsN, Grid Engine, and Sonic.
Comparison of conventional and biventricular antitachycardia pacing in a geometrically realistic model of the rabbit ventricle.

Modeling of Biventricular ATP. Introduction: ICDs often are programmed with antitachycardia pacing (ATP) as the first response to ventricular tachycardia (VT). Many ICDs have an additional lead available for ventricular pacing. We hypothesized that using the additional lead for ATP would improve therapy by advancing the orthodromic wavefront, thereby reducing the size of the excitable gap and inducing block of all reentrant activity. Methods and Results: Monomorphic VT was initiated in a thin-walled model of rabbit ventricular myocardium that included an apical infarct and anatomically realistic dimensions. ATP with up to eight pulses was delivered at 90% of VT cycle length to one (conventional) or two (biventricular) stimulation areas. Stimulation areas were adjusted from 0.017 cm 2 to 0.169 cm 2 to modulate interactions between the antidromic and VT wavefronts, and between the orthodromic wavefront and the VT's refractory region. During conventional ATP, we found that larger stimulation areas terminated the VT in three pulses. Continued pacing after termination caused VT reinitiation in the reversed direction in some instances. With smaller stimulation areas, conventional ATP simply reset the circuit. During biventricular ATP, larger stimulation areas terminated VT in one pulse. There were no instances of reinitiation with reversal. However, with smaller stimulation areas, prolongation of refractoriness near the additional stimulation area facilitated induction of functional reentry with pathways modified by continued pacing. Conclusion: Our modeling suggests that biventricular ATP is superior to conventional ATP under conditions where the additional ventricular lead effectively advances the orthodromic wavefront. Failure to achieve this advancement poses a risk of VT acceleration.
The role of IL-27 in susceptibility to post-influenza Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia

Influenza is a common respiratory virus and Staphylococcus aureus frequently causes secondary pneumonia during influenza infection, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Influenza has been found to attenuate subsequent Type 17 immunity, enhancing susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections. IL-27 is known to inhibit Type 17 immunity, suggesting a potential critical role for IL-27 in viral and bacterial co-infection. A murine model of influenza and Staphylococcus aureus infection was used to mimic human viral, bacterial co-infection. C57BL/6 wild-type, IL-27 receptor α knock-out, and IL-10 knock-out mice were infected with Influenza H1N1 (A/PR/8/34) or vehicle for 6 days followed by challenge with Staphylococcus aureus or vehicle for 24 hours. Lung inflammation, bacterial burden, gene expression, and cytokine production were determined. IL-27 receptor α knock-out mice challenged with influenza A had increased morbidity compared to controls, but no change in viral burden. IL-27 receptor α knock-out mice infected with influenza displayed significantly decreased IL-10 production compared to wild-type. IL-27 receptor α knock-out mice co-infected with influenza and S. aureus had improved bacterial clearance compared to wild-type controls. Importantly, there were significantly increased Type 17 responses and decreased IL-10 production in IL-27 receptor α knock-out mice. Dual infected IL-10−/− mice had significantly less bacterial burden compared to dual infected WT mice. These data reveal that IL-27 regulates enhanced susceptibility to S. aureus pneumonia following influenza infection, potentially through the induction of IL-10 and suppression of IL-17.
Identifying Fracture Interconnections Between Boreholes Using Natural Temperature Profiling: I. Conceptual Basis

In situ delineation of fracture characteristics is a difficult and often time-consuming task. Several advantages would be gained from the development of simple field techniques which provide direct evidence of such parameters as fracture connectivity, fracture orientation, or fracture aperture. In this paper, such a technique for delineation of fracture connectivity between boreholes is introduced. The technique is based on utilizing the natural variation of water temperature within the subsurface as a natural ground-water tracer. In this technique, thermal response in observation boreholes induced by local pumping or injection is related to the location of interconnected fractures. The technique provides several advantages including simple equipment and time requirements, direct evidence of fracture flow between boreholes, and the ability to test without contaminating a field site. The major limitations of the technique are related to the volume of fluid movement within an observation hole and are controlled by the geometry of the flow field in the vicinity of the pumping/ injection borehole. Two case studies are briefly outlined demonstrating application of the technique to both a fractured granite and a fractured dolomite. Part II of this paper (Robinson and Silliman, in preparation) contains a detailed discussion of the application of this technique to the second, fractured dolomite, case study.
Relationships of PBMC microRNA expression, plasma viral load, and CD4+ T-cell count in HIV-1-infected elite suppressors and viremic patients

HIV-1-infected elite controllers or suppressors (ES) maintain undetectable viral loads (< 50 copies/mL) without antiretroviral therapy. The mechanisms of suppression are incompletely understood. Modulation of HIV-1 replication by miRNAs has been reported, but the role of small RNAs in ES is unknown. Using samples from a well-characterized ES cohort, untreated viremic patients, and uninfected controls, we explored the PBMC miRNA profile and probed the relationships of miRNA expression, CD4+ T-cell counts, and viral load. miRNA profiles, obtained using multiple acquisition, data processing, and analysis methods, distinguished ES and uninfected controls from viremic HIV-1-infected patients. For several miRNAs, however, ES and viremic patients shared similar expression patterns. Differentially expressed miRNAs included those with reported roles in HIV-1 latency (miR-29 family members, miRs -125b and -150). Others, such as miR-31 and miR-31*, had no previously reported connection with HIV-1 infection but were found here to differ significantly with uncontrolled HIV-1 replication. Correlations of miRNA expression with CD4+ T-cell count and viral load were found, and we observed that ES with low CD4+ T-cell counts had miRNA profiles more closely related to viremic patients than controls. However, expression patterns indicate that miRNA variability cannot be explained solely by CD4+ T-cell variation. The intimate involvement of miRNAs in disease processes is underscored by connections of miRNA expression with the HIV disease clinical parameters of CD4 count and plasma viral load. However, miRNA profile changes are not explained completely by these variables. Significant declines of miRs-125b and -150, among others, in both ES and viremic patients indicate the persistence of host miRNA responses or ongoing effects of infection despite viral suppression by ES. We found no negative correlations with viral load in viremic patients, not even those that have been reported to silence HIV-1 in vitro, suggesting that the effects of these miRNAs are exerted in a focused, cell-type-specific manner. Finally, the observation that some ES with low CD4 counts were consistently related to viremic patients suggests that miRNAs may serve as biomarkers for risk of disease progression even in the presence of viral suppression.
Moderate caloric restriction initiated in rodents during adulthood sustains function of the female reproductive axis into advanced chronological age

Age-related ovarian failure in women heralds the transition into postmenopausal life, which is characterized by a loss of fertility and increased risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and cognitive dysfunction. Unfortunately, there are no options available for delaying loss of ovarian function with age in humans. Rodent studies have shown that caloric restriction (CR) can extend female fertile lifespan; however, much of this work initiated CR at weaning, which causes stunted adolescent growth and a delayed onset of sexual maturation. Herein we tested in mice if CR initiated in adulthood could delay reproductive aging. After 4 months of CR, the ovarian follicle reserve was doubled compared to ad libitum (AL)-fed age-matched controls, which in mating trials exhibited a loss of fertility by 15.5 months of age. In CR females returned to AL feeding at 15.5 months of age, approximately one-half remained fertile for 6 additional months and one-third continued to deliver offspring through 23 months of age. Notably, fecundity of CR-then-AL-fed females and postnatal offspring survival rates were dramatically improved compared with aging AL-fed controls. For example, between 10 and 23 months of age, only 22% of the 54 offspring delivered by AL-fed females survived. In contrast, over 73% of the 94 pups delivered by 15.5- to 23-month-old CR-then-AL-fed mice survived without any overt complications. These data indicate that in mice adult-onset CR maintains function of the female reproductive axis into advanced age and dramatically improves postnatal survival of offspring delivered by aged females.
Construction of long life argon lasers

The Tonks-Langmuir theory for the low-pressure positive column is reviewed and shown to be applicable to argon ion laser operation. Under these conditions ions formed in the plasma are accelerated and move by free fall to the wall. The sputtering effects of the ions on the plasma confining structure are evaluated for both a uniform insulator wall and a sectioned metal wall. A test is described where materials suitable for a sectioned column are compared. Of the materials tested (Ta, Mo, and graphite), graphite is shown to have outstanding properties for argon laser applications. A successful 1000-hour life test is described. Only slight sputtering damage was observed for the graphite plasma confining structure. Design considerations for long life argon lasers are discussed. These include choice of cathode, electrode shapes, plasma confinement structure, and tube processing. Solutions to the argon clean-up problem are described. Argon lasers built according to these recommendations are exemplified.
Mechanism of the age-related decline in lymphocyte proliferation: Role of IL-2 production and protein synthesis

Abstract Although an age-related decline in mitogen-induced proliferation in spleen lymphocytes has been reported by numerous investigators, the molecular mechanism responsible is unknown. In this study, we compared the mitogen-induced proliferation, IL-2 production, and protein synthesis in spleen lymphocytes isolated from 4, 12, 20 and 30 month-old male Fischer F344 rats. IL-2 production by Con A-stimulated lymphocytes, as determined by the ability of the culture supernatants to support the growth of cultured T cells, declined over 72% between 4 and 30 months of age. This decline in IL-2 production paralleled a similar decrease in proliferation. Early protein synthesis by Con A-stimulated spleen lymphocytes was determined by measuring the incorporation of [ 3 H]-valine into acid insoluble material, and this dropped 74% between 4 and 30 months of age. There was a strong correlation between the age-related decline in the three parameters tested. Based on these results, we propose that the age-related decline in protein synthesis may be the molecular basis for the similar decrease in IL-2 production and mitogenesis.
Performance Assessment of a Warm Asphalt Binder in the Presence of Water by Using Surface Free Energy Concepts and Nanoscale Techniques

AbstractWarm mix asphalt (WMA) has been gaining attention in the past few years because it offers several advantages over traditional hot mix asphalt (HMA) during production and placement. The advantages include: (1) reduced energy consumption; (2) reduced emissions; (3) reduced binder aging; and (4) extended construction season in temperate climates. Moisture damage in a compacted HMA/WMA mixture can be defined as the separation of the asphalt binder from the surface of the aggregate in the presence of water. In this study, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to investigate the effects of water on the adhesion and cohesion forces in three asphalt binders (one HMA, two WMA) using four different cantilever tips with different materials. AFM is a microscope that can be used to makes high quality three-dimensional images for smooth and level surfaces. The asphalt binders were the HMA PG 70-22 binder; PG 70-22 mixed with a proprietary Sasol wax at 4% by weight to make a WMA binder; and PG 70-22 with a prop...
Effect of functionalized MWCNTs on the thermo-mechanical properties of poly(5-ethylidene-2-norbornene) composites produced by ring-opening metathesis polymerization

Functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) reinforced poly(5-ethylidene-2-norbornene (ENB)) composites have been fabricated via ring-opening metathesis polymerization. Verification of covalent bond formation between the functionalized carbon nanotubes and the polyENB matrix was demonstrated by solvent exposure followed by thermal gravimetry. The tensile toughness of the composites increased by 300% with dramatic morphological changes on the resulting fracture surfaces when just 0.8 wt% norbornene-functionalized MWCNTs (f-MWCNTs) were added to the polymer. A slight increase of glass-transition temperature was observed by dynamic mechanical analysis compared to a decreased value with unfunctionalized MWCNTs.
Construction of signaling networks with incomplete RNAi data

Methods for constructing signaling networks from reference networks and single gene knockdown RNAi experiments have been proposed in recent years. All of these studies assume that the RNAi data is complete. However, RNAi experiments are usually noisy and more importantly have a considerable amount of missing data (i.e., a subset of the gene knockdowns is missing). In this paper, we address the signaling network construction problem with incomplete RNAi data. We develop two new methods for constructing a network topology which is closest to the reference network and consistent with the given incomplete RNAi data. Our experiments on real and synthetic datasets demonstrate that these methods produce accurate results and they are efficient. For real Wnt networks, our methods produce results with high accuracy in less than 100 ms.
Lessons Learned: The Implementation of an Innovative Core Curriculum in Business

Rosabeth Moss Kanter (1983) defines change simply: “Change involves the crystallization of new action possibilities (new policies, new behaviors, new patterns, new methodologies, new products, or new market ideas) based on reconceptualized patterns in the organization” (p. 279). Kanter, upon completion of an exhaustive multi-organization-based research study, summarizes her view that change may be internally or externally driven and responses to change vary widely with the prevailing perceptions of the meanings attached to the precipitating forces and attendant organizational responses. In her view, “Organizational change consists in part of a series of emerging constructions of reality, including revision of the past, to
Observations on the antigenicity of viridans streptococci isolated from the air.

SummaryTwenty-six of 50 “typical” streptococci isolated from the air resemble immunologically the viridans streptococci obtained from human sources, whereas only 6 of 39 “atypical” streptococci from the air exhibit a similar relationship.The epidemiological application of the data is discussed.
Early history of theJuglandaceae

The major radiation of theJuglandaceae occurred during the early Tertiary as recorded by the proliferation of juglandaceous pollen and the appearance of fruits representing extinct and extant genera of the family. Juglandaceous pollen types of the Paleocene were predominantly triporate and exhibited a greater diversity in patterns of exinous thinning than occurs in the family today. Analyses of in situ pollen from early Tertiary juglandaceous inflorescences confirms the taxonomic value of certain patterns of exinous thinning. Data from co-occurring fruits and pollen indicate that relatively unspecialized, isopolar triporate pollen of the type presently confined to the tribeEngelhardieae also occurred in other tribes of the family during the Paleocene. Pollination has been mostly anemophilous throughout the Tertiary. Both wind and animal fruit-dispersal syndromes were established early in the radiation of the family but a greater diversity of wind-dispersed genera has prevailed.
Effect of Temperature on the Development of the Blackfaced Leafhopper (Homoptera: Cicadellidae)

A laboratory investigation examined the effects of temperature on development of Graminella nigrifrons (Forbes) using seedling johnsongrass as the host. Daily development for each life stage was calculated. Results indicate no significant differences between developmental rates of male and female G. nigrifrons eggs at the temperatures studied. Male nymphs, however, exhibited significantly faster developmental rates than female nymphs. Using estimated thresholds of development of eggs and female nymphs, it was determined that three generations of the leafhopper per year were likely in central Kentucky.
An Input — Output Model Of Employee Behavior

One of the most promising areas for future development lies in the synthesis of existing information from similar fields of endeavor. Too little attention has been paid by scholars with certain spe...
Comparison of Methods For Modeling Phase Variation With Angle

In another paper (Zhu and McMechan, 2011, hereinafter paper I), we show that least squares phase variation with angle (PVA) is capable of being reliably inverted for elastic parameters. A requirement for convergence to the correct solutions is consistency of the forward modeling methods for the synthetic observed data, and the predicted data. This indicates we have to look for a modeling method which can handle realistic geologic structures and produce synthetic (predicted) PVA as close as possible to the field (observed) PVA. This paper is a first step toward this goal. Three methods of measuring phase of a local wavelet are proposed and tested. Three kinds of methods for PVA modeling are discussed, including reflected spherical wave (RSW), reflectivity, and high-order finite difference (FD). Full-wave methods (reflectivity and FD) are preferred over the RSW. For laterally inhomogeneous structures, the differential solution (FD) is preferred over the integral solutions (RSW and reflectivity).
Analysis of adverse events following immunization based on surveillance data in Taizhou, 2008-2013

Objective To analyze the features of adverse events following immunization(AEFI) in Taizhou City from 2008 to 2013,and to evaluate the implementation of AEFI surveillance system. Methods We collected the reporting cases data of AEFI from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2013 from the information management system of AEFI and conducted the analysis by the descriptive epidemiology. Results 3568 cases were collected from the information management system of AEFI. There were AEFI cases reported each year in the seven districts of the city during the period of 2008 to 2013. Reporting rate and investigation rate within 48 hours were both 100%. The male-female ratio of AEFI was 1.6: 1, and children 1 years old or younger accounted for65.89%. According to estimation of the vaccination data from China Immune Planning Information Management System in Taizhou,the AEFI incidence was 50.79 per 100, 000 doses, and the adverse reaction incidence was 4.75 per 100, 000 doses. Fever, redness and induration were the main features in adverse reactions, while allergic rashes was the main feature in abnormal reactions. AEFI mainly occurred within one day after inoculating. In all AEFI, the recovery accounted for 99.97%. Conclusion The sensitivity of AEFI monitoring in the city increases year by year, and AEFI monitoring systems works properly.
Method of Determine the Parameters of Finite Element Model of Creep Deformation

a process of the finite element program applicable to the creep deformation of soft clay is well established according to the exterior performance of soil creep with the responding of internal regulation,combined with the finite element calculation method.Calculated results and experimental data are compared and analyzed in order to broad the usage of this process.The method is proved to be successful when applied in several projects.
Abstract PR04: Germline loss of PK-M2 promotes metabolic syndrome and hepatocellular carcinoma

The pyruvate kinase gene, Pkm, encodes the PK-M1 and PK-M2 isoforms, which are the result of alternative splicing of mutually exclusive exons. While PK-M1 is considered the adult pyruvate kinase isoform, PK-M2 has been closely linked to embryogenesis, tissue regeneration, stem cells, and cancer. Nonetheless, expression of PK-M2 is widespread in wild-type embryonic and adult tissues. To interrogate the functional requirement for PK-M2, we generated and characterized germline PK-M2 null mice (Pkm2-/-). We found that Pkm2-/- mice are viable and express PK-M1 throughout embryogenesis and into adulthood. Strikingly, PK-M2 loss leads to spontaneous hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that is preceded by progressive metabolic disease characterized by insulin resistance, inflammation, and hepatic steatosis. Therefore, in contrast to its role in modulating metabolism to promote cancer in a cell-intrinsic manner, PK-M2 plays a role in maintaining systemic metabolism, thereby preventing metabolic syndrome and HCC. To further dissect the contrasting systemic and cell-intrinsic roles of PK-M2 in the context of cancer, we have combined autochthonous mouse models of cancer from our lab with both the germline null allele of Pkm2, Pkm2-/-, and the conditional allele of Pkm2, Pkm2fl/fl. This study will allow us to elucidate the distinct cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic roles of PK-M2 in both maintaining normal systemic metabolism and aberrant proliferation in the context of cancer. This abstract is also presented as Poster B25. Citation Format: Talya L. Dayton, Vasilena Gocheva, Kathryn M. Miller, William J. Israelsen, Clary B. Clish, Arjun Bhutkar, Shawn M. Davidson, Alba Luengo, Matthew G. Vander Heiden, Tyler E. Jacks. Germline loss of PK-M2 promotes metabolic syndrome and hepatocellular carcinoma. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Developmental Biology and Cancer; Nov 30-Dec 3, 2015; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2016;14(4_Suppl):Abstract nr PR04.
Association Between Influenza Infection and Vaccination During Pregnancy and Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Importance Maternal infections and fever during pregnancy are associated with increased risk for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). To our knowledge, no study has investigated the association between influenza vaccination during pregnancy and ASD. Objective To investigate the association between influenza infection and vaccination during pregnancy and ASD risk. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study included 196 929 children born at Kaiser Permanente Northern California from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2010, at a gestational age of at least 24 weeks. Exposures Data on maternal influenza infection and vaccination from conception date to delivery date, obtained from Kaiser Permanente Northern California inpatient and outpatient databases. Influenza infection was defined by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes or positive influenza laboratory test results. Main Outcomes and Measures Clinical diagnoses of ASDs identified by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes 299.0, 299.8, or 299.9 recorded in Kaiser Permanente Northern California electronic medical records on at least 2 occasions any time from birth through June 2015. Results Within this cohort of 196 929 children, influenza was diagnosed in 1400 (0.7%) mothers and 45 231 (23%) received an influenza vaccination during pregnancy. The mean (SD) ages of vaccinated and unvaccinated women were 31.6 (5.2) and 30.4 (5.6) years, respectively. A total number of 3101 (1.6%) children were diagnosed with ASD. After adjusting for covariates, we found that maternal influenza infection (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.68-1.58) or influenza vaccination (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.00-1.21) anytime during pregnancy was not associated with increased ASD risk. In trimester-specific analyses, first-trimester influenza vaccination was the only period associated with increased ASD risk (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.04-1.39). However, this association could be due to chance ( P = 0.1) if Bonferroni corrected for the multiplicity of hypotheses tested (n = 8). Maternal influenza vaccination in the second or third trimester was not associated with increased ASD risk. Conclusions and Relevance There was no association between maternal influenza infection anytime during pregnancy and increased ASD risk. There was a suggestion of increased ASD risk among children whose mothers received an influenza vaccination in their first trimester, but the association was not statistically significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons, indicating that the finding could be due to chance. These findings do not call for changes in vaccine policy or practice, but do suggest the need for additional studies on maternal influenza vaccination and autism.
Development of mobile phone based transcutaneous billirubinometry

Infants in the US are routinely screened for risk of neurodevelopmental impairment due to neonatal jaundice using transcutaneous bilirubinometry (TcB). In low-resource settings, such as sub-Saharan Africa, TcB devices are not common, however, mobile camera-phones are now widespread. We provide an update on the development of TcB using the built-in camera and flash of a mobile phone, along with a snap-on adapter containing optical filters. We will present Monte Carlo Extreme modeling of diffuse reflectance in neonatal skin, implications in design, and refined analysis methods.
Möbius Invariant Cassinian Metric

We introduce a new Mobius invariant, $$\delta $$ -hyperbolic metric $$\tau _D$$ for domains D in $$\overline{\mathbb R^n}$$ , which can be considered as a Mobius invariant analogue of the scale-invariant Cassinian metric $$\tilde{\tau }_D$$ recently introduced by the author. We establish basic properties of $$\tau _D$$ including its connections with $$\tilde{\tau }_D$$ , the Apollonian metric, Seittenranta’s metric and the hyperbolic metric. We also show that $$\tau _D$$ is monotonic with respect to domains, its density is the same as the density of Ferrand’s metric and that the $$\tau _D$$ -isometries of twice-punctured spaces are Mobius maps.
Beyond the Ranked List: User-Driven Exploration and Diversification of Social Recommendation

The beyond-relevance objectives of recommender systems have been drawing more and more attention. For example, a diversity-enhanced interface has been shown to associate positively with overall levels of user satisfaction. However, little is known about how users adopt diversity-enhanced interfaces to accomplish various real-world tasks. In this paper, we present two attempts at creating a visual diversity-enhanced interface that presents recommendations beyond a simple ranked list. Our goal was to design a recommender system interface to help users explore the different relevance prospects of recommended items in parallel and to stress their diversity. Two within-subject user studies in the context of social recommendation at academic conferences were conducted to compare our visual interfaces. Results from our user study show that the visual interfaces significantly reduced the exploration efforts required for given tasks and helped users to perceive the recommendation diversity. We show that the users examined a diverse set of recommended items while experiencing an improvement in overall user satisfaction. Also, the users» subjective evaluations show significant improvement in many user-centric metrics. Experiences are discussed that shed light on avenues for future interface designs.
The value and challenges of using meta-analysis in transportation economics

The difficulties economists have in conducting laboratory experiments necessitates much of their applied analysis being based on numerous quasi-experiments conducted under a variety of uncontrolled...
The RNA recognition motif and messenger RNA

Messenger RNA in metazoans is regulated during and after transcription and during translation. In the nucleus as pre-mRNA, it is capped, spliced, and polyadenylated, then transported into the cytoplasm where it becomes a template for the ribosome. Proteins are responsible for much of the regulatory mechanisms involving pre-mRNA, and many of those proteins contain an RNA Recognition Motif (RRM) for binding RNA. Despite the common structure and conserved sequences of an RRM, this small globular domain is used for both specific and nonspecific binding to RNA. The RNA targets of an RRM range from a single nucleotide to eight nucleotides displayed in a hairpin loop; there is competition between RRMs for RNA-binding sites; there is exchange between proteins and interactions between RRMs. The story of how the RRM regulates mRNA is still being written.
Sodium/proton antiporters in the mitochondrial inner membrane.

The existence of membrane proteins designed for Na+/H+ exchange has been established in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic systems (1), and the plethora of recent reviews (see, for example, refs. 1–3 and references therein) testifies to the perceived importance of plasma membrane Na+/H+ antiporters to the physiology of the cell. A consensus is now developing that the plasmalemma of most cells contains an electroneutral Na+/H+ antiporter which is inhibited by amiloride and lithium ions, and whose primary physiological role is cellular pH homeostasis. These operating characteristics have been found to be similar in a variety of cell types (2), and the conclusion has been drawn that these properties are representative of all plasma membrane Na+/H+ antiporters (3). This implies that plasma membranes contain only one type of Na+/H+ antiporter, that Na+ is the only physiological substrate for such antiporters, and that K+, in particular, is not a substrate for plasmalemmal Na+/H+ antiporters. How reliable are these conclusions?