cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preclinical Models of Brain Metastases

Preclinical models are paramount to decipher molecular mechanisms of brain metastases and to develop new therapeutic options. The metastatic process, the movement to and progressive colonization of distant sites by tumor cells, comprises convoluted and dynamic stages: (1) the tumor cells migrate away from the primary tumor; (2) acquire the capacity to intravasate and survive in the vasculature; (3) extravasate at a distant organ to finally survive, potentially through a dormancy phase; (4) and proliferate [1]. At each stage, tumor cells need to circumvent immune surveillance and adapt to each new microenvironment [2]. In parallel, tumor-secreted factors and extracellular vesicles may actively prepare the distant organ, forming the premetastatic niche, to lodge and promote the growth of the arriving tumor cells [3]. Brain metastases evolve in a unique environment, composed of brain-resident cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, and insulated by the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a multicellular dynamic structure regulating exchanges between the blood and the central nervous system [4]. A neuroinflammatory response, consisting of reactive microglia and astrogliosis, is observed around the metastatic lesions [5], as well as infiltrated lymphocytes [6–8]. While parenchymal metastases are the most prevalent, cancer cells can also grow along the meninges, tissues covering the brain and spinal cord, and inside the cerebrospinal fluid, forming leptomeningeal metastases [9, 10]. As the cancer cells co-opt the brain vasculature [11] and proliferate, the BBB develops into the blood-tumor barrier (BTB) [12, 13]. Due to the complexity of the metastatic cascade and the singularity of the brain microenvironment, in vitro models are inadequate and limiting. Progress in understanding the brain metastatic process depends on the development of relevant animal models, mirroring the clinical observations and recapitulating the metastatic cascade in its dynamic milieus.
Turbulent Non-Newtonian Velocity Profiles in Pipes

A semi-empirical method is described that permits the prediction of velocity profiles of turbulent flow of purely viscous, Newtonian, pseudoplastic, or dilatant fluids and suspensions in smooth circular pipes. The suggested model is based on the physical concept of turbulent motion and boundary layer theory and, therefore, has physical meaning. The effect of turbulence on viscous stresses is also considered. Using the suggested method, the validity of the method is tested by comparing all experimentally determined velocity profiles reported in literature with the predicted profiles. The flow rate, diameter of the pipe, and rheological parameters of the fluids or suspension are the only values used in the prediction. It is found that the method is quite accurate for Newtonian and pseudo-plastic fluids and suspensions. It is also found that the method is sufficiently accurate to predict the velocity profiles of elastico-viscous fluids with relatively small viscosity. Because data are not available for dilatant fluids, the verification of the method for dilatant systems is not possible at present.
Design Thinking-Based STEM Learning: Preliminary Results on Achieving Scale and Sustainability Through the IGNITE Model

Solutions to the most pressing global issues require creative innovators, critical thinkers, and problem-solvers. Yet rural communities globally often lack the resources to provide adequate STEM design-thinking coursework at the primary and secondary school level. Ignite is a novel approach to STEM curricula, providing a framework that addresses this disparity by using design thinking. Students are empowered to understand the sustainable development goals (SDGs) through the development of technological solutions to community or health problems; problems they may relate to or directly experience. Each Ignite curriculum follows a basic formula: (1) students learn a specific set of engineering skills, (2) students work in teams to use the human-centered design process, and (3) they develop a solution to a (SDG) using the engineering skills they learned. Ignite began with just 4 undergraduate students who participated in a design-thinking biomedical engineering course taught at Duke University. Through evidence-based peer-led co-learning model, 79 additional students from Guatemala and the U.S. have become trainers and have taught more than 1,500 students across 16 school in Guatemala since 2017 with preliminary data suggesting the program has a positive impact on student perceptions of STEM the inaugural school where Ignite was launched Instituto Indigena Nuestra\ Senora del Socorro (IINSS). Preliminary data suggests that this program is both scalable and sustainable due to its peer-led, student learning model and due to a local partner, FUNDEGUA, who is managing the implementation of Ignite locally in Guatemala.
Moving Forward: Tax Policy Lessons

Creating effective public policy is difficult. The myriad unintended and secondary consequences of tax and expenditure policy create much confusion regarding both the source of and solutions to social problems. Further adding to the complexity of effective policy making is the fact that policy is enacted through a political process that tends to reinforce discriminatory and inefficient policy solutions. The political system is plagued by imperfect information and unchecked self-interest. The analytical approach of this book [For Your Own Good] has been to apply fundamental economics to evaluate selective sales and excise tax policy. We examined the expected behavior of self-interested political participants under various institutional rules, incorporating lessons from public choice theory, constitutional economics, law and economics, and behavioral economics, among other fields of study. In this final chapter of the book, we summarize the common themes gleaned from the contributed chapters. We then conclude the book with a discussion of policy recommendations. We suggest policies that make taxes less burdensome, more efficient, and more transparent.
The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice of Ghana in Retrospect

The role of quasi-judicial bodies is without doubt of golden importance especially in our part of the world considering our adversarial system and the reactive nature of the courts which makes the regular courts unable to ensure the full enforceability of human rights. In our part of the world, many victims of human rights violations due to illiteracy are unaware of their rights and thus are unable to exercise the enforcements and protection of their rights in the courts. Also, some victims due to financial constraints or the fear of unending litigation shy away from the courts. This and many more justify the establishment of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) as a human rights institution since it supplements the role of the court by increasing public awareness through education as well as conducting its functions in such a manner so as to promote the protection of the fundamental human rights provisions enshrined under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. In recent times the Supreme Court of Ghana has, through decided cases, defined the scope of CHRAJ’s mandate thereby outlining the jurisprudence of its mandates. This paper would take the form of a combination of a Prescriptive and Descriptive study analyzing the scope of CHRAJ’s mandate under the 1992 Constitution as well as relevant laws whilst resorting to some decisions of the Supreme Court so as to ascertain the scope of CHRAJ’s mandate at present. Thereafter, recommendations would be proposed aimed at ensuring the effectiveness of CHRAJ in line with its aim of promoting and protecting the fundamental human rights of the citizenry especially by resorting to the functions of similar institutions in other jurisdictions. The study, thus, is very significant because CHRAJ has a critical role to play in promoting and protecting human rights and integrity. In light of Ghana’s political and legal history, it is expedient that CHRAJ maintains its widespread but properly controlled investigative role since it provides a low-cost access to the enforcement of human rights, bypassing the high cost of access to the judicial system. It thus has the potential of extending the reach of fundamental human rights to many ordinary people and protection for them from abuse of power, corruption and unfair treatment by public officials.
Investments with Heterogenous Risk Aversion

We address the problem of a fund manager pooling moneys from risk-averse investors and running a single portfolio of riskfree and risky assets in such a way that individual investors are not penalized for participating in this mutual fund. This problem has a well-known solution when the investors maximize their terminal expected utility of wealth using a power utility function with the same risk-aversion coefficient. We solve this problem in the case of investors having different risk-aversion coefficients. It turns out that the initial contributions of investors must follow a precise formula which depends on the various risk-aversion coefficients. We also apply our approach to the case of a single investor with risk aversion depending on the assets in the portfolio.
Photochemical pre-bleaching of formalin-fixed archival prostate tissues significantly reduces autofluorescence to facilitate multiplex immunofluorescence staining

The characterization of tissues using multiple different primary antibodies detected by secondary antibodies, each possessing a different colored fluorophore (multiplex immunofluorescence), is a powerful technique but often impaired by endogenous autofluorescence present in the specimen. Our current research involves the use of multiplex immunofluorescence to identify specific cell phenotypes within the tumor microenvironment in archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded human prostate cancer tissue specimens. These specimens frequently possess high levels of autofluorescence, in part due to the biological age of the tissues and long storage times. This autofluorescence interferes with and, in the worst cases, completely obscures the desired immunofluorescent signals, thus impeding analyses by decreasing signal-to-noise. Here, we demonstrate that a recently published protocol for photochemical bleaching significantly decreases autofluorescence (80% average decrease of the brightest autofluorescent signals), across the visible spectrum, in fixed, archival prostate tissue specimens from aged men, that have been sectioned onto glass slides and stored for several months. Importantly, the method is compatible with subsequent immunofluorescence staining and yields markedly improved signal-to-noise. Inclusion of this photobleaching method should facilitate studies employing multiplex immunofluorescence in sections cut from archival fixed human prostate tissues.
Fine-grain diagnosis of overlay performance anomalies using end-point network experiences

Overlay networks were proposed to improve Internet reliability and facilitate a rapid deployment of new services. Non-invasive diagnosis of performance problems is the key capability for overlay service management in order to adapt to dynamic network conditions in a timely manner. Existing overlay diagnosis approaches assume extensive knowledge about the network, and require monitoring sensors or active measurements. In this paper, we propose a novel diagnosis technique to localize performance anomalies and determine the packet loss contribution for each network component. Our approach is purely based on endpoint packet loss observations to reason about the location of observed packet loss without active probing or sensor deployment. We formulate the problem as a constraint-satisfaction problem using constraints derived from network loss invariants and end-user observations. Our solution also circumvents the possibilities of insufficient or malicious end-user participation. We evaluate our approach extensively using simulation and experimentation, and demonstrate the accuracy, effectiveness and scalability of our approach for various network sizes, participation levels and spurious amounts.
Preparing Computer Literate Social Workers

This paper brings together and adds to the current thinking on how to introduce microcomputer technology to MSW students and how to integrate this content with practice and research courses. A new framework suggested by the authors facilitates the integration of computer literacy training into an MSW curriculum. This framework conceptualizes computer literacy as a composite of both analytic and end-user administration, or research - each will have a different priority and emphasis. Computer literacy objectives are identified and discussed in each area of curriculum and numerous ideas and exmaples are provided that will assist schools of social work to plan their computer coursework.
Posterior cervical rupture following prostaglandin-induced mid-trimester abortion.

Abstract Two cases of transverse posterior cervical rupture in association with mid-trimester abortion induced by prostaglandin F 2α (PGF 2α ) are reported. The mechanism of rupture is described. It is suggested that the effects of PGF 2α upon cervical dilatation must be further explored.
On the nature and mode of action of the copperprotein, tyrosinase. I. Exchange experiments with radioactive copper and the resting enzyme.

Abstract 1. 1. The exchange reaction between functioning tyrosinase and radiocupric ions has been studied. 2. 2. In general, high catecholase enzymes incorporated much more radioactive copper during catalysis of the oxidation of o-dihydric phenols than of monophenols. 3. 3. High cresolase enzymes retained little radioactivity in all experiments. 4. 4. The copper exchange data support the suggestion of two distinct activity sites in tyrosinase; i.e. catecholase and cresolase activity centers. It appears that the copper at cresolase activity sites is non-exchangeable. The magnitude of exchange of the copper atoms at catecholase activity sites seems to depend on the number of o-dihydric phenol molecules oxidized. 5. 5. The catecholase sites of tyrosinase appear to be little or not at all involved in the oxidation of monophenols. 6. 6. On the basis of the exchange experiments it is suggested that the oxidation of a monophenol by tyrosinase may not proceed via an o-dihydric phenol.
Impact of tumour morphology on renal function decline after partial nephrectomy

Objective To examine the association of renal morphology with renal function after partial nephrectomy (PN). Patients and Methods We conducted a multi-institutional retrospective analysis of 322 PNs performed between 2003 and 2011. The RENAL nephrometry score for each lesion was determined and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated preoperatively and at last follow-up. We divided patients into two RENAL nephrometry score groups, low (<8) and high (≥8), and analysed and compared the outcomes of each group. The primary outcome was median change in eGFR between preoperative and last follow-up (ΔeGFR). The secondary outcome was eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2 at last follow-up. Multivariable analysis was conducted to evaluate the risk factors for eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 at last follow-up. Results The median (interquartile range) follow-up was 25.2 (13.5–39.3) months. Low (n = 165) and high (n = 157) RENAL score groups were well-matched for baseline eGFR. The median tumour size (4.2 vs 2.4 cm, P < 0.001) was greater for the high group. In all, 64% of the low and 88.2% of the high RENAL score group (P < 0.001) had decreased eGFR at last follow-up. Median eGFR was −7 for the low vs −13.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 for the high group (P = 0.001); eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 at last follow-up was 27.3% for the low vs 37.6% for the high group (P = 0.057). Linear regression analysis showed that for each 1-point increase in RENAL score, there was 2.5% decrease in eGFR (P = 0.002); for each 1-cm increase in tumour size, there was 1.8% decrease in eGFR (P = 0.013). Area under curve analyses showed no significant difference between RENAL score and tumour size for prediction of de novo eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (P = 0.920) and ΔeGFR ≥50% (P = 0.85). Multivariable analysis showed that increasing RENAL score (odds ratio [OR] 1.24, P = 0.046) and decreasing preoperative eGFR (OR 1.10, P < 0.001) were risk factors for eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 at last follow-up. Conclusions Increasing RENAL nephrometry score is an independent risk factor for eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 after PN. RENAL nephrometry score may serve as an additional measure for risk stratification before PN, but further investigation is required.
Phyllosilicate and hydrated silica detections in the knobby terrains of Acidalia Planitia, northern plains, Mars

Here we report detections of Fe/Mg phyllosilicates and hydrated silica in discrete stratigraphic units within the knobby terrains of Acidalia Planitia made using data acquired by Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars. Fe/Mg phyllosilicates are detected in knobs that were eroded during southward retreat of the dichotomy boundary. A second later unit, now eroded to steep-sided platforms embaying the knobs, contains hydrated silica, which may have formed via localized vapor weathering, thin-film leaching, or transient water that resulted in surface alteration. These are then overlain by smooth plains with small cones, hypothesized to be mud volcanoes which previous studies have shown to have no hydrated minerals. In spite of Acidalia's location within the putative northern ocean, collectively, the data record a history of aqueous processes much like that in the southern highlands with progressively less intensive aqueous chemical alteration from the Noachian to Amazonian.
Ethnolinguistic repertoire: Shifting the analytic focus in language and ethnicity

This paper addresses a contradiction in research on language and ethnicity: how can we discuss distinctively ethnic ways of speaking and still account for the variation and fluidity that characterize them? The theoretical construct introduced in this paper enables researchers to avoid this contradiction. ‘Ethnolinguistic repertoire’ is defined as a fluid set of linguistic resources that members of an ethnic group may use variably as they index their ethnic identities. This construct shifts the analytic focus from ethnic ‘language varieties’ to individuals, ethnic groups, and their distinctive linguistic features. It addresses problems of inter-group, inter-speaker, and intra-speaker variation, as well as debates about who should be considered a speaker of a dialect. This approach, which can also be applied to social groupings beyond ethnicity, is discussed in relation to other approaches and is supported with data on language use in African American, Latino, and Jewish communities in the United States.
The Effect of X-Irradiation on Intestinal Absorption and Thyroid Uptake of the Iodide Ion Using I-131

Rats were exposed to whole body irradiation using sublethal doses of “hard” X-rays. After a three-day latent period, an aqueous solution of iodine-131 labeled sodium iodide was orally administered to the irradiated animals. The rate of intestinal absorption and thyroid uptake of the labeled iodide ion was studied by comparing the amount of radioactivity found in the intestinal contents and thyroid glands of irradiated animals with that of control or nonirradiated animals. Utilizing this technique, statistically analyzed results failed to reveal any appreciable change in the rates of intestinal absorption or thyroid uptake of the iodide ion.
The role of anticholinergics in bronchoscopy. A randomized clinical trial.

Background Anticholinergic medications have been utilized frequently prior to bronchoscopy and are thought to facilitate the drying of secretions to limit the amount of required topical anesthetic on the airway mucosa, prevent cardiac arrhythmias during the procedure, and increase patient comfort. Objective To determine if atropine or glycopyrrolate, two anticholinergic agents utilized most frequently in this setting, have any significant role for this purpose. Design Double-blind, placebo-controlled study, in which patients were randomly selected to receive atropine (0.01 mg/kg body weight, IM injection), glycopyrrolate (0.005 mg/kg, IM injection), or saline solution placebo (approximately 2 mL, IM injection) 15 to 45 min prior to being sedated with midazolam until judged to be lightly sedated. Setting A large academic teaching hospital in the midwestern United States. Participants Two hundred seventeen outpatients referred for bronchoscopy who satisfied inclusion and exclusion criteria. Measurements and results Using a modified visual analog scale (0 to 100 mm), the bronchoscopist and the nurse anesthetist estimated the antisialagogic effect, effectiveness in cough suppression, and overall patient comfort during the procedure. The patients completed a similar questionnaire after recovering from the procedure. Patients were also monitored for complications (cardiac arrhythmias, oxygen desaturation, hypertension, wheezing, or coughing severe enough to curtail the procedure). There was no significant difference found among atropine, glycopyrrolate, and placebo for the primary end point of secretion control. In addition, there was no difference found between either medication and placebo for effectiveness of cough suppression, amount of topical anesthetic used, complication rates, or overall patient comfort. Conclusion The use of anticholinergic agents prior to bronchoscopy did not affect performance of bronchoscopy or complication rates, and there was no appreciable benefit from the resultant reduction in airway secretions in a population of patients receiving concurrent sedation with benzodiazepines.
Severe exacerbation of hepatitis C-associated vasculitic neuropathy following treatment with interferon alpha: a case report and literature review.

Vasculitic neuropathy may occur in association with chronic hepatitis C infection. Interferon alpha (IFNα), an effective treatment for chronic hepatitis C, can precipitate or worsen autoimmune diseases. We report a patient with chronic hepatitis C and mild indolent vasculitic sensorimotor peripheral polyneuropathy, who developed severe mononeuropathy multiplex soon after IFNα was initiated, and review the literature on worsening vasculitic neuropathy after IFNα treatment for chronic hepatitis C. Care should be taken after starting patient with chronic hepatitis C–associated vasculitic neuropathy on IFNα, as there is evidence that IFNα may exacerbate the neuropathy. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Muscle Nerve 25: 000–000, 2002
Ionization and sorption of fomesafen and atrazine by soils and soil constituents

Fomesafen exhibited weakly acidic properties and was titrated spectrophotometrically and determined to have a pKA of 3.0. [14C]fomesafen and [14C]atrazine, as references, were used in slurry-type sorption studies with H+- and Ca2+-saturated soil organic matter, Ca2+-saturated montmorillonite clay, Norfolk sandy loan (Typic Paleudult) and Drummer silt loam (Typic Haplaquoll) at suspension pH values of 2.0 to 6.3. Sorption of atrazine was greater than that of fomesafen for the organic matter sorbents but similar for montmorillonite clay and the two soils. Sorption of both herbicides on the Drummer soil was much greater than on the Norfolk soil, due to the higher organic matter content of the former. Decreasing the suspension pH greatly increased sorption of both herbicides by all sorbents. Atrazine sorption was attributed to ionic bonding at low pH and physical bonding at neutral pH. Fomesafen sorption occurred by way of physical forces at near neutral pH and by way of hydrophobic bonding and/or precipitation at low pH. Mobility and bioavailability of the herbicides in soils is expected to be lower at low pH than at high or neutral pH.
Deformation of Reef Breakwaters and Wave Transmission

The risk-based design of a reef breakwater requires the prediction of the temporal variations of the damage and wave transmission coefficient during storms. The cross-shore numerical model is extended to the landward zone of the wave transmission. The extended model is compared with 148 tests for a reef breakwater with a narrow crest at or above the still water level where the narrow crest was lowered by wave action.Themodelisalsocomparedwithanexperimentonawide-crestedsubmergedbreakwaterinwhichthecrestheightincreasedduring20-h wave action. The damage, crest height, and wave transmission coefficient are predicted reasonably well; however, the damaged profile is not
THE CELL SAP OF HYDRODICTYON

Analysis of the cell sap of Hydrodictyon patenaeforme Pocock, from California indicates the usual marked accumulation of potassium, which is 4000 times as concentrated as in the surrounding pond water. Small amounts of sodium and calcium were found. Chloride makes up about three-fourths of the anions, with a very high sulfate, and much lower bicarbonate concentration accounting for most of the remainder. Electrical conductivity and osmotic studies indicate that the analyzed elements are ionized, and account for most of the sap's osmotic pressure. pH is 5.5 to 6.0. The analytical procedure was designed to determine as many of the cations as possible on one small sample. Hydrodictyon is a large multinucleate cell belonging to an order (Chlorococcales) new to permeability and accumulation studies.
All-Optical Switch Using EIT and the Zeno Effect

We present theoretical results for an all-optical switch based on EIT and the Zeno effect in a microdisk resonator. We predict 35 dB of switching contrast with only 2 microW of control-beam power.
Late Neogene planktonic foraminifera of the Cibao Valley (northern Dominican Republic): Biostratigraphy and paleoceanography

Abstract An assemblage of planktonic foraminifera is described from 125 samples taken from the Cercado, Gurabo, and Mao Formations in the Cibao Valley, northern Dominican Republic. The primary objectives of this study are to establish a biochronologic model for the late Neogene of the Dominican Republic and to examine sea surface conditions within the Cibao Basin during this interval. The Cercado Formation is loosely confined to Zones N17 and N18 (∼ 7.0–5.9 Ma). The Gurabo Formation spans Zones N18 and N19 (∼ 5.9–4.5 Ma). The Mao Formation is placed in Zone N19 (∼ 4.5–3.6 Ma). Changes in the relative abundances of indicator species are used to reconstruct sea surface conditions within the basin. Increasing relative abundances of Globigerinoides sacculifer and Globigerinoides ruber , in conjunction with a decreasing relative abundance of Globigerina bulloides , suggests the onset of increasing sea surface temperature and salinity in conjunction with diminishing primary productivity at ∼ 6.0 Ma. Abrupt increases in the relative abundances of G. sacculifer and G. ruber at ∼ 4.8 Ma suggest a major increase in sea surface temperature and salinity in the early Pliocene. The most likely mechanism for these changes is isolation of the Caribbean Ocean through progressive restriction of Pacific–Caribbean transfer via the Central American Seaway. Periods of high productivity associated with upwelling events are recorded in the upper Cercado Formation (∼ 6.1 Ma) and in the middle Mao Formation (∼ 4.2 Ma) by spikes in G. bulloides and Neogloboquadrina spp. respectively. The timing of major increases in sea surface salinity and temperature as well as decreasing productivity (∼ 4.8 Ma) and periods of upwelling (∼ 6.1and 4.2 Ma) in the Cibao Basin generally corroborate previously suggested Caribbean oceanographic changes related to the uplift of Panama. Changes in sea surface conditions depicted by paleobiogeographic distributions in the Cibao Basin suggest that shoaling along the Isthmus of Panama had implications in a shallow Caribbean basin as early as 6.0 Ma. Major paleobiologic changes between ∼ 4.8 and 4.2 Ma likely represent the period of final closure of the CAS and a nearly complete disconnection between Pacific and Caribbean water masses. This study illustrates the use of planktonic foraminifera in establishing some paleoceanographic conditions (salinity, temperature, productivity, and upwelling) within a shallow water basin, outlining the connection between regional and localized oceanographic changes.
On the Number of Elements in Matroids with Small Circuits or Cocircuits

It has been conjectured that a connected matroid with largest circuit size c ≥ 2 and largest cocircuit size c* ≥ 2 has at most ½cc* elements. Pou-Lin Wu has shown that this conjecture holds for graphic matroids. We prove two special cases of the conjecture, not restricted to graphic matroids, thereby providing the first nontrivial evidence that the conjecture is true for non-graphic matroids. Specifically, we prove the special case of the conjecture in which c = 4 or c* = 4. We also prove the special case for binary matroids with c = 5 or c* = 5.
Regularization vs step-size regulators in optimal trajectory computations

I has been demonstratedthat the use of regularized variables increases accuracy and reduces integration time for the computation of coasting space trajectories. The need for improved integration methods is even greater for optimal powered trajectories because of the introduction of additional equations describing the necessary conditions for optimality and because a two-point boundary value problem usually arises requiring some means of iterative solution involving multiple integrations of the differential equations. It is natural then to examine possible benefits of regularization for such problems. Several authors have recently applied regularizing techniques to the minimum time, powered transfer problem. Reference 3 indicated much success when using regularized variables for these optimal trajectory computations, while in Ref. 4 it was noted that computational advantages can be realized by a judicious selection of a coordinate system. The purposes of this Note are to examine the regularization procedure in order to determine what it contributes numerically to the problem solution and to offer an alternative means for achieving improved numerical accuracy.
THE ECONOMICS OF A SERVICE-LOAN PROGRAM IN FINANCING HIGHER EDUCATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

The problems created by free or nominal tuition schemes implemented in countries of the Middle East are discussed, and an alternative financing program, the service-loan approach, is proposed.
Community of Choice or Ghetto of Last Resort: Community Development and the Viability of an African American Community1

The viability of local government-sponsored community development of poor ethnic enclaves hinges on the perceptions of residents. If residents view the enclave in which they live as their “community of choice,” they will be more likely to join with local government to coproduce community improvement. Residents who see their enclave as their community of choice tend to hold positive perceptions of neighbors and neighborhood and are less fearful of crime. Conversely, those who see the enclave where they live as a “ghetto of last resort” commonly are not meeting their economic expectations, are uneasy about race related issues, and are concerned about the desirability of their neighborhood. Government should not employ a community development strategy to preserve a “ghetto of last resort” where most residents remain because they feel they have few options. The vast majority of the residents examined here view the enclave where they live as their community of choice.
VALENCY RULE AND ALLEGED HOFMEISTER SERIES IN THE COLLOIDAL BEHAVIOR OF PROTEINS : III. THE INFLUENCE OF SALTS ON OSMOTIC PRESSURE, MEMBRANE POTENTIALS, AND SWELLING OF SODIUM GELATINATE.

A detailed study was made on the influence of salts on those physicochemical properties of sodium gelatinate which are regulated by Donnan's law of membrane equilibria; namely, osmotic pressure, membrane potentials, and swelling. It was found that the influence of salts on these properties in the case of sodium gelatinate obeys the same rules of valency as in the case of the influence of salts on gelatin chloride as discussed in a previous publication. The rules state that when a salt is added to an ionized protein, without causing a change in the hydrogen ion concentration of the protein, the general effect is a depression of the mentioned properties. The degree of depression depends not only on the concentration of the salt but on the electrical properties of the ions constituting the salt. Of the two or more oppositely charged ions of which a salt consists, only the valency of those ions which carry charges opposite to those carried by the protein ions affects the degree of depression which increases with the valency of the ions. It was also found that the phenomenon of swelling of gelatin becomes modified by solubility of the gelatin when salts are added in concentrations higher than N/4. Emphasis is laid on the point that the valency rule holds perfectly also in relation to swelling as long as the phenomenon is pure swelling which is the case when salt solutions of concentrations lower than N/4 are added to gelatin.
Single amino-acid changes that confer constitutive activation of mTOR are discovered in human cancer

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a serine/threonine kinase that regulates a variety of cellular functions such as growth, proliferation and autophagy. In a variety of cancer cells, overactivation of mTOR has been reported. In addition, mTOR inhibitors, such as rapamycin and its derivatives, are being evaluated in clinical trials as anticancer drugs. However, no active mutants of mTOR have been identified in human cancer. Here, we report that two different point mutations, S2215Y and R2505P, identified in human cancer genome database confer constitutive activation of mTOR signaling even under nutrient starvation conditions. S2215Y was identified in large intestine adenocarcinoma whereas R2505P was identified in renal cell carcinoma. mTOR complex 1 prepared from cells expressing the mutant mTOR after nutrient starvation still retains the activity to phosphorylate 4E-BP1 in vitro. The cells expressing the mTOR mutant show increased percentage of S-phase cells and exhibit resistance to cell size decrease by amino-acid starvation. The activated mutants are still sensitive to rapamycin. However, they show increased resistance to 1-butanol. Our study points to the idea that mTOR activating mutations can be identified in a wide range of human cancer.
Karstic gypsum problems at wastewater stabilization sites in the Black Hills of South Dakota

The Triassic Spearfish Formation contains numerous gypsum beds in which karstic conditions have developed in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The evaporite karst has caused severe engineering problems for foundations and water retention facilities, including wastewater stabilization sites. Two dramatic examples include the former sewage lagoons for the City of Spearfish and a proposed lagoon/wetlands facility for Whitewood, South Dakota.
Bounds for the maximal height of divisors of xn−1

Abstract Text The problem of determining the maximum size of coefficients of cyclotomic polynomials has been studied extensively. Let A ( n ) be the maximum absolute value of a coefficient of Φ n ( x ) , the n th cyclotomic polynomial. This paper further investigates a variation of A ( n ) introduced by Pomerance and Ryan. We consider the function B ( n ) , the maximum absolute value of a coefficient of any divisor of x n − 1 . In the first part of this paper we give an analogue of a well-known result for A ( n ) proved independently by Felsch and Schmidt, and by Justin, and give an upper bound for B ( n ) for a general n . In the second part of the paper we resolve a question of Pomerance and Ryan giving an explicit formula for B ( p 2 q ) . We then give upper and lower bounds for B ( p q r ) where p q r are primes. Video For a video summary of this paper, please visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLAdOHS_Ekw .
The hygromycin B-resistance-encoding gene as a selectable marker for stable transformation of Trypanosoma brucei

Abstract The hygromycin B (Hy) phosphotransferase-encoding gene (hph), was tested as a selectable marker in the protozoan, Trypanosoma brucei. The hph gene was placed under the control of the promoter of a procyclic acidic repetitive proteinencoding gene, and was integrated by homologous recombination into an intergenic region of the αβ-tubulin-encoding gene tandem array of T. brucei. In contrast to many other selectable markers tested, spontaneous Hy resistance was not observed, making Hy a second useful marker for transformation of this protozoan.
Nucleocytoplasmic Shuttling Factors Including Ran and CRM1 Mediate Nuclear Export of NFAT In Vitro

We have developed a permeabilized cell assay to study the nuclear export of the shuttling transcription factor NFAT, which contains a leucine-rich export signal. The assay uses HeLa cells that are stably transfected with NFAT fused to the green fluorescent protein (GFP). Nuclear export of GFP–NFAT in digitonin-permeabilized cells occurs in a temperature- and ATP-dependent manner and can be quantified by flow cytometry. In vitro NFAT export requires the GTPase Ran, which is released from cells during the digitonin permeabilization. At least one additional rate-limiting export factor is depleted from permeabilized cells by a preincubation at 30°C in the absence of cytosol. This activity can be provided by cytosolic or nucleoplasmic extracts in a subsequent export step. Using this assay, we have purified a second major export activity from cytosol. We found that it corresponds to CRM1, a protein recently reported to be a receptor for certain leucine-rich export sequences. CRM1 appears to be imported into the nucleus by a Ran-dependent mechanism that is distinct from conventional signaling pathways. Considered together, our studies directly demonstrate by fractionation and reconstitution that nuclear export of NFAT is mediated by multiple nucleocytoplasmic shuttling factors, including Ran and CRM1.
Vital Exhaustion as a Risk Factor for Adverse Cardiac Events (from the Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities [ARIC] Study)

Vital exhaustion, defined as excessive fatigue, feelings of demoralization, and increased irritability, has been identified as a risk factor for incident and recurrent cardiac events, but there are no population-based prospective studies of this association in US samples. We examined the predictive value of vital exhaustion for incident myocardial infarction or fatal coronary heart disease in middle-aged men and women in 4 US communities. Participants were 12,895 black or white men and women enrolled in the Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities (ARIC) study cohort and followed for the occurrence of cardiac morbidity and mortality from 1990 through 2002 (maximum follow-up 13.0 years). Vital exhaustion was assessed using the 21-item Maastricht Questionnaire and scores were partitioned into approximate quartiles for statistical analyses. High vital exhaustion (fourth quartile) predicted adverse cardiac events in age-, gender-, and race-center-adjusted analyses (1.69, 95% confidence interval 1.40 to 2.05) and in analyses further adjusted for educational level, body mass index, plasma low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels, diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking status, and pack-years of cigarette smoking (1.46, 95% confidence interval 1.20 to 1.79). Risk for adverse cardiac events increased monotonically from the first through the fourth quartile of vital exhaustion. Probabilities of adverse cardiac events over time were significantly higher in people with high vital exhaustion compared to those with low exhaustion (p = 0.002). In conclusion, vital exhaustion predicts long-term risk for adverse cardiac events in men and women, independent of established biomedical risk factors.
Optic canal involvement in tuberculum sellae meningiomas: influence on approach, recurrence, and visual recovery.

Background Tuberculum sellae meningiomas frequently extend into the optic canals. Objective To emphasize the high frequency of optic canal (OC) involvement in tuberculum sellae meningiomas; the importance of opening the OC and of removing tumor within the canal; and the effect of this maneuver on visual outcome, recurrence rates, and surgical approach selection. Methods A retrospective review of 58 patients with tuberculum sellae meningiomas treated surgically by the senior author (O.A.M) between 1993 and 2009 was performed. The frequency of involvement of the OC was documented, as well as the impact of removal of this part of the tumor on visual outcome and recurrence. Results Total resection (Simpson grade 1) was achieved in 51 of 58 patients (87.9%). The tumor invaded the optic canal in 67%. Tumor resection from the optic nerve was achieved in all cases, and most (92%) underwent deroofing of the OC for this purpose. The dura over the tuberculum sella and/or planum sphenoidale was removed in all patients. Eighty-three percent required removal of affected hyperostotic bone. Vision was improved and/or spared in 88%. The average follow-up period was 23 months with 1 recurrence detected. Conclusion In the majority of cases, tuberculum sellae meningiomas extend into 1 or both OCs. Opening the OC for resection of the intracanalicular portion of the tumor enabled us to achieve excellent visual outcome. The supraorbital craniotomy remains the favored approach for removal of such tumors because it allows unroofing of both OCs, wide excision of the dura, and drilling of the affected bone.
Digital simulation of system theoretic algorithms applied to image compression

Image transforms are widely used for a variety of applications in image processing and analysis. In particular, the Karhunen-Loeve (K-L) transform has been extensively used for image data redundancy reductions and image compression. The objective of this research is to investigate the use of some of the system theory transforms for image compression. In system theory, a large number of algorithms have appeared for the system reduction. In this paper, some of the algorithms used for large scale system reduction are considered. The K-L transform technique has been reviewed. The transformation used by Davidson and Chidambra has been applied for the image reduction by constructing the aggregation matrix. The procedures suggested in this paper work better than the K-L transform approach, especially when there are repeated eigenvalues. In addition, the proposed schemes are applicable even for the cases which result in complex eigenvalues for the original image.
Intracellular endothelin type B receptor-driven Ca2+ signal elicits nitric oxide production in endothelial cells.

Endothelin-1 exerts its actions via activation of ETA and ETB Gq/11 protein-coupled receptors, located in the plasmalemma, cytoplasm, and nucleus. Although the autocrine/paracrine nature of endothelin-1 signaling has been extensively studied, its intracrine role has been largely attributed to interaction with receptors located on nuclear membranes and the nucleoplasm. Because ETB receptors have been shown to be targeted to endolysosomes, we used intracellular microinjection and concurrent imaging methods to test their involvement in Ca2+ signaling and subsequential NO production. We provide evidence that microinjected endothelin-1 produces a dose-dependent elevation in cytosolic calcium concentration in ETB-transfected cells and endothelial cells; this response is sensitive to ETB but not ETA receptor blockade. In endothelial cells, the endothelin-1-induced Ca2+ response is abolished upon endolysosomal but not Golgi disruption. Moreover, the effect is prevented by inhibition of microautophagy and is sensitive to inhibitors of the phospholipase C and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. Furthermore, intracellular endothelin-1 increases nitric oxide via an ETB-dependent mechanism. Our results indicate for the first time that intracellular endothelin-1 activates endolysosomal ETB receptors and increase cytosolic Ca2+ and nitric oxide production. Endothelin-1 acts in an intracrine fashion on endolysosomal ETB to induce nitric oxide formation, thus modulating endothelial function.
A Randomized Trial of a Multifaceted Intervention to Reduce Falls Among Community-Dwelling Adults:

Using a randomized controlled trial, we tested the efficacy of a fall prevention intervention to reduce falls among adults in a community-based health promotion program. Adults aged 65 and older within two counties were recruited (control n = 257; intervention n = 286). After 12 months, there was a significant decrease in the number of falls in both groups (odds ratio = 0.45, p < .04), but the time by group membership interaction was not significant (χ 2 = 0.15, p < .69). Multivariate analysis did not find significant differences between the control and intervention groups for physical function as measured by a balance test or a sitting/standing test. Further research is needed on effective methods to deliver multifaceted fall interventions to older adults who are already being served by community health promotion programs.
Synthesis and properties offac-Re(dmbpy)(CO)3CHO (dmbpy =4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine), a possible intermediate inreductions of CO2 catalyzed byfac-Re(dmbpy)(CO)3Cl

Synthesis of fac-Re(dmbpy)(CO)3CHO 2 and its reactions with CO2 in DMF and DMSO have been conducted; 2 transfers hydride to CO2 to give Re(dmbpy)(CO)4+ OCHO− 5 which is rapidly transformed to fac-Re(dmbpy)(CO)3- (OCHO) 3 in DMF, thus supporting the viability of 2 in photocatalytic reactions of fac-Re(dmbpy)(CO)3Cl with CO2.
Acetate Fuels the Cancer Engine

Cancer cells have distinctive nutrient demands to fuel growth and proliferation, including the disproportionate use of glucose, glutamine, and fatty acids. Comerford et al. and Mashimo et al. now demonstrate that several types of cancer are avid consumers of acetate, which facilitates macromolecular biosynthesis and histone modification.
Gamma-ray sensitivity of 6Li-glass scintillators

Abstract The gamma-ray response of thin NE 905 6Li-glass scintillators is studied as a function of gamma-ray energy, scintillator thickness, and detector resolution. The probability for a gamma ray to simulate a neutron event is measured at three gamma-ray energies for three scintillator thicknesses. The feasibility of using coincidence information from electrons that diffuse out of the glass to reduce gamma-ray caused background is also studied.
Salinity-induced glutathione synthesis in Brassica napus

The role of S-assimilation and the biosynthesis of cysteine and glutathione were studied during the response to salt stress of wild-type and salt-tolerant transgenic Brassica napus L. (canola) plants overexpressing a vacuolar Na+/H+ antiporter. A 3-fold increase in cysteine and glutathione content was observed in wild-type plants exposed to salt stress, but not in the transgenic plants. The induction of cysteine and glutathione synthesis during salt stress in the wild-type plants suggests a possible protective mechanism against salt-induced oxidative damage. On the other hand, the salt-tolerant transgenic plants did not show significant changes in either cysteine or glutathione content, confirming the role of vacuolar Na+ accumulation and ion homeostasis in salt tolerance.
Firm/interruptible gas pricing patterns in a regulated environment

This study provides empirical tests for the effects of rate base regulation, curtailment priorities, fuel clauses, and elected commissioners on firm/interruptible gas pricing patterns. These regulations do alter observed pricing patterns with curtailment priorities, fuel clauses, and elected commissioners all producing net social gains. Rate of return regulation imposes social costs resulting in a net decrease in social welfare. Ignoring the political influences upon regulators, regulation generally encourages consumption at the peak relative to the off-peak. Nonetheless, overall social welfare is improved if all four types of regulatory characteristics are present, since most rates are reduced from their monopoly levels.