cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automatic Determination of the Need for Intravenous Contrast in Musculoskeletal MRI Examinations Using IBM Watson’s Natural Language Processing Algorithm

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocoling can be time- and resource-intensive, and protocols can often be suboptimal dependent upon the expertise or preferences of the protocoling radiologist. Providing a best-practice recommendation for an MRI protocol has the potential to improve efficiency and decrease the likelihood of a suboptimal or erroneous study. The goal of this study was to develop and validate a machine learning-based natural language classifier that can automatically assign the use of intravenous contrast for musculoskeletal MRI protocols based upon the free-text clinical indication of the study, thereby improving efficiency of the protocoling radiologist and potentially decreasing errors. We utilized a deep learning-based natural language classification system from IBM Watson, a question-answering supercomputer that gained fame after challenging the best human players on Jeopardy! in 2011. We compared this solution to a series of traditional machine learning-based natural language processing techniques that utilize a term-document frequency matrix. Each classifier was trained with 1240 MRI protocols plus their respective clinical indications and validated with a test set of 280. Ground truth of contrast assignment was obtained from the clinical record. For evaluation of inter-reader agreement, a blinded second reader radiologist analyzed all cases and determined contrast assignment based on only the free-text clinical indication. In the test set, Watson demonstrated overall accuracy of 83.2% when compared to the original protocol. This was similar to the overall accuracy of 80.2% achieved by an ensemble of eight traditional machine learning algorithms based on a term-document matrix. When compared to the second reader's contrast assignment, Watson achieved 88.6% agreement. When evaluating only the subset of cases where the original protocol and second reader were concordant (n = 251), agreement climbed further to 90.0%. The classifier was relatively robust to spelling and grammatical errors, which were frequent. Implementation of this automated MR contrast determination system as a clinical decision support tool may save considerable time and effort of the radiologist while potentially decreasing error rates, and require no change in order entry or workflow.
Discs and haloes in pre-main-sequence stars

A B S T R A C T We study the infrared (IR) emission from flared discs with and without additional optically thin haloes. Flux calculations of a flared disc in vacuum can be considered a special case of the more general family of models in which the disc is imbedded in an optically thin halo. In the absence of such a halo, flux measurements can never rule out its existence because the disc flaring surface defines a mathematically equivalent halo that produces the exact same flux at all IR wavelengths. When a flared disc with height H at its outer radius R is imbedded in a halo whose optical depth at visual wavelengths is τhalo, the system IR flux is dominated by the halo whenever τhalo > (1/4)H/R. Even when its optical depth is much smaller, the halo can still have a significant effect on the disc temperature profile. Imaging is the only way to rule out the existence of a potential halo, and we identify a decisive test that extracts a signature unique to flared discs from imaging observations.
How Automated Writing Systems Affect the Circulation of Political Information Online

This article argues that fake news is only one instantiation of a shift that literacy studies will need to reckon with to understand how people encounter texts on an everyday basis. It argues that looking at the information ecologies in which fake news circulates reveals a shift to the reliance on computational and automated writing systems to circulate texts and amplify their distribution. The article critically synthesizes existing literature and provides key examples of how algorithms and bots were deployed strategically to pollute the media ecology with fake news in the time immediately preceding the 2016 Presidential election in the United States. The argument ultimately raises a series of questions that literacy studies will need to confront given the influence of computation in contemporary information environments, including asking: how can people engage in responsible discourse in the face of rapidly evolving and exploitable technologies?
A Lattice-Misfit-Dependent Damage Model for Non-linear Damage Accumulations Under Monotonous Creep in Single Crystal Superalloys

A lattice-misfit-dependent damage density function is developed to predict the non-linear accumulation of damage when a thermal jump from 1050 °C to 1200 °C is introduced somewhere in the creep life. Furthermore, a phenomenological model aimed at describing the evolution of the constrained lattice misfit during monotonous creep load is also formulated. The response of the lattice-misfit-dependent plasticity-coupled damage model is compared with the experimental results obtained at 140 and 160 MPa on the first generation Ni-based single crystal superalloy MC2. The comparison reveals that the damage model is well suited at 160 MPa and less at 140 MPa because the transfer of stress to the γ′ phase occurs for stresses above 150 MPa which leads to larger variations and, therefore, larger effects of the constrained lattice misfit on the lifetime during thermo-mechanical loading.
Applicability of integrated cell culture reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (ICC-RTqPCR) for the simultaneous detection of the four human enteric enterovirus species in disinfection studies.

Abstract A newly developed integrated cell culture reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (ICC-RTqPCR) method and its applicability in UV disinfection studies is described. This method utilizes a cell culture system coupled with four RTqPCR assays to detect four species of human enterovirus (e.g., Enterovirus A, Enterovirus B, Enterovirus C and Enterovirus D). Evaluation of the RTqPCR assays was conducted with coxsackievirus A10, echovirus 30, poliovirus 1 and enterovirus 70 and resulted in 100% specificity for the tested assays. A comparison of ICC-RTqPCR between the individual enteroviruses and a mixture of all four viruses resulted in an approximate 1:1 correlation, demonstrating a lack of competition during incubation in cell culture and RTqPCR. The simultaneous detection of multiple human enterovirus species within mixed cultures is relevant to many applications, including virus disinfection studies. This high-throughput, multiplex approach costs less in money and time. By helping with data collection, this approach will lead to more statistically sound data sets that directly compare the inactivation rates of enteroviruses tested.
Selective cytotoxicity of 125I-labeled monoclonal antibody T101 in human malignant T cell lines.

The radiolabeled anti-T cell antibody T/sup 101/ can be used for specific tumor localization, but unlabeled T/sup 101/ produces limited cytotoxicity in patients. We studied the in vitro cytotoxic effects of T/sup 101/ labeled with /sup 125/I, a radionuclide known for its short-range, high-linear-energy electrons. We showed that /sup 125/I-T/sup 101/ could be readily prepared at high specific activity with high immunoreactivity. Human malignant T cell lines HUT 102, MOLT-4, and HUT 78 were found to differ in the number of T65 determinants (the antigen recognized by T/sup 101/) and the sensitivity to external x-ray radiation, which were of significance for the cytotoxicity of /sup 125/I-T/sup 101/ in vitro. The cytotoxic effects of /sup 125/I-T/sup 101/ were also found to be dose dependent and increased with exposure time under frozen conditions. As controls, unlabeled T/sup 101/ had no cytotoxic effect, while free Na /sup 125/I or the /sup 125/I-labeled irrelevant antibody 9.2.27 exerted minor cytotoxicity. In HUT 102 and MOLT-4, more than 3 logs cell killing was achieved within four weeks. Because considerable cytotoxicity was demonstrated in vitro by /sup 125/I-T/sup 101/ on T65-positive malignant cells, and because low-dose /sup 111/In-T/sup 101/ can be used successfully for tumor localization, futuremore » trials using /sup 125/I-T/sup 101/ at high specific radioactivity may improve therapeutic results in patients with T65-positive malignancies.« less
Computational Study of Separating Flow in a Planar Subsonic Diffuser

A computational study of the separated flow through a 2-D asymmetric subsonic diffuser has been performed. The Wind Computational Fluid Dynamics code is used to predict the separation and reattachment behavior for an incompressible diffuser flow. The diffuser inlet flow is a two-dimensional, turbulent, and fully-developed channel flow with a Reynolds number of 20,000 based on the centerline velocity and the channel height. Wind solutions computed with the Menter SST, Chien k-epsilon, Spalart-Allmaras and Explicit Algebraic Reynolds Stress turbulence models are compared with experimentally measured velocity profiles and skin friction along the upper and lower walls. In addition to the turbulence model study, the effects of grid resolution and use of wall functions were investigated. The grid studies varied the number of grid points across the diffuser and varied the initial wall spacing from y(sup +) = 0.2 to 60. The wall function study assessed the applicability of wall functions for analysis of separated flow. The SST and Explicit Algebraic Stress models provide the best agreement with experimental data, and it is recommended wall functions should only be used with a high level of caution.
Validation of sodium magnetic resonance imaging of intervertebral disc.

Study Design.This study demonstrated the diagnostic potential of sodium (Na) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for noninvasive quantification of proteoglycan (PG) in the intervertebral discs.Objective.To determine the existence of a linear correlation between intervertebral disc [Na] measured from so
Accounting-Based Value Metrics and the Informational Efficiency of IPO Early Market Prices

In this paper I test the efficiency with which the information contained in accounting-based value metrics, which use accounting information as inputs, is incorporated into initial public offering early market prices. I examine the association between these value metrics and first-day underpricing and three-year returns. I find accounting-based value metrics relative to market prices are associated with both the first-day underpricing and three-year returns, suggesting that the information contained in these metrics, which is available at the date of the initial public offering, is not efficiently impounded into prices. I then test to determine whether variations in investor sentiment affect the efficiency with which accounting-based value metrics are impounded into prices. I find that periods of more positive investor sentiment are associated with more inefficient use of accounting information, consistent with theoretical models of investor sentiment.
On the systematics of some marine haploporids (Trematoda) with the description of a new species of Megasolena Linton, 1910.

Abstract Megasolena mikra sp. nov. is described from the queen angelfish, Holacanthus ciliaris (Linnaeus), off Florida, USA. The new species can be differentiated from all other species of Megasolena Linton, 1910 except Megasolena littoralis Munoz, George-Nascimento, and Bray, 2017 in possessing testes that are smaller in diameter than the ovary. The new species can be differentiated from M. littoralis in lacking tegumental spines and possessing oral sucker papillae. Molecular data are provided for two species each of Cadenatella Dollfus, 1946, Hapladena Linton, 1910, and Megasolena Linton, 1910. Bayesian inference analysis of concatenated internal transcribed spacer region-2 (ITS2) and partial 28S rDNA sequences of 50 haploporoids revealed 1) a monophyletic Atractotrematidae Yamaguti, 1939 sister to the rest of the haploporoids tested; 2) a paraphyletic Megasoleninae Manter, 1935 – if Hapladena is included; and 3) a monophyletic Cadenatellinae Gibson and Bray, 1982 sister to the ‘mugilid’ haploporids. The ‘mugilid’ haploporids formed a monophyletic clade consisting of the subfamilies Chalcinotrematinae Overstreet and Curran, 2005, Forticulcitinae Blasco-Costa, Balbuena, Kostadinova, and Olson, 2009, Haploporinae Nicoll, 1914, and Waretrematinae Srivastava, 1937. Based on our analysis we restrict the Megasoleninae to include Megasolena, Vitellibaculum Montgomery, 1957, and Metamegasolena Yamaguti, 1970, all of which have species with two testes. To accommodate the former megasolenine taxa with a single testis, we erect the Hapladeninae subf. nov. for species in Hapladena and tentatively, Myodera Montgomery, 1957. Our results further support that haploporoids had a common marine ancestor with two testes, and that members of the Haploporoidea Nicoll, 1914 underwent diversification following a shift from a primarily marine life history with eupercarian hosts to a more euryhaline one with diadromous hosts (namely mullet).
Nitric Oxide-Releasing Cyclodextrins.

A series of secondary amine-modified cyclodextrin (CD) derivatives was synthesized with diverse exterior terminal groups (i.e., hydroxyl, methyl, methoxyl, and primary amine). Subsequent reaction with nitric oxide (NO) gas under alkaline conditions yielded N-diazeniumdiolate-modified CD derivatives. Adjustable NO payloads (0.6–2.4 μmol/mg) and release half-lives (0.7–4.2 h) were achieved by regulating both the amount of secondary amine precursors and the functional groups around the NO donors. The bactericidal action of these NO-releasing cyclodextrin derivatives was evaluated against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram-negative pathogen, with antibacterial activity proving dependent on both the NO payload and exterior modification. Materials containing a high density of NO donors or primary amines exhibited the greatest ability to eradicate P. aeruginosa. Of the materials prepared, only the primary amine-terminated heptasubstituted CD derivatives exhibited toxicity against mammalian L929 mouse fibroblast cell...
Cell Form and Function: Interpreting and Controlling the Shape of Adherent Cells.

Beautiful images of animal cells cultured on surfaces are ubiquitous in biological research, but these shapes also carry valuable information about the cells and the organism that they came from. Cell morphology is an emergent property of the cellular phenotype as well as of the physiological and signaling state of the cell. Many functional changes in cells cause stereotypical changes in cellular morphology, and some changes in shape can also cause characteristic changes in cellular phenotype. Thus, controlling cell shape through substrate engineering may emerge as another mechanism to modulate cell function for human health. This review summarizes current understanding of the morphology–phenotype connection, and surveys progress in the effort to interpret and control cell morphology.
Impact of recreational and medicinal marijuana on surgical patients: A review.

Abstract Background As medicinal and recreational marijuana use broadens across the United States, knowledge of its effects on the body will become increasingly important to all health care providers, including surgeons. Data sources We performed a literature review of Pubmed for articles discussing the basic science related to cannabinoids, as well as articles regarding cannabinoid medications, and cannabis use in surgical patients. Conclusions The primary components in the cannabis plant, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have been made available in numerous forms and formulations to treat multiple medical conditions, and recreational access to marijuana is increasing. Of particular importance to the surgeon may be their effects on prolonging intestinal motility, decreasing inflammation, increasing hunger, mitigating pain, and reducing nausea and vomiting. Perioperative use of medicinal or recreational marijuana will become increasingly prevalent, and the surgeon should be aware of the positive and negative effects of these cannabinoids.
How Contextual Frames Normalize Submission

ABSTRACTTwo studies demonstrate how contextual frames normalize submission and hereby complement and legitimize the exercise of power. Combining Kuhn’s qualitative concept of the self with Charles ...
Orally Dosed Citalopram Stimulates Small Intestinal Mucosal Growth.

Abstract Background Parenterally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as citalopram, increase intestinal mucosal absorptive surface by day 7 of treatment. We hypothesized that enteral citalopram would also induce intestinal mucosal growth, thus allowing for therapy with an oral agent. Materials and methods Following a habituation period, C57BL/6 mice received peanut butter pellets containing 10, 50, or 100 mg/kg/d citalopram for 7 d (n = 5); or 25 mg/kg/d citalopram for 14 (n = 3) or 21 (n = 5) d; or plain peanut butter pellets for 7 (n = 2), 14 (n = 2), or 21 d (n = 3). Two-centimeter ileal segments were harvested and prepared for microscopic assessment of villus height (VH), crypt depth, villus width (VW), and crypt width. Mucosal surface area (MSA) was calculated and data were compared using Student's t-test. Results Enteral administration of citalopram had virtually no effect on VH, VW, or crypt depth after 7 d; crypt width decreased significantly (P value range 0.0002 to Conclusions Enteral citalopram given for 14 d results in increased VH and ileal MSA, which remains increased by day 21. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors show potential as oral therapy for serious intestinal disorders such as short bowel syndrome.
Abstract 1331: Receptor tyrosine kinases are differentially phosphorylated in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer

Metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is the leading cause of death among prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Patients of African American (AA) origin are particularly disproportionately affected as they are less responsive to current therapies, mainly androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) that target androgen receptor signalling, which is less expressed in AA patients. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) have been implicated in cancer development and progression and inhibition of their activities has been effective in inhibiting cancer progression in other cancers. However, targeting RTK signalling has not yielded satisfactory results in PCas. The objective of this study was to identify precise RTKs that may be targetable in mCRPCs. An in-vitro model for primary vs mCRPC was developed from AA PCa cell lines: RC77T and RC43T. Briefly, invasive RC77T and RC43T cells were isolated in a cell invasion chamber. The invasive sublines were gradually exposed to increasing concentration (up to 10µM) of MDV3100 over a nine-month period to develop castration resistance. The resulting invasive and castration resistant sublines: RCMI77-CR3 and RCMI43-CR3 were subsequently cultured and maintained in K-SFM containing 10µM of MDV3100. Human Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Phosphorylation Antibody Array and Co-Immunoprecipitation protocols were used to identify differences in RTK activation. TCGA patient data was analysed using R to identify correlation between RTK mRNA expression and PCa progressiveness. MTT assay was used to evaluate effect of RTK inhibitors and MDV3100 treatment on cell survival. The RC77T and RC43T cells were epithelial in appearance, while RCMI77-CR3 and RCMI43-CR3 cells tended to be mesenchymal. The RCMI77-CR3 and RCMI43-CR3 sublines were more resistance to MDV3100 compared to their primary PCa counterparts. Human RTK Array identified four RTKs: KIT, LYN, ITK and RYK to be hyperphosphorylated in RCMI77-CR3 and RCMI43-CR3 relative to RC77T and RC43T, while three RTKs including EphA3, EphB1 and ErbB3 were hypo-phosphorylated. Immunoprecipitation and western blot analysis revealed differential expression of phosphotyrosine kinases between RC77T and RCMI77-CR3 cells. Analysis of TCGA patient data showed, mRNA expression level of only LYN and RYK differed significantly (p Citation Format: Raven A. Williams, Joakin Mori, Hui-Xian Lin, Alahni Becks, Clayton Yates, Honghe Wang. Receptor tyrosine kinases are differentially phosphorylated in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1331.
Amplitude-integrated EEG in infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome.

BACKGROUND To describe amplitude-integrated encephalogram (aEEG) characteristics of neonates with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). METHODS This is a prospective observational study. Newborns exposed to prenatal opioids and their gestational matched controls were included. A single-channel aEEG was obtained using Olympic 6000 CFM monitor. The background activity (continuous/discontinuous), the amplitudes (μV) and the presence of sleep-wake cycle (SWC) were documented. RESULTS A total of 59 infants, 23 with NAS and 36 controls were enrolled. All aEEG were completed within 48 hours of life prior to initiation of treatment. Birth weight and gestational age were similar in both groups. An aEEG was abnormal (discontinuous pattern and/or absent SWC) in 78 % (18/23) of infants with NAS versus only 25% in control group (9/36), [OR 10.8, CI (2.7-46.5) P < 0.001]. 61% of infants with NAS had discontinuous pattern [OR 7.8, CI (2-32) P = 0.001] and 39% had absence of sleep-wake cycle [OR 7.1, CI (1.4-39.4) P = 0.007]. CONCLUSIONS A majority of infants with NAS have abnormal aEEG activity.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia presenting as cholestatic jaundice in a 7-year-old boy:

This is a case of a 7-year-old boy with acute lymphoblastic leukemia presenting with cholestasis and elevated transaminase levels. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most common malignancy in children and can have variable presenting clinical manifestations. However, cholestasis is less commonly encountered in the pediatric population and can be a diagnostic challenge. We present a case of a 7-year-old boy discovered to have elevated transaminase levels while undergoing an evaluation for motor tics, which subsequently progressed to cholestasis and acute liver failure secondary to acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He demonstrated marked improvement after induction therapy and is in clinical remission. Clinicians should be ever mindful of the potentially unique presentations of childhood leukemia.
Radical cascade synthesis of azoles via tandem hydrogen atom transfer

A radical cascade strategy for the modular synthesis of five-membered heteroarenes (e.g. oxazoles, imidazoles) from feedstock reagents (e.g. alcohols, amines, nitriles) has been developed. This double C–H oxidation is enabled by in situ generated imidate and acyloxy radicals, which afford regio- and chemo-selective β C–H bis-functionalization. The broad synthetic utility of this tandem hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) approach to access azoles is included, along with experiments and computations that provide insight into the selectivity and mechanism of both HAT events.
Paper folding and cutting a set of tangram pieces

In a recent teacher-training workshop conducted by the author, a question arose concerning a method for duplicating the seven pieces of the ancient Chinese tangram puzzle without having to trace the pieces of another puzzle. After some thought about the relationships of the pieces in the puzzle to one another, the following paper-folding and cutting method, illustrated diagrammatically, was conceived. Start with a rectangular sheet of paper as in figure 1 (usually 8 Vi X 11). Fold
Spiralian Genomes Reveal Gene Family Expansions Associated with Adaptation to Freshwater

The colonization of freshwater habitats by marine-adapted organisms represents a major transition that has only occurred a few times in the evolution of animals. Only around half of the extant animal phyla have representatives in both marine and freshwater environments and even within those phyla some major clades are restricted to marine environments. Moving from marine to freshwater environments can create severe osmotic and ionic stresses and the mechanisms that animals have used to adapt to those stresses are still not well understood. In this study, we downloaded amino acid sequence data from 11 spiralian animal genomes (four freshwater taxa representing four different phyla as well as 7 marine taxa) and identified a number of gene family expansions that have occurred exclusively in the freshwater lineages. Further investigation of these gene families and the timing and nature of their expansions will illuminate one of the major evolutionary transitions in the history of life on Earth.
Quantile regression to estimate the survivor average causal effect of periodontal treatment effects on birthweight and gestational age

Background Survival average causal effect (SACE) can give valid estimates of the periodontal treatment effect on birth outcomes in randomized controlled trials when fetal losses are unequal across the treatment arms. A regression-based method to estimate SACE using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression can be biased if the treatment effect varies across the outcome distribution. In this case quantile regression may be a suitable alternative. Methods We compared OLS and quantile regression models estimating SACE to calculate the effect of periodontal treatment on birthweight and gestational age in secondary analyses of publicly available Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy (OPT) trial data. Results Periodontal treatment tended to increase birthweight and gestational age at the lowest quantiles, remained flat in the middle quantiles, and trended to decrease both birthweight and gestational age in the highest quantiles. In quantile regression models estimating SACE the β-coefficients: 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles were 277.5: -141.0 to 696.0 g, 1.4: -107 to 110.3 g, and -84: -344 to 175.3 g for birthweight, and 0.6: -1.0 to 2.2 weeks, -0.1: -0.5 to 0.2 weeks, and -0.6: -1.0 to -0.1 weeks for gestational age. Estimates from OLS models estimating SACE were close to the null, β: 95% CI -4.7: 132.3 to 123.0 g for birthweight, and 0.03: -0.72 to 0.78 weeks for gestational age. Conclusions OLS models to evaluate SACE for periodontal treatment effects on birthweight and gestational age may be biased towards the null. Quantile regression may be a preferable alternative.
The impact of marijuana use on liver transplant recipients: A 900 patient single center experience.

Introduction Increased societal prevalence of marijuana continues to challenge liver transplant (LT) programs. This study aimed to examine the potential effects of marijuana use on outcomes. Methods This retrospective study included recipients who underwent LT between 1/2012 and 6/2018. According to pre-LT marijuana use, patients were classified into recent (≤6 months of LT), former (chronic use but not ≤6 months), or non-users. Additionally, the impact of post-LT marijuana use on survival was assessed. Results Of 926 eligible patients, 184 were pre-LT marijuana users (42 recent; 142 former) (median follow-up: 30.3 months). Pre-users were more likely to be male, White, and have histories of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use. Additionally, recent users were of higher acuity, with higher MELD and requiring ICU admission. Patient survival at 1-year was 89% in non-users, 94% (HR: 0.494, 95% CI: 0.239-1.022 vs. non-users) in former users, and 83% (HR: 1.516, 95% CI: 0.701-3.282) in recent users. Post-operative complications in pre-LT users and the survival analysis for post-LT marijuana users vs. non-users did not show significance. Conclusions Our results demonstrated that marijuana use did not have an adverse impact on post-LT outcomes; however, further studies utilizing larger cohorts are warranted.
The Case for GNMT as a Biomarker and a Therapeutic Target in Pancreatic Cancer

The high mortality rate for pancreatic cancer (PC) is due to the lack of specific symptoms at early tumor stages and a high biological aggressiveness. Reliable biomarkers and new therapeutic targets would help to improve outlook in PC. In this study, we analyzed the expression of GNMT in a panel of pancreatic cancer cell lines and in early-stage paired patient tissue samples (normal and diseased) by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR). We also investigated the effect of 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucopyranoside (PGG) as a therapeutic agent for PC. We find that GNMT is markedly downregulated (p < 0.05), in a majority of PC cell lines. Similar results are observed in early-stage patient tissue samples, where GNMT expression can be reduced by a 100-fold or more. We also show that PGG is a strong inhibitor of PC cell proliferation, with an IC50 value of 12 ng/mL, and PGG upregulates GNMT expression in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, our data show that GNMT has promise as a biomarker and as a therapeutic target for PC.
Dysregulation of RyR Calcium Channel and Impaired Mitochondrial Calcium Uptake Cause the Onset of Mitochondrial Retrograde Signaling

Mitochondrial dysfunction, such as reduction in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content induce mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde signaling (MtRs) which involves elevated cytoplasmic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]c) followed by activation of calcineurin (Cn) as the initiating events of MtRs. However, the mechanism of elevated [Ca2+]c in response to mitochondrial dysfunction remains unclear. In this study, we show that multiple modes of mitochondrial stress generated by partial mtDNA depletion or cytochrome c oxidase disruption cause ryanodine receptor channel (RyR) dysregulation which instigates the release of Ca2+ upon the addition of caffeine in C2C12 myoblast and HCT116 carcinoma cells. We also observed a reciprocal downregulation of IP3R channel activity and reduced mitochondrial uptake of Ca2+. Ryanodine, a RyR antagonist, abrogated the mitochondrial stress-mediated increase in [Ca2+]c and the entire downstream signaling cascades of MtRs. Interestingly, Ryanodine also inhibited mitochondrial stress-induced invasive behavior in mtDNA depleted C2C12 cells and HCT116 carcinoma cells. Additionally, co-immunoprecipitation shows that RyR protein interaction with FKBP12 proteins is affected suggesting altered function of the Ca2+ channel. These results document how the endoplasmic reticulum-associated RyR channels in combination with inhibition of mitochondrial uniporter system modulate cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and signaling under mitochondrial stress conditions.
Triple magnesium ionospheric photometer (Tri-MIP) instrument overview

Metal atoms and ions are deposited into the Earth’s Upper Atmosphere and Ionosphere via meteor ablation. The neutral atoms can undergo charge exchange with extant O+, O2+, and N2+ ions to become metallic ions. Metallic ions have lifetimes of several days in the ionosphere, allowing vertical wind shear to compress them into thin, dense layers that subsequently produce Sporadic-E propagation of HF radio signals. The Triple Magnesium Ionospheric Photometer (Tri-MIP) instrument was developed by the US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) to observe airglow emissions from magnesium ions (Mg+) in the Earth’s atmosphere and measure global-scale Mg+ density from orbit as a proxy for the metallic ion population. This CubeSat compatible Space Weather sensor is a 1U ionospheric photometer that observes the ultraviolet 280 nm fluorescent emission of Mg+ on the sunlit portion of the orbit. The primary objective is to characterize the Mg+ distribution in the Earth’s atmosphere. We present the Tri-MIP instrument concept, laboratory measurements, and upcoming mission concepts.
Maternal suicidality interacts with blunted reward processing to prospectively predict increases in depressive symptoms in 8-to-14-year-old girls.

Abstract Both a hypoactive reward system and maternal depression are associated with the onset of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in youth. Recent research indicates that blunted reward processing and maternal history of depression may interact to predict increases in depressive symptoms, however, the role of specific maternal depressive symptoms has not been examined. The current study investigated whether maternal depressive symptoms, history of MDD, and suicidal thoughts and/or behaviors (STBs) might lead to prospective increases in depressive symptoms one year later in the context of hypoactive reward processing. In a sample (N = 212) of 8 to 14-year-old girls, we assessed depressive symptoms in youth at baseline and follow up, while reward processing was measured using the Reward Positivity (RewP) event-related brain potential. Maternal STBs, current depressive symptoms, and history of maternal MDD were assessed at baseline. The results indicated that only girls with a blunted RewP and maternal STBs exhibited increased depressive symptoms one year later. These results were not evident when maternal depressive symptoms or maternal history of MDD was examined as the moderator. Overall, the current study provides evidence that maternal STBs uniquely impact youth with blunted reward processing.
The Cosmopolitan Cookbook : Class, Taste, and Foreign Foods in Victorian Cookery Books

AbstractVictorian cookbook authors employed a variety of strategies to sell foreign foods and foreign recipes to their middle class English readers. Some authors added exotic ingredients to familiar recipes in order to increase the variety and healthfulness of their readers' diet, while others relied on supposedly authentic foreign recipes that readers could use as a means to social distinction. Two conflicting forces shaped reactions to foreign cuisine. Victorian cookbook readers might wish to experience travel vicariously or to relive travel through the taste and smell of foods from distant lands that they perceived as authentic. The opposing cultural response was the desire to domesticate or master the world by adopting new ingredients into more traditional foodways, or transforming foreign cuisine by incorporating familiar ingredients into exotic recipes. Although both responses can be found throughout the century, the use of foreign cuisine as a means of social distinction increased in the 1890s.
Sperm Motility and Histomorphometry of the Testis of the Genetically Obese Zucker Rat

The reproductive system of male obese Zucker rats was studied to determine whether there are abnormalities in testis composition, organ weights, or sperm motility, which might contribute to their severely reduced reproductive capacity. The left testes of obese and lean rats were evaluated histomorphometrically according to Chalkley's method (1943). Relative to weight, the percentage of seminiferous tubules, interstitial space, and Leydig cells of fat rats did not differ significantly from those of their lean littermates. The weights of the testes and accessory glands were not significantly different in fat versus lean groups. Sperm recovered from the testes and head and tail of the epididymides showed no differences between fat and lean rats in the percentage classified as immobile, oscillatory, circularly moving, or forwardly progressing. These findings suggest that the testes of obese Zucker rats have a normal composition of seminiferous tubules and interstitial cells and a normal pattern of maturation of motility as sperm pass through the reproductive tract. The severely reduced reproductive capacity of the obese male may be primarily due to the previously reported abnormal sexual behavior. It is not due to an inability to produce motile spermatozoa.
Generation of acoustic-gravity waves by a submerged monopole source located near the water-air interface

Powerful underwater explosions and certain natural sources, such as underwater landslides, generate very low-frequency waves in water and air, for which both fluid buoyancy and compressibility simultaneously serve as restoring forces. In this paper, analysis of sound transmission through air-water interface is extended to acoustic-gravity waves (AGWs). It is found that, as for sound, the interface becomes anomalously transparent for sufficiently shallow compact sources of AGWs. The increase of wave power flux into air due to diffraction effects can reach several orders of magnitude. Physical mechanisms responsible for the anomalous transparency are discussed. Excitation of an interface wave by an underwater source is shown to be an important channel of AGW transmission into atmosphere, which has no counterpart in the case of sound.
Design and implementation of network puzzles

Client puzzles have been proposed in a number of protocols as a mechanism for mitigating the effects of distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. In order to provide protection against simultaneous attacks across a wide range of applications and protocols, however, such puzzles must be placed at a layer common to all of them; the network layer. Placing puzzles at the IP layer fundamentally changes the service paradigm of the Internet, allowing any device within the network to push load back onto those it is servicing. An advantage of network layer puzzles over previous puzzle mechanisms is that they can be applied to all traffic from malicious clients, making it possible to defend against arbitrary attacks as well as making previously voluntary mechanisms mandatory. In this paper, we outline goals which must be met for puzzles to be deployed effectively at the network layer. We then describe the design, implementation, and evaluation of a system that meets these goals by supporting efficient, fine-grained control of puzzles at the network layer. In particular, we describe modifications to existing puzzle protocols that allow them to work at the network layer, a hint-based hash-reversal puzzle that allows for the generation and verification of fine-grained puzzles at line speed in the fast path of high-speed routers, and an iptables implementation that supports transparent deployment at arbitrary locations in the network.
Type III TGF-β Receptor Enhances Colon Cancer Cell Migration and Anchorage-Independent Growth

The type III TGF-β receptor (TβRIII or betagylcan) is a TGF-β superfamily coreceptor with emerging roles in regulating TGF-β superfamily signaling and cancer progression. Alterations in TGF-β superfamily signaling are common in colon cancer; however, the role of TβRIII has not been examined. Although TβRIII expression is frequently lost at the message and protein level in human cancers and suppresses cancer progression in these contexts, here we demonstrate that, in colon cancer, TβRIII messenger RNA expression is not significantly altered and TβRIII expression is more frequently increased at the protein level, suggesting a distinct role for TβRIII in colon cancer. Increasing TβRIII expression in colon cancer model systems enhanced ligand-mediated phosphorylation of p38 and the Smad proteins, while switching TGF-β and BMP-2 from inhibitors to stimulators of colon cancer cell proliferation, inhibiting ligand-induced p21 and p27 expression. In addition, increasing TβRIII expression increased ligand-stimulated anchorage-independent growth, a resistance to ligand- and chemotherapy-induced apoptosis, cell migration and modestly increased tumorigenicity in vivo. In a reciprocal manner, silencing endogenous TβRIII expression decreased colon cancer cell migration. These data support a model whereby TβRIII mediates TGF-β superfamily ligand-induced colon cancer progression and support a context-dependent role for TβRIII in regulating cancer progression.
Cost Comparisons of Dual-Fuel Propulsion in Advanced Shuttles

Econometric analyses of advanced Earth-to-orbit vehicles indicate that there are economic benefits from the development of new vehicles beyond the space shuttle as traffic increases. Vehicle studies indicate the advantage of the dual-fuel propulsion in single-stage vehicles. This paper shows the economic effect of incorporating dualfuel propulsion in advanced vehicles. Several dual-fuel propulsion systems are compared to a baseline hydrogen and oxygen system.
Computational Modeling of Dynamic Planning in Air Traffic Management

This paper describes a computational model of the air traffic management work system with current-day control techniques. The model simulates a dynamic planning process in which plans for issuing instructions to aircraft are adapted as improved information about the traffic situation becomes available. The paper presents a fast-time simulation evaluation with two air traffic controller agents controlling traffic in terminal-area arrival sectors. The results indicate that agents with dynamic planning capabilities exceed the performance of previously developed reactive agents.
Three Different Approaches for Calculating the Three-Dimensional Structure of Microtubules Decorated with Kinesin Motor Domains

Abstract We have used three different electron microscopy approaches to calculate three-dimensional maps of tubulin assemblies decorated with the motor domain of kinesin. The approaches used were: (1) Tilt series reconstruction of negatively stained tubulin sheets. (2) Back-projection reconstruction of microtubules in ice. (3) Helical reconstruction of microtubules in ice. The calculated maps show the overall configuration of the protofilaments and the interactions between the motor and the protofilaments at a resolution of 2–4 nm. The three methods revealed a similar binding configuration of the kinesin motor domain to the protofilament. We also found that seams can be present in potentially helical microtubules, limiting the use of helical reconstruction algorithms. Advantages and disadvantages of each of the three approaches are discussed.
Drainage basin perimeters: a fractal significance

Abstract Drainage basin boundaries are irregular curves with many scales of crenulation, defying precise measurement of basin perimeter. Richardson “divider” analysis of six drainage basin outlines from southern Indiana, and of an additional six from larger U.S. basins, suggests that basin boundaries are fractal or near-fractal shapes. Although the basins differ significantly in physiography, the fractal dimension values obtained fit within the narrow range 1.06–1.12, indicating that while basins may differ greatly in overall shape, they are very similar in terms of smaller-scale boundary irregularity. Techniques of measuring basin perimeter should be modified in recognition of these facts. The consistent fractal or near-fractal geometric characteristics of basin boundaries give a basis for extrapolation of perimeter values to appropriate levels of resolution. For most basin morphometry applications, however, the objective should be to make comparison among basins using measurements taken at the same degree of resolution relative to basin size, rather than identical resolution.
Flow cytometric determination of allergen-specific T lymphocyte proliferation from whole blood in experimentally asthmatic cats.

Abstract The ability to quantify feline lymphocyte proliferation, especially to specific antigen or allergen, would be valuable in experimental models and naturally developing disease where activated lymphocytes drive immune responses. Traditional proliferation assays may pose radioactivity hazards, lack the ability to distinguish viable from non-viable cells, and cannot discriminate individual populations of proliferating lymphocytes (e.g., the CD4+ T cell class). We hypothesized that in an experimental model of feline allergic asthma a four-color flow cytometric assay capable of simultaneously detecting division, viability and cell surface markers (pan T cell marker CD5 or CD4) would allow characterization of lymphocytes stimulated ex vivo using the sensitizing allergen, Bermuda grass (BGA). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were harvested from eight experimentally asthmatic cats to validate and optimize use of a cell proliferation dye or bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) with BGA-specific stimulation in a lymphocyte proliferation flow cytometric assay. Only the latter reagent was suitable in the cat. After a 3 day incubation, antibodies with different fluorochromes were used to identify BrdU, viable cells, CD5 and CD4 for subsequent flow cytometric analysis. In asthmatic cats, the group mean ± SEM of proliferating CD5+ lymphocytes was 2.3 ± 0.5%. The group mean ± SEM of proliferating CD4+ lymphocytes was 1.2 ± 0.3%. Flow cytometry is a sensitive method for detecting simultaneous proliferation and viability of very minor populations of allergen-specific lymphocytes in experimentally asthmatic cats.
CRYOGENIC DETECTION OF PARTICLES: DEVELOPMENT EFFORT IN THE UNITED STATES

We review the development of cryogenic detectors of particles in the USA, with emphasis on large mass devices. Most groups are still tooling up and exploring basic properties of sensors. We summarize the main discussion themes and describe some of the early experimental results.
Depletion of atmospheric nitrate and chloride as a consequence of the Toba Volcanic Eruption

Continuous measurements of SO42− and electrical conductivity (ECM) along the GISP2 ice core record the Toba mega-eruption at a depth 2590.95 to 2091.25 m (71,000±5000 years ago). Major chemical species were analyzed at a resolution of 1 cm per sample for this section. An ∼6-year long period with extremely high volcanic SO42− coincident with a 94% depletion of nitrate and 63% depletion of chloride is observed at the depth of the Toba horizon. Such a reduction of chloride in a volcanic layer preserved in an ice core has not been observed in any previous studies. The nearly complete depletion of nitrate (to 5 ppb) encountered at the Toba level is the lowest value in the entire ∼250,000 years of the GISP2 ice core record. We propose possible mechanisms to explain the depletion of nitrate and chloride resulting from this mega-eruption.
Unsupervised frequency selection

The paper describes an algorithm for the unsupervised selection of frequencies for Bode or Nyquist frequency analyses. The algorithm includes phase crossovers, gain crossovers, bounds on the frequency range, critical points, and a multiplicative increment.
The effectiveness of computer-related assignments in teaching business administration and economics

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of computer-related assignments on the performance of business and economics students. The paper studies two types of computer-related teaching tools. Students in the ‘Managerial Economics’ class at the University of Portland, Portland, Oregon constitute the sample for the study involving a statistical package called TSP (Time Series Processor). The students in the ‘Introduction to Microeconomics’ make up the sample to study the effects of a computer simulation game called Microsim. The conclusion is that participation in computer-related projects appears to have no significant effect on student performance measured by course grade. Overall academic performance (measured by cumulative GPA upon entering the course) is consistently (in different samples) a significant determinant of a student's performance.
Some effects of organic wastes on aquatic insects in impounded habitats.

Introduction of organic waste material from swine pens to an impounded aquatic habitat caused population suppression of certain species of insects. Decreases in aquatic insect fauna paralleled the increase in the organic waste concentration as judged by the changes in the numbers of coliform bacteria present. The southern house mosquito, Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus Say, began laying eggs in the lagoon when coliform counts approximated 7000 organisms per milliliter of lagoon water. Water suspensions of pure cultures of the coliforms Escherichia coli, E. freundii , and E. intermedia were found to be more attractive as oviposition sites for C. p. quinquefasciatus than were water suspensions of Acrobacter acrogenes or sterile water.