cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Internal carbonic anhydrase activity in the tissue of scleractinian corals is sufficient to support proposed roles in photosynthesis and calcification

Reef-building corals import inorganic carbon (Ci) to build their calcium carbonate skeletons and to support photosynthesis by the symbiotic algae that reside in their tissue. The internal pathways that deliver Ci for both photosynthesis and calcification are known to involve the enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA), which interconverts CO2 and HCO3 (-). We have developed a method for absolute quantification of internal CA (iCA) activity in coral tissue based on the rate of (18)O-removal from labeled Ci. The method was applied to three Caribbean corals (Orbicella faveolata, Porites astreoides and Siderastrea radians) and showed that these species have similar iCA activities per unit surface area, but that S. radians has ∼10-fold higher iCA activity per unit tissue volume. A model of coral Ci processing shows that the measured iCA activity is sufficient to support the proposed roles for iCA in Ci transport for photosynthesis and calcification. This is the case even when iCA activity is homogeneously distributed throughout the coral, but the model indicates that it would be advantageous to concentrate iCA in the spaces where calcification (the calcifying fluid) and photosynthesis (the oral endoderm) take place. We argue that because the rates of photosynthesis and calcification per unit surface area are similar among the corals studied here, the areal iCA activity used to deliver Ci for these reactions should also be similar. The elevated iCA activity per unit volume of S. radians compared with that of the other species is probably due to the thinner effective tissue thickness in this species.
Unordered error-correcting codes and their applications

The authors give efficient constructions for error correcting unordered codes, i.e., codes such that any two codewords are at a certain minimal distance apart and at the same time they are unordered. They present three constructions together with tables that compare their efficiencies. These codes are used for detecting a predetermined number of symmetric errors and for detecting all unidirectional errors. An application to parallel asynchronous communications is included. >
Penetrance and Expressivity of Genes Involved in the Development of Epilepsy in the Genetically Epilepsy-Prone Rat (GEPR)

In order to understand the level of complexity of the epileptic phenotype in the two strains of Genetically Epilepsy-Prone Rats (GEPRs), we determined two important measures of genetic complexity, ...
Climate Change, California Wine, and Wildlife Habitat

Climate change may drive shifts in global agriculture that will affect remaining natural lands, with important consequences for the conservation of species and ecosystems. Wine production is an excellent model for examining this type of impact, because suitable climate is central to product quality and production is centered in Mediterranean climate regions that are all global biodiversity hotspots. Adaptation to climate change in existing vineyards may involve water use to ameliorate heat stress or drought, resulting in additional conservation issues. Global studies of wine, climate, and conservation have highlighted the need for more detailed regional analyses to better understand these complex multiple issues. Here we examine impacts of climate change on winegrape suitability in California and its possible implications for nature conservation and water use. Under two global climate models and two emissions scenarios, winegrape suitability in California is projected to decline overall and to move into undeveloped areas that provide important habitats for native species. Coastal and upslope areas retain and improve in suitability, respectively, while inland areas see the largest losses in suitability. Areas of declining suitability are regions in which heightened water use for vineyard adaptation may lead to declines in stream flow or conflicts with other water uses. Continued growth in global demand for wine and reduced production in areas of declining suitability will drive expansion into newly suitable areas, potentially impacting important species native to California. Existing vineyards in areas of declining suitability will likely need to adapt to remain viable. Advance planning for a changing climate and adaptation options that are not water intensive (e.g. vine orientation, trellising, or varietal switch) will help reduce potential water conservation issues in those areas. (JEL Classifications: Q15, Q54, Q57)
Identification of the glycosaminoglycan-binding site on the glycoprotein Erns of bovine viral diarrhoea virus by site-directed mutagenesis

Bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) envelope glycoprotein Erns interacts with highly sulphated heparin-like glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) located on the cell surface as an early step in virus infection of cells. Site-directed mutagenesis of recombinant Erns was undertaken and analysis of mutants by heparin-affinity chromatography and cell surface binding showed that a cluster of basic amino acids (480KKLENKSK487) near the C terminus of Erns was essential for binding. Mutants with amino acid substitutions of lysine residues 481 and 485 in Erns reduced the binding of Erns to immobilized heparin and cellular GAGs but retained ribonuclease activity. In contrast to normal Erns, Erns that was unable to bind to cells also failed to inhibit BVDV infection of cells when the cells were pre-incubated with Erns. It is proposed that the cluster of basic residues (480KKLENKSK487) localized at the C-terminal end of Erns constitutes a GAG-binding site.
Generation-scale movement patterns of cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii pleuriticus) in a stream network

Movements by stream fishes have long been the subject of study and controversy. Although much discussion has focused on what proportion of fish adopt mobility within particular life stages, a larger issue involves the lifetime move- ments of individuals. I evaluated movements of different sizes and ages of Colorado River cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii pleuriticus) using a variety of sampling methods from 1996 to 2001 in a 40 km network of main-stem and tributary segments of the North Fork Little Snake River, Wyoming, USA. The probability of movement was related to the period of observation, initial location, and possibly individual growth rate, whereas distance moved was related to fish size and initial location. Furthermore, it appeared that movements by juveniles were mostly downstream, whereas those of older fish were largely upstream. Movement of cutthroat trout in this basin appeared to be driven by ontogenetic changes in habitat use and variation in habitat productivity. Given that this stream network exemplifies the complexity typical of many mountain water- sheds, movement as a life history tactic in fishes may be more common than is sometimes recognized.
Modulated-gain spectrometer

We describe a modulated-gain spectrometer consisting of two single-mode cw dye lasers and a cw optically pumped molecular laser with which it is possible to examine molecular energy levels near dissociation limits. These near-dissociation levels are normally Franck–Condon inaccessible from thermally populated levels. The Na2A1∑u+v = 43–105 and B1Πuv = 24–33 levels are observed for the first reported time by modulated-gain spectroscopy (MGS). The principles of operation of the MGS spectrometer are presented along with examples of several types of MGS effects.
Comment: Innovations Associated with Multiple Systems Estimation in Human Rights Settings

I congratulate the authors on an excellent description of the recent work on the use of multiple-recapture estimation (MSE), also known as multiple-systems estimation, in the context of human right...
Through the Lens of Mathematical/Scientific Self‐Schemas: Images of Students' Current and Possible Selves1

Two studies identified university students whose mathematical, scientific networks of cognitive associations function either as a positive self-schema, a weak or nonexistent self-schema, or a negative self-schema. Schematicity tendency was significantly related to both current and possible self elements. In Study 1, subjects’ mathematical, scientific self views were positively associated with preferential recall of schema-relevant material. Both recall and item extremity signaled the presence of a global, positive or negative, math/science self-schema, a conclusion supported by negative schematic subjects' significantly lower math test scores. However, aschematics, with math test performance very similar to positive self-schematics, were much less likely than positive schematics to enroll in mathematics, statistics, computing, and natural science courses. In Study 2, standardized math/science trait item endorsements and response latencies were used to form double cross-validated self-schema clusters. Positive and negative schematics were more confident than aschematics in “me, not-me” math/science self-descriptions, and in possible math/science careers. Both intentions to take more mathematics and total courses subsequently taken were greater for positive than negative schematics. Implications for gender-related issues, interventions, and instruction in academic domains are discussed.
Are all 585 nm pulsed dye lasers equivalent?: A prospective, comparative, photometric, and histologic study☆

Abstract Background: Flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye lasers (585 nm) are used to treat port-wine stains and other cutaneous vascular lesions. Strikingly different tissue effects were seen after two apparently similar 585 nm pulsed dye lasers at equivalent fluences were used. Objective: We compared the photometric and histologic effects of two apparently similar 585 nm flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser systems. Methods: The burn pattern and beam profile analysis of two Candela SPTL-1 lasers and two Cynosure Photogenica V lasers were compared. Various fluences and spot sizes of the Cynosure laser were placed on normal skin and evaluated for histologic change. Results: Variation between the stated area of the spot and the actual measured area of the spot was found in all lasers studied. The area of the 5 mm spot of the two Candela lasers studied was 35% and 31% larger, respectively, than the stated area. The Cynosure lasers had areas that were 8% and 4% smaller than the stated area. Neither beam profile was uniform. The Candela laser maintained a gaussian-like distribution of energy, whereas the Cynosure laser beam profile resembled a top hat with a more even distribution of energy. Histologic studies confirmed the maintenance of vascular specificity without nonspecific thermal damage. Conclusion: When changing from one 585 nm pulsed dye laser to another and using supposedly equivalent fluences, one cannot guarantee that clinical results will be equivalent. In an effort to achieve consistent treatments when moving between lasers manufactured by different companies, it would be prudent to place a single spot of energy onto burn paper and measure the diameter of the spot.
Immune role of hepatic TLR-4 revealed by orthotopic mouse liver transplantation

Activated CD8+ T cells migrate to the liver at the end of an immune response and go through apoptosis there, but this mechanism is impaired in mice lacking Toll-like receptor-4. This allowed us to test the importance of liver trapping in an ongoing immune response. In the absence of Toll-like receptor-4, reduced liver accumulation was associated with an increase in the circulating CD8+ T cell pool, more long-lived memory T cells and increased CD8+ T cell memory responses. Using experimental orthotopic liver transplantation, we showed that the effect of Toll-like receptor-4 on the formation of the CD8+ T cell memory resides in the liver. Conclusion: These studies reveal a new function for the liver, which is to regulate the magnitude of T cell memory responses through a Toll-like receptor-4–dependent mechanism. (HEPATOLOGY 2007;45:178–186.)
The neurospora CYT-18 protein suppresses defects in the phage T4 td intron by stabilizing the catalytically active structure of the intron core

The Neurospora CYT-18 protein, a tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase, which functions in splicing group I introns in mitochondria, promotes splicing of mutants of the distantly related bacteriophage T4 td intron. In an in vivo assay, wild-type CYT-18 protein expressed in E. coli suppressed mutations in the td intron's catalytic core. CYT-18-suppressible mutations were also suppressed by high Mg2+ or spermidine in vitro, suggesting they affect intron structure. Both the N- and C-terminal domains of CYT-18 are required for efficient splicing, but CYT-18 with a large C-terminal truncation retains some activity. Our results indicate that CYT-18 interacts with conserved structural features of group I introns, and they provide direct evidence that a protein promotes splicing by stabilizing the catalytically active structure of the intron RNA.
Evidence-Based Psychosocial Treatments for Children and Adolescents Exposed to Traumatic Events

The article reviews the current status (1993–2007) of psychosocial treatments for children and adolescents who have been exposed to traumatic events. Twenty-one treatment studies are evaluated using criteria from Nathan and Gorman (2002) along a continuum of methodological rigor ranging from Type 1 to Type 6. All studies were, at a minimum, robust or fairly rigorous. The treatments in each of these 21 studies also are classified using criteria from Chambless et al. (1996), and Chambless and Hollon (1998). Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy met the well-established criteria; School-Based Group Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment met the criteria for probably efficacious. All the other treatments were classified as either possibly efficacious or experimental. Meta-analytic results for four outcomes (i.e., posttraumatic stress, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and externalizing behavior problems) across all treatments compared to waitlist control and active control conditions combined reveal that, ...
Continued Evolution of the Microbiology of Oral Infections

As the microbiology of oral infections changes, so does the rational selection of an appropriate antibiotic.
Observations of the Near-Field Double Frequency Pressure Spectrum in the Upper Ocean Using the Cartesian Diver Profiling Instrument

An untethered instrument designed for remote profiling in the upper ocean is equipped with a pressure sensor capable of measuring the time and depth characteristics in the spectral band of pressure fluctuations centered near 0.175 Hz. The spectral peak that is commonly found in this band is associated with the nonlinear quadratic sum interactions between sea-surface gravity waves of equal frequencies but with opposing directional components. The Cartesian Diver instrument (for this experiment) cycled between depths of 100 and 300 meters at a speed of 15 cm/sec recording pressure fluctuations at 0.25 second intervals. The initial data set came from a 48-hour deployment beginning May 5, 1988, in water 3.7 kilometers deep approximately 400 kilometers west of San Diego, California, followed by a second 48 hour data set beginning May 9. Coincident with the second data set were measurements from an ocean bottom pressure sensor. A strong low pressure weather system passed through the area approximately 650 kilometers to the northwest between May 2–5. The time averaged Diver pressure spectrum integrated across the double frequency peak exhibits an inverse square depth dependence. This is consistent with surface pressure fluctuations approximately white in wavenumber whose integrated spectral characteristics have a near-field inverse square decay with depth and a far-field depth independent intensity. The shallowest data points show some evidence of a pressure decay near the surface, indicating that the white wavenumber approximation is not a completely valid model. A new model suggests a high wavenumber rolloff dependent on the spectral content of the sea surface waves. It appears that our observations are best explained by generation from the interaction of a narrow directional bandwidth swell incident upon a coastline with a broad directional reflection. Depth averaged spectra versus time show a rough correlation with wind speed as measured on shipboard, but the local wind may be a proxy for the storm winds to the northwest. Data from the second deployment show a similar spectral evolution in time as the data from the ocean bottom pressure sensor. The bottom pressure sensor, however, is heavily influenced by energy from distant sources propagating to the instrument along the seafloor as Rayleigh waves. These are not present in the Diver’s data.
Recent Advances in the Chemistry of Micelles

During the last decade the study of micelle formation in detergent solutions, like many other areas of chemical science, has undergone almost explosive growth, promoted by technological advances which made possible substantial improvements in existing experimental methods and the introduction of altogether new techniques. An additional stimulus has been an upsurge of interest in the micellization phenomenon among chemists not primarily concerned with surfactant solutions for their own sake. This group consists principally of biochemists who have focussed attention on similarities between detergent micelles, monolayers, or bilayers and the phospholipid regions of biological membranes, and between micelles and globular proteins. Although micelles and proteins do not really have very much in common from a structural point of view beyond the fact that both are stabilized by hydrophobic interactions, it is now well established [1, 2] that micelles exert catalytic effects on assorted organic reactions which are at least reminiscent of the effects produced by enzymes. This discovery aroused the interest of physical organic chemists, and its ramifications form the subject matter of the major portion of this symposium.
Coronary vascular and endothelial reactivity changes in transgenic mice overexpressing atrial natriuretic factor

Recent advances in genetic methods permit the introduction of random and defined mutations into the mouse germ line, producing novel mouse strains, some of which affect the heart and vasculature. A...
Nonlinear Operability of a Membrane Reactor for Direct Methane Aromatization

Abstract This paper presents the first operability studies for the computation of catalytic membrane reactor feasible regions for process design and control. The equilibrium-limited direct methane aromatization conversion process to hydrogen and benzene is addressed as the application. For the operability analysis, a nonlinear model that describes the membrane reactor system is derived. This analysis is performed for different reactor designs, membrane characteristics and flow configurations. The obtained results demonstrate the capabilities of the nonlinear operability approach to provide novel findings on the design of emerging energy systems.
Jus Post Bellum as a Deliberative Process: Transnationalising Peace-Building:

The approach to peace-building is explored on two levels. The first is to see peace-building as the product of reconstructing political society so that it becomes more transnational, not only in the sense of having greater diversity, but also in distributing decisional powers more broadly. A necessary condition for constructing a transnational society is to create the ties of communicative status across the borders of communities. In Northern Ireland, these borders were religious, and the multi-track processes across the boundaries of conflict helped to produce the ties that supported the settlement. In many cases, the construction of a transnational society with its own norms and forms of interaction and communication is facilitated by various intermediaries, such as the peace networks in Northern Ireland that cut across religious difference. Second, on this same model, a global multilevel dialogue about peace and justice also seems possible, especially as transnational public spheres expand the scope of...
The Thermodynamics and Geochemistry of Ca, Sr, Ba, and Ra Sulfates in Some Deep Brines From the Palo Duro Basin, Texas

The work reported here involved application of the ion-interaction approach of Pitzer [1] [2] to model the activities of some major and minor cations and major anions in deep brine systems at elevated temperatures and pressures. The solubilities of anhydrite (CaS0 4 ), gypsum (CaSO 4 ·2H 2 O), celestite (SrS0 4 ), barite (BaS0 4 ), and radium sulfate (RaSO 4 ) in brines from the Wolfcamp Formation and granite wash facies, Palo Duro Basin, Texas, were modeled using ion-interaction equations. Waters with ionic strengths ranging from 2.89 to 4.76 m, and temperatures and pressures up to 40°C and 130 bars were sampled from five horizons in three wells, at depths between 970 and 1,670 meters. Theoretical solubility products as a function of temperature and pressure were obtained for comparison with ion activity products computed using ion-interaction theory. The effect of temperature on model calculations was found to reside almost entirely in the Debye-Huckel A Φ parameter, which accordingly was corrected for brine temperatures [3]. Modeling results indicated that all five brines are saturated with respect to anhydrite and celestite, and three of the five with respect to barite. Saturation may result from hydrologic connection with adjacent overlying evaporite units, or increased Ca, Sr and Ba concentrations caused by their desorption from clays. Radium concentrations, which range from 10 -11.3 to 10 -12.7 m, are not controlled by RaSO 4 solubility or adsorption, but probably by solid solution in other sulfate minerals in these low pH (4.4 – 6.3) high calcium (0.18 – 0.52 m) brines [4] [5].
Gs alpha--identification of a gene highly expressed by insulinoma and other endocrine tumors.

Background. The isolation of mRNA molecules that are either uniquely or more highly expressed by tumor and not normal tissue is a powerful tool in the study of cell regulation and growth. To this end we constructed a complementary DNA (cDNA) library from messenger RNA (mRNA) isolated from a human insulinoma and, by differential hybridization with cDNA from both normal pancreas and insulinoma, isolated clones more highly expressed by insulinoma. Methods. Total RNA was isolated from human insulinoma and normal pancreas and purified to mRNA by oligo (dT) column. An insulinoma cDNA library was constructed and screened with 32 P-labeled cDNA from pancreas and insulinoma
Chapter 3 Hormonal Influences on Seizures: Basic Neurobiology

There are sex differences and effects of steroid hormones, such as androgens, estrogens, and progestogens, that influence seizures. Androgens exert early organizational and later activational effects that can amplify sex/gender differences in the expression of some seizure disorders. Female‐typical sex steroids, such as estrogen (E2) and progestins, can exert acute activational effects to reduce convulsive seizures and these effects are mediated in part by the actions of steroids in the hippocampus. Some of these anticonvulsive effects of sex steroids are related to their formation of ligands which have agonist‐like actions at γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABAA) receptors or antagonist actions at glutamatergic receptors. Differences in stress, developmental phase, reproductive status, endocrine status, and treatments, such as anti‐epileptic drugs (AEDs), may alter levels of these ligands and/or the function of target sites, which may mitigate differences in sensitivity to, and/or tolerance of, steroids among some individuals. The evidence implicating sex steroids in differences associated with hormonal, reproductive, developmental, stress, seizure type, and/or therapeutics are discussed.
Method comparison studies for prostate specific antigen and unconjugated estriol immunoassays.

OBJECTIVE: Method comparison studies were performed in order to move a semi-automated prostate specific antigen (PSA) immunoassay and a manual unconjugated estriol (uE3) immunoassay to an automated chemistry immunoassay analyzer. The results of the two method comparison studies are compared. DESIGN: Serum samples collected on patients with physician orders for PSA or uE3 were assayed by both methods. PSA samples were assayed on a Hybritech Tandem Photon ERA and on two Beckman Coulter Access instruments. UE3 samples were assayed by RIA and on two Beckman Coulter Access instruments. Linear regression analysis was performed on both sets of data and within-run precision and dilution studies were performed on the PSA Access method. SETTING: Clinical chemistry laboratory, West Virginia University Hospitals Inc, Morgantown WV. RESULTS: PSA linear regression analysis for the two methods (ERA and Access 1) were y = 1.0008x + 0.0393, r = 0.9976, SE = 0.1319, n = 37 and (ERA and Access 2), y = 1.0019x + 0.0486, r = 0.9964, SE = 0.1632, n = 37. Within-run precision studies for both Access instruments produced acceptable coefficient variations and dilution study results were in PSA reportable range. uE3 linear regression analysis for the two methods (RIA and Access 1) were y = 1.4105x - 0.3741, r = 0.8696, SE = 0.8330, n = 33 and (RIA and Access 2) were y = 1.315x - 0.2292, r = 0.8643, SE = 0.7964, n = 33. CONCLUSION: The results of the method comparison studies for PSA were acceptable and the automated PSA immunoassay method was adopted. The results of the uE3 comparison studies did not show good correlation; the automated method was not adopted. ABBREVIATIONS:CV = coefficient of variation; MoM = multiple of the median; PSA = prostate specific antigen; r = correlation coefficient; RIA = radioimmunoassay; SE = standard error; uE3 = unconjugated estriol.
Effect of tumor location on survival in urinary bladder adenocarcinoma: A population-based analysis.

Abstract Purpose To investigate the prognostic significance of tumor location on survival outcomes in patients with urinary bladder adenocarcinoma (BAC). Methods We retrospectively analyzed cases of BAC with known tumor location from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 1973 to 2012. Data regarding patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and oncological and survival outcomes were collected. Patients were subgrouped according to tumor location into urachal/dome (dome and urachus [UD]), lateral wall (anterior, posterior, and lateral bladder walls [LW]), and base (trigone, ureteral orifices, and bladder neck [BL]). Results A total of 1,361 cases of BAC with known tumor location were identified. More UD tumors were low grade (grade I and II; 51%) than LW (33%) and BL (43%) tumors (P Conclusions Tumor location of BAC is an independent prognostic factor for disease outcome. Our results suggest that the urachal and dome locations are associated with relatively favorable survival and oncological outcomes, whereas basal location confers poorer outcomes.
LPV state-feedback control of a tensegrity-membrane system

This paper presents the design of a linear parameter-varying (LPV) controller for a tensegrity-membrane system. The controller is designed to deploy the tensegrity-membrane system from its initial packaged configuration to its final deployed configuration. The state-feedback control method is used and the control design is based on the linearized models at 18 equilibriums. The resulting LPV controller performs well when implemented in a nonlinear simulation of the tensegrity-membrane system.
Statistical circuit simulation with measurement-based active device models: implications for process control and IC manufacturability

This paper presents a new approach to statistical active circuit design which unifies device parametric-based process control and non-parametric circuit simulation. Predictions of circuit sensitivity to process variation and yield-loss of circuits fabricated in two different GaAs IC processes are described. The simulations make use of measurement-based active device models which are not formulated in terms of conventional parametric statistical variables. The technique is implemented in commercially available simulation software (HP MDS).
Documenting subjects: Performativity and audit culture in food production in northern Italy

Linguistic labor in both verbal and documentary forms is essential to contemporary capitalist production, occurring across commodity-chain processes and helping to produce particular neoliberal worker-selves. In the case of food production, linguistic labor in the form of documentation is required at every stage of production to ensure food safety. These documents performatively constitute and effectively govern what they purport to depict. But they also exist in dynamic tension with moments of economic sociability, that is, consequential verbal interactions that permeate the production process. Such interactions may or may not be represented by the documents. In northern Italy the interplay between documents and sociability helps to produce notions like food safety and highlights the complex constraints and creativities that characterize modern food production. [documents, subjectivity, neoliberalism, audit culture, meat, food production, Italy] Il lavoro linguistico—sia nella forma verbale che in quella documentaria, che ha luogo nella catena produttiva e che contribuisce a generare specifici “lavoratori-persone”, propri del neoliberalismo—e essenziale nella produzione capitalista contemporanea. Nel caso della produzione alimentare il lavoro linguistico, sotto forma di documentazione, e obbligatorio in tutte le fasi di produzione per assicurare la sicurezza alimentare. Questi documenti costituiscono performativamente quello che affermano di rappresentare e lo regolano efficacemente. Ma allo stesso tempo si trovano in un rapporto di tensione dinamica con i momenti di sociabilita economica, cioe, con le normali interazioni verbali che pervadono i processi di produzione. Queste interazioni possono o meno essere rappresentate dai documenti. Nel Nord d'Italia, il rapporto tra documenti e sociabilita aiuta a produrre nozioni come quella di sicurezza alimentare ed evidenzia i limiti e la creativita della produzione alimentare moderna. [documenti, soggettivita, neoliberalismo, cultura dell'audit, carne, produzione alimentare, Italia]
AN APPROACH TO FLUID MECHANICS CALCULATIONS ON SERIAL AND PARALLEL COMPUTER ARCHITECTURES

SUMMARY The T ransient R eactor A nalysis C ode (TRAC) is a large FORTRAN thermal-hydraulics program designed to solve problems involving internal flows in nuclear reactors. The current versions have been designed for a CDC 7600 and CRAY 1 but benchmarks have been run in parallel simulations. This paper will discuss the methods in use, the reason that these techniques are effective, and their extension to parallel machines.
Abstract 1725: The tyrosine phosphatase PRL3 as a novel drug target in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

The clinical challenges associated with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) are two-fold: 1) the recently improved cure rate for primary T-ALL is largely attributed to highly toxic chemotherapy regimens that have both short- and long-term adverse effects in patients, and 2) chemotherapy is often ineffective against relapsed T-ALL, which has a dismal 5-year survival rate of Note: This abstract was not presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Jessica S. Blackburn, Aleksey Molodstov, Riadh Lobbardi, Finola Moore, David Langeau. The tyrosine phosphatase PRL3 as a novel drug target in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 1725. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-1725
Galeterone and its analogs inhibit Mnk-eIF4E axis, synergize with gemcitabine, impede pancreatic cancer cell migration, invasion and proliferation and inhibit tumor growth in mice

// Andrew K. Kwegyir-Afful 1, 2 , Francis N. Murigi 1, 2 , Puranik Purushottamachar 1, 2 , Vidya P. Ramamurthy 1, 2 , Marlena S. Martin 1, 2, 4 and Vincent C.O. Njar 1, 2, 3 1 Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201-1559, USA 2 Center for Biomolecular Therapeutics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201-1559, USA 3 Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201-1559, USA 4 Current Address: Bernard J. Dunn School of Pharmacy, Shenandoah University, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA Correspondence to: Vincent C.O. Njar, email: vnjar@som.umaryland.edu Keywords: pancreatic cancer resistance, galeterone (gal) and its analogs Received: June 30, 2016 Accepted: November 19, 2016 Published: December 24, 2016 ABSTRACT Survival rate for pancreatic cancer (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, PDAC) is poor, with about 80% of patients presenting with the metastatic disease. Gemcitabine, the standard chemotherapeutic agent for locally advanced and metastatic PDAC has limited efficacy, attributed to innate/acquired resistance and activation of pro-survival pathways. The Mnk1/2-eIF4E and NF-κB signaling pathways are implicated in PDAC disease progression/metastasis and also associated with gemcitabine-induced resistance in PDAC. Galeterone (gal), a multi-target, agent in phase III clinical development for prostate cancer has also shown effects on the aforementioned pathways. We show for the first time, that gal/analogs (VNPT55, VNPP414 and VNPP433-3β) profoundly inhibited cell viability of gemcitabine-naive/resistance PDAC cell lines and strongly synergized with gemcitabine in gemcitabine-resistant PDAC cells. In addition, to inducing G1 cell cycle arrest, gal/analogs induced caspase 3-mediated cell-death of PDAC cells. Gal/analogs caused profound downregulation of Mnk1/2, peIF4E and NF-κB (p-p65), metastatic inducing factors (N-cadherin, MMP-1/-2/-9, Slug, Snail and CXCR4) and putative stem cell factors, (β-Catenin, Nanog, BMI-1 and Oct-4). Gal/analog also depleted EZH2 and upregulated E-Cadherin. These effects resulted in significant inhibition of PDAC cell migration, invasion and proliferation. Importantly, we also observed strong MiaPaca-2 tumor xenograft growth inhibition (61% to 92%). Collectively, these promising findings strongly support further development of gal/analogs as novel therapeutics for PDAC.
Our Best Selves: Defining and Actualizing Expertise in Psychotherapy

Psychotherapist expertise proves an urgent topic for practice and training, but insufficient research and conflicting definitions confound efforts to enhance expertise. In an ambitious article, Hil...
Diagnostic Error in Pediatric Cancer

The purpose of this study was to (a) determine the frequency of diagnostic errors in pediatric cancer, (b) categorize errors, and (c) underscore themes associated with misdiagnosis. This is a retro...
Grain size dependence of silicon solar cell parameters

Measurements of the non-uniform diffusion length of the minority carriers near grain boundaries in polycrystalline silicon have been used to develop an analytical model for the calculation of solar cell output as a function of grain size. Experimental results are presented which verify the theoretical analysis. Variation of open circuit voltage and fill factor with grain size is discussed.
The molecular and developmental biology of keratins. Concluding remarks and future directions.

Publisher Summary The complexity of the stratum corneum shows that protection cannot be attributed solely to keratin and that there are several other substances that play a significant role in protecting vertebrates and assuring their survival in their particular environment. Variations of the constituents of the protective system of epidermis during evolution are related primarily to the changing environment of the evolving groups. Development of a flexible and extensible filamentous network anchored to a highly resistant envelope was essential for stabilization of the entire protective system in tightly interdigitated horny cells connected by desmosomes. Mucus is required to prevent the desiccation of land vertebrates such as amphibia and chelonia. Lipids, particularly polar lipids, are needed to form a permeability barrier for maintaining homeostasis of reptiles, aves, and mammals. During differentiation, epidermal cell gene expression proceeds in an orderly and coordinated manner in each vertebrate. The most interesting and valuable direction in future research would be the characterization of the genes of epidermal cells and explanation of the regulation of gene expression.
The Third Law of Thermodynamics: Phase equilibria and phase diagrams at low temperatures

Abstract Great progress has been made over the recent decades in the application of computational thermodynamics (Calphad) and theoretical methodologies (CVM) including so-called first principles approaches to modeling thermodynamic properties and the calculation of phase diagrams of materials. The aim of this paper is to call attention to considerations of the THIRD LAW OF THERMODYNAMICS when evaluating these results when applied to low temperature phase equilibria. In this effort we call attention to the essential content of the modern version of this third principle of thermodynamics using an historical and pedagogical approach. An appreciation of the constraints of the THIRD LAW is shown to be valuable in projecting possible low temperature phase fields and boundaries and predicting thermodynamically consistent phase diagram configurations as T→0 K. The ideas of Simon regarding aspects or subsystems are shown to be of paramount importance in assessing the thermodynamic properties of materials at low temperatures.
Effect of fish meal supplementation on luteal sensitivity to intrauterine infusions of prostaglandin F2α in the bovine.

Progesterone is a steroid hormone secreted from the corpus luteum (CL), which is responsible for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Early embryonic mortality often occurs due to inadequate regulation of uterine prostaglandin (PG) F2α secretion, leading to a decrease in progesterone and loss of pregnancy. The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of fish meal supplementation on luteal sensitivity to intrauterine infusions of PGF2α. Nonlactating beef cows received corn glutenmeal or fishmeal supplementation for 60 days. Cows were administered four intrauterine infusions of 0.25 mL saline at 6-h intervals (n = 6 corn gluten meal; n = 5 fish meal) or two doses of 0.5 mg PGF2α in 0.25 mL saline at 12-h intervals (n = 11 corn gluten meal; n = 11 fishmeal) commencing on days 10 to 12 of the estrous cycle. At time of each infusion, luteal biopsies were collected to determine the effects of supplementation on expression of immediate early and steroidogenic genes involved in cholesterol transport and progesterone biosynthesis. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed to measure diameter of CL, and blood samples were collected to determine serum progesterone. Intrauterine infusion of PGF2α resulted in upregulation or no change in FOS, NR4A1, and 3BHSD and downregulation in LDLR, STARD1, and CYP11A1. Although CL diameter decreased, infusion of PGF2α resulted in functional regression in 91% of cows supplemented with corn gluten meal, and only 46% for fish meal supplemented animals. Results demonstrate that fish meal supplementation alters luteal sensitivity to PGF2α, which may affect fertility.Summary SentenceFish meal supplementation alters luteal sensitivity to prostaglandin F2α in the bovine.
The Tonsillouvular Fissure Approach: Access to Dorsal and Lateral Aspects of the Fourth Ventricle.

Objective Although approaches to the fourth ventricle (FV) have been studied well, approaches to the lesions located in the dorsal and lateral aspects of the FV have not been shown in anatomic or clinical studies. The aim of this study is to show for the first time in the literature the tonsillouvular fissure approach (TUFA) in anatomic dissections and its use in surgical series. Methods For anatomic studies, 4 formalin-fixed human cadaveric heads infused with colored silicone and 10 cerebellar specimens were dissected in a stepwise manner. Records of 12 patients operated on via TUFA were also retrospectively reviewed. Results Neurosurgical anatomy and critical steps of TUFA were described in detail. Among 12 patients with lesions around the FV (4 cavernous malformation, 2 pilocytic astrocytoma, 2 hemangioblastoma, 1 B-cell lymphoma, 1 metastatic papillary carcinoma, 1 dermoid cyst, and 1 arteriovenous malformation), 11 gross total and 1 subtotal resection were achieved via TUFA without any mortality or morbidity. Comparative analyses of 4 surgical approaches to FV (TUFA, telovelar/cerebellomedullary fissure, supratonsillar/tonsillobiventral lobule fissure, and transvermian approaches) were also presented. Conclusions TUFA provides a direct route and excellent surgical view to lesions around the FV, particularly on dorsal and lateral aspects, inferior vermis, and medial part of the dentate nucleus and cerebellar peduncles. It minimizes traversing the normal cerebellar tissue compared with a transvermian approach.
Amyloidoma of Stomach: A Case Report.

Objective Amyloidomas are tumor-like deposits of amyloid. Amyloidoma of the gastrointestinal tract is rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first instance of diagnosis of an amyloidoma in the gastrointestinal tract by fine needle aspiration (FNA). Study design We report a case of a 64-year-old male with a history of ulcerative colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis who was incidentally found to have a mass in the stomach wall. Results Initially thought to be gastrointestinal stromal tumor, FNA demonstrated the lesion to be amyloidoma with a prominent giant cell reaction. This was further confirmed by mass spectrometry. This is the only case report of diagnosis of a gastric amyloidoma by FNA. Conclusion The presence of a florid giant cell reaction in the absence of ulceration or an inflammatory or neoplastic lesion should alert the pathologist to the possibility of an amyloidoma. This is the only case report of diagnosis of a gastric amyloidoma by FNA.
Mechanical performance of neutron-irradiated dissimilar transition joints of aluminum alloy 6061-T6 and 304L stainless steel

Abstract Bimetallic transition joints using aluminum alloy 6061-T6 and stainless steel 304 L are useful in providing reliable stainless steel welds on nuclear components at temperatures below 200 °C, while maintaining the attractive radiation tolerance of the aluminum alloy. The mechanical performance of inertia welded Al6061-T6:304LSS transition joints was evaluated after neutron irradiation up to 3.45 dpa at 100 °C (maximum) in the High Flux Isotope Reactor to determine the viability of using these transition joints for nuclear and reactor applications. Neutron radiation produced moderate hardening (Δσy ≈ 90 MPa) with limited change in ductility. Tensile specimens were produced from multiple transition joints and no batch-to-batch variation was found. Tensile responses were found to align with typical responses of wrought Al6061-T6, indicating that the behavior of the joints was dictated by the Al6061-T6 section of the joint.
Mechanical Properties (Small Deformations) of Multiphase Polymer Blends

Publisher Summary Small-deformation mechanical properties of amorphous and homogeneous polymers are largely determined by molecular relaxation processes. Changes in thermal and mechanical history, application of hydrostatic pressure, and addition of soluble diluents affect mechanical response in ways that can be explained in terms of changes in the molecular environment of polymer chains. This chapter discusses various models for the composition and morphology dependence of elastic and isothermal viscoelastic response, and reviews application of these methods to isochronal viscoelastic response. For a heterogeneous blend of two polymers, a broad range of response is possible depending on blend morphology, on the degree of molecular mixing or interpenetration, on the size of the phase separated regions, and on the molecular relaxation processes characteristic of blend constituents. Two transitions corresponding to the glass transitions of the blend constituents are observed. The basic theoretical problem is the deduction of the mechanical response of the blend from the properties of blend constituents and from the assumptions about blend structure. There are three principal groups of models that have been applied to the problem of predicting modulus-composition dependence: (1) mechanical coupling models, (2) self-consistent models, and (2) limits or bounds on the modulus.
Multidimensional Scaling in Psychology

Multidimensional scaling (MDS) most typically refers to a family of models and associated methods for representing data on similarities or dissimilarities of stimuli or other objects in terms of a spatial model. The aim of MDS, in the narrower meaning assumed in this article, is to simplify a complex, large set of observations by devising a spatial representation that will show the relationships among the stimuli in terms of a small set of meaningful (or ‘interpretable’) psychological (or other) dimensions. In such a spatial model proximity data (similarities, dissimilarities, association indices, or other measures of closeness or proximity) are assumed to relate in a simple and straightforward way—e.g., via a linear or monotonic function—to distances between pairs of stimuli. Of course with real data, subject to error and systematic distortion, a perfect relationship will not generally be possible, but a representation is sought which best matches the data by optimizing some well-defined measure of fit, such as Kruskal's STRESS. We discuss both two-way MDS, for analysis of a single two-way matrix of proximities, as well as three-way or individual differences approaches to MDS, in which a matrix of proximities is available for each of a number of subjects or other sources of data.
Treatment Sensitivity of the PE Form of the Social Skills Rating Scales: Implications for Test Construction Procedures

The Social Skills Rating Scales contains a subset of change-sensitive items. Scales formed with these items demonstrate larger effect sizes than the original scales.
Invasive Somatosensory-Evoked Potential Monitoring

Somatosensory-evoked potentials (SEPs) have been used for monitoring spinal cord integrity during surgery for more than a decade. Early detection of significant changes in the SEPs may indicate early and reversible spinal cord dysfunction, thus permitting appropriate measures to be taken to prevent irreversible spinal cord damage. Intraoperative spinal cord damage usually results form ischemia, mechanical effects of compression or distraction, or both.
Influence of pesticide residues on soil microbiological and chemical properties

Pesticidal chemicals in increasing quantities are being applied to soils to kill or reduce the populations of plant root parasites and weeds. In addition, large quantities of chemicals from above-ground pest-control practices reach the soil. The action of these chemicals is not always limited to the immediate objective of killing a particular pest. Harmless or beneficial soil organisms may be killed or temporarily reduced in numbers, the qualitative nature of the soil population may be altered for varying periods of time, and chemical changes may occur within the soil. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the influence of pesticides and their residues on the nonparasitic soil organisms and on soil properties.
Molding Chandra's public face: twitter for data products and more

For years following its 2006 debut, Twitter was rarely used as a medium for serious communication; however, today many scientific organizations are using the platform not only for public outreach, but for substantive communication scientist to scientist. Since the mission of the Chandra Data Archive is making data swiftly available in a variety of ways for astronomers and astrophysicists who want it, we have lately initiated the design of a Chandra Data Archive Twitter portal for the most current archive-related information { with a focus on highlighting data products which have been in the archive for many years, but have not attracted all the attention they deserve. This work is supported by NASA contract 8-03060.