cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quantum Symmetries of String Vacua

We show that for a large class of string vacua, by a proper tuning of the metric (and the axionic fields), one obtains global symmetries. Moreover, the string vacua which arise as orbifoldized Landau-Ginzburg models are equipped with precisely this metric. These symmetries are not symmetries of the underlying manifold, rather they are symmetries of the superconformal theory manifest only at the Quantum level. These generalize the duality symmetries well known for toroidal compactifications, to a large class of string vacua. Moreover we discuss in detail the global symmetries of the quantum K3 space, and present evidence that the global symmetries of the moduli space of this theory is SO(20, 4; Z).
THE INVOLVEMENT OF ETHANOL IN THE FREE RADICAL REACTION OF 6-HYDROXYDOPAMINE

ESR spin trapping technique was used to detect and analyze free radical formation. When 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was incubated alone or in the presence of a free radical generating system (H2O2 and FeSO4), hydroxyl free radicals were observed in a concentration-dependent manner. Glutathione was found to be the most effective scavenger of the ESR signal when compared with vitamin E or Mannitol. The addition of ethanol resulted in the formation of the pure hydroxyethyl free radicals. The amount of hydroxyethyl free radicals in the system was dependent upon the concentration of ethanol and the formation of hydroxyethyl free radicals correlated well with the extent of lipid peroxidation and the loss of enzymic activity of the membrane-bound (Na+,K+)-ATPase. We suggest that in the biological system ethanol may potentiate the neurotoxicity of 6-OHDA with the formation of hydroxyethyl free radicals, which are longer-lived and far more damaging to membranes than the hydroxyl radicals. These data lead us to further hypothesize that the neuronal degeneration caused by 6-OHDA and other compounds that generate free radicals could be potentiated in the presence of ethanol.
Sensitivity of the Gaussian plume model

Abstract In using the Gaussian plume model a range of values for the vertical dispersion coefficient should be considered in determining maximum possible concentration levels. A method is developed which identifies this maximum and analyzes the sensitivity of the model to small changes in the range of values of the dispersion coefficients.
CP-MAS studies of polyaniline

Abstract We present CP-MAS NMR experiments on polyaniline. We have measured NMR relaxation times as a function of temperature between 225 and 335 K. All measurements yield short relaxation times, an indication of molecular motion. There is evidence for reduced molecular motion on going from the insulating to metallic state. Our tentative assignment of resonances indicates that the mixed oxidized-reduced structure for emeraldine is correct. The lack of a measurable Knight shift is strong support for the bipolaron model for conduction in polyaniline.
Body Height, Position, and Sex as Determinants of Personal Space

Summary The effects of body height, body position, and sex on personal space were investigated in a laboratory setting. Forty-one males and 43 females approached either a tall object person or a short object person with instructions to stop when they felt “uncomfortable.” Subjects approached the object person twice, once with the object person in a standing position and once with the object person in a sitting position. Height and position were found to be significant determinants of personal space, while position × sex was also significant. Results are discussed from a social as well as an ethological point of view.
Perceived ethnic stigma across the transition to college.

Ethnicity-based negative treatment during the transition to college may affect the long-term adjustment of ethnic-minority youth. We examined within-person changes in youths’ perceptions of overt discrimination and their sense of their ethnic group being devalued by the larger society among 563 Latino, European, Asian, and other ethnic minority emerging adults across the transition to college (M age = 17.79, SD = .37, 54.7% female). Analyses tested for group and context differences and associations between perceived discrimination and societal devaluation of their group and adjustment. Results indicate that although perceived discrimination decreases over time, perceived devaluation by society increases. Social context did not affect changes in perceived discrimination and societal devaluation. Whereas perceived discrimination was associated with depressive and somatic symptoms for everyone, perceived societal devaluation was only consequential for ethnic minorities. Future research should identify possible moderators to help students cope with experiences of discrimination and feelings of not being valued by society.
Elements of an Optimal Capstone Design Experience

This paper presents and assesses a framework for an engineering capstone design program. We explain how student preparation, project selection, and instructor mentorship are the three key elements that must be addressed before the capstone experience is ready for the students. Next, we describe a way to administer and execute the capstone design experience including design workshops and lead engineers. We describe the importance of assessing the capstone design experience and report recent assessment results of our framework. We comment specifically on what students thought were the most important aspects of their experience in engineering capstone design and provide quantitative insight into what parts of the framework are most important.
Systematic review of risk factors for fibrosis progression in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Background/Aims Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a growing public health problem. Evaluation of risk factors for fibrosis in NASH will help to target resources to reduce development of cirrhosis. This study had two aims; the first to compile longitudinal histological data to characterize the natural history of fibrosis progression in NASH, and second, to identify predictive factors for progression to advanced fibrosis (stage 3 or greater) in NASH. Methods Subjects had to have a histological diagnosis compatible with NASH on their initial biopsy, received no intervention of proven histological benefit, and undergone two liver biopsies with at least an interval of one year between them. Results Ten studies were selected comprising 221 patients. 37.6% had progressive fibrosis over a mean follow-up interval of 5.3 years (SD, 4.2 years, median, 3.7 years, range 1.0–21.3 years). Proportional hazards regression analysis demonstrated that age (HR=0.98, p =0.009) and inflammation on initial biopsy (any inflammation, HR=2.5, p =0.001; grade 1, HR=2.5, p =0.001; grade 2, HR=2.4, p =0.003) are independent predictors of progression to advanced fibrosis. Other traditional parameters (e.g. obesity, diabetes, hypertension) were not statistically significant predictors. Conclusions Presence of inflammation on the initial biopsy and age are independent predictors of progression to advanced fibrosis in patients with NASH.
Simulation Studies for Device Evaluation

To the Editor: According to the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, “Simulation is the imitation or representation of one act or system by another. Healthcare simulations can be said to have 4 main purposes – education, assessment, research, and health system integration in facilitating
International media use by Nigerian journalists: A survey:

This study examined the use of international media by Nigerian journalists and the popularity of some of the leading international radio broadcasts to Nigeria. The data for the study was collected through a survey of Nigerian journalists conducted in Nigeria in December 1994 and January 1995. The study found that 67 per cent of the respondents relied on foreign media for accurate and objective news about Nigeria. The Voice of America, the study found, is more popular than BBC among the respondents, a finding which is at variance with earlier reports about the popularity of BBC among the people of the former British colony.
An evolutionary and molecular analysis of BMP2 expression

The coding regions of many metazoan genes are highly similar. For example, homologs to the key developmental factor bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 2 have been cloned by sequence identity from arthropods, mollusks, cnidarians, and nematodes. Wide conservation of protein sequences suggests that differential gene expression explains many of the vast morphological differences between species. To test the hypothesis that the regulatory mechanisms controlling this evolutionarily ancient and critical gene are conserved, we compared sequences flanking Bmp2 genes of several species. We identified numerous conserved noncoding sequences including some retained because the fish lineage separated 450 million years ago. We tested the function of some of these sequences in the F9 cell model system of Bmp2 expression. We demonstrated that both mouse and primate Bmp2 promoters drive a reporter gene in an expression pattern resembling that of the endogenous transcript in F9 cells. A conserved Sp1 site contributes to the retinoic acid responsiveness of the Bmp2 promoter, which lacks a classical retinoic acid response element. We have also discovered a sequence downstream of the stop codon whose conservation between humans, rodents, deer, chickens, frogs, and fish is striking. A fragment containing this region influences reporter gene expression in F9 cells. The conserved region contains elements that may mediate the half-life of the Bmp2 transcript. Together, our molecular and evolutionary analysis has identified new regulatory elements controlling Bmp2 expression.
A fluorescent plate reader assay for ceramide kinase.

Abstract Ceramide kinase and its product ceramide 1-phosphate have been implicated in cellular proliferation and survival, activation of cytosolic phospholipase A 2 , mast cell degranulation, and phagocytosis. Current assays for ceramide kinase activity employ [ 32 P]ATP, with separation of labeled product from excess ATP by organic extraction and thin-layer chromatography. We have developed a fluorescent plate reader assay for ceramide kinase that uses commercially available C6-NBD ceramide ( N -{6-[(7-nitro-2-1,3-benzoxadiazol-4- yl )amino]hexanoyl}- d -erythro-sphingosine). Our assay is based on the differential partitioning of substrate and product following a single chloroform/methanol extraction. The product, which partitions into the aqueous phase at physiological pH, is quantitated directly in a plate reader. The substrate may be delivered using either fatty acid-free albumin or detergent/lipid mixed micelles, and we have found that the use of albumin rather than detergent micelles allows one to detect lipid interactions with the enzyme that might otherwise go unnoticed. Our method is useful for assaying ceramide kinase activity both in vitro and in cultured cells, and it offers several advantages over the conventional assay, including greater speed, the ability to run a larger number of assay replicates at one time, and the elimination of environmental and safety issues associated with the use of radioactive materials.
The Rise of the West—or Not? A Revision to Socio-economic History

The debate over the “Rise of the West” has generally been over which factor or factors—cultural, geoographic, or material—in European history led Europe to diverge from the World's pre-industrial c...
Racemic synthesis and enantiomeric conversion of [1‐13C] valine

A Strecker synthesis of isobutyraldehyde, K13CN and ammonia produced D,L-[1-13C] valine in 83% yield. This racemic mixtue was then converted to the L-form via a D-amino acid oxidase - branched amino acid aminotransferase system in an overall yield of 75% based on K13CN. Given the generality of the Strecker synthesis as well as the broad substrate specificity of the oxidase and aminotransferase enzymes, it is anticipated that this procedure will be comparably efficient for most standard aliphatic and aromatic amino acids.
Parotid necrotizing sialometaplasia vs infarcted Warthin tumour.

Tsuji et al1 recently reported an extremely well-documented case of an unusual parotid tumour demonstrating necrosis and squamous metaplasia. They interpreted it as necrotizing sialometaplasia, but they considered infarcted Warthin tumour in their differential diagnosis.
Posterior Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous

Congenital retinal fold (congenital retinal septum, ablatio falciformis congenita) is a rare occurrence and is frequently misdiagnosed. Often it is only one of a group of ocular anomalies which appear to result from a posterior form of persistent or hyperplastic primary vitreous. This report presents our findings in a se­ ries of patients with this syndrome, reviews current theories of pathogenesis, and com­ ments on the clinical significance of abnor­ mal vitreoretinal development.
A law professor’s perspective on ‘too big to fail’

During the financial crisis of 2008 the US financial system was saved by government bailouts of the largest banks. Further, these already oversized banking institutions increased in size. The reaction of the US Congress was to pass the Dodd–Frank Act, but this statute has only three provisions that address the possible downsizing of the big banks, and they are insufficient to accomplish the reform required to end ‘too big to fail’. This article recommends that the big banks be broken up pursuant to a specialized mandate based on the techniques used to break up the public utility holding companies after the 1929 stock market crash. Size standards and activity restrictions should be employed as standards in this type of an anti-trust initiative.
Stellar Populations in the Wing of the Small Magellanic Cloud from Hubble Space Telescope Photometry

We have used the Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 on the Hubble Space Telescope to image a star field in the wing of the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), near the H II region N81. The images were taken in the F336W, F547M, F675W, and F814W filters. From photometry of stars in this field, we construct color-magnitude diagrams (CMDs) for about 4200 stars and compare them with theoretical isochrones. In one CCD frame, we identify an open cluster with an approximate age between 400 and 560 Myr. After statistically subtracting the cluster stars, the remaining field star CMD shows both a strong upper main sequence and a well-developed red giant branch. The brightest main-sequence stars correspond to at most an age of 100 Myr. We also see a substantial number of turnoff stars with V magnitudes between 20 and 22, corresponding to an age range of 1.3 Gyr to at most 12 Gyr. We discuss the effects of the SMC's extended depth on the analysis. From a comparison of the observed CMD with Monte Carlo simulations, we find that the star formation history for this field is not consistent with a constant rate over the last 12 Gyr. We find that the CMD is consistent with increased star formation from 4–12 Gyr ago and over the past 1.7 Gyr. However, we find reduced star formation rates during the period 1.7–4 Gyr ago, in contrast to studies of star clusters that have suggested that the SMC experienced a burst of star formation 2 Gyr ago.
An Analysis of Monoclonal T Cell and Antibody Recognition Sites on Ia Molecules

The advances made in understanding T cell and antibody recognition sites on Ia using monoclonal helper and alloreactive T cells are summarized. For many antibodies it has been possible to determine whether the antibody recognition site was determined by the α or β chain. Such defined antibody reagents have allowed the definition of multiple functional antigen presenting sites on a given Ia molecule. Mutant antigen-presenting cells independently suggest the existence of such multiple functional sites. A detailed analysis of the I-A 2 mutant bm12 directly defines the chemical nature of one such site and suggests that it arose as a result of gene conversion. Such regions of Ia molecules may be important for both T-cell function and antibody-binding.
Transpermanent Magnetics Using Alternating Uniform Linear Stacks

In this paper we apply recent developments in transpermanent magnetics to the problem of ultra-low-power valve control. Whereas the traditional approach to ultra-low-power valve control is based on latching mechanisms that turn off valves during inactive periods, in this paper we describe an approach that eliminates the need for latching mechanisms. Instead of latching mechanisms, the principles of transpermanent magnetics are employed to switch the states of permanent magnets; the use of permanent magnets instead of electromagnets eliminates power loads during inactive periods, thereby reducing power consumption to ultralow levels. The permanent magnets in a transpermanent magnet valve are configured in a stack. The relationships between the strength and number of permanent magnets in the stack and the stroke and resolution of the valve are developed. In this paper we show that the alternating uniform linear stack is well suited for digital process valves having a small number of states. Then in the paper we report on the design and testing of a laboratory prototype valve that uses an alternating uniform linear stack. The prototype valve had five states yielding a range of flow rates between 0 and 1.58 m/s with a resolution of 0.3 m/s. In this paper we find that transpermanent valves represent a promising valve technology for digital process valves.
A minimum folding unit in the ankyrin repeat protein p16(INK4).

Abstract The ankyrin repeat is an abundant, 33 residue sequence motif that forms a consecutive β-hairpin-helix-loop-helix (β 2 α 2 ) fold. Most ankyrin repeat proteins consist of four or more complete repeats, which provide stabilizing interactions between adjacent modules. The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor and tumor suppressor p16 INK4 (p16) is one of the smallest ankyrin repeat proteins with a known structure. It consists of four complete repeats plus short N and C-terminal flanking regions that are unstructured in solution. On the basis of preliminary proteolysis studies and predictions using a computer algorithm for identifying autonomous folding units, we have identified a fragment consisting of the third and fourth ankyrin repeats of p16, called p16C, that can fold independently, without the rest of the protein. Far-UV circular dichroism studies showed that p16C has a significant level of α-helical secondary structure, and two proline substitutions that disrupt the α-helical secondary structure in wild-type p16 disrupt the secondary structure in p16C. The thermal denaturation of p16C is cooperative and reversible, with a midpoint of transition at 30.5(±1)°C. From urea-induced denaturation studies, the free energy of unfolding for p16C was estimated to be 1.7(±0.3) kcal/mol at 20°C. 1 H- 15 N 2D NMR studies suggest that the ankyrin repeats in p16C are likely to fold into a structure similar to that of full-length p16. In order to define the minimum autonomous folding unit in p16, we have further dissected p16C into two complementary peptides, each containing a single ankyrin repeat. These peptides are unstructured in solution. Thus, p16C is the smallest ankyrin repeat module that is known to fold independently and, in general, we believe that the two-ankyrin repeat fold could be the minimum structural unit for all ankyrin repeat proteins. We further discuss the significance of p16C in protein folding and engineering.
The birth of fiberoptics from "light guiding".

VISUAL EXAMINATION OF AND INTERVENTION IN the urinary crannies, crevices, and cavities constitute the cornerstones of endourology. In this endeavor, adequate light transfer for proper visibility has been a perennial hurdle. From the early attempts at reflecting sunlight onto head mirrors to the use of candles and oil wick lamps to incandescent light bulbs, it has been an uphill journey until the advent of rod lenses and fiberoptic light transmission. Thanks to the fiberoptic principles, we now have near-natural quality and quantity of illumination for our endoscopic examinations. Yet this monumental invention began as a mere eye-catching gimmick or parlor trick more than 160 years ago.1 It was 1841. Daniel Colladon, a young professor of physics at the University of Geneva, was to demonstrate fluid flow through various holes of a cistern as part of his lecture on fluid dynamics. However, the lighting in the 19th Century lecture hall was inadequate for such demonstration. Colladon decided to illuminate his display by focusing sunlight with a lens onto the water tank. To his surprise, and the amusement of the assembled, the light spectacularly illuminated the water jets squirting out through the holes of the tank. The light rays trapped in the fluid by total internal reflection traveled along the curving arc of the water until the jets broke up in sparkles of light. It was thus demonstrated that light, which was believed to travel only in a straight line, could be made to follow a curve. The show was impressive, “one of the most beautiful and most curious experiments that one can perform in a course on optics,” wrote Colladon, who coined the term “light guiding” for the physical phenomenon.2 Enamored of and amused by the display, Colladon popularized his show as part of his lecturing repertoire to the intelligentia. The light source was modified into an electric arc light instead of the sun by his contemporary August de la Rive. To establish his claim as the originator of “light guiding,” Colladon submitted a report to Comptes Rendu, the official journal of the French Academy of Sciences. Francois Arago, the editor of the journal, recalled a recent demonstration of a similar phenomenon by Jacque Babinet in Paris and invited him also to write a report. Colladon and Babinet’s separate papers were published in the same issue of Comptes Rendu.2,3 Colladon happened to be a more eager promoter than Babinet, who was already an established academician and not so hungry for publicity. Babinet specialized in optics and extended the phenomenon of guiding light along bent glass rods. He mentioned in passing that the idea works well with glass shafts curved in whatever manner and could be used to illuminate the inside of the mouth, thereby hinting at what would evolve as fiberoptics.3 Although Babinet did not pursue light guiding experiments any further, Colladon’s interest showed sporadic sparks of practical application of his trick. In 1853, he used light guiding as
Characterizations of geometric distribution and discrete IFR (DFR) distributions using order statistics

Let X be a discrete random variable the set of possible values (finite or infinite) of which can be arranged as an increasing sequence of real numbers a1<a2<a3<…. In particular, ai could be equal to i for all i. Let X1n≦X2n≦⋯≦Xnn denote the order statistics in a random sample of size n drawn from the distribution of X, where n is a fixed integer ≧2. Then, we show that for some arbitrary fixed k(2≦k≦n), independence of the event {Xkn=X1n} and X1n is equivalent to X being either degenerate or geometric. We also show that the montonicity in i of P{Xkn = X1n | X1n = ai} is equivalent to X having the IFR (DFR) property. Let ai = i and G(i) = P(X≧i), i = 1, 2, …. We prove that the independence of {X2n − X1n ∈B} and X1n for all i is equivalent to X being geometric, where B = {m} (B = {m,m+1,…}), provided G(i) = qi−1, 1≦i≦m+2 (1≦i≦m+1), where 0<q<1.
Measurements of beam-foil electrons emitted near 0° from H + and H 2 + on carbon in the energy range 0.175-1.0 MeV/amu

We have measured electron energy distributions in the angular range 0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}-6\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} for ion energies in the energy range 0.175-1.0 MeV/amu. A predominant group of electrons whose velocities are centered about the ion velocity is always observed. For this group of electrons, angular distributions have been deduced. Dependence on foil thickness and ion configuration, ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ or ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}^{+}$, have been investigated. Our results are consistent with a charge-exchange process being the dominant mechanism for producing these electrons.
Titin Isoform Size is not Correlated with Thin Filament Length in Rat Skeletal Muscle

The striated muscle sarcomere is dependent upon the precise interactions of a variety of myofibrillar proteins for its proper formation. As the largest and third most abundant protein in this milieu, titin plays a number of functions in the sarcomere, including assembly of the thick filaments and preventing overstretch. The titin gene is expressed as multiple splice variants in skeletal muscle, generating a continuum of titin protein sizes. Recently it was reported that thin filament length was related to titin size, and that the latter might be involved in determining thin filament length. We tested this hypothesis using several muscles from wild type rats and from a mutant rat model (Greaser et al J Mol Cellul Cardiol 44:983, 2008) which results in increased titin size. Myofibrils were isolated from skeletal muscles (diaphragm, extensor digitorum longus, gastrocnemius, longissimus dorsi, psoas major, rectus abdominis, and tibialis anterior) using both adult wild type (WT) and homozygous mutant (HM) rats (n=6 each). Thin filament length was estimated using fluorescent dye labeled phalloidin and relaxed sarcomere length was determined by phase contrast microscopy after adding ATP and BDM. No differences in thin filament lengths were found between WT muscles with titin sizes ranging from 3.2 to 3.7 MDa. Similarly the thin filament lengths in the mutant rats did not differ from the paired WT muscles in spite of large differences in titin size with several muscles. However, the relaxed sarcomere length was correlated to titin size in muscles from WT rats, and it was significantly increased relative to WT for within muscle comparisons. The data indicates that, although titin performs many functions, its relationship to thin filament length could not be demonstrated in the rat. Supported by HL77196.
Atomization data for spray combustion modeling

Computer models that simulate the energy release processes in spray combustion are highly dependent upon the quality of atomization data utilized. This paper presents results of analyses performed with a state-of-the-art rocket combustion code, demonstrating the important effects of initial droplet sizes and size distributions on combustion losses. Also, the questionable aspects and inapplicability of the generally available atomization data are discussed. One important and misunderstood aspect of the atomization process is the difference between spatial (concentration) and flux (temporal) droplet size distributions. These are addressed, and a computer model developed to assess this difference is described and results presented. Finally, experimental results are shown that demonstrate the often neglected effects of the local gas velocity field on the atomization process.
DEXNIGULDIPINE HYDROCHLORIDE INHIBITS GROWTH OF HUMAN HT-29 COLON-CARCINOMA CELLS AND EXPRESSION OF PROTEIN-KINASE-C-DELTA AND PROTEIN-KINASE-C-ZETA

Previous studies have implicated protein kinase C (PKC) in colon carcinogenesis, but a clear understanding of the role of PKC in colon cancer is lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of dexniguldipine hydrochloride (DNIG) on the in vitro growth of HT-29 human colon carcinoma cells and the expression of PKC isoforms. DNIG is a selective inhibitor of PKC that binds specifically to the regulatory region and is also a potent antineoplastic drug with an ability to reverse multidrug resistance. DNIG (1.6-25 mu M) decreased the number of HT-29 cells in culture in a time- and dose-dependent manner with an EC(50) of 1.4 mu M on day 3. Predominant PKC isoforms expressed in HT-29 cells were identified as Delta and zeta by immunoblotting. The expression of PKC Delta and zeta was inhibited significantly by DNIG (0.16-1.25 mu M). These results suggest that the suppression of the growth of HT-29 colon carcinoma cells by DNIG involves the inhibition of the expression of PKC Delta and zeta.
G Protein-coupled Receptor Kinases of the GRK4 Protein Subfamily Phosphorylate Inactive G Protein-coupled Receptors (GPCRs)

G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) kinases (GRKs) play a key role in homologous desensitization of GPCRs. It is widely assumed that most GRKs selectively phosphorylate only active GPCRs. Here, we show that although this seems to be the case for the GRK2/3 subfamily, GRK5/6 effectively phosphorylate inactive forms of several GPCRs, including β2-adrenergic and M2 muscarinic receptors, which are commonly used as representative models for GPCRs. Agonist-independent GPCR phosphorylation cannot be explained by constitutive activity of the receptor or membrane association of the GRK, suggesting that it is an inherent ability of GRK5/6. Importantly, phosphorylation of the inactive β2-adrenergic receptor enhanced its interactions with arrestins. Arrestin-3 was able to discriminate between phosphorylation of the same receptor by GRK2 and GRK5, demonstrating preference for the latter. Arrestin recruitment to inactive phosphorylated GPCRs suggests that not only agonist activation but also the complement of GRKs in the cell regulate formation of the arrestin-receptor complex and thereby G protein-independent signaling.
Abstract B26: Drug-Diagnostic co-development to target FLT3-ITD mutations in chemo-resistant acute myeloid leukemia cells

FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3 (FLT3) overexpression is the common phenomenon in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). There are two major types of FLT3 mutations: internal tandem duplication (ITD) and the activation-loop point mutation at 835th amino residue. Although these FLT3/ITD and the 835th point mutation only account for only 20–25% and 5–10% in AML patients, they have worse prognosis and are often resistant to conventional chemotherapy. Several drugs including CEP-701, MLN-518, and PKC-412 have been developed to target FLT3 tyrosine kinase activity in AML and have been evaluated in clinical trials and showed different efficacy towards these mutations. Therefore, identification of these mutations at the time of diagnosis during drug development, in the case of our drug candidate, BELK01260, will provide a better prognostic prediction, might guide the treatment selection and follow-up strategies. In the study, we developed a sensitive molecular assay with our drug candidate well-suited for this therapeutic need to detect FLT3 mutations and proposed to be used for future clinical application. 100 AML samples with at least 20 samples with known FLT3 mutations are collected and evaluated. The standardize procedure has met the requirement of clinical pathology laboratory with reasonable cost, and both the sensitivity and specificity of this technology achieve 99.9% compared with commonly used methods.
Beyond the mainstream versus extreme dichotomy: a cyclical perspective on extreme sports.

Extreme sports have received a growing interest in the last decade (Dean 2012 [Young Consumers 13 (1): 62–73. doi:10.1108/17473611211203948]). Researchers have examined extreme sports in relation to mainstream sports at both the individual level (e.g. Brymer 2005 [Journal of Emergency Medicine 28 (1): 63–68. doi:10.1016/j.jemermed.2004.07.008]; Brymer and Schweitzer 2013a [Journal of Health Psychology 18: 477–487], 2013b [Psychology of Sport and Exercise 14: 865–873]) and by using a social perspective (Balint 1987 [Thrills and Regressions. London: Karnac Books. http://www.ebrary.com]; Honea 2013 [The Journal of Popular Culture 46: 1253–1275. doi:10.1111/jpcu.12087]; Pearson 1979 [International Review of Sport Sociology 14: 51–60]). This article explores characteristics of both extreme and mainstream sports to suggest that they are related and stem from one another. The main features of extreme sports emerge from social and psychological theories. Five characteristics that exist on a continuum between extr...
Biostimulation induces syntrophic interactions that impact C, S and N cycling in a sediment microbial community

Stimulation of subsurface microorganisms to induce reductive immobilization of metals is a promising approach for bioremediation, yet the overall microbial community response is typically poorly understood. Here we used proteogenomics to test the hypothesis that excess input of acetate activates complex community functioning and syntrophic interactions among autotrophs and heterotrophs. A flow-through sediment column was incubated in a groundwater well of an acetate-amended aquifer and recovered during microbial sulfate reduction. De novo reconstruction of community sequences yielded near-complete genomes of Desulfobacter (Deltaproteobacteria), Sulfurovum- and Sulfurimonas-like Epsilonproteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Partial genomes were obtained for Clostridiales (Firmicutes) and Desulfuromonadales-like Deltaproteobacteria. The majority of proteins identified by mass spectrometry corresponded to Desulfobacter-like species, and demonstrate the role of this organism in sulfate reduction (Dsr and APS), nitrogen fixation and acetate oxidation to CO2 during amendment. Results indicate less abundant Desulfuromonadales, and possibly Bacteroidetes, also actively contributed to CO2 production via the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Proteomic data indicate that sulfide was partially re-oxidized by Epsilonproteobacteria through nitrate-dependent sulfide oxidation (using Nap, Nir, Nos, SQR and Sox), with CO2 fixed using the reverse TCA cycle. We infer that high acetate concentrations, aimed at stimulating anaerobic heterotrophy, led to the co-enrichment of, and carbon fixation in Epsilonproteobacteria. Results give an insight into ecosystem behavior following addition of simple organic carbon to the subsurface, and demonstrate a range of biological processes and community interactions were stimulated.
A letter from a grumbly senior colleague

A response to Aaron Sachs, ‘Letters to a tenured historian’, in which the author stands up for conventional forms of historical narrative and traditional forms of academic apprenticeship, especially if the alternatives are modernism and high modernism and post-modernism, especially first-person self-reflexive graduate student writing.
SU‐E‐T‐352: Why Is the Survival Rate Low in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Purpose: Tumors are composed of a large number of clonogens that have the capability of indefinite reproduction. Even when there is complete clinical or radiographic regression of the gross tumor mass after treatment, tumor recurrence can occur if the clonogens are not completely eradicated by radiotherapy. This study was to investigate the colonogen number and its association with the tumor control probability (TCP) in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCCA). Methods: A literature search was conducted to collect clinical information of patients with OSCCA, including the prescription dose, tumor volume and survival rate. The linear-quadratic (LQ) model was incorporated into TCP model for clinical data analysis. The total dose ranged from 60 to 70 Gy and tumor volume ranged from 10 to 50 cc. The TCP was calculated for each group according to tumor size and dose. The least χ^2 method was used to fit the TCP calculation to clinical data while other LQ model parameters (α, β) were adopted from the literature, due to the limited patient data. Results: A total of 190 patients with T2–T4 OSCCA were included. The association with HPV was not available for all the patients. The 3-year survival rate was about 82% for T2 squamous cell carcinoma and 40% for advanced tumors. Fitting the TCP model to the survival data, the average clonogen number was 1.56×10^(12). For the prescription dose of 70 Gy, the calculated TCP ranged from 40% to 90% when the tumor volume varied from 10 to 50 cc. Conclusion: Our data suggests variation between the clonogen number and TCP in OSCCA. Tumors with larger colonogen number tend to have lower TCP and therefore dose escalation above 70 Gy may be indicated in order to improve the TCP and survival rate. Our result will require future confirmation with a large number of patients.
High-Resolution CMRO2 Mapping in Rat Cortex: A Multiparametric Approach to Calibration of BOLD Image Contrast at 7 Tesla:

The blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) method, which is sensitive to vascular paramagnetic deoxyhemoglobin, is dependent on regional values of cer...
Analysis of insulin amyloid fibrils by Raman spectroscopy

The formation of amyloid fibrils from insulin is investigated using drop-coating-deposition-Raman (DCDR) difference spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Fibrils formed using various co-solvents and heating cycles are found to induce the appearance of Raman difference peaks in the amide I (approximately 1675 cm(-1)), amide III (approximately 1220 cm(-1)), and peptide backbone (approximately 1010 cm(-1)), consistent with an increase in beta-sheet content. Comparisons of results obtained from fibrils in either H2O or D2O suggest that the NH/ND stretch bands (at approximately 3300 cm(-1)/ approximately 2400 cm(-1)) are also enhanced in intensity upon fibril formation. If there is any water trapped in the core of the fibrils its OH/OD Raman intensity is too small to be detected in the presence of the stronger NH/ND bands which appear in the same region. AFM is used to confirm the formation of fibrils of about 5 nm diameter (and various lengths).
Femtosecond dynamics of metalloporphyrins: electron transfer and energy redistribution

Femtosecond-resolved, real-time dynamics of the low-lying excited state ^2Q(π,π^*) of cobalt(II) tetraphenylporphyrin are reported in different solvents of varying polarity and structure. The dependence of the dynamics on the probing wavelength and on the metal and porphyrin substitution was also investigated. The decay in the π system of the porphyrin occurs with a lifetime of 220 fs in benzene, while a second process with a lifetime of 1.8 ps is consistent with a proposed model for intramolecular charge separation: porphyrin a_(2u)(π)→Co(d_z^2). The dynamics of the charge transfer state is influenced by the solvents' polarity and coordination ability.
Fieldwork Research and Social Network Analysis: Different Methods Creating Complementary Perspectives

This article suggests that participant observation and social network analysis are able to yield complementary perspectives on youth gangs. Participant observation over a long period yields systematically gathered observations and interview narratives. Such data may provide a close-up look at youth gangs at street level; however, participant observation has limitations that constrain its applicability in multisite research. Social network methods added to field research protocols can provide a behavioral and social structural vision of youth gangs. An analysis of egocentric social network data collected in a gang neighborhood casts doubton conventional conceptualizations of gangs as groups and gang boundaries. Compositional analyses of personal (egocentric) social networks of same-gang youth provide measures of peer influence processes beyond participant observation. Comparative analyses of opposite-gang adolescents’ egocentric networks show a wide overlap among intergang friends. The article links such f...
Metabolism of four resmethrin isomers by liver microsomes

Abstract Microsomal esterases of mouse and rat liver readily cleave the trans - but not the cis -isomers of resmethrin (5-benzyl-3-furylmethyl chrysanthemate). The ester linkage also appears to undergo oxidative cleavage when esterase attack is minimal, i.e., with (+)- cis - and particularly (−)- cis -resmethrin in microsome-NADPH systems and with any of the isomers when NADPH is added to microsomes pretreated with TEPP. Metabolites retaining the ester linkage are detected in significant amounts only with (+)- cis -resmethrin in which case they are formed by oxidation at either the trans (E)- or cis (Z)-methyl group of the isobutenyl moiety with or without oxidation of the benzylfurylmethyl group. Metabolites of each acid moiety include chrysanthemic acid and up to six derivatives of this acid formed by oxidation at the trans (E)- or cis (Z)-methyl group yielding the corresponding alcohol, aldehyde, or acid, with chrysanthemate isomer and enzyme source variations in the preferred site of oxidation. The major identified metabolite of the alcohol moiety is either benzylfurylmethanol or the corresponding carboxylic acid depending on the enzyme system used. In the course of microsomal oxidation, a fragment from the alcohol but not the acid moiety of (+)- trans - and (+)- cis -resmethrin is strongly bound to microsomal components. These findings confirm in vivo studies on the isomeric variations in metabolism of the resmethrin components.
Characterizing the Consequences of Chronic Climbing-Related Injury in Sport Climbers and Boulderers

Objective To describe the association between chronic climbing-related injuries and functional and quality-of-life impairments in chronically injured sport climbers and boulderers. Methods A retrospective, cross-sectional, anonymous survey was developed to assess the association between chronic climbing-related injuries and severity of injury-related pain, impact on activities of daily living, and impact on continued pursuit of rock climbing and other athletic endeavors. This survey was administered to a convenience sample of chronically injured sport climbers and boulderers recruited from several highly trafficked rock climbing websites. Results Four hundred thirty-nine respondents submitted surveys adequate for analysis. These respondents reported 863 chronic injuries. A majority of these were in the upper extremity. Approximately half of respondents reported injury-related pain or functional limitation more than 10 days a month, one quarter reported that their pain caused moderate to severe interference with activities of daily living, most altered their climbing habits as a result of their injuries, and one third indicated that their pain moderately or severely affected their ability to pursue other sports. Conclusions This study is the first to suggest that a subset of chronically injured climbers exists whose injuries may cause significant pain and activities-of-daily-living and sports-related functional limitation.
Simulation of the Early Stages of Nano-Domain Formation in Mixed Bilayers of Sphingomyelin, Cholesterol, and Dioleylphosphatidylcholine

It is known from experimental studies that lipid bilayers composed of unsaturated phospholipids, sphingomyelin, and cholesterol contain microdomains rich in sphingomyelin and cholesterol. These domains are similar to “rafts” isolated from cell membranes, although the latter are much smaller in lateral size. Such domain formation can be a result of very specific and subtle lipid-lipid interactions. To identify and study these interactions, we have performed two molecular dynamics simulations, of 200-ns duration, of dioleylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC), sphingomyelin (SM), and cholesterol (Chol) systems, a 1:1:1 mixture of DOPC/SM/Chol, and a 1:1 mixture of DOPC/SM. The simulations show initial stages of the onset of spontaneous phase-separated domains in the systems. On the simulation timescale cholesterol favors a position at the interface between the ordered SM region and the disordered DOPC region in the ternary system and accelerates the process of domain formation. We find that the smooth α-face of Chol preferentially packs next to SM molecules. Based on a comparative analysis of interaction energies, we find that Chol molecules do not show a preference for SM or DOPC. We conclude that Chol molecules assist in the process of domain formation and the process is driven by entropic factors rather than differences in interaction energies.
Experimental characterization of the miniannular phased array as a hyperthermia applicator.

A series of experiments has been carried out in order to characterize a miniannular phased array applicator prior to possible clinical implementation. The energy deposition patterns over the frequency range of 100 to 200 MHz were determined in several human limb models of different complexities by measuring the electric field strength patterns. The point of maximum energy deposition within a homogeneous, muscle‐equivalent cylindrical phantom positioned coaxially within the MAPA was found to be at the center of the applicator. The energy deposition patterns seem to be more uniform at the lower frequencies. Inclusion of a cylindrical bone‐equivalent phantom positioned coaxially with this muscle‐equivalent phantom does not seem to significantly alter the energy deposition patterns in the muscle‐equivalent region. For more realistically shaped, homogeneous muscle‐equivalent limb models, the resulting energy deposition patterns appear to be confined mostly to the intended treatment region. However, the point of maximum energy deposition was not at the middle of the applicator as with the cylindrical model, but shifted towards a smaller cross‐sectional region. This shift in location of the point of maximum energy deposition varies with the location of the MAPA on the limb. A secondary region of high‐field strength was also observed at the ankle for a MAPA centered about the knee. In this study, the energy deposition patterns appear to be significantly dependent on the shape of the model. Therefore, this factor must be taken into consideration for the proper prediction and control of the heating patterns resulting from the use of this type of applicator for clinical hyperthermia treatment.
The Etiologic Agents of Varicella and Herpes Zoster. Isolation, Propagation, and Cultural Characteristics in Vitro .

Fourteen strains of virus derived from the cutaneous lesions of cases of varicella and eight from patients with herpes zoster were propagated serially in primary explant cultures of human preputial or embryonic skin-muscle tissue. Infectious material could not be demonstrated in the fluid phase of infected cultures and inocula for passage therefore consisted of suspensions of infected tissue. Such tissue suspensions when stored in the frozen state did not regularly retain infectivity. The cytopathic process was focal and appeared to develop as the result of transfer of infectious material from cell to contiguous cell. Optimum development of the focal lesions in vitro related directly to conditions favoring optimum tissue growth and was further influenced by the spatial relationship of the tissue outgrowth. A variety of types of cells of human origin and several of monkey origin were susceptible to infection and responded with the formation of intranuclear inclusion bodies. The cellular response otherwise was variable, ranging from simple rounding with little change in size to the formation of large multinucleated cytoplasmic syncytia. Strains of virus recovered from patients with varicella and from patients with herpes zoster could not be distinguished on the basis of their cultural attributes.
The Mormon Rebellion: America's First Civil War, 1857–1858. By David L. Bigler and Will Bagley. (Norman, OK: University of Oklahoma Press, 2011. Pp. xv, 392. $34.95.)

When was America's first civil war? Maybe a tribal conflict that left no written record? Maybe Bacon's Rebellion? The Whiskey Rebellion? Bleeding Kansas? David L. Bigler and Will Bagley argue it co...
Skin Testing in the Evaluation of Hymenoptera Allergy and Drug Allergy

This article discusses allergic reactions to insect stings and adverse drug reactions. Insect sting anaphylaxis is a relatively common problem estimated to affect at least 0.4% of the population and is responsible for at least 50 deaths per year in the United States. The natural history, causative agents, venom constituents, and diagnosis of insect stings are presented, as well as venom selection. Reactions to penicillin, cephalosporins, insulin, local anesthetics, and protamine are also discussed.