cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Taphonomic comparison of passive and active continental margins: Neogene shell beds of the Atlantic coastal plain and Northern Gulf of California

Abstract To test for differences in the nature of the fossil record as a function of terrigenous sedimentation, macroinvertebrate concentrations in a recently rifted continental margin (Pliocene Imperial Formation, southeastern California) are compared with a mature passive margin (Miocene Calvert and Choptank Formations, Maryland coastal plain). Previous work suggested that shell beds are primarily a product of absolute low net sedimentation rather than high skeletal input; the duration and environment of low sedimentation of (erosion, omission) determine the quality of paleontologic data through time-averaging and selective preservation of assemblages, and the frequency of low sedimentation episodes determine the stratigraphic density of richly fossiliferous horizons for sampling. Settings of rapid subsidence — and potentially high average sedimentation rates — such as active continental margins are thus expected to have fewer and taphonomically less complex skeletal concentrations than slowly subsiding passive margins, and where steep bathymetric gradients co-occur with high subsidence, skeletal concentrations should be diachronous, patchy in development, and highly variable laterally. These predictions are largely borne out by the shallow marine Imperial Formation, whose average sedimentation rate is several orders of magnitude higher than the Maryland Miocene section. In both tectonic settings, major accumulations record relatively prolonged episodes of low terrigenous sedimentation, attesting to the predictive and explanatory power of a sedimentologic model for fossil accumulation. Major complex shell beds in the Imperial Formation (Latrania member) are exceptional deposits, formed under conditions of sediment starvation along the seaward edges of prograding coastal alluvial fans and fandelta complexes and on bedrock highs; whereas major shell beds in passive margin deposits are stratigraphically condensed records of repeated marine transgressions. Although actualistic experiments suggest that rapid, deep burial is essential to the preservation of skeletal fossils, the stratigraphic record demonstrates that periods of sediment starvation and bypassing — and thus intermittent or retarded shallow burial of shells — are fundamental to the formation of many major skeletal concentrations.
Effect of hospital setting and volume on clinical outcomes in women with gestational and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Abstract Objective: Efforts to improve health care outcomes in the United States have led some organizations to recommend specific hospital settings or case volumes for complex medical diagnoses and procedures. But there are few studies of the effect of setting and volume on maternal outcomes, particularly in complicated conditions, such as diabetes. Our objective was to estimate the effect of hospital setting and volume on childbirth morbidity and length of stay in pregnancies complicated by type 2 and gestational diabetes. Methods: We analyzed Maryland hospital discharge data during 1999–2004. The dependent variables were primary cesarean delivery, episiotomy, a composite variable for severe maternal morbidity, and hospital length of stay. The independent variables were hospital setting (community, non-teaching hospitals, community, teaching hospitals, and academic medical centers) and tertiles of annual hospital diabetes delivery volume. Multivariable regression analysis was used to assess the relation...
Umbilical blood flow and the effects of premature severance in the neonatal horse

Abstract Thirteen randomly assigned Quarter Horse foals were used in a study to determine the presence of umbilical blood flow immediately post partum and to determine if premature severance of the umbilical cord would alter significantly the hematology of the horse neonate. Packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), hemoglobin concentration (Hgb), red blood cell count (RBC), plasma protein (PP), and heart and respiratory rates were determined every 30 min for the first 6 h of life for both control and treated foals. Control foals had their umbilical cords measured for the presence of umbilical blood flow. Treated foals had their umbilical cords separated after birth and any free flow of blood collected and a volume measure determined. The umbilicus was separated within 10 sec post partum. No blood flow was detected in the control group of foals within 2 min post partum. The blood obtained from the separated umbilicus of the treatment group measured less than 125 cc. PCV, MCV, MCHC, Hgb, RBC, and PP were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). Except for MCHC and PP, all parameters studied decreased over the first 6 h of life. Heart rate and respiration rates did not significantly differ from each other (P > 0.05) and decreased over the first 6 h of life.
The Minority Enterprise Small Business Investment Company Program Institutionalizing a Nonviable Minority Business Assistance Infrastructure

Specialized small business investment companies (SSBICs) are privately owned companies that are funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration to finance minority-owned businesses. Most SSBICs began operations as nonviable companies, inherently limited in their ability to serve the range of capital needs of small firms in their targeted markets. Most of the SSBICs chartered over the last 26 years are out of business today. In the midst of this generally dismal industry, some SSBICs are growing substantially and operating profitably from their returns on minority business investments. This article differentiates the successful SSBICs from the failures.
Russian Press and the Ideas of Russia’s ‘Special Mission in the East’ and ‘Yellow Peril’

The active movement of the Russian Empire to the East for three centuries and its colossal success led to the need for some Russian thinkers and publicists to analyze this unique phenomenon as part of the general European colonial ‘movement’ to the East. The problem became more relevant than ever after the Sino-Japanese war (1894–1895), when the expansion of Russia to the East intensified, and all the world powers started to formulate their interests in China. Conflicts with and around China among these countries became widespread. Here the Russian press played a great role, accompanying and commenting on each step made by Russian diplomats and military. The discussions gradually highlighted two different problems. These were the ideas of ‘yellow peril’ and ‘Russia’s special mission in the East’.
Elemental analysis of municipal solid waste compost. II. Refuse derived fuel unders.

In utilizing municipal solid waste (MSW) as fuel for energy production, about 10 percent remains as a noncombustible small size fraction byproduct called refuse derived fuel unders (RDFU). We assessed the feasibility of using RDFU to produce compost for land applications, in the context of acceptable limits for metals. Periodic random samples from two batches of RDFU obtained during composting were analyzed for the heavy metals Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn, and for the plant nutrients N, P, and K. The heavy metal content (mg/kg, dry weight) in all samples ranged from 1.7-12.7 (Cd), 201-3217 (Cu), 267-5002 (Pb), 344-2079 (Zn). The total variability of these elements within a batch of RDFU compost was high, with relative standard deviations (RSD) ranging from 20-107 percent. Estimates of the number of samples needed to obtain a 10 percent uncertainty in the averages ranged from 5-138, depending on the analyte and the compost batch. Leachability tests showed little leaching of metals in the RDFU compost. The high vari...
Parent and teacher assessment of children's behavior in child maltreating families.

This study is an assessment of the amount of intellectual and behavioral dysfunction found in children from families in which child maltreatment has occurred. It reports differences in the information obtained from parents and teachers. The clinical implications of the results suggest the incorporation of parent training in developmental issues in programs which treat maltreating families and the use of teachers for more accurately assessing all the children in these families.
Arousal, EEG spectral power and pulse transit time in UARS and mild OSAS subjects.

Abstract Objectives : Upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) are associated with arousals and autonomic activation. Pulse transit time (PTT) has been used to recognize transient arousals. We examined the accuracy of PTT to recognize arousals, and the relationship between PTT deflection and visual and non-visual arousals. Methods : Ten UARS and 10 mild OSAS subjects were studied via polysomnography including measurement of esophageal pressure. Electroencephalogram (EEG) spectral power was obtained from central leads. Seven types of events were identified, depending upon the presence or absence of: a sleep-related respiratory event (SRRE), i.e. apnea, hypopnea, and abnormal breathing effort; a PTT signal; or a visually scored arousal (>1.5s). Results : One thousand four hundred forty-six events were identified in 20 subjects. Fifty-nine percent of all SRREs were associated with a PTT signal and a visual EEG arousal. Nineteen percent of SRREs had no EEG arousals at their termination, and 7.4% had no associated PTT signal. Delta power was significantly increased when non-visual EEG arousals were scored. The time delay for PTT was determined by the presence or absence of EEG arousal. The sensitivity of PTT to recognize EEG arousal was 90.4% and the specificity was 16.8%. The sensitivity and specificity of PTT to recognize SRRE was 90.7 and 21.9%, respectively. Conclusions : These results preclude the use of PTT by itself. SRREs induce an activation with positive PTT response but without arousal in 14% of cases. This PTT response, however, is much slower than that occurring with arousal. UARS and mild OSAS do not respond in the same way to SRREs, particularly during rapid eye movement sleep.
Some Effects of Momentum Diffusion on Axisymmetric Vortices

Abstract In the absence of momentum diffusion (viscous or turbulent) in a steady state axially bounded vortex, such as that produced by a Ward-type tornado simulator, a two-celled vortex configuration in which the inner cell is entirely stagnant is to be expected. Therefore, diffusion is directly responsible or at least highly influential in producing other vortex phenomena, including a single-cell structure, a vortex breakdown, a central downdraft, and a subhydrostatic central surface pressure. The means by which these are brought about by diffusion are discussed in the context of the tornado simulator. Some of the given arguments are extended in a more speculative manner to atmospheric vortices.
Signet ring cell carcinoma of bladder Evaluation of three cases with review of literature

Three cases of adenocarcinoma involving the bladder and consisting mainly of signet-ring-shaped cells are presented. Each case represents a different form that the lesion may take, and these forms are compared. This unusual neoplasm has a worse prognosis than transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder, possibly because of factors that lead to delays in management. Radiation therapy is ineffective, and the results of treatment with segmental resection of the involved area of the bladder are equivalent to those of total cystectomy.
The smithsonian institution exhibition of “Science in American Life”: Science as it consists of normalized practices

Les AA. portent leur attention sur l'exposition intitulee «Science in American Life» organisee aux Etats-Unis par le «National Museum of American History». Celle-ci vise a montrer le role de la science dans l'amelioration des conditions de vie. Ils posent le probleme de la definition de la science et de la distinction entre science et non-science. Il decrit le programme de la visite de cette exposition. Il examine les techniques mobilisees, dans ce cadre, en matiere de communication afin d'attirer l'attention du visiteur
Botulism in the Elderly

Two cases of type A botulism in elderly patients are presented, followed by an overview of the disease. Typical features demonstrated by these patients included home food preservation, multiple cases, and early GI tract symptoms followed by diplopia, ptosis, generalized weakness, and respiratory impairment while sensation and deep tendon reflexes remained intact. Fatal outcomes are more likely in the elderly. The CDC should be contacted early in cases of suspected botulism.
Cyclic poly(dimethylsiloxane) via ring-closing dehydrocoupling of α,ω-dihydroxy-PDMS with α,ω-dihydrido-PDMS in dilute solution

Abstract Cyclic poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) was prepared from commercially available linear α,ω-dihydroxy-PDMS by a platinum-catalyzed dehydrocoupling of its chain ends with α,ω-dihydrido-PDMS in dilute solution. Ring closing was verified by MALDI-ToF mass spectrometry along with GPC, IR, 1H and 29Si NMR spectroscopy. Purification of the cyclic PDMS was achieved by inclusion complexation of linear byproducts with γ-cyclodextrin. Cyclic yields are ≥ 50% and the average molecular weight (M) closely reflects that of the linear starting material. Yields of large cycles, [(CH3)2SiO]x where x > 6, are greater than those achieved by the traditional ring-chain equilibration route beginning with [(CH3)2SiO]4 and [(CH3)2SiO]5 [1] , and the M is greater than that obtained for the cyclic product obtained from base-catalyzed cyclodepolymerization of the same α,ω-dihydroxy-PDMS precursor [2] .
Photoexcitation and doping studies of poly(3-hexylthienylene)

Comprehensive (0.05--3-eV) spectroscopic measurements are reported for poly(3-hexylthienylene), P3HT, during photoexcitation (i.e., photoinduced absorption) and after doping with ${\mathrm{NOPF}}_{6}$. A one-to-one correspondence between the photoinduced and doping-induced spectral changes is observed, typical of conducting polymers. The results demonstrate that charges are predominantly stored in bipolarons in P3HT. We find two subgap electronic absorptions and a series of infrared-active vibrational (IRAV) modes. The four localized IRAV modes (1088, 1161, 1200, 1354 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$) associated with bipolaron distortions of the P3HT chains and made infrared active through coupling to the uniform translation of the bipolaron were observed in both the doping-induced and photoinduced absorption spectra, as in polythiophene and poly(3-methylthienylene). An additional absorption (1396 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$) was identified as arising from an ir-active localized mode associated with the nonuniform translation (shape oscillation) of the bipolaron. Comparison of the energies of the photoinduced and doping-induced electronic transitions yields an estimate of the change in Coulomb energy of the bipolaron on photoexcitation, ${U}_{B}$\ensuremath{\approxeq}0.25 eV; this relatively small value of ${U}_{B}$ is consistent with bipolaron formation in P3HT.
Contributions of Obesity and Weight Loss to Gallstone Disease

Objective: To examine the relation of obesity and weight loss to the formation of gallstones according to pertinent clinical and research issues. Data Sources and Extraction: Original reports obtai...
The binding of skeletal muscle C-protein to F-actin, and its relation to the interaction of actin with myosin subfragment-1.

Abstract C-protein is a component of thick filaments of skeletal muscle myofibrils. It is bound to the assembly of myosin tails that forms the filament backbone. We report here that C-protein can also bind to F-actin, with a limiting stoichiometry of approximately one C-protein molecule per 3 to 5 actin subunits and a dissociation constant in the micromolar range at ionic strength 0·07. The binding is not significantly affected by ATP, calcium ions or temperature, or by the presence of tropomyosin on the actin, but it is weakened by increasing ionic strength. Myosin subfragment-1 (S-1) competes with C-protein for binding to actin. In the absence of ATP, S-1 displaces nearly all bound C-protein from actin, while in the presence of ATP, C-protein inhibits the actin activation of S-1 ATPase. Although there is no direct evidence that interaction of C-protein with actin is physiologically significant, the lenght of the C-protein molecule is sufficient so that it could make contact with the thin filaments in muscle while remaining attached to the thick filaments.
New dynamical mean-field dynamo theory and closure approach.

We develop a new nonlinear mean field dynamo theory that couples field growth to the time evolution of the magnetic helicity and the turbulent electromotive force, e. We show that the difference between kinetic and current helicities emerges naturally as the growth driver when the time derivative of e is coupled into the theory. The solutions predict significant field growth in a kinematic phase and a saturation rate/strength that is magnetic Reynolds number dependent/independent in agreement with numerical simulations. The amplitude of early time oscillations provides a diagnostic for the closure.
Observation of deep-trap modulation with “near” band-edge light in copper-doped CdS crystals†

The optical transmittance of a weak monochromatic light probe in the extrinsic range of copper-doped CdS single crystals is studied. Changes in the observed transmittance induced by strong optical excitation near the band edge are due to redistribution of holes and electrons over levels in the band gap. Regions of enhanced transmission and increased absorption are observed. Strongly enhanced optical transmission near the band edge is probably related to optical transitions in the lattice surrounding Coulomb attractive traps which are neutralized via carriers created by the laser excitation. Es wird die optische Absorption eines schwachen monochromatischen Signals im Auslaufergebiet von Kupfer-dotiertem CdS untersucht. Die beobachteten Veranderungen der Absorption bei starker optischer Anregung werden durch eine Umverteilung von Lochern und Elektronen verursacht. Bereiche erhohter Durchlassigkeit und verstarkter Absorption werden beobachtet. Die stark erhohte Durchlassigkeit ist wahrscheinlich auf optische ubergange in der Nachbarschaft von geladenen Storstellen zuruckzufuhren, die durch die starke optische Anregung neutralisiert werden.
Transient temperatures of wet and dry polymeric film coated specimens experiencing outdoor exposure

Abstract A mathematical model based on an “aggregated-capacity” temperature analysis is presented and validated for predicting the temperature of thin polymeric films bonded to substrate materials. This model is applicable to coatings on metallic or other substrate materials when the ratio of the thermal resistance across the substrate to the resistance across the coating to ambient is less than approximately 0.1. An analytical rather than a numerical method, was employed to circumvent formulation difficulties and calculation constraints associated with the latter approach for extremely thin coatings. Periodic measurements of ambient dry-bulb and dew-point temperature, wind speed (to estimate convection coefficients), sky temperature, precipitation, and solar irradiation are inputs for determining heat exchange at coating surfaces. In addition to convection and solar irradiation, the model accounts for the effects of infrared exchange with the surrounding sky, dew formation on coating surfaces, and precipitation along with insulation and ambient convection at the back surface of the substrate. Based on comparisons with National Institute of Standards and Technology data on specimen temperature and simultaneous weather data compiled between 2006 and 2008, the analytical model correlated well to measured temperatures, and provided a tractable, computationally efficient, and validated solution for predicting long term transient temperatures in thin-coated specimens.
Vascular surgery patients prescribed preoperative β-blockers experienced a decrease in the maximal heart rate observed during induction of general anesthesia.

Objective To investigate the association of preoperative β-blocker usage and maximal heart rates observed during the induction of general anesthesia. Design Retrospective descriptive, univariate, and multivariate analyses of electronic hospital and anesthesia medical records. Setting A tertiary-care medical center within the Veterans Health Administration. Participants Consecutive adult elective and emergent patients presenting for vascular surgery during calendar years 2005 to 2011. Interventions None. Measurements and Main Results Of the 430 eligible cases, 218 were prescribed β-blockers, and 212 were not taking β-blockers. The two groups were comparable across baseline patient factors (ie, demographic, morphometric, surgical duration, and surgical procedures) and induction medication doses. The β-blocker group experienced a lower maximal heart rate during the induction of general anesthesia compared with the non–β-blocker group (105 ± 41 beats/min v 115 ± 45 beats/min, respectively; p Conclusions Preoperative β-blockade of vascular surgery patients undergoing general anesthesia is associated with a lower maximal heart rate during anesthetic induction. There may be potential benefits in administering β-blockers to reduce physiologic stress in this surgical population at risk for perioperative cardiac morbidity. Future research should further explore intraoperative hemodynamic effects in light of existing practice guidelines for optimal medication selection, dosage, and heart rate control.
Reducing seabird bycatch in longline fisheries using a natural olfactory deterrent

Abstract Longline fisheries throughout the world have frequent and often fatal interactions with seabirds. We experimentally tested one possible solution to seabird–fisheries interactions that was proposed by a New Zealand longline fisherman. This involved dripping school shark Galeorhinus galeus liver oil on the ocean surface behind fishing vessels. We tested the efficacy of shark liver oil in reducing the numbers of seabirds attending fishing vessels and the number of dives seabirds executed in pursuit of pilchard Sardinops neopilchardus baits. We conducted trials in northern New Zealand where seabird assemblages include the globally vulnerable black petrel Procellaria parkinsoni . Shark liver oil was effective in reducing both seabird numbers and dives on baits, compared to canola oil and seawater control treatments. Comparisons of seabird responses to shark liver oil and vegetable oil suggest that shark liver oil acts as an olfactory or chemesthetic deterrent for seabirds. Further work should include testing the oil with additional seabird species and investigating active ingredients and habituation of seabirds to the oil in order to assess wider opportunities for long-term use of shark liver oil to reduce seabird bycatch.
Evidence for altered cellular calcium in the pathogenetic mechanism of acute pancreatitis in rats.

Abstract Although several pathophysiological sequences, such as protease activation, free radical generation, and inflammatory mediator release, have been described in acute pancreatitis, the precise mechanism by which acute pancreatitis is initiated is unknown. Cellular calcium, a key physiological signaling element in cell function and also a crucial pathological intracellular messenger in cell injury, appears to be involved in the initiation and development of acute pancreatitis. The present study provides several lines of evidence supporting this suggestion. First, verapamil (a calcium channel blocker) administration was associated with a significant protection of rats from acute pancreatitis induced by high doses of cerulein (50 μg/kg/hr, subcutaneously), as evidenced both histologically and biochemically. Second, verapamil was found to minimize the increased tissue levels of calcium, platelet-activating factor, and thromboxane B 2 detected during acute pancreatitis. Third, acute pancreatitis could be observed in rats with elevated serum calcium levels at low doses of cerulein (5 μg/kg/hr, subcutaneously), but could not be observed in rats with normal serum calcium levels treated with low doses of cerulein. It is proposed that cellular calcium, which is a critical signaling component in the synthesis and release of inflammatory mediators and several other events, may be an important factor in the pathogenesis of cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis.
Orchestrated structure evolution: accelerating direct-write nanomanufacturing by combining top-down patterning with bottom-up growth

Direct-write nanomanufacturing with scanning beams and probes is flexible and can produce high quality products, but it is normally slow and expensive to raster point-by-point over a pattern. We demonstrate the use of an accelerated direct-write nanomanufacturing method called 'orchestrated structure evolution' (OSE), where a direct-write tool patterns a small number of growth 'seeds' that subsequently grow into the final thin film pattern. Through control of seed size and spacing, it is possible to vary the ratio of 'top-down' to 'bottom-up' character of the patterning processes, ranging from conventional top-down raster patterning to nearly pure bottom-up space-filling via seed growth. Electron beam lithography (EBL) and copper electrodeposition were used to demonstrate trade-offs between process time and product quality over nano- to microlength scales. OSE can reduce process times for high-cost EBL patterning by orders of magnitude, at the expense of longer (but inexpensive) copper electrodeposition processing times. We quantify the degradation of pattern quality that accompanies fast OSE patterning by measuring deviations from the desired patterned area and perimeter. We also show that the density of OSE-induced grain boundaries depends upon the seed separation and size. As the seed size is reduced, the uniformity of an OSE film becomes more dependent on details of seed nucleation processes than normally seen for conventionally patterned films.
Stakeholder participation in evaluation: How important is diversity?

Abstract Participatory evaluation seeks in part to promote exchanges of perspective and experience among diverse program stakeholders. Diversity in such exchanges is viewed as integral to the substantive and political strands of the participatory process. Yet, using the grounded experience of two participatory evaluation case studies, we offer some challenges to this ideal of diversity and suggest that when action is the desired outcome, somewhat less rather than more diversity of stakeholder participation is actually desired.
Changes in the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Community of the Cleveland Harbor Area of Lake Erie From 1978 to 1989

The benthic macroinvertebrates of the nearshore zone of Lake Erie in the vicinity of Cleveland, Ohio, were sampled at 12 stations in October 1988 and May 1989 to determine the present pollutional status of the benthic community and to record changes over the past decade. The most abundant macroinvertebrates were, respectively, oligochaete worms, sphaeriid clams, and chironomid larvae. Of 75 taxa identified, 22 were oligochaetes, 16 were chironomids, and 11 were mollusks. Community composition in most of the harbor was suggestive of highly organically enriched sediments and was dominated by five tubificid worm species and pill clams (Pisidium spp.). The open water community, representative of less enriched conditions, was dominated by the tubificid Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri as well as Pisidium spp. and midges of the Chironomus anthracinus? group. Improvement in the habitat quality of the study area, including the harbor, since the late 1970s was evident from a dramatic increase in the number of taxa at all sites, a reduction in the proportion of oligochaete worms, a large increase in the abundance of sphaeriid clams and midge larvae, and the widespread distribution though low abundance in open water sediments of caddisfiy larvae (Oecetis sp.) which were absent in the late 1970s. Midges of the genus Chironomus remained largely absent from the harbor, and the abundance of the genus Procladius remained low around the mouth of the Cuyahoga River. The abundance of oligochaete worms has increased substantially around the river mouth over the decade. This increase may indicate an actual improvement of conditions overall, as might be expected with declining concentrations of toxic substances but continued organic enrichment of the sediments.
Local Institutions and the Politics of Urban Growth

This article uses a political market framework to analyze how the structure of local political institutions affects the relative political influence of development and environmental interests in the context of urban growth. Using panel data from 406 Florida cities from 1998 to 2003, the empirical analysis finds important interaction effects between the structure of city executive branch institutions and interest group variables. The economic and political forces driving urban growth do not operate identically in all cities—they vary as a function of institutional context. Institutional structure helps determine which interest groups have their preferences reflected in local land-use changes and development patterns. The resulting patterns suggest a “sustainability paradox” wherein richer, environmental interests push for the preservation of environmental amenities while at the same time accelerating the number of residential units built in a community.
Witness sets of projections

Abstract Elimination is a basic algebraic operation which geometrically corresponds to projections. This article describes using the numerical algebraic geometric concept of witness sets to compute the projection of an algebraic set. The ideas described in this article apply to computing the image of an algebraic set under any linear map.
Editorial Commentary: Endoscopically Closing Doors

The use of radiofrequency ablation with or without endoscopic mucosal resection for the treatment of Barrett’s esophagus (BE) with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and intramucosal adenocarcinomas (IMC) has emerged as a therapeutic alternative to esophageal resections among medically fit patients, as evidenced by national guidelines. The findings reported by Lada et al provide additional evidence supporting this alternative to surgery. Aside from lending support, the authors’ data are valuable because they document the added dimension of longitudinal follow-up. With this longitudinal follow-up, the natural history of patients undergoing endoscopic therapy with progressive BE is better understood. To illustrate this point, although the reported complete responses for IMCs and HGDs treated endoscopically are quite impressive, the fact that recurrences or progression of disease was treated using repeat endoscopic therapies rather than resorting to operative therapy is quite remarkable. This fact alone endorses the promise of endoscopic therapies for early-stage esophageal malignancies. Consequently, the fact that their multivariate analysis did not further identify factors found on univariate analysis to be prognostic for the failure to eradicate dysplasia or BE or for the development of recurrence is largely irrelevant, given that repeat endoscopic therapies appear to be adequate in addressing these issues. The authors’ thought-provoking data challenges the classic thinking that surgical therapy is the “gold standard” for all forms of resectable esophageal malignancies, and for this perspective alone, they should be congratulated. They reinforce their contention that the need for esophagectomies can be eliminated by virtue of their own institutional experience, where esophagectomies for IMCs and HGDs has decreased markedly. Interestingly, the elimination of esophagectomy for IMC and HGD appears to have been replaced by the relatively arduous surveillance process and re-treating patients endoscopically. In their cohort of 57 patients, when including surveillance endoscopies among the diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic
Dissolution at dislocation etch pits in quartz

Abstract Several samples of quartz were etched hydrothermally at 300°C in etchams of controlled dissolved silica concentration in order to measure the critical concentration, Ccrit, above which dislocation etch pits would not nucleate on the quartz surface. Ccrit for 300°C was theoretically predicted to be 0.6C0 and the measured Ccrit, was 0.75 ± 0.15C0 (C0 is the equilibrium concentration). Above this value, some dislocation etch pits formed, but the rate of formation significantly decreased. These results are the first experimental validation of etch pit formation theory under hydrothermal conditions. Dune sands showed a generally angular and pitted surface when etched in dilute solutions, while sands etched at C ~ Ccrit showed less angular pitting. Analysis of a soil profile developed in situ on the Parguaza granite, Venezuela, revealed a gradual change from angular, pitted grain surfaces at the top of the profile to rounded surfaces on grains sampled just above bedrock. Since quartz dissolution without surface pitting continues deep in the profile, the Si concentration must exceed Ccrit, at depth. These results indicate that for C >Ccrit, dissolution occurs at edges and kinks on the surface of quartz and very few pits form; in contrast, at C ⪡ Ccrit, dislocation etch pits grow rapidly, contributing to the overall dissolution rate.
Life events assessment of depressed patients: a comparison of self-report and interview formats.

Both self-report questionnaires and semi-structured interviews have been employed in past research on the association between life events and psychiatric disorder. We examined the comparability of these two approaches by giving both a self-report life events scale and semi-structured life events interview to 38 depressed patients. About 40% of the items noted on the interview were missed when using the questionnaire. Approximately 15% of the items noted on the questionnaire were errors since the events did not meet the definition or time criteria specified in the questionnaire. Twenty percent of the items noted on the questionnaire were not noted on the interview and may represent underinclusiveness on the part of the interview. The implications of these differences were examined by comparing the association between a variety of demographic and clinical variables and life events under each methodology. There were no significant differences between the two methods except when examining the association betw...
Store-operated Ca2+ entry is exaggerated in fresh preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells of SHR

Store-operated Ca 2+ entry is exaggerated in fresh preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells of SHR . Background Regulation of preglomerular vasomotor tone vessels ultimately control glomerular filtration rate, sodium reabsorption and systemic blood pressure. To gain insight into the complex renal hemodynamic factors that may result in hypertension, we studied calcium signaling pathways. Methods Fresh, single, preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) were isolated from 5- to 6-week-old SHR and WKY utilizing a magnetized microsphere/sieving technique. Cytosolic Ca 2+ ([Ca 2+ ] i ) was measured with fura-2 ratiometric fluorescence. To examine store-operated calcium entry (SOC), VSMC were activated in calcium-free buffer containing nifedipine. To deplete the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of Ca 2+ , vasopressin-1 receptor agonist [V 1 R; inositol trisphosphate (IP 3 )-mediated mobilization], ryanodine (non-IP 3 induced mobilization), and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA; Ca 2+ -ATPase inhibition) were utilized. Addition of external calcium followed by quenching of the fura/Ca 2+ signal with Mn 2+ permitted assessment of divalent cation entry via SOC. Results V 1 R caused greater mobilization in SHR than WKY ( P P P 3 receptors, but also of SOC, blocked calcium entry in the ryanodine and CPA experiments independent of IP 3 . As well, Gd 3+ , a selective inhibitor of SOC, inhibited the Ca 2+ response. We also studied L-channel calcium entry stimulated by V 1 R. The total calcium response was greater in SHR as was the absolute inhibition by nifedipine. As a percent of the total response, participation of L-type channels sensitive to nifedipine was about 45% in both strains of rat. Conclusion Utilizing three separate mechanisms to deplete the SR of Ca 2+ in order to activate SOC, we show for the first time, that SOC is exaggerated in preglomerular VSMC of young SHR.
What is post-silicon debug?

Due to the complexity of modern IC designs and increasingly sophisticated manufacturing technologies, some of the steps in the design and optimization of ICs result in errors. A prime example of a design error is the Pentium IV FDIV bug --- a miscalculation when dividing certain rarely-occurring numbers, --- which resulted in the costly recalls of millions of CPUs in mid-1990s. Only rare errors escape extensive simulation used to verify designs, but they may jeopardize mission-critical applications and lead to class-action lawsuits. Some computer viruses escalate and exploit subtle hardware errors. Intel's response to the FDIV bug was to invest heavily in formal verification, so as to catch even the bugs that evade simulation. While very successful, this effort has always been limited to individual on-chip modules rather than entire chips. If bugs arising from the interaction between modules are not caught by extensive simulation, they show up in manufactured chips.
A theoretical study of f0-f1 interaction with application to resonant speaking and singing voice

An interactive source-filter system, consisting of a three-mass body-cover model of the vocal folds and a wave reflection model of the vocal tract, was used to test the dependence of vocal fold vibration on the vocal tract. The degree of interaction is governed by the epilarynx tube, which raises the vocal tract impedance to match the impedance of the glottis. The key component of the impedance is inertive reactance. Whenever there is inertive reactance, the vocal tract assists the vocal folds in vibration. The amplitude of vibration and the glottal flow can more than double, and the oral radiated power can increase up to 10 dB. As F0 approaches F1, the first formant frequency, the interactive source-filter system loses its advantage (because inertive reactance changes to compliant reactance) and the noninteractive system produces greater vocal output. Thus, from a voice training and control standpoint, there may be reasons to operate the system in either interactive and noninteractive modes. The harmonics 2F0 and 3F0 can also benefit from being positioned slightly below F1.
Implications of 3-D integrated circuits at board test position paper

Three-dimensional Integrated Circuits are coming to circuit boards near you. Testing boards with such components offers new, yet familiar challenges. As before, we need to determine if the right device is present, oriented, live, properly aligned and attached to the board with no shorts, opens or attachment quality defects.
Cys-pair reporters detect a constrained trigger loop in a paused RNA polymerase

Summary Transcriptional pausing, which regulates transcript elongation in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, is thought to involve formation of alternative RNA polymerase conformations in which nucleotide addition is inhibited in part by restriction of trigger loop (TL) folding. The polymorphous TL must convert from a random coil to a helical hairpin that contacts the nucleotide triphosphate (NTP) substrate to allow rapid nucleotide addition. Understanding the distribution of TL conformations in different enzyme states is made difficult by the TL's small size and sensitive energetics. Here, we report a Cys-pair reporter strategy to elucidate the relative occupancies of different TL conformations in E. coli RNA polymerase based on the ability of Cys residues engineered into the TL and surrounding regions to form disulfide bonds. Our results indicate that a paused complex stabilized by a nascent RNA hairpin favors nonproductive TL conformations that persist after NTP binding but can be reversed by the elongation factor RfaH.
Marine methane cycle simulations for the period of early global warming

Geochemical environments, fates, and effects are modeled for methane released into seawater by the decomposition of climate-sensitive clathrates. A contemporary global background cycle is first constructed, within the framework of the Parallel Ocean Program. Input from organics in the upper thermocline is related to oxygen levels, and microbial consumption is parameterized from available rate measurements. Seepage into bottom layers is then superimposed, representing typical seabed fluid flow. The resulting CH{sub 4} distribution is validated against surface saturation ratios, vertical sections, and slope plume studies. Injections of clathrate-derived methane are explored by distributing a small number of point sources around the Arctic continental shelf, where stocks are extensive and susceptible to instability during the first few decades of global warming. Isolated bottom cells are assigned dissolved gas fluxes from porous-media simulation. Given the present bulk removal pattern, methane does not penetrate far from emission sites. Accumulated effects, however, spread to the regional scale following the modeled current system. Both hypoxification and acidification are documented. Sensitivity studies illustrate a potential for material restrictions to broaden the perturbations, since methanotrophic consumers require nutrients and trace metals. When such factors are considered, methane buildup within the Arctic basin is enhanced. However, freshened polar surface waters act as a barrier to atmospheric transfer, diverting products into the deep return flow. Uncertainties in the logic and calculations are enumerated including those inherent in high-latitude clathrate abundance, buoyant effluent rise through the column, representation of the general circulation, and bacterial growth kinetics.
NANOOS contributions to understanding ocean acidification in the Pacific Northwest

NANOOS is coordinating a regional effort to observe the status of ocean acidification in the coastal waters and estuaries of Washington and Oregon. There is strong partnership in this effort between federal and university scientists, as well as strong interest from shellfish growers, tribes, and other stakeholders in the region. NANOOS, as a regional association of US IOOS, can fill a key role in providing regional coordination for observing assets, access to data, and education and outreach regarding this important issue.
Allocation of Case Management Resources in Long-Term Care:Predicting High Use of Case Management Time

The expansion of publicly funded home care services and case management (CM) programs has fueled concerns about containing the costs of these programs. For CM practice, the issue is one of tailoring CM to those who really need it and are most likely to benefit from it. This concern calls for a better understanding of factors that increase the need for CM resources, defined as the use of CM time. This study of 242 clients in a Medicaid-waiver-funded home care program found clients' problem behaviors, higher functional ability, informal support problems, and problems with service provider agencies to be predictive of greater use of CM time. These findings suggest the need to develop appropriate assessment of problem areas, implement effective protocols to manage specific problems, and address such issues as appropriate levels of staffing and provider accountability.
Sensitivity and resistance of JAK2 inhibitors to myeloproliferative neoplasms

The discovery of activating mutations in JAK2 and MPL in a majority of patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) has led to the rapid clinical development of several JAK kinase inhibitors. Of these, the JAK1/2 inhibitor, ruxolitinib (INCB018424, Incyte Corporation) was recently approved for the treatment of patients with myelofibrosis (MF). JAK inhibitors have effectively reduced splenomegaly and high cytokine levels in patients leading to improvements in quality of life. However, they have not been successful in eliminating the mutant clone in a majority of patients. In vitro studies using saturation mutagenesis screens have revealed several mutations in JAK2 that confer resistance to JAK inhibitors. Nevertheless, these mutations have not been identified so far in JAK inhibitor-treated patients. A recent study from our laboratory demonstrated that chronic JAK kinase inhibition leads to JAK inhibitor persistence via transphosphorylation of JAK2 through other JAK kinase family members. This phenomenon is seen in cell lines, mouse models and patient samples. The JAK inhibitor persistent cells, however, still remain JAK2 dependent and therefore combination therapies that target JAK2 and other components of the JAK–STAT pathway along with JAK inhibitors may provide additional benefits and improve clinical outcomes in these patients.
Abstract 2237: Synthesis and characterization of novel, membrane permeable estradiol fluorophores that maintain estrogenic activity.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC The ability to label biomolecules with fluorescent tags has become essential in basic cancer research and offers great promise for improvements in clinical diagnostics. The structure and physicochemical properties of the fluorescent tag have the potential of altering binding and activity characteristics of the conjugates, therefore it is desirable to use small, neutral, membrane permeable and biocompatible fluorescent tags with favorable photophysical properties, and versatile coupling chemistries. . Estradiol (E2) is a well-characterized ovarian steroid hormone with known measureable biological endpoints at the cellular, transcriptional, and signal transduction levels. We synthesized a new class of fluorescent estrogen derivatives from 17-alpha-ethynylestradiol conjugated to triazaborolopyridinium (HPY) dyes. The estrogenic activity of the covalently linked E2-HPY fluorophores were characterized using the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line, an E2-dependent cell line that is often used as a model system to study E2-induced cell responses. The MCF-7 cells were treated with a series of E2-HPY derivatives (10nM), E2 (10nM) or vehicle control. The time points for treatment was as short as 15 minutes for effect on signal transduction to 5 days for cell proliferation endpoints. After treatment for specified time points, E2-induced proliferation was determined by growth curve analysis (1-5 days), E2-mediated progesterone receptor (PR) transcription was determined by real-time PCR (24 hours), and E2-dependent accumulation of pERK was measured by immunoblot analysis (15min). Our results indicate that the bioactivity of E2-HPY was not significantly different from unconjugated E2 for the three endpoints tested. The accumulation of E2-HPY in cells was demonstrated by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. These data indicate that E2-HPY is taken up by cells and is easily detectable. Additionally, transcriptome analysis was performed to identify potential differences in general transcriptional activation between E2 and E2-HPY. These data suggest the exciting possibility that HPY fluorophores can be covalently linked to cancer-related biomolecules to enhance basic research and for potential use as a cancer diagnostic tool in the clinical. Citation Format: Jason E. Stailey, Sudath Hapuarachchige, Chinnasamy Ramesh, Sanjay Shrestha, Angelique M. Wimbley, Charles B. Shuster, Jeffrey B. Arterburn, Kevin D. Houston. Synthesis and characterization of novel, membrane permeable estradiol fluorophores that maintain estrogenic activity. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2237. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2237