cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of 0·43-MeV neutrons and 250-kVp X-rays for somatic aberrations in Tradescantia subacaulis Bush*

The RBE of 0·43-MeV monoenergetic neutrons and 250-kVp X-rays for somatic cell aberrations or mutations in the heterozygous Tradescantia subacaulis Bush (clone 4405) was determined and compared with known RBE values for similar end points in Tradescantia clone 02. Young inflorescences were irradiated with 0·04–15 rad of 0·43-MeV neutrons and with 6·25–150 rad of 250-kVp X-rays. Stamen hairs were scored daily over the peak response period from day 11–15 postirradiation. Data were recorded for cell color changes from normal blue to pink, plum and colorless and for changes in cell size from normal to dwarf and giant. Dose-response curves based on 5-day mean numbers of aberrant events were plotted for the various end points and their natural slopes computed. The slopes of the dose-response curves for each aberrant cell type resulting from X irradiation were higher than +1 but in 5 out of 6 cases significantly less than +1 for neutron irradiation. RBE values increased with decreasing doses, at least over the dose range investigated. Maximum RBE values for plum, dwarf, colorless, pink and giant were 124, 110, 99, 93 and 57 respectively. The RBE values were higher for color changes but lower for cell size aberrations in T. subacaulis than in clone 02. The reasons for these differences in RBE are not known. The possible dependence of RBE on interphase chromosome volume (ICV) is discussed.
Premature pubarche in girls is associated with functional adrenal but not ovarian hyperandrogenism

Abstract Objective: We hypothesized that there would be evidence of functional ovarian hyperandrogenism in girls with premature pubarche (PP) at diagnosis. Methods: White girls Results: ACTH stimulated 17-hydroxypregnenolone (17-OH Preg), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and AD levels, and 17-OH Preg:17-OHP and DHEA:AD ratios were significantly higher in girls with PP than in prepubertal control subjects (n = 18) ( P ≤.003). The ovarian response to leuprolide stimulation was comparable in girls with PP and prepubertal control subjects, but the response in prepubertal study subjects was significantly lower than in pubertal control subjects ( P =.016 for Δ17-OHP, P =.001 for ΔAD, and P =.026 for ΔE2). Conclusions: Contrary to the hypothesis, PP in girls was not associated with prepubertal evidence of ovarian hyperandrogenism but was associated with functional adrenal hyperandrogenism. (J Pediatr 2002;141:91-8)
Effects of a Commonly Occurring Genetic Polymorphism of Human CYP3A4 (I118V) on the Metabolism of Anandamide

The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in numerous physiological processes including mood, appetite, and pain sensation. A critical compound in maintaining cannabinoid tone is the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). We have recently shown that AEA is metabolized by several different human cytochromes P450 (P450) to form a number of metabolites, one of which exhibits increased biological activity. CYP3A4, one of the major P450s involved in the metabolism of AEA, produces four major metabolites. One of these metabolites, 5,6-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid ethanolamide (5,6-EET-EA), exhibits a much higher affinity than AEA for the cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB-2), which leads to a marked decrease in intracellular cAMP levels in cells expressing CB-2. There are multiple human alleles of CYP3A4, and the CYP3A4.4 allele has been shown to exhibit a significant decrease in activity. Recombinant CYP3A4*4 was expressed in Escherichia coli and was demonstrated to produce 60% less 6-hydroxytestosterone than the wild-type (WT) 3A4 in a reconstituted system. The metabolism of AEA by the WT and the CYP3A4.4 variant was investigated. The mutant produced 60% less of the four EET-EA metabolites than the WT. The mutant also produced a new peak on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry not seen with the WT, which corresponded to 19-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid-ethanolamide. In addition, the mutant produces four novel peaks at m/z 380, which correspond to the addition of two oxygen atoms, possibly to form a peroxide bond. These data indicate that individuals expressing the CYP3A4.4 allele may exhibit significant variations in the metabolism of AEA as well as any other compounds resembling AEA.
Research on utilization ratio of grid-connected distributed solar photovoltaic sources

To effectively accept the grid-connected distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) output, PV utilization ratio is researched based on the system minimum load at various PV penetrations. The impacts of PV on the electric power system and the main constraints for PV connected to the grid are analyzed. The methods to calculate PV utilization ratio, PV generation cost and annual utilization hours are proposed. The acceptable capacity and utilization of PV can be evaluated by these parameters. Finally, constructive suggestions for optimizing the scheme of PV installation and improving the acceptable capacity of PV are provided.
Model and parameter identification of friction during robotic insertion of cochlear-implant electrode arrays

Robot-assisted cochlear implant surgery was proposed and proved to be efficient in reducing insertion forces on acrylic scala tympani models. During experiments, the authors discovered that the insertion force not only depends on the shape discrepancy between the scala tympani and the inserted electrode array, but also on the insertion speed. This paper presents a friction model that describes the whole insertion process and investigates the relationship between the insertion speed and the insertion force. Experimental and statistical results show the effectiveness of the model. Applying the friction model generates safety insertion force boundaries for future insertions and gives the optimal insertion speed. It also provides predictive force information for insertion speed feedback control law design which may be applied to robot-assisted cochlear implant surgeries.
Human vascular endothelial cell attachment and growth inhibition by type V collagen.

Abstract Purpose: Human vascular prostheses develop a pseudointima that after time is devoid of a complete endothelial lining. The composition of this pseudointima consists of both cellular and noncellular components such as coagulation proteins and extracellular matrix proteins. Of these extracellular molecules, type V collagen has been reported to be localized to surfaces of vascular prostheses. We have hypothesized that type V collagen may be involved in the mechanisms of inhibition of endothelialization on vascular prostheses. In this study, interactions of human protein and cells with clinically used material and reference surfaces were analyzed in vitro. Methods and Results: Human collagen types IV and V or human fibronectin was coated on disks punched from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, bacteriologic polystyrene, and tissue culture—treated polystyrene. Fibronectin adsorbed equally to these surfaces, but differential adsorption of type V collagen occurred. The attachment and growth of human saphenous vein and umbilical vein endothelial cells and of human skin fibroblasts were also evaluated on protein-coated or uncoated surfaces. Type IV collagen and fibronectin promoted the attachment of these cells, but type V collagen reduced cellular adhesion. Growth of endothelial cells was significantly inhibited on surfaces coated with type V collagen even when additional growth substances such as serum, retinal-derived growth factor, and heparin were present in the medium. Human adult dermal fibroblast adhesion and cell growth were not affected by coating the surfaces with type V collagen. Conclusions: The components of the extracellular matrix of the pseudointima may directly influence endothelial cells by inhibiting cell proliferation, migration from within the graft or from anastomoses, or both. Type V collagen, a matrix protein found at luminal surfaces of vascular prostheses, may be one protein responsible for control of endothelial responses. (J VASC SURG 1993;17:710-8.)
Progress and status of visible light emitting diode technology

The light emitting diode (LED) is the dominant type of compound semiconductor device in terms of the epitaxial area of material produced as well as the number of devices fabricated and sold. Recent breakthroughs have resulted in dramatic performance increases for visible LEDs. Very high performance devices are commercially available using the AlGaInP materials system for red, orange and yellow and the InGaN system for green and blue. External quantum efficiencies greater than 10% are available for most colors, with greater than 20% having been achieved in red to orange. Currently, the luminous performance of LEDs exceeds that of traditional incandescent lamps for colors from red to green. As a result of these advances, LEDs are becoming competitive in applications such as large area signs, traffic signals and automobile lighting. By mixing red, blue and green LEDs or by using phosphor-converted blue or ultraviolet devices, the creation of white light can be achieved, opening up additional applications. A review of the applications for high-brightness LED technology will also be presented.
Binding to and photo-oxidation of cardiolipin by the phthalocyanine photosensitizer Pc 4.

Cardiolipin is a unique phospholipid of the mitochondrial inner membrane. Its peroxidation correlates with release of cytochrome c and induction of apoptosis. The phthalocyanine photosensitizer Pc 4 binds preferentially to the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Earlier Forster resonance energy transfer studies showed colocalization of Pc 4 and cardiolipin, which suggests cardiolipin as a target of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with Pc 4. Using liposomes as membrane models, we find that Pc 4 binds to cardiolipin-containing liposomes similarly to those that do not contain cardiolipin. Pc 4 binding is also studied in MCF-7c3 cells and those whose cardiolipin content was reduced by treatment with palmitate. Decreased levels of cardiolipin are quantified by thin-layer chromatography. The similar level of binding of Pc 4 to cells, irrespective of palmitate treatment, supports the lack of specificity of Pc 4 binding. Thus, factors other than cardiolipin are likely responsible for the preferential localization of Pc 4 in mitochondria. Nonetheless, cardiolipin within liposomes is readily oxidized by Pc 4 and light, yielding apparently mono- and dihydroperoxidized cardiolipin. If similar products result from exposure of cells to Pc 4-PDT, they could be part of the early events leading to apoptosis following Pc 4-PDT.
Comparing the welfare costs and initial dynamics of alternative inflation stabilization policies

Abstract This paper uses calibrated versions of a sticky-price currency-substitution model to compare the initial dynamics and welfare costs of three types of stabilization program: exchange-rate-based (ERB), money-based (MB), and money-based with initial reliquefication (MBR). ERB and MBR programs are found to induce an initial expansion in real activity, whereas MB programs are initially contractionary. The welfare gains of eliminating high inflation are significant under permanent ERB and MBR programs but small under permanent MB programs. In addition, temporary MB programs are shown to be much more disruptive than temporary ERB or MBR programs. These results provide an explanation for why MB programs are so rarely implemented and suggest that empirical studies that fail to distinguish MB from MBR programs are likely to be biased toward finding that stabilizations are always expansionary regardless of the nominal anchor.
Recent Bottomonium Results from BaBar and Belle

Selected studies in bottomonium physics carried out by the BaBar and Belle experiments are presented. They include a study of radiative bottomonium transitions using {gamma} {yields} e{sup +}e{sup -} conversions done by BaBar, the search for the h{sub b}(1P) and h{sub b}(2P) states leading to an evidence for the h{sub b}(1P) seen by BaBar in {Upsilon}(3S) {yields} {pi}{sup 0} h{sub b} decay and to the Belle observation of both the h{sub b}(1P) and the h{sub b}(2P) in the reaction e{sup +}e{sup -} {yields} {pi}{sup +}{pi}{sup -} h{sub b}(1P,2P) from {Upsilon}(5S) data.
Scaling Potential Evapotranspiration with Greenhouse Warming

AbstractPotential evapotranspiration (PET) is a supply-independent measure of the evaporative demand of a terrestrial climate—of basic importance in climatology, hydrology, and agriculture. Future increases in PET from greenhouse warming are often cited as key drivers of global trends toward drought and aridity. The present work computes recent and “business as usual” future Penman–Monteith PET fields at 3-hourly resolution in 13 modern global climate models. The percentage change in local annual-mean PET over the upcoming century is almost always positive, modally low double-digit in magnitude, usually increasing with latitude, yet quite divergent between models.These patterns are understood as follows. In every model, the global field of PET percentage change is found to be dominated by the direct, positive effects of constant-relative-humidity warming (via increasing vapor deficit and increasing Clausius–Clapeyron slope). This direct-warming term accurately scales as the PET-weighted (warm-season dayti...
Validation of the tracer-balance concept with reference to leucine: 24-h intravenous tracer studies with L-[1-13C]leucine and [15N-15N]urea

The validity of tracer-derived estimates of whole-body leucine balance was investigated. Seven healthy young adult subjects received an adequate protein diet for 6 d; at 1800 on the last day, L-[1-13C]leucine and [15N-15N]urea were given as primed, continuous intravenous infusions for 24 h. Subjects were in a fasting state for the first 12 h and at 0600 on day 7 they then received hourly 10 equal meals to achieve a fed state. Total leucine intake (diet plus tracer) was 89.4 mg.kg-1.d-1. Mean daily leucine oxidation was equivalent to 89.5 +/- 3.3 mg leucine/kg. The predicted daily oxidation rate, from measurements made during the last hour of the fast and the fifth hour of the fed period, was 91.2 +/- 5.8 mg/kg (P = 0.25 from measured). Measured and predicted whole-body leucine balances were 0.76 +/- 2.99 and -0.98 +/- 5.54 mg/kg, respectively (P = 0.25). Urea production exceeded urea excretion by 20%; daily protein oxidation was the same when estimated from leucine oxidation or nitrogen excretion. Thus, the tracer-balance concept is valid, and reliable predictions of total daily leucine oxidation and whole-body leucine balance can be obtained from short-term measurements of leucine oxidation during fasted and fed states.
Development of an MR safe reach and grasp movement evaluation system to study brain activation patterns after stroke

An MR safe apparatus is important for the for monitoring of tasks in the magnetic resonance (MR) environment. This paper describes the development of an MR safe movement evaluation system to measure the hand grasp and elbow flexion/extension movements. The system will be used to monitor motor performance in the fMRI environment and assess functional and motor impairment level pre and post robot-assisted therapy.
Veterinary toxicology: the epidemiology of poisonings in domestic animals

Animals are constantly exposed to a wide variety of foreign chemicals, many of which are potentially toxic and some of which result in the clinical poisonings. Pesticides are applied on or around animals for the control of insects and rodents. These chemicals may be placed in areas without regard for accessibility to household pets and domestic livestock. Insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides are routinely and haphazardly applied to animal and environmental surfaces alike with apparent disregard for differences in absorptive capability. Fortunately, newer herbicides and fungicides are relatively nonhazardous. Drugs are considered to have therapeutic effects, but the lay and professional person's disregard for species differences and variations in recommended dosages can result in poisonings. Adverse reactions may be misnomers for errors in judgment. Failure to provide satisfactory storage facilities for animal feeds and the improper preservation and handling of feedstuffs allow the growth and development of a variety of mycotoxins. Ignorance on the part of animal owners and livestockmen can result in a number of unusual and sometimes fatal clinical syndromes. The dependence of domestic animals and livestock upon their owners for the total environment makes these animals extremely susceptible to environmental pollutants. Exposure to noxious gases, irritating and hazardous industrial materials and wastes, water contaminants, and casually discarded compounds of our own use can and frequently do result in animal illnesses and death. Persons responsible for animals may be unaware of the potential hazard or lack good judgment in the use of these chemicals. Forceful and continuing education for the safe and sensible use of all foreign compounds on and around domestic animals and livestock is needed. Persons handling and applying these materials must recognize their responsibility, not only to themselves but also to their neighbors and the animals in their care. Language: en
Identification of Phthiodiolone Ketoreductase, an Enzyme Required for Production of Mycobacterial Diacyl Phthiocerol Virulence Factors

Diacyl phthiocerol esters and their congeners are mycobacterial virulence factors. The biosynthesis of these complex lipids remains poorly understood. Insight into their biosynthesis will aid the development of rationally designed drugs that inhibit their production. In this study, we investigate a biosynthetic step required for diacyl (phenol)phthiocerol ester production, i.e., the reduction of the keto group of (phenol)phthiodiolones. We utilized comparative genomics to identify phthiodiolone ketoreductase gene candidates and provide a genetic analysis demonstrating gene function for two of these candidates. Moreover, we present data confirming the existence of a diacyl phthiotriol intermediate in diacyl phthiocerol biosynthesis. We also elucidate the mechanism underlying diacyl phthiocerol deficiency in some mycobacteria, such as Mycobacterium ulcerans and Mycobacterium kansasii. Overall, our findings shed additional light on the biosynthesis of an important group of mycobacterial lipids involved in virulence.
Adult head and neck soft tissue sarcomas

Background. The purpose was to determine the optimal treatment for adult patients with head and neck soft tissue sarcomas. Methods. We conducted a review of the pertinent literature. Results. Local control after surgery alone or combined with radiotherapy was obtained in approximately 60% to 70% of the patients. The probability of local control is influenced by histologic grade, tumor size, and surgical margins. Patients with high-grade tumors and/or positive margins have improved local control if adjuvant radiotherapy is used. Distant metastases occurred in 10% to 30% of patients. The 5-year overall and cause-specific survival rates varied from approximately 60% to 70% and are affected by age, histologic grade, previous treatment of tumor, invasion of deep structures, and adequacy of surgery. Conclusions. The optimal treatment for adult head and neck soft tissue sarcomas is surgery. Adjuvant radiotherapy improves outcomes for those with high-grade tumors and/or positive margins. Radiotherapy alone will cure a small subset of patients with unresectable tumors. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck27: XXX–XXX, 2005
Distribution of lead and transthyretin in human eyes.

Background: The retinal pigment epithelium serves as a defensive barrier to the retina in the same way that the choroid plexus functions in the brain. Previous studies have shown that lead sequestration in the choroid plexus reduces the production and secretion of transthyretin by the choroid plexus. The purpose of this study was to investigate the distribution of lead and transthyretin in human eyes and to explore the potential effect of lead on transthyretin in human eyes. Methods: Eight pairs of human eyes were obtained from the New York City Eyebank within 24 hours of postmortem. The eyes were dissected to obtain the aqueous, vitreous, retina, and choroid. Lead and transthyretin concentrations in ocular tissues and liquids were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry for lead and radioimmunoassay for transthyretin. Lead accumulated in the retina at concentrations that were 166, 739, and 5 times higher than those in the aqueous, vitreous, and choroid, respectively (p < 0.05 for all comparison...
SOCS3 Deficiency Promotes M1 Macrophage Polarization and Inflammation

Macrophages participate in both the amplification of inflammation at the time of injury and downregulation of the inflammatory response to avoid excess tissue damage. These divergent functions of macrophages are dictated by their microenvironment, especially cytokines, which promote a spectrum of macrophage phenotypes. The M1 proinflammatory phenotype is induced by LPS, IFN-γ, and GM-CSF, and IL-4, IL-13, and M-CSF induce anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages. Suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins function as feedback inhibitors of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, and they can terminate innate and adaptive immune responses. In this study, we have evaluated the influence of SOCS3 on macrophage polarization and function. Macrophages obtained from LysMCre-SOCS3(fl/fl) mice, which lack SOCS3 in myeloid lineage cells, exhibit enhanced and prolonged activation of the JAK/STAT pathway compared with macrophages from SOCS3(fl/fl) mice. Furthermore, SOCS3-deficient macrophages have higher levels of the M1 genes IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-23, and inducible NO synthase owing to enhanced transcriptional activation and chromatin modifications. SOCS3-deficient M1 macrophages also have a stronger capacity to induce Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation than M1 macrophages from SOCS3(fl/fl) mice. Lastly, LPS-induced sepsis is exacerbated in LysMCre-SOCS3(fl/fl) mice and is associated with enhanced STAT1/3 activation and increased plasma levels of M1 cytokines/chemokines such as IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, CCL3, CCL4, and CXCL11. These findings collectively indicate that SOCS3 is involved in repressing the M1 proinflammatory phenotype, thereby deactivating inflammatory responses in macrophages.
Rook polynomials in three and higher dimensions

The rook polynomial of a board counts the number of ways of placing nonattacking rooks on the board. In this paper, we describe how the properties of the two-dimensional rook polynomials generalize to the rook polynomials of “boards” in three and higher dimensions. We also define families of three-dimensional boards which generalize the two-dimensional triangle boards and the boards representing the probleme des rencontres. The rook coefficients of these threedimensional boards are shown to be related to famous number sequences such as the central factorial numbers, the number of Latin rectangles and the Genocchi numbers.
Chemical and Physical Sensors in the Regulation of Renal Function

In order to assess the status of the volume and composition of the body fluid compartment, the kidney monitors a wide variety of chemical and physical parameters. It has recently become clear that the kidney’s sensory capacity extends well beyond its ability to sense ion concentrations in the forming urine. The kidney also keeps track of organic metabolites derived from a surprising variety of sources and uses a complex interplay of physical and chemical sensing mechanisms to measure the rate of fluid flow in the nephron. Recent research has provided new insights into the nature of these sensory mechanisms and their relevance to renal function.
Selection of optimal material and operating conditions in composite manufacturing. Part II: complexity, representation of characteristics and decision making

An automated procedure is proposed to select the optimum material and processing conditions for composite materials. The complexity of the part is estimated from the STL files of the CAD/CAM programs by evaluating the angles between the triangles, which cover the surface. A correction algorithm identifies the holes and calculates the complexity without considering the triangles at their surfaces if they will be drilled later. Using multiple neural networks represented the most important characteristics of the composite material manufacturing for the user. For each considered material one genetic algorithm is assigned to select the optimal operating conditions. The optimal material is selected by comparing the good qualities of each material after the optimization. The proposed procedure is very attractive for optimization of complex systems when multiple approaches and their several characteristics are considered.
ESS: the Library of Congress experimental search system

Presents the experiences of the Library of Congress‘s experimental Web based public catalogue which sets out to combine the varied resources of the library through one gateway. Considers how this system attempts to introduce new methods of retrieval rather than the traditional Boolean searches. Covers the origin of the project, the features of the system, problems encountered in implementation and future ideas for development.
Test adequacy criteria for UML design models

SUMMARY Systematic design testing, in which executable models of behaviours are tested using inputs that exercise scenarios, can help reveal flaws in designs before they are implemented in code. In this paper a technique for testing executable forms of UML (Unified Modelling Language) models is described and test adequacy criteria based on UML model elements are proposed. The criteria can be used to define test objectives for UML designs. The UML design test criteria are based on the same premise underlying code test criteria: coverage of relevant building blocks of models is highly likely to uncover faults. The test adequacy criteria proposed in this paper are based on building blocks for UML class and interaction diagrams. Class diagram criteria are used to determine the object configurations on which tests are run, while interaction diagram criteria are used to determine the sequences of messages that should be tested. Copyright c 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CULTURAL DIVERGENCE WITHIN NOVEL SONG IN THE BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE (POECILE ATRICAPILLUS)

Abstract Geographic variation in learned vocalizations is commonly attributed, in part, to imperfect song learning, but rarely has this been documented. Additionally, we know little about how spatial structure of populations affects geographic divergence in song. Using novel fee-bee song in Black-capped Chickadees (Poecile atricapillus) in Fort Collins, Colorado, we investigated both of those concepts by recording songs from juveniles at the time of natal dispersal and from adults at study sites along a continuous riparian corridor and in small isolated populations north of Fort Collins. Acoustic differences within juveniles' songs corresponded to acoustic differences distinguishing the songs of adults from separate study sites. We also found more acoustic divergence among the small isolated populations than among the continuously distributed riparian populations, and we found that the song-type grouping most similar in acoustic structure to the stereotyped continental fee-bee diverged the least. These fi...
The Role of Sedimentation in Watersheds

Approach of sediment problems being made by Department of Agriculture; method is outlined to inventory damages due to sedimentation and benefits related to reductions in these damages attributable to watershed programs.
Miami Herald Publishing Company v. Tornillo: The Constitutional Distinction between Print and Broadcast Media

This brief article discusses the Supreme Court’s decision in Miami Herald Publishing Company v. Tornillo, where a unanimous Court struck down a state law granting a right to reply to political candidates whose personal character or official record have been attacked by newspapers. This right-of-reply statute permitted the attacked candidate to demand that the newspaper print free of charge any reply that the candidate wished to make to the newspaper’s editorial criticisms. By giving the print media a constitutionally protected editorial autonomy, Tornillo dramatically differed from the Court’s treatment of the broadcast media.
Defective Production of Antibody to Herpes Simplex Virus in Neonates: Defective Production of T Helper Lymphokine and Induction of Suppression

Defective production of antibodies to herpes simplex virus (HSV) and low resistance to HSV infection in neonatal mice could be reconstituted by using macrophages from syngeneic adult mice plus concanavalin A-stimulated supernatants prepared from adult mouse spleen cells or adult human peripheral blood lymphocytes. In each supernatant, interleukin-2 (IL-2) produced by T helper cells (positive for Lyt 1.2 or OKT4) was necessary to provide reconstitution. Supernatants from neonatal mice failed to mediate reconstitution because of an age-dependent absence of production of IL-2. Although supernatants from neonatal human cell cultures contained IL-2, they failed to reconstitute production of antibody to HSV and resistance to HSV infection because of a suppressor of IL-2 activity. Early antibody production and antibody-dependent cellular effector function are important defenses against HSV infection and are critically defective in the neonate.
Intraphagosomal pH of human polymorphonuclear neutrophils.

SummaryCandida albicans were stained with one of nine different indicator dyes which encompassed a pH range of 2.5-8.0. Living polymorphonuclear neutrophils were observed microscopically, and color changes of intracellular dye-stained Candida were noted. Intraphagosomal pH decreased to the 6.0-6.5 range and this pH change was prevented by certain glycolytic inhibitors.
Fecal microbial transplant via nasogastric tube for active pediatric ulcerative colitis.

Background Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic inflammatory disease of the large intestine, is characterized by a dysregulated immune reaction. UC is associated with fecal dysbiosis. Human and animal studies support the fact that the gastrointestinal microbiome may trigger the intestinal immune response, resulting in UC. Fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), by changing the gastrointestinal microbiome of patients with UC, may be a therapeutic option. Methods Four patients with moderate symptoms defined by the Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index were enrolled in a prospective, open-label study of FMT via nasogastric tube in pediatric UC (US Food and Drug Administration IND 14942). After the donor and patient evaluation, patients received FMT with follow-up evaluations at 2, 6, and 12 weeks after transplantation. Study subjects were maintained on their pretransplant medications. The Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index score, C-reactive protein, and stool calprotectin were completed during each study visit. Results Four patients with UC were enrolled (all boys). Ages ranged from 13 to 16 years. Patients tolerated FMT without adverse effects. None of the patients clinically improved with FMT, nor were there any significant changes in stool calprotectin or laboratory values, including C-reactive protein, albumin, and hematocrit. Three individuals received additional standard medical therapies before the end of the study. Conclusions This study, although showing that single-dose FMT via nasogastric tube is well tolerated in active pediatric UC, did not show any clinical or laboratory benefit.
Hypersonic Ludwieg Tube Design and Future Usage at the US Air Force Academy

Hypersonic flows are usually characterized by the presence of strong shocks and equilibrium or nonequilibrium gas chemistry. Accurate prediction of these effects is critical to the design of any vehicle that flies at hypersonic velocities. The pressures and skin friction acting on the surface of the vehicles are integrated over the complete configuration to define the aerodynamic forces (e.g., lift, drag, pitching moment, and control surface effectiveness). The peak heat-transfer rate and the heating load are mapped over the vehicle surface as part of the process to design the thermal protection system. All of these are challenging parameters to predict at hypersonic speeds, requiring specialized experimental facilities or advanced computational simulation tools. Toward improving our ability to understand these flows, the U.S. Air Force Academy Department of Aeronautics will soon place into service a Mach 6 Ludwieg tube. This facility will enable the Academy to be better prepared to support the hypersonic research goals of the Department of Defense and other organizations. A Ludwieg tube is a high speed wind tunnel which does not require a total pressure control device or large settling chamber which is common for conventional blow-down tunnels. This greatly reduces the size and cost of operating the tunnel, since large compressors, heaters, and pressure vessels are not required for operation. The operational costs for a Ludwieg tube have been further reduced by the use of a fast-acting valve instead of the traditional bursting diaphragm. The facility will be compatible with the Boeing/AFOSR Mach 6 Quiet Tunnel at Purdue University, and will be able to support work from that facility, such as hypersonic transition. In addition, the facility will be able to support one of the difficult flow regimes encountered by NASA, namely acquiring data on blunt vehicles typical of lower ballistic coefficient configurations necessary for space activities. Finally, the facility will be able to conduct research on shock wave/boundary layer interactions at hypersonic speeds, which will support research for hypersonic air-breathing propulsion for future projects.
Impact of the National School Lunch Program on Fruit and Vegetable Selection in Northeastern Elementary Schoolchildren, 2012–2013:

Increasing children's fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption is an important goal of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) National School Lunch Program. Since 2012, the USDA's requirement that children select FVs at lunch as part of the reimbursable school meal has been met with concern and evidence of food waste. We compared elementary schoolchildren's FV selection, consumption, and waste before (10 school visits, 498 tray observations) and after (11 school visits, 944 tray observations) implementation of this requirement using validated dietary assessment measures. More children selected FVs in higher amounts when FVs were required compared with when they were optional (0.69 cups vs. 0.89 cups, p<0.001); however, consumption decreased slightly (0.51 cups vs. 0.45 cups, p=0.01) and waste increased (0.25 cups vs. 0.39 cups, p<0.001) when FVs were required compared with when they were optional. More exposure to FVs in schools through programmatic efforts and in the home environment may help familiarize children with FV offerings and encourage consumption.
Blurring boundaries: An emotionally aware caregiver, social worker, and researcher

In this article, I illustrate lived experiences within my roles as caregiver, clinical social worker, and researcher. Empirical attention has focused on the emotional toll of caregiving and managem...
Design of a Transoceanic Cable Protection System

A system of underwater fiber optic cables spanning the world's oceans carries 99% of international communication data. Billions of dollars are invested into this network, resulting in 36% annual growth over the last 7 years. Over 150 cable damage incidents occur per year, causing significant losses to available cable bandwidth. Sixty percent of the faults are caused by human action, such as fishing and anchoring. Twenty percent are caused by random natural events and component failures, while the remaining 20% of fault causes are unknown. In addition, repairing a fault takes on average 13 days and costs $6 million, with more incurred costs due to the inability to provide bandwidth to its customers. This paper describes a design and operation to protect these cables by deployment of Transoceanic Cable Protection System (TCPS). The system consists of a Mission Control Center to accomplish three functions: (1) Threat Identification, (2) Damage Prevention, and (3) Coordination of Cable Repair. A probabilistic Monte Carlo simulation was developed to determine the effects of the TCPS on cable downtime, threat detection, mean time between failure, and cost per fault. The model evaluates the performance of TCPS based on the input distributions for threat generation, threat inter-arrival time, identification of threats, damage prevention, and repair time. A utility vs. cost analysis factoring in prevention, identification, cable downtime, lifespan, and environmental impact indicates that a passive hydrophone array is the most effective design for the Threat Identification function.
Globin X is a six-coordinate globin that reduces nitrite to nitric oxide in fish red blood cells

The discovery of novel globins in diverse organisms has stimulated intense interest in their evolved function, beyond oxygen binding. Globin X (GbX) is a protein found in fish, amphibians, and reptiles that diverged from a common ancestor of mammalian hemoglobins and myoglobins. Like mammalian neuroglobin, GbX was first designated as a neuronal globin in fish and exhibits six-coordinate heme geometry, suggesting a role in intracellular electron transfer reactions rather than oxygen binding. Here, we report that GbX to our knowledge is the first six-coordinate globin and the first globin protein apart from hemoglobin, found in vertebrate RBCs. GbX is present in fish erythrocytes and exhibits a nitrite reduction rate up to 200-fold faster than human hemoglobin and up to 50-fold higher than neuroglobin or cytoglobin. Deoxygenated GbX reduces nitrite to form nitric oxide (NO) and potently inhibits platelet activation in vitro, to a greater extent than hemoglobin. Fish RBCs also reduce nitrite to NO and inhibit platelet activation to a greater extent than human RBCs, whereas GbX knockdown inhibits this nitrite-dependent NO signaling. The description of a novel, six-coordinate globin in RBCs with dominant electron transfer and nitrite reduction functionality provides new insights into the evolved signaling properties of ancestral heme-globins.
Are more able CEOs getting more compensated? Evidence from the pay-for-performance sensitivity of equity-based incentives

This study investigates whether the managerial ability of a chief executive officer (CEO) is associated with the CEO's pay-for-performance sensitivity (PPS) of the equity-based compensation. We predict that more talented CEOs receive a higher PPS of equity incentives. Using the managerial ability score (Demerjian, Lev, & McVay, 2012) and PPS measures of options and stocks (Core & Guay, 1999), we find that a CEO's PPS of the equity-based compensation is significantly increasing in the CEO's ability. We also find that the association between managerial ability and the PPS of stock incentives is more evident for small firms. Furthermore, our results show that high ability CEOs are associated with a steeper PPS of option incentives, especially when they are not near retirement. Together, our findings suggest that firms generally incorporate the relative efficiency factor of CEO's ability in designing the CEO's equity-based compensation contracts, and thus the cross-sectional variation in the CEO's PPS is positively influenced by the CEO's ability. Data availability: Data used in this study are available from public sources identified in the study.
A Generalization of the \hat{Q}.\hat{Q} Hamiltonian for the Interacting Boson Model

A simple Interacting Boson Model Hamiltonian involving only and terms is used to describe the Inversion of the β– and γ– bands in the rare earths. The model is used to describe this band inversion in the Hafnium isotopes. An interpretation of this simple Hamiltonian in terms of the dynamical groups U(5), SU(3) and O(6) is presented.
Abstract A42: MK-1775, a WEE1 inhibitor alleviates resistance to immune attack of tumor cells undergoing an epithelial-mesenchymal transition

The phenomenon of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a phenotypic switch that allows epithelial tumor cells to acquire features of mesenchymal cells, including the ability to migrate and invade and, therefore, to disseminate from the primary site. In addition to promoting tumor dissemination, various reports have demonstrated that acquisition of features of EMT associates with tumor resistance to the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy, radiation, and some targeted therapies. It is not well understood, however, the contribution of EMT to the escape of tumors from host immune-surveillance and immune-mediated rejection. Our laboratory has characterized the T-box transcription factor brachyury as a tumor-associated antigen and a regulator of EMT in human carcinomas. By generating isogenic cancer cell lines with various levels of brachyury expression, we demonstrated that high levels of brachyury significantly reduce the susceptibility of cancer cells to lysis by both antigen-specific T cells and natural killer cells, and render tumor cells less responsive to a cancer vaccine in syngeneic murine tumor models. This resistance was due to inefficient caspase-dependent apoptosis, manifested as inefficient nuclear lamin degradation in the presence of activated effector caspases. We correlated this phenomenon to loss of cell cycle kinase CDK1, which mediates lamin phosphorylation. In support of a causal connection, pre-treatment of tumor cells with MK-1775, a specific inhibitor of WEE1, which is known to be a negative regulator kinase of CDK1 activity, could counter the defective apoptosis of tumor cells expressing high levels of brachyury. Thus, our findings suggest reconstituting CDK1 activity to threshold levels might be sufficient to elevate immune-mediated lysis of mesenchymal-like cancer cells, and improve the efficacy of anti-tumor vaccines. Citation Format: Duane H. Hamilton, Romaine I. Fernando, Kwong-Yok Tsang, Claudia Palena. MK-1775, a WEE1 inhibitor alleviates resistance to immune attack of tumor cells undergoing an epithelial-mesenchymal transition. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy: A New Chapter; December 1-4, 2014; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2015;3(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A42.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test

Representative surveys of the populations of industrialized countries have found that between 11 and 32 % of respondents reported that sleepiness interferes with activities almost daily. Normal and pathologic variations in daytime sleepiness and alertness can now be directly assessed and quantified by the multiple sleep latency test (MSLT), a test of the rapidity with which a subject falls asleep in a standardized, sleep-conducive setting, repeated at 2-h intervals throughout the day. The MSLT uses standard sleep recording methods to document both the rate of sleep onset and the appearance of rapid eye movement (REM) episodes at sleep onset. Several studies of the reliability of the MSLT have been conducted. In healthy controls who maintained consistent sleep–wake schedules, the test–retest reliability of a four-test MSLT was 0.97 over a 4- to 14-month test–retest interval. Of particular interest is the finding that the REM latency on SOREMPs during the initial evaluation was also correlated with that during retesting (r = 0.64, P < 0.02). The validity of the MSLT has been establishing its sensitivity to sleep duration and continuity, circadian phase, sedating and stimulating drugs including alcohol and caffeine, and a variety of sleep and other disorders. These data, both in selected and in unselected populations, suggest that the population mean for a five-test MSLT is about 11 min with an approximate 5-min standard deviation. Clinically, evidence of pathologic sleepiness is considered to be an average daily sleep latency of 8 min or less. An average latency between 8 and 10 min is considered borderline pathologic, and latencies of 10 min and greater are considered normal.
Hypothermia and Mammalian Gametes

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses various aspects of hypothermia and mammalian gametes. Hypothermia appears to be one of the major contributing factors to the difficulty in cryopreserving mammalian oocytes. The large size and unique cytological features of the oocyte contribute to hypothermic sensitivity. It is found that while detrimental effects of hypothermia on the meiotic spindle apparatus, chromosome configuration, and cortical granules have been documented, the relative impact of these cytological disruptions on oocyte viability and developmental competence remains uncertain. Effects of hypothermia on the oolemma have not been studied as intensively and it seems likely that the egg plasma membrane, as with that of sperm and other cells, is subject to perturbations associated with thermotropic phase changes. The interaction observed between cooling and cryoprotective agents on cytological damage to the oocyte supports the notion that detrimental changes associated with hypothermia are compounded by other requisite steps in a cryopreservation protocol, including cryoprotective agent addition and removal, freezing, and thawing. The progress in oocyte cryopreservation suggests that it may be possible to outpace the detrimental effects of hypothermia using ultrarapid cooling rates.
Cocitation or Capacity-Building? Defining Success within an Interdisciplinary, Sustainability Science Team

To address gaps in knowledge and to tackle complex social-ecological problems, scientific research is moving toward studies that integrate multiple disciplines and ways of knowing to explore all parts of a system. Yet, how these efforts are being measured and how they are deemed successful is an up-and-coming and pertinent conversation within interdisciplinary research spheres. Using a grounded theory approach, this study addresses how members of a sustainability science-focused team at a Northeastern U.S. university funded by a large, National Science Foundation (NSF) grant contend with deeply normative dimensions of interdisciplinary research team success. Based on semi-structured interviews (N = 24) with researchers (e.g., faculty and graduate students) involved in this expansive, interdisciplinary team, this study uses participants’ narrative accounts to progress our understanding of success on sustainability science teams and addresses the tensions arising between differing visions of success present within the current literature, and perpetuated by U.S. funding agencies like NSF. Study findings reveal that team members are forming definitions of interdisciplinary success that both align with, and depart from, those appearing in the literature. More specifically, some respondents’ notions of team success appear to mirror currently recognized outcomes in traditional academic settings (i.e., purpose driven outcomes – citations, receipt of grant funding, etc.). At the same time, just as many other respondents describe success as involving elements of collaborative research not traditionally acknowledged as a forms of “success” in their own right (i.e., capacity building processes and outcomes – relationship formation, deep understandings of distinct epistemologies, etc.). Study results contribute to more open and informed discussions about how we gauge success within sustainability science collaborations, forming a foundation for appreciation and exploration of the disciplinary and normative dimensions of this work.