cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deregulation of oncogene‐induced senescence and p53 translational control in X‐linked dyskeratosis congenita

Defects in ribosome biogenesis and function are present in a growing list of human syndromes associated with cancer susceptibility. One example is X-linked dyskeratosis congenita (X-DC) in which the DKC1 gene, encoding for an enzyme that modifies ribosomal RNA, is found to be mutated. How ribosome dysfunction leads to cancer remains poorly understood. A critical cellular response that counteracts cellular transformation is oncogene-induced senescence (OIS). Here, we show that during OIS, a switch between cap- and internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-dependent translation occurs. During this switch, an IRES element positioned in the 5'untranslated region of p53 is engaged and facilitates p53 translation. We further show that in DKC1(m) cells, p53 IRES-dependent translation is impaired during OIS ex vivo and on DNA damage in vivo. This defect in p53 translation perturbs the cellular response that counteracts oncogenic insult. We extend these findings to X-DC human patient cells in which similar impairments in p53 IRES-dependent translation are observed. Importantly, re-introduction of wild-type DKC1 restores p53 expression in these cells. These results provide insight into the basis for cancer susceptibility in human syndromes associated with ribosome dysfunction.
Another Look at the Collapse of Skyline Plaza at Bailey’s Crossroads, Virginia

AbstractOn March 2, 1973, the Skyline Plaza apartment building in Bailey’s Crossroads, Virginia collapsed while under construction. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requested an investigation from the National Bureau of Standards [(NBS); now the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)]. The NBS team concluded that the most likely cause of the collapse was a punching shear failure of the 23rd floor slab. The two factors that contributed to this were premature removal of shores below the 23rd floor slab, and the low strength of the 23rd floor concrete in the area supporting the weight of the 24th floor slab. The engineer’s structural drawings required 2 full stories of shoring and 1 story of reshoring while a concrete slab was cast. The project architect and structural engineer were sued and held responsible, although their specific shoring instructions had been ignored. This case study reviews the available published information on the case to determine what lessons ca...
Learning phenotype densities conditional on many interacting predictors

Motivation: Estimating a phenotype distribution conditional on a set of discrete-valued predictors is a commonly encountered task. For example, interest may be in how the density of a quantitative trait varies with single nucleotide polymorphisms and patient characteristics. The subset of important predictors is not usually known in advance. This becomes more challenging with a high-dimensional predictor set when there is the possibility of interaction. Results: We demonstrate a novel non-parametric Bayes method based on a tensor factorization of predictor-dependent weights for Gaussian kernels. The method uses multistage predictor selection for dimension reduction, providing succinct models for the phenotype distribution. The resulting conditional density morphs flexibly with the selected predictors. In a simulation study and an application to molecular epidemiology data, we demonstrate advantages over commonly used methods. Availability and implementation: MATLAB code available at https://googledrive.com/host/0Bw6KIFB-k4IOOWQ0dFJtSVZxNE0/ktdctf.html Contact: moc.liamg@relssek.evad
Dynamic light-scattering analysis of full-length human RPA14/32 dimer: purification, crystallization and self-association.

Replication protein A (RPA) is a single-stranded DNA-binding protein involved in all aspects of eukaryotic DNA metabolism. A soluble heterodimeric form of RPA is composed of 14 and 32 kDa subunits (RPA14/32). Dynamic light-scattering (DLS) analysis was used to improve the purification, stabilization and crystallization of RPA14/32. Increasing the concentration of reducing agent in the last stage of purification diminished the size of a secondary peak in the anion-exchange chromatograph and promoted a single species in solution. This resulted in decreased polydispersity in the purified protein and enhanced the crystallization time from 9–­12 months to 6 d. With this homogeneous preparation, the reversible association of RPA14/32 into a dimer of dimers was demonstrated by DLS. Four different crystal forms of RPA14/32 were obtained for structure determination and complete diffraction data were collected using synchrotron radiation for three of them. Data to 2.4 A resolution was collected from hexagonal crystals (P32 or P31; a = b = 63.0, c = 272.6 A) and to 2.2 and 1.9 A resolution from two orthorhombic crystal forms (both P212121; form I, a = 61.4, b = 75.2, c = 131.6 A; form II, a = 81.8, b = 140.4, c = 173.1 A).
Observations of the Pirate Perch, Aphredoderus sayanus (Gilliams), with Comments on Sexual Dimorphism, Reproduction, and Unique Defecation Behavior

ABSTRACT Analysis of variance results showed significant differences in measurements on 71 specimens of Aphredoderus sayanus comparing standard length (F = 21.91, P < 0.0001), maximum depth (F = 8.44, P = 0.006), and standard length to body depth ratio (F = 9.11, P = 0.004), indicating that this fish is sexually dimorphic with females being larger and more full-bodied than males. In laboratory observations, a pair of A. sayanus created a nest and successfully spawned, which strengthens the argument that this fish might not be a branchial brooder but instead might be a nest builder with the female releasing adhesive eggs in the proximity of the nest. On three separate daytime occasions, A. sayanus ventured outside its refuge approximately to the point that only its head and anus were exposed, defecated, and then backed into its refuge. The jugular position of the anus might allow adult A. sayanus to partially leave its refuges to defecate to avoid altering water quality and without fully exposing itself to...
Potential contribution of fungal infection and colonization to the development of allergy

Fungi have long been recognized as an important source of allergens in patients with atopic disease. In this review, we explore the hypothesis that fungal exposures resulting in colonization or infection directly influence the tendency of an individual to develop allergic disease. According to this hypothesis, fungal exposures especially those early in life may influence the manner in which the immune response handles subsequent responses to antigen exposures. Studies detailing this potential connection between fungi have already provided important insights into the immunology of fungal-human interactions and offer the potential to provide new approaches and targets for the therapy of allergic disease. The first half of this review summarizes the data concerning fungal infections and asthma, including possible connections between fungal infections and urban asthma. The second half explores the potential role of the fungal gastrointestinal microbiota in promoting allergic inflammation.
‘‘Japanese Eyes, American Heart’’ Politics of Race, Nation, and Masculinity in Japanese American Veterans’ WWII Narratives

Japanese American veterans’ narratives of World War II (WWII) constitute a dynamic discursive site where heterogeneous and contradictory understandings of masculinity, military service, and national allegiance are articulated. While loyalty and patriotism often stand out as dominant themes in their narratives, their retelling of wartime military service by no means provides a uniform picture of heroic masculinity and patriotic nationalism. Having suffered from race- and gender-based dislocation as colored immigrant men in US history, Japanese American veterans’ narratives necessarily include moments of ambiguity, contradiction, and disruption and reveal the complex nature of minority men’s assertion to national belonging. By examining diverse and often contestatory voices of Japanese American veterans, this essay illuminates how minority men’s retelling of military service contradicts and even subverts the dominant understandings of war, masculinity, and nation.
Complete caecal bypass without ileal transection for caecal impaction in horses: seven clinical cases (1997-2007).

Keywords:caecal bypass;caecum;impaction;ileal transection Objectives To report the clinical outcome in seven horses following use of a newly described surgical technique for treating caecal impaction. Methods The medical records of seven horses with caecal impaction treated surgically using a stapling technique to create a complete caecal bypass without ileal transection were reviewed. Data were obtained from the records and through telephone interviews with case-associated personnel. Results The mean age was 10 years (range 2–22 years) and duration of colic ranged from 24 h to 2 weeks. Five horses had type II motility dysfunction and the remaining two had type I. Mean surgical time was 185 min (range 146–245 min) and the horses were hospitalised for a mean of 12.4 days (range 9–22 days); 71% (5/7) were discharged from hospital and all five were alive 60 days from the surgery date. One horse was lost to follow-up. The four (66.7%) available remaining horses were alive ≥ 1 year (long-term survivors). Conclusions Complete caecal bypass without ileal transection for clinical cases of caecal impaction had comparable outcomes to complete bypass with ileal transection. The technique is easy to perform, has the potential to reduce surgical time, compared with traditional bypass techniques, and may reduce the risk of intraoperative abdominal contamination. It is recommended for use in clinical cases in which caecal bypass is desirable.
Fine-mapping of a QTL influencing pork tenderness on porcine chromosome 2

In a previous study, a quantitative trait locus (QTL) exhibiting large effects on both Instron shear force and taste panel tenderness was detected within the Illinois Meat Quality Pedigree (IMQP). This QTL mapped to the q arm of porcine chromosome 2 (SSC2q). Comparative analysis of SSC2q indicates that it is orthologous to a segment of human chromosome 5 (HSA5) containing a strong positional candidate gene, calpastatin (CAST). CAST polymorphisms have recently been shown to be associated with meat quality characteristics; however, the possible involvement of other genes and/or molecular variation in this region cannot be excluded, thus requiring fine-mapping of the QTL. Recent advances in porcine genome resources, including high-resolution radiation hybrid and bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) physical maps, were utilized for development of novel informative markers. Marker density in the ~30-Mb region surrounding the most likely QTL position was increased by addition of eighteen new microsatellite markers, including nine publicly-available and nine novel markers. Two newly-developed markers were derived from a porcine BAC clone containing the CAST gene. Refinement of the QTL position was achieved through linkage and haplotype analyses. Within-family linkage analyses revealed at least two families segregating for a highly-significant QTL in strong positional agreement with CAST markers. A combined analysis of these two families yielded QTL intervals of 36 cM and 7 cM for Instron shear force and taste panel tenderness, respectively, while haplotype analyses suggested further refinement to a 1.8 cM interval containing CAST markers. The presence of additional tenderness QTL on SSC2q was also suggested. These results reinforce CAST as a strong positional candidate. Further analysis of CAST molecular variation within the IMQP F1 boars should enhance understanding of the molecular basis of pork tenderness, and thus allow for genetic improvement of pork products. Furthermore, additional resources have been generated for the targeted investigation of other putative QTL on SSC2q, which may lead to further advancements in pork quality.
Methyl sulfone induces Loss of metastatic properties and reemergence of normal phenotypes in a metastatic Cloudman S-91 (M3) murine melanoma Cell line

Background: The most deadly form of cancer is not lung or colon, breast or prostate; it is any cancer that has become metastatic. Mortality due to metastatic melanoma, one of the most aggressive and deadly cancers, has increased steadily over the last several decades. Unfortunately, the arsenal of chemotherapeutic agents available today is most often unsuccessful at extending and improving the life expectancy of afflicted individuals. We sought to identify an effective and nontoxic agent against metastatic melanoma. Methodology/Principal Findings: We chose to study Cloudman S-91 mouse melanoma cells (sub-clone M3,CCL53.1) because these cells are highly aggressive and metastatic, representing one of the deadliest types of cancer. Melanoma cells also had an experimental advantage because their morphology, which is easily monitored, relates to the physiology of metastatic cells and normal melanocytes. We chose to test methyl sulfone as a chemotherapeutic agent for two reasons. Because of its chemical structure, we speculated a potential anti-cancer activity by targeting microtubules. Equally important, methyl sulfone has a well-established safety profile in humans. Surprisingly, we found that malignant melanoma cells exposed to methyl sulfone demonstrated the loss of phenotypes characteristic of malignant cells, and the reemergence of phenotypes characteristic of healthy melanocytes. Briefly, over time methyl sulfone induced contact inhibition, loss of ability to migrate through an extracellular matrix, loss of anchorage-independent growth, proper wound healing followed by contact inhibition, irreversible senescence followed by arborization with melanosomes in arbors as seen in normal melanocytes. Conclusions/Significance: Methyl sulfone may have clinical potential as a non-toxic agent effective against metastatic melanoma. Additionally, methyl sulfone has promise as a tool to explore molecular mechanisms of metastatic transformation as well as fundamental processes such as cell migration, contact inhibition, wound healing and cellular senescence.
The Rise of Conservative Interest Group Litigation

Research on interest group litigation long has focused almost exclusively on liberal groups. This examination undertakes an analysis of conservative group use of the courts during the Burger Court era. Contrary to widespread expectation, conservative groups litigate in a strategic fashion but do so through the more limited form of participation--the amicus curiae brief--which they view as an effective lobbying device. In fact, conservative groups have used the amicus curiae brief with increasing frequency since the mid-1970s.
Believable Robot Characters

� Believability of characters has been an objective in literature, theater, film, and animation. We argue that believable robot characters are important in human-robot interaction, as well. In particular, we contend that believable characters evoke users’ social responses that, for some tasks, lead to more natural interactions and are associated with improved task performance. In a dialogue-capable robot, a key to such believability is the integration of a consistent story line, verbal and nonverbal behaviors, and sociocultural context. We describe our work in this area and present empirical results from three robot receptionist test beds that operate “in the wild.”
A good reason to measure 24-hour urine creatinine excretion, but not to assess kidney function.

Collection of a 24-hour urine sample and measurement of creatinine clearance made up the standard of care for assessing kidney function for years until regression formulas for estimation of GFR were developed. As a result, 24-hour urine sample collection is used much less frequently in current
A 3-wire differential resistance measurement circuit

The authors describe two circuit techniques to measure small differences between two resistors or small changes in a transducer resistance. The resistances of the three connecting wires to the transducer are canceled by methods other than the conventional 3-lead circuits. The first method uses a pair of matched current sources. The second employs a dual-slope analog-to-digital converter with a multiplexed preamplifier. Based on the latter method, a 3 1/2-digit, 0.1 /spl deg/C resolution, 3-lead platinum thermometer was built successfully. >
Potential miscanthus’ adoption in Illinois: Information needs and preferred information channels

Abstract This study examined farmers’ information needs and concerns and preferred information channels regarding the introduction of miscanthus in their current production systems in the state of Illinois, USA. Surveys and focus groups targeted farming populations from Northern, Central, and Southern regions of the state to evidence regional differences. A secondary objective was to identify potential adopters of miscanthus and to asses the level of awareness regarding miscanthus and the associated possibility of receiving carbon credits. Factor analysis, multivariate ANOVA, and categorical data analysis were the selected statistical tools. Only two out of 313 respondents knew about the existence of the crop before completing the survey. Thirty percent of the respondents were identified as potential adopters of miscanthus with the highest proportion of potential adopters found among farmers in the Northern Illinois region. There are clear differences among the information needs of farmers in each region in Illinois as well as in the preferred channels. Information campaigns aimed to increase awareness and education regarding the use of miscanthus as an energy crop in Illinois, should specifically address these regional information needs and channel them through preferred media.
Recent patterns of terrestrial net primary production in Africa influenced by multiple environmental changes

Terrestrial net primary production (NPP) is of fundamental importance to food security and ecosystem sustainability. However, little is known about how terrestrial NPP in African ecosystems has responded to recent changes in climate and other environmental factors. Here, we used an integrated ecosystem model (the dynamic land ecosystem model; DLEM) to simulate the dynamic variations in terrestrial NPP of African ecosystems driven by climate and other environmental factors during 1980–2009. We estimate a terrestrial NPP of 10.22 (minimum–maximum range of 8.9–11.3) Pg C/yr during the study period. Our results show that precipitation variability had a significant effect on terrestrial NPP, explaining 74% of interannual variations in NPP. Over the 30-yr period, African ecosystems experienced an increase in NPP of 0.03 Pg C/yr, resulting from the combined effects of climate variability, elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration, and nitrogen deposition. Our further analyses show that there is a difference in NPP of 1.6 Pg C/yr between wet and dry years, indicating that interannual climatic variations play an important role in determining the magnitude of terrestrial NPP. Central Africa, dominated by tropical forests, was the most productive region and accounted for 50% of the carbon sequestered as NPP in Africa. Our results indicate that warmer and wetter climatic conditions, together with elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration and nitrogen deposition, have resulted in a significant increase in African terrestrial NPP during 1980–2009, with the largest contribution from tropical forests.
Diversified Electronics Corporation

One year after going into the chip-manufacturing business and hiring a new CEO to reorganize the company, Diversified Electronics Corporation realized that under the new organizational structure, it was clear that last year's results were mixed, and expectations for the year to come would be hard to meet. Discontent focused on the costs that were assessed against each of the company's product lines. Product-line managers also questioned the cost of the chips produced by the chip-manufacturing operation - the largest part of the product-cost structure. The situation called for the implementation of new procedures.
Organizing for Retail Decentralization

THE widespread development of large suburban department store branches has taken place so recently and so fast that as yet there is little agreement on a workable theory of branch organization and control. Traditional department store organizational patterns, as discussed and codified in Paul Mazur's book, Principles of Organization Applied to Modern Retailing, were designed for the operation of a single store, and their suitability as the framework for a large-scale multiunit operation has been seriously questioned.'
Extra-articular scapular fractures: comparison of theoretical and actual treatment

BackgroundDiscrete radiographic thresholds of scapular fracture deformity proposed as a guide for when to utilize operative treatment are a matter of debate. The purpose of the present study was to determine how many patients would have received operative treatment according to these criteria and how many actually received operative treatment.MethodsThree hundred and thirty patients with an extra-articular fracture of the scapula at two level 1 trauma centers were retrospectively analyzed. Glenopolar angle, translation, angulation and medial/lateral displacement were measured on computed tomogaphy scans or radiographs to determine the theoretical operative treatment recommendation according to Cole’s criteria.ResultsSixty-two patients (19%) had one or more radiographic indications for operative treatment, half of them had more than 20 mm of lateral displacement, and one fourth of them had substantial translation. No patients had operative treatment of the scapular body. Two patients had operative treatmen...
Computer Simulation of the Elastic Energy Contribution to Antiphase Boundary Energy Anisotropy

The results of computer simulations on the effect of elastic energy on APB anisotropy are presented. The model used treats composition and order parameter as local variables defined at crystal planes parallel to the APB. The set that minimizes the free energy, including elastic energy terms, defines the equilibrium APB structure. It was found that, despite their high elastic anisotropy, elastic effects would not result in any substantial APB anisotropy in Fe-Al alloys. However, a model with different parameters did show a high degree of anisotropy.
On fading memory in materials of evolutionary type

It is shown that a material whose thermodynamical state is described by internal variables α i which are governed by equations of evolution of the form $$\dot \alpha _i = f_i \left( {u_j ,\alpha _k } \right)$$ , where theu j represent the “external” variables (deformation, temperature, temperature gradient) possesses the property of fading memory (as postulated byColeman) if thef i are differentiable and if the matrix of their partial derivatives with respect to the α k is negative definite.
Ability of Commercial Laying Hens Producing Different Egg Outputs to Meet Their Methionine and Energy Requirements When Fed the Same Diet

Abstract An experiment was conducted to determine whether commercial laying hens with different egg outputs could meet their Met requirement when fed the same diet. Three groups of hens were selected with either low, medium, and high egg output. Body weight of hens was positively related to egg output. As egg output increased, feed consumption increased. This resulted in essentially the same amount of energy consumed per gram of egg content (EC) for all three groups. Egg weight was greatest with hens producing the greatest EC. The Met intake of hens was increased with increased EC; however, the Met per gram of EC was not different for the three groups of hens. These data indicate that the Met and energy requirements of commercial layers can be met with one feed when individual hens produce different amounts of EC.
Realistic cluster modeling of electron transport and trapping in solvated TiO2 nanoparticles.

We have developed a cluster model of a TiO2 nanoparticle in the dye-sensitized solar cell and used first-principles quantum chemistry, coupled with a continuum solvation model, to compute structures and energetics of key electronic and structural intermediates and transition states. Our results suggest the existence of shallow surface trapping states induced by small cations and continuum solvent effect as well as the possibility of the existence of a surface band which is 0.3–0.5 eV below the conduction band edge. The results are in uniformly good agreement with experiment and establish the plausibility of an ambipolar model of electron diffusion in which small cations, such as Li+, diffuse alongside the current carrying electrons in the device, stabilizing shallowing trapping states, facilitating diffusion from one of these states to another, in a fashion that is essential to the functioning of the cell.
Further Experiments in Cylinder Wake Modification with Dielectric Barrier Discharge Forcing

A number of methods have been developed over the years to modify the wake of a circular cylinder. These include oscillation of the cylinder normal to the direction of flow, rotational oscillation, and blowing and suction through slots. While each of these methods has been found effective for operation at low Reynolds numbers (Re), their low bandwidth, resonance, or form factor make them generally unsuitable for robust operation. As the field of flow control aims to affect flows of Reynolds numbers of practical interest, there is a need for actuators with higher bandwidth and non-resonant behavior for robust mitigation of Karman Vortex Street-induced drag and oscillatory lift. The dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma electrode has been developed as a flow control actuator over the last few years. In this effort, the DBD plasma actuator is applied to a circular cylinder at Reynolds number of up to 3x10 5 . Hot film measurements show that vortex shedding frequency can be driven to the actuator forcing frequency, within the lock-in range, at every Re tested, and shows no signs of abating, even at higher Re where consistent vortex shedding doesn’t otherwise exist. The wake exhibits “lock-in” behavior similar to that previously shown with the other forcing methods. Preliminary data, based on open-loop forcing, indicates that plasma actuators are effective in controlling vortex shedding frequency and in achieving spanwise coherent shedding at all Re tested. The actuators also can alter the vortex shedding frequency within forcing amplitude/frequency bands similar to that for the above methods at lower Reynolds number. When asymmetric forcing is employed, flow visualization and hot film measurements show the actuators have significant authority in mitigating the effects of the Karman Vortex Street at lower Re, but at higher energy cost. The results suggest a preferred employment of the actuator is in non-continuous operation for flow control applications.
The Infernal Automobile: Car Culture in the Fiction of J.M.G. Le Clézio

This paper proposes an analysis of the culture of the automobile in J.M.G Le Clezio’s early fiction. Tracing the emergence of the automobile as icon and myth during the trente glorieuses of post-war France, cinematic representations of the car in Jacques Tati’s Mon Oncle anchor a discussion of the unintended consequences of the ubiquity of the personal vehicle in French urban spaces. Le Clezio’s texts create a complex image of the automobile as anathema to the natural environment, social cohesiveness, and individual identity. Rather than being represented as liberating, the idealized culture of the car is problematized as providing neither mobility nor freedom.
MDR Resistance of E.coli to Explore Different Disinfectants

Objective:To study the resistance level of multi-drug resistant E.coli resistance to different disinfectants,providing a basis for a reasonable choice of disinfectants in clinical work.Methods:We used the nutrient broth dilution method and suspension quantitative germicidal test to test the minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC) of multi-drug resistant E.coli to commonly used disinfectants and the killing rate of E.coli strains to disinfectants in different times.Results:The MIC values of muti-drug resistant E.coli to different disinfectants were different,the MIC value of Jie Fu Sophie disinfection gel was 2.8 ±1.9,the MIC of the new Irish Green Sha Shi brand disinfectant tablets' was 2583.4±1107.2,the MIC of cherish good Free hand disinfectant was 144.6±86.9,and the MIC of Anerdian type II skin disinfectant was 16.1±7.7.The MIC of 4 commonly used disinfectants were higher in multi-drug resistant strains than in standard strains,and the MIC of Green Lufthansa brand new Irish Shi Jia disinfection tablets and love free hand sanitizer in multi-drug resistant strains was closer to standard strains.In addition,the 5-minute killing rates of 4 commonly used disinfectants on multi-drug resistant and standard E.coli strains could be up to 100%,and the killing rate on standard strains were higher than multi-drug resistant strains.Conclusion:The resistance of multi-drug resistant strains to disinfectants is receiving more and more concern.It is extremely important to adjust the concentration of disinfectant and strengthen scientific management for the hospital infection controlling.
Template Synthesis of Nanostructured Polymeric Membranes by Inkjet Printing.

The fabrication of functional nanomaterials with complex structures has been serving great scientific and practical interests, but current fabrication and patterning methods are generally costly and laborious. Here, we introduce a versatile, reliable, and rapid method for fabricating nanostructured polymeric materials. The novel method is based on a combination of inkjet printing and template synthesis, and its utility and advantages in the fabrication of polymeric nanomaterials is demonstrated through three examples: the generation of polymeric nanotubes, nanowires, and thin films. Layer-by-layer-assembled nanotubes can be synthesized in a polycarbonate track-etched (PCTE) membrane by printing poly(allylamine hydrochloride) and poly(styrenesulfonate) sequentially. This sequential deposition of polyelectrolyte ink enables control over the surface charge within the nanotubes. By a simple change of the printing conditions, polymeric nanotubes or nanowires were prepared by printing poly(vinyl alcohol) in a P...
Virus Isolation and Preparation of Sucrose-Banded Chikungunya Virus Samples for Transmission Electron Microscopy

Virus isolation and purification is an invaluable technique in virology to detect and characterize viruses. This chapter describes a large-scale Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) propagation and purification methods by using discontinuous sucrose gradient, and sample preparation for transmission electron microscopy. Sucrose-banding yields large quantities of high-titer (10(10) pfu/ml) CHIKV stocks. Such stocks are stable for years when stored at -70 °C.
Life Events and Personality Trait Change.

Objective Theory and research have emphasized the impact of life events on personality trait change. In this article, we review prospective research on personality trait change in response to nine major life events in the broader domains of love and work. Method We expected to find that life events lead to personality trait change to the extent that they have a lasting influence on individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Moreover, we predicted that love-related life events such as marriage or parenthood would be more strongly related to changes in traits that emphasize affective content, whereas work-related life events would be more likely to lead to change in traits that reflect behavioral or cognitive content. Results The current state of research provided some evidence that life events can lead to changes in personality traits and that different life events may be differently related to specific trait domains. Conclusions A more general conclusion emerging from this review is that the evidence for the nature, shape, and timing of personality trait change in response to life events is still preliminary. We discuss the implications of the results for theory and research and provide directions for future studies on life events and personality trait change.
Meno-II: an intelligent tutoring system for novice programmers

We report here on the goals and status of an intelligent tutoring system being developed for novice Pascal programmers. We also describe our approach to program understanding, bug finding, and the inference of misconceptions. Examples of the system's capabilities are given.
Oxidative Stress Induced by Formation of the Peroxidase FeSOD2 in Mitochondria of Cells

Cellular aerobic respiration leads to the production of potentially deleterious reactive by-products such as the free radical superoxide anion (O2●–). Organisms have superoxide dismutases (SODs) to catalyze the conversion of O2●– to H2O2 and molecular oxygen. Superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) is a mitochondrial-resident protein essential for organisms to be able to cope with oxygen respiration. Even though SOD2 is primarily considered a cellular antioxidant enzyme, higher levels of this enzyme in some cells and tissues have been shown to be prooxidant and responsible for mitochondrial dysfunction. Here we explain this discrepancy by showing that the manganese-dependent SOD2 when alternatively incorporated with iron displays a prooxidant peroxidase activity, a gain of function that enables this enzyme to utilize H2O2 to oxidize other molecules. Human SOD2 incorporated with manganese (MnSOD2) displays negligible peroxidase activity in vitro, but a switch from manganese to iron (FeSOD2) promotes the prooxidant peroxidase activity while preventing its capacity to function as an antioxidant. We detected the formation of FeSOD2 in human cells that overexpress this protein. Human cells with FeSOD2 showed detrimental changes in mitochondrial function and gene expression profile, and showed a shift in metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. They had higher synthesis of mitochondrial proteins, even though they did not show changes in mitochondrial mass, which suggests mitochondrial instability and dysfunction. Even more important, those cells showed higher susceptibility to oxidative stress induced by H2O2 or paraquat exposure. The formation of FeSOD2 in mitochondria could be prevented by cultivating cells with higher levels of manganese in the medium. The ratio of iron to manganese in combination with the level of SOD2 in cells is shown to be essential to determine the fate of SOD2 as an antioxidant or a prooxidant. Occurrence of this fundamental antioxidant enzyme in a prooxidant state when incorporated with iron represents an important biological source of free radical generation since formation of FeSOD2 impacts mitochondrial function, changes cellular bioenergetics and decreases overall cellular resistance to oxidative stress. Formation of FeSOD2 might be implicated in disease development in humans since higher levels of iron and SOD2 are commonly observed in diseases related to oxidative stress.
Abstract 3966: Targeting integrin αvβ3-expressing cancer stem cells to manipulate tumor-associated macrophages

Tumor associated macrophages are involved in regulation of cancer growth and aggressiveness. Whereas M1 macrophages trigger an inflammatory response and inhibit tumor growth, M2 macrophages secrete pro-tumor cytokines into the microenvironment to support tumor progression. A macrophage switch from M1 to M2 has been associated with lung cancer progression, and cancer stem cells have been implicated as a driver of this reprogramming. We recently reported that integrin αvβ3 expression is induced on lung adenocarcinoma cells during drug resistance and is both necessary and sufficient to reprogram these tumors to a stem-like state. Given the role that cancer stem cells play in switching M1 to M2 macrophages, we asked whether αvβ3 expression on lung adenocarcinoma cells account for this macrophage conversion. The M1/M2 macrophage ratio in αvβ3-positive tumors was markedly decreased relative to tumors lacking αvβ3. We next treated mice bearing αvβ3-positive tumors with a monoclonal antibody (LM609) targeting this receptor to assess its ability to alter the macrophage phenotype within these tumors. LM609 was able to selectively eliminate the αvβ3-positive cancer stem cells via antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), and this not only increased the M1 macrophage population, but also markedly enhanced the sensitivity of these tumors to the effects of therapy. These findings reveal that αvβ3-expressing cancer stem cells favor the pro-tumor M2 macrophage phenotype. Eliminating αvβ3-positive cancer stem cells via ADCC serves to both increase pro-inflammatory macrophages within the tumor microenvironment and prolong tumor sensitivity to therapy. Citation Format: Hiromi I. Wettersten, Toshiyuki Minami, Megan M. Kaneda, Laetitia Seguin, Judith A. Varner, Sara M. Weis, David A. Cheresh. Targeting integrin αvβ3-expressing cancer stem cells to manipulate tumor-associated macrophages [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3966. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-3966
Increasing prevalence of vascular risk factors in patients with stroke: A call to action.

Objective: To evaluate trends in prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse) and cardiovascular diseases (carotid stenosis, chronic renal failure [CRF], and coronary artery disease [CAD]) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the United States. Methods: We used the 2004–2014 National Inpatient Sample to compute weighted prevalence of each risk factor in hospitalized patients with AIS and used joinpoint regression to evaluate change in prevalence over time. Results: Across the 2004–2014 period, 92.5% of patients with AIS had ≥1 risk factor. Overall age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse were 79%, 34%, 47%, 15%, and 2%, respectively, while those of carotid stenosis, CRF, and CAD were 13%, 12%, and 27%, respectively. Risk factor prevalence varied by age (hypertension: 44% in 18–39 years vs 82% in 60–79 years), race (diabetes: Hispanic 49% vs white 30%), and sex (drug abuse: men 3% vs women 1.4%). Using joinpoint regression, prevalence of hypertension increased annually by 1.4%, diabetes by 2%, dyslipidemia by 7%, smoking by 5%, and drug abuse by 7%. Prevalence of CRF, carotid stenosis, and CAD increased annually by 13%, 6%, and 1%, respectively. Proportion of patients with multiple risk factors also increased over time. Conclusions: Despite numerous guidelines and prevention initiatives, prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse in AIS increased across the 2004–2014 period. Proportion of patients with carotid stenosis, CRF, and multiple risk factors also increased. Enhanced risk factor modification strategies and implementation of evidence-based recommendations are needed for optimal stroke prevention.
Estimating PM2.5 speciation concentrations using prototype 4.4 km-resolution MISR aerosol properties over Southern California

Research efforts to better characterize the differential toxicity of PM2.5 (particles with aerodynamic diameters less than or equal to 2.5 μm) speciation are often hindered by the sparse or non-existent coverage of ground monitors. The Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) aboard NASA's Terra satellite is one of few satellite aerosol sensors providing information of aerosol shape, size and extinction globally for a long and continuous period that can be used to estimate PM2.5 speciation concentrations since year 2000. Currently, MISR only provides a 17.6 km product for its entire mission with global coverage every 9 days, a bit too coarse for air pollution health effects research and to capture local spatial variability of PM2.5 speciation. In this study, generalized additive models (GAMs) were developed using MISR prototype 4.4 km-resolution aerosol data with meteorological variables and geographical indicators, to predict ground-level concentrations of PM2.5 sulfate, nitrate, organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC) in Southern California between 2001 and 2015 at the daily level. The GAMs are able to explain 66%, 62%, 55% and 58% of the daily variability in PM2.5 sulfate, nitrate, OC and EC concentrations during the whole study period, respectively. Predicted concentrations capture large regional patterns as well as fine gradients of the four PM2.5 species in urban areas of Los Angeles and other counties, as well as in the Central Valley. This study is the first attempt to use MISR prototype 4.4 km-resolution AOD (aerosol optical depth) components data to predict PM2.5 sulfate, nitrate, OC and EC concentrations at the sub-regional scale. In spite of its low temporal sampling frequency, our analysis suggests that the MISR 4.4 km fractional AODs provide a promising way to capture the spatial hotspots and long-term temporal trends of PM2.5 speciation, understand the effectiveness of air quality controls, and allow our estimated PM2.5 speciation data to be linked with common spatial units such as census tract or zip code in epidemiological studies. This modeling strategy needs to be validated in other regions when more MISR 4.4 km data becoming available in the future.
Prevention of hypophosphatemia during continuous renal replacement therapy—An overlooked problem

Hypophosphatemia is a common and potentially serious complication occurring during continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Phosphate supplementation is required in the vast majority of patients undergoing CRRT, particularly beyond the first 48 hours. Supplementation can be provided either as a standalone oral or parenteral treatment or as an additive to CRRT solutions. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages, and clinicians must weigh the individual factors most relevant in their practice setting. Currently there are no consensus protocols for phosphate replacement in CRRT, and many centers replete phosphate in response to hypophosphatemia as opposed to pre-emptively. Repletion protocols have also been challenged in recent years by shortages in injectable phosphate solutions. More recently a commercially available phosphate-containing CRRT solution was approved in the United States, but there has been limited clinical experience with this product. In this review, we present recommendations for phosphate repletion in CRRT to prevent hypophosphatemia, and describe our experience using phosphate-containing CRRT solutions.
Phototherapy and Photochemotherapy

Phototherapy and photochemotherapy have remained cornerstones in the management of psoriasis and other cutaneous conditions for more than 3000 years. Currently, ultraviolet (UV)-based therapy is one of the first-line therapies for psoriasis due to its high response rate, relative low cost, and minimal generalized immunosuppression compared to other systemic therapies. This chapter will outline the basic principles of photomedicine and photochemistry before delving into the evidence behind the use of current and emerging UV, laser, and light therapies in psoriasis. Practical considerations, such as their indications, contraindications, administration, combination therapies, relevant adverse effects, and application in special populations (pregnancy, pediatrics, and those without access to in-office treatment), will also be discussed.
Factor Analysis: Its Place in the Evaluation of Ventricular Regional Wall Motion Abnormalities

The detection and evaluation of regional wall motion abnormalities (RWMA) represents clinically relevant information. It is also increasingly important because the presence and extent of RWMA can guide the therapeutic approach and enable precise follow-up. As a consequence, there is a need to refine the methods of detection by improving the topographic localization of the abnormality as well as the evaluation of its extent and type (hypokinesia, akinesia, dyskinesia).
Chemical Thermodynamics and Flame Temperatures

One of the most important thermodynamic facts to know about a chemical reaction is the change in energy or heat content associated with the reaction at some specified temperature, where each of the reactants and products is in an appropriate standard state. The standard state means that for each state a reference state of the aggregate exists. For gases, the thermodynamic standard reference state is the ideal gaseous state at atmospheric pressure at each temperature. The standard reference state for pure liquids and solids at a given temperature is the real state of the substance at a pressure of 1 atm. Since flame temperatures are calculated for a closed thermodynamic system and molar conservation is not required, working on a molar basis is most convenient. The energy and mass conservation equations used in the determination of the flame temperature are more conveniently written in terms of moles. The flame temperature is determined not by the specific reactants, but only by the atomic ratios and the specific atoms that are introduced. Thus, the complexity in solving for the flame temperature depends on the number of product species chosen. The flame temperature calculation is essentially the solution to a chemical equilibrium problem. In combustion calculations, it is important to know the variation of the temperature with the ratio of oxidizer to fuel. Therefore, in solving flame temperature problems, it is normal to take the number of moles of fuel as 1 and the number of moles of oxidizer as that given by the oxidizer/fuel ratio.
Benign Application of Knowledge through Evolutionary Theory

because of yellow fever and malaria. In their ignorance, the French and Americans attributed these diseases to moral weakness. As author David McCullough writes in The Path Between The Seas, “Nearly everyone was profoundly shaken whenever the death of some notably upright person seemed to make a mockery of such views. ‘Certainly his moral quality was above reproach,’ wrote one bewildered, grieving French engineer of another who had died of yellow fever the first year.” Eventually it was discovered that both yellow fever and malaria are transmitted by mosquitoes. In fact, mosquitoes were breeding under the very beds of the hospital patients, in bowls of water that were placed under each leg to deter ants. Once the true causes were understood, practical measures could be taken to bring the diseases under control. The message of this story to the readers is that some problems require practical solutions. All of the moralizing in the world could not prevent yellow fever and malaria. An ounce of factual knowledge could. We need factual knowledge today more than ever. In addition to our continuing battle against disease organisms, we must battle new problems of our own creation, from compounds in plastic that mimic hormones to global climate change. In each case, there is something comparable to mosquitoes under the bed that has nothing to do with moral weakness, and must be discovered to achieve a practical solution. Yet it would be naive to portray factual knowledge as unambiguously good. It is the cause of our problems as much as the solution. In Kurt Vonnegut’s novel Cat’s Cradle, an ounce of factual knowledge in the form of a newly discovered stable configuration of water combines with human folly to bring about the end of the world. At least three problems make factual knowledge a mixed blessing. The first is unforeseen consequences. Plastic appeared unambiguously good when it was invented, and nobody had the slightest idea that it might release hormone mimics 67 Benign Application of Knowledge through Evolutionary Theory