cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Partial quotients and equidistribution

We establish average bounds on the partial quotients of fractions b/p, with p prime, b taken in a multiplicative subgroup of (Z/pZ)⁎ and for “most” primitive elements b. Our result improves upon earlier work due to G. Larcher. The behavior of the partial quotients of b/p is well known to be crucial to the statistical properties of the pseudo-congruential number generator (modp). As a corollary, estimates on their pair correlation are refined.
Electron stimulated desorption of H− and H+ from hydrogen covered tungsten

Abstract Electron stimulated desorption from a hydrogen covered polycrystalline tungsten surface has been investigated. The H− and H+ desorption current as a function of incident electron energy was measured in both the low and high energy region. Some threshold-like structures appear in the curve of the desorption current versus incident electron energy; however, no threshold structures have been observed for H− desorption in the high energy region. The experimental results obtained and the desorption process are discussed in some detail, including initial excitation, charge transfer and ultimate desorption.
Developmental expression of the neurotensin gene in the rat liver

Objective This study determined whether the neurotensin gene is expressed during early development of the liver. Summary background data Neurotensin (NT), a gut tridecapeptide localized mainly to the distal small bowel and brain of adults, is an important hormone regulating gut motility, secretion and mucosal growth. Expression of NT peptide and the gene is found in fibrolamellar hepatocarcinomas, a variant of hepatocellular carcinoma, but not in the normal adult liver. Methods Northern and in situ hybridization techniques were used to determine expression of the neurotensin gene (NT/N) in the normal developing liver. Results NT/N is expressed in the fetal and early postnatal rat liver, but expression is repressed in the liver of the adult. In situ hybridization confirms the authors' Northern data and demonstrates a random distribution of NT/N expression in the fetal and 3-day postnatal liver. Conclusions The authors conclude from this study that NT/N is expressed during early development of the rat liver with subsequent repression in the adult. NT/N may be reexpressed with malignant transformation of the liver.
901–87 Serum Cholesterol and Lipoprotein Concentrations in Black Bears

Elevated serum cholesterol (CHOL) concentration and low HDL concentration are linked to the development of atherosclerotic heart disease (AHD). High CHOL levels have been reported in both denning and non-denning bears, yet coronary artery atherosclerosis has not been observed. Lipoprotein measurements in black bears have not been reported. This study investigates the concentrations of CHOL and lipoproteins in denning and non-denning black bears. Serum CHOL concentrations were measured in 1052 serum samples drawn from wild black bears in both the denning and non-denning states. Non-denning bears were immobilized with ketamine (5 mg/kg) and xylazine (2 mg/kg) whereas denning bears were immobilized with ketamine (12 mg/kg) or tiletamine and zolezapam (4.5 mg/kg). Serum total lipids (TUP), CHOL and lipoproteins were measured in ten denning bears (4 males, 3 females and 3 lactating females with cubs). CHOL and lipoproteins also were measured in a non-denning female. Denning bears were fasting whereas non-denning bears were trapped with high fat content foods and were non-fasting. Non-denning bears had significantly lower CHOL levels than denning bears. CHOL levels in denning bears were higher in early winter (Nov/Dec) than late winter (Feb/Mar). Males had higher CHOL levels than females during winter, but not during summer. Yearlings had lower CHOL levels than adults in winter. In the subpopulation of ten denning bears, TLIP were 1247 ± 454 mg/dl (range 639–2167); triglycerides (TRIG) were 351 ± 180 mg/dl (range 111–680); CHOL were 376 ± 162 mg/dl (range 175–695); HDL were 111 ± 35 mg/dl (range 82–185); LDL were 129 ±66 mg/dl (range 47–228); and VLDL were 53 ± 22 mg/dl (range 22–87). HDL, LDL and VLDL levels were not ascertained in three bears because the precipitation technique was not possible and triglycerides were too high. The CHOL/HDL ratio was 2.8 ± 1.1 (range 1.7–4.8). Values at the lower range for TLIP, TRIG, CHOL, LDL and VLDL in this subgroup were found in two of the lactating females, who also had high HDL concentrations. Values for the non-denning female were TRIG 318, CHOL 298, HDL 210, LDL 24, VLDL 64 and CHOL/HDL 1.4. This bear recently had consumed 10 kgs of bacon. Conclusions This study confirms previous reports that CHOL levels are high in black bears, especially during denning. Further, it demonstrates that, although CHOL, LDL and VLDL concentrations were in the range associated with development of human AHD, the HDL levels were much higher than observed in most human studies. In fact, the CHOL/HDL ratio was low to low-normal in all bears, including the bear which had consumed a high fat meal. These data imply that a high HDL concentration, along with a low CHOL/HDL ratio, confers protection against development of AHD in black bears despite high serum lipid concentrations. Further investigation could yield information of therapeutic benefit for man.
High performance heat transfer ducts with parallel broken and V-shaped broken ribs

Abstract The effect of the broken rib orientation on the local heat transfer distributions and pressure drop in a square channel with two opposite in-line ribbed walls is investigated for Reynolds numbers from 15 000 to 90 000. The square channel is composed of ten isolated copper sections and has a length-to-hydraulic diameter ratio of 20. The rib height-to-hydraulic diameter ratio is 0.0625, and the rib pitch-to-height ratio equals 10. The results show that the 60° parallel broken rib or 60° V-shaped broken rib provides a higher heat transfer augmentation than the 45° parallel broken rib or 45° V-shaped broken rib and, subsequently, higher than the 90° broken rib. The parallel ‘broken rib’ or V-shaped ‘broken rib’ has 2.5–4 times heat transfer augmentation compared with the previous parallel ‘continuous rib’ or V-shaped ‘continuous rib’ with 2–3 times heat transfer augmentation for the same amount of 7–8 times pressure drop penalty.
CITS 2012 general chair's message

Welcome to the 2012 International Conference on Computer, Information and Telecommunication Systems, CITS 2012. This year conference marks the first CITS, which we plan to hold on an annual basis.
Factor Structure of the Conners' Teacher Rating Scale-Short Form in a Low-Income Preschool Sample

The Conners' Teacher Rating Scale (CTRS) is among the most commonly used rating scales for the evaluation of childhood behavior disorders. This study examined the structural characteristics of the CTRS in a sample of 235 low-income, primarily African American, preschool children. Children were rated on the CTRS by an assessment research assistant, an intervention research assistant, and a classroom teacher. Multiple exploratory factor analyses converged on the same basic three-factor solution. The three factors could be labeled Hyperactivity/Impulsivity, Inattention, and Oppositional Behavior. This three-factor solution did not correspond to the published factor structure of the CTRS. Instead, it more closely paralleled consensus ratings of experts in the field of child psychology and the criteria for behavior disorders according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fourth Edition (DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994).
Mechanics of the fiber pushout test

Abstract Model equations governing the debonding and the pushout phases of the fiber pushout test are presented and are then evaluated for accuracy by comparing them with detailed numerical analyses of some specific examples. It is assumed that a residual compressive stress acts across the fiber/matrix interface and residual axial stress in the fiber is taken into account. The interface is characterized by a mode 2 debond toughness Λ and is assumed to develop a frictional stress upon sliding according to τ = τ 0 − μπ r , corresponding to a constant stress contribution and a Coulomb term. The model applies either to pushout of a single fiber embedded in a homogeneous matrix or to a fiber selected for pushout from a specimen sliced from a fiber reinforced composite. The effect of redistribution of residual stress due to slicing the composite in preparation of the specimen is addressed in numerical examples. The detailed numerical work establishes that the debond crack advancing down the fiber becomes unstable and breaks through to the bottom of the specimen when the debond tip reaches a distance about one and one half fiber radii from the bottom. The model equations provide a reasonably accurate description of the dependence of the pushout test on its many parameters.
Systematic derivation of spline bases

Abstract In this paper we present an explicit derivation of general spline bases over function spaces closed under differentiation. We determine the necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of B-splines in such a function space and prove that whenever such a basis exists it is essentially unique. Rather than following the common practice of presenting a mathematical definition of B-splines and then proceeding to prove some of their desired properties, we begin by stipulating a set of design objectives and then proceed to derive functions that meet these objectives. We stipulate the following standard design objectives; a given degree of continuity, least feasible order for the given continuity requirement, and shape invariance under translation. As it turns out, these objectives form a complete set in the sense that no other requirement can be imposed without it being already implied by the ones listed. In other words, when the listed objectives are translated into algebraic constraints, the resulting equations have an essentially unique solution with no remaining degrees of freedom. Clearly, when other desirable objectives such as convexity and the variation diminishing property are attainable, they follow as a by-product by virtue of uniqueness.
Chance, Statistics, and Statisticians

Statisticians and statistics deal with the effects of chance events on the treatment of empirical data. I am not attempting to add still another definition to the many already in print; Kendall (1948, p. 1) notes that "Willcox listed well over a hundred definitions" in 1935. I merely hope my description is neither too narrow nor too broad to describe your own activities as statisticians. Some of your other activities may not be well covered because the statistician's work so often penetrates other fields, a feature of statistics I shall emphasize. My aim today is to illuminate the consequences of that description for the practice, for the writing, and for the teaching of statistics. Also I shall relate its consequences to the structure and activities of our Association. I perceive it as both my task and privilege to present here a broad and philosophical view, rather than the kind of narrow, technical exposition we statisticians usually give in our sessions. I want to entertain not only my fellow statisticians but also their husbands-or their wives.
Evaluation of Portability and Cost of a Fluorescent PCR Ribotyping Protocol for Clostridium difficile Epidemiology

Clostridium difficile is the most commonly identified pathogen among health care-associated infections in the United States. There is a need for accurate and low-cost typing tools that produce comparable data across studies (i.e., portable data) to help characterize isolates during epidemiologic investigations of C. difficile outbreaks and sporadic cases of disease. The most popular C. difficile-typing technique is PCR ribotyping, and we previously developed methods using fluorescent PCR primers and amplicon sizing on a Sanger-style sequencer to generate fluorescent PCR ribotyping data. This technique has been used to characterize tens of thousands of C. difficile isolates from cases of disease. Here, we present validation of a protocol for the cost-effective generation of fluorescent PCR ribotyping data. A key component of this protocol is the ability to accurately identify PCR ribotypes against an online database (http://walklab.rcg.montana.edu) at no cost. We present results from a blinded multicenter study to address data portability across four different laboratories and three different sequencing centers. Our standardized protocol and centralized database for typing of C. difficile pathogens will increase comparability between studies so that important epidemiologic linkages between cases of disease and patterns of emergence can be rapidly identified.
The ontogeny of TGF-β1, -β2, -β3, and TGF-β receptor-II expression in the pancreas: Implications for regulation of growth and differentiation

Abstract Background/Purpose: The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) cytokines are important regulators of growth and differentiation in multiple mammalian organ systems. Recent studies suggest that they may play a significant role in the regulation of pancreatic organogenesis. The authors proposed to examine the ontogeny of expression of the TGF-β cytokine isoforms (TGF-β1, β2, and β3), as well as that of the type II TGF-β receptor (TβRII), in the pancreas. We hypothesized that their patterns of expression might help to clarify the manner in which they influence the development of this organ. Methods: Embryos from pregnant CD-1 mice were harvested on gestational days 12.5, 15.5, and 18.5. Microdissection was performed on the embryos to isolate their pancreases. The pancreases were fixed, frozen embedded, and sectioned with a cryostat. Immunohistochemistry was performed using polyclonal antibodies to TGF-β1, β2, and β3, and TβRII. Results: The patterns of expression of TGF-β1, β2, and β3 were similar throughout gestation. They were all present, though weakly, early in the development of the pancreas, in the E12.5 epithelial cells. Their expression persisted and became localized to the acinar cells later in gestation. TβRII staining was present in both the E12.5 epithelial cells and the surrounding mesenchyme. As the pancreas developed, TβRII became strongly expressed in the ductal epithelial cells with only minimal staining in the acinar and endocrine cells. Conclusions: TGF-βs may play a role in regulating pancreatic organogenesis. Our data suggest that they may be required for the normal development of acini. As in other cell systems, TGF-β1 may act as a suppressor of pancreatic cellular growth and differentiation. The localization of TβRII to the mature ductal epithelium may indicate a need for ongoing regulation of growth and differentiation in the pancreatic ducts beyond the fetal period.
Nanotopography Engineering on Homopolymeric Surfaces Using Cold Plasma Generated Charges

Cold plasma as source for charged particles was used to induce nanotopographies on homopolymeric surfaces (nylon 1 2, PMMA, PMA, etc.). Hydrogen and helium plasmas were successfully used for surface nanoengineering of polymers using inductively coupled or atmospheric pressure non-equilibrium barrier discharge reactors. AFM analyses reveal the presence of nanotopographies on the treated surfaces. Physical factors control the process below the Tg and chemical factors dominate the process above Tg. Pyrolysis GC/MS analyses have been performed in order to obtain more information about the plasma processes. Cold plasma chemical processes, including charges effects are discussed as tools that open-up new ways for nanoengineering of the polymers' surfaces with specific functionalities and / or topography. Future nanomanufacturing techniques can generate anti-scratch, super-hydrophobic or superhydrophilic properties on surface of every day use polymeric products by simple and convenient plasma enhanced processes.
WE-SAM-201B-01: PET/CT Technology Update, Quality Assurance and Applications

In the past few years, positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging has increasingly been used for the diagnosis, staging, and restaging of malignant diseases. The success of this emerging modality has primarily been due to its ability to combine the advantages of both PET and CTimaging while minimizing their separate weaknesses. One of the main advantages of PET/CT imaging is its ability to generate functional images depicting the biodistribution of radioactive compounds that are correlated with anatomical landmarks thereby increasing the physicians' confidence in image interpretation and improving patient management. The aim of this lecture is to provide an overview of the basic physics principles of PET/CT imaging as well as the advantages and drawbacks of using CT for attenuation correction of PET data. In addition, the lecture will cover the latest in design specifics of commercially available PET/CT scanners from different manufacturers as well as review PET/CT quality control and assurance techniques. Learning Objectives: 1. To learn the basic physics principles of PET/CT imaging 2. To understand the advantages and drawbacks of using CT for attenuation correction of PETimages. 3. Become familiar with design specifics of commercially available PET/CT scanners. 4. Learn quality control and assurance techniques for PET/CT imaging
Design and analysis of VLSI-based parallel multipliers

A design of a parallel multiplier is presented in which the time-consuming multiplication process is recursively decomposed into simple summation processes that can be executed simultaneously. At each recursive step, each multiplier and multiplicand is partitioned into four groups of bits and produces 16 partial product terms. An efficient summation process of adding up these partial product terms is proposed. These terms are grouped in accordance with their relative bit positions and with the use of three-to-two counters. Based on the proposed summation process, the multiplier can achieve a speed complexity of order O(log2n). Owing to its regular structure, the proposed parallel multiplier is feasible for VLSI implementation. In the paper, the designs of parallel multipliers implementing various orders of partitions are also studied. The results show that partitioning each multiplier and multiplicand into five groups of bits can generally yield a higher speed performance with less chip area for arbitrary bit size.
Persistent intracellular binding of mitoxantrone in a human colon carcinoma cell line

Incubation of human carcinoma cells with mitoxantrone resulted in an intracellular distribution of the drug into cytoplasmic, nuclear and cytoskeletal compartments occurring within 1 min of drug treatment. Incubation of the cells in drug-free medium resulted in an efflux of the drug such that 80% of the intracellular drug was eliminated from the cells by 72 hr. Approximately 20% of the initial intracellular drug concentration remained in the cells after the drug had been removed from the medium. The majority of the persistent intracellular drug was associated with soluble cytoplasmic proteins and fractions enriched in nucleic acid. Approximately 10% of the persistent drug binding was associated with cellular structures that had been depleted of soluble cytoplasmic protein and nucleic acid. During the persistent drug binding, the cells enlarged at least 2-fold as determined by microscopic examination. An increasing percentage of the cells was also observed to contain a DNA content consistent with a G2 cell cycle arrest. Taken together, these data suggest that the persistent intracellular binding of mitoxantrone results in a G2 cell cycle arrest and cellular damage.
Channel-resolved above-threshold ionization in the molecular frame

Channel-resolved Above-Threshold Ionization (CRATI) reveals the multiple electronic continua underlying many emerging attosecond strong field molecular spectroscopies. CRATI measurements in the molecular frame probe the angular ionization probability of the underlying Dyson orbitals.
Development of a therapeutic vaccine for HSV-2

A therapeutic vaccine for genital herpes is clearly needed. Vaccines recently developed for HSV-2 in humans have been aimed at eliciting CD4+ T cell responses and neutralizing antibody responses to two HSV-2 glycoproteins (gB and gD). These vaccines have had no therapeutic effect against HSV-2 in human clinical trials. To enable development of an efficacious vaccine, Corixa Corporation has made a major effort to identify novel antigens that can be recognized by human HSV-2-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Corixa Corporation's proprietary adjuvants and delivery systems, when combined with appropriate antigens, may allow the development of an effective therapeutic vaccine for HSV-2.
The interaction of a laser pulse with a periodic quasi-one-dimensional polymer

Abstract Using a perturbational-variational (Frenkel's variational principle) approach, generalized coupled Hartree-Fock equations were derived for the interaction of a gaussian laser pulse of given frequency with a periodic polymer. Applying a linear combination of atomic orbitais (LCAO) ansatz to the perturbed one-electron functions, the equations can be written in matrix form. Using the periodic symmetry of the polymer, the problem can be reduced to equations which contain only matrices of rank equal to the number of basis functions in the unit cell. We show how the solutions of these equations can be used to determine the frequency- and time-dependent polarizabilities and hyperpolarizabilities of different periodic polymers.
Metropolis Dynamics Relaxation via Nucleation and Growth

We consider the Ising model with Metropolis dynamics on \(\) under a small positive external field h. We show that the relaxation time, i.e., the time it takes for the system to reach the (+)-phase starting from all spins -1, scales as \(\) as the temperature \(\), where \(\) and \(\) is the energy of a “critical” droplet. The factor \(\) originates from droplet growth and is related to the dimension of the lattice, while the term (2-h) is related to the rate of growth of highly supercritical droplets.
Incentive contrast undiminished by extended testing, imipramine, or chlordiazepoxide.

Abstract In three experiments rats were given alternating 1-minute access periods to two tubes containing sucrose solutions. When the tubes contained disparate concentrations (32% versus 4%), lick-rate was higher for the 32% solution than it was when both tubes contained 32% (a positive contrast effect) and less for 4% that when both tubes contained 4% (a negative contrast effect). Similar, but generally less pronounced, contrast effects were obtained in latency to initiate drinking. These contrast effects showed no sign of diminution with repeated exposure (32 days of repeated shifts in Experiments 1 and 3); they were not greatly influenced by injections of imipramine (Experiment 2) or chlordiazepoxide (Experiment 3), nor by deprivation conditions (Experiment 3). The results supported an explanation of simultaneous contrast in terms of sensory-perceptual processes rather than in terms of generalization decrement or emotional responses.
Inhibition of growth and respiration of yeast (Saccharomyces carlsbergensis) by tobacco smoke condensate and its fraction.

Das aerobische Wachstum derSaccharomyces carlsbergensis wird bei Anwesenheit des wasserloslichen Tabakrauchkondensates im Laktat Nahrmedium stark gehemmt, obwohl eine Wachstumshemmung im Glukosemedium nicht stattfindet. Mikrogrammengen des Kondensatanteils hemmen die Atmung intakter Zellen sowie diejenige isolierter Mitochondrien der Hefe.
Numerical inversion of z-transforms with application to polymerization kinetics

Abstract A numerical technique for determination of the polymer chain length distribution from mathematical models of polymerization systems is presented. The proposed method, which can be applied to the class of model equations whose z -transform exists, is based upon a z -transform inversion formula that has the form of an Inverse Discrete Fourier Transform. A computer algorithm that employs the FFT to efficiently obtain numerical results from the derived formulas is summarized and an error analysis is given. An example problem that describes the polycondensation polymerization kinetics of bisphenol-A to polycarbonate is introduced as a realistic application of the proposed method. It is shown that for this example, both the accuracy and computational efficiency of the proposed z -transform inversion technique are superior to another independent method for obtaining the polymer chain length distribution that is based upon direct numerical integration. A methodology for identification of polymerization kinetic rate parameters from experimental polymer molecular weight distributions is also suggested.
Individual differences in location memory

The stability of individual differences in memory for location was assessed over a 1-week period. Subjects looked through a picture book and then relocated the pictures on the pages. This was repeated a week later with new pictures. The test-retest correlation was 0.60, indicating stable individual differences in this automatically processed task.
Relative Sensitivity of Conventional and Real-Time PCR Assays for Detection of SFG Rickettsia in Blood and Tissue Samples from Laboratory Animals

Studies on the natural transmission cycles of zoonotic pathogens and the reservoir competence of vertebrate hosts require methods for reliable diagnosis of infection in wild and laboratory animals. Several PCR-based applications have been developed for detection of infections caused by Spotted Fever group Rickettsia spp. in a variety of animal tissues. These assays are being widely used by researchers, but they differ in their sensitivity and reliability. We compared the sensitivity of five previously published conventional PCR assays and one SYBR green-based real-time PCR assay for the detection of rickettsial DNA in blood and tissue samples from Rickettsia- infected laboratory animals (n = 87). The real-time PCR, which detected rickettsial DNA in 37.9% of samples, was the most sensitive. The next best were the semi-nested ompA assay and rpoB conventional PCR, which detected as positive 18.4% and 14.9% samples respectively. Conventional assays targeting ompB, gltA and hrtA genes have been the least sensitive. Therefore, we recommend the SYBR green-based real-time PCR as a tool for the detection of rickettsial DNA in animal samples due to its higher sensitivity when compared to more traditional assays.
Is there a 4.5 PeV neutron line in the cosmic ray spectrum

Recently we presented a model to fit the cosmic ray spectrum using the hypothesis that the electron neutrino is a tachyon. The model predicted the existence of a neutron flux in the cosmic rays in a narrow region centered on E = 4.5 +/- 2.2 PeV. The published literature on Cygnus X-3 reveals just such a $6\sigma$ spike of neutral particles centered on E = 4.5 PeV. A second prediction of the model concerning integrated neutron fluxes at several energies also is consistent with published data. A specific further test of the model is proposed.
An experimental study of the behavior of transient isolated convection in a rigidly rotating fluid

The temperature field of starting thermal plumes were measured in a rotating annulus with various rotation rates and buoyancies. The experiments revealed many details of the internal structure of these convective phenomena and also significant horizontal displacements from their source. Measurements show an increase in the maximum temperature observed in the thermal caps with increasing rotation and a more rapid cooling of the buoyancy source.
SEQUENCE-SPECIFIC ACTINOMYCIN D BINDING TO SINGLE-STRANDED DNA INHIBITS HIV REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE AND OTHER POLYMERASES

Primer extension assays using recombinant templates constructed to contain all 256 possible base quartets in a minimum length sequence were used to examine binding of the anticancer drug actinomycin D to single-stranded DNA. Single-stranded templates were generated by digestion of linearized plasmid with the double-strand-specific T7 gene 6 exonuclease. Actinomycin D formed high-affinity, kinetically stable complexes that paused primer elongation at specific sites by HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, Sequenase (modified T4 DNA polymerase), the Klenow fragment of Escherichia coli DNA polymerase, and Vent (exo-) DNA polymerase. Pauses occurred most commonly near G+C-rich nucleotide clusters, including GpC steps, the preferred sites of double-stranded DNA binding. Complexes were stable for several minutes at temperatures over 50 degrees C as determined by their abilities to pause Vent polymerase at elevated temperatures. Significant variations were noted in pause patterns of different polymerases, demonstrating differential responses of polymerases to a bound actinomycin. Covalent adducts formed on template DNA by a photoaffinity analog of actinomycin D completely stopped primer extension. These results support the possibility that actinomycin D inhibits transcription elongation by complexing single-stranded DNA in the open transcription complex. Single-stranded DNA binding by actinomycin D or analogs may also provide routes for combating HIV or other viruses which replicate through single-stranded intermediates.
Distributed database design: a practical approach and example

A distributed database design problem is presented that involves the development of a global model, a fragmentation, and a data allocation. The student is given a conceptual entity-relationship model for the database and a description of the transactions and a generic network environment. A stepwise solution approach to this problem is shown, based on mean value assumptions about workload and service.
RNA dynamics: It is about time

Many recently discovered RNA functions rely on highly complex multistep conformational transitions that occur in response to an array of cellular signals. These dynamics accompany and guide, for example, RNA cotranscriptional folding, ligand sensing and signaling, site-specific catalysis in ribozymes, and the hierarchically ordered assembly of ribonucleoproteins. RNA dynamics are encoded by both the inherent properties of RNA structure, spanning many motional modes with a large range of amplitudes and timescales, and external trigger factors, ranging from proteins, nucleic acids, metal ions, metabolites, and vitamins to temperature and even directional RNA biosynthesis itself. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of RNA dynamics as highlighted by biophysical tools.
Giant Secondary Conjunctival Inclusion Cysts A Late Complication of Strabismus Surgery

Purpose To present giant conjunctival inclusion cysts as a late complication of strabismus surgery. Design Retrospective case series of selected patients. Participants Four patients with a history of strabismus surgery who had developed giant conjunctival inclusion cysts. Methods A chart review was performed. The patient's ocular history, ophthalmic examinations, and imaging (ultrasound/ultrasound biomicroscopy and/or computed tomography) were recorded. Surgical excision with subsequent histopathologic correlation was obtained in 3 cases. Main Outcome Measures Clinical and imaging characteristics with histopathologic correlation. Results Four patients with giant conjunctival inclusion cysts had a history of strabismus surgery. Ultrasound biomicroscopy was performed in 3 cases and revealed large, cystic, well-circumscribed tumors with low internal reflectivity and hyperechoic components. Computed tomography of the orbits was used to evaluate posterior extension. Their size induced limitation in motility, strabismus, and problems related to chronic exposure. Histopathologic evaluations were consistent with benign inclusion cysts of the conjunctiva. Conclusions Giant conjunctival inclusion cysts may appear decades after strabismus surgery. Tumor size, cystic nature, and involvement of underlying structures can be determined by ultrasonography and radiographic imaging. Complete surgical removal can be curative.
Reaction Extrema: Extent of Reaction in General Chemistry

Nearly 100 years ago de Donder introduced the term “extent of reaction”, ξ. We build on that work by defining the concept of reagent extrema for an arbitrary chemical reaction, aA + bB ⇄ yY + zZ. The central equation is ξi = −ni,0/νi. The symbol ξi represents the reagent extremum for the chemical entity i; ni,0 represents the initial molar amount of entity i, and νi is its stoichiometric number, which is positive for products and negative for reactants. A reagent extremum exists for each reactant and each product; those of reactants are zero or positive, and the least positive of these is the reaction extremum to the right, ξmax; those of products are zero or negative, and the least negative is the reaction extremum to the left, ξmin. These two boundary values, called reaction extrema, indicate the maximum extent to which the reaction can progress in the forward or reverse direction, respectively. The ξmax and ξmin values are an important pedagogical tool for a quantitative understanding of chemical rea...
Navigating the Transparency–Privacy Paradox in Public Sector Data Sharing

This article examines the tension between transparency and privacy that public administrators face as they build multi-agency integrated data systems and work with researchers to harness the power of administrative data to inform policymaking. Analysis of qualitative data from 71 interviews with administrators and university researchers in four State Longitudinal Data System (SLDS) states (Maryland, Texas, Virginia, and Washington) and the U.S. Department of Education indicates the important effect that executive leadership, consistent and sound legal advice, and assessment of risk tolerance at the agency level can have on the structure and function of the overall project. Learning how to navigate this challenge and foster agency–researcher partnerships is fundamental for generating evidence-based research in public administration and policy.
40 KNOCKOUT OF GOAT NUCLEOPORIN 155 (NUP155) GENE USING CRISPR/Cas9 SYSTEMS

Nucleoporin 155 (NUP155) is a major component of the nuclear pore complex involved in the cellular nucleo-cytoplasmic transport. NUP155 knockout in mice leads to atrial fibrillation and early sudden cardiac death. Due to the small size of the heart, functional electrophysiology is problematic in transgenic mice. Large transgenic animal models have the potential to offer insights into the role of nuclear pore complex in cardiovascular disease. The goal of this study was to generate NUP155 knockout goats by using the CRISPR/Cas9 systems. Two CRISPR target sites were chosen in the first exon of the goat NUP155 gene and CRISPR knockout vectors were constructed. Surveyor assay showed that the 2 CRISPR vectors efficiently induced a double-strand break with cleavage efficiencies of 30 to 50% in transfected goat fibroblast cells. Single cell-derived clones were obtained by limiting dilution of the transfected cells in 48-well plates. In total, 23 single cell clones were isolated and subjected to Surveyor assay followed by sequencing the PCR products spanning the target site. Five of 23 single cell colonies had heterozygous mutations and one carried biallelic modifications of NUP155. The heterozygous cells will be used to produce NUP155± goats by somatic cell nuclear transfer. In conclusion, we demonstrated that CRISPR/Cas9 systems are highly efficient for gene knockout applications in goats. This work was supported by the Utah Science Technology and Research Initiative, Utah Multidisciplinary Arrhythmia Consortium and Utah Agricultural Experiment Station project #1100.
A finite element method for the study of solidification processes in the presence of natural convection

A new numerical technique has been developed for the analysis of two-dimensional transient solidification processes in the presence of time-dependent natural convection in the melt. The method can cope with irregular, transient morphologies of the solid—liquid interface using a new Galerkin formulation for the energy balance on the solid—liquid interface. The finite element solution to the Galerkin formulation yields the displacement of individual nodes on the solid—liquid interface. The displacement of the nodes is expressed by uncoupled components in the x and y directions. The fluid flow problem was solved using a ‘penalty’ formulation. Numerical experiments were performed for Rayleigh numbers as high as 106 to demonstrate the method and to indicate the effect of natural convection on the solid—liquid interface morphology.
Complexation of Cp2MCl2 in a chloroaluminate molten salt: relevance to homogeneous Ziegler-Natta catalysis

Abstract Ethylene polymerization via Ziegler-Natta catalysis occurs in the ambient-temperature molten salt AlCl 3 ·MEIC (MEIC = 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride) employing Cp 2 TiCl 2 as the catalyst and AlCl 3 - x R x (R = Me, Et) as a cocatalyst. Catalysis occurs only in melts with AlCl 3 :MEIC molar ratios > 1. Cp 2 ZrCl 2 and Cp 2 HfCl 2 with AlCl 3 - x R x cocatalysts are not catalytically active in acidic melts. 1 H NMR studies indicate formation of a strong 1:1 complex between Cp 2 TiCl 2 and AlCl 3 , while Zr and Hf form much weaker 1:1 complexes due to strong Zr-Cl and Hf-Cl bonding. This stronger M-Cl bonding for Zr and Hf is proposed to preclude the initiation reaction for ethylene polymerization in the molten salt.
Local Control of Autonomous Power Inverters in a Microgrid

Abstract We propose a concept of microgrid for electric power distribution with lattice topology in which every node is interconnected with a number of closest neighbors. Such a toppology directly reflects special arrangement of households throughout subdivisions in cities. Each node of the microgrid is assumed to be an electric load and possibly a power-delivering inverter simultaneously. We introduce a method of local control for the inverters to collectively regulate the voltage and frequency in the microgrid. Our control method does not require data communication between the nodes nor is it necessary to define a dominant node to act as a central utility. Therefore all inverters remain autonomous at all times. We provide numerical simulation results demonstrating stability and controllability of voltage and frequency in the microgrid.
Phagocytosis and Killing of Neisseria gonorrhoeae by Trichomonas vaginalis

Type 2 and type 4 transparent and opaque Neisseria gonorrhoeae demonstrated a logarithmic loss of viability with a half life of r 10-30 min when incubated in the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis. Although this effect was observed in the absence of serum for most types of gonococci tested, it was consistently enhanced by the addition of human serum. Only for type 4 transparent gonococci did this process show an absolute serum requirement. Cytochalasin B inhibited the loss of viability. The nonphagocytic cattle parasite Tritrichomonasfoetus did not ingest or kill N. gonorrhoeae. Electron microscopy revealed phagocytic uptake and degradation of N. gonorrhoeae in T. vaginalis, indicating that the loss of viability of N. gonorrhoeae was the result of phagocytosis followed by intracellular killing of gonococci by T. vaginalis.
Building the counterculture, creating right livelihoods: the counterculture at work

The men and women dedicated to building an alternative society in the United States in the Sixties era began without a blueprint. These cultural rebels disdained the workaday life they believed American society demanded of them. They wanted to create a less restrained community of free individuals dedicated to new forms of wisdom and pleasure. Over time, some of these cultural radicals struggled to put their values into play by creating right livelihoods that built their sense of community and provided for economic sustainability.
Life-Cycle Assessment of the Production of Rare-Earth Elements for Energy Applications: A Review

Rare earth elements (REEs) are a group of seventeen elements with similar chemical properties, including fifteen in the lanthanide group, yttrium, and scandium. Due to their unique physical and chemical properties REEs gain increasing importance in many new energy technologies and systems that contribute to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel depletion (e.g., wind turbine, electric vehicles, high efficiency lighting, batteries, and hydrogen storage). However, it is well known that production of REEs is far from environmentally sustainable as it requires significant material and energy consumption while generating large amounts of air/water emissions and solid waste. Although life cycle assessment (LCA) has been accepted as the most comprehensive approach to quantify the environmental sustainability of a product or process, to date, there have been only very limited LCA studies on the production of REEs. With the continual growth of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies, global production of REEs will increase. Therefore reducing environmental footprints of REE production becomes critical and identifying environmental hotspots based on a holistic and comprehensive assessment on environmental impacts serves as an important starting point. After providing an overview of LCA methodology and a high-level description of the major REE production routes used from 1990s to today, this paper reviews the published LCA studies on the production of REEs. To date, almost all the LCA studies are based on process information collected from the operation of Mountain Pass facility in U.S. in 1990s and the operation of facilities in Bayan Obo, China. Knowledge gaps are identified and future research efforts are suggested to advance understanding on environmental impacts of REE production from the life cycle perspective.
Id-1 Is a Key Transcriptional Regulator of Glioblastoma Aggressiveness and a Novel Therapeutic Target

Glioblastoma is the most common form of primary adult brain tumors. A majority of glioblastomas grow invasively into distant brain tissue, leading to tumor recurrence, which is ultimately incurable. It is, therefore, essential to discover master regulators that control glioblastoma invasiveness and target them therapeutically. We show here that the transcriptional regulator Id-1 plays a critical role in modulating the invasiveness of glioblastoma cell lines and primary glioblastoma cells. Id-1 expression levels positively correlate with glioma cell invasiveness in culture and with histopathologic grades in patient biopsies. Id-1 knockdown dramatically reduces glioblastoma cell invasion that is accompanied by profound morphologic changes and robust reduction in expression levels of "mesenchymal" markers, as well as inhibition of self-renewal potential and downregulation of glioma stem cell markers. Importantly, genetic knockdown of Id-1 leads to a significant increase in survival in an orthotopic model of human glioblastoma. Furthermore, we show that a nontoxic compound, cannabidiol, significantly downregulates Id-1 gene expression and associated glioma cell invasiveness and self-renewal. In addition, cannabidiol significantly inhibits the invasion of glioblastoma cells through an organotypic brain slice and glioma progression in vivo. Our results suggest that Id-1 regulates multiple tumor-promoting pathways in glioblastoma and that drugs targeting Id-1 represent a novel and promising strategy for improving the therapy and outcome of patients with glioblastoma.
Treatment with basic fibroblastic growth factor following focal cerebral ischemia does not prevent neuronal injury

This experiment determined if postischemic administration of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) would result in neovascularization to minimize neuronal injury following a focal cerebral ischemia insult. Fifty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats underwent middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion and were divided into three groups receiving either vehicle, serum, or 50 ng bFGF biweekly through an indwelling ventricular cannula. At variable time intervals, the animals underwent carbon black perfusion of capillary beds and histological staining for assessment of neuronal injury. Following MCA occlusion, there was a significant decrease in capillary bed density in peri-infarction cortex which normalized by two weeks. The number of alive neurons in the peri-infarction cortex was also significantly decreased compared to contralateral control cortex. The chronic administration of bFGF commencing two days after MCA occlusion did not result in either a significant increase in capillary bed density or the number of alive neurons in the peri-infarction cortex.
A role of the C-terminal region of human Rad9 (hRad9) in nuclear transport of the hRad9 checkpoint complex.

Rad9, Rad1, and Hus1 are members of the Rad family of checkpoint proteins that are required for both DNA replication and DNA damage checkpoints and are thought to function as sensors in the DNA integrity checkpoint control. These proteins can interact with each other and form a stable proliferating cell nuclear antigen-related Rad9·Rad1·Hus1 heterotrimeric complex that might encircle DNA at or near the damaged sites. In this study, we demonstrate that the human Rad9 (hRad9) protein contains a predicted nuclear localization sequence (NLS) near its C terminus, which plays an essential role in the hRad9-mediated G2 checkpoint. Deletion experiments indicate that the NLS-containing region of hRad9 is critical for the nuclear transport of not only hRad9 but also human Rad1 (hRad1) and human Hus1 (hHus1), although this region is not required for hRad9·hRad1·hHus1 complex formation. In support of the role that hRad9 NLS plays in the nuclear targeting of the hRad9·hRad1·hHus1 complex, overexpression of a deletion mutant of hRad9 lacking the NLS-containing C-terminal region can bypass the G2 checkpoint and result in cell death after ionizing radiation or hydroxyurea treatment. Moreover, knockdown of hRad9 expression by small interfering RNA (siRNA) results in hRad1 accumulation in the cytoplasm and significantly abrogates the G2 checkpoint in the presence of damaged DNA or incomplete DNA replication. Thus, the C-terminal region of human Rad9 protein is important for G2 checkpoint control by operating the transport of the hRad9·hRad1·hHus1 checkpoint complex into the nucleus.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Enhances Inflammatory Responses in Endothelial Cells: Role of Gab1 and MEKK3 in TNF-α–Induced c-Jun and NF-κB Activation and Adhesion Molecule Expression

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and the type I IGF-1 receptor are important regulators of vascular function that may contribute to cardiovascular disease. We hypothesized that IGF-1 causes endothelial cell dysfunction and expression of neutrophil and monocyte adhesion molecules by enhancing pro-inflammatory cytokine signal transduction. Long-term IGF-1 treatment of endothelial cells potentiated c-Jun and nuclear factor NF-κB activation by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and enhanced TNF-α–mediated adhesion molecule expression. In response to IGF-1 treatment, the expression of kinases in the c-Jun/c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase signaling pathway (MEKK1, MEK4, and JNK1/2) was unchanged, but expressions of insulin receptor substrate-1 and Grb2-associated binder-1 (Gab1) were significantly decreased. Because Gab1 is involved in both c-Jun and NF-κB activation by TNF-α, we focused on Gab1-dependent signaling. Gab1 inhibited c-Jun and NF-κB transcriptional activation by TNF-α. Interestingly, Gab1 inhibited c-Jun tr...