cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Photonic crystal microcavity sensor for ultracompact monitoring of reaction kinetics and protein concentration

Abstract We report on time-resolved label-free monitoring of protein binding in a physiological buffer using a photonic crystal microcavity sensor of total area 50 μm2 with an effective detection area of 0.272 μm2. We use this ultracompact sensor to monitor the binding of anti-biotin to biotinylated-bovine serum albumin (b-BSA), and measure an affinity constant of 6.94 × 107 M−1. We show that this photonic crystal sensor can be used for anti-biotin detection at concentrations ranging from picomolar to micromolar. The lower limit of detection for anti-biotin is less than 20 pM, corresponding to less than 4.5 fg of bound material on the sensor surface and fewer than 80 molecules in the modal volume of the microcavity. The sensor also has the capability of measuring binding of small molecular species such as aromatic rings (98 Da). Furthermore, we show that the active surface of the sensor can be successfully regenerated and re-used in subsequent protein binding experiments. A comparison of experimental and theoretical data is given, and the current experimental limitations of the sensor with regard to noise are discussed.
Assessing the Spatial Structure of Urban and Population Growth in the Greater Cairo Area, Egypt: A GIS and Imagery Analysis Approach:

This article examines growth in the extent of Cairos urban area and changes in population distribution between 1986 and 1996. It includes a quantitative assessment of urban growth and changing patterns of population density in the citys administrative sub-districts. In a unique contribution to the available research on Cairo the population density for the built-up area of the census units is calculated giving much greater insight into the citys growth than previous research that calculated density based on census units in their entirety. The study finds significant population decentralisation taking place and discusses the possible implications if this trend continues. (authors)
Linkage and evolutionary diversification of developmentally regulated multigene families: tandem arrays of the 401/18 chorion gene pair in silkmoths.

Abstract The coordinately expressed silkmoth chorion genes, 401 and 18, are closely linked as a pair, in divergent orientation. Analysis of overlapping clones (chromosomal "walk") demonstrated that each of the multiple copies of this gene pair is embedded within a larger deoxyribonucleic acid unit, which is tandemly repeated in a few arrays or possibly a single array. Southern analysis and examination of clones from a single individual moth demonstrated that the repeat units are extensively polymorphic in restriction sites, length, and possibly number, no differential amplification was evident during choriogenesis. Intron and 5'-flanking sequences were shown to be specific for the 401/18 gene pair and not to be present elsewhere in the genome. The spatial distribution of variations in the genes and their flanking sequences were examined.
The Role of Working Memory Representations in the Control of Attention

Previous research suggests that target templates are stored visual working memory and used to guide attention during visual search. However, observers can search efficiently even if working memory is filled to capacity by a concurrent task. The idea that target templates are stored in working memory receives support primarily from studies of nonhuman primates in which the target varies from trial to trial, and it is possible that working memory templates are not necessary when target identity remains constant, as in most studies of visual search in humans. To test this hypothesis, we asked subjects to perform a visual search task during the delay interval of a visual working memory task. The 2 tasks were found to interfere with each other when the search targets changed from trial to trial, but not when target identity remained constant. Thus, a search template is stored in visual working memory only when the target varies from trial to trial. These findings suggest that the network of brain areas involved in shifting attention during visual search tasks may be able to operate essentially independently of the anatomical areas that perform visual working memory maintenance of objects, but only if the identity of the visual search target is stable across time.
Presidents on Television: The Effects of Instant Analysis

The effects of instant analyses of presidential appearances are probed through an experimental study of the CBS television network's coverage of an appearance by President Nixon. Explanations are offered for the kinds of instant analysis Presidents encounter. David L. Paletz is Associate Professor of Political Science at Duke University. Richard J. Vinegar, who was an undergraduate at Duke when this paper was written, is studying law at Cornell. The authors express their appreciation to Richard T. Campbell for aid in analyzing their data. POQ 41(1977-78) 488-497 This content downloaded from 157.55.39.37 on Thu, 28 Apr 2016 07:20:00 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms PRESIDENTS ON TELEVISION 489 back.' And an Omaha station has reportedly stopped carrying such network analysis because, according to the station manager, "'we think people have the right to make up their own minds' " (Variety, 1974a). Instant analysis may be neither analysis (correspondents can just summarize the President's statements), nor instant (correspondents sometimes have advance copies of the text). Nonetheless, questions about its usefulness and effects persist unabated and unresolved. Attempting to rectify this lack of research, we undertook an experiment designed to test the effects of instant analysis. We shall first describe the presidential appearance in question, summarizing its content and the subsequent CBS analysis. We next outline the experiment's design, procedures, and hypotheses, and analyze the results. We conclude with a general discussion of the varieties of presidential television appearances, the different kinds of instant analyses, and their effects. Conference and Analysis Content In March 1974, beset by the Watergate investigation and energy crisis, President Nixon undertook to take his case to the people. This brought him on March 19, to Houston, Texas, and the annual convention of the National Association of Broadcasters. The NAB audience consisted primarily of management personnel. Generally sympathetic to the President, they applauded him several times during the news conference which was broadcast live by all three networks and lasted roughly 57 minutes (Presidential Documents: Richard Nixon, 1974; hereafter PD:RN). President Nixon began the news conference with encouraging announcements on the energy shortage. Gasoline rationing would not be necessary, service stations would be permitted to sell gas on Sundays and more gas would be allocated in order to decrease the length of the gasoline waiting lines. The President criticized Congress for not acting on his energy proposals, saying: "When we speak of an energy shortage, the greatest shortage of energy is the lack of energy on the part of the Congress of the United States in getting to work and passing the legislation that will produce more energy in the United States of America" (PD:RN,
The role of carbohydrate recognition during human sperm–egg binding

STUDY QUESTION What is the role of carbohydrates in the binding of human sperm to the zona pellucida (ZP) and what are potential implications for pathogenesis? SUMMARY ANSWER Both lectin-like and protein-protein interactions play an essential role in human gamete interactions. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Studies in the mouse and human indicate a role for both lectin-like and protein-protein interactions during sperm binding to the ZP. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Non-systematic literature review. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Ultrasensitive analysis by mass spectrometry of glycans linked to the human ZP has confirmed that this matrix is coated with a high density of complex type N-glycans terminated with the sialyl-Lewis(x) (sLe(x)) sequence, the universal selectin ligand. Selectins are essential for lymphocyte homing, and they participate in the initial binding of circulating leukocytes to activated endothelium at the sites of infection and tissue injury. Subsequent inhibition studies confirmed that either the sLe(x) tetrasaccharide or neoglycoproteins terminated with this sequence inhibited human sperm-ZP binding by 70% in the hemizona assay. These results support the hypothesis that both lectin-like and protein-protein interactions play an essential role in human gamete interactions. The sLe(x) sequence is also a ligand for siglec-9, a lectin-bearing immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif that transmits inhibitory signals. This siglec is expressed on a wide variety of different types of human leukocytes and lymphocytes. This result is consistent with the hypothesis that human ZP glycans are also being employed for immune recognition of the egg and the histoincompatible embryo prior to blastocyst hatching. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This field of study is complex and more experimental work is needed to reveal fully the mechanism of sperm-ZP binding and how it varies between species. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Knowledge about the glycans involved in sperm-egg binding may be relevant to infertility due to fertilization failure and also to the mother's immune tolerance of the preimplantation embryo. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Studies focused on human sperm-egg interactions carried out by the author and coworkers have been supported by the Life Sciences Mission Enhancement Reproductive Biology Program funded by the State of Missouri, a Research Board Grant (CB000500) supported by the University of Missouri System and a grant from the Jeffress Memorial Trust of Virginia. Support from the Breeden-Adams Foundation has also been obtained to investigate potential linkages to tumor evasion. The author has no conflict of interest to declare.
Redirecting gene-modified T cells toward various cancer types using tagged antibodies.

Purpose: To develop an adaptable gene-based vector that will confer immune cell specificity to various cancer types. Experimental Design: Human and mouse T cells were genetically engineered to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that binds a fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) molecule, termed anti-FITC CAR T cells. Various antibodies (Ab) currently in clinical use including cetuximab (Ctx), trastuzumab (Her2), and rituximab (Rtx) were conjugated with FITC and tested for their ability to bind tumor cells, activate T cells, and induce antitumor effects in vitro and in vivo . Results: Anti-FITC CAR T cells recognize various cancer types when bound with FITC-labeled Abs resulting in efficient target lysis, T-cell proliferation, and cytokine/chemokine production. The treatment of immunocompromised mice with human anti-FITC CAR T cells plus FITC-labeled cetuximab (FITC-Ctx) delayed the growth of colon cancer but unexpectedly led to the outgrowth of EGF receptor (EGFR)-negative tumor cells. On the other hand, in a human pancreatic cancer cell line with uniform EGFR expression, anti-FITC CAR T cells plus FITC-Ctx eradicated preestablished late-stage tumors. In immunocompetent mice, anti-FITC CAR T cells exhibited potent antitumor activity against syngeneic mouse breast cancer expressing Her2 and B-cell lymphoma expressing CD20 by combining with FITC-Her2 and FITC-Rtx, respectively. In addition, the activity of anti-FITC CAR T cells could be attenuated by subsequent injections of nonspecific FITC-IgG. Conclusion: These studies highlight an applicability of anti-tag CAR technology to treat patients with different types of cancers and a possibility to regulate CAR T-cell functions with competing FITC molecules. Clin Cancer Res; 18(23); 6436–45. ©2012 AACR .
Orthographic transparency and morphology of Spanish-English Cognate adjectives.

The English and Spanish languages share over 20,000 cognates. Cognates are words that are orthographically, semantically, and syntactically similar in two languages. In 2009, Montelongo, Hernandez, and Herter collected orthographic transparency ratings for over 2,000 Spanish-English cognate nouns and cognate adjectives drawn from the Juilland and Chang-Rodriguez' Frequency Dictionary of Spanish Words. The present analysis of the cognate adjectives in the Montelongo, et al. norms identified orthographic and morphological characteristics which affected ratings of cognate transparency. The analysis identified an initial-letter effect: the earlier an English word deviates from its Spanish equivalent, the lower it is rated. Similarly, the more orthographically similar an English suffix is to its Spanish suffix equivalent, the higher its rating.
(R)‐2,2′‐Dihydroxy‐3,3′diphenyl‐1,1′‐binaphthyl

[102490-05-1] C32H22O2 (MW 438.5159) InChI = 1S/C32H22O2/c33-31-27(21-11-3-1-4-12-21)19-23-15-7-9-17-25(23)29(31)30-26-18-10-8-16-24(26)20-28(32(30)34)22-13-5-2-6-14-22/h1-20,33-34H InChIKey = UXSXQZYUHXUTTI-UHFFFAOYSA-N [684-93-4 C32H22O2 (MW 438.5159) InChI = 1S/C32H22O2/c33-31-27(21-11-3-1-4-12-21)19-23-15-7-9-17-25(23)29(31)30-26-18-10-8-16-24(26)20-28(32(30)34)22-13-5-2-6-14-22/h1-20,33-34H">1S/C32H22O2/c33-31-27(21-11-3-1-4-12-21)19-23-15-7-9-17-25(23)29(31)30-26-18-10-8-16-24(26)20-28(32(30)34)22-13-5-2-6-14-22/h1-20,33-34H">1S/C32H22O2/c33-31-27(21-11-3-1-4-12-21)19-23-15-7-9-17-25(23)29(31)30-26-18-10-8-16-24(26)20-28(32(30)34)22-13-5-2-6-14-22/h1-20,33-34H InChIKey = UXSXQZYUHXUTTI-UHFFFAOYSA-N [75640-70-9 C32H22O2 (MW 438.5159) InChI = 1S/C32H22O2/c33-31-27(21-11-3-1-4-12-21)19-23-15-7-9-17-25(23)29(31)30-26-18-10-8-16-24(26)20-28(32(30)34)22-13-5-2-6-14-22/h1-20,33-34H InChIKey = UXSXQZYUHXUTTI-UHFFFAOYSA-N (chiral ligand and auxiliary) Alternate Name: 3,3′-Ph2-BINOL. Physical Data: mp 197–199 °C; +135 (c = 1, THF, R form). Solubility: sol toluene, CH2Cl2. Form Supplied in: white solid; widely available. Preparative Methods: (S)-BINOL was methylated with iodomethane to give dimethoxybinaphthyl (S)-2 in 98% yield. Compound (S)-2 was treated with n-BuLi in the presence of N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylenediamine (TMEDA) at room temperature to generate the dilithiated compound. This compound reacted with bromine at –78 °C to afford the dibromide (S)-3 in 71% yield. Dichlorobis(triphenylphosphine) nickel(II)-catalyzed coupling of (S)-3 with phenylmagnesium bromide provided the dimethylether derived from 4. The resulting product was demethylated to give phenyl-substituted binaphthol in 69% yield (eq 1).1 (1) Iron-based salan complexes were determined to be efficient catalysts for the asymmetric aerobic oxidative coupling of phenyl-substituted 2-naphthol. This reaction can be carried out in air at 60 °C with high levels of enantioselectivity (eq 2).2 (2) Handling, Storage, and Precautions: keep tightly closed, store in a cool dark place.
On Identifying Likely Determinants of Biological Activity in High Dimensional QSAR Problems

A new approach to identifying descriptors associated with biological activity in ‘asymmetric’ data sets has been developed for high dimensional QSAR problems. As an example we have applied this approach to a problem first described by Selwood et al. [3]. Using Cluster Significance Analysis (CSA) in an explicit predetermined sequence of steps, we identified six likely determinants of antifilarial activity among antimycin analogs characterized by 53 descriptors. These determinants were ATCH5, ATCH2, VDWVOL, S8_1DX, ATCH4 and DIPV_X. Of them, only ATCH5, ATCH4 and DIPV_X were significant (R = 0.83) in a stepwise multiple regression analysis (MRA). These results are compared with those of the original workers and others who analyzed the data by different methods. By combining these descriptors with those identified by the other groups, we discovered a still better correlation. Jointly, ATCH5, ATCH4, DIPV_X, LOGP and MOFI_Y correlate highly with antifilarial potency (R = 0.91). The problem of discovering the ‘true’ determinants of biological activity in high dimensional asymmetric data sets is discussed.
Methodology for the increased computational efficiency of discrete-event simulation in 3 dimensional space

Users of simulation continue to demand more realism and accuracy. This has been addressed by the development of new simulation languages, better simulation software, more user-friendly interface, and more advanced computers. Despite this advance in general simulation capability, only recently has significant research addressed the efficiency of the simulation of the motion of autonomous spatial objects in discrete simulation. The overall goal of this paper is to provide an improvement in the efficiency of a simulation of moving autonomous objects by the use of various forms of dynamic sectoring. Research has shown that no single discrete event simulation methodology has combined the movement and tracking of autonomous objects in three-dimensional space with computational efficiency. The focus of this paper is to provide a summary of previous sectoring research, to consider 3D, to propose a new sectoring approach, and to analytically show why the new approach should provide an improvement.
Types of Empirical Discoveries

When the word “science” is used, it is not always clear what is intended, and a confusion often results from failing to distinguish between a technique of inquiry (the method) an area in which inquiries are conducted (the domain), the results of such inquiries (the findings), and the equipment of the professionals whose business it is to pursue such inquiries (the enterprise). Science as such is characterized by its method, and so by discussing the method of science we should be engaging in the understanding of science. But here instead we shall undertake to discuss the findings of science: the laws and other objects found in the domain by the sciences, which have received far less attention.
Prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem: impact at 5 years

Background/aims To determine the impact of prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem (PROSE) treatment at 5 years. Methods Retrospective review of clinical, manufacturing and quality databases at the Boston Foundation for Sight. Results 121 patients who completed treatment and had 5-year follow-up data were identified from a cohort of patients (n=199) seen in consultation for PROSE treatment from January 2008 to June 2008. Mean age was 52 years, M:F=56:65. The primary indication for treatment was ocular surface disease (OSD) in 64 patients and distorted corneal surface in 57 patients. At 5 years, continued device wear was confirmed in 89/121 (73.6%) patients. Discontinuation of wear was confirmed in 32/121 (26.4%). There was an increased likelihood of continued device wear at 5 years in patients with distorted cornea (84%) compared with those with OSD (64%), (p=0.0121, χ2). National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25) composite score increased for patients wearing PROSE devices at 6 months (Δ=+23 points, mean=82, p<0.001, two-tailed t test) with no significant decline among those still wearing a device at 5 years (Δ=−4 points, mean=78, p=0.22, two-tailed t test). At 5 years, those wearing (mean=78) had a higher NEI VFQ-25 than those not wearing (mean=70, p=0.029, two-tailed t test). Conclusions PROSE treatment offers continued benefit, as defined by improved visual function and continued device wear at 5 years, in patients with complex corneal disease. Patients with distorted cornea have a higher rate of continued wear at 5 years than patients with OSD, although this is not true among all subgroups within OSD.
Community-Level Actions that Can Address Ocean Acidification

Ocean acidification has led to detectable changes in seawater chemistry around the world, which are associated with reduced growth and survival of many species. Acute ocean acidification “events” in the Pacific Northwest United States have jeopardized the $270 million, 3,200 jobs/year shellfish aquaculture industry in Washington State, and this has contributed to the state’s broad-based, legislatively driven response to ocean acidification. Even though impacts from ocean acidification have yet to be felt in many locations, states and regions are beginning to take action on the issue. In this paper, we present an array of actions that can be undertaken by communities or regions to address ocean acidification. The actions can be coupled, completed one at a time, or aligned with other environmental initiatives, and they can be tailored to the prevailing political or economic environment. We review which have been used by different U.S. states and identify common themes and popular choices. We close by suggesting combinations of conditions and clusters of activities that seem to promote rapid and sustained action. Cutting atmospheric carbon dioxide levels internationally is still the most comprehensive way to address ocean acidification, but this analysis shows that productive actions can still be taken at smaller scales to help marine resource-dependent communities adapt to existing ocean acidification and prepare for possible future impacts.
Diagnostic Utility of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme in Sarcoidosis: A Population-Based Study

Sarcoidosis is a disease with heterogenous clinical presentations. Diagnosis of sarcoidosis is often challenging with the lack of gold standard tests. In this study, we investigated the diagnostic utility of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) for diagnosis of sarcoidosis. A cohort of Olmsted County, Minnesota residents who were diagnosed with sarcoidosis between January 1, 1984 and December 31, 2013 was identified based on individual medical record review. ACE levels recorded in the medical records of all subjects at the time of diagnosis were extracted. Comparator subjects were residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota who had ACE levels tested the same time period but did not have a diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and the c-statistic of high versus low/normal ACE to diagnose sarcoidosis were calculated. A total of 3277 Olmsted County residents age ≥18 years had at least one ACE test in 1984–2013. The sarcoidosis incidence cohort contained 295 Olmsted County residents diagnosed with sarcoidosis in 1984–2013. Of these, ACE tests were obtained in 251. The sensitivity and specificity of high ACE for diagnosis of sarcoidosis were 41.4 % (95 % CI 35.3–47.8 %) and 89.9 % (95 % CI 88.8–91.0 %), respectively. The PPV and NPV in this population were 25.4 % (95 % CI 21.3–29.9 %) and 94.9 % (95 % CI 85.0–87.4 %). This study demonstrated a poor sensitivity and insufficient specificity of high ACE for diagnosis of sarcoidosis suggesting a limited role of ACE in clinical practice.
SOME REPRODUCTIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF COPROPHILOUS ASCOMYCETES IN THREE PRAIRIE ECOSYSTEMS

The distribution and relative abundance of coprophilous Ascomycetes having certain ascocarp morphologies [e.g., cleistothecium; multi-spored ascus (>8 spores), and distinct bristles or hairs on neck of perithecium] was contrasted for rabbit and cattle feces collected from a semi-arid short-grass prairie, a mixed-grass prairie, and a tall-grass prairie. Species with non-ostiolate ascocarps were most frequently recorded from dung in semi-arid shortgrass prairie (p p > 0.05); and species with bristles or hairs on the perithecial neck and surrounding the ostiole showed no significant variation among prairies.
Silicided p-n junction diodes fabricated by silicidation through silicon buffer layer and dopant drive-out process

This study investigates characteristics of p-n junction diodes fabricated by silicidation through a silicon buffer layer and dopant drive-out process. The purpose of using the buffer silicon layer is to reduce silicon consumption from the Si substrate during silicidation, and thus reduce the effective junction depth. The resulting structure is suitable for elevated CoSi 2 source/drain contact in a metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor or a silicided polysilicon emitter in a bipolar junction transistor. It was found that boron diffusion is enhanced by these buffer layers comparing to silicided diodes without silicon buffer layers. The sheet resistance of the CoSi 2 /polysilicon/Si structure does not degrade as seriously as CoSi 2 /polysilicon/oxide structure. The diode leakage current density is higher compared to diodes without buffer layers, especially when thinner buffer layers and high temperature 1000°C anneal are used.
New Developments in Soluble Thermoplastic High Glass Transition Temperature Polyimides

Utilizing solution imidization, molecular weight and end group control techniques, soluble, fully cyclized polyimides with very high glass transition temperatures have been developed to meet high temperature applications. Mechanistic aspects are investigated for solution imidization by both the polyamic acid route and by the ester-acid route. Polyimides based on pyromellitic dianhydride and a 3F diamine exhibit glass transition temperatures of 420°C. These polyimides are soluble in polar aprotic solvents and form tough, transparent films which demonstrate mechanical integrity and thermooxidative stability at 700°F. Various processing routes are explored to demonstrate the viability of these materials in high temperature applications. Details of the synthesis and characterization of these materials will be provided.
Elusive β-Zn8Sb7: A New Zinc Antimonide Thermoelectric.

Zn8Sb7 was theoretically predicted to exhibit superior thermoelectric properties; however a crystalline phase with a similar composition was only stabilized in the form of nanoparticles. We report a new metastable compound, β-Zn8Sb7, which was synthesized in the form of bulk polycrystalline powder via high-temperature solid-state annealing followed by quenching. Single crystal X-ray diffraction indicates that β-Zn8Sb7 crystallizes in a new structure type (noncentrosymmetric orthorhombic space group Pmn21 (no. 31) with unit cell parameters of a = 15.029(1) A, b = 7.7310(5) A, c = 12.7431(9) A, which is different from the nanoparticulate phase. According to differential scanning calorimetry, the β-Zn8Sb7 phase melts incongruently at 825(5) K. β-Zn8Sb7 is a p-type semiconductor with high Seebeck thermopower and low thermal conductivity stemming from the complex crystal structure. β-Zn8Sb7 exhibits a promising thermoelectric figure-of-merit, zT, of 0.33 at 400 K, which is comparable to the state-of-the-art thermoelectric materials based on binary zinc antimonides.
Incorporation of gallium-68 into the crystal structure of Prussian blue to form K68GaxFe1−x[Fe(CN)6] nanoparticles: toward a novel bimodal PET/MRI imaging agent

Similarity between the Ga+ ion and the Fe3+ ion allows for partial replacement of Fe3+ ions with Ga3+ ions in the Fe(III) crystallographic positions in Prussian blue (PB) to form various solid solutions KGaxFe1−x[Fe(CN)6] (0 < x < 1). Such solid solutions possess very high thermodynamic stability as expected from the parent PB structure. Consequently, a simple one-step 68Ga-labeling method was developed for preparing a single-phase nanoparticulate bimodal PET/MRI imaging agent based on the PB structural platform. Unlike the typical 68Ga-labelling reaction based on metal complexation, this novel chelator-free 68Ga-labeling reaction was shown to be kinetically fast under the acidic conditions. The Ga3+ ion does not hydrolyze, and affords the 68Ga-labelled PB nanoparticles, which are easy to purify and have extremely high stability against radionuclidic leaching in aqueous solution.
The Changing Pattern of Pulmonary Disease

The major pulmonary diseases of the past generation have waned in importance and diseases that were rarities or unrecognized 35 years ago are major problems at the present time. Continued epidemiologic study is desirable to impress both the clinician and the pathologist with the diminishing frequency of bacterial infections and the increasing prevalence of viral, fungal, occupational and degenerative pulmonary diseases.
Abstract 62: Functional analysis of endometrial cancer mutants of the E3 ubiquitin ligase adaptor protein, SPOP

The purpose of this study is to functionally annotate endometrial cancer (EC) specific mutants of SPOP (Speckle-type POZ protein). SPOP is the substrate adaptor for the E3 ligase complex CUL3-SPOP-RBX1, which is responsible for mediating the ubiquitination, and subsequent proteasomal degradation of a number of protein substrates including the SRC3 (NCOA3/AIB1) oncoprotein. Our laboratory has previously shown that SPOP is frequently mutated in serous and clear cell ECs, two clinically aggressive subtypes of EC. Importantly, the vast majority of SPOP mutants localized within the MATH domain, which is responsible for substrate binding. We hypothesize that EC associated SPOP mutations encode loss-of-function mutants that abolish or attenuate substrate degradation. To test this hypothesis, we initially focused our attention on five SPOP mutations we uncovered in ECs (E47K, S80R, P94A, M117I and R121Q). HEK293 cells were transiently co-transfected with a HA-tagged SRC3-expressing construct and a MYC-tagged construct expressing either vector alone, wildtype SPOP, or mutant forms of SPOP. Protein lysates from transfected cells were subjected to Western blotting to measure exogenous levels of HA-SRC3 and MYC-SPOP. Cells exogenously expressing wildtype SPOP or the E47K, P94A, M117I or R121Q mutants exhibited lower levels of HA-SRC3 than cells expressing the vector control. In contrast, cells expressing the S80R mutant had elevated levels of HA-SRC3 compared to cells expressing either wildtype SPOP or the vector control. Co-immumoprecipitation experiments are being performed to assess the substrate binding capacity of SPOP mutants. Our findings indicate that the SPOP-S80R mutation, which is recurrent in EC, has an impaired ability to down-regulate SRC3 protein levels compared to wildtype SPOP. Ongoing and future studies aim to elucidate the mechanism that underlies the effect of SPOP-S80R, and to functionally annotate additional SPOP mutations in EC. Citation Format: Fred Lozy, Mary Ellen Urick, Meghan Rudd, Deena Maurer, Daphne W. Bell. Functional analysis of endometrial cancer mutants of the E3 ubiquitin ligase adaptor protein, SPOP. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 62.
Job rotation designed to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and control risk in manufacturing industries: A systematic review.

Abstract To better understand job rotation in the manufacturing industry, we completed a systematic review asking the following questions: 1) How do job-rotation programs impact work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and related risk control for these MSDs, as well as psychosocial factors? and 2) How best should the job rotation programs be designed? We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Business Source Premier, ISI Web of Knowledge, CINAHL, PsyINFO, Scopus, and SciELO databases for articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Eligible studies were examined by two independent reviewers for relevance (population of manufacturing workers, outcomes of musculoskeletal disorders, physical factors, psychosocial factors, and strategies used in job-rotation implantation) and methodological quality rating. From 10,809 potential articles, 71 were read for full text analysis. Of the 14 studies included for data extraction, two were non-randomized control trial studies, one was a case-control study, and 11 were cross-sectional comparisons. Only one, with a case-control design, was scored with good methodological quality. Currently, weak evidence exists supporting job rotation as a strategy for the prevention and control of musculoskeletal disorders. Job rotation did not appear to reduce the exposure of physical risk factors; yet, there are positive correlations between job rotation and higher job satisfaction. Worker training has been described as a crucial component of a successful job-rotation program. The studies reported a range of parameters used to implement and measure job-rotation programs. More rigorous studies are needed to better understand the full impact of job rotation on production and health. PROSPERO register CRD42014013319.
Characterization of the solubilized and reconstituted ATP-dependent vesicular glutamate uptake system.

We have previously provided evidence for ATP-dependent glutamate uptake into synaptic vesicles, and, based upon the unique properties of the vesicular uptake system, we have proposed that the vesicular glutamate translocator plays a crucial role in selecting glutamate for neurotransmission. In this study, we have solubilized the vesicular glutamate uptake system, proposed to consist of at least a glutamate translocator and a proton pump Mg-ATPase, from rat brain synaptic vesicles, and reconstituted the functional ATP-dependent glutamate uptake system into liposomes. The glutamate uptake in the reconstituted system is dependent upon ATP, markedly potentiated by low millimolar concentrations of chloride and inhibited by agents known to dissipate electrochemical proton gradients. Moreover, it exhibited low affinity for glutamate (Km = 2 m M ), yet high specificity for glutamate; thus, it did not recognize aspartate and other agents known to interact with glutamate receptors. These properties are indistinguishable from those observed in intact synaptic vesicles. The solubilized functional components of the glutamate uptake system, alone or as a complex, have been estimated to have a Stokes radius in the range of 69 to 84 A. The reconstitution experiments described here provide a functional assay for the solubilized vesicular glutamate uptake system and represent an initial step towards the purification of the glutamate translocator.
Evidence that Phenolic Inhibitors of Q B Have Long-Range Effects on the S-State Transitions

In this paper, we describe the effects of phenolic QB site inhibitors (trinitrophenol (TNP), bromoxynil and dinoseb) on the energetics of photosystem II (PS II). Our main interest stemmed from two unusual aspects of these inhibitors. Firstly, because of the acidic pKa values (pKa < 5.00) on their hydroxyl groups, these inhibitors most likely bind to the QB site in their anionic forms (see [1]). This makes them potentially useful analogs of the QB semiquinone, and thus may help us to understand certain biophysical aspects of the two-electron gate. Secondly, these inhibitors have been shown to have large effects on the thermoluminescence (TL) bands associated with S2QA- recombination [2]. At first glance, our data suggested that the phenolic inhibitors may influence the midpoint potential of QA- by electrostatic interaction. We show, however, that it is more likely that they influence the S1–S2 state transition.
Thermal wavefront imaging using GHz ultrasonics

In this paper an ultrasonic reflectometry approach to measure the thermal conductivity and temperature of a material by contact is presented. This device can be utilized for monitoring material properties during manufacturing, and robotic handling of objects. The sensor comprises an AlN piezoelectric ultrasonic transducer operating at GHz frequencies, situated on one side of a silicon chip. The transducer transmits a N-period ultrasonic pulse that propagates through the silicon bulk, reflects from the opposing side, and is received by a secondary receiving transducer. The time of flight (TOF) of the ultrasonic pulse and its return amplitude are measured. As the temperature distribution in the silicon bulk changes, by contacting the sensed object, the TOF changes due to the thermal coefficient of expansion and speed of sound. This paper demonstrates that the TOF temperature dependence can be used to determine the thermal properties of the contacted object. Analysis show that the sensor can detect different materials like silicon and glass. Experiments show that, by measuring the thermal time constant, the sensor can differentiate between a bare finger and a finger with rubber gloves. The temperature coefficient of the TOF in the device is 6 ps/°C.
Using and Interpreting the Probability Calculus

We have been discussing some of the fundamental features of the classical calculus of probability. The equiprobability of rival events was seen to be a major assumption of the calculus. Moreover, it is an assumption which the pure mathematician need not bother to justify. He need only present his formal system as follows:
Risk of seizures and status epilepticus in older patients with liver disease.

Objective Seizures can be provoked by systemic diseases associated with metabolic derangements, but the association between liver disease and seizures remains unclear. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study using inpatient and outpatient claims between 2008 and 2015 from a nationally representative 5% sample of Medicare beneficiaries. The primary exposure variable was cirrhosis, and the secondary exposure was mild, noncirrhotic liver disease. The primary outcome was seizure, and the secondary outcome was status epilepticus. Diagnoses were ascertained using validated International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Edition, Clinical Modification codes. Survival statistics were used to calculate incidence rates, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the association between exposures and outcomes while adjusting for seizure risk factors. Results Among 1 782 402 beneficiaries, we identified 10 393 (0.6%) beneficiaries with cirrhosis and 19 557 (1.1%) with mild, noncirrhotic liver disease. Individuals with liver disease were older and had more seizure risk factors than those without liver disease. Over 4.6 ± 2.2 years of follow-up, 49 843 (2.8%) individuals were diagnosed with seizures and 25 patients (0.001%) were diagnosed with status epilepticus. Cirrhosis was not associated with seizures (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.0-1.3), but there was an association with status epilepticus (HR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.3-2.8). Mild liver disease was not associated with a higher risk of seizures (HR = 0.8, 95% CI = 0.6-0.9) or status epilepticus (HR = 1.1, 95% CI = 0.7-1.5). Significance In a large, population-based cohort, we found an association between cirrhosis and status epilepticus, but no overall association between liver disease and seizures.
Risk Factors for Early Reoperation After Operative Treatment of Acetabular Fractures.

Objectives To identify the risk factors for early reoperation after operative fixation of acetabular fractures. Design Retrospective evaluation. Setting Level I Trauma Center. Patients Seven hundred ninety-one patients with displaced acetabular fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) from 2006 to 2015. Average follow-up was 52 weeks. Main outcome measures Early reoperation after acetabular ORIF, defined as secondary procedure for infection or revision within 3 years of initial operation. Results Fifty-six (7%) patients underwent irrigation and debridement for infection and wound complications. Four associated risk factors identified were length of stay in the intensive care unit, pelvic embolization, operative time, and time delay between injury and surgical fixation. Sixty-two (8%) patients underwent early revision, including 45 conversions to total hip arthroplasty, 10 revision ORIF, 6 fixation device removals because of concern for joint penetration (2 acutely and 4 > 6 months after surgery), and 1 stabilization procedure. Three risk factors associated with early revision were hip dislocation, articular comminution, and concomitant femoral head or neck injury. Combined injuries to the pelvic ring and acetabulum, fracture pattern, marginal impaction, and body mass index had no significant effect on early revision surgery. Conclusions Risk factors for early reoperation after operative fixation of acetabular fractures differed based on the reason for return to the operating room. Infection was more likely to occur in patients who had prolonged stays in the intensive care unit, had prolonged operative times, were embolized, or experienced delay in time to fixation. Revision was more likely with hip dislocation, articular comminution, femoral head or neck fracture, and advancing age. Level of evidence Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Recent developments in redox-active olefin polymerization catalysts

Abstract Olefin polymerization catalysis is an ever-growing and ever-evolving field that is of strategic importance as scientists continually search for new methods to produce advanced polymeric materials. Polymerization catalysts are routinely used to regulate the incorporation of one or more monomers into a polymer chain, which can in-turn dictate the mechanical properties of the resultant material. If chemists are able to control when, how, and to what extent these monomers are polymerized, they can then selectively tailor materials to any targeted application. Significant efforts have been devoted to the development of advanced catalysts whose reactivity may be modulated in situ to produce a range of polymers varying in both their thermal and mechanical properties. To achieve the goal of catalyst modulation in situ, many scientists have turned to redox-active catalysis as a next-generation tool. This review discusses the recent evolution of redox-active olefin polymerization catalysts, which has extensively focused on the use of palladium and nickel-based catalysts. Furthermore, their ability to modulate catalytic activity, polymer microstructure, and even polyolefin grade will be described.
Role of PITX2 in the Pituitary Gland

The pituitary gland is a neuroendocrine organ composed of specialized peptide hormone-producing cells that control many bodily functions. Pituitary development depends on the combined activity of extrinsic signaling molecules and intrinsic transcription factors. One of the earliest acting transcription factors in pituitary development is PITX2, a homeobox transcription factor required for expansion of the pituitary primordium, Rathke’s pouch. Analysis of an allelic series in mice revealed that pituitary gland size and the specification of individual pituitary cell types are also dependent upon Pitx2, and this dependence is sensitive to Pitx2 gene dosage. Mechanistically this pituitary phenotype results from the inability of low levels of PITX2 to activate gene expression of several lineage specific transcription factors, such as Gata2, Sf1 (Nr5a1), Egr1 and Pit1. Our understanding of Pitx2 gene dosage effects on pituitary development suggests a basis for dosage sensitive defects in other organs of Rieger syndrome patients. In addition, analysis of the allelic series in mice raises the possibility of gonadotropin and PIT1 lineage defects in individuals with loss of PITX2 function.
CLONING OF HUMAN T-LYMPHOCYTES

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the cloning of human T-lymphocytes. The cloning efficiency and regulatory kinetics provide valuable data regarding abnormalities of lymphoid populations in autoimmune disease. The chapter describes a study in which the ability of purified peripheral blood T-cells isolated by E-rosette formation to form colonies in the absence of monocytes were determined. Also, the cloning efficiency of MOLT 4 and RAJI cells was compared. The cloning efficiency of PBL from 20 normal volunteers was compared to 14 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Patients taking high dose prednisone or cytotoxic agents were excluded from the study. A characterization of cell types revealed markers consistent with those attributable to cells of T-lymphocyte lineage. When the cloning efficiency of cells from normal volunteers is compared with that of MOLT-4 cells and RAJI cells, the colonies are suggested to consist of T-lymphocytes or their precursors. The cloning efficiency of MOLT-4 cells is significantly reduced below that of normal volunteers, suggesting fundamental functional changes in transformed cells.
Ways to Measure and Calculate Tissue Concentrations of ATP, ADP, AMP, Pi, and PCr and to Calculate ΔG ∼ATP

Because the phosphoryl bond is so labile, obtaining reliable measures of the concentrations of ATP and phosphocreatine (PCr) in tissue is a major challenge. Furthermore, because ADP and Pi concentrations in the myocyte are very low compared to the concentrations of ATP and PCr, obtaining good estimates for their concentrations are also difficult. This is because changes in ATP and PCr too small to be detected by any standard assay (in the order of a few percent) can lead to many-fold increases in estimates for ADP and Pi concentrations. The goal of all approaches used to obtain estimates of compounds containing high-energy phosphate bonds and their products is to prevent ATP and PCr hydrolysis. In this chapter, we will present in some detail how to measure and calculate the cytosolic concentrations of ATP, ADP, AMP, PCr and Pi and to calculate ΔG∼ATP.
Vocabulary in Language Teaching

This module focuses on the pivotal role of vocabulary in language acquisition, communication, and instruction. It first reviews the nature of vocabulary knowledge, the mental lexicon, and different contexts of vocabulary learning. It then explains how we acquire vocabulary and refine vocabulary knowledge over time. The primary emphasis is on how language instructors can promote evidence-based vocabulary instruction in the classroom. To this effect, the module highlights some telling research on the effects of specific tasks (such as sentence writing and copying target words) and different ways of presenting target words (such as having multiple talkers instead of a single talker produce the target words) and outlines an effective approach to vocabulary instruction, one that emphasizes multiple presentations of target vocabulary, specificity in the relationship between task type and learning outcomes, and the gradual build-up of language-specific vocabulary knowledge over time. A sample lesson based on this approach is also provided. Please visit the series companion website for more information: http://routledgetextbooks.com/textbooks/9781315679594/
Correction to: The near repeats of gun violence using acoustic triangulation data

Due to an unfortunate oversight an error occured in the sentence “A Bookings Institution report by Carr and Doleac (2016) provides a more scientifically grounded non-reporting estimate of 12% of gunfire incidents.”
Adjoint-Based Inverse Design of Nonlinear Nanophotonic Devices

We extend the frequency-domain adjoint method to nonlinear optical systems, which enables the gradient-based optimization and inverse design of novel devices. As illustrations, we devise compact photonic switches in a Kerr nonlinear material.© 2019 The Author(s)
Towards Characterization of All 3 × 3 Extremal Quasiconvex Quadratic Forms

Given a d × d quasiconvex quadratic form, d ≥ 3, we prove that if the determinant of its acoustic tensor is an irreducible extremal polynomial that is not identically zero, then the form itself is an extremal quasiconvex quadratic form; i.e., it loses its quasiconvexity whenever a convex quadratic form is subtracted from it. In the special case d=3, we slightly weaken the condition; namely we prove that if the determinant of the acoustic tensor of the quadratic form is an extremal polynomial that is not a perfect square, then the form itself is an extremal quadratic form. In the case d=3 we also prove that if the determinant of the acoustic tensor of the form is identically zero, then the form is either extremal or polyconvex. Also, if the determinant of the acoustic tensor of the form is a perfect square, then the form is either extremal or polycovex, or is a sum of a rank-1 form and an extremal whose acoustic tensor determinant is identically zero. Here we use the notion of extremality introduced by Milton in 1990.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.