cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrated Genomic Characterization of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma

Summary Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer. Here, we describe the genomic landscape of 496 PTCs. We observed a low frequency of somatic alterations (relative to other carcinomas) and extended the set of known PTC driver alterations to include EIF1AX , PPM1D , and CHEK2 and diverse gene fusions. These discoveries reduced the fraction of PTC cases with unknown oncogenic driver from 25% to 3.5%. Combined analyses of genomic variants, gene expression, and methylation demonstrated that different driver groups lead to different pathologies with distinct signaling and differentiation characteristics. Similarly, we identified distinct molecular subgroups of BRAF -mutant tumors, and multidimensional analyses highlighted a potential involvement of oncomiRs in less-differentiated subgroups. Our results propose a reclassification of thyroid cancers into molecular subtypes that better reflect their underlying signaling and differentiation properties, which has the potential to improve their pathological classification and better inform the management of the disease.
Evolutionary relationships and implications for the regulation of phospholipase A2 from snake venom to human secreted forms.

The amino acid sequences of 40 secreted phospholipase A2's (PLA2) were aligned and a phylogenetic tree derived that has three main branches corresponding to elapid (group I), viperid (group II), and insect venom types of PLA2. The human pancreatic and recently determined nonpancreatic sequences in the comparison align with the elapid and viperid categories, repectively, indicating that at least two PLA2 genes existed in the vertebrate line before the divergence of reptiles and mammals about 200–300 million years ago. This allows resolution for the first time of major genetic events in the evolution of current PLA2's and the relationship of human PLA2's to those of snake venom, many of which are potent toxins. Implications for possible mechanisms of regulation of mammalian intra- and extracellular PLA2's are discussed, as well as issues relating to the search for the controlling enzymes in arachidonic acid release, prostaglandin generation, and signal transduction.
Pro-Neoplastic Effects of Amphiregulin in Colorectal Carcinogenesis

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) family plays critical roles in intestinal epithelial growth and transformation. Amphiregulin (AREG) is a member of the EGF family, and has been suggested to be more important to tumor versus normal growth. The precise roles of AREG in colorectal carcinogenesis have not been thoroughly elucidated. AREG expression was analyzed in colon cancer specimens using immunohistochemistry. Genetically disruption of AREG in APC min/+ mouse was achieved by crossbreeding AREG knockout mouse with APC min/+ mice. Knockdown AREG expression was accomplished by using plasmid-based RNA interference. Growth-stimulatory effects of AREG were determined using cell co-culture systems. AREG was expressed in both epithelial and stromal compartments in human colon cancer; however, it was regulated by different mechanisms. AREG was predominantly regulated at transcriptional level in colon cancer cells while both transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms were involved in colon cancer derived myofibroblasts. Functionally, knockout of AREG strongly reduced tumorigenicity in APC min/+ mice. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the coordinate expression of AREG, EGF receptor activity, and cell proliferation marker in APC min/+ mouse adenoma, indicating the growth-stimulatory function of AREG signaling in tumor development. Furthermore, we demonstrated that AREG may stimulate tumor cell growth through both autocrine and paracrine pathways in cell culture models. Knockdown of AREG impaired the ability of anchorage-independent growth of transformed intestinal epithelial cells. On the other hand, myofibroblast-produced AREG stimulated the growth of colon cancer cells when co-cultured in extracellular matrix. AREG plays pro-neoplastic roles in colorectal carcinogenesis and may be targeted for colon cancer prevention and treatment.
Kinematics of the HH 43 Flow: Evidence for a Precessing Jet?

High spectral resolution long-slit spectra of HH 43 obtained in the 1–0 S(1) line of H2 are reported. A direct image of HH 43 obtained in the 1–0 S(1) line of H2 reveals a close correspondence with knots as seen in optical [S II] and Hα emission. We suggest that ambient molecular gas is being entrained and shocked by an atomic flow. The position-velocity diagram along the central axis of HH 43 as seen in H2 reveals a sinusoidal-like structure with a semiamplitude of 8 km s-1 and a spatial wavelength of about 8000 AU. A direct Hα image of HH 43 shows evidence for a morphological wiggle with a semiamplitude of about 2'' that has the same spatial wavelength and phase seen in the 8 km s-1 kinematic oscillation. These data suggest that HH 43 may be produced by a precessing jet in a close pre–main-sequence binary system. Possible system parameters are explored.
Color stability and sensory characteristics of fresh and enhanced pork loins from immunologically castrated barrows

Our objective was to evaluate color changes during storage of fresh pork chops and enhanced and nonenhanced loin quality from anti-gonadotropin-releasing factor (Improvest) immunologically castrated (IC) barrows. In study 1, treatments evaluated were IC barrows, IC barrows fed ractopamine (IC+RAC), physically castrated (PC) barrows, intact males (IM), and gilts. Fresh loins were evaluated for sensory characteristics and instrumental tenderness including both Warner-Bratzler Shear force (WBSF) and star probe force. In study 2, treatments evaluated were IC barrows fed 0.55% and 0.65% standard ileal digestible (SID) lysine and PC barrows fed 0.55% SID lysine. Loin chops were displayed for 7 d, and color was evaluated. The remaining loin was halved, and one half was enhanced with a 3.5% salt and phosphate solution. Enhanced loins were evaluated for sensory characteristics and instrumental tenderness. In both studies, pen served as the experimental unit for all traits measured. Data from individual animals were averaged by pen and analyzed, per study, as a 1-way ANOVA using the MIXED procedure of SAS. In study 1, there were no differences ( 0.05) between treatments for juiciness, tenderness, chewiness, or off-flavor. Intact males had the most intense ( 0.05) boar aroma. Gilts had the most intense ( 0.05), and there were no interactions of enhancement with castration treatments. These data suggest that immunological castration does not negatively impact the color stability, sensory characteristics, or tenderness of enhanced or nonenhanced pork loins.
Effects of oral contraceptives and obesity on carrier tests for phenylketonuria.

Abstract Carriers of phenylketonuria have previously been detected by tests based on fasting levels of plasma phenylalanine and tyrosine or on the height and shape of the tolerance curve after a phenylalanine load. Compared with controls, carriers have higher plasma phenylalanine levels and lower tyrosine levels. Plasma tyrosine levels in women vary with hormonal changes so that plasma tyrosine levels and plasma phenylalanine-tyrosine ratios are not very reliable as tests for female heterozygotes of phenylketonuria. Plasma phenylalanine levels after an oral phenylalanine load were the same in controls and in women taking oral contraceptives. This indicates that there is no significant change in phenylalanine metabolism, and the decrease in plasma tyrosine could therefore be due to increased metabolism of the tyrosine. When the amount of the phenylalanine load is based on weight (100 mg/kg), there is a positive correlation between the plasma phenylalanine levels and degree of obesity as measured by Rohrer's ponderal index Wt(g) × 100/Ht(cm)3. In most studies carriers have been older and heavier than controls, suggesting that many of the tests may have distinguished between carriers and controls largely on the basis of degree of obesity. The validity of some of the tests for carriers of phenylketonuria is therefore in doubt.
Thorium and uranium M-shell x-ray production cross sections by 4.5–11.3 MeV carbon ion and 4.5–13.5 MeV oxygen ion bombardment

The M-shell x-ray production cross sections for thorium and uranium have been measured for carbon ions with energies from 4.5 to 11.3 MeV with the charge state q increasing from 2 to 4, and oxygen ions with energies from 4.5 to 13.5 MeV with the charge state q increasing from 2 to 5. These cross sections are compared to the predictions of the first Born (PWBA+OBKN) and ECUSAR ionization theories, which were evaluated in a novel manner for the C+q and O+q energies and charge states of the data and converted to x-ray production cross sections with atomic parameters for a singly ionized M-shell and multiple ionization in the outer shells. Individual groups of M-shell transitions are also compared to the two ionization theories. The ECUSAR theory is shown to describe the measurements better than the first Born approximation. It is found to be in generally good agreement for all the total M-shell x-ray production and M-shell lines except for the Mγ cross sections. Reasons for the overestimation of the Mγ data are discussed.
Archaeological Contributions of Skeletal Lead Analysis

We developed a chemical method to quantitate lead in small skeletal specimens and used it to establish lead distribution and quantitation in modern skeletons for all age groups to standardize sampling sites. Application of the method to excavated ancient skeletal collections enabled prediction of socioeconomic status among Colonial Americans, as well as identification of lead poisoning in ancient Rome as related to lead production and in an 18th century Caribbean epidemic as related to distillation of rum. Depending upon the conditions of burial, bones may be contaminated by surrounding material. This can be a limiting factor for interpretation of lead levels, but multielement analysis and procedural modifications can permit continuing application of bone lead analysis to appropriately selected archaeological skeletal collections.
Does Creativity Have a Place in Classroom Discussions? Prospective Teachers' Response Preferences.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine prospective middle and secondary teachers’ preferences for unique versus relevant student responses during classroom discussions. Results indicate that, on average, prospective teachers (N = 70) preferred relevance to uniqueness in student responses. In addition, results of regression analysis indicate that prospective teachers’ preference for unique responses varied as a function of grade level and academic subject area. Finally, analysis of written explanations revealed nuanced reasons for prospective teachers’ preferences ranging from viewing unique responses as potentially distracting to viewing any response as acceptable because of a desire to encourage student participation. Implications for future research and teacher education are discussed.
REGNET: Regulatory information management, compliance and analysis

Abstract This paper provides an overview of a research effort that aims to investigate methodologies and tools to facilitate access, compliance and analysis of government regulations. The complexity, diversity, and volume of government regulations are detrimental to business and hinder public understanding of government. The burden of complying with regulations can fall disproportionately on small businesses since these businesses may not have the expertise or resources to keep track of the regulations and the requirements. Regulations emanating from different agencies, each has its own objectives and scopes of concerns, may overlap on similar and related issues and may have inconsistency. The situation can potentially be improved by developing appropriate methodologies and tools that can help facilitate the development and analysis of regulatory documents as well as compliance process. To illustrate, this paper discusses the applications of information technology for selected services related to regulations, such as compliance assistance and comparison of regulations.
Biological research on drug abuse and addiction in Hispanics: Current status and future directions

Impressive progress has been made in the understanding of biological contributions to drug abuse and addiction. An area that has only recently begun to receive attention is potential ethnic and racial differences in biological systems that contribute to, or protect from, problem drug use. This article reviews recent research on drug abuse and addiction in Hispanics in which biological questions have been addressed, including work on genes, gene products (proteins), physiology and pharmacotherapy. Taken together, work to date suggests that there are both similarities and differences between Hispanics and other ethnic groups in biological factors related to drug abuse and addiction. Although the results are intriguing, relatively few studies have been done, and those that have been done have often been inconclusive due to low numbers of Hispanic subjects. Moreover, studies have often failed to recognize the complexity and heterogeneity of Hispanic populations in the United States and around the world. After reviewing the current status of the field, recommendations are given for future research in both humans and relevant animal models that will lead to a better understanding of drug abuse and addiction in Hispanics.
Pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen, antipyrine, and salicylic acid in the lactating and nursing rabbit, with model predictions of milk to serum concentration ratios and neonatal dose.

The rabbit was utilized for examining the pharmacokinetics of three compounds (acetaminophen, AC; antipyrine, AN; and salicylic acid, SA) in nursing adults and their suckling offspring and for assessing the ability of a diffusional model to predict milk to serum drug concentration ratios (M/S) from in vitro experiments. AC, AN, and SA serum concentration time profiles declined monoexponentially for both adults and their pups. The mean systemic clearance (Cls) for AC in the adults and pups was 16.1 and 13.7 ml/min/kg, respectively. The mean half-lives of AC (t1/2) were 25.5 and 33.3 min in the adult and pup groups, respectively. AN declined in parallel for adult rabbits and an older group of suckling pups (23-25 days old). In a younger group of pups (18-21 days old) it declined with a longer t1/2 (97.5, 95.1, and 347.6 min in the adults, older pups, and younger pups, respectively). The mean AN Cls in the adults, the older pups, and the younger pups was 5.34, 6.30, and 1.91 ml/min/kg, respectively. The time course of SA was prolonged in the suckling pups (t1/2 of 633 min in the pups vs 78.7 min in the adult). The mean Cls values in the adults and the pups were 1.05 and 0.27 ml/min/kg, respectively. The mean systemic clearance of unbound drug (Clu) for SA was 11.2 ml/min/kg in the adults and 0.92 ml/min/kg in the pups. The serum protein binding of AC and AN was limited, whereas the mean free fraction for SA was 9.7% in adult serum and 32.5% in pup serum. AC and AN in milk paralleled serum drug profiles; a time lag was noted for milk SA. M/S ratios were determined in vivo (M/Sobs; AN = 0.885, AC = 0.580, and SA = 0.125) using area under the milk and serum concentration time profiles. Predicted M/S values (M/Spred; AN = 0.779, AC = 0.578, and SA = 0.085) were calculated from in vitro measurements of the unbound fractions of drug in skim milk and serum, the skim to whole milk drug concentration ratio, milk and serum pH, and the pKa of the model compound. Mean values for M/Sobs were highly correlated with M/Spred values (r2 = 0.976) when the present data were combined with previous data for propranolol, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and diazepam (Fleishaker, J.C., and McNamara, P.J., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 244, 919, 1988). These results support the usefulness of the diffusional model for predicting M/S in vivo, provided that the distributional process is governed by passive diffusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Characterization of three heat-shock-protein genes and their developmental regulation during somatic embryogenesis in white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss)

Three cDNAs (PgEMB22, 27 and 29) predicted to encode low-molecular-weight (LMW) heat-shock proteins (HSPs) were cloned and characterized from white spruce [Picea glauca (Moench) Voss] somatic embryo tissues by differentially screening a cotyledonary embryo cDNA library. Clone PgEMB22 is predicted to encode a putative mitochondria-localized LMW HSP, and PgEMB27 and 29 are predicted to encode different cytoplasmic class II LMW HSPs, although they share 84.7% identity within DNA coding regions and 83.0% identity for predicted proteins. They are developmentally regulated during somatic embryo development and subsequent embryo germination, in addition they show strong response to heat-shock stress. Transcripts of the two kinds of hsp genes could be detected in embryogenic tissues before induction of embryo maturation, but subsequently increased, being most abundant at late embryo stages. Gene expression levels were very low or not detectable in germinated plantlets or needle tissues from older plants. Abscisic acid and polyethylene glycol, stimulators for spruce embryo maturation, could also induce the hsp genes.
Gas-Phase Conformational Analysis of 1,4,7-Trithiacyclononane

Conformational analysis of 1,4,7-trithiacyclononane, [9]aneS3, in the gas phase was done using three techniques: ab initio molecular orbital calculations at the HF and MP2 levels as well as microwave and photoelectron spectroscopies. The photoelectron spectroscopic data show evidence for at least two conformations with different ionization energies. Using the calculated photoelectron spectra, the observed sulfur 3p ionization peaks can be assigned to C1 and C2 conformations. Forty of the observed microwave transitions can be assigned to a C1 symmetry, asymmetric top, rigid rotor spectrum with rotational constants A = 1155.651(3) MHz, B = 998.442(3) MHz, and C = 629.426(2) MHz. Additional microwave lines are believed to be due to a nonrigid C2 symmetry conformation. No significant populations of conformers of higher symmetry are found.
Gene expression profiles in mammary gland of male rats treated with genistein and methoxychlor.

Abstract Humans and wildlife are frequently exposed to mixtures of natural and synthetic endocrine-active compounds. To understand the impact of dietary phytoestrogen on the susceptibility to synthetic chemicals in the environment, we studied the effects of a binary mixture consisting of the isoflavone genistein and the pesticide methoxychlor on the development of the mammary gland. Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to genistein at 800 ppm, methoxychlor at 800 ppm, or their combination through dietary administration to dams during pregnancy and lactation and to the offspring directly after weaning. At post-natal day (PND) 90, offspring rats were killed and their inguinal mammary glands collected for gene expression analysis utilizing the Clontech Atlas Rat 1.2 cDNA array, which contains probes for 1176 genes. Treatment with both genistein and methoxychlor altered gene expression profiles of the mammary glands in male rats, and the effects were more prominent in the combination treatment than the single-compound groups. Specific gene changes suggested that treatments affected the stromal and epithelial compartments of the mammary, involving genes controlling growth factor signaling, apoptosis, and tissue remodeling. This study demonstrates that dietary phytoestrogens in combination with a synthetic endocrine-active chemical can cause unique effects in endocrine-responsive tissues and highlights the importance of studying the effects of chemical combinations on the multiple biological processes underlying toxicological responses.
Assessing streamflow characteristics as limiting factors on benthic invertebrate assemblages in streams across the western United States

Summary 1. Human use of land and water resources modifies many streamflow characteristics, which can have significant ecological consequences. Streamflow and invertebrate data collected at 111 sites in the western U.S.A. were analysed to identify streamflow characteristics (magnitude, frequency, duration, timing and variation) that are probably to limit characteristics of benthic invertebrate assemblages (abundance, richness, diversity and evenness, functional feeding groups and individual taxa) and, thus, would be important for freshwater conservation and restoration. Our analysis investigated multiple metrics for each biological and hydrological characteristic, but focuses on 14 invertebrate metrics and 13 streamflow metrics representing the key associations between streamflow and invertebrates. 2. Streamflow is only one of many environmental and biotic factors that influence the characteristics of invertebrate assemblages. Although the central tendency of invertebrate assemblage characteristics may not respond to any one factor across a large region like the western U.S.A., we postulate that streamflow may limit some invertebrates. To assess streamflow characteristics as limiting factors on invertebrate assemblages, we developed a nonparametric screening procedure to identify upper (ceilings) or lower (floors) limits on invertebrate metrics associated with streamflow metrics. Ceilings and floors for selected metrics were then quantified using quantile regression. 3. Invertebrate assemblages had limits associated with all streamflow characteristics that we analysed. Metrics of streamflow variation at daily to inter-annual scales were among the most common characteristics associated with limits on invertebrate assemblages. Baseflow recession, daily variation and monthly variation, in streamflow were associated with the largest number of invertebrate metrics. Since changes in streamflow variation are often a consequence of hydrologic alteration, they may serve as useful indicators of ecologically significant changes in streamflow and as benchmarks for managing streamflow for ecological objectives. 4. Relative abundance of Plecoptera, richness of non-insect taxa and relative abundance of intolerant taxa were associated with multiple streamflow metrics. Metrics of sensitive taxa (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera), and intolerant taxa generally had ceilings associated with flow metrics while metrics of tolerant taxa, non-insects, dominance and chironomids generally had floors. Broader characteristics of invertebrate assemblages such as abundance and richness had fewer limits, but these limits were nonetheless associated with a broad range of streamflow characteristics.
Role of peritubular capillary forces in the renal action of carbonic anhydrase inhibitor

Role of peritubular capillary forces in the renal action of carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Micropuncture study was performed in Munich–Wistar rats to assess peritubular capillary Starling forces in renal superficial cortex during suppression of proximal fluid reabsorption by carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Administration of benzolamide (2 mg/kg/hr, i.v., Group 1, N=7 rats) caused not only reduction in absolute rate of proximal fluid reabsorption (APR, from 26.7 ± 4.0 nl/min to 17.7 ± 3.6, P
Attributable costs of differentiated thyroid cancer in the elderly Medicare population.

Background Little is known about costs associated with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) and follow-up care. This study used data from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database to examine cumulative costs attributable to disease stage and treatment options of DTC in elderly patients over 5 years. Methods We identified 2,823 patients aged >65 years with DTC and 5,646 noncancer comparison cases from SEER Medicare data between 1995 and 2005. Cumulative costs were obtained by estimating average costs/patient in each month up to 60 months after diagnosis. We performed multivariate analyses of costs by fitting each monthly cost to linear models, controlling for demographics and comorbidities. Marginal effects of covariates were obtained by summing coefficients over 60 months. Results Cumulative costs were $17,669/patient the first year and $48,989/patient 5 years after diagnosis. Regional disease was associated with higher costs at 1 year ($9,578) and 5 years ($8,902). Distant disease was associated with 1-year costs of $28,447 and 5-year costs of $20,103. Patients undergoing surgery and radiation had a decrease in cost of $722 at 5 years. Conclusion DTC in the elderly is associated with significant economic burden largely attributable to patient demographics, stage of disease, and treatment modalities.
What is the slope of the U.S. continental slope

Extensive high-resolution, multibeam bathymetry of five U. S. continental margins provides new, detailed information about the angle of continental slopes in different sedimentary and tectonic settings. The steepest continental slope examined is the passive-carbonate west Florida slope (4.4{degree} regional slope and 12.0{degree} mean local slope). The steepest of the four clastic continental slopes is the passive New Jersy-Maryland slope (2.5{degree} and 7.6{degree}). Less steep, at both regional and local scales, are the more rugged, tectonically active and probably unstable salt-tectonized louisiana slope (0.5{degree} and 2.9{degree}), strike-slip California slope (1.8{degree} and 5.2{degree}) and convergent oregon slope (2.0{degree} and 5.2{degree}). Frequency grids of local slope magnitude vs. depth and dip direction for the two passive continental slopes reflect present-day morphology predominantly being shaped by lithology (West Florida), sedimentation (New Jersey-Maryland), and downslope-directed erosion(New Jersey-Maryland, west Florida). The grids for the three tectonically acctive continental slopes reflect morphology partly (California) to predominantly (Louisiana, Oregon) being shaped by tectonics. 15 refs., 2 figs.
A boycott bandwagon

MARLBORO, Vt. — One of the ways in which a government pursues its objectives is by co-opting communities of intellectuals into direct action on its behalf. Sometimes this action is concrete, as during the Vietnam War when the National Academy of Sciences conducted war research whose existance and content was kept secret from most members.
The binding properties of rat-liver ribosomes: Complexes formed with cytochrome c

Abstract 1. 1. To understand more fully the nature of electrostatic binding to ribosomes and to gain greater insight into the effect such binding may have on the structure of these particles, the binding of the oxidized monomer form of cytochrome c to 80-S rat-liver ribosomes and to the 47-S ribosomal subunit was investigated. 2. 2. The binding to 80-S ribosomes and to the larger ribosomal subunit, 47 S, was found to be similar. The binding constants decreased rapidly from 0.16·10 6 almost to zero as the ionic strength increased from 0.022 to 0.124. The number of binding sites on the 80-S monomers also decreased with increasing ionic strength perhaps as a result of an increase in compactness at the higher salt concentrations. 3. 3. In solutions of 0.04 ionic strength there was a slight but continuous decrease in binding strengths as the pH increased from 6.5 to 9.5. Secondary binding, only one-tenth as strong, but also electrostatic in nature, became evident above pH 7.6. At neutral pH, 115 molecules of cytochrome were bound per 80-S ribosome and 93 molecules per 47-S subunit. 4. 4. The form taken by the complex was a function of pH, ionic strength, temperature, and the ratio of the concentrations of the reactants.
A voterless strategy for defect-tolerant nano-architectures

Redundancy techniques, such as N-tuple modular redundancy, has been widely used to correct faulty behavior of components and achieve high reliability. However, the NMR systems, and many other redundancy-based strategies, are all based on majority voting. The voter, therefore, becomes a critical block for the correct operation of any NMR system. In this paper, we propose a voterless defect-tolerant strategy to implement a robust NMR system design. We show that using a novel communication mechanism, namely logic code division multiple access, and inexpensive transceivers, we can transfer data with extremely low error rates among N modules and completely eliminate the need for the voter block. Such a highly reliable strategy is vital for future nano systems in which high defect rate is expected. Experimental results are also reported to verify the concept, clarify the design procedure and measure the systempsilas reliability.
Mouse strain influences angiogenic response to dextran sodium sulfate–induced colitis

Abstract Background Angiogenesis is a known pathologic factor in chronic inflammatory diseases. Regarding the murine dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) colitis model, different mouse strains produce variable clinical and inflammatory responses. We hypothesize that DSS colitis applied to diverse mouse strains will similarly elevate colonic microvessel density in parallel with inflammation, but will do so with different angiogenic profiles. Materials and methods We induced DSS colitis in 129S2/SvPas, BALB/c, and C57BL/6 mice, then performed histologic and molecular analysis at day 7 to evaluate colonic inflammation and angiogenesis. Results Inflammation and microvessel density were similarly increased in DSS groups. The C57BL/6 cohort mounted a more severe colitis with 25% weight loss and greater colonic ulceration. Gene expression of angiogenic factors at baseline and in colitis groups were widely variable among strains. BALB/c mice exhibited higher angiogenic gene expression in control and DSS groups compared with other strains, specifically platelet-derived growth factor, angiopoietin-1, angiopoietin-1 (Ang-2), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, and PDGF receptor. When evaluating the effect of DSS relative to controls, BALB/c mice were not significantly affected. 129S2/SvPas mice exhibited broad suppression of growth factors, significantly platelet-derived growth factor, Ang-2, and PDGF receptor. In contrast, C57BL/6 mice displayed increased gene expression, especially for angiopoietin-1 and Ang-2. Conclusions Genetic heterogeneity influences the angiogenic profile elicited by DSS colitis. We demonstrate that within a model of murine colitis, mouse strain significantly affects inflammation-associated angiogenesis. These results may impact strain selection when using a colitis model focusing on inflammation and angiogenesis. Future studies to further define the angiogenesis pathway and potentially alter the disease course with targeted antiangiogenics are warranted.
Multiple protein kinase pathways are involved in gastrin-releasing peptide receptor-regulated secretion.

Abstract Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) and its amphibian homolog, bombesin, are potent secretogogues in mammals. We determined the roles of intracellular free Ca2+([Ca2+]i), protein kinase C (PKC), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in GRP receptor (GRP-R)-regulated secretion. Bombesin induced either [Ca2+]i oscillations or a biphasic elevation in [Ca2+]i. The biphasic response was associated with peptide secretion. Receptor-activated secretion was blocked by removal of extracellular Ca2+, by chelation of [Ca2+]i, and by treatment with inhibitors of phospholipase C, conventional PKC isozymes, and MAPK kinase (MEK). Agonist-induced increases in [Ca2+]i were also inhibited by dominant negative MEK-1 and the MEK inhibitor, PD89059, but not by an inhibitor of PKC. Direct activation of PKC by a phorbol ester activated MAPK and stimulated peptide secretion without a concomitant increase in [Ca2+]i. Inhibition of MEK blocked both bombesin- and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate-induced secretion. GRP-R-regulated secretion is initiated by an increase in [Ca2+]i; however, elevated [Ca2+]i is insufficient to stimulate secretion in the absence of activation of PKC and the downstream MEK/MAPK pathways. We demonstrated that the activity of MEK is important for maintaining elevated [Ca2+]i levels induced by GRP-R activation, suggesting that MEK may affect receptor-regulated secretion by modulating the activity of Ca2+-sensitive PKC.
Shotgun proteomics reveals physiological response to ocean acidification in Crassostrea gigas

Ocean acidification as a result of increased anthropogenic CO2 emissions is occurring in marine and estuarine environments worldwide. The coastal ocean experiences additional daily and seasonal fluctuations in pH that can be lower than projected end-of-century open ocean pH reductions. In order to assess the impact of ocean acidification on marine invertebrates, Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) were exposed to one of four different pCO2 levels for four weeks: 400 μatm (pH 8.0), 800 μatm (pH 7.7), 1000 μatm (pH 7.6), or 2800 μatm (pH 7.3). At the end of the four week exposure period, oysters in all four pCO2 environments deposited new shell, but growth rate was not different among the treatments. However, micromechanical properties of the new shell were compromised by elevated pCO2. Elevated pCO2 affected neither whole body fatty acid composition, nor glycogen content, nor mortality rate associated with acute heat shock. Shotgun proteomics revealed that several physiological pathways were significantly affected by ocean acidification, including antioxidant response, carbohydrate metabolism, and transcription and translation. Additionally, the proteomic response to a second stress differed with pCO2, with numerous processes significantly affected by mechanical stimulation at high versus low pCO2 (all proteomics data are available in the ProteomeXchange under the identifier PXD000835). Oyster physiology is significantly altered by exposure to elevated pCO2, indicating changes in energy resource use. This is especially apparent in the assessment of the effects of pCO2 on the proteomic response to a second stress. The altered stress response illustrates that ocean acidification may impact how oysters respond to other changes in their environment. These data contribute to an integrative view of the effects of ocean acidification on oysters as well as physiological trade-offs during environmental stress.
Gunshot wounds of the internal carotid artery at the skull base: Management with vein bypass grafts and a review of the literature

Background: Penetrating trauma to the skull base and distal cervical internal carotid artery (ICA) can result in occlusion or pseudoaneurysm formation. The appropriate management strategy for these rare lesions is controversial and includes observation, anticoagulation, carotid ligation, balloon occlusion, or revascularization. Methods: We present the management and outcomes of four consecutive patients, two with pseudoaneurysms and two with acute occlusions, after injury to the distal cervical/petrous ICA from gunshot wounds. Preoperative assessment determined intracranial collateral flow patterns and the patency of the distal portion of the petrous ICA. Results: Two patients underwent cervical-to-petrous ICA vein bypass grafts without neurologic complications. Both grafts remain patent without evidence of emboli at 2 years and 3 months, respectively. Both of the conservatively managed patients died, one from a massive cerebral infarction and the other from intracerebral hemorrhage. Conclusions: These cases underscore the need for an aggressive approach to the assessment and management of patients with penetrating vascular skull-base injuries. Although the optimal treatment of remains controversial, when the goal is exclusion of the injured portion of the carotid artery and revascularization, the cervical to petrous ICA vein bypass graft is a valuable management option that can reduce the potential morbidity and mortality from acute ischemic or delayed embolic or hemorrhagic complications, provide immediate restoration of high flow, and allow good surgical access with minimal risk to intracranial structures.
WORKABILITY OF CLAYS

Stress-strain relationships were established in a torsion machine on 6 clays with varying water content in the workable stiff-mud range. Torsion tests gave the following measurements: (1) yield point, (2) maximum torque, (3) angle of deformation at maximum torque, and (4) angle of deformation at ultimate failure. Lawrence clay exhibited the highest angle at maximum torque and angle at ultimate failure of the plastic clays studied. Georgia kaolin had a low yield point, maximum torque, and angle at maximum torque. Workability in the stiff-mud range is not necessarily a measure of workability of the same bodies with different moisture contents.
Stimulated-emission cross sections of the 5 F 1 – 5 I 5 and 5 F 1 – 5 I 6 transitions of Pm 3+ in a phosphate glass

We report a laser cavity measurement of stimulated-emission cross sections for both the 5F1–5I5 (0.93-μm) and 5F1–5I6 (1.1-μm) laser transitions of Pm3+ ions in a lead–indium–phosphate glass host. The measured cross sections for these two transitions are 1.8 × 10−20 (±11%) and 2.8 × 10−20 cm2 (±22%), respectively. These values agree with previously reported values based on a Judd–Ofelt-type analysis of spectroscopic data.
Reexamination of the vacuum ultraviolet emission spectrum of CO in the 950–1200 Å region

Abstract New spectrograms of CO below 1200 A reveal that emission bands terminating on the high energy E 0 1 Σ + and 1Π states plus most of the previously reported unidentified emission bands of CO actually originate from molecular nitrogen. Four new emission band systems in CO, tentatively identified as V1Π-X1Σ+, W1Π-X1Σ+, Y1Σ+-X1Σ+, and Z1Σ+-X1Σ+, have been observed. The corresponding Tv0′s are 98917, 102804, 99963, and 105724 cm−1, respectively.
Antiwear Behavior of ZDDP and Fluorinated ZDDP in the Presence of Alkylated Diphenyl Amine Antioxidants

Environmental regulations have called for a reduction of phosphorus content in engine oils in recent years. The anti-wear additive zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP), which is also an antioxidant, is one of the most important components of engine oil additives. ZDDP is a major source of phosphorus. One way to reduce phosphorus levels is to replace ZDDP with new environmentally friendly antiwear agents that have similar or superior wear performance compared to ZDDP. Another way to address the environmental issue is to reduce the amount of ZDDP in engine oils. At the same time, it is necessary to increase the efficiency of ZDDP by finding optimum conditions that would result in improved antiwear performance. The antiwear mechanism of ZDDP involves its degradation thermally and tribologically, leading to the formation of an antiwear film that consists of polyphosphates and sulphides. The structure of the antiwear film is almost similar in both types of degradation. But the breakdown efficiency of ZDDP is di...
Quantifying publication scholarly activity of psychiatry residency training directors.

The authors quantify the number of PubMed-indexed publications by psychiatry program directors during a 5-year observation period. The authors obtained the names of general adult, child and adolescent, and geriatric psychiatry program directors from the ACGME website and entered them into a PubMed.gov database search. Then, they counted the number of indexed publications from July 2008 to June 2013 and categorized them by academic year. The median number of publications was one for adult psychiatry program directors (n = 184), one for child and adolescent directors (n = 121), and three for geriatric psychiatry directors (n = 58). The number of PubMed-indexed publications for program directors of general adult, child and adolescent, and geriatric psychiatry residencies is relatively low. Further research is needed to identify and examine the challenges facing program directors that may limit their ability to participate in this form of scholarly activity.
Current approaches to the treatment of metastatic brain tumours

Metastatic tumours involving the brain overshadow primary brain neoplasms in frequency and are an important complication in the overall management of many cancers. Importantly, advances are being made in understanding the molecular biology underlying the initial development and eventual proliferation of brain metastases. Surgery and radiation remain the cornerstones of the therapy for symptomatic lesions; however, image-based guidance is improving surgical technique to maximize the preservation of normal tissue, while more sophisticated approaches to radiation therapy are being used to minimize the long-standing concerns over the toxicity of whole-brain radiation protocols used in the past. Furthermore, the burgeoning knowledge of tumour biology has facilitated the entry of systemically administered therapies into the clinic. Responses to these targeted interventions have ranged from substantial toxicity with no control of disease to periods of useful tumour control with no decrement in performance status of the treated individual. This experience enables recognition of the limits of targeted therapy, but has also informed methods to optimize this approach. This Review focuses on the clinically relevant molecular biology of brain metastases, and summarizes the current applications of these data to imaging, surgery, radiation therapy, cytotoxic chemotherapy and targeted therapy.
Antiradiation compounds. XI. Sulfur-containing derivatives of nitriles and aminonitriles.

Attempts to obtain iminothio esters and dithio esters from α-aminoacetonitrile gave stable products only with the amino group acylated by the carbobenzoxy function. An iminothio ester derived from β-aminopropionitrile was found to be relatively stable as the dihydrochloride, however. Examples of both α- and β-cyanoalkylthio-sulfates were found to be stable as the sodium salts. Antiradiation testing of the β-amino iminothio ester dihydrochloride and the α-cyanothiosulfate showed no protective properties.
Effect of Neutralization of Poly(Methacrylic Acid-co-ethyl Acrylate) on Drug Release From Enteric-coated Pellets Upon Accelerated Storage

The effect of neutralization of poly(methacrylic acid-co-ethyl acrylate) or poly(MA-EA) 1:1 (Eudragit L 30 D-55) on drug release from enteric-coated pellets was studied upon accelerated storage. The dissolution rate of un-neutralized poly(MA-EA)-coated pellets decreased while the neutralized polymer-coated pellets maintained a constant drug release rate. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that both un-neutralized and neutralized poly(MA-EA) films became rigid on aging. However, the un-neutralized films were affected more than those neutralized. Neutralization of poly(MA-EA) significantly changed the mechanical properties of coating films and improved the stability of poly(MA-EA) enteric-coated pellets upon accelerated storage at the studied conditions.
The association of the ratio of waist to hip girth with blood pressure, serum cholesterol and serum uric acid in children and youths aged 6–17 years

Abstract To determine whether the association of the ratio of waist to hip girth with cardiovascular risk factors exists in prepubertal children and pubertal youths, the ratio was related to blood pressure, serum cholesterol and serum uric acid levels in children and youths aged 6–17 yr in the Health Examination Survey. In these samples drawn from the United States population, the ratio declined with increasing age. Boys had consistently higher ratios than girls. Black-white differences were inconsistent. The ratio was lower in girls whose menstrual periods had started at each age after 10. The ratio was significantly associated with systolic blood pressure in youths and with diastolic blood pressure in children independent of confounders. It was also significantly associated with serum uric acid but not serum cholesterol independent of confounders among youths. Longitudinal studies are needed of greater abdominal relative to lower body fat deposits in children and youths and risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood.
Preliminary announcement of an 85 percent efficient reflector antenna

This communication is our preliminary announcement and claim for achievement of 85 percent aperture efficiency using a dual reflector antenna. We are aware of no other reflector antenna having such aperture efficiency, and we invite the antenna community to comment, critique, or inform us of equal or better claims. A full report will be forthcoming; this brief note will supply only pertinent highlights.
Atmospheric dispersion and individual exposure of hazardous materials

In this work a new approach for CFD RANS modelling of dispersion of airborne point source releases is presented. The key feature of this approach is the model capability to predict concentration time scales that are functions not only of the flow turbulence scales but also of the pollutant travel time. This approach has been implemented for the calculation of the concentration fluctuation dissipation time scale and the maximum individual exposure at short time intervals. For the estimation of travel time in the Eulerian grid the new 'radioactive tracer method' is introduced. The new approaches were incorporated in the CFD code ADREA. The capabilities of the new approaches are validated against the Mock Urban Setting Trial field experiment data under neutral conditions. The comparisons of model and observations gave quite satisfactory results.
High density cultivation of Anchusa officinalis in a stirred-tank bioreactor with in situ filtration

Previously, Su et al. [Biotechnol Bioeng 42: 884–890 (1993)] reported improved production of rosmarinic acid by Anchusa officinalis in shake-flask cultures using a cultivation strategy that involved intermittent medium exchange. Implementation of this cultivation strategy in 2.5-1 stirred-tank bioreactor cultures is investigated in the present study. Intermittent cell/medium separation in the bioreactor was accomplished by means of automated in situ culture filtration. In the bioreactor culture, rosmarinic acid production was found very sensitive to agitation and aeration conditions as well as dissolved oxygen concentration. A maximum cell density of 35 g dry weight/l and a rosmarinic acid concentration of 3.7 g/l were obtained by maintaining the dissolved oxygen concentration above 30% air saturation, gradually raising the impeller tip speed from 34 cm/s to 72 cm/s, and keeping the aeration rate at 0.44 vvm while increasing the O2: air ratio in the gas feed stream to 4:1. This result is comparable with the data obtained from shake-flask cultures using the same culture strategy.
Fluctuating Energy Balance Method for Postprocessing Multiphase Flow Computations

This paper presents a linear method to postprocess unsteady computations as tied to a fluctuating energy balance. In the field of solid rocket propulsion, this method can be useful to analyze unstable motors with periodic pressure fluctuations within the two-phase flow. It allows one to determine the main fluctuating energy sources in the motor. Derivation of the method is presented in this paper. Moreover, using a simple test case, a fluctuating energy balance approach is compared with a classical linear acoustic balance approach. Both methods produce satisfactory results, but the fluctuating energy balance approach captures more of the physics. Cases, respectively, exhibiting thermoacoustic interaction and parietal vortex shedding are also addressed to show the assets of the fluctuating energy balance approach in comparison with the acoustic balance method.