cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TRIM5α variations influence transduction efficiency with lentiviral vectors in both human and rhesus CD34(+) cells in vitro and in vivo.

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) vectors can transduce human hematopoietic stem cells (HSC), but transduction efficiency varies among individuals. The innate immune factor tripartite motif-containing protein 5α (TRIM5α) plays an important role for restriction of retroviral infection. In this study, we examined whether TRIM5α could account for variations in transduction efficiency using both an established rhesus gene therapy model and human CD34+ cell culture. Evaluation of TRIM5α genotypes (Mamu-1, -2, -3, -4, -5, and TrimCyp) in 16 rhesus macaques that were transplanted with transduced CD34+ cells showed a significant correlation between TRIM5α Mamu-4 and high gene marking in both lymphocytes and granulocytes 6 months after transplantation. Since significant human TRIM5α coding polymorphisms were not known, we evaluated TRIM5α expression levels in human CD34+ cells from 14 donors. Three days after HIV-1 vector transduction, measured transduction efficiency varied significantly among donors and was negatively correlated with TRIM5α expression levels. In summary, transduction efficiency in both rhesus and human CD34+ cells was influenced by TRIM5α variations (genotypes and expression levels). Our findings are important for both understanding and mitigating the variability of transduction efficiency for rhesus and human CD34+ cells.
Equilibrium States of Mechanically Loaded Saturated and Unsaturated Polymer Gels

By a gel we mean a system of crosslinked polymer chains mixed together with a low molecular weight liquid. The polymer and liquid components mix in definite proportions as determined primarily by entropic and enthalpic effects. Swollen gels in equilibrium with a surrounding fluid bath in the absence of mechanical load are often described by a generalized Flory-Huggins equation. In this paper we consider the connection between such a treatment and the broader hyperelastic theory that treats the effect of mechanical loading in deforming the gel. A change in the mechanical loading will generally alter the proportion of liquid in the mixture, leading to either fluid loss (swelling reduction) or fluid gain (swelling increase). In such a case the gel reestablishes equilibrium only when the relative motion of the liquid through the polymer has ceased and processes have come to rest. Such processes are inherently dissipative. Our objective is to study how such reestablished equilibria depend upon mechanical load. For quasi-static loadings that give fluid gain, we then consider a situation in which the amount of available fluid is limited. In this case, increasing quasi-static loading may reach a point at which no additional fluid is available for uptake into the gel system. The associated equilibrium then transitions from a state of liquid saturation to a state in which the gel is no longer saturated. We first consider this quasi-static transition in the context of homogeneous deformation where an appropriate hyperelastic analysis shows that the equilibrium mechanical response is inherently stiffer after loss of saturation. We then consider such a transition in the context of inhomogeneous deformation by studying the boundary value problem of an everted tube subject to an axial load. Loss of saturation again leads to an inherently stiffer quasi-static response.
The Bass-Station: a community based information space

The Bass-Station is a novel mobile device that allows people to easily share their artistic digital belongings with their immediate physical community. Building on currently available technology, incorporated into an everyday object, we create an information space that affords people of an artistic and collaborative community the ability to share and exchange their personal media. The Bass-Station facilitates communication and sharing between people in a local community, making use of technology as a medium for developing relationships and new artistic forms.
Raf-1 protein expression in human breast cancer cells.

Background: TheRaf-1 kinase, a 72-kDa cytoplasmic serine-threonine kinase, plays a central role as a second messenger in signal transduction. After ligand binding to a variety of transmembrane tyrosine kinase growth factor receptors including epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor, the 72-kDa kinase is activated through phosphorylation to a 74-kDa phosphoprotein. TheRaf-1 kinase is constitutively activated in many transformed cells either directly, by mutations within its amino-terminus regulatory region, or indirectly, due to overstimulation by autocrine growth factors or activated proximal oncogenes. The role ofRaf-1 kinase in breast cancer has not been studied. Methods: To investigate the role ofRaf-1 kinase expression and its activation in breast cancer, we studied three human breast cancer cell lines expressing varying amounts of EGF receptor to determine the level ofRaf-1 protein and the proportion expressed in the higher molecular weight form. Effects of serum starvation and stimulation with EGF on theRaf-1 protein were studied in T47D, BT474, and MDA-MB231 cells by precipitation of cell lysates with an anti-Raf-1 antibody followed by immunoblotting. [3H]Thymidine incorporation by these cells after EGF stimulation was also determined as a measure of DNA synthesis. Results: In all three breast cancer cell lines studied, theRaf-1 protein was identified in a 70- and a 74-kDa form. The level ofRaf-1 was similar in all three cell lines and appeared unrelated to EGF receptor expression on the cell surface. The majority of the protein was found in the 74-kDa form even after serum starvation. A minor shift from the lower to higher molecular weight form ofRaf-1 was apparent in cells treated with EGF, and increased [3H]thymidine incorporation could be demonstrated in two of the cell lines after EGF stimulation. Conclusion: Baseline expression of the 74-kDa or activated form of theRaf-1 kinase appeared to be elevated in the breast cancer cells studied, indicating constitutive activation. Further investigation into the role ofRaf-1 protein in the pathogenesis of breast cancer is indicated.
Using mobile devices in a high risk context: The role of risk and trust in an exploratory study in Afghanistan

Abstract Mobile phone adoption and use are common-place in the western world, yet still are associated with risks of loss of privacy and information security. However, in high-risk cultures and countries, such as those at war or threatened by terrorism, mobile phone adoption and benefits of use may be perceived quite differently. In this study, we use e-commerce and adoption theories to build a model of trust and risk as predictors of mobile use benefits in a sample of current mobile users in southern Afghanistan. The responses collected from a survey of over seven thousand Afghani citizens were used to test the research model. The results suggest that despite the potential danger, the mobile device owners who were surveyed perceived the benefits derived from use as being worthwhile. The results are discussed with implications for managers and practitioners provided.
Characterization of the T cell receptor repertoire in patients with common variable immunodeficiency: oligoclonal expansion of CD8(+) T cells.

Abstract Common variable immunodeficiency is characterized by an impairment in antibody production of at least two immunoglobulin isotypes, and abnormalities of both B and T cells have also been described. In this study, a profound alteration of the T cell receptor repertoire was noted, especially in CD8+ T cells, in CVID patients when compared to a control group. However, the higher number of oligoclonally expanded populations seen in the patient group was not dependent on age, whereas in the control group an age-related accumulation of these populations was noted. Expansion of CD8+ CD28− T cells in these patients is strongly correlated with T cell receptor repertoire restriction. Furthermore, analysis of cytokine production showed a statistically significant increase in IFN-γ secretion in the patient group. Lastly, CD94 and perforin were expressed at increased frequencies on CD8+ T cells in the patient group when compared to the control group. We speculate that these findings support the concept that CD8+ T cells may play an important regulatory role in CVID.
Interaction of Human DNA Topoisomerase II α with DNA: Quantification by Surface Plasmon Resonance†

DNA topoisomerase II is an ATP-operated clamp that effects topological changes by capturing a double-stranded DNA segment and transporting it through another duplex. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was used to characterize interactions of human topoisomerase II α with different topological forms of DNA. Using a linear fragment of pUC18 DNA, the equilibrium binding constant of topoisomerase II α was determined to be 0.16 nM. The affinity was not affected by the absence of ATP or the presence of the bisdioxopiperazine catalytic inhibitor ICRF-187. Besides, similar affinities were found for several bisdioxopiperazine-resistant mutant enzymes. These results suggest that the mechanism of topoisomerase II α inhibition by ICRF-187 and its resistance does not directly involve the interaction of DNA with the enzyme. SPR was also adapted to measure levels of the closed clamp form of topoisomerase II present on DNA. As expected, a stable closed clamp form of the enzyme was detectable on circular DNA but not on linea...
Simulations of Arctic Temperature and Pressure by Global Coupled Models

Abstract Simulations of Arctic surface air temperature and sea level pressure by 14 global climate models used in the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change are synthesized in an analysis of biases and trends. Simulated composite GCM surface air temperatures for 1981–2000 are generally 1°–2°C colder than corresponding observations with the exception of a cold bias maximum of 6°–8°C in the Barents Sea. The Barents Sea bias, most prominent in winter and spring, occurs in 12 of the 14 GCMs and corresponds to a region of oversimulated sea ice. All models project a twenty-first-century warming that is largest in the autumn and winter, although the rates of the projected warming vary considerably among the models. The across-model and across-scenario uncertainties in the projected temperatures are comparable through the first half of the twenty-first century, but increases in variability associated with the choice of scenario begin to outpace increases in across-model variabil...
Genetic Variation in BDNF is Associated with Antipsychotic Treatment Resistance in Patients with Schizophrenia

Objective Antipsychotic drugs are the mainstay of treatment for schizophrenia. However, a substantial proportion of patients are poorly responsive or resistant to first-line treatments, and clozapine treatment is often indicated. Therefore, we and others have used clozapine treatment as a proxy phenotype for antipsychotic treatment resistance in pharmacogenetic studies. In the present study, we utilized this phenotype to test previously-identified candidate genes for antipsychotic treatment response.
The prevalence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender health education and training in emergency medicine residency programs: what do we know?

Background The Institute of Medicine, The Joint Commission, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services all have recently highlighted the need for cultural competency and provider education on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) health. Forty percent of LGBT patients cite lack of provider education as a barrier to care. Only a few hours of medical school curriculum are devoted to LGBT education, and little is known about LGBT graduate medical education. Objectives The objective of this study was to perform a needs assessment to determine to what degree LGBT health is taught in emergency medicine (EM) residency programs and to determine whether program demographics affect inclusion of LGBT health topics. Methods An anonymous survey link was sent to EM residency program directors (PDs) via the Council of Emergency Medicine Residency Directors listserv. The 12-item descriptive survey asked the number of actual and desired hours of instruction on LGBT health in the past year. Perceived barriers to LGBT health education and program demographics were also sought. Results There were 124 responses to the survey out of a potential response from 160 programs (response rate of 78%). Twenty-six percent of the respondents reported that they have ever presented a specific LGBT lecture, and 33% have incorporated topics affecting LGBT health in the didactic curriculum. EM programs presented anywhere from 0 to 8 hours on LGBT health, averaging 45 minutes of instruction in the past year (median = 0 minutes, interquartile range [IQR] = 0 to 60 minutes), and PDs support inclusion of anywhere from 0 to 10 hours of dedicated time to LGBT health, with an average of 2.2 hours (median = 2 hours, IQR = 1 to 3.5 hours) recommended. The majority of respondents have LGBT faculty (64.2%) and residents (56.2%) in their programs. The presence of LGBT faculty and previous LGBT education were associated with a greater number of desired hours on LGBT health. Conclusions The majority of EM residency programs have not presented curricula specific to LGBT health, although PDs desire inclusion of these topics. Further curriculum development is needed to better serve LGBT patients.
Processing strategies in picture-sentence verification tasks.

The encoding and comparison strategies used by observers in matching pictures and sentences were investigated. The location of the mismatch or difference between a sentence and a picture was varied, and the latencies of “same”-“different” responses were compared as a function of whether the mismatch occurred in the sentence subject, verb, or object. Sentences were presented auditorily and varied in both voice and reversibility. Pictures either preceded or were presented simultaneously with the sentences. In all cases, Ss adopted a serial self-terminating comparison strategy and a surface structure encoding strategy: The comparison was terminated as soon as a mismatch was encountered, and actives were processed in the order subject-verb-object, whereas passives were processed in the order object-verb-subject.
Probing preferential solvation and ion aggregation with charge transfer triplet states of aromatic amino-nitro compounds

Abstract The charge transfer triplet states of p -aminonitroterphenyl (PANT) p -aminonitrobiphenyl (PANB) and aminonitrofluorene (ANF) were used as probes of preferential solvation and ion clustering in a variety of binary media. The excited states of the above molecules are characterized by very large static dipole moments (“giant dipoles”). As a result, the corresponding transient absorption spectra are highly sensitive to the local polarity of the environment and are very well suited to the study of solvation and association in mixed solvents and solutions of electrolytes. The spectroscopic study of the dynamics and energetics of association of charge-separated species with chemically inert electrolytes has been extended to non-polar solvents. Whereas in tetrahydrofuran (THF) the association process is dominated by ion pairs of the electrolyte, in non-polar solvents the salt is present in the form of larger clusters consisting of several ions. The degree of aggregation strongly depends onethe identity of the ions. These results find support in early cryoscopic and conductometric studies. Solvent mixtures consisting of a non-polar component and a strongly polar cosolvent were investigated over a range of concentrations and temperatures. A non-linear dependence of the free energy of solvation on the concentration of the polar component was observed in all instances, indicating that polar enrichment in the vicinity of the probe had occurred. The non-linearity cannot be fully accounted for by the simple dipole-dipole interaction model, marking the importance of more specific interactions between the probe and molecules of the polar component. The transient spectra of the probes exhibit thermochromic behavior in all the solvent mixtures studied, whereas analogous spectra in neat solvents are virtually independent of temperature. Thermochromic shifts approaching 50 cm − K −1 were measured in toluenedimethylsulfoxide mixtures.
The Life Cycle of the Melon Aphid, Aphis Gossypii Glover, An Example of Facultative Migration

This aphid was observed in Connecticut to complete its annual egg-to-egg cycle on Hibiscus syriacus L. and Catalpa bignonioides Walt. At this latitude secondary hosts are populated by migrants, either from primary host plants or from secondary hosts growing in warmer environments. Both males and females can be produced on the primary host plants. True migrant aphids related to this species produce males only on secondary hosts. Unfavorable environmental periods in the summer are passed as a distinct form. During such periods only small, yellow aphids are observed, and these do not grow or reproduce until favorable conditions are restored. Problems in the designation of type of life cycle and the evolutionary significance of the life cycle of this species are discussed.
Approximate Conditional Inference in Exponential Families via the Gibbs Sampler

Abstract This article presents the Gibbs-Skovgaard algorithm for approximate frequentist inference. The method makes use of the double saddlepoint approximation of Skovgaard to the conditional cumulative distribution function of a sufficient statistic given the remaining sufficient statistics. This approximation is then used in the Gibbs sampler to generate a Markov chain. The equilibrium distribution of this chain approximates the joint distribution of the sufficient statistics associated with the parameters of interest conditional on the observed values of the sufficient statistics associated with the nuisance parameters. This Gibbs-Skovgaard algorithm is applied to the cases of logistic and Poisson regression.
Single event crosstalk prediction in nanometer technologies

As CMOS technology continues to scale down, circuits become increasingly more sensitive to transient pulses caused by single event (SE) particles. On the other hand, coupling effects among interconnects can cause single event transients to contaminate electronically unrelated circuit paths which may increase the SE susceptibility of CMOS circuits. The coupling effects among interconnects need to be considered in single event hardening, modeling and analysis of CMOS logic gates due to technology scaling effects that increase both SE vulnerability and crosstalk effects. This work, for the first time, proposes an SE crosstalk noise estimation method for use in design automation tools. The proposed method uses an accurate 4-? model for interconnect and correctly models the effect of non-switching aggressors as well as aggressor tree branches noting the resistive shielding effect. The SE crosstalk noise expressions derived show very good results in comparison to HSPICE results. Results show that average error for noise peak is about 5.2% while allowing for very fast analysis in comparison to HSPICE.
Asymmetry in the LC resonance characteristic in dc superconducting quantum interference devices: New method of observing pair-quasiparticle interference in superconducting tunnel junctions

The $\mathrm{LC}$ (inductance-capacitance) resonance phenomenon in the dc SQUID (superconducting quantum interference device) creates a current peak in the $I\ensuremath{-}V$ characteristics at a voltage determined by the resonance frequency. These $I\ensuremath{-}V$ characteristics have been analyzed with the resistively shunted Josephson-junction model in the low-damping and small-oscillation regime. The resonance $I\ensuremath{-}V$ characteristics contain sufficient information to determine all circuit parameters for the dc SQUID's. Specifically, we can apply this analysis to symmetric, tunnel-junction dc SQUID's to deduce the pair-quasiparticle interference conductance ($cos\ensuremath{\theta}$ term).
Redesigning Flood Insurance

Insurance and government assistance play central roles in ensuring economic and social resilience in the aftermath of catastrophes in developed countries. Around the globe in the past decade, disasters have led to unprecedented claims payments to insured victims, and government relief to aid the uninsured and the affected communities has risen to historic levels ( 1 – 3 ). Increases in population, property values, and concentration of assets in hazard-prone areas are primary causes ( 2 ). Recent climate studies indicate we should also expect more extreme weather-related events in the future ( 4 – 6 ). The cumulative expected exposure of the U.S. government to catastrophes over the next 75 years could reach $7 trillion ( 7 ).
Professional education for the 21 st century workforce

This paper offers a brief history of the development of professional ‘engineering’ curricula across the last six decades. The affects occasioned by Sputnik, Japanese quality triumphs, the growth of microelectronics, and how subsequent skills deficiencies were addressed by IBM and the professional society community are discussed. Future curriculum or educational problems need cross- or inter-disciplinary solutions. The adoption of project-based learning regimes, emphasizing collaboration, students learning together to solve ambiguous problems, and acquiring modules of theory as necessitated by the problem being dealt with is recommended. In short — “learning by making and creating rather than from the simple consumption of content.”
Principal Component Analysis of Morphology Change at a Tidal Inlet: Shinnecock Inlet, New York

Abstract Principal component analysis was used to identify dominant patterns of change in morphology of five recent LIDAR surveys of Shinnecock Inlet. The first principal component accounted for 55% of the ebb shoal variability over a period of 6 years (21 June 1994 through 3 July 2000) and identified three accretionary features: (1) an updrift bar complex, (2) a downdrift bypass bar, and (3) shore perpendicular bars along the downdrift barrier. The evolution of these features, accounted for in the first principal component, appears to be the result of both a natural deflection of the main ebb channel and realignment of the channel by dredging. Evidence of channel migration is seen in comparison of 14 sequential historical photographs of the inlet from 24 September 1938 to 22 April 1997. This study also documents that sand waves (length = 100 to 200 m) within the outer channel region were displaced because of variations in incident wave climate.
Conservation among the Elderly: An Assessment of Women

Sum.mary.-This study was conducted to investigate decline of abilities to perform Piagetian measures of conservation of surface area, mass, and volume among a volunteer sample of elderly women. All of the 54 volunteer subjects were judged to be middle-class, ambulatory, and approximately "normal, older people" living outside an insticute. Subjects had a mean age of 68.60, showed no overt signs of ill health, and appeared to be alert and responsive. Data indicated that a great proportion of the subjects were able to perform all the Piagetian tasks. During recent years considerable literature has presented evidence that the cognitive functioning of older persons in the late years shows in reverse the pattern of development of the early years; abilities drop out in the same order in which they were acquired (Hooper, Fitzgerald, & Papalia, 1971). This decay in cognitive functioning has been attributed to neurological deterioration which is seen as inevitable in the aging process. Research concerning Piagetian abilities among the elderly (Hooper, 1973; Papalia, 1972; Papalia & Hooper, 1971; Papalia, Salverson, & True, 1973; Sanders, Laurendeau, & Bergerson, 1966) has led to several conclusions: (1) that there is a great deal of variability among persons of older ages in ability to perform Piagetian tasks, (2) there is regression in cognitive functioning during old age, and ( 3) that the explanations for these deficits are nm entirely clear. These researchers admit that in addition to neurological deficit, cohort differences, social isolation, nearness to death or other factors may also be operative. Several studies of conservation abilities amcmg the elderly (Jackson, 1974; Papalia, 1972; Papalia & Bielby, 1974; Papalia, Kennedy, & Sheehan, 1973; Papalia, Salverson, & True, 1973; Rubin, 1976; Rubin, Attewell, Terney, & Tumulo, 1973; Saunders, et al., 1966) have also supported the orderly decline of operational thinking among the elderly. The deterioration in conservation abilities was especially appreciated in the concept of volume, mass, and surface area among a sample of elderly women.
United States immigration policy and indirect immigration of professionals

Abstract Professionals migrate to the U.S. from other countries through both direct and indirect channels. The indirect channel, which entails entering the U.S. as a foreign student or visitor and subsequently adjusting visa status to immigrant, has assumed increasing importance over time. The number of adjustments of status can be expected to further increase in the future as the eligible pool, comprised mainly of foreign students, continues to expand. The ratio of adjustments to the eligible pool is also influenced by U.S. immigration policy, which originates in administrative regulations as well as legislative action. U.S. immigration policy affects the ease of immigration and thus the ratio of adjustments to the eligible pool. Variations in immigration policy across countries and over time are found to have statistically significant impacts on this ratio.
The Role of Ventricular Assist Devices in Advanced Heart Failure

La insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) es un problema, tanto regional como mundial, de primer orden y afecta a mas de 5 millones de estadounidenses. Segun un estudio de la American Heart Association, cada ano se diagnostican unos 550.000 casos nuevos. De estos, aproximadamente 250.000 tienen IC avanzada y permanecen sintomaticos aunque se sometan al tratamiento medico maximo. La IC es la causa mas importante de hospitalizacion, y solo en 2007 supuso un enorme gasto economico de mas de 33.000 millones de dolares. El numero de pacientes con IC cronica sigue creciendo rapidamente debido a los nuevos avances medicos que resultan en que la poblacion vive mas tiempo. Por otro lado, tambien han mejorado considerablemente los tratamientos de episodios de IC descompensada, infarto de miocardio, parada cardiorrespiratoria y shock cardiogenico tras cardiotomia. Para muchos de estos pacientes, el trasplante cardiaco seria la opcion ideal, pero desafortunadamente la lista de espera para un trasplante de corazon va en aumento y el numero de donantes de corazon trasplantable sigue estancado. Por ello, el trasplante cardiaco es una opcion muy limitada que se reserva solo a pacientes con IC avanzada. La asistencia mecanica circulatoria, particularmente la de dispositivos de asistencia ventricular izquierda (DAVI) implantables de forma permanente, esta empezando a llenar este vacio en el caso de los pacientes con IC avanzada que han dejado de responder a un tratamiento medico optimo.
Assessment of phytoplankton distribution in the nearshore zone using continuous in situ fluorometry

Abstract The Lake Ontario Nearshore Nutrient Survey (LONNS) was conducted in the summer of 2008 to evaluate the effect of the dreissenid invasion, Cladophora , and hydrologic forces on nutrient cycling and phytoplankton dynamics in three nearshore areas of Lake Ontario. These three areas (Oak Orchard, Rochester, and Mexico Bay) differed significantly in terms of their watershed character and riverine inputs. A flow-through system composed of commercial sensors was deployed to continuously monitor these three areas and to map water quality parameters and phytoplankton distribution in high spatial resolution. This system was highly redundant, with multiple sensors to measure algal biomass based on chlorophyll and phycocyanin fluorescence. During the summer, pigment concentrations were generally low (
The genesis of an exceptionally lethal venom in the timber rattlesnake ( Crotalus horridus ) revealed through comparative venom-gland transcriptomics

Snake venoms generally show sequence and quantitative variation within and between species, but some rattlesnakes have undergone exceptionally rapid, dramatic shifts in the composition, lethality, and pharmacological effects of their venoms. Such shifts have occurred within species, most notably in Mojave (Crotalus scutulatus), South American (C. durissus), and timber (C. horridus) rattlesnakes, resulting in some populations with extremely potent, neurotoxic venoms without the hemorrhagic effects typical of rattlesnake bites. To better understand the evolutionary changes that resulted in the potent venom of a population of C. horridus from northern Florida, we sequenced the venom-gland transcriptome of an animal from this population for comparison with the previously described transcriptome of the eastern diamondback rattlesnake (C. adamanteus), a congener with a more typical rattlesnake venom. Relative to the toxin transcription of C. adamanteus, which consisted primarily of snake-venom metalloproteinases, C-type lectins, snake-venom serine proteinases, and myotoxin-A, the toxin transcription of C. horridus was far simpler in composition and consisted almost entirely of snake-venom serine proteinases, phospholipases A2, and bradykinin-potentiating and C-type natriuretic peptides. Crotalus horridus lacked significant expression of the hemorrhagic snake-venom metalloproteinases and C-type lectins. Evolution of shared toxin families involved differential expansion and loss of toxin clades within each species and pronounced differences in the highly expressed toxin paralogs. Toxin genes showed significantly higher rates of nonsynonymous substitution than nontoxin genes. The expression patterns of nontoxin genes were conserved between species, despite the vast differences in toxin expression. Our results represent the first complete, sequence-based comparison between the venoms of closely related snake species and reveal in unprecedented detail the rapid evolution of snake venoms. We found that the difference in venom properties resulted from major changes in expression levels of toxin gene families, differential gene-family expansion and loss, changes in which paralogs within gene families were expressed at high levels, and higher nonsynonymous substitution rates in the toxin genes relative to nontoxins. These massive alterations in the genetics of the venom phenotype emphasize the evolutionary lability and flexibility of this ecologically critical trait.
Phytoremediation: the state of rhizosphere ‘engineering’ for accelerated rhizodegradation of xenobiotic contaminants

Phytoremediation has emerged as the method of choice for cleaning up a broad range of environmental contaminants. One process through which plants render some xenobiotic organic contaminants innocuous in soil involves plant–microbe interactions in which root exudates stimulate entire microbial communities, or induce specific enzymes in competent individuals to cause enhanced rhizodegradation. For some contaminants these inherent processes can be slow; however, potentials exist for their improvement through rhizosphere manipulations. Although this requires a greater understanding than currently exists with respect to plant and microbe components and interactions involved in the biodegradation of xenobiotic contaminants, improved understanding is being achieved by advances in biochemical and molecular characterization, and visualization of rhizosphere phenomena. In combination with earlier knowledge of naturally-occurring plant–microbe interactions such as the opine concept, this new knowledge considerably improves the opportunities for manipulating rhizosphere interactions to greatly accelerate rhizodegradation for routine practical implementation in the field. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
WHICH BODIES MATTER? Feminism, Poststructuralism, Race, and the Curious Theoretical Odyssey of the “Hottentot Venus”

This article critiques dominant feminist analyses of the “Hottentot Venus.” It argues that these analyses of the construction of Black women as “other,” which borrow heavily from poststructuralism, make race and gender transhistorical and metaphysical constructs. The article critiques what has become the theoretical orthodoxy on the “Hottentot Venus.” It takes issue with two presumptions in particular: first, that there was a core image of the Black woman in the nineteenth century, and second, that the fear of the anatomy of the “other” is the source of negative representations of Black sexuality. The article proposes an alternative way of understanding the construction of Black women in colonial discourse. It argues that social relations, rather than psychological dispositions, determine how bodies are seen and perceived.
Microsphere intestinal blood flow analysis during pneumoperitoneum using carbon dioxide and helium

Pneumoperitoneum has been associated with a decreased flow in the superior mesenteric artery and portal venous system. Intestinal blood flow was studied during a 2-h pneumoperitoneum with carbon dioxide (CO2) or helium in a porcine model using colored microspheres. For this study, 12 pigs were divided into two groups (6 CO2 and 6 helium). Different colored microspheres were injected directly into the left ventricle before, 40, 80, and 120 min after insufflation with either gas at a pressure of 15 mmHg. Microsphere concentration was measured in the mucosa and muscularis/serosa layers of the jejunum, cecum, and sigmoid colon to calculate blood flow. Intestinal perfusion initially increases with insufflation and returns to near baseline levels during pneumoperitoneum of 2 h. The effect of helium on tissue perfusion is similar to that of carbon dioxide. Intestinal perfusion does not change significantly during prolonged pneumoperitoneum at a pressure of 15 mmHg with CO2 or helium.
Delay Robustness of Interconnected Passive Systems: An Integral Quadratic Constraint Approach

We consider networks of passive systems with time delays in the interconnections, and present a stability analysis technique with the help of the integral quadratic constraint (IQC) framework. Unlike the classical passivity approach that fails to characterize delay robustness, and the small-gain approach that conservatively accounts for arbitrarily large delays, the new technique gives sharp stability estimates that depend on the duration of delay. Since the effect of delay depends on its duration relative to the time scales of the system, we make use of a “roll-off” IQC that captures magnitude roll-off at high frequencies, thus, providing the critical time-scale information. We then combine this roll-off IQC with an output strict passivity IQC that incorporates gain and phase information, and demonstrate the benefit of this combined IQC approach on a cyclic interconnection structure with delay. Finally, we develop a technique to verify these IQCs for classes of nonlinear state-space models and present an example from Internet congestion control.
Content of Dipalmitoyl Phosphatidylcholine in Lung Surfactant: Ramifications for Surface Activity

The content of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) in the phosphatidylcholine (PC) fraction of calf lung surfactant extract (CLSE) is measured by gas chromatography (GC) and estimated from the widely used osmium tetroxide assay for disaturated phosphatidylcholine (DSPC). The surface-active properties of model phospholipid/apoprotein surfactants with varying DPPC content are also defined and compared relative to CLSE. GC analysis of fatty acids in PC isolated from CLSE indicated a possible range of 30 to 65% for DPPC content depending on C16:0 fatty chain mismatching, and further studies using phospholipase A2 treatment indicated an actual DPPC content≤41%. The osmium tetroxide assay gave a very high value of 70% for the DSPC content of surfactant PC, and experiments with synthetic phospholipids demonstrated that this assay responded inappropriately in the presence of monounsaturated PC, leading to falsely elevated DSPC values. The influence of DPPC content on adsorption and film behavior was investigated in model surfactants containing 40, 60, and 80% DPPC (DPPC/egg PC/egg PG, 40:50:10, 60:30:10, and 80:10:10 by mol) combined with 1.3% hydrophobic surfactant protein (SP)-B and -C. The biophysical properties of the model surfactant with 40% DPPC were found to be closer to CLSE than those of mixtures with 60 or 80% DPPC. The adsorption of dispersions containing 40% DPPC with 1.3% SP-B, C was almost identical to CLSE and was improved in rate and magnitude compared with the mixtures with higher DPPC content (60 or 80%). In Wilhelmy balance studies of cycled films, respreading was increased and maximum surface pressure was decreased for the 40% versus higher DPPC content mixtures, again approaching CLSE in behavior. All synthetic phospholipid (SPL):SP mixtures lowered surface tension to <1 mN/m in oscillating bubble studies at physiologic cycling rate (20 cpm), but the 40% DPPC mixture had a time dependence most closely matching that of CLSE. Our measured DPPC content near 40% for lung surfactant PC, and the similarly high activity of a related synthetic phospholipid/apoprotein model mixture, suggest that exogenous surfactants with relatively low DPPC contents might be important for future study and development.
Experimental and Finite Element Investigations on the Influence of Tool Edge Radius in Machining Nickel-Based Alloy

This paper presents investigations on machining of a nickel-based alloy. Orthogonal cutting tests using uncoated carbide inserts with 10 and 25 micron edge radius and 0 and 3 degree tool rake angles are performed. Forces, chip geometry and tool edge conditions are measured. An analytical model is introduced to identify average strain, strain rate, shear stress and temperature for segmented chip formation and friction conditions exerted on the tool during cutting process. Johnson-Cook material model related flow stress data are modified using the experimental data. Finite Element simulations are conducted to investigate the influence of tool geometry on predicted stress, strain and temperature distributions on machined surfaces.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
The shuffle index and evaluation of models of signal transduction pathways

The development of algorithms that conjecture proteomic networks from sparse time series laboratory data is an open problem with much current interest. The development of indices that measure how well the conjectured proteomic network matches a literature model is also an open problem. In this paper, we apply a computational algebra algorithm ([1, 2, 3]) to chondrocyte signaling data ([14]). In order to compare our model to the literature, we combine data from protein isoforms or from proteins that have been phosphorylated at different sites by summing the associated data measurements. The algorithm produces an ordered list of network edges. The resulting cotemporal model is compared to a composite next-state model derived from Signal Transduction Knowledge Environment (STKE) sources. A shuffle index is used to determine how these results from the computational algorithm compare to the composite network.
Study of non-homogeneous conditions in reactor containments due to separation effects

Abstract Three separation factors that contribute to non-homogeneous conditions with significant influence on the pressure and temperature in a reactor containment after a loss-of-coolant accident have been studied and their effects quantified. These factors are: separation of condensate, separation of blowdown and separation of steam and air. The blowdown separation has the most important effect in the pressure-temperature transient. The separation of steam and air is second in importance, and the condensate separation is least significant.
Conditions For The Spontaneous Generation Of Solitons In Stimulated Raman Scattering

Quantum phase fluctuations may be amplified into large, sudden phase shifts in the Stokes field, which subsequently give rise to solitons in the pump intensity. Ensemble simulations indicate that increased dissipation due to collisional dephasing within the medium significantly increases the frequency of soliton generation. The statistical distribution of soliton heights and positions is described.
Co-opting a Tumor Predator to Provide Life Support

Tumor cells not only circumvent the intrinsic cellular mechanisms that prevent rogue proliferation, they also co-opt innocent bystander cells to support their malignant agenda. In particular, tumor cells must evade immunosurveillance and recruit cells in the tumor microenvironment to promote angiogenesis, in which new blood vessels are created to feed the tumor. Indeed, modulators of immunosurveillance and angiogenesis have both been demonstrated to be effective anticancer therapeutic strategies. However, as with most cancer treatments, tumors develop resistance to these therapies over time. Chung et al. have discovered a paracrine signaling network through which immune cells promote resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy. The examined tumors not only escape attack by the immune system but actively co-opt immune cells to overcome pharmacological inhibition of angiogenesis. The authors first observed that interleukin-17 (IL-17)—the canonical cytokine of the tumor-infiltrating T helper type 17 (TH17) cells—was the most abundantly secreted protein in the conditioned medium of EL4 cells, a mouse lymphoma cell line that is resistant to therapies targeting the key angiogenic signaling protein, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). IL-17 was secreted at much lower abundance in cells sensitive to anti-VEGF treatment. The authors then demonstrated that depletion of IL-17 either in vitro or in a mouse model enhanced sensitivity to anti-VEGF treatment, whereas stable expression of IL-17 rendered mouse models more resistant to anti-VEGF treatment. Moreover, treatment of wild-type mice and mice in which IL-17 was knocked out with anti-VEGF antibodies demonstrated that IL-17 signaling is required for the mobilization and tumor infiltration of immature myeloid cells known to drive tumor progression through immunosuppression and tumor angiogenesis. Tumor cells use a remarkably creative and diverse array of molecular tricks to not only escape cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic antitumor safeguards but also to recruit other cells to actively support malignancy. Chung et al. illustrate an example in which tumor cells not only evade immunosurvellience but actively recruit immune cells to promote angiogenesis in the presence of VEGF inhibition. These results suggest that targeting immunosurveiliance may be used to overcome resistance to anti-angiogenic therapies. A. S. Chung et al. , An interleukin-17–mediated paracrine network promotes tumor resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy. Nat. Med. 19 , 1114–1123 (2013). [[Abstract]][1] [1]: http://www.nature.com/nm/journal/v19/n9/abs/nm.3291.html
Restoration of a Native Shrubland Impacted by Exotic Grasses, Frequent Fire, and Nitrogen Deposition in Southern California

Natural ecosystems globally are often subject to multiple human disturbances that are difficult to restore. A restoration experiment was done in an urban fragment of native coastal sage scrub vegetation in Riverside, California that has been subject to frequent fire, high anthropogenic nitrogen deposition, and invasion by Mediterranean annual weeds. Hand cultivation and grass-specific herbicide were both successful in controlling exotic annual grasses and promoting establishment of seeded coastal sage scrub vegetation. There was no native seedbank left at this site after some 30 years of conversion to annual grassland, and the only native plants that germinated were the seeded shrubs, with the exception of one native summer annual. The city green-waste mulch used in this study (C:N of 39:1) caused short-term N immobilization but did not result in decreased grass density or increased native shrub establishment. Seeding native shrubs was successful in a wet year in this Mediterranean-type climate but was unsuccessful in a dry year. An accidental spring fire did not burn first-year shrubs, although adjacent plots dominated by annual grass did burn. The shrubs continued to exclude exotic grasses into the second growing season, suggesting that successful shrub establishment may reduce the frequency of the fire return interval.
Advice and behavior in intergenerational ultimatum games: An experimental approach ✩

Abstract In the real world, when people play a game, they often receive advice from those that have played it before them. Such advice can facilitate the creation of a convention of behavior. This paper studies the impact of advice on the behavior subjects who engage in a non-overlapping generational Ultimatum game where after a subject plays he is replaced by another subject to whom he can offer advice. Our results document the fact that allowing advice fosters the creation of a convention of behavior in Ultimatum games. In addition, by reading the advice offered we conclude that arguments of fairness are rarely used to justify the offers of Senders but are relied upon to justify rejections by Receivers.
The volume fraction and temperature dependence of the resistivity in carbon black and graphite polymer composites: An effective media—percolation approach

A quantitative general effective media (GEM) equation is used to describe a broad range of experimental resistivity-volume fraction results for graphite-polymer and carbon black-polymer composites. The parameters used are the resistivities of each component and the two percolation morphology parameters, a critical volume fraction, O c , and an exponent, t. A preliminary model, also based on the GEM equation, is used to describe the temperature variation of the resistivity of the diphasic material near the critical volume fraction
Hemoptysis and dyspnea in a 67-year-old man with a normal chest radiograph.

67-year-old man with a history of hypertension was referred for evaluation of hemoptysis and dyspnea. He had been in good health until 3 weeks prior to presentation when he developed sore throat, dry cough, and mild dyspnea on exertion. He was treated for acute bronchitis without improvement. Subsequently, hemoptysis developed, at a rate of 5 to 10 mL, several times per day, accompanied by progressive, severe dyspnea on minimal activity. There was no reported fever, chills, chest pain, or weight loss. Before the onset of symptoms the patient had been very active, walking 6 to 7 miles daily. There was a smoking history of 60 pack-years, but no history of cardiac disease, venous thromboembolism, or occupational lung disorder.