cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
R-curve and strength behavior of a functionally graded material

Abstract The effects of loading conditions, specimen size and metal particle size on the crack growth resistance curve (R-curve) and residual strength of a ceramic-metal functionally graded material (FGM) are studied based on the crack-bridging concept. It is found that the FGM exhibits strong R-curve behavior when a crack grows from the ceramic-rich region toward the metal-rich region and the residual strength of the FGM with an edge crack at the ceramic side is notch-insensitive. The R-curve is more significant under central tension loading than under pure bending after the crack has grown for a certain amount. However, the residual strength of the FGM decreases with increasing initial crack length more slowly under pure bending than under tension. A larger metal particle usually results in more toughness increase and higher residual strength. Regarding the effect of the specimen size, in terms of the relative crack length a / b , the R-curve is weaker for a smaller specimen when the crack has not grown very deep, and the opposite occurs for deep grown cracks. Based on the real crack growth length, however, the smaller specimen exhibits stronger R-curve behavior. The R-curve also significantly depends on the initial crack size.
Neural network models for fabric drape prediction

Neural networks are used to predict the drape coefficient (DC) and circularity (CTR) of many different kinds of fabrics. The neural network models used were the multilayer perceptron using backpropagation (BP) and the radial basis function (RBF) neural network. The BP method was found to be more effective than the RBF method but the RBF method was the fastest when it came to training. Comparisons of the two models as well as comparisons of the same models using different parameters are presented. It was also found that prediction for CIR was less accurate than for DC for both neural network architectures.
Identification of a novel intermediate filament-linked N-cadherin/γ-catenin complex involved in the establishment of the cytoarchitecture of differentiated lens fiber cells

Tissue morphogenesis and maintenance of complex tissue architecture requires a variety of cell-cell junctions. Typically, cells adhere to one another through cadherin junctions, both adherens and desmosomal junctions, strengthened by association with cytoskeletal networks during development. Both beta- and gamma-catenins are reported to link classical cadherins to the actin cytoskeleton, but only gamma-catenin binds to the desmosomal cadherins, which links them to intermediate filaments through its association with desmoplakin. Here we provide the first biochemical evidence that, in vivo, gamma-catenin also mediates interactions between classical cadherins and the intermediate filament cytoskeleton, linked through desmoplakin. In the developing lens, which has no desmosomes, we discovered that vimentin became linked to N-cadherin complexes in a differentiation-state specific manner. This newly identified junctional complex was tissue specific but not unique to the lens. To determine whether in this junction N-cadherin was linked to vimentin through gamma-catenin or beta-catenin we developed an innovative "double" immunoprecipitation technique. This approach made possible, for the first time, the separation of N-cadherin/gamma-catenin from N-cadherin/beta-catenin complexes and the identification of multiple members of each of these isolated protein complexes. The study revealed that vimentin was associated exclusively with N-cadherin/gamma-catenin junctions. Assembly of this novel class of cadherin junctions was coincident with establishment of the unique cytoarchitecture of lens fiber cells. In addition, gamma-catenin had a distinctive localization to the vertices of these hexagonally shaped differentiating lens fiber cells, a region devoid of actin; while beta-catenin co-localized with actin at lateral cell interfaces. We believe this novel vimentin-linked N-cadherin/gamma-catenin junction provides the tensile strength necessary to establish and maintain structural integrity in tissues that lack desmosomes.
Cavitation Mechanics and its Relation to the Design of Hydraulic Equipment

The objective of this lecture is to outline the various characteristics of the cavitation phenomenon and to point out in general how this knowledge may be used to alleviate and, in some cases, to eliminate the losses due to damage of materials and decrease in performance of hydraulic equipment. It is shown that difficulty with cavitation is encountered over the entire field of hydrodynamics but that, although the manifestations may appear to differ widely, they can usually be understood on the basis of present concepts of the mechanics of cavitation. It is found that such understanding usually brings with it suggestions of methods for lessening or eliminating the difficulty.
A new algorithm for the phase unwrapping of interferogram stacks

Phase Unwrapping is a key step in DInSAR stack analysis: It allows restoring the phase values starting from the restricted ones to extract the deformation time series of the observed area. Most of the available interferogram stack phase unwrapping techniques unwrap each interferogram separately. Based on a strategy recently proposed in the literature, in this work we discuss an unwrapping procedure that exploits both the temporal and spatial characteristics of the interferogram stack. In particular we propose a technique that allows carrying out a temporal unwrapping step with a generic set of interferograms. The validation of our method is carried out by processing simulated data.
Intracellular domain of the IFNaR2 interferon receptor subunit mediates transcription via Stat2

We recently demonstrated that IFNaR2, a subunit of the interferon receptor, can be proteolytically cleaved in response to interferon-alpha and other activators of protein kinase C. Cleavage occurs at multiple sites, via a mechanism similar to that employed by Notch and the Alzheimer's precursor protein, and releases the intracellular domain (ICD). In this study, we demonstrate that the IFNaR2 ICD, when fused to the yeast Gal4 DNA binding domain (Gal4DBD) selectively modulates transcription of four different promoters under the control of Gal4 upstream activating sequences. We previously showed that Stat2 binds constitutively to the ICD of IFNaR2, in a manner that is independent of tyrosine phosphorylation. Here, we show that lCD transcriptional modulation is dependent upon the carboxyl-terminal transactivation domain of Stat2. Specifically, complementing Stat2 deficient cells with wildtype Stat2 restored the ICD-mediated transcriptional effects while complementation with a mutant form of Stat2 lacking the transcriptional activation domain (TAD) did not. In addition, mutation of the Stat2 binding site on the ICD reduced the transcriptional activity of the Gal4DBD-ICD. Finally, we demonstrate that the activity of jak1, a tyrosine kinase also known to bind to IFNaR2, is required for ICD-mediated transcriptional effects. J. Cell. Physiol. 204: 567-573, 2005. (c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Information capacity of the Poisson channel

The information capacity of the Poisson channel with random or time-varying noise intensity is obtained for time-varying peak and average constraints on the encoder intensity. The channel model is specified, and some definitions from information theory are given. Causal feedback is shown not to increase the channel capacity for the case of nonrandom noise intensity. For random noise intensity, use of causal feedback does increase capacity; the extent of that increase is quantified. Jamming is considered, and the optimal jamming signal is given. Poisson channels with thinning are introduced. >
Sonography in carpal tunnel syndrome

Introduction: Our objective in this study was to assess the diagnostic utility of the median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) at the wrist, the wrist–forearm ratio, and the wrist–forearm difference in patients with and without carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods: Individuals with electrodiagnostically proven CTS and asymptomatic control subjects were recruited prospectively from among patients referred to our electrodiagnostic laboratory. Blinded measurements of CSA were made from transverse sonographic images of the median nerve at the wrist (pisiform) and mid-forearm. Results: Fifty-five cases and 49 controls were recruited. Wrist median nerve CSA (15 vs. 9 mm2; P < 0.0001), wrist–forearm ratio (3.09 vs. 1.90 mm2; P < 0.0001), and wrist–forearm difference (10 vs. 4 mm2; P < 0.0001) were all significantly larger in CTS cases (areas under the curve = 0.89, 0.82, and 0.88, respectively). Conclusions: Median nerve CSA at the carpal tunnel inlet and wrist–forearm difference provides the best discrimination between patients with CTS and controls according to receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis. Age, gender, height, weight, and wrist size have no effect on CSA. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Infective endocarditis in congenital heart disease

Congenital heart disease (CHD) has become the leading risk factor for pediatric infective endocarditis (IE) in developed countries after the decline of rheumatic heart disease. Advances in catheter- and surgery-based cardiac interventions have rendered almost all types of CHD amenable to complete correction or at least palliation. Patient survival has increased, and a new patient population, referred to as adult CHD (ACHD) patients, has emerged. Implanted prosthetic material paves the way for cardiovascular device-related infections, but studies on the management of CHD-associated IE in the era of cardiovascular devices are scarce. The types of heart malformation (unrepaired, repaired, palliated) substantially differ in their lifetime risks for IE. Streptococci and staphylococci are the predominant pathogens. Right-sided IE is more frequently seen in patients with CHD. Relevant comorbidity caused by cardiac and extracardiac episode-related complications is high. Transesophageal echocardiography is recommended for more precise visualization of vegetations, especially in complex type of CHD in ACHD patients. Antimicrobial therapy and surgical management of IE remain challenging, but outcome of CHD-associated IE from the neonate to the adult is better than in other forms of IE. Conclusion: Primary prevention of IE is vital and includes good dental health and skin hygiene; antibiotic prophylaxis is indicated only in high-risk patients undergoing oral mucosal procedures.
Science in the Schoolhouse An Uninvited Guest

Science and scientific thinking have not made a substantial impact on educational practice. In this discussion, we examine the relationship between science and education and delineate four reasons for characterizing science as an uninvited guest in schools: (a) Science is not highly regarded in society; (b) good science and bad science are often mistaken for one another; (c) the amount of current data is overwhelming; and (d) science is not easy for those who practice it (researchers), those who translate it (teacher educators), or those who consume it (teachers). We suggest several strategies to improve this relationship, including promoting standards of educational practice, emphasizing the role of teacher educators as translators of the research base into classroom practice, and linking student outcomes with the use of effective instructional practices.
Forward Rates, Interest Rates, and Expectations Under Alternative Exchange Rate Regimes

A model comprising spot and forward foreign exchange markets and a domestic credit market is used to examine the trade-off between volatility in the nominal exchange rate and domestic interest rate. It also shows how a slowly crawling spot rate can raise interest rate volatility and the amplitude of reserve flows. Finally, the paper extends a finding by Driskill and McCafferty that the exchange rate effects of external shocks are differently affected by the responsiveness of speculation to expected profits; high responsiveness makes the spot exchange rate more sensitive to foreign financial shocks but less sensitive to trade balance shocks.
Defect states in type-II strained-layer superlattices

The electronic structure of isoelectronic defects, donors and acceptors is calculated within a full superlattice picture for InAs/GaSb and InAs/GaInSb superlattices. The wavefunctions associated with these states extend beyond a typical layer width for the superlattices. Thus band alignments between the layers as well as interface properties are predicted to dramatically change these defects' binding energy as well as their influence on superlattice electronic, optical and transport properties. Defect properties are also substantially modified by their location within a superlattice layer.
Assessment in communication disorders: some observations on current issues

The assessment of communication disorders is, by necessity, a behavioural description process. Standardized measures provide quantitative data that contribute to the identification of communication disorders, but test scores and normative comparisons are insufficient for describing the effects of impairment on performance in communicative settings. The importance of ecological validity in tests for communication disorders, the need for systematic observation and the potential biases in testing diverse populations are considered within the framework of identification and differential diagnosis of speech and language disorders. There are also communicative disorders that are clinically recognized, but which cannot be reliably identified following standardized testing and systematic observation in communicative settings. For these disorders, there is a continuing need for research based on behavioural description to develop a theoretical understanding of the disorder that can guide reliable assessment, ident...
Connexin43 is required for production of the aqueous humor in the murine eye

Connexin43 is a major component of the gap junctions between pigmented and non-pigmented cells of the double-layered epithelium in the ciliary body of the eye. We directly tested the hypothesis that gap junctions play a crucial role in the production of the aqueous humor by inactivating the GJA1 (connexin43) gene in the pigmented epithelium with cre-loxP technology. To accomplish this, we crossed a line expressing cre recombinase driven by the nestin promoter and a line with floxed connexin43 alleles. Resultant lines exhibited loss of connexin43 from the pigmented epithelium, iris, retinal pigment epithelium and the lens. We observed plasma proteins in the aqueous humor and pathological changes consistent with a loss of intraocular pressure. As the ciliary body is responsible for aqueous humor production, these data support the hypothesis that the gap junctions between pigmented and non-pigmented epithelium are necessary for production of the aqueous humor that is in turn required for the generation of normal intraocular pressure and nourishment of the postnatal lens. The loss of connexin43 expression in the iris correlated with a separation of the posterior pigmented epithelium from the anterior myoepithelium and with meiosis, possibly resulting from a loss of function of the dilator pupillae.
A High-Resolution Climate Model for the U.S. Pacific Northwest: Mesoscale Feedbacks and Local Responses to Climate Change*

Abstract Simulations of future climate scenarios produced with a high-resolution climate model show markedly different trends in temperature and precipitation over the Pacific Northwest than in the global model in which it is nested, apparently because of mesoscale processes not being resolved at coarse resolution. Present-day (1990–99) and future (2020–29, 2045–54, and 2090–99) conditions are simulated at high resolution (15-km grid spacing) using the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR Mesoscale Model (MM5) system and forced by ECHAM5 global simulations. Simulations use the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Special Report on Emissions Scenarios (SRES) A2 emissions scenario, which assumes a rapid increase in greenhouse gas concentrations. The mesoscale simulations produce regional alterations in snow cover, cloudiness, and circulation patterns associated with interactions between the large-scale climate change and the regional topography and land–water contrasts. These chan...
Cerebellar Cortical Stimulation Effects on Eeg Activity and Seizure After-Discharge in Anesthetized Cats

It has been known since the turn of the last century that stimulation of the cerebellar cortex can suppress tonic motor activity. Loewenthal and Horsely (1897) and Sherrington (1898) found that high-frequency stimulation of the cerebellar cortex alleviated the limb rigidity of decerebrate animals. Subsequently, Moruzzi (1941a, b) found that cerebellar stimulation depressed the movements resulting from direct cerebral cortical stimulation and reduced the myoclonic twitches of the limbs resulting from application of strychnine to the cerebral cortex. Moruzzi later suggested that seizure discharges originating in the cerebral cortex may trigger suppressor mechanisms of the cerebellum which, in turn, may be a factor in the termination of a seizure (Moruzzi, 1950). In testing directly the influence of cerebellar cortex upon the cerebral cortex, Cooke and Snider (1953) found that stimulation of various parts of the cerebellum resulted in an alteration of the pattern of electroencephalographic (EEG) activity. Thereafter, Cooke and Snider (1955) and Iwata and Snider (1959) demonstrated that electrical stimulation of various portions of the cerebellum can modify seizure discharges evoked by electrical stimulation of the cerebral cortex or hippocampus. In most of these observations, cerebellar stimulation shortened the duration of seizure discharge, but occasionally the discharge was prolonged.
From documentation to prediction: raising the bar for thermokarst research

Here we report that to date the majority of published research on thermokarst has been directed at documenting its form, occurrence, and rates of occurrence. The fundamental processes driving thermokarst have long been largely understood. However, the detailed physical couplings between, water, air, soil, and the thermal dynamics governing freeze-thaw and soil mechanics is less understood and not captured in models aimed at predicting the response of frozen soils to warming and thaw. As computational resources increase more sophisticated mechanistic models can be applied; these show great promise as predictive tools. These models will be capable of simulating the response of soil deformation to thawing/freezing cycles and the long-term, non-recoverable response of the land surface to the loss of ice. At the same time, advances in remote sensing of permafrost environments also show promise in providing detailed and spatially extensive estimates in the rates and patterns of subsidence. These datasets provide key constraints to calibrate and evaluate the predictive power of mechanistic models. In conclusion, in the coming decade, these emerging technologies will greatly increase our ability to predict when, where, and how thermokarst will occur in a changing climate.
A Developmental Approach to Adolescence

Most of the nuances in the transition from childhood to adulthood have been elicited and well described; this information is difficult to apply, however, because of the highly individual nature of the onset, speed, and end of this process. Awareness of an individual child's basic pattern or rhythm of development, influenced by his temperament and his heredity interacting with the environment, will allow more sensible use of developmental information as an integral part of total health maintenance.
Fluctuation of Hypothalamic Luteinizing Hormone Releasing Hormone and Pituitary Gonadotropins in Laying and Non-Laying Hens

Abstract Daily fluctuations of hypothalamic LH-RH like activity and pituitary gonadotropic potency were measured from White Leghorn hens at 2 hr. intervals for a single 24 hr. period. Hens were classified into three separate reproductive stages, on the basis of average daily egg production of: (1) above 50%, (2) below 50% and (3) 0%. Pituitary gonadotropic potency remained at a relatively stable level throughout the 24 hr. period for higher producing birds and became progressively more erratic as reproductive stage decreased. Mean pituitary gonadotropin was inversely related to the reproductive stage, with the above 50% stage having the lowest mean 24 hr. level. Hypothalamic LH-RH like activity was highest in the light phase and lowest during the dark phase of the 24 hr. period. The most apparent difference in hypothalamic LH-RH like activity between reproductive stages was the amount of fluctuation between consecutive 2 hr. samples. As reproductive activity decreased the hypothalamic LH-RH activity became more erratic. Data from this experiment demonstrate that hypothalamic LH-RH activity and pituitary gonadotropins are not limiting as reproduction decreases.
Nonlinear Conversion Using Fano-Resonant All-Dielectric Metasurfaces

We present an experimental demonstration of third harmonic generation from Fano-resonant all-dielectric metasurfaces. The metasurfaces have a conversion enhancement factor of 1.5×105 and an absolute conversion efficiency on the order of 10-6.
Tillage and Fertilizer Effects on Crop Yield and Soil Properties over 45 Years in Southern Illinois

415 In North America’s midwestern Corn Belt, agriculture contributes to soil erosion and nutrient losses with farreaching environmental consequences such as hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico (Diaz and Rosenberg, 2008) and long-term loss of farm soil productivity (Pimentel et al., 1995; Lal, 2004). Conservation tillage practices, such as ChT and NT, aim to minimize soil disturbance and increase soil residue cover (Hobbs et al., 2008). Th ese practices can help mitigate the environmental impact of corn and soybean production by reducing soil loss and nutrient runoff (Angle et al., 1984; Wendt and Burwell, 1985; Shipitalo et al., 2013), surface and groundwater pollution (Glenn and Angle, 1987; Kanwar et al., 1997), fuel consumption (Doster et al., 1983; Brown et al., 1989; Chase and Duff y, 1991) and greenhouse gas emissions (Kern and Johnson, 1993; Pacala and Socolow, 2004; Bernacchi et al., 2005; Omonode et al., 2011). Studies have shown that conservation tillage and NT can improve soil physical properties such as infi ltration, bulk density, water retention, structure, and water-stable aggregates (Karlen et al., 1994; Cassel et al., 1995; Kumar et al., 2012a, 2012b). Long-term no-till can also lead to vertical and horizontal stratifi cation of P, K, pH, and OM, but there is little evidence that stratifi cation aff ects yield (Dick et al., 1991; Ismail et al., 1994; Holanda et al., 1998; Duiker and Beegle, 2006). Unfortunately, a general perception remains that the benefi ts of reduced tillage such as soil conservation may be outweighed by decreased yield and lower economic returns, except on welldrained, highly sloped, and erodible land (Triplett and Dick, 2008; Pittelkow et al., 2015). Corn-yield reductions during the fi rst several years aft er conversion to NT from conventional tillage have been noted particularly on poorly drained soils, in CC rotations, on certain soil types (e.g., high OM, fi ne texture), and in colder, wetter, and more northerly climates (Griffi th et al., 1988; Dick et al., 1991; Iragavarapu and Randall, 1995; West et al., 1996; Hussain et al., 1999; Govaerts et al., 2005; DeFelice et al., 2006; Toliver et al., 2012). However, other NT studies have shown no distinct eff ect of tillage on yield (Kapusta et al., 1996) and even a yield advantage in certain years (Dick et al., 1991; Griffi th et al., 1988; Grandy et al., 2006a; Herbek et al., 1986), indicating that relative crop performance under NT may depend on environmental and management interactions. Soil Fertility & Crop Nutrition
A confocal laser scanning microscope designed for indicators with ultraviolet excitation wavelengths

In this paper we describe the modifications necessary to upgrade, at affordable cost, a commercially available confocal laser scanning microscope for use with ultraviolet (UV) excitation. The optic...
Differential sensitivity to methylated DNA by ETS-family transcription factors is intrinsically encoded in their DNA-binding domains

Transactivation by the ETS family of transcription factors, whose members share structurally conserved DNA-binding domains, is variably sensitive to methylation of their target genes. The mechanism by which DNA methylation controls ETS proteins remains poorly understood. Uncertainly also pervades the effects of hemi-methylated DNA, which occurs following DNA replication and in response to hypomethylating agents, on site recognition by ETS proteins. To address these questions, we measured the affinities of two sequence-divergent ETS homologs, PU.1 and Ets-1, to DNA sites harboring a hemi- and fully methylated CpG dinucleotide. While the two proteins bound unmethylated DNA with indistinguishable affinity, their affinities to methylated DNA are markedly heterogeneous and exhibit major energetic coupling between the two CpG methylcytosines. Analysis of simulated DNA and existing co-crystal structures revealed that hemi-methylation induced non-local backbone and groove geometries that were not conserved in the fully methylated state. Indirect readout of these perturbations was differentially achieved by the two ETS homologs, with the distinctive interfacial hydration in PU.1/DNA binding moderating the inhibitory effects of DNA methylation on binding. This data established a biophysical basis for the pioneering properties associated with PU.1, which robustly bound fully methylated DNA, but not Ets-1, which was substantially inhibited.
Editorial Commentary: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and sudden cardiac death: Cause and effect or simply an association?

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains an important cardiovascular cause of mortality worldwide, accounting for 15–20% of all deaths in the industrialized world [1,2]. Often, it is the initial presentation of cardiovascular disease, occurring without prior symptoms or warning signs [2]. Another important cause mortality in the industrialized world is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), affecting more than 5% of the U.S. population [3–5]. Thus, exploring the association and mechanisms of SCD in COPD and finding predictors of SCD in this population can have significant public health implications. In this issue of Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine, van den Berg et al. [6] present a comprehensive review of the literature that has reported a correlation between COPD and SCD. While there have been prior individual studies investigating the link between the two syndromes [7], this study represents the first systematic review on this topic. The authors found 256 publications in PubMed from its inception to December 10, 2015. Studies were deemed relevant if they reported original research in English, included COPD patients or patients with pulmonary function measurements, and reported on the outcome of SCD, ventricular arrhythmias, or electrocardiographic markers of SCD. Of these, only 27 were ultimately included for review (26 observational studies and one randomized controlled trial). The authors investigated whether COPD is associated with SCD as well as whether certain variables including electrocardiographic abnormalities, gender, and COPD exacerbation are predictors of an increased risk. Several results of this study are notable. With regard to electrocardiographic makers, despite studies demonstrating
Accessory Liver in the Right Atrium: A Rare Cause of Syncope

This report highlights the first case of complete resection of an accessory liver found embedded in the right atrium obstructing venous return to the heart, acutely reducing cardiac output, and producing recurrent syncopal episodes.
Rare mutations of the PIK3CA gene in a number of cancer types and discovery of a PIK3CA pseudogene

1016 Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) is a lipid kinase that is a known regulator of cellular growth and proliferation. The PI3K pathway plays a critical role in the development of cancer. Somatic mutations in the p110-alpha catalytic subunit, PIK3CA, have been reported for colon (19-32%), gastric (25%), breast (8%-40%), lung (4%) and ovarian (6%) cancers as well as glioblastomas (5-27%), oligodendrogliomas (14%), medulloblastomas (5%) and astrocytomas (3%). Mutations cluster in two “hot spots” located in the helical (exon 9) and kinase (exon 20) domains. We performed mutational screening analysis of PIK3CA in several so far uninvestigated cancers: hematologic malignancies, lymphomas as well as endometrial, prostate and ovarian cancers. Cell lines and patient samples were examined by polymerase chain reaction - single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) and nucleotide sequencing of the two “hot spots”. Two colon adenocarcinoma cell lines (SKCol1, SW403) were used as positive controls and revealed the known missense mutation (Q546K) in exon 9. Twenty-eight endometrial cancer samples and 6 endometrial cancer cell lines (HEC59, HEC1B, RL95-2, KLE, AN3 and Ishikawa) were screened for mutations. One patient sample showed a mutation at codon 1025 in the kinase domain (exon 20) causing an amino acid change from Threonine to Alanine (T1025A). Ishikawa revealed a previously undocumented polymorphism for Threonine residue 1025 (T1025T). The same change was found in one of 43 primary lymphoma samples and in two MDS patients out of 46 AML and MDS samples. Twelve prostate cancer samples and two prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP, DU145) together with 18 ovarian cancer samples and one ovarian cancer cell line (SKOV3) showed no shifted bands by SSCP-analysis. Sequencing a shift for the erythroid chronic myeloid leukemia cell line K562, revealed an amino acid change from Glutamic acid to Alanine at amino acid position 545 of exon 9 (E545A). Further analysis lead to the discovery of a previously unidentified PIK3CS pseudogene spanning exons 9 through 13 on chromosome 22. In summary, PIK3CA mutations occur infrequently in hematologic malignancies as well as prostate, ovary and endometrial tumors. Being aware of the PIK3CA pseudogene could prevent misleading mutational analysis of the PIK3CA gene.
Analysis of the cAMP-Dependent Protein Kinase System Using Molecular Genetic Approaches

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the new approaches to the study of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase system with the utilization of the techniques of molecular genetics. The chapter describes the characterization of two catalytic and four regulatory subunit genes in mammalian systems. Three of these subunits—RIα, RIIα, and Cα—are constitutively expressed in most tissues although the levels of messenger RNA (mRNA) can vary significantly, most notably in male germ cells during spermatogenesis. The other three subunits—Cβ, RIβ, and RIIβ—are highly expressed in brain and are either absent or at very low levels in many other tissues. In particular, the RIIβ gene is highly inducible in several differentiating systems. The chapter further discusses the differences in functional properties of the Cα and Cβ subunits. Future work with specific antibodies should help resolve the potential for specific interactions between subtypes of R and C subunits.
A Low Power and High Performance SOI SRAM Circuit Design with Improved Cell Stability

An embedded CMOS static random access memory (SRAM), including the array and a method of accessing cells in the array with improved cell stability for scalability and performance (over 5 GHz) is demonstrated in hardware using 65 nm Partially Depleted Silicon on Insulator (PD SOI) technology. The design features shorter bitlines (16 cells/bitline) along with a thin cell layout and programmable domino read operation. Bit lines connected to half selected cells in the array are floated during cell accesses for improved cell stability. In addition, the SRAM is supplied with multiple supplies: one to the cells, wordline drivers, and level shifters, and the other to the bitline and remaining logic to improve stability and lower power.
Integrated Social- and Neurocognitive Model of Physical Activity Behavior in Older Adults with Metabolic Disease

Background Despite the proven benefits of physical activity to treat and prevent metabolic diseases, such as diabetes (T2D) and metabolic syndrome (MetS), most individuals with metabolic disease do not meet physical activity (PA) recommendations. PA is a complex behavior requiring substantial motivational and cognitive resources. The purpose of this study was to examine social cognitive and neuropsychological determinants of PA behavior in older adults with T2D and MetS. The hypothesized model theorized that baseline self-regulatory strategy use and cognitive function would indirectly influence PA through self-efficacy.
Modeling Protein Flexibility in Molecular Docking

Protein flexibility plays an important role in carrying out protein functions. However, computational modeling of protein flexibility in binding events is of great challenge because proteins have large internal degrees of freedom. In this chapter, the computational methods for modeling protein flexibility in protein-ligand docking and protein-protein docking are classified into three groups, soft docking, induced-fit docking and ensemble docking; each class is reviewed in detail. The chapter has also reviewed the methods for modeling protein flexibility in the post-docking stage of protein-protein docking and protein-ligand docking, and the recent progress for modeling peptide flexibility in the emerging protein-peptide docking.
Powering the Service Responsiveness of Deep Neural Networks: How Queueing Models can Help

Deep neural networks (DNNs) enable a host of artificial intelligence applications. These applications are supported by large DNN models running in serving mode often on a cloud computing infrastructure. Given the compute-intensive nature of large DNN models, a key challenge for DNN serving systems is to minimize user request response latencies. We show and model two important properties of DNN workloads that can allow for the use of queueing network models for predicting user request latencies: homogeneous request service demands and performance interference among requests running concurrently due to cache/memory contention. These properties motivate the design of a dynamic scheduling framework that is powered by an interference-aware queueing-based analytic model. The framework is evaluated in the context of an image classification service using several well known benchmarks. The results demonstrate its accurate latency prediction and its ability to adapt to changing load conditions, thanks to the fast deployment and accuracy of analytic queuing models. This work is in collaboration with Feng Yan of the University of Nevada at Reno, and Yuxiong He and Olatunji Ruwase of Microsoft Research.
The presence of neuroendocrine features generates a broad differential diagnosis in the fine-needle aspiration of bone and soft tissue neoplasms.

Introduction Biopsy of bone and soft tissue (BST) lesions occasionally yields neoplasms with neuroendocrine (NE) features. We identify a differential diagnosis for neoplasms containing NE features when encountered on fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of BST masses. Materials and methods The cytopathology archives of the Johns Hopkins Hospital were searched for any BST FNA specimen diagnosed as a neoplasm with NE features or in which NE immunohistochemical (IHC) markers were ordered. Specimen diagnoses were reviewed and specimens were excluded if neuroendocrine features were not considered at the time of original diagnosis. Results A total of 179 specimens met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 64 (36%) and 115 (64%) neoplasms were primary and metastatic, respectively. A total of 29 distinct entities were identified. Sixteen were entities with established NE differentiation and 13 were entities not typically regarded as having an NE origin. The most commonly encountered neoplasms included small cell carcinoma of all primary locations (38), Ewing sarcoma (37), medullary thyroid carcinoma (24), Merkel cell carcinoma (23), and paraganglioma (10). NE IHC markers were ordered in 45% of cases; 86% were positive by at least one NE marker. Entities with established NE differentiation were more likely to be positive for NE IHC than those not typically regarded as having NE differentiation (100% and 59%, respectively). Conclusions A variety of BST lesions—including neoplasms not typically thought to have neuroendocrine differentiation—can possess NE cytomorphologic features and/or NE IHC marker positivity. The patient's clinical presentation and history can help narrow the differential diagnosis.
Social Trinitarianism Unscathed

Social Trinitarianism (ST) is a family of views that bear some resemblance to each other in a way that distinguishes them from other Trinitarian accounts. In this paper, we address recent objections by Carl Mosser against ST, objections which have not received much attention by defenders of ST. Mosser claims that proponents of ST offer a narrative that is historically inaccurate, employs concepts of personhood and perichoresis that are incompatible, upholds dubious hermeneutical assumptions, and is unable to preclude Mormon theology within its fold. We argue that all four criticisms fail, especially for a specific version of ST: Perichoretic Monotheism.
TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) updates for final data version release

The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager (TMI) dataset released by the Precipitation Processing System (PPS) will be updated to a final version within the next year. These updates are based on increased knowledge in recent years of radiometer calibration and sensor performance issues. In particular, the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) is used as a model for many of the TMI version updates. This paper discusses four aspects of the TMI data product that will be improved: spacecraft attitude, calibration and quality control, along-scan bias corrections, and sensor pointing accuracy. These updates will be incorporated into the final TMI data version, improving the quality of the data product and ensuring accurate geophysical parameters can be derived from TMI.
A Neo-Keynesian Open Economy Alternative to Obsolete Nationalistic Monetarism

Milton Friedman concedes that his use of “the quantity theory to derive a theory of nominal income rather than a theory of prices or real income” bypasses “the breakdown of nominal income between real income and prices” (1971, p. 34). This helps to explain why his predictions of real versus price level effects of given monetary policies are little, if any, better than could be obtained by tossing a coin.1
Consistent Differences in Sperm Morphology and Testis Size between Native and Introduced Populations of Three Anolis Lizard Species

Abstract Sperm morphology can be highly variable among individuals and across species, but less is known about its variation among populations. Within the past 20–80 yr, several species of Anolis lizards have been introduced to Miami, Florida, USA from different source islands in the Caribbean, thereby permitting comparisons of sperm morphology between native and introduced populations of multiple species. We collected sperm samples from native populations of Anolis sagrei (Bahamas), Anolis distichus (Dominican Republic), and Anolis cristatellus (Puerto Rico) and compared them to samples from introduced populations of each species that are now sympatric in Miami. In each of these three species, lizards from introduced populations had sperm with shorter tails and larger midpieces relative to lizards from native populations. We also measured testis size in A. distichus and A. cristatellus and found that introduced populations of each species had smaller testes for a given body size relative to their native ...
Model-Based Estimation of 4D Relative Pressure Map from 4D Flow MR Images

We propose a new framework for 4D relative pressure map computations from 4D flow MRI that uses enhanced geometric models for the blood vessels and flow-aware surface and volumetric tags. The enhanced geometric modeling provides better accuracy compared to a simple voxelized mask, while tagging of inlets and outlets allows imposing physiologically meaningful boundary conditions, contributing to more accurate pressure computations. An integrated software suite for semi-automatic processing of 4D flow MR images, preparation and computation of the flow parameters is presented. This enables a fast and intuitive workflow, with accurate final results, ready in minutes.
Rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction

Bouveret’s syndrome is a rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction. The stones enter the small bowel via cholecysto-enteric fistula. The most common presenting symptoms are abdominal pain, nausea an...
The particulate nature of the crud source term in light water reactors

Abstract Knowledge of the mechanism of crud deposition in light water reactors is key to modeling its growth and effects. Empirical and mechanistic models of crud exist throughout the literature, yet the argument persists whether the crud source term originates more from soluble or particulate species. Here it is shown that the crud source term must be principally particulate in nature, as soluble deposition mechanisms cannot account for crud thicknesses observed in reactors.
Analyzing Goals of Care in Advanced Cancer Patients and Their Family Caregivers: Evidence-based Research.

Objective The study objective was to determine concordance between patients and family caregivers' preferences for quality or length of life over time. Background Patients with advanced cancer are confronted with difficult decisions throughout their course of treatment and at end of life (EOL). These decisions can be influenced by their family caregivers' preferences for the patient's cancer treatment. Methods Using a longitudinal, descriptive study design from an on-going study, data were collected on an adult sample of patients with advanced stage GI or lung cancers and their family caregivers (n=237). Using a one item visual analog scale (0-100 with higher number indicating a preference for length of life over quality of life), patients and family caregivers were asked "regarding your/your loved one's care, what is most important to you right now?" Data were collected every 3 months until 15 months or patient's death. Results At enrollment, the preference scores between patients (48.5) and family caregivers (42.6) were closely aligned. At the last assessment prior to death, these scores diverged with the caregivers favoring goals associated with quality of life over length of life (p=.02). Discussion Patients and family caregivers have differing preferences and these goals of care can change over time. Attention to these differences could be used to guide conversations between patients and family caregivers regarding preferences at EOL.
Complete mitochondrial genome of Callogorgia cf. gracilis (Octocorallia: Calcaxonia: Primnoidae)

We report the first complete mitochondrial genome of Callogorgia. Callogorgia cf. gracilis isolate DFH32_518B was collected by a remotely operated vehicle at 98 m on McGrail Bank (27.9840725°N, 92....
Evaluation of soil-geogrid interaction using transparent soil with laser illumination

An experimental methodology was developed involving techniques that allow non-intrusive measurement of confined geogrid deformations and soil particle displacements under pullout loading condition,...
Teaching students supply chain risk using a linear programming model of the fictitious online retailer Elbe

AbstractThe fictitious online retailer Elbe faces a deterministic demand for products over a geographic area and fulfills this demand using supply nodes and fulfillment centers. Experiential learni...
Recent Advances in the Diagnosis and Management of Ebola Virus Disease

Abstract Outbreaks of Ebola virus, a causative agent of hemorrhagic fever, in West Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have highlighted the need for assays that can rapidly identify individuals infected with Ebola virus. These assays need to accurately detect and rule-out Ebola virus disease (EVD) and, ideally, not require advanced laboratory techniques. Over the course of the most recent outbreaks, field studies have evaluated the performance of rapid antigen and automated molecular tests, many of which were given emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration. Overall, molecular assays demonstrated high sensitivity, while antigen testing had the highest sensitivity when the viral load was high. Specificity was high across the evaluated test options. In addition to the evaluation of diagnostic test methods, newly developed treatment options and the efficacy of ring vaccination to prevent disease transmission have been investigated. Findings from these field studies have demonstrated that many of the newly developed diagnostic assays, as well as experimental treatments and vaccination, are promising tools for controlling EVD.
The Inflation Response of the Human Lamina Cribrosa and Sclera: Analysis of Deformation and Interaction

Abstract This study investigated the inflation response of the lamina cribrosa (LC) and adjacent peripapillary sclera (PPS) in post-mortem human eyes with no history of glaucoma. The posterior sclera of 13 human eyes from 7 donors was subjected to controlled pressurization between 5-45 mmHg. A laser-scanning microscope (LSM) was used to image the second harmonic generation (SHG) response of collagen and the two-photon fluorescent (TPF) response of elastin within the volume of the LC and PPS at each pressure. Image volumes were analyzed using digital volume correlation (DVC) to calculate the three-dimensional (3D) deformation field between pressures. The LC exhibited larger radial strain, Err, and maximum principal strain, Emax, (p p = 0.0007 ) compared to the PPS between 5-45 mmHg, but had similar average circumferential strain, Eθθ, and maximum shear strain, Γmax. The Emax and Γmax were highest near the LC-PPS interface and lowest in the nasal quadrant of both tissues. Larger LC area was associated with smaller Emax in the peripheral LC and larger Emax in the central LC (p ≤ 0.01). The Emax, Γmax, and Eθθ in the inner PPS increased with increasing strain in adjacent LC regions (p ≤ 0.001). Smaller strains in the PPS were associated with a larger difference in the posterior displacement between the PPS and central LC (p Statement of significance Glaucoma causes vision loss through progressive damage of the retinal ganglion axons at the lamina cribrosa (LC), a connective tissue structure that supports the axons as they pass through the eye wall. It is hypothesized that strains caused by intraocular pressure may initiate this damage and that these strains are modulated by the combined deformation of the LC and adjacent peripapillary sclera (PPS). In this study we present a method to measure the pressure-induced 3D displacement and strain field in the LC and PPS simultaneously. Regional strain variation in the LC and PPS was investigated and compared and strains were analyzed for associations with age, LC area, LC strain magnitude, and LC posterior motion relative to the PPS.