cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic compensation of triacylglycerol biosynthesis in the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Genetic compensation has been proposed to explain phenotypic differences between gene knockouts and knockdowns in several metazoan and plant model systems. With the rapid development of reverse genetic tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 and RNAi in microalgae, it is increasingly important to assess whether genetic compensation affects the phenotype of engineered algal mutants. While exploring triacylglycerol (TAG) biosynthesis pathways in the model alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, it was discovered that knockout of certain genes catalyzing rate-limiting steps of TAG biosynthesis, type-2 diacylglycerol acyltransferase genes (DOTTs), triggered genetic compensation under abiotic stress conditions. Genetic compensation of a DGTT1 null mutation by a related PDAT gene was observed regardless of the strain background or mutagenesis approach, e.g., CRISPR/Cas 9 or insertional mutagenesis. However, no compensation was found in the PDAT knockout mutant. The effect of PDAT knockout was evaluated in a{Delta} vtc1 mutant, in which PDAT was up-regulated under stress, resulting in a 90% increase in TAG content. Knockout of PDAT in the{Delta} vtc1 background induced a 12.8-fold upregulation of DGTT1 and a 272.3% increase in TAG content in{Delta} vtc1/pdat1 cells, while remaining viable. These data suggest that genetic compensation contributes to the genetic robustness of microalgal TAG biosynthetic pathways, maintaining lipid and redox homeostasis in the knockout mutants under abiotic stress. This work demonstrates examples of genetic compensation in microalgae, implies the physiological relevance of genetic compensation in TAG biosynthesis under stress, and provides guidance for future genetic engineering and mutant characterization efforts. Significance statementGenetic compensation systems have been discovered in several metazoan and plant systems to buffer deleterious mutations. With the rapid development of reverse genetic tools in microalgae, it is increasingly important to assess whether genetic compensation affects the phenotype of engineered algal mutants. We report that knockout of certain genes catalyzing rate-limiting steps of triacylglyceroal (TAG) biosynthesis triggers up-regulation of homologous genes to buffer the effect of a null mutation in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii under abiotic stress conditions. This work provides evidence to show physiological relevance of genetic compensation in TAG biosynthesis in the green lineage, and paves the way for future gene function analysis in microalgae.
What does it mean to make implementation integral to research

The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical stance on integrating implementation and research. Implementation should be made integral to research because viewing research and implementation as an integrated whole is a more useful perspective for educational research and practice. A consequence of this position is a marked blurring of the boundaries between researchers and practitioners and an expanding of the vision of the nature of the products of research and how they are shared. From this position, we conceptualize four characteristics of research in which implementation is integral, and we illustrate them with the example of a case study of a teacher learning to teach linear functions through problem posing. In particular, we highlight the notion of an artifact that embodies and provides space for the dynamic intertwining between implementation and research. This intertwining represents what we mean by implementation being integral to research, and it has implications that ultimately blur the boundaries between the roles of researchers and teachers. We conclude by raising several pressing questions about the conduct and communication of this kind of research in education.
3D pressure field reconstruction from time-resolved stereoscopic PIV measurements by relaxation of Taylor's hypothesis

This work presents reconstructions of 3D pressure fields starting from 2D3C stereoscopic-PIV (SPIV) measurements. In Fratantonio et al. (2021), we presented a new reconstruction algorithm, the “Instantaneous convection” method, capable of producing 3D velocity fields from time-resolved SPIV measurements. For reconstructions in flows with strong shear layers and high turbulence intensity, this method is able to provide time-resolved 3D velocity volumes that are more accurate than those that can be obtained from the more frequently employed reconstruction method based on the Taylor’s hypothesis and on the use of a mean convective field. Here we investigate the possibility of reconstructing the 3D pressure field from the timeresolved series of reconstructed 3D velocity data. A pseudo-tracking method is employed for computing the velocity material derivative, and the pressure field is then reconstructed by solving the 3D Poisson equation. The velocity and pressure reconstructions are validated on the Direct Numerical Simulation data of the turbulent channel flow taken from the John Hopkins Turbulence Database (JHTDB), and an application to experimental SPIV measurements of an air jet flow in coflow carried out at the Turbulent Mixing Tunnel (TMT) facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory is presented.
In Situ MOCVD of Dielectric Materials for High-Tc Superconducting Devices

Devices which utilize high-Tc superconducting films require dielectric materials with low dielectric losses (tan δ), low dielectric constants, chemical inertness, and similar coefficients of thermal expansion to HTS materials. A major advance in the fabrication of such devices would be the deposition of high quality dielectric films by MOCVD (metal-organic chemical vapor deposition) which would enable the efficient, large-scale fabrication of multilayer superconductor-insulator structures. In this paper, we report the MOCVD deposition of epitaxial thin films of various pervoskite HTS lattice-matched dielectric materials: NdGaO3, PrGaO3, YA1O3, and Sr2AlTaO6. These pervoskite dielectric films were grown in situ on single crystal substrates in a horizontal reactor using volatile metal-organic b-diketonate complexes as precursors. Film morphology and microstructure are characterized by SEM and cross-sectional TEM. Energy dispersive x-ray analysis is used to verify the stoichiometry. The crystallinity and epitaxy of the dielectric films are characterized by x-ray diffraction.
Targeted therapy against VEGFR tyrosine kinase signaling by vandetanib inhibits tumor growth, angiogenesis, and progression in orthotopic human small cell lung cancer models

AACR Annual Meeting-- Apr 12-16, 2008; San Diego, CA 2495 Introduction : Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) has a dismal prognosis even after aggressive conventional therapy. We have developed two distinct orthotopic models of human SCLC, which closely mimic clinical patterns of SCLC, in mice using the cell lines NCI-H187 and NCI-N417. The current study evaluated the therapeutic and antiangiogenic effects of vandetanib, an orally available and highly potent inhibitor of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinases, in both orthotopic models. Methods : NCI-H187 or NCI-N417 SCLC cells were injected orthotopically into the lungs of mice. A subgroup of mice (n=5) were sacrificed after 8 days and lung tumors were observed in all of these mice. The remaining animals (n=10/group) were randomized to treatment with vandetanib (25 mg/kg/day orally) or vehicle control. When control animals showed signs of morbidity, all animals were sacrificed and assessed for lung tumor burden and lymphatic metastasis. Tumor and adjacent normal lung tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical analyses. Data were analyzed by Student's t test, Mann-Whitney U test, or Fisher’s exact probability test. Results : In both orthotopic SCLC models, vandetanib therapy was well tolerated and highly effective in preventing lung tumor growth and mediastinal lymph node metastasis. In the NCI-H187 model, median lung weight and tumor volume were 322 mg and 109 mm3, respectively, after 32 days of vandetanib treatment versus 1,009 mg and 631 mm3 for vehicle control treated animals (p < 0.0005). In the NCI-N417 model, median lung weight and tumor volume were 555 mg and 226 mm3, respectively, after 35 days of vandetanib treatment versus 1,066 mg and 679 mm3 for vehicle control treated animals (p < 0.0005). Immunohistochemical studies of the lung tumors in both models revealed that the expression of VEGFR-2 was confined to the vasculature and that there was no detectable expression of EGFR or its ligands. Vandetanib did not affect VEGF or VEGFR-2 expression but potently inhibited VEGFR-2 activation in the tumor vasculature. Lung tumor angiogenesis, as determined by microvessel density, was inhibited by treatment with vandetanib in both models (p < 0.01). Vandetanib therapy was associated with an inhibition of lung tumor cell proliferation (p < 0.05) and resulted in marked endothelial cell and tumor cell apoptosis (p < 0.01) in both models as compared to vehicle treatment alone. Conclusions : Vandetanib inhibits tumor angiogenesis and produces significant antitumor and antimetastatic effects in orthotopic human SCLC models. These data are consistent with inhibition of VEGFR-2 signaling by vandetanib, and provide a strong preclinical basis for the design of clinical trials with vandetanib in SCLC patients.
Cell-free Amino Acid-incorporating Systems from Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus stearothermophilus 10

Abstract Cell-free amino acid-incorporating systems were prepared from log-phase cells of Bacillus licheniformis and B. stearothermophilus 10. No differences were observed between the two systems with respect to the types and relative amounts of the ribosomes, the time dependence of incorporation, and the optimal magnesium ion concentration (4 mm). The B. licheniformis system showed greater dependence on added transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) and was less stimulated by polyuridylic acid (poly U) than the B. stearothermophilus 10 system. Neither system was saturated at a level of 450 μg of poly U per incubation mixture. The S-100 fraction and the isolated tRNA inhibited incorporation in the B. stearothermophilus 10 system at 55 C but not at 37 C. No such inhibition was observed in the B. licheniformis system at either temperature. The tRNA prepared from B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, or B. stearothermophilus 10 could be used interchangeably in the two cell-free systems.
Teacher Quality and Educational Equality: Do Teachers with Higher Standards‐Based Evaluation Ratings Close Student Achievement Gaps?

Abstract Using standards‐based evaluation ratings for nearly 400 teachers, and achievement results for over 7,000 students from grades 4–6, this study investigated the distribution and achievement effects of teacher quality in Washoe County, a mid‐sized school district serving Reno and Sparks, Nevada. Classrooms with higher concentrations of minority, poor, and low‐achieving students were more likely to be taught by teachers with lower evaluation scores. Two‐level multilevel models, nesting students within classrooms, tended to show higher mean achievement in classrooms taught by teachers of higher than lower quality, with differences of approximately one‐tenth of 1 standard deviation. Findings relating teacher quality to closing within‐classroom achievement gaps, though, were mixed. Implications are discussed related to teacher evaluation, teacher quality, and educational inequality.
The MAP test for multimodality

We introduce a test for detecting multimodality in distributions based on minimal constrained spanning trees. We define a Minimal Ascending Path Spanning Tree (MAPST) on a set of points as a spanning tree that has the minimal possible sum of lengths of links with the constraint that starting from any link, the lengths of the links are non-increasing towards a root node. We define similarly MAPSTs with more than one root. We present some algorithms for finding such trees. Based on these trees, we devise a test for multimodality, called the MAP Test (for Minimal Ascending Path). Using simulations, we estimate percentage points of the MAP statistic and assess the power of the test. Finally, we illustrate the use of MAPSTs for determining the number of modes in a distribution of positions of galaxies on photographic plates from a rich galaxy cluster.
A fault detection, isolation, and identification technique for complex MISO linear systems

This paper presents a method, based on a generalized likelihood ratio test (GLRT), for combining fault detection, isolation, and identification in complex multi input-single output (MISO) linear systems. By "complex"" it is meant that the system is comprised of a number of subsystems, connected through series, parallel, feedback, etc. relations. The method applies to systems corrupted by multiple noise terms with additive faults entering the system at various locations, and requires measurement of the process output and inputs. In addition to detecting faults, the method determines which subsystem experienced the fault, determines the type of fault (if more than one type is hypothesized), estimates the time of occurrence of the fault, and estimates the magnitude of the fault (shown to be both unbiased and efficient). A simulation example illustrating the performance of the GLRT method is also provided.
Quantitative resolution of severely overlapping gas chromatographic peaks : Isothermal and temperature-programmed operation

Abstract Severely overlapping gas chromatographic peaks (R -⩽ 0.35) are quantitatively resolved by a mathematical method. Accurate analyses may be obtained under the worst of overlapping conditions even with simple chromatographic instrumentation. For the method to be successful either the peak shapes of each component must differ if the retention times are identical, or their retention times must be slightly different if the peak shapes are identical. The method has been tested on both isothermal and temperature-programmed data. The computer method proposed requires correction for fluctuations in carrier gas flow-rate and programmed column temperature, both of which cause irreproducibility in peak position. A procedure for accomplishing this correction is presented.
Optimization and sensitivity study of a biogeochemistry ocean model using an implicit solver and in situ phosphate data

[1] A new implicit method for obtaining equilibrium solutions and their sensitivity to changes in parameters is described and applied to an OCMIP-2 type ocean-biogeochemistry model. The method is used to optimize model parameters by minimizing the difference between the observed and simulated PO4 distribution. The optimized parameters include (1) the exponent α in the power law vertical profile for particulate organic matter (POM) fluxes, (2) the fraction σ of biological production allocated to dissolved organic matter (DOM) and (3) the rate constant κ for the remineralization of DOM. Global PO4 observations constrain σ and κ but not independently because their sensitivity patterns are highly correlated. In contrast, the sensitivity pattern for α is uncorrelated to those of the other parameters, allowing it to be independently constrained. We show that export production from POC is well constrained by the distribution of PO4 in an OCMIP-2 type model, but that new production and export production from DOC are not well constrained. With the optimal parameter set (α = −1.0, σ = 0.74, and κ = 1.0 yrs−1) the fraction of the spatial PO4 variance captured by our model increases from 60% with the reference OCMIP-2 parameters to 70%. Combined changes in σ and κ account for most of the improvements by reducing but not completely eliminating the nutrient trapping effect in the Eastern Equatorial Pacific and northern Indian Ocean that causes the model to over-predict PO4 concentrations. Important remaining model-data misfits in the deep North Atlantic where PO4 is over predicted and in the North Pacific where the model does not produce the observed sharp nutricline are likely attributable to deficiencies in ocean transport. The fact that the fraction of unexplained variance is large at the optimal parameter values highlights the importance of properly simulating physical transport for ocean biogeochemical modeling.
Genetic control of a photoperiod-sensitive response in Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench

Photoperiod-sensitive (PS) sorghums (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) are not uncommon, but the production of a PS hybrid from two photoperiod insensitive (PI) lines is unusual. The inbred line EBA-3 is PI, but F 1 hybrids of EBA-3 with most other PI inbreds are PS and will not initiate floral development until daylengths are <12 h and 20 min. The objective of this study was to determine the inheritance of the PS response. Ten PI inbred lines were crossed as females with EBA-3 by hand emasculation and pollination. F 1 and F 2 populations were evaluated for photoperiod response as indicated by flowering date in plantings at College Station and Halfway, TX. F 2:3 progeny for two of the crosses plus two testcrosses were used to confirm F 2 segregation data. Nine of ten F 1 progeny were strongly PS. Plants in nine F 2 populations segregated for photoperiod response. Segregation in eight of the F2 populations fit a 9:7 PS/PI ratio, indicating that two independent gene loci were interacting in complementary dominant epistasis. Evaluation of crosses between EBA-3 and maturity standards for the Ma 1 , Ma 2 , Ma3, and Ma 4 lod indicated that the lod responsible for this photoperiod sensitivity are different from previously characterized loci. The gene symbols proposed for these two loci are Ma 5 and Ma 6 .
The problems of generations: and generational analysis.

The focus of this paper is two fold: 1. conceptual and methodological problems underlying the life-span sociology literature that heretofore have not been discussed; and 2. application of the gener...
Evidence for single electron transfer in the reactions of organometallic compounds with 2,3,3-trimethyl-2-butyl peroxybenzoate

Abstract Utilization of a triptoxy radical probe in the reactions of organometallic compounds with 2,3,3-trimethyl-2-butyl peroxybenzoate indicates that the radical character of the reaction decreases in the order n -BuLi > n -BuMgCl > PhMgBr.
Quantitative Analysis of the Neuroendocrine–Immune Axis: Linear Modeling of the Effects of Exogenous Corticosterone and Restraint Stress on Lymphocyte Subpopulations in the Spleen and Thymus in Female B6C3F1 Mice

The effects of exogenous corticosterone and restraint stress on the number and percentage of lymphocyte subpopulations in the spleen and thymus were evaluated. The data were used to generate linear models that describe the relationship between these parameters and the area under the corticosterone concentration vs time curve (AUC). Comparison of the models revealed that the number of nucleated cells in the spleen was decreased similarly by exogenous corticosterone and restraint (at equivalent corticosterone AUC values). However, exogenous corticosterone caused a greater decrease in cell number in the thymus than it did in the spleen. Corticosterone preferentially depleted CD4+CD8+ cells in the thymus, whereas the same corticosterone exposure produced by restraint stress did not. In the spleen, cell number for all major cell types was decreased by both treatments, but there were minor differences in the change in percentage of some subpopulations induced by exogenous corticosterone as compared to restraint. The models derived here provide quantitative data that indicate the magnitude of corticosterone and stress-induced effects on lymphocyte populations in the spleen and thymus. These results have mechanistic implications, and they may be useful in future efforts to extrapolate from mouse to human by completing a risk assessment parallelogram.
REACTION TIME AND MOVEMENT TIME AS A FUNCTION OF AGE, STIMULUS DURATION, AND TASK DIFFICULTY

Abstract This study investigated the effects of age, stimulus duration, and task difficulty on reaction time and movement time. Subjects made a simple guided movement in response to the onset of a stimulus light. Two levels of task difficulty (simple and two-choice reaction) and three durations of the light (50 msec, response terminated, and movement terminated) were used to define six experimental conditions. Forty-eight subjects were used : 24 college sophomores with a median age of 20. and 24 elderly persons with a median age of 75. Older subjects reacted 11 per cent slower and moved 38 per cent slower than young. Choice reactions wore slower than simple reactions. Old subjects, but not young, moved faster in simple trials than in choice. The effect of stimulus duration was not significant. A predicted interaction of stimulus duration and age was also not supported. Proportionately greater slowing of reaction time for old subjects as difficulty increased was observed but failed to reach an acceptable l...
Medical Student Benefit from Learning Objectives Correlates to Specific Myers-Briggs Types

Learning objectives are a common learning guide but little is known regarding which students may benefit from their use. We have previously reported that male medical students benefit from the use of learning objectives more than female students. We next tested whether specific Myers-Briggs type indicator (MBTI) benefitted from using these objectives. Student’s MBTI types were determined by standard methods, and student use of online learning objectives was tracked in Blackboard. We then determined which types of students benefitted from learning objective use based on course exams and a standardized test. Although all MBTI types who downloaded objectives except intuitives (I) had better course exam scores, only sensing (S) types had enough benefit to significantly affect standardized test scores. Sensing types who downloaded learning objectives had a 30 % gain in score over non-downloaders on the course exam (80.7 ± 1.3 versus 68.7 ± 1.3; P = 0.001). The sensing–intuitive axis appears dominant over gender since sensing-type females benefit but intuitive-type males do not. MBTI type does not appear to affect the decision to download learning objectives as there is no significant difference in objective downloading rates between types. Students with specific Myers-Briggs types, particularly sensing, benefit from downloading learning objectives more than other students. These results support the notion that multiple learning methods may be needed to teach students with diverse learning needs.
Non-existence and inefficiency of equilibria with American options

We analyze two examples of economies with incomplete financial markets. In the first model we consider a stock and an American put option on the stock. Although there is only one commodity and asset payoffs therefore do not depend on spot prices, we derive robust non-existence of equilibria. In the second model we consider an economy where a stock is the only asset available for trade. We show that it is impossible to complete the market by introducing American put options and that equilibria are inefficient. This example is also robust.
The Influence of Rapid Serial Visual Presentation on Performance in a Video Game

The military has investigated the use of hand held devices and video games for training and mission planning. The purpose of this study was to continue previous research investigating the influence of rapid serial information presentation (RSVP) of intelligence reporting on task speed and reading comprehension. Fifty participants moved through a computer game to find a target as quickly as possible based on intelligence reports. There were two presentation styles (RSVP or traditional) and two intelligence formats (content words or full sentences). There were no between group differences in terms of search task performance within the game. Individuals scored higher on reading comprehension tests in the traditional text presentation group when shown content words and individuals in the traditional text presentation group when shown full sentences. We are conducting further analyses to address specific differences in performances and reading comprehension between groups. The results of this study suggest res...
Effect of bilateral macular scotomas from age-related macular degeneration on reach-to-grasp hand movement

PURPOSE: Vision plays a critical role in reaching and grasping objects. Consequently, bilateral macular scotomas from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may affect reach-to-grasp movements. The purpose of this work was to investigate changes in reach-to-grasp movement dynamics and to relate those changes to the characteristics of subjects' preferred retinal loci (PRL), scotomas, and visual acuities. METHODS: Three-dimensional positions of the index finger and thumb were recorded while subjects with bilateral scotomas and subjects with normal vision reached for and grasped blocks of three widths at two distances under binocular and monocular viewing conditions. Reach-dynamic parameters and the grip aperture (thumb-index finger distance) were calculated. Retinal locations and sizes of subjects' scotomas and PRLs were mapped with a scanning laser ophthalmoscope. RESULTS: Scotoma subjects' hand trajectories had longer movement durations, lower maximum velocities, and longer visual reaction times than those of control subjects. With monocular viewing, maximum grip aperture (MGA) increased as a function of block width at a significantly higher rate for scotoma subjects than for control subjects. MGA decreased with increasing PRL bivariate normal ellipse area, and visual reaction time increased with decreasing acuity of the eye tested. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with normally sighted subjects, subjects with bilateral macular scotomas from AMD have reach-to-grasp movements with longer trajectories, longer visual reaction times, lower velocities, and altered MGA-block width scaling. Visual reaction time and MGA are directly related to PRL characteristics. Deficits in reach-to-grasp movement caused by macular scotomas are greater in degree than those reported by others for real or artificial peripheral scotomas.
Arteriolar, capillary, and venular FITC-dextran time-concentration curves and plasma flow velocities.

SummaryA method is described for determining plasma flow velocity in microvessels of the cat mesentery. Time-concentration curves of FITC-dextran were recorded from the video-tape-recorded images of fluorescent dye as it passes through the vessels. The plasma velocity in arterioles, capillaries, and venules were determined during control periods and during isoproterenol vasodilation. Vasodilation reduces the mean transit time of the indicator from the point of injection to the arterioles, capillaries, and venules. Plasma velocity is markedly increased by isoproterenol vasodilation. There is evidence of reduced dispersion of indicator by the microvessels with vasodilation.
Lotteries in Dictator Games: An Experimental Study

Economic agents often consider the consequences of their actions not only for themselves, but for others as well. In these scenarios, either the magnitude of the cost to the agent, or of the gain to beneficiaries, are often uncertain. Until recently, experimental economic studies of altruistic preferences have neglected this consideration, treating both the costs and benefits of other-regarding actions as deterministic. This paper joins a recent body of literature in explicitly incorporating uncertainty into other-regarding decisions. Using Dictator Games and a 2 × 2 experimental design, we analyze giving in situations where both Dictators’ and Receivers’ payoffs can take the form of either lotteries or cash. We find Dictators much more willing to sacrifice their own cash, than to decrease their own chances of wining a lottery, to benefit Receivers. Receivers’ asset type, on the other hand, has little effect on Dictators’ giving. Income effects are also significantly stronger when Dictators’ assets are lotteries. These results can be explained, albeit only partially, by Dictators who are risk-averse over their own wealth, but not over Receivers’ wealth.
SPONTANEOUS DELAYED PROXIMAL MIGRATION OF ENTERPRISE STENT AFTER STAGED TREATMENT OF WIDE-NECKED BASILAR ANEURYSM: TECHNICAL CASE REPORT

Objective To document a unique technical issue with a relatively newly released intravascular stent used for adjunctive treatment of wide-necked cerebral aneurysms. Clinical presentation A 48-year-old woman with a sister who had a large unruptured wide-necked basilar aneurysm underwent screening evaluation that revealed a nearly identical aneurysm. She also harbored small unruptured right superior cerebellar and left anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. Intervention Endovascular treatment of the 11.5-mm basilar aneurysm was performed in a staged manner. Stent placement was performed first, followed by delayed coil embolization of the aneurysm 9 weeks later. Follow-up angiography at the time of the second procedure revealed significant spontaneous proximal migration of the Enterprise Vascular Reconstruction Device and Delivery System (Cordis Neurovascular, Inc., Miami Lakes, FL) with the distal extent of the device migrating from the right P2 segment into the neck of the aneurysm. Coil embolization was performed despite migration of the vascular reconstruction device. Conclusion The use of stents in the endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms has vastly improved our ability to treat complex lesions. Technical issues remain with these devices, and description of this event may alter the way we use the Enterprise Vascular Reconstruction Device and Delivery System in terms of staging procedures, and when evaluating the particular vascular anatomy of the individual patient with special attention to parent artery vessel size.
Wide-Band Low-Noise Charge Sensitive Preamplifier

This paper presents the design considerations and experimental characteristics of a transistorized charge-sensitive preamplifier that has a noise line-width significantly lower than that of the best vacuum-tube preamplifiers, and a high gain-bandwidth product which allows stabilization of the charge gain against detector capacitance fluctuations over a wide range of pulse-shaping time-constants. The open-loop gain of both the input charge-sensitive section and the output cable driver section is sufficiently stabilized against temperature fluctuations by compensating elements to allow the feedback capacitor in the charge-sensitive section to control the gain drift of the entire preamplifier. The input device is a new type of n-channel field-effect transistor (2N3823) that has excellent gain characteristics and an unusually low noise output. The measured gain and noise characteristics of the device are presented in this paper as functions of frequency (500 Hz to 750 kHz), temperature (-200°C to + 25°C), and bias point. The maximum signal-to-noise ratio for the best devices occurred when the case temperature was about -110°C. The charge-sensitive input section of the preamplifier has a midband open-loop voltage gain of about 3700, a low-frequency 3-db point less than 100 Hz and a high-frequency 3-db point at about 500 kHz. This high gain-bandwidth product (1.85 GHz) was obtained by developing a new type of input cascode circuit. The new circuit employs a single-stage shunt fedback current amplifier connected between the first and second stages of the conventional cascode circuit.
Tropical rainforests as dynamic symbiospheres of life

The remote Tiputini-Yasuni tropical forest region of the northwest Amazon (eastern Ecuador) represents a rich biodiversity likely unsurpassed anywhere else on earth. The myriad ecosystems, habitats and organisms are embedded in layers of symbiotic expressions. This region and particularly its Tiputini Biodiversity Station operated by the Universidad San Francisco de Quito offer unique and significant opportunities for symbiosis research and needed habitat conservation support. The centrality of symbioses in tropical rainforests is discussed through a review of selected literature and based on recent first-hand field experiences.
The Librarian in Rowling’s Harry Potter Series

In her article "The Librarian in Rowling's Harry Potter Series" Mary P. Freier discusses Hermione Granger's skills as a librarian and researcher which lead to the defeat of Lord Voldemort. In each novel in the series, Hermione's research provides the necessary information for the solving of the mystery. Throughout the series, Hermione proves to be the only character who can use books effectively without putting herself or others in danger. Hermione begins the series as a child who loves the library, but does not always know how to use it effectively, while Madam Pince begins the series as a stereotypical librarian and disappears entirely by The Deathly Hallows. Hermione's development as a character and scholar occurs as Madam Pince, the Hogwarts librarian, becomes even more of a stereotype and ultimately disappears. In The Deathly Hallows, Hermione acts as the librarian for the search for the Deathly Hallows and the subsequent destruction of Lord Voldemort by not only using a library effectively, but creating her own library, as well as locating needed information outside a library. Mary P. Freier, "The Librarian in Rowling's Harry Potter Series" page 2 of 9 CLCWeb: Comparative Literature and Culture 16.3 (2014):
Functional analysis of a β-1,3-glucanase gene (Tag 1) with anther-specific RNA and protein accumulation using antisense RNA inhibition

A critical stage in pollen development is the dissolution of tetrads into free microspores. Tetrads are surrounded by a wall composed primarily of beta-1,3-glucan. At the completion of meiosis, tetrads are released into the anther locule after hydrolysis of the callose by a beta-1,3-glucanase complex. The cDNA corresponding to a beta-1,3-glucanase cloned from tobacco (Tag 1) represents a gene that is highly similar to other beta-1,3-glucanases and is expressed exclusively in anthers from the tetrad to free microspore stage of pollen development. Tag 1 protein was overexpressed in E. coli, accumulating in insoluble inclusion bodies. Polyclonal antibodies against Tag 1 recombinant protein identify a single 33 kD protein accumulating only in anthers at tetrad and free microspore stages where beta-1,3-glucanase activity is present. Transgenic plants expressing Tag 1 antisense RNA were produced. Although Tag 1 RNA and protein levels were greatly reduced, tetrad dissolution and pollen development were normal. These data indicate that under the conditions these tobacco plants were grown, wild type levels of Tag 1 protein are not necessary for male fertility.
In memoriam Robert B. Barlow, Jr: July 31 1939 – December 24 2009

It is with great sadness that we mark the loss of Dr Robert (Bob) Barlow, a pioneering investigator into the neural basis of visual behavior. Bob had a passion for vision research that was vibrant and engaging. He would surely have remained scientifically active and productive for years to come,
Abstract A178: Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) induces catalase-sensitive cell growth inhibition and AKT activation in Burkitt lymphoma cells.

Burkitt lymphoma is an aggressive non-Hodgkin's B cell lymphoma. It is typically treated with high intensity chemotherapy, which is associated with toxicities. Therefore, it is important to develop novel treatments for this disease. Studies have found that the green tea-derived compound, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), may be effective in treating Burkitt lymphoma (Nakazato T. et. al., 2005 and Noda C. et. al., 2007). Another study showed that the phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway is important for Burkitt lymphoma proliferation and survival (Schmizt R. et. al., 2012). Therefore the purpose of this current study is to investigate the connection between EGCG and the PI3K/AKT pathway in Burkitt lymphoma cells. To begin, it was evaluated whether EGCG would induce dose-dependent, catalase-sensitive growth inhibition of the sporadic Burkitt lymphoma cell lines, BL41-3, DG75, and Ramos. These cells were treated with EGCG at varying doses and also in the presence or absence of catalase followed by MTT analysis. EGCG induced a dose-dependent growth inhibition of all three Burkitt lymphoma cell lines and co-treatment with catalase prevented this effect. To determine the effects of EGCG on the PI3K/AKT pathway, BL41-3, DG75, and Ramos, were treated with 0, 20, 40, or 80 μM EGCG followed by Western analysis for phosphorylated AKT and total AKT. The results indicated that AKT phosphorylation is increased in all three cell lines following EGCG treatment. Lastly, it was investigated how inhibition of PI3K during EGCG treatment impacts the anti-proliferative effects seen with EGCG alone. To test this, BL41-3, DG75, and Ramos cells were treated with EGCG and an inhibitor of PI3K, LY294002, followed by MTT analysis. EGCG and LY294002 inhibited Burkitt lymphoma cell growth, although the degree of inhibition and the effect of combination treatment varied between the three cell lines. In conclusion, EGCG induced AKT phosphorylation along with a catalase-sensitive growth inhibition and the addition of a PI3K inhibitor had an additive growth inhibitory effect with EGCG. These results provide novel insight into the use of EGCG for the treatment of sporadic Burkitt lymphomas. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):A178. Citation Format: Carl-Christian Van Doorn, Aaron M. Domina. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) induces catalase-sensitive cell growth inhibition and AKT activation in Burkitt lymphoma cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2013 Oct 19-23; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A178.
Prevalence of septic events, type 1 hepatorenal syndrome, and mortality in severe alcoholic hepatitis and utility of discriminant function and MELD score in predicting these adverse events.

We sought to assess prevalence, and utility of discriminant function (DF) and MELD score in predicting septic events (SE), type 1 hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), and short-term mortality in severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH). Charts of patients with AH (group 1) and cirrhosis without AH (group 2) were retrospectively reviewed. Severe AH, discriminant function (DF) ≥ 32 was treated with pentoxifylline. One hundred ninety-five patients were enrolled in the study and divided into 2 groups: group 1, n=99, and group 2, n=96. Of those with AH, 82% had a DF ≥ 32 at presentation. Group 1 patients had a higher prevalence of SE (38% versus 25%, P=.04), type 1 HRS (30% versus 9%, P=.0003), and short-term mortality (28% versus 7%, P=.0001). In patients with AH, a MELD score ≥20 (but not a DF ≥ 32) at presentation was an independent predictor of a SE (odds ratio [OR] 2.8 [1.0–7.9], P=.04), HRS (OR 4.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0–16.6, P=0.05), and short-term mortality (OR 6.4, 95% CI 1.1–37.6, P=.03). Kaplan-Meier survival curves confirmed that that a MELD ≥ 20 but not a DF ≥ 32 was associated with a poorer survival (P = .005 and .5, respectively). In conclusion, patients with severe AH have higher prevalence of SE, HRS, and short-term mortality compared to those with cirrhosis without AH. A MELD score ≥20 at presentation is an independent predictor of these adverse events in patients with AH who have been treated with pentoxifylline.
Numerical simulation of injection/compression liquid composite molding. Part 2: preform compression

Abstract In the injection/compression liquid composite molding process (I/C-LCM), a liquid polymer resin is injected into a partially open mold, which contains a preform of reinforcing fibers. After some or all of the resin has been injected, the mold is closed, compressing the preform and causing additional resin flow. This paper addresses compression of the preform, with particular emphasis on modeling three-dimensional mold geometries and multi-layer preforms in which the layers have different mechanical responses. First, a new constitutive relation is developed to model the mechanical response of fiber mats during compression. We introduce a new form of nonlinear elasticity for transversely isotropic materials. A special case of this form is chosen that includes the compressive stress generated by changes in mat thickness, but suppresses all other responses. This avoids the need to model slip of the preform along the mold surface. Second, a finite element method, based on the principle of virtual displacement, is developed to solve for the deformation of the preform at any stage of mold closing. The formulation includes both geometric and material nonlinearities, and uses a full Newton–Raphson iteration in the solution. An open gap above the preform can be incorporated by treating the gap as a distinct material layer with a very small stiffness. Examples show that this approach successfully predicts compression in dry preforms for three-dimensional I/C-LCM molds.
Preparing Students for Word - Processing Careers

Abstract “… job structure, employment demands, and user problems.” As use of word processing increases, more students will locate employment in word-processing systems rather than in traditionally organized offices. To prepare students for successful careers in this growing field, business educators must equip students with an understanding of word-processing job structures, employment demands, and user problems.
The effects of tumor growth factors on the growth rate of cell cultures

Abstract A mathematical model of growth control in a cell culture in which Tumor Growth Factors (TGF) diffuse through intercellular spaces and act locally is constructed.
Regulation of myocardial metabolism by the cardiomyocyte circadian clock

On a daily basis, the heart is subjected to dramatic fluctuations in energetic demand and neurohumoral influences, many of which occur in a temporally predictable manner. In order to preserve cardiac performance, the heart must therefore maintain metabolic flexibility, even within the confines of a single day. Recent studies have established mechanistic links between time-of-day-dependent oscillations in myocardial metabolism and the cardiomyocyte circadian clock. More specifically, evidence suggests that this cell autonomous molecular mechanism regulates myocardial glucose uptake, flux through both glycolysis and the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway, and pyruvate oxidation, as well as glycogen, triglyceride, and protein turnover. These observations have led to the hypothesis that the cardiomyocyte circadian clock confers the selective advantage of anticipation of increased energetic demand during the awake period. Here, we review the accumulative evidence in support of this hypothesis thus far, and discuss the possibility that attenuation of these metabolic rhythms, through disruption of the cardiomyocyte circadian clock, contributes towards the etiology of cardiac dysfunction in various disease states. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Focus on Cardiac Metabolism".
13C fourier-transform NMR study of trimethyl(phenylethynyl)silane: Silicon-carbon bonding☆

Abstract A 13 C Fourier transform (FT) NMR study of trimethyl(phenylethynyl)silane gives new evidence for ( p → d ) π bonding or equivalent interaction between bonded carbon and silicon atoms. Pulsed FT operation allows detection of 29 Si 13 C spinspin coupling observed as 2.3 % 29 Si satellites in 13 C spectra. The one-bond 13 C 29 Si coupling constants for seven compounds were found to be roughly proportional to “ s ” character on carbon, ranging from 50.2 ( sp 3 ) to 83.6 Hz ( sp ).
Breakups Before Marriage: The End of 103 Affairs

Factors that predicted breakups before marriage, investigated as part of a two-year study of dating relationships among college students, included unequal involvement in the relationship (as suggested by exchange theory) and discrepant age, educational aspirations, intelligence, and physical attractiveness (as suggested by filtering models). The timing of breakups was highly related to the school calendar, pointing to the importance of external factors in structuring breakups. The desire to break up was seldom mutual; women were more likely than men to perceive problems in premarital relationships and somewhat more likely to be the ones to precipitate the breakups. Findings are discussed in terms of their relevance for the process of mate selection and their implications for marital breakup. (“The best divorce is the one you get before you get married.”)
Can cocaine addicts with severe mental illness be treated along with singly diagnosed addicts

Large numbers of indigent cocaine abusers now present in center-city hospitals. Since many are also diagnosed for severe mental illness, options for their effective treatment are needed. The authors investigated the feasibility of treating these dually diagnosed patients along with the majority of abusers who were not severely impaired in a program that combines peerled treatment with psychiatric management and pharmacotherapy. Although group confrontation techniques were used, schizophrenics (N = 71) and patients with major depressive disorder (N = 50) experienced an outcome as good or better than the less impaired (N = 177) on retention, visit rates, and urinalysis results.
PGH2 degradation pathway catalyzed by GSH-Heme complex bound microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase type 2 : The first example of a dual-function enzyme

Prostaglandin E2 synthase (PGES) catalyzes the isomerization of PGH2 to PGE2. PGES type 2 (mPGES-2) is a membrane-associated enzyme, whose N-terminal section is apparently inserted into the lipid bilayer. Both intact and N-terminal truncated enzymes have been isolated and have similar catalytic activity. The recombinant N-terminal truncated enzyme purified from Escherichia coli HB101 grown in LB medium containing δ-aminolevulinate and Fe(NO3)3 has a red color, while the same enzyme purified from the same E. coli grown in minimal medium has no color. The red-colored enzyme has been characterized by mass, fluorescence, and EPR spectroscopies and X-ray crystallography. The enzyme is found to contain bound glutathione (GSH) and heme. GSH binds to the active site with six H-bonds, while a heme is complexed with bound GSH forming a S−Fe coordination bond with no polar interaction with mPGES-2. There is a large open space between the heme and the protein, where a PGH2 might be able to bind. The heme dissociation...
The Preoperative and Postoperative Vectorcardiogrom in Tetralogy of Fallot

The analysis and description of the preoperative and postoperative vectorcardiograms in tetralogy of Fallot are presented. The spatial orientation of the maximum QRS vectors to the right, anteriorly, and inferiorly in group I is indicative of right ventricular hypertrophy. In group II patients, the vectorcardiogram showed evidence of increased electrical activity of the left ventricle. Vectorcardiographic patterns of complete right bundle-branch block were noted in nine patients in group III.
A Computational and Experimental Study of High-Speed Impulsive Noise from a Rotating Cylinder,

Abstract : This work presents an alternative to current integral approaches that do not accurately predict noise from a delocalized rotor. The two-dimensional model of this study is essentially an airfoil shape mounted on the side of cylinder which spins at transonic speeds between two end-walls. A finite-difference conservative formulation of the two-dimensional, transonic full-potential equations solves the flow field away from the body directly and hence predicts the beginning of delocalization and the associated wave propagation. The potential method has an inherent stability limit a free-stream velocity of Mach 1.4 and shows a troubling sensitivity to the choice of outer boundary conditions. Methods for correctly handling these two problems are shown. A two-dimensional experiment that described. The computer prediction of the flow expected in the experiment is presented as are some limited experimental results. Results taken from a three-dimensional results correlate to those from an actual rotor. Results for low-aspect-ratio rotors show a higher delocalization Mach number for decreasing aspect ratio and a greater dependence on thickness. (Author)