cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Formation of theoretical-density microhomogeneous YBa2Cu3O7-χ using a microemulsion-mediated process

Abstract We describe a new technique using microemulsions for synthesizing an ultra-homogeneous, microparticulate precursor for the production of sintered YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−χ . The process ensures a uniform mixing of the cations down to a scale of at least 10 nm. The finely dispersed oxalate precursor (particle size ≈ 50 nm) yields single-phase YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−χ powder (particle size ≈ 275 nm) on calcining at 820°C. The material sintered at 925°C has a very compact microstructure with large (15–50 μm) grains and has a bulk density that is about 98% of the theoretical (single-crystal) value. It also exhibits a significantly higher Meissner effect than the material produced by conventional aqueous precipitation when both are sintered under identical conditions.
An adaptive adjacent channel interference cancellation technique

In this paper, an adaptive adjacent channel interference (ACI) technique is proposed. Results for BPSK modulation with rectangular and square-root raised-cosine pulse shaping, under AWGN conditions, are obtained showing the proposed method to be effective in improving performance under high levels of interference. Basically, the idea is to send pilot signals and then to use them in estimating the amount of ACI in the frequency domain. The estimated spectral error is used to modify tap weights of an adaptive frequency-domain filter. Our simulation results reported suggest that ACI can be effectively reduced with the proposed technique. At the system level, the requirements of analog front-end channel-select and other filters can be relaxed, resulting in a cost -effective receiver design.
Evidence for an interaction between kidney cell membrane and certain phosphate-transferring enzymes

Abstract As a facet of our investigation of the role of adenosine-3′,5′-monophosphate in the mechanism of action of antidiuretic hormone we have explored the possibility of an interaction between kidney cell membrane and certain phosphate-transferring enzymes. This communication is concerned with evidence for a membrane-enzyme interaction as derived from optical density studies, enzyme activation and inhibition effects, and optical rotatory dispersion data. We have found that phosphoglucomutase, phosphorylase, and pyruvic kinase appear to interact with kidney cell membrane. These enzymes are unique with respect to those studied in requiring a substrate which bears a phosphorylated carbonyl moiety.
A double bubble tubular film process to produce biaxially oriented poly(p‐phenylene sulfide) (PPS) film

A double bubble tubular film process to produce biaxially oriented poly(p-phenylene sulfide) (PPS) film is described. Operating windows were developed for stable operation of both the first and second bubbles. Films produced from single bubble tubular film extrusion were largely amorphous having only seven to nine percent crystallinity. Double bubble PPS tubular film had up to 20 percent crystallinity which was increased to 30 percent by further annealing. The first and second bubble films had surface roughness standard deviation heights of 0.01 to 0.04 μm. Orientation was characterized by birefringence and wide angle X-ray diffraction pole figures of the 110 and 112 reflections. Biaxial orientation factors were computed. The double bubble films had higher Young's modulus and tensile strength but lower elongation to break than the single bubble films. Annealing further increases Young's modulus and tensile strength but decreases elongation to break. Double bubble and annealed films with roughly equal second bubble drawdown ratio and second blow up ratio tend to have balanced properties in the plane of the film.
Multicollinearity and the value of a priori information

A measure of multicollinearity is defined which is useful in evaluating maintained hypotheses and aiding estimator selection as it suggests when a non-traditional estimator proposed by Bock (1975) is minimax and dominates ordinary least squares. An example is used to illustrate the presented methodology.
A general theory of uncertainty based on t-conorms

We first extend a t-conorm C to C(f) for certain f:Rn→R, sup ∥f∥<+∞ are used to define a generalized fuzzy measure on a class of subsets of Rn. The generalized fuzzy measure is employed to develop a general theory of uncertain variables including: (1) uncertainty distributions (u.d.'s) of functions of uncertain variables; (2) expected value and variance; (3) marginal and joint u.d.'s; and (4) conditional u.d.'s. Numerous examples are presented showing the theory contains both discrete and continuous possibility theory and probability theory.
An integrated threat model of explicit and implicit attitudes

The current study applied integrated threat theory (ITT) to the prediction of implicit and explicit attitudes toward African-Americans. We tested models predicting attitudes from threats (intergroup anxiety, realistic, and symbolic) and antecedents to threat (contact, status, ingroup identification, and negative stereotyping). Data collected from 389 White undergraduate participants indicated that ITT is a good model for predicting both implicit and explicit attitudes. With few exceptions, antecedents predicted threats, and threats mediated the impact of antecedents on attitudes. This work adds importantly to ITT as it demonstrated common predictors of explicit and implicit attitudes, distinguished between negative and positive forms of contact, and tested a latent variable model. We discuss theoretical implications for dual process interpretations of implicit and explicit attitudes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abstract CN07-02: Molecularly targeted cancer prevention: From discovery to medicine

Despite the intensive efforts and substantial advances that have occurred through focusing on improving treatment, cancer is still a leading cause of death worldwide. Many have argued that this could be avoided by focusing on cancer prevention, which has now entered the arena of targeted therapies. During the process of identifying preventive agents, dietary phytochemicals have emerged as modulators of key cellular pathways. By molecular modeling of the interactions of targeted proteins with these chemopreventive agents, we have provided knowledge for a better understanding of how these preventive agents work. Such knowledge will help the translation to new clinical practice of preventive medicine. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2011;4(10 Suppl):CN07-02.
CHCM1/CHCHD6, Novel Mitochondrial Protein Linked to Regulation of Mitofilin and Mitochondrial Cristae Morphology

The structural integrity of mitochondrial cristae is crucial for mitochondrial functions; however, the molecular events controlling the structural integrity and biogenesis of mitochondrial cristae remain to be fully elucidated. Here, we report the functional characterization of a novel mitochondrial protein named CHCM1 (coiled coil helix cristae morphology 1)/CHCHD6. CHCM1/CHCHD6 harbors a coiled coil helix-coiled coil helix domain at its C-terminal end and predominantly localizes to mitochondrial inner membrane. CHCM1/CHCHD6 knockdown causes severe defects in mitochondrial cristae morphology. The mitochondrial cristae in CHCM1/CHCHD6-deficient cells become hollow with loss of structural definitions and reduction in electron-dense matrix. CHCM1/CHCHD6 depletion also leads to reductions in cell growth, ATP production, and oxygen consumption. CHCM1/CHCHD6 through its C-terminal end strongly and directly interacts with the mitochondrial inner membrane protein mitofilin, which is known to also control mitochondrial cristae morphology. CHCM1/CHCHD6 also interacts with other mitofilin-associated proteins, including DISC1 and CHCHD3. Knockdown of CHCM1/CHCHD6 reduces mitofilin protein levels; conversely, mitofilin knockdown leads to reduction in CHCM1 levels, suggesting coordinate regulation between these proteins. Our results further indicate that genotoxic anticancer drugs that induce DNA damage down-regulate CHCM1/CHCHD6 expression in multiple human cancer cells, whereas mitochondrial respiratory chain inhibitors do not affect CHCM1/CHCHD6 levels. CHCM1/CHCHD6 knockdown in human cancer cells enhances chemosensitivity to genotoxic anticancer drugs, whereas its overexpression increases resistance. Collectively, our results indicate that CHCM1/CHCHD6 is linked to regulation of mitochondrial cristae morphology, cell growth, ATP production, and oxygen consumption and highlight its potential as a possible target for cancer therapeutics.
Environmental sustainability through project appraisals

Environmentally sustainable development's final aim is to bring a better quality of life for all time. To reach that objective, some economists see man-made capital as the main constraining factor for economic growth. Others argue that such a unidirectional search for growth will not bring economic development since natural capital is the main constraint to long- term growth. A reconciliatory position is proposed in this paper by which the search for improved general welfare over time can only be pursued with consideration of the earth's sustainable capability to produce the resources we need and to absorb the waste we generate. Once the sustainability constraints are set, a benefit/cost framework is useful to establish development project priorities. To establish sustainability constraints requires changing mindsets, implementing new policies, both macro-economic and sectoral, and changing and creating new laws and institutions, among other challenging tasks. As all these reforms are complex and cannot always be implemented quickly and efficiently, project appraisal has an important role to play in attaining incrementally a stage of sustainable development. The basic principle underlying appraisal of projects which have an important environmental dimension remains the same, once the right policies have been established. Some important additional considerations are supplementary streams of environmental inputs and outputs for which there may be inappropriate or no market prices and which should be valued indirectly, duly calculating user costs in both cases, a discount rate encompassing both the opportunity cost of capital and society's rate of time preference, and a different analysis of uncertainty which embodies the irreversibilities and discontinuities inherent in ecosystems. Projects need to be monitored carefully and be the object of homeostatic feedbacks similar to those encountered in natural ecosystems, if they are to fit in a strategy of sustainable development. Following this approach of appraisal and monitoring projects once an appropriate policy framework has been set in place, development banks are attempting to translate the concept of sustainability into economic development incrementally, project by project.
Time-periodic flow induced structures and instabilities in a viscoelastic surfactant solution

Abstract Using various optical and mechanical techniques we report on a shear induced structure (SIS) that results in instabilities during flow. The solution in this study is an equimolar solution of cetylpyridinium chloride and sodium salicylate. In this investigation we further probe the hypothesis of Rehage et al. that an SIS occurs [1] . We find that not only does an SIS occur but as the solution is subjected to stronger flows it becomes turbid before forming ring-like structures which alternate in intensity both spatially and temporally. Since the rings alternate periodically it is evident that the flow not only forms these structures but is also capable of destroying them as well. Simultaneously measuring birefringence and mechanical properties we observe the same periodic oscillations in the birefringence. On the other hand these ring-like structures are present in the parallel plate, cone and plate, and Taylor Couette flow cells. These rings are similar in appearance to those seen for elastic instabilities in Boger fluids seeded with mica flakes. In a constant stress rheometer the shear rate exhibits overshoots and fluctuations again resembling the behavior of elastic instabilities in Boger fluids.
Oocyte cryopreservation for fertility preservation in postpubertal female children at risk for premature ovarian failure due to accelerated follicle loss in Turner syndrome or cancer treatments.

Abstract Objective To preliminarily study the feasibility of oocyte cryopreservation in postpubertal girls aged between 13 and 15 years who were at risk for premature ovarian failure due to the accelerated follicle loss associated with Turner syndrome or cancer treatments. Design Retrospective cohort and review of literature. Setting Academic fertility preservation unit. Participants Three girls diagnosed with Turner syndrome, 1 girl diagnosed with germ-cell tumor. and 1 girl diagnosed with lymphoblastic leukemia. Interventions Assessment of ovarian reserve, ovarian stimulation, oocyte retrieval, in vitro maturation, and mature oocyte cryopreservation. Main Outcome Measure Response to ovarian stimulation, number of mature oocytes cryopreserved and complications, if any. Results Mean anti-mullerian hormone, baseline follical stimulating hormone, estradiol, and antral follicle counts were 1.30 ± 0.39, 6.08 ± 2.63, 41.39 ± 24.68, 8.0 ± 3.2; respectively. In Turner girls the ovarian reserve assessment indicated already diminished ovarian reserve. Ovarian stimulation and oocyte cryopreservation was successfully performed in all female children referred for fertility preservation. A range of 4-11 mature oocytes (mean 8.1 ± 3.4) was cryopreserved without any complications. All girls tolerated the procedure well. Conclusions Oocyte cryopreservation is a feasible technique in selected female children at risk for premature ovarian failure. Further studies would be beneficial to test the success of oocyte cryopreservation in young girls.
Correctly implementing value prediction in microprocessors that support multithreading or multiprocessing

This paper explores the interaction of value prediction with thread-level parallelism techniques, including multithreading and multiprocessing, where correctness is defined by a memory consistency model. Value prediction subtly interacts with the memory consistency model by allowing data dependent instructions to be reordered We find that predicting a value and later verifying that the value eventually calculated is the same as the value predicted is not always sufficient. We present an example of a multithreaded pointer manipulation that can generate a surprising and erroneous result when value prediction is implemented without considering memory consistency correctness. We show that this problem can occur with real software, and we discuss how to apply existing techniques to eliminate the problem in both sequentially consistent systems and systems that obey relaxed memory consistency models.
Interactions of Carcinogens with Human Cell DNA: Damage and Repair

An apparently important activity of chemical carcinogens is their ability to react with DNA (1). If the chemical interaction of carcinogens with DNA is of significance in the carcinogenic event, it is important to have an amount of information on these DNA damages and their repair. It is well known that when the DNA in cells is damaged by carcinogenic agents such as ultraviolet light, ionizing radiation, or chemical carcinogens, enzyme systems are present for the recognition and removal of these damages from DNA (2). Damaged regions of DNA are excised, and a nonsemiconservative synthesis called repair replication occurs, utilizing new, undamaged nucleotides to restore the original base sequence and tertiary configuration to the DNA that was present before the damage (2). If the carcinogenic event is in fact a damage to DNA and if these damages to DNA are repaired, then it is conceivable that the carcinogenic event is either the result of residual damages that are not repaired for long times after the insult, because the repair system is saturated with damages, or the result of a system that is too slow, allowing the carcinogenic event to become fixed at a critical site in DNA before a repair system can reach it and repair it.
Using Qualitative Research Methods in Higher Education.

RESEARCHERS INVESTIGATING ISSUES related to computing in higher education are increasingly using qualitative research methods to conduct their investigations. However, they may have little training or experience in qualitative research. The purpose of this paper is to introduce researchers to the appropriate use of qualitative methods. It begins by describing how qualitative research is defined, key characteristics of qualitative research, and when to consider using these methods. The paper then provides an overview of how to conduct qualitative studies, including steps in planning the research, selecting data collection methods, analyzing data, and reporting research findings. The paper concludes with suggestions for enhancing the quality of qualitative studies.
Volcanism on Io: A comparison with Earth, by Ashley Davies

Book Review: Volcanism on Io: A Comparison with Earth, Ashley Davies. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press (2007).
MicroRNA Mirn122a Reduces Expression of the Posttranscriptionally Regulated Germ Cell Transition Protein 2 (Tnp2) Messenger RNA (mRNA) by mRNA Cleavage

MicroRNAs play important roles in regulating development at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. Here, we report 29 microRNAs from mouse testis that are differentially expressed as the prepubertal testis differentiates to the adult testis. Using computational analyses to identify potential microRNA target mRNAs, we identify several possible male germ cell target mRNAs. One highly conserved sequence in the 3'-untranslated region (UTR) of transition protein 2 (Tnp2) mRNA, a testis-specific and posttranscriptionally regulated mRNA in postmeiotic germ cells, is complementary to Mirn122a. Mirn122a is enriched in late-stage male germ cells and is predominantly on polysomes. Mirn122a, but not another noncomplementary microRNA, inhibits the activity of a luciferase reporter construct containing the 3'-UTR of Tnp2. Site-directed mutations of Mirn122a indicate that base pairing of the 5'-region of Mirn122a to its complementary site in the 3'-UTR of Tnp2 mRNA is essential for the downregulation of luciferase activity. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and ribonuclease protection assays reveal that the Mirn122a-directed decrease of the Tnp2 reporter gene activity results from mRNA cleavage. We propose that specific microRNAs, such as Mirn122a, could be involved in the posttranscriptional regulation of mRNAs such as Tnp2 in the mammalian testis.
Structure and properties of phenolic resin/nanoclay composites synthesized by in situ polymerization

An in situ semibatch polymerization process for making phenolic resin/montmorillonite clay nanocomposites is developed. It is found that auxiliary mixing in phenol allows intercalation of the monomer and polymer between montmorillonite clay layers. At 2.7% clay by mass the montmorillonite is predominantly exfoliated (fully dispersed). At higher clay loading, a substantial amount of the clay remains in aggregate or intercalated form. When the montmorillonite is exfoliated, the material is mechanically superior. The composite has a tensile modulus that is 21% higher than the neat resin and has 87% improved fracture strength, 100% larger fracture energy, and strain to failure 13% above the pure resin. Thermogravimetric analysis shows the montmorillonite system maintains its thermal stability up to 200°C. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95: 1169–1174, 2005
Hydrogen Atom Scrambling in Ion‐Molecule Reactions of Methane and Ethylene

The extent of hydrogen atom exchange in the reaction, CH3(+) + CH4 yields C2H5(+) + H2, is determined by examining the product distribution for the reactions CH3(+) + CD4 and CD3(+) + CH4 as a function of relative kinetic energy from thermal energies to 10 eV. It is found that the reaction of CH4(+) with the parent neutral proceeds both via proton transfer and hydrogen abstraction accompanied by approximately 10% hydrogen atom exchange during the reaction.
Oral Campylobacter Species Involved in Extraoral Abscess: a Report of Three Cases

Oral Campylobacter species are rarely reported to cause extraoral infections. Here we present three cases of extraoral abscess caused by an oral Campylobacter sp. and a Streptococcus sp. The Campylobacter species were all isolated anaerobically and identified by sequencing analysis of the 16S rRNA gene. The cases included a breast abscess caused by Campylobacter rectus and a non-group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus in a patient with lymphoma, a liver abscess caused by Campylobacter curvus and an alpha-hemolytic streptococcus in a patient with complicated ovarian cancer, and a postobstructive bronchial abscess caused by C. curvus and group C beta-hemolytic Streptococcus constellatus in a patient with lung cancer. The abscesses were drained or resected, and the patients were treated with antibiotics with full resolution of the lesions. The C. curvus cases are likely the first reported infections by this organism, and the C. rectus case represents the second such reported extraoral infection.
Tourism in the Mundo Maya: Inventions and (Mis)Representations of Maya Identities and Heritage

In this paper we explore how Maya identities have been (mis)represented in the context of heritage tourism across the Mundo Maya and underscore the cultural heterogeneity and historical diversity of Maya speaking people. Our focus is the Yucatan peninsula, where we look at terms used to define social categories and ethnic groups through time. We then examine how tourism can affect notions of self-identify and self-ascription, by presenting our first-hand experience as archaeologists dealing with issues of Maya identity and heritage claims in the context of archaeological tourism development at the sites of Chunchucmil and Yaxuna, Yucatan. We propose the use of a ‘relational approach’ to identify formation processes in contrast to the more common genealogical approach. In addition, we believe that with the help of applied anthropologists archaeologists can be advocates for local communities and mediators among multiple stakeholders in situations where these communities are poised to benefit from tourism.
Associations among daily stressors and salivary cortisol: Findings from the National Study of Daily Experiences

While much research has focused on linking stressful experiences to emotional and biological reactions in laboratory settings, there is an emerging interest in extending these examinations to field studies of daily life. The current study examined day-to-day associations among naturally occurring daily stressors and salivary cortisol in a national sample of adults from the second wave of the National Study of Daily Experiences (NSDE). A sample of 1694 adults (age=57, range=33-84; 44% male) completed telephone interviews detailing their stressors and emotions on eight consecutive evenings. Participants also provided saliva samples upon waking, 30min post-waking, before lunch and before bed, on four consecutive interview days resulting in 5995 days of interview/cortisol data. Analyses revealed three main findings. First, cortisol AUC was significantly higher on stressor days compared to stressor-free days, particularly for arguments and overloads at home, suggesting that daily stressors are associated with increased cortisol output, but that not all daily stressors have such an influence. Second, individuals reporting a greater frequency of stressor days also exhibited a steeper diurnal cortisol slope. Finally, daily stressor-cortisol associations were unaltered after adjustment for daily negative affect and physical symptoms. Our discussion focuses on the influence of naturally occurring daily stressors on daily cortisol and the role of daily diary approaches for studying healthy cortisol responses to psychosocial stressors outside of traditional laboratory settings.
The (Paleo)Geography of Evolution: Making Sense of Changing Biology and Changing Continents

During the voyage of the H.M.S. Beagle, Charles Darwin quickly realized that geographic isolation led to significant changes in the adaptation of local flora and fauna (Darwin 1859). Genetic isolation is one of the well-known mechanisms by which adaptation (allopatric speciation) can occur (Palumbi, Annu Rev Ecol Syst 25:547–72, 1994; Ricklefs, J Avian Biol 33:207–11, 2002; Burns et al., Evolution 56:1240–52, 2002; Hendry et al., Science 290:516–8, 2009). Evolutionary changes can also occur when landmasses converge or are “bridged.” An important and relatively recent (Pliocene Epoch) example known as the “Great American Biotic Interchange” allowed for the migration of previously isolated species into new ecological niches between North and South America (Webb 1985, Ann Mo Bot Gard 93:245–57, 2006; Kirby and MacFadden, Palaeogeogr Palaeoclimatol Palaeoecol 228:193–202, 2005). Geographic isolation (vicariance) or geographic merging (geodispersal) can occur for a variety of reasons (sea level rise, splitting of continents, mountain building). In addition, the growth of a large supercontinent (or breakup) may change the climatic zonation on the globe and form a different type of barrier for species migration. This short review paper focuses on changing paleogeography throughout the Phanerozoic and the close ties between paleogeography and the evolutionary history of life on Earth.
Elementary preservice teachers learning to teach science in science museums and nature centers: A novel program’s impact on science knowledge, science pedagogy, and confidence teaching

This ethnographic research examined two out-of-school science practica where preservice elementary teachers learned to teach science. We wondered what teachers learned about science and teaching science, how their sense of themselves as science teachers changed, and how such settings might contribute to reform in science education to promote greater scientific literacy. Preservice teachers had positive experiences; found the practica non-threatening; learned hands-on, inquiry-based teaching practices and some science; and developed confidence in their ability to teach. Practicing teachers from earlier practica carried what they learned into their classrooms. We explore implications for incorporating such sites in elementary teacher education programs and suggest further research.
Distributed detection in teams with partial information: a normative-descriptive model

A hierarchical team faced with a binary detection problem, wherein decision makers (DMs) have access to different subsets of noise-corrupted information about the true state of the environment, is considered. A normative model is developed that aggregates the individual expertise of DMs at different levels of the hierarchy. The resulting team expertise is characterized in the form of a team receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, thereby replacing the team by an equivalent single decision-making node. The normative model is tested against human teams in a laboratory experiment. The team objective is to minimize the cost of errors in the final decision at the primary DM, where the cost structure and the information structure are treated as independent variables. Discrepancies between normative predictions and experimental results are attributed to inherent limitations and cognitive biases of humans. >
A unique case of Hajdu-Cheney syndrome and squamous cell carcinoma of the anus.

Objective Hajdu-Cheney syndrome (HCS), first described in 1948 by Hajdu and independently in 1965 by Cheney, is an extremely rare disorder characterized by severe and excessive bone resorption leading to osteoporosis, with a wide range of other systemic complications from connective tissue and bone dysplasia. Currently there are approximately 50 distinct cases reported in the literature. There have been several reports associating polycystic kidneys with HCS and several other connective tissue disorders, suggesting a possibility of a hyperproliferative component to the syndrome. No articles exist in the current literature describing a case of HCS with concurrent carcinoma. Here, we present a case of a 54-year-old nonimmune compromised woman with multiple stigmata of HCS and recently diagnosed anal squamous cell carcinoma. Method This is a case report of HCS and stage T3N0 squamous cell carcinoma of the anus. Results This is the first report of a patient with HCS with malignancy. Conclusions We present a patient with HCS who developed anal squamous cell carcinoma. The mechanism of HCS, which is still unknown, may either make patients more susceptible to carcinoma or may just be a reflection of the normal incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma given attributable risk factors.
Self-aligning of self-assembled Ge islands on Si(001)

The position of Ge islands formed on Si substrates by self-assembly can be determined by adjacent lithographically defined features. Islands tend to form near the edges of narrow Si lines defined by oxide isolation and conventional selective Si epitaxial deposition, offering the possibility of forming small device features without fine lithography. Multiple rows of islands can form on wider lines. The alignment is probably caused by easier nucleation on shallow facets; therefore, the position of the Ge islands can be influenced by controlling the shape of the underlying Si surface.
Optimized carbonate micro-particle production by Sporosarcina pasteurii using response surface methodology

Abstract Calcium carbonate materials are frequently used in various industries and for diverse environmental engineering applications, such as water and wastewater treatment and reduction of soil acidity for agriculture. In this study, optimization of microbially induced calcium carbonate micro-particle production by Sporosarcina pasteurii ATCC 11859 was investigated with the response surface methodology (RSM). The natural calcium carbonate precipitation reaction is largely dependent on environmental factors and in the presence of microorganisms. Therefore, a central composite design (CCD) was employed to determine the different concentrations of urea, calcium chloride and nickel (II) nitrate to be investigated. The experimental CCD results were applied in a quadratic model to predict the optimum concentrations of these factors to maximize the production of calcium carbonate. The mathematical model determined that the optimum urea, calcium chloride and nickel (II) nitrate concentrations were 42.12 g/l, 6.93 g/l, and 0.071 g/l, respectively. Under these conditions, S. pasteurii growth and the calcium carbonate precipitation rates were 0.786 h −1 and 0.145 h −1 , respectively. Also, at these optimum conditions, the urease activity was 3.4 U/ml, which was 2.5 times higher than the current calcium carbonate conditions described in the literature. The size of the calcium carbonate particles produced ranged from 0.1 μm to 10 μm in diameter.
Abstract CT208: Absolute bioavailability of dacomitinib (PF-00299804): Comparison of oral and intravenous administration in healthy volunteers

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Background: Dacomitinib (D) is a highly selective, irreversible small molecule inhibitor of the human epidermal growth factor receptor family of tyrosine kinases in clinical development for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A 45-mg once daily oral dose is currently being evaluated in Phase 3 for NSCLC therapy in multiple settings. D has not previously been administered clinically as an intravenous dose. The absolute bioavailability (F%) of D in rats, dogs and monkeys was found to range from 56% to 100% at doses between 20 and 50 mg/kg. The current study was conducted to estimate the absolute bioavailability of D after oral administration (Test) relative to intravenous (IV, Reference) administration. Methods: A total of 14 healthy volunteers (HV) were enrolled in this Phase 1, open-label, 2-period, 2-treatment, fixed sequence study. Each HV received 2 treatments of D: Reference (20 mg IV infusion over 1 hour) and Test (45 mg oral), with a washout period of at least 16 days between each. Plasma samples to determine concentrations of D and its metabolite, PF-05199265, were collected at intervals up to 216 hours post-dose after IV or oral dose, and safety was assessed. F% was estimated as the ratio of dose-normalized adjusted geometric means of AUCinf for oral D and IV D using a mixed-effect model with treatment as a fixed effect and subject as a random effect. Corresponding 90% confidence intervals (CIs) were to be obtained from the same model. Results: The mean AUCinf, Cmax and CL/F for D after a single 45-mg oral dose were 1487 ng*hr/mL, 19.84 ng/mL and 30.27 L/hr, respectively. The mean AUCinf, Cmax and CL for D after a single 20-mg IV dose were 847 ng*hr/mL, 52 ng/mL and 23.61 L/hr, respectively. Mean pharmacokinetic parameters following a single oral dose in this study were similar to those observed in other single oral dose studies in HV. Conclusions: Assuming that clearance of D is similar via oral or IV administration at the administered doses, the absolute bioavailability of D was estimated to be 80.01% (90% CI: 74.90%, 85.47%). Single oral doses of D in both treatments were generally safe and well tolerated in the HV evaluated in this study. Citation Format: Nagdeep Giri, Robert R. LaBadie, Yali Liang, Tanya Boutros, Zelanna Goldberg, Carlo L. Bello. Absolute bioavailability of dacomitinib (PF-00299804): Comparison of oral and intravenous administration in healthy volunteers. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr CT208. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-CT208
From sensory space to motor commands: lessons from saccades

Our distributed model of the saccadic system faithfully reproduces saccadic waveforms and the patterns of neuronal activity observed in several brain areas. However, our model is not based on principles found in classical theories of motor control. In this paper we attempt to extract from our model some general principles about neural motor controllers. We conclude that intrinsic brain signals might represent non-physical signals, such as desired sensory states, approximate motor drives, and distributed motor commands, rather than physical signals (e.g., desired displacement or motor error). Furthermore, our model demonstrates that the critical transformation from maps of sensory space to temporal motor commands is not necessarily carried out explicitly. Instead, the transformation can be implicit, emerging from network connections within a feedback loop.
The Perverse Effects of Predatory Pricing Law

As more and more cases of alleged predatory pricing are filed and new theories of liability based on price discounting gain popularity, the risk grows that predatory pricing law will result in higher prices to consumers - the very antithesis of what antitrust law is supposed to achieve.
A Hydrogel Bridge Incorporating Immobilized Growth Factors and Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells to Treat Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes permanent, often complete disruption of central nervous system (CNS) function below the damaged region, leaving patients without the ability to regenerate lost tissue. To engineer new CNS tissue, a unique spinal cord bridge is created to deliver stem cells and guide their organization and development with site-specifically immobilized growth factors. In this study, this bridge is tested, consisting of adult neural stem/progenitor cells contained within a methacrylamide chitosan (MAC) hydrogel and protected by a chitosan conduit. Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and platelet-derived growth factor-AA (PDGF-AA) are recombinantly produced and tagged with an N-terminal biotin. They are immobilized to streptavidin-functionalized MAC to induce either neuronal or oligodendrocytic lineages, respectively. These bridges are tested in a rat hemisection model of SCI between T8 and T9. After eight weeks treatments including chitosan conduits result in a significant reduction in lesion area and macrophage infiltration around the lesion site (p < 0.0001). Importantly, neither immobilized IFN-γ nor PDGF-AA increased macrophage infiltration. Retrograde tracing demonstrates improved neuronal regeneration through the use of immobilized growth factors. Immunohistochemistry staining demonstrates that immobilized growth factors are effective in differentiating encapsulated cells into their anticipated lineages within the hydrogel, while qualitatively reducing glial fibrillary acid protein expression.
Biochemical Investigations of Deer Antler Growth

A colony of thirteen male and female deer have been studied for seasonal fluctuation of blood calcium phosphorus, albumin, globulin, and alkaline phosphatase. The female animals had stable levels of these parameters of body chemistry throughout all periods of the years. The male animals, beginning in May, undergo rapid antler growth, producing a structure equivalent to one-sixth the total skeletal bulk in a three-to-four-month period and have stable levels of calcium, phosphorus, albumin and globulin. This group demonstrated marked rise in serum alkaline phosphatase activity directly coordinated with the rate of antler growth. Amputation of the antler formation led to a sharp decline of circulating alkaline phosphatase, indicating this structure is the source of the enzyme.
Developmental Rates for the Alfalfa Blotch Leafminer, Agromyza frontella1, at Constant Temperatures

Median developmental rates were determined at constant temperatures between 10° and 25°C for all immature stages of the alfalfa blotch leafminer, Agromyza frontella (Rondani). The preoviposition period and adult male lifespan were also determined. Larval survival was maximum at 20°C and minimum at 25°C although the developmental rates differed little between these 2 temperatures. The developmental rate-temperature relationship for eggs was linear over the experimental range. The egg period ranged from 3.5 to 12.4 days. The relationship was sigmoid for each larval instar. The total larval period ranged from 5.9 to 16.4 days. The relationship was exponential for pupae. The pupal period ranged from 15.9 to 61.5 days. Developmental rates for pupae under constant temperatures yielded valid simulations of adult emergence patterns under fluctuating temperature regimes in the field.
Soluble Fiber Dextrins and Pullulans Vary in Extent of Hydrolytic Digestion in Vitro and in Energy Value and Attenuate Glycemic and Insulinemic Responses in Dogs

The objective of this research was to measure in vitro hydrolytic digestion characteristics, glycemic and insulinemic responses, and true metabolizable energy (TMEn) content of select soluble fiber dextrins (SFDs) and pullulans. The SFDs were derived either from tapioca starch or from corn starch. The pullulans were of low, intermediate, and high molecular weight. Soluble fiber dextrins varied in digestibility, with all substrates resulting in low to intermediate in vitro monosaccharide digestion. Pullulans were nearly completely hydrolyzed after simulated hydrolytic digestion. The glycemic response with dogs varied widely among SFDs, with all but one SFD substrate having lower glycemic response than maltodextrin (Malt). The pullulans all resulted in low glycemic values. Lower relative insulinemic responses (RIR) compared to the Malt control were noted for all SFDs and pullulans. True metabolizable energy (TMEn) values for SFDs obtained using roosters were lower than for Malt, with tapioca-based SFDs having numerically higher values than corn-based SFDs. Pullulans resulted in higher TMEn values than did SFDs. Soluble fiber dextrins and pullulans may be suitable candidates for reduced calorie and glycemic foodstuffs.
Residential Reasoning and the Tug of the Fourth Age

Purpose of the Study Where to grow older occupies the minds of many aging adults. This study examines how anticipation of the fourth age influences third-age residential reasoning. It also investigates the role of social relationships in choosing housing for later life. Design and Methods Analyses were based on semi-structured interviews with 30 community-dwelling retirees aged 67-97 who were asked about preparations for the future, including housing. Results Replies about future housing fell into two categories: preemptive and contingent. In preemptive reasoning, participants anticipated that their current homes would be suitable over the long term and explained why, while those engaged in contingent reasoning could imagine a possible future move to more supportive housing and even had destination places in mind. Both types of responses reflect residential reasoning that is ongoing and driven in large part by anticipation of fourth-age vulnerabilities. Peers influenced participants' thinking about whether, when, and where to move. Relationships with spouses and offspring were also factors commonly mentioned in residential reasoning, both in terms of sources of support and perceived obligations. Implications The fourth age is generally conceived as an experience of loss, but it also functions as a social imaginary. Our study suggests that the fourth age, both as a potential personal destiny and a social construct, influences housing decisions among those firmly in the third age. More attention in housing research to prudential anticipation of the fourth age as well as the relational aspects of residential reasoning would enhance understanding of late-life housing choices.
Ureterocutaneous Fistula Following Hip Surgery

Abstract A patient with a ureterocutaneous fistula after a hip operation is reported. Management with a Cook* catheter is described.
Control of the Environment of Honeybee Observation Colonies by the use of Hive-Shelters and Flight-Cages

SummaryDescriptions are given of an experimental complex comprising observation hives, hive-shelters whose thermostatically controlled temperature avoids temperature stress in the hives, and flight-cages in the open air which allow bees from the hives to forage and maintain colony populations for many months. A virus or virus-like adult bee disease that can cause colony deterioration is mentioned.
Teaching in Adversity

Teachers in adversity have been characterized as “villains and heroes.” The profession is at the heart of protecting children, although many teachers lack knowledge of pedagogic or psychosocial tools to deal with adversity or vulnerability. Teacher training is mostly related to studies of the content knowledge or pedagogical content knowledge; and at best, some extra classes provide basic introduction to protection in the form of detection of child abuse. The school environment in most cases is not seen as protective, but as a system of knowledge transfer. We argue that teacher training should be centered on understanding the lives of children, as a basis for reimagining education. Interrelated contexts of exosystemic and family-related adversity may lead to risks, disadvantage and vulnerability. The result is often related to high levels of insecurity (regarding money, expectance to perform, survival…) among the student population, inevitably leading to stress. The psychological stress factors may be combined with low levels of caloric intake and other physiological risk factors, such as deficient micronutrients. In some cases, a diathesis-stressor pattern of genetic predisposition and contexts of adversity may lead to interference with the students’ ability to accomplish age-appropriate tasks. In such circumstances, I argue for a Freirean approach, a teacher – and teacher training – based on empathy, which views the teacher as a person who should develop children’s consciousness about the possibility of transforming reality: the process of conscientizacao.
Atmospheric Plume Modeling with a Three-Dimensional Refinement Adaptive Grid Method

We present a three-dimensional fully-adaptive grid algorithm for chemical transport models. The method is designed to refine vertical and horizontal resolution by dynamically concentrating grid nodes within a region of interest. Exceptionally high grid resolution can be achieved in Eulerian air quality models using the method. Here the algorithm’s main operations are described. In addition, advection tests are used to demonstrate the algorithm’s ability to better capture concentration gradients in atmospheric plumes.
The Consolidation of Socialism in Cuba

Cuba’s developmental process has been affected by conditions internal to Cuba as well as by conditions in the socialist and capitalist worlds. Socialist development in Cuba has largely been a reaction to the policies governing east-west relations. Capitalist policies continue to compound Cuba’s efforts toward development. The Soviet Union has protected Cuba from capitalist crises by establishing preferential economic arrangements. Nevertheless, Castro has maintained that in spite of these crises Cuba has been able to move forward.
Epilogue: Class analysis and historical archaeology

Class analysis draws on the theoretical traditions of Marx and Weber to understand the densely structured, dynamic social relations of the post-Columbian world. Class analyses involves theoretical and empirical studies of class process, class structure, and class formation. The papers in this volume consider these various aspects of class analysis, particularly illuminating the intersections of race, class and gender, and the ongoing formation of the United States middle class.
Ticks, the Ultimate Parasite

Ticks are notorious vectors of disease causing pathogens such as the pathogens that cause Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tick paralysis. Ticks are second only to mosquitoes in terms of public health importance. Ticks are found in many climates around the world but tend to frequent warmer areas with higher humidity (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). In conjunction with a local humane society samples of ticks were collected from various dogs. Five ticks were collected, an Ixodes scapularis (Arachnida: Acari: Ixodidae: L.), two Amblyomma americanum (Arachnida: Acari: Ixodidae: L.) and two Dermacentor variabilis (Arachnida: Acari: Ixodidae: L.). Findings from this survey imply that there are possible tick vectors within the Brazos Valley Area.
A new front surface heat flux calibration method for a 1-D nonlinear thermal system with a time-varying back boundary condition

A novel calibration methodology is presented for resolving the front surface heat flux in a one-dimensional nonlinear sample with an unknown time-varying back boundary condition. This method combines the attributes of the recently reported linear two-probe calibration equation and the nonlinear one-probe calibration equation. The proposed calibration formulation is expressed in terms of a Volterra integral equation of the first type. This functional equation relates the rescaled unknown front surface heat flux to two rescaled calibration front surface heat fluxes and corresponding rescaled temperature data at the two in-depth probes when the sample is subjected to the unknown boundary conditions. A localized Tikhonov regularization scheme is introduced for generating the family of predictions based on the Tikhonov parameter spectrum. The L-curve strategy is used to extract the optimal prediction. This paper studies the effectiveness of this new calibration equation for two engineering materials, stainless steel 304 and a carbon composite. Results show that properly regularized predictions are stable and accurate in the presence of significant noise. Moreover, it is demonstrated that a preferred back boundary condition strategy for calibration tests reduces the ill-conditioning effects of the kernel. This new calibration method does not require the specification of the probe locations, although knowledge of the thermophysical properties is necessary.