cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inner ear protein as a biomarker in circulation

Serum biomarkers detect the earliest events in disease, monitor management, and provide insight into disease pathogenesis. At this time, there are no biomarkers available for otologic disorders. Otolin-1 is a scaffolding protein exclusively expressed in otoconia and cells of the vestibule and the cochlea; therefore, it may be a biomarker candidate for assessing the health of the inner ear. As a proof of concept, we used serum samples from controls without otologic history and subjects with a history of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for otolin-1, and measured the optical density of the substrate. Otolin-1 was detectable and quantifiable in all subjects, indicating that this inner ear protein crosses the blood-labyrinthine barrier. Furthermore, subjects with BPPV had significantly higher levels, with about one-third being above the control range. This promising preliminary result suggests that inner ear-specific proteins have the potential to serve as biomarkers for otologic disease processes.
Association of hyaluronidase and breast adenocarcinoma invasiveness

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that exists as a high molecular weight polymer composed of alternating disaccharides, D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl D-glucosamine. The interaction of hyaluronidase with HA results in the disruption of basement membrane integrity and produces an angiogenic response that has been implicated in tumor invasiveness and metastasis. Although hyaluronidase is present in several neoplasms, levels of hyaluronidase expression in breast cancer are not known. This investigation defines the correlation of elevated levels of hyaluronidase with breast adenocarcinoma invasiveness. Utilizing RT-PCR, RNA was extracted from paraffin embedded tissues (n=6) of patients diagnosed with fibrocystic breast changes, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and invasive adenocarcinoma. After constructing cDNA primers for base pairs 504 and 759 of the PH-20 gene (which is homologous to the hyaluronidase gene), PCR was performed and the products were visualized with ethidium bromide using gel electrophoresis. Invasive breast adenocarcinoma had a significantly higher level of hyaluronidase expression compared to other breast tissue samples; (32+/-15 vs. 8+/-3; p<0.03). Elevated levels of hyaluronidase correlated with invasive breast adenocarcinoma. Our data suggests that elevated levels of hyaluronidase are associated with breast adenocarcinoma invasive potential. Hyaluronidase may play an integral role in breast cancer invasion and metastasis.
Effect of Alsystin and Diflubenzuron on the Rice Water Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Two benzoylphenyl ureas (BPU), alsystin and diflubenzuron, were each tested at a dosage of 0.28 kg (AI)/ha in the greenhouse and laboratory on wild-caught adults of Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus Kuschel to determine the effects of the chemicals on oviposition and immature progeny. Studies showed significant reductions in the number of immatures that developed when either BPU was applied either to rice foliage or to water (containing submerged rice stems with eggs) immediately after oviposition. Applications of either BPU to water at intervals of 5, 9, and 14 days after oviposition showed no significant reductions in numbers of immatures. There were no significant differences in numbers of eggs deposited following contact of adults with treated foliage, regardless of whether immediate or residual effects (up to 6 days) were examined. Either BPU applied to rice foliage to contact adults or to water immediately after oviposition resulted in significantly fewer first instars. First instars treated directly in a suspension of either BPU showed no mortality.
Lattice Boltzmann and quantum lattice gas representations of one-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic turbulence

Abstract A simplified one-dimensional (1D) magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) is solved using a lattice Boltzmann and a quantum lattice gas model. It is shown that the magnetic field decreases the strength of the velocity shock fronts, with marked spikes in the magnetic field strength that gradually broaden in time. There is very good agreement between the lattice Boltzmann model—a representation of non-linear systems that circumvent the non-local non-linear advection by simple local non-linearities within the collision operator—and the quantum lattice gas—an algorithm that is unconditionally stable and appropriate for a hybrid quantum-classical computer.
Social Comparison and Goal Setting in Brainstorming Groups1

Two studies were conducted to examine the influence of individual and group goal setting on brainstorming performance. Results from the studies indicated that the individual goals of nominal participants were higher than the individual goals of interactive participants. Group goal setting by consensus led to the lowest goals. There was no influence of goal setting on group brainstorming performance. However, participants who set goals rated their individual performance more favorably than did participants who did not set goals. The low group goals set by interactive groups are discussed in terms of assumptions made regarding the ability of other group members and the detrimental effects of group interaction.
Crafting a Sense of Place: Media's Use of the Bonneville Salt Flats

Filmmakers and television producers use the Utah's Bonneville Salt Flats to portray an amazing variety of places. The Salt Flats' magnificent scenery and neutral background qualities allow filmmake...
Elevated basal reactive oxygen species and phospho‐Akt in murine keratinocytes resistant to ultraviolet B–induced apoptosis

Resistance to apoptosis may be a critical phenotype that cells must acquire during skin carcinogenesis. The Akt kinase is a known upstream regulator of apoptosis in many cell types and has been shown to be activated by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS). We have previously demonstrated that two malignant variants (6M90 and 6R90) of the mouse keratinocyte 308 cell line have elevated ROS because of loss of catalase activity, and that this elevated ROS confers a growth advantage. We report here that in addition to a growth advantage, chronically increased ROS in the variants resulted in an increase in resistance to ultraviolet (UV) B-induced apoptosis. This resistance was due to basal increases of Akt phosphorylation in the malignant variants compared to the 308 cells. Modulation of ROS in 6M90 and 6R90 cells by catalase overexpression or antioxidant treatment resulted in decreased levels of Akt phosphorylation and subsequent loss of resistance to UVB-induced apoptosis. Conversely, treatment of 308 cells with hydrogen peroxide caused increases in Akt phosphorylation and increased apoptosis resistance. These results indicate that the chronically elevated ROS often observed in tumors may contribute to a malignant phenotype by keeping Akt in a phosphorylated state, resulting in increased apoptosis resistance.
Suppression of the osteogenic response in the aging skeleton.

The ability of physical stimuli demonstrated as potently osteogenic in the young adult skeleton were evaluated for their capacity to stimulate new bone formation in the aging skeleton. Using the externally loadable, functionally isolated turkey ulna preparation, the ulnae of 1-year-old (n=5), and 3-year-old (n=3) turkeys were subjected to 300 cycles per day of a load regimen generating a high but physiologic level of normal strain (3,000 microstrain). Following 8 weeks of loading, areal properties and histomorphometry were performed on both the experimental and intact control ulnae. Bone cross-sectional areas in the 1-year-old animal increased by 30.2% (±7.8%) as compared with the intact contralateral control ulnae, whereas the areal properties of the older skeleton remained essentially unchanged (-3.3±7.5%). Renewed bone formation in the experimental ulnae of the 1-year-old animals was characterized by the activation of periosteal bone apposition (4.0±0.4 μm/day). In comparison, periosteal bone formation in the 3-year-old males was activated in only 1 animal, and this at a significantly attenuated level (less than 0.8 μm/day). The histomorphometric evaluation of intracortical bone remodeling revealed no significant differences between the control and experimental ulnae in either age group. However, osteon mean wall thickness and bone formation sigma were significantly increased in the 3-year-old males (P<0.05). In conclusion, these data suggest that a physical signal that is clearly osteogenic in the young adult skeleton is hardly acknowledged in older bone tissue. Whether this represents a deterioration of the bone cell population's ability to perceive these physical signals or a failure of their capacity to respond is not yet clear.
Synthesis of 1‐substituted‐7‐hydroxyquinolinium salts

The reaction of 7-acetoxyquinoline with trifluorosulfonate esters of primary alcohols in methylene chloride or acetonitrile, followed by acid hydrolysis, provides a general synthesis of 1-substituted-7-hydroxyquinolines, whose phenolate anions are fluorescent.
Quantitative research approaches

In this column we describe our conceptual framework for quantitative research approaches (such as randomized experimental, quasi-experimental, and descriptive). The research literature is inconsistent, but we think that it is important to make logical, consistent, and conceptually important distinctions among different approaches to research. We believe that this framework and labeling are helpful because the terminology (a) is more appropriate, (b) is more logically consistent, (c) helps make the leap from approaches and designs to selection of appropriate statistics, (d) provides appropriate guidance about inferring cause and effect, (e) separates approaches and data collection techniques, which are conceptually orthogonal, and (f) deals well with complex studies because the approaches relate to research questions and not necessarily to whole studies. Remember from the column on variables (Harmon and Morgan, 1999, p. 784) that we distinguish between active and attribute independent variables. An active independent variable is a variable such as a treatment, workshop, or other intervention that is manipulated (i.e., either given to or withheld from a group of participants), usually within a specified period of time during the study. One level of the independent variable, perhaps a new therapy, is given to one group of participants and another level of the independent variable, perhaps a traditional therapy, is given to another group of participants. A variable that is not given or withheld in the study is called an attribute independent variable because it is a measure of a characteristic of the person. Ethnicity and type of disability are considered to be attribute variables because a subject cannot be assigned to an ethnicity or disability group. However, if determined by the institutional review board to be ethical,
A monolithic 5 Watt integrated amplifier

A monolithic integrated circuit (commonly called an IC) is contained in one silicon chip; this is different from other forms of integrated circuits that are made up of discrete components on a common substrate (i.e. thick-film, thinfilm, hybrids, etc.). An IC amplifier design has an advantage over discrete circuits in utilizing thermal feedback to stabilize the voltage and current quiescent bias conditions. The small physical size of an IC inherently provides close thermal coupling between circuit elements that cannot be matched using discrete transistors and biasing components mounted on a common heatsink. The author describes the General Electric PA246, a monolithic power amplifier designed for consumer and industrial systems requiring up to 5W of audio power output. In a stereo phonograph, tape, or FM system, a pair of PA246s give a stereo output of 10W continuous power (20W peak).
A Preliminary Investigation of Rapid Depressurization Phenomena Following a Sudden DLOFC in a VHTR

Air ingress has been identified as a potential threat for Very High Temperature gas-cooled Reactors (VHTR). Reactor components constructed of graphite will, at high temperatures, produce exothermic reactions in the presence of oxygen. The danger lies in the possibility of fuel element damage and core structural failure. Previous investigations of air ingress mechanisms have focused on thermal and molecular diffusion, density-driven stratified flow, and natural convection. Here, we investigate the possibility of a rapid ingress of air due to a Taylor wave expansion after a hypothetical sudden loss of coolant accident (LOCA) scenario in a VHTR. Our analysis starts with a one-dimensional shock tube simulation to simply illustrate the development of a Taylor wave with resulting reentrant flow. Then, a simulation is performed of an idealized two-dimensional axisymmetric representation of the lower plenum of General Atomics GT-MHR subjected to a hypothetical catastrophic break of the hot duct. Analysis shows the potential for significant and rapid air ingress into the reactor vessel in the case of a large break in the cooling system.
Antibacterial activity of anacardic acid and totarol, alone and in combination with methicillin, against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

The inhibitory and bactericidal activities of anacardic acid and totarol, alone and in combination with methicillin, were investigated against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The growth of two MRSA strains was inhibited by 6 x 25 microg ml-1 of anacardic acid and 0 x 78 microg ml-1 of totarol. The time-kill curve study showed that these two compounds were bactericidal against MRSA. Anacardic acid killed MRSA cells more rapidly than totarol, and no viable cells were detected after being exposed to 6 x 25 microg ml-1 of anacardic acid for 6 h. Anacardic acid showed bactericidal activity against MRSA at any stage of growth, and also even when cell division was inhibited by chloramphenicol. In the combination studies, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of methicillin was lowered from 800 to 1 x 56 microg ml-1 for MRSA ATCC 33591, and from 800 to 6 x 25 microg ml-1 for MRSA ATCC 33592, by combining with 1/2 x MIC of anacardic acid. The time-kill curves demonstrated synergistic bactericidal activities for these combinations.
Quantum Walks on Highly Symmetric Graphs

We study discrete-time quantum walks on the complete and bipartite graphs, and show how they can be used to perform searches. The symmetry of the graphs significantly reduces the dimension of the problem.
Non-vertical transitions in the collision induced dissociation of 0.7 to 2 ke V H+2 ions

Abstract The momentum distribution of protons produced in dissociative H + 2 reactions have been measured for reactant ions in the 0th to 6th vibrational energy levels. The reaction mechanism inferred from this momentum distribution is consistent with the predominance of non-vertical transitions below 1.5 keV.
Nutrient cycling in adirondack conifer plantations: Is acidic deposition an influencing factor?

An evaluation of the influences of acidic deposition and forest development on nutrient cycling and conifer productivity at the Charles Lathrop Pack Demonstration Forest, near Warrensburg, New York, was made. This site has a known land use history and is the source of 60 years of soils and silviculture research. Soils were characterized by a nutritional imbalance and support conifer plantations that exhibited declining growth. Historical and contemporary evaluations of nutrient cycling in 47- to 57-yr-old red pine plantations provided no evidence that acidic deposition has had an adverse influence on nutrient cycling. Ap horizon pH decreased from 1949 to 1962 but remained the same from 1962 to 1985. In the B horizon, pH was stable from 1962 to 1985. Exchangeable potassium levels in the Ap horizon fluctuated but did not significantly change from 1949 to 1985: in the B horizon it increased during the period 1962 to 1985. Levels of potassium in the foliage of red pine in unfertilized plots increased from 1949 to 1985, paralleling increases in B horizon potassium levels during that period. There was no increase in cation leaching from the mineral soil that could be attributed to anthropogenic inputs of NO3− and SO42− due to retention of N and S in this ecosystem. Soil solution K+ chemistry was similar between the 1960's and the 1980's. Mineral soil pH and base cation status were differentially influenced by tree species since 1930. In general, temporal and contemporary trends of mineral soil pH and base cation status of the soil and foliage indicated that forest development has been the dominant factor influencing nutrient cycling in these conifer plantations. While results of these studies do not conclusively preclude involvement of acidic deposition effects as part of a forest decline syndrome, they indicate the importance of recognizing and measuring natural variability in forest soil processes due to differential species effects and forest aggradation. Because these effects may have a greater impact on stand productivity than the effects of acidic deposition, they can confound interpretation of acidic deposition research if not clearly understood.
Studies characterizing 60 kda autoantibodies in subjects with schizophrenia.

Abstract Background Studies suggest that schizophrenic patients have an increased prevalence of serum antibodies to neuroblastoma cell proteins migrating at 60 kilodaltons (kDa). We present work identifying and characterizing 60 kDa antigen–antibody interactions. Methods Sera from schizophrenic subjects and normal volunteers were screened by Western blotting. Proteins migrating at 60 kDa were characterized by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and indirect immunofluorescent staining of human epithelial cell (HEp-2) slides. Human brain and bladder cell complementary deoxyribonucleic acid libraries were screened with immunoaffinity-purified antibodies. Complementary deoxyribonucleic acid clones were sequenced and compared with published databases. Proteins were generated by in vitro transcription/translation and expression in an Escherichia coli BL21 system. Immunoprecipitation and immunohistochemistry studies were performed. Results Fifteen percent (17/117) of schizophrenic subjects and 3% (2/62) of normal volunteers had autoantibodies that reacted with 60 kDa proteins [χ 2 (1) = 4.4, p = .037]. Five percent of subjects had autoantibodies directed against 60 kDa heat shock protein (HSP60) [χ 2 (1) = 3.3, p = .100). Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis identified 13 different proteins migrating at 60 kDa; 5 were splice variants of HSP60, and 2 corresponded with a protein associated with MYC (PAM). Conclusions There is an increased prevalence of autoantibodies that bind to proteins migrating at 60 kDa in subjects with schizophrenia. Potential target antigens include HSP60 and PAM.
Immuno–spin trapping of DNA radicals

The detection of DNA radicals by immuno–spin trapping (IST) is based on the trapping of radicals with 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO), forming stable nitrone adducts that are then detected using an anti-DMPO serum. DNA radicals are very reactive species, and because they are paramagnetic they have previously been detected only by electron spin resonance (ESR) with or without spin trapping, which is not available in most bioresearch laboratories. IST combines the simplicity, reliability, specificity and sensitivity of spin trapping with heterogeneous immunoassays for the detection of DNA radicals, and complements existing methods for the measurement of oxidatively generated DNA damage. Here we have used IST to demonstrate that DMPO traps Cu(II)-H2O2–induced DNA radicals in situ and in real time, forming DMPO-DNA nitrone adducts, but preventing both 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG) formation and DNA fragmentation. We also applied IST to detect DNA radicals in rat hepatocytes exposed to Cu(II) and H2O2 under nonlethal conditions.
Inhomogeneous steady state distributions of species in predator-prey systems. A specific example

Abstract We present and study a specific example of emergence of an inhomogeneous steady state distribution in a non- Lotka—Volterra predator-prey model. With the aid of a linear and a non-linear bifurcation analysis, the dependence of this distribution on species mobilities as well as other important model parameters is discussed. It is seen that the behaviour of the resulting colonies of species seems to correctly mimic some of the features of real predator-prey systems.
Treating Family Violence: Risks and Limitations:

This article addresses approaches to working with families where violence is the norm. As an extremely sensitive subject and potentially volatile situation in therapy, it is important to understand...
Comparative Cost Analysis of Collagen Injection and Fascia Lata Sling Cystourethropexy for the Treatment of Type III Incontinence in Women

ABSTRACTPurpose: We examined the cost of 2 common forms of surgical treatment of genuine stress urinary incontinence due to intrinsic sphincter deficiency, that is sling cystourethropexy and periurethral collagen injection.Materials and Methods: Between May 1994 and July 1995, 14 women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency underwent sling cystourethropexies. A total of 14 matched patients with intrinsic sphincter deficiency underwent endoscopic collagen injection during the same period.Results: The total cost per treatment of fascia lata sling cystourethropexy ($10,382) was 2.1 times greater than that for collagen injection ($4,996, p < 0.001). At an average followup of 14.9 months for fascia lata cystourethropexy and 21.3 months for collagen injection, 71.4% of patients in the former and 26.7% in the latter groups were completely continent (p = 0.05). One or no pads were used daily by 85 and 40% of the patients, respectively.Conclusions: Fascia lata sling cystourethropexy may be a more cost-effective surgi...
Stability of Sun-Synchronous Orbits in the Vicinity of a Comet

This paper identifies and analyzes stable sun-synchronous orbits in a Hill rotating frame that can be applied to any small body in the solar system. The stability of these orbits is due to the inclusion of solar radiation pressure effects. The stability of the orbits from escaping the comet are analyzed using the construction of zero-velocity curves for the system considered as well as spectral analysis. The stability analysis also considers the effect of orbital perturbations from outgassing jets on a spacecraft in orbit about a comet. Once these orbits have been identified, impulsive control schemes to restrict a stable orbit's motion are explored, showing that it is feasible to implement a form of orbital hovering in the terminator plane of a comet.
Spatio-Temporal Quantification of Cerebral Blood Flow During Forepaw Stimulation of the Rat Using Laser Speckle Flowmetry

Laser speckle flowmetry was used to characterize activation flow coupling following forepaw/hindpaw stimulation. Different activation levels and duration were investigated. Temporal response of activation area was independent of stimulus amplitude and distance from the centroid.
A Twin Study of Inattentive, Aggressive, and Anxious/Depressed Behaviors

ABSTRACT Objective To estimate genetic, environmental, and rater contrast influences on parental report of Attention Problems (AP), Aggressive (Agg), and Anxious/Depressed (AxD) behaviors of 492 twin pairs assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist. Method A parent (92% mothers) of twins aged 8 to 12 years completed the Child Behavior Checklist. Genetic, shared and unique environmental, and rater bias effects were estimated for the AP, Agg, and AxD syndromes. Data on boys and girls were analyzed separately. Results were compared to prior research on related DSM disorders. Results Estimates of genetic influences on AP (60%-68%), Agg (70%-77%), and AxD (61%-65%) were high for both sexes, but lower for AP than prior findings using DSM attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, unlike equivalent analyses of DSM ADHD based on parental report, there was no evidence of rater bias. Conclusions Estimates of genetic influence on these common child psychopathological domains were high. There was no evidence of rater contrast effects. These findings have implications for diagnosis, particularly when assessing families with multiple children.
Synthesis of carboranyl polyamines for DNA targeting

Abstract Three groups of internal and terminal N-substituted carboranyl spermidines spermines were synthesized as potential BNCT agents for the treatment of malignant tumors.
Bovine vaginal circulation: changes during estrous cycle.

Abstract Vaginal thermal conductance was measured in 12 heifers and 7 cows with a gradient layer heat flow probe. Values rose for 4 to 5 days prior to day of behavioral estrus (day 0), with a peak on days −2 and −1, and then declined from day 0 to +5. Curves for heifers were higher than those for cows although there was no evidence that they were not parallel. Changes during the estrous cycle appear to result from estrogen-induced alterations in blood flow rate in vaginal tissues.
Analysis of the fill factor for n-CdS/p-CdTe solar cells

Abstract The fill factor is calculated for a solar cell with series and parallel resistance, and with a voltage-dependent collection function for the light current that is important for solar cells using high optical absorption coefficient materials, or with significant junction interface recombination velocities. A parametric approach is used that is helpful and physically clarifying. Good agreement is demonstrated between the theoretical prediction and the experimental results for an 8% efficient n -CdS/ p -CdTe heterojunction solar cell produced in our laboratory.
Improved ground plane detection in real time systems using homography

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are used to assist driver by providing real-time information about cross traffic, parking space and so on. Such applications require a fair amount of processing to be done on the incoming video feed. It has been proved that the homography approach is efficient for ground plane detection. But, in the case of Road Plane Detection, the lane markings appear as obstacles when the SAD approach [1] is used. We propose a solution to this problem which involves using a Road Model and applying lane masking. We are able to get an accuracy of 88% to 96%. This technique is suitable for real time applications and we also provide benchmarks on a DSP processor, TMS320C6000 for the key functions used in this algorithm.
An on-line method for the collection and analysis of quasi-steady-state kinetic data for enzyme-catalyzed reactions.

Abstract A special mixing device for initiating enzyme-catalyzed reactions is used to rapidly achieve an unperturbed quasi-steady state. An on-line computer is employed to sample the initial conditions, the mixing time, and concentrations that change as a function of time during this quasi-steady state phase. A statistical method for estimating initial, quasi-steady state rates from the time course of the enzyme-catalyzed reaction is described. Practical considerations for using this parameter estimation system lead to the conclusion that for the enzyme-catalyzed reaction tested, the extent overall reaction should be above .2% for high initial substrate concentrations, and above 1% for initial substrate concentrations in the range of the Michaelis constant. Application of this method to a typical enzyme-catalyzed reaction suggests that objective estimates of initial rates from a given set of concentrations and corresponding times can be obtained with a standard error in the range of 2–3%, but that reproducibility is not better than about 10%. When this procedure was used to estimate initial rates for the glycerol dehydrogenase-catalyzed oxidation of glycerol by NAD, it was found that this enzyme did not behave according to the classical “Michaelis-Menten” mechanism of enzyme action.
WiiEMG: A real-time environment for control of the Wii with surface electromyography

We have developed a hardware and software platform, the WiiEMG, for controlling the Wii™ video game console with surface electromyography (EMG). WiiEMG is intended to assist with training and performance assessment of myoelectric control of upper arm prostheses. For this application, a player wears skin surface electrodes over myoelectric control sites. A real-time signal analysis system acquires amplified EMG signals and classifies the activity patterns associated with different motions. In addition, the amplitude of this pattern is used as a velocity signal, which is differentiated to give acceleration. Finally, a scaled version of this acceleration value is input as an analog voltage into a modified Wiimote™ in place of the normal accelerometer, and the Wiimote communicates the data to the console. To evaluate the system's performance, six able-bodied subjects were used to test the WiiEMG by playing the game Wii Tennis™ using myoelectric control. Results are reported that show how users develop improved EMG control after only a few brief trials. Improved muscle and EMG control has the potential to benefit myoelectric limb use as well as motor skills rehabilitation.
Small Stirling dynamic isotope power system for multihundred-watt robotic missions

Free piston Stirling Engine (FPSE) and linear alternator (LA) technology is combined with radioisotope heat sources to produce a compact dynamic isotope power system (DIPS) suitable for multihundred watt space application which appears competitive with advanced radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs). The small Stirling DIPS is scalable to multihundred watt power levels or lower. The FPSE/LA is a high efficiency convertor in sizes ranging from tens of kilowatts down to only a few watts. At multihundred watt unit size, the FPSE can be directly integrated with the General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) via radiative coupling; the resulting dynamic isotope power system has a size and weight that compares favorably with the advanced modular (Mod) RTG, but requires less than a third the amount of isotope fuel. Thus the FPSE extends the high efficiency advantage of dynamic systems into a power range never previously considered competitive for DIPS. This results in lower fuel cost and reduced radiological hazard per delivered electrical watt.
Sequence analysis and detection using immunocapture-PCR of cymbidium mosaic virus and odontoglossum ringspot virus in Hawaiian orchids.

A Hawaiian isolate of Cymbidium mosaic virus (CyMV-H) was purified from Dendrobium orchid, and a cDNA library was constructed. Clones containing the coat protein (CP) gene and movement protein (MP) gene were identified by colony hybridization and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The Hawaiian isolate of Odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV-H) was purified from Cattleya orchid. The CyMV CP gene was PCR amplified from a cDNA clone. The ORSV CP and 54 kDa putative replicase genes and CyMV-MP gene were cloned by RT-PCR. Sequences of these genes of CyMV-H and ORSV-H were compared with those of CyMV and ORSV from Singapore, Japan, Korea, and Germany. The high degree of sequence identity (91-99%) at the nucleotide level for all gene sequences analysed, shows that CyMV and ORSV from different countries are closely related. Sequence comparison results show that CyMV strains can be divided into two groups based on differences in amino acid sequences of the coat protein gene: CyMV-H closely resembles CyMV-S1 while CyMV-S2 resembles CyMV-K. A sensitive, rapid, and reliable immunocapture PCR (IC-PCR) assay was developed to detect both viruses. CyMV was detected from dilutions equivalent to 100 ng of orchid material and ORSV was detected from dilutions equivalent to 10 μg of orchid material. IC-PCR was compared with direct binding PCR (DB-PCR) and ELISA for their sensitivities.
Modern prenatal care

Abstract Prenatal care is an essential feature of good obstetrical care. If one wishes to convince himself of the value of prenatal care by cold, hard figures he need only consult the reports of maternal mortality in Philadelphia (1931–1933), 9 the Fifteen States report, 10 and others of similar nature. All show that maternal deaths are associated with inadequate or no antenatal care in a large percentage of the cases. Having consulted her physician and being willing to cooperate, the patient has done her part, in a manner of speaking. It is then up to the physician to see that she gets the benefit of proper examination and care according to the principles set forth. Proper prenatal care involves: 1. 1. Medical care from a very early period of pregnancy, in case continuance of the pregnancy is inadvisable; 2. 2. Complete history and physical examination, both general and obstetrical, in order that the patient's physical status may be fully appreciated, and in order that the development of abnormalities may be anticipated as much as possible; 3. 3. Acquaintance of the patient with the danger signals, in order that she may call her doctor at once; 4. 4. Instruction of the patient regarding the proper regulation of diet, exercise, rest, bowels, sexual intercourse, and general mode of living; 5. 5. Regular follow-up examinations becoming more frequent as term is approached, in order that the physician may discover deviations from the normal as early as possible; 6. 6. Appreciation of the complications which are more or less closely related to pregnancy, their suggestive symptoms, methods of diagnosis, in order that they may be forestalled or treated in their very early stages. The complications referred to are syphilis, gonorrhea, pyelitis, hyperemesis, the late toxemias of pregnancy and hemorrhage, particularly. 7. 7. Knowledge of the minor complications and what may be done for them.
Comparison of tandem and conventional mass spectrometry using electron capture negative ionization in the detection of chemically oxidized dexamethasone in human plasma

Chemistry and Biochemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA Dexamethasone, a synthetic steroid, can be oxidized chemically to a ketonic steroid structure that is readily detected by electron capture negative ionization mass spectrometry (ECNI/MS). Previous work from this laboratory has demonstrated that the chemical oxidation procedure provides advantages of low detection limits and high selectivity for detection of oxidized dexamethasone against chemical background that would otherwise interfere with detection of this steroidal drug in biological samples using more conventional methodology. This report describes the extent to which tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) can further enhance the selectivity of the oxidation/ECNI methodology for the detection of dexamethasone during the analysis of human plasma and presents evidence that sample introduction by direct inlet probe (DIP) can be used successfully under ECNI conditions. For purposes of comparing the methodologies, the same human plasma samples are analyzed by ECNI, first with detection by conventional mass spectrometry using selected ion monitoring (SIM) and then by MSIMS using selected reaction monitoring (SRM) with sample introduction by the gas chromatographic (GC) inlet and by the DIP. The results indicate that use of the DIP is a viable means of sample introduction for ECNI when sample processing involves the specialized oxidation procedure described herein because the sample matrix does not compete significantly for the thermal electrons in the ion source. Whereas SIM and SRM provide comparable results when sample introduction is achieved by the GC inlet, the MS/MS approach offers the possibility for sample introduction using the DIP, which significantly simplifies and shortens the analysis.
Variability of pressure adaptation in deep sea bacteria

Isolations of pressure-adapted deep sea bacteria from depths of 1,400 to 5,100 m resulted in a variety of psychrophilic barotolerant and barophilic strains. Growth rates determined at different pressures indicated a gradual transition between the two types of pressure-adapted isolates. The presence of barotolerant bacteria in deep water, sustained by sinking particulate matter, causes the nonbarophilic response of natural populations, i.e., increased growth after decompression. With increasing pressure-adaptation in barophilic isolates the maximum growth rates at optimum pressures decrease. Thus, the observed general slow-down of microbial activity in the deep sea takes effect regardless of the common occurrence of psychrophilic and barophilic bacteria. The highest degree of barophilism was observed in isolates from nutrient-rich habitats such as intestinal tracts of deep sea animals or decaying carcasses. Detailed studies with an isolate, growing barophilically on a complex as well as a single-carbon-source medium, showed that (1) culturing at pressures lower than optimal for growth resulted in the formation of cell filaments, (2) growth was unaffected by repeated compression/decompression cycles and (3) no perceptible differences in the distribution of radiolabeled carbon from an amino acid mixture occurred in cells grown at, below and above the pressure optimal for growth.
Analysis of one-way layout of count data in the presence of over or under dispersion

Abstract This article develops test statistics for the homogeneity of the means of several treatment groups of count data in the presence of over-dispersion or under-dispersion when there is no likelihood available. The C ( α ) or score type tests based on the models that are specified by only the first two moments of the counts are obtained using quasi-likelihood, extended quasi-likelihood, and double extended quasi-likelihood. Monte Carlo simulations are then used to study the comparative behavior of these C ( α ) statistics compared to the C ( α ) statistic based on a parametric model, namely, the negative binomial model, in terms of the following: size; power; robustness for departures from the data distribution as well as dispersion homogeneity. These simulations demonstrate that the C ( α ) statistic based on the double extended quasi-likelihood holds the nominal size at the 5% level well in all data situations, and it shows some edge in power over the other statistics, and, in particular, it performs much better than the commonly used statistic based on the quasi-likelihood. This C ( α ) statistic also shows robustness for moderate heterogeneity due to dispersion. Finally, applications to ecological, toxicological and biological data are given.
Inhibition Mechanism of the Acetylcholine Receptor by α-Neurotoxins as Revealed by Normal-Mode Dynamics†

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) is the prototype of ligand-gated ion channels. Here, we calculate the dynamics of the muscle AChR using normal modes. The calculations reveal a twist-like gating motion responsible for channel opening. The ion channel diameter is shown to increase with this twist motion. Strikingly, the twist motion and the increase in channel diameter are not observed for the AChR in complex with two α-bungarotoxin (αBTX) molecules. The toxins seems to lock together neighboring receptor subunits, thereby inhibiting channel opening. Interestingly, one αBTX molecule suffices to prevent the twist motion. These results shed light on the gating mechanism of the AChR and present a complementary inhibition mechanism by snake-venom-derived α-neurotoxins.
Transient Nutations in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Transient nutations of the resultant nuclear magnetic moment vector are set up by applying radiofrequency power in the form of pulses in the neighborhood of resonance ($\ensuremath{\omega}=\ensuremath{\gamma}{H}_{0}$). The nutations have an initial amplitude depending on the state of magnetization at the start of a pulse and on the proximity to resonance, and are damped by spin-spin and spin-lattice interaction. The thermal relaxation time can be directly found by observing the dependence of initial amplitude on the time between pulses. The spin-spin time constant ${T}_{2}$ can be found from the rate of decay even in the presence of normally disturbing inhomogeneity in magnetic field. Sensitivity is in many cases comparable to that obtained in the modulation method with narrow band amplifiers. The fast response due to the relatively wide band widths used can be applied to a rapid search for unknown resonances. The effects observed are in qualitative accord with predictions based on the Bloch theory.
Participation of Methylene Chloride in Organo-Group 13 Systems. Synthesis and Molecular Structure of [(C4H9)2Al{N(CH2CH2O)3}Al(Cl)]2 and [(CH3)Ga·[14]aneN4]Cl2

Abstract The organoaluminum complex [(C4H9)2Al{N(CH2CH2O)3}A1(C1)]2, I, was prepared by reaction of an excess of (i-C4H9)2AlH with triethanolamine, N(CH2CH2OH)3. I crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1 with unit cell parameters a = 10.246(4), b = 12.864(4), c= 14.681(6)A, α= 104.96(3), β=89.92(3), γ = 96.84(3)[ddot], V= 1855 A3 and D c = 1.24gcm−3 for Z = 2. Least-squares refinement based on 3745 observed reflections with intensities I>3[sgrave] (I) in the range 3.50 < 20 < 45.0[ddot] converged at R=0.080, R W =0.099. I contains two triethanolamine ligands bridged by four Al fragments. The two core Al atoms are six-coordinate residing in octahedral environments. The mean Al-C distance in I is 1.978(9) A while the Al-O distances range from 1.798(4) to 1.931(5) A. The crystalline product [(CH3)Ga-[14]aneN4]Cl2, II, isolated from reaction of (CH3)3Ga with [14]aneN4, crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with unit cell parameters a=13.853(5), b=10.755(4), c=13.147(5) A, β=113.80(3)[ddot] V=1...
Neuropsychiatric findings in patients exposed to polybrominated biphenyls.

The inadvertent mixing of polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) into animal feed in 1973 resulted in the contamination of thousands of Michigan farms. Farm animals who ingested this feed suffered various consequences including weight loss, decreased productivity, frequent infections, skin changes, and reproductive abnormalities.' This error was not initially known, and widespread contamination of humans occurred through the consumption of animals and animal products. Families from quarantined farms were thought to have the heaviest exposure, with consumers of products from quarantined farms and chemical workers directly associated with PBBs also receiving heavy exposure. At the time of this incident, little was known about the possible health effects of PBBs in humans. The only related experience was an accidental ingestion of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) that occurred in Japan and caused many health
Differential pp40I kappa B-beta inhibition of DNA binding by rel proteins.

Abstract Regulation of gene expression by members of the NF-kappa B/rel transcription factor family is a central component of signal transduction pathways utilized by many cellular processes, including lymphocyte activation, embryonic development, and oncogenesis. The members of the NF-kappa B/rel transcription factor family are regulated by association with a family of inhibitor (I kappa B) proteins (I kappa B) proteins. To address the importance of the association between rel and I kappa B proteins for oncogenesis by rel proteins, we characterized rel-I kappa B interactions in chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEF) infected with retroviral vectors encoding the avian c-rel (p68c-rel), v-rel (p59v-rel), and I kappa B-beta (pp40I kappa B-beta) proteins. In these experiments, the p59v-rel:pp40I kappa B-beta ratio in coinfected CEF was nearly identical to the p59v-rel:pp40I kappa B-beta ratio in v-rel-transformed cells. The avian I kappa B-beta protein, pp40I kappa B-beta, was able to associate with both the nononcogenic p68c-rel and the oncogenic p59v-rel. Association of p68c-rel with pp40I kappa B-beta in coinfected CEF resulted in inhibition of the DNA-binding activity of p68c-rel. Anti-pp40I kappa B-beta serum was able to restore DNA binding to p68c-rel in the presence of high levels of pp40I kappa B-beta, indicating that pp40I kappa B-beta functions in a trans-acting manner to inhibit DNA binding by p68c-rel. In contrast, sequence-specific DNA binding by the oncogenic v-rel protein, p59v-rel, was not abolished by pp40I kappa B-beta in coinfected CEF. Anti-pp40I kappa B-beta serum did not immunoprecipitate the p59v-rel-DNA adduct or alter the electrophoretic mobility of the p59v-rel-DNA adduct, consistent with the idea that pp40I kappa B-beta and DNA are competitive inhibitors for the same or overlapping domains on rel proteins. Internal v-rel-derived sequences were identified that are responsible for loss of pp40I kappa B-beta-mediated inhibition of DNA binding by p59v-rel. Loss of pp40I kappa B-beta-mediated inhibition of DNA binding by recombinant v/c-rel proteins was not sufficient for oncogenic activation of c-rel. Instead, removal of C-terminal c-rel-derived sequences in addition to loss of pp40I kappa B-beta-mediated inhibition of DNA binding was required for oncogenic activation of c-rel. These results demonstrate the presence of an interaction between internal and C-terminal regions of the c-rel protein that is important for the ability of c-rel to regulate the proliferation of lymphoid cells.
Pediatric Symptom Checklist Ratings by Mothers with a Recent History of Intimate Partner Violence: A Primary Care Study

Screening for psychosocial problems is an effective way to identify children who need further evaluation, and many brief, psychometrically strong measures exist for this purpose. More research is needed, however, about the performance of these measures in special populations who are familiar to primary care settings. The purpose of this study was to examine and compare maternal ratings on the Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC) between low-income, urban mothers who had suffered intimate partner violence (IPV) in the past year (n = 23) and a demographically-matched comparison group of mothers (n = 23). Victims of violence rated their children as having significantly more problems in a number of categories (Total PSC Score, Externalizing, and Internalizing) than did mothers in the comparison group. The PSC shows promise as an adequate screening tool for psychosocial problems in the children of women who have suffered IPV, but more research is needed.
Survival outcomes by tumor human papillomavirus (HPV) status in stage III-IV oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) in RTOG 0129

6003 Background: The favorable prognosis for HPV-positive (pos) OPC requires confirmation in a clinical trial of sufficient size to account for confounding variables including smoking. Methods: A c...
Pressure Fluctuation Analysis in Gas-Solid Fluidized Beds Using CFD Simulations

Reliable computational methods provide valuable insight into gas-solid flow processes and can be used as a design tool. Of particular interest is the hydrodynamics of a binary mixture of sand-biomass in a fluidized bed. Our study interprets the hydrodynamic states of a fluidized bed by analyzing the local pressure fluctuations of beds of sand and a mixture of cotton stalks and sand over long time periods. Standard deviation of pressure drop will determine different fluidization regimes at inlet gas velocities ranging from 2 to 9 times the minimum fluidization velocity. Bode plots will present the pressure spectra and reveal characteristic frequencies that describe the bed hydrodynamics for different fluidization regimes. This works contribution will present CFD as a useful tool to perform pressure fluctuation analysis, the study of pressure fluctuations in the turbulent regime and the analysis of a binary mixture using CFD.Copyright © 2012 by ASME