cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
C1q- and collectin-dependent phagocytosis of apoptotic host cells by the intestinal protozoan Entamoeba histolytica.

Background. Entamoeba histolytica, the cause of invasive amebiasis, phagocytoses apoptotic host cells during tissue invasion. In mammals, collectin family members (e.g., mannose-binding lectin [MBL]) and the structurally related protein Clq bind to apoptotic cells and stimulate macrophage phagocytosis via a conserved collagenous tail domain. The collectins also bind to bacteria, the usual source of nutrients for E. histolytica. Methods. To test the possibility that the collectins are ligands that stimulate E. histolytica phagocytosis, we used a flow cytometry-based assay for amebic phagocytosis, a method for making single-ligand particles to delineate a given ligand's ability to initiate phagocytosis, and purified human Clq, MBL, and collagenous collectin tails. Results. Apoptotic lymphocytes opsonized with serum or human Clq were phagocytosed more efficiently than control cells, an effect that was dependent on ligand density. C1q and the collectins alone were adequate to trigger amebic phagocytosis, because single-ligand particles coated with Clq, MBL, or purified collectin tails were phagocytosed more efficiently than control particles. Furthermore, Clq, MBL, and the tail domain of C1q were all chemoattractants for E. histolytica. Conclusions. Clq and MBL can serve as opsonins on apoptotic cells that stimulate E. histolytica phagocytosis, an effect mediated at least in part by the collagenous collectin tail domain.
Control of surface film composition and orientation with downstream PECVD of hexafluoropropylene oxide

Highly oriented fluorocarbon films are deposited downstream from an inductively coupled rf plasma using hexafluoropropylene oxide (HFPO). Angle-dependent XPS results [takeoff angles of 0° (upper) and 80° (lower)] demonstrate that the films comprise CF2 chains terminated by CF3 groups at the outer surface of the film. NEXAFS data establishes that the CF2 groups are aligned in chains which are oriented normal to the substrate.
Early postnatal ethanol intubation blunts GABAA receptor up-regulation and modifies 3α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one sensitivity in rat MS/DB neurons

Previously we found postnatal binge-like ethanol exposure using an artificial-rearing method in the rat delayed developmental up-regulation of GABA(A) receptors (GABA(A)Rs) in both medial septum/diagonal band (MS/DB) and cerebellar Purkinje neurons. In the present study, the impact of ethanol on developing GABA(A)Rs in MS/DB neurons was further tested under conditions not requiring anesthesia or maternal deprivation. Nursing rat pups received ethanol (4.5-5.25 g/kg/day) on postnatal days (PD) 4-9, which was administrated manually by oral intragastric intubation. This treatment caused dose-dependent blunting of peak GABA(A) receptor whole cell currents in acutely dissociated MS/DB cells on PD 12-15. The threshold with oral intubation was slightly higher than previously observed for artificial-rearing (4.9 vs. 4.5 g/kg/day). The previously observed reduced sensitivity of GABA(A)Rs to Zn(2+)-inhibition after ethanol was not found with the intubation model. In studies only carried out using the intubation method, 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one (3alpha-OH-DHP) caused an allosteric concentration-dependent potentiation of currents activated by non-saturated concentrations of GABA. A bicuculline sensitive direct activation of GABA(A)Rs also occurred with higher concentrations of 3alpha-OH-DHP alone. Ethanol intubation up-regulated allosteric neurosteroid potentiation with low concentrations of GABA, but did not change direct agonist actions of 3alpha-OH-DHP. Finally, 3alpha-OH-DHP did not prime ethanol insensitive GABA(A)Rs to become sensitivity to acute ethanol potentiation. These results indicate ethanol consistently blunts postnatal GABA(A) receptor up-regulation across early postnatal binge-type ethanol exposure models and may increase positive modulation of GABA(A) receptors by endogenous neurosteroids.
Formation and dispersal of crystalline P-protein in sieve elements of soybean (Glycine max L.)

Light microscopic observations dating back to 1892 have established that sieve elements of papilionaceous legumes contain a unique type of slime body. This large, compact crystalline type of P-protein has also been observed in sieve elements in recent electron microscopic investigations but its formation and possible relationship to other P-protein structures have not been examined. The present fine structural study describes its development in hypocotyl tissue of 4-day old seedlings of soybean (Glycine max L.). Preceding the formation of a P-protein body, a young sieve element possesses large numbers of ribosomes, abundant vesiculate ER and numerous dictyosomes surrounded by vesicles. A finely granular material accumulates among these components, then condenses into electron opaque masses. Scattered bundles of tubules appear within these masses, then aggregate, and next align longitudinally in the sieve element. By a further transformation, the tubules are converted into an electron opaque crystalline P-protein body. This body continues to grow by aggregation and transformation of additional tubules, and at maturity may be as long as 15–30 microns. The main body, which is square in cross section, tapers toward the ends and is terminated by sinuous “tails”. Eventually this crystal disperses into a mass of fine striated fibers that fills the lumen of the mature sieve element. Attention is directed to similarities between the bundles of tubules and previously described “extruded nucleoli”. Factors possibly involved in the structural variations and transformations described above are also discussed.
An efficient transient stability constrained optimal power flow using trajectory sensitivity

A well-structured two-step efficient transient stability constrained optimal power flow is proposed. The transient stability constraints are obtained through time domain simulation and its corresponding trajectory sensitivity calculation. The process to obtain the constraints is an independent step from the dispatch problem solving. The added transient stability constraints prevent first swing instability, and bring much less computational burden than steady state security constraints. The proposed method was tested on a 9-bus system and the New England 39-bus system.
RAD52 inactivation is synthetically lethal with deficiencies in BRCA1 and PALB2 in addition to BRCA2 through RAD51-mediated homologous recombination.

Synthetic lethality is an approach to study selective cell killing based on genotype. Previous work in our laboratory has shown that loss of RAD52 is synthetically lethal with BRCA2 deficiency, while exhibiting no impact on cell growth and viability in BRCA2-proficient cells. We now show that this same synthetically lethal relationship is evident in cells with deficiencies in BRCA1 or PALB2, which implicates BRCA1, PALB2 and BRCA2 in an epistatic relationship with one another. When RAD52 was depleted in BRCA1- or PALB2-deficient cells, a severe reduction in plating efficiency was observed, with many abortive attempts at cell division apparent in the double-depleted background. In contrast, when RAD52 was depleted in a BRCA1- or PALB2-wildtype background, a negligible decrease in colony survival was observed. The frequency of ionizing radiation-induced RAD51 foci formation and double-strand break-induced homologous recombination (HR) was decreased by 3- and 10-fold, respectively, when RAD52 was knocked down in BRCA1- or PALB2-depleted cells, with minimal effect in BRCA1- or PALB2-proficient cells. RAD52 function was independent of BRCA1 status, as evidenced by the lack of any defect in RAD52 foci formation in BRCA1-depleted cells. Collectively, these findings suggest that RAD52 is an alternative repair pathway of RAD51-mediated HR, and a target for therapy in cells deficient in the BRCA1–PALB2–BRCA2 repair pathway.
Influence of temperature, KNO3, GA3 and seed drying on emergence of papaya seedlings

Abstract Papaya ( Carica papaya L.) seeds soaked in potassium nitrate (KNO 3 ) or gibberellic acid (GA 3 ) for 15 min exhibited an increased percentage emergence and a reduced time for 50% seedling emergence in comparison to seeds soaked in H 2 O. Sowing seeds in pots and heating to 35°C had higher percentage seedling emergence than heating to 25°C. Soaking seeds in KNO 3 or GA 3 before or after drying for 2 weeks did not alter the KNO 3 or GA 3 effects. Plants grown from KNO 3 -treated seeds appeared normal, whereas plants grown from GA 3 -treated seeds had elongated hypocotyls.
Systematic Analysis of Protease Gene Expression in the Rhesus Macaque Ovulatory Follicle: Metalloproteinase Involvement in Follicle Rupture

Protease genes were identified that exhibited increased mRNA levels before and immediately after rupture of the naturally selected, dominant follicle of rhesus macaques at specific intervals after an ovulatory stimulus. Quantitative real-time PCR validation revealed increased mRNA levels for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP1, MMP9, MMP10, and MMP19) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin-like repeats (ADAMTS1, ADAMTS4, ADAMTS9, and ADAMTS15) family members, the cysteine protease cathepsin L (CTSL), the serine protease urokinase-type plasminogen activator (PLAU), and the aspartic acid protease pepsinogen 5 (PGA5). With the exception of MMP9, ADAMTS1, and PGA5, mRNA levels for all other up-regulated proteases increased significantly (P < 0.05) 12 h after an ovulatory human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) bolus. MMP1, -10, and -19; ADAMTS1, -4, and -9; CTSL; PLAU; and PGA5 also exhibited a secondary increase in mRNA levels in 36-h postovulatory follicles. To further determine metalloproteinase involvement in ovulation, vehicle (n = 4) or metalloproteinase inhibitor (GM6001, 0.5 μg/follicle, n = 8) was injected into the preovulatory follicle at the time of hCG administration. Of the eight GM6001-injected follicles, none displayed typical stigmata indicative of ovulation at 72 h after hCG; whereas all four vehicle-injected follicles ovulated. No significant differences in mean luteal progesterone levels or luteal phase length occurred between the two groups. Subsequent histological analysis revealed that vehicle-injected follicles ruptured, whereas GM6001-injected follicles did not, as evidenced by an intact stroma and trapped oocytes (n = 3). These findings demonstrate metalloproteinases are critical for follicle rupture in primates, and blocking their activity would serve as a novel, nonhormonal means to achieve contraception.
Relationship Emergence Prediction in Heterogeneous Networks through Dynamic Frequent Subgraph Mining

With the rapid development of Web 2.0 and the Internet of things, predicting relationships in heterogeneous networks has evolved as a heated research topic. Traditionally, people analyze existing relationships in heterogeneous networks that relate in a particular way to a target relationship of interest to predict the emergence of the target relationship. However most existing methods are incapable of systematically identifying relevant relationships useful for the prediction task, especially those relationships involving multiple objects of heterogeneous types, which may not rest on a simple path in the concerned heterogeneous network. Another problem with the current practice is that the existing solutions often ignore the dynamic evolution of the network structure after the introduction of newly emerged relationships. To overcome the first limitation, we propose a new algorithm that can systematically and comprehensively detect relevant relationships useful for the prediction of an arbitrarily given target relationship through a disciplined graph searching process. To address the second limitation, the new algorithm leverages a series of temporally-sensitive features for the relationship occurrence prediction via a supervised learning approach. To explore the effectiveness of the new algorithm, we apply the prototype implementation of the algorithm on the DBLP bibliographic network to predict the author citation relationships and compare the algorithm performance with that of a state-of-the-art peer method and a series of baseline methods. The comparison shows consistently higher prediction accuracy under a range of prediction scenarios.
Springback of Wire Products Considering Natural Strain

This paper makes use of the Ramberg-Osgood stress-strain relationship to evaluate the springback angle for wire products. Natural strain is present in the analysis. In order to incorporate the natural strain expression into the equations, a least-squares polynomial approximation is developed primarily to transform the Ramberg-Osgood equation. Results are compared with experimental values for various radii and angle of bends using several copper alloys with different strain hardening characteristics.
A MNDO study of the electronic band structure of polyethylene

Abstract The electronic band structure of polyethylene has been calculated using the tight-binding LCAO MO approximation together with a recently developed SCF MO procedure (MNDO). The calculated band structure agrees much better with a recent ab initio calculation than those from previous semi-empirical methods and the numerical results are in better agreement with experiment than the ab initio ones.
Effect of tooth size on the ageing and chronological distribution of enamel hypoplastic defects.

The location of enamel hypoplastic defects on the tooth crown has been used to determine the age of an individual at the time the defect-producing stress occurred. The assumptions made in following this methodology are examined, and one in particular, that tooth size variation has a minimal impact on ageing and subsequent chronological distributions, is tested. Teeth with no occlusal or minimal wear and with enamel hypoplasias were measured for crown height and the location of the defect on the crown. Two samples are used, one comprising a series of archaeological specimens and the other from modern clinical extractions. The chronological distributions of the defects are determined by three different methods: one is based on a tooth mineralization chart; the second method uses the same chart but incorporates individual crown heights; and the third method adjusts the chart for the sample's mean crown heights. Significant differences between the age estimates are observed in both the modern and archaeological samples. Tooth size does affect the ageing of hypoplastic defects and the chronological distributions. By adjusting the mineralization chart for the sample's mean crown heights, the significant differences in age estimates can be corrected.
Vertex correction to pairing at a Van Hove singularity

We calculate in a k-averaging approximation, the vertex corrections for pairing at a Van Hove singularity mediated by an Einstein phonon. The vertex correction leads to a modest reduction in ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$, which can still reach the experimental values for realistic phonon couplings, and to a significant deepening of the dip in the isotope shift at the ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$ maximum. Interference between first- and second-order vertex graphs diminishes the effect of the Coulomb interaction on ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$. The isotope-shift dip is shallower for repulsive Coulomb interaction, and deeper in the case of an attractive interaction introduced to model an excitonic contribution to pairing.
Anti-insulin-like (diabetogenic) peptides in pituitary extracts: role of oxytocin.

Abstract A peptide has been extracted and characterized from whole bovine pituitaries that has anti-insulin-like activities when assayed in rat adipocytes. This peptide has been purified approximately 100,000-fold, is homogeneous by thin-layer chromatography in three separate solvent systems, and shows a single peak by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. By these chemical criteria, as well as biological activity criteria ( 14 CO 2 production from d -[U- 14 C]glucose and d -[U- 14 C]glucose incorporation into glycogen in rat adipocytes], the peptide is indistinguishable from oxytocin. It reacts with anti-oxytocin antibody, and has an amino acid composition indistinguishable from purified oxytocin. The relationship between this material and other previously described anti-insulin or diabetogenic peptides is discussed, but it was not possible to conclude that this peptide, which has been purified to homogeneity and constant specific activity, is related to these previously described factors.
The use of tritiated elastin for the determination of subnanogram amounts of elastase

A procedure to quantitate trace amounts of elastase in tissue or cell homogenate preparations is described. The procedure is a modification of a method employing NaB3H4-reduced elastin and it does not restrict assay volume. The assay is specific and can distinguish between pancreatic elastase and trypsin or chymotrypsin, both of which solubilize small amounts of the substrate. Pancreatic elastase remains active in this assay system for at least 4 weeks.
Food Habits of Bigmouth and Smallmouth Buffalo in Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River

(1967). Food Habits of Bigmouth and Smallmouth Buffalo in Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society: Vol. 96, No. 1, pp. 70-74.
Emissions spark spread and primary energy spark spread - Environmental and energy screening parameters for combined heating and power systems

The spark spread, or price differential between electricity cost and fuel cost, may be used to indicate whether a combined heating and power (CHP) system shows a cost benefit in a certain situation over a conventional separate heating and power system. This paper extends the spark spread concept to address the emission of CO2 and the consumption of primary energy by introducing two parameters: the emissions spark spread (ESS) and the primary energy spark spread (PESS). ESS and PESS are evaluated in 16 US cities for three different CHP system efficiencies, and compared to the minimum ESS and minimum PESS required for a CHP system to potentially reduce CO2 emissions (CDE) or primary energy consumption (PEC). Since the fuel mix used in electricity production, which varies with location, affects the amount of CDE or PEC due to the use of a CHP system, this paper also presents the ratios ESS/ESSmin and PESS/PESSmin that could be used for a simple analysis of the potential of a CHP system based on CDE and PEC.
Overview article: biostructure of blood platelets.

Advances in biochemistry, physiology, immunology, and cytochemistry, combined with a variety of new approaches for the evaluation of fine structure, have yielded new insights into the structural ph...
Accuracy of carotid duplex examination to predict proximal and intrathoracic lesions

Background There is growing enthusiasm for doing carotid endarterectomy based on duplex examination alone, avoiding the risks of arteriography. Duplex cannot directly visualize proximal carotid or arch lesions. This study evaluates the prevalence of such lesions and the ability of duplex to predict their presence. Methods A retrospective review was conducted of 650 consecutive carotid duplex examinations followed by arteriography. Results Twenty-seven proximal lesions (10 occlusions and 17 stenoses) were predicted by duplex and confirmed by arteriography. One lesion was missed by duplex, for a sensitivity and specificity of 96% and 100%, respectively. The accuracy was 99%, and the negative predictive value was 99%. Prevalence of proximal lesions was 4% overall, but only 3% for stenotic lesions. Conclusions Proximal carotid and intrathoracic lesions are rare and can be predicted by duplex scan, thus avoiding arteriography. The absence of such lesions can be inferred with confidence from a negative duplex examination.
A unification of chirality measures

A general classification of chirality measures is suggested, based on a new unifying scheme. Two classes of measures - congruity and resolution type — are defined All chirality measures so far reported in the literature are found to belong to one of these two classes. At a higher level of unification, a more general construction is suggested that includes congruity and resolution measures as limiting cases. It is shown that congruity measures are nested in clusters of eight, generated by 23 combinations of their possible choice of a reference object (chiral vs. achiral), representation form (optimized vs. factorized) and type of chiral object under consideration (discrete vs. continuous). Each of the eight cases can have an infinite number of variations depending on the choice of averaging scheme. The problem of dimensionality is discussed for congruity measures and is shown to be unresolvable only for the case of chirality measures based on the discrete metric (e.g. overlap measures).
Effect of Statins on Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Symptomatic Dissection Recurrence in Patients with Spontaneous and Traumatic Dissections (P04.078)

Objective: To determine the rate of new statin prescription among all CCD patients discharged, and analyze its influence in post-discharge intracerebral hemorrhages (ICH), ischemic strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIA), and recurrent dissection. Background Statins by virtue of their powerful cholesterol-reducing and pleiotropic anti-inflammatory and immune modulatory effects can change the natural history of arterial dissection if introduced early. In patients with aortic dissections, statins may improve long-term survival. However, the effect of statins in patients with spontaneous or traumatic cervico-cranial dissection has not been studied. Design/Methods: We retrospectively identified consecutive patients over 7 years with spontaneous and/or traumatic cervico-cranial dissections from our two University affiliated hospitals. We collected demographics, risk factors, follow up neurological outcomes, and any statin cholesterol therapy information. The effect of new statin prescription on discharge on subsequent neurological outcomes was evaluated over a follow-up period of 01 to36 months. Results: A total of 114 patients [mean age (± SD) 47.8±14 years; 55 male] presented with spontaneous and/or traumatic cervico-cranial dissections. Twenty-two (19%) of 114 patients were discharged on statins, 5/43 (11%) and 20/71 (28%) of the traumatic and spontaneous dissections, respectively. The rate of post discharge ICH was 0 (0%) vs. 5 (5.7%), ischemic stroke 1 (4.5%) vs. 3 (3.4%), TIA 0 (0%) vs. 1 (1.2%), and symptomatic dissection recurrence 0 (0%) vs. 5 (5.7%) in patients who were or were not discharged on statins, respectively. The cumulative incidence of ICH, ischemic events, and recurrence was 2% and 13 %, p= 0.08 among patients discharged on statins versus those discharged without statins. Conclusions: There appears to be a non-significantly lower rate of new events in patients with spontaneous and traumatic dissections who are prescribed statin therapy on discharge. Disclosure: Dr. Irfan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hassan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Berry has nothing to disclose. Dr. Tariq has nothing to disclose. Dr. Chaudhry has nothing to disclose. Dr. Zacharatos has nothing to disclose. Dr. Tekle has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rodriguez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Suri has nothing to disclose. Dr. Qureshi has nothing to disclose.
Spatial compatibility in tactile-visual discrimination.

Abstract An earlier study found accuracy to be greater and response latency (RL) shorter when the response was made with the same hand as felt the relevant one of two simultaneously- presented nonsense shapes. The present experiment investigated whether this was due to uni- hemispheric input and motor control or to spatial compatibility between feeling and responding hands. Responding with the hand on the Same Side as the hand which felt the relevant stimulus—even if they were different hands—yielded shorter RL and greater accuracy which were not significantly improved by the additional use of the Same Hand.
Nonlinearity in scanning electron microscope critical dimension measurements introduced by the edge detection algorithm

This paper discusses nonlinear behavior in SEM CD measurements stemming from the interaction of the edge detection algorithm and systematic changes in the appearance of the secondary electron signal. A first-order theory is developed which describes the effect of changes in apparent sidewall slope and baseline level on common edge detection algorithms. Specifically the theory predicts nonlinear behavior for linear approximation and threshold edge detection algorithms. Experimental verification of the effect is presented. Systematic increases in linewidth of 10% are frequently encountered in practice when making measurements in the sub 0.75 micrometers regime.
Observed and Modeled Wind and Water-Level Response from Tropical Storm Marco (1990)

Abstract The Hurricane Research Division (HRD) analyzes surface wind fields in tropical storms and hurricanes using surface wind observations and aircraft flight-level wind measurements in the vicinity of the storms. The analyzed surface wind fields for Tropical Storm Marco (1990) were compared with the wind fields used for input in the National Weather Service's Sea, Lake, and Overland Surge from Hurricanes (SLOSH) model. The HRD wind fields were also used to determine the wind speeds and directions corresponding to the storm surge at tide gauges along Florida's west coast. The observed storm surge at the gauges was compared with the storm surge computed by the SLOSH model. Time series of the SLOSH model winds were compared with time series based on the analyzed wind field at each tide gauge, because in most cases there were no wind observations available at these gauges. The comparisons of the analyzed and modeled winds and the observed and modeled storm surge show that the SLOSH model reasonably repres...
Nucleic Acid–Metal Organic Framework (MOF) Nanoparticle Conjugates

Nanoparticles of a metal–organic framework (MOF), UiO-66-N3 (Zr6O4OH4(C8H3O4–N3)6), were synthesized. The surface of the MOF was covalently functionalized with oligonucleotides, utilizing a strain promoted click reaction between DNA appended with dibenzylcyclooctyne and azide-functionalized UiO-66-N3 to create the first MOF nanoparticle–nucleic acid conjugates. The structure of the framework was preserved throughout the chemical transformation, and the surface coverage of DNA was quantified. Due to the small pore sizes, the particles are only modified on their surfaces. When dispersed in aqueous NaCl, they exhibit increased stability and enhanced cellular uptake when compared with unfunctionalized MOF particles of comparable size.
Unusual position‐sensitive jaw tremor responsive to botulinum toxin

We report on a woman with a focal position-sensitive jaw tremor present with the jaw held slightly open or while drinking from a cup. Electromyography demonstrated a rhythmic 5 Hz alternating tremor involving masseter and digastric muscles with normal reciprocal inhibition. The tremor was markedly reduced with botulinum toxin injections.
Social Skill Group Interventions for Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders: a Systematic Review

This article reviews the available literature on group-based social skills interventions for adolescents with autism. Forty-four studies were identified that were published in peer-reviewed journals. While each identified treatment utilized a group format, there was significant heterogeneity among the implemented procedures and evaluative methods. Studies were compared on a number of dimensions, and trends in the field were identified. The findings suggest that there is significant evidence for the usefulness of social skills groups as an intervention for adolescents with autism, and the evidence base is rapidly growing. In addition to a summary of the existing literature, recommendations for areas of future research are identified.
Molecular Mechanism of TRP Channels

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are cellular sensors for a wide spectrum of physical and chemical stimuli. They are involved in the formation of sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste, temperature, and pain sensation. TRP channels also play fundamental roles in cell signaling and allow the host cell to respond to benign or harmful environmental changes. As TRP channel activation is controlled by very diverse processes and, in many cases, exhibits complex polymodal properties, understanding how each TRP channel responds to its unique forms of activation energy is both crucial and challenging. The past two decades witnessed significant advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie TRP channels activation. This review focuses on our current understanding of the molecular determinants for TRP channel activation.
The Coaching Model for Educational Leadership Principles

For the last quarter century, I have coached soccer at some level. Like many parents, I started coaching when my kids developed an interest in soccer, and coaches were needed if the kids were to play. I knew little about soccer and had to learn both about soccer and about coaching. Now that I have retired from such endeavors, I would like to share some observations about coaching, orthopaedic training programs, and leadership. Leadership has become a hot topic for our national orthopaedic organizations, and several programs have been developed to train leaders. My postulate is that the coaching model is an excellent choice for leadership training, especially for academic departments. The issues faced by coaches are remarkably similar to those faced in academic training programs, and the tools necessary to meet those challenges are also remarkably similar. The major difference is temporal; the same process that plays out over one season for a coach lasts five years for a residency. As I have spent the last fifteen years coaching goalkeepers at a large high school, I will use the high-school level of play as the basis for the remainder of my comments. There are admittedly differences between the hospital environment and the playing field, but the principles remain constant. An orthopaedic department is not competing in the same manner as a high-school team; however, a department demonstrating excellence in patient care and education will be recognized by the institution and will be more successful in obtaining such necessities as office space and operating-room time, both competitive endeavors. The increasing fiscal and temporal pressures on academic departments can no longer be managed only by the chair—a cohesive team of faculty members committed to excellence will achieve much more. Although my observations are primarily directed toward resident education, successful academic leaders …
Determination of electromagnetic properties of materials using flanged open-ended coaxial probe-full-wave analysis

A full-wave analysis is applied to the scheme of measuring electromagnetic (EM) properties of materials over the frequency range of 0.3-4 GHz using a flanged open-ended coaxial probe. The excitation of complex waves, which include surface waves, radiative waves and radial guided waves in layered material media, is considered. With an accurate theory, this scheme may be used to measure both complex permittivity and permeability of the material simultaneously. >
Gid8p (Dcr1p) and Dcr2p Function in a Common Pathway To Promote START Completion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

How cells determine when to initiate DNA replication is poorly understood. Here we report that in Saccharomyces cerevisiae overexpression of the dosage-dependent cell cycle regulator genes DCR2 (YLR361C) and GID8 (DCR1/YMR135C) accelerates initiation of DNA replication. Cells lacking both GID8 and DCR2 delay initiation of DNA replication. Genetic analysis suggests that Gid8p functions upstream of Dcr2p to promote cell cycle progression. DCR2 is predicted to encode a gene product with phosphoesterase activity. Consistent with these predictions, a DCR2 allele carrying a His338 point mutation, which in known protein phosphatases prevents catalysis but allows substrate binding, antagonized the function of the wild-type DCR2 allele. Finally, we report genetic interactions involving GID8, DCR2, and CLN3 (which encodes a G1 cyclin) or SWI4 (which encodes a transcription factor of the G1/S transcription program). Our findings identify two gene products with a probable regulatory role in the timing of initiation of cell division.
Purification and Characterization of Streptomyces griseus Catechol O -Methyltransferase

A soluble (100,000 3 g supernatant) methyltransferase catalyzing the transfer of the methyl group of Sadenosyl-L-methionine to catechols was present in cell extracts of Streptomyces griseus. A simple, general, and rapid catechol-based assay method was devised for enzyme purification and characterization. The enzyme was purified 141-fold by precipitation with ammonium sulfate and successive chromatography over columns of DEAE-cellulose, DEAE-Sepharose, and Sephacryl S-200. The purified cytoplasmic enzyme required 10 mM magnesium for maximal activity and was catalytically optimal at pH 7.5 and 35°C. The methyltransferase had an apparent molecular mass of 36 kDa for both the native and denatured protein, with a pI of 4.4. Novel N-terminal and internal amino acid sequences were determined as DFVLDNEGNPLENNGGYXYI and RPD FXLEPPYTGPXKARIIRYFY, respectively. For this enzyme, the Km for 6,7-dihydroxycoumarin was 500 6 21.5 mM, and that for S-adenosyl-L-methionine was 600 6 32.5 mM. Catechol, caffeic acid, and 4-nitrocatechol were methyltransferase substrates. Homocysteine was a competitive inhibitor of S-adenosyl-L-methionine, with a Ki of 224 6 20.6 mM. Sinefungin and S-adenosylhomocysteine inhibited methylation, and the enzyme was inactivated by Hg 21 , p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, and N-ethylmaleimide. A variety of bacterial and fungal methyltransferases are involved in antibiotic (3, 8‐10, 15, 18, 29) and aflatoxin (37, 38) biosynthesis, as well as in the methylation of other compounds (7, 12, 19, 24). Methyltransferases isolated and characterized from streptomycetes usually have defined roles in antibiotic biosynthesis. Biosynthetically related enzymes associated with secondary metabolism often display kinetic properties, including very high substrate specificities, relatively low Km and Vmax values rendering them generally impractical for broad-scale biocatalytic use. We previously showed that cultures of Streptomyces griseus sequentially converted 7-methoxycoumarin to a mixture of 6hydroxy-7-methoxycoumarin and 7-hydroxy-6-methoxycoumarin (27) by a pathway involving O deethylation, aromatic hydroxylation to a 6,7-catechol, and subsequent methylation. The intermediacy of 6,7-dihydroxycoumarin was established by incubating growing cultures of S. griseus with the catechol as a substrate to accumulate both monomethyl-ether isomers. The formation of 7-hydroxy-6-methoxycoumarin and 6-hydroxy-7methoxycoumarin indicated the presence of a methyltransferase enzyme system in S. griseus. The incorporation of the 14 C-labeled methyl group from 14 C-methylmethionine demonstrated that an S-adenosyl methionine (SAM)-dependent transmethylating system was involved in this reaction. We now describe the development of a simple catechol-based assay method and its use in the purification and characterization of a new and highly active catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT) from S. griseus.
Acetyl‐CoA:benzylalcohol acetyltransferase – an enzyme involved in floral scent production in Clarkia breweri

Volatile esters impart distinct characteristics to the floral scent of many plants, and are important in attracting insect pollinators. They are also important flavor compounds in fruits. The ester benzylacetate is a major constituent of the floral scent of Clarkia breweri, an annual plant native to California. The enzyme acetyl-CoA:benzylalcohol acetyltransferase (BEAT), which catalyzes the formation of benzylacetate, has been purified from C. breweri petals, and a cDNA encoding this enzyme has been isolated and characterized. The sequence of the 433-residue BEAT protein does not show high similarity to any previously characterized protein, but a 35-residue region from position 135-163 has significant similarity (42-56% identity) to several proteins known or suspected to use an acyl-CoA substrate. E. coli cells expressing C. breweri BEAT produced enzymatically active protein, and also synthesized benzylacetate and secreted it into the medium. Of the different parts of the C. breweri flower, petals contained the majority of BEAT transcripts, and no BEAT mRNA was detected in leaves. The levels of BEAT mRNA in the petals increased as the bud matured, and peaked at anthesis, paralleling changes in BEAT activity. However, three days after anthesis, mRNA levels began a steep decline, whereas BEAT activity remained high for the next two days, suggesting that the BEAT protein is relatively stable.
Self H-2 antigens influence the specificity of alloreactive cells.

We have tested Jerne's hypothesis (9) that the phenomenon alloreactivity is explained by the existence of T cells that express germline-encoded receptors specific for major histocompatibility complex antigens and that these cells undergo no change in specificity during thymic differentiation. T cells from [F1 leads to Parent] bone marrow radiation chimeras reactive to conventional antigens are known to have a self preference, i.e., [A X B leads to A] chimeras respond better to H-2A-plus-antigen than to H-2B-plus-antigen. We show here that alloreactive cells from such chimeras also have a self preference. Thus, H-2k-specific alloreactive T cells from [H-2b X H-2d leads to H-2b] and [H-2b X H-2d leads to H-2d] chimeras cross-react more on TNP-modified H-2b or H-2d targets, respectively. In contrast to Jerne's prediction, the results suggest that the receptor repertoire of alloreactive F1 cells is influenced by H-2 antigens on radiation-resistant cells present during T cell ontogeny. By this criterion of having a self preference in H-2 restriction, alloreactive T cells appear to be similar to T cells that respond to conventional antigens.
EFFECT OF FETAL EXPOSURE TO ETHANOL ON COMPLEX MAZE ACQUISITION IN RATS TESTED AS ADULTS

Holtzman rat dams were maintained on a liquid diet containing 35% ethanol-derived calories from Days 5 to 18 of gestation. Beginning on Day 19, the dams were given 5 days of choice between the ethanol diet and lab chow and water, which allowed the animals to decrease their alcohol consumption slowly. 9 male offspring of the ethanol-treated dams were compared to 9 male offspring of pair-fed dams on the acquisition of a LRRL sequence in a four-choice maze, with training beginning at 116 days of age. While the alcohol group had higher means on all acquisition measures and higher variances on all error measures, the group means were not significantly different on any of the acquisition measures.
Neuroimaging-evident lesional pathology associated with REM sleep behavior disorder.

Abstract Background/Rationale Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is a potentially injurious parasomnia characterized by dream enactment behavior and polysomnographic REM sleep without atonia (RSWA). Recently, RBD not only has been shown to be strongly associated with synucleinopathy neurodegeneration but has also been rarely reported to be associated with structural lesions involving the brainstem or limbic system. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, neuroimaging, and outcome characteristics in a case series of patients with lesional RBD. Methods This is a retrospective case series from a tertiary care referral center. Results A total of 10 patients with lesional RBD were identified. Seven (70%) were men, with an average age of sleep symptom onset of 53.7 ± 17.0 years. Structural pathology evident on neuroimaging included four extraaxial (three meningiomas and one basilar fusiform aneurysm with brainstem compression) and six intraaxial (encephalomalacia, multiple sclerosis, vasculitis, autoimmune limbic encephalitis, and leukodystrophy) lesions. No patient developed parkinsonian features or cognitive impairment suggestive of synucleinopathy over an average of 45.4 ± 35.2 months of follow-up. Conclusions RBD is rarely associated with non-synuclein structural lesions affecting the pons, medulla, or limbic system. The spectrum of lesional RBD comprises tumors, aneurysms, leukodystrophy, and autoimmune/inflammatory/demyelinating brain lesions.
Oviductal ovum surrogate movement: interrelation with muscular activity.

Oviductal ovum surrogate movements were studied to determine the interrelation with muscular activity. Oviducts were removed from rabbits 68 hours after injection of human chorionic gonadotropin to induce ovulation and placed in a lucite organ bath in oxygenated Tyrodes solution. A surrogate ovum was placed 1-2 cm into the fimbral end of the oviduct and electrodes placed on the surface of the circular muscle in the region of the ampullary-isthmic-junction. Usually surrogate ova moved rapidly then moved up to 1.5 cm in a few seconds. Motion was visually clearly related to muscular activity close to the surrogate. There is lack of obvious directionality in the propagation of electrical activity. Although the cilia may effect passage by inducing fluid flow it is muscular activity which provides the primary propulsive forces.
A genetic algorithm approach to single and multiobjective structural optimization with discrete–continuous variables

A search procedure with a philosophical basis in molecular biology is adapted for solving single and multiobjective structural optimization problems. This procedure, known as a genetic algorithm (GA). utilizes a blending of the principles of natural genetics and natural selection. A lack of dependence on the gradient information makes GAs less susceptible to pitfalls of convergence to a local optimum. To model the multiple objective functions in the problem formulation, a co-operative game theoretic approach is proposed. Examples dealing with single and multiobjective geometrical design of structures with discrete–continuous design variables, and using artificial genetic search are presented. Simulation results indicate that GAs converge to optimum solutions by searching only a small fraction of the solution space. The optimum solutions obtained using GAs compare favourably with optimum solutions obtained using gradient-based search techniques. The results indicate that the efficiency and power of GAs can be effectively utilized to solve a broad spectrum of design optimization problems with discrete and continuous variables with similar efficiency.
Word-Level Tone Modeling for Mandarin Speech Recognition

Standard HMM-based Mandarin speech recognition systems do not exploit the suprasegmental nature of tones, but explicit tone models can be incorporated with lattice rescoring. This work extends previous approaches to explicit tone modeling from the syllable level to the word level, incorporating a hierarchical backoff. Word-dependent tone models are trained to explicitly model the tone coarticulation within the word. For less frequent words, tonal-syllable-dependent tone models or plain tone models are used as backoff. More generally, context-dependent tone models can be used as backoff. The word-dependent tone modeling framework can be viewed as a generalization of the traditional context-independent and context-dependent tone modeling. Under this framework, different types of tone modeling strategies are compared experimentally on a Mandarin broadcast news speech recognition task, showing significant gains from the word-level tone modeling approach.
Channel fading impact on multi-hop DSRC safety communication

In this paper, we propose an accurate and efficient analytic model to evaluate the impact of channel fading on multi-hop safety message disseminations in vehicular ad hoc networks (VANET). A multi-hop relay strategy is also proposed by setting distance-based timers (the longer the distance, the shorter the timer) so that the farther receiver has the higher priority for it to rebroadcast the message. Important performance and reliability metrics are derived and analyzed for a thorough understanding of the safety message transmission behavior. Extensive simulations are conducted in Matlab to verify the correctness of our proposed model under realistic network parameter settings.
Effects of 4-nonylphenol on benthic macroinvertebrates and insect emergence in littoral enclosures

The effect of 4-nonylphenol (NP) on benthic, freshwater macroinvertebrates in littoral enclosures was evaluated over a 2-year period. Enclosures received 11 NP applications, 48 h apart, with nominal rates of 3, 30, 100, and 300 {micro}g/L. Mean measured peak concentrations in integrated water column samples over the 20-d application period were 5 {+-} 4, 23 {+-} 11, 76 {+-} 21, and 243 {+-} 41 {micro}g/L NP. Concentrations of NP in the water column decreased rapidly after the last application. Maximum NP concentrations measured in sediments, pore water, and macrophytes of a 300-{micro}g/L enclosure were 27.4 mg/kg, 29.9 {micro}g/L, and 89.6 mg/kg, respectively. The most abundant macroinvertebrate groups, Chironomidae, Oligochaeta, and Mollusca, decreased in abundance after application. Effects on Mollusca were the most severe. Their numbers were significantly reduced at the highest treatment throughout most of the study. Oligochaetes and chironomids were also significantly reduced at the highest treatment, but populations recovered within 6 weeks. Snails and naidid oligochaetes were slightly affected at the second highest treatment (76 {+-} 21 {micro}g/L NP). Insect emergence was reduced during and immediately post-application, but the effects were likely caused or compounded by a surfactant sheen on the surface of the water that interfered withmore » emergence and/or oviposition. The observed effects on the benthic community were most likely due to exposure from the water, although more persistent macrophyte-associated residues may have contributed to effects on Gastropoda, Naididae, and Tanytarsini. Macrophyte-associated NP residues may pose a small risk to benthic organisms, but it is probably minor compared to water exposures. The no-observed and lowest-observed-effect concentration for the benthic community was 23 {+-} 11 and 76 {+-} 21 {micro}g/L NP, respectively.« less
The antidiuretic action of relaxin-containing preparations.

SummaryRelaxin containing extracts of the ovaries of pregnant sows and of the blood of pregnant rabbits possess an antidiuretic action in the rabbit. Some evidence is presented to indicate that the antidiuretic activity parallels the relaxin activity of the preparations used in the present study.
The Effects of Tetracyclines on Teeth and Bones

SYNOPSIS IN INTERLINGUALE EFFECTO DE TETRACYCLINAS SUPER DENTES E OSSOS.—Esseva ideate quatro experimentos con rattos visante a studiar le effectos macroscopic e histologic del 4 homologos tetracyclinic, i.e., chlortetracyclina (CTC), demethylchlortetracyclina (DCTC), tetracyclina (TC), e oxytetracyclina (OTC). Adulte rattos mascule del linea Wistar esseva tractate durante 21 dies con le tetracyclinas per via oral al recommendate doses therapeutic adjustate al peso del animales. Juvene adulte rattos feminin recipeva le varie tetracyclinas durante le curso de un pregnantia. Rattos feminin in stato lactifere recipeva le homologos durante 21 dies post le parturition. Rattos de etates dislactatori recipeva 39 diurne doses therapeutic del tetracyclinas a partir del vinti-prime die de lor vitas.