cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Self Assembly Of AOT Reverse Micelles With/without Peptides

We are interested in understanding the dynamics and stability of proteins under confinement. To study the reverse micelle formation process and the peptide dynamics inside reverse micelle we performed molecular dynamics simulations for two AOT reverse micelle self-assembly systems, one without peptides and the other with two octa-peptides (AKAAAKA). The self-assembled systems are water-in-oil micro-emulsion systems, and each of them has a 200 ns long simulation time. The other three components of the systems are sodium ions, water and isooctane. The water to surfactant ratio for both of the systems is 6. Reverse micelles form in a quick, spontaneous way. The peptides get encapsulated during the self-assembly and are located at the inner face of the reverse micelle close to the AOT surfactants. The two peptides adopt different conformations, unfolded and alpha-helical, respectively. The peptides are encapsulated in separate reverse micelles. The encapsulated peptides have high coordination with AOT head groups and sodium ions. They experienced low hydration environment and showed much slower dynamics inside the reverse micelle. We find that the dynamics of peptides inside reverse micelle is very different from that in bulk water.This work is funded by the National Science Foundation grant DMR-0117792 and RPI. We gratefully acknowledge a SUR grant from IBM that provided the computer resources to do this work.
Crystallization and ferromagnetic resonance behavior of evaporated Gd‐Fe alloy films

The composition and temperature dependence of the ferromagnetic resonance, as‐deposited structures, and in situ crystallization behavior were investigated for evaporated Gd‐Fe alloy films. The origin of multiple ferromagnetic resonance peaks in the amorphous alloy film was speculated to be due to compositionally different short‐range ordered structures. The composition dependence of the structural variations in the as‐deposited alloy films were consistent with the two sphere size hard sphere model. The in situ crystallization reactions of Gd‐Fe alloy films were characterized by three separate reaction stages.
Evaluation of Morinda citrifolia as an Endodontic Irrigant

The purpose of this study was to compare the in vitro effectiveness of Morinda citrifolia juice (MCJ) with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) to remove the smear layer from the canal walls of endodontically instrumented teeth. Sixty extracted, single-rooted, mature, permanent, human premolar teeth with a single canal were inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis at 37 degrees C in a CO2 atmosphere for 30 days. The teeth were randomly allocated to 6 treatment groups; the pulp chamber was accessed, cleaned, and shaped by using ProTaper and ProFile rotary instrumentation to a size 35. During instrumentation the irrigation was provided by MCJ, NaOCl, CHX, MCJ/CHX, followed by a final flush of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). MCJ irrigation was also followed by a final flush of saline, and saline irrigation was also used as a negative control. The teeth were then processed for scanning electron microscopy, and the removal of smear layer was examined. Data were analyzed by chi2 statistical tests (P values) at a significance of 95%. The most effective removal of smear layer occurred with MCJ and NaOCl, both with a rinse of 17% EDTA. Both MCJ and NaOCl treatments were similarly effective with a rinse of 17% EDTA (P < .2471) to completely remove up to 80% of the smear layer from some aspects of the root canal. MCJ was more effective than CHX for removing smear layer (P < .0085) and saline as the negative control (P < .0001). The efficacy of MJC was similar to NaOCl in conjunction with EDTA as an intracanal irrigant. MJC appears to be the first fruit juice to be identified as a possible alternative to the use of NaOCl as an intracanal irrigant.
Performance study of the LiCoO2/graphite system

Abstract Lithium-ion AA battery with LiCoO 2 as the cathode and graphite-like carbon as the anode is developed. Performance versus modification of the anode such as copper-foil type, additive, paste-mixing method, material treatment, and electrode treatment, etc., is studied. Finally, an AA battery with 500 mAh capacity and good cycle life is developed.
Differential recall of digits in the left and right visual half-fields under free and fixed order of recall

Abstract Visual half-field (VHF) differences were investigated in three experiments which employed simultaneous stimulation in a recall task. Experiments I and II presented simultaneous digit sequences to the right and left halves of the Visual Field, under free order of recall. S s recalled more digits from the left VHF for both 3-pair and 4-pair trials, and under both monocular and binocular conditions. The left VHF superiority was postulated to be a function of directional scanning effects similar to those occurring under conditions of simultaneous tachistoscopic presentation. Experiment III presented 3 pairs of digits, with one digit in each pair at the point of fixation and the other three in either the left or right VHF. S s were instructed to report the digits at fixation before recalling those presented to the VHF. This modification resulted in superior recall for those delayed half-spans presented to the right VHF. This striking and consistent right VHF superiority was postulated to be a reflection of the more direct connections between the right VHF and the language areas of the left hemisphere.
Local Calibration of MEPDG for Flexible Pavements in New Mexico

AbstractLocal calibration of the mechanistic-empirical pavement design guide (MEPDG) is performed by determining the pavement-performance model coefficients to minimize the difference between the measured and predicted distresses of New Mexico department of transportation (NMDOT) pavements. A total of 24 New Mexico pavement sections, which have all the MEPDG inputs and quantitative-distress values required for MEPDG calibration, were used for calibration. Pavement-performance models such as rutting, alligator cracking, longitudinal cracking, and roughness models were calibrated by an error-minimization algorithm. In the calibration methodology, the target was fixed to reduce the sum of squared errors, defined by the square of the difference between predicted and measured distress, so that any bias was eliminated and precision was increased. The optimized calibration coefficients are: βr1=1.1, βr2=1.1, βr3=0.8, βGB=0.8, and βSG=1.2 for the rutting model; C1=0.625, C2=0.25, and C3=6,000 for alligator cracki...
Membrane Fusion in Autophagy

Macroautophagy is a pathway for the sequestration and degradation of cytosolic material when the cell is faced with stress conditions like starvation or infection. This cytosolic material is captured within a double-membraned vesicle (the autophagosome) which forms de novo and ultimately traffics to the lysosome for degradation. How membranes come together to form the autophagosome is unknown, but recent studies have suggested a possible role for the autophagosome-associated protein ATG8 in membrane tethering and fusion. Here we develop novel membrane platforms and protein-lipid coupling strategies to test fundamental aspects of ATG8 function, including the involvement of associated factors (ATG3 and ATG7) and the role of different lipid populations such as phosphatidylethanolamine. We compare the functionality of ATG8 to its mammalian homologue, MAP1LC3 and to a variety of mutants to establish which regions of the protein contribute to each activity. We utilize a range of different membrane dynamics assays including lipid-mixing, real-time membrane tethering, vesicle aggregation and cryo-electron microscopy. Our results suggest ATG8 may act as a “molecular glue”, bringing membranes and possibly protein cargo together, but cast doubt on the physiologic relevance of ATG8 as a membrane fusion protein.
How many repeated measurements are useful

Simulated data for a two-group repeated measurements design were generated with different numbers of equally-spaced measurements interposed between baseline and the end of the study. A standard repeated measurements ANOVA for a split-pilot design was used to test the significance of the between-groups main effect, the Geisser-Greenhouse corrected groups x times interaction, and the difference in linear trends across time. The analyses were repeated with and without baseline measurements entered as a covariate in the model. Monte Carlo results confirmed that increasing the number of repeated measurements across a fixed treatment period generally had negative or neutral implications for power of the tests of significance in the presence of serial dependencies that produced heterogeneous correlations among the repeated measurements.
Factors influencing overall survival rates for patients with pineocytoma

Given its rarity, appropriate treatment for pineocytoma remains variable. As the literature primarily contains case reports or studies involving a small series of patients, prognostic factors following treatment of pineocytoma remain unclear. We therefore compiled a systematic review of the literature concerning post-treatment outcomes for pineocytoma to better determine factors associated with overall survival among patients with pineocytoma. We performed a comprehensive search of the published English language literature to identify studies containing outcome data for patients undergoing treatment for pineocytoma. Kaplan–Meier analysis was utilized to determine overall survival rates. Our systematic review identified 168 total patients reported in 64 articles. Among these patients, 21% underwent biopsy, 38% underwent subtotal resection, 42% underwent gross total resection, and 29% underwent radiation therapy, either as mono- or adjuvant therapy. The 1 and 5 year overall survival rates for patients receiving gross total resection versus subtotal resection plus radiotherapy were 91 versus 88%, and 84 versus 17%, respectively. When compared to subtotal resection alone, subtotal resection plus radiation therapy did not offer a significant improvement in overall survival. Gross total resection is the most appropriate treatment for pineocytoma. The potential benefit of conventional radiotherapy for the treatment of these lesions is unproven, and little evidence supports its use at present.
Ultrastructural evidence for seasonal changes in pinealocytes of the 13-lined ground squirrel, spermophilus tridecemlineatus: A qualitative and quantitative study

The fine structure of pinealocytes in the hibernating ground squirrel, Spermophilus tridecemlineatus, was found to vary both qualitatively and quantitatively according to the season in which the animals were sacrificed. Ultrastructural features of pinealocytes from fall (prehibernation) and winter (hibernation) periods, when the animals were sexually quiescent, included: 1) arrangement of the endoplasmic reticulum into flattened stacks or concentric rings (formations which have been implicated in antigonadotropic activity of the pineal); 2) condensations of a fine granular material; and 3) dilation of the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi bodies with an increased number of Golgi associated vesicles. Moreover, there was an apparent increase in the number of dense-cored vesicles and microtubules in pinealocytes of winter animals. These findings indicate that a circannual rhythm in pinealocyte ultrastructure occurs in this species and further suggest that cellular activity is seasonal.
Verification of the free energy equation for electrically polarized droplets

Abstract By measurements from microphotographs of small hanging drops, it was found that liquid droplets polarized in a homogeneous electric field become prolate spheroids if elongations are small or moderate. Experimental values for the eccentricities were compared with values predicted by a previous theoretical treatment, which was verified within a few per cent. The conclusions are discussed with reference to earlier work, and a brief review of the related literature is presented.
Designing self-timed systems using concurrent programs

Asynchronous or self-timed systems that do not rely on a global clock to keep system components synchronized can offer significant advantages over traditional clocked circuits in a variety of applications. However, design of self-timed systems has long been considered too difficult because of the specialized circuits required and the lack of tools available to help the designer explore the potential of such systems. This article describes one approach to ease the design and implementation of self-timed systems that involves compiling concurrent process descriptions directly into self-timed circuits.
Thermal expansion of some garnets

Abstract Lattice constants of the garnets {Gd 3 } [Gd 0.03 Ga 1.97 ] (Ga 3 )O 12 , {Y 3 } [Y 0.505 Ga 1,495 ] (Ga 3 )O 12 , Y 3 Fe 4 GaO 12 , {Y 3 } [In 0.6 Ga 1.4 ] (Ga 3 )O 12 , {Ca 2 La} [Zr 2 ] (Ga 3 O 12 , {Y 1.05 Ca 1.95 }Ti 1.95 Ga 3.05 O 12 , Ca 3 Sn 3 Ga 2 O 12 , {Ca 2.5 Zr 2.5 } [Zr 2 ] (Ga 3 )O 12 , {Na 2 Ca} [Zr 2 ] (Ge 3 )O 12 have been measured in the temperature range 296–1400°K. The most important results are: 1) Crystals in the system {Y 3 } [Y x Ga 2−x ] (Ga 3 )O 12 are potentially good substrates for epitaxial films of the system Y 3 Fe 5−x Ga x O 12 and 2) Our Czochralski grown crystals of GdGaG actually have the formula {Gd 3 } [Gd 0.03 Ga 1.97 ]-(Ga 3 )O 12 ; the difference in the thermal expansions of the stoichiometric and Czochralski-grown materials is not significant.
Assessing locus of control with religious populations

Abstract Two revisions of the Rotter I-E scale for use with highly religious subjects were developed and validated. As predicted, the Christian fundamentalist subjects were found to be significantly more internal in orientation with the Rotter I-E scale than with the two revised forms. Validation efforts revealed that the Rotter I-E scale and the Levenson Scale were highly valid measures of locus of control in a general population. However, it is suggested that the religious revision of the Rotter I-E scale be used with individuals with strong religious belief systems. Projective and significant-other methods for measuring locus of control were found to be less valid measures than the self-report indices. Finally, the effects of mono-operation bias in construct validation efforts were highlighted.
OutFOXOing disease and disability: the therapeutic potential of targeting FoxO proteins

Forkhead transcription factors have a ‘winged helix’ domain and regulate processes that range from cell longevity to cell death. Of the mammalian forkhead family members in the O class, FoxO1, FoxO3a and FoxO4 can fill a crucial void for the treatment of disorders that include aging, cancer, diabetes, infertility, neurodegeneration and immune system dysfunction. Yet, observations that forkhead family members also can compromise clinical utility have fueled controversy and highlight the necessity to further outline the integrated cellular pathways governed by these transcription factors. Here we discuss recent advances that have elucidated the unique cellular pathways and clinical potential of targeting FoxO proteins to develop novel therapeutic strategies and avert potential pitfalls that might be closely intertwined with its benefits for patient care.
Probabilistic Service Level Guarantees in Make-to-Stock Manufacturing Systems

We consider a model of a multiclass make-to-stock manufacturing system. External demand for each product class is met from the available finished goods inventory; unsatisfied demand is backlogged. The objective is to devise a production policy that minimizes inventory costs subject to guaranteeing stockout probabilities to stay bounded above by given constants e j , for each product classj( service level guarantees). Such a policy determines whether the facility should be producing ( idling decisions), and if it should, which product class ( sequencing decisions). Approximating the original system, we analyze a correspondingfluid model to make sequencing decisions and employlarge deviations techniques to make idling ones. We consider both linear and quadratic inventory cost structures to obtain apriority-based and ageneralized longest queue first-based production policy, respectively. An important feature of our model is that it accommodates autocorrelated demand and service processes, both critical features of modern failure-prone manufacturing systems.
Finite-parameter approximations to frequency response function

We consider estimation of the frequency response function, β~(λ), between two discrete time series, over a subset of the sampling frequencies. We approximate β~(λ) be a linear combination of continuous, complex functions of λ, with unknown coefficients. The aim is to provide approximations that are parsimonious in parameters and appropriate to the circumstances.
How Buyers Evaluate Product Bundles: A Model of Anchoring and Adjustment

How do buyers evaluate a bundle of items? the most common approach in earlier economic analyses (see, e.g., Adams and Yellen 1976; Schmalensee 1984) was to start with the additivity assumption — the overall utility of a bundle equals the sum of the bundle items individual utilities. The restrictiveness of this additivity assumption was later recognized and removes (Dansby and Conrad 1984; Guiltinan 1987; Hanson and Martin 1990). However, the question of how buyers’evaluation processes may account for additivity (or a lack thereof) has remained largely unexplored.
Bilateral nasopalatine ducts of the premaxilla

An unusual case involving the development of patency of the nasopalatine ducts after orthopedic expansion of the premaxilla in a young child is described. The embryogenesis, clinical presentation and surgical repair is discussed.
USE OF FAST NEUTRONS FOR MEASURING MUSCLE

Abstract Elemental Partition Analysis (EPA) is a new approach to body composition. A major element of the body is measured and then, by means of other measurements, is partitioned to the contributing body compartments. We developed a model for measuring total body muscle by applying the EPA method to total body phosphorus (TBP). We measure TBP (head excluded) by in vivo fast neutron activation analysis using the reaction 31 P(n, α) 28 Al. The main contributors to TBP are the bone and skeletal muscle. Adipose tissue and the liver contribute less than 3%. We use dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to evaluate the contribution of bone to TBP. Corrections are applied for the small contributions of the liver and adiopose tissue to TBP to derive muscle phosphorous. The technique requires high precision measurements for both TBP (±2%) and DXA (±1%). The total body radiation exposure for measuring human subjects is 0.60 mSv. We observed that nitrogen can also be measured by fast neutron activation analysis through the (n,2n) reaction, simultaneously with TBP.
Evidence for formation of the first excited state of positronium

Abstract Evidence based on positronium 2γ annihilation radiation is reported for the formation of the n=2 state of positronium in a gas by optical excitation from the n=1 state.
Ultrathin DLC and SiOx layer deposition on poly(ethylene terephthalate) and restriction of surface dynamics

The hydrophilicity of oxygen plasma-reated polymer surfaces decays with storing time in air environments. Because they are dense, highly crosslinked, and chemically stable, diamond-like carbon (DLC) films and silicon oxide films (SiO x ) were deposited on poly(ethylene terephthalate) by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition to restrict polymer surface dynamics. In this study, the effects of ultrathin films on surface dynamics of these polymers were investigated. The layers were deposited on substrates with thickness below 100 A. The thickness of films was measured with a scanning analyzer ellipsometer, while ATR-IR spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were performed to observe the chemical structure of the films. Films below 50 A were also shown to be effective in stabilizing the plasma treated polymer surfaces.
dc Conductivity, Optical Absorption, and Photoconductivity of Amorphous Arsenic Telluride Films

Conductivity, optical absorption, and photoconductivity experiments on amorphous ${\mathrm{As}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Te}}_{3}$ films are described. The films were prepared by condensation of the vapor on a cooled substrate. Over the temperature range from about 200 to 400\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, the conductivity is of the form $\ensuremath{\sigma}={\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{0}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}\frac{\ensuremath{\Delta}E}{\mathrm{kT}}}$, with ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{0}=600$ ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ and $\ensuremath{\Delta}E=0.4$ eV. This result is interpreted in terms of a "conductivity gap" of 0.8 eV. An analysis of the preexponental factor yields an average mobility between about 0.3 and 5 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/V sec, suggesting that the "mobility edges" which are responsible for the conductivity gap are on the borderline between localized and delocalized states. An "optical gap" is derived from a treatment of the optical-absorption data which suggests that for energies well above the conductivity gap the density of valence and conduction-band states have a parabolic dependence on energy. The optical gap of 0.95-0.98 eV is the energy difference between the edges of these parabolic states. Photoconductivity measurements indicate that the room-temperature life-time is less than 50 nsec. These measurements provide an estimate of 0.3 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/V sec for the lower limit of the mobility of carriers. The photoconductivity data also show the presence of trapping states.
Research utilization in complex organizations: A case study in corrections

This study explored the use of social science research information as an input to policy formulation and decision making in a state department of corrections. Interviews of administrators and research personnel were combined with collateral evidence to examine levels and types of use and to identify factors associated with utilization. Research use was found to be minimal but somewhat surprising in terms of diversity. Analysis of the data led to the conclusion that certain structural variables and variables associated with bureaucratic decision making are crucial to an understanding of use and to the development of a viable model of the utilization process.
Comparison of Geometrical and Diffraction Point-Spread Functions

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS The aberration-free geometrical PSF is a Dirac delta function, while the diffraction PSF is an Airy pattern. The aberrated geometrical PSF has a finite extent, but the diffraction PSF is lilmitless (In practice, the diffraction PSFwill also have a finite extent beyond which its value will be too low to be measurable). The geometrical PSF for spherical aberration has singularities of infinite irradiance.There are no points of infinite irradiance in the diffraction PSF, but it does have points of zero irradiance. Thedefocused image plane for the smallest image spot (the circle of least confusion) is not the same as for minimumaberration variance and therefore maximum Strehl ratio (forsmall aberrations). The point in the geometrical PSF forcoma with respect to which the rms radius is minimum is itscentroid which is different from the point with respect towhich the aberration variance is minimum. The cenroid ofthe geometrical PSF is the same as that of the diffractionPSF. The geometrical PSF for astigmatism in any imageplane is uniform, with infinite irradiance in the tangentialand sagittal line images. The defocused image plane for
RACIAL AND ETHNIC DISTRIBUTION OF LEAD AND EP LEVELS IN THREE MASSACHUSETTS COMMUNITIES

The Cooperative Lead Survey obtained venous blood samples from 615 pre-school children (6 mos-6yrs) by door-to-door screening. Samples were assayed for lead by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, for erythrocyte protoprophyrin (EP) by hematofluorometry, for ferritin by radioimmunoassay and hbg, hct, and erythrocyte indices were determined by Coulter counter. A questionnaire was administered to all participating families in which, among other questions, they were asked to identify their racial identity (black, white, Asian, other) and their ethnic identity (Hispanic, Cambodian, Laotian, Vietnamese, Portuguese, other). Results were as follows: mean lead level for the entire group was 12.19 ±6.2 mcg/dl whole blood. Highest mean lead values and Laotians in particular (14.20 ±4.8 mcg/dl; n = 40). Although the mean blood level for blacks (13.04 ±8.3 mcg/dl whole blood, n = 54) was higher than for whites (11.6 ±6.7 mcg/dl whole blood, n = 306, the difference was not significant at the p≤ .05 level. 581 EP values could be corrected for hematocrit to yield EP per deciliter of erythrocytes. EPRBC mean EPRBC for the entire group was 75.17 ±48.7 mcg/dl RBC. Highest mean EPRBC values were again seen in Asians (83.25 ±51.8 mcg/dl RBC, n = 164) and Laotians (86.39 ±32.3 mcg/dl RBC, n = 40). We conclude that Southeast Asians particularly new immigrants, are at significant risk for increased lead levels.
Spectral-domain analysis of open and shielded slotlines printed on various anisotropic substrates

A rigorous full-wave analysis based on the spectral domain approach for open and shielded slotline transmission lines is presented. The substrate materials under consideration are anisotropic, characterized by both their permittivity and permeability tensors. The formulation includes off-diagonal tensor elements to represent gyroelectric media, ferrites, or the misalignment between the principal axes of the substrate and the coordinate system of the waveguide. Dyadic admittance Green's functions for every structure are obtained with the help of differential matrix operators in the Fourier-transformed domain, and the Galerkin method is employed to find the propagation constants numerically. >
Pyruvate oxidase (CoA acetylating) in Entamoeba histolytica.

Summary A novel type of pyruvate oxidase, which catalyzes acetylation of CoA in the presence of pyruvate, oxygen and FAD, was detected in Entamoeba histolytica . The enzyme was partially purified by centrifugation, ammonium sulfate precipitation and hydroxyapatite chromatography. Enzymatic activity was found in two fractions. The ratio of oxygen consumed to acetyl CoA produced was 1 with the purified enzyme(s). In the presence of excess catalase the velocity of oxygen uptake was one-half. Therefore, the postulated reaction is: pyruvate + CoA + 02 = acetyl CoA + CO2 + H202. For this new enzyme, we propose the trivial name of pyruvate oxidase (CoA acetylating).
Social Work Practice With Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Adolescents

The author addresses social work practice with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) youth. Identity development, including disclosure and the emergence of sexuality are discussed, along with family and school issues. Particular emphasis is given to a number of risk factors that GLBT youth encounter: emotional distress, isolation, internalized homophobia/transphobia, depression, substance abuse, suicide, violence/victimization, family conflict, school performance, and sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Guidelines for social work practice with GLBT youth are presented.
Plasticity of the T Cell Receptor Repertoire in TCR β-Chain Transgenic Mice

Abstract The potential αβ T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire in normal mice is extremely large and estimated by M. M. Davis and P. J. Bjorkman ( Nature 334, 395, 1988) to include 5.2 × 10 18 different receptor molecules. This tremendous diversity provides the basis for T cell recognition of the universe of antigens including bacterial, viral, and allogeneic epitopes. Expression of a single TCR β-chain transgene should alter the repertoire by limiting the available diversity, therefore, creating holes in the repertoire or producing TCR with decreased affinity. To determine the effect of drastically decreasing the size of the repertoire, we investigated T cell responses in TCR β-chain transgenic mice expressing the Vβ8.2 transgene. Previous results showed that >98% of T cells in these mice express the transgene; thus, the TCR repertoire is reduced by orders of magnitude. We tested the T cell responses of the transgenic mice and nontransgenic littermates to nine different MHC haplotypes in mixed lymphocyte reactions, five protein antigens, and eight immunogenic peptides. Surprisingly, the transgenic mice responded to all antigenic stimuli tested indicating the lack of a hole in the TCR repertoire. Interestingly, however, the response in every case was quantitatively lower than the response by the nontransgenic littermates. In contrast, transgenic and nontransgenic T cells responded equivalently to stimulation with mitogens or to stimulation with immobilized α-TCR mAb indicating that the transgenic T cells had a normal capacity to respond. To differentiate between decreased TCR affinity and decreased precursor frequency, we performed a limiting dilution analysis to the peptide antigens CI:NP and OVA 324–339 . The results showed approximately a three- to eight-fold decrease in the frequency of transgenic T cells responding to the peptide compared to nontransgenic littermates. We previously showed that the response to cI 84–98 and PLP could be blocked with anti-Vβ8 mAb indicating that Vβ8.2-bearing T cells are capable of responding to peptide antigen. Analysis of TCR Vα chain expression by PCR and flow cytometry showed similar Vα expression in both the transgenic and the nontransgenic mice. These results demonstrate tremendous plasticity in the TCR repertoire permitting T cell responses by the transgenic mice to all antigens tested. However, the decreased magnitude of the responses may impair the capacity to defend against natural pathogens. Therefore, although the large TCR repertoire of normal mice may not be necessary to produce in vitro responses to many experimental antigens, it may confer survival benefits in natural environments.
Design and testing of an all-digital readout integrated circuit for infrared focal plane arrays

The digital focal plane array (DFPA) project demonstrates the enabling technologies necessary to build readout integrated circuits for very large infrared focal plane arrays (IR FPAs). Large and fast FPAs are needed for a new class of spectrally diverse sensors. Because of the requirement for high-resolution (low noise) sampling, and because of the sample rate needed for rapid acquisition of high-resolution spectra, it is highly desirable to perform analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion right at the pixel level. A dedicated A/D converter located under every pixel in a one-million-plus element array, and all-digital readout integrated circuits will enable multi- and hyper-spectral imaging systems with unprecedented spatial and spectral resolution and wide area coverage. DFPAs provide similar benefits to standard IR imaging systems as well. We have addressed the key enabling technologies for realizing the DFPA architecture in this work. Our effort concentrated on demonstrating a 60-micron footprint, 14-bit A/D converter and 2.5 Gbps, 16:1 digital multiplexer, the most basic components of the sensor. The silicon test chip was fabricated in a 0.18-micron CMOS process, and was designed to operate with Hg x Cd 1-x Te detectors at cryogenic temperatures. Two A/D designs, one using static logic and one using dynamic logic, were built and tested for performance and power dissipation. Structures for evaluating the bit-error-rate of the multiplexer on-chip and through a differential output driver were implemented for a complete performance assessment. A unique IC probe card with fixtures to mount into an evacuated, closed-cycle helium dewar were also designed for testing up to 2.5 Gbps at temperatures as low as 50 K.
Racial differences in breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality among women with ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) of the breast represents 15–20 % of new breast cancer diagnoses in the US annually. However, long-term competing risks of mortality, as well as racial differences in outcomes among US women with DCIS, are unknown. Case data from the years 1978–2010 were obtained using SEER*Stat software available through the National Cancer Institute from the 2010 SEER registries. Included were all women aged 40 and over with newly diagnosed DCIS. There were 67,514 women in the analysis, including 54,518 white women and 6,113 black women. A total of 12,173 deaths were observed over 607,287 person-years of follow-up. The 20-year cumulative incidence of all-cause death among women with DCIS was 39.6 % (CI 38.9–40.3). The corresponding 20-year rates for breast cancer death and CVD death were 3.2 % (CI 3.0–3.4) and 13.2 % (CI 12.8–13.7), respectively. Black women with DCIS had a higher risk of death compared to white women, with these hazard ratios elevated throughout the entire study period. For example, between 1990 and 2010, black women had a higher risk of all-cause death (HR 3.06, CI 2.39–3.91), breast cancer death (HR 5.78, CI 3.16–10.57), and CVD death (HR 6.43, CI 3.61–11.45) compared to white women diagnosed between 50 and 59 years of age. The risk of all-cause and CVD death was greater than breast cancer death among women diagnosed with DCIS over 20 years. Black women had higher risks of dying from all-causes compared to white women. These differences persisted into the modern treatment era.
Citral Sensing by TRANSient Receptor Potential Channels in Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons

Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels mediate key aspects of taste, smell, pain, temperature sensation, and pheromone detection. To deepen our understanding of TRP channel physiology, we require more diverse pharmacological tools. Citral, a bioactive component of lemongrass, is commonly used as a taste enhancer, as an odorant in perfumes, and as an insect repellent. Here we report that citral activates TRP channels found in sensory neurons (TRPV1 and TRPV3, TRPM8, and TRPA1), and produces long-lasting inhibition of TRPV1–3 and TRPM8, while transiently blocking TRPV4 and TRPA1. Sustained citral inhibition is independent of internal calcium concentration, but is state-dependent, developing only after TRP channel opening. Citral's actions as a partial agonist are not due to cysteine modification of the channels nor are they a consequence of citral's stereoisoforms. The isolated aldehyde and alcohol cis and trans enantiomers (neral, nerol, geranial, and geraniol) each reproduce citral's actions. In juvenile rat dorsal root ganglion neurons, prolonged citral inhibition of native TRPV1 channels enabled the separation of TRPV2 and TRPV3 currents. We find that TRPV2 and TRPV3 channels are present in a high proportion of these neurons (94% respond to 2-aminoethyldiphenyl borate), consistent with our immunolabeling experiments and previous in situ hybridization studies. The TRPV1 activation requires residues in transmembrane segments two through four of the voltage-sensor domain, a region previously implicated in capsaicin activation of TRPV1 and analogous menthol activation of TRPM8. Citral's broad spectrum and prolonged sensory inhibition may prove more useful than capsaicin for allodynia, itch, or other types of pain involving superficial sensory nerves and skin.
Comparison of the Linear Growth of Children with Bone Marrow Transplants to Normal Population Data Using Z-scores

Abstract Objective To compare linear growth of pediatric autologous bone marrow transplant patients and allogeneic bone marrow transplant patients to the normal population data using Z-scores. Design Study was conducted as a retrospective chart review of patients who received autologous bone marrow transplants and allogeneic bone marrow transplants, recording heights at time of bone marrow transplant and at one-year intervals post-transplantation. Subjects One hundred and six patients who received a bone marrow transplantation between November 2, 1990 and December 31, 1996 at a midsouth pediatric hospital, were classified according to type of transplantation received, either autologous or allogeneic, and their conditioning regimen. Group one received an autologous bone marrow transplantation and was conditioned with chemotherapy. Group two received an allogeneic bone marrow transplantation and was conditioned with chemotherapy and total body irradiation. Statistical analyses Descriptive statistics were reported on race, sex, and age for the autologous bone marrow transplant group and the allogeneic bone marrow transplant group. Z-scores were used to compare linear growth of the autologous and allogeneic bone marrow transplant groups to normal population using the EPI Info, Version 6 computer program distributed by the Center of Disease Control (CDC). Results Neither group had a significant difference in mean Z-score when compared to normal population. Conclusion The results of this study indicate neither type of transplantation and/or conditioning regimen effect linear growth outcomes. Children who receive either an autologous or allogeneic bone marrow transplantation do not appear to experience a decrease in linear growth compared to the normal population.
Preliminary clinical criteria had moderate sensitivity but low specificity for detecting osteoporosis in rheumatoid arthritis.

Source Citation Haugeberg G, Orstavik RE, Uhlig T, et al. Clinical decision rules in rheumatoid arthritis: do they identify patients at high risk for osteoporosis? Testing clinical criteria in a po...
Attitudes and beliefs about the intrauterine device among teenagers and young women.

Background Little is known about attitudes and beliefs among teenagers and young women about the intrauterine device (IUD).
Modeling discrete modulators for optical correlation

The practical calculation of optical correlation filters in correlators that use spatial light modulators with discrete elements is based on the assumption that the image on the input modulator can be modeled as a modulated 2D comb function or 'bed of nails'. A 2D discrete Fourier transform (DFT) is used to calculate a filter that is also modeled as a modulated bed of nails. The sample values in the comb array are assigned to pixel values in the filter. This approach actually gives fairly good qualitative results in modeling correlation behavior. However, it cannot account in detail for the finite size of pixel elements. The DFT approach has problems when modeling modulators whose pixels' center positions cannot be aligned with corresponding sample values. A modified DFT algorithm and an interpolation scheme for modeling these situations is given. As a practical application of the method, we look at modeling an optical correlator whose pixels are not centered at positions that correspond the DFT sample values.
Geophysical applications of SQUIDS

Present and potential geophysical applications of Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices (SQUIDs) include remote reference magnetotellurics, controlled-source electromagnetic sounding, airborne gradiometry, gravity gradiometers, rock magnetism, paleomagnetism, piezomagnetism, tectonomagnetism, the location of hydrofractures for hot dry rock geothermal energy and enhanced oil and gas recovery, the detection of internal ocean waves, and underwater magnetotellurics.
Magnetic petrology of eastern North America diabases. I - Olivine-normative dikes from western South Carolina

The oxide mineralogy and the magnetic behavior of 15 olivine-normative samples obtained from South-Caroline diabase dikes were investigated using electron microprobe and SEM analyses and measurements of natural remanence magnetization (NRM), saturation isothermal remanence magnetization (SIRM), and anhysteritic remanence magnetization. It was found that chromite (which for these olivine-normative diabases is a sensitive petrologic indicator) constitutes up to 0.5 vol pct and that its abundance and composition correlate with bulk rock Cr. Microscopic analyses showed that titanomagnetite compositions were mostly between 0.4 and 0.55. The values of NRM and the NRM/SIRM ratios varied between 4 and 0.01 A sq m/kg and 0.0019 and 0.032, respectively. These properties inversely correlate with Cr content and demonstrably contrast Cr-rich and Cr-poor samples.
Thermochemical Properties and Phase Behavior of Halogenated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Knowledge of vapor pressure of organic pollutants is essential in predicting their fate and transport in the environment. In the present study, the vapor pressures of 12 halogenated polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs), 9-chlorofluorene, 2,7-dichlorofluorene, 2-bromofluorene, 9-bromofluorene, 2,7-dibromofluorene, 2-bromoanthracene, 9-chlorophenanthrene, 9-bromophenanthrene, 9,10-dibromophenanthrene, 1-chloropyrene, 7-bromobenz[a]anthracene, and 6,12-dibromochrysene, were measured using the Knudsen effusion method over the temperature range of 301 to 464 K. Enthalpies and entropies of sublimation of these compounds were determined via application of the Clausius–Clapeyron equation. The data were also compared with earlier published literature values to study the influence of halogen substitution on vapor pressure of PACs. As expected, the halogen substitution decreases vapor pressure compared with parent compounds but does not necessarily increase the enthalpy of sublimation. Furthermore, the decrease of vapor pressure also depends on the substitution position and the substituted halogen, and the di-substitution of chlorine and/or bromine decreases the vapor pressure compared with single halogen-substituted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. In addition, the enthalpy of fusion and melting temperature of these 12 PACs were determined using differential scanning calorimetry and melting point analysis. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:486–493. © 2011 SETAC
Meniscus-Confined Three-Dimensional Electrodeposition for Direct Writing of Wire Bonds

Continued progress in the electronics industry depends on downsizing, to a few micrometers, the wire bonds required for wiring integrated chips into circuit boards. We developed an electrodeposition method that exploits the thermodynamic stability of a microscale or nanoscale liquid meniscus to "write" pure copper and platinum three-dimensional structures of designed shapes and sizes in an ambient air environment. We demonstrated an automated wire-bonding process that enabled wire diameters of less than 1 micrometer and bond sizes of less than 3 micrometers, with a breakdown current density of more than 10(11) amperes per square meter for the wire bonds. The technology was used to fabricate high-density and high-quality interconnects, as well as complex three-dimensional microscale and even nanoscale metallic structures.
The recovery of L forms of Brucella and their relation to Brucella phage.

r ady described, were being recovered from human blood specimens. Using the technique for blood culture described by Pickett and Nelson,12 one btains a confluent mass of growth on the primary plate which continues to develop over a period of several days and which increases in opacity and quantity but which has been, until recently, impossible of subculture. That is, subcultures of this material would not de-
Oral administration of hepatitis E virus-like particles induces a systemic and mucosal immune response in mice.

Abstract We evaluated the potential of recombinant hepatitis E virus (rHEV) virus-like particles (VLPs) as an oral immunogen by analyzing the response of serum IgM, IgG, and IgA and fecal IgA in mice after oral administration. The capsid proteins of HEV with its N-terminal 111 amino acids truncated were expressed with a recombinant baculovirus in insect cells, where the capsid proteins self-assembled into VLPs. Mice were orally inoculated four times with purified rHEV VLPs in concentrations ranging from 10 to 100 μg without adjuvant. Serum IgM response was obtained with as little as 10 μg of the VLPs, and the level reached its maximum in all mice groups within 2 weeks after the first administration. Serum IgG was detected by 4 weeks post-immunization (p.i.) in the majority of mice given doses of 50 and 100 μg and continuously increased at least until the 10 week mark. Serum IgA was also detected by 4 weeks p.i. in the majority of mice given doses of 50 and 100 μg, and the level reached the maximum at 8 weeks p.i.. Furthermore, the maximum level of intestinal IgA responses was detected in the groups of mice receiving 50 and 100 μg rHEV VLPs at 8 weeks p.i. All these antibody responses were obtained without a mucosal adjuvant. We therefore concluded that oral immunization of rHEV VLPs is capable of inducing systemic as well as intestinal antibody responses. Furthermore, serum IgG and fecal IgA thus induced were reactive to the native HEV antigen, as determined by Western blot assays and antigen-capture ELISA.
Primary adenovirus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte response occurs after viral clearance and liver enzyme elevation

The virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response is a major obstacle to effective delivery of adenovirus gene therapy. However, its relative role in viral clearance, transgene elimination and hepatotoxicity remains unclear. In this paper, we present an analysis of viral clearance and liver toxicity in relation to the induction of the virus-specific CD8 T-cell response revealed by an MHC class I tetramer. A surprisingly high number of tetramer+ CD8 T cells were found in the liver and lung and reached peak values at days 8 and 10, respectively, post-infection. Nearly 100% of these tetramer+ CD8 T cells expressed high levels of granzyme B and IFNgamma. Remarkably, liver viral load and liver enzyme elevation peaked early, at days 2 and 4, respectively, post-infection, before the specific CTL response was detectable. After generation of CTLs, there was only minimal liver damage or further decrease in virus titer. These results indicated that the primary peak response of tetramer+ CTLs does not correlate with the elimination of adenovirus or liver cytotoxic response.
Limb salvage after successful pedal bypass grafting is associated with improved long-term survival.

Abstract Objectives: Assessments of outcome after reconstruction for critical limb ischemia frequently ignore functional result and long-term morbidity and mortality. This study was undertaken to identify factors affecting long-term clinical outcome and survival after pedal bypass grafting. Methods: The clinical data of 256 consecutive patients who underwent pedal bypass grafting for critical limb ischemia over a 12-year period were retrospectively analyzed. Results: A total of 174 men and 82 women (median age, 70 years; range, 30-91 years) underwent 280 pedal bypass graft placements with autologous vein. Seventy-five percent of the patients were diabetic, and 20% had renal insufficiency (serum creatinine level > 2 mg/dL). The in-hospital mortality rate was 1.6% (4/256). The mean follow-up was 2.7 years (range, 0.1-10.1 years). Rates of primary and secondary patency, limb salvage, and survival at 5 years were 58%, 71%, 78%, 60%, respectively. A total of 160 limbs (57%) required additional interventions. Nineteen early graft thrombectomies/revisions and nine early amputations were performed. One hundred thirty-eight late interventions included 31 graft salvage procedures, 27 wound debridements, and 34 minor and 42 major amputations. At last follow-up or death, 219 (78%) limbs were being used for ambulation. End-stage renal disease (ESRD) and composite vein grafts predicted limb loss ( P P P =.014, P =.0001, respectively). Conclusions: Pedal bypass grafting resulted in good functional limb salvage, but at the expense of multiple interventions in more than half the cases. ESRD and composite vein graft were associated with poor long-term limb salvage. Amputation after bypass grafting was associated with significantly worse long-term survival. (J Vasc Surg 2001;33:6-16.)