cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The importance of retaining a phylogenetic perspective in traits-based community analyses

1) Many environmental stressors manifest their effects via physiological processes (traits) that can differ significantly among species and species groups. We compiled available data for three traits related to the bioconcentration of the toxic metal cadmium (Cd) from 42 aquatic insect species representing orders Ephemeroptera (mayfly), Plecoptera (stonefly), and Trichoptera (caddisfly). These traits included the propensity to take up Cd from water (uptake rate constant, ku), the ability to excrete Cd (efflux rate constant, ke), and the net result of these two processes (bioconcentration factor, BCF). 2) Ranges in these Cd bioaccumulation traits varied in magnitude across lineages (some lineages had a greater tendency to bioaccumulate Cd than others). Overlap in the ranges of trait values among different lineages was common and highlights situations where species from different lineages can share a similar trait state, but represent the high end of possible physiological values for one lineage and the low end for another. 3) Variance around the mean trait state differed widely across clades, suggesting that some groups (e.g., Ephemerellidae) are inherently more variable than others (e.g., Perlidae). Thus, trait variability/lability is at least partially a function of lineage. 4) Akaike information criterion (AIC) comparisons of statistical models were moremore » often driven by clade than by other potential biological or ecological explanation tested. Clade-driven models generally improved with increasing taxonomic resolution. 5) Altogether, these findings suggest that lineage provides context for the analysis of species traits, and that failure to consider lineage in community-based analysis of traits may obscure important patterns of species responses to environmental change.« less
Do β2 microglobulin levels affect survival of newly diagnosed myeloma patients with translocation t(4;14) or 17p13 deletion treated with conventional chemotherapy?

Do β2 microglobulin levels affect survival of newly diagnosed myeloma patients with translocation t(4;14) or 17p13 deletion treated with conventional chemotherapy?
Nonlinear plate aeroelastic response with uncertain stiffness and boundary conditions

The probabilistic response of a nonlinear panel in supersonic flow is investigated using a new computational methodology. The aeroelastic system is modelled by coupling the von Karman plate equations with piston theory aerodynamics. Baseline deterministic results are compared to published data to establish validity of the aeroelastic model. Uncertainties in modulus of elasticity and boundary conditions (BCs) are considered, with their impact on panel response being quantified in terms of limit-cycle oscillation (LCO) onset pressure and panel amplitude. The panel's uncertain BCs are modelled using rotational springs in place of ideally fixed boundary conditions. The panel's uncertain elastic modulus is modelled as a second-order, spatially homogeneous, isotropic, random field. The boundary spring stiffness values are spatially constant for each random realization assuming either a uniform or Weibull distribution. Probabilistic response distributions are obtained through Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) for sel...
Predation by zooplankton on Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis: biological control of the deadly amphibian chytrid fungus?

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (hereafter Batrachochytrium), a fungal pathogen of amphibians, causes the disease chytridiomycosis which is responsible for unprecedented population declines and extinctions globally. Host defenses against chytridiomycosis include cutaneous symbiotic bacteria and anti-microbial peptides, and proposed treatment measures include use of fungicides and bioaugmentation. Efforts to eradicate the fungus from localized areas of disease outbreak have not been successful. Instead, control measures to mitigate the impacts of the disease on host populations, many of which are already persisting with Batrachochytrium in an endemic state, may be more realistic. The infective stage of the fungus is an aquatic zoospore, 3–5 μm in diameter. Here we show that zoospores of Batrachochytrium are consumed by the zooplankter Daphnia magna. This species inhabits amphibian breeding sites where Batrachochytrium transmission occurs, and consumption of Batrachochytrium zoospores may lead to effective biological control of Batrachochytrium.
Adrenoleukodystrophy: Overlapping deletions point to a gene location in Xq28

Adrenoleukodystrophy is a lethal X-linked neurodegenerative disorder which maps close to the red/green color pigment gene cluster in Xq28. We have reported a broad spectrum of color pigment gene changes in adrenoleukodystrophy patients, indicating that the genes may be quite close together. We now have used anonymous DNA probes centromeric to the color pigment gene cluster to analyze patients from 59 adrenoleukodystrophy kindreds. All patients showed normal hybridization using probe Fr9, 30 kb centromeric to the color pigment genes. However, using probe Fr11, 100 kb further centromeric, we found overlapping deletions in 2 patients. We isolated conventional and cosmid genomic clones encompassing 24 kb surrounding Fr11; the clones and map derived from this region localize the telomeric ends of the two deletions to distinct positions 8 kb apart. These overlapping deletions implicate this specific region as a likely site for the ALD gene.
Application of two-dimensional dipolar exchange spectroscopy with multiple mixing periods

A NOESY-type experiment with multiple mixing periods and acquisitions within a single pulse sequence was used to obtain a complete NOE correlation map of a small organic molecule. Incorporating multiple mixing periods and acquisitions into a single sequence can eliminate the need for repeating NOESY experiments with different mixing periods to observe dipolar exchange of considerably different rates or to determine exchange rates. The sequence has been applied to the molecular structure elucidation of cis-8a-vinyloctahydro-3H-2-benzopyran-3,7-dione, a small organic molecule where the use of a single mixing period does not reveal all protons undergoing dipolar exchange.
The Maturation of Rabbit Epididymal Spermatozoa in Organ Culture: Stimulation by Epididymal Cytoplasmic Extracts

Infertile spermatozoa from the proximal corpus epididymidis do not become fertile when this epididymal segment is cultured 24 h in vitro. Addition of a cytoplasmic extract from the distal corpus significantly increases their fertilizing ability. Extracts prepared from cauda epididymides or from liver were effective; however, liver extract was less effective than extract from cauda epididymides in increasing fertilizing ability. The factor(s) responsible for this effect is not a steroid or another charcoal extractable substance. These observations stress the importance of the epididymal contribution to the maturation of spermatozoa.
Permanent declines in pulmonary function following pneumonia in human immunodeficiency virus-infected persons

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated respiratory infections, most notably Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), but also bacterial pneumonia (BP), result in reductions in lung function that have been studied mainly during the course of acute infection. Whether HIV-associated pneumonias also cause permanent changes in pulmonary function is unknown. In this study we investigated the long-term effects of PCP and BP on pulmonary function in a cohort of HIV-infected persons. One thousand, one hundred forty-nine HIV-infected persons were followed in a prospective, observational cohort study at six centers in the United States. Study participants had pulmonary function testing performed at regular preset intervals. PCP and BP diagnoses were verified with defined criteria. Longitudinal multivariate analysis was used to model pulmonary function in terms of demographic data and occurrence of PCP or BP. We found that PCP or BP was associated with permanent decreases in FEV(1), FVC, FEV(1)/FVC, and the diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide. Neither infection resulted in statistically significant changes in TLC. We conclude that PCP and BP result in expiratory airflow reductions that persist after the acute infection resolves. The clinical implications of these changes are unknown, but they may contribute to prolonged respiratory complaints in HIV-infected patients who have had pneumonia.
State of the States: The Status of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Assessment, and Intervention Systems in 16 States.

This study reports the results of a comprehensive survey of 16 states regarding the coordination and characteristics of universal newborn hearing screening, audiologic assessment, and intervention ...
Delayed hemiparesis following nonpenetrating carotid artery trauma.

Abstract A 21-year-old man developed transient, recurring right arm and leg weakness 2 weeks after a motorcycle accident. He utimately proved to have an intimal tear and thrombosis of the left internal carotid artery with transient cerebral ischemia due to distal emboli. Neurologic deficits eventually resolved after anticoagulation and balloon occlusion of the vessel. The differential diagnosis of the patient's presentation is discussed, and the topic of nonpenetrating trauma of the carotid artery is reviewed, with special attention to mechanism of injury and clinical presentation.
Tight regulation of SpSoxB factors is required for patterning and morphogenesis in sea urchin embryos

Previous studies in sea urchin embryos have demonstrated that nuclearization of beta-catenin is essential for initial steps in the specification of endoderm and mesenchyme, which are derived from vegetal blastomeres. This process begins at the 4th and extends through the 9th cleavage stage, an interval in which the SpSoxB1 transcription regulator is downregulated by beta-catenin-dependent gene products that include the transcription repressor SpKrl. These observations raise the possibility that SpSoxB1 removal is required to allow vegetal development to proceed. Here we show that elevated and ectopic expression of this factor suppresses differentiation of all vegetal cell types, a phenotype that is very similar to that caused by the suppression of beta-catenin nuclear function by cadherin overexpression. Suppression of vegetal fates involves interference at the protein-protein level because a mutation of SpSoxB1 that prevents its binding to DNA does not significantly reduce this activity. Reduction in SpSoxB1 level results in elevated TCF/Lef-beta-catenin-dependent expression of a luciferase reporter gene in vivo, indicating that in the normal embryo this protein suppresses the primary vegetal signaling mechanism that is required for specification of mesenchyme and endoderm. Surprisingly, normal expression of SpSoxB1 is required for gastrulation and endoderm differentiation, as shown by both morpholino-mediated translational interference and expression of a dominant negative protein. Similar gain-of-function and loss-of-function assays of a closely related factor, SpSoxB2, demonstrate that it, too, is required for gastrulation and that its overexpression can suppress vegetal development. However, significant phenotypic differences are apparent in the two perturbations, indicating that SpSoxB1 and SpSoxB2 have at least some distinct developmental functions. The results of all these studies support a model in which the concentration of SpSoxB factors must be tightly regulated along the animal-vegetal axis of the early sea urchin embryo to allow beta-catenin-dependent specification of endoderm and mesenchyme cell fates as well as to activate target genes required for gastrulation.
Minireview: Steroid/Nuclear Receptor-Regulated Dynamics of Occluding and Anchoring Junctions

A diverse set of physiological signals control intercellular interactions by regulating the structure and function of occluding junctions (tight junctions) and anchoring junctions (adherens junctions and desmosomes). These plasma membrane junctions are comprised of multiprotein complexes of transmembrane and cytoplasmic peripheral plasma membrane proteins. Evidence from many hormone-responsive tissues has shown that expression, modification, molecular interactions, stability, and localization of junctional complex-associated proteins can be targeted by nuclear hormone receptors and their ligands through transcriptional and nontranscriptional mechanisms. The focus of this minireview is to discuss molecular, cellular, and physiological studies that directly link nuclear receptor- and ligand-triggered signaling pathways to the regulation of occluding and anchoring junction dynamics.
HU and functional analogs in eukaryotes promote Hin invertasome assembly

The prokaryotic protein HU functions as an accessory factor in many different biochemical reactions. We have characterized the role of HU in assembling the invertasome, an intermediate nucleoprotein complex involved in Hin-mediated site-specific recombination. Formation of this complex requires the looping of intervening DNA segments between sites bound by the Hin recombinase and the Fis protein. HU stimulates this process on substrates containing intervening segments of length < 100 bp. Characterization of the activity of HU in Hin-mediated recombination in vitro and in vivo yields evidence that its role in this reaction is primarily to facilitate the looping of the intervening DNA segment. By using this reaction as an assay, we identify proteins from mammals, yeast, trypanosomes, and wheat which can fulfill the same function in vitro. Using ligase-mediated circularization of short DNA fragments we also show that HU, the high mobility group (HMG) 1 and 2 proteins from mammals, and a protein from yeast can bend DNA extremely efficiently. These results support the view that this ubiquitous class of proteins enhance the assembly of nucleoprotein complexes under conditions of limited DNA flexibility.
An Experimental Comparison of the Nearest-Neighbor and Nearest-Hyperrectangle Algorithms

Algorithms based on Nested Generalized Exemplar (NGE) theory (Salzberg, 1991) classify new data points by computing their distance to the nearest “generalized exemplar” (i.e., either a point or an axis-parallel rectangle). They combine the distance-based character of nearest neighbor (NN) classifiers with the axis-parallel rectangle representation employed in many rule-learning systems. An implementation of NGE was compared to the k-nearest neighbor (kNN) algorithm in 11 domains and found to be significantly inferior to kNN in 9 of them. Several modifications of NGE were studied to understand the cause of its poor performance. These show that its performance can be substantially improved by preventing NGE from creating overlapping rectangles, while still allowing complete nesting of rectangles. Performance can be further improved by modifying the distance metric to allow weights on each of the features (Salzberg, 1991). Best results were obtained in this study when the weights were computed using mutual information between the features and the output class. The best version of NGE developed is a batch algorithm (BNGE FWMI) that has no user-tunable parameters. BNGE FWMI's performance is comparable to the first-nearest neighbor algorithm (also incorporating feature weights). However, the k-nearest neighbor algorithm is still significantly superior to BNGE FWMI in 7 of the 11 domains, and inferior to it in only 2. We conclude that, even with our improvements, the NGE approach is very sensitive to the shape of the decision boundaries in classification problems. In domains where the decision boundaries are axis-parallel, the NGE approach can produce excellent generalization with interpretable hypotheses. In all domains tested, NGE algorithms require much less memory to store generalized exemplars than is required by NN algorithms.
General Strategy for Querying Web Sources in a Data Federation Environment

Modern database management systems are supporting the inclusion and querying of non-relational sources within a data federation environment via wrappers. Wrapper development for Web sources, however, is a convolution of code with extraction and query planning knowledge and becomes a daunting task. We use IBM DB2 federation engine to demonstrate the challenges of incorporating Web sources into a data federation. We, then, present a practical and general strategy for the inclusion and querying of Web sources without requiring any changes in the underlying data federation technology. This strategy separates the code and knowledge in wrapper development by introducing a general-purpose capabilities-aware mini query-planner and a data extraction engine. As a result, Web sources can be included in a data federation system faster, and maintained easier.
Cell cycle length of olfactory bulb neuronal progenitors in the rostral migratory stream

The anterior portion of the neonatal telencephalic subventricular zone (SVZa) contains proliferating cells that generate an immense number of neurons destined to become the granule and periglomerular cells of the olfactory bulb. In contrast to other immature neurons in the central nervous system, cells arising in the SVZa maintain the ability to divide as they traverse the rostral migratory stream to their final destinations despite expressing an antigenic marker of differentiated neurons (Menezes et al. [1995] Molec. Cell. Neurosci. 6:496–508). Because of their considerable proliferative capacities and unusual mitotic behavior, we decided to determine the cell cycle length of proliferating cells within the SVZa and within the migratory pathway used by SVZa-derived cells. Following the methodology of Nowakowski et al. [1989](J. Neurocytol. 18:311–318), postnatal day 2 rat pups were exposed to 5'-bromo-2'deoxyuridine (BrdU) for increasing periods of time before perfusion. By plotting the percentage of nuclei undergoing DNA synthesis in the SVZa at each time versus the BrdU labeling interval, we determined that approximately 15% of the SVZa population is actively dividing and that these cells have a cycle length of approximately 14 hr, significantly less than the 18.6 hr determined to be the cycle length of dividing cells in more posterior, glia-generating regions of the subventricular zone (Thomaidou et al. [1997] J. Neurosci. 17:1075–1085). The cycle length of cells dividing in the mid portion of the rostral migratory stream, however, is considerably longer: 17.3 hr. This may reflect the need for these cells to coordinate the processes of migration and division. Our studies also suggest that there may be regional differences in the types of descendants produced by the proliferating cells. Retroviral lineage tracing studies showed that those cells that divide within the rostral migratory stream, like proliferating cells within the SVZa, make cells destined for the olfactory bulb. Unlike the progenitors that divide within the SVZa and generate more granule cells than periglomerular cells, the proliferating cells within the migratory pathway generate more periglomerular cells than granule cells. Collectively the proliferating cells of the SVZa and migratory pathway produce a large number of olfactory bulb interneurons. Our work suggests that this may be achieved in part by the relatively rapid divisions of progenitor cells within the SVZa and in part by the ongoing division of migrating cells en route to the olfactory bulb. Dev. Dyn. 1998;213:220–227. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Alcohol ablation for ventricular tachycardia: a distillation of modern cases.

i v u s v e t p a i t p r t It has been 20 years since Drs. Inoue, Waller, and Zipes howed that intracoronary ethyl alcohol and phenol could be sed to ablate ventricular tachycardia (VT) in dogs. After irectly cannulating a diagonal branch of the left anterior escending coronary artery, sustained VT was induced by njecting aconitine directly into the left ventricular wall sing a needle, about 5 mm away from the diagonal coroary branch. Saline, phenol, and varying concentrations of thyl alcohol were injected into the cannulated diagonal oronary artery. Intracoronary injection of 25% phenol and 0% to 100% ethyl alcohol suppressed the VT in a majority f dogs, but intracoronary ethyl alcohol concentrations of 5% did not. Saline injection caused only transient termiation. Although this pioneering study is often quoted as the eginning of alcohol ablation for VT, the concept of delivring ethanol down a vessel to terminate a focal VT arising rom tissue perfused by that same vessel is quite different han the clinical practice of delivering ethanol down a vessel hat supplies the border zone of an infarct caused by occluion of a different vessel. Nonetheless, electrophysiologists ave shown for that past 2 decades that transcoronary ethnol ablation (TCEA) can be used to successfully ablate ost-infarction VT in patients. In this issue of Heart Rhythm, Sacher et al. describe a ingle-center study of 9 patients who underwent TCEA to reat recurrent monomorphic VT over the past 7 years. blation was successful in 5 of 9 patients, and the substrate as modified in an additional 3 of 9 patients. There was a 3% (3 of 9) mortality rate. Prior TCEA series have inluded over twice this number of patients, but this is the argest series to include patients with VT that was refractory o modern radiofrequency catheter ablation techniques. It is lear that modern techniques and tools for ablation of heodynamically stable monomorphic VT differ significantly ompared with those available in the early 1990s when the riginal large series of TCEA cases were reported. Howver, it should be noted that only one-third of the patients in his series had undergone an attempt at epicardial ablation
Inhibition of collagen cross-linking: A new approach to ocular scarring

A method for the production of alkali-induced conjunctival scarring in rabbits with minimal corneal involvement is presented. The lathyritic agent BETA-AMIN0PR0PI0NITRILE (BAPN), an inhibitor of collagen cross-linking, was applied topically for a period of 21 days after induction of injury. There was a statistically significant (p<025) increase in both the interpalpebral fissure length and width of scarred treated animals compared with the scarred control group. BAPN did not affect the interpalpebral fissure measurements of unscarred rabbit eyes. No clinical adverse effects were observed after the treatment period. Histological evaluation of the treated scar tissue was consistent with lathyrism.
MTT Members: We'd Like to Keep You Busy! [TCC Tidbits]

Every year in the early summer, our Society's largest annual conference event, MTT Microwave Week, takes place. It features three conferences—RFIC, IMS, and ARFTG, a very large industry exhibition, and a large number of workshops, panels, special sessions, etc. Over the years, we seemed to be including more and more activities in the Microwave Week. Sometimes it makes people feel exhausted and they find that more brain power is needed to digest all the new information collected throughout the week. Nevertheless, that's a good sign and we love to see it. It means our Society is growing with more technical activities. In an economy of uncertainty and vulnerability, it is encouraging to see more people attending the conference and exhibition. As we like to say: it is good to be busy.
Endosperm abortion and the production of viable Aegilops squarrosa x triticum boeoticum hybrids by embryo culture

Abstract Endosperm development and embryo lethality were studied in hybrids of different accessions of Aegilops squarrosa (female) and the diploid wheats Triticum boeoticum, T. monococcum and T. urartu. No cross produced plump viable seed and crosses varied with respect to both endosperm development and embryo viability. Ae. squarrosa X T. urartu hybrids showed good seed development but embryos were semi-lethal and seedling death resulted. Ae. squarrosa X T. monococcum hybrids showed endosperm abortion and embryos were lethal or semi-lethal. Ae. squarrosa X T. boeoticum hybrid seeds were dead by day 14. However, viable F1squarrosa X boeoticum hybrid plants were obtained by embryo culture at day 10 of seed development. The nature of endosperm abortion was investigated by following early endosperm development and storage-protein synthesis.
Early-time scattered field by perfectly conducting sphere using asymptotically compensated singularity expansion method

The early-time scattered field by a perfectly conducting sphere is obtained using an asymptotically compensated singularity expansion method. In this method a multiplicative function is chosen such that its product with the field quantity of interest results in an asymptotically compensated function which can be expanded without unknown entire functions. The original field quantity is recovered afterwards with the entire function represented by an infinite set of completely determined singularities. The time-domain response is obtained by the inverse Laplace transform of the singularity expansion series. Numerical results are presented.
Mechanical Design of a Heavy Ion RFQ

The mechanical design and construction of a 199.3 MHz heavy ion RFQ for charge states q/A as low as 0.14 is described. The vane supports and positioning adjustments are signifcant features of this design. They provide the capability of achieving the precision vane alignment required. The maximum difference between calculated and measured apertures between the vanes is 0.0035 inches, and the average difference is 0.0010 inches. Various important aspects of the design and construction including material selection and plating, RF joints, thermal loading and vacuum system are described. Assembly techniques, methods of mechanical measurement, alignment and structure stability are discussed in detail.
How Frustrated Are Americans

The authors analyze data from an in-depth survey of about 900 residents in Detroit to determine how indebted they were. The results suggest that it will take considerably more time for Americans to...
Formation of normal and doubly abnormal haemoglobins by recombination of haemoglobin I with S and C.

Constituents of Human Haemoglobin: Formation of Normal and Doubly Abnormal Haemoglobins by Recombination of Haemoglobin I with S and C
The adsorption of water on clean and oxygen-dosed Ru(011)

Abstract Water adsorption on clean and oxygen-dosed Ru(001) has been examined using thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS), AES, LEED, and electron stimulated desorption ion angular distributions (ESDIAD). On the clean Ru(001) surface, three water TDS peaks were observed at 215 K (A1), 180 K (A2) and 155 K (C). The structure of the water on the surface was determined by ESDIAD and LEED as a function of coverage and temperature. The (√3 × √3)R30° LEED pattern indicated that water is in registry with the Ru substrate which is responsible for the close match of the ice and Ru lattice spacings. ESDIAD patterns were able to determine the presence of water monomers at low coverages and temperatures and to distinguish between water structures on the surface as a function of temperature. Both the A1 and A2 TDS peaks were found to be due to the desorption of water molecules from two-dimensional clusters. The energy separation of the two peaks was related to the dipole-dipole interactions from water bound into the clusters in two different orientations. A complex temperature- and coverage-dependent LEED structure was also observed which was attributed to an ordered domain structure of the water clusters. Preadsorption of oxygen on Ru(001) inhibited the azimuthal ordering of the adsorbed water as determined by ESDIAD and LEED for all water coverages and oxygen coverages. Oxygen pre-exposures also had a strong influence on the TDS peaks. The strong interaction of water with adsorbed oxygen induced an unfavorable water-substrate geometry.
Reexamination of chemically mediated oviposition behavior in Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae).

A sequence of behavioral assays was performed in the laboratory to ascertain the contribution of bacteria to the oviposition response of gravid Aedes aegypti to water that previously had held fourth-instar larvae. Experiments using larval holding water with no control over bacterial growth showed an increasing oviposition response with increasing larval densities up to about two larvae per ml, beyond which the response decreased. Glutting larvae with kaolin prior to the preparation of holding water did not significantly reduce bacteria or the oviposition response at one larva per ml. Removing bacteria prior to assay decreased the response, and preventing bacterial growth during the holding and assay periods resulted in significant repellency of larval holding water compared to distilled water. It is concluded that the positive response previously attributed to a larva-produced oviposition pheromone was the result of bacterial contamination of assayed media. Two dominant species of bacteria, Acinitobacter calcoaceticus and Enterobacter cloacae , were identified in holding water. A pure suspension of A. calcoaceticus induced a significantly higher oviposition response than a pure suspension of E. cloacae . Additional assays with A. calcoaceticus showed that both contact-stimulation and olfaction may be involved. The ecological implications of a larva-produced repellent and bacteria-produced stimulants-attractants are discussed.
Mechanisms for the Generation of Mesoscale Vortices within Quasi-Linear Convective Systems

Abstract Previous idealized simulations of convective systems have demonstrated that the development of mesoscale vortices within quasi-linear convective systems may be a natural consequence of the finite extent of the convective line, as horizontal vorticity is tilted into the vertical at the line ends. However, the source of this horizontal vorticity has not yet been clearly established, either being associated with the ambient shear or else generated within the system. In this paper, results are presented from a series of idealized simulations that demonstrate that the source, strength, and scale of these vortices depends on the strength of the ambient vertical wind shear, the strength of the system-generated cold pool, the scale of the convective line segments, as well as the phase within the life cycle of the convective system. In particular, for systems that develop in an environment with weak-to-moderate shear, a line-end vortex pair is generated primarily via the tilting of horizontal vorticity ge...
Biodegradable, somatostatin acetate containing microspheres prepared by various aqueous and non-aqueous solvent evaporation methods

Somatostatin, a therapeutic peptide drug, was entrapped within polymeric microspheres made from high molecular weight poly (D,L-lactide/glycolide) (PLGA) or low molecular weight poly (D,L-lactide) (PLA) by various modifications of the O/W-solvent evaporation method. The drug was either dispersed as solid (dispersion method), dissolved with the aid of a co-solvent (co-solvent method) or emulsified as an aqueous solution (W/O/W-multiple emulsion method) in the organic polymer solution prior to emulsification into an external aqueous phase. Additionally, a non-aqueous O/O-method was evaluated for the formation of the microspheres. Acceptable encapsulation efficiencies were obtained with all methods, regardless of the physical state of drug and the polymer type. The total volume of organic solvent and the co-solvent content were found to be important preparation factors of the O/W-co-solvent method. A more lipophilic solvent system appeared to favor efficient drug encapsulation. Replacing the widely used but toxic methylene chloride with ethyl acetate resulted in significantly lower drug loadings. The preparation method substantially affected the morphology of the microspheres and the drug release.
Evaluation of early childhood programs: The role of parents

Recent literature indicates that parents have generally been overlooked as sources of information in preschool and day care program evaluations. The need for parent involvement in program evaluation is detailed and data are presented that highlight some of the problems which may be encountered when parents are included. Behavioral ratings from both parents and teachers of preschool and day care children were collected and differences were noted despite the high internal consistency of the scale used. Approaches toward interpreting such discrepancies are detailed and suggestions for future research and application are made.
An induced energy analysis to determine the mechanism for performance enhancement as a result of arm swing during jumping.

Arm swing during a jump can enhance performance. This study examined the mechanisms via which arm swing contributes to maximum vertical jump height. Two mechanisms have been proposed to explain how jump height can be increased by arm swing: production of additional energy or slow leg extension which may permit muscles to work on a more favorable region of the force-velocity curve. A simulation model of the vertical jump and an induced energy analysis were used to determine the contribution of each of these mechanisms. The results from the model suggest that both mechanisms for the role of arm swing in enhancing jump performance are at play. Arm swing did slow the hip extensors allowing for more force production from these muscles. The work done and the energy induced in the vertical direction by these muscles were greater in the jump simulated with arm swing. However, these increases were not sufficient to explain the entire improvement in jumping performance. The shoulder musculature generated a consider...
Initial growth and morphology of thin Au films on TiO2(110)

Abstract We have studied the growth of thin Au films (0.2 to 12 nm) and the surface morphology of individual three-dimensional (3D) Au islands on the TiO2(110) surface by using high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM). The Au is evaporated under UHV conditions onto clean and stoichiometric TiO2(110) with substrate temperatures ranging from 300 to 775 K. In this temperature range, Au grows initially as 3D islands on TiO2(110). At 300 K, the Au film morphology evolves with increasing average Au thickness h, from hemispherical islands initially (h 1.5 nm), to percolation at h∼8 nm, and finally to a continuous and rough film at h∼12 nm. For deposition at elevated temperature (≥500 K) and for Au thickness ≥5 nm, Au islands exhibit faceted shapes. For deposition of ≥5 nm of Au at 300 K followed by annealing at 775 K, Au islands are highly faceted with hexagonal shapes. The growth behavior of 1 nm Au on an oxygen-deficient TiO2 surface at 300 K is also reported.
Production of organometallic polymers by the interfacial technique. XX. Synthesis of polyoxystannyloxyalkylenes

Polyoxystannyloxyalkylenes of low to intermediate molecular weight were synthesized in low to high yield by a modified nonaqueous interfacial technique. At least some of the products possess SnCl, SnOH, and ROH endgroups. The aqueous stability of the products is in the order neutral ≫ basic > acidic.
X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy of the Fracture Surfaces of Iron/ Epoxy and Titanium/Epoxy Adhesive Joints

Abstract The failure path of iron/epoxy and titanium/epoxy lap joints prepared from adherends pretreated with dilute aqueous solutions of ω-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (ω-APS) and then exposed to water at 60°C for varying times was determined using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Iron/epoxy lap joints prepared using T-APS primers applied at pH 8.0 and tested without exposure to water failed near the oxide/primer interface with only a small amount of adhesive left on the substrate failure surface. Iron/epoxy joints that were primed with T-APS at pH 10.4 and tested without immersion in water failed partly within the adhesive and partly near the interface. All of the iron/epoxy joints failed in the primer near the primer/oxide interface when tested after exposure to water for seven days but very little corrosion of the substrates was observed. When titanium/epoxy lap joints were tested without exposure to water, failure was partly within the adhesive and partly near the primer/oxide interface regardle...
Genetic diversity of flowering dogwood in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

In the past three decades, flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) populations have experienced severe declines caused by dogwood anthracnose. Mortality has ranged from 48% to 98%, raising the concern that the genetic diversity of this native tree has been reduced significantly. In this study, we investigated levels of genetic diversity and population structure of flowering dogwood populations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). Understanding the factors influencing geographic distribution of genetic variation is one of the major concerns for preserving biodiversity and conservation of native populations. Eighteen microsatellite loci were used to evaluate the level and distribution of genetic variation of native flowering dogwood trees throughout the GSMNP. Significant genetic structure exists at both landscape and local levels. Two genetic clusters exist within the park and are separated by the main dividing ridges of the Great Smoky Mountains. The differentiation of the clusters is subtle, but statistically significant. Gene flow, evident through low-elevation corridors, indicates that nonrandom mating occurs between related individuals despite wide dispersal of seeds. Although high mortality rate and reduced fecundity caused by dogwood anthracnose severely affected native flowering dogwood populations throughout the entire GSMNP, this study confirmed that considerable genetic diversity still exists at the population level. It seems unlikely that recent demographic dynamics have resulted in a depletion of genetic variation.
Identification of Vitamin D-Stimulated Alkaline Phosphatase in IEC-6 Cells, a Rat Small Intestine Crypt Cell Line

Abstract The IEC-6 cell line was derived from newborn rat small intestinal crypts and maintains characteristics of nontransformed crypt epithelial cells. We have reported that alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, a differentiation marker for intestinal epithelial cells, is regulated in IEC-6 cells by 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25(OH)2D3). Using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, we determined that the ALP in IEC-6 cells is the liver/bone/kidney ALP (LALP) isoenzyme and not the mature enterocyte form. Levamisole, a specific blocker for LALP, blocked the ALP activity of IEC-6 cells. Kinetic studies showed that 1,25(OH)2D3 increases Vm values of ALP in IEC-6 cells while Km values remain the same. Northern analysis of LALP mRNA levels in IEC-6 cells indicated that 10-7M 1,25(OH)2D3 acts by increasing alkaline phosphatase activity at the gene expression level.
Chondrocyte viability and metabolic activity after treatment of bovine articular cartilage with bipolar radiofrequency: An in vitro study

Abstract Purpose: Some controversy exists regarding the effects of radiofrequency (RF) probes on articular cartilage. To further elucidate these effects, we examined the chondrocyte viability and metabolic activity after treatment of fresh bovine articular cartilage with bipolar RF probes. Type of Study: In vitro assessment. Methods: Three fresh bovine knees served as a baseline control for chondrocyte viability, yielding 6 samples (1 from each medial femoral condyle and 1 from each lateral femoral condyle). After the baseline expected chondrocyte viability was determined, 3 additional bovine knees served as the experimental specimens for the study. Under sterile conditions, 2 different bipolar RF probes were used to treat the articular surface in a light contact mode, moving at a linear rate of 3 to 4 mm/s to provide tissue debridement. Full-thickness articular cartilage was then harvested from each of the treatment areas. Six samples per probe were then assessed for chondrocyte viability using fluorescent double-staining followed by confocal microscopy; 6 samples per probe were assessed for metabolic activity using an 35 SO 4 incorporation assay; and 12 additional untreated samples were obtained to serve as controls for viability (n = 6) and metabolic activity (n = 6). Results: The depth of chondrocyte death (mean ± standard deviation) was 109.4 ± 22.1 μm after treatment with the ACD-50 probe, and was 172.3 ± 34.3 μm after treatment with the 2.5-mm/90° probe. The 35 SO 4 uptake (mean ± standard deviation) was 2584 ± 1388 cpm/mg dry cartilage for the ACD-50 probe and 1995 ± 852 cpm/mg of dry cartilage for the 2.5-mm/90° probe. The 35 SO 4 uptake for the control was 2647 ± 1380 cpm/mg dry cartilage. Conclusions: The 2 probes tested created a well-controlled debridement with smooth edges and a defined margin of chondrocyte death that extended approximately 100 to 200 μm deep to the treatment area. There does not appear to be a significant effect on the metabolic activity of the chondrocytes adjacent to the treatment zone, but with the small sample size we lacked sufficient statistical power to definitively determine these effects. Clinical Relevance: The 2 bipolar radiofrequency probes tested created a well-controlled debridement in normal articular cartilage with smooth edges and a defined margin of chondrocyte death that extended approximately 100 to 200 μm into the treatment area.
Serotonin transporter and integrin beta 3 genes interact to modulate serotonin uptake in mouse brain

Dysfunctions in serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) systems have been associated with several psychiatric illnesses, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders and autism spectrum disorders. Convergent evidence from genetic analyses of human subjects has implicated the integrin β3 subunit gene (ITGB3) as a modulator of serotonergic systems via genetic interactions with the 5-HT transporter gene (SLC6A4, SERT). While genetic interactions may result from contributions of each gene at several levels, we hypothesize that ITGB3 modulates the 5-HT system at the level of the synapse, through the actions of integrin αvβ3. Here we utilized a genetic approach in mouse models to examine Itgb3 contributions to SERT function both in the context of normal and reduced SERT expression. As integrin αvβ3 is expressed in postsynaptic membranes, we isolated synaptoneurosomes, which maintain intact pre- and post-synaptic associations. Citalopram binding revealed significant Slc6a4-driven reductions in SERT expression in midbrain synapses, whereas no significant changes were observed in hippocampal or cortical projections. Expecting corresponding changes to SERT function, we also measured 5-HT uptake activity in synaptoneurosomal preparations. Itgb3 single heterozygous mice displayed significant reductions in 5-HT Vmax, with no changes in Km, in midbrain preparations. However, in the presence of both Itgb3 and Slc6a4 heterozygozity, 5-HT uptake was similar to wild-type levels, revealing a significant Slc6a4 by Itgb3 genetic interaction in the midbrain. Similar findings were observed in cortical preparations, whereas in the hippocampus, most Vmax changes were driven solely by Slc6a4. Our findings provide evidence that integrin αvβ3 is involved in the regulation of serotonergic systems in some, but not all 5-HT synapses, revealing novel contributions to synaptic specificity within the central nervous system.
Basophile: Accurate Fragment Charge State Prediction Improves Peptide Identification Rates

In shotgun proteomics, database search algorithms rely on fragmentation models to predict fragment ions that should be observed for a given peptide sequence. The most widely used strategy (Naive model) is oversimplified, cleaving all peptide bonds with equal probability to produce fragments of all charges below that of the precursor ion. More accurate models, based on fragmentation simulation, are too computationally intensive for on-the-fly use in database search algorithms. We have created an ordinal-regression-based model called Basophile that takes fragment size and basic residue distribution into account when determining the charge retention during CID/higher-energy collision induced dissociation (HCD) of charged peptides. This model improves the accuracy of predictions by reducing the number of unnecessary fragments that are routinely predicted for highly-charged precursors. Basophile increased the identification rates by 26% (on average) over the Naive model, when analyzing triply-charged precursors from ion trap data. Basophile achieves simplicity and speed by solving the prediction problem with an ordinal regression equation, which can be incorporated into any database search software for shotgun proteomic identification.
Sequential reactions induced by alpha particles on $sup 3$He

A prominent peak is observed in the forward-angle spectra of $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles if $^{3}\mathrm{He}$ is bombarded by 63.7-, 71.7-, or 81.4-MeV $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles. The energy of the peak is consistent with a sequential decay process involving the 2.18-MeV state of $^{6}\mathrm{Li}$. At 71.7 MeV, proton spectra measured at backward angles show that the cross sections for formation of $^{6}\mathrm{Li}^{*}$ (2.18 MeV) agree with the intensity of the prominent $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ peak. The peak shape and position imply that the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles are preferentially emitted forward with respect to the original $^{6}\mathrm{Li}^{*}$ direction. Two other peaks are observed in some of the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ spectra, one of them possibly the result of a sequential decay involving $^{5}\mathrm{Li}$.[NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{3}\mathrm{He}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\alpha}')$, ($\ensuremath{\alpha},p$), $E=63.7,71.7,81.4$ MeV; measured $\ensuremath{\sigma}(E,\ensuremath{\theta})$.]
An improved method for the separation and purification of chlorophyll a.

THE procedure1,2 which has been used for the separation of chlorophyll a has involved two awkward steps: (1) the transfer of the chlorophylls from the acetone extract of the plant to a hydrocarbon phase; (2) the adsorption of chlorophylls on talc-like materials prior to the sugar chromatography. The chlorophyll a band on the sugar column invariably has a xanthophyll on its leading edge due to the failure of step (1) to complete the xanthophyll separation and a fair amount of pheophytin introduced by step (2). The xanthophyll contaminant causes an enhanced apparent intensity value of the blue band of the chlorophyll a spectrum previously reported. Heretofore it has been very difficult to obtain crystalline chlorophyll using these procedures.
Live and taped relaxation instructions: Effects of procedural variables

Two experiments were designed to assess the effects of relaxation training, therapist presence or absence, live versus taped voice, and response-contingent versus noncontingent instructional progress on measures of subjective relaxation and frontal EMG. In the first experiment, it was found that subjects receiving taped instructions showed greater within-session subjective relaxation and lowering of within-session frontal EMG than subjects in a control condition. No differential training effects of therapist presence or absence was noted. In a second experiment, no significant differences in relaxation measures were found between subjects receiving live, response-contingent instructions and subjects receiving live, noncontingent instructions. Moreover, no meaningful differences in relaxation measures were found between subjects receiving live and taped instructions.