cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TSA-seq reveals a largely conserved genome organization relative to nuclear speckles with small position changes tightly correlated with gene expression changes.

TSA-seq mapping suggests that gene distance to nuclear speckles is more deterministic and predictive of gene expression levels than gene radial positioning. Gene expression correlates inversely with distance to nuclear speckles, with chromosome regions of unusually high expression located at the apex of chromosome loops protruding from the nuclear periphery into the interior. Genomic distances to the nearest lamina-associated domain are larger for loop apexes mapping closest to nuclear speckles, suggesting the possibility of conservation of speckle-associated regions. To facilitate comparison of genome organization by TSA-seq, we reduced required cell numbers 10- to 20-fold for TSA-seq by deliberately saturating protein-labeling while preserving distance mapping by the still unsaturated DNA-labeling. Only ∼10% of the genome shows statistically significant shifts in relative nuclear speckle distances in pair-wise comparisons between human cell lines (H1, HFF, HCT116, K562); however, these moderate shifts in nuclear speckle distances tightly correlate with changes in cell type-specific gene expression. Similarly, half of heat shock-induced gene loci already preposition very close to nuclear speckles, with the remaining positioned near or at intermediate distance (HSPH1) to nuclear speckles but shifting even closer with transcriptional induction. Speckle association together with chromatin decondensation correlates with expression amplification upon HSPH1 activation. Our results demonstrate a largely "hardwired" genome organization with specific genes moving small mean distances relative to speckles during cell differentiation or a physiological transition, suggesting an important role of nuclear speckles in gene expression regulation.
Identifying the relation between feedback preferences and performance

Performance feedback is a common organizational behavior management intervention (Gravina et al., 2018) that typically yields consistent effects when combined with other procedures (Alvero et al., 2001). A noteworthy characteristic that might affect feedback effectiveness is timing (Lechermeier & Fassnacht, 2018). Given the frequent use and practical utility of feedback, we assessed feedback preference across three feedback timing options: after step, after trial, and after session. We used a direct-choice paradigm to assess feedback timing preferences with undergraduate students completing two multistep computerized tasks. The data obtained suggest that most participants shifted their preference from relatively proximal (e.g., after step) to distal feedback (e.g., after session) as they acquired the tasks. A few participants' preferences varied despite increases in performance. We discuss implications based on the current findings and future directions for research.
Capsule Network Performance With Autonomous Navigation

Capsule Networks (CapsNets) have been proposed as an alternative to Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). This paper showcases how CapsNets are more capable than CNNs for autonomous agent exploration of realistic scenarios. In real world navigation, rewards external to agents may be rare. In turn, reinforcement learning algorithms can struggle to form meaningful policy functions. This paper’s approach Capsules Exploration Module (Caps-EM) pairs a CapsNets architecture with an Advantage Actor Critic algorithm. Other approaches for navigating sparse environments require intrinsic reward generators, such as the Intrinsic Curiosity Module (ICM) and Augmented Curiosity Modules (ACM). CapsEM uses a more compact architecture without need for intrinsic rewards. Tested using ViZDoom, the CapsEM uses 44% and 83% fewer trainable network parameters than the ICM and Depth-Augmented Curiosity Module (D-ACM), respectively, for 1141% and 437% average time improvement over the ICM and DACM, respectively, for converging to a policy function across "My Way Home" scenarios.
Ultrasound-Based Molecular Imaging of Tumors with PTPmu Biomarker-Targeted Nanobubble Contrast Agents

Ultrasound imaging is a widely used, readily accessible and safe imaging modality. Molecularly-targeted microbubble- and nanobubble-based contrast agents used in conjunction with ultrasound imaging expand the utility of this modality by specifically targeting and detecting biomarkers associated with different pathologies including cancer. In this study, nanobubbles directed to a cancer biomarker derived from the Receptor Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase mu, PTPmu, were evaluated alongside non-targeted nanobubbles using contrast enhanced ultrasound both in vitro and in vivo in mice. In vitro resonant mass and clinical ultrasound measurements showed gas-core, lipid-shelled nanobubbles conjugated to either a PTPmu-directed peptide or a Scrambled control peptide were equivalent. Mice with heterotopic human tumors expressing the PTPmu-biomarker were injected with PTPmu-targeted or control nanobubbles and dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound was performed. Tumor enhancement was more rapid and greater with PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles compared to the non-targeted control nanobubbles. Peak tumor enhancement by the PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles occurred within five minutes of contrast injection and was more than 35% higher than the Scrambled nanobubble signal for the subsequent two minutes. At later time points, the signal in tumors remained higher with PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles demonstrating that PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles recognize tumors using molecular ultrasound imaging and may be useful for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Minority stress and sexual minorities of colour: the mediating role of mastery

The minority stress model states that routine forms of discrimination are associated with adverse health consequences. Despite this well-supported association, there is a limited body of research a...
Genetic Analysis of Sirtuin Deacetylases in Hyphal Growth of Candida albicans.

ABSTRACT Candida albicans is a major human fungal pathogen that encounters varied host environments during infection. In response to environmental cues, C. albicans switches between ovoid yeast and elongated hyphal growth forms, and this morphological plasticity contributes to virulence. Environmental changes that alter the cell’s metabolic state could be sensed by sirtuins, which are NAD+-dependent deacetylases. Here, we studied the roles of three sirtuin deacetylases—Sir2, Hst1, and Hst2—in the hyphal growth of C. albicans. We made single, double, and triple sirtuin knockout strains and tested their ability to switch from yeast to hyphae. We found that true hypha formation was significantly reduced by the deletion of SIR2 but not HST1 or HST2. Moreover, the expression of hypha-specific genes HWP1, ALS3, and ECE1 decreased in the sir2Δ/Δ mutant compared to the wild type. This regulation of hypha formation was likely dependent on the deacetylase activity of Sir2, as a similar defect in hypha formation was observed when an asparagine known to be required for deacetylation was mutated. Finally, we found that Sir2 and Hst1 were localized to the nucleus, with Sir2 specifically focused in the nucleolus. This nuclear localization suggests a role for Sir2 and Hst1 in regulating gene expression. In contrast, Hst2 was localized to the cytoplasm. In conclusion, our results suggest that Sir2 plays a critical and nonredundant role in hyphal growth of C. albicans. IMPORTANCECandida albicans is one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired systemic fungal infections in the United States. It can switch between ovoid yeast and elongated hyphal growth forms in response to environmental cues. This morphological transition is essential for its survival in the host. Thus, identifying regulators involved in this process can lead to new therapies. In this study, we examined the contribution of three regulators called sirtuins (Sir2, Hst1, and Hst2) to the yeast-to-hypha transition of C. albicans. We found that loss of Sir2 but not Hst1 or Hst2 hampered hypha formation. Moreover, the defect was caused by the loss of the catalytic activity of Sir2. Our study may lay the groundwork for discovering novel targets for antifungal therapies.
Gape Angle in Asymptomatic Dogs with Normal Occlusion.

This study reports the gape angle (vertical temporomandibular joint range of motion for mouth opening) in conscious and anesthetized dogs. Mouth opening was reported as an angle in this study. Addi...
Total factor productivity enablers in the ICT industry: A cross-country firm-level analysis

Abstract Advancements in productivity in the digital economy constitute an important engine for economic growth. What drives productivity dynamics in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector? This study examines the productivity dynamics of ICT firms across countries from the perspective of corporate balance sheets. We study the effects of intangible assets and leverage on productivity growth using firm-level panel data from five industrialized countries. We find that intangible assets positively affect the total factor productivity in the ICT sector. The positive effect of intangible assets on total factor productivity growth is larger for ICT manufacturing firms than for ICT service firms. We also find that leverage has a positive relationship with total factor productivity development in the ICT sector. In addition, our empirical results substantiated that productivity is catching up to the technological frontier. Furthermore, larger firms and/or younger firms generally show higher total factor productivity growth than their peers. Economies of scale are more prominent in the ICT service sector than in the ICT manufacturing sector. Our findings contribute to the understanding of cross-country productivity dynamics in the ICT sector at the firm level in the digital economy.
Melamine Toxicity

Melamine contamination of infant formula in China and its health effects highlight the safety of the global food supply especially as it relates to formula-fed infants. Melamine is a widely used industrial chemical not considered acutely toxic with a high LD50 in animals. The data available on acute and chronic human exposure to melamine have been limited and extrapolated from animal data. Pet food contamination in 2004 and 2007 showed stone formation and illness in animals when melamine was co-ingested with cyanuric acid. The recent outbreak in infants showed that melamine ingested in large doses may cause stones and illness without significant ingestion of cyanuric acid or other melamine-related chemicals. This may be due to increased uric acid excretion in infants and formation of melamine–uric acid stones. Diagnosis and treatment of infants exposed to melamine requires further study. Clinical signs and symptoms in infants are nonspecific. The stones may be radiolucent and are not consistently seen on ultrasound. The use of alkalinization of the urine for treatment has been proposed, but is of unproven benefit. The FDA and other regulatory agencies have recommended acceptable levels of melamine in foods for consumption. Melamine ingestion has been implicated in stone formation when co-ingested with cyanuric acid, but will cause urinary stones in infants when large amounts of melamine alone are ingested.
‘I mean I hate to say it’s sink or swim, but … ’: college course instructors’ perceptions of the adapted physical education content that they prioritize and teach

As most physical education teacher education programs provide little preparatory coursework on disabilities, it is unsurprising preservice physical educators often struggle to effectively include s...
The Sacred Bed: Sex Guilt Mediates Religiosity and Satisfaction for Unmarried People

The relationship between religion and sexual satisfaction has long been debated. Oftentimes, previous research on the relationship between these two constructs has been directly contradictory. The current study sought to provide more detail, or perhaps clarify the way that religiosity may relate to sexual satisfaction. Past studies have shown that high religiosity is connected to lower sexual activity, lower desires, and more conservative values. Thus, the current study examined sexual guilt, resulting from sensitivity to internalized religious beliefs and teachings, as a potential mediator between the two constructs. Participants completed an online questionnaire that included measures of religious identification and internalization, sexual satisfaction, and sex guilt. Results suggest that sex guilt mediates the rela- tionship between religiosity and sexual satisfaction for unmarried individuals, but not for married individuals. We suggest calling this finding the sacred bed phe- nomenon because the difference between the models for married and unmarried samples may be due to a belief in the sacred marital bed.
Analyzing path delays for accelerated testing of logic chips

We develop a test methodology utilizing the critical path delay to monitor and predict the degradation of circuits during a ramp voltage stress (RVS). Stress is applied by looping functional patterns during RVS. Our results demonstrate that the degradation behavior of a functional circuit can be characterized and analyzed with RVS in a manner similar to that developed for a single transistor. This alternative fast test lends itself to in-line testing with reduced times and small sample numbers.
Worrying about Wearables

As wearables become more pervasive in our society, security and privacy will become even greater issues at the individual level.
How Much is Enough

Abstract Through a reading of a report done onthe Harvard Mental Health Service, this paper considers questions such as: How much in the way of services should a college/university counseling and psychotherapy service be providing? What is an adequate staffing level to do the job? What are some of the obstacles in the way of providing an adequate service? Particular attention is given to the possible effects of managed care in a medical setting.
Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer Observations of the X-Ray Pulsar XTE J1855?026: A Possible New Supergiant System

A new X-ray source, XTE J1855-026, was discovered during Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) scans along the Galactic plane. The source shows pulsations at a period of 361 s and also modulation at a period of 6.1 days, which we interpret as the orbital period of the system. The X-ray spectrum above ~3 keV can be fitted with an absorbed power-law model with a high-energy cutoff and an iron emission line at approximately 6.4 keV. We interpret these results as indicating that XTE J1855-026 is likely to consist of a neutron star accreting from the wind of an O or B supergiant primary. A less likely interpretation is that XTE J1855-026 is instead a Be/neutron star binary, in which case it would have the shortest known orbital period for such a system.
Saturation in Dual Radiation Action

The development of the principles of the theory of dual radiation action is reviewed and a treatment of saturation is given. Although the relationship derived cannot be evaluated in general in closed form, approximations may be obtained that apply to a range of conditions.
What can stimulated emission do for bioimaging

Advances in bioimaging have revolutionized our ability to study life phenomena at a microscopic scale. In particular, the stimulated emission process, a universal mechanism that competes with spontaneous emission, has emerged as a powerful driving force for advancing light microscopy. The present review summarizes and compares three related techniques that each measure a different physical quantity involved in the stimulated emission process in order to tackle various challenges in light microscopy. Stimulated emission depletion microscopy, which detects the residual fluorescence after quenching, can break the diffraction-limited resolution barrier in fluorescence microscopy. Stimulated emission microscopy is capable of imaging nonfluorescent but absorbing chromophores by detecting the intensity gain of the stimulated emission beam. Very recently, stimulated emission reduced fluorescence microscopy has been proposed, in which the reduced fluorescence due to focal stimulation is measured to extend the fundamental imaging-depth limit of two-photon microscopy. Thus, through ingenious spectroscopy design in distinct microscopy contexts, stimulated emission has opened up several new territories for bioimaging, allowing examination of biological structures that are ever smaller, darker, and deeper.
Parametric origin of optical magnetism

Intense magnetic scattering in insulators is shown to be a second order process, depending on the product of optical electric and magnetic fields. Quantitative agreement (no free parameters) is achieved with saturated magnetic response.
On Mechanisms for Deadlock Avoidance in SIP Servlet Containers

Increasingly, VoIP applications are being deployed to multi-threaded SIP servlet containers. Unfortunately, the standard specification for these containers is silent with regard to synchronization issues, and the lack of direction has led different vendors to adopt a variety of different and incompatible policies for preventing data races among concurrent threads. In addition to the obvious portability problems, some policies make servlet code prone to deadlock under common scenarios of use. This paper documents this problem with concrete examples and proposes modifications to the standard to allow programmers to implement the protocols needed to avoid these common deadlocks. These extensions will open the way for automatic generation of the synchronization logic needed to implement these avoidance protocols, thereby increasing the safety and reliability of applications deployed in this environment.
The Evolution of Haploid, Diploid and Polymorphic Haploid-Diploid Life Cycles: The Role of Meiotic Mutation

Here I present a simple population genetic model to investigate the evolution of polymorphic haploid-diploid life cycles. The key feature of the model is the assumption of mutation occurring during meiosis. I show that, in addition to regions favoring haploid or diploid life cycles, there are substantial regions of the parameter space under which polymorphic haploid-diploid life cycles are expected to evolve.
Elemental compositions from daughter ion spectra of m1+ and [m1+1]+: some applications of the method

The elemental compositions of ions can be determined in tandem mass spectrometry by comparing the daughter ion spectra of the m1+ and [m1 + 1]+ ions. The method is demonstrated for mass-analyzed ion kinetic energy spectra but is applicable to all types of daughter ion spectra, including complex collisionally activated dissociation spectra. In this work, the method is applied to compounds that produce daughter ions of known elemental compositions, and the errors and limitations are evaluated. Following that test, the procedure is applied to a compound that may produce daughters of more than one possible elemental composition. The method is sometimes useful even if the formula of the parent is not known; that is, the formulae of unknown parent and daughter ions may be found. Locating a specific atom in an isotopically labeled molecule is another capability of the method. The basic equation of the method was generalized and incorporated into a computer program for performing the calculations.
Origin of the Direct and Reflected Head of the Rectus Femoris: An Anatomic Study

Purpose: This study aimed to define the footprint of the direct and reflected heads of the rectus femoris and the relation of the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) to adjacent neurovascular (lateral circumflex femoral artery and femoral nerve), bony (anterior superior iliac spine [ASIS]), and tendinous structures (iliopsoas). Methods: Twelve fresh-frozen cadaveric hip joints from 6 cadavers, average age of 44.5 (9.9) years, were carefully dissected of skin and fascia to expose the muscular, capsular, and bony structures of the anterior hip and pelvis. Using digital calipers, measurements were taken of the footprint of the rectus femoris on the AIIS, superior-lateral acetabulum and hip capsule, and adjacent anatomic structures. Results: The average dimensions of the footprint of the direct head of the rectus femoris were 13.4 mm (1.7) 26.0 mm (4.1), whereas the dimensions of the reflected head footprint were 47.7 mm (4.4) 16.8 mm (2.2). Important anatomic structures, including the femoral nerve, psoas tendon, and lateral circumflex femoral artery, were noted in proximity to the AIIS. The neurovascular structure closest to the AIIS was the femoral nerve (20.8 3.4 mm). Conclusions: The rectus femoris direct and reflected heads originate over a broad area of the anterolateral pelvis and are in close proximity to critical neurovascular structures, and care must be taken to avoid them during hip arthroscopy. Clinical Relevance: A thorough knowledge of the anatomy of the proximal rectus femoris is valuable for any surgical exposure of the anterior hip joint, particularly arthroscopic subspine decompression and open femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) surgery.
EVIDENCE OF SINGLE-CRYSTAL CHARACTERISTICS IN HIGHLY ANNEALED PYROLYTIC GRAPHITE

It is demonstrated that massive specimens of pyrolytic graphite heat-treated at 3600\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C may exhibit electrical characteristics comparable to those of the best single crystals presently available. Low-field magnetoresistance data taken perpendicularly to the $c$ direction of these specimens yield average carrier mobilities (1.3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{4}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/v-sec at 300\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K; up to 8\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{5}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/v-sec at 4.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K) in substantial agreement with Soule's and McClure's results for the layer planes of highly purified natural graphite. In conjunction with temperature dependence studies of the zero-field resistivity, it is found that the carrier density reproduces the theoretically predicted behavior down to 77\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, but departs at lower temperatures. Plausible interpretations of this discrepancy and of the "knee" in the resistivity curve are briefly discussed.
VACTERL association and mitochondrial dysfunction

BACKGROUND VACTERL association includes the presence of malformations affecting the vertebrae, anus, heart, trachea and esophagus, kidneys, and limbs. The causes remain largely unknown, but rare patients with mitochondrial dysfunction have been reported. Although clinical signs and symptoms consistent with possible mitochondrial disease are not uncommon in patients with VACTERL association, the necessary testing to confirm mitochondrial dysfunction is infrequently performed. METHODS We describe a patient with relatively classic signs of VACTERL association who had an onset of clinical signs of mitochondrial dysfunction at 13 months of age. These signs included progressive muscle weakness, autonomic dysregulation, episodic hypoglycemia, and exocrine pancreatic dysfunction. The patient was later shown to have evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction (cytochrome c oxidase deficiency). CONCLUSIONS Abnormal mitochondrial function may be associated with VACTERL association, and clinicians who encounter patients with VACTERL association should have a low threshold for considering mitochondrial dysfunction. Birth Defects Research(Part A), 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Theoretical Verification of Surface Cross-Linking as an Effective Method To Reduce Initial Burst Release from Swellable Hydrogels

In this paper, we extend a mathematical model previously proposed for drug release from homogeneous swellable hydrogels to surface cross-linked hydrogels. This new model predicts the simultaneous water uptake into and drug diffusion from a cross-linked hydrogel with a bulk inner core surrounded by a highly cross-linked surface layer. The model verifies our experimental work to show that the treatment of surface cross-linking can be used to reduce the initial burst observed in homogeneous poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels and achieve near zero-order release. In the model, the parameter that has the greatest impact on reduced burst release is the water partition coefficient between the surface cross-linked and bulk layers.
Intracranial malignancies occurring more than 20 years after radiation therapy for pituitary adenoma

A 37-year-old woman developed a left third cranial nerve palsy 28 years after radiation for a nonsecreting pituitary adenoma. Imaging disclosed a left parasellar mass and a midbrain/pontine signal abnormality. Biopsy of the parasellar mass revealed a malignant sarcoma. The brainstem abnormality was presumptively diagnosed as a malignant glioma. A 63-year-old man developed a malignant astrocytoma of the left optic nerve and chiasm 23 years after partial excision and radiation of a nonsecreting pituitary adenoma. Both patients died of their malignancies. Although secondary malignancies have been described in this setting, such long latencies have not been reported.
Bone marrow transplantation and approaches to avoid graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) offers promise for the treatment of haematological and immune disorders, solid tumours, and as a tolerance inducing regimen for organ transplantation. Allogeneic HSCTs engraftment requires immunosuppression and the anti-tumour effects are dependent upon the immune effector cells that are contained within or generated from the donor graft. However, significant toxicities currently limit its efficacy. These problems include: (i) graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in which donor T cells attack the recipient resulting in multi-organ attack and morbidity, (ii) a profound period of immune deficiency following HSCT, and (iii) donor graft rejection. Currently available methods to prevent or treat GVHD with systemic immunosuppression can lead to impaired immune recovery, increased opportunistic infections, and higher relapse rates. This review will provide an overview of GVHD pathophysiology and discuss the roles of various cells, pathways, and factors in the GVHD generation process and in the preservation of graft-versus-tumour effects. Variables that need to be taken into consideration in attempting to extrapolate preclinical results to the clinical paradigm will be highlighted.
Age and disease-related structural changes in the retinal pigment epithelium.

As the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) ages, a number of structural changes occur, including loss of melanin granules, increase in the density of residual bodies, accumulation of lipofuscin, accumulation of basal deposits on or within Bruch’s membrane, formation of drusen (between the basal lamina of the RPE and the inner collagenous layer of Bruch’s membrane), thickening of Bruch’s membrane, microvilli atrophy and disorganization of the basal infoldings. Although these changes are well known, the basic mechanisms involved in them are frequently poorly understood. These age-related changes progress slowly and vary in severity in different individuals. These changes are also found in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a late onset disease that severely impacts the RPE, but they are much more pronounced than during normal aging. However, the changes in AMD lead to severe loss of vision. Given the many supporting functions which the RPE serves for the retina, it is important to decipher the age-related changes in this epithelium in order to understand age-related changes in vision.
Repeated and persistent infection with Chlamydia and the development of chronic inflammation and disease

Abstract Chlamydia trachomatis is an important human pathogen that mediates disease processes capable of inflicting permanent damage. Aggressive inflammatory responses to repeated infections and to a persistent form of this intracellular bacterium, are thought to initiate the pathogenic events that lead to the debilitating sequelae of blinding trachoma and infertility.
Response of an acousto-optic device with feedback to time-varying inputs

We investigate the response of an acousto-optic bistable device to time-varying acoustic inputs. The device modeled by a two-hump one-dimensional autonomous nonlinear map in which the (implied) is justifiably period is determined by the feedback time of the device. Our newly added time-varying input has a map period much greater than the feedback time and for simplicity is taken in the form of a periodic square pulse. We use numerical simulation and a matrix method to predict the general behavior of the output intensity at specific instants of time. Background knowledge, viz., general comments on the nature of one-two-hump one-dimensional maps and their distinction, is also presented in a unified fashion to aid in and the understanding of the dynamics of the device. We find that novel changes of the output period can occur for significant feedback amplitudes, and that these changes can be sensitively controlled.
Iodine I 125 plaque radiotherapy for vasoproliferative tumors of the retina in 30 eyes.

Objective To report the efficacy of iodine I 125 plaque radiotherapy for the treatment of vasoproliferative tumors (VPTs) of the ocular fundus. Methods The clinical features and outcomes of patients with VPTs who underwent iodine I 125 plaque radiotherapy were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the effect of preoperative findings on visual acuity and complications. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates for the probability of adverse outcomes were performed. Results Of the 30 eyes treated, 17 (57%) had primary and 13 (43%) had secondary VPTs. The median tumor base was 8.6 mm (range, 3.5-18.0 mm) and median tumor thickness was 3.7 mm (range, 2.5-6.3 mm). Exudative retinal detachment was present in 23 eyes (77%). Tumor regression was observed in 29 of 30 eyes (97%) and retinal detachment completely resolved in 15 of 23 eyes (65%). Visual acuity improved or remained stable in 22 eyes (73%). The only factor predictive of visual improvement was the classification of primary VPT (relative risk, 19; 95% confidence interval, 2-185;P = .01). Kaplan-Meier estimates of radiation complications at 5 years predicted cataract in (48%), transient vitreous hemorrhage in (16%), and neovascular glaucoma in (8%) of eyes. No patient developed radiation maculopathy or papillopathy. Conclusions Iodine I 125 plaque radiotherapy is an effective method of treating larger (>2.5-mm thickness) VPTs with extensive exudative retinal detachment.
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY OF NECROTIZING MENINGOENCEPHALITIS IN 3 YORKSHIRE TERRIERS

A necrotizing meningoencephalitis of Yorkshire terriers has recently been reported in 6 dogs in Switzerland, 1 dog in Japan and 1 dog in the United States. The purpose of this report is to describe the computed tomographic (CT) findings in 3 dogs with this disease, and to correlate the CT abnormalities with the clinical and pathologic findings in each case. Three Yorkshire Terriers between 2 and 10 years old were evaluated. Physical and neurologic examinations, complete blood count (CBC), serum biochemistry profile, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and CT scan were performed on all 3 dogs. Brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAER) were evaluated for 2 dogs. Two dogs were euthanized at the owners' request and necropsies were performed. Neurologic examination findings were consistent with a multifocal/diffuse encephalitis involving the cerebrum and brainstem in all 3 dogs. Complete blood count and biochemistry profiles were normal. Elevated protein concentration and a mononuclear pleocytosis were demonstrated in 2 of 3 dogs on cerebrospinal fluid evaluation. Multifocal, extensive areas of decreased opacity throughout the cerebral hemispheres, asymmetric ventriculomegaly, and lack of contrast enhancement were appreciated on CT images of all three dogs. No mass effect was seen. These findings correlated well with pathologic findings at necropsy, which included multiple malacic cavitations within the brain, representing areas of locally extensive necrosis. CT abnormalities in combination with signalment, clinical findings and cerebrospinal fluid analysis should facilitate a presumptive diagnosis of Yorkshire Terrier necrotizing meningoencephalitis.
Using Infomaster to Create a Housewares Virtual Catalog

Infomaster is an information integration system that provides integrated access to multiple distributed heterogeneous information sources on the Internet, thus giving the illusion of a centralized, homogeneous information system. We say that Infomaster creates a virtual data warehouse. The core of Infomaster is a facilitator that dynamically determines an efficient way to answer the user's query using as few sources as necessary and harmonizes the heterogeneities among these sources. Infomaster handles both structural and content translation to resolve differences between multiple data sources and the multiple applications for the collected data. Infomaster connects to a variety of databases using wrappers, such as for Z39.50. SQL databases through ODBC, EDI transactions, and other World Wide Web (WWW) soruces. There are several WWW user interfaces to Infomaster, including forms-based and textual. Infomaster also includes a programmatic interface and it can download results in structured form onto a clien...
Creep analysis of thermiplastics using stress relaxation data

One of the major factors limiting the use of thermoplastics in engineering applications is the inadequacy of existing design data. Much of the data do not span appropriate ranges of stress, strain, time, or temperature. This study addresses the need to develop an accelerated method for generating long-time design data to support the innovative use of engineering thermoplastics. In particular, stress relaxation tests (SRT) were performed on polycarbonate (PC) and modified poly(phenylene oxide)(PPO), and used to generate time-dependent design data through the short-time measurement of the material's current state without dependence on elastic modulus. The test results and analyses reported here indicate the SRT method to be an efficient means of generating accurate and repeatable creep and secant modulus data which may be directly used in design. Therefore, SRT shows great potential both as a design parameter development tool, and as a quality control instrument for assessing batch-to-batch variability.
An attempt to fabricate a photocatalytic and hydrophobic self-cleaning coating via electrospinning

Fluorinated POSS (polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes, F-POSS) was blended with PVDF (poly (vinylidene fluoride)/TiO2 (titanium dioxide) composite by stirring overnight and the resultant solution was electrospun to obtain F-POSS/PVDF/TiO2 micron- and nanofibers with self-cleaning capacity. The coatings were deposited on a fluorosilane-treated glass substrate and they showed both hydrophobicity and photocatalytic activity. The morphology of the fabricated coating was analysed using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The optical properties of the coating were studied using UV-visible spectroscopy, which gave around 65–70% transmittance with just 2% of F-POSS inclusion. Membrane stability on the substrate was checked with the nano-scratch test. The nano-scratch test indicates that the tip of the nano-indenter was unable to percolate through the membrane; rather it just ploughs around its surface, revealing the adhesion of coating and mechanical stability. The contact angle measurements showed a value of 135.5° for the F-POSS/PVDF/TiO2 coating, thus showing its hydrophobic nature. The photocatalytic effect of the membrane was checked with respect to the degradation of methyl orange dye under UV exposure. The surface roughness calculated from the AFM measurements showed that the inclusion of F-POSS into the nanofibers enhanced the surface roughness. We anticipate that the thermally and mechanically stable coating may find immense applications in many real areas like water-purification, window panels, glass modules for photovoltaic devices, etc.
Drug-induced nephrotoxicity: the crucial role of risk factors.

PreviewRisk factors for drug-induced nephrotoxicity may be patient-related or medication-related. Because decreased renal function is often unsuspected in elderly or asymptomatic patients, overdosing with nephrotoxic agents may occur with resulting renal injury. In this article, Drs Thatte and Vaamonde discuss high-risk situations and offer suggestions for prevention of renal damage.
Modulation of growth, differentiation and carcinogenesis by dehydroepiandrosterone

Dehydroepiandrosterone (3 beta-hydroxy-5-androsten-17-one; DHEA) and its conjugates are abundant circulating steroids that originate largely from the adrenal cortex. Their levels decline profoundly with age in human beings of both sexes, as the incidence of most cancers rises. Low levels of these steroids have been associated with the presence and risk of development of cancer. Administration of DHEA to rodents produces protection against spontaneous tumors and chemical carcinogenesis, suppresses weight gain without significantly affecting food intake, ameliorates the severity of diabetes in genetically diabetic mice, and restrains autoimmune processes. DHEA and related steroids also depress the mitogenic effects of carcinogens, tumor promoters and plant lectins, and block viral and carcinogen-induced cell transformations. DHEA and certain congeners are also potent and quite specific inhibitors of mammalian glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenases. We have observed that the conversion of 3T3-L1 and 3T3-F442A preadipocyte clones to the adipocyte phenotype, in response to appropriate differentiation stimuli (fetal calf serum, insulin, dexamethasone, and 1-methyl-3-isobutylxanthine), is blocked by DHEA and other steroidal inhibitors of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. The structural requirements for blocking adipocyte differentiation and for inhibiting glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase are closely correlated. Evidence is reviewed suggesting that the inhibition of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase is central to the anticarcinogenic and differentiation-blocking actions of DHEA and related steroids. The 3T3 preadipocyte clones provide a valuable system for the analysis of the mechanisms of the effects of DHEA on growth, differentiation and carcinogenesis.
Treatment teams that work (and those that don't) : an application of Hackman's Group Effectiveness Model to interdisciplinary teams in psychiatric hospitals

Recent studies of small work groups emphasize comprehensive models of team effectiveness. A survey-based operationalization of one such model, Hackman `s Model of Group Effectiveness (Hackman, 1987...
Purification and partial sequence of the Mr 10,000 phosphoprotein from spinach thylakoids

The Mr 10,000 phosphoprotein was purified from photosystem II particles by solubilization of the particles in 5% (wv) dodecyl dimethylamine oxide, centrifugation in 10% (wv) sucrose, and three chromatography steps. The purified phosphoprotein showed a unique NH2 terminus indicating a highly purified polypeptide. The amino acid sequence for the first nine residues is NH2AlaThrGlnThrValGluSerSerSer … COOH. The amino acid composition was determined and could also be used to help distinguish the polypeptide from other known thylakoid proteins. The sequence and composition data indicated that the Mr 10,000 phosphoprotein is neither the hydrophobic 8-kDa subunit of the energy coupling complex nor cytochrome b-559, but rather a unique, as yet unidentified, polypeptide associated with photosystem II.
Breaking Historical Silence through Cross–Cultural Collaboration: Latvian Curriculum Writers and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Fellows

In response to the need for Holocaust curricula in Latvia, Latvians and Americans worked collaboratively to overcome the historical silence surrounding this event. During their project, Latvian curriculum writers worked with teachers and scholars at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. This descriptive analysis of the Latvians' experience with Museum Fellows revealed opportunities to learn from each other the complexities of teaching the Holocaust in a country viewed by some as collaborators and still somewhat anti-Semitic. Findings included depth of guidance, values, and limits of innovative teaching methods, cross-cultural benefits, and continued collaboration. Recommendations for future efforts by post-Communist countries and American partners to develop curriculum on teaching a most complex and contentious aspect of history such as the Holocaust conclude the study.
Increased delivery of TAT across an endothelial monolayer following ischemic injury

There is a great need for the development of vehicles capable of delivering therapeutic cargoes across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and into brain cells. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), such as TAT, present one such solution, and have been used successfully in vivo to deliver neuroprotective cargoes to the brain in models of stroke and seizure. However, a significant discrepancy exists in the literature, as other groups have not had the same success. One commonality between the successful studies is a compromised BBB. In this study, we hypothesized that ischemic injury increases the transport of TAT across an endothelial monolayer (comprised of bEnd.3 cells) in vitro and, consequently, increases TAT-mediated delivery into astrocytes on the other side. In the 24h following in vitro ischemia (oxygen-glucose deprivation), transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) significantly decreased, indicating disruption of BBB integrity. Concomitantly, the transport of a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-TAT fusion protein significantly increased, and the transduction of GFP-TAT into astrocytes cultured on the other side of the endothelial monolayer significantly increased. These results explain why TAT-mediated delivery of therapeutic cargoes is successful in the ischemic brain but not in the uninjured brain with an intact BBB, highlighting the necessity for continued development of delivery vehicles. We conclude that although TAT may not be an efficient vehicle for trans-BBB delivery across an intact BBB, it may have utility in clinical situations when the BBB is disrupted.
GENDER COMPARISONS OF BABY BOOMERS AND FINANCIAL PREPARATION FOR RETIREMENT

This study compared men and women, focusing on three middle‐year age groups incorporating the baby boomers, in relation to the level of savings for retirement and the number of savings vehicles utilized. The research tapped into a study conducted by the National Center for Women and Retirement Research. Usable responses were received from 1,287 persons, 872 females and 415 males. Multiple linear regression identified certain personal characteristics, economic factors, psy‐chosocial factors, attitudes, and investing methods that appeared to be related to the level of savings for retirement. Certain personal characteristics, economics, and psychosocial factors were identified for the investments used. The identified factors were true for both genders, thus a profile of the person most likely to have a higher level of savings for retirement and likely to own investments emerged. The males best fit the savings and investing profiles. Neither gender was saving adequately for retirement or taking full advantage...
Dynamic bidirectional conductance modulation during DNA translocation in a nanofluidic channel

We report bidirectional conductance modulation in synthetic nanochannels introduced by the translocation of λ-DNA molecules. The translocation signal comprised conductance decrease followed by conductance increase in the same translocation event. The results are consistent with concentration enhancement and depletion effects caused by introduction of asymmetric charge into the nanochannel due to the translocating molecule.
Ancient lenses in art and sculpture and the objects viewed through them dating back 4500 years

The early history of lenses is controversial. The author has sought to address the problem by identifying lens elements (mainly convex/plano) which remain associated with objects intended to be viewed through them (i.e., in their original context). These are found in museums in sculptures, rings, pendants, etc. A number of outstanding examples will be illustrated in the talk; these sophisticated pieces of art are certainly not first constructs. Most are of rock crystal, rose quartz, or glass. Lenses have origin among artisans rather than scientists. Clearly, skills were often lost and rediscovered. Early lens-like objects have been found broadly in the eastern Mediterranean area/Middle East, in France, in Italy (Rome), and possibly in Peru and Scandinavia, etc. To date, the earliest lenses identified in context are from the IV/V Dynasties of Egypt, dating back to about 4500 years ago (e.g., the superb `Le Scribe Accroupi' and `the Kai' in the Louvre; added fine examples are located in the Cairo Museum). Latter examples have been found in Knossos (Minoan [Herakleion Museum]; ca. 3500 years ago); others had origin in Greece (examples in the Athens National Archeological Museum and the British Museum equals BM), in Rome (Metropolitan Museum, NY; BM; Vatican Museums; Bologna Archeological Museum), etc. Also. of great interest is the study of possible lens applications. This is a fascinating scientific, artistic and intellectual project.
A mantle melting profile across the Basin and Range, SW USA

This is the published version. Copyright 2002 American Geophysical Union. All Rights Reserved.
The short single edge crack specimen with linearly varying end displacements

The quantitative effect of the loading non-symmetry introduced by a single edge crack in a short length specimen loaded in tension along the center line is determined. For deep cracks, the effect of the induced moment can be substantial. Stress intensity factor is plotted as a function of sheet geometry and crack length.
Molecular characterization of disrupted in schizophrenia-1 risk variant S704C reveals the formation of altered oligomeric assembly

DISC1 (Disrupted in schizophrenia-1) plays essential roles in neuronal proliferation, neuronal migration and axon guidance and has been implicated in schizophrenia and related psychiatric disorders. DISC1 forms a functional complex with nuclear distribution element-like protein-1 (NDEL1), a key component that regulates microtubule organization during cell division and neuronal migration. DISC1 polymorphisms at the binding interface of DISC1-NDEL1 complex have been implicated in schizophrenia. However, it is unknown how schizophrenia risk polymorphisms perturb its interaction with NDEL1 and how they change the inherent biochemical properties of DISC1. Here, we characterize the oligomerization and binding property of DISC1 and its natural schizophrenia risk variant, S704C. Our results show that DISC1 forms octamers via dimers as building blocks and directly interacts with tetramers of NDEL1. The schizophrenia risk variant S704C affects the formation of octamers of DISC1 and exhibits higher-order self-oligomerization. However, the observed formation of new oligomeric species did not influence its binding with NDEL1. These results suggest that the improper oligomeric assembly of DISC1-S704C may underlie the observed phenotypic variation due to the polymorphism.
InTlSb growth by OMVPE

Abstract We report on the growth of InTlSb at various temperatures by atmospheric pressure organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE). Electron microprobe analysis indicates that the Tl solubility is