cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Src kinases and not JAKs activate STATs during IL-3 induced myeloid cell proliferation

Interaction of IL-3 with its receptor is known to activate STAT-3 via phosphorylation of Tyrosine 701, which facilitates its dimerization and translocation to the nucleus, leading to the transcription of its target genes. In this communication, we have investigated the nature of tyrosine kinases that mediate STAT-3 phosphorylation during IL-3-mediated activation of myeloid cell proliferation. Our results show that interaction of IL-3 with its receptor leads to the activation of c-Src kinase activity, which in turn facilitates the binding of c-Src to STAT-3. This association leads to the phosphorylation of STAT-3, allowing this transcription factor to translocate to the nucleus. Expression of a dominant negative mutant of src (AMSrc) in these cells results in a block to IL-3 mediated phosphorylation of STAT-3, and its ability to bind to DNA. On the other hand, expression of a dominant negative mutant of JAK2 (JAK2KE) had no effect on IL-3-mediated activation of STAT-3. Our results also show that AMSrc does not affect the phosphorylation of JAK2, suggesting that JAK and STAT phosphorylation events are mediated by two independent pathways. Inhibition of c-Src activation by AMSrc, which leads to a block to STAT-3 activation, results in a dramatic inhibition of cell proliferation mediated by IL-3. However, expression of AMSrc does not activate apoptotic pathways. In contrast, expression of JAK2KE results in accelerated apoptosis of 32Dcl3 cells grown in the absence of IL-3 with concomitant down-regulation of Erk-2 kinase activity. These results suggest that Src family kinases mediate the phosphorylation of STATs and play a critical role in signal transduction pathways associated with myeloid cell proliferation while JAK kinases mediate the activation of Erk-2 pathway which appears to provide antiapoptotic signals. Thus the activation of JAKs and STATs appear to be two independent but related events, which dictate two separate biological outcomes, the combination of which results in proliferation and survival of myeloid precursor cells.
Synthesis of oligosaccharides containing β-d-Gal-(1→3)-O-(6-O-sulfo-β-d-GlcNAc) as a terminal unit

The chemical synthesis of beta-D-Gal-(1-->3)-6-O-SO3Na-beta-D-GlcNAc-(1-->6)-alpha-D-Man-O-+ ++C6H4NO2 (1) and beta-D-Gal-(1-->3)-6-O-SO3Na-beta-D-GlcNAc-(1-->2)-alpha-D-Man-OMe (2) is reported using a key glycosyl donor, phenyl O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-beta-D-galactopyranosyl)-(1-->3)-4,6-di-O- chloroacetyl-2-deoxy-2-phthalimido-1-thio-beta-D-glucopyranoside (3).
Abstract 2826: Expression of HBEGF enhances breast carcinoma cell motility, invasion and metastasis.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Despite advances in screening and prevention, breast cancer is still associated with a high mortality rate that predominantly results from the development of metastatic disease. One of the key steps of the metastatic cascade is invasion. Previous work in our lab has discovered a paracrine loop between tumor cells and macrophages in which tumor cells are capable of stimulating macrophages through the secretion of CSF-1 and the tumor associated macrophages in turn aid in tumor cell invasion by secreting EGF. The goal of our project is to explore how expression of EGFR ligands, specifically HBEGF, by tumor cells affects the paracrine loop, invasion and metastasis. Previous studies have shown that HBEGF is often found to be coexpressed with the EGFR and that HBEGF expression in tumors is correlated with more biologically aggressive disease and poorer patient prognosis. An initial Oncomine cancer gene expression analysis showed that HBEGF expression was correlated with more rapid recurrence of disease in breast cancer upon removal of the primary breast tumor. Based on the published data, we decided to focus our study on this particular ligand. Using MTLn3 rat mammary adenocarcinoma cells and human MDA-MB 231 breast adenocarcimona cells that were transduced to overexpress HBEGF, we have shown that HBEGF expression enhanced tumor cell invasion by increasing tumor cell motility, invadopodium formation and matrix degradation. We have also discovered that expression of HBEGF enhanced metastasis by making tumor cell invasion independent of the paracrine loop. Our studies suggest that for tumors that express HBEGF, therapies that target tumor associated macrophages using CSF-1R inhibitors may not be effective in inhibiting tumor cell invasion. In addition, we have found that HBEGF expression causes an increase in the recruitment of tumor associated macrophages and tumor angiogenesis along with increased expression of VEGF, which suggests that anti-VEGF treatment could be particularly useful for treating patients whose tumors overexpress HBEGF. Citation Format: Zhen Ni Zhou, Ved P. Sharma, Brian T. Beaty, Paraic Kenny, H. Stephen Wiley, John S. Condeelis, Jeffrey E. Segall. Expression of HBEGF enhances breast carcinoma cell motility, invasion and metastasis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2826. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2826
Benzo(a)pyrene metabolism in the isolated perfused mouse lung.

A method is described for preparing and maintaining an isolated perfused and ventilated mouse lung. The preparation is especially suited for studying xenobiotk metabolism or toxkological interactions, in a species with a broad spectrum of studies in pulmonary toxicology. The preparation is viable with respect to drug metabolism for up to two hours, as judged from studies of aniline oxidation to p-aminophenol.With [14 C]-benzo(a)pyrene as substrate for the lungs of male 1CR Swiss mice, the major ethyl acetate-extractable metabolites are the 3-hydroxy, 9,10-dihydrodiol, 7',8-dihydrodiol, and 4,5-dihydrodiol derivatives. The rates of individual BaP metabolite production are increased in lungs from mice pretreated with Aroclor 1254 or β-naphthofiavone, substances known to induce increased synthesis of cytochrome P-450. Small amounts of water-soluble BaP metabolites were hydrolyzed by β-glucuronidase and aryl sulfatase, suggesting the presence of enzymes required for these conjugations. These results support t...
A rhetorical rationale for interdisciplinary graduate study in communication

Communication is an inherently interdisciplinary subject matter because it occurs as a consequence of biophysical, conceptual, and social processes, and because its uses and effects are drawn out differently in the various contexts of its employment. Graduate education in speech communication may explore these senses of interdisciplinarity without depending upon a fixed theoretical framework for description and explanation by using a system of rhetorical topics designed to stimulate and guide inquiry into alternative methods of invention and judgment. The topical system recommended here suggests lines of inquiry that may be pursued in appropriately designed classroom discussions, bibliographical assignments, and field research projects.
Suppression of Incessant Ventricular Tachycardia in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Associated with Improvement of Severe Left Ventricular Dysfunction

A 32-year-old black man presented with a history of palpitations since childhood and two syncopal episodes. He was found to have incessant ventricular tachycardia, impaired left ventricular contraction (ejection fraction 9%), and nonobstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Procainamide abolished the arrhythmia and the ejection fraction rose to 22% in sinus rhythm. Later treatment was switched to amiodarone, which suppressed the ventricular tachycardia but necessitated pacemaker implantation. He has remained well during the subsequent 2 years. Left ventricular ejection fraction has increased to 47% measured in paced rhythm. The improvement in left ventricular function has been attributed to suppression of the incessant ventricular tachycardia.
Reversible adrenal unresponsiveness in a patient with congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Summary A 7 1/2-year-old boy in whom the diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia was made at age 5 weeks is presented. Treatment with exogenous corticoids was started immediately, but between ages 1 to 4 an Addisonian state intervened. Classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia then reappeared after age 6, following a reduction in corticoid replacement. Suppression of ACTH by exogenous glucucorticoid is suggested as a possible cause of this reversible adrenal failure.
Lefty Inhibits Receptor-regulated Smad Phosphorylation Induced by the Activated Transforming Growth Factor-β Receptor

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates growth and differentiation of diverse types of cells. TGF-β actions are directed by ligand-induced activation of TGF-β receptors with intrinsic serine/threonine kinase activity that trigger phosphorylation of receptor-regulated Smad (R-Smad) protein. Phosphorylated R-Smad proteins bind to Smad4, and the complexes formed move into the nucleus, where they act as components of a transcriptional complex. Here, we show that TGF-β signaling is inhibited by lefty, a novel member of the TGF-β superfamily. Lefty perturbed TGF-β signaling by inhibiting the phosphorylation of Smad2 following activation of the TGF-β receptor. Moreover, lefty inhibited the events that lie downstream from R-Smad phosphorylation, including heterodimerization of R-Smad proteins with Smad4 and nuclear translocation of the R-Smad·Smad4 complex. Lefty repressed TGF-β-induced expression of reporter genes for the p21,cdc25, and connective tissue growth factor promoters and of a reporter gene driven by the Smad-binding element. Similarly, lefty inhibited both BMP-mediated Smad5 phosphorylation and gene transcription. The action of lefty does not appear to depend on protein synthesis, including synthesis of inhibitory Smad proteins. Thus, lefty provides a repressed state of TGF-β- or BMP-responsive genes and participates in negative modulation of TGF-β and BMP signaling by inhibition of phosphorylation of R-Smad proteins.
Determinants of Myocardial Salvage During Acute Myocardial Infarction: Evaluation With a Combined Angiographic and CMR Myocardial Salvage Index

Objectives This study examined the contribution of symptom-to-reperfusion time, collateral flow, and antegrade flow in the infarct-related artery on myocardial salvage using a combined angiographic–cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) method. Background The myocardium supplied by an acutely occluded artery defines the anatomical area at risk for infarction. This area can be determined independently of residual coronary flow to the risk region. Moreover, the difference between this area and infarct size constitutes viable myocardium that has been salvaged. Methods In 121 subjects presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction revascularized by primary percutaneous intervention, the angiographic anatomical area at risk was retrospectively measured using the Bypass Angioplasty Revascularization Investigation Myocardial Jeopardy Index (BARI score). Within 1 week, CMR was performed in the entire cohort and repeated in 89 subjects at 5 ± 3 months to determine infarct size and wall motion recovery. The myocardial salvage index (MSI) was computed as (BARI score − infarct size)/left ventricular mass. Results The MSI was negligible in patients with Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow grade ≤1, absent collateral vessels, and >4 h of symptom-to-reperfusion time, as compared with patients with TIMI flow grade >1 or existent collateral vessels (0.2 ± 1.0 vs. 6.1 ± 2.0, p Conclusions Early mechanical reperfusion and maintenance of antegrade or collateral flow independently preserves myocardial salvage primarily through a reduction in infarct transmurality. This novel integration of coronary angiography and CMR techniques to quantify myocardial salvage predicts functional recovery and improved prognosis.
Improvements in the predictive capability of neural networks

Abstract Neural networks can be used to develop effective models of nonlinear systems. Their main advantage being that they can model the vast majority of nonlinear systems to any arbitrary degree of accuracy. The ability of a neural network to predict the behavior of a nonlinear system accurately ought to be improved if there was some mechanism that allows the incorporation of first-principles model information into their training. This study proposes to use information obtained from a first-principle model to impart a sense of “direction” to the neural network model estimate. This is accomplished by modifying the objective function so as to include an additional term that is the difference between the time derivative of the outputs, as predicted by the neural network, and that of the outputs of the first-principles model during the training phase. The performance of a feedforward neural network model that uses this modified objective function is demonstrated on a chaotic process and compared to the conventional feedforward network trained on the usual objective function.
Physical, geological and biological studies on four Pacific seamounts: introduction

SEAMOUNTS are prominent submerged volcanoes that rise above the surrounding sea floor and are distributed throughout the major basins of the World Ocean. Estimates of the abundance of these features continually increase with improvements in mapping and surveying technology (DE MOOSTIER, 1988). In the Pacific Ocean, the recorded number of seamounts greater than 1000 m in height has risen from 10,000 (MENARD, 1959) to over 30,000 (SMITH and JORDAN, 1988). Considering the abundance of seamounts and the unique conditions created by these features in a flow field, they have received little attention. The morphology of these topographic features varies greatly from steep-sided cones to complex truncated volcanoes (guyots) that were eroded during a period of emergence above sea level, prior to subsidence. Seamounts may possess complex topographic features such as summit calderas (LONSDALE and SFIESS, 1979; FORNAm et al., 1984) and drowned carbonate reef caps (ScHLANGER et al., 1987). Many features of seamounts may be masked by sedimentary deposits consisting of volcanic detritus, and biogenic and terrigenous sediment. Sediment supply and removal patterns are influenced by changes in surface water productivity, seamount depth, calcium carbonate dissolution rates (LEVIN and NITvI~OUER, 1987) and current flow. The most common type of sediment found on seamounts above the carbonate compensation depth is biogenic ooze composed of calcareous and siliceous microfossils and sponge spicules (KENNEa'r, 1982). Seamounts modify the large-scale dynamics of oceanic currents and alter the density stratification of the water column (GouLD et al., 1981; OWENS and HOGG, 1980). Despite the obvious geological evidence for active erosion (LONSDALE and SPIESS, 1977; HEEZEN and HOLLtSTER, 1971; ROBERTS et al., 1974; STANLEY and TAYLOR, 1977), only a few studies have directed attention toward the effects of currents on the surficial environment of seamounts (CAcCmONE et al., 1988; NOBLE et al., 1988). The interactions between seamounts and oceanic currents are governed by geographic location, water depth and the intensity of the flow field near the seamount. The intensity of this flow field generally decreases with increasing water depth and distance from continental margins.
Detail, Proportion, and Foci among Face Receptive Fields of Climbing Fiber Responses in the Cat Cerebellum

This paper reports a theoretical analysis of the transformation from a tactile stimulus of the face to climbing fiber responses in three regions of the cat cerebellum. The database consisted of climbing fiber receptive fields on the face from 75 responses from the anterior lobe, 33 responses from the paramedian lobule (PML), and 52 responses from the cms up of the anesthetized cat. The receptive fields were similar in being composed of discrete areas on the skin, or skin compartments. The regional differences in the configurations of the receptive fields were reflected in which compartments most often combined to form receptive fields. Each region had a distinct pattern of the preponderance of skin compartments that combined to form receptive fields, and yet the preponderant compartments were all chosen from one composite set of compartments that applied to all three regions.The climbing fiber representation of the face differed over the three regions (1) in the parts of the face that were represented; (2...
Future uses of substation data

The trend in today's development of power system monitoring, control and protection solutions is to install more intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) in substations. As a result, variety of data is collected in substations today and much more will be collected in the future. This will change the paradigm of a classical supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) System that may use remote terminal units (RTUs) to collect substation data. This paper presents future developments that will lead to multiple uses of IED data. Examples of new concepts are illustrated by reporting on recent projects that deal with automated analysis of data recorded in substations. For each project, detailed goals and accomplishments so far are be outlined. The uses of data in each of the deployment situations are discussed. (6 pages)
Associations of blood and urinary mercury with hypertension in U.S. Adults: The NHANES 2003-2006

Background Few studies have examined the association between hypertension and mercury exposure in the general population. We examined cross-sectional associations between blood (mainly methylmercury) or urinary mercury (mainly inorganic mercury) and hypertension in representative U.S. adults and effect modifications by dietary omega-3 fatty acids and serum selenium.
Imaging of early brain injury and cortical plasticity

The human brain undergoes complex organizational changes during development in and ex utero. Pathogenic events affecting the developing brain cause abnormalities or lesions, the patterns of which depend on the stage of brain development. During the first and second trimester, cortical neurogenesis predominantly takes place, characterized by proliferation, migration, and organization of neuronal cells. Brain pathology is characterized by maldevelopments. During the third trimester, growth and differentiation events are predominant, which persist into postnatal life. Disturbances of brain development during this period mainly cause lesions. During the early third trimester, periventricular white matter is especially affected, whereas toward the end of the third trimester, gray matter, either cortical or deep gray matter, appears to be more vulnerable. These patterns of brain maldevelopments or lesions offer excellent models to study mechanisms of organization and reorganization in the developing brain. Evidence for superior brain plasticity is well established for language function after early left-sided lesions. Some evidence exists for higher compensatory potential within in the motor system; maintenance of ipsilateral tracts seems to play a certain, but only incomplete functional role after unilateral lesions in early and mid gestation. The visual system seems to have limited compensatory potential.
Point-of-use laser inspection

The use of post-pelliclization inspection is a step toward zero customer return, due to particles on the mask under the pellicle. Implementation of a laser inspection system in wafer fabs allows mask users with the ability to (1) check the quality of incoming masks for shipping related defects, (2) perform on-going reliability checks to reduce mask defect related yield losses, and (3) reduce handling by reducing manual inspection. This paper describes the techniques used in the calibration of the laser inspection system, QC Optics API-3000, and several benefits from this inspection. In addition to calibration, monitoring system performance is critical to the success of this inspection. Types of monitor masks are described here, including methods of generation and uses of monitor masks.
775-2 Deleterious Effect of Smoking on the Elastic Properties of the Aorta

Cigarette smoking alters vascular reactivity and thus may alter the elastic properties of the aorta (Ao). To test this hypothesis, serial pressure-diameter loops (figure A) were obtained from the simultaneous recordings of the thoracic Ao diameter (D) and pressure (P) before and atterthe initiation of smoking of one cigarette (nicotine content 1.3 mg) in 20 healthy smokers who underwent diagnostic cardiac catheterization. Ao 0 were measured by a Yshaped catheter, developed in our institution, which incorporates at its distal tips a pair of ultrasonic dimension crystals (Crystal Biotech, MA). This highdefinition diameter gauge was validated in in-vitro and experimental studies. Ao Pwere recorded by a Millar micromanometer. The pressure-diameter relationship changed significantly with smoking (figure A). Ao distensibility (=2Δd/dx ΔP, where Δd and ΔP: changes from systole to diastole of the Ao D and P respectively, and d: diastolic Ao D) was decreased significantly after smoking (figure B). These changes suggest that the Ao became stiffer atter smoking. Download : Download high-res image (63KB) Download : Download full-size image This effect of smoking on the elastic properties of the aorta adds to the multiple other deleterious effects of smoking on human health.
Computer simulation studies of magnetic phase transitions

Abstract The advancements which have been made in the use of computer simulations to study magnetic-phase transitions and critical phenomena are reviewed. We describe how the use of a combination of sophisticated Monte Carlo simulation algorithms and reweighting (histogram) techniques have allowed the determination of the static critical behavior with unprecedented precision. The study of “dynamic” critical behavior in simple spin models by both Monte Carlo and spin dynamics methods is also reviewed. Recent estimates for dynamic critical exponents are given including those for true dynamics.
An elective course to engage pharmacy students in research activities.

Objective. To implement problem-based learning exercises in a pharmacy research elective course and assess the impact on students’ knowledge and confidence in their ability to analyze, design, and present basic research projects relevant to clinical areas. Design. Hands-on learning activities, including discussions on experimental design, development of collective diagrams, research planning, results analysis, data evaluation, and presentation design, were incorporated into the course and developed as team-based learning experiences. Assessment. Students gave a seminar presentation to peers and faculty members at the end of the semester and created posters for presentations at professional meetings. Students who decided to work on a continuation project during the following semester were expected to produce data that might be sufficient for the development of manuscripts for submission to scientific journals. Conclusions. Feedback from students revealed an appreciation and renewed interest in analyzing clinical issues with a much wider focus as well as increased understanding of and confidence in using data derived from basic science research.
Dietary carbohydrate level and glucose metabolism in turkey poults.

Abstract 1. 1. Feeding British United turkeys (BUT) and Nicholas turkeys (NT) diets with varying carbohydrate levels for 24 hr post-hatch resulted in lower hepatic glucose-6-phosphatase activity and higher plasma glucose levels as dietary carbohydrate level was increased. 2. 2. There were no differences between the strains in liver weight or glucose-6-phosphatase activity, but BUT exhibited higher plasma glucose values than did NT at the two highest levels of carbohydrate. Plasma glucose did not differ between strains at the lowest level of carbohydrate or in fasted poults. 3. 3. Blood glucose values were consistently higher in both strains when sampled 1 hr after initial sampling of fasted poults. 4. 4. Both strains were able to maintain the 1 hr blood glucose levels through 24 hr when kept at ~ 37°C. 5. 5. When held at ~ 21°C for the first hour and at ~ 37°C through 24 hr fasted NT were able to maintain the initial blood glucose rise while fasted BUT were not.
Silica-based strong anion exchange media for protein purification.

Abstract The main objective of our research was to develop silica-based, polymer-functionalized ion exchange materials for single-use bioprocess applications, with the ultimate goal of achieving maximal binding capacity for target proteins. Herein we report the utilization of Grace® wide pore silica gel and bonding the silica with cationic polymers. The strong anion exchange materials have been prepared by a two-step process involving initial bonding with two trimethoxysilanes and subsequent aqueous solution radical polymerization with quaternary ammonium ion containing monomers and an azo initiator. Using the binding capacities for bovine serum albumin (BSA), a model protein for the evaluation of the new materials, we optimized the processes with regard to the median pore size of the silica gel, as well as polymer composition and ratios, which were determined by reagent ratios and reaction conditions. The products were also characterized by both chemical and physical methods. It has been found that higher binding capacities are associated with lower ligand density and higher molecular weight for the attached polymers, with over 20% higher in both static and dynamic binding capacity values with the same amount of attached polymers. The advantages of a large pore size distribution and optimal median pore size for the base silica are discussed. Optimal pore size range of 500–1500 A and distribution of Span 90 for over 1.0 give the highest BSA binding capacities. Silica-based strong anion exchange materials showed excellent flow characteristics when packed into a column and were superior to commercial agarose-based strong anion exchange material with respect to dynamic binding capacity, elution of proteins, and baseline separation of a mixture of three model proteins.
Autoignition of Toluene and Benzene at Elevated Pressures in a Rapid Compression Machine

Abstract Autoignition of toluene and benzene is investigated in a rapid compression machine at conditions relevant to HCCI (homogeneous charge compression ignition) combustion. Experiments are conducted for homogeneous mixtures over a range of equivalence ratios at compressed pressures from 25 to 45 bar and compressed temperatures from 920 to 1100 K. Experiments varying oxygen concentration while keeping the mole fraction of toluene constant reveal a strong influence of oxygen in promoting ignition. Additional experiments varying fuel mole fraction at a fixed equivalence ratio show that ignition delay becomes shorter with increasing fuel concentration. Moreover, autoignition of benzene shows significantly higher activation energy than that of toluene. In addition, the experimental pressure traces for toluene show behavior of heat release significantly different from the results of Davidson et al. [D.F. Davidson, B.M. Gauthier, R.K. Hanson, Proc. Combust. Inst. 30 (2005) 1175–1182]. Predictability of various detailed kinetic mechanisms is also compared. Results demonstrate that the existing mechanisms for toluene and benzene fail to predict the experimental data with respect to ignition delay and heat release. Flux analysis is further conducted to identify the dominant reaction pathways and the reactions responsible for the mismatch of experimental and simulated data.
Brain potentials during memory retrieval provide neurophysiological support for the distinction between conscious recollection and priming

Event-related brain potentials were recorded from subjects as they attempted to identify words displayed tachistoscopically. Words that had also been presented a few minutes earlier in a different context were identified more often than were words that had not been presented before. This priming effect was observed for words initially seen in an imagery task requiring size estimations as well as for words initially seen in an orthographic task requiring letter counting. Unlike priming, recall and recognition were much better for words repeated from the imagery task than from the orthographic task. Brain potentials elicited during word identification also differed as a function of task. Based on these differences, a potential from 500 to 800 msec was interpreted as an index of recollection processes. Earlier potentials may have indexed processing related to priming. These effects thus provide measures of the hypothetical processes underlying memory performance and demonstrate that recollection and priming are associated with distinct neural events.
Self-reported sensitivity to continuous noninvasive blood pressure monitoring via the radial artery.

Abstract Objective Many blood pressure (BP) methods common in psychosomatic research have salient limitations, including subject discomfort, sampling limits, and measurement validity concerns. This study examines the utility of the Vasotrac APM 205 BP monitor, which works via continuous nonocclusive compression and decompression of the radial artery, primarily in regard to its intrusiveness. Method Perceptions of the device were rated by 62 university students (31 female, 31 male) in a study involving continuous BP monitoring during an affect induction and film viewing. The rating scale included items assessing how comfortable and distracting the device was, and various sensation descriptors that were combined to yield compression and pain indices. Results Comfort, distractibility, and compression ratings clustered around the neutral midpoint of the 11-point scale (overall M =4.7), and pain trended toward the not at all anchor ( M =2.2). Conclusions Responses indicate the Vasotrac is nonintrusive during extended wear. Its sampling rate far exceeds that of ausculatory and oscillometric methods, and so it may offer further reliability and validity benefits for BP measurement.
MRI of childhood dacryocystocele

We report an unusual presentation of a dacryocystocele in a 3-day-old child, with clinical and novel MRI findings. The literature contains extensive CT documentation, but descriptions of the MRI appearances of dacryocystoceles are lacking. Although CT is the standard initial imaging modality, MRI can be helpful if there are questions as to the content of the lesion or a need for further anatomical characterization.
Characterization of the Shuttle Landing Facility as a laser range for testing and evaluation of EO systems

The Shuttle Landing Facility runway at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida is almost 5 km long and 100 m wide. Its homogeneous environment makes it a unique and ideal place for testing and evaluating EO systems. An experiment, with the goal of characterizing atmospheric parameters on the runway, was conducted in June 2005. Weather data was collected and the refractive index structure parameter was measured with a commercial scintillometer. The inner scale of turbulence was inferred from wind speed measurements and surface roughness. Values of the crosswind speed obtained from the scintillometer were compared with wind measurements taken by a weather station.
Photoelectrochemical Undercut Etching of m-Plane GaN for Microdisk Applications

Undercut etching is a necessary technique for a variety of device applications, including microdisk lasers. We have explored bandgap-selective photoelectrochemical etching of nonpolar m-plane GaN for undercut etching applications, including microdisks. These nonpolar optical devices are not limited by the quantum-confined Stark effect that hampers the performance of polar c-plane GaN devices. We discuss the dependence of undercut quality on etchant concentration, illumination intensity, masking material, and epitaxial structure and use this technique to fabricate m-plane microdisks. In these nonpolar microdisks, the in-plane polarization fields have a dramatic effect on the symmetry of the etching in both the undercut etching and in the unwanted etching of the GaN disk layer. With a careful balance of etchant concentration and illumination intensity and a well-designed epitaxial structure, we have achieved smoother optical cavities than were possible in c-plane GaN.
Molecular mechanisms for multitasking: recent crystal structures of moonlighting proteins

Recently determined X-ray crystal structures of moonlighting proteins are helping to elucidate how a protein can evolve two different functions and, in some cases, switch between its two functions in response to cellular conditions. X-ray crystal structures of the I-AniI homing endonuclease/maturase and the PutA proline dehydrogenase/transcription factor have provided evidence that these proteins utilize separate protein surfaces for their multiple functions. Also, the structure of the DegP (HtrA) protease/chaperone has revealed information about the mechanism of its chaperone activity and suggests how the protein regulates its protease activity. Comparing the structure of eta-crystallin/retinal dehydrogenase with structures of its single-function enzyme homologs provides clues to changes in the protein structure that may have improved its ability to serve as a crystallin, but at the same time may have adversely affected its catalytic activity.
Acupuncture in xerostomia: a systematic review

summary The aim of this systematic review was to assess the efficacy of acupuncture in the management of xerostomia. Assessing quality of studies aim to efficiently integrate valid information and provide a basis for sound decision making based on the best available evidence. Articles of controlled clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of acupuncture in the management of xerostomia were obtained by searching through the databases MEDLINE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to September 2003. Three articles met the criteria for inclusion and a criteria list was used to assess the quality of these studies. The studies were considered to be of high quality or low quality in accordance with the criteria list utilized. The results of the trials were considered positive, negative or indifferent based on statistically significant between group differences. The criteria list utilized indicate that one of the three studies was of high quality and it presents indifferent results. One of the two studies of low quality presents positive results and one presents indifferent results. An analysis of the results degree of evidence resulted in no evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture in the management of xerostomia. This systematic review shows that there is no evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture in the management of xerostomia. There is a need for future high quality randomized controlled trials.
Design and performance of a new magnetic spectrograph for accurate energy measurements

Abstract A large broad-range magnetic spectrograph of a new design is described. The primary requirement of accuracy is achieved with a single dipole magnet, fixed focal surface and high dispersion. A large energy range of Emin/Emax=3.7, a solid angle up to 2.8 msr in the normal mode, and an energy resolution greater than 3000 over much of the range make it an excellent instrument for reaction energy measurements. The design, construction and testing are described.
The advanced photon source (APS) linear accelerator as a source of slow positrons

The advanced photon source [1] linear accelerator (linac) system consists of a 200 MeV, 2856 MHz S-band electron linac, a 2 radiation-length thick tungsten target for positron production, and a 450 MeV positron linac [2]. The linac is briefly described, and some possibilities for its use as a slow positron source are discussed.
A scaled ab initio potential energy surface for acetylene and vinylidene

Abstract We report an empirically adjusted potential energy surface for C 2 H 2 that describes acetylene/vinylidene isomerization. This new surface is based on a very recent fit to extensive ab initio electronic calculations obtained at the CCSD(T) level of theory, with an aug-cc-pVTZ basis [Chem. Phys. Lett. 368 (2003) 421]. The adjustments are made by a coordinate-scaling procedure that has been used previously to empirically adjust potentials. The adjustments are made based on full-dimensional converged quantum mechanical calculations of acetylene vibrational levels that have been accurately determined experimentally.
Multicomponent equilibrium theory for ion‐exchange columns involving reactions

The multicomponent equilibrium theory for ion-exchange columns (chromatography) has been extended to systems accompanied by reactions in either or both phases. Based on the concept of coherence of concentration waves in the original theory, the proposed approach includes a systematic way to determine the thermodynamic variance and a general mathematical formulation to construct the composition path grid by means of numerical techniques. With proper adjustments, this approach can be applied as well to adsorption columns involving reactions. As a practical example, a comparison of predicted and observed effluent histories for an anion-exchange system with dissociation-association reactions is shown.
Gluconeogenesis and pyruvate metabolism in rat kidney, in vitro.

Slices from kidneys of normal, alloxan diabetic, and cortisone treated rats have been incubated with pyruvate-2-C14 and the incorporation of C14 into various products has been determined. Pyruvate uptake, and the incorporation of C14 into glucose and lactate was greater than normal in the diabetic and cortisone treated rat kidney slices. Incorporation of C14 into glycogen was increased above normal in the cortisone treated slices. There was a several fold increase in glucose content above normal in the incubations with diabetic and cortisone treated kidney slices. A large percentage of this newly formed glucose was synthesized from pyruvate carbon as measured by the isotopic techniques. From these in vitro experiments, to the extent of their in vivo physiological relevance, it is concluded that in diabetes mellitus and as a consequence of cortisone administration the metabolism of pyruvate in the kidney is significantly altered from the normal and gluconeogenesis is increased.
Alcuin on Virtues and Vices: A Manual for a Carolingian Soldier

The Work of the Northumbrian Alcuin in the service of Charlemagne by far excels in importance the contributions of other scholars allied with the Frankish king. One of Alcuin's many interests was to develop in the leaders among the laity of a barbarian age a sense of moral responsibility and a personal culture fit for the commanding positions which these men held. Many of the letters sent by Alcuin to Charlemagne and other members of the Royal household, to the kings of Mercia and Northumbria, to Frankish and British nobles and government officials, overflow with advice and requests to mend their ways. With this aim he wrote special works for some of these persons — for one example, the Rhetoric as a Via Regia for Charlemagne, a work which must be classed as the oldest Carolingian speculum principis, preceding that of Smaragdus of St. Mihiel (written for Louis the Pious), that of Jonas of Orlans (for Pippin of Aquitania), that of Sedulius Scotus (for Lothar II), and that of Hincmar of Reims (for Charles the Bald).
On Some Survivals of Pagan Belief in Anglo-Saxon England

Thanks to the considerable surviving corpus of Old-Norse literature much is known about Old North-Germanic religious practices and beliefs; by comparison, our knowledge of corresponding matters in the West-Germanic area is meager. For England, historically and sociologically an offshoot of, and by the time of the earliest written records long separated from, the north-west German homeland, our best source of information is a rather miscellaneous collection of charms. Next probably come the epic poem Beowulf and the historian Bede, who especially in his Historia ecclesiastica passim furnishes some additional information. Otherwise one is dependent upon scattered materials, ranging from single words to such cult objects as the cenotaph ship excavated in 1939 at Sutton Hoo in Norfolk. In the face of this relative paucity of knowledge any little additional information may be welcome.
Midline thalamic lesions enhance conditioned bradycardia and the cardiac orienting reflex in rabbits

Learned heart rate changes were assessed during two sessions of differential Pavlovian (classical) conditioning in three groups of New Zealand albino rabbits. One group received ibotenic acid lesions of the midline nuclei of the thalamus, a second received vehicle injections in the midline nuclei, and a third group served as unoperated control animals. During an initial session, the cardiac component of the orienting reflex was assessed in all three groups. The rabbits with lesions of midline thalamic nuclei demonstrated enhanced bradycardiac conditioned responses, relative to either vehicle-control or unoperated animals. The heart rate component of the orienting response to nonreinforced tones, which also consisted of stimulus-evoked bradycardia, was likewise larger in lesioned animals. These results suggest that the midline thalamic nuclei, like the interconnected mediodorsal thalamic nucleus, may be involved in the regulation of sympathetically mediated autonomic adjustments.
Measurement of skin dose from cone-beam computed tomography imaging

Objective To measure surface skin dose from various cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanners using point-dosimeters.
Sediment source analysis in the Linganore Creek watershed, Maryland, USA, using the sediment fingerprinting approach: 2008 to 2010

Fine-grained sediment is an important pollutant in streams and estuaries, including the Chesapeake Bay in the USA. The objective of this study was to determine the sources of fine-grained sediment using the sediment fingerprinting approach in the Linganore Creek watershed, a tributary to the Chesapeake Bay. The sediment fingerprinting approach was used in the agricultural and forested, 147-km2 Linganore Creek watershed, Maryland from 1 August 2008 to 31 December 2010 to determine the relative percentage contribution from different potential sources of fine-grained sediment. Fine-grained suspended sediment samples (<63 μm) were collected during storm events in Linganore Creek using an automatic sampler and manual isokinetic samplers. Source samples were collected from 40 stream bank sites, 24 agricultural (cropland and pasture) sites, and 19 forested sites. Suspended sediment and source samples were analyzed for elements and stable isotopes. Results of sediment fingerprinting for 194 samples collected in 36 separate storm events indicate that stream banks contributed 53% of the annual fine-grained suspended sediment load, agriculture contributed 44%, and forests contributed 3%. Peak flows and sediment loads of the storms correlate to stream bank erosion. The highest peak flows occurred in the winter and, along with freeze–thaw activity, contributed to winter months showing the highest rate of stream bank erosion. Peak flow was negatively correlated to sediment sources from agricultural lands which had the greatest contribution in non-winter months. Caution should be observed when trying to interpret the relation between sediment sources and individual storms using the sediment fingerprinting approach. Because the sediment fingerprinting results from individual storms may not include the temporal aspects of the sourced sediment, sediment that is in storage from previous events, remobilized and sampled during the current event, will reflect previous storm characteristics. Stream bank sediment is delivered directly to the channel during an event, whereas the delivery of upland sediment to the stream is lower due to storage on hillslopes and/or in channels, sediment from stream banks are more likely to be related to the characteristics of the sampled storm event. Stream banks and agricultural lands are both important sources of fine-grained sediment in the Linganore Creek watershed. Peak flows and sediment loads for the 36 storms show a significant relation to sediment sources from stream bank erosion. Attempting to link upland sediment sources to flow and seasonal characteristics is difficult since much of the upland sediment eroded in an event goes into storage. By averaging sediment sources over several storms, it may be possible to determine not only the sediment sources that are directly contributed during the current event but also sediment from previous events that was in storage and remobilized.
Immigrant Status, Mental Health Need, and Mental Health Service Utilization Among High-Risk Hispanic and Asian Pacific Islander Youth

This study examined youth mental health service (MHS) use as a function of family immigrant status and type of mental health need (internalizing vs. externalizing). A sample of Hispanic and Asian/Pacific Islander families (youth ages 11–18; N = 457) involved with public sectors of care provided reports of youth mental health need during an initial interview and MHS use was examined prospectively over 2 years. While externalizing need predicted specialty and school-based MHS use in the overall sample, family immigrant status moderated the association between youth need and specialty MHS use such that immigrant youth were more likely to receive services for externalizing need and less likely to receive services for internalizing need relative to non-immigrant youth.
A multi-cancer mesenchymal transition gene expression signature is associated with prolonged time to recurrence in glioblastoma.

A stage-associated gene expression signature of coordinately expressed genes, including the transcription factor Slug (SNAI2) and other epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers has been found present in samples from publicly available gene expression datasets in multiple cancer types, including nonepithelial cancers. The expression levels of the co-expressed genes vary in a continuous and coordinate manner across the samples, ranging from absence of expression to strong co-expression of all genes. These data suggest that tumor cells may pass through an EMT-like process of mesenchymal transition to varying degrees. Here we show that, in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), this signature is associated with time to recurrence following initial treatment. By analyzing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we found that GBM patients who responded to therapy and had long time to recurrence had low levels of the signature in their tumor samples (P = 3×10−7). We also found that the signature is strongly correlated in gliomas with the putative stem cell marker CD44, and is highly enriched among the differentially expressed genes in glioblastomas vs. lower grade gliomas. Our results suggest that long delay before tumor recurrence is associated with absence of the mesenchymal transition signature, raising the possibility that inhibiting this transition might improve the durability of therapy in glioma patients.