cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Assembly of Alzheimer-like Filaments HOW A SMALL CLUSTER OF CHARGED RESIDUES IN Tau AND MAP2 CONTROLS FILAMENT MORPHOLOGY

Although the microtubule-binding regions (MTBRs) of both Tau and MAP2 can undergo self-assembly into straight filaments (SFs) in vitro, only the Tau MTBR forms paired helical filaments (PHFs). Moreover, Tau appears to be the exclusive building block of the neuropathic filaments observed in Alzheimer's disease and certain frontotemporal dementias (FTDs). Despite significant conservation in the MTBR sequences, there are two persistently different stretches of amino acids (designated here as Module-A and Module-B) between Tau and MAP2 from a number of organisms. To evaluate the role of charged residues in these modules as potential morphology-specifying elements, we used site-directed mutagenesis to replace selected residues within the MAP2 MTBR by residues at corresponding positions in Tau. We then employed electron microscopy to determine the frequency of occurrence of SF and PHF morphology in filaments assembled from these mutant microtubule-binding regions. Our experimental results indicate that a very small number of residues are especially significant determinants of filament morphology; this inference is also supported by the observation that site-directed substitutions of individual Tau residues into MAP2 Module-B likewise result in the formation of PHF-like structures. Because the Module-B in Tau contains two naturally occurring FTD mutations, residues in this region may play a critical role in neuropathic filament assembly.
Application of laser technology to optical countermeasures

AbstractOptical sensors of one form or another have been used on the battlefields for millennia in order to collect information about adversaries. Many techniques have been used throughout history to defeat these sensors. The original approaches tended to attempt to use the sun to dazzle the sensors. The development of laser technology has provided many opportunities to defeat a vast range of sensors operating in various wavebands of the electromagnetic spectrum.This paper considers how laser technology may be used to defeat sensors. The high radiant intensity of laser emissions that are feasible from such devices enables various scales of phenomena to be generated in the sensors, ranging from temporary effects to permanent damage. These mechanisms are considered in this paper.
Clinical Features of Plague in the United States: The 1969–1970 Epidemic

The incidence of bubonic plague in humans in the United States has increased markedly since 1965; there were nineteen cases in 1969-1970. All but four were acquired in New Mexico from sylvatic plague endemic in wild rodents. An epizootic in these animals has not been proved. Increasing outdoor recreation and establishment of rural communes may bring more people into contact with infected rodents, while suburban pets may transport fleas from rodents to man. The current patients were younger and included more females than previously reported. Initial clinical manifestations were often milder than expected, although there was one death. All patients had fever and a bubo, while malaise or myalgia, headache or confusion, and abdominal complaints were found in one-half of the cases. When this disease is kept in mind, early recognition and specific therapy are usually possible. However, delayed diagnosis may result from atypical manifestations, or illness that develops after travel to places distant from endemic areas such as the Southwestern United States. In the 40 years from 1925 to 1964, 42 cases of bubonic plague were identified in the United States; one or two cases were reported each year [1-3]. In the past six years (1965-1970), 38 cases have been recognized, including six in 1969 [4] and 13 in 1970. Among these thirty-eight there have been five deaths, or approximately one per year; the last death was reported in November, 1970. The outbreak of 1970 was the largest in any year in the United States since 1924, when an urban epidemic hit Los Angeles. Most of the recent cases have occurred in the Southwest, espe
The Experiences of Minority Doctoral Students at Elite Research Institutions

Minority doctoral students at elite and highly competitive private research universities encounter distinctive challenges that can impact persistence, time to degree, and professional outcomes.
Parallel programs: proofs, principles, and practice

Several principles are identified from work on the verification of parallel programs. Concrete examples of the ways these principles can be applied, even when formal verification is not the goal, are then described. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate ways in which the concepts of program verification yield insight into the programming process, programming languages, and program properties.
Kinetics of growth of calcium sulfate crystals at heated metal surfaces

Abstract A highly reproducible kinetic method is described for the study of calcium sulfate crystal growth at heated metal shell surfaces. It enables the rate of crystallization, morphology of the deposited crystals and the thermal conductivity to be monitored. The calcium sulfate scale crystals nucleate preferentially at gas-liquid interfaces provided by gas bubbles escaping from the heated surface and subsequently, growth takes place by a surface-controlled process. The influence of potential anti-scale or crystal growth inhibitors has also been investigated.
The Effect of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Identification Strategies on Estimates of Linkage Disequilibrium

At present there is tremendous interest in characterizing the magnitude and distribution of linkage disequilibrium (LD) throughout the human genome, which will provide the necessary foundation for genome-wide LD analyses and facilitate detailed evolutionary studies. To this end, a human high-density single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker map has been constructed. Many of the SNPs on this map, however, were identified by sampling a small number of chromosomes from a single population, and inferences drawn from studies using such SNPs may be influenced by ascertainment bias (AB). Through extensive simulations, we have found that AB is a potentially significant problem in estimating and comparing LD within and between populations. Specifically, the magnitude of AB is a function of the SNP discovery strategy, number of chromosomes used for SNP discovery, population genetic characteristics of the particular genomic region considered, amount of gene flow between populations, and demographic history of the populations. We demonstrate that a balanced SNP discovery strategy (where equal numbers of chromosomes are sampled from multiple subpopulations) is the optimal study design for generating broadly applicable SNP resources. Finally, we validate our theoretical predictions by comparing our results to publicly available data from ten genes sequenced in 24 African American and 23 European American individuals.
Quantification of metal ion induced DNA damage with single cell array based assay.

Under physiological and wear conditions, implanted orthopedic devices undergo undesired release of metal ions which cause DNA damage and inflammation of local tissue. However, individuals have personalized responses to identical devices due to varying susceptibility to DNA damage. The current one-size-fits-all approach is therefore not suitable to predict the response of patients to implanted devices. This paper describes a single cell array based method to quantify metal ion induced DNA damage that can potentially be used to predict the response to implanted devices in patients. Ions of several typical metals in implanted devices were used to treat human normal fibroblast cells. After patterning cells on a silicon substrate with cell-catching patches, cells were embedded in hydrogel and treated with alkaline buffer. Damaged DNAs diffuse out of the cell, and are stained to show a characteristic halo. All studied metal ions (Cu2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cr2+, Fe2+, Al3+) induce DNA damage and have genotoxicity. Copper ions cause DNA damage at concentrations as low as 1 μM. Cobalt and nickel ions damage DNA at 5 and 10 μM, respectively. Aluminum, iron and chromium ions cause DNA damage at 50 μM. The cytotoxicity assay shows that most ions, except cobalt and copper, are less toxic below 500 μM. The fact that metal ions can cause genotoxicity at lower concentrations than that of cytotoxicity suggests: (1) a single cell based DNA damage assay is more sensitive than a membrane integrity based live/dead assay; and (2) metal ions preferentially induce DNA damage rather than cell membrane damage.
Mass spectrometry of polyaromatic sulfur compounds in the presence of palladium(II).

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and tandem MS in an ion trap were used to explore the reduction of a PdCl2 solution and the role of the metal in the formation of organosulfur radical cations. For tandem MS experiments, a 32 Da neutral loss (M − S), was observed for dibenzothiophene, thianthrene and benzonaphthothiophene, whereas both 32 and 33 Da neutral losses were observed for 2-methyldibenzothiophene and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene. The effects of several variables on the formation of molecular ions or molecular fragments were studied to optimize radical cation formation, including the concentration ratio between PdCl2 and sulfur and the collision energy. Electrochemical and chromatographic data were used to provide an explanation for the relative sensitivity observed for a mixture of polyaromatic sulfur heterocycles. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel chlorine-enriched SiO2/Si3N4 bilayers to downscale gate dielectrics toward sub-45nm and beyond

We have developed a low leakage and highly reliable SiON gate dielectrics by using novel low temperature deposition of chlorine-enriched silicon nitride upon a thin oxide. This method can achieve higher top-to-bottom nitrogen concentration ratio and keep nitrogen peak toward top surface. It was found that the low temperature Si3N4 deposition technique can form a high nitrogen percentage SiON (> 40%), compared to DPN (decoupled plasma nitridation) nitrided films (< 20%). The gate leakage of the novel bilayers SiON dielectric was 3.3 times lower than DPN nitrided SiON at the same EOT. This result showed that no significant interface trap existed between SiO2/Si3N4. The proposed scheme demonstrated a superior interface state density with excellent resistance to boron penetration without mobility degradation giving very promising features for gate oxynitride scaling toward 45nm and beyond high performance CMOS applications.
Inductive Effect and Hydrogen Bonding in Complexes of Branched Poly(ethylenimine) with Sodium Tetraphenylborate and Sodium Triflate

Systems of branched polyethylenimine (BPEI) complexed with sodium triflate (NaTf) and sodium tetraphenylborate (NaBPh4) are examined using FT-IR spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and impedance spectroscopy. Cation−polymer, cation−anion, and hydrogen-bonding interactions are investigated by evaluating the frequency shifts of the host BPEI upon complexation with the salts. The inductive effect of sodium is highly dependent on its interaction with the anion, with the effect stronger in BPEI:NaBPh4 complexes than in BPEI:NaTf complexes. DSC data show that the glass transition temperatures for the BPEI:NaBPh4 system are significantly higher than the Tg values for the BPEI:NaTf system at the same salt compositions. The ionic conductivities of the BPEI:NaTf complexes are significantly higher than the conductivities of the BPEI:NaBPh4 complexes at all comparable compositions and temperatures. This result is consistent with the DSC data and the greater sodium ion inductive effect in the BPEI:NaBPh4 ...
Perspectives from Pre-Service Mathematics and Science Teachers in an Urban Residency Program: Characteristics of Effective Mentors.

The purpose of our study was to examine mathematics and science preservice teachers’ perceptions of their mentoring experiences during their 1st year in the Teaching Residency Program for Critical Shortage Areas, an initiative designed to recruit, prepare, and retain teachers for high-need urban schools. Results from this mixed-methods study illustrated pedagogical aspects and mentor characteristics that enhanced and impeded pre-service teachers’ growth and development. Therefore, professional development, especially working with adults, must also include frequent monitoring of the mentoring relationships to identify problematic situations. Our findings also suggested that an extended field experience helps deter deficit thinking about a diverse student population. The dynamics of teaching alongside a mentor through a residency program, coupled with the challenges of an urban setting, provide an opportunity for researchers to continue to examine pre-service teachers’ development and to identify effective practices to build mentor capacity.
Technology mapping for k/m-macrocell based FPGAs

In this paper, we study the technology mapping problem for a novel FPGA architecture that is based on k-input single-output PLA-like cells, or, k/m-macrocells. Each cell in this architecture can implement a single output function of up to k inputs and up to m product terms. We develop a very efficient technology mapping algorithm, k_m_flow, for this new type of architecture. The experiment results show our algorithm can achieve depth-optimality in practically all cases. Furthermore it is shown that the k/m-macrocell based FPGAs are practically equivalent to the traditional k-LUT based FPGAs with only a relatively small number of product terms (m≤k + 3). We also investigate thetotal are and delay of k/m-macrocell based FPGAs on various benchmarks to compare it with commonly used 4-LUT based FPGAs. The experimental result shows k/m-macrocell based FPGAs can outperform 4-LUT based FPGAs in terms of both delay and area after placement and routing by VPR.
Association of transfer RNA acceptor identity with a helical irregularity.

The aminoacylation specificity ("acceptor identity") of transfer RNAs (tRNAs) has previously been associated with the position of particular nucleotides, as opposed to distinctive elements of three-dimensional structure. The contribution of a G.U wobble pair in the acceptor helix of tRNA(Ala) to acceptor identity was examined with synthetic amber suppressor tRNAs in Escherichia coli. The acceptor identity was not affected by replacing the G.U wobble pair in tRNA(Ala) with a G.A, C.A, or U.U wobble pair. Furthermore, a tRNA(Ala) acceptor identity was conferred on tRNA(Lys) when the same site in the acceptor helix was replaced with any of several wobble pairs. Additional data with tRNA(Ala) show that a substantial acceptor identity was retained when the G.U wobble pair was translocated to another site in the acceptor helix. These results suggest that the G.U wobble pair induces an irregularity in the acceptor helix of tRNA(Ala) to match a complementary structure in the aminoacylating enzyme.
Touch sensitivity in plants: be aware or beware

A recent paper shows that touch sensing and gravity sensing interact to guide roots around obstacles. Upon encountering an object, the touch stimulus induces curvature behind the root tip and partially suppresses the gravity response, enabling the root to navigate around the obstacle while maintaining contact with it. These findings raise questions regarding the nature of touch sensing in roots, the location of the sensors, and the manner in which these sensory systems interact to accomplish obstacle avoidance.
Misleading Inferences from Panel Unit‐Root Tests with an Illustration from Purchasing Power Parity

Simulations demonstrate that when unit-root behavior is rejected in a Levin and Lin panel test, it is incorrect to infer that all series are stationary. Recent tests proposed by Im, Pesaran and Shin, and by Sarno and Taylor, are also incapable of determining the mix of I(0) and I(1) series in a panel setting. This paper introduces a new unit-root test that allows the researcher to discern which series are I(0) and which ones are I(1). The test has double to triple the power of single-equation augmented Dickey–Fuller tests.
Current Strategies for Prevention and Management of Stem Cell Transplant-Related Urinary Tract and Voiding Dysfunction

Advances in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in providing an effective and curative measure for many malignancies have led to further associated complications. Stem cell transplant (SCT) survivors are at increased risk for developing late complications secondary to pre-, peri-, and posttransplantation exposures. There is a lack of knowledge in prevention, treatment, and long-term outcomes associated with the different organ systems affected. We will present urological complications post SCT with the associated risk factors, preventative measures, treatments, and outcomes. Due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with post SCT urological complications, future prospective studies are needed.
Specificity of the HP1 chromo domain for the methylated N‐terminus of histone H3

Recent studies show that heterochromatin‐associated protein‐1 (HP1) recognizes a ‘histone code’ involving methylated Lys9 (methyl‐K9) in histone H3. Using in situ immunofluorescence, we demonstrate that methyl‐K9 H3 and HP1 co‐localize to the heterochromatic regions of Drosophila polytene chromosomes. NMR spectra show that methyl‐K9 binding of HP1 occurs via its chromo (chromosome organization modifier) domain. This interaction requires methyl‐K9 to reside within the proper context of H3 sequence. NMR studies indicate that the methylated H3 tail binds in a groove of HP1 consisting of conserved residues. Using fluorescence anisotropy and isothermal titration calorimetry, we determined that this interaction occurs with a K D of ∼100 μM, with the binding enthalpically driven. A V26M mutation in HP1, which disrupts its gene silencing function, severely destabilizes the H3‐binding interface, and abolishes methyl‐K9 H3 tail binding. Finally, we note that sequence diversity in chromo domains may lead to diverse functions in eukaryotic gene regulation. For example, the chromo domain of the yeast histone acetyltransferase Esa1 does not interact with methyl‐ K9 H3, but instead shows preference for unmodified H3 tail.
Digoxin use and risk of invasive breast cancer: evidence from the Nurses’ Health Study and meta-analysis

Despite preclinical evidence supporting anti-cancer effects of cardiac glycosides, epidemiologic studies consistently show elevated breast cancer risk in digoxin users. We studied this association in the Nurses' Health Study cohort to evaluate influences of screening mammography and lifestyle-related risk factors. We followed 90,202 postmenopausal women from 1994 to 2010. Self-reported breast cancers were confirmed by medical record review. We fit Cox regression models to estimate associations between time-varying digoxin use and breast cancer incidence, overall and by tumor ER status, accounting for mammography screening and established breast cancer risk factors. There were 5,004 digoxin users over 1.05 million person-years of observation, among whom 144 breast cancer cases occurred. Digoxin users were more likely to undergo mammographic screening, to be former users of postmenopausal hormones, and to take other medications than never-users; the groups were similar on reproductive history and alcohol consumption. Current digoxin use of >4-year duration was associated with a 45 % increased rate of breast cancer compared with never use (HRadj = 1.45, 95 % CI 1.13-1.86). The association appeared stronger for ER-positive disease (HRadj = 1.46, 95 % CI 1.10-1.95) than for ER-negative disease (HRadj = 1.12, 95 % CI 0.52-2.37). Associations were robust to restriction on regular mammography use and to adjustment for established breast cancer risk factors, including lifestyle-related exposures. The positive association between digoxin use and breast cancer occurrence was not attenuated when lifestyle-related breast cancer risk factors and screening practices were accounted for. Digoxin, a common cardiac drug worldwide, may promote breast carcinogenesis.
Public relations in disaster management and planning for emergency physicians.

Abstract The goal of this article is to serve as a primer of disaster public relations. It will explain the requirements of the media and how best to incorporate their ubiquitous presence to the advantage of the disaster team, including how to give an effective interview, how and where to establish a media center, and the importance of sensing what will make the strongest visual or textual impact. In any disaster response, the media will play a large role. Their presence is condoned by the law and expected by the public. In reality, a reporter will probably arrive at the scene of a disaster before the first health care professional. It is only through the knowledge of the media's needs, and an appreciation of the ways in which it can assist the disaster team, that planners can best forge a relationship with the media that will confer the greatest mutual benefit.
N-Hyroxypyridine-2-thione carbamates. VI. Functionalization of carbon radicals formed by aminium cation radical cyclizattons

Abstract A variety of reagents have been evaluated for trapping carbon radicals formed from aminium cation radical cyclizations. Rapid “self-trapping” of these radicals by their PTOC carbamate precursors requires highly reactive trapping agents. Synthetically useful trapping reagents include t-BuSH, CBr4, phenyl vinyl sulfone and Ph2Se2in addition to the PTOC carbamate radical precursors.
Abstract 3644: The PSP94αprostasin pathway and early detection of ovarian cancer

Objective: Our long-term goal is to better understand the mechanism of tumor development in human epithelial ovarian cancer. The short-term goal is to identify a biomarker for early detection of this malignancy. Methods: qPCR was performed for PSP94 expression using SYBR® Green reagents kit in 3 pairs of tumor and normal samples of ovarian cancer patients and 4 ovarian cancer cell lines on ABI 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR System. Overexpression of PSP94 or prostasin by cDNA transfection was performed in ovarian cancer cell lines. The expression levels of PSP94 and prostasin after cDNA transfection were determined by western blot analysis. Results: In gene expression analysis by qPCR, we found that PSP94 expresses in tumor tissues of ovarian cancer patients and cancer cell lines but not in normal ovarian specimens. Our investigation of the relationship between PSP94 and prostasin by cDNA transfection assay demonstrated that expression of prostasin was increased in the PSP94 overexpressed cells. In contrast, PSP94 expression did not change in the prostasin-forced-expression cells. This suggests that the two genes most likely share part of a regulation network and that PSP94 appears to be an upstream regulator of prostasin. Conclusions: We conclude that PSP94 expression occurs only in tumor samples and PSP94 and prostasin share a signaling pathway. We hypothesize that alteration of PSP94-prostasin pathway may be an early event in the development of epithelial ovarian cancer; PSP94 appears to be an upstream regulator that modulates prostasin expression. Thus, PSP94 seems to play an important role in tumorigenesis and may hold great promise as a biomarker for early detection of human epithelial ovarian cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3644. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3644
Binding of Luminescent Ruthenium(II) Molecular Probes to Vesicles

A systematic study of the binding of luminescent Ru(II) complexes with α-diimine ligands (2,2‘-bipyridine, 1,10-phenanthroline, and substituted analogues) to neutral (1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) and anionic (phospholipid was l-α-phosphatidylserine (Brain; sodium salt)) unilamellar vesicles is presented. Excited state lifetime measurements coupled with differential oxygen quenching of the bound and unbound complex provide a quantitative measure of binding. The roles of charge and complex hydrophobicity are examined in regard to binding strength. Binding is strongly dependent on electrostatic attraction, but hydrophobic interactions are equally important and can enhance binding by orders of magnitude. These results provide criteria and guidelines for the design of luminescent inorganic molecular probes for use in biological and, especially, membrane systems.
Recent Advances in Liposome‐Based Nanoparticles for Antigen Delivery

Over the last several years, new generation vaccine systems that are based on proteins, peptides, or DNA have shown great promise compared to the traditional vaccines based on inactivated or attenuated whole organisms. However, due to the lower efficiencies and higher cost of these new generation vaccines, they are seldom used alone. Rather, their formulations often contain adjuvants, either to enhance the immune responses or to reduce the effective dose. The present article will provide a brief overview of recent advances in peptide‐ or protein-based cancer vaccine adjuvants, focusing mainly on Liposome‐Protamine‐DNA (LPD) nanoparticle‐mediated antigen delivery. The molecular basis and signaling pathways leading to the activation and maturation of antigen presenting cells (APC) by adjuvants are discussed. Another consideration of the liposome‐based vaccine delivery system is the antigen targeting. Therefore, the second part of this review will discuss the strategies used for targeted delivery of antigen,...
Three-dimensional coupled kinetics/thermal- hydraulic benchmark TRIGA experiments

Abstract This research project provides separate effects tests in order to benchmark neutron kinetics models coupled with thermal-hydraulic (T/H) models used in best-estimate codes such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's (NRC) RELAP and TRAC code series and industrial codes such as RETRAN. Before this research project was initiated, no adequate experimental data existed for reactivity initiated transients that could be used to assess coupled three-dimensional (3D) kinetics and 3D T/H codes which have been, or are being developed around the world. Using various Test Reactor Isotope General Atomic (TRIGA) reactor core configurations at the Penn State Breazeale Reactor (PSBR), it is possible to determine the level of neutronics modeling required to describe kinetics and T/H feedback interactions. This research demonstrates that the small compact PSBR TRIGA core does not necessarily behave as a point kinetics reactor, but that this TRIGA can provide actual test results for 3D kinetics code benchmark efforts. This research focused on developing in-reactor tests that exhibited 3D neutronics effects coupled with 3D T/H feedback. A variety of pulses were used to evaluate the level of kinetics modeling needed for prompt temperature feedback in the fuel. Ramps and square waves were used to evaluate the detail of modeling needed for the delayed T/H feedback of the coolant. A stepped ramp was performed to evaluate and verify the derived thermal constants for the specific PSBR TRIGA core loading pattern. As part of the analytical benchmark research, the STAR 3D kinetics code ( Weader, 1992 , STAR: Space and time analysis of reactors, Version 5, Level 3, Users Guide, Yankee Atomic Electric Company, YEAC 1758, Bolton, MA) was used to model the transient experiments. The STAR models were coupled with the one-dimensional (1D) WIGL and LRA and 3D COBRA ( Rowe, 1973 , COBRA IIIC: A digital computer program for steady-state and transient thermal-hydraulic analysis of rod bundle nuclear fuel elements, Battelle Institute, Richland, WA). T/H models to determine the level of T/H modeling required to accurately describe the behaviour of the PSBR TRIGA core during these transient conditions. STAR's 1D T/H models (WIGL and LRA) were adequate for the rapid pulse events, when accurate temperature-dependent fuel thermal constants were used and the reactor coolant feedback mechanism was small. However, the longer transients (i.e. ramps, square waves) necessitated the use of the COBRA 3D fluid flow analysis coupled with the 3D STAR kinetics model.
Maternal attitudes toward DNA collection for gene-environment studies: a qualitative research study.

To assess attitudes toward DNA collection in an epidemiological study, focus groups were assembled in September 2007 with mothers who had participated in a case―control study of birth defects. Each recruited mother previously had completed an interview and had received a mailed kit containing cytobrushes to collect buccal cells for DNA from herself, her infant, and her infant's father during the period July 2004 through July 2007. A total of 38 mothers attended six focus groups comprising: (1) non-Hispanic Black mothers of case infants who participated or (2) did not participate in DNA collection, (3) mothers of any race or ethnicity who had case infants of low birth weight who participated or (4) did not participate in DNA collection, and (5) non-Hispanic Black mothers of control infants who participated or (6) did not participate in DNA collection. Moderator-led discussions probed maternal attitudes toward providing specimens, factors that influenced decision making, and collection method preferences. Biologics participants reported that they provided DNA for altruistic reasons. Biologics nonparticipants voiced concerns about government involvement and how their DNA will be used. Information provided (or not provided) on DNA use, storage, and disposal influenced decision making. Biologics participants and nonparticipants reported that paternal skepticism was a barrier to participation. All mothers were asked to rank DNA collection methods in terms of preference (cytobrushes, saliva, mouthwash, newborn blood spots, and blood collection). Preferred methods were convenient and noninvasive. Better understanding attitudes toward DNA collection and preferred collection methods might allow more inclusive participation and benefit future studies. Published 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. † .
Sun exposure, sun protection, and vitamin D

Objectives: To examine during what behaviors people apply sunscreen and to assess the relationship to UV exposure monitored by personal dosimetry and diaries.Design: Open prospective observational study.Setting: University hospital.Participants: A convenience sample of 340 Danish volunteers: children, adolescents, indoor workers, sun worshippers, golfers, and gardeners (age range, 4-68 years).Intervention: Subjects recorded sunscreen use and sun-exposure behavior in diaries and carried personal, electronic UV dosimeters, measuring time-stamped UV doses continuously, during a median of 119 days covering 346 sun-years (1 sun-year equals 1 subject participating during 1 summer season).Main Outcome Measures: Associations between sunscreen use and age, sex, skin type, occupation, sunburn, UV exposure doses, and behavior; and adequate application density and sun protection factor required to prevent sunburn.Results: There were great variations in sunscreen use, which was highly correlated with risk behavior (sunbathing or exposing the upper body) (r = 0.39; P<.001). Sunscreens were used on a median of 5 days per sun-year (range, 1 day for gardeners to 16 days for sun worshippers). Ten percent of females and 41% of males never used sunscreens. Females used sunscreens more but also had more unprotected risk behavior than males (8 days vs 4 days; P<.001). Sunscreen use was not correlated with age, and children had as much unprotected risk behavior as adults. Sunscreens were used on 86% of the days with risk behavior in southern Europe vs 20% in northern Europe (P<.001). The UV doses were significantly higher on days with sunscreen (P≤.03) and on sunburn days (P<.001). The median sun protection factor was 10.5. The sun-protecting effect corresponded to an application density of 0.5 mg/cm2.Conclusions: Days with sunscreen correlated not with days without risk behavior, but with days “sunbathing with the intention to tan,” indicating that sunscreens were used as tanning aids to avoid sunburn.
Level densities in mean-field theory versus the independent particle model

Abstract We point out that nuclear level densities at moderate excitation are systematically greater in mean-field theory than in the independent-particle model because self-consistency lowers the energies of excited states. We estimate the effect using a harmonic-oscillator model for 40 Ca and find a 10% change in the level density parameter a , which is a disappointingly small effect. The main effect of self-consistent shapes is a substantial smearing of shell structure.
Comparison of isobutyl nitrate and isobutyl nitrite: tolerance and cross-tolerance to glyceryl trinitrate.

Abstract This study includes the first systematic comparison of an organic nitrate with the corresponding organic nitrite - isobutyl nitrate and isobutyl nitrite. The spasmolytic activity of the nitrite on isolated rabbit aortic strips was stronger, more rapid in onset, but less stable than the activity of the nitrate. In vitro tolerance to glyceryl trinitrate and isobutyl nitrite greatly weakened the activity of isobutyl nitrate, respectively, but had much less effect on isobutyl nitrite. Possible reasons for these differences are discussed.
An examination of referential and affect specificity with five emotions in infancy

Abstract Referential specificity and affect specificity were examined in 12- to 14-month-olds (n = 20), and 16- to 18-month-olds (n = 20). Infants were presented with a televised social referencing paradigm involving an actress who emoted a simple descriptive message to one of two objects appearing on the video. The actress altered her affective message using a neutral baseline first, followed by 5 discrete emotions (anger, fear, sadness, happiness, surprise). Infants were given 30 s to interact with the objects after watching the affective episode. Older infants demonstrated referential and affect specificity, as evidenced by their differential treatment of the target and distracter toy in response to messages of anger, fear, surprise, and happiness. In contrast, the younger infants did not show evidence of either referential or affect specificity, as evidenced by the lack of differentiation in their treatment of the target and distracter toy in response to positive and negative emotional messages across all emotional episodes.
Nonionic Electrophoretic Sorting of SWCNTs into Metallic and Semiconducting Tubes

We present our preliminary results on a novel technique to electrophoretically sort singlewall carbon nanotubes into metallic and semiconducting tubes using a free-solution nonionic surfactant in a homemade electrophoretic vertical cell. The technique is used to sort purified commercial product SWCNTs, (Thomas Swan Elicarb) into metallic and semiconducting tubes. In contrast to onventional electrophoresis techniques, which takes more than 24 hours to obtain efficient separation, our approach takes ∼ 6 hours to achieve efficient separation, which reduces the separation time by four fold. Characterization of the sorted tubes with micro-Raman spectroscopy analysis shows very strong enrichment of both metallic and semiconducting tubes.
High-damage threshold antireflectors by physical-vapor-deposited amorphous fluoropolymer

High laser-resistant anti-reflective coatings were made from an amorphous fluoropolymer (Teflon AF2400) material by physical vapor deposition. Single layers of Teflon AF2400 were thermally deposited in a vacuum chamber. The refractive index and adhesion of the coatings were determined as a function of deposition rate (2 to 20 angstroms/s), substrate temperature (20 to 200 degree(s)C), and glow-discharge bias potential (-1500 to 1500 V).
Information Seeking Patterns: Social Sciences

In the last three decades, there have been a number of studies that have explored the information-seeking behavior of social science researchers. Over the years several themes have remained constant. Journals remain the preferred source of information and rank above most every other source. References to relevant materials are identified through following the citations from journals in hand rather than utilizing indexing and abstracting services. Libraries and librarians are not viewed as a primary, or in some cases, even an important source of information. This article will review some of the major studies that have been done in this area and discuss the implications of the findings for the development of services for this group of clientele.
Evaluating evapotranspiration and water-use efficiency of terrestrial ecosystems in the conterminous United States using MODIS and AmeriFlux data

Abstract In this study, we used the remotely-sensed data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS), meteorological and eddy flux data and an artificial neural networks (ANNs) technique to develop a daily evapotranspiration ( ET) product for the period of 2004–2005 for the conterminous U.S. We then estimated and analyzed the regional water-use efficiency (WUE) based on the developed ET and MODIS gross primary production (GPP) for the region. We first trained the ANNs to predict evapotranspiration fraction (EF) based on the data at 28 AmeriFlux sites between 2003 and 2005. Five remotely-sensed variables including land surface temperature (LST), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), normalized difference water index (NDWI), leaf area index (LAI) and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and ground-measured air temperature and wind velocity were used. The daily ET was calculated by multiplying net radiation flux derived from remote sensing products with EF. We then evaluated the model performance by comparing modeled ET with the data at 24 AmeriFlux sites in 2006. We found that the ANNs predicted daily ET well ( R 2 = 0.52–0.86). The ANNs were applied to predict the spatial and temporal distributions of daily ET for the conterminous U.S. in 2004 and 2005. The ecosystem WUE for the conterminous U.S. from 2004 to 2005 was calculated using MODIS GPP products (MOD17) and the estimated ET. We found that all ecosystems' WUE-drought relationships showed a two-stage pattern. Specifically, WUE increased when the intensity of drought was moderate; WUE tended to decrease under severe drought. These findings are consistent with the observations that WUE does not monotonously increase in response to water stress. Our study suggests a new water-use efficiency mechanism should be considered in ecosystem modeling. In addition, this study provides a high spatial and temporal resolution ET dataset, an important product for climate change and hydrological cycling studies for the MODIS era.
Clinical pharmacology of propafenone: Pharmacokinetics, metabolism and concentration-response relations

Propafenone is a promising new antiarrhythmic agent marketed in Europe for the past 7 years. The drug is remarkable for great interindividual variability in its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Propafenone undergoes extensive presystemic clearance that appears to be saturable, with bioavailability increasing as dosage increases. The drug is highly protein bound. Elimination half-life is 5 to 8 hours in most patients, although a range of 2 to 32 hours has been reported. Propafenone slows intracardiac conduction in a concentration-dependent manner. It is a weak β -adrenergic blocker, but this property is of uncertain clinical significance. The major metabolic pathway for propafenone begins with aromatic ring hydroxylation, a pathway that may be determined by genetic factors.
Permanent electric dipole moments of metal containing molecules

(2000). Permanent electric dipole moments of metal containing molecules. International Reviews in Physical Chemistry: Vol. 19, No. 3, pp. 455-477.
The impact of attenuated phase shift mask topography on hyper-NA lithography

Thin mask approximations and Kirchhoff boundary conditions for imaging calculations are justified when patterns on masks are large compared to the imaging wavelength and the thickness of absorber films were relatively small compared with the wavelength. For the future technology nodes, these assumptions will not be sufficiently accurate for simulation of attenuated phase shift masks. At very high numerical apertures and extreme off-axis illumination angles, changes in the optical path length and shadowing by the mask topography can lead to phase and amplitude deviations between the thin mask approximation and the more rigorous, full Maxwell equations approach. We have found a systematic, non-constant transmission and phase variation through pitch for low k1 imaging that is not found with the thin-mask approach. In this paper, the major impacts of attenuated phase shift mask topography in the presence of extreme off-axis illumination with numerical apertures greater than one is investigated and the contribution of mask topography to CD errors on the wafer is explored. Consideration of this new mask component to CD error budgets is needed when debating the advantages and disadvantages in a reticle magnification change.
Perillyl alcohol and genistein differentially regulate PKB/Akt and 4E-BP1 phosphorylation as well as eIF4E/eIF4G interactions in human tumor cells

Abstract Previously we demonstrated that secondary products of plant mevalonate metabolism called isoprenoids attenuate 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase mRNA translational efficiency and cause tumor cell death. Here we compared effects of “pure” isoprenoids (perillyl alcohol and γ-tocotrienol) and a “mixed” isoprenoid—genistein—on the PKB/Akt/mTOR pathway that controls mRNA translation and m 7 GpppX eIF4F cap binding complex formation. Effects were cell- and isoprenoid-specific. Perillyl alcohol and genistein suppressed 4E-BP1(Ser65) phosphorylation in prostate tumor cell lines, DU145 and PC-3, and in Caco2 adenocarcinoma cells. Suppressive effects were similar to or greater than that observed with a PI3 kinase inhibitor or rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor. 4E-BP1(Thr37) phosphorylation was reduced by perillyl alcohol and genistein in DU145, but not in PC-3. Conversely, perillyl alcohol but not genistein decreased 4E-BP1(Thr37) phosphorylation in Caco2. PKB/Akt activation via Ser473 phosphorylation was enhanced in DU145 by perillyl alcohol and in PC-3 by γ-tocotrienol, but was suppressed by genistein. Importantly, perillyl alcohol disrupted interactions between eIF4E and eIF4G, key components of eIF4F (m 7 GpppX) cap binding complex. These results demonstrate that “pure” isoprenoids and genistein differentially impact cap-dependent translation in tumor cell lines.
Sensor fault diagnostics for a class of non-linear systems using linear matrix inequalities

This paper develops a systematic approach to fault diagnostic system design for sensor health monitoring in Lipschitz non-linear systems. The methodology applies to non-linear systems with three or more sensors in which the state is observable through any one of the sensor measurements. Two major issues are addressed in the paper—observer design for the non-linear system to ensure directional growth of residues for failure identification and use of linear matrix inequalities for explicit design of the observer gain. The use of the methodology is demonstrated through an illustrative example.
Three prevalent properties of disordered systems and their common cause

There are three properties very frequently observed in strongly disordered systems, an ac conductivity proportional to the frequency, resistance noise with a power spectrum inversely proportional to the frequency and a glassy relaxation logarithmic in time. It is proposed that a common cause produces these phenomena, namely transition rates between states being exponential functions of a random variable. It is shown how all three properties can be obtained from this exponential dependence. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Immunologic sensitization and pulmonary hypersensitivity by repeated inhalation of aromatic isocyanates.

Abstract Previously, we have described an animal model for hapten-specific pulmonary hypersensitivity in which immunologic sensitization was accomplished by repeated inhalation of purified hapten-protein conjugates. The present study reports successful sensitization of animals by inhalation of p-tolyl isocyanate (TMI) or toluene diisocyanate (TDI) on 5 consecutive days. Within 2 weeks antibodies specific for tolyl (mono- or di-) isocyanate were detected using both passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and gel diffusion assays. Antibodies to TMI reacted with TMI-protein conjugates but did not react with conjugates containing TDI, n-hexyl isocyanate, or phenyl isocyanate. By contrast, antibodies to TDI cross-reacted with TMI-protein and phenyl isocyanate-protein antigens, but did not cross-react with conjugate antigens which contained hexyl isocyanate as the haptenic group. Animals sensitized to TMI displayed TMI-specific respiratory hypersensitivity, recognized by a respiratory response upon challenge with a TMI-protein conjugate. Utilization of the animal model to establish dose-response and threshold concentration relationships may provide a means to establish safe exposure levels for industrial workers exposed to reactive chemicals which may act as haptens.
Uptake of the cephalosporin, cephalexin, by a dipeptide transport carrier in the human intestinal cell line, Caco-2

The transport of the orally absorbed cephalosporin, cephalexin, was examined in the human epithelial cell line, Caco-2 that possesses intestinal enterocyte-like properties when cultured. In sodium-free buffer, the cells accumulated 1 mM D-[9-14C]cephalexin against a concentration gradient and obtained a distribution ratio of 3.5 within 180 min. Drug uptake was maximal when the extracellular pH was 6.0. Uptake was reduced by metabolic inhibitors and by protonophores indicating that uptake was energy- and proton-dependent. Kinetic analysis of the concentration dependence of the rate of cephalexin uptake showed that a non-saturable component (Kd of 0.18 +/- 0.01 nmol/min per mg protein per mM) and a transport system with a Km of 7.5 +/- 2.8 mM and a Vmax of 6.5 +/- 0.9 nmol/min per mg protein were responsible for drug uptake. Uptake was competitively inhibited by dipeptides. The transport carrier exhibited stereospecificity for the L-isomer of cephalexin. Drug uptake was not affected by the presence of amino acids, organic anions, 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid or 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-disulfonic stilbene. Therefore, Caco-2 cells take up cephalexin by a proton-dependent dipeptide transport carrier that closely resembles the transporter present in the intestine. Caco-2 cells represent a cellular model for future studies of the dipeptide transporter.
Measurement of the Raman line widths of neat benzenethiol and a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of benzenethiol on a silver-coated surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate.

Raman line widths of neat benzenethiol and a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of benzenethiol on a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate have been measured using a mini spectrometer with a resolution (full width at half-maximum) of 3.3 ± 0.2 cm−1. Values of 7.3 ± 0.7, 4.6 ± 0.6, 2.4 ± 0.6, 3.2 ± 0.5, 8.8 ± 0.9, and 11.0 ± 1.1 cm−1 have been determined for the Raman line widths of the 414, 700, 1001, 1026, 1093, and 1584 cm−1 modes of neat benzenethiol. Values of 13.3 ± 0.7, 9.1 ± 0.7, 5.1 ± 0.6, 5.9 ± 0.6, 13.3 ± 0.5, and 8.7 ± 0.5 cm−1 have been determined for the SERS line widths of a benzenethiol SAM on a silver-coated SERS substrate for the corresponding frequency-shifted modes at 420, 691, 1000, 1023, 1072, and 1574 cm−1. The line widths for the SERS modes at 420, 691, 1000, 1023, and 1072 cm−1 are about a factor of two larger than those of the corresponding Raman modes. However, the line width of the SERS mode at 1574 cm−1 is slightly smaller than the corresponding Raman mode at 1584 cm−1.