cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Environmental Variability during TOGA COARE

Abstract This study provides quantitative estimates of the thermodynamic and kinematic structures of the troposphere during various convective regimes observed during the Tropical Ocean Global Atmosphere Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment. The data source is the upper air soundings from six stations in the intensive flux array. A correction algorithm has been applied to the humidity data to remove biases between the stations. The data are analyzed using the nonhierarchical clustering method known as k means. Eleven thermodynamic clusters and 20 kinematic clusters are selected. The thermodynamic clusters are grouped into four general categories based on their midtropospheric equivalent potential temperature. Deep convective activity varies with the thermodynamic structure of the environment. When the “dry intrusion” group is observed, convection is suppressed. The “fair weather” category corresponds to undisturbed periods with light winds and small mesoscale convective systems (MCSs). The largest...
Parainfluenza virus infection of young children: estimates of the population-based burden of hospitalization.

Objective To determine the population-based inpatient disease burden of parainfluenza virus in children Study design The New Vaccine Surveillance Network (NVSN) enrolled children 95% of all hospitalized children from each county. Combined nasal turbinate/throat swabs were tested for parainfluenza virus (PIV), respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza virus with culture and reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Both parental interviews and medical chart reviews were conducted. Age-specific population-based hospitalization rates were calculated. Results From October 2000 through September 2004, 2798 children were enrolled. A total of 191 PIVs were identified from 189 children (6.8% of enrolled: 73 PIV type 1, 23 PIV type 2, and 95 PIV type 3), compared with 521 respiratory syncytial viruses and 159 influenza viruses. Mean PIV hospitalization rates were 3.01, 1.73, 1.53, 0.39, and 1.02 per 1000 children per year for ages 0 to 5 months, 6 to 11 months, 12 to 23 months, 24 to 59 months, and 0 to 59 months, respectively. Conclusions PIV accounted for 6.8% of all hospitalizations for fever, acute respiratory illnesses, or both in children
A self-excited induction generator with regulated voltage

THE synchronous generator with direct-driven exciter has several disadvantages when applied in airborne equipment. However, no competing system has succeeded in achieving a smaller weight in pounds per kva at a given speed. The practical difficulties are overcome at present by careful engineering, so that a reliable generating system is obtained. These difficulties relate to brush performance at high altitude, commutation at high speed, overhung moment due to the action of exciter, bracing of the rotor windings against centrifugal force, and high cost of manufacture.
DSM-IV 12-month and lifetime major depressive disorder and romantic relationships among African Americans

Abstract Background This brief report examines the association between marital and relationship status and 12-month and lifetime prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) among African Americans. Previous work has found that adults with major depressive disorder are less likely to be married or in a cohabiting relationship. This report extends previous research by investigating whether unmarried, non-cohabiting African Americans with depression are also less likely to be involved in a romantic relationship. Methods Data are from the African American sub-sample ( n =3570) of the National Survey of American Life (NSAL; 2001–2003). The DSM-IV World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview was used to assess 12-month and lifetime MDD. Weighted logistic regression was used. Results The findings indicate that for both 12-month and lifetime major depressive disorder, African Americans who are depressed are not only less likely to be married; they are also significantly less likely to be involved in a romantic relationship. This is particularly the case for 12-month depression. Limitations Due to limitations in the number of cohabiting respondents, currently married and cohabiting respondents were combined into a single category. Conclusion The findings of this brief report highlight the importance of changes in marital and relationship circumstances of the U.S. population for research and practice on depression and other psychiatric disorders. Our study provides evidence for a more nuanced approach in which examining marital and romantic relationship status together promotes a better understanding of the impact of major depression on romantic unions.
Posterior cortical lesion influences on successive discrimination reversal performance by rats

Groups of hooded rats sustained posterior cortical lesions before and after testing on a series of seven successive brightness-discrimination reversals. If damage had been inflicted before the test series, animals were always severely impaired on reversal tasks. If given reversal training as normals, about 70% of the animals performed nearly as proficiently postoperatively as they had originally. The 30% of the subjects that failed performed similarly to the animals that had sustained damage before testing. Impairments of successive discrimination reversal and the typical retention deficits of cortically damaged rats appeared to have similar capacities to be modified by preoperative training.
Continuity of Host Plasma Membrane Around Haustoria of Melampsora Lini

(1970). Continuity of Host Plasma Membrane Around Haustoria of Melampsora Lini. Mycologia: Vol. 62, No. 3, pp. 609-614.
Gel'fand structures : primitive patterns of understanding

Abstract Gel'fand structures assemble the building blocks (i.e. freeon orbitals) of matter into physically acceptable patterns. To illustrate this we first construct the molecular orbital and the atomic orbital Gel'fand structures of polyenes and discuss their correlation. We then list Gel'fand structures for atoms, nuclei and baryons. It follows that the Gel'fand structures are, in the Coulson sense, universal “primitive patterns of understanding”.
Physical behavior of cross-linked PEG hydrogels photopolymerized within nanostructured lyotropic liquid crystalline templates

While hydrogels exhibit numerous characteristics that make them ideal in biological applications, they are typically limited in overall design flexibility due to the rigid dependence of their physical properties and behavior on the chemistry and cross-linking structure of the gel's network. As the demand for hydrogels with precisely engineered properties grows, nanotechnology may provide a means through which to circumvent the inherent drawbacks of hydrogel systems to form unique, highly advanced materials with enhanced properties. In this work, self-assembling nanostructured lyotropic liquid crystalline (LLC) mesophases were used as polymerization templates, directing the formation of highly cross-linked PEGDA hydrogels. A 3-fold increase in both the compressive modulus and diffusive transport is realized in the PEGDA gel as the parent LLC mesophase, and thus the resulting structure of the hydrogel matrix is changed from a low ordered morphology to a system with a high degree of order and geometry. Addit...
The Reciprocal Role of Egr-1 and Sp Family Proteins in Regulation of the PTP1B Promoter in Response to the p210 Bcr-Abl Oncoprotein-tyrosine Kinase

Protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is an important regulator of protein-tyrosine kinase-dependent signaling pathways. Changes in expression and activity of PTP1B have been associated with various human diseases; however, the mechanisms by which PTP1B expression is regulated have yet to be characterized. Previously, we have shown that the expression of PTP1B is enhanced by p210 Bcr-Abl and that PTP1B is a specific antagonist of transformation induced by this oncoprotein protein-tyrosine kinase. Here we have characterized the PTP1B promoter and demonstrate that a motif with features of a stress-response element acts as a p210 Bcr-Abl-responsive sequence, termed PRS. We have shown that three C(2)H(2) zinc finger proteins, namely Sp1, Sp3, and Egr-1, bind to PRS. Whereas binding of either Sp1 or Sp3 induced promoter function, Egr-1 repressed Sp3-mediated PTP1B promoter activation. The binding of Egr-1 to PRS is suppressed by p210 Bcr-Abl due to the inhibition of Egr-1 expression, resulting in the enhancement of PTP1B promoter activity. Our data indicate that Egr-1 and Sp family proteins play a reciprocal role in the control of expression from the PTP1B promoter.
Convergent Ca2+ and Zn2+ signaling regulates apoptotic Kv2.1 K+ currents

A simultaneous increase in cytosolic Zn2+ and Ca2+ accompanies the initiation of neuronal cell death signaling cascades. However, the molecular convergence points of cellular processes activated by these cations are poorly understood. Here, we show that Ca2+-dependent activation of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is required for a cell death-enabling process previously shown to also depend on Zn2+. We have reported that oxidant-induced intraneuronal Zn2+ liberation triggers a syntaxin-dependent incorporation of Kv2.1 voltage-gated potassium channels into the plasma membrane. This channel insertion can be detected as a marked enhancement of delayed rectifier K+ currents in voltage clamp measurements observed at least 3 h following a short exposure to an apoptogenic stimulus. This current increase is the process responsible for the cytoplasmic loss of K+ that enables protease and nuclease activation during apoptosis. In the present study, we demonstrate that an oxidative stimulus also promotes intracellular Ca2+ release and activation of CaMKII, which, in turn, modulates the ability of syntaxin to interact with Kv2.1. Pharmacological or molecular inhibition of CaMKII prevents the K+ current enhancement observed following oxidative injury and, importantly, significantly increases neuronal viability. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized cooperative convergence of Ca2+- and Zn2+-mediated injurious signaling pathways, providing a potentially unique target for therapeutic intervention in neurodegenerative conditions associated with oxidative stress.
Presence of GTP-Binding Proteins in the Plasma Membrane of the Phycomyces Sporangiophore

Abstract Ashktorab, H., and Cohen, R. J. 1994. Presence of GTP-binding proteins in the plasma membrane of the Phycomyces sporangiophore. Experimental Mycology 18, 139-149. When a plasma membrane-enriched fraction isolated from the sporangiophore of the Zygomycete Phycomyces blakesleeanus was subject to immunoblotting, two polypeptide bands reacted with an antibody directed to a conserved sequence of the ∝ subunit of G-proteins; their apparent molecular masses were 40 and 51 kDa. Upon treating the plasma membrane preparation with cholera toxin, bands at 40 and 51 kDa appeared to be ADP-ribosylated but no band appeared with pertussis toxin incubation. Apparent dissociation constants for the binding of GTPγS were determined for plasma membrane from Phycomyces sporangiophore grown in the light ( K D = 39 ± 16 n M ) (±SD) and in the dark ( K D = 11 ± 6 n M ). GTP served as a strong competitor for binding as did GDP, although somewhat less well, while ATP competed considerably more weakly. Northern analysis of sporangiophore mRNA displayed two bands hybridizing to the Gα2 probes coding for a G α subunit from Dictyostelium discoideum . Furthermore, Western blotting of plasma membrane revealed several bands containing polypeptides with presumptive covalently attached immunoreactive flavins. (The prevailing evidence from the action spectra of Phycomyces is that the photoreceptor is a flavoprotein residing in the plasma membrane.) Immunoblotting also detected a H + ATPase similar to the plasma membrane enzyme of yeast, corroborating our isolation of plasma membrane and suggesting another possible player in the signal responses of Phycomyces . This is apparently the first evidence for a G-protein in this class of eukaryotes. G-proteins may serve a role in the flavoprotein-mediated phototransduction system of P. blakesleeanus .
c-Jun N-terminal Kinase Inhibitor II (SP600125) Activates Müllerian Inhibiting Substance Type II Receptor-Mediated Signal Transduction

Mullerian inhibiting substance (MIS), the hormone required for Mullerian duct regression in fetal males, is also expressed in both adult males and females, but its physiological role in these settings is not clear. The expression of the MIS type II receptor (MISRII) in ovarian cancer cells and the ability of MIS to inhibit proliferation of these cells suggest that MIS might be a promising therapeutic for recurrent ovarian cancer. Using an MISRII-dependent activity assay in a small-molecule screen for MIS-mimetic compounds, we have identified the c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibitor SP600125 as an activator of the MIS signal transduction pathway. SP600125 increased the activity of a bone morphogenetic protein-responsive reporter gene in a dose-dependent manner and exerted a synergistic effect when used in combination with MIS. This effect was specific for the MISRII and was not seen with other receptors of the TGFβ family. Moreover, treatment of mouse ovarian cancer cells with a combination of SP600125 and paclitaxel, an established chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of ovarian cancer, or with MIS enabled inhibition of cell proliferation at a lower dose than with each treatment alone. These results offer a strong rationale for testing the therapeutic potential of SP600125, alone or in combination with already established drugs, in the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer with a much-needed decrease in the toxic side effects of currently employed therapeutic agents.
Function bounds for solutions of Volterra equations and exponential asymptotic stability

Abstract An extension of Gronwall’s inequality is derived for the purpose of finding functions that bound the solutions of the scalar linear Volterra integro-differential equation x ′ ( t ) = − a ( t ) x ( t ) + ∫ 0 t b ( t − s ) x ( s ) d s , where a , b : [ 0 , ∞ ) → R are continuous functions and b is nonnegative. These functions are used to search for conditions that drive solutions to zero and conditions under which the zero solution is exponentially asymptotically stable.
Integrative Model of Drosophila Flight

This paper presents a framework for simulating the flight dynamics and control strategies of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. The framework consists of five main components: an articulated rigid-body simulation, a model of the aerodynamic forces and moments, a sensory systems model, a control model, and an environment model. In the rigid-body simulation the fly is represented by a system of three rigid bodies connected by a pair of actuated ball joints. At each instant of the simulation, the aerodynamic forces and moments acting on the wings and body of the fly are calculated using an empirically derived quasi-steady model. The pattern of wing kinematics is based on data captured from high-speed video sequences. The forces and moments produced by the wings are modulated by deforming the base wing kinematics along certain characteristic actuation modes. Models of the fly’s visual and mechanosensory systems are used to generate inputs to a controller that sets the magnitude of each actuation mode, thus modulating the forces produced by the wings. This simulation framework provides a quantitative test bed for examining the possible control strategies employed by flying insects. Examples demonstrating pitch rate, velocity, altitude, and flight speed control, as well as visually guided centering in a corridor are presented.
Geometry in certain finite groups

Certain finite groups can be considered in a natural manner as geometrical groups in the sence that they, along with a class of conjugate subgroups, characterize a certain geometry and also act as groups of motions on this geometry. Two special classes of such groups are studied, and their structural properties are determined. Finally, examples of such groups are constructed.
Cellular metabolism of proxyl nitroxides and hydroxylamines.

Abstract Previous data from model systems indicated that the proxyl nitroxides should be especially resistant to bioreduction and therefore could be an effective to this often problematic characteristic of nitroxides. Therefore, we investigated the rate of reduction by cells and by the usual model system, ascorbate, of four proxyl nitroxides and three reference nitroxides. We found that, while the rate of reduction by ascorbate of the proxyl nitroxides was slower than the rate of a prototypic pyrrolidine nitroxide (PCA), the reverse was true for reduction by cells. We also studied the rate of oxidation of the corresponding hydroxylamines. The rate of oxidation by cells of the proxyl hydroxylamines was relatively fast, especially for the most lipophilic derivative. These results indicate that: (i) proxyl nitroxides may not be unusually resistant to bioreduction by functional biological systems; (ii) accurate knowledge of relative rates of metabolism of nitroxides and hydroxylamines in cells and tissues will require direct studies in these systems because the rates may not closely parallel those observed in model (chemical) systems; and (iii) proxyl nitroxides show potential value as agents to measure oxygen concentrations by the rates of oxidation of their corresponding hydroxylamines.
Mineralizable Carbon, Nitrogen, and Water-Extractable Phosphorus Release from Stockpiled and Composted Manure and Manure-Amended Soils

Dissolved N and P transfer to runoff water may increase with surface applications and shallow soil incorporation of animal manure. Information is needed regarding water-extractable nutrient release during manure decomposition to quantify that potential transfer to runoff in permanent pastures and conservation tillage systems. Release of net mineralizable C (MIN―C), net mineralizable N (MIN―N), and dissolved reactive P (DRP) was determined in stockpiled and composted cattle (Bos taurus) manure and manure-amended soils at 4, 20, and 35°C for 322 d at about 60% water-filled pore space. Flushes of CO 2 -C exceeding 100 mg kg -1 d -1 , inorganic N, and DRP were released rapidly from both manures when incubated alone or as soil amendments. Dissolved P release varied inversely with sorption capacity and degree of P saturation in an Aridic Paleustalf und Torrertic Paleustoll. Net mineralizable C, MIN―N, and DRP flux densities were lognormally distributed during the 322-d incubation. Results from the lognormal modeling approach suggest that incubations needed to be performed only for as long as needed to attain the 50% maximal flux density beyond the maximum to predict MIN―C, MIN―N, and DRP release flux density distributions. Significant nonlinear relationships exist between In(cumulative CO 2 -C) and inorganic N or DRP and have an inflexion point between 14 and 20 d. The nonlinearity of the C-to-N and C-to-DRP relationships indicates multiple substrate pools and supports the use of lognormal distributions to describe MIN―C, MIN―N, and DRP release from manures and manure-amended soils and to shorten laborious incubations.
Response of a salt marsh microbial community to inputs of heavy metals: Aerobic heterotrophic metabolism

The addition of a sterilized, sludge-based fertilizer to experimental salt marsh plots increased both the nitrogen and the heavy metal content of the surface sediment. Aerobic heterotrophic microorganisms collected from these plots differed from microbes collected from control plots in their oxygen uptake rates on a uniform sediment medium both in the presence and absence of metals. When metals were not present, microbes from fertilized plots took up significantly less oxygen that did microbes from control plots. In the presence of metals, oxygen uptake by microbes from both plots was depressed; however, activity of microbes from the fertilized plots was significantly less inhibited than was that of microbes from the control plots, indicating a greater degree of metal tolerance in the former. To assess the effect of a metal on the microbial community in the absence of nutrient enrichment, chromium solutions were applied to several 1-m2 marsh plots. Microbes from these plots developed a tolerance to both copper and chromium within 1 month. The oxygen uptake on sediment media in the absence of metals did not differ from that demonstrated by nonmetal-tolerant microbes.
High School Athletes' Perceptions of Concussion.

Background:The perception high school athletes have regarding concussions may influence their injury-reporting behavior, and if their perceptions are based on incorrect or incomplete information, t...
Quantitative RISA Subarachnoid to Plasma Transport and Subarachnoid Perfusion Tests in Children with Progressive Macrocephaly and Suspected Hydrocephalus

A measure of the adequacy of lumbar subarachoid to plasma CSF transport is Obtained by determining quantitatively the percent of 12/I RISA in the plasma 24 h after its lumbar sybarachnoid injection. This was done in 35 infants and chlidren ranging in age from 5 weeks to 14 years. The ability of the CSF circulation to dispose of normal saline perfused into the lumbar subarachnoid space at a rate of 0.76 ml/min for 30–60 min was determined by CSF pressure measurements at 5-min intervals during the perfusion of a sedated patient. This was done also on 17 of the 35 patients. Patients with normal external CSF circulation transported 38.5±10.2% (2 S.D.) of the injected RISA; pateints with comminicating hydrocephalus, 16.1–25.4%; those with obstructive hydrocephalus, 31.5–45.8%; and macrocephalic achondroplastic dwarfs, 29.9–53.1%. The pattern of perfusion test CSF pressures could be divided into 3 distinct forms: normal abnormal. In every instance save one, the results of the two tests on the same patient agreed. This patient with hydrocephalus and porencephaly had a normal RISA transport test but an a abnormal uncompensated perfusion pattern. From these data we conclude, (1) that both tests are needed to evaluate the adequacy of the external circulation can be normal when the internal circulation (ventricles to cisterna magna) is obstructed.
Note: Effect of ear bagging systems onAspergillus flavus kernel infection and aflatoxin contamination of corn hybrids grown in the field

Field studies were conducted for 4 years to determine the effect of various ear bagging systems onAspergillus flavus kernel infection and aflatoxin production in developing ears of corn hybrids. Each year, corn hybrids were grown on a Myatt loam (low water-holding capacity) and a Leeper silty clay loam (high water-holding capacity). Corn ears were inoculated withA. flavus using the side-needle technique 7 days after midsilk (50% of the plants in the plot had silks emerged). For the first 2 years, inoculated ears were covered with either white or black paper pollination bags at approximately 14 days after inoculation. During the last 2 years, inoculated ears were covered with either a brown paper pollination bag or a clear plastic zip-lock bag. Daily maximum temperatures were increased 2 to 4°C in all of the bagging systems over ambient temperatures. The bagging systems had a limited effect on aflatoxin production andA. flavus kernel infection in the Leeper silty clay loam. In the Myatt loam, ears covered with plastic bags had higher levels of aflatoxin contamination andA. flavus kernel infection compared with ears covered with paper bags.
The Role of Smads in Skin Development

Smads are a group of signaling mediators and antagonists of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, responding but not limited to signaling from TGF-β, Activin, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). As all of these three signaling pathways play important roles in skin development, we have been actively pursuing studies assessing the role of Smads in skin development. Our studies revealed that Smad-4 affects hair follicle differentiation primarily by mediating BMP signaling. Smad-7 significantly affects hair follicle development and differentiation by blocking the TGFβ/Activin/BMP pathway and by inhibiting WNT/β-catenin signaling via ubiquitin-mediated β-catenin degradation. In contrast, other Smads may have redundant or dispensable functions in skin development. Here, we review the work that shows the emergence of Smad functions in skin development via traditional and novel signaling pathways.
MHD flow in conducting circular expansions with strong transverse magnetic fields

Abstract This paper treats the steady, inertialess now of an incompressible, electrically conducting fluid through insulated, variable-area ducts with circular cross sections in the presence of strong, transverse magnetic fields. The problem is of fundamental importance in many engineering applications of MHD. For the practical case of an expansion (or contraction) placed between two pipes, the fluid is forced to flow around a central stagnant region in the expansion, and the disturbance of the fully developed flows persists large distances O(M 1 2 ) upstream and downstream, where M is the (large) Hartmann number. The flow in the two pipes depends only on the ratio of their radii and is independent of the shape and length of the expansion. The startling implication of the disturbance's persistence is that, in practice, fully developed flow will almost never be realized in insulated pipes in strong magnetic fields. Extension of the present analysis to non-circular cross sections is also discussed.
Vasculitis: Diagnosis and therapy

Vasculitis comprises a broad group of syndromes characterized by inflammation and necrosis in the walls of blood vessels, resulting in narrowing or occlusion of the lumen. The distribution of blood vessel involvement varies considerably and serves as the basis for one classification of the vasculitic syndromes: large vessels (Takayasu arteritis, giant-cell arteritis); medium and small muscular arteries (polyarteritis nodosa, Churg-Strauss syndrome, Wegener's granulomatosis, vasculitis in rheumatic diseases); and small vessels ("hypersensitivity" vasculitis, Henoch-Schonlein purpura, microscopic polyangiitis, cryoglobulinemia). The pathogenesis of most forms of vasculitis is only beginning to be understood, but is probably varied and complex. Because of the variability of vasculitides, there is no single, uniform method of diagnosis and treatment. However, a detailed history, careful physical examination, and appropriate laboratory tests are needed in all cases to determine the type of onset, course of illness, organ systems affected, and extent of involvement. Biopsy examination of involved tissues is nearly always essential for diagnosis, except in Takayasu arteritis, when aortography is usually indicated. In most cases of vasculitis, corticosteroid therapy is necessary. When the organ involvement is broader and more progressive (e.g., in cases of polyarteritis nodosa or Wegener's granulomatosis), a combination of cytotoxic drug and corticosteroids is often needed.
Studies of the mycoplasma-like organism (MLO) in spinach leaves affected by the aster yellows disease

Mycoplasma-like organisms (MLO) were found in the phloem of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) leaves infected with the agent of aster yellows disease by means of the leafhopperMacrosteles fascifrons Stal. The MLOs occurred mainly in mature sieve elements but were recorded in occasional phloem parenchyma cells as well. The MLO showed the typical features of this organism. The majority were ovoid or spherical, some were irregular in form or elongated. The larger bodies were commonly accompanied by small bodies which appeared to originate from the larger by budding. Profiles suggesting binary fission and filamentous forms containing ovoid condensations of cytoplasm were present. The bounding membrane showed the typical trilaminate structure, and DNA-like fibrils were discernible in those MLOs that had an electron lucent central region. In the denser bodies the fibrils were obscured. The MLO ribosomes were distinctly smaller than those in the host cytoplasm. The MLOs were degenerating in phloem cells that were disorganizing and collapsing in response to the infection. Structures in host cells that may be confused with MLO are described.
Family literacy: an investment in the future

Public libraries providing family literacy programming make a sound investment in the future, by developing the future of the family, the community, the library and the nation. Family literacy programs help the adult parent or caregiver to successfully fulfill his role as the first and foremost teacher of his children. Public libraries are a natural as a family literacy provider. Many public libraries deliver many of the basic components of a sound family literacy program. And, family literacy programs bring more resources into the library than they use. This article explains why this is so and provides a thumbnail sketch of the first state‐wide, state‐funded, public library‐based, family literacy initiative, California’s Families For Literacy Program.
Effects of Chronic Hypoxia in Developing Rats on Dendritic Morphology of the CA1 Subarea of the Hippocampus and on Fear-Potentiated Startle

Abstract Chronic hypoxia (CH) present in infants with cyanotic congenital heart disease may be responsible for subsequent cognitive deficits seen in these children. In a rat model of CH [10% O2 between postnatal day (P) 3 and 28], we have demonstrated significant alterations in energy metabolism and excitatory neurotransmission in the developing hippocampus. These alterations may adversely affect dendritic morphology, which is a highly energy-dependent and excitatory neurotransmitter-mediated event, and hippocampus-mediated behaviors. We measured the apical segment length of dendrites in pyramidal neurons of the CA1 region of the hippocampus using microtubule-associated protein-2 (MAP-2) histochemistry on P28 while the animals were hypoxic (n = 8 in CH and n = 6 in control), and on P56 after the animals had been normoxic for 4 weeks (n = 8/group). We also compared dorsal hippocampus-dependent trace fear conditioning and dorsal hippocampus-independent delay fear conditioning on P56. Developmental trajectory of the apical segment length was similar in CH and controls, decreasing between P28 and P56. However, when compared with the controls, the apical segment length was longer in the CH group on both P28 [55.11 ± 2.30 μm (CH) vs. 40.52 ± 1.20 μm (control), p
A formalization of cluster analysis

Abstract This paper presents a formalization of the concept of cluster analysis. It begins with an intuitive description of clustering, and discusses the separation of the measurement problem from the clustering problem. It develops the nature of the elements to be clustered, the nature of the possible clusters, and the nature of the clustering results. Particularly significant is the introduction of the attribute of mass of an element. The paper defines a class of functions, called clustering functions, having a certain domain and range and satisfying a certain set of properties, called axioms. It discusses some properties which are inadequate to serve as axioms. Finally, it presents a function which is in the class of clustering functions.
Effectiveness of Nutrition Intervention Through a Group Class for Eating Disorder Patients

Abstract Literature suggests that nutrition intervention through group education is an effective tool in the treatment of eating disorder patients. A retrospective case series study of a 6 week eating disorder class instructed by a Registered Dietitian (RD) was conducted. Nine patients with anorexia nervosa. 8 with bulimia nervosa, and 1 eating disorder, not specified, patient were enrolled in the class. At the start of the class, a RD obtained a beginning weight and a diet history for each patient. Diet histories were analyzed using Nutritionist IV and an average was calculated and recorded for daily kilocalorie, protein, fat. iron, and calcium intake. All patients were instructed to keep a daily intake record which was analyzed weekly. At the conclusion of the class, the RD obtained a weight and a final dietary intake record. Data were analyzed and results interpreted through descriptive statistics. Twelve of 18 (67%) patients had an average of a 3 Ib weight gain at the conclusion of the 6 week series. An average daily increase of 525 kcal was noted in 12 of 18 patients, as well as an average increase of 7mg of iron. Thirteen of 18 patients increased their average daily fat intake by 13g and calcium intake by 638mg. Nine of 18 patients were noted to have increased their average daily protein intake by 20g. Although the sample size is small, the study indicates that nutrition intervention through the conduction of an eating disorder class instructed by a RD is effective in improving overall dietary intake and facilitating weight gain in the eating disorder patient. In addition, continuing education and support is critical for the success for treatment of patients with eating disorders.
On the separation of geometric and viscoelastic dispersion in composite materials

Abstract With the completion of an experimental study of the dispersion characteristics of fiber-reinforced viscoelastic materials, a sufficient body of information has been generated to demonstrate the feasibility of separating viscoelastic dispersion from the total dispersion spectrum of this class of material. The basic procedure for the separation is to construct a homogeneous viscoelastic constitutive equation for the composite and to use cross plots of the viscoelastic characterization with the total dispersion spectrum of the composite to reveal the influence of viscoelastic dispersion on the total spectrum. Two methods of constructing the homogeneous model are discussed and the results are compared with experimental data.
SU-E-T-12: A Feasibility Study of Patient Specific QA Using Gafchromic Film of Dynamic Feathering in Junctions of Craniospinal Irradiation

Purpose: Cranio-spinal irradiation is the most complicated format of the conventional external beam radiation therapy because it involves matches of non-coplanar beams which are susceptible to daily setup errors. This study explores the efficacy of Gafchromic film dosimetry to quantitatively verify the junctions for cranio-spinal radiation feathered with field in field technique. Methods: 15cm in thickness of solid water phantom was scanned vertically and exported to the Pinnacle TPS as primary phantom data set. A patient cranio-spinal plan, consisted of two bilateral whole brain beams dynamically matched with a posterior spinal beam using field in field technique, was transferred to the phantom and recalculated for one fraction with set monitor units identical to the original plan. Next, planar dose distribution on the phantom was exported to the FilmQA Pro 2013 software (Ashland, Inc.) in binary format for comparison with the measured dose distribution. An EBT2 film was sandwiched in the middle of the phantom and the phantom was set up according to the QA plan based on the room laser system. The shifts instructions associated with the patient original plan were made and the beams from the patient original plan delivered to the solid water phantom via the record and verify system in QA mode. The dose distribution from the measured film was compared with the planned reference distribution using gamma analysis and profile comparison. Results: Gamma passing rate of 91 % with DTA 3mm and 5% dose difference was obtained within the junction region, significantly greater passing rate above 95 % was obtained in the homogeneous region of the brain field. Conclusion: This study confirms that Gafchromic film dosimetry can be used to validate the efficacy of FIF feathering technique for cranio-spinal treatment. FIF technique with Gafchromic dosimetry may now be the new standard for delivering efficient and accurate cranio-spinal radiation with confidence.
Drag of non-spherical solid particles of regular and irregular shape

Abstract The drag of a non-spherical particle was reviewed and investigated for a variety of shapes (regular and irregular) and particle Reynolds numbers (Rep). Point-force models for the trajectory-averaged drag were discussed for both the Stokes regime (Rep ≪ 1) and Newton regime (Rep ≫ 1 and sub-critical with approximately constant drag coefficient) for a particular particle shape. While exact solutions were often available for the Stokes regime, the Newton regime depended on: aspect ratio for spheroidal particles, surface area ratio for other regularly-shaped particles, and min–med–max area for irregularly shaped particles. The combination of the Stokes and Newton regimes were well integrated using a general method by Ganser (developed for isometric shapes and disks). In particular, a modified Clift–Gauvin expression was developed for particles with approximately cylindrical cross-sections relative to the flow, e.g. rods, prolate spheroids, and oblate spheroids with near-unity aspect ratios. However, particles with non-circular cross-sections exhibited a weaker dependence on Reynolds number, which is attributed to the more rapid transition to flow separation and turbulent boundary layer conditions. Their drag coefficient behavior was better represented by a modified Dallavalle drag model, by again integrating the Stokes and Newton regimes. This paper first discusses spherical particle drag and classification of particle shapes, followed by the main body which discusses drag in Stokes and Newton regimes and then combines these results for the intermediate regimes.
Monitoring the reductive and oxidative half-reactions of a flavin-dependent monooxygenase using stopped-flow spectrophotometry.

Aspergillus fumigatus siderophore A (SidA) is an FAD-containing monooxygenase that catalyzes the hydroxylation of ornithine in the biosynthesis of hydroxamate siderophores that are essential for virulence (e.g. ferricrocin or N',N",N'''-triacetylfusarinine C)1. The reaction catalyzed by SidA can be divided into reductive and oxidative half-reactions (Scheme 1). In the reductive half-reaction, the oxidized FAD bound to Af SidA, is reduced by NADPH2,3. In the oxidative half-reaction, the reduced cofactor reacts with molecular oxygen to form a C4a-hydroperoxyflavin intermediate, which transfers an oxygen atom to ornithine. Here, we describe a procedure to measure the rates and detect the different spectral forms of SidA using a stopped-flow instrument installed in an anaerobic glove box. In the stopped-flow instrument, small volumes of reactants are rapidly mixed, and after the flow is stopped by the stop syringe (Figure 1), the spectral changes of the solution placed in the observation cell are recorded over time. In the first part of the experiment, we show how we can use the stopped-flow instrument in single mode, where the anaerobic reduction of the flavin in Af SidA by NADPH is directly measured. We then use double mixing settings where Af SidA is first anaerobically reduced by NADPH for a designated period of time in an aging loop, and then reacted with molecular oxygen in the observation cell (Figure 1). In order to perform this experiment, anaerobic buffers are necessary because when only the reductive half-reaction is monitored, any oxygen in the solutions will react with the reduced flavin cofactor and form a C4a-hydroperoxyflavin intermediate that will ultimately decay back into the oxidized flavin. This would not allow the user to accurately measure rates of reduction since there would be complete turnover of the enzyme. When the oxidative half-reaction is being studied the enzyme must be reduced in the absence of oxygen so that just the steps between reduction and oxidation are observed. One of the buffers used in this experiment is oxygen saturated so that we can study the oxidative half-reaction at higher concentrations of oxygen. These are often the procedures carried out when studying either the reductive or oxidative half-reactions with flavin-containing monooxygenases. The time scale of the pre-steady-state experiments performed with the stopped-flow is milliseconds to seconds, which allow the determination of intrinsic rate constants and the detection and identification of intermediates in the reaction4. The procedures described here can be applied to other flavin-dependent monooxygenases.5,6
A novel fermentation: the production of R(-)-1,2-propanediol and acetol by Clostridium thermosaccharolyticum

We have found that three strains of Clostridium thermosaccharolyticum produce R(–)–1,2–propanediol from a variety of sugars, including D–glucose and D–xylose. The fermentation of glucose by strain HG–8 (ATCC 31960) gave 7.9 g/l of R(–)–1,2–propanediol with a best yield of 0.27 g/g glucose and an enantiomeric excess of greater than 99 per cent. Acetol accumulated to 1.47 g/l. Product formation was not affected by phosphate concentrations up to 113 mM. A possible pathway to these products involves a variation of the methylglyoxal bypass. Methylglyoxal is reduced to acetol, which is further reduced to R(–)–1,2–propanediol. This fermentation provides a unique route to R(–)–1,2–propanediol and acetol from inexpensive, readily available substrates.
Disparity of Borrelia burgdorferi infection rates of adult Ixodes dammini on deer and vegetation.

Rates of infection with Borrelia burgdorferi were compared in adult Ixodes dammini ticks collected from deer at one coastal and two island sites with those collected from vegetation at the same sites. Ticks were examined using polyclonal direct fluorescent antibody. Spirochetes were observed in 47% of 288 ticks from vegetation as opposed to 13% of 276 ticks from deer (chi 2, P < .001). This disparity was increased when only male ticks were compared. Among female ticks from deer, the infection rate was higher in flat than in engorged ticks. These findings may reflect spirochete loss from ingestion of borreliacidal antibodies in deer blood or may result from factors related to the sensitivity of direct fluorescent antibody methods. They indicate that erroneously low estimates of regional risk for Lyme disease may be obtained if ticks removed from deer are included in the determination of tick infection rates.
Systemic delivery of AAV8 in utero results in gene expression in diaphragm and limb muscle: treatment implications for muscle disorders

One of the major challenges in the treatment of primary muscle disorders, which often affect many muscle groups, is achieving efficient, widespread transgene expression in muscle. In utero gene transfer can potentially address this problem by accomplishing the gene delivery when the tissue mass is small and the immune system is immature. Earlier studies with systemic in utero adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector serotype 1 gene delivery to embryonic day 16 (E-16) pups resulted in high levels of transduction in diaphragm and intercostal muscles, but no detectable transgene expression in limb muscles. Recently, newer AAV serotypes, such as AAV8, have shown widespread and high transgene expression in skeletal muscles and diaphragm by systemic delivery in adult and neonatal mice. We tested AAV8 vector gene delivery by intraperitoneal administration in E-16 mice in utero. Using an AAV8 vector carrying a lacZ reporter gene, we observed high-level transduction of diaphragm and intercostal muscles and more moderate transduction of multiple limb muscles and heart. Our current studies show the potential of AAV8 to achieve widespread muscle transduction in utero and suggest its therapeutic potential for primary muscle disorders.
Evaluating Student Papers: The Case for Peer Review

Abstract One approach for grading papers in large business classes is to require students to evaluate each other's work. Both students and instructors can gain much in such peer review processes, but can students be trusted to grade each other's papers? This article describes an experiment in which term projects, a preprinted evaluation form, and generalizability theory were used to judge the reliability of student grading. The results suggest that students can be both consistent and fair in their assessments. These findings, along with mostly favorable student reactions and the fact that employee valuation is an important management skill, create a strong case for peer review when evaluating student papers.
The line of action in the tibia during axial compression of the leg

Compression of the leg induces bending in the tibia, which can lead to tensile failure of the bone in the midshaft. The purpose of this study was to determine the orientation of the compressive load vector in the human tibia. Five cadaveric lower extremities were instrumented with in situ 6-axis tibial and fibular load cells and subjected to quasistatic axial leg compression tests in two knee positions and nine ankle positions. For each test, the location and angle of the line of action were calculated at the tibial midshaft. The line of action was extended to the bone ends in order to determine the locations of the effective centers of pressure on the tibial plafond and tibial plateau. The effective center of pressure on the tibial plafond consistently migrated anteriorly in dorsiflexion, laterally in eversion, posteriorly in plantarflexion, and medially in inversion. An opposite pattern was observed on the tibial plateau. When the knee was flexed, the effective center of pressure was generally isolated to a small area in the posterior portion of the medial tibial condyle. The percentage of the axial load borne by the fibula varied from -8% to 19%, and was related to the inversion/eversion angle of the ankle (p<0.02), as well as the distance between the fibula and the axial load path at the midshaft (p<0.001). The line of action through the tibia appeared to follow the external load path to the extent allowed by the available joint contact surfaces.
Clonal variation of tumorigenic potential in v‐Ha‐ras‐transformed human bronchial epithelial cells: Relationship to ras oncogene expression and CAD gene amplification

Infection of an SV40 large-T antigen-"immortalized" human bronchial epithelial cell line with a Zip-v-Ha-ras retroviral vector resulted in a mass culture that was tumorigenic in athymic nude mice. A tumor cell line derived from passage of the mass culture in vivo, however, exhibited increased tumorigenicity and v-Ha-ras expression. To examine and compare the molecular events involving the ras oncogene during cell transformation in vitro and subsequent tumor formation in vivo, clonal cell populations were isolated from the v-Ha-ras-transformed mass culture. While the clonal cell lines exhibited diverse tumorigenic profiles, these differences did not correlate with v-Ha-ras expression. However, the expression of the activated ras gene, while not necessary for growth in vitro, did appear to be associated with a selective growth advantage in vivo. In addition, the modulation of gene amplification ability in these cells was not associated with the induction of tumorigenicity or v-Ha-ras expression.
Drug use and stress: Testing a coping model in an urban African‐American sample

Opposing functions have been attributed to substance use — as causal of distress and as buffering agent to reduce distress. These opposing roles were modeled with longitudinal data from an urban community sample of African Americans. With enduring unemployment formulated as the predictor stressor, three levels of drug use were tested for direct versus multiplicative effects on strain. Findings did not support the buffering or stress-relief hypothesis. Further, strongly gender-differentiated processes appeared in the unemployment-drug-distress relationship. For men, unemployment strain was increased under the condition of moderate to heavy drug use (i.e., an interactive or multiplicative relationship). For women, moderate to heavy drug use increased strain independently of unemployment (additive effect). But light (less than weekly) use exacerbated strain for women under the condition of regular employment although showing no effect for women when unemployed.