cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
IDENTIFICATION OF A LESS IMMUNOREACTIVE FORM OF PROLACTIN IN THE RAT PITUITARY

Disc electrophoretic analysis of prolactin (PRL) in the rat pituitary is usually performed using a 7.5% concentration of acrylamide gel. Re-electrophoresis of the eluate of the PRL band from such a gel on polyacrylamides of serially increasing concentrations revealed that.the PRL band of 7.5% gel actually contains at least two additional proteins. One of these, whose apparent mol. wt. is 31,000, has significant pigeon crop-sac stimulating activity but very l i t t l e or no cross-reactivity in a RIA for rat PRL. It also has a rapid turnover r a t e in short-term in v i t r o incubations. This newly-found protein seems to be a nonimmunoreactive molecular variant of rat PRL.
Comparative dermatology: Parasitic disorders

Abstract Ectoparasites commonly parasitize domestic animals. In some instances they are simply a nuisance; in others, they cause significant disease. In severe cases, ectoparasites may cause debilitating or life-threatening disease. Some ectoparasites transmit disease to animals, humans, or both. In many regions, the presence of external parasites is one of the most common reasons animals are presented to veterinarians, far more so than humans consult their physicians. The population of parasites varies in different parts of the country. Likewise, some parasites are species specific. Of special concern is the possibility that human beings may be affected by the same or similar parasites. 1–3 This article reviews some of the common dermatologic disorders caused by parasites in animals and humans. Particular emphasis is given to those parasites that are zoonotic.
AMYLOIDOSIS: AN EXPRESSION OF IMMUNOLOGICAL TOLERANCE ?

Abstract Specific cellular unresponsiveness to casein has been shown to develop during the induction of amyloidosis in guineapigs while cellular immunity to other antigens remains intact. It is suggested that tolerance to a specific immunogen may play a central role in the pathogenesis of amyloidosis.
Design Considerations for Differential Low-Level Junction FET Commutators

The many advantages of junction field-effect transistors (FET) in commutation applications have prompted a serious effort to extend the technology without sacrificing performance and, in many areas, to realize an improvement over low-level commutator performance attainable by more conventional electronic means (especially Bright switches), so that these devices may be employed in general application, high-accuracy, low-level commutation. This paper is devoted to a generalization of knowledge recently gained during the development of such equipment, which will aid potential designers and users in their understanding and application of low-level FET commutators. A discussion of device characteristics is offered as the starting point of design. A number of topics are then discussed, including offset drift and scatter, gain drift and scatter, source and amplifier loading, crosstalk, and common-mode rejection. Also, several useful design guidelines, in the form of generalized expressions, are derived or furnished for the reader's use. Finally, in order to lend veracity to the design techniques suggested, the performance data of a low-level FET commutator developed following these techniques are offered for consideration.
Stem cell plasticity: tools for investigation and repair.

Traditionally, the epithelial lining of the gastrointestinal tract has been one of the few organs about which there has been little argument concerning its nature as a stem cell-based lineage system. However, the detailed mechanisms of how these cells function is not as fully elaborated as those for hematopoietic stem cells of the bone marrow. Indeed, only functional and positional assays for these cells have been useful investigationally, and it is only recently that a few antigens have been tentatively identified as markers of “stem cell-ness.” What is meant by the term “stem cell” in this context? Classically, it is defined as a proliferative cell that necessarily produces at least one stem cell when dividing (i.e., self renewal) and gives rise to more differentiated daughter cells that then populate the various cells that line the rest of the intestinal crypt and villous in the small intestine (i.e., pleuripotency). In the gastrointestinal tract, Potten et al. have further extended the definition to include the ability to alter its self-maintenance probability to ensure expansion of stem cell numbers in the event of severe injury, so called “clonogenic capacity.” While markers for these cells have been lacking, careful labeling and tracking studies have indicated that the stem cell of the intestinal crypts can be identified precisely by cell position counted from the base of the crypt. Moreover, since all cells of the crypt lining derive from the stem cells, their relative positions toward the top of the crypt or villous relate to their age and to their differentiation state. These differentiated cells fall into common subtypes (columnar cells, mucin-secreting/goblet cells, endocrine cells and, in the small intestine, Paneth cells) and less common subtypes (caveolated cells and M cells). The subepithelial myofibroblasts of the intestinal crypts form a syncytium, which lines the crypts and extends through the lamina propria, merging with pericytes of the blood vessels. These cells influence or even regulate stem cell behavior, by secreted factors (e.g., hepatocyte growth factor, TGFkeratinocyte growth factor) and by direct cell-cell contact.
Comparison of Experimental and Numerical Modeling of Reforming HCCI Combustion

Homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines have high potential to provide better fuel economy with low emissions than conventional spark ignition (SI) engines. In an HCCI engine, combustion phasing strongly depends on the initial temperature and composition. Negative valve overlap (NVO) with reforming has been investigated as combustion phasing control strategy. However, the reforming process is not yet fully understood and further research is necessary to fully utilize the NVO reforming strategy. In this research, optically measured reforming process was modeled by 3D CFD simulation and the results were compared to understand the reforming process better. The optical measurement was carried out with sodium additive to enhance the combustion luminosity. Numerical simulation was carried out with state-of-art spray model with chemical kinetics for ignition and combustion. The chemical reaction mechanism was optimized for modeling the reforming process. It was found that the luminosity from the optical measurement correlates well with the chemical reaction source terms from the simulation.Copyright © 2013 by General Motors
Reductions in assay time for a double antibody, indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay applied to ochratoxin A

Investigations into the time taken to carry out an indirect, double antibody enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for determination of ochratoxin A have reduced assay time significantly without apparent effect on assay qualities. The reduction has been achieved by two methods, (a) utilizing a peroxidase‐labelled anti‐rabbit IgG preparation as second antibody and following the normal incubation pattern, or (b) mixing first and second antibody preparations and incubating them together in one step rather than separately in two. The implications of assay time are discussed.
Discourse Expectations and Relative Clause Processing.

Abstract We investigated the role of discourse context in relative clause processing. We first replicated Reali and Christiansen’s (2007a) finding that pronominal object relative clauses are easier to process than analogous subject relative clauses (an effect which stands in contrast to previous research on pronominal relative clauses). We then analyzed corpus data to demonstrate that the embedded noun phrase in object relative clauses nearly always has a discourse-old referent, even if the noun phrase is not pronominal, while the referent of the embedded noun phrase in subject relative clauses is typically discourse-new. We then extended the work of Mak et al. (2008) , by demonstrating in region-by-region reading that full noun phrase object relative clauses are not more difficult to process than subject relatives when they are preceded by appropriate discourse contexts. Finally, we reanalyzed data from the Dundee Eye-tracking corpus to show that contra Demberg and Keller (2007) , naturally occurring object relatives are no harder to process than subject relatives. We conclude that the processing difficulties associated with object as compared to subject relative clauses arises because object relative clauses violate more discourse expectations in typical experimental contexts.
Orbital engineering in symmetry-breaking polar heterostructures.

In transition-metal oxides, the ability to control which atomic orbitals are occupied by electrons could be used to develop materials with new functionalities.
A Diagnostic Study of the Isentropic Zonally Averaged Mass Circulation during the First GARP Global Experiment

Abstract The mass circulation of the zonally averaged global circulation is investigated in isobaric and isentropic coordinates through the use of a FGGE Level IIIa data set. The isobaric mass circulation during the First GARP Global Experiment is consistent with previous results, i.e., direct Hadley cells in low latitudes and indirect Ferrel cells in midlatitudes of both hemispheres. Within the isentropic framework, the combination of a geostrophic mean mode of mass transport within the baroclinic wave structure of extratropical latitudes, and an ageostrophic mean mode in tropical latitudes, yields an isentropic mass circulation spanning the hemisphere. The asymmetric structure of midlatitude baroclinic waves provides the degree of freedom for a geostrophic mode of mass transport that is fundamental to the direct Hadley-type circulation in isentropic coordinates. This direct Hadley-type circulation is explicitly linked to heat sources and sinks on a planetary scale. The diabatic heating estimated from th...
Renal Imaging in Patients with Renal Impairment

In patients with renal impairment, the incremental benefits from administration of contrast media for imaging studies need to be carefully assessed relative to the potential increased risks of worsening renal dysfunction and systemic adverse effects. This review provides an overview of risk and benefits of iodinated and gadolinium-based contrast agents; examines their relationships to contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), respectively; and discusses various clinical strategies to minimize the risk of CIN and NSF. Specifically, renal imaging strategies aimed to minimize the adverse effects of contrast media as well as alternatives to iodinated and gadolinium-based contrast-enhanced renal imaging are proposed with emphasis on non–contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.
Procedure for Computing Cross Sections for Single and Multiple Ionization of Atoms in the Binary-Encounter Approximation by the Impact of Heavy Charged Particles

A procedure is developed for computing cross sections for the multiple ionization of atoms by the impact of protons or other fully stripped nuclei. The ionization probability, as a function of energy and impact parameter, $P(E,b)$, is computed at several beam energies in the binary-encounter approximation for a ground-state hydrogenic electron scattered by an incident proton. Scaling laws are given which may be used to extend these results to other projectiles, other targets, and other hydrogenlike filled atomic shells. It is shown that $P(E,O)=〈\frac{\ensuremath{\sigma}(E,r)}{2\ensuremath{\pi}{r}^{2}}〉$ for isotropic, but otherwise arbitrary, electron-density distributions. A formulation for multiple-ionization cross sections is developed in terms of the single-electron probabilities $P(E,b)$ for each atomic shell, assuming that both the electrons and the shells are mutually independent. Numerical calculations are compared to recent predictions in the semiclassical Coulomb approximation and to recent satellite and hypersatellite x-ray data. The discrepancies are generally within those resulting from uncertainties of 30-200% in the single-ionization cross sections, when the ionization probability is much less than one. Then, approximating $P(\mathrm{Eb})$ vs $b$ as a step function, the multiple-ionization cross sections are reduced to simple combinations of single-ionization cross sections. These single-ionization cross sections may be evaluated in the binary-encounter approximation by applying scaling laws to the usual universal curve that we tabulate. Multiple-ionization cross sections may thus be estimated without the aid of a computer.
Ectopic Gastric Duplication Cyst in an Infant

A case of an ectopic gastric duplication cyst that appeared to arise from the pancreas in a 10-week-old infant with a superficial mass in the left upper quadrant is reported. Preoperative ultrasound showed a cystic lesion with an inner echogenic layer (mucosa) and an outer anechoic rim (muscle). Technetium scan demonstrated that there was a gastric-type mucosa in the cyst. It is suggested that the ultrasound findings are specific for a gastric duplication cyst and that ultrasound and technetium scan alone will adequately characterize these lesions preoperatively.
A spectrum modification technique for embedding data in images

We propose a method of embedding data in images for secure communication of covert or sensitive information. The method employs an extension of the recent technique of imperceptible embedding in audio signals by inserting tones at perceptually masked frequencies. Instead of detecting visually masked frequencies in two-dimensions, a simpler approach was used by converting an image to a one-dimensional signal. Using the well-established audio frequency masking procedure, audibly masked frequencies at a chosen sampling frequency were determined for each segment or block. Embedding of given data was carried out by modifying the spectral power at a pair of commonly occurring masked frequencies. Preliminary results of embedding 1024 bits of random data in a 256 /spl times/ 256 pixel black-and-white image show that the spectrum modification technique is viable and simple to process. The technique is useful for hiding a small amount of information on identification card images, credit card logos, etc. Payload can be increased at the cost of an acceptable level of image degradation.
Paying for Retirement: Sex Differences in Inclusion in Employer-Provided Retirement Plans

Purpose: This study examines sex differences among Baby Boom workers in the likelihood of coverage by an employer-provided retirement plan. Design and Methods: This study used a sample of Baby Boom workers drawn from the 2009 Current Population Survey. Independent variables were selected to replicate as closely as possible those in two 1995 studies of retired workers and pension plans. Three new variables were added to reflect major social and economic shifts since 1995. Logistic regression was performed to analyze the effect of the independent variables on the likelihood of retirement plan coverage. Results: In this cohort, the proportions of men and women included in employerprovided retirement plans were almost the same. The overall odds of women being included in a plan were only slightly less than even and in certain cases were significantly higher than the odds for men. Predictors of inclusion that were most important for both women and men were minority status, employment in a core industry or in a government position, educational level, and marital status. Implications: Although a much larger group of workers is included in retirement plans than in previous studies, and Baby Boom women are less disadvantaged in this regard than women in earlier studies, minority and immigrant workers continue to be disadvantaged, and the security of government retirement plans may be weakening with current economic difficulties.
Regulation of telomere length by an N-terminal region of the yeast telomerase reverse transcriptase

Telomerase is a reverse transcriptase that maintains chromosome integrity through synthesis of repetitive telomeric sequences on the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, telomere length homeostasis is achieved through negative regulation of telomerase access to the chromosome terminus by telomere-bound Rap1 protein and its binding partners, Rif1p and Rif2p, and positive regulation by factors such as Ku70/80, Tel1p, and Cdc13p. Here we report the identification of mutations within an N-terminal region (region I) of the yeast telomerase catalytic subunit (Est2p) that cause telomere lengthening without altering measurable catalytic properties of the enzyme in vitro. These telomerase mutations affect telomere length through a Ku-independent mechanism and do not alter chromosome end structure. While Tel1p is required for expression of the telomere-lengthening phenotype, Rif1p and Rif2p are not, suggesting that telomere overextension is independent of Rap1p. Taken together, these data suggest that specific amino acids within region I of the catalytic subunit of yeast telomerase play a previously unanticipated role in the response to Tel1p regulation at the telomere.
A new nematode-destroying Harposporium.

A B S T R A C T A mucedinaceous parasite, observed destroying eelworms in a maize-meal-agar plate culture prepared by the addition of some forest duff from western Maryland, is newly described as Harposporium cycloides. Its conidia differ from the crescentic or semicircular conidia of the familiar H. anguillulae in that their curvature extends to an angular magnitude of approximately a full circle. Its chlamydospores, though sometimes found united in pairs, are much more often produced singly than are the chlamydospores of H. anguillulae. IN THE REPORT that includes the original account by Lohde (1874) of a nematode-destroving fungus which he named Harposporium anguillulae, the morphological treatment provides no dimensional measurements, and accordinglv serves better in defining the genus, then newly presented, than in delimiting the species on which it was erected. Later Zopf (1888) described and illustrated, as H. anguillulae, a fungus whose endozoic assimilative hyphae and external reproductive hyphae would seem, from the magnification given for relevant figures, to measure 2.5-4 , in width. Here and there along the external hyphae were produced globose bodies, 2.5-3.6,u in diam, which Zopf in conformity with earlier usage designated as basidia, since they gave rise on delicate sterigmata to conidia. These conidia, of the distinctive crescentic shape signalized in the generic term invented by Lohde, were stated to measure 1-2,u in width; and their two ends, which after disjunction of the spore became equally pointed, inclosed a chord 7-13 , long. Although Lohde made no mention of spores other than conidia, Zopf also observed the production of distended or barrel-shaped chlamydospores, apparently about 4.5-9 A long and 5.5-7.5,u wide, which were formed from short segments of the assimilative hyphae. At times they were produced singly, but oftener they originated plurally in chains. Much agreement and some noteworthy disagreement with the morphological features of Harposporium anquillulae Lohde emend. Zopf is evident in a recently found, congeneric fungus that similarly subsists parasiticallv on nematodes.
Overlooked but not untouched: How rudeness reduces onlookers’ performance on routine and creative tasks

In three experimental studies, we found that witnessing rudeness enacted by an authority figure (Studies 1 and 3) and a peer (Study 2) reduced observers’ performance on routine tasks as well as creative tasks. In all three studies we also found that witnessing rudeness decreased citizenship behaviors and increased dysfunctional ideation. Negative affect mediated the relationships between witnessing rudeness and performance. The results of Study 3 show that competition with the victim over scarce resources moderated the relationship between observing rudeness and performance. Witnesses that were in a competition with the victim felt less negative affect in observing his mistreatment and their performance decreased to a lesser extent than observers of rudeness enacted against a non-competitive victim. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Family and Community Influences on Diabetes-Related Dietary Change in a Low-Income Urban Neighborhood

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore the influence of the social environment, including family and community relationships, on diabetes-related dietary change behaviors in a low-income, predominantly African American community with limited access to healthy foods.MethodsStudy methods included interviews and focus groups with adults with diabetes and family members of individuals with diabetes in a low-income African American community. In this analysis, interview participants included 11 participants with diabetes, one with prediabetes, and 8 family members or close friends with diabetes. Information from 4 participants with diabetes and 6 with family members with diabetes was included from 6 focus groups. Transcripts were analyzed via thematic iterative coding influenced by social cognitive theory to understand the influence of family and community relationships on dietary change.ResultsParticipants’ social environments strongly influenced diet-related behavioral change. Family members without ...
Detection of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (Bb12) in the intestine after feeding of sows and their piglets.

A real-time PCR method has been developed to distinguish Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies in the gastrointestinal tracts of pigs. Identification of a highly conserved single-copy tuf gene encoding the elongation factor Tu involved in bacterial protein biosynthesis was used as a marker to differentiate homologous Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (strain Bb12) from Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. animalis, as well as Bifidobacterium suis, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum, several species of Lactobacillus, and Enterococcus faecium. Real-time PCR detection of serially diluted DNA extracted from a pure culture of Bb12 was linear for bacterial numbers ranging from 10 to 10,000 tuf gene copies per PCR (r2 = 0.99). Relative differences in Bb12 bacterial numbers in pigs fed daily with Bb12 were determined after detection of Bb12 tuf gene copies in DNA extracted from the intestinal contents. Piglets treated with Bb12 immediately after birth maintained a high level of Bb12 in their large intestines with continuous daily administration of Bb12. Piglets born to Bb12-treated sows during the last third of their gestation and also treated with Bb12 at birth (T/T group) had a higher number of Bb12 organisms per gram of intestinal contents compared to placebo-treated piglets born to placebo-treated sows (C/C group), Bb12-treated sows (T/C group), or piglets born to placebo sows but treated with Bb12 immediately after birth (C/T group). In addition, there was a significant increase in gene expression for Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) in piglets from the T/T group, with no change in TLR2 and TLR4. These findings suggest that the tuf gene represents a specific and functional marker for detecting Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis strain Bb12 within the microbiota of the intestine.
Elongation, Solute Loss, Osmotic Potential Changes, and Respiration Rate Changes during the Treatment of Avena Coleoptile Segments with Superoptimal Auxin Concentrations

When treated with 100 μg/ml (0.57 mM) indole-3-acetic acid at pH 4.5, Avena sativa coleoptile segments elongate rapidly at first but begin to shrink after a few hours and eventually approach their initial length. Sufficient quantities of potassium and reducing sugars leak into the medium to reflect a significant change in osmotic potential of the tissues due to solute loss. Plasmometric measurements of subepidermal cell osmotic potentials reveal no alterations in that cell layer due to superoptimal auxin treatments: therefore other cells, presumably those of the epidermis, must be responsible for both the obvious loss of segment turgor and most of the solute loss. The relationship of the change in length to change in volume is the same for segments growing in no auxin, optimal auxin, and superoptimal auxin, indicating that cell swelling in other dimensions is not related to the differences in elongation. The respiration rate in superoptimal auxin falls several hours before the growth slows and stops. This result and the observation that auxin must be accumulated by segments to exert a growth inhibition suggest a site of inhibitory auxin action at or inside of the plasma membrane and not just upon the cell wall.
Atropine antagonism of carbachol‐induced hyperglycemia

Hyperglycemia was induced with carbachol in rats, rabbits, and dogs, and the effect in rabbits was shown to be dose related. In albino rabbits with negligible plasma esterase activity, atropine sulfate effectively prevented hyperglycemia following 25 mcg./Kg. of carbachol, and the effect appeared to be dose dependent. In rabbits with moderate esterase levels, atropine sulfate dosage as high as 0.8 mg./Kg. had little inhibitory effect on carbachol hyperglycemic or cholinomimetic responses. This plasma esterase was not effectively blocked in vivo with 20 mg./Kg. of 2-(diethylamino)ethyl-2,2-diphenylvalerate (proadifen) HCl (SKF 525-A). However, this dose of proadifen HCl did block carbachol hyperglycemia in rabbits with negligible esterase activity. Carbachol hyperglycemia was similarly prevented by atropine in rats and dogs.
Studies on SP6 promoter using a new plasmid vector that allow gene insertion at the transcription initiation site

All the phage-promoter containing subcloning vectors available for in vitro transcription reactions contain a polylinker away from the transcription initiation site. A new SP6 transcription subcloning vector, pCKSP6, has been constructed, in which a gene can be inserted precisely at the transcription initiation site. This was achieved by bringing the BamHI cleavage site into the initiation site. When DNA ends of both insert gene and BamHI cleaved pCKSP6 are made blunt-ended using a single strand specific nuclease, the in vitro transcripts of the recombinant DNA by SP6 RNA polymerase will contain only the gene sequence immediately after the initiation base G. Mung bean nuclease was used to generate a series of mutants resulting from step-wise deletion of single base pairs around the initiation site. Transcription assays with these SP6 promoter mutants revealed that not only the sequence immediately upstream of the initiation site but also the six base pairs from position +1 to +6 are important elements for promoter binding and/or transcription initiation activity. Furthermore, there appears to be a hierarchy of importance of each base pair in the order of position +1 greater than +2 greater than +3 greater than +4, +5, +6, -1, -2.
Sorption of four triarylmethane dyes in a sandy soil determined by batch and column experiments

Dye tracers are important hydrological tracers. Only a few commercially available dyes have been systematically evaluated for their suitability as hydrological tracers. Sorption is one of the limiting factors for the suitability of a dye tracer. In this study we examined the sorption of four dyes to a sandy soil using batch and column techniques. The four dyes, C.I. Food Blue 2 (Brilliant Blue FCF), C.I. Food Green 3, C.I. Acid Blue 7, and C.I. Acid Green 9, were all from the class of triarylmethnane dyes. Adsorption isotherms were determined at pHc8 in 10 mmol/L CaCl2 background solution. Batch sorption experiments were conducted using dye concentrations ranging from 0.0001 to 2.9 mmol/L. Sorption isotherms were analyzed with the Langmuir equation. Column experiments with the dyes were conducted under water saturated conditions. Adsorption isotherms calculated from column breakthrough data showed good agreement with those of batch studies, except at small dye concentrations, where column data tended to over-estimate sorption of the dyes. The four dyes showed two different sorption behaviors: C.I. Food Green 3 and C.I. Food Blue 2 sorbed considerably less than C.I. Acid Green 9 and Acid Blue 7. The former two dyes contain three sulfonic acid groups while the latter only contain two sulfonic acid groups. C.I. Food Green 3 is likely a good hydrological tracer, as is C.I. Food Blue 2, which is frequently used as a vadose zone tracer. D 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Parameter Estimation of Fundamental Technical Aircraft Information Applied to Aircraft Performance

Inverse problems can be applied to aircraft in many areas. One of the disciplines within the aerospace industry with the most openly published data is in the area of aircraft performance. Many aircraft manufacturers publish performance claims, flight manuals and Standard Aircraft Characteristic (SAC) charts without any mention of the more fundamental technical information such as CD0 . With accurate tools, generalized aircraft models and a few curve-fitting techniques, it is possible to evaluate vehicle performance and estimate these technical parameters. With this goal a program has been written in Matlab to calculate the fundamental information behind a general aircraft. The current results are promising with more work underway to further improve them. The results shown are for the Northrop F-5. While the results look good, the overall accuracy of the program is only as good as the data provided. For example, the maximum speed reported by a company may assume that the aircraft is in a dive with engines at full throttle. Or, the measurements may be overly optimistic, with an important characteristic such as ground friction during takeoff left out of the picture. If this information is not reported then an accurate analysis is not possible. Nomenclature
Alcohol and the methylome: design and analysis considerations for research using human samples.

Abstract Background A growing number of studies in human samples have sought to determine whether chronic alcohol use and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) may be associated with epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation. We review the extant literature in light of some of the challenges that currently affect the design and interpretation of epigenetic research in human samples. Method A literature search was used to identify studies that have examined DNA methylation in relation to alcohol use or AUDs in human samples (through July 2013). A total of 22 studies were identified. Results Associations with quantitative or diagnostic phenotypes of alcohol use or AUDs have been reported for several genes. However, all studies to date have relied on relatively small samples and cross-sectional study designs. Additionally, attempts to replicate results have been rare. More generally, research progress is hampered by several issues, including limitations of the technologies used to assess DNA methylation, tissue- and cell-specificity of methylation patterns, the difficulties of relating observed methylation differences at a given locus to a functional effect, and limited knowledge about the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of alcohol on DNA methylation. Conclusions Although we share the optimism that epigenetics may lead to new insights into the etiology and pathophysiology of AUDs, the methodological and scientific challenges associated with conducting methylomic research in human samples need to be carefully considered when designing and evaluating such studies.
NON-CONDENSING POLYMERIC GENE DELIVERY SYSTEMS: PRINCIPLES AND APPLICATIONS

Gene therapy holds tremendous promise in prevention and treatment of diseases as the approach is based on regulating the expression of genes that are responsible for pathological conditions. The biggest bottleneck for gene delivery has been the development of safe and efficacious delivery systems. Although non-viral vectors are considered as much safer options than their viral counterparts, they suffer from low transfection efficiency. In this review, we highlight the role of non-condensing polymeric delivery systems for oral and systemic gene delivery. Using evidence from contemporary literature, non-condensing polymeric microparticle and nanoparticle systems afford physical encapsulation of the nucleic acid construct and can be engineered for targeted delivery to tissues and cells. Additionally, these systems have shown less toxicity and afford sustained cytoplasmic DNA delivery for efficient nuclear uptake and transfection for both DNA vaccines and therapeutic genes.
Tribalism and Advertising Effectiveness in Kenya: An Exploratory Study

Abstract An exploratory investigation was undertaken in Kenya into the effect of an advertising presenter's tribal identity on the way he/she is perceived by audience members. It was hypothesized that the presenter's tribe could affect the likelihood of an audience member's purchasing the product being advertised, and that this effect could be positive or negative, depending on the tribes of the presenter and the audience member. While not completely substantiating the hypotheses, the research findings suggest that a major problem exists, and that a larger scale study would be justified. Recommendations are made on how advertisers might deal with the implications of tribal identity.
Amino Acid Sequence of Porcine Neurophysin-I

Abstract Tryptic and chymotryptic peptide fragments obtained from performic acid-oxidized porcine neurophysin-I were isolated and purified by gel filtration, ion exchange chromatography, paper electrophoresis, and paper chromatography. The larger tryptic peptides were further hydrolyzed by papain, chymotrypsin, pepsin, or HCl to yield shorter fragments amenable to Edman degradation. The sum of the compositions of the tryptic peptides, however, exceeded the total number of amino acid residues of porcine neurophysin-I reported earlier. Re-examination of the amino acid composition and further investigation of COOH-terminal peptides showed that the porcine neurophysin-I preparation was not homogeneous with respect to the COOH terminus. The preparation contained two species of neurophysin molecules, in approximately equal amounts, differing in length only by 1 amino acid residue at the COOH terminus. The complete amino acid sequence of both species of porcine neurophysin-I, containing 92 and 91 residues, was determined by conventional methods. The larger molecule contains the entire sequence of the shorter molecule plus an extra leucyl residue at its COOH terminus. Alanine is the NH2-terminal residue of both molecules. Phenylalanine is the COOH terminus of the shorter molecule. Single methionine and tyrosine residues occupy positions 2 and 49, respectively. The location of the seven disulfide linkages of porcine neurophysin-I remains to be determined.
Minimally invasive surgery for inflammatory bowel disease: nationwide evaluation of use and outcomes

delivery (74 vs 47%, p<0.0001) rates significantly decreased after IPAA creation. Primary diagnosis had no impact on conception before or after IPAA creation (p1⁄40.265). Infertility was higher after IPAA creation (62 vs 37 %, p<0.0001). While conception was similar in patients following either open or laparoscopic IPAA (44 vs 54 %, respectively; p1⁄4 0.454), time to conceive was significantly shorter after laparoscopic surgery. IPAA related issues were urgency (5 %, 15 %, 30 %), incontinence (5%, 15 %, 21 %), pad usage (5 %, 13 %, 20 %) during first, second and third trimesters respectively. IPAA functions recovered within a mean time of 4 months after delivery.
Genetic Mapping of Pathogenesis Determinants in Toxoplasma gondii.

Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread parasite of warm-blooded vertebrates that also causes opportunistic infections in humans. Rodents are a natural host for asexually replicating forms, whereas cats serve as the definitive host for sexual development. The laboratory mouse provides a model to study pathogenesis. Strains of T. gondii are globally diverse, with more than 16 distinct haplogroups clustered into 6 major clades. Forward genetic analysis of genetic crosses between different lineages has been used to define the molecular basis of acute virulence in the mouse. These studies have identified a family of secretory serine/threonine rhoptry kinases that target innate immune pathways to protect intracellular parasites from destruction. Rhoptry kinases target immunity-related GTPases, a family of immune effectors that is expanded in rodents. Similar forward genetic studies may be useful to define the basis of pathogenesis in other hosts, including humans, where infections of different strains present with v...
The Large Leaf Spot of Chestnut and Oak

This disease we have named the "large leaf spot" in contradistinction to the -small leaf spot, the latter being common on chestnut leaves, and, as is well known, caused by the fungus, Septoria ochroleuca B. & C. In the summer of I9IO, during a survey of the diseases of the forest trees in the Southern Appalachian region, in collaboration with the U. S. Forest Service, the writer found the large leaf spot occurring abundantly on leaves of Castanea dentata in Bedford County, Virginia; in Transylvania, Jackson and Macon Counties, North Carolina, and in Rabun County, Georgia. It was found commonly also on leaves of Querclus rubra L. in Transylvania County, North Carolina. A similar disease has been briefly mentioned by Stevens and Hall1 under the title of Monochetiose, in their recent book on Diseases of Economic Plants. Stating that it is abundant in the forests on chestnut leaves, and causes much loss of vigor to the tree, they refer to Monochaetia pachyspora Bubak as the fungous agent. The disease which they mention may be the same as that observed by the writer, and if this is so, it is probably more correct to refer it to Monochaetia Desnmazierii Sacc. This point, however, will require further investigation.2 Beyond the brief statement in the above mentioned work, we have been unable to find any other definite reference to such a disease in the literature.
Science Translational Medicine Podcast: 27 April 2016

Abstract In this podcast, Jurrien Dean explains how peptide-coated beads could be used for contraception or to select the sperm best suited for use in assisted reproduction. Listen to Podcast
On perception and trust: Merleau-Ponty and the emotional significance of our relations with others

Our perception of the world and our relationships with other people are not, I argue, distinct activities. Focusing, first, on Merleau-Ponty’s description in the Phenomenology of Perception of his playful interaction with an infant, and, second, on contemporary research on the phenomena referred to as neonate imitation, joint attention, and mutual gaze, I argue that perception can be a collaborative endeavor. Moreover, this collaborative endeavor, which is definitive of both infant and adult perception, entails trust; our trust in others is not simply a feeling that we perceive but also a way of perceiving. As infants, our trust in others is our perception of the world we share with our caregivers as the world we will also share with others; it is our perception of the world we share with our caregivers as real. As adults, we live our trust in others by perceiving the objects that surround us in ways that protect, rather than damage, the shared worlds that we create in our relationships with them.
Mutant drought phenotype investigation : a look into effects of protein prenylation on water utilization in conditions of varying soil saturation and gene knockout.

Plants respond to environmental stress, such as drought, with increases in levels of Abscisic Acid (ABA). This stress response allows greater survival rates but results in the plants producing lower seed yield and biomass. Certain mutant strains of the Arabidopsis plant have been identified with mutations in coding regions involved in the formation of the α and β subunits of PFT and PGGT-I genes involved in protein prenylation. We explored the possibility of these mutant strains to better preserve seed yield and plant biomass under drought stressing conditions in comparison to the wild type (Columbia) strain, based on the mutants’ hypersensitivity to ABA. Our data did not support the hypothesis that these mutant strains offer better preservation in these categories, and the functioning of the PFT and PGGT-I genes may be different than originally proposed. Mutant Drought Phenotype Investigation 3
Chemical Geodynamics of Granitic Magmatism in the Basement of the Eastern Qaidam Basin,Northern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

The eastern margin of the Qaidam Basin lies in a key tectonic location connecting the Qinling,Qilian and Kunlun orogens.The Permian Triassic(P-T)I-type granitoids in the basement of the eastern Qaidam Basin are parts of the intrusive magmatism of the Paleo-Tethyan orogeny formed in ocean environment.Lithogeochemical analyses,combined with previous LA ICP-MS zircon U-Pb dating,reveal two time series of P-T granitoids.The early series is composed of K-feldspar granites,granodiorites,tonalities,and diorites,and the later series is composed of alkali granites,K-feldspar granites,and granodiorites.Both of them have lithogeochemical trends of anti-Bowen's reaction series,opposite to that of classical Bowen's reaction series.Nd-Sr-Pb-O isotope compositions of P-T granitoids showes characteristics of young crust formed in orogeny and upper crust with a close relationship to enriched mantle(EM Ⅱ)source.The Pb composition of P-T granitoids from the basement of the eastern Qaidam Basin is very similar to that of the Mesozoic granitoids from West Qinling Orogeny and Yangtze Block,suggesting the tectonic affinity between the basement of the eastern Qaidam Basin and the Yangtze Block.It is suggested that,underplating of mafic magma from the mantle and dynamic mixing between the mantle-derived mafic and crust-derived felsic magmas,may act an important role in the crust growth of the basement of the Qaidam Basin.
The violated neck: cervical node biopsy prior to definitive treatment.

The intent of this study was to determine whether open neck biopsy for patients with squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to the neck influenced the biologic course of the disease or the response to treatment. One hundred ninety-two patients, treated over a 10-year period at M.D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute, were reviewed; 102 of the 139 patients, whose primary site of disease was identified prior to definitive treatment, were matched with a control group of 204 patients. The results showed no significant difference in wound complications, neck recurrence, distant metastases, and 5-year survival. Also, time interval from the biopsy to subsequent treatment and the type of node biopsy did not appear to have any significant detrimental effect. On the basis of these findings, we conclude that, although it is important to refrain from proceeding with an open biopsy until a complete head and neck evaluation has been done, violation of the neck does not signify a poorer prognosis--provided adequate treatment is subsequently given.
Isolation and organ culture of imaginal tissues.

Publisher Summary Organ mass isolation and culture procedures can provide access to sufficient material for biochemical and molecular analyses and allow perturbation of developmental processes with agents such as hormones, growth factors, and inhibitors. Organ culture of mass-isolated larval and imaginal tissues has been particularly valuable for analysis of hormone-dependent events during tissue morphogenesis and differentiation of imaginal discs because these processes do not depend on continued cell proliferation during the culture period. In vitro disc culture has recently been applied to analysis of development of glial cells of the peripheral nervous system, indicating the potential for application of disc culture for analysis of peripheral nervous system (PNS) development. Imaginal discs are mass isolated from large-scale cultures of well-fed late third instar larvae. The larval culture produces larvae that span a range of ages because of the use of a relatively long egg-collection period to obtain sufficient material for mass isolation in a single preparation.
Particulate Impact and Erosion in a Turbulent Serpentine Channel

Surface roughness often arises in consequence of erosion by particulate impact. We have studied particle impact in turbulent channel flow by direct numerical simulation (DNS). The channel is S-shaped, with periodicity between inlet and exit; hence, it is an infinite serpentine. The bend is fairly tight: its diameter is equal to the channel width. There is a separation bubble downstream of the bend. A range of particle masses was simulated. The particle Stokes numbers ranged from 0.5 to 6.0. In a straight, turbulent channel flow, eddies are responsible for particulate impact. On a Reynolds averaged level, turbophoresis has been given credit in the literature. In a curved channel, particle inertia may be the dominant cause of impact. However, turbulent convection is still important. This depends on the relative magnitude of particle and turbulent time-scales. The role of turbulent eddies is more complex than turbophoresis. In this paper we are able only to report our empirical findings. Transport in the serpentine geometry depends on the particle Stokes number. Heavier particles create a plume that leaves the inner bend and flows toward the outer wall. Turbulence then spreads particles away from the wall, forming a region of high concentration next to the surface. We have used an erosion formula to compare the distribution of particle impacts to erosion. Erosion depends on impact velocity and angle. The region of maximum erosion is not the region of maximum number of impacts. Higher Stokes number particles form more intense plumes and thicker layers next to the wall. Lighter particles form a plume, but the high concentration layer remains thin, reminiscent of plane channel flow.
The Effects of Additive TiO 2 Nanoparticles on the Energy Gap of DCM Doped with PS Thin Films

In this work thin films containing laser dye (DCM) doped with polystyrene (PS) were prepared using casting method. Titania (TiO2) nanoparticles also were synthesized using sol gel technique. Characteristics of the tetania were done using XRD patter, and the characteristic peak of anatase is sharper and clear to observe, in particular at 25.40° degree. While scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to achieve the morphology of TiO2 samples, and to determine the sizes of nanoparticles. Different titania nanoparticle densities (0.882×10 20 , 1.765×10 20 , 2.648×10 20 , 3.530×10 20 and 4.413×10 20 cm -3 ) were co-doping with dye doped polymer and study the effect of this addition on the optical properties and electronic transition energy gaps in cases of both direct and indirect transitions.