cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Localization of Translocation Complex Components in Bacillus subtilis: Enrichment of the Signal Recognition Particle Receptor at Early Sporulation Septa

We here demonstrate that in Bacillus subtilis , the signal recognition particle receptor, FtsY, transiently localizes to early sporulation septa, whereas three SecYEG translocase-associated membrane proteins (SecDF, SpoIIIJ, and YqjG) are uniformly distributed. These results suggest FtsY delivers secreted proteins to SecYEG at the septum, consistent with initial septal localization of forespore membrane proteins.
Lattice-layer materials for column chromatography in dioxin methods

Abstract Three lattice-layer materials were identified and screened for potential use in the cleanup of extracts for dioxin analysis. Determination of the elution profiles of chlorinated dioxins, furans, and diphenylethers on these materials was conducted. Based on these investigations, one of the materials, molybdenum disulfide, was selected and compared with Carbopack C and AX-21 carbon for the cleanup of two contaminated soil samples. The results obtained indicate that molybdenum disulfide is effective for the removal of diphenylethers and other interferences and should be further evaluated for potential use as a chromatographic medium for the cleanup of extracts for dioxin analysis.
Queueing systems with service interruptions

In many queueing systems, the service process is subject to interruptions resulting from breakdowns, scheduled off-periods or the arrival of customers with preemptive priority. We consider a single server, first-come, first-served queueing system that alternates between periods when service is available "on-periods" and periods when the server is unavailable "off-periods". We consider the case of Poisson arrivals and general service, on-and off-time distributions and derive bounds and approximations for the mean waiting time, probability of delay and steady-state distribution of the number in system. These results are exact for the case of exponentially distributed on-times. Computational results are reported.
Combining Gompertzian growth and cell population dynamics

A two-compartment model of cancer cells population dynamics proposed by Gyllenberg and Webb includes transition rates between proliferating and quiescent cells as non-specified functions of the total population, N. We define the net inter-compartmental transition rate function: Phi(N). We assume that the total cell population follows the Gompertz growth model, as it is most often empirically found and derive Phi(N). The Gyllenberg-Webb transition functions are shown to be characteristically related through Phi(N). Effectively, this leads to a hybrid model for which we find the explicit analytical solutions for proliferating and quiescent cell populations, and the relations among model parameters. Several classes of solutions are examined. Our model predicts that the number of proliferating cells may increase along with the total number of cells, but the proliferating fraction appears to be a continuously decreasing function. The net transition rate of cells is shown to retain direction from the proliferating into the quiescent compartment. The death rate parameter for quiescent cell population is shown to be a factor in determining the proliferation level for a particular Gompertz growth curve.
Posttraumatic stress disorder and memory: Evidence of maladaptations to stressors

People with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are entering the workforce in record numbers as they discharge from the military and attempt to enter the civilian workforce. Understanding how PTSD affects the human mind will help organizations manage their employees more effectively by allowing supervisors to set up systems that compensate for deficits. PTSD appears to cause significant memory and attentional deficits; however, it is difficult to determine whether the attentional deficits contribute to the memory deficits. The current study used the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) to examine the memory deficits separate from the attention difficulties in people with PTSD. Results demonstrated that PTSD severity correlated with attention issues, but not memory issues. The authors discuss these findings in terms of their clinical and organizational applications.
A note on the dominance hierarchy index

The realized (observed) value of Landau's dominance hierarchy index is examined. Under a model of constant pairwise dominance probabilities, the observed index is shown to be a strongly consistent estimator of the underlying (true) index. However, a large number of encounters between animals is shown to be required in order to reduce bias and variance to practical levels except when the pairwise dominance probabilities are near one.
Specific cleavage of synthetic renin substrate by mouse γ-nerve growth factor

Results of the present investigation indicate that mouseγ-nerve growth factor (γ-NGF), which belongs to the kallikrein family of proteins, specifically cleaves the Phe-His bond of a synthetic renin substrate and exhibits rat-tonin-like activity. Since other mouse kallikreins do not cleave this bond,γ-NGF may play a regulatory role in the generation of antiogensin-II.
Small intestinal epithelial brush border enzymatic changes in suckling mice infected with reovirus type 3.

Small Intestinal Epithelial Brush Border Enzymatic Changes in Suckling Mice Infected with Reovirus Type 3
Comparison of lysine and tryptophan catabolizing enzymes in rat and bovine tissues

Earlier studies indicate that α-aminoadipate aminotransferase (AadAT) and kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) activities from rat tissues are associated with a single protein. However, our recent studies indicate that AadAT activity from bovine liver and kidney is not associated with KAT activity. To test whether the lysine and tryptophan catabolism in bovine tissues differ from that in rat tissues, we compared the activities of enzymes involved in lysine and tryptophan pathways in rat and bovine tissues. The activities of lysine catabolizing enzymes such as AadAT, lysine α-ketoglutarate reductase and saccharopine dehydrogenase in the bovine tissues were significantly lower than those found in rat tissues. The activities of tryptophan catabolizing enzymes such as KAT and kynurenine hydroxylase in the bovine tissues were negligible as compared to those in rat tissues. The results suggest that lysine is degraded via the saccharopine pathway in the livers and kidneys of both species but the metabolism of tryptophan in bovine tissues may be different from that in rat tissues.
Oscillatory thermocapillary flows in open cylindrical containers induced by CO2 laser heating

Abstract Oscillatory thermocapillary flow experiments were conducted in microgravity. Silicone oil was placed in cylindrical containers and heated at the center by a CO 2 laser beam. The main objectives were to determine the onset of oscillatory thermocapillary flow and to study the important features of the oscillatory flow. Numerical and scaling analyses were also performed to understand the basic steady flows. The onset conditions show that the oscillation phenomenon cannot be explained if the fluid-free surface is assumed to be undeformable. Therefore, a parameter representing free surface deformation is derived. The oscillation patterns and frequencies are also presented.
Signal Versus Noise in the Southern Oscillation

Abstract The utility of a simple index for monitoring the Southern Oscillation signal is explored in detail. Based upon sea level pressure data at the two stations Tahiti (T) and Darwin (D), an optimal index, in the sense that it combines the Southern Oscillation variance into one series is the combination [Tn + Dn] where the subscript n denotes normalization by the overall standard deviation of each series. A direct measure of the noise due to small-scale or transient phenomena that are not a part of the large-scale coherent Southern Oscillation fluctuations is the index [Tn + Dn]. It is recommended that this index of noise also should be monitored in order to determine the representativeness of the Southern Oscillation index. The signal-to-noise ratio is shown to depend upon the cross correlation between Darwin and Tahiti, and can be increased by applying weighted moving average low-pass filters to the data. Monthly data exhibit a signal-to-noise ratio, defined as the ratio of the standard deviations, o...
Effect of Thiouracil-type Drugs on the α-Glycerophosphate Dehydrogenase Response to Thyroxine Analogs

The response of mitochondrial α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase (GPD) activity to the injection of T4, T3, Tetrac, Triac, Tetraprop, Triprop and isopropyl-T2 was determined in liver, kidney and heart of weanling male rats maintained on a purified diet containing 2-thiouracil (TU). Similar studies were done with T4 and T3 in the presence of 6-propylthiouracil (PTU) and 2-mercapto-l-methylimidazole (MMI). TU inhibited the GPD response to T4 in all tissues, but did not decrease the response to T3 or the other analogs. PTU also inhibited T4 but not T3, while MMI had no effect on either. TU actually enhanced the GPD response to Tetraprop, Triprop and isopropyl-T2, and in some cases the liver GPD response to Triac and T3. The effect of TU on the GPD responses to T4, T3, Tetrac and Triac correlated well with the metabolic rate responses to these compounds. The extrathyroidal inhibition of T4 by thiouracils precludes the use of these drugs in antigoitrogenic assay procedures or in the estimation of endogenous T4 o...
DNA G-quartets in a 1.86 Å resolution structure of an Oxytricha nova telomeric protein-DNA complex

The Oxytricha nova telomere end binding protein (OnTEBP) recognizes, binds and protects the single-stranded 3′-terminal DNA extension found at the ends of macronuclear chromosomes. The structure of this complex shows that the single strand GGGGTTTTGGGG DNA binds in a deep cleft between the two protein subunits of OnTEBP, adopting a non-helical and irregular conformation. In extending the resolution limit of this structure to 1.86 A, we were surprised to find a G-quartet linked dimer of the GGGGTTTTGGGG DNA also packing within the crystal lattice and interacting with the telomere end binding protein. The G-quartet DNA exhibits the same structure and topology as previously observed in solution by NMR with diagonally crossing d(TTTT) loops at either end of the four-stranded helix. Additionally, the crystal structure reveals clearly visible Na+, and specific patterns of bound water molecules in the four non-equivalent grooves. Although the G-quartet:protein contact surfaces are modest and might simply represent crystal packing interactions, it is interesting to speculate that the two types of telomeric DNA-protein interactions observed here might both be important in telomere biology.
Factors influencing publication choice: why faculty choose open access

In an attempt to identify motivating factors involved in decisions to publish in open access and open archives (OA) journals, individual interviews with biomedical faculty members at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) and Duke University, two major research universities, were conducted. The interviews focused on faculty identified as early adopters of OA/free full-text publishing. Searches conducted in PubMed and PubMed Central identified faculty from the two institutions who have published works in OA/free full-text journals. The searches targeted authors with multiple OA citations during a specified 18 month period. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the most prolific OA authors at each university. Individual interviews attempted to determine whether the authors were aware they published in OA journals, why they chose to publish in OA journals, what factors influenced their publishing decisions, and their general attitude towards OA publishing models. Fourteen interviews were granted and completed. Respondents included a fairly even mix of Assistant, Associate and Full professors. Results indicate that when targeting biomedical faculty at UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke, speed of publication and copyright retention are unlikely motivating factors or incentives for the promotion of OA publishing. In addition, author fees required by some open access journals are unlikely barriers or disincentives. It appears that publication quality is of utmost importance when choosing publication venues in general, while free access and visibility are specifically noted incentives for selection of OA journals. Therefore, free public availability and increased exposure may not be strong enough incentives for authors to choose open access over more traditional and respected subscription based publications, unless the quality issue is also addressed.
Influenza: historical aspects of epidemics and pandemics

Influenza is a zoonotic respiratory virus that affects birds, mammals, and humans. Influenza viruses are unique in their genetic instability, which frequently results in antigenic drift or shift. Antigenic shifts are responsible for influenza epidemics. Influenza A pandemics have been responsible for millions of deaths during the past several hundred years. In terms of virulence and lethality, the 1918 to 1919 influenza pandemic was the worst in history. It was unique in its predilection and lethality among young healthy adults. There has never been a satisfactory explanation for the unusual virulence of the 1918 to 1919 pandemic.
Electron-induced surface chemistry on TiN in ultrahigh vacuum

Abstract The property of a TiN/vacuum interface in ultrahigh vacuum ( 3×10 −9 Torr ) and under electron beam irradiation was studied using Auger electron spectroscopy. Electron-beam energies ranged from 1 to 9 keV. Without electron irradiation, about 1 monolayer (ML) of oxygen adsorbs on the TiN surface and metal oxidation occurs. The characteristic of oxygen adsorption is discussed in terms of the relationship of gas-sticking probability with coverage within the first ML regime. Under electron irradiation, carbon accumulates on the surface, in addition to oxygen adsorption, which modifies the surface chemistry to an extent that depends on the vacuum conditions, electron current density, and electron beam energy. For high-energy electron beams, electron bombardment induces TiC formation.
Inflammation and White Matter Damage in Vascular Cognitive Impairment

Vascular cognitive impairment is a term used to describe a heterogeneous group of diseases, including large vessel disease with strategic single and multiple strokes and small vessel disease with progressive damage to the deep white matter. Identification of patients with the progressive form of vascular cognitive impairment, referred to by some investigators as Binswanger disease, is important for treatment trials. Pathologically, Binswanger disease is associated with small vessel disease, extensive regions of demyelination, inflammatory cells around damaged blood vessels, and lacunar infarcts. Clinically, patients with Binswanger disease have impairments of gait and balance, focal neurological findings, and executive dysfunction on neuropsychological tests. White matter changes on MRI are thought to be due to hypoxic episodes related to hypoperfusion of the vulnerable deep white matter secondary to hypertension, diabetes, and other vessel diseases. Disruption of the blood-brain barrier suggests an inflammatory response. Matrix metalloproteinases are present in the brain of patients with vascular cognitive impairment and can be measured in the cerebrospinal fluid of some patients. Preliminary studies with quantification of the blood-brain barrier, using the multiple time graphical method (Patlak plots), supports disruption of the blood-brain barrier. Because no single clinical feature or diagnostic test is sufficient to identify patients with the small vessel form of vascular cognitive impairment, we propose that a multimodal approach will be needed to select patients for treatment trials.
Absorption enhancement in guided-mode-resonant hydrogenated amorphous silicon thin-film solar cells

We present measured absorption characteristics of GMR hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) thin-film solar cells. About 22% integrated absorption enhancement compared to planar reference solar cell is observed for 450-730nm wavelength range.
Metropolitan Governance and Institutional Collective Action

This article describes the institutional collective action (ICA) framework and its application to the study of governance arrangements in metropolitan areas by focusing on the tools of regional governance for solving ICA problems. Regional governance mechanisms are classified by their focus on either collective or network relationships. The role of these within these mechanisms is analyzed and the transaction costs barriers to the emergence of regional governance institutions are identified. The concluding discussion identifies the limitations of self-organizing mechanisms and develops a research agenda to investigate the emergence, evolution, and performance of regional governance institutions.
Erasable Optical Disk Materials Evaluation

AbstractThe experimental evaluation of a photochromic material and a photodichroic material foruse in wideband digital disc recording. Photochromics and photodichroics have thecapability of high resolution recording at high data rates and are in addition erasable. A general description of the recording mechanisms are given, and the sensitometry, frequencyresponse, and image stability are summarized.IntroductionThe recording medium plays an important role in the development of wideband digital disc systems. The baseline media requirements include good sensitivity, a resolving power inexcess of 1000 cycles /mm, and low noise. Other desirable characteristics are real timeprocessing, good image stability, and erasability.A survey of real time, erasable materials indicate that photochromics and photodichroicshave the potential to meet these requirements. This paper reports on the experimentalinvestigation of a photodichroic from Corning and a photochromic from Plessey.General descriptionThe Corning photodichroic is a thin film material which develops an optical anisotropyupon exposure to polarized light.- The record and read configurations are shown inFigure 1. To record, linearly polarized light in the wavelength of 0.5 to 0.7
DL-FENFLURAMINE AND PHENTERMINE USE IN OBESE ADOLESCENTS: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AGE AND TREATMENT SUCCESS. † 8

dl-fenfluramine and phentermine (Fen-Phen) promote weight loss in obese adolescents but, it is unclear if their success is associated with pubertal age or stage. Given the risks of Fen-Phen, the regimen should be used when it is most likely to succeed. Objective: The study objective was to determine if weight loss with Fen-Phen varies with adolescent age. Design: Thirty-five adolescents between 130-262% ideal body weight(%IBW) and aged 12-16 years participated in a weight-reduction program using dl-fenfluramine (20mg bid) and phentermine (15mg q am). Mean age±SD was 14.5±1.5 yrs, and mean IBW was 181.9±27.9%. Of the 35 subjects, 27 (77%) were female, 23 (66%) Caucasian, 10 (29%) African-American, and 2(5%) Latino. Subjects were randomized to drug and no-drug groups in an open-label trial. Height (Holtain Limited stadiometer) and weight (Scaletronix 5005) were measured at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Weight loss occurred at ages 12 and 15-16 (p<0.05) but not at 13-14. Therefore, the sample was stratified by age group. Repeated measures ANOVA by the intent-to-treat model was used to determine if age group was associated with weight loss within the drug group. Results: There is a significant age*drug*time interaction (p=0.03), implying that weight loss over time differs by age and treatment. Weight loss between males and females did not differ (p=0.8). Within the drug group, 12 (p=0.01) and 15-16 (p<0.00001) year-olds lost weight, while 13-14 year-olds neither lost nor gained weight. Within the no-drug group, only 15-16 year-olds lost weight (p=0.007). The following table gives mean weight ±SD. Conclusion: Younger (12) and older (15-16) adolescents using Fen-Phen lose more weight than 13-14 year-olds. This probably reflects the normal increase in both height and weight during the peak years of puberty, making it more difficult to lose weight. Age and pubertal stage should be considered when deciding if and when to begin pharmacotherapy in obese adolescents.
What the G. I. Student Wants in Poultry Instruction

Abstract THE outstanding characteristics of the average G. I. enrolled in college today are his convictions concerning the instruction he wishes to receive and his willingness to make any necessary sacrifices to achieve his goal. He has already had a wider and more intense life experience and is older than a student fresh from high school, therefore is attending college for the serious purpose of training for a profession rather than for a good time socially. He does little complaining about living in a one-room trailer or third floor apartment, but is wasting little time getting his education. Many G. I.’s carry all the credits their respective deans will permit. At the end of the past semester, approximately 300 major and non-major poultry students enrolled in courses, taught by the writer at Kansas State College, were asked to state their preference of material included in these poultry courses. Though the students . . .
Integration of Pasturing Systems for Cattle Finishing Programs

A 3-year study, using 84 fall-born and 28 spring-born calves of similar genotypes, was conducted to integrate pasturing systems with drylot feeding systems. Calves were started on test following weaning in May and October. Seven treatments were imposed: 1) fall-born calves directly into feedlot; 2 and 3) fall-born calves put on pasture with or without ionophore and moved to the feedlot at the end of July; 4 and 5) fall-born calves put on pasture with or without ionophore and moved to the feedlot at the end of October; 6 and 7) spring-born calves put on pasture with or without ionophore and moved to the feedlot at the end of October. A bromegrass pasture consisting of 16 paddocks, each 1.7 acre in size, was available. Each treatment group had access to 1 paddock at a time and was rotated at approximately 3-day intervals. In the feedlot, steers were provided an 82% concentrate diet containing whole-shelled corn, ground alfalfa hay, and a protein, vitamin and mineral supplement containing ionophore and molasses. As pens of cattle reached about 1150 lb. average live weight, they were processed and carcass traits were evaluated. Pasture daily gains were highest for cattle on pasture for the longest duration (P < .03), and overall daily gains were highest for drylot cattle (P < .01) and decreased with increased time spent on pasture. Although differences among treatments existed in numerical scores for yield and quality grades (P < .05 and P < .03, respectively), all treatments provided average yield grade scores of 2 and quality grades of low Choice or higher. Use of four production costs and pricing scenarios revealed that fall-born calves placed on pasture for varying lengths of time were the most profitable (P < .04) among the treatments. Furthermore, employing a 5% price sensitivity analysis, indicated that fed-cattle selling price had great impact on profit potential and was followed in importance by feeder purchase price and corn grain price. Overall, these findings should provide significant production alternatives for some segments of the cattle feeding industry and also lend substantial credence to the concept of sustainable agriculture.
INHIBITION OF GROWTH HORMONE RELEASE IN HUMANS BY SOMATOSTATIN.

ABSTRACT Synthetic (linear) somatostatin (SRIF, somatotropin-release inhibiting factor) abolished the elevation of serum GH concentration induced in normal human subjects by the administration of L-dopa and arginine. Within the dose used (250 μg, iv and 500 μg constant infusion) somatostatin. did not inhibit the rise in circulating PRL normally observed with arginine infusion nor did it modify basal levels of serum GH, TSH, PRL, FSH and LH.
The Mitochondrial Monoamine Oxidase−Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Pathway: A Potential Site of Action of Daidzin

Recent studies showed that daidzin suppresses ethanol intake in ethanol-preferring laboratory animals. In vitro, it potently and selectively inhibits the mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH-2). Further, it inhibits the conversion of monoamines such as serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) into their respective acid metabolites, 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (5-HIAA) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in isolated hamster or rat liver mitochondria. Studies on the suppression of ethanol intake and inhibition of 5-HIAA (or DOPAC) formation by six structural analogues of daidzin suggested a potential link between these two activities. This, together with the finding that daidzin does not affect the rates of mitochondria-catalyzed oxidative deamination of these monoamines, raised the possibility that the ethanol intake-suppressive (antidipsotropic) action of daidzin is not mediated by the monoamines but rather by their reactive biogenic aldehyde intermediates such as 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetaldehyde (5-HIAL) and/or 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL) which accumulate in the presence of daidzin. To further evaluate this possibility, we synthesized more structural analogues of daidzin and tested and compared their antidipsotropic activities in Syrian golden hamsters with their effects on monoamine metabolism in isolated hamster liver mitochondria using 5-HT as the substrate. Effects of daidzin and its structural analogues on the activities of monoamine oxidase (MAO) and ALDH-2, the key enzymes involved in 5-HT metabolism in the mitochondria, were also examined. Results from these studies reveal a positive correlation between the antidipsotropic activities of these analogues and their abilities to increase 5-HIAL accumulation during 5-HT metabolism in isolated hamster liver mitochondria. Daidzin analogues that potently inhibit ALDH-2 but have no or little effect on MAO are most antidipsotropic, whereas those that also potently inhibit MAO exhibit little, if any, antidipsotropic activity. These results, although inconclusive, are consistent with the hypothesis that daidzin may act via the mitochondrial MAO/ALDH pathway and that a biogenic aldehyde such as 5-HIAL may be important in mediating its antidipsotropic action.
Expression of HLA-B27 in transgenic mice is controlled by gene(s) mapping between H-2D and H-2L loci.

The level of HLA-B27 transgene expression on the cell surface is dependent on the host H-2 haplotype. Mice homozygous for the H-2b, H-2f, H-2s, H-2p, H-2r, and H-2k haplotypes express B27 at high levels. An intermediate level of B27 expression is observed in H-2v mice whereas low levels of B27 are expressed in H-2q and H-2d mice. The decreased expression of B27 maps to the D region of the major histocompatibility complex. Recombinant strain B10.RKDB (DdLb) mapped the low expression gene centromeric to H-2L. In order to determine the low expression within the H-2D region, the B27 transgene was introduced into B10.D2-H-2dm1 and BALB/c-H-2dm2 mice. Expression of B27 in both of these strains was high indicating that neither H-2Dd nor H-2Ld is responsible for the low expression. This maps the effect between the H-2D and H-2L loci. In addition, introduction of human beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2m) into B10.D2-B27 transgenic mice caused a marked enhancement of B27 expression on the cell surface suggesting that the defect in B27 expression in certain haplotypes is due to an inability of B27 to associate with endogenous mouse beta 2m. We propose that gene(s) mapping between D and L (either D2, D3, D4, or some as yet unidentified gene) may be involved in class I assembly by helping association of beta 2m with class I. This putative molecule, designated "Assembly Enhancer (AE)" might have a negative influence in the association between human class I and mouse beta 2m.
Clinical Significance of Occult Metastatic Melanoma in Sentinel Lymph Nodes and Other High-risk Factors Based on Long-term Follow-up

Selective sentinel lymphadenectomy (SSL) following preoperative lymphoscintigraphy is the most significant recent advance in the management of patients with primary melanoma. This study evaluates the prognostic value of sentinel lymph node (SLN) status and other risk factors in predicting survival and recurrence in patients with primary cutaneous melanoma. From October 1993 to July 1998 a series of 412 patients with primary invasive melanoma underwent SSL at the UCSF/ Mt. Zion Melanoma Center. The outcome of 363 evaluable patients is summarized in this study. The factors related to survival and disease recurrence were analyzed by Cox proportional hazard regression models. The overall incidence of patients with positive SLNs was 18%. Over a median follow-up of 4.8 years, the overall mortality rate in patients with primary cutaneous melanoma was 18.7%, and 74 recurrences occurred (20.4%). Mortality was significantly related to SLN status [HR = 2.06; 95% Confidence interval (CI) 1.18, 3.58], angiolymphatic invasion (HR = 2.21; 95% CI 1.08, 4.55), ulceration (HR = 1.79; 95% CI 1.02, 3.15), mitotic index (HR =1.38; 95% CI 1.01, 1.90), and tumor thickness (HR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.21, 3.99). Factors significantly related to disease-free survival included SLN status (HR = 2.09; 95% CI 1.31, 3.34), tumor thickness (HR = 1.89; 95%. CI 1.20,2.98), and age (HR= 1.26 95% CI 1.08, 1.47). SLN status was the most significant factor for melanoma recurrence and death. Other important predictors include tumor thickness, ulceration, lymphatic invasion, and mitotic index.
Multiple modes of regulation of the human Ino80 SNF2 ATPase by subunits of the INO80 chromatin-remodeling complex

SNF2 family ATPases are ATP-dependent motors that often function in multisubunit complexes to regulate chromatin structure. Although the central role of SNF2 ATPases in chromatin biology is well established, mechanisms by which their catalytic activities are regulated by additional subunits of chromatin-remodeling complexes are less well understood. Here we present evidence that the human Inositol auxotrophy 80 (Ino80) SNF2 ATPase is subject to regulation at multiple levels in the INO80 chromatin-remodeling complex. The zinc finger histidine triad domain-containing protein Ies2 (Ino Eighty Subunit 2) functions as a potent activator of the intrinsic catalytic activity of the Ino80 ATPase, whereas the YL-1 family Ies6 (Ino Eighty Subunit 6) and actin-related Arp5 proteins function together to promote binding of the Ino80 ATPase to nucleosomes. These findings support the idea that both substrate recognition and the intrinsic catalytic activities of SNF2 ATPases have evolved as important sites for their regulation.
The study of 'microsurfaces' using thermal desorption spectroscopy

The use of a newly combined ultrahigh vacuum technique for studying continuous and particulate evaporated thin films using thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and transmission electron diffraction (TED) is discussed. It is shown that (1) CO thermal desorption energies of epitaxially deposited (111) Ni and (111) Pd surfaces agree perfectly with previously published data on bulk (111) single crystal, (2) contamination and surface structural differences can be detected using TDS as a surface probe and TEM as a complementary technique, and (3) CO desorption signals from deposited metal coverages of one-thousandth of a monolayer should be detectable. These results indicate that the chemisorption properties of supported 'microsurfaces' of metals can now be investigated with very high sensitivity. The combined use of TDS and TEM-TED experimental methods is a very powerful technique for fundamental studies in basic thin film physics and in catalysis.
Mechanosensing: A Regulation Sensation

Mechanosensing of surfaces in bacteria is a process that often uses obstruction of flagellum rotation to trigger behaviors such as adhesion and surface-associated movement. In a recent publication, the PilY1 protein of Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been implicated as a novel mechanosensor that stimulates virulence in response to surface attachment.
An evaluation of low-energy feedstuffs in diets for laying hens

Abstract Rice bran (RB), alfalfa meal (AM), wheat bran (WB) and maize gluten feed (MGF) were used in layer diets containing 2500, 2600, 2700 and 2800 keal metabolizable energy kg−1 (10.46, 10.88, 11.30 and 11.72 MJ kg−1), and compared with diets based on maize and soya-bean meal (MS). Each diet was given to eight replicates of five individually caged hens, following a forced molt. Layer performance was influenced more by the source of low-energy feed than by dietary energy levels per se. Hen-day production, egg weight, feed intake, feed per dozen eggs and weight gains for AM, RB or WB diets were similar to that for MS control diets with equivalent energy content. Egg production was similar for hens fed on a low ME level of 2600 keal kg−1 with these feedstuffs and hens given higher energy diets. Increasing MGF levels significantly reduced layer performance. It appears that layer performance on the lower ME diets is highly dependent on the type of feed by-product used.
INVESTIGATION OF NOISE SOURCES ON A SERIES HYBRID TRANSMISSION

Advanced hydrostatic transmissions and hydraulic hybrids show potential in new market segments such as commercial vehicles and passenger cars. Such new applications regard low noise generation as a high priority, thus, demanding new quiet hydrostatic transmission designs. The aim of this paper is to investigate noise sources on a series hybrid transmission through simulation and measurements. A model has been developed to capture the interaction of a pump and motor working in a hydrostatic transmission and to predict overall noise sources. The model describes dynamics of the system by coupling lumped parameter pump and motor models with a one-dimensional unsteady compressible transmission line model including a dynamic model of an accumulator. A semi-anechoic chamber has been designed and constructed for sound intensity measurements that can be used to derive sound power. Sound power measurements were conducted on a series hybrid transmission test bench inside the semi-anechoic chamber in order to study the relationship between sound power and two types of noise sources, fluid and structure borne. The focus of these measurements was to investigate the impact of an accumulator in the high pressure line as well as the influence of varying high pressure line length. Results show a strong influence of changing line length and the addition of an accumulator on pressure ripple, but with little impact on sound power. A high correlation was found between sound power levels and control moment amplitudes on the swash plate. This study demonstrates the usefulness of predicting transmission noise sources, and how this information is beneficial in the design process of a transmission.
Psycholinguistic Approaches to a Theory of Punctuation

The study consisted of two repeated measures experiments which explored the relationship between punctuation and grammatical expectations. In the first experiment, 20 above average fifth-grade readers were exposed to sets of isolated sentences. Word order conditions were manipulated to vary the criticalness of individual punctuation cues. The second experiment was identical to the first except that adult subjects were used. The combined results of the experiments indicated (a) that individual punctuation marks varied from critical to redundant as a function of preceding word order, and (b) that fifth graders, in contrast to adults, tended to ignore grammatically critical punctuation cues. The experimental outcomes suggested that punctuation is a late developing cue system in reading. In addition, the results were interpreted to mean that traditional punctuation rules are empty conventions which neither predict nor explain reading behaviors involving punctuation. Specific psycholinguistic rules are propose...
A comparison of screening methods in two early phase oral leukoplakia clinical trials.

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 720–723 Objectives/Introduction: Clinical trial accrual for oral dysplasia is difficult in the United States and elsewhere. Patients with dysplastic oral leukoplakia progress to frank invasive carcinoma at a rate of 5–37% over 5 years. We compared two clinical trial screening efforts to hopefully devise better accrual strategies to these types of clinical trials. Methods: For the first trial, we identified 244 patients with dysplastic oral leukoplakia in our university database and a media campaign. Patients were notified and screened by examination and biopsy. For the second clinical trial, we established a preneoplastic lesions clinic and teaching and communications network with regional oral healthcare professionals. Results: Only one of 244 patients accrued to the first clinical trial through an organized screening effort based on database/medical records review. The second clinical trial accrued 16/30 screened patients through redirected efforts in teaching, communications, and a preneoplastic lesions clinic. Conclusion: We conclude that significant difficulties resulted from medical record/database review of leukoplakia patients as a screening method for leukoplakia clinical trial entry. We feel that persistent direct contact and education of healthcare professionals who are likely to examine leukoplakia patients improved accrual to the second clinical trial.
Selection of tests for monitoring the bacteriological quality of refrigerated raw milk supplies.

Raw milk samples were collected from 10 producer bulk tanks. Samples were then subdivided so that milks were subsequently stored at 1.7, 4.4, 7.2, and 10.0°C for 24 and 48 h. After storage, samples were analyzed by seven plating methods: standard plate count, psychrotrophic bacterial count, rapid psychrotrophic count, preliminary incubation count, mesophilic plate count, laboratory pasteurized count, and coliform count by violet red bile agar technique. Impedance protocols on a Bactometer® Model 123 for total count, psychrotrophic count, mesophilic count, and coliform count were also used to evaluate the bacteriological quality of the milks. Bacterial counts and impedance detection times were analyzed using nonparametric statistics. Impedance protocols for total count and psychrotrophic count were the best indicators of bacteriological quality. Preliminary incubation count was the best of the plating methods. The laboratory pasteurized count performed poorly. Impedance measurements provided information in the shortest time.
Quantitative SPECT imaging with indium-111

The potential of SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography) to quantify the distribution of indium-111 was investigated in an experimental phantom study. Nonuniform attenuation compensation using acquired transmission data was compared to uniform compensation based on reconstructed quantitative accuracy and noise. The reconstructed transmission data provided the attenuation map for the nonuniform compensation. Results showed that nonuniform attenuation compensation improved image quality, quantitative accuracy, and noise compared to uniform compensation. Noise increased with a decrease in counts in the nonuniform attenuation map but remained substantially below the uniform compensation level. The noise effect was observed with both Chang and ML-EM (maximum-likelihood expectation-maximization) reconstruction methods. Independent reconstruction of the 172- and 247-keV emission data was compared to the reconstruction of the combined 172- and 247-keV projection data. Improved quantitative accuracy and image noise resulted when both In-111 emission energies were used. However, independent reconstruction of the two energies did not substantially improve accuracy or noise compared with the reconstruction of the combined data. >
A Novel Passive RFID Transponder Using Harmonic Generation of Nonlinear Transmission Lines

We present a novel RF identification transponder based on nonlinear transmission lines (NLTLs). The NLTLs provide an effective solution to self-jamming with the harmonic generation property, and they are passive, compact, and offer easy impedance. Three NLTLs are fabricated with a different Bragg cutoff frequency fT in an IBM 8RF 0.13-μ m CMOS process. The 0.4 mm by 1.8 mm NLTL with fT = 10 GHz has -10-dBm second harmonic and -15-dBm third harmonic power with 0-dBm small-signal input. We demonstrate effective wireless transmission of the NLTL-based transponder over a read range of 0.3-0.8 m using less than 7-mm D*dot antennas and a -90-dBm off-the-shelf receiver.
Zero, Sign, And Overflow Detection Schemes For Generalized Signed-digit Arithmetic

A generalized signed-digit (GSD) number system uses the digit set {-a,-a+l, ... , el, p} in radix-r positional notation, with a$> 0 and p=a+P+l-r > 0. Most GSD number systems support carry-free addition and borrow-free subaaction and even those that do not, can be dealt with using limited-propagation algorithms which yield the ith sum or difference digit as a function of three consecutive digits in each of the operands. Thus, GSD number systems are suitable for realizing high-speed special-purpose arithmetic "engines" in VLSI. To do this, the arithmetic operations of addition and subtraction must be supported by zero, sign, and overflow detection procedures. Algorithms for the implementation of these support functions are presented in this paper.
Canthaxanthine-induced retinal pigment epithelial changes in the cat.

Canthaxanthine retinopathy in humans is a retinal crystalline deposition associated with ingestion of canthaxanthine, an over-the-counter oral tanning agent. In this study cats were fed doses of canthaxanthine varying from 2 mg/kg/day (an equivalent standard human dose) to 16 mg/kg/day for up to six months. Indirect ophthalmoscopy showed progressive development of an orange sheen in the retina overlying the tapetum lucidum without evidence of crystal formation. Electroretinograms performed at one and two months showed no significant change from baseline examination. On light and transmission electron microscopic examination, the retinal pigment epithelium of the experimental animals showed an increase in cell height and a regional vacuolization due to an enlargement and disruption of some phagolysosomes and the development of cytoplasmic spaces. These observations suggest that further studies should be conducted on humans who ingest canthaxanthine to assess structural and functional alterations, especiall...
A particle swarm optimization-least mean squares algorithm for adaptive filtering

A particle swarm optimization-least mean squares (PSO-LMS) algorithm is presented for adapting various classes of filter structures. The LMS algorithm is widely accepted as the preeminent adaptive filtering algorithm because of its speed, efficiency and provably convergent local search capabilities. However, for multimodal error surfaces, a global search algorithm, such as PSO or the genetic algorithm (GA), is required. The proposed PSO-LMS hybrid algorithm combines the advantageous properties of the two conventional algorithms to provide enhanced performance characteristics.
Role-Taking Deficits in Learning Disabled Children

This study compared the cognitive, affective, and perceptual role-taking skills of 38 learning disabled children ranging in age from 5 to 8 years with those of a control group of normal children within the same age range. The results demonstrated a role-taking deficit in the learning disabled children who scored significantly lower on the tasks than their normal peers. The normal children reached almost perfect performance by the age of eight, while the 8-year-old learning disabled children scored with only 82% accuracy. Twenty additional learning disabled children ranging in age from 9 to 11 years were tested to determine whether they would exhibit improved performance with age. It was found that the 10-year-old learning disabled children performed no better on the role-taking tasks than those who were tested at 8 years old.
Problems in the Clinical Measurement of Acoustic Reflex Latency

Two problems in the clinical measurement of acoustic reflex latency are discussed. First, the rise characteristic of the reflex is affected by the frequency of the eliciting signal. Due to the closed ipsilateral feedback loop system the reflex rises more rapidly at low frequencies than at high frequencies. Second, the temporal characteristic of the measurement apparatus may influence the apparent morphology of the reflex at low frequencies.
Quantitative analysis of binary mixtures. I. General method

A general spectroscopic method for the analysis of binary mixtures which does not require external calibration has been developed. Spectra of the original mixture and of the mixture following some fractionation procedure are obtained. The method is based on the scaling factors required to null the components, one at a time, in successive absorbance subtractions of the two spectra. The accuracy is improved by a factor of approximately ten more than that of an earlier method. The effect of errors in the scaling factors on the analytical results is considered.
Mortality-risk Valuation and Age: Stated Preference Evidence

AbstractControversy over the value of statistical life (VSL) centers on whether a single value should be applied to all age groups, as currently done by US government agencies, or whether lower val...
Microsatellite loci from Russula brevipes , a common ectomycorrhizal associate of several tree species in North America

Six microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from genomic libraries enriched for (CA) n (GA) n (ATG) n , and (CAG) n , microsatellite motifs from Russula brevipes , a common ectomycorrhizal fungus that forms mutualisms with several species of trees in North America. The polymerase chain reaction primers were tested on 27 sporocarps of R. brevipes sampled in Douglas fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii ), grey pine ( Pinus sabiniana ), and Sitka spruce ( Picea sitchensis ) stands. The number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 14 with expected heterozygosity values from 0.00 to 0.92 within populations. These are the first six microsatellite loci characterized from Russula brevipes that can be used for estimating genotypic diversity and population structure.
Transcription factors of the bHLH and LIM families: synergistic mediators of T cell acute leukemia?

Patients with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) often harbor tumor-specific chromosome translocations in their malignant cells (reviewed by Raimondi 1993). In an effort to understand the etiology of T-ALL, many investigators have sought to identify the genes that are altered as a consequence of these chromosomal defects (Rabbitts 1994). To date these studies have uncovered nine presumptive proto-oncogenes, each of which can be activated in T-ALL cells by aberrant juxtaposition with the T cell receptor sequences on chromosomes 7 or 14 (Hwang and BAER 1995). For instance, the (8;14) (q24;q11) translocation serves to deregulate the MYC gene on chromosome 8 by recombining it with the T cell receptor α/δ chain locus on chromosome 14. The various proto-oncogenes implicated in T-ALL are listed in Table 1, along with the major chromosome translocations that are responsible for their activation.