cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of Post-translational Modifications on Native Intact Nucleosomes by ELISA

The genome of eukaryotes exists as chromatin which contains both DNA and proteins. The fundamental unit of chromatin is the nucleosome, which contains 146 base pairs of DNA associated with two each of histones H2A, H2B, H3, and H41. The N-terminal tails of histones are rich in lysine and arginine and are modified post-transcriptionally by acetylation, methylation, and other post-translational modifications (PTMs). The PTM configuration of nucleosomes can affect the transcriptional activity of associated DNA, thus providing a mode of gene regulation that is epigenetic in nature 2,3. We developed a method called nucleosome ELISA (NU-ELISA) to quantitatively determine global PTM signatures of nucleosomes extracted from cells. NU-ELISA is more sensitive and quantitative than western blotting, and is useful to interrogate the epiproteomic state of specific cell types. This video journal article shows detailed procedures to perform NU-ELISA analysis.
Thermographic analysis of stress concentrations in a composite

This paper examines the stress concentrations in the knit yarn/fiber intersections in a unidirectional carbon/epoxy composite. Stress-concentration factors for four different knit yarn spacings are determined by thermographic stress analysis (TSA). This method is also known in the technical community by several other names. For example the SPATE method (referring to commercially available infrared equipment), and thermoelastic stress analysis. The latter term is not sufficiently descriptive since it is also used to describe purely analytical studies of thermal-stress problems of different phenomenology. Because of these and other technical considerations, TSA is the most accurate and specific terminology for the method at hand.
Incorporation of Fumigants into Soil Organic Matter

Halogenated fumigants are some of the most heavily used pesticides worldwide. A number of studies have shown that fumigant transformation in soil is correlated with soil organic matter content. However, relatively little is known about the mechanisms of fumigant interaction with soil organic matter. In this study, we used 14 C-labeled 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) and methyl bromide (MeBr) to characterize their incorporation into soil organic matter and the association of bound radioactivity with the different organic matter components. The 14 C activity of bound residues increased with time and reached 38-49% for 1,3-D and 37-42% for MeBr after 72 d of incubation at 25°C. More bound residues were produced for 1,3-D than for MeBr in the same soils. The distribution of 14 C activity in soil humic substances followed the order of fulvic acids >> humin > humic acids. These observations suggest that incorporation into soil organic matter is the predominant pathway for transformation of halogenated fumigants in soil and that fulvic acids are likely the most significant sink of all soil organic matter fractions. It is further speculated that bound residues formed as a result of alkylation of organic matter by the fumigants through nucleophilic replacement.
Electronic structure and phase stability of A3Ti (A=Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu).

The electronic structure and cohesive properties (including equilibrium lattice constant, bulk modulus, and formation energy) of the intermetallic compounds ${\mathit{A}}_{3}$Ti (A=Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) in their L${1}_{2}$, D${0}_{24}$, and D${0}_{22}$ structures have been studied by means of the self-consistent total-energy linear-muffin-tin-orbital method based on the local-density approximation. The correct phase preference (or stability) of these compounds is obtained. The correlation between the electronic concentration ${\mathit{c}}_{\mathit{e}}$ (defined as the number of electrons per atom) and the crystal structure found by Beck, Sinha, and Liu can be interpreted in terms of the filling of bonding states in a specific structure showing that the structural stability of ${\mathit{A}}_{3}$Ti is predominantly governed by its electron packing in reciprocal space.
Identification of some volatile compounds from Citrullus vulgaris

Abstract Volatile compounds from watermelon ( Citrullus vulgaris obtained by vacuum steam distillation—extraction of the fruit at 60–70° in a water-recycling apparatus, were separated by gas chromatography and subjected to spectral analyses. Evidence was obtained for the following new constituents, hexanal, trans -2-heptenal, trans -2-octenal, nonanal, trans -2-nonenal, trans , cis -2,6-nonadienal, nonan-1-ol, trans -2-nonen-1-ol, cis -3-nonen-1-ol, trans , cis -2,6-nonadien-1-ol, trans -2-decenal, trans -2-undecenal, geranial and β-ionone.
Aptamer-conjugated and doxorubicin-loaded unimolecular micelles for targeted therapy of prostate cancer

In the absence of effective therapy for prostate cancer, there is an immense need for developing improved therapeutic options for the management of this disease. This study has demonstrated that aptamer-conjugated unimolecular micelles can improve the in vivo tumor biodistribution of systemically administered anti-cancer drugs in prostate cancer expressing prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). The aptamer-conjugated unimolecular micelles were formed by individual hyperbranched polymer molecules consisting of a hyperbranched H40 polymer core and approximately 25 amphiphilic polylactide–poly(ethlyene glycol) (PLA–PEG) block copolymer arms (H40-PLA-PEG-Apt). The unimolecular micelles with an average hydrodynamic diameter of 69 nm exhibited a pH-sensitive and controlled drug release behavior. The targeted unimolecular micelles (i.e., DOX-loaded H40-PLA-PEG-Apt) exhibited a much higher cellular uptake in PSMA positive CWR22Rν1 prostate carcinoma cells than non-targeted unimolecular micelles (i.e., DOX-loaded H40-PLA-PEG), thereby leading to a significantly higher cytotoxicity. The DOX-loaded unimolecular micelles up-regulated the cleavage of PARP and Caspase 3 proteins and increased the protein expression of Bax along with a concomitant decrease in Bcl2. These micelles also increased the protein expression of cell cycle regulation marker P21 and P27. In CWR22Rν1 tumor-bearing mice, DOX-loaded H40-PLA-PEG-Apt micelles (i.e., targeted) also exhibited a much higher level of DOX accumulation in the tumor tissue than DOX-loaded H40-PLA-PEG micelles (i.e., non-targeted). These findings suggest that aptamer-conjugated unimolecular micelles may potentially be an effective drug nanocarrier to effectively treat prostate cancer.
Poster: Single channel, full-duplex wireless

This poster presents the design of single channel full-duplex wireless radios. The design uses a combination of RF and baseband techniques to achieve full-duplexing with minimal effect on link reliability. The poster shows two designs with different RF cancellation techniques, Antenna Cancellation and Signal Inversion Cancellation. It also discusses potential MAC and network gains with full-duplexing. It suggests ways in which a full-duplex system can solve some important problems with existing wireless systems including hidden terminals, loss of throughput due to congestion, and large end-to-end delays.
How Do Countries Choose Their Exchange Rate Regime

This paper investigates the determinants of exchange rate regime choice in 93 countries during 1990-98. Cross-country analysis of variations in international reserves and nominal exchange rates shows that (i) truly fixed pegs and independent floats differ significantly from other regimes and (ii) significant discrepancies exist between de jure and de facto flexibility. Regression results highlight the influence of political factors (political instability and government temptation to inflate), adequacy of reserves, dollarization (currency substitution), exchange rate risk exposure, and some traditional optimal currency area criteria, in particular capital mobility, on exchange rate regime selection.
A Nondimensional Evaluation of Tracer Sensitivity to Density Effects

The purpose of this paper is to assess the importance of the density difference between a tracer solution and ground water on the determination of aquifer properties by inversion of tracer signals. To estimate the effect of this density difference, we developed a nondimensional, approximate solution to a Boundary Value Problem (BVP) based on a partial differential equation first presented by Bear and Dagan (1964). The BVP models the displacement of water by another aqueous solution with a different density in a rectangular, vertical cross section of a homogeneous porous medium. A rectangular sandbox analog model was used to verify the validity of the nondimensional solution for the case of a moving interface during the displacement of water by a heavier-than-water aqueous solution. A constant flow rate was maintained by applying constant heads at a fully penetrating vertical inflow and outflow chamber. The theory, which can be applied as a prediction tool for laboratory experiments, permits us to explore the implications of using denser-than-water tracers for determining aquifer hydraulic conductivity and dispersion coefficient values. According to our assessments, density effects should not be ignored, as small density differences can lead to serious uncertainties in permeability and dispersivity determinations.
Schlemm's Canal Is a Unique Vessel With a Combination of Blood Vascular and Lymphatic Phenotypes That Forms by a Novel Developmental Process

Schlemm's canal (SC) plays central roles in ocular physiology. These roles depend on the molecular phenotypes of SC endothelial cells (SECs). Both the specific phenotype of SECs and development of SC remain poorly defined. To allow a modern and extensive analysis of SC and its origins, we developed a new whole-mount procedure to visualize its development in the context of surrounding tissues. We then applied genetic lineage tracing, specific-fluorescent reporter genes, immunofluorescence, high-resolution confocal microscopy, and three-dimensional (3D) rendering to study SC. Using these techniques, we show that SECs have a unique phenotype that is a blend of both blood and lymphatic endothelial cell phenotypes. By analyzing whole mounts of postnatal mouse eyes progressively to adulthood, we show that SC develops from blood vessels through a newly discovered process that we name “canalogenesis.” Functional inhibition of KDR (VEGFR2), a critical receptor in initiating angiogenesis, shows that this receptor is required during canalogenesis. Unlike angiogenesis and similar to stages of vasculogenesis, during canalogenesis tip cells divide and form branched chains prior to vessel formation. Differing from both angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, during canalogenesis SECs express Prox1, a master regulator of lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic phenotypes. Thus, SC development resembles a blend of vascular developmental programs. These advances define SC as a unique vessel with a combination of blood vascular and lymphatic phenotypes. They are important for dissecting its functions that are essential for ocular health and normal vision.
Porphyrinic Molecular Metals

Porphyrinic molecular metals rival the organic metals in the range of their properties and surpass them in the tunability of these properties. Such Such tunability is illustrated here by the change...
BULK ISOLATION OF MOUSE HEPATOCYTE GAP JUNCTIONS : Characterization of the Principal Protein, Connexin

A method is reported for isolating a preparation of hepatic gap junctions from the mouse. The method involves a collagenase digestion, treatment with the detergent Sarkosyl NL-97, and ultrasonication, followed by sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation. A run with 36 animals yields 0.1–0.5 mg protein. Electron microscopy with thin-sectioning and negative staining techniques reveals that the final pellet is a very pure preparation of gap junctions, accompanied by a small amount of amorphous contamination. Polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-solubilized material shows one major protein in the junction, with an apparent mol wt of 20,000, and two minor components. Thin-layer chromatography demonstrates one major and one minor phospholipid, and some neutral lipid. Low-angle X-ray diffraction of wet and dried specimens show reflections which index on an 86 A center-to-center hexagonal lattice, corresponding closely to electron microscope data. Dried specimens also show a lamellar diffraction, corresponding to the total profile thickness of the junction (150 A).
Recent Developments in Nanostructured Materials

Nanostructured materials with extremely fine grain sizes, typically less than 100 nm, have been shown to exhibit extremely high strength and hardness, increased diffusivity, useful sintering characteristics, and other unusual properties. Significant developments have taken place in recent years in trying to achieve high strength and ductility at the same time. New and potential applications are also being sought after. Several commercial ventures have also started (estimated to be around 1000 in different parts of the world), This overviezu will present the recent developments in our understanding of the mechanical behavior and molecular dynamics simulation studies, highlight the present unresolved issues, and discuss some of the promising applications for these novel and exciting materials.
Histochemistry as a tool for examining possible pathologic cause-and-effect relationships between heavy metal and inflammatory lesions in oysters, Crassostrea virginica

Abstract Unexplained inflammatory lesions have been seen on many occasions in oysters ( Crassostrea virginica ) that have been examined by histopathologic methods. Application of the Mallory's hematin and the rubeanic acid methods for demonstration of copper in histologic sections revealed strong staining reactions in granules of some, but not all, granular hemocytes. These cells were clearly involved as constituents of acute inflammatory lesions characterized by infiltration of arteries, occlusion of veins, and diapedesis through external epithelia of the mantle and gastrointestinal tract. Heavily contaminated sites (i.e. Raritan Bay, New Jersey) showed strong staining reactions in a large number of animals examined. Control sites such as Great Bay, New Jersey, showed much lighter reactions. Seasonal sampling in the New Jersey sites revealed the most intense involvement in the late summer with apparent decreasing staining intensities in the fall. Other species of bivalve mollusks ( Mytilus edulis and Mercenaria mercenaria ) only showed significant staining reactions for heavy metal in kidney tissues with no evidence that heavily contaminated sites had higher levels. These results constitute preliminary evidence of a cause-and-effect relationship between a heavy metal contaminant (most probably copper) and inflammatory lesions in the oyster.
Mollusc/algal chloroplast symbiosis: how can isolated chloroplasts continue to function for months in the cytosol of a sea slug in the absence of an algal nucleus?

A marine sea slug, Elysia chlorotica, has acquired the ability to carry out photosynthesis as a result of forming an intracellular symbiotic association with chloroplasts of the chromophytic alga, Vaucheria litorea. The symbiont chloroplasts (kleptoplasts) are functional, i.e. they evolve oxygen and fix CO(2) and actively transcribe and translate proteins for several months in the sea slug cytosol. Considering the dependency of plastid function on nuclear genes, the level of kleptoplast activity observed in the animal cell is quite remarkable. Possible factors contributing to this long-lasting functional association that are considered here include: the presence of an algal nuclear genome in the sea slug, autonomous chloroplasts, unusual chloroplast/protein stability, re-directing of animal proteins to the kleptoplast, and lateral gene transfer. Based on our current understanding, the acquisition and incorporation of intact algal plastids by E. chlorotica is aided by the robustness of the plastids and the long-term functional activity of the kleptoplasts appears to be supported by both plastid and protein stability and contributions from the sea slug.
Effects of anticoagulants upon sister-chromatid exchanges, cell-cycle kinetics, and mitotic index in human peripheral lymphocytes

The effects of 3 blood anticoagulants, heparin, acid citrate dextrose (ACD), and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) were investigated using human peripheral lymphocytes. Three different endpoints were examined: sister-chromatid exchange (SCE), cell kinetics index (CKI), and mitotic index (MI). SCEs were significantly increased in cells treated with EDTA, while the CKI and MI were significantly decreased in cultures treated with either ACD or EDTA when compared to cultures treated with heparin. These results suggest that anticoagulants may produce undesired effects upon cultured cells and indicate that the type of anticoagulant should be considered carefully prior to commencing cytogenetic studies using human peripheral lymphocytes.
Component concentrations and activation of the complement system in neonatal illness: A preliminary study of necrotizing enterocolitis

Determinations of C3, C4, and C5 concentrations by radial immunodiffusion, and assays for the activation products of C3, C3c and C3d by counterimmunoelectrophoresis, were performed on 80 infants. Seven nonbacteremic preterm infants with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or probable NEC (PNEC) were found at the time of diagnosis to have a significantly lower mean concentration of C3 (P less than 0.05, 1-tailed) without C3 activation when compared to other noninfected preterm infants. Ten full-term and 63 preterm infants were studied prospectively during the first days of life, and were then followed for the postnatal development of localized or systemic infection. Assays for the detection of C3 activation products were negative in all these infants. Four preterm infants who developed PNEC after 5 or more days without clinical illness had low original concentrations of complement components. The pathogenesis of NEC may not involve primarily complement activation, and susceptibility to this condition may be related to pre-existing deficiencies in complement component concentrations relative to gestational age, or to defective activation of C3 in the presence of certain bacterial species and strains.
A study of the influence of occlusal planes on strains in the edentulous maxillae and mandible

Abstract The techniques used to study bone stress patterns in other skeletal parts have been adapted to the mandible and maxillae. Preliminary observations simulating masticatory forces and function reveal that stresses resulting from dentures may be noted over a rather wide area. Heavier bone structure is less likely to produce deformation patterns per unit of force than light, weaker bone. Initial comparisons between dentures made with 0 degree and 30 degree occlusal inclines suggest that the latter produces more stress on the underlying bone.
Measurement of commitment to role identities.

Commitment to social identities has been postulated as a central organizing feature of the self-system, yet the only widely used instrument for assessing identities is the Twenty Statements Test. Wylie has criticized the use of the test as a measure of self because of its failure to provide reliable and valid results. An alternative method of assessing commitments is describedd in the present article, and the validity of this new method is tested. Study 1 demonstrates that a 23-item index can be used to assess commitment to a number of diverse iden- tities. Commitment scores based on the index correspond to the placement of identities in a hierarchy of importance based on subjective rank orderings. In Study 2, a multitrait-multimethod matrix is created to establish the convergent and discriminant validity of the 23-item index for the identities of peer, religious participant, romantic partner, and family member. The correlations between commitment to each of these four identities and related attitude measures are also reported.
The Role of Channel Plurality in Two-Phase Flow Instabilities in PEM Cathode Channels

Water management is a critical issue in the development of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells with robust operation. Liquid water can accumulate and flood the gas delivery microchannels and the porous electrodes within PEM fuel cells and deteriorate performance. Since the liquid distribution fluctuates in time for two-phase flow, the rate of oxygen transport to the cathode catalyst layer also fluctuates, resulting in unstable power density and efficiency. In previous research into measuring the voltage loss and voltage fluctuation due to two-phase flow instabilities in the cathode channels of PEM fuel cells, we investigated the effect of the number of parallel channels covering the active area by studying flow fields with varying numbers of parallel channels (4 to 25) while keeping the active area constant at 5 cm2 . The resulting voltage loss and fluctuation measurements were expressed as functions of two non-dimensional parameters: channel plurality and the air flow stoichiometric ratio. Channel plurality is a flow field design parameter that defines the number of channels per unit of active area, which is non-dimensionalized by the cross-sectional area of the channels. In this paper, we expand upon our prior studies by studying cathode flow field designs of varying active area, from 5 cm2 to 25 cm2 , with a constant number of 25 channels. By increasing the active area with a constant number of channels, we are reducing the channel plurality value. The new results are mapped back to the non-dimensional parameters to extract empirical scaling rules for voltage loss and fluctuation. Furthermore, we compare this data to our prior work with constant active area and identify the significance of the fuel cell size in the scaling relationships. Finally, a refined scaling is presented for generalizing the results for fuel cells having different active area and number of channels.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Interfacial structure of Al-CuAl2 eutectic composites

Abstract Arrays of features have been observed in the interlamellar interfaces of Al-CuAl 2 , directionally solidified eutectic composites. Analysis of these features has shown them to be ledge-type defects, with their displacement vectors normal to the interface. Displacement-vector analysis, thickness-fringe displacement, and direct observation confirm the nature of the ledges. The ledges were observed to glide in the plane of the interface in heated thin foils, thereby serving as a means of moving the interface normal to itself during coarsening or solubility changes with temperature. The functional role of defects in eutectic interfaces is examined. Pure IBDs (interfacial boundary dislocations) relieve misfit on ledge faces, whereas pure ledges and IBD-C ledges allow boundary and lattice crystallographic rotation, respectively. The DG (diffusion-controlled-glide) ledge, a defect found between phases of different compositions and lattice spacings normal to the interface, provides primarily boundary rotation with a small component of lattice crystallographic rotation. We postulate the eutectic interface to be composed of arrays of ledges which provide both a low-energy configuration for structural irregularities found in this system and also a mechanism of interfacial migration.
Miniature Gain-Switched Lasers*

Miniature gain-switched lasers, pumped by passively Q-switched microchip lasers, provide robust sources of nanosecond and subnanosecond pulses at diverse wavelengths from the ultraviolet to the mid infrared.
Spontaneous Emulsification, and Reactions Overshooting Equilibrium

Spontaneous emulsification was discovered in 1878 by Johannes Gad (1878). He observed that when an oil containing fatty acid is placed quietly upon an alkaline solution with avoidance of stirring, streamers shoot out which at their ends disintegrate into minute droplets forming a milky emulsion. In the following year, Brucke (1879) confirmed Gad's numerous observations, showing that a higher concentration of alkali suppresses this motion, and instead gives rise to slowly swelling growths or “myelin forms”, familiar since 1852 in medical literature (see Adami and Aschoff 1906). The phenomenon of spontaneous emulsification appears to have been lost sight of during the past generation, apart from some observations recorded by Gurwitsch in connexion with petroleum technology.
Alterations to Cardiac Muscle Function and Sarcomeric Proteins Following Myocardial Infarction

Post-translational modifications of the proteins that make up the cardiac sarcomere have been suggested as a source of pathological muscle dysfunction. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can induce post-translational modifications to proteins, and an increase in ROS levels is recognized as a feature of heart failure following myocardial infarction (MI). The experiments described here test the hypothesis that MI exerts a functional effect through alteration of myofibrillar proteins, which can be detected within days after the infarction. Experimental MI was induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery in 6-month old female CD1 mice. Samples were collected 3-4 days after ligation or sham surgery (n = 10). We performed functional analysis through force-calcium measurements of detergent-extracted fiber bundles (“skinned fibers”) dissected from non-infarcted papillary muscle. Our findings included an increase in Ca++ sensitivity in fibers from MI hearts compared to those from sham-operated animals and a decreased cooperativity of activation (p < 0.05). Biochemical data derived from electrophoresis of isolated myofibrillar proteins from these hearts revealed both oxidation and modified phosphorylation. We used ProQ Diamond phosphoprotein gel stain to analyze myofilament protein phosphorylation, and nonreducing-reducing “diagonal” SDS-PAGE to detect the formation of disulfide products. Total troponin I phosphorylation levels were decreased after MI (p < 0.01). We observed evidence of increased tropomyosin oxidation by reversible modification of sulfhydryls, and confirmed the oxidized protein's identity using mass spectrometry. These data characterize the relatively unexplored structural and functional modifications to sarcomeres in the early aftermath of MI, and may provide insight into the initial changes that trigger remodeling and heart failure, as well as the contribution of ROS to this process.
Predicting Student Success in a Psychological Statistics Course Emphasizing Collaborative Learning

This study describes the use of a collaborative learning approach in a psychological statistics course and examines the factors that predict which students benefit most from such an approach in ter...
A molecular orbital study of nitrogen inversion in aniline with extensive geometry optimization

The geometry and energy of aniline have been calculated using the 6-31G and 6-31G*(5D) basis sets for the planar structure and various pyramidal structures, assuming that the ring and the N-atom bonded to it lie in the same plane, but otherwise with full geometry optimization. With the 6-31G basis set the planar structure is predicated to be the most stable, whereas the inclusion of polarization functions in the 6-31G*(5D) basis set finds a pyramidal structure with the out-of-plane angle φ=42.3° to be most stable and the energy barrier to inversion via the planar transition state to be 1.59±0.02 kcal mol−1, in close agreement with experiment. Completing the optimization, allowing the N-atom and the C- and H-atoms of the ring to take up equilibrium out-of-plane positions increases the calculated energy carrier to inversion by less than 0.1 kcal mol−1 to 1.66 kcal mol−1. The ring adopts a very shallow inverted boat-type conformation with ∠N7-C1⋯C4 = 2.0°.
Metabotropic glutamate receptors 2 and 3 expressed by astrocytes in rat ventrobasal thalamus

It has been reported that pharmacologic activation of metabotropic receptors mGluR2/3 may produce inhibition of GABAergic transmission in rat ventrobasal thalamus. We use double immunolabeling to show that: (i) mGluR2/3 is expressed in glial processes surrounding GABAergic terminals, rather than in the terminals themselves, and (ii) mR2/3 positive glial lamellae more frequently surround GABAergic terminals and ascending terminals, than cortical terminals. This suggests involvement of glia in glutamate/GABA interactions in the sensory thalamus.
Biological and novel therapies for inflammatory bowel disease in children.

The general goals of therapy for pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) include clinical and laboratory control of inflammation, achievement of appropriate growth, development, and good quality of life. Until the mid-1990s, the therapeutic options to achieve these goals remained almost unchanged, mainly concentrating on improved delivery of already existing medications. To date, the standard therapies for Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) have been similar and in general can be classified as anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive therapy. 5-Aminosalicylic acid compounds, antibiotics, and nutritional therapy usually are considered as anti-inflammatory, whereas 6-mercaptopurine, azathioprine, cyclosporin A, and methotrexate have immunosuppressive properties. Some medications, such as corticosteroids, have both. The general principle of IBD therapy depends on the disease severity and it starts with the therapy that has the best chance of achieving clinical remission with the fewest side effects (Table 1). Depending on patients’ responses, or lack thereof, additional medications are added to the treatment regimen. Some of the differences in therapy between CD and UC include surgical intervention, antibiotics, and nutritional therapy. The surgical intervention is used in both diseases but is only curative in UC and is reserved exclusively for localized CD (stric
SU‐FF‐T‐296: Modeling to Characterize Neutron Activation Products in a Medical Linear Accelerator

Purpose: Estimate production of prompt and delayed activation products for 18 MV source in Varian Clinac 2100C. The work supports AAPM task group TG‐136 on assessing hazards to therapy staff due to activation. Method and Materials: A detailed model of the Varian Clinac 2100C was developed in MCNPX. An 18 MV photonbeam was produced by impinging double Gaussian‐shaped electron parallel beam on a tungsten target with average energy of 18.3 MeV. The relative neutron yields from photonuclear interactions in the major components were calculated. In addition, several neutron fluence tallies were generated around the accelerator head. Another calculation was done in order to map the neutron fluence throughout the entire accelerator geometry. Two activation libraries ACTL and JEFF were considered in the simulations. Results: The majority of the neutrons were produced in the primary collimator and jaws as a result of these components high‐z composition (W). Also, more than 98% of the neutrons were produced in primary components. The neutron fluence tallies calculated at various locations around the accelerator are consistent with previous studies. Conclusion: The neutron yield in primary accelerator components and neutron fluence map across the entire accelerator geometry were calculated. The origins of photonuclear products inside the accelerator allow the determine activation rates to be determined. Once the activation rates are determined, subsequent calculations can be performed using detailed anatomical human models to assess the unwanted activation dose to therapy staff, physics staff, engineering staff, patients, and patient's family members.
Locus coeruleus activation by colon distention: role of corticotropin-releasing factor and excitatory amino acids.

The present study was designed to elucidate the neurotransmitters involved in activation of the noradrenergic nucleus, locus coeruleus, by distention of the distal colon. Locus coeruleus spontaneous discharge rate was recorded from halothane-anesthetized rats before, during and after distention of the colon produced by inflation of a balloon catheter with varying volumes of water. Locus coeruleus activation by colon distention was volume-dependent and reversible. Activation of cortical electroencephalographic activity was temporally correlated with locus coeruleus activation during colon distention and prolonged distention (greater than 2 min) resulted in tachyphalaxis to both locus coeruleus and cortical electroencephalographic activation. The corticotropin-releasing factor antagonist, DPheCRF12–41, administered intracerebroventricularly (3 μg) or microinfused into the locus coeruleus (10 ng) significantly attenuated locus coeruleus activation produced by lower, but not higher magnitudes of colon distention, implicating corticotropin-releasing factor afferents to the locus coeruleus in this response. Consistent with this, prior exposure to 30 min of footshock stress, which desensitizes locus coeruleus neurons to corticotropin-releasing factor, produced a similar attenuation of locus coeruleus activation by low, but not high magnitudes of distention. Kynurenic acid, administered intracerebroventricularly (5 μmol), significantly antagonized locus coeruleus activation by all magnitudes of colon distention. However, this excitatory amino acid antagonist was ineffective when administered directly into the locus coeruleus (0.3 nmol). Together, these findings suggest that low magnitudes of colon distention activate the locus coeruleus-noradrenergic system via corticotropin-releasing factor release within the locus coeruleus and that excitatory amino acid neurotransmission at a site distal to the locus coeruleus is necessary for this response. Activation of the locus coeruleus-noradrenergic system during colon distention may serve as a cognitive limb of the peripheral parasympathetic response. This activation may also play a role in disorders characterized by comorbidity of colonic and psychiatric symptoms, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Isotope ratio measurements using glow discharge mass spectrometry

Abstract Glow discharge mass spectrometry (GDMS) has been evaluated for its ability to measure isotope ratios in solids. Isotope ratios were measured for B, Cu, Sr, Ag, Sb, Re and Pb in concentrations ranging from 15 ppm to pure metal. External precision of better than 0.03% has been achieved for isotope ratios measured using pure solid elemental samples; typical precision is better than 0.1% for elements present in concentrations greater than 0.5 wt.%. For elements present in concentrations of 10–20 ppm, precision was about 1%. Isotopic bias was
Adaptive Functioning in Children With Epilepsy and Learning Problems

In the study we describe adaptive functioning in children with epilepsy whose primary caregivers identified them as having learning problems. This was a cross-sectional study of 50 children with epilepsy and learning problems. Caregivers supplied information regarding the child's adaptive functioning and behavior problems. Children rated their self-concept and completed a battery of neuropsychological tests. Mean estimated IQ (PPVT-III) in the participant children was 72.8 (SD = 18.3). On average, children scored 2 standard deviations below the norm on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale-II and this was true even for children with epilepsy who had estimated IQ in the normal range. In conclusion, children with epilepsy and learning problems had relatively low adaptive functioning scores and substantial neuropsychological and mental health problems. In epilepsy, adaptive behavior screening can be very informative and guide further evaluation and intervention, even in those children whose IQ is in the normal range.
Length of familiarization and preference for novel and familiar stimuli

The relationship between the amount of fixation to a stimulus and preference for it or a novel stimulus in six-month-old infants was investigated in a series of experiments. In all of the experiments, a preference for the novel stimulus was observed only after a sufficient amount of prior fixation to the familiar stimulus. There was no strong evidence for a preference for the familiar stimulus preceding a preference for novel stimuli.
The effects of EMR deployment on doctors' work practices: a qualitative study in the emergency department of a teaching hospital.

Abstract Objective The goal of this study was to examine the effects of medical notes (MD) in an electronic medical records (EMR) system on doctors' work practices at an Emergency Department (ED). Methods We conducted a six-month qualitative study, including in situ field observations and semi-structured interviews, in an ED affiliated with a large teaching hospital during the time periods of before, after, and during the paper-to-electronic transition of the rollout of an EMR system. Data were analyzed using open coding method and various visual representations of workflow diagrams. Results The use of the EMR in the ED resulted in both direct and indirect effects on ED doctors' work practices. It directly influenced the ED doctors' documentation process: (i) increasing documentation time four to five fold, which in turn significantly increased the number of incomplete charts, (ii) obscuring the distinction between residents' charting inputs and those of attendings, shifting more documentation responsibilities to the residents, and (iii) leading to the use of paper notes as documentation aids to transfer information from the patient bedside to the charting room. EMR use also had indirect consequences: it increased the cognitive burden of doctors, since they had to remember multiple patients' data; it aggravated doctors' multi-tasking due to flexibility in the system use allowing more interruptions; and it caused ED doctors' work to become largely stationary in the charting room, which further contributed to reducing doctors' time with patients and their interaction with nurses. Discussion We suggest three guidelines for designing future EMR systems to be used in teaching hospitals. First, the design of documentation tools in EMR needs to take into account what we called "note-intensive tasks" to support the collaborative nature of medical work. Second, it should clearly define roles and responsibilities. Lastly, the system should provide a balance between flexibility and interruption to better manage the complex nature of medical work and to facilitate necessary interactions among ED staff and patients in the work environment.
General quasiparticle propagator and mass dependence in degenerate spin zero color superconductivity

The general quasiparticle propagator in dense quark matter including all spin zero diquark condensates is derived for equal mass quarks. Specialized to an NJL model, this propagator includes one new condensate ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{3}$ in addition to the usual CFL condensate ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{1}.$ The gap equation is solved in two NJL models and the dependence on the quark mass of the condensates and the gap is presented. Analytic approximations for the condensates are obtained and compared to exact numerical solutions. The results are shown to differ from those obtained by neglecting ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{3},$ especially for smaller values of ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{1}.$ The two different NJL models presented are also shown to give different results when ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{3}$ is not neglected. The methods used in this paper can be generalized to the physical case where only the strange quark is significantly massive.
The role of 5α-reductase activity in sexual behaviors of the green anole lizard

Abstract Both testosterone (T) and its metabolite, 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can facilitate male sexual behavior in the lizard Anolis carolinensis. The present study addresses the role of DHT synthesis in regulating male sexual behavior by inhibiting 5α-reductase, the enzyme that converts T into DHT. In two separate experiments (one replacement and one maintenance paradigm), breeding adult males were castrated and implanted with capsules of T, DHT, or a control capsule (blank, BL). The animals were then injected with the 5α-reductase inhibitor, FCE, or with steroid suspending vehicle (SSV) as a control. Both experiments produced similar results. Overall, T was most effective in eliciting courtship and copulatory behaviors above control levels. In both experiments, treatment with FCE attenuated the T-induced effects on courtship behavior, whereas the inhibition of 5α-reductase activity resulted in modest and inconsistent effects on the latency to intromission and the proportion of copulating males. DHT treatment did not significantly increase courtship or copulatory behaviors above control levels. These results suggest that (a) 5α-reductase activity is necessary but that DHT alone is not sufficient for stimulating courtship in male A. carolinensis; and (b) courtship behavior is more sensitive than copulatory behavior to the activity of the androgen metabolizing enzyme.
Part V. The future. Challenges to information science education

Rapid advances in information technology and the growing importance of information in daily life have created great demands for professionals who handle information on behalf of others. Educational programs in several disciplines are responding to this need, but the response seems directed at grafting information content onto existing discipline oriented programs rather than building interdisciplinary programs free of bounds of allegiance to one discipline, one technology, one area of application, one field of practice. Despite recent shrinkage and, in some cases, demise of accredited programs in library and information science, there are hopeful signs that these programs will compete successfully with other disciplines for hegemony in education for information science. © 1988 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
FINE STRUCTURE OF THE FLAGELLAR APPARATUS OF DINOBRYON CYLINDRICUM (CHRYSOPHYCEAE)1

The three-dimensional structure of the flagellar apparatus of Dinobryon cylindrioum Imhof. (UTEX no. LB 2266) was determined using serial section reconstruction. Four microtubular rootlet systems (R1, R2, R3, and R4)and a rhizoplast are present, following the general pattern found in other chrysophytes. The R1 rootlet, containing seven microtubules, originates at the basal body of the long flagellum that bears mastigonemes (F1). The R1 rootlet forms an arc which curves in clockwise direction (when viewed from the anterior end of the cell) approximately halfway around the pit from which the short smooth flagellum (F2) emerges. Numerous microtubules cascade from the exterior-facing side of this rootlet to the tail of the cell. The R2 rootlet originates between the F1 and F2 basal bodies, is attached to the F1 basal body by a fibrous connection, and forms a clockwise arc above the R1 rootlet. This rootlet extends approximately one quarter of the way around the pit. The R3 rootlet system originates as a trough-shaped band of six microtubules spanning the distance between the proximal ends of the F1 and F2 basal bodies. The six-membered rootlet splits into two parts, designated R3 and R3. Both parts circle the pit in counter-clockwise direction, pass beneath the F2 basal body, and descend into the cell alongside the chloroplast. The R4 rootlet originates in fibrous material, passes diagonally over the top of the F2 basal body, forms a clockwise loop at least three quarters of the way around the pit to the interior of the R3 and R3 rootlets, and ends in the cytoplasm. Similarities of rootlet origins and other details of the flagellar apparatus of D. cylindricum with those of other heterokont organisms reinforce the idea that these organisms are phylogenetically related.
Long-term effects of radium exposure in female dial workers: Liver function and liver disease

Abstract The question of the long-term effects of α-emitting radionuclides on the liver is of considerable interest. Liver function test results and data on the prevalence of and mortality from diseases of the liver and biliary tract were examined among women who were first employed before 1930 in the U.S. radium watch-dial painting industry, and who had a radium body-burden measurement while living (1958–1976). There was little evidence for a relationship between radium intake dose (initial systemic burden in μCi) and serum levels of albumin, total bilirubin, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), or cholesterol in 142 long-term survivors, using both univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. Mean SGOT level was significantly higher in the highest intake-dose (⩾50 μCi) than in the lower intake-dose groups, suggesting the need for continued clinical follow-up. Among 264 women with a serum alkaline phosphatase determination, a lack of significant association with intake-dose was noted. The prevalence of diagnosed diseases of the liver or biliary tract (i.e., cirrhosis, infectious hepatitis, and cholecystitis) was not significantly related to intake-dose level in 683 women, nor were the observed numbers of deaths from cirrhosis of the liver or liver cancer significantly increased relative to the U.S. white female population. The findings were discussed in terms of estimated absorbed (rad) doses and in relation to the findings of studies on other radiation-exposed human populations.
Are Women’s and Obstetricians, Views on Mode of Delivery Following a Previous Cesarean Section Really OCEANS Apart?

Purpose Most women with one previous cesarean section (CS) are suitable for either a vaginal birth after CS (VBAC) or an elective repeat CS. Previously, nurse-led prenatal education and support groups have failed to have an impact on the mode of delivery, which women opted for after one CS. A novel one-stop obstetrician-led cesarean education and antenatal sessions (OCEANS) has been developed to inform and empower women in their decision-making following one previous CS. The objective of our study was to evaluate how OCEANS influences the mode of delivery for women who have previously had one CS.
Transcriptional Regulation and Signature Patterns Revealed by Microarray Analyses of Streptococcus pneumoniae R6 Challenged with Sublethal Concentrations of Translation Inhibitors

The effects of sublethal concentrations of four different classes of translation inhibitors (puromycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and erythromycin) on global transcription patterns of Streptococcus pneumoniae R6 were determined by microarray analyses. Consistent with the general mode of action of these inhibitors, relative transcript levels of genes that encode ribosomal proteins and translation factors or that mediate tRNA charging and amino acid biosynthesis increased or decreased, respectively. Transcription of the heat shock regulon was induced only by puromycin or streptomycin treatment, which lead to truncation or mistranslation, respectively, but not by other antibiotics that block translation, transcription, or amino acid charging of tRNA. In contrast, relative transcript amounts of certain genes involved in transport, cellular processes, energy metabolism, and purine nucleotide ( pur ) biosynthesis were changed by different translation inhibitors. In particular, transcript amounts from a pur gene cluster and from purine uptake and salvage genes were significantly elevated by several translation inhibitors, but not by antibiotics that target other cellular processes. Northern blotting confirmed increased transcript amounts from part of the pur gene cluster in cells challenged by translation inhibitors and revealed the presence of a 10-kb transcript. Purine metabolism genes were negatively regulated by a homologue of the PurR regulatory protein, and full derepression in a Δ purR mutant depended on optimal translation. Unexpectedly, hierarchical clustering of the microarray data distinguished among the global transcription patterns caused by antibiotics that inhibit different steps in the translation cycle. Together, these results show that there is extensive control of transcript amounts by translation in S. pneumoniae , especially for de novo purine nucleotide biosynthesis. In addition, these global transcription patterns form a signature that can be used to classify the mode of action and potential mechanism of new translation inhibitors.