cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An aqueous lithium salt blanket for ITER

An aqueous lithium salt blanket is designed as a candidate for the tritium production blanket of ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor). There are two rows of flat tube aqueous salt flow channels placed between beryllium blocks. The inboard and outboard blanket configurations have been optimized to maximize tritium breeding. A local outboard TBR (tritium breeding ratio) of 1.44 is obtained using LiOH at a concentration of 5 g/100 cm/sup 3/. The overall TBR determined from 3-D neutronics calculations is 0.88. The aqueous-salt flow parameters have been optimized to minimize the salt pressure and inventory, leading to a pressure of 1.15 MPa and tritium inventory of 104 g. There are no crevices in the aqueous-salt channels, and a redundancy has been provided against a salt-to-water leak potential. The first wall, blanket, and shield qualify for shallow land burial. The highest temperature in the blanket after a two-week period without coolant is only 440 degrees C. The first wall and blanket are capable of withstanding the worst disruption load. >
Cilia Regeneration in the Sea Urchin Embryo: Evidence for a Pool of Ciliary Proteins

Late gastrulae of paracentrotus lividus regenerated cilia after being deciliated in hypertonic sea water. Regeneration was not affected by actinomycin D or puromycin. Actinomycin D also did not affect ciliary protein synthesis during regeneration, although overall embryonic synthesis was depressed. Puromycin inhibited both total embryonic and ciliary protein synthesis. The data indicate that ciliary protein synthesis is controlled by a stable template and that the regenerating cilia are formed from a pool of ciliary proteins. It is suggested that the proteins of the mitotic apparatus and of the ciliamay be related.
Effect of recombinantly-derived bovine somatotropin on reproductive performance of dairy cattle.

Data from 814 cows involved in five separate full lactation studies were used to assess the effect of recombinantly-derived methionyl bovine somatotropin (sometribove) on reproductive performance. Data were separated by parity (first and second or greater), route of administration (intramuscular: i.m. or subcutaneous: s.c.), length of breeding period (number of days in milk), and level of production (high vs low). Through 305 days in milk, pregnancy rates were reduced 18% in primiparous, sometribove-treated (i.m.) cows but were not significantly affected in multiparous cows. No differences were noted in either parity group when sometribove was administered subcutaneously. The level of production was more often found to be a significant factor affecting reproductive parameters than was sometribove administration. In general, length of the breeding period and level of milk production had a greater influence on reproductive performance than treatment with sometribove.
Organization and structure of plastome psbF, psbL, petG and ORF712 genes in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.

We have determined the nucleotide sequence of a 5159 base-pair (bp) region of the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii plastome containing three photoelectron transport genes, psbF, psbL and petG, and an unusual open reading frame, ORF712. The photosynthetic genes have an unprecedented arrangement. psbF and psbL are located in close proximity to petG, and are not grouped with two other genes of the cytochrome b559 locus, psbE and ORF42. ORF712, located adjacent to psbL, has homology at its 5′-and 3′-ends to the ribosomal protein rps3 gene, but contains, a central 437 residue domain that lacks similarity to any other known sequence. These sequences add to the growing body of evidence that the chloroplast genome of C. reinhardtii has a significantly different gene arrangement to its counterpart in plants. The structure of ORF712 also provides another example of a phenomenon we have discovered with C. reinhardtii RNA polymerase genes (Fong and Surzycki 1992); namely, that the algal plastome contains chimeric genes in which reading frames with homology to known genes are juxtaposed in-frame with long coding regions of unknown identity.
A pathogenic strain of Bacillus cereus isolated from the cigarette beetle, Lasioderma serricorne

Abstract A noncrystalliferous, aerobic, spore-forming bacterium (accession number DD-1019) isolated from the cigarette beetle, Lasioderma serricorne , was identified as a strain of Bacillus cereus based on morphological, biochemical, and cultural similarities. Pathogenicity was established by exposing hatching larvae of the cigarette beetle to doses of inocula ranging from 1.17 to 600 × 10 6 spores per gram of rearing medium. The LD 50 and the LD 90 were calculated to be 4.29 × 10 6 and 371 × 10 6 spores per gram of medium, respectively. The cigarette beetle was effectively controlled by both the DD-1019 strain of B. cereus and the CM1-1 strain (originally isolated from and pathogenic to codling moth, Laspeyresia pomonella ) but proved quite refractory to Bacillus thuringiensis var. thuringiensis .
Time-resolved, undersampled projection reconstruction imaging for high-resolution CE-MRA of the distal runoff vessels.

Imaging of the blood vessels below the knee using contrast-enhanced (CE) MRI is challenging due to the need to coordinate image acquisition and arrival of the contrast in the targeted vessels. Time-resolved acquisitions have been successful in consistently capturing images of the arterial phase of the bolus of contrast agent in the distal extremities. Although time-resolved exams are robust in this respect, higher spatial resolution for the depiction of tight stenoses and the small vessels in the lower leg is desirable. A modification to a high-spatial-resolution T1-weighted pulse sequence (projection reconstruction-time resolved imaging of contrast kinetics (PR-TRICKS)) that improves the through-plane spatial resolution by a factor of 2 and maintains a high frame rate is presented. The undersampled PR-TRICKS pulse sequence has been modified to double the spatial resolution in the slice direction by acquiring high-spatial-frequency slice data only after first pass of the bolus of contrast agent. The acquisition reported in the present work (PR-hyperTRICKS) has been used to image healthy volunteers and patients with known vascular disease. The temporal resolution was found to be beneficial in capturing arterial phase images in the presence of asymmetric filling of vessels. Magn Reson Med 48:516–522, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
GABA immunoreactive neurons in rat visual cortex

An antiserum to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) was used in a light and electron microscopic immunocytochemical study to determine the morphology and distribution of GABA-containing neurons in the rat visual cortex and to ascertain whether all classes of nonpyramidal neurons in this cortex are GABAergic. The visual cortex used for light microscopy was prepared in such a way that the antibody penetrated completely through tissue sections, and in these sections large numbers of GABA immunoreactive neurons were apparent. The labeled neurons could be identified as being either multipolar, bitufted, bipolar, or horizontal neurons. In layers II through Via, GABA immunostained cells were distributed uniformly and accounted for approximately 15% of all neurons, but in layer I all neurons appeared to be immunostained. Electron microscopy of GABA immunostained visual cortex prepared to ensure good fine structural preservation confirmed the presence in layers II through Via of numerous immunoreactive bipolar neurons, both small and large varieties, as well as multipolar and bitufted neurons. Additionally, electron microscopy reveals that astrocytes are frequently GABA immunoreactive. From a correlated light and electron microscopic evaluation of neurons in GABA immunostained visual cortex, it was possible to confirm which kinds of neurons are GABAergic and what proportion of the neuronal population they represent. Thus, from an analysis of some 950 neurons, it was found that pyramidal neurons were never immunoreactive and that except for 20% of the bipolar cell population, all examples of other types of nonpyramidal neurons encountered in this material were GABA immunoreactive.
Aging of human fibroblasts in vitro: Surface features and behavior of aging WI 38 cells

Abstract WI 38 cells at various in vitro ages and an SV 40 virus tranformed variant were examined by 3H thymidine autoradiography, time lapse cinematography and scanning electron microscopy. Among normal WI 38 cells it was shown that there was a good correlation between cellular morphology, behavior, and the ability to incorporate 3H thymidine. Small, elongate spindle-shaded cells were usually both active incorporators of 3H thymidine, as determined autoradiographically, and dividers as determined by time lapse cinematography; larger, more spread out cells tended to be nondividers. The proportion of large, nondividing cells increased with increasing in vitro age and was correlated with changes in cell surface and behavior. Transformed WI 38 cells exhibited no such changes as a function of age. Results support the thesis that in vitro aging reflects the inability of individual cells to undertake DNA synthesis and to complete division, but nondividers continue to enlarge and unusual sizes and shapes are attained. Associated with these aging changes were conspicuous alterations in cellular surface features and behavior.
Castable Thermoplastic Urethane Elastomers I. Formulation and Applications as Removable Encapsulants

Castable thermoplastic polyurethane formulations with im proved upper and lower temperature capability have been developed for use as removable electronics packaging matenals. Two formulations have been developed employing a two step prepolymer processing technique. One consists of 58/42 ratio of polyether to polyester diols reacted with bitolylene diisocyanate to form a prepolymer; this step is followed by reaction with 1,4 butanediol. The second contained a 64/36 ratio of poly ether to polyester diol reacted in the same manner as above. The first formulation exhibited a tensile strength of 13.1 MPa, an elongation of 500%, and a modulus of 145 MPa; the second gave a tensile strength of 7.58 MPa, elongation 275%, and modulus of 124 MPa. These property differences resulted from differences in microphase structure between hard and soft segments in these linear polyurethanes. Both formulations were essentially free of creep over an 80 hour period at 70°C. These casting resins can be processed with a filler (...
Sorption of Cryptosporidium parvum Oocysts in Aqueous Solution to Metal Oxide and Hydrophobic Substrates

The parasite Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) may be introduced into water supplies by a number of processes, including runoff and infiltration from areas where wastes from infected hosts are dispersed on soils. Soil particles may attenuate or, when suspended in flow with sufficient kinetic energy, act as transport sites for oocysts. Sorption may also be reversed by the frictional force of flowing water. As a first step toward understanding oocyst attentuation and transport, we examined partitioning in a two-phase, laminar flow microduct. This exposed aqueous suspensions of C. parvum oocysts to metal oxide and hydrophobic substrates (Al2O3, Fe2O3, SiO2, and octadecyltrichlorosilane ((OTS) CH3(CH2)17SiCl3, a hydrophobic monolayer)) on transparent glass slides. Sorption under laminar flow conditions was observed for unexposed oocysts and oocysts subjected to freeze−thaw cycling and desiccation. The results indicate differences in sorption between substrates and oocyst exposure to stresses. Regardless of e...
Direct detection in Transmission Electron Microscopy with a 5μm pitch CMOS pixel sensor

Abstract This paper presents the characterization of a CMOS monolithic pixel sensor prototype optimized for direct detection in Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The sensor was manufactured in a deep-submicron commercial CMOS process and features pixels of 5 μ m pitch. Different pixel architectures have been implemented in the test chip, and the best performing architecture has been selected from a series of tests performed with 300 keV electrons. Irradiation tests to high electron doses have also been performed in order to estimate device lifetime.
Writing with a computer: An invitation to play

Although language play has generally been viewed as speech play, children also enjoy playing with language in written form. The computer offers children an opportunity to actively experiment with print in novel ways. During computer play, children's oral and written language provides insights into cognitive development and language learning. At the Developmental Research School at Florida State University, kindergarten children have been observed producing written language forms using a word processing program which allows them to electronically create and explore text. Researchers there have noted varying developmental stages in children as they spontaneously and playful interact with the computer to produce words and stories that approximate traditional language conventions. Additionally, they have noted that word processing and keyboard functions have prompted children to explore language in computer‐specific ways. This language play facilitates children's systematic organization of print, their formul...
NMR studies and conformations of asymmetric polyamides derived from cyclopropyl diacids and diamines

The synthesis and optical properties of the polyamides [poly(C3A˙C3B) and poly(C3A-C3MB)] derived from asymmetric trans-1,2-cyclopropanedicarboxylic acids (C3A), asymmetric trans-1,2-diaminocyclopropanes (C3B), and asymmetric trans-1,2-bis(methylamino) cyclopropanes (C3MB) were reported in the preceding article. This paper describes the NMR studies and conformations of the polyamides. The NMR studies of the polyamides and their diamide models have suggested that the polyamides have about a 90° torsional angle for NH (or CH3) CH. This angle seems to be reasonable because of less steric interaction, especially for poly(+)C3A(+)C3MB. The NCH3 of the poly(+)C3A(+)C3MB in sulfuric acid-d2 (D2SO4) is a singlet and is tentatively assigned to trans to the carbonyl oxygen of the amide group. In 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol-d3 (TFE-d3) and chloroform-d (CDCl3) it is also a singlet and is tentatively assigned to cis. The overall results obtained suggest that poly(+)C3A(+)C3MB exists in a compact helical conformation in TFE and TMS, while some conformational transition to a highly extended helical form with opposite handedness is induced by the addition of MSA. Likewise, poly(+)C3A(+)C3B must exist in some ordered conformation in the solvents studied. Possible ordered conformations of the polyamides have been proposed based on the experimental results and some assumptions.
Emissivity of discretized diffusion problems

Abstract The numerical modeling of radiative transfer by the diffusion approximation can produce artificially damped radiation propagation if spatial cells are too optically thick. In this paper, we investigate this nonphysical behavior at external problem boundaries by examining the emissivity of the discretized diffusion approximation. We demonstrate that the standard cell-centered discretization produces an emissivity that is too low for optically thick cells, a situation that leads to the lack of radiation propagation. We then present a modified boundary condition that yields an accurate emissivity regardless of cell size. This modified boundary condition can be used with a deterministic calculation or as part of a hybrid transport-diffusion method for increasing the efficiency of Monte Carlo simulations. We also discuss the range of applicability, as a function of cell size and material properties, when this modified boundary condition is employed in a hybrid technique. With a set of numerical calculations, we demonstrate the accuracy and usefulness of this modified boundary condition.
Stress Management in the Process of Occupational Stress Reduction

A growing number of studies have demonstrated the efficacy of worksite stress management training for reducing worker psychophysiological arousal and subjective reports of anxiety, depression, and somatic complaints. The role of stress management in the larger context of occupational stress reduction, however, has not been addressed. An application of stress management as one component of an organisational stressor reduction programme is described. Other components in the process which have been completed include the formation of a stress reduction committee and conduct of a stress assessment survey. Future plans include the formulation and implementation of recommendations for reducing organisational stress and repeated evaluations of their efficacy. The purpose is to depict element of the overall process and to report progress to date in this effort.
Transmission electron microscopy of electrodeposits

Commercial electrodeposits are usually fine grained and highly stressed. Conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies reveal defect-free structures except for the presence of twins. However, high voltage TEM studies of thick specimens show a high concentration of dislocations and lack of twins, which suggests a restructuring of electrodeposits during TEM specimen thinning.
Carbonation of Epoxy Methyl Soyate at Atmospheric Pressure

Vegetable oils are important substrates for the development of biobased products that may replace products derived from petroleum. Carbonated methyl soyates were prepared at atmospheric pressures from epoxy methyl soyate by the introduction of carbon dioxide at the oxirane position. Carbonation was performed by sparging carbon dioxide gas through the neat epoxy esters at atmospheric pressure in the presence of tetrabutylammonium bromide catalyst. Analysis of reaction mixtures showed that 42% of the epoxide groups were carbonated after 18 h at 80°C with 1 wt% catalyst compared to 63% using liquid carbon dioxide at 54 atm pressure.
HIV Status and Gender: A Brief Report from Heterosexual Couples in Thailand

Although the impact of HIV falls on both partners of a married couple, the burden of stress may not be necessarily shared evenly. The researchers in this study examined the relations among HIV status, gender, and depressive symptoms among 152 married or cohabitating couples living with HIV in the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand. Depressive symptoms were assessed using a 15-item depressive symptom screening test that was developed and used previously in Thailand. Among the 152 couples, 59% were couples in which both members were people living with HIV (seroconcordant; both people living with HIV couples), 28% had only female members with HIV (serodiscordant; females living with HIV couples), and 13% had only male members with HIV (serodiscordant; males living with HIV couples). The prevalence of depressive symptoms between seroconcordant and serodiscordant groups was similar. However, females living with HIV reported significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms, regardless of their partners' HIV status. Future prevention programs focusing on serodiscordant couples should be planned to target HIV risk, as well as emphasis on mental health, with a particular focus on women's increased susceptibility to negative mental health outcomes.
Purification of a catalase inhibitor from maize by affinity chromatography.

Summary A substance has been isolated from maize scutella which inhibits both maize and bovine liver catalase in vitro , but which does not affect maize peroxidases, a group of catalytically related hemoproteins. The substance has been purified by affinity chromatography on immobilized catalase. The inhibitor is both heat labile and non-dialyzable, suggesting it is a protein.
Fumigation of Empty Grain Drying Bins with Chloropicrin, Phosphine, and Liquid Fumigant Mixtures

Four fumigants were evaluated during the spring and summer months for disinfesting the space beneath the drying floor in empty 114.5-m3 (3,250-bu) circular metal bins. Fumigant concentrations were monitored at five points beneath the drying floor, and test cages of insects were placed next to the sample lines. The test cages contained adults and eggs of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), and immature stages of the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (L.), and were placed inside cloth bags containing grain dockage. Chloropicrin was effective at the label dosage of 946 ml (32 oz)/bin. A 473-ml (16-oz) dosage of chloropicrin and 3.79-liter (1-gal) and 7.57-liter (2-gal) dosages of a liquid fumigant containing carbon tetrachloride and carbon disulfide did not produce 100% insect mortality. A liquid fumigant containing ethylene dichloride, carbon tetrachloride, and ethylene dibromide did not kill all insects at 3.79 liters, but produced 100% mortality at 7.57 liters per bin. Phosphine was effective at 60 tablets per bin when used beneath a plastic sheet on the drying floor. Without the sheet, phosphine was ineffective at dosages as high as 200 tablets per bin. All fumigants dissipated within 48 h of application. Chloropicrin is the only fumigant currently labeled for empty bin fumigation, and this study showed that it is effective at the label rate. This study also showed that other fumigants, although not currently labeled, are effective if properly used.
Neurophysiological-based signals analysis for Level 5 User Refinement for target localization

The human brain fuses information from a variety of modalities to locate, track, and identify targets. Vision- based tracking, which uses a 2D signal, is able to accurately identify and locate objects, however it requires more processing time than 1D auditory systems. Auditory systems can locate and identify objects based on interaural time difference (ITD) and interaural intensity difference (IID) fusion. In order to investigate the advantages of a neurophysiology-based fusion model, we seek to localize a target from a 1D signals analysis conducted over repeated measurements where a user is allowed move sensors. Similar to the human fusing auditory information from the ears, we seek to fuse information over time and space from two sensors monitoring a single target. Through spatiotemporal fusion from the 1D analysis, we show how ITD and IID fusion functions support a Level 5 User Refinement task.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The effects of ozone and paraquat on PGF2α and PGE2 levels in plasma and combined pleural effusion and lung lavage of rats

Abstract The effects of lung toxins O 3 and paraquat on PGF 2α and PGE 2 levels of plasma and combined pleural effusion and lung lavage were studied in male Sprague-Dawley rats using radioimmunoassay. The plasma concentration of PGF 2α in rats exposed to 4 ppm O 3 for 2, 4, and 8 hr was increased by 186, 109, and 25%, respectively. The increases in PGF 2α level in pleural effusion-lung lavage of these rats at the corresponding times were 82, 0, and 65%. The plasma concentrations of PGF 2α and PGE 2 were increased in response to treatment with paraquat (45 mg/kg i.p.). The increases in plasma PGF 2α at 1.5, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hr following paraquat treatment were 223, 128, 47, 270, 195, and 130%, respectively. The increases in plasma concentration of PGE 2 at the corresponding times were 9, 88, 279, 323, 325, and 66%. In view of a dramatic increase in the prostaglandin level of plasma and pleural effusion-lung lavage following exposure to O 3 and treatment with paraquat, it has been suggested that an increased level of prostaglandin in plasma and lung lavage (done in case of O 3 ) might offer some diagnostic value for the morphological and functional impairment of the lung.
Improved Irritative Voiding Symptoms 3 Years after Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer

Background: Irritative voiding symptoms are common in elderly men and following prostate radiotherapy. The impact of hypofractionated treatment on irritative voiding symptoms has not been determined. This study sought to evaluate urgency, frequency and nocturia following SBRT for prostate cancer. Methods: Patients treated with SBRT monotherapy for localized prostate cancer from August 2007 to July 2011 at Georgetown University Hospital were included in this study. Treatment was delivered using the CyberKnife® with doses of 35 Gy-36.25 Gy in 5 fractions. Patient-reported urinary symptoms were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) before treatment and at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12 months post-treatment and every 6 months thereafter. Results: 204 patients at a median age of 69 years received SBRT with a median follow-up of 4.8 years. Prior to treatment, 50.0% of patients reported moderate to severe lower urinary track symptoms and 17.7% felt that urinary frequency was a moderate to big problem. The mean prostate volume was 39 cc and 8% had prior procedures for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A mean baseline IPSS-irritative score of 4.8 significantly increased to 6.5 at 1 month (p 8) at baseline, the mean IPSS-I decreased from a baseline score of 6.8 to 4.9 at three years post-SBRT. This decrease was both statistically (p < 0.0001) and clinically significant (MID = 1.45). Only 14.6% of patients felt that urinary frequency was a moderate to big problem at three years post-SBRT (p = 0.23). Conclusions: Treatment of prostate cancer
Mechanics of wound healing and importance of Vacuum Assisted Closure in urology.

ABSTRACTPurpose:: We discuss the mechanisms of wound healing and our experience with the Vacuum Assisted Closure device (Kinetic Concepts, Inc., San Antonio, Texas) for complex urogenital wounds.Materials and Methods:: The literature obtained from a Medline search on wound healing, wound failure and vacuum assisted closure was reviewed. In addition, we reviewed our experience with negative pressure wound therapy.Results:: Wound healing is a complex interaction between the reticuloendothelial and immune systems, in addition to correctable internal and external factors. Understanding the healing process improves outcomes and decreases patient morbidity. Negative pressure wound therapy has hastened wound healing and it adds significant improvement in the arsenal of choices available.Conclusions:: Vacuum Assisted Closure® is a therapeutic alternative that complements surgical and medical intervention in patients with complex wounds.
Phase I dose escalation of single-agent vinblastine in dogs.

Background: Vinblastine (VBL) is commonly used in dogs at a dosage of 2.0 mg/m2. The minimal toxicity observed at this dosage indicates that higher dosages might be well tolerated. Hypothesis: The maximum tolerated dosage (MTD) for a single VBL treatment is higher than the previously published dosage of 2.0 mg/m2. Animals: Twenty-three dogs with lymphoma or cutaneous mast cell tumors. Methods: Dogs received 1 single-agent VBL treatment IV. The starting dosage was 3.0 mg/m2, and dosages were increased in increments of 0.5 mg/m2 in cohorts of 3 dogs. Hematologic toxicity was assessed with weekly CBCs. Gastrointestinal toxicity was assessed from medical histories from owners. Once the MTD was determined, additional dogs were treated with VBL at that dosage. Dogs whose cancers responded to VBL continued to receive treatments q2–3 weeks. Results: VBL dosages ranged from 3.0 to 4.0 mg/m2. Neutropenia was the dose-limiting toxicity, with the nadir identified 7 days after treatment and resolving by 14 days after treatment. The MTD was 3.5 mg/m2. Sixteen dogs were treated at this dosage, and 3 experienced severe toxicity characterized by asymptomatic grade 4 neutropenia, febrile grade 4 neutropenia, and death. Gastrointestinal toxicity was mild and self-limiting. Preliminary evidence of antitumor activity was identified in 2 of 12 dogs with lymphoma treated at the MTD. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: In dogs, single-agent VBL is well tolerated at a dosage of 3.5 mg/m2 IV. At this dosage, the minimum safe treatment interval is q2 weeks, and adjunct treatment with prophylactic antibiotics should be considered.
Protein N-homocysteinylation: implications for atherosclerosis

Abstract Elevated levels of homocysteine (Hcy) are associated with various human pathologies, including cardiovascular disease. However, it is not exactly known why Hcy is harmful. A plausible hypothesis is that the indirect incorporation of Hcy into protein, referred to as protein N-homocysteinylation, leads to cell damage. A translational pathway involves: 1) reversible S-nitrosylation of Hcy with nitric oxide produced by nitric oxide synthase; 2) aminoacylation of tRNAMet with S-nitroso-Hcy catalyzed by MetRS; and 3) transfer of S-nitroso-Hcy from S-nitroso-Hcy-tRNAMet into growing polypeptide chains at positions normally occupied by methionine. Subsequent trans-nitrosylation leaves Hcy in the protein chain. A post-translational pathway involves: 1) metabolic conversion of Hcy to thiolactone by methionyl-tRNA synthetase (MetRS), and 2) acylation of protein lysine residues by Hcy thiolactone. The levels of Hcy thiolactone and N-homocysteinylated protein in human vascular endothelial cells depend on the ratio of Hcy/Met, levels of folic acid, and HDL, factors linked to cardiovascular disease. HDL-associated human serum Hcy thiolactonase/paraoxonase hydrolyzes thiolactone to Hcy, thereby minimizing protein N-homocysteinylation. Variations in Hcy thiolactonase may play an important role in Hcy-associated human cardiovascular disease.
Performing sexualities in an Irish pub

The performance of same‐sex desire in Dublin, Ireland, occurs not in the theatre but in a pub called “The George.” Recent changes in Irish legislation have deleted all references to English constructs of “buggery,” and now the Irish are in the process of reconstructing sexual identity. The purpose of this essay is to describe how queer, gay, lesbian, and homosexual identities are performed at The George. The analysis, drawing on social constructionism, nomadic science and performance studies, focuses on the space of the performance rather than its verbal text.
Moderating Laboratory Adaptation with the Use of a Heart-rate Variability Biofeedback Device (StressEraser ® )

Difficulty sleeping is a common problem with laboratory polysomnograms. This affects both polysomnograms that are used as a clinical tool to investigate sleep pathology or as an outcome variable in research. The goal of this study was to use a handheld biofeedback device (StressEraser) to improve sleep quality in the laboratory. Ten subjects without a history of sleep disorders were randomly assigned to either a StressEraser or no-treatment control condition. A sleep disturbance scale derived from sleep efficiency, REM latency, minutes of stage 1 sleep, and wake after sleep onset was created to evaluate the differences between these groups. Subjects in the StressEraser group had significantly lower scores on the sleep disturbance scale compared to the no-treatment control group (p = 0.003). Sleep latency was not improved. In conclusion, the StressEraser significantly improved sleep quality compared to a no-treatment control group. This suggests that the StressEraser may be an effective tool to help reduce the first-night effect in nighttime laboratory sleep studies.
Evaluation of 18F-FDG-PET for early detection of suboptimal response of rectal cancer to preoperative chemoradiotherapy: A prospective analysis

Early identification of inadequate response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) may spare rectal cancer patients the toxicity of ineffective treatment. We prospectively evaluated tumor response with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) early in the course of preoperative CRT. A total of 27 prospectively accrued patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (T3–4/N1) received preoperative CRT (5040 cGy + 5FU-based chemotherapy). Patients underwent PET scanning before and 8–14 days after commencement of CRT. Scans were interpreted using 3 standard parameters: SUVmax, SUVavg, and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) as well as an investigational parameter: visual response score (VRS). Percent pathologic response was quantified as a continuous variable. All PET parameters were correlated with pathology. Pathologic complete/near-complete response was defined as ≥95% tumor destruction, suboptimal response as <95%. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Of the 27 patients, 11 (41%) had pathologic complete/near-complete response; 16 (59%) had suboptimal response. SUVmax, SUVavg, and TLG did not discriminate between responders and nonresponders. Visual response score (VRS) was statistically significantly higher for complete/near-complete responders than for suboptimal responders (65 vs. 33%, P = 0.02). Suboptimal responders were identified with 94% sensitivity and 78% accuracy using a VRS cut-off of 50%. In this pilot study, FDG-PET at 8–14 days after the beginning of preoperative CRT was unsuccessful at predicting pathological response with enough accuracy to justify an early change in therapy.
Isolated Reduction in Single-Breath Diffusing Capacity in the Evaluation of Exertional Dyspnea

Study Settings and Interventions Sixty individuals complaining of dyspnea on exertion, but with normal spirometry and lung volumes and normal chest roentgenograms were reviewed for this study. These individuals were selected from a large group of outpatients (552 individuals over a seven-year period) who were referred to our laboratory for exercise testing to determine the cause of their exertional dyspnea. They were grouped according to the single-breath diffusing capacity, with those less than 70 percent of predicted in the low DCO group (group 1) and those greater than 70 percent of predicted in the normal DCO group (group 2). Both study groups underwent an incremental exercise test. Results Twenty-three individuals had a DCO less than 70 percent of predicted. During exercise, seven of these (30 percent) had an abnormal PaO 2 and five had an abnormal P(A-a)O 2 . Thirty-seven people had a normal DCO. Thirty-six of these (97 percent) had a normal PaO 2 and P(A-a)O 2 during exercise. Overall, eight individuals had an abnormal PaO 2 or P(A-a)O 2 during exercise; seven of these had an abnormally low DCO at rest. Conclusions Based on this selected group of a subpopulation, we conclude that the DCO is an important determinant of the diagnostic approach to a patient with dyspnea who is otherwise normal. If all pulmonary functions, including DCO are normal, an exercise study will fail to reveal abnormal PaO 2 or P(A-a)O 2 in 97 percent of the cases. However, a low DCO has a poor predictive value with respect to abnormal gas exchange during exercise. Therefore, when investigating exertional dyspnea, based on this selected subpopulation, if the spirometry, lung volumes, and DCO are normal, one may forego additional invasive gas exchange evaluation. However, an abnormal DCO warrants further physiologic testing.
Structure and expression of the rice mitochondrial apocytochrome b gene (cob-1) and pseudogene (cob-2)

Rice mitochondrial DNA contains an intact copy and a pseudogene copy of a apocytochrome b gene (cob-1 and cob-2, respectively). Using primer extension and capping analyses, the transcriptional start site has been mapped; an 11-base motif at the transcription start site closely matches the consensus promoter motifs proposed for maize, wheat and soybean mitochondrial genes. Although both copies are identical in the 5′ upstream region and through most of the coding region, only cob-1-specific mRNA is detected on RNA gel-blots. Run-on transcription analysis indicates, however, that both cob-1 and cob-2 mRNAs are synthesized in vivo but less cob-2 is accumulated. At its mapped 3′ terminus the cob-1 transcript possesses a sequence that could fold into a double stem-loop structure. The possible roles of a double stem-loop structure in mitochondrial gene expression are discussed.
Results and interpretation of multivariate autoregressive analysis applied to the loft reactor process noise data

Abstract Multivariate noise analysis of power reactor signals is useful for characterizing baseline operation and plant diagnostics, for isolating process anomaly from sensor maloperation, and for automated plant monitoring. We have developed a systematic and reliable procedure of accomplishing these tasks by improving upon the previously established techniques of empirical modeling of fluctuation signals in power reactors. The application of the algorithm to data from the Loss-of-Fluid Test (LOFT) reactor showed that earlier results (based on physical modeling) regarding the perturbation sources in a pressurized water reactor (PWR) affecting coolant temperature and neutron power fluctuations can be explained using multivariate autoregressive (MAR) analysis. This methodology has important implications regarding plant diagnostics, and system or sensor anomaly detection.
Protioacyl Dications: Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange, Rearrangements, and Theoretical Studies1

Hydrogen/deuterium exchange was observed by 2H-NMR spectroscopy at the CH3 groups of the long-lived alkanoyl cations CH3CH2CO+ (4), (CH3)2CHCO+ (8), and (CH3)3CCO+ (13) when treated with excess DF·SbF5 superacid. The intermediacy of the corresponding protio(deuterio)acylium dications is suggested to account for the exchanges. Under similar conditions, no exchange was observed in the acetyl ion CH3CO+ (1) in DF·SbF5, but at the same time its electrophilic reactivity is greatly enhanced in superacids. The acetyl cation in a superacidic medium also abstracts tertiary hydrogens of isoalkanes to give protonated acetaldehyde. Density functional theory calculations at the B3LYP/6-31G** level were carried out to support the suggested exchange mechanism as well as lack of exchange in the acetyl cation. On the basis of the calculated results, two alternative mechanisms are also suggested for the Nenitzescu rearrangement of pivaloyl chloride in isobutane with excess AlCl3.
Effects of Cyclic Mechanical Stretch on Extracellular Matrix Synthesis by Human Scleral Fibroblasts

In order to understand the effect of mechanical strain on scleral extracellular matrix remodeling, human scleral fibroblasts were subjected to equibiaxial stretch in vitro and the expression of proteoglycans, metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) were evaluated. Isolated human scleral fibroblasts were seeded onto flexible bottom culture plates, and subjected to a cyclic stretch regimen of 15% equibiaxial stretch for 45 s followed by 15s of rest for 6-48 h in the presence of 35SO4. Newly synthesized proteoglycans were measured in the medium by CPC precipitation of radiolabelled glycosaminoglycans. MMP-2 activity and expression levels were measured in the medium by, Western blot, gel zymography and real-time PCR. Steady state levels of TIMP-2 mRNA and membrane-type MMP, MT1-MMP (MMP-14) mRNA were measured in the cell layer using real-time PCR. The predominant gelatinolytic enzyme secreted by scleral fibroblasts was the pro-enzyme form of MMP-2 (ProMMP-2). Mechanical stretch resulted in a significant increase of ProMMP-2 after 12 and 48 h (+76.28%, p<0.05; +19.56%, p<0.01, respectively). Mechanical stretch significantly increased the production of the active form of MMP-2 (ActiveMMP-2) after 48 h (+59.72%, p<0.05) and decreased levels of TIMP-2 mRNA (-22%, p<0.05). The rate of scleral proteoglycan synthesis and the steady state levels of MMP-2 and MMP-14 mRNA were not significantly affected by mechanical stretch. These results suggest that mechanical strain stimulates the activation of MMP-2 by scleral fibroblasts, possibly through increased levels of ProMMP-2 and reduced levels of TIMP-2. Increased levels of ActiveMMP-2 in the sclera would be expected to contribute to scleral extracellular matrix degradation, scleral thinning and possible ocular ectasia.
Public Support for Early Intervention: Is Child Saving a “Habit of the Heart”?

Abstract Despite portrayals of Americans as exceptionally punitive and as favoring “get tough” solutions to offending, a wealth of survey research shows that the public also supports a social welfare, rehabilitative approach to crime control. Opinion polls reveal that citizens are particularly supportive of efforts to intervene with at-risk children and youths—so much so that belief in child saving can be considered an American “habit of the heart.” It is clear that public opinion is not a barrier to early intervention programs. In fact, such public support, combined with increasing evidence of the behavioral and cost effectiveness of treatment programs, might soon coalesce to create a “tipping point” in which early intervention becomes a viable policy agenda on the national level.
Increased left prefrontal activation during an auditory language task in adolescents born preterm at high-risk

Abstract Although individuals born preterm are at risk for cognitive dysfunction, few studies have examined functional brain reorganization in these individuals. We used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to examine cortical reorganization related to preterm birth. Thirty-one adolescents systemically selected from a longitudinal study on child development based on gestational age, birth weight and medical complications (full term, low risk preterm, high-risk preterm) performed real-word and non-word auditory rhyme tasks during MEG recording. Equivalent current dipoles were localized every 4 ms during the 50- to 250-ms period following the onset of the auditory stimulus. The association between the number of dipoles (NODs) and birth group, language task, latency and phonological skills was examined. Adolescents born preterm at high risk demonstrated a greater NODs in the left Broca's and prefrontal areas combined, left cingulate gyrus and left superior temporal gyrus and a fewer NODs in the right superior temporal gyrus as compared to those born preterm at low risk and term. A greater NODs in the left Broca's and prefrontal areas combined and fewer NODs in the left cingulate gyrus was associated with better phonological skills only in adolescents born preterm at high risk. These results suggest that the language networks are reorganized in adolescents born preterm at high risk. Increased prefrontal activity has also been seen in adolescents born preterm during a reading task and in young adults with a history of dyslexia who are well compensated for their disorder. We suggest that this increased prefrontal activation may represent increased top–down control of weak posterior language networks.
Imaging of freeze-fractured cells with in situ fluorescence and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry.

Bioanalytical imaging techniques have been employed to investigate cellular composition at the single-cell and subcellular regimes. Four imaging modes have been performed sequentially in situ to demonstrate the utility of a more integrated approach to imaging cells. The combination of bright-field, scanning ion, and fluorescence microscopy complements TOF-SIMS imaging of native biomolecules. Bright-field microscopy provides a blurred visualization of cells in frozen−hydrated samples, while scanning ion imaging provides a morphological view of freeze-fractured cells after TOF-SIMS analysis is completed. With the use of selective fluorescent labels, fluorescence microscopy allows single mammalian cells to be located in the complex ice matrix of freeze-fractured samples, a task that has not been routine with either bright-field or TOF-SIMS. A fluorescent label, DiI (m/z 834), that does not interfere with the mass spectra of membrane phosphatidylcholine, has been chosen for fluorescence and TOF-SIMS imaging o...
Effect of Storage Temperature and Time on the Quality of Vacuum Packaged Dry‐Cured Ham Slices

Hams were cured and aged by three methods, two using nitrite and nitrate but with long or short aging times at controlled temperature, and one using no nitrite or nitrate with ambient aging temperature. Hams were sliced, vacuum-packaged and stored at 0°C, 10°C or 21°C for 8 wk and examined weekly for white film, aroma, and aerobic, staphylococci, lactobacilli, yeast and mold counts. White film development was erratic. Aroma was closely related to aerobic counts. At 0°C bacterial counts and aroma remained normal for 8 wk. At 10°C many packages had acceptable counts and aroma at 8 wk but some were unacceptable by 4 or 5 wk. At 21°C many slices were unacceptable microbiologically and sensorily by 3 wk. Storage at or near 0°C is recommended for long shelf life.
Risk of malignancy in sonographically confirmed septated cystic ovarian tumors

Abstract Objective To determine the risk of malignancy in septated cystic ovarian tumors. Materials 1319 (4.4%) of 29,829 women were identified by transvaginal sonography (TVS) as having a complex cystic ovarian tumor with septations without solid areas or papillary projections and were placed on long-term ultrasound surveillance for ovarian malignancy. Results These 1319 patients had a total of 2870 septated cystic ovarian tumors. 2288 tumors (79.7%) had a septal width Conclusions Septated cystic ovarian tumors without solid areas or papillary projections have a low risk of malignancy and can be followed sonographically without surgery.
Infrared transmission of synthetic atmospheres. V. Absorption laws for overlapping bands

Although Lambert’s law Tν=e−kνw presumably applies to the absorption of gases in the infrared, the experimentally observed transmission Tν′ cannot be expressed by a simple relation of this type. It is observed, however, that in regions where the atmospheric carbon dioxide and water vapor absorption bands overlap Tν′(CO2+H2O)=Tν′(CO2) · Tν′(H2O) provided the total pressure P is constant. It is found that the total absorption ∫Aνdν for a synthetic atmospheric sample containing water vapor, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen can be expressed as ∫Aνdν=∫Aν(H2O)dν+∊∫Aν(CO2)dν, where ∫Aν(H2O)dν and ∫Aν(CO2)dν are given by the empirical relations obtained in earlier studies in the present series and ∊ is a fraction, which can be expressed in terms of the total absorption by water vapor.
Aqueous NaCl Solutions within Charged Carbon-Slit Pores: Partition Coefficients and Density Distributions from Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Molecular dynamics simulations have been employed to study the structural properties of aqueous electrolytes confined within graphene pores. The effects of pore size and graphene surface charge density were quantified by calculating ionic density profiles within the pores and pore-bulk partition coefficients. Carbon-slit pores of width 0.9, 1.2, and 1.6 nm were considered. The graphene surfaces were charged with densities ranging from 0 (neutral pore), 20, 30, and 40 μC/cm2, simulating various applied voltages. Aqueous solutions of NaCl at 1.5–1.6 M concentrations were considered at ambient conditions. When the graphene sheets are neutral, most electrolytes remain outside of the pores. The few sodium and chloride ions that are found within the pores remain preferentially at the center of pores, where they can be hydrated. As the graphene surface charge density increases, more Na+ and Cl– enter the pores. At the maximum graphene surface charge density considered (40 μC/cm2) the ionic concentration within t...