cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 2865: Repurposing potassium channel blockers to target metastasis in triple negative breast cancer

Despite the identification of pro-metastatic markers and signaling pathways that drive the invasion of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), there are currently no treatments that directly target invading cells. Recent evidence suggests that the bioelectric state of cancer cells can drive cell proliferation and invasion, creating an opportunity to investigate new therapies that target the bioelectric state of a cell. Our previous data suggests that of the most abundant ions present in the body, potassium (K+) is most important for controlling the bioelectric state of TNBC cells, and that K+ flux affects the invasive properties of TNBC cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that blocking K+ channels would disrupt the bioelectric state and reduce 2D migration and 3D invasion. Four FDA-approved K+ channel blockers (amiodarone, carvedilol, imipramine, and thioridazine) were selected from the Repurposing Drugs in Oncology database based on inhibition target channels and mechanisms of action. Cell viability in human TNBC MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells was investigated and IC50 dose response curves were generated to determine that 5 µM and 10µM were the optimal doses to study further. Interestingly, while we determined that all four drugs reduced cell viability, amiodarone and carvedilol significantly changed the bioelectric state and reduced proliferation of TNBC cells compared to negative controls. Experiments are ongoing to evaluate the effects of these inhibitors on 2D migration, 3D invasion, and in an in vivo mouse xenograft study. Understanding the mechanism behind K+ channel inhibition in TNBC could give rise to new pharmacologic targets. In addition, supplementing existing metastatic TNBC regimens with a repurposed K+ channel blocker could potentially reduce development costs, decrease time to market, and provide a new treatment option to patients. Citation Format: Priyanka Ram, Samantha L. Payne, Madeleine J. Oudin. Repurposing potassium channel blockers to target metastasis in triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 2865.
Contraceptive values and preferences of pregnant women, postpartum women, women seeking emergency contraceptives, and women seeking abortion services: A systematic review.

Abstract Objective We sought to systematically review the literature on contraceptive values and preferences of pregnant women, postpartum women, women seeking emergency contraception, and women seeking abortion services, globally. Study design We searched ten electronic databases for articles from January 1, 2005 through July 27, 2020 regarding users’ values and preferences for contraception. Results were divided into four sub-groups. Results Twenty-three studies from 10 countries met the inclusion criteria. Values and preferences across all four sub-groups were influenced by method effectiveness, access, availability, convenience, cost, side effects, previous experience, partner approval, and societal norms. Similarities and differences were evident across sub-groups, especially concerning contraceptive benefits and side effects. No contraceptive method had all the features users deemed important. Many studies emphasized values and preferences surrounding long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), including convenience of accessing LARCs and concerns about side effect profiles. Discussion Individuals must have access to a full range of safe and effective modern contraceptive options, allowing people to make decisions based on evolving contraceptive preferences over time. Future contraception guideline development, policy, and programmatic implementation should continue considering the added influence of these specific reproductive experiences on contraceptive values and preferences of users to improve access, counseling, and method choice.
PILOT: a prescription for program performance measurement

Application performance measurement and evaluation has developed much more slowly than its sister fields of system performance evaluation and software developments. Progress has been impeded by a shortage of measurement tools designed specifically for programmers, and inadequate detail in the output of existing tools for diagnosing performance problems. The authors propose features that would correct these deficiencies and offer a tool called PILOT to support the claim that a tool embodying those features can be built and would be well received by the software community. >
PHYSIOLOGY: Evaluation of the Meiotic Spindle Apparatus in Metaphase II Human Oocytes Following Cytoplasmic Donation

Purpose: To determine if the removal of cytoplasm from metaphase II human donor oocytes damages the meiotic spindle apparatus. Materials and Methods: Cryopreservation of metaphase II human oocytes was performed using a fast-freeze, fast-thaw protocol. Upon thaw, oocytes were incubated for 3–4 h and then used for cytoplasmic donation (test oocytes). Oocytes thawed but not used for donation served as controls. Test and control oocytes were fixed using a microtubule-stabilizing buffer. Tubulin was localized using antitubulin monoclonal antibody. Chromosomes were identified by counterstaining with DAPI. Results: Forty-four oocytes had cytoplasm removed (test group) while 12 were not used for the procedure (controls). Twenty-three oocytes survived the donation procedure. Rates of normal spindle structure for the control and test groups were 21/23 (91.3%) and 12/12 (100%), respectively. Conclusion: The removal of cytoplasm from a metaphase II human donor oocyte does not appear to significantly increase the damage to chromosome alignment or to the spindle structure.
Reconfigurable multi-wavelength optical correlator for header-based switching and routing

We demonstrate novel reconfigurable optical correlation and header recognition that requires significantly fewer components. We use sampled fiber Bragg gratings as multi-channel delay lines, for which each fiber Bragg grating simultaneously "recognizes" one header bit in each of N WDM channels. A sampled FBG is an FBG that has a superstructure written on top of the grating, for which the Fourier transform produces a reflective time delay that is replicated at equal wavelength spacings to accommodate many WDM channels.
Genetic Influence upon Phenobarbital-induced Increase in Rat Liver Supernatant Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Activity

Treatment with phenobarbital of rats which are genetically selected results in a greater than 10-fold increase in nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent aldehyde dehydrogenase present in the supernatant but not the mitochondrial fraction of liver. This effect represents one of only a few known cases where intrastrain differences in a drug-induced increase in enzyme activity is genetically controlled. The kinetic characteristics of the enzyme from phenobarbital-treated rats are the same, regardless of whether or not the enzyme activity in the liver is increased. It is also demonstrated that rat liver supernatant contains a second NAD-dependent aldehyde dehydrogenase which (a) is resistant to induction by phenobarbital; (b) oxidizes p-carboxybenzaldehyde; (c) is relatively uninhibited by disulfiram; (d) has a heat stability different from the inducible enzyme.
Collisionless Multiphoton Dissociation of SF6: A Statistical Thermodynamic Process

An experiment, which combines picosecond CO2 laser pulses with opto-acoustic techniques, proves that the collisionles s multiphoton dissociation SF6 is a statistical thermodynamic process. The RRKM theory of unimolecular reactions, familiar to most physical chemists, provides a quantitative explanation of the dissociation effect. The reaction rate is primarily limited by transitions in the quasi continuum rather than by the anharmonicity of the first few discrete levels.
Reproducibility of vertical jump data from an instrumented platform

To assess the reproducibility of data collected from a newly created instrumented platform that measures vertical jump performance, healthy college-age subjects (n = 178) made three visits to our laboratory. Per jump, the platform offered six performance-related variables: static weight, time to takeoff, peak takeoff force, and maximum jump heights as they ascended, remained in the air and landed. Per subject, the two highest jumps from the final two visits were used to assess data reproducibility. Prior to the reproducibility assessment, Z-scores identified statistical outliers that were removed from subsequent analyses. Paired intra- and inter-jump session data per variable were assessed with the following statistical test-retest tools: intraclass correlation coefficients, coefficient of variation, standard error of measurement, smallest real difference and critical difference. Current results show most data had a high level of reproducibility with few exceptions. Since the platform also has potential applicability in the rehabilitation of disabled persons, future research should assess the data reproducibility associated with gait, balance and mobility collected from the device.
A metabolic perspective of Peto's paradox and cancer

The frequency of cancer is postulated to be proportional to the number of cells an animal possesses, as each cell is similarly exposed to mutagens with every cell division. Larger animals result from more cell divisions with more mutagenic exposure, and hence are expected to have higher frequencies of cancer. Yet, as stipulated by Peto's paradox, larger animals do not have the higher rates of cancers seen in smaller animals despite the significant differences in cell numbers and a longer lifetime that would expose larger animals to more mutagens. The rates of cancer appear to be inversely proportional to animal body size, which scales inversely with specific metabolic rates of mammals. Studies over the past 20 years have linked oncogenes and tumour suppressors to alterations in cancer metabolism, and conversely, mutations in metabolic genes have been documented to trigger tumorigenesis. The by-products and intermediates of metabolism, such as reactive oxygen species, oxoglutarate, citrate and acetate, all have the potential to mutate and alter the genome or epigenome. On the basis of these general observations, it is proposed that metabolic rates correlate with mutagenic rates, which are higher in small animals and give the mechanistic basis for Peto's paradox. The observations discussed in this overview collectively indicate that specific metabolic rate varies inversely with body size, which seems to support the hypothesis that metabolism drives tumorigenesis and accounts for Peto's paradox.
Mathematical modeling of surface-active and non-surface-active drug transport in emulsion systems

Mathematical models were developed for the prediction of surface-active and non- surface-active drug transport in triphasic (oil, water, and micellar) emulsion systems as a function of micellar concentration. These models were evaluated by comparing experimental and simulated data. Fick's first law of diffusion with association of the surface-active or complexation nature of the drug with the surfactant was used to derive a transport model for surface-active drugs. This transport model assumes that the oil/water (O/W) partitioning process was fast compared with membrane transport and therefore drug transport was limited by the membrane. Consecutive rate equations were used to model transport of non- surface-active drugs in emulsion systems assuming that the O/W interface acts as a barrier to drug transport. Phenobarbital (PB) and barbital (B) were selected as surface-active model drugs. Phenylazoaniline (PAA) and enzocaine (BZ) were selected as non- surface-active model drugs. Transport studies at pH 7.0 were conducted using side-by-side diffusion cells and bulk equilibrium reverse dialysis bag techniques. According to the surface-active drug model, an increase in micellar concentration is expected to decrease drug-transport rates. Using the Microft EXCEL program, the non- surface-active drug model was fitted to the experimental data for the cumulative amount of the model drug that disappeared from the donor chamber. The oil/continuous phase partitioning rates (k1) and the membrane transport rates (k2) were estimated. The predicted data were consistent with the experimental data for both the surface-active and non- surface-active models.
Evaluation of the effect of a fiber-enriched formula on infant colic.

Because infants with colic appear to have abdominal pain similar to that of adults with irritable bowel syndrome, who may benefit from the addition of fiber to their diet, we tested whether fiber added to infant formula would alleviate colic. Twenty-seven normal, term infants (aged 2 to 8 weeks; 14 giris) with colic, defined as crying plus fussing for more than 3 hours a day for at least 3 days of a 6-day baseline period, were enrolled. Infants were randomly assigned in 9-day periods to a sequence of placebo (Isomil formula) followed by fiber-supplemented formula (Isomil plus soy polysaccharide) (n=12) or the reverse (n=15). Dally diaries of crying, fussing, sleeping, formula, intake, and stooling were kept. Twenty-two infants completed three lactulose breath hydrogen tests at the end of the baseline period and after each study period. The crossover trial was followed by 30 to 35 days of use of the study formula chosen by the parents as most beneficial but unknown to the investigators. Growth was monitored throughout. Serum cholesterol, calcium, phosphate, albumin, Iron, and zinc concentrations were measured at the conclusion. There were no significant differences in average daily time spent by the infants in fussing and crying during ingestion of the fiber-supplemented formula. However, parents of 18 of 27 infants chose fiber-supplemented formula as most beneficial in ameliorating symptoms of colic. While the infants were consuming fiber-supplemented formula, stool frequency increased, and breath hydrogen excretion increased significantly, in response to lactulose. Growth and serum biochemical measurements were normal in all infants. Supplementation of infant formula with the level of soy polysaccharide used in this study may have reduced crying and fussing in some infants but did not affect colicky behavior in the majority of infants, who continued to cry and fuss excessively.
Radiographic anatomy of the internal mammary arteries

The radiographic anatomy of the IMAs is described based on bilateral selective arteriography in 100 patients with coronary artery disease. The right and left IMAs were identical in caliber in their mid portions in 94% of cases. Fifteen percent of the IMAs measured less than 2 mm in luminal diameter at the level of the fourth costal cartilage. The side branches showed a great deal of variability and asymmetry in their origin and distribution. The understanding of the radiographic anatomy of the IMA and its branches is helpful in preoperative appraisal and is crucial for postoperative evaluation of the IMA grafts.
The Washington Study-Service Year of Eastern Mennonite University Reflections on 23 Years of Service Learning

The author describes the results of an evaluation of a service-learning program of Eastern Mennonite University. The Washington Study-Service Year, an off-campus program, began in 1976 in Washington, D.C. The author describes briefly the current goals and structure of the program and then describes the evaluation data and results. A variety of methods were used as evaluating tools, including essays of current students, interviews with alumni, and alumni surveys. The short and long-term influence of the program appears in increased understanding of racial/cross-cultural issues, in increased values in the areas of working with marginalized persons and working to change social institutions, in self-understanding, and in the development of interpersonal skills, such as conflict resolution and communication.
Molecular biology of the sea urchin embryo

Research on the early development of the sea urchin offers new insights into the process of embryogenesis. Maternal messenger RNA stored in the unfertilized egg supports most of the protein synthesis in the early embryo, but the structure of maternal transcripts suggests that additional functions are also possible. The overall developmental patterns of transcription and protein synthesis are known, and current measurements describe the expression of specific genes, including the histone genes, the ribosomal genes, and the actin genes. Possible mechanisms of developmental commitment are explored for regions of the early embryo that give rise to specified cell lineages, such as the micromere-mesenchyme cell lineage.
Mitigation of Pulsed Interference to Redshifted H I and OH Observations between 960 and 1215 Megahertz

The neutral hydrogen 21 cm spectral line (1420.4 MHz) and the four 18 cm lines of the hydroxyl molecule (1612–1720 MHz) are observable at redshifts that put their measured line frequencies well below their protected frequency bands. Part of the redshift ranges (z = 0.171–0.477 for H I and z = 0.37–0.73 for OH) fall in the 960 to 1215 MHz band that is allocated to aircraft navigation. Most of the signals in this band are pulsed emissions of low duty cycle so much of the time between pulses is interference-free. This paper outlines the structure and measured properties of signals in this band and demonstrates a signal processing strategy that is effective at removing the pulsed signals from spectra at sensitivities produced by several hours of integration.
Thermal Predictions of the AGR-3/4 Experiment

A thermal analysis was performed for the Advanced Gas Reactor test experiment number three/four (AGR-3/4) irradiated at the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). Several fuel irradiation experiments are planned for the AGR Fuel Development and Qualification Program which supports the development of the Very-High-Temperature gas-cooled Reactor (VHTR) under the Next-Generation Nuclear Plant (NGNP) project.AGR-3/4 combines two tests in a series of planned AGR experiments to test tristructural-isotropic (TRISO)-coated, low-enriched uranium oxycarbide fuel. The AGR-3/4 test was designed primarily to assess fission product transport through various graphite materials. The AGR-3/4 test was inserted in the ATR beginning in 2011 and is currently still in the reactor. Forty-eight (48) TRISO fueled compacts were inserted into twelve separate capsules for the experiment.The purpose of this analysis was to calculate the temperatures of each compact and graphite layer to obtain daily average temperatures and to compare with experimentally measured thermocouple data. Heat rates were input from a detailed physics analysis using the MCNP code for each day during the experiment. Individual heat rates for each non-fuel component were input as well. A steady-state thermal analysis was performed for each daily calculation. A finite element model was created for this analysis using the commercial finite element heat transfer and stress analysis package ABAQUS. The fission and neutron gamma heat rates were calculated with the nuclear physics code MCNP. ATR outer shim control cylinders and neck shim rods along with driver fuel power and fuel depletion were incorporated into the daily physics heat rate calculations. Compact and graphite thermal conductivity were input as a function of temperature and neutron fluence with the field variable option in ABAQUS. Surface-to-surface radiation heat transfer along with conduction heat transfer through the gas mixture of helium-neon (used for temperature control) was used in these models. The kinetic theory of gases was used to correlate the thermal conductivity of the gas mixture. Model results are compared to thermocouple data taken during the experiment. Future thermal analysis models will consider control temperature gas gaps and fuel compact–graphite holder gas gaps varying from the original fabrication dimensions as a function of fast neutron fluence.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Thermoelectric Properties of Hot-Pressed and PECS-Sintered Magnesium-Doped Copper Aluminum Oxide

Copper aluminum oxide (CuAlO2) is considered as a potential candidate for thermoelectric applications. Partially magnesium-doped CuAlO2 bulk pellets were fabricated using solid-state reactions, hot-pressing, and pulsed electric current sintering (PECS) techniques. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were adopted for structural analysis. High-temperature transport property measurements were performed on hot-pressed samples. Electrical conductivity increased with Mg doping before secondary phases became significant, while the Seebeck coefficient displayed the opposite trend. Thermal conductivity was consistently reduced as the Mg concentration increased. Effects of Mg doping, preparation conditions, and future modification on this material’s properties are discussed.
Finite Element Analysis of TMJ Implant

The TMJ is a bilateral joint of the jaw that functions as a single entity during normal masticatory activities, speaking, yawning and swallowing. TMJ replacement has been indicated in cases of joint trauma, advanced degenerative disease, tumors, developmental anomalies and ankylosis of the joint following injury. Alloplastic replacement of the TMJ (an artificial replacement in the form of a TMJ condylar implant with a glenoid fossa component that articulates with the undersurface of the skull on the temporal bone) renders the anatomical space devoid of the natural mandibular condyle (Fig. 1). Compared to hip and knee prostheses, TMJ implants have not been studied in detail. The goals of this study were to quantify the stress distribution in a commercially available TMJ implant (TMJ Implants, Inc, CO), bone and implant-bone interface, to compare the stresses and strains with different bone conditions, and to compare the stresses and strains with different implant materials using a finite element software package.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Direct association and translocation of PKC-α with calponin

Calponin has been implicated in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction through its interaction with F-actin and inhibition of the actin-activated MgATPase activity of phosphorylated myosin. Ca...
On the steady Krook kinetic equation: Part 2

Numerically exact solutions of the problems of heat transfer between concentric circular cylinders and spheres have been obtained.
Degradation of cellulosic substances by Thermomonospora curvata

Research is reported on the cellulolytic activity of Thermomonospora curvata, a thermophilic cellulolytic actinomycete prevalent in municipal solid waste compost. Various cellulosic wastes were evaluated for their potential for the induction of cellulase synthesis by Th. curvata and the extent of cellulose degradation under optimal culture conditions. All the substrates tested showed significant degradation of their cellulose content with the exception of sawdust and barley straw. In contrast to Trichoderma viride, cotton fibers were the best substrates for both C/sub 1/ and C/sub x/ cellulase production. Further research is recommended. (JSR)
A low cost method for programming stimuli utilizing photocell and physiograph.

Described is a device for programming stimuli via detection of opaque marks on datagraph paper by a photocell. Ease of programming and circuit construction, low cost, and accuracy and precision of stimulus presentation are advantages of this apparatus.
Relationship between serotonin and the immune system in a teleost model

An immunomodulatory role for serotonin (5-HT) has been demonstrated in mammals and evidence for a similar role for 5-HT has recently emerged in fish. However, as limited studies are available, discrepancies often exist regarding the role of 5-HT in the teleost immune response. Therefore, studies were undertaken to help clarify this relationship. Lymphocyte proliferation and extracellular superoxide (O2.-) production were examined in cells from bluegill sunfish injected with either 5-HTP (the immediate precursor to 5-HT) or pCPA (an inhibitor of the rate-limiting enzyme in 5-HT synthesis), or, in vitro following exposure of immune cells to either 5-HT, the 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist, 8-OH-DPAT, or the receptor antagonist, NAN-190. Exposure of fish to 5-HTP increased whole brain 5-HT levels, while pCPA exposure decreased whole brain and splenic 5-HT. In vivo exposure of fish to pCPA depressed T- and B-lymphocyte proliferation; exposure to 5-HTP failed to alter either immune endpoint. In vitro exposure of bluegill splenocytes to 5-HT or 8-OH-DPAT inhibited lymphoproliferation; treatment with NAN-190 had no effect on immune function. Results suggest a link in bluegill between immune function and the serotonergic system. The disparity observed following in vivo- and in vitro-induced serotonergic alterations indicates the complexity of this neuro-immune relationship and emphasizes the need for further studies in this regard.
Should a cancer patient be resuscitated following an in-hospital cardiac arrest?

Abstract Objective: Previous reports from general hospitals and cancer centers have identified the presence of malignancy as a poor prognostic indicator for successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for an in-hospital cardiac arrest. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the initial success of CPR as determined by return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), patient survival to hospital discharge, and 1-year survival of this group as compared to previous studies in non-oncological centers. In addition, the charges incurred in caring for these patients were analyzed. Materials and methods: All cardiac arrests occurring between 1 January 1993 and 31 December 1994 were identified from a centralized morbidity and mortality database and reviewed retrospectively. Cardiac arrest was defined as the absence of a palpable pulse and initiation of CPR. Patients suffering pure respiratory arrest or shock without loss of pulse were excluded. Age, gender, primary site of malignancy, initial and ultimate outcome, including Zubrod's functional status (ZFS), and total hospital charges following cardiac arrest were recorded. Computerized billing records were used to tabulate total charges. Results: 83 cardiac arrests occurred during the study period (42 women, 41 men). Mean age was 56.2 years. Forty-two percent of the patients had hematologic malignancies, 19% lung, 15% gastrointestinal, 5% head and neck cancers and 19% other malignancies. Sixty-six percent of the patients had ROSC. Only eight (9.6%) patients survived to hospital discharge: three died within 6 weeks under hospice care, two died within 6 months of discharge and only three (3.6%) patients survived to 1 year. Functional status follow-up of these three patients revealed two with ZFS 1 and one with ZFS 2. Total hospital charges for these 83 patients were US$ 2 959 740. Conclusions: Although ROSC after cardiac arrest in our patients was better than that reported for most series in general hospitals, their ultimate survival and hospital discharge was extremely poor.
Second-order many-body perturbation and coupled-cluster singles and doubles study of ice VIII.

The structure, equation of state, IR, Raman, and inelastic neutron scattering (INS) spectra of high-pressure, proton-ordered phase VIII of ice are calculated by the second-order many-body perturbation and coupled-cluster singles and doubles methods. Nearly all the observed features of the pressure-dependence of the structures and spectra are reproduced computationally up to 60 GPa insofar as the anharmonic effects can be neglected. The calculations display no sign of the hypothetical isostructural transition in 2–3 GPa to phase VIII′, the existence of which has been a matter of controversy for over a decade, while they do not contradict the interpretation of the spectral anomaly at 10–14 GPa as a precursor of the VIII-X phase transition. The calculated INS spectra correct a systematic error in the peak positions of the observed spectra.
Purification and characterization of a fatty acyl-CoA hydrolase from the uropygial glands of peking ducks (Anas domesticus)

Abstract In a previous communication the occurrence of a medium-chain acyl-CoA hydrolase designated thioesterase-B in the uropygial gland of mallard ducks was reported [ L. Rogers, P. E. Kolattukudy, and M. J. de Renobales (1982) J. Biol. Chem., 257, 880–886]. In the present study, thioesterase-B was purified from the postmicrosomal supernatant of homogenized uropygial glands from Peking ducks (Anas domesticus). Most of the contaminating thioesterase activities were removed by ammonium sulfate fractionation. The 55% ammonium sulfate supernatant, containing thioesterase-B, was chromatographed on hydroxylapatite followed by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100. The remaining contaminants were removed by chromatofocusing followed by desalting on Sephadex G-75. This procedure gave a 26% yield with a nearly 200-fold purification. Gel filtration of the purified enzyme showed that the molecular weight of the native enzyme was 56,300, whereas sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis of components separated by chromatofocusing showed that the purified enzyme contained enzymatically active proteins of molecular weights 59,400, 58,300, 56,000, and 55,800. The four species differed slightly in pI (4.9, 4.7, 4.45, and 4.40) but they were kinetically and immunologically indistinguishable. All four had the same N-terminal sequence. The purified thioesterase preparation showed a pH optimum of 9.3 with C12-CoA but the pH optimum was dependent on the chain length of the acyl group. At pH 8.0, C10 was the preferred substrate with less activity on C12, C8, and C14. The enzymatic activity was stimulated by bovine serum albumin and was inhibited by p-hydroxymercuribenzoate. Involvement of active serine in catalysis was suggested by inhibition of the enzyme by diethylpyrocarbonate, diisopropylfluorophosphate and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride.
Running and shipping elevate plasma levels of beta-endorphin-like substance (B-END-LI) in thoroughbred horses☆☆☆★

Abstract A specific RIA for beta-endorphin (B-END) was developed to measure horse plasma levels of B-END-like material (B-END-LI) during exercises and shipping. Three exercise speeds and durations were: trot at 260–300 m/min for 10 min; slow gallop at 390–420 m/min for 5 min and fast gallop at 700–800 m/min for 2 min. Blood samples were taken from 4 horses before, immediately after, 30 and 60 min after exercise. Trotting increased plasma B-END-LI from a basal level of 109 ± 7 pg/ml to 172 ± 22 at the end of exercise and returned to 127 ± 17 and 107 ± 10 pg/ml at 30 and 60 min after exercise. Similar results were obtained in slow gallop (121 ± 6 to 210 ± 17 then 155 ± 8 and 131 ± 11 pg/ml. However, fast gallop caused the greatest increase (352%) in B-END-LI to concentrations of 544 ± 93 pg/ml and 276 ± 74 pg/ml at 5 and 30 min after exercise. Plasma B-END-LI returned to 199 ± 46 pg/ml in 1 hr. Sequential exercises of trot, slow and fast gallop were conducted in 6 horses. Plasma B-END-LI were 116 ± 19 pg/ml (pre-exercise), 198 ± 21 (trot), 361 ± 51 (slow gallop), 500 ± 57 (fast gallop) and 248 ± 29, 171 ± 24, 143 ±20 and 139 ± 21 pg/ml at 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 hr, respectively, following exercises. Transportation in horse trailer also significantly increased plasma levels of B-END-LI from a basal level of 138 ± 12 to 196 ± 24 pg/ml within 30 min and this levels were maintained at 45 min (177 ± 3 pg/ml). Plasma levels of B-END-LI began to decline at 60 min of shipping. These results showed that plasma B-END-LI was increased in all speeds of exercise and by shipping and returned to pre-exercise and pre-shipping level in 30 min except fast gallop which returned to pre-exercise level in 1 hr.
Thermodynamic interactions of solvents with styrene–butadiene–styrene triblock copolymers

Fundamental thermodynamic interaction data for various solvents with two styrene–butadiene–styrene triblock copolymers (Kraton D-1101 and Kraton D-1300X) have been collected by the use of inverse gas chromatography at infinite dilution. Experimental results are presented for nine D-1101/solvent systems and nine D-1300X/solvent systems at 308, 328. and 348 K. Weight-fraction activity coefficients and Flory–Huggins χ interaction parameters have been calculated from the retention volumes. The χ parameter is used as a measure of the strength of interaction and therefore as a guide in the prediction of polymer–solvent compatibility. In addition, partial molar heats of mixing, ΔHm∞, and heats of solution, ΔHs, were determined. The Hildebrand–Scatchard solubility theory was combined with the Flory theory in order to estimate the solubility parameter of the thermoplastic rubbers at the three different temperatures.
The effect of offcut angle on electrical conductivity of wafer-bonded n-GaAs/n-GaAs structures for wafer-bonded tandem solar cells

The effect of offcut angle on the electrical conductivity of III–V multijunction solar devices is investigated using n-GaAs/n-GaAs direct-bonded structures. In the solar industry, misoriented substrates are commonly used in the growth of III–V epitaxial layers. In addition, wafer bonding has been proposed as a potential method of integrating lattice-mismatched materials to avoid the formation of threading dislocations. Our previously published papers showed that sulfur passivation reduces the density of surface charge states and improves the interface conductivity. However, the impact of the offcut angle on the electrical properties has not been explored. n-GaAs wafers miscut towards &#60;111> A are chosen and compared to nominal on-axis (001) substrates. The surfaces are treated with either an oxide etch or additional soak in aqueous (NH 4 ) 2 S. Off-axis wafers are bonded face-to-face in various orientations and then annealed at 400 °C for two hours. It is observed that the electrical conductivity improves considerably with a short rapid thermal processing at 600 °C. However, the out-of-plane relative surface misorientations between the tilted (001) planes greater than 4° exhibit increasingly non-ohmic behavior. A theoretical model that describes the electron tunneling across a grain boundary between semiconductor bicrystals is used to represent the bonded interface and estimate the barrier conduction height. Fitting the zero-bias conductance over a range of temperatures reveals a 0.4 eV increase in barrier height for 12° misoriented sulfur-passivated bonded pairs. Accordingly, the interface resistance at room temperature rises from 0.01 Ω·cm2 to 3.4 Ω·cm2. These results demonstrate that the out-of-plane relative surface misorientation is the critical parameter to be monitored in order to achieve superior electrical conductivity in direct-bonded multijunction solar applications.
What's a Theory to do… with Seeing? or Some Empirical Considerations for Observation and Theory

AbstractCriticism of the observation/theory distinction generally supposes it to be an empirical fact that even the most basic human perception is heavily theory–laden. I offer critical examination...
Integration and characterization of SiN nanopores for single-molecule detection in liquid-core ARROW waveguides

We demonstrate a method for integrating silicon nitride nanopores in liquid core Anti Resonant Reflecting Optical Waveguides (ARROW) for single molecule electrical detection and control. We use a two-step integration process when a micropore is fabricated first, paving the way for subsequent nanopore integration in the first silicon nitride layer of the ARROW structure. Nanopores with dimensions as small as 11 nm were fabricated using a Focused Ion Beam shrinking process commensurate with single particle gating of viruses, proteins, ribosomes and other biomolecules.
Angular distribution of recoils from mu-meson capture

Abstract It is pointed out that direct evidence bearing on the four fermion interaction in μ-capture can be obtained by measuring the angular distribution of recoils relative to the μ-polarization. The existence of an anisotropy implies parity and charge conjugation breakdown. The sign of the anisotropy coefficient yields directly the relative helicities of neutrino and mu meson at creation. The angular distribution is calculated for 0 → J transitions with parity change (−) J +1 since this description corresponds to the most practical possibilities: capture in C 12 and O 16 . The anisotropy coefficient is αP where P ≈ 0.15 is the μ-polarization and −α varies between 0.40 and 0.80 for C between 0.22 and 0.73 for O) depending on the presumed existence of effective pseudoscalar and conserved vector current contributions to the interaction Hamiltonian.
Multiscale finite element method for a locally nonperiodic heterogeneous medium

A generalization of the mathematical homogenization theory to account for locally nonperiodic solutions is presented. Such nonperiodicity may arise either due to the rapidly varying microstructure (e.g.: graded materials, microcracks) or because the macroscopic solution is not smooth and may have significant variation within a microstructure. In the portion of the problem domain where the material is formed by a spatial repetition of the base cell and the macroscopic solution is smooth, a double scale asymptotic expansion and solution periodicity are assumed, and consequently, mathematical homogenization theory is employed to uncouple the microscopic problem from the global solution. For the rest of the problem domain it is assumed that the periodic solution does not exist (cutouts, cracks, free edges in composites, etc.) and the approximation space is decomposed into macroscopic and microscopic fields. Compatibility between the two regions is explicitly enforced. The proposed method is applied to resolve the structure of the microscopic fields in the single ply composite plates with a centered hole and with a centered crack and in the [0/90]s laminated plate. Numerical results are compared to the reference solution, an engineering global-local approach, and the direct extraction from the mathematical homogenization method.
Localization and identification of gamma-endorphin and beta-endorphin-like peptides in the hypothalamus and ventral forebrain of the rat

Summary Gamma-endorphin (γE) and related peptides were localized in the brain of the rat, and compared to the distribution of β-endorphin related peptides. γE-like immunoreactivity (γE-LI) was shown to exist only in brain regions known to receive innervation from POMC neurons but not in their pericaria in the arcuate nucleus. Nuclei of the hypothalamus and ventral forebrain contained the major concentration of γE-hl and extracts from these regions were purified and subjected to HPLC in order to identify γE-related peptides. γE, des-tyrosine γE, des-enkephalin-γE, and α-N acetyl γE co-elutable peptides as well as various unidentified forms were evident. This study provides evidence of the endogenous presence of pharmacologically active γE-related peptides in brain regions where they have been postulated to modulate dopaminergic transmission.
Malarial parasites in mammalian platelets.

IT is generally accepted that mammalian plasmodia undergo their schizogonic cycle in red cells and hepatocytes. With the exception of macrophages, which often engulf parasitized red cells, and granulocytes, which rarely phagocytize parasitic debris, other cells of blood and bone marrow do not carry plasmodia.
The Impact of Having Children on the Lives of Women: The Effects of Children Questionnaire

The current study uses a newly developed questionnaire, the Effects of Children Questionnaire, to examine the impact of having children on women's lives. Participants were lower- and lower-middle-class women. The questionnaire assessed women's perceptions of their own change and other women's experiences of change as a result of having children in a number of life domains. Exploratory analyses, repeated-measures analyses, factor analyses, and regression analyses were used to test hypotheses. Results suggested that women do compare themselves with other women, that there are two primary factors underlying perceptions of change, and that there are significant changes from having children in various life domains. Results are discussed in terms of the costs and benefits of having children.
A simple primer for understanding core competencies.

ompetency training is the foundation for nearly all resideny-development initiatives. Defining competency models, ssessing skill levels, and then analyzing gaps provides the ssential information for a variety of measures that will help hat train better doctors for the future. The 6 Accreditation ouncil for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-dened core competencies are perceived by many as confusng, difficult to follow, and sometimes challenging to fit into ur lives as surgeons or surgeon educators. New residents nd medical students who are exposed to this system for the rst time need an easy, simplified way to understand the core ompetencies. Assimilating the basis of the core competenies is the first critical step. Here, we describe a novel method that explains the defiitions of the 6 ACGME core competencies in a practical anner. It is targeted ideally to new residents, students, and eaching faculty who argue that the notion of core compeency is too contrived. It uses an “inside-out” approach decribed by others in the corporate world. Where the “outide-in” approach places the environment, the delivery ystem, and the recipient of care, in that order, the “insideut” approach builds on what is the core of our mission as ealth care providers—provide effective patient care. Simply stated, core competencies are fundamental skill-sets hat enable a group to carry out its specific functions. Using this approach, “Patient Care and Procedural Skills” orms the first core competency (Fig. 1, A). Intuitively, the alue of this skill set, “care” is understood easily by all, as are its
The impact of sedative-hypnotic use on sleep symptoms in elderly nursing home residents

Objective To determine the frequency of sleep-related complaints among institutionalized elderly subjects and to assess the relationship between perceived sleep quality and the use of sedative-hypnotic agents and other psychoactive medications. Methods In 12 nursing homes in Massachusetts, we conducted observational, cross-sectional, and longitudinal studies of 145 institutionalized elderly subjects (average age, 83.0 years; age range, 65 to 105 years). We recorded the patients' demographic characteristics and all medication use (both scheduled and as needed) during a 1-month baseline period. A research assistant who was blinded to diagnoses and medication use performed detailed neuropsychologic testing and administered a series of standardized questions concerning difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening, and time spent awake in bed. Medication use and patient assessments were repeated after a 6-month interval. Results One or more sleep-related complaints were present at baseline in 94 (65%) of the residents studied. Using logistic regression to adjust for potential confounding, we found no relationship in the baseline month between use of sedative-hypnotic agents and the presence or absence of sleep complaints. After 6 months of follow-up, 27 (19%) of the residents had decreased their use of sedative-hypnotic agents and 23 (16%) had increased their use. However, there was no relationship between decreased use of sedative-hypnotic agents and worsened sleep (p > 0.20) or between their increased use and improved sleep reports (p > 0.10). Improvement in functional status was significantly associated with improved sleep at follow-up (p < 0.005). Conclusions Sleep complaints occur in the majority of institutionalized elderly persons. Neither cross-sectional nor longitudinal analyses showed a relationship between patterns of sedative-hypnotic use and the presence, absence, or change in sleep complaints. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (1996) 59, 83–92; doi:
A Community Needs Assessment to Inform HIV and Substance Abuse Prevention Services for Black and Latino Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City

A community needs assessment was conducted at an AIDS service organization in New York City to inform the development of an HIV and substance abuse prevention program for black and Latino young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Data from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene indicated that HIV infections in Black and Latino YMSM were concentrated in Brooklyn and Queens. Evidence from existing studies of YMSM suggested that Black and Latino YMSM are more likely than other YMSM to be HIV infected and unaware of their diagnosis. Furthermore, partner characteristics and peer norms might influence HIV infection and HIV sexual risk behavior, particularly among Black YMSM. Recommendations include routine HIV/sexually transmitted infection testing and addressing issues around sexual partners and communication about HIV status and condom use in the context of HIV prevention activities for Black and Latino YMSM.
Endogenous peroxidatic activity in astrocytes after spinal cord injury

After spinal cord injury, endogenous peroxidatic-like activity develops along the axis of the cord. At 2 weeks postinjury, this activity appears in cells whose processes are intimately associated with microvessels. The objectives of this study were to further characterize this response and to identify the cellular localization of endogenous peroxidatic-like activity. After traumatic injury to the rat spinal cord, adjacent sections of spinal cord were processed in medium to visualize antiglial fibrillary acidic protein, endogenous peroxidatic activity, or cytochrome oxidase activity. In addition, certain sections, stained for endogenous peroxidatic-like activity, were prepared for electron microscopy. To identify the nature of the activity, some sections were exposed to an incubation medium that included inhibitors of either catalase or heme protein activity. The distribution of prominent glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity in the dorsal columns corresponded to that of marked staining for endogenous peroxidatic-like activity and cytochrome oxidase. At the ultrastructural level, endogenous peroxidatic-like activity was identified in the cytoplasmic compartment of the astrocyte. This activity was abolished when potassium cyanide (an inhibitor of heme protein) was added to the incubation medium. Spinal cord injury elicited a pronounced cellular response along the axis of the cord that was characterized by enhanced staining for antiglial fibrillary acidic protein, cytochrome oxidase activity, and endogenous peroxidatic-like activity. It is not clear whether pronounced cytochrome oxidase activity corresponded to astrocytes that also expressed prominent endogenous peroxidatic-like activity. However, according to both light and ultrastructural findings, endogenous peroxidatic-like activity was prominently associated with the astrocytic cytoplasm. The biochemical nature of the peroxidatic activity is unknown, but these results suggest that it is related to a heme-containing protein.
Correlations of measures of personality and of cognitive abilities within and across generations

Members of over 100 families took a battery of cognitive tests as well as various psychometric tests of personality. Analyses showed that individuals' cognitive and personality measures frequently were significantly correlated. Parent personality scale scores were significantly correlated with offspring cognition scores, and vice versa. Multiple regressions demonstrated that fathers' personality test scores substantially increased the predictability of sons' and, to a lesser extent, daughters' cognitive scores.