cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MO‐A‐BRB‐03: A Clinical Review of the Dosimetric and Temporal Impact of Unflattened X‐ Ray Beams

Since July of 2005, the University of Iowa has been using a conventional linear accelerator with the flattening filter removed. This presentation will focus on the factors affecting the dosimetric accuracy and total delivery time reduction found clinically of radiation therapy with an unfiattened beam, focusing on standard fractionation IMRT of the head and neck, as well as gated and hypo‐fractionated liver and lungcancertreatments. The dosimetric accuracy of the unfiattened beam depends on the planning system beam model, which will be briefly reviewed. The technique used to adjust the beam quality to become equivalent with a beam utilizing the flattening filter, as well as the approach to define the field size for these beams will be described. Finally, the short‐term beam stability (< 250 msec) for small MU IMRT and gated delivery will be characterized, along with the long‐term stability from the last 5‐years of clinical daily quality assurance records. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand technique for matching beam quality of unfiattened and flattened beams. 2. Understand definition of field size and beam characteristics during initial 200 msecs. 3. Review improved dosimetric accuracy and temporal advantages of unfiattened beams in clinical use.
Angle Independent Ultrasonic Detection of Blood Flow

We present a new technique for blood velocity imaging based on tracking the motion of the speckle pattern produced by blood. Unlike Doppler velocity determinations, these are angle independent. Initial in vivo experiments yield promising results.
When Hurt Continues: Taking Conflict Personally Leads to Rumination, Residual Hurt and Negative Motivations Toward Someone Who Hurt Us

Individuals sometimes are hurt by the comments of others, and residual feelings of hurt are experienced after the episode. Because of individuals’ tendency to ruminate, we argue that residual hurt and its consequences may be especially common among individuals who tend to take conflict personally (TCP). We hypothesized that TCP would be positively related to motivations to avoid and to seek revenge against offenders, and these relationships will be mediated by the link between rumination and residual hurt. To test our hypotheses, we conducted a survey among undergraduates about how they reacted to a hurtful message. We confirmed our hypotheses.
Kinetic modeling of the crosslinking reaction of cycloaliphatic epoxides with carboxyl functionalized acrylic resins: Hammett treatment of cycloaliphatic epoxides

Cyclohexene oxide and benzoic/substituted benzoic acids were used as model compounds to study the reactivity of cycloaliphatic diepoxides with carboxyl functionalized polymers. A σ-ρ Hammett treatment of cycloaliphatic epoxides with substituted benzoic acids was used to investigate the reaction mechanism(s) of ester formation. The catalytic dependence on the acid strength was obtained via a H 0 Hammett-Deyrup acidity function. The σ-ρ Hammett treatment resulted in a positive p indicating that the transition state or the activated complex has a developing negative charge. This suggests that only the dissociated benzoic acid (or substitued benozic acids) is the attacking nucleophile.
Prevention of pyrite dissolution in acidic media

Abstract Three samples of pyrites (n- and p-type semiconductors) were investigated for their corrosion behavior in 1 M H2SO4 using a potentiodynamic polarization technique. The corrosion behavior as influenced by the surface treatment of pyrite by acetyl acetone, methoxy triacetoxy silane (MTS), glycidoxy propyl trimethoxy silane (GPTS), phenyl triacetoxy silane (PTS), humic acid, lignin—NaOH solution, oxalic acid, and benzene was investigated. It was found that the corrosion rate of pyrite in sulfuric acid can be decreased significantly (up to 98%) by acetyl acetone and humic acid treatment. Pyrite is also passivated by PTS, lignin—NaOH solution, benzene, GPTS, and oxalic acid treatment. A mechanism is proposed to explain pyrite passivation due to surface treatment by chemicals used in this study.
Ignition and combustion of boron in wet and dry atmospheres

A description of ignition and combustion of boron particles is developed with the aim of obtaining a theory that is as simple as possible yet consistent with available data. For the ignition stage the model involves equilibrium reactive dissolution of B in the thin B2O3(l) layer to form dissolved BO, for example, surface attack of BO by O2(g) and by H2O(g) to form BO2(g), and HOBO(g), respectively, vaporization of B2O3, and later clean-surface attack of B by O2(g) to form B2O2(g). For the combustion stage the mode involves only the last of these processes. Values of relevant rate constants are identified that achieve agreement with experiments. Early laser-ignition experiments, not previously explained quantitatively, are employed for obtaining needed dry-gas rate parameters. New experiments on ignition and combustion of boron suspensions in hot combustion products of a flat-flame burner are performed to test adopted values of wet-gas rate parameters. Results provide a basis for calculation of ignition and combustion of boron in propulsions applications.
A role for natural killer cells in intestinal inflammation caused by infection with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium.

Acute gastroenteritis caused by Salmonella infection is a significant public health problem. Using a mouse model of this condition, the authors demonstrated previously that the cytokine gamma interferon (IFN-γ) is required for a normal intestinal inflammatory response to the pathogen. In the present study, these experiments are extended to show that natural killer (NK) cells constitute an early source of intestinal IFN-γ during Salmonella infection, and that these cells have a significant impact on intestinal inflammation. It was found that infection of mice with Salmonella increased both intestinal IFN-γ production and the numbers of NK cells in the intestine and mesenteric lymph nodes. NK cells, along with other types of lymphocytes, produced IFN-γ in response to the bacteria in vitro , while antibody-mediated depletion of NK cells in vivo resulted in a significant reduction in Salmonella -induced intestinal IFN-γ expression. In a mouse strain lacking NK cells and T and B lymphocytes, intestinal production of IFN-γ and Salmonella -induced intestinal inflammation were both significantly decreased compared with a strain deficient only in T and B cells. The authors' observations point to an important function for NK cells and NK-derived IFN-γ in regulating the intestinal inflammatory response to Salmonella .
The Solvated Proton is NOT H3O

In a recent article in this Journal, Ault stressed the importance of writing organic structures that show the correct predominant ionization form in aqueous solution at the given pH. For example, aqueous carboxylic acids at pH > 6 are predominantly deprotonated (RCOO–, not RCOOH) and amines at pH < 8 are protonated (RNH3+, not RNH2) and so forth. Ault also argues in favor of the use of H3O+ in place of H+(aq). Moore et al., in the same issue of this Journal, argue the very opposite: Because the specific polyatomic cation H3O+ does NOT actually exist in aqueous solution, it is both simpler and more realistic to use H+(aq). There are a number of reasons to agree with Moore et al. and favor the use of H+(aq).
Wear of water lubricated silicon nitride in ball on disc test

AbstractThe ball on disc test configuration is preferred to the flat ended pin on disc because the ball is self-aligned and measurement of wear on the ball is of higher accuracy, compared to the pin. Silicon nitride, sliding on itself in water, was tested with the ball on disc tribometer. Misalignment of the test ball from its proper position behind the disc axis of rotation leads to friction measurement errors, which were analysed. The disc wears non-uniformly, the wear track depth and width vary in longitudinal direction by a factor of 2–3. The uneven wear of the disc is explained by the combined effects of sliding surface anisotropy and disc material non-homogeneity on the one hand and by the friction force and the normal load periodic variation on the other hand. During the running-in process at particular sliding velocity amplitude modulated friction force was observed and an explanation by the mechanical vibration 'beating' phenomenon was suggested. Predictive model of the running-in process is pres...
Yale - NAL CAMAC System

A data acquisition system for high energy physics experiments is described here, which is in accordance with the specifications of EUR 4100e and EUR 4600e. This is a multicrate system using branch highway and type A crate controllers. Most of the components are now commercially available.
The resistivity of fine platinum wires

We have measured the resistivity of pure platinum wires ranging in diameter from 16 mil to 0.3 mil in the temperature range 1.2 to 4.2°K, and observed size-dependent deviations from Matthiessen’s rule. The temperature dependent portion of the resistivity is dominated in this temperature range by a term of the formAT 2, whereA increases from about 12×10−12 Ω cm/°K2 for the thickest wires to 18×10−12 Ω cm/°K2 for the thinnest ones. There is an additional resistivity contribution which appears to increase more rapidly thanT 5, and which also evidences some increase with decreasing wire diameter. The observed deviations from Matthiessen’s rule display temperature and size variations consistent with the theory ofBlatt andSatz, and the magnitude of the deviations can be accounted for by this theory taking into account only that portion of the electrical resistivity produced by electron-phonon scattering. Thus the data are consistent with arguments suggesting that interband electron-electron scattering does not lead to size-dependent deviations from Matthiessen’s rule.
On Variable Majority Rule and Kramer's Dynamic Competitive Process

This paper defines and characterizes axiomatically two rational voting procedures which are variants of simple majority rule. The rules are closely related and coincide when individual indifference is excluded. Some of the conditions used are then discussed and related to similar properties that have been studied in the social choice literature. It has long been known that a majority winner in a field of three or more candidates need not exist in general unless the preferences of the electorate display some degree of similarity. Sen and Pattanaik (1969) derived a set of necessary and sufficient conditions for a majority preference relation to be well behaved. Kramer (1973) studied these conditions in the context of quasi-concave differentiable preferences over a multidimensional Euclidean choice space, the natural setting for most economic decision models, and showed that they were extremely restrictive. Even the most modest diversity in preferences causes a violation of all the Sen-Pattanaik conditions in Rn. At least two reactions are possible to Kramer's important theorem. One response is to deny its relevance to actual political systems; few collectivities in fact make decisions by pairwise comparisons of all feasible alternatives using direct majority rule. Building on the work of Downs (1956), much effort has been devoted to the analysis of spatial models in which the electorate votes only on alternatives advocated by a small number of parties or candidates. But the existence of equilibria in these models has until recently been equally problematic (see Riker and Ordeshook (1972) for an overview of spatial models). In another paper Kramer (1977) has recently developed a model in this tradition which is the most general structure yet examined in which majority voting is at all well behaved. The model is a dynamic one in which two parties are assumed to compete for votes in a series of elections over time. The parties choose as platforms points in a multidimensional policy space with the objective of maximizing the number of votes the party receives in the next election. Each voter chooses his most preferred party according to his spherical indifference map. Kramer shows that the sequence of successively-enacted policies tends to converge to a relatively small subset of the feasible policy alternatives. It is of considerable interest to know what normative properties are exhibited by this decision process. The social preference relation which the competing parties implicitly maximize is the second of the rules to be axiomatized in this paper. There is a second possible response to the difficulties posed by the restrictiveness of the Sen-Pattanaik conditions in economic models. One might look for ways to " repair " defective (i.e. cyclic) majority preference relations without straying too far from simple majority rule and thereby losing its desirable normative characteristics. Craven (1971), Schwartz (1972), Brown (forthcoming), Ferejohn and Grether (1974) and Young (1977), for example, have investigated such procedures. Virtually nothing is known about the
A Phase II Study of Carboplatin and Paclitaxel in Adenocarcinoma of Unknown Primary

Background:Cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy is commonly used in the treatment of carcinoma of unknown primary site. Paclitaxel has shown promising activity as a single agent in a number of malignancies. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of combination carboplatin
Change Detection Experiments Using Low Cost UAVs

This paper presents the progress in the development of a low-cost change-detection system. This system is being developed to provide users with the ability to use a low-cost unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and image processing system that can detect changes in specific fixed ground locations using video provided by an autonomous UAV. The results of field experiments conducted with the US Army at Ft. A.P.Hill are presented.
The preparation and growth of pure single crystals of K2Pt(CN)4Br0.3·3H2O and K2Pt(CN)4Cl0.3·3H2O

Abstract The preparation of pure single crystals of K 2 Pt(CN) 4 Br 0.3 ·3H 2 O and K 2 Pt(CN) 4 Cl 0.3 ·3H 2 O has been investigated. Crystals with reproducible d.c. conductivity and dielectric constants were obtained only when the mixed valence platinum salt contained one halide. The bromide complex was particularly susceptible to contamination by chloride, and a preparation scheme is presented which excludes the unwanted halide. The best quality crystals were grown by slow evaporation of solutions which were 1 molar in urea and 0.1 molar in the appropriate potassium halide.
The Efficacy of Recombinant Activated Factor VII in Severe Trauma

Study objective The use of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) in severe trauma is controversial. This evidence-based emergency medicine review evaluates the existing evidence about the efficacy and safety of rFVIIa for the management of severe trauma. Methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and other databases. We limited our review to prospective, controlled trials that involved the therapeutic use of rFVIIa in the emergency department phase of care. We included studies with blunt and penetrating severe trauma. The primary outcome measure of interest was mortality. Secondary patient-important outcome measures included neurologic outcome, delayed surgical intervention, and adverse effects. Standard criteria were used to evaluate the quality of published trials. Results One randomized, blinded trial met the inclusion criteria. There was no significant difference in mortality or adverse effects between rFVIIa and placebo. Our other selected secondary outcome measures of interest were not reported. Conclusion Existing evidence suggests that there is no significant difference in mortality between rFVIIa and placebo. Further research is needed to better understand the efficacy and safety of rFVIIa in patients with severe trauma.
Hydrogen diffusion and reaction processes in thin films investigated by real time spectroscopic ellipsometry

We applied multichannel spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) to study the kinetics of thin film modification by hydrogen in vacuum and electrochemical environments. In this paper, we focus on the hydrogenation of amorphous silicon films in vacuum by exposure to thermally generated atomic hydrogen. The method developed to analyze the real time SE data in this particular case is applicable to other processes, and results are also included for the coloration of WO3 by electrochemical incorporation of H. Because the ellipsometer can provide spectra in (ψ, Δ) from 1.5 to 4.5 eV in 16 ms, improved characterization of diffusion and reaction kinetics can result, in comparison with previous work at fixed photon energy.
Mechanism of H2 production by the [FeFe]H subcluster of di-iron hydrogenases: Implications for abiotic catalysts

To explore the possibility that the active center of the di-iron hydrogenases, the [FeFe]H subcluster, can serve by itself as an efficient hydrogen-producing catalyst, we perform comprehensive calc...
Some 2/spl times/2 unitary space-time codes from sphere packing theory with optimal diversity product of code size 6

In this correspondence, we propose some new designs of 2/spl times/2 unitary space-time codes of sizes 6, 32, 48, 64 with best-known diversity products (or product distances) by partially using sphere packing theory. In particular, we present an optimal 2/spl times/2 unitary space-time code of size 6 in the sense that it reaches the maximal possible diversity product for 2/spl times/2 unitary space-time codes of size 6. The construction and the optimality of the code of size 6 provide the precise value of the maximal diversity product of a 2/spl times/2 unitary space-time code of size 6.
L-shell X-ray production cross sections in Nd, Gd, Ho, Yb, Au and Pb for 25-MeV carbon and 32-MeV oxygen ions☆

Abstract L-shell X-ray production cross sections in 60 Nd, 64 Gd, 67 Ho, 70 Yb, 79 Au and 82 Pb have been measured for incident 25 MeV 6 12 C + q ( q = 4, 5, 6) and 32 MeV 8 16 O + q ( q = 5, 7, 8) ions. Measurements were made on targets ranging in thickness from 1 to 100 μg/cm 2 . Enhancement in the L-shell X-ray production cross section for projectiles with one or two K-shell vacancies over those for projectiles with no K-shell vacancies is observed. The sum of direct ionization to the continuum (DI) plus electron capture (EC) to the L, M, N… shells and EC to the K-shell of the projectile have been extracted from the data. Calculations in the first Born approximation are ~10 times larger than the data. Predictions of the ECPSSR theory that accounts for the energy-loss, Coulomb deflection, perturbed-stationary state and relativistic effects are in good agreement with the data for both ions.
Codependencies of Reactive Air Toxic and Criteria Pollutants on Emission Reductions

It is important to understand the effects of emission controls on concentrations of ozone, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) simultaneously, to evaluate the full range of health, ecosystem, and economic effects. Until recently, the capability to simultaneously evaluate interrelated atmospheric pollutants ("one atmosphere" analysis) was unavailable to air quality managers. In this work, we use an air quality model to examine the potential effect of three emission reductions on concentrations of ozone, PM2.5, and four important HAPs (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, and benzene) over a domain centered on Philadelphia for 12-day episodes in July and January 2001. Although NO(x) controls are predicted to benefit PM2.5 concentrations and sometimes benefit ozone, they have only a small effect on formaldehyde, slightly increase acetaldehyde and acrolein, and have no effect on benzene in the July episode. Concentrations of all pollutants except benzene increase slightly with NO(x) controls in the January simulation. Volatile organic compound controls alone are found to have a small effect on ozone and PM2.5, a less than linear effect on decreasing aldehydes, and an approximately linear effect on acrolein and benzene in summer, but a slightly larger than linear effect on aldehydes and acrolein in winter. These simulations indicate the difficulty in assessing how toxic air pollutants might respond to emission reductions aimed at decreasing criteria pollutants such as ozone and PM2.5.
Could working less reduce pressures on the environment? A cross-national panel analysis of OECD countries, 1970–2007

Many scholars and activists are now advocating a program of economic degrowth for developed countries in order to mitigate demands on the global environment. An increasingly prominent idea is that developed countries could achieve slower or zero economic growth in a socially sustainable way by reducing working hours. Research suggests that reduced working hours could contribute to sustainability by decreasing the scale of economic output and the environmental intensity of consumption patterns. Here, we investigate the effect of working hours on three environmental indicators: ecological footprint, carbon footprint, and carbon dioxide emissions. Using data for 1970–2007, our panel analysis of 29 high-income OECD countries indicates that working hours are significantly associated with greater environmental pressures and thus may be an attractive target for policies promoting environmental sustainability.
California Red scale: Development of a Method for Testing Juvenoids

Aqueous emulsions of 21 insect growth regulators were tested for juvenile hormone activity against 1st-molt Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell) by spraying emulsions on the scale insects while these fed on lemon fruit. Residues of the 1st 6 available compounds were tested by spraying emulsions of these on lemon fruit and introducing crawlers onto the fruit 10 h later. These same compounds used to develop a method of testing by exposing white cap, 1st molt, 2nd molt, and adult stages of scales to their activity. Of these, mixed stereoisomers of methyl 10, ll-epoxy-7-ethyl-3,4-dimethyl-2,6-tridecadienoate and 6, 7-epoxy-3,7-dimethyl-l-[3,4-(methylenedioxy)phenoxy]-2-nonene were the most active (inhibited adult eclosion and prevented embryogenesis) at concentrations of 0.1 and 1.0%. The latter compound also inhibited adult eclosion of progeny from female treated with these concentrations 5 days after mating and suppressed the production of sex pheromone in virgin females treated in the 2nd molt with concentrations of 0.2 or 0.5%. Males were 16 times more susceptible to the activity of methoprene than females.
Which interests are served by the principle of interest convergence? Whiteness, collective trauma, and the case for anti‐racism

A primary principle of critical race theory is ‘interest convergence,’ or the notion that progress toward racial equality will only be made when it converges with the interests of whites. Although I generally concur, I posit that ‘interest’ must be rendered more complex in order to fully understand the pernicious effects of racism on all people, and on whites in particular. While laws, cultural norms, institutional practices, and even the election of Barack Obama indeed serve the material and emotional interests of whites, their psychological and moral interests are simultaneously undermined. I complicate the meaning of ‘interest’ to show that while whites indeed benefit from racial hierarchy in numerous ways, a full deconstruction of racism and the collective trauma it induces must be considered with a more nuanced and disaggregated definition of ‘interest’ in mind. I put forth that while whites are advantaged in real and tangible ways in an endemic system of racial dominance, the psychological and moral...
A simple, automatic and adaptive bivariate density estimator based on conditional densities

The standard approach to non-parametric bivariate density estimation is to use a kernel density estimator. Practical performance of this estimator is hindered by the fact that the estimator is not adaptive (in the sense that the level of smoothing is not sensitive to local properties of the density). In this paper a simple, automatic and adaptive bivariate density estimator is proposed based on the estimation of marginal and conditional densities. Asymptotic properties of the estimator are examined, and guidance to practical application of the method is given. Application to two examples illustrates the usefulness of the estimator as an exploratory tool, particularly in situations where the local behaviour of the density varies widely. The proposed estimator is also appropriate for use as a ‘pilot’ estimate for an adaptive kernel estimate, since it is relatively inexpensive to calculate.
Comparison of chemical dehydration and critical point drying for the stabilization and visualization of aging biofilm present on interior surfaces of PVC distribution pipe

In this study, fixation of attached glycocalyx on the interior surfaces of polyvinyl chloride distribution pipe remnants was compared with and without ruthenium red/osmium tetroxide and, in the final preparatory phase, with chemical dehydration and critical point drying. SEM examination of interior surface of the polyvinyl chloride pipe showed varying concentrations of adherent bacteria, depending on the preparatory technique used. It was concluded that using a combination of ruthenium red/osmium tetroxide and critical point drying is the optimum method for visually demonstrating aging biofilm on the interior surface of contaminated polyvinyl chloride pipe.
Spatial assimilation effects in sequential movements: effects of parameter value switching and practice organization.

In Experiment 1, the author extended earlier work by investigating spatial assimilations in sequential aiming movements when participants were able to preplan only the 1st movement of a 2-movement sequence. Right-handed participants (N = 20) aged 18-22 years tried unimanual rapid lever reversals of 20° and 60° with an intermovement interval of 2.5 s. Following the 1st movement, participants made a same-distance movement, different-distance movement, or no movement in a randomly determined order. Participants overshot the short-distance target and undershot the long-distance target for both movements in the sequence, but the errors were greater when the 2nd movement differed from the 1st one. In Experiment 2, right-handed participants (N = 20) demonstrated greater assimilation effects after random practice than after blocked practice of both samedistances (20°-20° and 60°-60°) and different-distances (20°-60° and 60°-20°) sequences, although spatial errors were greater in different-distances conditions tha...
Endometrin as luteal phase support in assisted reproduction.

Objective To compare clinical pregnancy rate (PR) and live birth rate (LBR) between Endometrin monotherapy versus Endometrin and P in oil combination therapy in assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. Design Retrospective analysis. Setting Large private practice. Patient(s) Patients undergoing autologous fresh IVF cycles, autologous frozen ET cycles, and fresh oocyte donor cycles were included for analysis. Intervention(s) Endometrin as a single agent for luteal support, Endometrin monotherapy or Endometrin with P in oil used at least once every 3 days for luteal support, Endometrin combination therapy. Main Outcome Measure(s) Clinical PR and LBR. Result(s) A total of 1,034 ART cycles were analyzed. Endometrin monotherapy was used in 694 of 1,034 (67%) cycles and Endometrin combination therapy was used in 340 of 1,034 (33%) cycles. In all fresh cycles, clinical PR was not significantly different (IVF autologous: Endometrin monotherapy 46.9% vs. Endometrin combination therapy 55.6%; donor oocyte endometrin monotherapy 45.2% vs. Endometrin combination therapy 52.0%). Frozen ET cycles had a significantly higher clinical PR and LBR with combination therapy group compared with monotherapy (clinical PR 47.9% vs. 23.5%; LBR 37.5% vs. 17.3%). Conclusion(s) Endometrin monotherapy was sufficient for the P component of luteal support and provided high PRs for fresh cycles in both autologous and donor oocyte cycles. Clinical PR and LBR in frozen ET cycles were significantly improved with the addition of IM P to Endometrin therapy. This may reflect the fact that lesser quality embryos are transferred in frozen ET cycles, and more intense P support is required for comparable PRs.
Spatial filter averaging approach of probabilistic method to linear second-order partial differential equations of the parabolic type

A backward-in-time probabilistic method with spatial filter averaging is presented to solve linear second-order partial differential equations of the parabolic type. An advantage of this methodology is that while forward methods are subject to region with loss of density of particles and hence loss of spatial resolution of the solution, the solution given by backward methods is given on any desired grid. However, traditional backward time probabilistic method using Monte Carlo averaging are computationally expensive. We prove a convergence result and present several examples. The method leads to important improvement in computational efficiency and is expected to perform well to solve high dimensional problems where a solution is needed on a large grid.
INEFFICIENT MEMBRANE TARGETING, TRANSLOCATION, AND PROTEOLYTIC PROCESSING BY SIGNAL PEPTIDASE OF A MUTANT PREPROPARATHYROID HORMONE PROTEIN

A preproparathyroid hormone allele from a patient with familial isolated hypoparathyroidism was shown to have a single point mutation in the hydrophobic core of the signal sequence. This mutation, changing a cysteine to an arginine codon at the -8 position of the signal peptide, was associated with deleterious effects on the processing of preproparathyroid hormone to proparathyroid hormone in vitro. To examine the biochemical consequence(s) of this mutation, proteins produced by cell-free translation of wild-type and mutant cRNAs were used in assays that reconstitute the early steps of the secretory pathway. We find that the mutation impairs interaction of the nascent protein with signal recognition particle and the translocation machinery. Moreover, cleavage of the mutant signal sequence by solubilized signal peptidase is ineffective. The consequence of this mutation on processing and secretion of parathyroid hormone is confirmed in intact cells by pulse-chase experiments following transient expression of the mutant protein in COS-7 cells. The inability of the mutant signal sequence, however, to interfere with the targeting and processing of other secreted proteins does not support obstruction of the translocation apparatus as the mechanism underlying the dominant mode of inheritance of hypoparathyroidism in this family.
Vertical distribution of mercury, CO, ozone, and aerosol scattering coefficient in the Pacific Northwest during the spring 2006 INTEX‐B campaign

[1] In the spring of 2006, we measured the vertical distribution of gaseous elemental mercury (GEM), CO, ozone, and aerosol scattering coefficient in the Pacific Northwest concurrent with NASA’s INTEX-B campaign. Seven profiles from the surface to 6 km were conducted from 12 April to 8 May along with one flight in the Seattle-Tacoma boundary layer. Ozone had a bimodal distribution with the lower mode occurring primarily in the mixed layer and the higher mode occurring in the free troposphere. In the free troposphere, the mixing ratios (1 � s) of GEM, CO, ozone, and aerosol scattering coefficient were 1.52 (0.165) ng/m 3 , 142 (14.9) ppbv, 78 (7.7) ppbv, and 3.0 (1.8) Mm � 1 , respectively. GEM and CO were correlated in the high ozone mode (r 2 = 0.30) but were uncorrelated in the lower mode (r 2 = 0.05). Three flights observed enhancements of GEM and CO with good correlations and with regression slopes (0.0067 (±0.0027) ng/m 3 /ppbv by ordinary least squares regression and 0.0097 (±0.0018) ng/m 3 /ppbv by reduced major axis regression) slightly higher than previous observations of enhancements due to Asian industrial long-range transport (LRT). The influence of Asian LRT is supported by back trajectories and a global chemical transport model. In the SeattleTacoma boundary layer flight, CO was uncorrelated with GEM, which reflects relatively weaker local GEM sources. On three flights, pockets of air were observed with strong inverse GEM-ozone and ozone-CO correlations (in contrast to all data), which is evidence of upper tropospheric/lower stratospheric (UTLS) influence. An extrapolation of the GEM-CO and GEM-ozone slopes suggests the UTLS can be depleted of GEM.
Investigation of the mechanism of chlorination of poly(vinyl chloride) as influenced by chain microstructure

Samples of poly(vinyl chloride) polymerized at different temperatures (+30, 0, −30, and −78°C) and a commercial sample were chlorinated by a photoinitiated, free-radical method in o-dichlorobenzene at ambient temperature. The chlorine content was determined by difference by using a carbon-hydrogen analyzer. High-resolution infrared analysis revealed a selective attack on the methylene hydrogens along with a concomitant decrease in intensity of the isotactic methylene deformation band and the syndiotactic carbon-chlorine stretching band. Graphical representation of the relative intensities of the v(CH), δ(CH2), and v(CCI) modes indicate that the chlorine radical preferentially attacks the middle carbon of the heterotactic triad. The increased “stiffness” of this unit causes the rotational energy of the system to be transferred to the syndiotactic portion of the chain. It is proposed that this additional energy causes the TTTT conformer of the syndiotactic unit to rotate into the less-preferred TTGG conformation, which would be more reactive. Facile chlorination of this latter conformer is predicted. This mechanism is in accord with the reported equilibrium composition of the different conformers.
Inhibition of NF-κB by hydroquinone sensitizes human bone marrow progenitor cells to TNF-α-induced apoptosis

Suppression of hematopoiesis is an important mechanism governing blood cell formation. Factors such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) inhibit proliferation and colony-forming activity of bone marrow cells and activate nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) in multiple cell types. Activated NF-kappaB is required for many cells to escape apoptosis, including hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPC). The benzene metabolite hydroquinone (HQ) alters cytokine response and induces cell death in HPC, and inhibits NF-kappaB activation in T and B cells. Therefore, we studied the potential role of HQ-induced NF-kappaB inhibition in a hematopoietic cell line (TF-1) and primary HPC in rendering these cells susceptible to TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis. We demonstrate in both cell types that TNF-alpha activates NF-kappaB, and HQ exposure inhibits activation of NF-kappaB by TNF-alpha in a dose dependent manner. We further investigated the ability of HQ to potentiate TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis in these cells, and found that HQ sensitized the cells to the pro-apoptotic effect of TNF-alpha. These results suggest that NF-kappaB plays a key role in HPC survival, and that HQ-induced inhibition of NF-kappaB leaves these cells susceptible to cytokine-induced apoptosis. These effects may play a role in the suppression of hematopoiesis seen in some benzene exposed individuals.
Modeling of Unconfined Ground‐Water Systems

Mathematical modeling of regional unconfined ground-water flow is most often accomplished by using a linearized Dupuit-Forchheimer (DF) equation. The depth of flow, h, in the general DF equation appears as a squared (h3) term and also as a linear term (h). Linearization of the DF equation is generally accomplished with the first method of linearization presented by Polubarinova-Kochina (PK), in which h2 is replaced with h times some average depth of flow. The resulting equation is then linear in h. The second method of linearization described by PK is accomplished by replacing h with h2 divided by an average flow depth, and hence the resulting equation becomes linear in h2. If the second method of linearization is used, the same “heat conduction type” equation is obtained as that from the first method of linearization, but it tends to yield more accurate predictions of water-table locations. Furthermore, by simply altering the numerical values of boundary condition constants, most existing mathematical models, based on the first method of linearization, can be easily converted to yield solutions to the more accurate equation linearized by the second method.
Prior experiences of racial discrimination and racial differences in health care system distrust.

Purpose:Factors contributing to racial differences in health care system distrust (HCSD) are currently unknown. Proposed potential contributing factors are prior experiences of racial discrimination and racial residential segregation.Methods:Random digit dialing survey of 762 African American and 12
Comprehensive surface analysis of hydrophobically functionalized SFM tips

Abstract Tip–sample interactions have been of interest since the early development of the scanning force microscope. Investigations of interfacial interactions at the molecular level are of importance for fundamental studies of bi-molecular interactions and for possible applications in biomedical research and industrial settings. By engineering the surface chemical properties of the SFM probes, specific force interactions may be measured. However, as these modification schemes become more widely applied, detailed chemical analysis of the modified cantilever surfaces becomes crucial. In this paper, we describe two approaches to coat SFM cantilevers with hydrophobic coatings: a silanization protocol and ratio frequency plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition.
Initial Clinical Experience Performing Patient Treatment Verification With an Electronic Portal Imaging Device Transit Dosimeter

Purpose To prospectively evaluate a 2-dimensional transit dosimetry algorithm's performance on a patient population and to analyze the issues that would arise in a widespread clinical adoption of transit electronic portal imaging device (EPID) dosimetry. Methods and Materials Eleven patients were enrolled on the protocol; 9 completed and were analyzed. Pretreatment intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) patient-specific quality assurance was performed using a stringent local 3%, 3-mm γ criterion to verify that the planned fluence had been appropriately transferred to and delivered by the linear accelerator. Transit dosimetric EPID images were then acquired during treatment and compared offline with predicted transit images using a global 5%, 3-mm γ criterion. Results There were 288 transit images analyzed. The overall γ pass rate was 89.1% ± 9.8% (average ± 1 SD). For the subset of images for which the linear accelerator couch did not interfere with the measurement, the γ pass rate was 95.7% ± 2.4%. A case study is presented in which the transit dosimetry algorithm was able to identify that a lung patient's bilateral pleural effusion had resolved in the time between the planning CT scan and the treatment. Conclusions The EPID transit dosimetry algorithm under consideration, previously described and verified in a phantom study, is feasible for use in treatment delivery verification for real patients. Two-dimensional EPID transit dosimetry can play an important role in indicating when a treatment delivery is inconsistent with the original plan.
14. The effect of chronic stress on T cell function: An epigenetic and transcriptional assessment from bench to bedside

Considering the commonality of chronic stress in today’s society, and vital role of the immune system in overall health, it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms by which stress interferes with immune function. In vitro studies have shown one stress hormone, norepinephrine (NE), decreases functionality and proliferation of immune cells including thymus-derived lymphocytes (T cells). In response to a pathogen, T cells undergo a series of cell divisions to generate sufficient numbers of “effector” T cells; this is critical for a successful adaptive immune response. It is unclear how NE reduces the functionality of T cells and if NE impacts T cell subsets equally. Here, we examine the effect of NE on freshly isolated human CD8 T cell function in vitro (n = 16). We found memory CD8 T cell subsets (central and effector memory) expressed more NE receptors (beta-2 adrenergic receptor) and were significantly more reduced in mRNA (p
On parameterized complexity of the Multi-MCS problem

We introduce the maximum common subgraph problem for multiple graphs (Multi-MCS) inspired by various biological applications such as multiple alignments of gene sequences, protein structures, metabolic pathways, or protein-protein interaction networks. Multi-MCS is a generalization of the two-graph Maximum Common Subgraph problem (MCS). On the basis of the framework of parameterized complexity theory, we derive the parameterized complexity of Multi-MCS for various parameters for different classes of graphs. For example, for directed graphs with labeled vertices, we prove that the parameterized m-Multi-MCS problem is W[2]-hard, while the parameterized k-Multi-MCS problem is W[t]-hard (@?t>=1), where m and k are the size of the maximum common subgraph and the number of multiple graphs, respectively. We show similar results for other parameterized versions of the Multi-MCS problem for directed graphs with vertex labels and undirected graphs with vertex and edge labels by giving linear FPT reductions of the problems from parameterized versions of the longest common subsequence problem. Likewise, for unlabeled undirected graphs, we show that a parameterized version of the Multi-MCS problem with a fixed number of input graphs is W[1]-complete by showing a linear FPT reduction to and from a parameterized version of the maximum clique problem.
Mechanisms, Manifestations, and Management of Digoxin Toxicity in the Modern Era

Because of the common use of digoxin and because of its narrow therapeutic index, digoxin toxicity has been prevalent historically and, therefore, most clinicians are well aware of the classical dose/concentration-related signs and symptoms of toxicity. Yet, in the modern era the incidence of digoxin toxicity has been declining for a variety of reasons, including a new (lower) therapeutic range, the development of more effective drug therapies for heart failure, and more accurate dosing methods. In addition, digoxin toxicity, once commonly fatal, can now be quickly and effectively treated by the emergency administration of antidigoxin Fab fragments. Indeed, it may be possible to expand the use of Fab fragments to select patients with non-life-threatening digoxin toxicity, in order to save costs and improve patient comfort. Most cases of digoxin toxicity are caused by inappropriately high dosages, which are usually prescribed in the setting of renal dysfunction, while other cases can be attributed to system errors such as multiple prescriptions, poor patient counseling, or errors in transcribing. With modern computerized prescribing systems, such as direct physician order entry and prompts that alert the clinician to the potential for error, it is possible to decrease the incidence of digoxin toxicity even further. A realistic goal is to nearly eradicate once commonplace digoxin toxicity or at least make its occurrence a rare event.
The magnetism of iron and nickel (invited)

A type of theory which unifies the itinerant and localized models for metallic ferromagnets is discussed. The results of some calculations for iron and nickel are described. In particular it is found that this model can give both the correct ground state moment and Curie temperatures of the right order of magnitude (Tc = 1840 °K for iron and 1200 °K for nickel).
The Luteinizing Hormone/Chorionic Gonadotropin Receptor Has Distinct Transmembrane Conductors for cAMP and Inositol Phosphate Signals

The luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor is a member of the seven-transmembrane receptor family. It is coupled, presumably via Gs and Gq, to two signal pathways involving adenylyl cyclase/cAMP and phospholipase C/inositol phosphate (IP). Little is known about the events prior to G-protein coupling: for example, whether these signals are generated from a single or multiple independent origins and mechanisms, when and where they diverge, and how they are transduced. We report novel observations that the cAMP signal and the IP signal originate and diverge upstream of G-protein coupling. The generation of these two signals independently involves Lys583 in exoloop 3 of the rat receptor. For this study, Lys583 of the receptor was substituted with a panel of amino acids, and mutant receptors were assayed for hormone binding and induction of cAMP, inositol monophosphate, inositol bisphosphate, and inositol trisphosphate. No substitutions for Lys583 were permissible for cAMP induction, despite successful surface expression and hormone binding. In contrast, several substitutions were permissible for IP induction. Our results suggest two distinct transmembrane signal conductors for cAMP and inositol phosphate signals and imply particular models of receptor activation not previously suggested.
Sodium gradient- and sodium plus potassium gradient-dependent L-glutamate uptake in renal basolateral membrane vesicles.

A membrane preparation enriched in the basolateral segment of the plasma membrane was isolated from the rat renal cortex by a procedure that included separation of particulates on a self-generating Percoll gradient. The uptake ofl-glutamate by the basolateral membrane vesicles was studied. A Na+ gradient ([Na+]o>[Na+]i) stimulated the uptake ofl-glutamate and provided the driving force for the uphill transport of the acidic amino acid, suggesting a Na+-l-glutamate cotransport system in the basolateral membrane. A K+ gradient ([K+]i>[K+]o) increased the uptake additionally. This effect was specific for K+ (Rb+). The action of the K+ gradient in enhancing the uptake ofl-glutamate had an absolute requirement for Na+. In the presence of Na+, but in the absence of a Na+ gradient. i.e., [Na+]o=[Na+]i, the K+ gradient also energized the concentrative uptake ofl-glutamate. This effect of the K+ gradient was not attributable to an alteration in membrane potential. The finding of a concentrative uptake system forl-glutamate energized by both Na+ ([Na+]o>[Na+]i and K+ ([K+]i>[K+]o) gradients in the basolateral membrane, combined with previous reports of an ion gradient-dependent uphill transport system for this amino acid in the brush border membrane, suggests a mechanism by whichl-glutamate is accumulated intracellularly in the renal proximal tubule to extraordinarily high concentrations.
Spectral source profiling with a photodiode array

Abstract A computer controlled Reticon photodiode array was used for source profiling by juxtapositioning the detector with the exit slit of a stigmatic monochromator, with the long axis of the array parallel to the slit. The sources to be studied were imaged on the monochromator entrance slit and the individual elements of the array detected light of a specific wavelength emitted from a different portion of the source as it appeared at the exit slit. The 512 array elements covered 12.5 mm of slit length. Larger or smaller portions of the source may be studied depending on the optics used to form the image on the entrance slit. Vertical profiles required only simple lenses for imaging. Profiles in horizontal direction were made quite simply by placing a Dove prism in the optical path to rotate the image 90°. Use of the system for elemental emission profiles for the nitrous oxide-acetylene flame and inductively coupled plasma is reported.