cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novelin vitro release technique for peptide-containing biodegradable microspheres

The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a dialysisin vitro release technique for peptide-containing poly(d, 1-lactide-coglycolide) (PLGA) microspheres (ms) that would correlate within vitro data. Using a luteinizing hormone- releasing hormone analogue (LHRH), Orntide acetate, solubility and stability were determined in 0.1 M phosphate buffer (PB), pH 7.4, and in 0.1 M acetate buffer (AB), pH 4.0, with highperformance liquid chromotography (HPLC), and peptide permeability through a dialysis membrane (molecular weight cut-off 300,000) was determined. Orntide ms were prepared by a dispersion/solvent extraction/evaporation method and characterized for drug content (HPLC), particle size distribution (laser diffraction method), and surface morphology (scanning electron microscopy).In vitro release was studied in PB using a conventional extraction method and with a new dialysis method in AB. Gravimetric analyses of polymer mass loss and matrix hydration, and peptide adsorption to blank PLGA ms (50∶50, Mw 28 022) were carried out in PB and AB upon incubation at 37°C. Serum Orntide and testosterone levels in rats after administration of Orntide ms were determined by radioimmunoassay. Orntide acetate solubility was influenced by pH; approximately 2.3 mg/mL dissolved in PB and >18 mg/mL in AB. Stability was pH- and temperature-dependent. The peptide was very stable at pH 4.0, 4°C, but degraded rapidly at pH 7.4,37°C. Peptide permeability through the dialysis membrane was accelerated by agitation and>95% equilibrium was reached within 48 hours. The overall release rate was higher with the dialysis method. Mass loss of the Orntide ms was faster in AB (50% loss in 3 weeks: 95% in 35 days) than in PB (65% in 35 days). In contrast, hydration after 35 days was 4-fold higher in PB. The nonspecific adsorption to blank ms was greater in PB (128 μ g Orntide/10 mg PLGA) compared with AB (<5 μ g Orntide/10 mg PLGA). Administration of 30-day Orntide PLGA ms to rats resulted in an initial serum Orntide level of 21 ng/mL after 6 hours and a Cmax of 87 ng/mL after 6 days. Testesterone levels were suppressed immediately after ms administration (3 mg Orntide/Kg) from 5.2 ng/mL to 0.3 ng/mL (after 24 hours) and remained suppressed for 38 days. Orntide acetate solubility and degradation kinetics were markedly influenced by pH of the buffer systems and mass loss; matrix hydration, as well as the nonspecific adsorption to blank ms, was pH-dependent. Thein vitro release profile obtained with the dialysis method in AB correlated well with thein vivo data, therepy providing a more reliable prediction ofin vivo performance.
Mitochondria in Odontoblastic Processes

THE odontoblastic processes of human dentin are projections of the odontoblast cytoplasm into spaces in the dense collagenous, highly mineralized dentin matrix1. These projections can be up to several mm in length resulting in the cytoplasm being a long distance (2,000–3,000µ) from the odontoblast nucleus. The contents of odontoblastic processes in published electron micrographs have shown a varied appearance. In general they display a granular texture but do not contain recognizable cytoplasmic organelles2–4. Most of these specimens were prepared with standard osmium fixatives which have a very poor penetrating ability. We have investigated the ultrastructure of dentin fixed with glutaraldehyde which is particularly favourable for the preservation of membrane systems and has good penetrating ability. A freshly extracted tooth (severed from its blood supply no longer than 8 min) was broken into small fragments with at least one dimension 0.5–1 mm thick. These were immersed in cold fixative containing 1.25 per cent glutaraldehyde in s-collidine buffered to pH 7.4–7.55 and adjusted to a final osmolality of 360 milliosmols. Samples were post-fixed in 4 per cent osmium tetroxide for 48 h and then decalcified in a nitric acid–formalin mixture5 for 12 h. They were then dehydrated in an alcohol series and embedded in ‘Epon’ B (ref. 6). Sections were cut with a diamond knife on an LKB ‘Ultratome’ and examined in an RCA EMU-3-G electron microscope.
Triclosan Uncouples Excitation-Contraction Coupling in Skeletal Myotubes Without Blocking RyR1

The chlorinated diphenylethers are a class of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents. One of the most potent and widely used member of this group is triclosan (TCS; 2,4,4′-trichloro-2′-hydroxydiphenylether). We studied the effects of TCS in primary myotube cultures using Ca2+ imaging with Fluo 4 and whole-cell voltage clamp. Acute perfusion with 10 mM TCS resulted in a significant but transient elevation in cytosolic Ca2+ in unstimulated (resting) myotubes, an effect not seen in RyR null (dyspedic) cells. TCS caused a rapid decline in the amplitude of electrically evoked Ca2+ transients culminating in complete loss of Ca2+ transients. Upon failure of excitation-contraction (EC) coupling, RyR1 remained responsive to application of caffeine (20mM). Caffeine-induced release of SR Ca2+ in the presence of TCS was comparable to, or greater than, that measured in the control period indicating that the release channels remained functional and the SR stores were replete with prolonged TCS exposure. Acute submicromolar TCS (0.5 μM) enhanced Ca2+ transient amplitude at 0.1 Hz stimulus, whereas pre-incubation of myotubes with TCS for 24 hr was sufficient to alter the relationship between stimulus frequency and Ca2+ transient amplitude across the entire stimulation frequency range. TCS (10 μM) also completely inhibited depolarization-triggered extracellular Ca2+ entry and suppressed DHPR mediated Ca2+ current to that observed in dyspedic cells. These ucoupling effects were observed without any influence on the magnitude of store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in myotubes. These results are the first to identify that TCS (and possibly related structures) impairs EC coupling by uncoupling orthograde and retrograde signaling between RyR1 and DHPR in skeletal muscle. Supported by NIH AR055104 (K.G.B.), AR43140 and ES011269 (I.N.P.), and MDA4319 (K.G.B.) and MDA4155 to (R.A.B.).
Antiphospholipid antibodies associated with retinal vascular disease.

Two patients with retinal vascular disease also had antiphospholipid antibodies, defined by the presence of the circulating lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anticardiolipin antibodies, or both. One had retinal arterial occlusions and the other had a nonischemic central retinal vein occlusion. The association of thrombotic vascular disease, including both retinal and cerebral vessels, with the presence of these antibodies should be investigated in otherwise normal individuals or in patients presenting with a lupuslike syndrome and retinal vascular occlusive disease. Low-dose aspirin administration could be of therapeutic value in managing thrombotic events in this group of patients. RETINA 7:215-218, 1987
Screening the reactivity of PtxRuy and PtxRuyMoz catalysts toward the hydrogen oxidation reaction with the scanning electrochemical microscope

We report an application of the scanning electrochemical microscope that exploits its ability to spatially map the kinetics of heterogeneous electron-transfer reactions in order to perform screening measurements for combinatorial studies of electrooxidation catalysts. The ability to measure the activity of catalyst surfaces toward the hydrogen oxidation reaction via tip−sample feedback is used to characterize the activity of PtxRuy and PtxRuyMoz catalysts as a function of composition and electrode potential. Multielement band electrodes containing various compositions of PtxRuy and PtxRuyMoz deposits are created via pulsed electrochemical deposition onto patterned substrates. Catalyst compositions are verified through a combination of Auger electron spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Activity toward the hydrogen oxidation reaction is probed in sulfuric acid solutions by using a scanning microelectrode tip placed in close proximity to the catalyst surfaces. The tip potential is held at ...
P01-56 - Screening for heavy drinking among the depressed

Objectives Heavy drinking commonly complicates treatment of depression. This study evaluated how the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and its abbreviations perform in mild and moderate depression. Methods In a subsample (2086/4020, response rate 51.9 %) of the National FINRISK 2007 Study a modified Beck Depression Inventory (short form) was administered to evaluate depression. The AUDIT, AUDIT-C and AUDIT-3 were tested against the gold standard of heavy drinking according to the definition of the World Health Organization calculated from the Timeline Followback. Results Mild depression was found in 32 % of men and 40 % of women, moderate depression in 13 % and 18 %, respectively. In the mildly depressed, 44 % of men and 30 % of women were defined as heavy drinkers, in the moderately depressed 49 % and 27 %, respectively. The AUDIT and AUDIT-C performed consistently in mild and moderate depression. The optimal cut-offs (sensitivity and specificity ≥ 0.75) for men were of ≥ 8 or ≥ 9 for the AUDIT and ≥ 6 for AUDIT-C. The optimal cut-offs for women were ≥ 5 for the AUDIT and ≥ 4 for AUDIT-C. The AUDIT-3 did not perform well in women, but in men a good level of sensitivity and specificity was reached with a cut-off of ≥ 2. Conclusions The AUDIT and AUDIT-C performed well in screening for heavy drinking among the depressed. In depressed men, the AUDIT-3 i.e. a single question was efficacious in detecting heavy drinking. The need for sex-specific cut-offs was highlighted.
Effect of Ti and Zr Deoxidation on Inclusions and Microstructure of Low Carbon Steel

In order to investigate the effects of Ti, Zr deoxidants on inclusions and microstructure of low carbon steel, the experiments by Ti and Zr addition were carried out. After smelting, forging, and rolling of the steel, the effects of Ti and Zr deoxidation on inclusions and steel microstructure were studied. The inclusion characteristics (size, quantity, morphology and composition) of samples were analyzed using optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the grain size and density were measured. The following results were found. The diameter of most inclusions is less than 3 μm. A linear relationship exists between inclusions density and Ti content when Ti content ranges from 0.004% to 0.032%. With the increasing of the Ti content in steel, the proportion of inclusions diameter less than 0.5 μm decreases. The inclusions distribution changes a little when Ti content ranges from 0.01% to 0.03%. The typical inclusions are TiN and TiN-MxOy, with oxide core and MnS wrapper layer, and the components change with Ti content. The average grain equivalent diameter ranges from 11.8 to 15.9 μm in the experiments. The consistent linear relationship exists between grain density and the total density of the inclusions with the diameter range from 0.5 to 3 μm.
Hybrid expert system: neural-network methodology for nuclear plant monitoring and diagnostics

A methodology is presented which couples expert systems to neural networks for the purpose of monitoring and diagnostics of large complex systems such as nuclear power plants. In order to provide timely, concise and task-specific information about the many aspects of the system's processes and to determine the state of the system based on the interpretation of potentially noisy data a model-referenced approach is utilized. In it a rule-based system performs the basic interpretation and processing of the data using heuristic reasoning. Having access to a set of pretrained neural networks that typify general classes of the system's state the expert system is able to perform diagnostic functions. It compares on-line data from the plant's sensors to the results of neural computations. This allows the diagnostic function to be performed with a speed comparable to that of the temporal evolution of the system. Hence corrective action can be taken by an operator. The set of pretrained neural networks provide implicitly a generalized model of the system which includes normal and off-normal states. Neural Networks are trained either by actual data or by data produced by a simulator. Coupling them to a rule-based system is a way of taking advantage of the best features of both. The speed and pattern recognition capabilities of the pretrained neural networks and the reasoning and interpretative power of symbolic computations. Information granules are used as the basic propositions that constitute the power plant's description in the knowledge-base of the expert system. They have the canonical form g = X is G is X, where X is a random variable described by a probability density function, G is a qualification or elastic constraint on the values of X; and X is a qualification of the proposition "X is G". This formulation encompasses two types of data: Data referring to observables or measured quantities from the system's sensors and calculated data coming from models of the plant such as from pretrained neural nets. Both the expert system and the neural networks are implemented in C and run in a VAX cluster.
Teaching Research: An Introduction to Statistical Concepts and Research Terminology

Concerns for establishing priorities in occupational therapy research and positive responses to these concerns are reviewed. Growth in occupational therapy research can be expected, but it is important that the research process not be limited to educators and graduate students alone. Involvement of occupational therapists in scientific inquiry is often deterred by misconceptions of the research process. Realistic acceptance of research is needed to replace these misconceptions. One major problem is understanding the language of research. It is suggested that the acquisition of research language can begin in regular occupational therapy classes. To introduce students to research concepts, frequently used statistical symbols and research terms are discussed. Limitations in applying "ideal" research methodology to clinical research are noted.
Effects of Hydrolysis on Metallo-Organic Solution Deposition of PZT Films

The effects of hydrolysis on the degree of polymerization during metallo-organic solution deposition of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) films have been investigated. The reaction of lead 2-ethylhexanoate, zirconium n-tetrapropoxide, and titanium tetrabutoxide in isopropanol with water were studied using thermogravimetry, specular reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and optical and electron microscopy. Films prepared from coating solutions having varying amounts of water exhibited dramatic differences in morphology. The films were spin-coated on platinum coated fused silica substrates and annealed at 525°C for 30 minutes. Unhydrolyzed coating solutions and solutions with a mole ratio of water to total metal of 0.5 yielded perovskite films with 0.5–5µm grains. A mole ratio of 1.5 (the amount of water required to completely hydrolyze the metallo–organics in the solution) formed amorphous, porous films. The stability of the prepolymerized films inhibits crystallization and densification at moderate temperatures.
Wind Turbine Current-Source Converter Providing Reactive Power Control and Reduced Harmonics

This paper presents a current-source inverter topology that is suitable for multi-megawatt wind turbines. The proposed scheme utilizes two series-connected three-phase inverters that employ fully controllable switches and a proper interconnection transformer with the mains. In order to improve the efficiency and to allow the use of high-power devices, the inverters are switched at the mains frequency. The axial-flux permanent-magnet (PM) generator is directly coupled to the turbine (gearless solution), and its design reduces the dependence of the output voltage on the load current. The overall control technique allows to independently impose two desired quantities that can be selected out of the set of three composed of: 1) the total average voltage at the dc side of the inverters, which is directly related to the turbine speed; 2) the fundamental power factor at the mains interconnection point, which can be chosen unitary, leading, or lagging; and 3) the amplitude of one desired component of the spectrum of the mains line currents. The two chosen quantities univocally determine the third one. At specific operating points of the turbine, a significant reduction of the fifth and seventh harmonics can already be achieved without additional filters and/or active harmonic compensation. Nevertheless, the introduction of an active harmonic compensator is necessary to provide the required harmonic reduction (also up to higher orders) more independently and on a wider range of operating conditions. The almost independent regulation of the dc-link current allows further control of the average generator torque. Experimental results that are obtained from a 10-kW prototype with an axial-flux PM generator are presented.
Proposing 6 dimensions within the construct of movement in the movement continuum theory.

Background and Purpose The Movement Continuum Theory (MCT) provides a potential basis for movement assessment and intervention, but “movement” lacks specificity. The purposes of this study were to propose and evaluate a subdivision of movement into multiple dimensions. Subjects A convenience sample of 318 adults completed a 24-item self-report measure of movement ability. Methods A multimethod approach was used to identify, operationalize, and test a multidimensional model of movement. Data analysis included a comparison of the fit of unidimensional and multidimensional models using item response theory methods and inspection of response patterns. Results A model specifying 6 dimensions—flexibility, strength, accuracy, speed, adaptability, and endurance—fit respondent data significantly better than the unidimensional model, even with high pair-wise correlations between dimensions. Response patterns showed large differences rather than uniform scores across dimensions for over half of the respondents. Discussion and Conclusion Subdividing movement into the proposed dimensions fits the data and potentially strengthens the usefulness of the MCT as a theoretical foundation for managing movement effectively.
Clinical applications of therapeutic apheresis.

The vast majority of the renal indications for plasmaexchange are related to immunoglobulin removal.Immunoglobulins, especially IgG, have a relativelylong half-life. Thus in antibody-mediated disease, therecould be persistence of significant amounts of antibodyin the circulation despite cessation of antibody produc-tion. The aim of plasma exchange is to significantlyreduce circulating antibodies. Removal of the circulat-ing antibodies constitutes the rationale for using plas-mapheresis to treat antibody-associated glomeruloneph-ritis (GN). Although small molecular weight substancesare removed by plasma exchange, their large volumeof distribution and short half-lives make plasmaexchange an inefficient means of extracorporeal re-moval of these substances. For instance, some comple-ment proteins have a half-life of 2 days. If the goalwere to be to deplete plasma complement levels, virtu-ally daily plasma exchanges would be needed. Discon-tinuation of daily plasma exchange would be followedby rapid resurgence to normal complement titers.Hence the shorter the half-life of the molecule beingremoved, the more aggressive has to be the apheresisschedule.Plasma volume can be estimated using the followingformula:EPV ¼ 0:065 3 TBW 3 ½1 Hctwhere EPV is the estimated plasma volume, TBW isthe total body water, and Hct is hematocrit.The removal of large molecular weight substancesfrom the plasma compartment follows first-orderkinetics. Repetitive treatments should be spaced every24–48 h to allow for extravascular to intravascularequilibration.Apheresis has been used to treat several renal condi-tions including primary renal diseases as well as renalmanifestations of systemic conditions (Table I).
Life history, code of honor, and emotional responses to inequality in an economic game.

The code of honor, which is characterized by a preoccupation with reputation and willingness to take retaliatory action, has been used extensively to explain individual and cultural differences in peoples’ tendencies to behave aggressively. However, research on the relationship between the code of honor and emotional responses to social interactions has been limited in scope, focusing primarily on anger in response to insults and reputational threats. Here we broaden this scope by examining the relationship between code of honor and emotional reactions in response to an unfair economic exchange that resulted in unequal monetary earnings among 3 laboratory participants. We found that endorsement of the code of honor was related to anger and envy in response to unfair monetary distributions. Interestingly, code of honor predicted envy above and beyond what could be accounted for by anger, but the converse was not the case. This suggests that the code of honor influenced perceptions of how subjects viewed their own earnings relative to those of others, which consequently was responsible for their apparent anger as a result of the economic transaction. Furthermore, the unique relationship between code of honor and envy was present only for subjects who received unfair treatment and not for subjects who merely witnessed unfair treatment. Additionally, we replicated previous findings that harsh childhood environmental conditions are associated with endorsement of the code of honor, highlighting the potential value of incorporating a life history theoretical approach to investigating individual differences in endorsement of the code of honor.
Sorption isotherm of corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and its prediction using chemical composition

Corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) has high feed value due to its nutritive contents. The ratio of wet distillers grains (WDG) and condensed distillers solubles (CDS) added during the production process determines the chemical composition of DDGS. Effect of changing this ratio on water sorption behaviour of DDGS, at different temperature, was studied. Five mathematical models were evaluated to explain the sorption behaviour of DDGS. Prediction of sorption isotherm from chemical composition using a four-component model was also investigated. DDGS followed a BET Type III isotherm with higher equilibrium moisture content at increasing relative humidity. Difference in the sorption isotherm curves of DDGS samples reduced as equilibrium relative humidity increased. Equilibrium moisture content of DDGS samples reduced with lowering of CDS quantity added during production process. Modified Halsey equation was found suitable for mathematically explaining the sorption behaviour of DDGS. Binding energy of water molecule with DDGS increased with lowering of CDS level. Sorption behaviour of DDGS can be predicted from the chemical composition of protein, sugar, minerals, starch, fibre and glycerol. Increase in CDS level increased the percent relative deviation of predicted values calculated using the modified four-component model and might be due to the interaction between the chemical compounds present in the samples.
Performance analysis and training power allocation for channel estimation using superimposed training

Channel estimation for single-input multiple-output (SIMO) time-invariant channels using superimposed training has been considered recently by several authors. In particular, J.K. Tugnait and Weilin Luo (see IEEE Commun. Lett., vol.CL-8, p.413-15, 2003) proposed channel estimation using only the first-order statistics of the data under a fixed power allocation for training. We first present a performance analysis of the approach of Tugnait and Luo to obtain a closed-form expression for the channel estimation variance. We then address the issue of superimposed training power allocation for complex Gaussian random (Rayleigh) channels. Using the developed channel estimation variance expression, we cast the power allocation problem as one of optimizing a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for equalizer design. Illustrative simulation examples are provided.
Relationship between recent short-acting β-agonist use and subsequent asthma exacerbations

Background US national guidelines recommend assessing short-acting β-agonist (SABA) medication use as a marker of asthma severity and control. However, the relationship between recent SABA use and asthma exacerbations is not currently known. Objective To evaluate the proximal relationship between the type and frequency of SABA use and asthma-related outcomes. Methods We evaluated SABA use among patients with asthma ages 5 to 56 years who were members of a large health maintenance organization in southeast Michigan. Frequency of use was estimated from pharmacy data assessing the timing and amount of SABA fills. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the prospective relationship between average daily SABA use for 3 months and outcomes associated with poor asthma control (ie, oral corticosteroids use, asthma-related emergency department visits, and asthma-related hospitalizations). We separately accounted for SABA metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and SABA nebulizer use. Results Of the 2,056 patients who met study criteria, 1,569 (76.3%) had used a SABA medication in their baseline year. After adjusting for potential confounders, SABA nebulizer use was associated with asthma-related emergency department visits (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 6.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.38 to 16.80) and asthma-related hospitalizations (aHR, 21.62; 95% CI, 3.17 to 147.57). In contrast, frequency of SABA MDI use was not associated with these outcomes. Conclusions Frequency of SABA use during a 3-month period was associated with poor asthma outcomes. The relationship with poor asthma outcomes was strongest for SABA nebulizer use, suggesting that the type of SABA used is also of prognostic importance.
Sensitization of pancreatic cancer to chemoradiation by the Chk1 inhibitor, MK8776

Purpose: The combination of radiation with chemotherapy is the most effective therapy for unresectable pancreatic cancer. To improve upon this regimen, we combined the selective Checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1) inhibitor MK8776 with gemcitabine-based chemoradiation in preclinical pancreatic cancer models. Experimental Design: We tested the ability of MK8776 to sensitize to gemcitabine-radiation in homologous recombination repair (HRR)–proficient and –deficient pancreatic cancer cells and assessed Rad51 focus formation. In vivo , we investigated the efficacy, tumor cell selectivity, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers of sensitization by MK8776. Results: We found that MK8776 significantly sensitized HRR-proficient (AsPC-1, MiaPaCa-2, BxPC-3) but not -deficient (Capan-1) pancreatic cancer cells to gemcitabine-radiation and inhibited Rad51 focus formation in HRR-proficient cells. In vivo , MiaPaCa-2 xenografts were significantly sensitized to gemcitabine-radiation by MK8776 without significant weight loss or observable toxicity in the small intestine, the dose-limiting organ for chemoradiation therapy in pancreatic cancer. We also assessed pChk1 (S345), a pharmacodynamic biomarker of DNA damage in response to Chk1 inhibition in both tumor and small intestine and found that MK8776 combined with gemcitabine or gemcitabine-radiation produced a significantly greater increase in pChk1 (S345) in tumor relative to small intestine, suggesting greater DNA damage in tumor than in normal tissue. Furthermore, we demonstrated the utility of an ex vivo platform for assessment of pharmacodynamic biomarkers of Chk1 inhibition in pancreatic cancer. Conclusions: Together, our results suggest that MK8776 selectively sensitizes HRR-proficient pancreatic cancer cells and xenografts to gemcitabine-radiation and support the clinical investigation of MK8776 in combination with gemcitabine-radiation in locally advanced pancreatic cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 19(16); 4412–21. ©2013 AACR .
Cognitive Avionics Toolset For Operator State Classifacation Based On Physiological Signals

As we entered the field of airborne cognitive avionics, we quickly realized the data management challenges the field presents. We employ large number of data sensors including 128-channel EEG, electrocardiogram (EKG), galvanic skin response (GSR), pulse oximetry, skin temperature, respiration rate, thermal imaging and eye tracking. The sensors produce data at varying sampling rates and must be synchronized with each and with the aircraft state. Further, the sheer volume of data created (tens of gigabytes per run) creates analysis challenges of its own. This paper describes our solution to the data collection and analysis problem. We developed a software package called the cognitive avionics toolset (CATS). CATS facilitates multi-sensory operator state research.
Genetic and probability aspects of cell transformation by chemical carcinogens.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the genetic and probability aspects of cell transformation by chemical carcinogens. In C3H/lOT1/2 cell system with 3-methylcholanthrene as the carcinogen, nothing, including replating, affects the validity of the probabilistic equations when n is greater than 5. The peak in the transformation curve at n = 4 to 5 cannot per se explain the high transformation frequencies obtained at low cell numbers. Possible explanations for this paradox might be: (1) that more than one gene mutation is required for transformation; (2) that the event resulting in transformation is not a simple gene mutation; or (3) that another nonmutational process requiring cell divisions is involved in transformation. Such a process might be categorized as “promotion” or possibly the production of chromosomal aberrations.
CHARACTERIZATION OF ALPINE SOILS, EAGLE CAP, WALLOWA MOUNTAINS, OREGON

This study examines alpine soil development along a toposequence on Eagle Cap, Wallowa Mountains, northeast Oregon. Soils studied are from Wind Blown (WB) and Minimal Snow Cover (MSC) sites in the Ridge-Top Tundra geomorphic province. The soils are predominantly loamy sands, and exhibit minimal structural development. Soil pH ranges from 6.5 to 7.3 increasing with depth, and organic carbon ranges from 3.9% in the A horizon to 0.8% in the C horizon. The soils display significant input from Cascade volcanic ash infall and eolian influx from the weathered marble nearby. It is postulated that the ash content in the soils originates from Mazama Ash deposits. Though Eagle Cap soils have developed for the most part on granodiorite, the strong influence of the volcanic ash on pedogenesis leads to a preliminary classification of Andisols, most probably Typic and Lithic Haplocryands. [Key words: Alpine soils, Andisols, Wallowa Mountains.]
The Effect of Basepair Mismatch on DNA Strand Displacement

DNA strand displacement is a key reaction in DNA homologous recombination and DNA mismatch repair and is also heavily utilized in DNA-based computation and locomotion. Despite its ubiquity in science and engineering, sequence-dependent effects of displacement kinetics have not been extensively characterized. Here, we measured toehold-mediated strand displacement kinetics using single-molecule fluorescence in the presence of a single basepair mismatch. The apparent displacement rate varied significantly when the mismatch was introduced in the invading DNA strand. The rate generally decreased as the mismatch in the invader was encountered earlier in displacement. Our data indicate that a single base pair mismatch in the invader stalls branch migration and displacement occurs via direct dissociation of the destabilized incumbent strand from the substrate strand. We combined both branch migration and direct dissociation into a model, which we term the concurrent displacement model, and used the first passage time approach to quantitatively explain the salient features of the observed relationship. We also introduce the concept of splitting probabilities to justify that the concurrent model can be simplified into a three-step sequential model in the presence of an invader mismatch. We expect our model to become a powerful tool to design DNA-based reaction schemes with broad functionality.
Expression of Apoptosis-regulating Proteins Bcl-2 and Bax in Lymph Node Aspirates from Dogs with Lymphoma.

Background Dysregulated apoptosis is a hallmark of tumorigenesis, and is also involved in resistance to cytotoxic treatment, and might be relevant in lymphoma in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives That Bcl-2/Bax expression patterns differ between lymphoma immunophenotypes, and that Bcl-2/Bax ratio is correlated with prognosis. Animals Fifty-five client-owned dogs with multicentric lymphoma and 5 healthy dogs. Methods Prospective, case–control study. We compared 3 methods (flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, Western blot) for Bcl-2 and Bax quantification in a subset of dogs. The effect of time on Bcl-2/Bax ratios measured by flow cytometry was assessed in lymphoma cell lines. Immunophenotype and Bcl-2/Bax expression by flow cytometry were determined in LN aspirates from all dogs with multicentric lymphoma compared to healthy dogs. Progression-free survival (PFS) was retrospectively evaluated in a group of dogs all receiving similar treatment. Results Bcl-2/Bax ratios remain consistent for at least 5 days after sample collection. Bcl-2/Bax ratio was higher in dogs with T-cell lymphoma (TCL; median 0.97, range 0.37–1.36) compared to B-cell lymphoma (BCL; median 0.36, range 0.07–1.45) (P < .0001) and normal dogs (median 0.36, range 0.21–0.48) (P = .0006), respectively. Dogs with Bcl-2/Bax ratios higher than the median of the group experienced a median PFS of 101 days and dogs with ratios equal and lower than the median had PFS of 130 days (P = .19). Conclusions and clinical importance Higher intrinsic resistance to apoptosis following cytotoxic treatment might contribute to the less favorable prognosis associated with multicentric TCL in dogs. Whether Bcl-2/Bax will be helpful to identify canine BCL and TCL with more aggressive and more indolent behavior, respectively, should be evaluated in larger prospective clinical studies.
Sexual Aggressiveness of Male Screw-Worm Flies Affected by Laboratory Rearing

In tests of sexual aggressiveness, males from 2 strains of screw-worm flies, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel), that were reared in the laboratory for 5 and 15 generations did not harass females as vigorously as males from 2 strains that were reared in the laboratory for 41 and >100 generations. Intermediate ranking was assigned 2 strains reared in the laboratory for 69 and 26 generations. Considering the mobility of this species and the localities of the original collections, it is believed that the observed differences in male mating activity are probably an indication of laboratory adaptation rather than physiological differences in the wild populations from which the strains were derived.
Curtin-Hammett and steric effects in HOBt acylation regiochemistry.

While hydroxybenzotriazole is commonly used in a variety of bond-forming reactions, its acylation has been shown to produce a regiochemical (O vs N) mixture with complex kinetic behavior. Increased steric bulk on the electrophile favors formation of the oxygen-acylated product. Upon standing as a solid, the mixture can isomerize completely to the nitrogen adduct. An equilibrium ratio of regioisomers can be re-established in solution by adding either nucleophilic or electrophilic reagents, suggesting that the composition of the mixture is not significant to subsequent reactivity. Solvents can affect this regiochemical equilibrium through a Curtin–Hammett effect, where the shift in the tautomeric equilibrium of HOBt in polar solvents biases the reaction toward the oxygen adduct.
Regression of spontaneous mammary tumors in rats by ergot drugs.

SummaryDaily injection of ergocornine or ergokryptine for 4 weeks induced marked regression in growth of spontaneous mammary tumors in old female rats. After termination of drug treatment, prompt resumption of mammary tumor growth was observed. Both drugs are believed to inhibit mammary tumor growth by depressing secretion of pituitary prolactin.
Detecting Intermittent Turbulence Using Advanced Signal Processing Techniques

EARLY 2007, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) projected that the wind industry in the United States (US) would install over 3000 megawatts (MW) throughout the year. Beyond anyone’s expectations, the US wind industry installed 5244 MW in 2007. About 30 percent of these new installations (1618 MW, 934 new turbines) took place in Texas, a state in the US Great Plains. Most of these new turbines are ‘tall’ and make use of favorable wind resources available high above ground level.
Unbound Water Content From Application of Adsorption Theory.

It is standard procedure to fit an applicable isotherm equation to water vapor adsorption data using the method of least squares in arriving at a value for the surface area accessible to the water molecule. The least squares technique has been extended in the present investigation to determine, in addition and simultaneously, a "best value" for the zero-humidity sample weight of the material. The application is equally valid for desorption insofar as the zero-humidity weight is concerned, although the derived value for "surface area" from desorption data will be over-estimated in the general case because of hysteresis. There is no limitation on the range of humidities since the method is not restricted to the BET equation (i.e., between 0.1 and 0.3 r.h.). In fact, good agreement with the zero-humidity points measured experimentally has been obtained even from drying curves in which the relative humidity has been confined to the region above 50 percent. An iterative method is employed in the calculations for which computer assistance is especially adaptable. Fortran IV programs are included in the appendix whose use requires no extensive computer experience. A fraction of a second in computer processing time is all that is required for each determination.
Diversity and biogeography of larval and juvenile notothenioid fishes in McMurdo Sound, Antarctica

Antarctic notothenioid fish larvae and juveniles are pelagic and subject to oceanic transport, influencing species distribution and biogeography. The nature of notothenioid larval/juvenile diversity in the high-latitude McMurdo Sound is virtually unknown to-date. We report here a first assessment of this diversity and its contribution to species richness in the Sound. We collected 151 larvae and juveniles from under ice cover. To overcome uncertainties in identifying larvae by morphology, we used full-length mitochondrial ND2 gene sequences in phylogenetic reconstruction with reference adults and identified 13 species representing four families. Six are nototheniids whose adults are common in the Sound, and a seventh is a cryptic nototheniid that is likely Pagothenia brachysoma, previously unknown to the Sound. The rest included four icefishes, an artedidraconid, and a bathydraconid, all without prior adult record in the Sound. With seven of 13 species previously undocumented, larval/juvenile notothenioid diversity appears to double adult diversity. Published fish surveys show adults of these icefishes and the artedidraconid occur in the nearby Terra Nova Bay and/or western Ross Sea; thus, their pelagic larvae and juveniles could be transported by the Ross Sea circulation into the Sound. The bathydraconid, identified as Psilodraco breviceps, is reportedly endemic to S. Georgia. We found additional unpublished barcode sequences for specimens from the Dumont d’Urville Sea and Ross Sea, and they form a species clade with the McMurdo larval and Marguerite Bay adult P. breviceps in this study, indicating this species has a circumpolar distribution.
Health information exchange in the wild: the association between organizational capability and perceived utility of clinical event notifications in ambulatory and community care.

Objective: Event notifications are real-time, electronic, automatic alerts to providers of their patients’ health care encounters at other facilities. Our objective was to examine the effects of organizational capability and related social/organizational issues upon users’ perceptions of the impact of event notifications on quality, efficiency, and satisfaction. Materials and methods: We surveyed representatives (n = 49) of 10 organizations subscribing to the Bronx Regional Health Information Organization’s event notification services about organizational capabilities, notification information quality, perceived usage, perceived impact, and organizational and respondent characteristics. The response rate was 89%. Average item scores were used to create an individual domain summary score. The association between the impact of event notifications and organizational characteristics was modeled using random-intercept logistic regression models. Results: Respondents estimated that organizations followed up on the majority (83%) of event notifications. Supportive organizational policies were associated with the perception that event notifications improved quality of care (odds ratio [OR] = 2.12; 95% CI, = 1.05, 4.45), efficiency (OR = 2.06; 95% CI = 1.00, 4.21), and patient satisfaction (OR = 2.56; 95% CI = 1.13, 5.81). Higher quality of event notification information was also associated with a perceived positive impact on quality of care (OR = 2.84; 95% CI = 1.31, 6.12), efficiency (OR = 3.04; 95% CI = 1.38, 6.69), and patient satisfaction (OR = 2.96; 95% CI = 1.25, 7.03). Conclusions: Health care organizations with appropriate processes, workflows, and staff may be better positioned to use event notifications. Additionally, information quality remains critical in users’ assessments and perceptions.
Status and prospect of technology of producing V_2O_5 from stone-like coal vanadium ore

Technological development progress and status of producing V2O5 from stone-like coal vanadium ore were described,and the key technology was analyzed and discussed.On the basis of these,the technological trend of using stone-like coal vanadium ore to produce V2O5 was prospected.
The Spectrum of Functional Rating Scales in Neurology Clinical Trials

The selection of an appropriate outcome measure is crucial to the success of a clinical trial, in order to obtain accurate results, which, in turn, influence patient care and future research. Outcomes that can be directly measured are mortality/survival. More frequently, neurology clinical trials evaluate outcomes that cannot be directly measured, such as disability, cognitive function, or change in symptoms of the condition under study. These complex outcomes are abstract ideas or latent constructs and are measured using rating scales. Functional rating scales typically assess the ability of patients to perform tasks and roles for everyday life. Rating scales should be valid (measure what they are supposed to measure), reliable (provide similar results if administered under the same conditions), and responsive (able to detect clinically important changes over time). The clinical relevance of rating scales depends on their ability to detect a minimal clinically important difference, and should be distinguished from statistical significance. Most rating scales are ordinal scales and have limitations. Modern psychometric methods of Rasch analysis and item response theory, termed latent trait theory, are increasingly being utilized to convert ordinal data to interval measurements, both to validate existing scales and to develop new scales. Patient-reported outcomes are being increasingly used in clinical trials and have a role in clinical quality assessment. The PROMIS and NeuroQoL databases are excellent resources for rigorously developed and validated patient-reported outcomes.
Confusion in the Circuit Courts: How the Circuit Courts are Solving the Mead-Puzzle by Avoiding it Altogether

Daniel Brookins, Essay, Confusion in the Circuit Courts: How the Circuit Courts are Solving the Mead-Puzzle by Avoiding It Altogether, 85 Geo. Wash. L. Rev. (forthcoming 2017). Chevron deference is possibly the most discussed legal issue in recent history. Despite this prolific scholarship, relatively little empirical attention has been devoted Chevron’s impact in the circuit courts. Towards the end of shedding light on the situation in the circuit courts, this Essay addresses the narrow issue of how circuit courts handle the “Mead-puzzle” in cases where an agency has informally interpreted a statute it administers. After presenting findings from an empirical review of circuit court decisions, this Essay argues that Chevron avoidance is now the norm in the circuit courts. In fact, Chevron avoidance is so abundant that it is distorting agency win rates for informal interpretations that receive Chevron deference. Chevron avoidance flourishes because courts are still avoiding the confusion associated with Mead and Barnhart. To remove that confusion, this Essay argues that Chevron should be limited to legislative rulemaking and formal adjudication.
Demand analysis for chicken meat, beef and fish among urban households in Edo and Delta states, Nigeria

Recent increases in population growth has created an additional demand for meat in developing countries. Nigeria has the largest population in sub-Saharan Africa, with about 47% of the population residing in the urban areas where the population growth rate is estimated at three times that in rural areas. This suggests a shift in increased food demand from the rural to the urban areas and explains the need to know the demand for meat (which is an important source of nutrient) from different animal sources. This study focused on demand analysis forchicken meat, beef and fish among urban households in Edo and Delta States. The complete demand functions of the various meat types were estimated. The primary data used in this analysis were obtained from a cross-sectional survey of urban chicken meat, beef and fish consuming households in Edo and Delta States. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 300 respondents for this study. The Linear Approximate Almost Ideal Demand System was used in analyzing the demand functions of chicken meat, beef and fish. Findings showed that the demand for chicken meat, beef and fish in the study area was so much a matter of own-price, cross-prices and income. The results of the LA/AIDS showed that for the entire sample, chicken had an expenditure coefficient of -0.0007 (p E‚ 0.01). With respect to Edo State, chicken had a budget share of -0.2253, cross price effect of 0.1938 with beef and expenditure coefficient of -0.0006 (p E‚ 0.01, p E‚ 0.05 and p E‚ 0.01 respectively). With regards to Delta State, chicken had a budget share of 0.1939. Chicken had a cross price effect of -0.2790 with beef (p E‚ 0.10), while beef had a budget share of 0.5694, cross price effect of -0.2790 with chicken and expenditure coefficient of 0.1170 (p E‚ 0.01, p E‚ 0.10 and p E‚ 0.05 respectively). It is recommended that production of chicken meat and the other selected meat types should be increased to meet the present demand. Prices of these commodities should be regulated to avoid the erratic price fluctuations and efforts should be geared towards improving the income earning capacity of households so as to enable them demand for these commodities effectively.