cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
164. HSV-1 Vector-Based Assay To Identify Inhibitors of the Vanilloid Receptor

Top of pageAbstract The transient receptor potential/vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1/ VR1) is a peripheral Ca+2 ion channel and an important sensor of pain. An understanding of regulatory mechanisms governing TRPV1 may therefore provide insights for controlling receptor expression or function to attenuate pain. In this study, we developed an HSV-1 vector- based assay that can be used to identify gene products specifically inhibiting TRPV1 function. We engineered a herpes simplex viral vector to express the rat TRPV1 receptor. Vector-expressed TRPV1 functionality was confirmed by immunostaining, Ca+2 influx assays and whole-cell electrophysiology. Ca+2 influx following TRPV1 activation by known agonists resulted in mitochondrial permeability transition and subsequently initiated an apoptotic cascade leading to cell death. Since cellular apoptosis occurred prior to completion of the virus replicative cycle, TRPV1 activation indirectly impaired HSV-1 vector replication, resulting in a fall of viral titers. An inclusion of known TRPV1 antagonists prevented calcium influx through TRPV1, consequently reversing this blockage and allowing vector replication to occur in the presence of TRPV1 agonists. This growth recovery of HSV-1 vectors following TRPV1 inactivation provides the basis for a selective vector replication-based assay to identify TRPV1 antagonists. Studies with mixed virus infections demonstrate the sensitivity of this system and allow the selection of 1 viral particle among 100,000 background virions. The HSV-1 vector-based selection assay described herein should provide a powerful approach for identifying novel gene products that regulate TRPV1 function from a cDNA library cloned into the TRPV1-expressing backbone HSV-1 vector. This approach also offers advantages of (i) efficient and flexible transgene expression in a variety of cell types and (ii) ease of adaptability to high throughput formats.
Inactivation of cytosolic aldehyde dehydrogenase via S-nitrosylation in ethanol-exposed rat liver.

Abstract Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) isozymes are critically important in the metabolism of acetaldehyde, thus preventing its accumulation after ethanol-exposure. We previously reported that mitochondrial ALDH2 could be inactivated via S-nitrosylation in ethanol-exposed rats. This study was aimed at investigating whether cytosolic ALDH1, with a relatively-low-Km value (11–18 μM) for acetaldehyde, could be also inhibited in ethanol-exposed rats. Chronic or binge ethanol-exposure significantly decreased ALDH1 activity, which was restored by addition of dithiothreitol. Immunoblot analysis with the anti-S-nitroso-Cys antibody showed one immunoreactive band in the immunoprecipitated ALDH1 only from ethanol-exposed rats, but not from pair-fed controls, suggesting S-nitrosylation of ALDH1. Therefore inactivation of ALDH1 via S-nitrosylation can result in accumulation of acetaldehyde upon ethanol-exposure.
Maturation-based geodynamic/geochemical classification of sedimentary basins

Abstract Geodynamic principles and processes are combined with continental margin type basin position on a plate, and crustal type to classify sedimentary basins in a tectonic mode. Tectonic basin classifications, however, have not improved the rate of discovery of hydrocarbons or mineral deposits in sedimentary basins. To improve prediction of commercial hydrocarbon occurrence and sedimentary-hosted ore deposits, it is recommended that the proposed geodynamic basin classification could be combined with organic (petroleum) or inorganic (metals) geochemical classification systems. Organic geochemical basin classification discriminates basin types using three criteria: charge factors, migration drainage factors and impedance factors (Demaison and Huizinga, 1989a, b). A similar approach is applicable to mineral deposits. An inorganic geochemical classification is proposed that recognizes three criteria of inorganic maturation: metal solubility factor, migration drainage factor, and environmental potential for mineral precipitation. This combined geodynamic and geochemical maturation approach to basin classification should enhance resource exploration efficiency.
Ben L. Reitman, MD: colorful critical criminologist

Ben Reitman, a medical doctor, fought throughout his life for greater sympathetic understanding of and assistance to American’s underdogs. He spent his early years living among social outcasts and riding the rails with hobos. He then teamed up with Emma Goldman to advance her political agenda of anarchist ideas and in support of free speech. After an amiable split with Goldman, he worked in Chicago, treating prostitutes, performing illegal abortions, combating venereal disease, and battling to make birth control information freely available. Reitman also associated with several of the prominent members of the University of Chicago’s stellar sociology faculty and contributed importantly to their studies of urban life.
The Influence of Teacher Commentary on Student Revision

In this study, the author examined over 1,600 marginal and end comments written on 110 first drafts of papers by 47 advanced university ESL students, considering both the pragmatic goals for and the linguistic features of each comment. She then examined revised drafts of each paper to observe the influence of the first-draft commentary on the students' revisions and assess whether the changes made in response to the teacher's feedback actually improved the papers. A significant proportion of the comments appeared to lead to substantive student revision, and particular types and forms of commentary appeared to be more helpful than others. The results suggest several important implications for L2 writing instruction and for future studies on a vital but surprisingly neglected topic.
Yield-driven, false-path-aware clock skew scheduling

Semiconductor technology advances have enabled designers to integrate more functionality in a single chip. As design complexity increases, many new design techniques are developed to optimize chip area and power consumption, as well as performance. Traditionally, yield improvement has been achieved through process improvement. However, in deep-submicron technologies, process variations are difficult to control. As a result, many design decisions significantly affect yield. Therefore, designers should consider yield-related issues during the design phase. This article proposes clock skew scheduling as a tool to address causes of performance-related circuit yield loss. It is an interesting example of how managing circuit-level parameters can have a direct impact on yield metrics and therefore a clear example of the direction of DFM research.
Bone density of the radius, spine, and hip in relation to percent of ideal body weight in postmenopausal women

Bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine (L2–L4) and hip (at femoral neck, Ward's triangle, and greater trochanter sites) were determined by dual-photon absorptiometry (DPA), and of the radius by single-photon absorptiometry (SPA) in healthy postmenopausal women aged 40–70 years. The relationships of BMC and BMD to years since menopause were examined separately in 97 women who were above 115% of ideal body weight (IBW) and in 128 women below. The heavier women had significantly greater mean BMC and BMD at each site than did the normal-weight women. In the normal-weight women, there was a significant negative correlation between BMD and years since menopause at each measurement site except the greater trochanter. In the obese women, BMD decreased with increasing years since menopause at the radius site only and BMC declined with increasing years after menopause at the hip (femoral neck and Ward's triangle region) as well as the radius. Thus, body size is a significant determinant of BMD in this population. The pattern of loss of BMD from Ward's triangle and femoral neck regions of hip are similar to that of the spine. The BMC and BMD findings in the hip suggest that remodeling occurs at this weight-bearing site which has a favorable effect on bone strength.
H2S Detection by Vertically Aligned CuO Nanowire Array Sensors

Chemical sensors based on vertically aligned p-type CuO nanowire arrays have been fabricated by in situ micromanipulation in a scanning electron microscope. The sensors are capable of detecting air-diluted H2S to the parts per billion level. Different mechanisms have been proposed for the detections of low and high concentrated H2S. The recoverable detection for low concentrations can be explained by an oxygen adatom related process, while an interface reaction model fits for the high concentration detection, which also explains the exponential sensing response. Furthermore, selective detection for H2S has also been investigated. The sensor demonstrated strong selectivity for H2S, as compared with the responses to high concentrations of H2, CO, and NH3.
Trace Determination of Mercury: A Review

Abstract Methods used for trace (sub-ppm) detection of mercury are reviewed. Included are spectrometric methods such as atomic absorption, fluorescence, emission, and mass spectrometry; electrochemical methods; and as radiometric methods as well as other common and novel techniques. Limits of detection are reported where given, and advantages and disadvantages are compared.
Ethanol alters local cellular levels of (3α,5α)-3-hydroxypregnan-20-one (3α,5α-THP) independent of the adrenals in subcortical brain regions.

The neuroactive steroid (3α,5α)-3-hydroxypregnan-20-one (3α,5α-THP or allopregnanolone) is a positive modulator of GABAA receptors synthesized in the brain, adrenal glands, and gonads. In rats, ethanol activates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and elevates 3α,5α-THP in plasma, cerebral cortex, and hippocampus. In vivo, these effects are dependent on both the pituitary and adrenal glands. In vitro, however, ethanol locally increases 3α,5α-THP in hippocampal slices, in the absence of adrenal influence. Therefore, it is not known whether ethanol can change local brain levels of 3α,5α-THP in vivo, independent of the adrenals. To directly address this controversy, we administered ethanol (2 g/kg) or saline to rats that underwent adrenalectomy (ADX) or received sham surgery and performed immunohistochemistry for 3α,5α-THP. In the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), ethanol increased 3α,5α-THP after sham surgery, compared with saline controls, with no ethanol-induced change in 3α,5α-THP following ADX. In subcortical regions, 3α,5α-THP was increased independent of adrenals in the CA1 pyramidal cell layer, dentate gyrus polymorphic layer, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. Furthermore, ethanol decreased 3α,5α-THP labeling in the nucleus accumbens shore and central nucleus of the amygdala, independent of the adrenal glands. These data indicate that ethanol dynamically regulates local 3α,5α-THP levels in several subcortical regions; however, the adrenal glands contribute to 3α,5α-THP elevations in the mPFC. Using double immunofluorescent labeling we determined that adrenal dependence of 3α,5α-THP induction by ethanol is not due to a lack of colocalization of 3α,5α-THP with the cholesterol transporters steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) or translocator protein (TSPO).
Generating linear extensions by adjacent transpositions

If P is a rooted forest in which no element has exactly one child, then the linear extensions of P can be successively generated by transpositions of consecutive elements; i.e., P is adjacent-traversable. More generally, if P is adjacent-traversable and P′ is obtained from P by adding an antichain of size at least two covering (or covered by) a single element of P, then P′ is also adjacent-traversable. The proof is constructive.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Aortic Aneurysms with 3-D Image Reconstruction

A programme was written to detect flow in a sequence of MR images and to construct 3-D vessel maps from the detected flow regions. Reduction in first echo intensity and prolongation of calculated T2 value were used as flow-detection criteria. The programme was used to image the aorta in 6 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm and 5 patients with aortic dissection. Results were compared with contrast angiography in 9 cases and X-ray CT in 2. The images obtained by the two techniques were comparable in 9 cases. In 2 cases of aortic dissection, where flow in the false lumen was slow, the false lumen could not be demonstrated by angiography, but was clearly seen in the reconstructed MR images.
How Can Satellite DNA Divergence Cause Reproductive Isolation? Let Us Count the Chromosomal Ways

Satellites are one of the most enigmatic parts of the eukaryotic genome. These highly repetitive, noncoding sequences make up as much as half or more of the genomic content and are known to play essential roles in chromosome segregation during meiosis and mitosis, yet they evolve rapidly between closely related species. Research over the last several decades has revealed that satellite divergence can serve as a formidable reproductive barrier between sibling species. Here we highlight several key studies on Drosophila and other model organisms demonstrating deleterious effects of satellites and their rapid evolution on the structure and function of chromosomes in interspecies hybrids. These studies demonstrate that satellites can impact chromosomes at a number of different developmental stages and through distinct cellular mechanisms, including heterochromatin formation. These findings have important implications for how loci that cause postzygotic reproductive isolation are viewed.
Rat spinotrapezius muscle preparation for microscopic observation of the terminal vascular bed

Abstract A technique is described for preparing skeletal muscle for in vivo study of its microcirculatory bed. Rat spinotrapezius muscle is a thin, superficial back muscle which can be easily transilluminated and positioned under the microscope, and is quite suitable for the study of vessel dynamics and vascular responsiveness to drugs and other vasoactive agents.
Extra-thymically induced regulatory T cells: Do they have potential in disease prevention?

Fopx3+ Treg safeguard against autoimmune diseases and immune pathology. The extrathymic conversion of naive T cells into Foxp3+ regulatory T cells can be achieved in vivo by the delivery of strong-agonist ligands under subimmunogenic conditions. Tolerogenic vaccination with strong-agonist mimetopes of self-antigen to promote self-antigen specific tolerance may represent the most specific and safest means of preventing autoimmunity. This review discusses the requirements for induction of dominant tolerance exerted by Foxp3+ Tregs in autoimmunity with special emphasis on their impact to interfere with T1D. The future goals are the understanding of self-non-self discrimination at the cellular and molecular level, which should then enable investigators to develop clinical vaccination protocols that specifically interfere with unwanted immune responses.
Performances of the signal reconstruction in the ATLAS Hadronic Tile Calorimeter

Abstract The Tile Calorimeter (TileCal) is the central section of the hadronic calorimeter of ATLAS. It is a key detector for the reconstruction of hadrons, jets, tau leptons and missing transverse energy. TileCal is a sampling calorimeter using steel as an absorber and plastic scintillators as an active medium. The scintillators are read-out by wavelength shifting fibers coupled to photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). The analogue signals from the PMTs are amplified, shaped and digitized by sampling the signal every 25 ns. The read-out system is designed to reconstruct the data in real time fulfilling the tight time constraint imposed by the ATLAS first level trigger rate (100 kHz). The signal amplitude and phases for each channel are measured using Optimal Filtering algorithms both at online and offline level. We present the performances of these techniques on the data collected in the proton–proton collisions at center-of-mass energy of 7 TeV. We show in particular the measurements of low amplitudes, close to the pedestal value, using as probe high transverse momenta muons produced in the proton–proton collisions.
Absolute optical absorption coefficient measurements using photoacoustic spectroscopy amplitude and phase information

In order to perform quantitative photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) it is desirable to have a method of obtaining the absolute absorption coefficient of a sample from PAS measurements alone. The photoacoustic signal contains both amplitude and phase data and this paper discusses a method by which this information may be used to determine the absolute absorption coefficient of condensed samples. Experimental results on ions in aqueous solution are also presented.
Racial disparity in treatment of osteoporosis after diagnosis

Racial disparities have been identified in a number of areas in clinical medicine. Patients diagnosed with osteoporosis should be treated similarly regardless of race. However, limited data are available on the relative frequency of treatment by race after diagnosis of osteoporosis. We analyzed all 739 dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) results obtained of women 50 years old and older between 1998 and 2002 at our medical center. Our study sample was 82% Caucasian and 15% African American. Of 353 women who had low bone mineral density on first DXA, we abstracted the electronic and paper medical records to compare treatment rates by race. Of the women diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, 80.0% and 68.3%, respectively, were started on antiresorptive medications. Of the African American women, 61.9% diagnosed with osteoporosis were started on antiresorptive treatment compared with 83.3% of Caucasian women (p<0.05). African American women with low bone mass were less likely than Caucasian women to be smokers (p<0.05) and use alcohol (p<0.01) but were more likely to be on corticosteroids (p<0.05). No other significant differences were found among treated and nontreated groups that might explain the disparity in treatment. A smaller proportion of African American than Caucasian women with osteoporosis received antiresorptive medications after a DXA diagnosis. This significant disparity requires further study in a larger population.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of the binding of dopamine D2/D3 receptor agonist, (R,S)-5-hydroxy-2-(N-propyl-N-(5′-18F-fluoropentyl)aminotetralin (18F-5-OH-FPPAT) in rodents and nonhuman primates

We have synthesized a new fluorinated dopamine D2 receptor agonist, (R,S)-2-(N-propyl-N-5'-fluoropentyl)amino-5-hydroxytetralin (5-OH-FPPAT). The radiosynthesis of the fluorine-18 analog, (18)F-5-OH-FPPAT was achieved in decay corrected yields of 10 to 15% in specific activities of approx. 1.5 to 2 Ci/micromol. In vitro binding and autoradiographic studies of this new radiotracer have been investigated. Using rat striatal homogenate binding assay, 5-OH-FPPAT exhibited an affinity of IC(50) = 6.95 nM. The octanol-buffer partition coefficient, Log P was found to be 1.60. In vitro autoradiographs in rat brain slices with (18)F-5-OH-FPPAT revealed selective binding to the dopaminergic regions in the striata that was displaceable by sulpiride. This selective binding to the striata was also removed in the presence of the GTP analog, 5'-guanylylimidodiphosphate, indicative of predominant binding of (18)F-5-OH-FPPAT to the high-affinity state of the D2 receptor. In vivo regional distribution of (18)F-5-OH-FPPAT in rat brains revealed selective localization in the striata with striata/cortex ratio of 1.5 and striata/cerebellum ratio of 1.8 to 2.0. The binding of (18)F-5-OH-FPPAT in the striata was reduced upon pretreatment with the antagonist, risperidone and the agonist, PPHT. A PET study in rhesus monkeys showed selective localization of (18)F-5-OH-FPPAT in the striata and the ratio between striata and cerebellum approached approximately 2 at 40 min post-injection.
Stably Stratified Flows near a Notched Transverse Ridge across the Salt Lake Valley

This paper describes observed and simulated interactions among atmospheric forcing, cold-pool development, and complex mountain terrain at the south end of the Salt Lake valley, near the Jordan Narrows and the Traverse Range. The Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS), a three-dimensional, nonhydrostatic compressible new-generation large-eddy simulation code in generalized terrain-following coordinates with advanced model parameterizations, was used. Past studies showed that a finer resolution produces more accurate simulations, and so this study used six one-way nested grids to resolve the complex topography. Horizontal grid spacing ranged from 20 km (initialized by Eta 40-km operational analyses) to 250 m; the finest grid had 200 vertically stretched levels between 5 m and 20 km above the surface. Two intense operating periods with weak synoptic forcing, stable stratification, and pronounced nighttime drainage were selected for simulation from the October 2000 Vertical Transport and Mixing (VTMX) experiment. Qualitative agreement between simulations and observations at four stations was good. Usually, the quantitative agreement was also good. Finer horizontal and vertical resolution improved agreement, capturing daytime and nighttime temperature structures, including inversion-layer strength. The simulations showed a complex flow near the Jordan Narrows, with hydraulic jumps and internal waves initiated by the Traverse Range to either side.
Is the frequency of carisoprodol withdrawal syndrome increasing

Carisoprodol is a commonly used centrally acting muscle relaxant. A number of case reports have suggested that the drug may have abuse potential, presumably because it is metabolized to the anxiolytic drug, meprobamate, which is a controlled substance at the federal level. Two recent case reports described symptoms of withdrawal after the cessation of carisoprodol. We present two additional cases that support the concept of a withdrawal syndrome with this drug. Symptoms of carisoprodol withdrawal include anxiety, tremulousness, insomnia, jitteriness, muscle twitching, and hallucinations. These symptoms are most likely caused by withdrawal from the meprobamate that accumulates after large amounts of carisoprodol are ingested. Although carisoprodol is not a controlled substance at the federal level, clinicians should be aware of its significant potential for abuse.
Social capital and terrorism

Many studies of terrorism explain the use of violence against civilians with political or economic forces, often relegating social variables to the margins. Social factors, specifically societal-level social capital, play a far more important role in explaining patterns of terrorist activity than previously recognized. Social capital can exert pressures that act as both restraint and catalyst for terrorism, making explicit exposition of these differential effects critical. Analysis shows that higher stocks of social capital positively correlate with the number of terrorist groups, but the average attack activity of those groups increase as measures of social capital decline. The complex relationship makes it difficult to draw simple policy implications, but it does offer insight into the role that social dynamics play in terrorist activity.
Budding and strobilation inAurelia (Scyphozoa, Cnidaria): Functional requirement and spatial patterns of nucleic acid synthesis

Strobilation and polypoid budding occur at different locations in the scyphistoma (polyp). Initiation and completion of both forms of budding are inhibited by hydroxyurea (HU), which blocks 95% of DNA synthesis within 12 h. Gradients of thymidine incorporation into both cell layers of the body column precede and accompany strobilation, and an epidermal gradient precedes polypoid budding. In both, the highest labelling index is in the zone in which initiation will occur. Polypoid buds show high variation in labelling index, which is therefore not significantly different from body column labelling. Initiation and some elongation of polyp buds occurs in a small percentage of animals in HU, indicating that cell recruitment is important for these processes. Strobilation appears to be more highly dependent on localized nucleic acid synthesis than polypoid budding.
Comparison of “Polynaphthalenes” Prepared by Two Mechanistically Distinct Routes

The Bergman cyclization has long been known to produce polymers as side products. More recently, this attribute has been harnessed for the production of conjugated materials. However, the structures of these polymers have not been established. To resolve this question, the metal-catalyzed polymerization of 1,4-dibromonaphthalene and thermal polymerization of o-diethynylbenzene were conducted. Two distinct polymers were obtained. Comparison of IR spectroscopy, MALDI-TOF MS, solid-state NMR spectroscopy, UV−vis reflectance spectroscopy, and pyrolysis GC−MS data indicates that only one of the polymers is consistent with poly(1,4-naphthalene).
The Neuromuscular Pathology of the Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome

The Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome (EMS) is a recently recognized disorder in patients ingesting pharmacologic doses of L-tryptophan. We studied the lesions of skeletal muscle, peripheral nerve and skin in 12 cases of EMS. Perimyositis was severe in four, moderate in two, mild in three and absent in three cases. The lesions contained many eosinophils, T-helper cells, mast cells and activated macrophages. Type 2 myofiber atrophy was present in five cases and in one, this was the only pathologic finding. Severe epineurial inflammation was seen in the three sural nerve biopsies. Indirect evidence for peripheral neurologic involvement in three other cases consisted of inflammation surrounding intramuscular nerve twigs (two cases) and neurogenic atrophy (one case). Phlebitis accompanied the connective tissue inflammation in five cases and endarteritis in one. Fasciitis was present in three of four skin biopsies and dermal fibrosis in one.
Spermatocytogenesis with possible spermiogenesis of guinea pig testicular cells grown in vitro.

Spermatocytogenesis with Possible Spermiogenesis of Guinea Pig Testicular Cells Grown In vitro
Binding properties of cavitands in aqueous solution : the influence of charge on guest selectivity

The charge of the upper rim has influences on the binding properties of cavitands in aqueous media.
Potential role of platelet FcγRIIA in collagen-mediated platelet activation associated with atherothrombosis

Collagen-mediated platelet activation contributes significantly to coronary and cerebrovascular thrombus formation associated with atherosclerotic plaque destabilization. Recent clinical and laboratory observations support a potential role for the platelet Fc receptor (FcgammaRIIA) in this process. The purpose of this study was to elucidate any association between platelet Fc receptor (FcR) expression levels and both atherosclerosis risk factors (ARFs) along with collagen-dependent platelet activation. Age and gender-independent variation has been described in the expression of this receptor that is stable over time. Platelet Fc surface expression was compared between patients experiencing an acute coronary or cerebrovascular event, healthy patients with two or more ARFs, and healthy patients with fewer than two ARFs. Platelet FcR expression was significantly and stably (6-52 weeks, mean 20 weeks) increased in 101 patients with acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina, or ischemic stroke syndrome (P<0.001) and 38 healthy patients with two or more ARFs (P=0.027) compared with 109 healthy patients with fewer than two ARFs. Patients with diabetes mellitus from all groups had significantly increased platelet FcR expression over those without diabetes (P<0.0001). Platelet aggregation studies suggested a correlation between number of ARFs per patient, platelet Fc expression levels, and relative sensitivity to collagen stimulation. Platelet FcR surface expression is increased in patients with an acute coronary or cerebrovascular event, non-acutely ill patients with two or more ARFs, and in patients with diabetes mellitus. Increased platelet FcR expression may therefore contribute towards risk for atherothrombotic events.
Trivalent thulium laser at 1.95 μm for enhanced laser-tissue interactions

Solid state lasers based on the trivalent thulium ion which operate within the strong water absorption band in the 2zin region are discussed. This water band has maximum absorption in the range 1.92- 1.94pm. The relative merits of thulium lasers in the crystalline hosts YAG, YSGG, and YLF which operate in this wavelength region are discussed.
Seed rain of ponderosa pine beneath partial overstories

An analysis was conducted of the 1999 ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa var. ponderosa Dougl. ex Laws.) seed crop at two stands of differing overstory density in each of two sites that differed in productivity (forest community series) on the east slope of the Cascade Range in central Oregon, USA. A total 2,166 viable seeds were collected between 2 September 1999 and 6 June 2000. Total seed quantities varied more by site than by tree density, with the xeric site producing six-fold greater seed yields. Within each site, the stand of higher density produced more viable seed. Per-tree cone yields were also greater at the site of lesser productivity. At three of the four stands, tree fecundity (as measured by cone counts) was positively related to diameter at breast height and height, but not to live crown ratio. A difference in temporal seedfall patterns among the two sites occurred late and was relatively minor: most seedfall occurred within the first month after it started regardless of absolute seed production. Seedfall distribution varied spatially within stands, but no seed trap (of 55) received less than an equivalent 28 thousand seeds per hectare. Seedfall was not perceived to be a limiting factor on natural regeneration at any of the four partial-overstory stands in this study.
Viral capsomere structure, surface processes and growth kinetics in the crystallization of macromolecular crystals visualized by in situ atomic force microscopy

In situ atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to investigate surface evolution during the growth of single crystals of turnip yellow mosaic virus (TYMV), cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and glucose isomerase. Growth of these crystals proceeded by two-dimensional (2D) nucleation. For glucose isomerase, from supersaturation dependencies of tangential step rates and critical step length, the kinetic coefficients of the steps and the surface free energy of the step edge were calculated for different crystallographic directions. The molecular structure of the step edges, the adsorption of individual virus particles and their aggregates, and the initial stages of formation of 2D nuclei on the surfaces of TYMV and CMV crystals were recorded. The surfaces of individual TYMV virions within crystals were visualized, and hexameric and pentameric capsomers of the T = 3 capsids were clearly resolved. This, so far as we are aware, is the first direct visualization of the capsomere structure of a virus by AFM. In the course of recording the in situ development of the TYMV crystals, a profound restructuring of the surface arrangement was observed. This transformation was highly cooperative in nature, but the transitions were unambiguous and readily explicable in terms of an organized loss of classes of virus particles from specific lattice positions.
Atomic‐Shell Structure in Inelastic Collisions

Atomic shell structure in atoms ionization by inelastic collisions with charged projectiles, discussing alkali atoms electron impact ionization cross sections
A Simple Approach for Fitting Linear Relative Rate Models in SAS

The linear relative rate model has been employed in epidemiologic analyses of a variety of environmental and occupational exposures. In contrast to an exponential rate model, the linear relative rate model implies that the excess relative rate of disease changes in an additive fashion with exposure. The linear relative rate model may be fitted using EPICURE (HiroSoft International Corporation, Seattle, Washington), a specialized statistical software package widely used for such analyses. In this paper, the author presents a simple approach to fitting the linear relative rate model to epidemiologic data using PROC NLMIXED in the SAS statistical software package (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, North Carolina). This approach is illustrated via analyses of data from a study of mortality in a cohort of South Carolina asbestos textile workers (1940-2001).
Room temperature adsorption of water by aluminum thin films

Abstract Thin films of aluminum were prepared under ultra-high vacuum conditions in order to investigate the low temperature, low pressure adsorption of water vapor by the aluminum. The kinetics of the water vapor-aluminium reaction have been found to be essentially different than the oxygen-aluminum reaction previously reported. In contrast to the “dry” oxygen uptake kinetics, a plot of the sticking coefficient of H 2 O versus the total weight gain of the film indicates that the sticking coefficient of H 2 O passes through a maximum. As a result of the present mass adsorption measurements of water by fresh aluminum surfaces and Huber and Kirk's previous contact potential studies of an oxidized aluminum surface upon exposure to water vapor, a model is suggested, based on the simultaneous lateral growth of oxide nuclei and first order adsorption of water dipoles on the growing oxide nuclei surfaces. The model quantitatively describes the kinetics of the mass adsorption of water and also predicts the contact potential behavior of a fresh aluminum surface upon exposure to water vapor. A sticking coefficient of approximately 0.05 is indicated for H 2 O on bare aluminum while 0.11 corresponds to the sticking coefficient of water dipoles on the oxide nuclei surfaces.
Nucleosidic Phosphoramidite Synthesis via Phosphitylation: Activator Selection and Process Development

Nucleosidic phosphoramidites are key building blocks for the automated, solid supported syntheses of oligonucleotide-based drugs. A safe, industrially viable process for preparing nucleosidic phosphoramidites 5-Me-MOE-U and MOE-A has been developed and utilized on multikilogram scales. The optimization of this process is described in detail. Emphasis is placed on the search for activators to replace the hazardous 1H-tetrazole, the development of an extractive workup, and the advancement of a precipitation method to avoid both chromatographic purification and product foaming issues.
Propagation of human wart virus in tissue culture

HUMAN wart (papilloma) virus (HWV) is an authentic human tumour virus. Based on morphology, it has been classified as a member of the papova group1 of animal tumour viruses. Using electron microscopy, HWV has been found to be associated with human skin warts2, laryngeal and venereal papillomas3,4 and epidermodysplasia verruciformis5. Moreover, experiments done with human volunteers at the beginning of this century6–8, showed that filtered extracts of warts, laryngeal and venereal papillomas can cause skin warts in man. Since these early experiments, there has been little increase in our knowledge of HWV as a causative agent of either benign tumours or those which can progress to malignancy5,9, mainly because of the lack of a system in which to propagate HWV in vitro10. This report describes the propagation of HWV in a tissue culture system.
The pathology of head and neck tumors: Fibroadipose tissue and skeletal muscle, part 8

Benign and malignant tumors originating from mesenchymal cells destined to become lipoblasts and myoblasts affect the head and neck with contrasting frequencies. Lipomas and especially liposarcomas are unusual lesions above the clavicles but when found there behave in a biologic manner identical to that of their counter-parts at other anatomic sites. Myogenic tumors, on the other hand, have a predilection for the head and neck, and for rhabdomyosarcomas this predilection is accentuated in childhood. Combination therapy of rhabdomyosarcomas has obviated radical surgery as a method of treatment, and many sites in the head and neck have benefited prognostically by this treatment. Success, however, is dependent on clinical stage of disease, and rhabdomyosarcomas of the nasopharynx, paranasal sinuses, and middle ear remain more resistant to short-term cures because of the extent of the neoplasm. A review of the clinicopathologic aspects of granular-cell tumors and alveolar soft-part sarcomas is also presented because it has been suggested that these tumors have a myogenous origin.
Lead contamination in insects and birds near an interstate highway, Kansas

Lead contamination of insects near an interstate highway in Kansas averaged 50 ppm, but only 15 ppm in those collected far from heavily traveled roads. Lead in gizzard contents of meadowlarks ( Sturnella neglecta and S. magna ) collected near the interstate was 6 ppm, almost identical to that in gizzard contents of birds far from heavily traveled roads. Low levels of lead in meadowlark livers reflected little active exposure of meadowlarks to lead-contaminated insects.
Feedback in written instruction: The place of response certitude

This paper reviews written feedback from an information-processing perspective. The first section discusses the question of feedback as a reinforcer, and describes the feedback paradigm used as a conceptual guide for the following sections. In the second section we evaluate research on the form and content of feedback. In the last section, a model is developed that applies concepts from servocontrol theory to the feedback sequence. Finally, we report three experiments which support the major predictions of the control model.
A field size specific backscatter correction algorithm for accurate EPID dosimetry.

Purpose: Portal doseimages acquired with an amorphous silicon electronic portal imaging device(EPID) suffer from artifacts related to backscatteredradiation. The backscatter signal varies as a function of field size (FS) and location on the EPID. Most current portal dosimetry algorithms fail to account for the FS dependence. The ramifications of this omission are investigated and solutions for correcting the measured doseimages for FS specific backscatter are proposed. Methods: A series of open field doseimages were obtained for field sizes ranging from 2 × 2 to 30 × 40 cm 2 . Each image was analyzed to determine the amount of backscatter present. Two methods to account for the relationship between FS and backscatter are offered. These include the use of discrete FS specific correction matrices and the use of a single generalized equation. The efficacy of each approach was tested on the clinical dosimetricimages for ten patients, 49 treatment fields. The fields were evaluated to determine whether there was an improvement in the dosimetric result over the commercial vendor’s current algorithm. Results: It was found that backscatter manifests itself as an asymmetry in the measured signal primarily in the inplane direction. The maximum error is approximately 3.6% for 10 × 10 and 12.5 × 12.5 cm 2 field sizes. The asymmetry decreased with increasing FS to approximately 0.6% for fields larger than 30 × 30 cm 2 . The dosimetric comparison between the measured and predicted doseimages was significantly improved ( p ⪡ .001 ) when a FS specific backscatter correction was applied. The average percentage of points passing a 2%, 2 mm gamma criteria increased from 90.6% to between 96.7% and 97.2% after the proposed methods were employed. Conclusions: The error observed in a measured portal doseimage depends on how much its FS differs from the 30 × 40 cm 2 calibration conditions. The proposed methods for correcting for FS specific backscatter effectively improved the ability of the EPID to perform dosimetric measurements. Correcting for FS specific backscatter is important for accurate EPIDdosimetry and can be carried out using the methods presented within this investigation.
A fast full-wave analysis of electromagnetic wave propagation in large 3D photonic bandgap structures

In this paper, we apply the FETI-DPEM method to the PBG and PhC problems and demonstrate its capability and performance.
Electron stimulated secondary electron emission from a warm metal surface

Heat removal in metal structures is often the limiting factor in high power, high frequency microwave tube devices. As higher critical heat flux cooling techniques are found, the operating power of the microwave device may be increased if other limiting factors are not of importance. Larger output powers may be realized for brief periods in time at the expense of operating in a pulsed power and/or pulsed cooling mode. During these brief periods, temporary temperature fluctuations on the walls of the microwave tube will be realized. It is hypothesized that the temperature fluctuations and to a much lesser extent temperature gradients may influence secondary electron emission resulting from primary electrons colliding with the microwave wall. Low energy primary electrons, that penetrate the microwave wall, experience the collective effects of the electrons (plasmons) in the conduction band of the metal. It is anticipated that the surface and bulk temperature of the metal wall influences the ability for plasmons to interact with the primary electron in the scattering process. Further, aging effects resulting from heat stress cycling of the metal cavity may alter the state of the cavity walls leading to changes in the secondary electron emission properties. Pulsed, low energy (1 keV), low beam currents are used to examine collectively the change in the spatial distribution profile of secondary electrons as the sample cools without significantly modifying or stressing the surface of the sample under test. SEE distribution profiles will be presented for a metal target at room temperature and in transient cooling mode with peak temperatures on the order of 390° K.
A self-report version of the Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale Symptom Checklist: Psychometric properties of factor-based scales in three samples

Current research in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) recognizes substantial symptom heterogeneity and emphasizes dimensional assessment of core domains. This study administered a self-report version of the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale Symptom Checklist to OCD patients (n=53), non-OCD psychiatric patients (n=96), and students (n=419). Factor analyses of category- versus item-level data produced different solutions (4 or 5 vs. 3 factors, respectively), but support a multidimensional framework for OCD symptoms. For between-groups analyses, the two patient groups scored significantly higher than students on nearly all dimensions. However, OCD and non-OCD patients differed significantly only on Symmetry/Ordering symptoms. These findings provide novel data concerning this instrument and suggest that most of its scales may not distinguish OCD patients clearly when administered in this manner. We provide recommendations for improving subsequent self-report versions but caution users not to over-extend its intended use.
Microstrip line matched normal mode helical antenna for cellular communication

A normal mode helical antenna was designed to operate at 900 MHz. The input impedance of the helix was matched through a microstrip line of a quarter wavelength long. The antenna was simulated with an infinite ground plane. An axial wire between the helix and the microstrip line was introduced in order to reduce the coupling and an end wire to vary the input impedance to a value desired for a narrow microstrip line. The overall performance is presented.
Tooth eruption and browridge formation

One of the most reasonable hypotheses regarding the functional significance of the browridge is that the supraorbital torus forms in response to masticatory stress during development. Oyen, Walker, and Rice (1979) have recently proposed a model that tests this hypothesis: if browridges are functionally related to masticatory stresses on the cranial vault, then changes in the biomechanics of the masticatory system ought to be reflected by changes in the browridge. To test their model they attempted to relate biomechanical discontinuities resulting from tooth eruption to episodes of bone deposition on the supraorbital tori of a developmental series of dry Papio crania. This paper reports on a parallel test of the model on a cross-sectional sample of Australian Aboriginal juvenile crania. This sample showed no relation between tooth eruption and the supraorbital surface morphology thought to be indicative of active bone deposition. It is also demonstrated that no significant relationship between tooth eruption and episodes of bone deposition is shown by the Papio sample. It is concluded that the use of small cross-sectional samples of dry crania does not provide a valid test of the model.
Theft-resistant video browsing using filtered versions of compressed sequences

Browsing, when used as a sales tool for video sequences, must balance the needs and wants of the customer and merchant: the merchant must offer the customer a preview to allow the customer to select what he or she wants but the merchant does not want to give away the product without payment from the customers. While key-frame browsing discourages theft by not giving the customer the full clip in advance, it may discourage the purchase of some clips because it is not full motion video. We present a new technique for theft resistant video browsing by using limited content, motion browsing clips. Such clips retain most of the important and essential features and content of the original video. Perceptual studies show that people can recognize important features from heavily-filtered image sequences. We show how such sequences can be easily generated directly from a compressed video sequence, saving both bandwidth and computation time.
Innate Immune Tolerance and the Role of Kupffer Cells in Differential Responses to Interferon Therapy Among Patients With HCV Genotype 1 Infection

Background & Aims In patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, interferon alfa (IFN-α) alters expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), but little is understood about factors that determine outcomes of therapy. We used a systems biology approach to evaluate the acute response of patients with chronic hepatitis C to IFN-α therapy. Methods We collected liver biopsy samples from 8 treatment-naive patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 infection at baseline and 24 hours after treatment with IFN-α-2a (10 MU subcutaneously). Blood samples were collected before and up to 48 hours after administration of IFN-α-2a to measure HCV RNA levels and for gene expression analysis. Patients then received pegylated IFN-α-2a and ribavirin on day 5 of the study; therapy continued for up to 48 weeks. Results Based on the kinetics of HCV RNA during the first 12 weeks of therapy, 2 patients were rapid virologic responders, 4 were early virologic responders, and 2 did not respond to therapy (nonresponders). Nonresponders had high pretreatment levels of ISG expression in the liver but not in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In responders, after administration of IFN-α, intrahepatic ISG expression increased significantly from baseline and was associated with a rapid phase 1 decrease in HCV. We identified distinct hepatic expression and tissue distribution patterns of ISGs that segregated with treatment outcome. Importantly, Kupffer cells were a local source of IFN that promoted basal expression of ISG in hepatocytes of nonresponders. This finding was validated in cultured THP1 human macrophages that expressed IFN-β after exposure to viable HCV 2a. When Huh7 K2040 and Huh7 L2198S hepatoma cells were incubated with IFN-α-2a, expression of ISGs peaked by 4 hours and decreased by 72 hours, associated with an increase in level of HCV RNA. This indicates that constitutive exposure to IFN causes hepatoma cells to become tolerant of ISG function. Conclusions In patients with chronic HCV infection, IFN production by Kupffer cells might promote innate immune tolerance, characterized by a lack of response to IFN therapy. Strategies to disrupt the virus-host interactions that induce innate immune tolerance should improve therapy.